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Background: Creativity and responsibility are enhanced by meditation among adults, but such effects have not been studied in adolescents. Moreover, the determinants of the ethical effect (such as responsibility) of meditation are unclear. Aims: To address this gap by investigating the impact of digital in-class meditation programmes in middle school, focusing on intentions (self-centred vs. responsibility-centred), on adolescents' creative potential and sense of responsibility. These intentions are operationalized by different purpose-based meditations. Methods: We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial involving 107 year 7 adolescents from six classes, assigning them to two experimental groups and an active control group. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted over an 11-week period, including a creativity (EPoC) test comprising four exercises (graphic and verbal, divergent and convergent thinking), a responsibility and a mindfulness scale. Results: Our findings revealed no discernible effects on divergent thinking or self-reported mindfulness. However, we observed significant differences in graphic and verbal convergent creative thinking, as well as impacting responsibility scores, between a responsibility-centred meditation group and a self-centred meditation group. Moreover, distinctions were noted between control and self-centred meditation groups and between some classes. Effect sizes indicated that the interventions had a moderate but significant impact on the variables measured. Conclusion: Our study reveals the effectiveness of digital meditation interventions in enhancing convergent creative thinking and responsibility among middle-school students. Notably, it shed new light on the importance of meditation intentions, which may be as significant as the form of meditation itself.

Education today is evolving to foster essential psychosocial skills like creativity, critical thinking, and responsibility, equipping students for 21st-century challenges. However, it is crucial to examine the motivations driving these changes and their alignment with broader societal goals beyond merely economic interests. This article explores the ethical dimensions of creativity, recognizing its potential for both positive innovation and harm. It emphasizes the neutrality of creativity and the importance of evaluating the intentions and consequences behind creative acts, not just their outcomes. We introduce and define the concept of ''responsible creativity,'' characterized by the ability to generate original ideas, behaviors, or objects while considering the moral and legal repercussions of one's actions, both in the present and future. This concept is anchored in the ethics of conviction and responsibility, promoting a fundamental commitment to avoid harm and enhance well-being. Our model of responsible creativity incorporates qualities such as benevolence, flexibility, positivity, reliability, accountability, reflexivity, and wisdom. We advocate for nurturing this type of creativity in educational settings through innovative approaches such as board and video games, philosophy workshops, wisdom education, and mindfulness meditation. These pedagogical methods aim to cultivate future leaders who are ethically aware and capable of using their creativity to positively impact society and the environment. By navigating the interplay of creativity and ethics, this article provides valuable insights and practical guidance for educators and policymakers striving to create a more ethically conscious and innovative educational landscape.

Abstract Education today is evolving to foster essential psychosocial skills like creativity, critical thinking, and responsibility, equipping students for 21st-century challenges. However, it is crucial to examine the motivations driving these changes and their alignment with broader societal goals beyond merely economic interests. This article explores the ethical dimensions of creativity, recognizing its potential for both positive innovation and harm. It emphasizes the neutrality of creativity and the importance of evaluating the intentions and consequences behind creative acts, not just their outcomes. We introduce and define the concept of ‘‘responsible creativity,’’ characterized by the ability to generate original ideas, behaviors, or objects while considering the moral and legal repercussions of one's actions, both in the present and future. This concept is anchored in the ethics of conviction and responsibility, promoting a fundamental commitment to avoid harm and enhance well-being. Our model of responsible creativity incorporates qualities such as benevolence, flexibility, positivity, reliability, accountability, reflexivity, and wisdom. We advocate for nurturing this type of creativity in educational settings through innovative approaches such as board and video games, philosophy workshops, wisdom education, and mindfulness meditation. These pedagogical methods aim to cultivate future leaders who are ethically aware and capable of using their creativity to positively impact society and the environment. By navigating the interplay of creativity and ethics, this article provides valuable insights and practical guidance for educators and policymakers striving to create a more ethically conscious and innovative educational landscape.

Objetivo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar os resultados monitorados ao longo de cinco anos do Protocolo Assistencial de Avaliação de Risco e Gerenciamento de Pacientes com Ideação Suicida, Tentativas de Autoextermínio e Auto Mutilação, na Rede D'Or - Hospital São Luiz, Unidade Anália Franco, SP. Material e método: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e exploratório, conduzido na rotina de qualidade e segurança do Hospital São Luiz, Unidade Anália Franco, em São Paulo. Utilizamos a pesquisa retrospectiva de 1235 protocolos abertos no período de 2019 a 2024, analisando os traçadores gerenciados e compilando informações quantificáveis. A amostra foi composta por 1235 pacientes adultos e pediátricos que deram entrada no Hospital e foram inseridos no Protocolo. A abertura do protocolo tem indicação para todos os casos de risco psíquico, tentativas de autoextermínio, ideação suicida e automutilação nas unidades de pronto atendimento, unidades de internação clínicas/cirúrgicas e unidades de tratamento intensivo, seguindo avaliação inicial e classificação de risco. Utilizamos como instrumentos de pesquisa, as planilhas gerenciadas e fichas de avaliação e acompanhamento dos pacientes, seguindo-se o fluxo definido pelo Protocolo e os indicadores pré determinados em nível institucional. Resultados: Durante o ano de 2019, foram abertos 165 protocolos, com média de 14 protocolos/mês. Em 2020, como reflexo da pandemia, foram abertos 157 protocolos, com média de 13 protocolos/mês. Em 2021, com variação positiva de +36%, foram abertos 213 protocolos, com média de 18 protocolos/mês. Em 2022 e 2023, foram abertos 256 e em 2023, 260 protocolos gerenciados, respectivamente, com média de 21 protocolos/mês e variação de +21% e +22%. Em 2024, no período de janeiro a julho foram abertos 184 protocolos com média de 30 protocolos/mês e variação de + 34%, corroborando com os dados da literatura que apontam o crescimento dos casos de comportamento suicida pós pandemia COVID 19. Conclusões: O Protocolo Assistencial de Avaliação de Risco e Gerenciamento de Pacientes com Ideação Suicida, Tentativas de Auto Extermínio e Auto Mutilação em nossa instituição, tem garantido a definição clara de critérios e procedimentos mínimos a serem seguidos para identificação, avaliação e encaminhamento dos pacientes com vulnerabilidade psíquica visando instituir medidas protetivas para garantir a sua segurança atendendo ás exigências éticas e legais e facilitando a compreensão da evolução do tratamento. Além disso, constata-se que nosso Hospital atende plenamente as exigências das certificadoras de qualidade (JCI), ao estabelecer critérios para os quais pacientes de risco psíquico são triados, conforme clinicamente indicado, com a utilização de ferramentas baseadas em evidências e adaptação do ambiente físico, minimizando danos. O monitoramento da efetividade do Protocolo e o treinamento dos profissionais, garantem a segurança no cuidado. Evidencia-se que a segurança do paciente, acompanhantes e colaboradores, sistematizada em um Protocolo gerenciado, contribui para o cuidado seguro integral e multidimensional.

A experiência de internação hospitalar é geralmente traumática para a maioria dos pacientes em qualquer fase da doença. Embora a internação de um paciente adulto no Hospital possa configurar-se como um período temporal na história familiar, o afastamento de menores pode delinear riscos psicológicos, acarretando frustrações e intenso sofrimento psíquico em decorrência da ameaça do rompimento dos laços familiares, tanto ao paciente como às crianças constituintes da família. Objetivo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar o Programa Visita de Menor, como processo integrado, planejado e sistematizado na rotina diária de trabalho do Serviço de Psicologia Hospitalar do Hospital São Luiz – Rede D'Or - Unidade Anália Franco. Material e método: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e exploratório, conduzido na rotina do Serviço de Psicologia Hospitalar em parceria com a Enfermagem do Hospital São Luiz, Unidade Anália Franco, em São Paulo, no período de 2023 a 2024. Utilizamos a pesquisa retrospectiva de evoluções de prontuários no sistema Tasy e as planilhas diárias de controle de atendimentos do Serviço de Psicologia Hospitalar, além da planilha de produção mensal. A amostra foi composta por 52 visitas de menor realizadas a pacientes adultos, com a participação de 228 parentes ou amigos dos pacientes. Resultados: As Visitas de Menor ocorreram em sua maioria (96%) nas Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Adulto, seguida pela Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (10%), Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Infantil (2%) e Maternidade (2%) e envolveram 67 menores, sendo que 78% eram filhos do paciente e 18%, eram netos do paciente, 3% eram sobrinhos e 1% era afilhado. Os pacientes que receberam as visitas foram avaliados e acompanhados pelo Psicólogo, atingindo 100% de conformidade. Os menores receberam avaliação e atendimento psicológico, não havendo contra indicação nos casos avaliados. As visitas foram acompanhadas por 228 parentes dos pacientes, com prevalência de cônjuges e mães dos pacientes e não houve intercorrências notificadas. Conclusão: A sistematização da Visita de Menor tem apontado benefícios para pacientes, menores visitantes, acompanhantes e equipes de saúde. Constatamos que os menores sentem-se acolhidos e inseridos no processo de adoecer, minimizando angústia e falsos conceitos pela possibilidade de participação ativa no processo. A seu lado, a possibilidade de expressão de sentimentos e ressignificação do processo de adoecer, a pacientes, visitantes e acompanhantes evidencia a relevância da melhor atenção psicológica, com a singularidade da humanização e do melhor cuidado. Constatamos a relevância do olhar atento do Psicólogo Hospitalar para as necessidades e a melhor experiência do paciente na hospitalização, evidenciando que a sistematização e desenvolvimento do Programa Visita de Menor constitui-se como uma ação de reencontros e resgates desses vínculos afrouxados pelo processo de adoecer.

As atividades lúdicas, como a criação de fantoches, desempenham um papel crucial na vida das crianças hospitalizadas, aliviando o estresse e ajudando na compreensão do processo de tratamento. Fazer fantoches permite que as crianças expressem suas emoções de forma não verbal e compreendam melhor suas experiências médicas. Além disso, essa atividade estimula a interação social, é conduzida por profissionais de saúde mental, e pode se tornar uma lembrança positiva do hospital. Os fantoches também ajudam a explicar procedimentos médicos de forma lúdica, tornando-se “pacientes” que estreitam laços com as crianças, reduzindo o medo e funcionando como um processo psicoterapêutico para toda a família. Objetivos: Este trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar a utilização de fantoches como instrumento terapêutico na chegada do paciente pediátrico ao Pronto Socorro Infantil. Material e métodos: São utilizados como materiais: meias, agulha, linha colorida, tesoura, cola quente, botões, cola para tecido, olhos moveis, bolinhas de isopor, fios de lã/barbante/linha, tecidos diversos, canetas ou tintas para tecidos, algodão/espuma. Nossa abordagem teve como foco oferecer apoio aos pacientes e seus familiares no Pronto Socorro Infantil (PSI) do Hospital São Luiz - Anália Franco. Durante a oficina, convidamos as crianças que estavam na recepção do PSI a participar da criação de fantoches feitos a partir de meias. Além disso, disponibilizamos exemplos impressos para facilitar a compreensão da ideia central da atividade. Enquanto as crianças confeccionam os fantoches, os Psicólogos estimulam a expressão de sentimentos compreender o significado por trás da escolha de seus bonecos, e os motivos que as levaram até o hospital. Ao término da atividade, cada paciente pôde levar consigo o seu próprio fantoche como lembrança desta experiência única. Resultados: As crianças hospitalizadas relataram diversas queixas físicas, mas permaneceram calmas e aproveitaram a atividade de confecção de fantoches. Essa atividade proporcionou tranquilidade aos pais, que se sentiram mais seguros ao verem seus filhos engajados. A experiência positiva foi tão marcante que muitos continuaram a atividade após a alta hospitalar. O projeto “Meu Amigo Paciente” combina entretenimento e apoio emocional, ajudando as crianças a expressarem suas emoções e medos de forma não verbal, reduzindo o estresse hospitalar e criando um ambiente acolhedor. Conclusão: A confecção de fantoches no ambiente hospitalar mostrou resultados notáveis, ajudando as crianças a lidar melhor com a espera pelo atendimento e entender os procedimentos médicos. Essa atividade proporcionou uma forma não verbal de expressar emoções e medos, crucial para aquelas com dificuldades de comunicação. Os pais também se sentiram mais tranquilos e expressaram gratidão pela iniciativa, evidenciando seu impacto positivo. Constatamos que a atividade com fantoches facilitou a expressão emocional das crianças, ajudando no bem-estar e na melhor compreensão de sua situação. A intervenção lúdica também se mostrou eficaz em melhorar a colaboração das crianças e reduzir reações agressivas durante os tratamentos. A relevância do psicólogo no ambiente hospitalar é evidente, e esses benefícios podem ser estendidos a todos os pacientes, incluindo idosos, pois o equilíbrio emocional e psicológico influencia positivamente a recuperação física e o sucesso do tratamento.

A internação de um paciente em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal causa forte impacto familiar contrastando com o que foi idealizado na gravidez. A família apresenta sentimentos confusos e ambivalentes desencadeando uma série de fatores estressantes, sentimentos de culpa, ansiedade, medo, depressão e raiva. Acresce-se o fato que o afastamento da criança gera frustração e desapontamento e, conforme a gravidade do quadro clínico, a família pode se deparar com um futuro incerto. Entre os fatores geradores de sofrimento está a restrição de visitas da mãe, devido intercorrência clinica no parto e no pós-parto, ou ainda por diagnostico de doenças infecto contagiosas, neste caso liberada somente a visita para o genitor ou avós de acordo com as regras de cada instituição. Neste cenário, a mãe pode entrar em sofrimento emocional em decorrência da ameaça do rompimento familiar e/ou fragilidade da construção desses laços. Sendo assim, o olhar atento do psicólogo para este membro familiar se faz importante, assim como o desenvolvimento de rotinas de inclusão na UTIN. Objetivo: Relatar a experiência de visitas virtuais como estratégia institucional de apoio ao paciente em cuidados intensivos neonatais. Material/método: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e exploratório, conduzido na rotina do Serviço de Psicologia Hospitalar em parceria com a Enfermagem do Hospital São Luiz, Unidade Anália Franco - SP, no período de 2023 a 2024. Utilizamos a pesquisa retrospectiva de evoluções de prontuários no sistema Tasy e as planilhas diárias de controle de atendimentos do Serviço de Psicologia Hospitalar, além da planilha de produção mensal. A amostra foi composta por 77 chamadas de vídeo, abrangendo 127 familiares. Na UTI Neonatal foram realizadas 55 visitas virtuais, seguidas de 15 visitas virtuais na UTI Adulto, 06 na Maternidade e 01 na UTI Cardiológica. Resultado: O protocolo de chamadas de vídeo entre a mãe e bebê segue quatro etapas principais: desejo materno, autorização da equipe médica e assistencial, realização da chamada de vídeo pela equipe de Psicologia e acompanhamento materno pós-chamada de vídeo realizada. Assim, previamente ao convite para a realização da chama de vídeo, é realizado atendimento e avaliação da genitora do recém-nascido (RN), com o objetivo de compreender o desejo materno, a dinâmica familiar e qualidade da comunicação estabelecida sobre o contexto de internação do RN. A partir do que é avaliado, a mãe é acolhida acerca do momento da visita e reações esperadas diante do contexto vivenciado. No dia e horário, pré-estabelecido, a chamada de vídeo inicia com o acolhimento à genitora, condução da visita virtual e fechamento, oferecendo o apoio psicológico à genitora e demais familiares que estejam presentes no momento. Na sequência, em caso de internação da genitora, realiza-se atendimento psicológico pós visita, mantendo-se o acompanhamento. Conclusão: Observa-se, no seguimento do acompanhamento com as famílias, que a chamada de vídeo entre o RN e a genitora contribui com a redução das angústias manifestadas, favorecendo uma maior adaptação familiar ao contexto da UTIN. Igualmente, o impacto positivo também se dá a partir da redução da sensação de distanciamento entre os mesmo e fantasias de exclusão à família. Consequentemente, a construção desta nova configuração familiar pelo rompimento da ordem natural do curso da formação dos vínculos familiares decorrente da internação do RN e restrição da visita presencial temporária da genitora.

Abstract Diabetes poses a substantial disease burden, prompting preventive interventions. Physical inactivity, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, can potentially be mitigated by enhancing area-level walkability. Despite this, limited population-based studies have investigated the link between walkability and objective diabetes measures. Our study aims to estimate the association between area-level walkability and individual glycated haemoglobin levels in the Portuguese adult population without the diagnosis of diabetes. Data from the 2011 census and an updated street map were obtained to construct a walkability index based on residential density, land-use mix, and street connectivity. Individual health data were sourced from The National Health Examination Survey (INSEF) 2015, a representative survey of the Portuguese adult population. Gamma regression was employed for estimation of the main associations, revealing that residing in moderately walkable areas significantly reduced average glycated haemoglobin levels (Exp(β) = 0.906; 95% CI: 0.821, 0.999) compared to the least walkable areas. The association was less pronounced and not statistically significant for the third tertile of walkability (Exp(β) = 0.919; 95% CI: 0.822, 1.028). Our findings highlight a nonlinear protective association between walkability and glycated haemoglobin, emphasizing the potential policy implications for urban planning, diabetes prevention, and health promotion.

Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) display an overactive bladder (OAB). Intravascular hemolysis in SCD is associated with various severe SCD complications. However, no experimental studies have evaluated the effect of intravascular hemolysis on bladder function. This study aimed to assess the effects of intravascular hemolysis on the micturition process and the contractile mechanisms of the detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) in a mouse model with phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced hemolysis; furthermore, it aimed to investigate the role of intravascular hemolysis in the dysfunction of nitric oxide (NO) signaling and in increasing oxidative stress in the bladder. Mice underwent a void spot assay, and DSM contractions were evaluated in organ baths. The PHZ group exhibited increased urinary frequency and increased void volumes. DSM contractile responses to carbachol, KCl, α-β-methylene-ATP, and EFS were increased in the PHZ group. Protein expression of phosphorylated endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) (Ser-1177), phosphorylated neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) (Ser-1417), and phosphorylated vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) (Ser-239) decreased in the bladder of the PHZ group. Protein expression of oxidative stress markers, NOX-2, 3-NT, and 4-HNE, increased in the bladder of the PHZ group. Our study shows that intravascular hemolysis promotes voiding dysfunction correlated with alterations in the NO signaling pathway in the bladder, as evidenced by reduced levels of p-eNOS (Ser-1177), nNOS (Ser-1417), and p-VASP (Ser-239). The study also showed that intravascular hemolysis increases oxidative stress in the bladder. Our study indicates that intravascular hemolysis promotes an OAB phenotype similar to those observed in patients and mice with SCD.

Men with sickle cell disease (SCD) frequently experience priapism, defined as prolonged, painful erections occurring without sexual arousal or desire. This urological emergency can lead to penile fibrosis and permanent erectile dysfunction if not treated adequately. Due to its complex pathophysiology, there is currently no effective preventative treatment for this condition. Recent studies have highlighted the dysfunction of the nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway in erectile tissues as a critical mechanism in developing priapism in SCD. Additionally, further research indicates that intravascular hemolysis promotes increased smooth muscle relaxation in the corpus cavernosum and that excess heme may significantly contribute to priapism in SCD. Pharmacological treatments should ideally target the pathophysiological basis of the disease. Agents that reduce excess free heme in the plasma have emerged as potential therapeutic candidates. This review explores the molecular mechanisms underlying the excess of heme in SCD and its contribution to developing priapism. We discuss pharmacological approaches targeting the excess free heme in the plasma, highlighting it as a potential therapeutic target for future interventions in managing priapism.

Tardigrades are microscopic animals renowned for their ability to withstand extreme conditions, including high doses of ionizing radiation (IR). To better understand their radio-resistance, we first characterized induction and repair of DNA double- and single-strand breaks after exposure to IR in the model species Hypsibius exemplaris. Importantly, we found that the rate of single-strand breaks induced was roughly equivalent to that in human cells, suggesting that DNA repair plays a predominant role in tardigrades’ radio-resistance. To identify novel tardigrade-specific genes involved, we next conducted a comparative transcriptomics analysis across three different species. In all three species, many DNA repair genes were among the most strongly overexpressed genes alongside a novel tardigrade-specific gene, which we named Tardigrade DNA damage Response 1 (TDR1). We found that TDR1 protein interacts with DNA and forms aggregates at high concentration suggesting it may condensate DNA and preserve chromosome organization until DNA repair is accomplished. Remarkably, when expressed in human cells, TDR1 improved resistance to Bleomycin, a radiomimetic drug. Based on these findings, we propose that TDR1 is a novel tardigrade-specific gene conferring resistance to IR. Our study sheds light on mechanisms of DNA repair helping cope with high levels of DNA damage inflicted by IR.

Species within the eutardigrade superfamily Macrobiotoidea are usually differentiated through their eggshell morphology. However, this trait can show very high intraspecific variability and, as consequence, species delimitation is challenging without molecular support. Although eggshell variability usually consists of small details, cases of species with very different egg morphotypes are known. Paramacrobiotus bifrons sp. nov. here described with an integrative approach, represents one of the species with extreme variability in eggshell morphology and it belongs to the areolatus group. The production by this gonochoric species of both areolatus-type and csotiensis-type eggs, the latter being rare in the group but most abundant in this species, was assessed by DNA barcoding, culturing, and inter-morphotype crosses. The reason underlying the production of two different eggshells resulted not related to tested culturing conditions, seasonality, or male’s influence. Confocal (with and without staining), Light, and Scanning Electron Microscopies analyses of the two egg morphotypes laid by P. bifrons sp. nov. allowed to redescribe the csotiensis-type egg, shed light on its composition (excluding chitin as a component), and to find shared details supporting the belonging of the two egg morphotypes to the same species.http://www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:E9519638-2CE9-414D-B96B-0F403845D4CAhttp://www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:82DDACA5-F539-4A80-8418-8AF4A370B631

Diabetic bladder dysfunction (DBD) is the most prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), affecting >50% of all patients. Currently, no specific treatment is available for this condition. In the early stages of DBD, patients typically complain of frequent urination and often have difficulty sensing when their bladders are full. Over time, bladder function deteriorates to a decompensated state in which incontinence develops. Based on studies of diabetic changes in the eye, kidney, heart, and nerves, it is now recognized that DM causes tissue damage by altering redox signaling in target organs. NADPH oxidase (NOX), whose sole function is the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), plays a pivotal role in other well-known and bothersome diabetic complications. However, there is a substantial gap in understanding how NOX controls bladder function in health and the impact of NOX on DBD. The current review provides a thorough overview of the various NOX isoforms and their roles in bladder function and discusses the importance of further investigating the role of NOXs as a key contributor to DBD pathogenesis, either as a trigger and/or an effector and potentially as a target.

The treatment of glioblastoma (GBM) faces significant challenges due to the difficulty of delivering drugs through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as potential carriers for targeted drug delivery to brain tumors. However, their use and distribution in the presence of an intact BBB and their ability to target GBM tissue are still under investigation. This study explored the use of EVs for GBM targeting across the BBB. Canine plasma EVs from healthy dogs and dogs with glioma were isolated, characterized, and loaded with diagnostic agents. Biodistribution studies were conducted in healthy murine models and a novel intranasal model that preserved BBB integrity while initiating early-stage GBM growth. This model assessed EVs' potential for delivering the contrast agent gadoteric acid to intracranial tumors. Imaging techniques, such as bioluminescence and MRI, confirmed EVs' targeting and delivery capabilities thus revealing a selective accumulation of canine glioma-derived EVs in brain tissue under physiological conditions. In the model of brain tumor, MRI experiments demonstrated the ability of EVs to accumulate gadoteric acid within GBM to enhance contrast of the tumoral mass, even when BBB integrity is maintained. This study underscores the potential of EVs derived from glioma for the targeted delivery of drugs to glioblastoma. EVs from dogs with glioma showed capacity to traverse the BBB and selectively accumulate within the brain tumor. Overall, this research represents a foundation for the application of autologous EVs to precision glioblastoma treatment, addressing the challenge of BBB penetration and targeting specificity in brain cancer therapy.

In patients with cancer, tumor- and treatment-induced immunosuppression are responsible for a four-fold increase in morbidity and mortality caused by influenza and invasive Streptococcus pneumoniae infections compared to the general population. The main oncology societies strongly recommend vaccination in patients with cancer to prevent these infections. However, vaccine hesitancy is a main concern in this population. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of in-hospital vaccination for patients under anticancer treatment and their family members (FMs) against influenza and pneumococcal infections during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to increase vaccine coverage. This was a single-center, prospective, observational study conducted at the Department of Oncology of Luigi Sacco University Hospital (Milan, Italy) between October 2020 and April 2021. The main primary outcome was the incidence of influenza-like illness (ILI) and pneumococcal infections. The main secondary outcome was safety. A total of 341 subjects were enrolled, including 194 patients with cancer and 147 FMs. The incidence of ILI was higher among patients than among FMs (9% vs. 2.7%, OR 3.92, p = 0.02). Moreover, two subjects were diagnosed with pneumococcal pneumonia. The most frequent vaccine-related AEs were pain in the injection site (31%) and fatigue (8.7%). In conclusion, this hospital-based vaccination strategy was feasible during the COVID-19 pandemic, representing a potential model to maximize vaccine coverage during a public health emergency.

Abstract Advances in cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) have prolonged life expectancy in various medical settings. However, the issue of hypersensitivity to components of CIEDs is still a concern. Since 1970, allergic reactions to metallic and nonmetallic components of CIEDs have been reported. Hypersensitivity reactions to medical devices are rare and not fully understood. In some cases, diagnosis and treatment are difficult. Cardiologists should always keep in mind pacemaker allergy when a patient appears with wound complications and no signs of infection. Patch testing should be tailored toward the specific biomaterials used in a device, in addition to testing with standard screening allergens in select cases.

Priapism, defined as a prolonged and often painful penile erection occurring without sexual stimulation or desire, is a common complication in sickle cell disease (SCD), affecting up to 48% of male patients. This condition presents significant clinical challenges and can lead to erectile dysfunction if not properly managed. Current pharmacological treatments for SCD-related priapism are primarily reactive rather than preventative, highlighting a gap in effective medical intervention strategies. A critical factor in developing priapism is the reduced basal bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in erectile tissues. New prevention strategies should ideally target the underlying pathophysiology of the disease. Compounds that stimulate and activate soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) emerge as potential therapeutic candidates since these compounds have the property of inducing cGMP production by sGC. This review explores the potential of sGC stimulators and activators in treating priapism associated with SCD. We discuss the advantages of these agents in the face of the challenging pathophysiology of SCD. Additionally, the review underscores the impact of intravascular hemolysis and oxidative stress on priapism pathophysiology in SCD, areas in which sGC stimulators and activators may also have beneficial therapeutic effects.

Nitrates and nitrites, which are synthetic additives, are traditionally used as curing agents in meat-based products. These synthetic additives are employed in the preparation of fermented meat foods to improve quality characteristics and microbiological safety, develop distinct flavours and red-colour stability, and counteract lipid oxidation. Nitrites also display significant bacteriostatic and bactericidal action against spoilage microorganisms and foodborne pathogens (such as Clostridium botulinum and Listeria monocytogenes). However, meat curing is currently under scrutiny because of its links to cardiovascular diseases and colorectal cancer. Based on the current literature, this review provides recent scientific evidence on the potential utilisation of coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) as nitrate and nitrite substitutes in meat-based foods. Indeed, CNS are reported to reproduce the characteristic red pigmentation and maintain the typical high-quality traits of cured-meats, thanks to their arginine degradation pathway, thus providing the nitrite-related desirable attributes in cured meat. The alternative strategy, still based on the NOS pathway, consisting of supplementing meat with arginine to release nitric oxide (NO) and obtain a meat characterised by the desired pinkish-red colour, is also reviewed. Exploiting NOS-positive CNS strains seems particularly challenging because of CNS technological adaptation and the oxygen dependency of the NOS reaction; however, this exploitation could represent a turning point in replacing nitrates and nitrites in meat foods.

The lack of economic funds commonly represents a limiting factor in scientific research and prevents scientists from developing brilliant ideas. Indeed, a new project may involve using appropriate scientific instruments and concurrently dealing with the costs before pursuing new research fields. The innovative concept of investigating the effects of electric fields, as a simulation of marine electrical pollution, on benthic organisms such as foraminifera (marine protozoa) has been recently explored by our research group. This pioneering research has resulted in the development of a cost-effective instrument capable of generating customized electric stimulation patterns with accuracy and reliability. Here, we describe the construction of a low-intensity electrical stimulator based on an Arduino programmable board and a few electronic components. The instrument results very stable and precise regarding the stimulation times and the regulation of the current intensity applied to the biological preparation. Moreover, the setup can stimulate the preparation in constant or pulsed direct current. This homemade stimulation apparatus can be improved or modified according to the researchers’ needs, as possibilities and fields of application can be innumerable.

The impact of duckweed extracts (DEs) on the shelf-life of packaged beef burgers was evaluated through classical assays and untargeted metabolomics. Beef burgers were formulated with an antioxidants-free control (CON), 1 g/kg sodium ascorbate (ASC), and increasing levels of a DEs, namely 1 (DE1), 5 (DE5), and 10 (DE10) g/kg, packaged under modified atmosphere and stored at 4 °C for 19 days. The DEs, abundant in phytochemicals, determined no issues with the hygienic status of the product. DEs modulated the redox status, being ineffective in preserving linolenic acid from peroxidation. However, the oxidation marker 2-nonenoic acid was down-accumulated in the DE10 sample following 19 days of storage, recording a lower glutathione:glutathione disulfide ratio. The accumulation of adipate semialdehyde revealed the inefficiency of DEs in coping with protein oxidation, while DEs prevented the accumulation of biogenic amines. Therefore, this work suggests a potential pro-oxidant role of the formulated DEs.

Gas fermentation is gaining attention as a crucial technology for converting gaseous feedstocks into value-added chemicals. Despite numerous efforts over the past decade to investigate these innovative processes at a lab scale, to date, the evaluation of the technologies in relevant industrial environments is scarce. This study examines the fermentative production of acetate from biomass-derived syngas using Moorella thermoacetica. A mobile gas fermentation pilot plant was coupled to a bubbling fluidized-bed gasifier with syngas purification to convert crushed bark-derived syngas. The syngas purification steps included hot filtration, catalytic reforming, and final syngas cleaning. Different latter configurations were evaluated to enable a simplified syngas cleaning configuration for microbial syngas conversion compared to conventional catalytic synthesis. Fermentation tests using ultra-cleaned syngas showed comparable microbial growth (1.3 g/L) and acetate production (22.3 g/L) to the benchmark fermentation of synthetic gases (1.2 g/L of biomass and 25.2 g/L of acetate). Additional fermentation trials on partially purified syngas streams identified H2S and HCN as the primary inhibitory compounds. They also indicated that caustic scrubbing is an adequate and simplified final gas cleaning step to facilitate extended microbial fermentation. Overall, this study shows the potential of gas fermentation to valorize crude gaseous feedstocks, such as industrial off-gases, into platform chemicals.

Around 65% of the mitigation needed for the targeted net-zero carbon aviation emissions in 2050 is expected to come from Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs). In this study, an alternative gasification-driven Biomass-to-Liquid (BtL) concept for the production of SAFs is introduced and evaluated. In particular, a fuel synthesis scheme based on the double-stage fermentation of the produced syngas (syngas → acetic acid → TAGs) is assessed instead of the conventional Fischer-Tropsch (FT) or Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ) synthesis. The objective of the present work is the techno-economic evaluation of a large-scale (200 MWth) replication of the mentioned BtL concept, whose performance has been simulated in Aspen PlusTM (V.11) with reasonable upscaling considerations and models validated at a pilot scale. The estimated baseline Total Capital Investment (TCI) of €577 million lies in the typical range of €500–700 million that many recent techno-economic studies adopt for gasification-driven BtL plants of similar capacity, while the estimated annual operating costs of €50 million correspond to a 15–40% OpEx reduction compared to such plants. A discounted cash flow analysis was carried out, and a baseline Minimum Jet Selling Price (MJSP) equal to 1.83 €/L was calculated, while a range of 1.38–2.27 €/L emerged from the sensitivity analysis. This study sets the biological conversion of gasification-derived syngas into triglycerides (TAGs) as a promising alternative route for the production of SAFs. In general, gasification-driven BtL pathways, led by the relatively mature FT and AtJ technologies, are capable of thriving in the coming years based on their capability of advanced feedstock flexibility.

The combination of semiconductors and redox active molecules for light-driven energy storage systems has emerged as a powerful solution for the exploitation of solar batteries. On account of this, transparent conductive oxide (TCO) nanocrystals (NCs) demonstrated to be interesting materials, thanks to the photo-induced charge accumulation enabling light harvesting and storage. The charge transfer process after light absorption, at the base of the proper use of these semiconductors, is a key step, often resulting in non-reversible transformations of the chemicals involved. However, if considering the photocharging through TCO NCs not only as a charge provider for the system but potentially as part of the storage role, the reversible transformation of the redox compound represents a crucial aspect. In this paper, we explore the possible interaction of indium tin oxide (ITO) NCs and typical redox mediators commonly employed in catalytic applications with a twofold scope of enhancing or supporting the light-induced charge accumulation on the metal oxide NC side and controlling the reversibility of the whole process. The work presented focuses on the effect of the redox properties on the doped metal oxide response, both from the stability point of view and the photodoping performance, by monitoring the changes in the optical behavior of ITO/redox hybrid systems upon ultraviolet illumination.

The Antarctic region has been experiencing some of the planet’s strongest climatic changes, including an expected increase of the land temperature. The potential effects of this warming trend will lead ecosystems to a risk of losing biodiversity. Antarctic mosses and lichens host different microbial groups, micro-arthropods and meiofaunal organisms (e.g., tardigrades, rotifers). The eutardigrade Acutuncus antarcticus is considered a model animal to study the effect of increasing temperature due to global warming on Antarctic terrestrial communities. In this study, life history traits and fitness of this species are analyzed by rearing specimens at two different and increasing temperatures (5°C vs. 15°C). Moreover, the first transcriptome analysis on A. antarcticus is performed, exposing adult animals to a gradual increase of temperature (5°C, 10°C, 15°C, and 20°C) to find differentially expressed genes under short- (1 day) and long-term (15 days) heat stress. Acutuncus antarcticus specimens reared at 5°C live longer (maximum life span: 686 days), reach sexual maturity later, lay more eggs (which hatch in longer time and in lower percentage) compared with animals reared at 15°C. The fitness decreases in animals belonging to the second generation at both rearing temperatures. The short-term heat exposure leads to significant changes at transcriptomic level, with 67 differentially expressed genes. Of these, 23 upregulated genes suggest alterations of mitochondrial activity and oxido-reductive processes, and two intrinsically disordered protein genes confirm their role to cope with heat stress. The long-term exposure induces alterations limited to 14 genes, and only one annotated gene is upregulated in response to both heat stresses. The decline in transcriptomic response after a long-term exposure indicates that the changes observed in the short-term are likely due to an acclimation response. Therefore, A. antarcticus could be able to cope with increasing temperature over time, including the future conditions imposed by global climate change.

We present a data set on Antarctic biodiversity for the phylum Rotifera, making it publicly available through the Antarctic Biodiversity Information facility. We provide taxonomic information, geographic distribution, location, and habitat for each record. The data set gathers all the published literature about rotifers found and identified across the Continental, Maritime, and Subantarctic biogeographic regions of Antarctica. A total of 1455 records of rotifers in Antarctica found from 1907 to 2018 is reported, with information on taxonomic hierarchies, updated nomenclature, geographic information, geographic coordinates, and type of habitat. The aim is to provide a georeferenced data set on Antarctic rotifers as a baseline for further studies, to improve our knowledge on what has been considered one of the most diverse and successful groups of animals living in Antarctica.

Abstract Background His bundle pacing (HBP) may be a challenging procedure, often involving a long fluoroscopic time (FT) and a long procedural time (PT). We sought to evaluate whether the use of a new nonfluroscopic mapping (NFM) system, the KODEX‐EPD, is able to reduce FT and PT when mapping is performed by the pacing catheter rather than an electrophysiological mapping catheter. Methods and Results We included 46 consecutive patients (77 ± 8 years; 63% male) who underwent HBP; in 22 a NFM‐guided procedure with the KODEX‐EPD system was performed (group 1), whereas in 24 a conventional fluoroscopy‐guided approach was used (group 2). Pacing indications were sick sinus syndrome in 13, atrioventricular block in 21, and cardiac resynchronization therapy in 12 cases. Both a lumen‐less fixed helix lead and a stylet‐driven extendable helix lead were used, respectively, in 24% and 76% of patients. HBP was successful in 22 patients (100%) in group 1 and 23 patients (96%) in group 2. The FT was significantly reduced in group 1 (183 ± 117 s vs 464.1 ± 352 s in group 2, p = .012). There were no significant differences between groups in PT and other procedural outcomes. Conclusions The KODEX‐EPD system may be safely used in HBP procedures. It is effective in reducing ionizing radiation exposure, as evidenced by the significant drop in FT, without increasing PT.

The species of the genus Ramazzottius (Ramazzottiidae, Eutardigrada) are among the most common and widespread tardigrade species in the world. Most of the 28 Ramazzottius species have been described only with morphological characters which were most of the time represented only with drawings. The discovery of a new species of this genus in the Black Forest (Germany) provided the opportunity to compare this species with the type specimens of ten Ramazzottius species, to propose the status of species dubia for Ramazzottius edmondabouti, and through new photographs to elucidate the anatomy of animals and eggs (in particular of the head sensory regions, eye spots, buccal tube, ornamentations of the dorsal posterior cuticle, and morphology of egg processes). These thorough observations led to a better understanding of the diversity and evolution, not only of this cosmopolitan genus, but also of other eutardigrade genera. The new species Ramazzottius kretschmanni is described with an integrative approach integrating morphological (light and electron microscopy observations and morphometric data) and molecular (cox1 and ITS2 genes) data. The PTP and ASAP analyses confirmed the validity of the new species from a molecular point of view. The new species is morphologically similar to Ramazzottius oberhaeuseri, but is distinguishable by the smooth cuticle, the presence of a “cheek-like” area on the head, and the size of egg processes as well as different sequences of the molecular markers.

Bismuth telluride iodide (BiTeI) is a layered material known as Rashba semiconductor, which is promising for several applications such as spintronics, nonlinear optics, and energy-related devices. Due to its layered structure and low cleavage energy, BiTeI is particularly suitable for producing two-dimensional (2D) BiTeI crystals, allowing for the development of devices at the nanoscale. However, traditional methods of mechanically exfoliating BiTeI have encountered significant challenges. To address this, we used the so-called gold-assisted mechanical exfoliation to successfully obtain 2D BiTeI flakes. Through extensive characterization employing a range of techniques including Raman spectroscopy and second-harmonic generation (SHG) measurements, we examine the morphological, structural, and chemical properties of the gold-assisted mechanically exfoliated BiTeI flakes. We confirm their crystalline nature while also providing information about strain and defects present within the flakes. Moreover, SHG measurements revealed a significant nonlinear optical response, and the non-centrosymmetric structure observed in these flakes can be attributed to quantum confinement effects and the absence of phase-matching requirements typically found in bulk nonlinear crystals.

Semiconductor nanomaterials, and in particular, metal oxides offer great functionality and versatility for many applications at the forefront of material science research. One of the most significant advantage of these compounds at the nanoscale, both for the technological and commercial implications, is the solution synthesis and the consequent exploitation of solution processing. In this work, we present a detailed analysis of ITO nanoparticles solution deposition via the spin coating technique, considering its most common use in optoelectronics as thin films. The results and discussion can provide a list of guidelines for the optimization in the use of these class of materials.

ABSTRACT Laparoscopic total fundoplication is currently considered the gold standard for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Short-term outcomes after laparoscopic total fundoplication are excellent, with fast recovery and minimal perioperative morbidity. The symptom relief and reflux control are achieved in about 80 to 90% of patients 10 years after surgery. However, a small but clinically relevant incidence of postoperative dysphagia and gas-related symptoms is reported. Debate still exists about the best antireflux operation; during the last three decades, the surgical outcome of laparoscopic partial fundoplication (anterior or posterior) were compared to those achieved after a laparoscopic total fundoplication. The laparoscopic partial fundoplication, either anterior (180°) or posterior, should be performed only in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease secondary to scleroderma and impaired esophageal motility, since the laparoscopic total fundoplication would impair esophageal emptying and cause dysphagia.

The primary goal of this scoping review is to collect, analyze, and critically describe information regarding the role of the main compounds (reuterin, phenyllactic acid, and exopolysaccharides) produced by LAB that possess antifungal properties and provide some suggestions for further research. The use of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) to mitigate spoilage and extend the shelf life of foodstuffs has a long history. Recently, there has been a growing interest in the unique properties of these additions to the foodstuffs in which they are applied. In recent studies regarding biopreservation, significant attention has been given to the role of these microorganisms and their metabolites. This fascinating recent discipline aims not only to replace traditional preservation systems, but also to improve the overall quality of the final product. The biologically active by-products produced by lactic acid bacteria are synthesized under certain conditions (time, temperature, aerobiosis, acidity, water activity, etc.), which can be enacted through one of the oldest approaches to food processing: fermentation (commonly used in the dairy and bakery sectors). This study also delves into the biosynthetic pathways through which they are synthesized, with a particular emphasis on what is known about the mechanisms of action against molds in relation to the type of food.

Pediatric cardiomyopathies (CMs) and electrical diseases constitute a heterogeneous spectrum of disorders distinguished by structural and electrical abnormalities in the heart muscle, attributed to a genetic variant. They rank among the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population, with an annual incidence of 1.1–1.5 per 100,000 in children under the age of 18. The most common conditions are dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Despite great enthusiasm for research in this field, studies in this population are still limited, and the management and treatment often follow adult recommendations, which have significantly more data on treatment benefits. Although adult and pediatric cardiac diseases share similar morphological and clinical manifestations, their outcomes significantly differ. This review summarizes the latest evidence on genetics, clinical characteristics, management, and updated outcomes of primary pediatric CMs and electrical diseases, including DCM, HCM, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), Brugada syndrome (BrS), catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT), long QT syndrome (LQTS), and short QT syndrome (SQTS).

Background. Urban planning is a key tool to promote health in cities. The COVID-19 emergency accelerated several social, environmental, and digital challenges, stressing the importance of some issues regarding housing, urban mobility, green areas, and health service networks, urban health policies, and actions. These issues were the subject of an intensive residential course (the 57th) held in Erice, Sicily, in June 2021 in the “International School of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine G. D’Alessandro”, and the main findings are described here. Methods. Lectures presented the topics, subsequently developed them, and argued them in parallel practical sessions using the World Café technique, since it is well suited for the interaction of participants and the involvement of groups. Results. The World Café provides new insights into how to improve the livability and health of urban spaces, and a set of strategies and actions were proposed for each topic. Discussion and Conclusions. All attendees agreed on the importance of participation in the planning processes, but also on the need for strong political support to ensure the resources needed and a full integration of health with other local policies. A multidisciplinary approach to developing systemic operational capacities and health literacy is considered pivotal to raising awareness and participation.