bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CUSTO E EFETIVIDADE DE MODALIDADES DE SERVIÇOS DE ATENÇÃO DOMICILIAR PARA A POPULAÇÃO IDOSA: revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Silva Kênia Lara , Castro Edna Aparecida Barbosa , Braga Patricia Pinto , Lage Érika Guimarães , Souza Roseli Lino de
Published: May 2022

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar as modalidades de serviços de AD direcionadas ao público idoso, identificando a oferta de serviços no domicílio e seus resultados referentes aos custos e a efetividade. Método: revisão da literatura realizada nas bases de dados Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS) e Indice Bibliográico Español en Ciencias de la Salud (IBECS) via Biblioteca Virtual da Saúde (BVS), Medline via Pubmed, Scopus, Web of science, Cumulative Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) e Cochrane. Foram incluídos 16 estudos publicados no período de 2008 a 2017, submetidos à análise de conteúdo. Resultados: a análise evidenciou que há diferentes modalidades de serviços que podem ser ofertados para a população idosa, incluindo o cuidado no domicílio. As modalidades identificadas foram serviços de visitas domiciliares, internação domiciliar; serviços institucionais de longa permanência; serviços de suporte de longo prazo que associam cuidado no domicílio e cuidado comunitário e serviços institucionais de transição de cuidado. Essas modalidades variaram segundo as formas de organização, público-alvo, resultados alcançados e custos associados. Os serviços mais custo-efetivos para os idosos foram os que incluem intervenção no domicílio tanto para condições agudas quanto crônicas; internação domiciliar; serviços combinados de intervenção domiciliar e comunitária, instituições de transição de cuidado e instituições de longa permanência. Conclusão: a atenção domiciliar, especialmente aquelas que ofertam intervenções no domicílio, mostrou-se com melhores resultados capazes de reduzir os custos gerais para os sistemas de saúde e pode ser efetiva na medida em que responde às demandas por cuidados requeridas pelos idosos.
SENTIDOS DE ESPERANÇA DOS PROFISSIONAIS DE ENFERMAGEM NO CONTEXTO DA PANDEMIA DA COVID-19
Authors: Zerbetto Sonia Regina , Marcheti Priscila Maria , Queiroz Aline Macêdo , Rezio Larissa de Almeida , Sousa Anderson Reis de , Oliveira Elda de , Nasi Cíntia , Nóbrega Maria do Perpétuo Socorro de Sousa
Published: May 2022

RESUMO Objetivo: compreender os sentidos atribuídos por profissionais de Enfermagem à esperança no contexto da pandemia da COVID-19. Método: estudo qualitativo, exploratório, com 719 profissionais de Enfermagem de cinco regiões geográficas do Brasil. Dados coletados entre abril e junho de 2020, via questionário virtual composto de dados sociodemográficos e uma questão aberta. Foi utilizado um software Iramuteq para processar os dados. Adotaram-se a análise de conteúdo temática e o modelo de esperança como base teórica interpretativa. Resultados: os sentidos da esperança se expressam em sentimentos ambivalentes, que são superados por intermédio de espiritualidade e religiosidade, que se constituem em estratégias promotoras de esperança. As relações interpessoais e ações de solidariedade fortalecem a esperança. Os profissionais de Enfermagem sustentam suas esperanças na ciência, na fé e no potencial da equipe de saúde. Conclusão: tais sentidos promovem aprendizados e reflexões sobre o sentido da vida, ajudando os profissionais de Enfermagem a superar o cotidiano adverso e apropriar-se de estratégias promotoras de esperança e de resiliência.
Fashion Confronting Unrelated Sectors: The Ideal Model of Manufacturing Symbiosis Between Industrial Systems
Authors: Sbordone Maria Antonietta , Pizzicato Barbara , Montagna Gianni , Seixas Sonia
Published: May 2022

This study aims to reflect on a possible symbiosis between the fashion system and unrelated companies focused on reducing textile waste. Recent developments in the fashion system, in terms of the organizational network, highlight the importance of collaboration, or vice versa of competition enhancement mechanisms. The highly innovative and creative skills and tasks concentrate much of the value in the creation phase, characteristic of emerging sectors such as creative ones. The methodology will be carried out through a review of the reference literature, with a critical, constructive, and real analysis on strategies for the construction of this symbiosis. It is expected to contribute to a reflection on the development of collaboration and cooperation skills in an interdisciplinary, or even transdisciplinary approach, for the training and preparation of fashion design professionals, requiring a greater commitment from Academia in the creation of interactions and interrelationships with still very different disciplinary sectors.
Talks On A Sustainable Fashion And Textile System: A Qualitative Analysis On Stakeholders
Authors: Motta Martina
Published: May 2022

One of the many ways to describe the Italian fashion system, is the one that defines it as the action and interaction of people in the process of making: on their artifacts, knowledge, expertise relies the essence and the engine of the fashion industry. In the contemporary time, driven by the shift towards sustainability, designers are working together with farmers, raw material processers, artisans, garment makers, manufacturers, retailers, and the more they are involved in and familiar with them, the more they can intervene to bring change and innovation towards a better and sustainable future. Suppliers are the places where sustainability happens, and moreover, with their decades-long efforts, precious resources to learn from.
The article reports a qualitative investigation on the Italian fashion supply chain, with the aim to detect the hot spots where human interaction among manufacturers and designers is fostering sustainable practices, processes, products.
Formas, objetos e bonecos de luz - práticas do Eranos Círculo de Arte no uso da projeção digital
Authors: Maman Leandro Luiz de
Published: May 2022

Este artigo traz um relato das experiências do grupo catarinense Eranos Círculo de Arte no uso da projeção digital em artes cênicas. Aborda três premissas defendidas pelo grupo para amplificação expressiva desta ferramenta: 1) projeção digital é luz, 2) a relação com algo vivo, e 3) a interdependência entre humano e digital para realização da cena. Faz paralelos com o conceito de luz-personagem e teatro de animação, e relaciona suas premissas com a prática do grupo na construção do rito teatral.
Luz e performatividade no acontecimento artístico
Authors: Jacinto Rafael Cardoso
Published: May 2022

O artigo apresenta algumas discussões acerca da visualidade construída no acontecimento artístico, através da performatividade da luz em vista de sua relação com o atuador, seja este: ator, performer, operador de luz, espectador e interautor da ação poética. Desse modo, a pesquisa dialoga com as transformações do fazer artístico catapultadas pela pós-modernidade e advento da arte contemporânea. Nesse contexto, busca-se entender a luz, supostamente como objeto performativo, a fim de criar, por meio da iluminação, um campo expressivo e autônomo enquanto linguagem.
Margarete (MARGA) Ferreira: Pioneirismo e representatividade feminina na iluminação cênica brasileira
Authors: Tiago Camila Barbosa , Silva Natasha Kerolen Leite da
Published: May 2022

Com uma trajetória de 43 anos na iluminação cênica brasileira, Margarete (Marga) Ferreira é uma das primeiras mulheres a ingressar na profissão de iluminadora. Nesta entrevista, ela nos conta histórias sobre seu início de carreira como operadora de luz até sua afirmação como criadora de luz, atuando em espetáculos de teatro, teatro de bonecos, óperas e, principalmente, em shows de música, onde trabalhou com artistas como Adriana Calcanhotto, Engenheiros do Hawaii, Cássia Eller e Leila Pinheiro. Seus relatos nos elucidam a característica do seu desenvolvimento profissional empírico a partir de diferentes experiências fazendo luz, dão indícios de como foi consolidada essa profissão no Brasil e revelam as dificuldades enfrentadas pelas mulheres nessa área de atuação.
libertad como mecanismo para la continuidad ontológica en Hans Jonas: un análisis de posibilidades
Authors: Salvador Bertran
Published: May 2022

La fenomenología de la vida de Hans Jonas aúna su posición ontológica y ética. En ella, usa el concepto de libertad dialéctica como base fenomenológica para superar el dualismo cartesiano, estableciendo una continuación ontológica entre los seres-vivos, resignificando la experiencia corpórea de la vida. El presente trabajo sugiere que esta interpretación termina por recaer en una historia metafísica de la libertad que encumbra ontológicamente al ser-humano. Para evitarlo, se propone un nuevo desarrollo de la libertad para alcanzar una alternativa ontológica que se funde en la consustancialidad de la experiencia corpórea y la consiguiente imposibilidad de una gradación ontológica.
Schelling y las tres Epochen del proceso de autodeterminación del absoluto en el System de 1800
Authors: Rojas Jiménez Alejandro
Published: May 2022

Estudio sobre las tres Epochen que distingue Schelling del autodesarrollo de la autoconciencia en el System des transzendentalen idealismus de 1800, poniéndolas en relación con su biografía personal y su periodo de formación filosófica. El objetivo es mostrar en qué sentido Schelling defiende en el System que es justamente en el esfuerzo por querer saber del filósofo que el absoluto acaba por tomar conciencia de sí mismo, no pues tanto en el concepto objetivo (que es lo que le objetará Hegel posteriormente como respuesta a este trabajo de Schelling), sino en el querer saber y querer saberse.
Alberto Magno, Proemio al De Praedicamentis: Sobre las categorías
Authors: Berrocal Sarnelli Álvaro
Published: May 2022

In this paper we intend to fill a gap in the study of medieval philosophy by providing a complete and stable text of the Preface to Aristotle’s De Praedicamentis by Albert the Great. Our intention is that this translation could be useful for scholars of Aristotle and its reception in the 13th century, and of the Colonian author himself. We also provide an initial discussion about the historical and philosophical contextualization as well as a philological discussion about the fundamental terms of the fragment. We provide also a glossary that includes the fundamental concepts as well as their use in the text.

En este artículo pretendemos llenar un vacío en el estudio dde la filosofía medieval aportando un texto completo y estable del Proemio al De Praedicamentis de Alberto Magno. Nuestra intención es que pueda servir como herramienta para estudiosos tanto de Aristóteles y su recepción en el Siglo XIII, como del propio autor Coloniense. Aportamos además una discusión inicial acerca de la contextualización histórica y filosófica así como una discusión filológica acerca de los términos fundamentales del fragmento. Ponemos también a disposición del lector un glosario que recoge los conceptos fundamentales así como su uso en el texto.
Simone Weil pensadora liminar
Authors: Fuentes-Marcel Andrea
Published: May 2022

Weil construyó inteligibilidad mediante una escritura que desenraiza el pensamiento de conceptos habituales. Sus reflexiones sobre la fuerza indican que solo leemos sensaciones que el mundo nos ofrece mediante nuestro cuerpo que resultará determinante para propiciar transposiciones semánticas que modifiquen lo que el ser humano lee en la realidad. De aquí el alcance político de cuerpos y discursos en la conversación transversal de las instituciones y en el interior de los colectivos cuyos dispositivos vuelven más reales las significaciones fijadas a los nombres que las cosas mismas a las que aluden, esta modalidad de fuerza impide el acceso a la verdad impersonal.
Imaginación democrática y distribución del conocimiento
Authors: Pinedo García Manuel de , Villanueva Fernández Neftalí
Published: May 2022

José Luis Moreno argumenta contra lo que considera una variedad de formas de fetichismo político. Lo que tienen en común es depositar una confianza excesiva o monolítica en algún mecanismo democrático en particular. Compartimos su motivación y en esta nota crítica intentamos llevar sus argumentos más lejos preguntándonos si diferentes tipos de conocimiento políticamente relevante pueden distinguirse, si en algunos contextos es necesario dejar las decisiones en manos de expertos y si la propuesta de Moreno cae en un nuevo tipo de fetichismo con respecto al sorteo como mecanismo capaz de eliminar injusticias sociales profundas.
El malestar de la pornografía.
Authors: Ladrero Benito Alejandro J.
Published: May 2022

Nota crítica sobre PornoXplotación: la explosión de la gran adicción de nuestros tiempos, de Mabel Lozano y Pablo J. Conellie, Barcelona, Editorial Alrevés, 2020, 286 pp.
Von Willebrand factor A1 domain stability and affinity for GPIbα are differentially regulated by its O-glycosylated N- and C-linker
Authors: Bonazza Klaus , Iacob Roxana E , Hudson Nathan E , Li Jing , Lu Chafen , Engen John R , Springer Timothy A
Published: May 2022

Hemostasis in the arterial circulation is mediated by binding of the A1 domain of the ultralong protein von Willebrand factor (VWF) to GPIbα on platelets to form a platelet plug. A1 is activated by tensile force on VWF concatemers imparted by hydrodynamic drag force. The A1 core is protected from force-induced unfolding by a long-range disulfide that links cysteines near its N- and C-termini. The O-glycosylated linkers between A1 and its neighboring domains, which transmit tensile force to A1, are reported to regulate A1 activation for binding to GPIb, but the mechanism is controversial and incompletely defined. Here, we study how these linkers, and their polypeptide and O-glycan moieties, regulate A1 affinity by measuring affinity, kinetics, thermodynamics, hydrogen deuterium exchange (HDX), and unfolding by temperature and urea. The N-linker lowers A1 affinity 40-fold with a stronger contribution from its O-glycan than polypeptide moiety. The N-linker also decreases HDX in specific regions of A1 and increases thermal stability and the energy gap between its native state and an intermediate state, which is observed in urea-induced unfolding. The C-linker also decreases affinity of A1 for GPIbα, but in contrast to the N-linker, has no significant effect on HDX or A1 stability. Among different models for A1 activation, our data are consistent with the model that the intermediate state has high affinity for GPIbα, which is induced by tensile force physiologically and regulated allosterically by the N-linker.
Effect of napping on a bean bag chair on sleep stage, muscle activity, and heart rate variability
Authors: Nishida Masaki , Ichinose Atsushi , Murata Yusuke , Shioda Kohei
Published: May 2022

Background

Although ample evidence has demonstrated that daytime napping is beneficial for health and cognitive performance, bedding for napping has not yet been scientifically investigated.

Objectives

To explore the effect of a bean bag chair on daytime napping and physiological parameters related to sleep.

Methods

Fourteen healthy participants were enrolled within the context of a randomized, single-blind, crossover study to evaluate the effects of a bean bag chair in comparison with those of a urethane chair manufactured to have a similar shape. Electroencephalogram, electromyogram, and heart rate variability were recorded and compared between wakefulness and napping.

Results

Electroencephalogram analyses revealed no significant differences in sleep architecture or frequency components; however, a significant decrease was found in electromyogram recordings in the trapezius muscle, which represents the neck region (p = 0.019). Additionally, a significant main effect of bedding in the low-frequency/high-frequency ratio (F[1,20] = 4.314, p = 0.037) was revealed.

Conclusions

These results suggest that napping in a bean bag chair may provide a comfortable napping environment involving muscle relaxation and proper regulation of the autonomic nervous function.
An assessment of sensory sensitivity in women suffering from depression using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
Authors: Witkoś Joanna , Fusińska-Korpik Agnieszka , Hartman-Petrycka Magdalena , Nowak Agnieszka
Published: May 2022

Background

Perception is the process or result of the process arising from the mental interpretation of the phenomena occurring, therefore it depends not only on physiology, but is also psychologically and socially conditioned. The aim of this study was to assess if there is a difference in the sensory sensitivity to an electrical stimulus in women suffering from depression and what the hedonic rating is of the lived experience of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation.

Methods

The depression group: 44 women, who were inpatients treated for depression at the Psychiatric Ward in the Clinical Hospital, and the control group: 41 women, matched by the age, height and weight, with no mental illness. Measures: threshold for sensing current, type of sensation evoked, hedonic rating.

Results

Median sensing threshold of electric current (depressionvs.control: 7.75 mAvs.8.35 mA; no significant), type of sensation evoked (depression vs. control: tingling 90.9%vs.92.7%, no significant), hedonic rating (depression vs. control: unpleasant 11.4%vs.2.4%;p = 0.003), hedonic rating (mildly illvs.moderately illvs.markedly ill: unpleasant 5.3%vs.6.3%vs.33.3%;p = 0.066).

Conclusions

Women suffering from depression exhibit a similar threshold of sensitivity to an electrical stimulus as mentally healthy women, however the hedonic rating of the stimulus acting on the skin in the group of clinically depressed women was more negative than in the mentally healthy subjects. The stimulus was described as ‘unpleasant’ for many of the mentally unhealthy women. The most negative sensations related to the electrical stimulus were experienced by women with the highest severity of mental illness according to The Clinical Global Impression - Severity Scale.
Acute Confusional State in a Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Prasad Sambhu , Jha Shikha
Published: May 2022

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) affects various systems in human including central and peripheral nervous systems. The Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (NPSLE) is a severe complication of SLE which causes a formidable challenge in term of diagnosis and its management. Acute confusional state (delirium) is a rare entity of numerous symptoms of NPSLE which is being overlooked even though it is associated with increased mortality. The present case report describe about the presentation of SLE consisting of hyperpigmentation maculopapular rashes over face, neck regions, lower back and extremities in a 36-yearold female with abrupt onset and fluctuating course of psychotic symptoms, acute confusional state and oddities in behaviours. Treatment with low dose of antipsychotic (aripiprazole) resolve the symptom with due consideration taken to rule out steroid induced manifestation of above symptoms.
An Appraisal of the Drug Discovery Process in Neuroscience
Authors: Nwokike M. O. , Ghasi S. I. , Ezenwaeze M. N. , Ogbonna A. O. , Ezinwa A. C. , Offor C. C.
Published: May 2022

The scientific study of the nervous system is a major area for disease and consequently disease management. The use of drugs to treat neurological disease is the backbone of this sphere of therapy. This review will concentrate of the history, process, constraints and novelty of drug discovery for these disorders. It will enhance understanding and contribute to an improved efficiency of the drug development process. The history of drug discovery in neuroscience follows the pattern of other discoveries in civilisation. Solutions obtained by steeping or soaking natural substances comprised the only source of medicines until data-based processes were developed to; remove impurities from, increase the concentration of, and separate active substances from these extracts. In most cases, the development of a new medicinal drug starts when scientists learn of a target that is involved in a natural process thought to be impaired in function for patients with sicknesses such as Alzheimer's disease. Better medicines that are improvements on current medications are further found to have greater value as they offer benefits over existing ones for disease treatment, prevention or alleviation in terms of potency, safety, tolerability, or convenience. Regulatory agencies are set up to ensure conformity to steps and standards for improved safety and efficacy. In accordance with this, neurological drugs have less success rates and take more time to acquire, than do other drug classes.
Effect of Continuous Iron Pollution on Morphology and DNA Profile of Pleurotus tuber-regium
Authors: Anyakorah Caroline Iruoma , Bashir Mohammed
Published: May 2022

Aims: Iron, the fourth most abundant micronutrient in the soil has been classified as a metal of environmental concern, the study was to assess the effect of continuous iron pollution on growth and the molecular profile of Pleurotus tuber-regium.

Study design: Experimental research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The Bells University of Technology, between December 2019 and October 2020.

Methodology: P. tuber-regium sclerotia procured locally were seeded into 1 kg soil polluted with 20, 40, 60, and 80 mg kg-1 FeSO4 respectively. Watering was done with the respective Fe solutions for 59 days at the rate of 100ml/48hrs. The Stipe length, pileus diameter, fruitbody weight, and days for fruitbody emergence were recorded for each treatment. The concentration of iron in soil and mushroom was determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). DNA extracted from the fruitbodies was subjected to Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis using five RAPD primers and a cluster analysis was performed.

Results: Fruiting was achieved in all soils (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 mg kg-1) after 23±0.5, 17±1.0, 50±2.5, 58±1.0, and 59±2.0 days respectively. Iron had no significant effect on stipe length while pileus diameter and fruitbody weight increased only at 20mg kg-1. Iron concentration in the soil and mushroom increased as Fe pollution was increased. The bioaccumulation factor was higher in contaminated soil and was between 0.78 and 1.08. The RAPD primers amplified 53 band sizes ranging from 100 - 700 bp and the DNA was clustered in a major group. The percentage polymorphism was 16.9% indicating a low level of genetic variation.

Conclusion: The result indicated that continuous Fe pollution at the stated concentrations did not have any significant effect on the DNA profile of Pleurotus tuber-regium but the morphological growth of the mushroom was enhanced at low iron contamination levels.
Role of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Diagnosis of Developmental Delay in Children
Authors: Ali Walaa Essam , Eezz Ahmed Abd El-Basset Abo , Shafey Rasha Ahmed El , Teama Atef Hammad
Published: May 2022

Background: MR spectroscopy examines molecules like hydrogen ions and protons. The technique of proton spectroscopy is more commonly used. Metabolites, or metabolic products, come in a variety of forms. The aim of this work is to evaluate the role of MR spectroscopy in diagnosis of infants and children presented with developmental delay.

Methods: This study was carried out on 30 children presented with developmental delay aged between 3 months to 12 years referred for brain MR spectroscopy for diagnosis of delay in milestones. All patients were subjected to: Full history, clinical examination, some patients need I.Q testing and MRS assessment.

Results: There was no significant difference in N-acetyl-aspartate/creatine and Cho/Cr ratios in cases ≤ 2 years between the study group and the control group. N-acetyl aspartate/creatine ratio in cases >2 years was significantly lower in the study group patients than that of control   group P<0.05. Cho/Cr was significant increase in study group compared to control group (p< 0.05).

Conclusions: the proton MR spectroscopy can be used to diagnose and follow developmental delay especially in children more than two years as we found typical changes in NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr.
Breast Cancer among Young Women in Douala, Cameroon: Epidemiological, Clinical, Behavioural Characteristics and Risk Factors
Authors: Lemouchele Idriss Ntatou , Mbougang Suzi Pascale , Bell Esther Dina , Ebongue Cecile Okalla , Foko Loick Pradel Kojom , Enyegue Elisée Libert Embolo , Tchuente Rachel De Grâce Tayou , Nzeko Eric Fouelifack , Ngane Annie Rosalie Ngono , Mogtomo Martin Luther Koanga
Published: May 2022

Aims: This study aimed at determining epidemiological, clinical, behavioural and risk factors for breast cancer (BC) among young women living in Cameroon.

Study Design:  Cross-sectional case-control study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study took place at the Oncology departments of two reference hospitals in Douala (Littoral Region, Cameroon), from July 2020 to July 2021.

Methodology: An ad hoc questionnaire form was used to collect data of interest. Anthropometric and bioimpedance parameters were measured. The data were keyed, coded, verified for consistency, and analysed using StatView v5.0 and GraphPad Prism v5.03. Statistical significance was set at P < .05.

Results: Of the 276 women initially approached, 176 (88 cases and 88 controls) were finally recruited. They were mainly aged 41-45 years old with higher proportion in controls (40.9% vs 45.4%, P = .0029). The proportion of women having had their menarche at advanced age was higher in cases compared to controls (40.9% vs 12.5%, P < .0001). Visceral adipose tissue (Kg) was significantly higher in cases (8.72 ± 3.04 vs 7.43 ± 2.64, P = .003). Most of the patients were diagnosed at advanced stage, especially at stage 3 (46.6%), with more than one third of them had metastasis. The risk of BC was reduced by 84% (AOR = 0.16, P = .001) in patients having had their menarche after 14 years of age, and 71% (AOR = 0.29, P = .01) in those always consuming fruits/vegetables. In contrast, BC risk was increased in women with familial history of BC (AOR = 3.19, P = .04). Early and late diagnosed BC women had similar characteristics with the exception of age, stillbirth and body mass index.

Conclusion: BC is prevalent and detected among young women at advanced stage, with protective role of fruits/vegetables consumption and late age of menarche.
Single‐center real‐life experience with testosterone treatment in adult men with Prader–Willi syndrome
Authors: Nolan Brendan J. , Proietto Joseph , Sumithran Priya
Published: May 2022

Hypogonadism is the most frequent hormonal deficiency in individuals with Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS). This often necessitates testosterone treatment, but limited data are available to guide testosterone treatment in adult men with PWS. We aimed to evaluate the serum testosterone concentrations and adverse effects of testosterone treatment in individuals with PWS attending a specialist obesity management service. A retrospective audit was undertaken at Austin Health, Melbourne between January 2010 and April 2021. Main outcome measures were testosterone formulation and dose, serum total testosterone concentration, and prevalence of polycythemia and behavioral disturbance. Data were available for eight individuals with median baseline age 19 years (range, 19–42) and BMI 37 kg/m2 (range, 27–71). Six men had obstructive sleep apnea; none were smokers. Baseline testosterone concentration was 1.8 nmol/L (IQR, 1.1–3.3) with hematocrit 0.43. Testosterone formulations were intramuscular testosterone undecanoate (TU) 1000 mg (n = 5), transdermal testosterone gel 50 mg daily (n = 1), and oral TU 80–120 mg daily (n = 2). Median total testosterone concentration was 9.7 nmol/L (IQR, 8.5–14.7). Nine of 25 (36%) hematocrit results in six patients measured >0.50 (range, 0.50–0.56). Intramuscular TU was well tolerated and was the only formulation to achieve serum total testosterone concentrations in the adult male reference range. Worsening behavioral disturbance resulted in treatment discontinuation in one individual. Our experience reinforces the need to regular monitoring of hematocrit in men with PWS treated with testosterone. However, a worsening of behavior problems was uncommon in this series.
Calcium Carbide as a Surrogate of Acetylene: Copper‐Catalyzed Construction of 3‐Methylene‐2‐arylisoindolin‐1‐ones
Authors: Liu Haiyan , You Xinjie , Wen Fei , Zhang Zeshuai , Li Zheng
Published: May 2022

An efficient method for the synthesis of 3‐methylene‐2‐arylisoindolin‐1‐ones through Sonogashira cross‐coupling/nucleophilic addition tandem reactions using calcium carbide as an alkyne source, 2‐bromo‐N‐arylbenzamides as starting materials and copper as a catalyst is described. The significant advantages of this strategy include the use of cheap and easy‐to‐handle solid alkyne source as a surrogate of inflammable and explosive gaseous acetylene, inexpensive catalyst, wide scope of substrates, simple manipulations, and simple work‐up procedures.
Epidemiology of bloodstream infections and surface swab cultures in burn patients
Authors: Kaita Yasuhiko , Otsu Akiyasu , Tanaka Yuya , Yoshikawa Kei , Matsuda Takeaki , Yamaguchi Yoshihiro
Published: May 2022

Aim

For infection control in burn patients, it is essential to understand the epidemiology of bloodstream infection (BSI) and the local microbiological situation. There are few studies on blood and swab culture results among burn patients in Japan. The purpose of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of BSI and swab cultures in burn patients.

Methods

Data from 355 burn patients over 13 years from 2008 were analyzed retrospectively. Bloodstream infection was defined as the isolation of bacteria or fungi from two or more blood cultures. The characteristics of burn patients and microorganisms detected from various cultures were analyzed.

Results

The mortality rate among burn patients with BSI was 37.8%, which was more than twice that among burn patients without BSI. The univariate analysis showed that inhalation injury, total burn surface area (TBSA), and mortality were associated with BSI. The multivariate logistic analysis indicated that TBSA was an independent risk factor for BSI. The most frequently isolated organism from blood and swab cultures were Candida species and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively. Seventy‐five percent of the microorganisms isolated from blood were detected previously in swab cultures performed within 1 week from blood cultures.

Conclusions

The prognosis of burn patients with BSI was poor, and TBSA was an independent risk factor for BSI. The predominant organisms isolated from blood and swab cultures were Candida species and P. aeruginosa, respectively. Surveillance wound swab cultures could be utilized for monitoring the local microbiological situation in burn patients.
An Ultrahigh‐Density Microneedle Array for Skin Vaccination: Inducing Epidermal Cell Death by Increasing Microneedle Density Enhances Total IgG and IgG1 Immune Responses
Authors: Coffey Jacob W. , van der Burg Nicole M. D. , Rananakomol Thippayawan , Ng Hwee-Ing , Fernando Germain J. P. , Kendall Mark A. F.
Published: May 2022

Many types of microneedle (MN) arrays have been tested for delivery of vaccines to the skin. However, the effect of MN geometry/array design on antibody production is still unclear. Reports suggest that systemic immune responses may be affected by how MN arrays “mechanically” deliver vaccines, which can induce cell damage and act as an adjuvant. This includes parameters such as MN length/insertion depth, delivery energy/velocity, MN shape, and density. However, these effects have not been systematically investigated. Herein, the effect of MN density on antibody responses to influenza vaccination is assessed, keeping all other variables constant. MN arrays are manufactured within the “high‐density range” from 5 k microneedles cm−2 (n cm−2) to the “ultrahigh” 30 k n cm−2. Prior to this study, the highest MN density used for vaccination is 20 k n cm−2. Thus, MN array vaccination is evaluated over an unprecedented range. Cell viability is assessed in the skin after application and antibody responses at days 21/63. It is demonstrated that increasing MN density from 5 to 30 k n cm−2 increases both epidermal cell death and anti‐influenza IgG1, without an increase in anti‐influenza IgG2a. This suggests that MN density has a direct adjuvant effect on immune responses through Th2‐mediated signalling—a response critical for human vaccination.
Anion‐Reinforced Solvation for a Gradient Inorganic‐Rich Interphase Enables High‐Rate and Stable Sodium Batteries
Authors: Zhou Xunzhu , Zhang Qiu , Zhu Zhuo , Cai Yichao , Li Haixia , Li Fujun
Published: May 2022

Metallic Na is a promising anode for rechargeable batteries, however, it is plagued by an unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and Na dendrites. Herein, a robust anion‐derived SEI is constructed on Na anode in a high‐concentration 1,2‐dimethoxyethane (DME) based electrolyte with a cosolvent hydrofluoroether, which effectively restrains Na dendrite growth. The hydrofluoroether can tune the solvation configuration of the electrolyte from three‐dimensional network aggregates to solvent–cation–anion clusters, enabling more anions to enter and reinforce the inner solvation sheath and their stepwise decomposition. The gradient inorganic‐rich SEI leads to a reduced energy barrier of Na+ migration and enhanced interfacial kinetics. These render the Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 battery with an excellent rate capability of 79.9 mAh g−1 at 24 C and a high capacity retention of 94.2 % after 6000 cycles at 2 C. This highlights the modulation of the electrode–electrolyte interphase chemistry for advanced batteries.
High‐Voltage Organic Cathodes for Zinc‐Ion Batteries through Electron Cloud and Solvation Structure Regulation
Authors: Cui Huilin , Wang Tairan , Huang Zhaodong , Liang Guojin , Chen Ze , Chen Ao , Wang Donghong , Yang Qi , Hong Hu , Fan Jun , Zhi Chunyi
Published: May 2022

Redox‐active organic materials, as a new generation of sustainable resources, are receiving increasing attention in zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) due to their resource abundance and tunable structure. However, organic molecules with high potential are rare, and the voltage of most reported organic cathode‐based ZIBs is less than 1.2 V. Herein, we explored the redox process of p‐type organics and figured out the relationship between energy change and voltage output during the process. Then, we proposed a dual‐step strategy to effectively tune the energy change and eventually improve the output voltage of the organic electrode. Combining the regulation of the electron cloud of organic molecules and the manipulation of the solvation structure, the output voltage of an organosulfur compound based ZIB was greatly increased from 0.8 V to 1.7 V. Our results put forward a specific pathway to improve the working voltage and lay the foundation for the practical application of organic electrodes.
Thermally expandable microspheres with high expansion ratios: Design of core and shell for largest size change
Authors: Gomez Jasmine C. , Vishnosky Nicholas S. , Grafstein Jeremy T. , Kim Spencer T. , Steinhardt Rachel C.
Published: May 2022

Thermally expandable microspheres (TEMs) are liquid‐core, polymer‐shelled particles that are useful in both current industry and future manufacturing and basic research applications. Here, we systematically optimize TEMs for highest expansion ratio using a broad‐spectrum infrared head source. Microspheres are synthesized from a copolymer of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), methyl methacrylate, and acrylonitrile as the shell, which is optimized for greatest expansion ratio. This represents the first time that HEMA is used in TEMs. The liquid blowing agent core is next optimized, followed by the prepolymerization emulsion time. It is found that particle morphology is greatly variable and influenced by kinetic and thermodynamic factors, with various phase‐separated and aniosotropic morphologies accessed.
Anti‐inflammatory activity of pyridazinones: A review
Authors: Hassan Marwa S. A. , Ahmed Eman M. , El‐Malah Afaf A. , Kassab Asmaa E.
Published: May 2022

The pyridazinone core has emerged as a leading structure for fighting inflammation, with low ulcerogenic effects. Moreover, easy functionalization of various ring positions of the pyridazinone core structure makes it an attractive synthetic and therapeutic target for the design and synthesis of anti‐inflammatory agents. The present review surveys the recent advances of pyridazinone derivatives as potential anti‐inflammatory agents to provide insights into the rational design of more effective anti‐inflammatory pyridazinones.
Spontaneous renal tract rupture from obstructing vesico‐ureteric junction calculus
Authors: Okpii Emmanuel C. , Adamu‐Biu Fatima , Okpii Kingsley C.
Published: May 2022

Spontaneous or non‐traumatic rupture of the renal tract is an infrequent presentation, and it is most frequently caused by ureteric obstruction. Rupture could occur at any level of the upper urinary tract. However, it is most common at the renal calyces and complications that could arise include; urinoma, and or hematoma collection which could progress to abscess formation and sepsis. We report a 77‐year‐old male patient who attended the emergency department following referral from his general practitioner with a 6‐day history of progressively worsening left sided abdominal pain. Due to his co‐morbidities, presenting blood pressure and age, he was suspected of having an aortic dissection or ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm and subsequently had a CT (computed tomography) Angiogram. This showed extravasation of contrast from the left kidney with a 12 mm obstructing vesico‐ureteric junction calculus necessitating urgent urology referral and prompt review. He was worked up for a ureteric double J stent insertion, however, the procedure was unsuccessful due to complex multiple urethral strictures. The patient subsequently had a nephrostomy inserted and was planned for optical urethrotomy, rigid cystoscopy, rigid/flexible ureteroscopy, and laser stone fragmentation of left obstructing vesico‐ureteric junction calculus.
High‐pressure CO, H2, CO2 and Ethylene Pulses Applied in the Hydrogenation of CO to Higher Alcohols over a Bulk Co‐Cu Catalyst
Authors: Telaar Pascal , Schwiderowski Philipp , Schmidt Stefan , Stürmer Sascha , Muhler Martin
Published: May 2022

The reaction pathways of higher alcohol synthesis over a bulk Co−Cu catalyst (Co : Cu=2 : 1) were investigated by applying high‐pressure pulse experiments as a surface‐sensitive operando method at 280 °C and 60 bar. Using high‐pressure CO and H2 pulses in a syngas flow with a H2:CO ratio of 1, it was shown that the surface of the working 2CoCu catalyst is saturated with adsorbed CO, but not with adsorbed atomic hydrogen, because only the H2 pulses increased the yields of all alcohols and alkanes. The reverse water gas shift reaction (WGSR) was investigated by pulsing CO2. The CO2 pulses poisoned the formation of methanol, ethanol, and 1‐propanol, and the absence of significant CO and H2O responses indicates that the WGSR is not efficiently catalyzed by the applied 2CoCu catalyst excluding the presence of exposed Cu0 sites. A series of ethylene pulses showed that when a threshold mole fraction of ethylene of about 1 vol % is surpassed, 2CoCu is an active catalyst for the hydroformylation of ethylene to 1‐propanol pointing to the presence of highly coordinatively unsaturated Co sites.
Central projections of cercal giant interneurons in the adult field cricket, Gryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Yamao Hiroki , Shidara Hisashi , Ogawa Hiroto
Published: May 2022

The structures of neurons, such as dendrites and axonal projections, are closely related to their response properties and their specific functions in neural circuits. Identified neurons, having genetically determined morphological features and pre‐ and postsynaptic partners, play significant roles in specific behaviors. Giant interneurons (GIs) are identified in the terminal abdominal ganglion of the cricket as mechanosensory projection neurons and are sensitive to airflow stimulation of the cerci. GIs are classified into ventral GIs (vGIs) or dorsal GIs (dGIs) depending on the location of their axons running within the connective nerve cord. Based on their response properties to airflow, vGIs are presumed to be involved in triggering the wind‐elicited escape response, whereas dGIs are thought to be airflow direction‐encoding neurons. The previous findings regarding airflow sensitivity point to possible differences in the morphology of the central projections that may correspond to their neural functions. However, the detailed morphologies of the GIs in the cephalic and thoracic ganglia of adult crickets remain unclear. In this study, we stained six GIs, namely, GI 8‐1 (medial giant interneuron, MGI), 9‐1 (lateral giant interneuron, LGI), 9‐2, 9‐3, 10‐2, and 10‐3, using intracellular iontophoretic or pressure injection of dyes. Staining revealed remarkable differences in the axonal branching patterns between vGIs and dGIs. The dGIs were further divided into subgroups based on the profiles of their axon collaterals and projection sites in the brain. The anatomical differences between the GIs’ central projections seemed to be related to their information encodement and behavioral functions.
Development of a novel flow cytometry method for detecting pneumococcal‐specific B cells
Authors: Tzovara Irene , Papadatou Ioanna , Tzanoudaki Marianna , Spoulou Vasiliki
Published: May 2022

Antigen‐specific B cell identification by flow cytometry is crucial for investigating their immunophenotype, subset distribution, and kinetics post‐infection or immunization. Methods using biotinylated polysaccharide antigens have been described, but there is still room for improvement regarding sensitivity and applicability. The aim of this study was the development and validation of a multimer bead‐based method for detecting pneumococcal polysaccharide serotypes (PS)‐specific B cells following pneumococcal immunization. PS was chemically biotinylated and mounted on anti‐biotin beads, and labeled with phycoerythrin (PE)‐conjugated anti‐biotin antibody to form a PS‐multimer used for cell staining. Labeled beads were washed to remove excess fluorochrome and diminish non‐specific labeling and background noise. Optimal ratios of PS‐bead conjugate to PE and PS‐multimer to cells were determined with titration assays. Comparison between the PS‐multimer and a PS‐PE monomer revealed enhanced detection of PS‐specific cells and considerable signal amplification, attributed to the multimeric form of the detection probe and increased availability of antigen epitopes. To validate the specificity of the method, a competition assay using unbound PS was performed. Following pre‐incubation with increasing PS concentrations, detection of PS‐specific B cells with the PS‐multimer was inhibited in a stepwise manner. Pre‐incubation with excess PS completely blocked the fluorescent signal. This novel bead‐based flow cytometry approach is a sensitive method demonstrating high specificity. It generated enhanced signals, provided clear‐cut results, and was easily applicable, not requiring B cell pre‐enrichment. It could be modified to adapt other antigens of interest, especially polysaccharides and proteins that could be used to probe antigen‐specific B cell responses. The study of such responses may elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved in the establishment of long‐term protection, provide evidence‐based rationale for improving currently available vaccines and vaccination strategies, and pave the way for future vaccine development.
Renal medullary osmolytes NaCl and urea differentially modulate human tubular cell cytokine expression and monocyte recruitment
Authors: Schmitz Jessica , Brauns Nicolas , Hüsing Anne M. , Flechsig Martina , Glomb Thorsten , Bräsen Jan Hinrich , Haller Hermann , von Vietinghoff Sibylle
Published: May 2022

Renal immune cells serve as sentinels against ascending bacteria but also promote detrimental inflammation. The kidney medulla is characterized by extreme electrolyte concentrations. We here address how its main osmolytes, NaCl and urea, regulate tubular cell cytokine expression and monocyte chemotaxis.

In the healthy human kidney, more monocytes were detected in medulla than cortex. The monocyte gradient was attenuated in patients with medullary NaCl depletion by loop diuretic therapy and in the nephrotic syndrome. Renal tubular epithelial cell gene expression responded similarly to NaCl and tonicity control mannitol, but not urea. NaCl significantly upregulated chemotactic cytokines, most markedly CCL26, CCL2, and CSF1. This induction was inhibited by the ROS scavenger n‐acetylcysteine. In contrast, urea, the main medullary osmolyte in catabolism, dampened tubular epithelial CCL26 and CSF1 expression. Renal medullary chemokine and monocyte marker expression decreased in catabolic mice. NaCl‐, but not urea‐stimulated tubular epithelium or CCL2 and CCL26, promoted human classical monocyte migration. CCL26 improved bactericidal function. In the human kidney medulla, monocyte densities correlated with tubular CCL26 protein abundance.

In summary, medullary‐range NaCl, but not urea, promotes tubular cytokine expression and monocyte recruitment. This may contribute to the pyelonephritis vulnerability in catabolism but can possibly be harnessed against pathologic inflammation.
Evaluation of a potential prognostic parameter for the inflammatory status in COVID‐19 patients: The inflammatory protein ratio
Authors: Antonucci Francescopaolo , Di Carlo Domenico , Falcone Michele
Published: May 2022

C‐reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, and d‐dimer are determined in the human plasma of 2745 hospitalized patients with and without coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) by automated‐latex enhanced immunoassay and immuno‐turbidimetric assay. SARS‐COV‐2 RNA qualitative test, real time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) based, is performed in nasopharyngeal swabs to confirm those with SARS‐COV‐2 positivity. Furthermore, serum proteins are separated and quantified in all the patients by serum protein electrophoresis (SPE).

A new SPE parameter, inflammatory protein ratio (IPR), is elaborated for the first time by a mathematical equation that considers the albumin, α1‐globulin, and α2‐globulin. IPR normal reference range (10.7%–28.3%) is calculated considering the normal reference range of albumin, α1‐globulin, and α2‐globulin obtained for controls. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson's, Kruskal–Wallis, and Spearman's tests application show that IPR significantly correlates with direct proportionality with d‐dimer, CRP, and fibrinogen. Significant (p < 0.001) increase of these parameters, IPR included, is detected in COVID‐19 patients only. Our results show that IPR is more specific for monitoring inflammatory status thanks to its correlation with the only three serum proteins involved in inflammation: albumin, α1‐globulin, and α2‐globulin. Furthermore, IPR can simplify the interpretation of SPE results about inflammatory status, being of unique value compared to the six‐serum protein classes separately presented in the typical SPE clinical reports.