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Purpose - Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is a layer by layer technology with the potential to create complex and individual parts from thermoplastic materials such as ABS. The use of Polylactic acid (PLA) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP) as resorbable composite is state of the art in tissue engineering and maxillofacial surgery. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the processing conditions and the performance of parts (e.g. mechanical properties) manufactured with a FDM machine.Design methodology approach - In this paper, the general suitability of PLA for the processing with FDM is evaluated and material specific effects (e.g. crystallization and shrinkage) are shown. Therefore, the characterization of the semi-crystalline biodegradable material by thermal, mechanical and microscopic analysis is carried out.Findings - Facts, which affect the functional properties of the samples, are analyzed. Among them, the processing temperature and sample size significantly affect the morphology of the final components. Components from PLA TCP with sufficient mechanical properties for their potential use as scaffolds are obtained.Originality value - Thus, the paper shows that by thermal analysis it is possible to identify major influences on processing and part properties.

Interprofessional care is exhibited in outpatient oncology practices where practitioners from a myriad of specialties (e.g., oncology, nursing, pharmacy, health informatics and others) work collectively with patients to enhance therapeutic outcomes and minimize adverse effects. Historically, most ambulatory-based anticancer medication therapies have been administrated in infusion clinics or physician offices. Oral anticancer medications (OAMs) have become increasingly prevalent and preferred by patients for use in residential or other non-clinic settings. Self-administration of OAMs represents a significant shift in the management of cancer care and role responsibilities for patients and clinicians. While patients have a greater sense of empowerment and convenience when taking OAMs, adherence is a greater challenge than with intravenous therapies. This paper proposes use of a qualitative systems evaluation, based on theoretical frameworks for interdisciplinary team collaboration and systems science, to examine the social interactionism involved with the use of intravenous anticancer treatments and OAMs (as treatment technologies) by describing patient, organizational, and social systems considerations in communication, care, control, and context (i.e., Kaplan’s 4Cs). This conceptualization can help the healthcare system prepare for substantial workforce changes in cancer management, including increased utilization of oncology pharmacists.

In search of a Cr(VI) removal bioprocess, within a circular economy perspective, we combined two autochthonous bacterial consortia obtained from industrial residues and an agricultural waste (rice husk of Oryza sativa). After characterizing the rice husk (rh) properties, the bacterial growth and biofilm formation, we studied the taxonomical profile of the bacterial consortia (C55, C33, and C21, the last is a combination 2:1 of the previous ones). By using SEM analysis, we confirmed the presence of a smooth layer of exopolysaccharides (EPS) over the rice husk surface. Total bacterial biodiversity, assessed through MiSeq analysis, showed that the addition of Cr(VI) stimulated the growth of two main populations ( Cellulosimicrobium and Siminovitchia ) while inhibiting Peptoniphilus , Cutibacterium and Rhodococcus . We also evaluated chromium depletion, in batch experiments, with particular emphasis on its sorption to the agroresidue and its biotransformation by the biomass. When exposed to 200 mg.L -1 Cr(VI), the system containing both rh and the bacterial consortium completely removed Cr(VI) from the effluent with half-times between 53 and 67 h. The combination of Cr(VI) biosorption by rh and its biotransformation to Cr(III) by bacterial consortia confirmed an effective synergy capable of removing 92% of Cr(VI). This work supports the potential of an innovative bioprocess based on bacterial biofilms grown on rh for the mitigation of Cr(VI) contamination.

Background Improved antiretroviral treatments and decrease in vertical transmission of HIV have led to a higher number of women living with HIV to consider childbearing. However, stigma and social rejection result in specific challenges that HIV positive women with procreation intentions have to face with. Our objective was to in depth analyse elements shaping their desire for procreation and specifically investigate the impact of HIV. Methods A qualitative study was conducted through open interviews with 20 women living with HIV between 18 and 45 years of age, from the Spanish AIDS Research Network Cohort (CoRIS). Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. A content analysis was performed. Results HIV diagnosis is a turning point in women’s sexual and emotional life that is experienced traumatically. HIV diagnosis is usually associated with the fear of an immediate death and the idea of social isolation. At this moment, women temporarily reject future motherhood or having a sexual life. HIV status is only disclosed to the closed social circle and partner support is essential in HIV diagnosis assimilation process. Health professionals provide information on assisted reproductive technology and on how to minimize risk of partner HIV transmission. Most of barriers for procreation acknowledged by women are not related to HIV. However, women fear vertical transmission and experience other barriers derived from HIV infection. In this context, pregnancy makes women feel themselves as “normal women” despite HIV. Motherhood is considered an element of compensation that helps them to cope with HIV diagnosis. All these elements make health professionals key actors: they provide information and support after HIV diagnosis. Conclusions Barriers and drivers for procreation are similar among HIV positive women and general population. However, stigma and discrimination linked with HIV weigh in HIV positive women decision of motherhood. In this context, it is necessary to provide these women with the necessary counselling, guidance and resources to take decisions about procreation properly informed.