bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Practices of Voriconazole and Posaconazole at a Pediatric Hospital
Authors: Duehlmeyer Stephanie , Klockau Christopher , Yu Diana , Rouch Jamie
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the voriconazole and posaconazole serum trough ordering practices in patients receiving prophylactic and treatment antifungal therapy.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review over a 6-year period of pediatric patients who received voriconazole and/or posaconazole for >24 hours.

RESULTS

A total of 113 patients were included in this study and of these patients, 105 received voriconazole and 16 received posaconazole during the study period. Additionally, 167 trough levels were assessed in this study. Only 50% and 54% of levels were considered within goal recommendations for voriconazole and posaconazole, respectively. The median dose required to achieve goal trough concentration was dependent on drug, indication, and dosage form. Lastly, the most common adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were hepatoxicity, QTc prolongation, and CNS changes, which were in concordance with ADRs documented in the clinical trials for voriconazole and posaconazole. Approximately 20% of patients receiving either voriconazole or posaconazole died during the study period and the median trough in both groups was subtherapeutic.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased monitoring of trough concentrations may be warranted to prevent death or breakthrough invasive fungal infections. Further studies are warranted for assessing the relationship between trough concentrations and treatment outcomes as well as relationship between dosing and achieving goal trough concentrations.
The Use of Daptomycin in the Treatment of Persistent Coagulase-Negative Staphylococcal Sepsis in Premature Infants: A Case Series
Authors: Asfour Suzan S. , Asfour Raneem S. , Khalil Thanaa M. , Al-Mouqdad Mountasser M.
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVE

Daptomycin is a lipopeptide antibiotic with rapid bactericidal activity against Gram-positive bacteria. Reports regarding the use of daptomycin in infants are still limited. Thus, the objective of this report is to describe the safety and efficacy of daptomycin in premature infants with persistent coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) infection.

METHODS

This was a retrospective chart review of 10 premature infants with persistent CoNS infection who received daptomycin therapy between January 2018 and September 2019. Four patients had endocarditis and 1 had bacterial meningitis and infectious endocarditis. The other 5 patients had persistent CoNS bacteraemia only.

RESULTS

Daptomycin treatment was successful for 5 patients. The others died owing to multiple factors such as prematurity, sepsis, and chronic lung disease. Adverse drug reactions, including elevation of creatine phosphokinase and/or hepatotoxicity, were noted in 4 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Large and randomized studies are necessary to ensure daptomycin's safety and efficacy for the treatment of infants with persistent sepsis caused by Gram-positive bacteria.
Contribuições para uma história do teatro nas prisões do Brasil
Authors: Narvaes Viviane Becker
Published: January 2021

Este artigo, fruto de tese de doutorado recém defendida, apresentou aspectos históricos do teatro nas prisões do Brasil; propôs uma linha do tempo que incluiu antecedentes históricos desta modalidade de teatro e elencou experiências de teatro nas prisões brasileiras de 1937 a 2019. Na perspectiva da necessária sistematização dos estudos sobre o tema, certamente não se atingiu a totalidade das experiências de teatro em nossas prisões, mas a pesquisa realizada complementou o panorama histórico do teatro nas prisões elaborado por Concilio (2008) em sua dissertação de mestrado. Os debates do campo, bem como aspectos da relação arte e prisão no contexto nacional, numa ótica historicizada, foram abrangidos.
Sobre cartas, celas, elas e professoras-em-processo
Authors: Jacobs Daiane Dordete Steckert , Souza Samira Sinara
Published: January 2021

Nestas cartas escritas a quatro mãos busca-se rememorar e refletir sobre o trabalho desenvolvido pelas autoras com mulheres em privação de liberdade no Presídio Regional de Joinville (PRJ). Do projeto inicial de pesquisa e montagem da peça celas em 2010, a partir de narrativas de mulheres em situação de cárcere e egressas do PRJ, às oficinas de teatro realizadas com estas mulheres anos depois - intercaladas pelas apresentações da peça em sua primeira versão e sua posterior desmontagem -, procura-se tecer os fios que trouxeram a este lugar de atuação e análise. Através de uma escrita performativa, mesclam-se memórias e afetos das artistas-professoras com narrativas e reflexões sobre o processo pedagógico desenvolvido no segundo semestre de 2019 no PRJ, a partir de uma perspectiva de gênero. Confidenciam-se desejos, incertezas, descobertas, frustrações e conquistas que este percurso trouxe, tendo como foco a percepção da docência como um processo criativo constante e dialógico, de professoras-em-processo.
O que acontece quando eu olho para você: o espaço íntimo do teatro na prisão
Authors: Hamer Karen , Martin Cedric
Published: January 2021

Apesar dos crescentes estudos sobre teatro e voluntários em prisões, há pouca pesquisa que olha para a experiência teatral da prisão através dos olhos tanto dos voluntários externos quanto dos prisioneiros-participantes.  Este artigo busca tecer as vozes coautorais para explorar experiências compartilhadas da sala de aula do teatro prisional. Essas experiências – descritas como "mágicas" e "transcendentes" – dependem do voluntariado realizando atividades com sucesso na prisão. O espaço da sala de aula do teatro na prisão torna-se então um refúgio relacional onde tanto os presos quanto os voluntários podem se sentir bem-vindos e aceitos, vistos não como outros, mas como essenciais.
Liberdade e Criatividade a partir do Teatro na Prisão: Relato de experiência de uma prática teatral com mulheres em situação de cárcere na zona da mata mineira
Authors: Silva Emerson de Paula , Duarte Álvaro R. M.
Published: January 2021

Este relato de experiência constitui um registro, reflexivo, da prática de estágio supervisionado em Teatro, realizada junto à graduação de Licenciatura em Artes Cênicas do Departamento de Artes do Instituto de Filosofia, Artes e Cultura da Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (DEART/IFAC/UFOP). Neste contexto abrangemos o registro de uma prática, estudo e reflexões sobre o Teatro junto às mulheres em situação de cárcere. Apresentamos, nesse sentido, os desdobramentos e conexões de uma prática teatral a partir da natureza do seu público.
Dos sensores às sensações: considerações sobre o corpo estesiológico e o uso de tecnologias vestíveis em performances artísticas
Authors: Correa Antenor Ferreira , Moura Marinalva Nicacio de
Published: January 2021

Nosso objetivo com este artigo é analisar o acolhimento das tecnologias vestíveis no âmbito da performance artística. Temos como premissa que o corpo do artista conectado por dispositivos e expandido no ciberespaço está envolto em uma distinta forma digital de comunicação que reconfigura a noção de presença corporal. Consequentemente, são engendradas outras formas de compreender a relação do corpo do performer com os outros corpos e com as coisas, potencializando as possibilidades expressivas de afetar e ser afetado. As considerações apresentadas apoiam-se nas noções filosóficas de Merleau-Ponty especialmente os conceitos de corpo estesiológico e intercorporeidade.
A Pé, de Sławomir Mrożek, e A Armadilha, de Tadeusz Różewicz: Drama, Testemunho, Memória e Tradução
Authors: Paiva de Souza Marcelo
Published: January 2021

Em um plano teórico mais amplo, a matéria sob escrutínio neste artigo é o teatro como um medium artístico sui generis de testemunho e memória da Shoah (conforme estudiosos como Robert Skloot e Grzegorz Niziołek, entre outros). Aborda-se a questão contra o pano de fundo das realizações de encenadores e dramaturgos poloneses desde o imediato pós-guerra até os dias de hoje – riquíssimo acervo criativo ainda vastamente desconhecido no Brasil. Para efeito de exemplificação e exame de aspectos específicos do problema, duas peças fundamentais, ainda sem tradução em português, são objeto de comentário e discussão um pouco mais detidos: Pieszo (A pé; 1980), de Sławomir Mrożek, e Pułapka (A armadilha; 1982), de Tadeusz Różewicz.
Outros territórios: Relato de uma experiência teatral em penitenciárias femininas
Authors: Stürmer Fernanda de Lannoy , Meimes Luzia Ainhoren , Barp Nathalia Scapin , Lima Rodrigo Azevedo de , Silva Tatiana Cardoso da
Published: January 2021

Este texto é um relato de experiência sobre a ação de extensão universitária nomeada “Tempo de impermanência: teatro em penitenciárias femininas do Rio Grande do Sul”, desenvolvida em 2018 por professora e estudantes do curso Graduação em Teatro: Licenciatura, da Universidade Estadual do Rio Grande do Sul na Penitenciária Modulada de Montenegro e no Presídio Estadual Feminino de Torres. A ação contou com apresentações do espetáculo O jardim das cerejeiras, debates, oficinas teatrais e outras atividades junto às mulheres privadas de liberdade. A partir de referenciais do Teatro, da Filosofia e das Ciências Humanas, são feitas reflexões sobre o impacto de ações teatrais no cárcere.
Teatro Aprisionado: trocando experiências artísticas em contextos carcerários
Authors: Fornaciari Christina Gontijo , Bucci Magno , Concilio Vicente , Narvaes Viviane , Nosé Zeca , Buch João Marcos
Published: January 2021

Transcrição da mesa Teatro Aprisionado: trocando experiências artísticas em contextos carceráriostransmitida pela plataforma Youtube, em 25 de maio de 2020, em meio à Pandemia de Coronavírus. Participaram deste encontro os diretores teatrais Christina Fornaciari, Magno Bucci, Vicente Concilio, Viviane Narvaes e Zeca Nosé e o Juiz de Direito, João Marcos Buch.
Crianças nas artes performativas: conversa com Meredith Monk
Authors: Ferreira Melissa da Silva
Published: January 2021

Nesta entrevista, a artista estadunidense Meredith Monk fala sobre o seu percurso nas artes performativas e, mais especificamente, a participação de crianças em suas obras. Monk trata de temas como o budismo, os caminhos e as escolhas como artista, as artes da presença, o envelhecimento e as noções de tradição e legado.
Nosso Evangelho
Authors: São Jose Luan de Almeida , Fiche Natalia Ribeiro , Teixeira Edson Sodré
Published: January 2021

O presente trabalho consiste na peça Nosso Evangelho com apresentação do autor Edson Sodré, fundador do Grupo Teatral Kriadaki e aluno do Ensino de Teatro da Unirio. Ainda cumpre pena no regime semiaberto. A peça busca uma forma simples de comunicar, compõe-se de críticas ácidas e irônicas às diversas camadas da sociedade, inclusive ao próprio fazer teatral. Há várias referências a diversos autores e pensadores dramatúrgicos com objetivo de atrair o olhar de pessoas das camadas mais pobres da sociedade.
Artes visuais e ensino remoto:
Authors: Zamperetti Maristani Polidori
Published: January 2021

O artigo reflete sobre o Ensino de Artes Visuais em contexto remoto e pandêmico, a partir da incidência de instabilidades, transformações e desafios no trabalho docente, no qual o espaço escolar é deslocado para os espaços das casas de alunos e professores. Observa-se a importância dos laços de confiança na relação família-escola e dos professores como personagens indispensáveis neste contexto desafiador, onde as artes junto às práticas educativas sugerem formas de [re]conhecimento e transformação social em meio à cibercultura.
Ensaio para dias difíceis
Authors: Chagas Renata Voss
Published: January 2021

Ensaio fotográfico que parte de elementos icônicos da rotina de um voo tomando-os como simbólicos para tratar da urgência de encontrar caminhos para sair de determinadas situações. Entendendo o ensaio como tentativa, teste, experimento, a fotografia aqui se apresenta como instrução de segurança: para levantar-se de quedas, para sair de alguma situação, para ir longe. O retrato figura como imagem-categoria que trata do sujeito em seus sentimentos partilhados. A fotografia como a lembrança de que a resposta está em você. É sobre buscar formas de se reelaborar. Este trabalho faz parte do projeto de pesquisa intitulado “A materialidade da imagem e os processos artísticos contemporâneos”, contemplado pela Chamada Universal MCTI/CNPq Nº 01/2016 realizado pelo Grupo de Pesquisa Arte Hibrida na Escola de Belas Artes da Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA).
Investigações artísticas de si em uma poética da solidão
Authors: Dias Guilherme Radi
Published: January 2021

Este texto apresenta os pontos centrais do desenvolvimento dos trabalhos da série que compõe o projeto artístico “Re[Di]ssonâncias”. Ao discorrer sobre esta proposta, apresentamos as visões acerca da solidão registradas por alguns expoentes da filosofia e da literatura, que estão relacionadas com o escopo da produção artística em questão. Explorando as possibilidades de expressão das vivências mais subjetivas, abordamos a relação da prática artística com o anseio em externar os aspectos primordiais pertinentes ao papel da solidão na existência e os paradoxos que ela encerra.
LGTBIQfobia audiovisual: La ocultación de colectivos sexualmente diversos en Disney
Authors: Monleón Vicente
Published: January 2021

La LGTBIQfobia supone una barrera para la normalización de colectivos sexualmente diversos. Productos como los audiovisuales Disney dificultan esta tarea ya que la compañía tiende a ocultarlas. De esta manera se frena el desarrollo de una ciudadanía más tolerante y respetuosa con la diferencia desde las primeras edades. En la educación hay una preocupación latente por erradicar el bullying LGTBIQfóbico. Por ello, a través de un posicionamiento queer y de una metodología mixta se analiza la colección “Los clásicos” Disney para manifestar los ataques hacia dicho colectivo y concienciar a quienes la utilizan como recurso en sus aulas con los grupos de menores. También para visibilizar los ejemplos de diversidad sexual diseñados en ciertos animados. De esta manera, se concluye con la escasez de personajes LGTB en Disney, y la relación con estos con el bando malvado en las películas. Contribuyendo a ofrecer una revisión crítica de películas al profesorado para utilizarlas en sus aulas de manera coherente.
Cuerpos diversos, Tetas Diversas. Acción artística para sensibilizar en igualdad de género y diversidad sexual a través de la cerámica
Authors: Ramon Ricard , Alonso-Sanz Amparo
Published: January 2021

En este fotoensayo, presentamos el desarrollo de la acción

Tetas Diversas

, realizada durante el mes de octubre de 2020 con alumnado del Grado de Maestro/a en Educación Primaria de la Facultad de Magisterio de la Universitat de València. Esta acción forma parte de un proceso de investigación para analizar y valorar el papel de las acciones artísticas en los procesos de sensibilización respecto a cuestiones de identidad de género y diversidad sexual. La experiencia consiste en la reflexión sobre la diversidad de nuestros cuerpos desde una mirada ecofeminista para reivindicar la necesidad de una institución más humanizada, naturalizada, igualitaria, respetuosa con la diversidad e inclusiva. Esta reflexión encarnada emplea el modelado de macetas de barro antropomorfas inspiradas en los trabajos de la artista Emma Low como forma de enfrentarnos a las experiencias personales de nuestro cuerpo. Los resultados consisten en múltiples acciones de sensibilización a través de la entrega de micro relatos que acompañan a estos objetos a personal docente e investigador o de administración y servicios de la Universidad.
An international comparison of incentives for earnings management in order to meet analysts forecasts
Authors: Jarne Jarne José Ignacio , Callao Gastón Susana
Published: January 2021

Una comparación internacional del incentivo para manipular el resultado con el objetivo de alcanzar los pronósticos de los analistas.
Investigaciones previas han evidenciado que cuando los resultados alcanzan, o superan, los pronósticos de los analistas, el mercado reacciona positivamente, mientras que, cuando dichos pronósticos no son alcanzados, la reacción del mercado es la contraria. Por ello, los pronósticos se convierten en metas a batir y, tal como la literatura ya ha contrastado, surge un incentivo para la manipulación del resultado.
En este contexto, el presente trabajo va más allá, evidenciando que la reacción positiva o negativa es de diferente magnitud según los mercados y que ello explica que la fuerza con la que las empresas perciben el incentivo a manipular los resultados para alcanzar dichos pronósticos también sea diferente según el mercado en el que cotiza. Comparando seis mercados, obtenemos que el incentivo es más potente cuanto mayor es el premio por cumplir los pronósticos, o la penalización por no hacerlo.

Previous investigations have shown that when earnings meet analysts’ forecasts, the market reacts positively, and when these forecasts are not reached, the market reacts negatively. For this reason, forecasts become goals to beat, and as the literature has revealed, this creates an incentive for earnings management.
The present paper extends prior research, providing evidence that the magnitude of the reward (penalty) for companies meeting (failing to meet) earnings forecasts differs depending on the market. In addition, it reveals that the strength of the incentive for companies to manage their earnings differs depending on the market in which they are listed. We compare six stock markets and find that the most powerful incentives arise when the reward for meeting the forecasts or the penalty for not doing so is greater.
CAE Remuneration and Financial Reporting Quality
Authors: Alzeban Abdulaziz
Published: January 2021

Remuneración del Director Ejecutivo de la Auditoría y Calidad de la Información Financiera.
En este trabajo se explora la relación entre la remuneración fija pagada al Director Ejecutivo de Auditoría (CAE) y la consiguiente calidad de la información financiera (FRQ). Así,  se argumenta que una estrategia de remuneración basada en el rendimiento de la empresa es perjudicial para la FRQ, y que cuando el CAE recibe una remuneración fija, hay menos amenazas para la objetividad de la auditoría interna (IA) y, por lo tanto, una mayor FRQ como aproximación a la calidad de los informes financieros. Los datos se obtienen a través de una encuesta, y la información se recoge de los informes anuales. Los resultados indican que cuando el CAE es compensado de acuerdo con el desempeño de la empresa, la objetividad se reduce, con el consiguiente resultado de que la FRQ se ve afectada. Además, cuando la remuneración y compensación del CAE es aprobada por el comité de auditoría, en lugar de por el CEO, la FRQ es mayor. También se encuentran pruebas de que los efectos de la objetividad de la IA se eliminan cuando el CEO participa en la aprobación de la remuneración y compensación del CAE. El estudio aporta ideas sobre la cuestión de si la remuneración del CAE mejora la objetividad de la IA y, al hacerlo, es de interés para los comités de auditoría con responsabilidad en esa dirección. Se utilizan dos métodos de estimación diferentes para confirmar la solidez de los resultados.

This paper reports on a study exploring the relationship between the fixed remuneration paid to the Chief Auditing Executive (CAE), and the subsequent financial reporting quality (FRQ). The study argues from the viewpoint that a strategy of compensation provided on the basis of company performance is detrimental to FRQ, and that when the CAE receives fixed remuneration, there is less threat to internal audit (IA) objectivity, and hence, greater FRQ as proxied by accruals quality. Data are obtained via a survey questionnaire, and information offered within annual reports. The findings indicate that when the CAE is compensated according to company performance, objectivity is reduced, with the consequent outcome that FRQ is impaired. Furthermore, when CAE remuneration and compensation are approved by the audit committee, rather than by the CEO, FRQ is higher. Evidence that the effects of IA objectivity are eliminated when the CEO is involved in approving CAE remuneration and compensation is also found. The study provides insights into the question of whether CAE remuneration enhances IA objectivity, and in doing so is of interest to audit committees with responsibility in that direction. Two different estimation methods are used as a means of confirming the robustness of these results.
Patient Preferences for Time and Location of Infusible Therapies in Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunologic Disorders
Authors: Rath Louise , Campagna Maria Pia , Stankovich Jim , Ellis Julian , Jokubaitis Vilija , McCarthy Denise , Nesbitt Cassie , Yeh Wei Zhen , Zhong Michael , Wesselingh Robb , Monif Mastura , Richards Janene , Minh Viet Bui , Skibina Olga , Butzkueven Helmut , van der Walt Anneke
Published: January 2021

Background:

People with multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunologic disorders (herein referred to as patients) are increasingly treated with infusible monoclonal antibodies. This rise in demand has placed increased loads on current infusion services and mandates careful strategic planning. This study examined patient preferences for the timing and location of infusions and their association with demographic and disease variables to facilitate patient-focused strategic planning.

Methods:

Ninety-one patients receiving an infusible therapy at an infusion service during March 2019 were asked to complete a questionnaire exploring eight domains, including preferences for time of infusions and location of infusion centers. Potential access to home-based treatment was included as an option. Unstructured (free-text) feedback on current service was also obtained.

Results:

Eighty-three patients completed the survey (mean age, 42 years; 75% women). Infusions were predominantly natalizumab (66%) and ocrelizumab (25%). Of these patients, 71% were engaged in some form of work or study, and 83% of this group had to arrange time off from work or study to attend treatment. Seventy percent of patients would prefer their infusion before noon, and 60% would consider home-based infusions. Most used a car as their transport to the infusion service.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that patients are more likely to prefer infusible treatment in the morning and are open to home-based infusions. This study provides information for health services to target service delivery at peak preference times and consider alternate ways of delivering infusible treatments.
A molecular mechanism for LINC complex branching by structurally diverse SUN-KASH 6:6 assemblies
Authors: Gurusaran Manickam , Davies Owen Richard
Published: January 2021

The Linker of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton (LINC) complex mechanically couples cytoskeletal and nuclear components across the nuclear envelope to fulfil a myriad of cellular functions, including nuclear shape and positioning, hearing, and meiotic chromosome movements. The canonical model is that 3:3 interactions between SUN and KASH proteins underlie the nucleocytoskeletal linkages provided by the LINC complex. Here, we provide crystallographic and biophysical evidence that SUN-KASH is a constitutive 6:6 complex in which two constituent 3:3 complexes interact head-to-head. A common SUN-KASH topology is achieved through structurally diverse 6:6 interaction mechanisms by distinct KASH proteins, including zinc-coordination by Nesprin-4. The SUN-KASH 6:6 interface provides a molecular mechanism for the establishment of integrative and distributive connections between 3:3 structures within a branched LINC complex network. In this model, SUN-KASH 6:6 complexes act as nodes for force distribution and integration between adjacent SUN and KASH molecules, enabling the coordinated transduction of large forces across the nuclear envelope.
Defining human mesenchymal and epithelial heterogeneity in response to oral inflammatory disease
Authors: Caetano Ana J , Yianni Val , Volponi Ana , Booth Veronica , D'Agostino Eleanor M , Sharpe Paul
Published: January 2021

Human oral soft tissues provide the first barrier of defence against chronic inflammatory disease and hold a remarkable scarless wounding phenotype. Tissue homeostasis requires coordinated actions of epithelial, mesenchymal, and immune cells. However, the extent of heterogeneity within the human oral mucosa and how tissue cell types are affected during the course of disease progression is unknown. Using single-cell transcriptome profiling we reveal a striking remodelling of the epithelial and mesenchymal niches with a decrease in functional populations that are linked to the aetiology of the disease. Analysis of ligand–receptor interaction pairs identify potential intercellular hubs driving the inflammatory component of the disease. Our work establishes a reference map of the human oral mucosa in health and disease, and a framework for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
In vitro anticandidal activity and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) screening ofVitex agnus-castusleaf extracts
Authors: Ababutain Ibtisam Mohammed , Alghamdi Azzah Ibrahim
Published: January 2021

Background

Candida infections are becoming more drug resistant; it is necessary to search for alternative medications to treat them. Therefore, the present study estimates the anticandidal activity ofVitex agnus-castus(VA-C) leaf extracts.

Methods

We used the agar well diffusion method to assess the anticandidal activity of three different VA-C leaf extracts (ethanol, methanol, and water) against threeCandidaspecies (Candida tropicalis,Candida albicans, andCandida ciferrii). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was estimated using the two-fold dilution method and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) was determined using the classic pour plate technique. The MFC/MIC ratio was calculated to estimate the microbicidal or microbiostatic activity. A gas chromatography mass spectrometer was used to screen the phytochemicals of the VA-C leaf extracts (ethanol, methanol, and water).

Results

All VA-C extracts ethanol, methanol, and water were significantly inhibited the growth of the testCandidaspecies and the inhibition activity depended on the solvent used and theCandidaspecies. The results showed thatC. tropicaliswas the most highly inhibited by all extracts followed byC. albicansandC. ciferrii. The MIC values were 12.5–25 µg/ml, and MFC values were 25–100 µg/ml. The ratios of MFC/MIC were two-fold to four-fold which was considered candidacidal activity. Ninety-five phytochemical compounds were identified by the GC-MS assay for the VA-C leaf extracts. The total number of compounds per extract differed. Methanol had 43 compounds, ethanol had 47 compounds, and water had 52 compounds. The highest compound concentrations were: 4,5-Dichloro-1,3-dioxolan-2-one in ethanol and methanol, 1H-Indene, 2,3-dihydro-1,1,2,3,3-pentamethyl in ethanol, Isobutyl 4-hydroxybenzoate in methanol, and Benzoic acid and 4-hydroxy- in water. These phytochemical compounds belong to different bioactive chemical group such as polyphenols, fatty acids, terpenes, terpenoids, steroids, aldehydes, alcohols, and esters, and most of which have anticandidal activity.

Conclusions

VA-C leaf extracts may be useful alternatives to anticandidal drugs, based on their effectiveness against all testCandidaspecies at low concentrations. However, appropriate toxicology screening should be conducted before use.
Association of Goldenhar with Duane's Retraction Syndrome
Authors: Korla Shagun , Kaur Savleen , Sukhija Jaspreet
Published: January 2021

A six-year girl presented with history of deviation of eye and facial asymmetry. Diagnosis of Goldenhar syndrome (GHS) with Duane retraction syndrome (DRS) was made. This case highlights DRS as an unusual but known association of Goldenhar Syndrome. Patient with GHS presenting to an ophthalmologist should be screened for vertebral, cardiac, renal and central nervous system defects.
Complete Fleischer’s Ring
Authors: Popat Kshama
Published: January 2021

Fleischer’s Ring is a hemosiderin or iron ring seen at the base of cone in moderate to advanced cases of keratoconus. It occurs due to deposition of iron from tear film. It is best visualized on cobalt blue filter which is highlighted here along with the slit lamp biomicroscopy image.
Spatial Distribution of 100,477 Thousand Deaths Per COVID-19 in Brazil
Authors: Sardinha Daniele Melo , Ferreira Ana Lúcia da Silva , Garcês Juliana Conceição Dias , Ueno Thalyta Mariany Rêgo Lopes , Costa Gabriel Fazzi , Lobato Diana da Costa , Lima Karla Valéria Batista , Guimarães Ricardo José de Paula Souza e , Lima Luana Nepomuceno Gondim Costa
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 reached the pandemic level and in Brazil has already caused 100,477 deaths. This study is a Short Communication about the spatial distribution of deaths by COVID-19 in Brazil, from data from the Coronavirus Brasil platform. It was shown that Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Ceará, Pará, and Amazonas present the greatest lethality in Brazil, especially in the metropolitan regions. The distribution of deaths shows that it has already reached all regions of Brazil, with greater impact in some states. It was also possible, from the epidemiological bulletins, to identify that the deaths stand out in men above 60 years of age, with comorbidities such as heart diseases and diabetes.
Nothing New: Referencing, Remixing and Sampling
Authors: Burn Graham , Crawford James , Turner Alexander
Published: January 2021

Liverpool and London practice Studio MUTT's Graham Burn, James Crawford and Alexander Turner contend that the current age of unpredictable transition is not the time for pseudo‐radical newness. Instead, they evoke the concept of the ‘sample’ as their mode of creative architectural practice, propounding it as an appropriate modus operandi for the contemporary political, pandemic and dwindling neo‐liberal condition.
Metformin Mediated PD‐L1 Downregulation in Combination with Photodynamic‐Immunotherapy for Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Hu Chuan , He Xueqin , Chen Yuxiu , Yang Xiaotong , Qin Lin , Lei Ting , Zhou Yang , Gong Tao , Huang Yuan , Gao Huile
Published: January 2021

Intelligent nanomaterials open up new avenues for realizing safer and more effective combination immunotherapy. Herein, a kind of simple enzymatically cleavable self‐delivery nanoparticles (MA‐pepA‐Ce6 NPs) is developed by conjugating acidic‐sensitive small‐molecule programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) inhibitor (Metformin, MET) with photosensitizer (chlorin e6, Ce6) through matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) cleavable peptide (GPLGVRGDK, pepA). Noticeably, these self‐delivery peptide‐based NPs can circumvent the controversial biosafety facing nanomaterials. Moreover, MA‐pepA‐Ce6 NPs are degraded by overexpressed MMP‐2 in tumor microenvironment (TME) and expose the VRGDK‐Ce6. The exposed VRGDK‐Ce6 shows superior targeting ability towards integrin αvβ3 receptor, ensuring sufficient accumulation and laser‐activated robust antitumor immune effects. Remarkably, the released MET in tumor microenvironment hampers the PD‐L1 expression and augments the antitumor immune response elicited by photodynamics therapy (PDT), thus significantly improving therapeutic outcomes. Overall, this study offers a potential appealing paradigm of synergistic PDT‐triggered immunotherapy by revealing MET‐mediated PD‐L1 downregulation to achieve tumor eradication.
Integrated Devices for Non‐Invasive Diagnostics
Authors: Ates Hatice Ceren , Brunauer Anna , von Stetten Felix , Urban Gerald A. , Güder Firat , Merkoçi Arben , Früh Susanna Maria , Dincer Can
Published: January 2021

“Sample‐in‐answer‐out” type integrated diagnostic devices have been widely recognized as the ultimate solution to simplify testing across healthcare systems. Such systems are equipped with advanced fluidic, mechanical, chemical, biological, and electronic components to handle patient samples without any manual steps therefore have the potential to accelerate intervention and improve patient outcomes. In this regard, the combination of integrated devices and non‐invasive sampling has gained a substantial interest to further improve the comfort and safety of patients. In this Review, the pioneering developments in integrated diagnostics are covered and their potential in non‐invasive sampling is discussed. The key properties of possible sample types are highlighted by addressing their relevance for the clinical practice. Last, the factors affecting the transition of integrated devices from academia to the market are identified by analyzing the technology readiness levels of selected examples and alternative remedies are explored to increase the rate of survival during this transition.
Diode laser assisted horizontal bone defect regeneration in the treatment of peri‐implantitis
Authors: Habash Ghassan , Jayash Soher Nagi
Published: January 2021

Our findings show the use of a diode laser to remove inflamed tissue and regenerate the horizontal bone defects around the implant. These findings could be applied in the clinic.
SEV‐Net: Residual network embedded with attention mechanism for plant disease severity detection
Authors: Zhao Yun , Chen Jiagui , Xu Xing , Lei Jingsheng , Zhou Wujie
Published: January 2021

Early and accurate assessment of plant disease severity is key to preventing disease attack. Traditional detection methods rely on manual vision to distinguish between types of disease infection, but this is time consuming, laborious and inaccurate. To address this problem, this paper proposes a deep learning‐based attentional network model (SEV‐Net) for plant disease severity identification and classification. The network embeds the improved channel and spatial attention module into the residual block of ResNet. The proposed attention module reduces the redundancy of information between channels and focuses on the most information‐rich regions of the feature map. In this experiment, SEV‐Net achieved an accuracy of 97.59% and 95.37% for multiple and single plant (Tomato) disease severity classification, which was better than existing attentional networks (SE‐Net and CBAM). Moreover, the combination of visualization techniques showed that SEV‐Net was adept at distinguishing small variations between plant diseases, proving the feasibility and effectiveness of the network. Furthermore, we have also designed and developed an Android application for real‐time classification of plant disease severity. The system deploys the SEV‐Net network model, which has higher classification accuracy and faster recognition speed.
A multi‐agent system based for solving high‐dimensional optimization problems: A case study on email spam detection
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Hekmat , Gharehchopogh Farhad Soleimanian
Published: January 2021

There exist numerous high‐dimensional problems in the real world which cannot be solved through the common traditional methods. The metaheuristic algorithms have been developed as successful techniques for solving a variety of complex and difficult optimization problems. Notwithstanding their advantages, these algorithms may turn out to have weak points such as lower population diversity and lower convergence rate when facing complex high‐dimensional problems. An appropriate approach to solve such problems is to apply multi‐agent systems (MASs) along with the metaheuristic algorithms. The present paper proposes a new approach based on the MASs and the concept of agent, which is named MAS as Metaheuristic (MAMH) method. In the proposed method, several basic and powerful metaheuristic algorithms are considered as separate agents, each of which sought to achieve its own goals while competing and cooperating with others to achieve the common goals. Altogether, the proposed method was tested on 32 complex benchmark functions, the results of which indicated the effectiveness and powerfulness of the proposed method for solving high‐dimensional optimization problems. In addition, in this paper, the binary version of the proposed method, called Binary MAMH (BMAMH), was implemented on the email spam detection. According to the results, the proposed method exhibited a higher degree of precision in the detection of spam emails compared to other metaheuristic algorithms and methods.
The power of zebrafish models for understanding the co‐occurrence of craniofacial and limb disorders
Authors: Truong Brittany T. , Artinger Kristin B.
Published: January 2021

Craniofacial and limb defects are two of the most common congenital anomalies in the general population. Interestingly, these defects are not mutually exclusive. Many patients with craniofacial phenotypes, such as orofacial clefting and craniosynostosis, also present with limb defects, including polydactyly, syndactyly, brachydactyly, or ectrodactyly. The gene regulatory networks governing craniofacial and limb development initially seem distinct from one another, and yet these birth defects frequently occur together. Both developmental processes are highly conserved among vertebrates, and zebrafish have emerged as an advantageous model due to their high fecundity, relative ease of genetic manipulation, and transparency during development. Here we summarize studies that have used zebrafish models to study human syndromes that present with both craniofacial and limb phenotypes. We discuss the highly conserved processes of craniofacial and limb/fin development and describe recent zebrafish studies that have explored the function of genes associated with human syndromes with phenotypes in both structures. We attempt to identify commonalities between the two to help explain why craniofacial and limb anomalies often occur together.
The mitigating effect of governance quality on the finance‐renewable energy‐growth nexus: Some international evidence
Authors: Kassi Diby Francois , Li Yao , Dong Zhankui
Published: January 2021

This study analyses the conditional effect of governance quality on the finance‐renewable energy‐growth nexus in 123 countries from 1990 to 2017. We built composite indexes of financial development and governance quality through the principal component analysis (PCA) using several financial variables and governance indicators. We employed the generalized method of moments (GMM) and the two‐stage least squares (2SLS) techniques, but also the Granger non‐causality in Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2012). First, the disaggregated analysis shows that renewable energy consumption, financial inclusion, financial efficiency, and financial stability have positive marginal effects on economic growth under a good governance quality, except for financial depth. Second, the aggregated analysis confirms the positive marginal impact of financial development on growth only in low‐income economies, whereas renewable energy consumption has positive marginal effects only in lower‐middle‐income and upper‐middle‐income economies. Finally, the results of the causality analysis differ among countries. Overall, governance quality has a threshold effect on the finance‐renewable energy‐growth nexus, which varies across countries. Accordingly, our study suggests more improvements in the governance quality in these countries, especially in the low‐income and high‐income countries, to enhance the marginal impacts of financial development and renewable energy consumption on growth.
Order book price impact in the Chinese soybean futures market
Authors: Jin Muzhao , Kearney Fearghal , Li Youwei , Yang Yung Chiang
Published: January 2021

We study the price impact of order flow in the world's largest soybean meal futures markets. Our intraday results indicate that incoming orders can be used to explain and predict future price changes. Our results are shown to be robust to various order flow measures, price aggregation approaches and data frequencies. We find that order flow imbalance (OFI) is a more all‐encompassing measure carrying greater information about price change relative to both trade imbalance (TI) and volume. Moreover, while both OFI and TI are shown to predict future price changes, this predictability diminishes over longer measure and price change frequency horizons.
Perineal urethrostomy with combined buccal mucosal graft and skin flap after complete loss of anterior urethra
Authors: Akagi Naoki , Kanematsu Akihiro , Yamamoto Shingo
Published: January 2021

Introduction

We report a novel perineal urethrostomy procedure for complete loss of anterior urethral tissue.

Case presentation

A 74‐year‐old man had complete necrosis of the corpus spongiosum and corpora cavernosa after repeated transurethral surgical procedures. He had been managed with a suprapubic cystostomy tube for 10 years. A perineal urethrostomy was performed, and a posterior wall with an inverted U‐shaped perineal skin flap and an anterior wall with a buccal mucosal graft were created. Five months later, an internal urethrotomy was required for mild anastomotic stenosis. Thereafter, an indwelling Foley catheter was used for urine drainage at night to prevent restenosis of the neourethra and avoid excessive nocturia due to low capacity of the long‐time disused bladder, and the patient became catheter‐free during the daytime.

Conclusion

The method presented here is a reasonable option for patients lacking whole anterior urethral tissue.
Dynamics of e‐Governance in post COVID era: India
Authors: Singh Upmith , Rawat Kamlendra , Singhla Ashim Raj
Published: January 2021

India as a country, has made numerous efforts related to launch and adoption of e‐Governance initiatives, which has been introduced in various fields. However, except a few, most of such initiatives have not been able to deliver the desired results over the longer course of time, resulting in underutilization of public funds. Moreover, time and again it has been noted that e‐Governance initiatives adoption and success varies across geography, mainly on account of prevalence of diversity in India. Furthermore, post COVID, the importance of e‐Governance initiatives in the lives of citizens at large, has witnessed a paradigm shift both in applicability as well as acceptance. The enforcement of social distancing by Central as well as Local governments in the past few months has led to enhanced role of e‐Governance initiatives in delivering critical to common services/facilities to the citizens at large. As a result, this study has been conducted with an aim to identify the factors responsible for higher adoption of the e‐Governance services in India. The study also aims to analyze the impact of ongoing pandemic on the adoption of e‐Governance by including a separate construct related to health.
Inside Cover
Authors: Zeng Yifeng , Chapman William C. , Lin Yixiao , Li Shuying , Mutch Matthew , Zhu Quing
Published: January 2021

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) reveals subsurface colorectal tissue abnormality and cancers. Quantitative OCT can identify different types of colorectal tissue from functional scattering coefficient maps. This image illustrates the representative OCT colorectal tissue scattering maps of normal, adenomatous polyp, almost invisible cancer, and visually distinguishable cancer.

Further details can be found in the article by Yifeng Zeng, William C. Chapman Jr, Yixiao Lin, Shuying Li, Matthew Mutch, and Quing Zhu (e202000276).

image
Functional morphology of vertebrate claws investigated using functionally based categories and multiple morphological metrics
Authors: Thomson Tracy J. , Motani Ryosuke
Published: January 2021

The link between claw morphology and function has been historically difficult to quantify, analyze, and interpret. In this study, the functional morphology of vertebrate claws is analyzed using measurements taken from 80 modern claw specimens spanning birds, mammals, and one reptile. Claw measurements were chosen for their potential biomechanical significance and a revised, expanded categorization of claw function is defined and used. This categorization scheme is the result of an extensive literature review and is based on the observed mechanics of claw function rather than the animal's overall ecology, an important departure from the norm followed in previous studies. A principal component analysis of the claw measurements reveals that some of the morphological disparity is related to functional differences; however, different functional categories are not clearly separated based solely on morphology. A linear discriminant analysis successfully classifies 81.25% of the claw specimens to their documented functional categories. When the posterior probabilities of each classification are examined, and the next highest probabilities are considered, the analysis is able to successfully classify 96.25% of the claw specimens. Expressing angle measurements in terms of lengths prior to analysis and incorporating cross‐sectional shape data both serve to reduce the misclassification rate. The use of biomechanically meaningful claw measurements and categories based on function (rather than ecology) improves confidence in the ability to infer claw function based on morphology using discriminant analysis methods. While overall claw morphology is most certainly the result of multiple factors (e.g., growth, size, etc.), this study establishes that it reflects mechanical function more than previously demonstrated.
BMP4 micro‐immunotherapy increases collagen deposition and reduces PGE2 release in human gingival fibroblasts and increases tissue viability of engineered 3D gingiva under inflammatory conditions
Authors: Ferrà‐Cañellas Maria del Mar , Munar‐Bestard Marta , Garcia‐Sureda Laura , Lejeune Beatrice , Ramis Joana Maria , Monjo Marta
Published: January 2021

Background

We aimed to evaluate the effect of low doses (LD) bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP2) and BMP4 micro‐immunotherapy (MI) in two in vitro models of periodontal wound healing/regeneration.

Methods

We first evaluated the effect of LD of BMP2 and BMP4 MI on a 2D cell culture using human gingival fibroblasts (hGF) under inflammatory conditions induced by IL1β. Biocompatibility, inflammatory response (Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release), collagen deposition and release of extracellular matrix (ECM) organization‐related enzymes (matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP1) and metalloproteinase inhibitor 1 (TIMP1)) were evaluated after short (3 days) and long‐term (24 days) treatment with BMP2 or BMP4 MI. Then, given the results obtained in the 2D cell culture, LD BMP4 MI treatment was evaluated in a 3D cell culture model of human tissue equivalent of gingiva (GTE) under the same inflammatory stimulus, evaluating the biocompatibility, inflammatory response and effect on MMP1 and TIMP1 release.

Results

LD BMP4 was able to decrease the release of the inflammatory mediator PGE2 and completely re‐establish the impaired collagen metabolism induced by IL1β treatment. In the 3D model, LD BMP4 treatment improved tissue viability compared with the vehicle, with similar levels to 3D tissues without inflammation. No significant effects were observed on PGE2 levels nor MMP1/TIMP1 ratio after LD BMP4 treatment, although a tendency to decrease PGE2 levels was observed after 3 days.

Conclusions

LD BMP4 MI treatment shows anti‐inflammatory and regenerative properties on hGF, and improved viability of 3D gingiva under inflammatory conditions. LD BMP4 MI treatment could be used on primary prevention or maintenance care of periodontitis.