bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the Arabic Version of the Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13) for Application within the Primary Healthcare Context in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kerari Ali , Almalki Malak , Bahari Ghareeb , Alharbi Manal F.
Published: December 2023

Background: Empowering patients with behavioral issues or chronic conditions to actively participate in their healthcare can help improve health outcomes. However, in the Saudi Arabian context, evaluation tools for achieving this goal are lacking, considering cultural and healthcare system factors. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Patient Activation Measure. Methods: This cross-sectional validation study was conducted on a sample of 225 patients receiving treatment from primary healthcare centers located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Item analyses and reliability and construct validity testing of the tool were conducted. Results: The item–total correlation coefficients ranged from 0.31 (item 2) to 0.57 (item 11). The item–total correlation coefficients for all 13 items were above 0.30. The reliability was 0.80. A two-factor model (“knowledge and beliefs” and “confidence and skills”) reflecting the instrument was constructed. The raw model did not sufficiently fit the data (χ2 = 170.98, degree of freedom (df) = 64, p < 0.001; Tucker–Lewis index (TLI) = 0.79; comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.83; root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.86 [90% confidence interval {CI} = 0.07–0.10]). After all significant correlations between the items’ error terms were modeled, an adequate fit was achieved (χ2 = 76.76, df = 51, p < 0.01; TLI = 0.94; CFI = 0.96; RMSEA = 0.04 [90% CI = 0.02–0.07]). Conclusions: the Arabic version of the Patient Activation Measure can be utilized by healthcare providers to assess the activation levels and unique needs and preferences of Arabic-speaking individuals and tailor interventions accordingly to provide necessary support.
Situational Awareness in the Context of Clinical Practice
Authors: Feller Shani , Feller Liviu , Bhayat Ahmed , Feller Gal , Khammissa Razia Abdool Gafaar , Vally Zunaid Ismail
Published: December 2023

In the context of clinical practice, situational awareness refers to conscious awareness (knowledge), which is a mental model of a given clinical situation in terms of its elements and the significance of their interrelation. Situational awareness (SA) facilitates clinical reasoning, diagnostic accuracy, and appropriate goal-directed performance, and it enables clinicians to immediately adapt treatment strategies in response to changes in clinical situational actualities and to modify the course of goal-directed activities accordingly. It also helps clinicians prepare future operational plans and procedures based on the projection of situational developments. SA, therefore, is an important prerequisite for safe clinical procedures. The purpose of this narrative review is to highlight certain cognitive and external (environmental) situational factors that influence the development of situational awareness. Understanding the dynamic, adaptive, and complex interactions between these factors may assist clinicians and managers of healthcare systems in developing methods aimed at facilitating the acquisition of accurate clinical situational awareness and, in turn, may bring about a reduction in the incidence of SA, diagnostic, and operational errors.
The Typology of Dubrovnik Summer Residences as a Spatial Planning Tool for Developing the Coexistence of Privacy and Sociality: A Case Study of the Gruž Area
Authors: Jurić Marijana , Jurić Mia , Šmit Krunoslav
Published: December 2023

The architecture of summer residences in the Dubrovnik region from the 15th and 16th centuries represents elements of cultural and historical heritage that both enhance the landscape and bear witness to the rich legacy rooted in the native Mediterranean ambience. By learning about the specific spatial characteristics that define Dubrovnik’s summer residences, this research aimed to comprehend their urban and architectural essence and determine the possibilities of using the typology of these residences as a tool for planning the balanced development of both the private and societal aspects of the city. This study identified indicators of the spatial parameters of existing historic Dubrovnik summer residences in Gruž and then analyzed them according to types of spatial planning conditions to guide the construction and development of building plots. The research was conducted using a model representation of the spatial indicators of the summer residences. The analysis of the model data revealed the characteristics of the typology of Dubrovnik summer residences, highlighting the urban and architectural features of the plots, houses, and gardens, the use of technological innovations, and the coexistence of privacy and sociality. The recognized specificities led to the conclusion that the typology of Dubrovnik summer residences can serve as an exceptionally valuable spatial planning tool.
Facilitators and Barriers to Online Teaching and Educational Technology Use by University Lecturers during COVID-19: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Evidence
Authors: Kaqinari Tomas
Published: December 2023

This systematic review of qualitative evidence contributes to the understanding of individual factors that influenced Emergency Remote Teaching and the use of educational technology by lecturers during the COVID-19 pandemic. A coding scheme aimed at identifying these key factors was developed using a comprehensive theoretical framework based on the model of triadic reciprocity. A narrative synthesis of 49 studies revealed that lecturers had unique starting points for the transition, which were influenced by factors such as prior experience with educational technology and online teaching, their attitudes and beliefs towards it, and their technological knowledge. Despite varying levels of preparedness and different attitudes, lecturers were able to leverage their pedagogical knowledge, adaptability, and motivation to continue education under extraordinary circumstances. On the other hand, a lack of experience in educational technology integration, negative attitudes and beliefs towards it, and insufficient technological knowledge hindered the transition to Emergency Remote Teaching. Lecturers therefore actively sought out appropriate educational technologies that would cater to their needs and those of their students. The initial autodidactic effort required that lecturers learn new technologies, along with how to effectively use them for teaching. A significant proportion of the use of educational technology was aimed at augmenting conventional teaching practices and providing students with an interactive learning environment, in terms of social embeddedness and personalized learning pathways. However, many lecturers attempted to replicate the pre-pandemic classroom in an online setting by substituting conventional teaching practices in an online classroom. This systematic review suggests the need to implement institutional onboarding measures for lecturers to level the “unique starting points” to ensure technology-enhanced learning in emergencies. This can be achieved by equipping lecturers with digital competence and pedagogical knowledge and by fostering self-efficacy, thus preparing them for future scenarios that require rapid adaptation and for digital transformation in general.
Antidiabetic Therapy during Pregnancy: The Prescription Pattern in Italy
Authors: Locatelli Anna , Ornaghi Sara , Terzaghi Alessandra , Belleudi Valeria , Fortinguerra Filomena , Poggi Francesca Romana , Perna Serena , Trotta Francesco ,   MoM-Net Group
Published: December 2023

Pregestational and gestational diabetes mellitus are relevant complications of pregnancy, and antidiabetic drugs are prescribed to obtain glycemic control and improve perinatal outcomes. The objective of this study was to describe the prescription pattern of antidiabetics before, during and after pregnancy in Italy and to evaluate its concordance with the Italian guideline on treatment of diabetes mellitus. A multi-database cross-sectional population study using a Common Data Model was performed. In a cohort of about 450,000 women, the prescribing profile of antidiabetics seemed to be in line with the Italian guideline, which currently does not recommend the use of oral antidiabetics and non-insulin injection, even if practice is still heterogeneous (up to 3.8% in the third trimester used oral antidiabetics). A substantial variability in the prescription pattern was observed among the Italian regions considered: the highest increase was registered in Tuscany (4.2%) while the lowest was in Lombardy (1.5%). Women with multiple births had a higher proportion of antidiabetic prescriptions than women with singleton births both in the preconception period and during pregnancy (1.3% vs. 0.7%; 3.4% vs. 2.6%) and used metformin more frequently. The consumption of antidiabetics in foreign women was higher than Italians (second trimester: 1.8% vs. 0.9%, third trimester: 3.6% vs. 1.8%).
An Eight-Week Zen Meditation and Music Programme for Mindfulness and Happiness: Qualitative Content Analysis
Authors: Hwang Mi Hyang , Bunt Leslie , Warner Catherine
Published: December 2023

Mental wellness can be related to healthier living, the learning process and working environments for people in the university community. A wide range of mental wellness programmes have been explored to provide students with pleasant and satisfying experiences. The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of integrating Zen meditation and music listening on the mindfulness and happiness levels of university music therapy students. A qualitative methodology was used, and data were collected through surveys and semi-structured interviews. To investigate various aspects of data regarding the role of the meditation and music (MM) programme for mindfulness and happiness, this study used thematic analysis within a qualitative research design. The findings of this study suggest that the 8-week Mindfulness Meditation (MM) programme is a potential approach for enhancing mindfulness, happiness and stress management. These results carry broader implications, particularly in terms of supporting mental health resources in higher education. Furthermore, the study contributes to the ongoing discussion regarding the positive impact of combining meditation and music to promote mental well-being. This integrated approach has the potential to strengthen coping strategies and further promote the integration of music and meditation practices in various contexts, including higher education.
Total Outflow of High-Density Lipoprotein–Cholesteryl Esters from Plasma Is Decreased in a Model of 3/4 Renal Mass Reduction
Authors: Luna-Luna María , Franco Martha , Carreón-Torres Elizabeth , Pérez-Hernández Nonanzit , Fragoso José Manuel , Bautista-Pérez Rocío , Pérez-Méndez Óscar
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Previous studies have enriched high-density lipoproteins (HDL) using cholesteryl esters in rabbits with a three-quarter reduction in functional renal mass, suggesting that the kidneys participate in the cholesterol homeostasis of these lipoproteins. However, the possible role of the kidneys in lipoprotein metabolism is still controversial. To understand the role of the kidneys in regulating the HDL lipid content, we determined the turnover of HDL-cholesteryl esters in rabbits with a three-quarter renal mass reduction. (2) Methods: HDL subclass characterization was conducted, and the kinetics of plasma HDL-cholesteryl esters, labeled with tritium, were studied in rabbits with a 75% reduction in functional renal mass (Ntx). (3) Results: The reduced renal mass triggered the enrichment of cholesterol, specifically cholesteryl esters, in HDL subclasses. The exchange of cholesteryl esters between HDL and apo B-containing lipoproteins (VLDL/LDL) was not significantly modified in Ntx rabbits. Moreover, the cholesteryl esters of HDL and VLDL/LDL fluxes from the plasmatic compartment tended to decrease, but they only reached statistical significance when both fluxes were added to the Nxt group. Accordingly, the fractional catabolic rate (FCR) of the HDL-cholesteryl esters was lower in Ntx rabbits, concomitantly with its accumulation in HDL subclasses, probably because of the reduced mass of renal cells requiring this lipid from lipoproteins.
Brain-Specific Angiogenesis Inhibitor 3 Is Expressed in the Cochlea and Is Necessary for Hearing Function in Mice
Authors: Saegusa Chika , Kakegawa Wataru , Miura Eriko , Aimi Takahiro , Mogi Sachiyo , Harada Tatsuhiko , Yamashita Taku , Yuzaki Michisuke , Fujioka Masato
Published: December 2023

Mammalian auditory hair cells transduce sound-evoked traveling waves in the cochlea into nerve stimuli, which are essential for hearing function. Pillar cells located between the inner and outer hair cells are involved in the formation of the tunnel of Corti, which incorporates outer-hair-cell-driven fluid oscillation and basilar membrane movement, leading to the fine-tuned frequency-specific perception of sounds by the inner hair cells. However, the detailed molecular mechanism underlying the development and maintenance of pillar cells remains to be elucidated. In this study, we examined the expression and function of brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor 3 (Bai3), an adhesion G-protein-coupled receptor, in the cochlea. We found that Bai3 was expressed in hair cells in neonatal mice and pillar cells in adult mice, and, interestingly, Bai3 knockout mice revealed the abnormal formation of pillar cells, with the elevation of the hearing threshold in a frequency-dependent manner. Furthermore, old Bai3 knockout mice showed the degeneration of hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons in the basal turn. The results suggest that Bai3 plays a crucial role in the development and/or maintenance of pillar cells, which, in turn, are necessary for normal hearing function. Our results may contribute to understanding the mechanisms of hearing loss in human patients.
Associations of Glucometabolic Indices with Aortic Stiffness in Patients Undergoing Peritoneal Dialysis with and without Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Tang Chi-Chong , Tsai Jen-Pi , Chen Yi-Hsin , Hung Szu-Chun , Lin Yu-Li , Hsu Bang-Gee
Published: December 2023

Disruptions in glucose metabolism are frequently observed among patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) who utilize glucose-containing dialysis solutions. We aimed to investigate the relationship between glucometabolic indices, including fasting glucose, insulin resistance, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), PD-related glucose load, and icodextrin usage, and aortic stiffness in PD patients with and without diabetic mellitus (DM). This study involved 172 PD patients (mean age 58.3 ± 13.5 years), consisting of 110 patients without DM and 62 patients with DM. Aortic stiffness was assessed using the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV). Impaired fasting glucose was defined as a fasting glucose level ≥ 100 mg/dL. Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) scores, serum AGEs, dialysate glucose load, and icodextrin usage were assessed. Patients with DM exhibited the highest cfPWV (9.9 ± 1.9 m/s), followed by those with impaired fasting glucose (9.1 ± 1.4 m/s), whereas patients with normal fasting glucose had the lowest cfPWV (8.3 ± 1.3 m/s), which demonstrated a significant trend. In non-DM patients, impaired fasting glucose (β = 0.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.01–1.03, p = 0.046), high HOMA-IR (β = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.12–1.08, p = 0.015), and a high PD glucose load (β = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.08–1.08, p = 0.023) were independently associated with increased cfPWV. In contrast, none of the glucometabolic factors contributed to differences in cfPWV in DM patients. In conclusion, among PD patients without DM, impaired fasting glucose, insulin resistance, and PD glucose load were closely associated with aortic stiffness.
Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 4-Dependent Microglial Function in Myelin Injury and Repair
Authors: Holloman Jameson P. , Dimas Sophia H. , Archambault Angela S. , Filipello Fabia , Du Lixia , Feng Jing , Zhao Yonghui , Bollman Bryan , Piccio Laura , Steelman Andrew J. , Hu Hongzhen , Wu Gregory F.
Published: December 2023

Microglia are found pathologically at all stages of multiple sclerosis (MS) lesion development and are hypothesized to contribute to both inflammatory injury and neuroprotection in the MS brain. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channels are widely expressed, play an important role as environmental sensors, and are involved in calcium homeostasis for a variety of cells. TRPV4 modulates myeloid cell phagocytosis in the periphery and microglial motility in the central nervous system. We hypothesized that TRPV4 deletion would alter microglia phagocytosis in vitro and lessen disease activity and demyelination in experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE) and cuprizone-induced demyelination. We found that genetic deletion of TRPV4 led to increased microglial phagocytosis in vitro but did not alter the degree of demyelination or remyelination in the cuprizone mouse model of MS. We also found no difference in disease in EAE following global or microglia-specific deletion of Trpv4. Additionally, lesioned and normal appearing white matter from MS brains exhibited similar TRPV4 expression compared to healthy brain tissue. Taken together, these findings indicate that TRPV4 modulates microglial activity but does not impact disease activity in mouse models of MS, suggesting a muted and/or redundant role in MS pathogenesis.
Targeting the TGF-β Signaling Axis in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Papavassiliou Kostas A. , Delle Cave Donatella , Papavassiliou Athanasios G.
Published: December 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide [...]
Generation and Characterization of Monoclonal Antibodies against Swine Acute Diarrhea Syndrome Coronavirus Spike Protein
Authors: Zhou Xinyue , Zhang Mengjia , Zhang Hanyu , Ma Hailong , Zhou Jiaru , Cao Hua , Guo Guanghao , Ma Ningning , He Qigai , Yang Yongle , Lang Yifei , Huang Yaowei , Li Wentao
Published: December 2023

Swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), a member of the family Coronaviridae and the genus Alphacoronavirus, primarily affects piglets under 7 days old, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. It has the potential to infect human primary and passaged cells in vitro, indicating a potential risk of zoonotic transmission. In this study, we successfully generated and purified six monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specifically targeting the spike protein of SADS-CoV, whose epitope were demonstrated specificity to the S1A or S1B region by immunofluorescence assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Three of these mAbs were capable of neutralizing SADS-CoV infection on HeLa-R19 and A549. Furthermore, we observed that SADS-CoV induced the agglutination of erythrocytes from both humans and rats, and the hemagglutination inhibition capacity and antigen–antibody binding capacity of the antibodies were assessed. Our study reveals that mAbs specifically targeting the S1A domain demonstrated notable efficacy in suppressing the hemagglutination phenomenon induced by SADS-CoV. This finding represents the first instance of narrowing down the protein region responsible for SADS-CoV-mediated hemagglutination to the S1A domain, and reveals that the cell attachment domains S1A and S1B are the main targets of neutralizing antibodies.
Correction: del Molino del Barrio et al. Breast Cancer: An Examination of the Potential of ACKR3 to Modify the Response of CXCR4 to CXCL12. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2018, 19, 3592
Authors: del Molino del Barrio Irene , Wilkins Georgina C. , Meeson Annette , Ali Simi , Kirby John A.
Published: December 2023

The authors and Editorial Office were made aware of an error in a figure within the original publication [...]
Unique Substrate Recognition and Sodium–Substrate Binding Stoichiometry in a Bacterial Serotonin Transporter, TuriSERT
Authors: Li Mu , Zhang Xintong , Chen Sixiang , Liu Hanhe , Zhang Yuan-Wei
Published: December 2023

All resolved high-resolution structures of the transporters in the neurotransmitter sodium symporter (NSS) family revealed that the NSS members share common structural and mechanistic features for substrate and ion binding and transport. However, a recently reported bacterial orthologue of the human serotonin transporter (hSERT), TuriSERT, possesses a structural characteristic specific for amino acid substrate binding but does transport a biogenic amine. The unique structural feature of TuriSERT requires a novel configuration for coordinating its substrate and ions. In the present study, we characterized TuriSERT expressed in Escherichia coli cells with a fluorescent substrate by biochemical, structural, and pharmacological approaches. Substrate transport by TuriSERT requires Na+ but not Cl−. Replacement of Asp262 by asparagine renders TuriSERT Cl−-dependent. Substitutions of the corresponding Na1 residues did not alter Na+ dependence on substrate transport, whereas the mutation of a Na2 site residue led to a loss of transport activity, suggesting that Na+ binds only to the Na2 site in TuriSERT. In addition, substitutions of several residues essential for recognizing 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in hSERT had little effect on 5-HT displacement potency in transport assay for TuriSERT. In contrast, mutations of the residues that are proposed to coordinate with 5-HT in our docking model dramatically reduced 5-HT displacement. Furthermore, our results indicated that all tested antidepressants showed a weak inhibitory effect on TuriSERT. The present study demonstrated the existence of a unique substrate binding site and 1:1 stoichiometry of sodium–substrate binding in TuriSERT, a novel structural finding for the NSS transporters.
Preparation and Activity of Hemostatic and Antibacterial Dressings with Greige Cotton/Zeolite Formularies Having Silver and Ascorbic Acid Finishes
Authors: Edwards J. Vincent , Prevost Nicolette T. , Hinchliffe Doug J. , Nam Sunghyun , Chang SeChin , Hron Rebecca J. , Madison Crista A. , Smith Jade N. , Poffenberger Chelsie N. , Taylor Michelle M. , Martin Erika J. , Dixon Kirsty J.
Published: December 2023

The need for prehospital hemostatic dressings that exert an antibacterial effect is of interest for prolonged field care. Here, we consider a series of antibacterial and zeolite formulary treatment approaches applied to a cotton-based dressing. The design of the fabric formulations was based on the hemostatic dressing TACGauze with zeolite Y incorporated as a procoagulant with calcium and pectin to facilitate fiber adherence utilizing silver nanoparticles, and cellulose-crosslinked ascorbic acid to confer antibacterial activity. Infra-red spectra were employed to characterize the chemical modifications on the dressings. Contact angle measurements were employed to document the surface hydrophobicity of the cotton fabric which plays a role in the contact activation of the coagulation cascade. Ammonium Y zeolite-treated dressings initiated fibrin equal to the accepted standard hemorrhage control dressing and showed similar improvement with antibacterial finishes. The antibacterial activity of cotton-based technology utilizing both citrate-linked ascorbate-cellulose conjugate analogs and silver nanoparticle-embedded cotton fibers was observed against Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae at a level of 99.99 percent in the AATCC 100 assay. The hydrogen peroxide levels of the ascorbic acid-based fabrics, measured over a time period from zero up to forty-eight hours, were in line with the antibacterial activities.
Genome-Wide Identification and Comprehensive Analysis of the GASA Gene Family in Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Syed Nabi Rizwana Begum , Lee Myoung Hee , Cho Kwang-Soo , Tayade Rupesh , Kim Sungup , Kim Jung-In , Kim Min-Young , Lee Eunsoo , Lee Jungeun , Kim Sang-Woo , Oh Eunyoung
Published: December 2023

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a globally cultivated crop of significant economic and nutritional importance. The role of gibberellic-acid-stimulated Arabidopsis (GASA) family genes is well established in plant growth, development, and biotic and abiotic stress responses. However, there is a gap in understanding the function of GASA proteins in cultivated peanuts, particularly in response to abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. Thus, we conducted comprehensive in silico analyses to identify and verify the existence of 40 GASA genes (termed AhGASA) in cultivated peanuts. Subsequently, we conducted biological experiments and performed expression analyses of selected AhGASA genes to elucidate their potential regulatory roles in response to drought and salinity. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that AhGASA genes could be categorized into four distinct subfamilies. Under normal growth conditions, selected AhGASA genes exhibited varying expressions in young peanut seedling leaves, stems, and roots tissues. Notably, our findings indicate that certain AhGASA genes were downregulated under drought stress but upregulated under salt stress. These results suggest that specific AhGASA genes are involved in the regulation of salt or drought stress. Further functional characterization of the upregulated genes under both drought and salt stress will be essential to confirm their regulatory roles in this context. Overall, our findings provide compelling evidence of the involvement of AhGASA genes in the mechanisms of stress tolerance in cultivated peanuts. This study enhances our understanding of the functions of AhGASA genes in response to abiotic stress and lays the groundwork for future investigations into the molecular characterization of AhGASA genes.
Biochemical Characterization of Parsley Glycosyltransferases Involved in the Biosynthesis of a Flavonoid Glycoside, Apiin
Authors: An Song , Yamashita Maho , Iguchi Sho , Kihara Taketo , Kamon Eri , Ishikawa Kazuya , Kobayashi Masaru , Ishimizu Takeshi
Published: December 2023

The flavonoid glycoside apiin (apigenin 7-O-[β-D-apiosyl-(1→2)-β-D-glucoside]) is abundant in apiaceous and asteraceous plants, including celery and parsley. Although several enzymes involved in apiin biosynthesis have been identified in celery, many of the enzymes in parsley (Petroselinum crispum) have not been identified. In this study, we identified parsley genes encoding the glucosyltransferase, PcGlcT, and the apiosyltransferase, PcApiT, that catalyze the glycosylation steps of apiin biosynthesis. Their substrate specificities showed that they were involved in the biosynthesis of some flavonoid 7-O-apiosylglucosides, including apiin. The expression profiles of PcGlcT and PcApiT were closely correlated with the accumulation of flavonoid 7-O-apiosylglucosides in parsley organs and developmental stages. These findings support the idea that PcGlcT and PcApiT are involved in the biosynthesis of flavonoid 7-O-apiosylglucosides in parsley. The identification of these genes will elucidate the physiological significance of apiin and the development of apiin production methods.
Radiolabeling of Platelets with 99mTc-HYNIC-Duramycin for In Vivo Imaging Studies
Authors: Merkel Keresztély , Szöllősi Dávid , Horváth Ildikó , Jezsó Bálint , Baranyai Zsolt , Szigeti Krisztián , Varga Zoltán , Hegedüs Imre , Padmanabhan Parasuraman , Gulyás Balázs , Bergmann Ralf , Máthé Domokos
Published: December 2023

Following the in vivo biodistribution of platelets can contribute to a better understanding of their physiological and pathological roles, and nuclear imaging methods, such as single photon emission tomography (SPECT), provide an excellent method for that. SPECT imaging needs stable labeling of the platelets with a radioisotope. In this study, we report a new method to label platelets with 99mTc, the most frequently used isotope for SPECT in clinical applications. The proposed radiolabeling procedure uses a membrane-binding peptide, duramycin. Our results show that duramycin does not cause significant platelet activation, and radiolabeling can be carried out with a procedure utilizing a simple labeling step followed by a size-exclusion chromatography-based purification step. The in vivo application of the radiolabeled human platelets in mice yielded quantitative biodistribution images of the spleen and liver and no accumulation in the lungs. The performed small-animal SPECT/CT in vivo imaging investigations revealed good in vivo stability of the labeling, which paves the way for further applications of 99mTc-labeled-Duramycin in platelet imaging.
Seed Soaking Using Methanol Kalanchoe pinnata Leaf Extracts Induces Rice Resistance against Bacterial Leaf Blight
Authors: Xạ Trương Văn , Thoa Trần Kim , Độ Nguyễn Đức , Khoa Nguyễn Đắc
Published: December 2023

Bacterial leaf blight (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae) is a significant rice disease. Aqueous crude extracts of Kalanchoe pinnata were shown to induce rice resistance against the disease. This study aims at testing the disease-reducing effects of K. pinnata leaf extracts using the liquid–liquid extraction method with three different solvents (dichloromethane, methanol, and water). This serves as a basis to select appropriate extracts for effective disease control. Three concentrations (1, 1.5, and 2%) of each extract were tested using seed soaking. The extracts did not show adverse effects on seed germination and seedling growth. Methanol extracts showed significantly different effects compared to those of the untreated control. The involvement of induced resistance in the disease reduction was shown through activities of the four defense-related and antioxidant enzymes, i.e., peroxidase (POX), catalase (CAT), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL). Using 1% methanol extract, activities of POX and CAT involved in hydrogen peroxide production in rice tissues increased 1–4 days after pathogen inoculation (DAI) and remained at high levels until 6 DAI. Activities of PPO and PAL involved in resistance signaling pathways significantly increased after pathogen inoculation. Activities of the four enzymes generally increased after pathogen inoculation and reached higher levels with extract applications.
Reproductive Parameters and Host Specificity of Eurytoma erythrinae (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae), a Biological Control Agent of the Erythrina Gall Wasp, Quadrastichus erythrinae (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)
Authors: Nagamine Walter T. , Yalemar Juliana A. , Wright Mark G. , Ramadan Mohsen M.
Published: December 2023

Eurytoma erythrinae Gates & Delvare (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) is an important biological control agent of the erythrina gall wasp (EGW), Quadrastichus erythrinae Kim (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), an invasive species likely originating in eastern Africa that is a threat to Erythrina trees in Hawaii and worldwide. Thousands of Erythrina trees in Hawaii have succumbed to EGW since 2005 and died within a few years of infestation. The endemic wiliwili tree, Erythrina sandwicensis, an important component of Hawaii’s dry forests and one of few deciduous native trees, were severely impacted by this wasp. Early during the invasion by EGW it became evident that the endemic species may be driven to extinction, and exploration programs for natural enemies of the EGW started in December 2005. East Africa was selected as the starting point for natural enemy exploration owing to high native Erythina species richness. Several gall formers were found in Tanzania and a putative color variant type of Q. erythrinae was detected in association with three ectoparasitoids. During January 2006, the dominant parasitoid of this gall former was introduced to Hawaii and described as the new species, E. erythrinae. It was found in Ghana and South Africa attacking other gall wasp species on Erythrina. Eurytoma erythrinae was a voracious ectoparasitoid feeding as a predator on 1–5 adjacent EGW immatures to complete its development. Host specificity studies that included seven nontarget gall-forming species showed no evidence of attraction or parasitism by this parasitoid. Mean ± SEM longevity of host-deprived females (40.4 ± 2.2 days) was significantly higher than males (20.5 ± 1.1 days). Host feeding enhanced longevity of ovipositing females (51.3 ± 1.5 days). Female E. erythrinae is synovigenic, with high egg-maturation rate. Peak fecundity (105–239 offspring/female), host feeding biology, short life cycle (18.4 ± 0.1 days), and synchronization with the host were additional desirable attributes of this species. The parasitoid was approved for field release in Hawaii in November 2008. A total of 3998 wasps were distributed on six Hawaiian Islands, with establishment in less than a year. Impacts on high density infestations of EGW were sufficient to prevent tree deaths. Limited rates of parasitism on low-density galled leaves, flowers, and seedpods necessitated the consideration for releasing a second parasitoid, Aprostocetus nitens Prinsloo & Kelly (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). We report on the reproductive characteristics and host specificity of E. erythinae that could be of importance for classical biocontrol programs in areas with an EGW problem.
Effectiveness of Early Direct Oral Anticoagulant Monotherapy within One Year of Coronary Stent Implantation in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Hwang Youmi , Park Soyoon , Kim Soohyun , Kim Sung-Hwan , Oh Yong-Seog , Chang Kiyuk , Choi Young
Published: December 2023

We evaluated the effectiveness of early direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) monotherapy within one year after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) using Korean National Health Insurance Service data. AF patients who underwent PCI were included and divided into the DOAC monotherapy group and the combination therapy group (DOAC with an antiplatelet agent) based on the medications used at 6 months after PCI. A major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) was defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, or systemic thromboembolic event between 6 and 12 months after PCI. In the overall study population, the DOAC dose reduction rate was high in both the monotherapy group (70.8%) and the combination therapy group (79.1%). After propensity score matching, the MACE incidence was not significantly different between the two groups (hazard ratio [HR] 1.42 [0.90–2.24]). The numerical trend for higher MACE in the monotherapy group was mainly driven by the difference in stroke incidence (HR 1.84 [0.97–3.46]). All-cause death (HR 1.29 [0.61–2.74] or the incidence of major bleeding (HR 1.07 [0.49–2.35]) results were similar in the two groups. In conclusion, early DOAC monotherapy was not significantly associated with MACE risk between 6 and 12 months after PCI.
Diagnosing Middle Ear Malformation by Pure-Tone Audiometry Using a Three-Dimensional Finite Element Model: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Kita Shin-ichiro , Miwa Toru , Kanai Rie , Morita Yoji , Lee Sinyoung , Koike Takuji , Kanemaru Shin-ichi
Published: December 2023

Background: Hearing loss caused by middle ear malformations is treated by tympanoplasty to reconstruct the acoustic conduction system. The mobility of the ossicles plays a crucial role in postoperative success. However, identifying the location of ossicular malformation based solely on preoperative audiograms is challenging due to the complex relationship between fixation location, deformity levels, and ossicular mobility. Methods: Middle ear finite element models for simulating ossicular malformations were created, and the results were compared with the actual preoperative audiograms. Results: This approach objectively diagnosed ossicular fixation and disarticulation, bypassing traditional criteria reliant on physician examination or imaging. Conclusion: This study suggests that future research should focus on developing a diagnostic framework utilizing large-scale data.
Intravascular Imaging in Ultra-Low or Zero-Contrast Percutaneous Coronary Interventions: The Time Is Now?
Authors: Dimitriadis Kyriakos , Pyrpyris Nikolaos , Papanikolaou Aggelos , Beneki Eirini , Tsioufis Panagiotis , Antonopoulos Alexios , Fragoulis Christos , Tatakis Fotis , Koutsopoulos Georgios , Aznaouridis Konstantinos , Aggeli Konstantina , Tsioufis Konstantinos
Published: December 2023

Ultra-low contrast percutaneous coronary interventions (ULPCIs) are a novel field of interventional cardiology, aiming to reduce the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), which is a well-described adverse event after angiography. CIN is a well-described adverse event following PCI, especially in high-risk patients, i.e., patients with an already deteriorating renal function or chronic kidney disease, as well as patients of advanced age or requiring an increased amount of contrast during their intervention. Among the techniques described for ULPCI procedures, intravascular imaging guidance seems a promising option, as it allows lesion recognition and characterization, stent implantation, and PCI optimization. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is the modality most commonly used, as it does not require contrast injection, contrary to optical coherence tomography (OCT). Several clinical trials, assessing IVUS in the context of ULPCI, have shown that it can be safely used in this setting while offering a substantial reduction in contrast media volume, as well as renal adverse outcomes. This review aims to describe the need for ULPCI and technical considerations regarding the use of intravascular imaging in this setting, as well as analyze the available evidence from clinical trials regarding the safety and efficacy of IVUS-ULPCI, in order to provide a comprehensive summary for practicing physicians.
A Review of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Usage as an Environmental Survey Tool within Tidal Stream Environments
Authors: Slingsby James , Scott Beth E. , Kregting Louise , McIlvenny Jason , Wilson Jared , Williamson Benjamin J.
Published: December 2023

Tidal energy is a rapidly developing area of the marine renewable energy sector that requires converters to be placed within areas of fast current speeds to be commercially viable. Tidal environments are also utilised by marine fauna (marine mammals, seabirds and fish) for foraging purposes, with usage patterns observed at fine spatiotemporal scales (seconds and metres). An overlap between tidal developments and fauna creates uncertainty regarding the environmental impact of converters. Due to the limited number of tidal energy converters in operation, there is inadequate knowledge of marine megafaunal usage of tidal stream environments, especially the collection of fine-scale empirical evidence required to inform on and predict potential environmental effects. This review details the suitability of using multirotor unmanned aerial vehicles within tidal stream environments as a tool for capturing fine-scale biophysical interactions. This includes presenting the advantages and disadvantages of use, highlighting complementary image processing and automation techniques, and showcasing the limited current examples of usage within tidal stream environments. These considerations help to demonstrate the appropriateness of unmanned aerial vehicles, alongside applicable image processing, for use as a survey tool to further quantify the potential environmental impacts of marine renewable energy developments.
Dynamics of Endophytic Fungal Communities Associated with Cultivated Medicinal Plants in Farmland Ecosystem
Authors: He Chao , Meng Deyao , Li Wanyun , Li Xianen , He Xueli
Published: December 2023

Microorganisms are an important component of global biodiversity and play an important role in plant growth and development and the protection of host plants from various biotic and abiotic stresses. However, little is known about the identities and communities of endophytic fungi inhabiting cultivated medicinal plants in the farmland ecosystem. The diversity and community composition of the endophytic fungi of cultivated medicinal plants in different hosts, tissue niches, and seasonal effects in the farmland of Northern China were examined using the next-generation sequencing technique. In addition, the ecological functions of the endophytic fungal communities were investigated by combining the sequence classification information and fungal taxonomic function annotation. A total of 1025 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of endophytic fungi were obtained at a 97% sequence similarity level; they were dominated by Dothideomycetes and Pleosporales. Host factors (species identities and tissue niches) and season had significant effects on the community composition of endophytic fungi, and endophytic fungi assembly was shaped more strongly by host than by season. In summer, endophytic fungal diversity was higher in the root than in the leaf, whereas opposite trends were observed in winter. Network analysis showed that network connectivity was more complex in the leaf than in the root, and the interspecific relationship between endophytic fungal OTUs in the network structure was mainly positive rather than negative. The functional predications of fungi revealed that the pathotrophic types of endophytic fungi decreased and the saprotrophic types increased from summer to winter in the root, while both pathotrophic and saprotrophic types of endophytic fungi increased in the leaf. This study improves our understanding of the community composition and ecological distribution of endophytic fungi inhabiting scattered niches in the farmland ecosystem. In addition, the study provides insight into the biodiversity assessment and management of cultivated medicinal plants.
Stimulation of Hemolysis and Eryptosis by β-Caryophyllene Oxide
Authors: Alghareeb Sumiah A. , Alfhili Mohammad A. , Alsughayyir Jawaher
Published: December 2023

Background: Eryptosis stimulated by anticancer drugs can lead to anemia in patients. β-caryophyllene oxide (CPO) is an anticancer sesquiterpene present in various plants; however, its effect on the structure and function of human red blood cells (RBCs) remains unexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate the hemolytic and eryptotic activities and underlying molecular mechanisms of CPO in human RBCs. Methods: Cells were treated with 10–100 μM of CPO for 24 h at 37 °C, and hemolysis, LDH, AST, and AChE activities were photometrically assayed. Flow cytometry was employed to determine changes in cell volume from FSC, phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization by annexin-V-FITC, intracellular calcium by Fluo4/AM, and oxidative stress by 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA). Cells were also cotreated with CPO and specific signaling inhibitors and antihemolytic agents. Furthermore, whole blood was exposed to CPO to assess its toxicity to other peripheral blood cells. Results: CPO induced concentration-responsive hemolysis with LDH and AST leakage, in addition to PS exposure, cell shrinkage, Ca2+ accumulation, oxidative stress, and reduced AChE activity. The toxicity of CPO was ameliorated by D4476, staurosporin, and necrosulfonamide. ATP and PEG 8000 protected the cells from hemolysis, while urea and isotonic sucrose had opposite effects. Conclusions: CPO stimulates hemolysis and eryptosis through energy depletion, Ca2+ buildup, oxidative stress, and the signaling mediators casein kinase 1α, protein kinase C, and mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase. Development of CPO as an anticancer therapeutic must be approached with prudence to mitigate adverse effects on RBCs using eryptosis inhibitors, Ca2+ channel blockers, and antioxidants.
Microstructure Evolution and In Situ Resistivity Response of 2196 Al-Li Alloy during Aging Process
Authors: Li Xiang , Li Hongying , Tang Haoqing , Xiao Xiang , Han Jiaqiang , Zheng Ziqiao
Published: December 2023

The microstructure evolution of 2196 Al-Li alloy during aging was investigated by microhardness test, transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis and in situ resistivity measurement. The results showed that the resistivity of the 2196 Al-Li alloy during aging rapidly decreased during the first few hours, and then gradually increased after reaching the minimum value, which is temperature−dependent. The microstructure of the alloy was dominated by the δ′ phase after aging at 160 °C for 2 h while the T1 phase could hardly be seen until it had been aged for 16 h. As the aging time went on, significant ripening appeared for the δ′ phase while typical growth could be observed for the T1 phase. The increase in the resistivity of the 2196 Al-Li alloy during aging was attributed to the stronger electron scattering capacity of the T1 precipitation and the coupling effect between the T1 and δ′ phases.
Investigation of Praseodymium Ions Dopant on 9/65/35 PLZT Ceramics’ Behaviors, Prepared by the Gel-Combustion Route
Authors: Płońska Małgorzata , Plewa Julian
Published: December 2023

In this work, were synthesized (Pb0.91La0.09)(Zr0.65Ti0.35)0.9775O3 ceramic materials with different concentrations of praseodymium (0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1 wt.%) via gel-combustion route and sintered by the hot uniaxial pressing method. Measurements were conducted on the obtained ceramics using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), EDS analysis, and examination of dielectric and ferroelectric optical properties. Results give us a detailed account of the influences of the praseodymium ions on the structural, microstructural, and dielectric properties. 3D fluorescence maps and excitation and emission spectra measurements show how a small admixture changes the ferroelectric relaxor behavior to an optically active ferroelectric luminophore.
Structure Analysis and Its Correlation with Mechanical Properties of Microcellular Polyamide Composites Reinforced with Glass Fibers
Authors: Szewczykowski Piotr , Sykutera Dariusz , Czyżewski Piotr , Cieszko Mieczysław , Szczepański Zbigniew , Nowinka Bartosz
Published: December 2023

Thin-walled and thick-walled microcellular moldings were obtained by MuCell® technology with nitrogen as a supercritical fluid. 2 mm thick polyamide 6 (PA6) with 30% wt. glass fiber (GF) samples were cut from automotive industrial elements, while 4 mm, 6 mm, and 8.4 mm thick moldings of PA6.6 with 30% wt. GF were molded into a dumbbell shape. The internal structure was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray computed microtomography (micro-CT) and compared by numerical simulations for microcellular moldings using Moldex3D® 2022 software. Young’s modulus, and tensile and impact strength were investigated. Weak mechanical properties of 2 mm thick samples and excellent results for thick-walled moldings were explained. SEM pictures, micro-CT, and simulation graphs revealed the tendency to decrease the cell size diameter together with increasing sample thickness from 2 mm up to 8.4 mm.