bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Reflective Methodologists A Cultural Analysis of Danish Pedagogues’ Individualised Silence and Collective Articulations
Authors: Kjær Bjørg
Published: February 2022

This article takes its point of departure in a stance found among practitioners – including teachers, preschool teachers, kindergarten pedagogues and other welfare professionals – in which theory is considered abstract and thus irrelevant to or unhelpful in their daily work. In exploring the backgrounds of this stance, I address the issue at two levels: one that focuses on the professional identities, cultural logics and communicative norms of kindergarten staff groups in their actual, contemporary context; and another that focuses on aspects connected to the reception of Donald Schön’s concept of ‘the reflective practitioner’. The analytical and methodological perspectives in the article are informed by the anthropology of education; specifically, by focusing on meaning-making processes and their consequences. In my approach to the concept of the reflective practitioner, I use a Bourdieu-inspired perspective; here, the social actor’s practical sense and tacit knowledge are related to questions of power and other actors’ strategies for positioning themselves within a social space. In doing so, they produce professional identities, ideals of communication, and colleague relationships. Here, the point of departure is that questions concerning ‘reflective practitioners’ and ‘tacit knowledge’ cannot rely solely on theoretical arguments but should be empirically informed by studies of practices as they unfold in pedagogical institutions. This article analyses the field by investigating these concepts and examining the cultural logics that make such interpretations possible and meaningful. Furthermore, I point to a problematic aspect of Schön’s work with regard to his empirical basis, which demands a particular focus on the historical effect of ‘the reflective practitioner’ concept as a symbolic marker of identity in the cultural logic of the pedagogical field. I also address how this logic considers practice to be the exponent of all that is good, meaningful and correct. From my analysis, I develop the concept of ‘the reflective methodologists’ to describe a professional identity and practice that relies on the critical examination of specific actions instead of ‘tacit knowledge’.
Former Right-Wing Extremists' Continued Struggle for Self-transformation After an Exit Program
Authors: Christensen Tina Wilchen
Published: February 2022

This article discusses the identity formation process former right wing extremists go through, during and especially after being involved in an exit program for those leaving right wing extremist environments. Based on an ethnographic investigation (and practice theoretical approach), the article argues that participation in culturally defined worlds - such as the extremist right - develops sensitivities and sensibilities that endure. This enables them to engage in social actions, gain a position and develop a correlated identity, but it is also the reason why it can be very demanding for the individual to leave an extremist environment. Perceived from the (re)integrating into society by those stigmatized by a criminal and extremist past. It explores how individuals leaving a right wing extremist group handle themselves in a new world when their embodied knowledge and habitual responding are no longer appropriate, and investigates the many aspects individuals struggle with years after their engagement, when they do not know who to become and how to act.
Critique as locus or modus? Power and resistance in the world of work
Authors: Dyrberg Torben Bech , Triantafillou Peter
Published: February 2022

How and from where can power be criticized and resisted? The advent of new managerial forms of power has brought the question once more to the fore. One of the salient issues is whether the ubiquity and apparent omnipotence of contemporary forms of managerial power renders critique and resistance difficult. This article compares the critical potential of French pragmatic sociology and Foucauldian-inspired genealogy. We argue that both approaches offer viable critiques of contemporary forms of power. Yet, whereas the critique of pragmatic sociology hinges on the position (locus) of those who exercise critique and/or resist, genealogical critique depends on the concrete form (modus) of power that is being scrutinized. We argue that even though we see critique as modus as more convincing than critique as locus, the two approaches can inspire each other in order to advance effective critique.
Education in refugee camp contexts
Authors: Fresia Marion , Von Känel Andreas , Perret-Clermont Anne-Nelly
Published: February 2022

The delivery of education in refugee camps has become a key component of humanitarian programs. Since the late 1980s, camps have become the dominant way through which refugee  movements are managed around the world (Agier, 2014). Children, the perfect embodiment of the innocent victim, are particularly targeted by humanitarian aid. When refugee situations become protracted and the temporary permanent, their learning structures tend to be become actual schools made of an administration, a teaching staff and a curriculum. Generally funded and coordinated by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), these camp schools contribute today to the schooling of almost 3,5 millions of refugee children (UNHCR, 2019). Going beyond an idealized vision of education as a “basic human right” and an instrument of “protection,” this article looks at the ways in which humanitarian aid contributes to establishing the school norm in the margins of the Nation-States while at the same time being closely intertwined with the politics of controlling human mobility. Based on the case studies of schools in two Congolese refugee camps (in Tanzania and Rwanda), we explore which registers of legitimization and understandings of the child they are built on; how they are governed and negotiated on a daily basis by multiple actors; and how they are perceived by the students. What emerges from this analysis are a variety of tensions that characterize the dynamics of these schools: they simultaneously include their students in and exclude them from the dominant social order; they victimize them at the same time as they project them as future citizens, and they (re)produce the conditions of their confinement while creating opportunities for certain socio-spatial mobilities.
Development of a standardized social service pathway for children with complex cerebral palsy
Authors: Bøttcher Louise , Christensen Ole , Pedersen Charlotte R , Curtis Derek John
Published: February 2022

From a cultural-historical perspective, the impairments of a child with a condition like cerebral palsy (CP) have biological origins, but the disability evolves from the mismatch between the child and his/her social conditions for development (Vygotsky, 1993). One example of this dialectical production of disability can be seen in the challenge of the 21st-century welfare state: How to provide economically feasible health and educational services anchored in evidence-based methods and practices. Standardized social service pathways for children with CP illustrates an attempt to address this challenge and moderate the mismatch by acting in the intersection between impairment and society. The aim of the article is to analyze challenges in the practice of connecting research and practice-based knowledge with societal practices in order to diminish the disability of the child. A multidisciplinary group assembled by the Danish National Board of Social Services engaged in a practice of developing a guideline for a social service pathway. Agendas and minutes from their series of meetings provide insight in how the work evolved through conflictual discussions. Rather than a neutral transformation of knowledge into practice, the practice revealed itself as a value-laden process in which the needs of the child and family were at times decentred and the focus shifted to how social services could be realised in complex, structured social practices. While the group managed to overcome several conflicts and agree of a social service pathway, a socio-economic analysis was unable to argue for the comprehensive social service pathway as an economic sound choice for municipal decision-makers. The conflict between the welfare ideology and economic feasibility remains unresolved and can be expected to limit the extent that impairments can be remedied and the mismatch decreased. Overcoming or diminishing the mismatch might never become economic worthwhile. As the political pendulum oscillates between welfare and economic concerns, the experience of disability will likewise diminish or expand.
Phosphoproteomics of ATR signaling in mouse testes
Authors: Sims Jennie R , Faça Vitor M , Pereira Catalina , Ascenção Carolline , Comstock William , Badar Jumana , Arroyo-Martinez Gerardo A , Freire Raimundo , Cohen Paula E , Weiss Robert S , Smolka Marcus B
Published: February 2022

The phosphatidylinositol 3′ kinase (PI3K)‐related kinase ATR is crucial for mammalian meiosis. ATR promotes meiotic progression by coordinating key events in DNA repair, meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI), and checkpoint-dependent quality control during meiotic prophase I. Despite its central roles in meiosis, the ATR-dependent meiotic signaling network remains largely unknown. Here, we used phosphoproteomics to define ATR signaling events in testes from mice following chemical and genetic ablation of ATR signaling. Quantitative analysis of phosphoproteomes obtained after germ cell-specific genetic ablation of the ATR activating 9-1-1 complex or treatment with ATR inhibitor identified over 14,000 phosphorylation sites from testes samples, of which 401 phosphorylation sites were found to be dependent on both the 9-1-1 complex and ATR. Our analyses identified ATR-dependent phosphorylation events in crucial DNA damage signaling and DNA repair proteins including TOPBP1, SMC3, MDC1, RAD50, and SLX4. Importantly, we identified ATR and RAD1-dependent phosphorylation events in proteins involved in mRNA regulatory processes, including SETX and RANBP3, whose localization to the sex body was lost upon ATR inhibition. In addition to identifying the expected ATR-targeted S/T-Q motif, we identified enrichment of an S/T-P-X-K motif in the set of ATR-dependent events, suggesting that ATR promotes signaling via proline-directed kinase(s) during meiosis. Indeed, we found that ATR signaling is important for the proper localization of CDK2 in spermatocytes. Overall, our analysis establishes a map of ATR signaling in mouse testes and highlights potential meiotic-specific actions of ATR during prophase I progression.
Pathway-specific effects of ADSL deficiency on neurodevelopment
Authors: Dutto Ilaria , Gerhards Julian , Herrera Antonio , Souckova Olga , Škopová Václava , Smak Jordann A , Junza Alexandra , Yanes Oscar , Boeckx Cedric , Burkhalter Martin D , Zikánová Marie , Pons Sebastian , Philipp Melanie , Lüders Jens , Stracker Travis H
Published: February 2022

Adenylosuccinate lyase (ADSL) functions in de novo purine synthesis (DNPS) and the purine nucleotide cycle. ADSL deficiency (ADSLD) causes numerous neurodevelopmental pathologies, including microcephaly and autism spectrum disorder. ADSLD patients have normal serum purine nucleotide levels but exhibit accumulation of dephosphorylated ADSL substrates, S-Ado, and SAICAr, the latter being implicated in neurotoxic effects through unknown mechanisms. We examined the phenotypic effects of ADSL depletion in human cells and their relation to phenotypic outcomes. Using specific interventions to compensate for reduced purine levels or modulate SAICAr accumulation, we found that diminished AMP levels resulted in increased DNA damage signaling and cell cycle delays, while primary ciliogenesis was impaired specifically by loss of ADSL or administration of SAICAr. ADSL-deficient chicken and zebrafish embryos displayed impaired neurogenesis and microcephaly. Neuroprogenitor attrition in zebrafish embryos was rescued by pharmacological inhibition of DNPS, but not increased nucleotide concentration. Zebrafish also displayed phenotypes commonly linked to ciliopathies. Our results suggest that both reduced purine levels and impaired DNPS contribute to neurodevelopmental pathology in ADSLD and that defective ciliogenesis may influence the ADSLD phenotypic spectrum.
Investigating phenotypes of pulmonary COVID-19 recovery: A longitudinal observational prospective multicenter trial
Authors: Sonnweber Thomas , Tymoszuk Piotr , Sahanic Sabina , Boehm Anna , Pizzini Alex , Luger Anna , Schwabl Christoph , Nairz Manfred , Grubwieser Philipp , Kurz Katharina , Koppelstätter Sabine , Aichner Magdalena , Puchner Bernhard , Egger Alexander , Hoermann Gregor , Wöll Ewald , Weiss Günter , Widmann Gerlig , Tancevski Ivan , Löffler-Ragg Judith
Published: February 2022

Background:

The optimal procedures to prevent, identify, monitor, and treat long-term pulmonary sequelae of COVID-19 are elusive. Here, we characterized the kinetics of respiratory and symptom recovery following COVID-19.

Methods:

We conducted a longitudinal, multicenter observational study in ambulatory and hospitalized COVID-19 patients recruited in early 2020 (n = 145). Pulmonary computed tomography (CT) and lung function (LF) readouts, symptom prevalence, and clinical and laboratory parameters were collected during acute COVID-19 and at 60, 100, and 180 days follow-up visits. Recovery kinetics and risk factors were investigated by logistic regression. Classification of clinical features and participants was accomplished by unsupervised and semi-supervised multiparameter clustering and machine learning.

Results:

At the 6-month follow-up, 49% of participants reported persistent symptoms. The frequency of structural lung CT abnormalities ranged from 18% in the mild outpatient cases to 76% in the intensive care unit (ICU) convalescents. Prevalence of impaired LF ranged from 14% in the mild outpatient cases to 50% in the ICU survivors. Incomplete radiological lung recovery was associated with increased anti-S1/S2 antibody titer, IL-6, and CRP levels at the early follow-up. We demonstrated that the risk of perturbed pulmonary recovery could be robustly estimated at early follow-up by clustering and machine learning classifiers employing solely non-CT and non-LF parameters.

Conclusions:

The severity of acute COVID-19 and protracted systemic inflammation is strongly linked to persistent structural and functional lung abnormality. Automated screening of multiparameter health record data may assist in the prediction of incomplete pulmonary recovery and optimize COVID-19 follow-up management.

Funding:

The State of Tyrol (GZ 71934), Boehringer Ingelheim/Investigator initiated study (IIS 1199-0424).

Clinical trial number:

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04416100
Protein-lipid interaction at low pH induces oligomerization of the MakA cytotoxin from Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Nadeem Aftab , Berg Alexandra , Pace Hudson , Alam Athar , Toh Eric , Ådén Jörgen , Zlatkov Nikola , Myint Si Lhyam , Persson Karina , Gröbner Gerhard , Sjöstedt Anders , Bally Marta , Barandun Jonas , Uhlin Bernt Eric , Wai Sun Nyunt
Published: February 2022

The α-pore-forming toxins (α-PFTs) from pathogenic bacteria damage host cell membranes by pore formation. We demonstrate a remarkable, hitherto unknown mechanism by an α-PFT protein from Vibrio cholerae. As part of the MakA/B/E tripartite toxin, MakA is involved in membrane pore formation similar to other α-PFTs. In contrast, MakA in isolation induces tube-like structures in acidic endosomal compartments of epithelial cells in vitro. The present study unravels the dynamics of tubular growth, which occurs in a pH-, lipid-, and concentration-dependent manner. Within acidified organelle lumens or when incubated with cells in acidic media, MakA forms oligomers and remodels membranes into high-curvature tubes leading to loss of membrane integrity. A 3.7 Å cryo-electron microscopy structure of MakA filaments reveals a unique protein-lipid superstructure. MakA forms a pinecone-like spiral with a central cavity and a thin annular lipid bilayer embedded between the MakA transmembrane helices in its active α-PFT conformation. Our study provides insights into a novel tubulation mechanism of an α-PFT protein and a new mode of action by a secreted bacterial toxin.
Connexin hemichannels with prostaglandin release in anabolic function of bone to mechanical loading
Authors: Zhao Dezhi , Riquelme Manuel A , Guda Teja , Tu Chao , Xu Huiyun , Gu Sumin , Jiang Jean X
Published: February 2022

Mechanical stimulation, such as physical exercise, is essential for bone formation and health. Here, we demonstrate the critical role of osteocytic Cx43 hemichannels in anabolic function of bone in response to mechanical loading. Two transgenic mouse models, R76W and Δ130–136, expressing dominant-negative Cx43 mutants in osteocytes were adopted. Mechanical loading of tibial bone increased cortical bone mass and mechanical properties in wild-type and gap junction-impaired R76W mice through increased PGE2, endosteal osteoblast activity, and decreased sclerostin. These anabolic responses were impeded in gap junction/hemichannel-impaired Δ130–136 mice and accompanied by increased endosteal osteoclast activity. Specific inhibition of Cx43 hemichannels by Cx43(M1) antibody suppressed PGE2 secretion and impeded loading-induced endosteal osteoblast activity, bone formation and anabolic gene expression. PGE2 administration rescued the osteogenic response to mechanical loading impeded by impaired hemichannels. Together, osteocytic Cx43 hemichannels could be a potential new therapeutic target for treating bone loss and osteoporosis.
Implications and Considerations for Analysis of Inflammatory Markers in the Red Cell Concentrates of Borderline Diabetic Blood Donors
Authors: Zammit Vanessa , Cutajar Alexandra , Baron Byron
Published: February 2022

Storage lesions of blood products intended for transfusion have been shown to give rise to the accumulation of proin flammatory cytokines, which are known to cause transfusion associated adverse events and immunomodulatory effects. Regulations which determine the eligibility of blood donors do not take into consideration metabolic disorders such as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), unless complications arise from said disorder. However, the increased levels of cytokines in T2DM classifies this condition as an inflammatory condition. This outcome dictates the need to investigate whether detected levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines due to inflammation combined with those present in red cell concentrates as a result of storage lesions may lead to undesirable outcomes in recipients who already have underlying inflammatory conditions. Due to the largely unavailable information on the subject, a few important considerations for undertaking such investigations have been summarised.
Evaluation of Clinical Outcome of Cranioplasty Using Different Prosthetic Materials in Traumatic Brain Injury Patient: An Observational Study
Authors: Patra Madhumaitri , Kale (Pisulkar) Sweta , Iratwar Sandeep W.
Published: February 2022

Background: Injuries of head, cerebral tumours, infections and ischemia are the most common causes of intracranial disorders and decompressive craniotomy may require to treat those patient followed by reconstruction later on. After loss of skull bone, cranial reconstruction or Cranioplasty is a choice of treatment worldwide for the restoration of the skull integrity. There are different types of materials which can be used for Cranioplasty but all have their own advantages and pitfalls.

Objective: Evaluation of clinical outcome of Cranioplasty using different prosthetic materials i.e Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Titanium (Ti), Polymethyl methacrylate Bone Cement(PMMA Bone cement) in traumatic brain injury patient.

Methods: The patients will be divided into 4 groups according to the material used for Cranioplasty. (PMMA, Ti, Autologous bone graft, PMMA Bone cement). The intra operative clinical data and post-operative data will be collected from the previously collected records. (operative time, blood loss, including any complication or graft rejection). Statistical analysis will be done.

Results: Collected data form 40 patients will be statistically analysed to obtain the result. Expected outcome is PMMA Bone cement, is an equally effective prosthetic material as compared to PMMA and Ti in terms of intra operative and post-operative clinical outcome for Cranioplasty in traumatic brain injury patients.

Conclusion: This study would help in knowing the feasibility of using PMMA bone cement as a Cranioplasty material and will evaluate the clinical outcome of PMMA, Ti and PMMA bone cement in Cranioplasty.
Comparison of Intrathecal Bupivacaine with Clonidine Versus Intrathecal Bupivacaine with Fentanyl for Post-operative Pain Treatment in Lower Limb Procedures
Authors: Deshmukh Priyanka , Deshmukh Pratibha , Parate Sohal , Agrawal Sweety , Chakole Vivek
Published: February 2022

Background: One of the anaesthesiologist's key goals during spinal anaesthesia is to keep the body physiology as close to normal as feasible. As we all know, subarachnoid block causes significant hemodynamic changes, especially in trauma and elderly individuals. Sympathetic nervous system denervation, skeletal muscle weakness, or loss of proprioception are not linked to neuraxial opioids. They primarily operate on the receptors found in the substantia gelatinosa of the spinal cord to exert their synergistic analgesic impact on visceral pain. Opioids and local anaesthetics delivered intrathecally have a powerful synergistic analgesic effect. A 2 adrenergic agonist, Clonidine is sometimes used as a local anaesthetic adjuvant with mixed effects. The effects of intrathecal Clonidine vs Fentanyl with 0.5 percent hyperbaric bupivacaine on postoperative analgesic duration and adverse effects were compared.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of 0.5 percent hyperbaric bupivacaine with Clonidine (75 gs) vs Fentanyl (25 gs) for spinal anaesthesia in patients undergoing lower limb procedures, as well as the postoperative pain alleviation and adverse effects in both groups.

Methods: This was a prospective study involving 80 patients who were scheduled for elective lower limb surgery under spinal anaesthesia. The participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Group C (15mg 0.5 percent bupivacaine + 75gs Clonidine) or Group F (15mg 0.5 percent bupivacaine + 25gs Fentanyl).

Results: We discovered a time delay in the start of sensory and motor block in group C after assessing the outcomes of our investigation. Group C's sensory and motor block lasted significantly longer compared to group F. The average duration of analgesia in groups C and F was 234.7529.71 minutes and 170.8732.38 minutes, respectively. Compared to group C, the demand for rescue analgesics was higher in group F throughout 24 hours. Bradycardia affected 12 individuals in group C, while pruritus affected 12 patients in group F. Five of the patients in group F experienced nausea.

Conclusion: In compared to 25gs Fentanyl, adjuvant use of Clonidine 75gs with hyperbaric bupivacaine prolongs the duration of both sensory and motor blockage, as well as the length of analgesia postoperatively, without generating substantial hemodynamic compromise or other side effects.
Management of Bullous Pemphigoid with Diabetes Mellitus: Case Report
Authors: Thakre Kunal D. , Gomase Kavita , Kasturkar Pooja
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The most frequent acquired autoimmune sub epidermal blistering condition is bullous pemphigoid (BP). BP mostly affects older persons between the ages of 60 and 80. It is an uncommon autoimmune condition that affects both men and women, with a greater prevalence in women.

Complaints and investigations are underway: A 50-year-old female patient presented to the dermatology department with the primary complaint of fluid-filled sores all over her body that had been present for 8 months. She also complained of lesions with mild to severe itching, irritation, and sometimes burning feeling over lesions for 8 months, and she was a known case of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) type 2 for which she was taking medicine from 8 to 10 years. Following a general physical examination and research, a case of BP with DM 2 was identified.

The major diagnosis, treatment intervention, and results are as follows: After a physical examination and investigation, the doctor diagnosed a case of Bullous Phemphoid with a verified case of DM type 2. Inj. Insulin Mixtard 22U/16U, Tab. Defcort 12 Mg 2-1, Tab. Glicazide 80 Mg BD, Tab. Nicoglow 250 Mg OD, Tab. Cyclophosphamide BD (50 Mg -25 Mg), Cap. Doxepin 10 Mg BD, Tab. Dailyshine 60000IU (Once A Week), L/A Omate –F OD, vitamin B, calcium, iron The entire course of treatment was completed, and the outcome was satisfactory.

Conclusion: She responded to medication as well as physician counselling. Her itch has subsided, and some of the lesions have healed.
Evaluation of a Triple Antibiotic Paste as a Root Canal Obturating Material for Deciduous Teeth: A Study Protocol
Authors: Prasanna T. Dahake , Nilima R. Thosar
Published: February 2022

Background: Teeth with infected root canals, secondary to endodontic infections are a common problem in primary as well as permanent dentition. The key to successful endodontic treatment is seen only after the complete removal of infection from root canals. Systemic antibiotics have limited reach to endodontic spaces. In pediatric dentistry, difficulties in antimicrobial control require the development of a new root canal obturating paste with broad antimicrobial activity, minimal tissue toxicity, and high safety index. In this experimental study, a new Triple Antibiotic Obturating Paste (TAOP) will be developed and its efficacy will be evaluated.

Methods and Design: This is a pre-clinical in-vitro microbiological and in-vivo animal study, utilizing laboratory-grown white Wistar rats aged 2-3 months and weighing 200-300 grams. The antibiotic sensitivity test (AST) will be conducted using 21 standard aerobic and anaerobic microbial strains for determining potency through serial dilution and agar diffusion assay. The systemic and local tissue toxicity will be assessed by inserting the test and control materials into the dorsal connective tissues of the experimental rats. The antimicrobial efficacy of triple antibiotic obturating paste [thermo-modulated in-situ polymeric hydrogel matrix of TAOP, containing chitosan-carbopol and poloxamer blended with clindamycin (5%), metronidazole (5%), and doxycycline (1%)] will be evaluated against Metapex [Ca(OH)2-Iodoform paste] on endodontic microflora. The microbiological study data will be evaluated through One-way ANOVA trailed by ‘Tuckey’s post hoc test’ for intergroup as well as, t-test for intragroup comparison. The animal study data will be evaluated through One-way ANOVA for intergroup and ‘paired t-test’ for intragroup comparison.

Results: The newly developed bio-degradable obturating material will be more suitable than the conventionally used one, to eliminate resistant endodontic pathogens from root canal systems, along with good pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic responses as well as minimal local and systematic tissue toxicity when used in primary teeth.

Conclusion: The application of such novel multi-antibiotic formulation as an obturating material not only will achieve efficient disinfection of the endodontic spaces but also increase chances of therapeutic success due to the elimination of side effects associated with cytotoxicity and material properties as it contains most of the bioresorbable organic ingredients.
Analysis of Antimicrobial Activity of Aqua Alcoholic Extract of Boerhaavia diffusa Against Oral Pathogens -An In vitro Study
Authors: Reshawn M. Infant , Priyadharshini R. , Kumar S. Rajesh , Sinduja Palati
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Boerhavia diffusa (Mukkirattai) of the Nyctaginaceae family is a widely used folk medicinal plant that grows as a common weed with its leaves, seeds and roots are useful parts with pharmacological activities with a cure for twenty-three ailments. Phytochemical constituents of B.diffusa showing antimicrobial activity includes phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides.

Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the qualitative analysis of the antimicrobial activity of aqua alcoholic extracts of Boerhaavia diffusa L. (Family: Nyctaginaceae) leaves. 

Materials and Methods: Boerhavia diffusa (Mukkirattai) was freshly procured as a powdered form from different solvent extracts that were tested against the Gram-positive bacteria and fungal strains by observing the zone of inhibition which showed the antimicrobial activity of Boerhaavia diffusa L. Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans and fungal strains Candida albicans were used in this test. The obtained data were analyzed statistically by Non parametric Spearman correlation analysis.

Results: Antimicrobial activity was observed in the aqueous-alcoholic extracts against Gram-positive bacilli, cocci and fungal strains. The aqua alcoholic extract of B. diffusa showed positive correlation with p value less than 0.05 with antimicrobial effect against fungal strains (e.g. C. albicans which had a zone of inhibition diameter of 26mm) and with Gram-positive bacteria (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus showed inhibition diameter of 20 mm), with Gram Positive cocci (e.g. Streptococcus mutans showed an inhibition diameter of 18 mm) when compared to Enterococcus faecalis. 

Conclusion: The Aqua alcoholic extract of Boerhavia diffusa being biofriendly and inexpensive has a very strong Antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus while it showed minimal antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Fosfomycin and Nitrofurantoin despite Dissemination of Fluoroquinolones and Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole Resistant Urinary Tract Isolates
Authors: Mohamed Abdikarim Hussein , Mohamud Hussein Ali , Eraslan Aşır , Gur Metin , Mohamud Abdinur Farah
Published: February 2022

The widespread growth  of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extended drug resistant (XDR) uropathogens and the shortage of new antimicrobials are the most significant obstacles challenging the treatment of urinary tract infections. The study is aimed to identify the antimicrobial susceptibility profile against MDR and XDR uropathogens. A total of 2485 urine samples were processed from 2267 patients, 361 uropathogens were grown. The antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute’s guidelines. Eighty-nine percent of the samples had Multidrug-resistant microorganisms, while 32% had XDR uropathogens. In comparison to fluoroquinolones and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, fosfomycin and nitrofurantoin demonstrated a significantly higher sensitivity rate against uropathogens, including MDR and XDR uropathogens, in both gender groups with community-acquired and nosocomial UTIs (P<0.001). Fosfomycin revealed the highest sensitivity rate, about 94.8%. Klebsiella pneumonia and E. coli showed the highest resistance rate against fosfomycin in 3.7% and 3.4% of the cases. Nitrofurantoin showed a similar sensitivity rate both in community and hospitalized patients in 86.1%. Fluoroquinolones (61%) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (86.6%) revealed the highest resistance rate against uropathogens. The prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases producing pathogens was 10.2%. Fosfomycin and nitrofurantoin revealed a higher sensitivity rate against gram-negative MDR uropathogens in community and nosocomial UTIs compared to fluoroquinolones and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole.
Challenges and Issues of Nurses in Serving COVID-19 Patients: A Study with Reference to Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Sekhar Savanam Chandra , Harshitha Maddirala Sai , Bolisetty Darahas , Tummala Sudheshna , Bhoomika Samudrala
Published: February 2022

Health care became priority due to COVID-19 pandemic. Despite governments have taken utmost preventive and safeguarding measures, many people lost their lives due to disorganized medical care system in India. The role of nurses in serving the severe COVID patients is exuberant. Nurses have direct contact with COVID patients and must spend longer hours in and around the patients. The way nurses rendered services under extreme lockdown conditions is quite palpable. They do have lot of stress in discharging duties during the pandemic. The aim of this paper is to address the challenges and issues of nurses while serving COVID-19 patients and to provide appropriate measures to overcome challenges during the pandemic. The study is empirical and descriptive in nature. Shortage of nurses, afraid of viral infection, longer shifts, heavy workload, inadequate PPE, social stigma, maintaining social distance with loved ones of family members, relatives, and friends, lack of appreciation and recognition by the doctors, helplessness towards colleagues, and lack of awareness of safety protocols among COVID-19 positive patients caused physical and psychological stress among nurses. They have adapted a coping mechanism with belief in God, support from family and friends, soothing conversation with a peer group, kind treatment to each other, concern for well-being of humanity to bail out the situation during the pandemic.Outbreak of COVID-19 created unprecedented challenges and lessons to people of the globe. People praise only doctors in contribution of saving lives while healthcare professionals like nurses often are ignored, undervalued, and underpaid in healthcare sector. Nurses play vital role in saving lives with their altruistic services. They too have faced drastic challenges in the pandemic. Insufficient medical staff and equipment, increased workload with longer shifts, social exclusion, fear of being infected, shortage of PPE kits, and mismanagement are some challenges which put nurses in adversity with physical and psychological stress. Monetary and non-monetary incentives such as economic support, word of appreciation and work recognition, safe and adequate PPEs, and appropriate workload would motivate nurses to contribute more during the pandemic. Public health emergency must put in practice to ensure quality healthcare services.
A new function for the serine protease HtrA2 in controlling radiation‐induced senescence in cancer cells
Authors: Hammer Liat , Levin‐Salomon Vered , Yaeli‐Slonim Naama , Weiss Moria , Dekel‐Bird Naama P. , Olender Tsviya , Porat Ziv , Winograd‐Katz Sabina , Savidor Alon , Levin Yishai , Bialik Shani , Geiger Benjamin , Kimchi Adi
Published: February 2022

Radiation therapy can induce cellular senescence in cancer cells, leading to short‐term tumor growth arrest but increased long‐term recurrence. To better understand the molecular mechanisms involved, we developed a model of radiation‐induced senescence in cultured cancer cells. The irradiated cells exhibited a typical senescent phenotype, including upregulation of p53 and its main target, p21, followed by a sustained reduction in cellular proliferation, changes in cell size and cytoskeleton organization, and senescence‐associated beta‐galactosidase activity. Mass spectrometry‐based proteomic profiling of the senescent cells indicated downregulation of proteins involved in cell cycle progression and DNA repair, and upregulation of proteins associated with malignancy. A functional siRNA screen using a cell death‐related library identified mitochondrial serine protease HtrA2 as being necessary for sustained growth arrest of the senescent cells. In search of direct HtrA2 substrates following radiation, we determined that HtrA2 cleaves the intermediate filament protein vimentin, affecting its cytoplasmic organization. Ectopic expression of active cytosolic HtrA2 resulted in similar changes to vimentin filament assembly. Thus, HtrA2 is involved in the cytoskeletal reorganization that accompanies radiation‐induced senescence and the continuous maintenance of proliferation arrest.
Pain's interference with recovery makes case for revising strategy
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: February 2022

Chronic pain is threatening the healthy recovery of a striking number of individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs), including one in four people whose illness is in remission, a new study suggests. Moreover, the study's lead author believes, current multidisciplinary strategies to assist patients with SUD and chronic pain hold no hope of making inroads with this complex population.
One‐Interlayer‐Twisted Multilayer MoS2 Moiré Superlattices
Authors: Zhang Weifeng , Hao He , Lee Yangjin , Zhao Yan , Tong Lianming , Kim Kwanpyo , Liu Nan
Published: February 2022

Twist angle provides a new degree of freedom for 2D material modifications. In principle, the intrinsic properties of twisted multilayers can be regulated by twist angle between each adjacent layer and thus have greater tunability than widely studied bilayer structures. Considering its complexity, it is important to first investigate the simplest twisted multilayers with only one interface twisted. In this work, multilayer Moiré superlattices with only one twisted interface via paraffin‐assisted folding of non‐twisted stacked (highly symmetrically stacked) multilayer MoS2 are successfully fabricated, and their twist‐angle dependent optical properties are systematically studied. Compared to non‐twisted stacked multilayer MoS2, the one‐interface‐twisted multilayers show a 2–3.5 times higher PL intensity, and their interlayer coupling, indirect bandgap, and degree of circular polarization (DOCP) are tunable by twist angle. Notably, the DOCP for the one‐interface‐twisted four‐layer (folded bilayer) can reach 86%, which is the highest value ever reported for transition metal dichalcogenide homostructures above liquid nitrogen temperature. This work provides a solid base for understanding twist‐angle dependent properties of twisted multilayer 2D‐materials.
A Library of ROS‐Catalytic Metalloenzyme Mimics with Atomic Metal Centers
Authors: Cao Sujiao , Zhao Zhenyang , Zheng Yijuan , Wu Zihe , Ma Tian , Zhu Bihui , Yang Chengdong , Xiang Xi , Ma Lang , Han Xianglong , Wang Yi , Guo Quanyi , Qiu Li , Cheng Chong
Published: February 2022

MetalN‐coordinated centers supported by carbonaceous substrates have emerged as promising artificial metalloenzymes (AMEs) to mimic the biocatalytic effects of their natural counterparts. However, the synthesis of well‐defined AMEs that contain different atomic metalN centers but present similar physicochemical and coordination structures remains a substantial challenge. Here, 20 different types of AMEs with similar geometries and well‐defined atomic metalN‐coordinated centers are synthesized to compare and disclose the catalytic activities, substrate selectivities, kinetics, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) products. Their oxidase (OXD)‐, peroxidase (POD)‐, and halogen peroxidase (HPO)‐mimetic catalytic behaviors are systematically explored. The Fe‐AME shows the highest OXD‐ and HPO‐mimetic activities compared to the other AMEs due to its high vmax (0.927 × 10−6 m s−1) and low Km (1.070 × 10−3 m), while the Cu‐AME displays the best POD‐like performance. Furthermore, theoretical calculation reveals that the ROS‐catalytic paths and activities are highly related to the electronic structures of the metal centers. Benefiting from its facile adsorption of H2O2 molecule and lower energy barrier to generating •O2−, the Fe‐AME displays higher ROS‐catalytic performances than the Mn‐AME. The engineered AMEs show not only remarkably high ROS‐catalytic performances but also provide new guidance toward developing metalN‐coordinated biocatalysts for broad application fields.
Stretchable Photonic Semicrystal Interface by Pressure‐Assistant Self‐Assembly
Authors: Wang Zhaosong , Zhang Jiayi , Lan Zhuyue , Meng Qingyu , Tang Ruixin , Shen Xiaoping , Sun Qingfeng
Published: February 2022

Stretchable structural colors that can dynamically respond to mechanical stimuli are garnering interest as energy‐free mechanical‐optical sensors. Typical technologies for embedding photonic crystals (PCs) in elastic hydrogels generally involve etching processes, which have raked controversy for straying from green manufacturing practices. Here, a facile pressure‐assisted self‐assembly strategy to fabricate an interfacial photonic structure, i.e., semicrystalline photonic structure (SPS), consisting of two diffraction nanopatterns, including randomly oriented, medium‐scale ordered PCs and arbitrarily distributed amorphous photonic glass using hydrophilically modified colloidal polystyrene (PS) nanospheres configured at the hydrogel interface is introduced. The structural colors of the SPS hydrogel interfaces undergo immediate and repeatable mechanochromic redshift or blueshift in real time when the sample is longitudinally compressed or tensed, respectively, at both the micro zone and macroscopic color block levels. The SPS hydrogel interfaces display long‐term colorfast, angle‐independent, or non‐iridescent coloration and bright structural colors in a high reflective‐intensity range of 62%–96% at a normal viewing angle. With these features, this study demonstrates the feasibility of fabricating SPS hydrogel interfaces with mechanical and optical properties that are compatible with state‐of‐the‐art stretchable optical sensors.
Engineering Reductive Iron on a Layered Double Hydroxide Electrocatalyst for Facilitating Nitrogen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Kong Yi , Kong Huabin , Lv Chade , Chen Gang
Published: February 2022

Ammonia is an indispensable chemical, of which the industrial production is still dominated by Haber‐Bosch process operated at harsh conditions. The ecofriendly electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (NRR) emerges as an alternative, however, such technique currently suffers from tough dynamics on account of difficulties in the adsorption or protonation of N2 on catalysts. To eliminate the obstacle, a simple and valid strategy of ferrous iron replacing copper is proposed to regulate the electronic structure of layered double hydroxide (LDH) for boosting the NRR activity. Thanks to the ferrous iron, the Fe(II)Cu(II)Fe(III)‐LDH catalyst attains a NH3 yield rate of 33.1 ± 2.5 µg h−1 mgcat.−1 and a desirable Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 21.7 ± 1.8% in a neutral electrolyte of 0.1 m Na2SO4, outclassing the Cu(II)Fe(III)‐LDH catalyst without Fe(II). The introduction of ferrous iron can adjust the d‐band center position to improve the N2 adsorption and can reduce the energy barrier of the potential determining step (PDS) to facilitate the NRR process. This work provides a new insight on engineering efficient electrocatalysts for nitrogen fixation under ambient conditions.
Enhanced Photoresponse Performance of Self‐Powered PTAA/GaN Microwire Heterojunction Ultraviolet Photodetector Based on Piezo‐Phototronic Effect
Authors: Chen Fei , Deng Congcong , Wang Xingfu , Liu Chao , Liu Qing , Zou Can , Wu Guohui , Zhao Zixuan , Chen Kai , Gao Fangliang , Zhan Shaobin , Li Shuti
Published: February 2022

The development of self‐powered high‐performance UV photodetectors is essential for energy efficient futuristic wearable and portable applications. Herein, a self‐powered organic/inorganic (PTAA/GaN microwire) hybrid heterojunction ultraviolet (UV) photodetector (PD) has been prepared by a low‐cost and simple spin‐coating method. Furthermore, the piezo‐phototronic effect as an effective interfacial regulating strategy is utilized to modulate the photo‐response performances of the PD by engineering the energy‐band structure at the local junction/interface. Under 325 nm laser irradiation, the obtained device demonstrates excellent photo‐response properties at 0 V bias, showing a high responsivity (268 mA W−1) and detectivity (2.49 × 1012 Jones) under weak light intensity as low as 0.2 mW cm−2, as well as fast response speeds (rise time of 14 ms and decay time of 23 ms). The PD exhibits better performance than most reported organic/inorganic heterojunction self‐powered PDs. By applying a −0.52% compressive strain, the responsivity and detectivity of the device are greatly enhanced by 32% without external bias, and by 1256% at 2 V bias under 1.4 mW cm−2 light intensity. On the contrary, by applying a 0.41% tensile strain, the responsivity and detectivity are decreased by 18% without external bias. It indicates that the strain has a significant modulating effect on the photo‐response performance of the PD. The positive piezo‐potential modulated energy‐band structure at the PTAA/GaN interface may account for the enhanced performance. This study demonstrates a promising approach to optimize the performance of a self‐powered heterostructure optoelectronic devices through strain modulated.
Metal‐Free Photoinduced Deformylative Minisci‐Type Reaction
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Shao Xin , Cao Zhu , Wu Xinxin , Zhu Chen
Published: February 2022

A metal‐free deformylative Minisci‐type reaction is disclosed by using aliphatic aldehydes as alkyl radical precursors. The reaction proceeds via a sequence of hydrogen atom abstraction (HAA) from aldehyde and decarbonylation under mild photochemical conditions. The transformation offers many advantages including good regioselectivity, broad substrate scope, and easy operation. The reaction is also amenable to late‐stage functionalization of complex heteroarenes, and can be readily performed on gram scale.

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Persistence of Ad26.COV2.S‐associated vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) and specific detection of VITT antibodies
Authors: Kanack Adam J. , Singh Bandana , George Gemlyn , Gundabolu Krishna , Koepsell Scott A. , Abou‐Ismail Mouhamed Yazan , Moser Karen A. , Smock Kristi J. , Green David , Major Ajay , Chan Clarence W. , Wool Geoffrey D. , Reding Mark , Ashrani Aneel A. , Bayas Antonios , Grill Diane E. , Padmanabhan Anand
Published: February 2022

Rare cases of COVID‐19 vaccinated individuals develop anti‐platelet factor 4 (PF4) antibodies that cause thrombocytopenia and thrombotic complications, a syndrome referred to as vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). Currently, information on the characteristics and persistence of anti‐PF4 antibodies that cause VITT after Ad26.COV2.S vaccination is limited, and available diagnostic assays fail to differentiate Ad26.COV2.S and ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19‐associated VITT from similar clinical disorders, namely heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and spontaneous HIT. Here we demonstrate that while Ad26.COV2.S‐associated VITT patients are uniformly strongly positive in PF4‐polyanion enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs); they are frequently negative in the serotonin release assay (SRA). The PF4‐dependent p‐selectin expression assay (PEA) that uses platelets treated with PF4 rather than heparin consistently diagnosed Ad26.COV2.S‐associated VITT. Most Ad26.COV2.S‐associated VITT antibodies persisted for >5 months in PF4‐polyanion ELISAs, while the PEA became negative earlier. Two patients had otherwise unexplained mild persistent thrombocytopenia (140‐150 x 103/µL) 6 months after acute presentation. From an epidemiological perspective, differentiating VITT from spontaneous HIT, another entity that develops in the absence of proximate heparin exposure, and HIT is important, but currently available PF4‐polyanion ELISAs and functional assay are non‐specific and detect all three conditions. Here, we report that a novel un‐complexed PF4 ELISA specifically differentiates VITT, secondary to both Ad26.COV2.S and ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19, from both spontaneous HIT, HIT and commonly‐encountered HIT‐suspected patients who are PF4/polyanion ELISA‐positive but negative in functional assays. In summary, Ad26.COV2.S‐associated VITT antibodies are persistent, and the un‐complexed PF4 ELISA appears to be both sensitive and specific for VITT diagnosis.