bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting the Most Stable Structures of the Benzene Dimer
Authors: Czernek Jiří , Brus Jiří
Published: July 2024

The benzene dimer (BD) is an archetypal model of π∙∙∙π and C–H∙∙∙π noncovalent interactions as they occur in its cofacial and perpendicular arrangements, respectively. The enthalpic stabilization of the related BD structures has been debated for a long time and is revisited here. The revisit is based on results of computations that apply the coupled-cluster theory with singles, doubles and perturbative triples [CCSD(T)] together with large basis sets and extrapolate results to the complete basis set (CBS) limit in order to accurately characterize the three most important stationary points of the intermolecular interaction energy (ΔE) surface of the BD, which correspond to the tilted T-shaped (TT), fully symmetric T-shaped (FT) and slipped-parallel (SP) structures. In the optimal geometries obtained by searching extensive sets of the CCSD(T)/CBS ΔE data of the TT, FT and SP arrangements, the resulting ΔE values were −11.84, −11.34 and −11.21 kJ/mol, respectively. The intrinsic strength of the intermolecular bonding in these configurations was evaluated by analyzing the distance dependence of the CCSD(T)/CBS ΔE data over wide ranges of intermonomer separations. In this way, regions of the relative distances that favor BD structures with either π∙∙∙π or C–H∙∙∙π interactions were found and discussed in a broader context.
Interactions between Inhibitors and 5-Lipoxygenase: Insights from Gaussian Accelerated Molecular Dynamics and Markov State Models
Authors: Liu Yuyang , Wang Kaiyu , Cao Fuyan , Gao Nan , Li Wannan
Published: July 2024

Inflammation is a protective stress response triggered by external stimuli, with 5-lipoxygenase (5LOX) playing a pivotal role as a potent mediator of the leukotriene (Lts) inflammatory pathway. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) functions as a natural orthosteric inhibitor of 5LOX, while 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) acts as a natural allosteric inhibitor targeting 5LOX. However, the precise mechanisms of inhibition have remained unclear. In this study, Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GaMD) simulation was employed to elucidate the inhibitory mechanisms of NDGA and AKBA on 5LOX. It was found that the orthosteric inhibitor NDGA was tightly bound in the protein’s active pocket, occupying the active site and inhibiting the catalytic activity of the 5LOX enzyme through competitive inhibition. The binding of the allosteric inhibitor AKBA induced significant changes at the distal active site, leading to a conformational shift of residues 168–173 from a loop to an α-helix and significant negative correlated motions between residues 285–290 and 375–400, reducing the distance between these segments. In the simulation, the volume of the active cavity in the stable conformation of the protein was reduced, hindering the substrate’s entry into the active cavity and, thereby, inhibiting protein activity through allosteric effects. Ultimately, Markov state models (MSM) were used to identify and classify the metastable states of proteins, revealing the transition times between different conformational states. In summary, this study provides theoretical insights into the inhibition mechanisms of 5LOX by AKBA and NDGA, offering new perspectives for the development of novel inhibitors specifically targeting 5LOX, with potential implications for anti-inflammatory drug development.
Frequent Acquisition of Glycoside Hydrolase Family 32 (GH32) Genes from Bacteria via Horizontal Gene Transfer Drives Adaptation of Invertebrates to Diverse Sources of Food and Living Habitats
Authors: Cheng Xiaoyan , Liu Xuming , Jordan Katherine W. , Yu Jingcheng , Whitworth Robert J. , Park Yoonseong , Chen Ming-Shun
Published: July 2024

Glycoside hydrolases (GHs, also called glycosidases) catalyze the hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds in polysaccharides. Numerous GH genes have been identified from various organisms and are classified into 188 families, abbreviated GH1 to GH188. Enzymes in the GH32 family hydrolyze fructans, which are present in approximately 15% of flowering plants and are widespread across microorganisms. GH32 genes are rarely found in animals, as fructans are not a typical carbohydrate source utilized in animals. Here, we report the discovery of 242 GH32 genes identified in 84 animal species, ranging from nematodes to crabs. Genetic analyses of these genes indicated that the GH32 genes in various animals were derived from different bacteria via multiple, independent horizontal gene transfer events. The GH32 genes in animals appear functional based on the highly conserved catalytic blades and triads in the active center despite the overall low (35–60%) sequence similarities among the predicted proteins. The acquisition of GH32 genes by animals may have a profound impact on sugar metabolism for the recipient organisms. Our results together with previous reports suggest that the acquired GH32 enzymes may not only serve as digestive enzymes, but also may serve as effectors for manipulating host plants, and as metabolic enzymes in the non-digestive tissues of certain animals. Our results provide a foundation for future studies on the significance of horizontally transferred GH32 genes in animals. The information reported here enriches our knowledge of horizontal gene transfer, GH32 functions, and animal–plant interactions, which may result in practical applications. For example, developing crops via targeted engineering that inhibits GH32 enzymes could aid in the plant’s resistance to animal pests.
Use of Residual Lignocellulosic Biomass and Algal Biomass to Produce Biofuels
Authors: Oliveira Deborah Terra de , Mescouto Vanessa Albuquerque de , Paiva Rutiléia de Jesus , Silva Sara Roberta Ferreira da , Santos Luiz Augusto Barbosa , Serra Gustavo Marques , Xavier Luciana Pereira , Noronha Renata Coelho Rodrigues , Nascimento Luís Adriano Santos do
Published: July 2024

Efforts are intensifying to identify new biofuel sources in response to the pressing need to mitigate environmental pollutants, such as greenhouse gases, which are key contributors to global warming and various worldwide calamities. Algae and microalgae present themselves as excellent alternatives for solid-gaseous fuel production, given their renewable nature and non-polluting characteristics. However, making biomass production from these organisms economically feasible remains a challenge. This article collates various studies on the use of lignocellulosic waste, transforming it from environmental waste to valuable organic supplements for algae and microalgae cultivation. The focus is on enhancing biomass production and the metabolites derived from these biomasses.
Immune Response and Risk of Decompensation following SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Outpatients with Advanced Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Brujats Anna , Huerta Anna , Osuna-Gómez Rubén , Guinart-Cuadra Albert , Ferrero-Gregori Andreu , Pujol Clàudia , Soriano German , Poca Maria , Fajardo Javier , Escorsell Angels , Gallego Adolfo , Vidal Silvia , Villanueva Càndid , Alvarado-Tapias Edilmar
Published: July 2024

Advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD) is associated with a wide spectrum of immune dysfunction. The clinical impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the development of decompensation and immune response in unvaccinated outpatients has not as yet been clearly defined. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and immunological impact of SARS-CoV-2 on outpatients with ACLD. This is an observational case–control study, in which ACLD outpatients were included prospectively and consecutively and classified into two groups: SARS-CoV-2 infected and non-infected. Patients’ baseline characteristics and infection data were collected and analyzed. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels against Spike 1 were evaluated. The primary endpoint was risk of liver decompensation during follow-up, assessed after propensity score matching and adjusted by Cox regression. Between October 2020 and July 2021, ACLD outpatients (n = 580) were identified, and 174 patients with clinical follow-up were included. SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence was 7.6% (n = 44). Risk of liver decompensation was significantly higher after infection (HR = 2.43 [1.01–5.86], p = 0.048) vs. non-infection. The time of IgG evaluation was similar in all patients (n = 74); IgG concentrations were significantly higher in compensated vs. decompensated patients (1.02 ± 0.35 pg/mL vs. 0.34 ± 0.16 pg/mL, p < 0.0001) and correlated with hemoglobin levels. The dysregulation of the innate immune response in patients with decompensated liver disease increased the risk of further decompensation following SARS-CoV-2, mainly due to a worsening of ascites.
Caffeine Protects Keratinocytes from Trichophyton mentagrophytes Infection and Behaves as an Antidermatophytic Agent
Authors: da Fonseca Diogo M. , Rodrigues Lisa , Sousa-Baptista José , Marcos-Tejedor Félix , Mota Marta , Cunha Rodrigo A. , Fernandes Chantal , Gonçalves Teresa
Published: July 2024

Caffeine affords several beneficial effects on human health, acting as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory agent, and analgesic. Caffeine is widely used in cosmetics, but its antimicrobial activity has been scarcely explored, namely against skin infection agents. Dermatophytes are the most common fungal agents of human infection, mainly of skin infections. This work describes the in vitro effect of caffeine during keratinocyte infection by Trichophyton mentagrophytes, one of the most common dermatophytes. The results show that caffeine was endowed with antidermatophytic activity with a MIC, determined following the EUCAST standards, of 8 mM. Caffeine triggered a modification of the levels of two major components of the fungal cell wall, β-(1,3)-glucan and chitin. Caffeine also disturbed the ultrastructure of the fungal cells, particularly the cell wall surface and mitochondria, and autophagic-like structures were observed. During dermatophyte–human keratinocyte interactions, caffeine prevented the loss of viability of keratinocytes and delayed spore germination. Overall, this indicates that caffeine can act as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent for dermatophytosis.
Tumor-Suppressive Cross-Linking of Anti-T. cruzi Antibodies in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Maravelez Acosta Víctor Alberto , Crisóstomo Vázquez María del Pilar , Eligio García Leticia , Franco Sandoval Luz Ofelia , Castro Pérez Denia , Patiño López Genaro , Medina Contreras Oscar , Jiménez Cardoso Enedina
Published: July 2024

Parasites have been associated with possible anticancer activity, including Trypanosoma cruzi, which has been linked to inhibiting the growth of solid tumors. To better understand this antitumor effect, we investigated the association of anti-T. cruzi antibodies with B cells of the acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) SUPB15 cell line. The antibodies were generated in rabbits. IgGs were purified by affinity chromatography. Two procedures (flow cytometry (CF) and Western blot(WB)) were employed to recognize anti-T. cruzi antibodies on SUPB15 cells. We also used CF to determine whether the anti-T. cruzi antibodies could suppress SUPB15 cells. The anti-T. cruzi antibodies recognized 35.5% of the surface antigens of SUPB15. The complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) results demonstrate the cross-suppression of anti-T. cruzi antibodies on up to 8.4% of SUPB15 cells. For the WB analysis, a band at 100 kDa with high intensity was sequenced using mass spectrometry, identifying the protein as nucleolin. This protein may play a role in the antitumor effect on T. cruzi. The anti-T. cruzi antibodies represent promising polyclonal antibodies that have the effect of tumor-suppressive cross-linking on cancer cells, which should be further investigated.
Circadian Rhythm and Nitrogen Metabolism Participate in the Response of Boron Deficiency in the Root of Brassica napus
Authors: Liu Ling , Duan Xianjie , Xu Haoran , Zhao Peiyu , Shi Lei , Xu Fangsen , Wang Sheliang
Published: July 2024

Boron (B) deficiency has been shown to inhibit root cell growth and division. However, the precise mechanism underlying B deficiency-mediated root tip growth inhibition remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of BnaA3.NIP5;1, a gene encoding a boric acid channel, in Brassica napus (B. napus). BnaA3.NIP5;1 is expressed in the lateral root cap and contributes to B acquisition in the root tip. Downregulation of BnaA3.NIP5;1 enhances B sensitivity in B. napus, resulting in reduced shoot biomass and impaired root tip development. Transcriptome analysis was conducted on root tips from wild-type B. napus (QY10) and BnaA3.NIP5;1 RNAi lines to assess the significance of B dynamics in meristematic cells during seedling growth. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in plant circadian rhythm and nitrogen (N) metabolism pathways. Notably, the circadian-rhythm-related gene HY5 exhibited a similar B regulation pattern in Arabidopsis to that observed in B. napus. Furthermore, Arabidopsis mutants with disrupted circadian rhythm (hy5/cor27/toc1) displayed heightened sensitivity to low B compared to the wild type (Col-0). Consistent with expectations, B deficiency significantly disrupted N metabolism in B. napus roots, affecting nitrogen concentration, nitrate reductase enzyme activity, and glutamine synthesis. Interestingly, this disruption was exacerbated in BnaA3NIP5;1 RNAi lines. Overall, our findings highlight the critical role of B dynamics in root tip cells, impacting circadian rhythm and N metabolism, ultimately leading to retarded growth. This study provides novel insights into B regulation in root tip development and overall root growth in B. napus.
Polar Glycerolipids and Membrane Lipid Rafts
Authors: Zhukov Anatoly , Vereshchagin Mikhail
Published: July 2024

Current understanding of the structure and functioning of biomembranes is impossible without determining the mechanism of formation of membrane lipid rafts. The formation of liquid-ordered and disordered phases (Lo and Ld) and lipid rafts in membranes and their simplified models is discussed. A new consideration of the processes of formation of lipid phases Lo and Ld and lipid rafts is proposed, taking into account the division of each of the glycerophospholipids into several groups. Generally accepted three-component schemes for modeling the membrane structure are critically considered. A four-component scheme is proposed, which is designed to more accurately assume the composition of lipids in the resulting Lo and Ld phases. The role of the polar head groups of phospholipids and, in particular, phosphatidylethanolamine is considered. The structure of membrane rafts and the possible absence of a clear boundary between the Lo and Ld phases are discussed.
Exploring the PDZ, DUF, and LIM Domains of Pdlim5 in Dendrite Branching
Authors: Srivastava Yogesh , Donta Maxsam , Mireles Lydia L. , Paulucci-Holthauzen Adriana , Shi Leilei , Bedford Mark T. , Waxham M. Neal , McCrea Pierre D.
Published: July 2024

The branched architecture of neuronal dendrites is a key factor in how neurons form ordered networks and discoveries continue to be made identifying proteins and protein–protein interactions that direct or execute the branching and extension of dendrites. Our prior work showed that the molecular scaffold Pdlim5 and delta-catenin, in conjunction, are two proteins that help regulate the branching and elongation of dendrites in cultured hippocampal neurons and do so through a phosphorylation-dependent mechanism triggered by upstream glutamate signaling. In this report we have focused on Pdlim5’s multiple scaffolding domains and how each contributes to dendrite branching. The three identified regions within Pdlim5 are the PDZ, DUF, and a trio of LIM domains; however, unresolved is the intra-molecular conformation of Pdlim5 as well as which domains are essential to regulate dendritic branching. We address Pdlim5’s structure and function by examining the role of each of the domains individually and using deletion mutants in the context of the full-length protein. Results using primary hippocampal neurons reveal that the Pdlim5 DUF domain plays a dominant role in increasing dendritic branching. Neither the PDZ domain nor the LIM domains alone support increased branching. The central role of the DUF domain was confirmed using deletion mutants in the context of full-length Pdlim5. Guided by molecular modeling, additional domain mapping studies showed that the C-terminal LIM domain forms a stable interaction with the N-terminal PDZ domain, and we identified key amino acid residues at the interface of each domain that are needed for this interaction. We posit that the central DUF domain of Pdlim5 may be subject to modulation in the context of the full-length protein by the intra-molecular interaction between the N-terminal PDZ and C-terminal LIM domains. Overall, our studies reveal a novel mechanism for the regulation of Pdlim5’s function in the regulation of neuronal branching and highlight the critical role of the DUF domain in mediating these effects.
Propagermanium as a Novel Therapeutic Approach for the Treatment of Endothelial Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Azul Lara , Leandro Adriana , Seiça Raquel , Sena Cristina M.
Published: July 2024

Propagermanium (PG) has immune modulating activity and anti-inflammatory properties. This work aimed to study the therapeutic efficacy of PG on endothelial and perivascular dysfunction associated with type 2 diabetes. Non-obese type 2 diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats were divided into four groups: (1) the control group; (2) the group treated with 50 mg/kg PG; (3) the group fed a high-fat diet (GKHFD); and (4) the group of GKHFD treated with 50 mg/kg PG. PG was given orally for 3 months. Several in vivo parameters and endothelial function were studied in aortas with perivascular adipose tissue PVAT (+) or without PVAT (−). We also determined the vascular inflammation and levels of CD36 in PVAT. In diabetic GK rats, PG did not affect the lipid profile or the results of the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test. Instead, it improved the fasting glucose levels (18%, p < 0.01), insulin resistance (32%, p < 0.05), endothelial function (33 and 25% in aortas mounted with (+) or without PVAT (−), p < 0.05), and restored the anticontractile effect of the perivascular adipose tissue by reducing its inflammation (56%, p < 0.05) and oxidative stress profile (55%, p < 0.05). Due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics, PG likely improved endothelial dysfunction and restored the perivascular adipose tissue’s anticontractile properties.
Pericardial Fluid Accumulates microRNAs That Regulate Heart Fibrosis after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Silva Elsa D. , Pereira-Sousa Daniel , Ribeiro-Costa Francisco , Cerqueira Rui , Enguita Francisco J. , Gomes Rita N. , Dias-Ferreira João , Pereira Cassilda , Castanheira Ana , Pinto-do-Ó Perpétua , Leite-Moreira Adelino F. , Nascimento Diana S.
Published: July 2024

Pericardial fluid (PF) has been suggested as a reservoir of molecular targets that can be modulated for efficient repair after myocardial infarction (MI). Here, we set out to address the content of this biofluid after MI, namely in terms of microRNAs (miRs) that are important modulators of the cardiac pathological response. PF was collected during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) from two MI cohorts, patients with non-ST-segment elevation MI (NSTEMI) and patients with ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI), and a control group composed of patients with stable angina and without previous history of MI. The PF miR content was analyzed by small RNA sequencing, and its biological effect was assessed on human cardiac fibroblasts. PF accumulates fibrotic and inflammatory molecules in STEMI patients, namely causing the soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST-2), which inversely correlates with the left ventricle ejection fraction. Although the PF of the three patient groups induce similar levels of fibroblast-to-myofibroblast activation in vitro, RNA sequencing revealed that PF from STEMI patients is particularly enriched not only in pro-fibrotic miRs but also anti-fibrotic miRs. Among those, miR-22-3p was herein found to inhibit TGF-β-induced human cardiac fibroblast activation in vitro. PF constitutes an attractive source for screening diagnostic/prognostic miRs and for unveiling novel therapeutic targets in cardiac fibrosis.
Absence of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) Prolongs the Presence of a CD11c+ Microglial Population during Postnatal Corpus Callosum Development
Authors: Mayo Francisco , González-Vinceiro Lourdes , Hiraldo-González Laura , Calle-Castillejo Claudia , Torres-Rubio Ismael , Mayo Manuel , Ramírez-Lorca Reposo , Echevarría Miriam
Published: July 2024

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) expression is associated with the development of congenital hydrocephalus due to its structural role in the ependymal membrane. Gene expression analysis of periaqueductal tissue in AQP4-knockout (KO) mice at 11 days of age (P11) showed a modification in ependymal cell adhesion and ciliary protein expression that could alter cerebrospinal fluid homeostasis. A microglial subpopulation of CD11c+ cells was overexpressed in the periaqueductal tissue of mice that did not develop hydrocephalus, suggesting a possible protective effect. Here, we verified the location of this CD11c+ expression in the corpus callosum (CC) and cerebellum of AQP4-KO mice and analysed its time course. Immunofluorescence labelling of the CD11c protein in the CC and cerebellum of WT and KO animals at P3, P5, P7 and P11 confirmed an expanded presence of these cells in both tissues of the KO animal; CD11c+ cells appeared at P3 and reached a peak at P11, whereas in the WT animal, they appeared at P5, reached their peak at P7 and were undetectable by P11. The gene expression analysis in the CC samples at P11 confirmed the presence of CD11c+ microglial cells in this tissue. Among the more than 4000 overexpressed genes, Spp1 stood out with the highest differential gene expression (≅600), with other genes, such as Gpnmb, Itgax, Cd68 and Atp6v0d2, also identified as overexpressed. Therefore, CD11c+ cells appear to be necessary for normal corpus callosum development during postnatal life, and the absence of AQP4 prolonged its expression in this tissue.
Sliding and Adaptive Windows to Improve Change Mining in Process Variability
Authors: Hmami Asmae , Sbai Hanae , Baina Karim , Fredj Mounia
Published: July 2024

A configurable process Change Mining approach can detect changes from a collection of event logs and provide details on the unexpected behavior of all process variants of a configurable process. The strength of Change Mining lies in its ability to serve both conformance checking and enhancement purposes; users can simultaneously detect changes and ensure process conformance using a single, integrated framework. In prior research, a configurable process Change Mining algorithm has been introduced. Combined with our proposed preprocessing and change log generation methods, this algorithm forms a complete framework for detecting and recording changes in a collection of event logs. Testing the framework on synthetic data revealed limitations in detecting changes in different types of variable fragments. Consequently, it is recommended that the preprocessing approach be enhanced by applying a filtering algorithm based on sliding and adaptive windows. Our improved approach has been tested on various types of variable fragments to demonstrate its efficacy in enhancing Change Mining performance.
Bullying Detection Solution for GIFs Using a Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Stoleriu Razvan , Nascu Andrei , Anghel Ana Magdalena , Pop Florin
Published: July 2024

Nowadays, technology allows people to connect and communicate with each other even from miles away, no matter the distance. With the increased use of social networks that were rapidly adopted in human beings’ lives, they can chat and share different media files. While the intent for which they have been created may be positive, they can be abused and utilized in a negative way. One form in which they can be maliciously used is represented by cyberbullying. This is a form of bullying where an aggressor shares, posts, or sends false, harmful, or negative content about someone else by electronic means. In this paper, we propose a solution for bullying detection in GIFs. We employ a hybrid architecture that comprises a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and three Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs). For the feature extractor, we used the DenseNet-121 model that was pre-trained on the ImageNet-1k dataset. The obtained results give an accuracy of 99%.
New Test to Detect Clustered Graphical Passwords in Passpoints Based on the Perimeter of the Convex Hull
Authors: Herrera-Macías Joaquín Alberto , Suárez-Plasencia Lisset , Legón-Pérez Carlos Miguel , Sosa-Gómez Guillermo , Rojas Omar
Published: July 2024

This research paper presents a new test based on a novel approach for identifying clustered graphical passwords within the Passpoints scenario. Clustered graphical passwords are considered a weakness of graphical authentication systems, introduced by users during the registration phase, and thus it is necessary to have methods for the detection and prevention of such weaknesses. Graphical authentication methods serve as a viable alternative to the conventional alphanumeric password-based authentication method, which is susceptible to known weaknesses arising from user-generated passwords of this nature. The test proposed in this study is based on estimating the distributions of the perimeter of the convex hull, based on the hypothesis that the perimeter of the convex hull of a set of five clustered points is smaller than the one formed by random points. This convex hull is computed based on the points that users select as passwords within an image measuring 1920 × 1080 pixels, using the built-in function convhull in Matlab R2018a relying on the Qhull algorithm. The test was formulated by choosing the optimal distribution that fits the data from a total of 54 distributions, evaluated using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Anderson–Darling, and Chi-squared tests, thus achieving the highest reliability. Evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed test involves estimating type I and II errors, for five levels of significance α∈{0.01,0.02,0.05,0.1,0.2}, by simulating datasets of random and clustered graphical passwords with different levels of clustering. In this study, we compare the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed test with existing tests from the literature that can detect this type of pattern in Passpoints graphical passwords. Our findings indicate that the new test demonstrates a significant improvement in effectiveness compared to previously published tests. Furthermore, the joint application of the two tests also shows improvement. Depending on the significance level determined by the user or system, the enhancement results in a higher detection rate of clustered passwords, ranging from 0.1% to 8% compared to the most effective previous methods. This improvement leads to a decrease in the estimated probability of committing a type II error. In terms of efficiency, the proposed test outperforms several previous tests; however, it falls short of being the most efficient, using computation time measured in seconds as a metric. It can be concluded that the newly developed test demonstrates the highest effectiveness and the second-highest efficiency level compared to the other tests available in the existing literature for the same purpose. The test was designed to be implemented in graphical authentication systems to prevent users from selecting weak graphical passwords, enhance password strength, and improve system security.
A New Endemic Locality of Dermacentor reticulatus in Central–Southern Poland and Its Potential Epidemiological Implications
Authors: Asman Marek , Bartosik Katarzyna , Jakubas-Zawalska Justyna , Świętek Agata , Witecka Joanna
Published: July 2024

Dermacentor reticulatus (Acari: Ixodidae) is an important arthropod vector in medical and veterinary contexts. Its geographic range is divided into western and eastern populations separated by a “Dermacentor-free zone” in central Poland. Recent faunistic studies showed a new endemic locality of the species in Upper Silesia to the west of the Vistula River (central–southern Poland) and its co-occurrence with I. ricinus. The prevalence of five tick-borne pathogens (TBPs), e.g., B. burgdorferi s.l., Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., and Babesia spp., in the ticks was assessed with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. The molecular studies revealed the presence of Rickettsia spp. in 23.8% of the D. reticulatus specimens. In turn, 94.1% of the I. ricinus adults were infected with B. burgdorferi s.l., 11.7 % with Babesia spp., and 5.8% with Rickettsia spp. Coinfections with two TBPs were noted in 17.6% of the I. ricinus. These findings highlight not only the risk of infestation by both tick species in an area previously considered Dermacentor-free, but also the high prevalence of TBPs in the study area. Increased focus on medical and veterinary services appears necessary to diagnose and prevent tick-borne diseases in this region.
Molecular Detection and Analysis of Trypanosoma (Megatrypanum) spp. Diversity in Tabanidae (Diptera) Collected in Lithuania
Authors: Turčinavičienė Jurga , Bernotienė Rasa , Petrašiūnas Andrius
Published: July 2024

Trypanosomatids from the Tabanidae family have not been studied in Lithuania in any detail. In this study, a nested PCR amplifying the DNA fragment coding the SSU rRNA was used to determine the Trypanosoma spp. prevalence and diversity in the Tabanidae family collected in Lithuania in 2018–2019. In total, 101 Tabanidae individuals were investigated from six areas in Lithuania, and 14 different species were identified. The overall positivity of Trypanosoma spp. DNA in tabanids was 50.5% (51/101). Tabanus maculicornis was the most abundant species and yielded the highest prevalence of trypanosomatids (84.62%, 22/26), while Hybomitra nitidifrons showed a high prevalence as well, reaching 77.8% (14/18). In flies of some species (Hybomitra lapponica and Hybomitra lurida), Trypanosoma was detected for the first time. Nine different haplotypes were detected as being distributed in different tabanid species. Analysis showed that most sequences obtained during our study were identical or extremely close to two major T. theileri subclades: TthI and TthII. Our data analysis suggests the presence of different Trypanosoma genotypes in the same tabanid species, meaning that different lineages of Trypanosoma could be more related to the vertebrate host and not the fly species. This is the first study of trypanosomatid parasites in tabanids from Lithuania, and our results are valuable in providing data on the diversity of these parasites in different Tabanidae species.
Beyond the Valve: Incidence, Outcomes, and Modifiable Factors of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Infective Endocarditis Undergoing Valve Surgery—A Retrospective, Single-Center Study
Authors: Dinges Christian , Dienhart Christiane , Gansterer Katja , Rodemund Niklas , Rezar Richard , Steindl Johannes , Huttegger Raphael , Kirnbauer Michael , Kalisnik Jurij M. , Kokoefer Andreas S. , Demirel Ozan , Seitelberger Rainald , Hoppe Uta C. , Boxhammer Elke
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives: Infective endocarditis (IE) often requires surgical intervention, with postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI), posing a significant concern. This retrospective study aimed to investigate AKI incidence, its impact on short-term mortality, and identify modifiable factors in patients with IE scheduled for valve surgery. Methods: This single-center study enrolled 130 consecutive IE patients from 2013 to 2021 undergoing valve surgery. The creatinine levels were monitored pre- and postoperatively, and AKI was defined by Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Patient demographics, comorbidities, procedural details, and complications were recorded. Primary outcomes included AKI incidence; the relevance of creatinine levels for AKI detection; and the association of AKI with 30-, 60-, and 180-day mortality. Modifiable factors contributing to AKI were explored as secondary outcomes. Results: Postoperatively, 35.4% developed AKI. The highest creatinine elevation occurred on the second postoperative day. Best predictive value for AKI was a creatinine level of 1.35 mg/dL on the second day (AUC: 0.901; sensitivity: 0.89, specificity: 0.79). Elevated creatinine levels on the second day were robust predictors for short-term mortality at 30, 60, and 180 days postoperatively (AUC ranging from 0.708 to 0.789). CK-MB levels at 24 h postoperatively and minimum hemoglobin during surgery were identified as independent predictors for AKI in logistic regression. Conclusions: This study highlights the crucial role of creatinine levels in predicting short-term mortality in surgical IE patients. A specific threshold (1.35 mg/dL) provides a practical marker for risk stratification, offering insights for refining perioperative strategies and optimizing outcomes in this challenging patient population.
Rare Complications Following Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Belluzzi Amanda , Sample Jack W. , Marrero Katie , Tomey Daniel , Puvvadi Suraj , Sharma Ishna , Ghanem Omar M.
Published: July 2024

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is the most effective and durable therapeutic intervention for patients with obesity. In recent years, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has become the most commonly performed primary MBS procedure owing to its technical feasibility and excellent short-term outcomes. Despite these favorable results and perceived advantages, SG is associated with several unique complications. Complications such as a postoperative leak or bleeding have been more commonly observed and reported than others, and their management approaches are well described. However, other complications following SG are far less familiar to surgeons, which may delay recognition and result in poor patient outcomes. Of these complications, we describe splenic injuries; esophageal perforation; staple line malformations; stapling of intraluminal devices; phytobezoar formation; gastro-colic, gastro-pleural and gastro-bronchial fistula; pancreatic leak; and portomesenteric venous thrombosis. It is paramount for surgeons to be aware of these underreported issues and have the resources to learn how to recognize and manage them when they arise. This review aims to describe rare (i.e., reported incidence <1%) and underdescribed complications after SG, focusing on causes, clinical presentation, prevention strategies, and management.
Effectiveness and Safety of Pharmacopuncture on Inpatients with Tension Headache Caused by Traffic Accidents: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Son Ja-Yean , Goo Kangmoo , Kim Na-young , Yang Seok-Gyu , Lee Dong Hwan , Im Yu-Ra , Kwon Oh Bin , Cho Hyun-Woo , Kim Sang Don , Kim Doori , Ha In-Hyuk
Published: July 2024

Background: This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of pharmacopuncture for pain relief and functional improvement in patients with traffic accident (TA)-induced acute tension headaches. Methods: The study employed a parallel, single-centered, pragmatic, randomized controlled trial design. Eighty patients complaining of acute tension headaches were randomized into the integrative Korean medicine treatment (IKM treatment) group and the pharmacopuncture group on suboccipital muscles (suboccipital muscles pharmacopuncture + IKM treatment), with 40 participants assigned to each group. The patients in the pharmacopuncture group underwent pharmacopuncture as an add-on therapy, consisting of three sessions. Both groups were reassessed 2 months post-intervention. To assess the outcomes, the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for Headache, NRS for Neck Pain, Headache Disability Index, Headache Impact Test-6, EuroQol 5-Dimension, and Patient Global Impression of Change were used. Results: The improvement in the outcomes of the pharmacopuncture group was significantly greater than that of the comparison group on day 4 of hospitalization in terms of pain (difference in NRS of headache −2.59, 95% CI −3.06 to −2.12; NRS of Neck pain −1.05, 95% CI −1.50 to −0.59) and function (difference in HDI −24.78, 95% CI, −31.79 to −17.76; HIT-6 −6.13, 95% CI, −9.47 to −2.78). Additionally, in 2 months of follow-up, the recovery rate of headache was significantly higher in the pharmacopuncture group than in the comparison group. Conclusions: The pharmacopuncture group demonstrated superior outcomes in symptom improvement than the comparison group did, providing insights into novel and useful applications of pharmacopuncture in the clinical practice of Korean medicine.
Failure of Surgical Aortic Valve Prostheses: An Analysis of Heart Team Decisions and Postoperative Outcomes
Authors: Schnackenburg Philipp , Saha Shekhar , Ali Ahmad , Horke Konstanze Maria , Buech Joscha , Mueller Christoph S. , Sadoni Sebastian , Orban Martin , Kaiser Rainer , Doldi Philipp Maximilian , Rizas Konstantinos , Massberg Steffen , Hagl Christian , Joskowiak Dominik
Published: July 2024

Objectives: To analyze Heart Team decisions and outcomes following failure of surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) prostheses. Methods: Patients undergoing re-operations following index SAVR (Redo-SAVR) and those undergoing valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement (ViV-TAVR) following SAVR were included in this study. Patients who underwent index SAVR and/or Redo-SAVR for endocarditis were excluded. Data are presented as medians and 25th–75th percentiles, or absolute numbers and percentages. Outcomes were analyzed in accordance to the VARC-3 criteria. Results: Between 01/2015 and 03/2021, 53 patients underwent Redo-SAVR, 103 patients ViV-TAVR. Mean EuroSCORE II was 5.7% (3.5–8.5) in the Redo-SAVR group and 9.2% (5.4–13.6) in the ViV group. In the Redo-SAVR group, 12 patients received aortic root enlargement (22.6%). Length of hospital and ICU stay was longer in the Redo-SAVR group (p < 0.001; p < 0.001), PGmax and PGmean were lower in the Redo-SAVR group as compared to the ViV-TAVR group (18 mmHg (10–30) vs. 26 mmHg (19–38), p < 0.001) (9 mmHg (6–15) vs. 15 mmHg (9–21), p < 0.001). A higher rate of paravalvular leakage was seen in the ViV-TAVR group (p = 0.013). VARC-3 Early Safety were comparable between the two populations (p = 0.343). Survival at 1 year and 5 years was 82% and 36% in the ViV-TAVR cohort and 84% and 77% in the Redo-SAVR cohort. The variables were patient age (OR 1.061; [95% CI 1.020–1.104], p = 0.004), coronary heart disease (OR 2.648; [95% CI 1.160–6.048], p = 0.021), and chronic renal insufficiency (OR 2.711; [95% CI 1.160–6.048], p = 0.021) showed a significant correlation to ViV-TAVR. Conclusions: Heart Team decisions are crucial in the treatment of patients with degenerated aortic bioprostheses and lead to a low mortality in both treatment paths thanks to patient-specific therapy planning. ViV-TAVR offers a treatment for elderly or intermediate-risk profile patients with comparable short-term mortality. However, this therapy is associated with increased pressure gradients and a high prevalence of paravalvular leakage. Redo-SAVR enables the surgical treatment of concomitant cardiac pathologies and allows anticipation for later VIV-TAVR by implanting the largest possible valve prostheses.
Clinical Impact of the Use of Ologen in Filtering Surgery Performed in Uncontrolled Glaucoma
Authors: Navero-Rodríguez José-Manuel , Boldú-Roig Júlia , Pinilla Laura , Vidal-Martí María , Antón Alfonso
Published: July 2024

Introduction: To compare the efficacy and safety of trabeculectomy with a collagen matrix implant (Ologen®) versus trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC) versus trabeculectomy with both Ologen® and MMC (OLO + MMC). Methods: This non-randomized study included 119 eyes of 101 patients with uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy, either alone or combined with phacoemulsification. The data were initially recorded following a standard surgical protocol, using an electronic database with structured fields. The patients were divided into three groups: 44 received trabeculectomy with adjunctive MMC (MMC group), 34 received surgery with Ologen® (OLO group), and 41 received surgery with both Ologen® and MMC (OLO + MMC group). The main outcome measures were the change in intraocular pressure (IOP), change in number of medications needed, complete success rate (defined as IOP ≤ 20 mmHg and at least 20% IOP reduction without hypotensive medications), rate of complications, and rate of postoperative interventions. The follow-up period was 36 months. Results: IOPs significantly decreased (p = 0.01) in all groups across all study visits, decreasing from 19.8 ± 4.6 mmHg to 12.7 ± 4.2 mmHg in the MMC group, from 20.5 ± 4.7 mmHg to 13.9 ± 3.5 mmHg in the OLO group, and from 23.5 ± 6.1 mmHg to 13.1 ± 3.5 mmHg in the OLO + MMC group. After correcting for the baseline IOP, only the first two postoperative visits (first week and first month) showed a significantly greater IOP reduction in the OLO + MMC group. The number of hypotensive medications was significantly reduced from 3.1 ± 0.6 to 0.56 ± 1.1 in the MMC group, from 2.9 ± 0.4 to 0.83 ± 1.1 in the OLO group, and from 3.0 ± 0.6 to 0.45 ± 0.95 in OLO + MMC group, with no statistically significant differences among the groups (p = 0.57). The complete success rates were 63.6% in the MMC group, 67.6% in the OLO group, and 80.5% in the OLO +MMC group, with no statistically significant differences between the groups (p = 0.21). Suture release was significantly more frequent in the MMC group (86.1%) than in the OLO group (62.1%) and in the OLO + MMC group (45.9%; p = 0.02). Bleb needling, with (33.3%; p = 0.005) or without (66.7%; p = 0.0001) 5-fluorouracil injection (5-FU), was significantly more common in the MMC group. The highest complete success rate (61%) was observed in the OLO + MMC group. Conclusions: The use of Ologen® and mitomycin C provided similar surgical IOP reduction in glaucoma surgery compared with either MMC or Ologen® alone, but significantly reduced the need for postoperative interventions.
Drug-Eluting Balloons and Drug-Eluting Stents in Diabetic Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Due to Restenosis—DM-Dragon Registry
Authors: Niezgoda Piotr , Kasprzak Michał , Kubica Jacek , Kuźma Łukasz , Januszek Rafał , Iwańczyk Sylwia , Tomasiewicz Brunon , Bil Jacek , Kowalewski Mariusz , Jaguszewski Miłosz , Wybraniec Maciej , Reczuch Krzysztof , Dobrzycki Sławomir , Bartuś Stanisław , Lesiak Maciej , Gąsior Mariusz , Wolny Rafał , Witkowski Adam , Gil Robert , Cortese Bernardo , D’Ascenzo Fabrizio , Wojakowski Wojciech , Wańha Wojciech
Published: July 2024

Background: The rate of in-stent restenosis (ISR) is decreasing; however, it is still a challenge for contemporary invasive cardiologists. Therapeutic methods, including drug-eluting balloons (DEBs), intravascular lithotripsy, excimer laser coronary atherectomy, and imaging-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents (DES), have been implemented. Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are burdened with a higher risk of ISR than the general population. Aims: DM-Dragon is aimed at evaluating the clinical outcomes of ISR treatment with DEBs vs. DES, focusing on patients with co-existing diabetes mellitus. Methods: The DM-Dragon registry is a retrospective study comprising data from nine high-volume PCI centers in Poland. A total of 1117 patients, of whom 473 individuals had DM and were treated with PCI due to ISR, were included. After propensity-score matching (PSM), 198 pairs were created for further analysis. The primary outcome of the study was target lesion revascularization (TLR). Results: In DM patients after PSM, TLR occurred in 21 (10.61%) vs. 20 (10.1%) in non-diabetic patients, p = 0.8690. Rates of target vessel revascularization (TVR), target vessel myocardial infarction, device-oriented composite endpoint (DOCE), and cardiac death did not differ significantly. Among diabetic patients, the risk of all-cause mortality was significantly lower in the DEB group (2.78% vs. 11.11%, HR 3.67 (95% confidence interval, CI) [1.01–13.3), p = 0.0483). Conclusions: PCI with DEBs is almost as effective as DES implantation in DM patients treated for ISR. In DM-Dragon, the rate of all-cause death was significantly lower in patients treated with DEBs. Further large-scale, randomized clinical trials would be needed to support these findings.
Prenatal Diagnosis, Course and Outcome of Patients with Truncus Arteriosus Communis
Authors: Wolter Aline , Haessig Annika , Kurkevych Andrii , Weichert Jan , Bosselmann Stephan , Mielke Gunther , Bedei Ivonne Alexandra , Schenk Johanna , Widriani Ellydda , Axt-Fliedner Roland
Published: July 2024

Background: The objective of our study was to assess the prenatal course, associated anomalies and postnatal outcome and the predictive value of various prenatal parameters for survival in prenatally diagnosed cases of truncus arteriosus communis (TAC). Methods: We evaluated cases from four centers between 2008 and 2021. Results: In 37/47 cases (78.7%), classification into a Van Praagh sbtype was possible, most had TAC type A1 (18/37 = 48.6%). In 33/47 (70.2%) with available valve details on common trunk valve, most presented with tricuspid valves (13/33 = 39.4%). In the overall sample, 14/47 (29.8%) had relevant insufficiency, and 8/47 (17%) had stenosis. In total, 37/47 (78.7%) underwent karyotyping, with 15/37 (40.5%) showing abnormal results, mainly 22q11.2 microdeletion (9/37 = 24.3%). Overall, 17/47 (36.2%) had additional extracardiac anomalies (17/47 = 36.2%). Additional intracardiac anomalies were present in 30/47 (63.8%), or 32/47 (68.1%) if coronary anomalies were included. Four (8.5%) had major defects. Two (4.3%) intrauterine deaths occurred, in 10 (21.3%) cases, the parents opted for termination, predominantly in non-isolated cases (8/10 = 80.0%). A total of 35/47 (74.5%) were born alive at 39 (35–41) weeks. Three (8.6%) pre-surgical deaths occurred in non-isolated cases. In 32/35 (91.4%), correction surgery was performed. The postoperative survival rate was 84.4% (27/32) over a median follow-up of 51.5 months. Initial intervention was performed 16 (1–71) days postpartum, and 22/32 (68.8%) required re-intervention. Regarding prenatal outcome-predicting parameters, no significant differences were identified between the survivor and non-survivor groups. Conclusions: There exist limited outcome data for TAC. To our knowledge, this is the largest multicenter, prenatal cohort with an intention-to-treat survival rate of almost 85%.