bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Follow-Up of Men Who Have Undergone Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer with HIFU—A Real-World Experience
Authors: Mala Katharina Sophie , Plage Henning , Mödl Lukas , Hofbauer Sebastian , Friedersdorff Frank , Schostak Martin , Miller Kurt , Schlomm Thorsten , Cash Hannes
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To determine oncological and functional outcomes and side effects after focal therapy of prostate cancer (PCa) with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 57 consecutive patients with localised PCa. Aged 18–80 with ≤2 suspicious lesions on mpMRI (PIRADS ≥ 3), PSA of ≤15 ng/mL, and an ISUP GG of ≤2. HIFU was performed between November 2014 and September 2018. All men had an MRI/US fusion-guided targeted biopsy (TB) combined with a TRUS-guided 10-core systematic biopsy (SB) prior to focal therapy. HIFU treatment was performed as focal, partial, or hemiablative, depending on the prior histopathology. Follow-up included Questionnaires (IIEF-5, ICIQ, and IPSS), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measurement, follow-up mpMRI, and follow-up biopsies. Results: The median age of the cohort was 72 years (IQR 64–76), and the median PSA value before HIFU was 7.3 ng/mL (IQR 5.75–10.39 ng/mL). The median follow-up was 27.5 (IQR 23–41) months. At the time of the follow-up, the median PSA value was 2.5 ng/mL (IQR 0.94–4.96 ng/mL), which shows a significant decrease (p < 0.001). In 17 (29.8%) men, mpMRI revealed a suspicious lesion, and 19 (33.3%) men had a positive biopsy result. Only IIEF values significantly decreased from 16 (IQR 10.75–20.25) to 11.5 (IQR 4.5–17) (p < 0.001). The rate of post-HIFU complications was low, at 19.3% (11 patients). The limitation of this study is the lack of long-term follow-up. Conclusions: HIFU as a therapy option for nonmetastatic, significant prostate cancer is effective in the short term for carefully selected patients and shows a low risk of adverse events and side effects.
The Importance of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Depressive Symptoms and Their Biological Consequences in Healthy Adults: Results of a Polish University Student Study
Authors: Rog Joanna , Karakuła Michał , Rząd Zuzanna , Fitowska Aleksandra , Brzezińska Agnieszka , Karakula-Juchnowicz Hanna
Published: November 2023

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have a long-lasting effect on both physical and mental health. The aim of this study was to assess the consequences of ACEs and experienced stress on depression and the role of biological disturbances in this relationship in a student population. Potential participants filled out a screening questionnaire; 60 of 126 students met the inclusion criteria and were tested for the severity of stress and depressive symptoms, ACEs, dietary habits, and serum concentrations of biological markers. Depressive symptoms were related to a younger age (p = 0.012), a higher severity of stress (p = 0.001), ACEs (p = 0.007), and lower triglyceride (p = 0.01) and cortisol concentrations (p = 0.01). An inverse relationship between the triglyceride concentration and emotional abuse (R = −0.38) and emotional neglect (R = −0.33) was found. Occludin was positively associated with physical abuse (R = 0.31). Cortisol was inversely associated with emotional abuse (R = −0.35). Emotional neglect was associated with lipopolysaccharide binding protein (R = 0.38) and insulin levels (R = −0.31). The most promising multi-panel of biomarkers for recognizing mood symptoms included triglycerides, tight junction protein 1, and cortisol (cut-offs of ≤ 95.5 mg/dL, 0.72 ng/mL, and 134.63 ng/mL, respectively). This study confirmed the association between ACEs and depressive symptoms and the importance of psychological stress in developing mood disorders. ACEs could affect biological dysregulation. Some of the biological markers could be helpful in early detection of depression.
STING-Associated Vasculopathy with Onset in Infancy: A Review Focusing on Pathophysiology and Treatment Options
Authors: Drougkas Konstantinos , Smerla Roubini , Skarlis Charalampos , Mavragani Clio P.
Published: November 2023

STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI) is a rare type Ι interferonopathy caused by gain of function mutations in an encoding stimulator of interferon genes (STING) protein 1. SAVI is characterized by neonatal or infantile-onset systemic inflammation, mainly affecting peripheral cutaneous blood vessels, skin, and lungs. The main disease manifestations include recurrent febrile episodes, cough, dyspnea, and failure to thrive, in association with progressive interstitial lung disease, polyarthritis, and cold-induced red violet plaques or papules on fingers, knees, toes, heels, nasal tip, and ears that can lead to distal ulcerations, skin necrosis, tissue loss, and autoamputation. For the management of SAVI, JAK inhibitors can be a valuable therapeutic intervention that hampers disease progression, while conventional immunosuppressive treatments have shown minimal efficacy. This review aims to describe the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms of SAVI, highlighting the main clinical manifestations and discussing the current treatment approaches.
Key Biofouling Organisms in Tidal Habitats Targeted by the Offshore Renewable Energy Sector in the North Atlantic Include the Massive Barnacle Chirona hameri
Authors: Want Andrew , Goubard Audrey , Jonveaux Solène , Leaver Donald , Bell Michael C.
Published: November 2023

Marine habitats are being targeted for the extraction of offshore renewable energy (ORE) as part of the drive to decarbonise electricity generation. Unmanaged biofouling impacts ORE devices and infrastructure by elevating drag forces, increasing weight, and accelerating corrosion, leading to decreased performance and survivability, and extending costly periods of maintenance. ORE deployments in high tidal flow locations are providing opportunities to study the biofouling unique to these habitats. In this study, surveys of numerous devices and associated infrastructure deployed at the European Marine Energy Centre in Scotland identified high tidal flow fouling assemblages. Substrate orientation relative to tidal flow appears to affect the abundance of key fouling species, including the massive barnacle Chirona hameri. This species is shown to recruit to a wide range of artificial substrates, over a prolonged period from mid-spring to mid-summer, and in maximum current speeds from 0.4–4.0 m/s. For the first time, C. hameri is reported in near-surface depths, on uncoated components of a floating tidal device. The highly gregarious settlement behaviour and rapid growth exhibited by this species may have important implications for managing fouling in the ORE industry, especially in ‘niche’ areas. Anti-fouling strategies and maintenance scheduling applicable to ORE and other marine industries are discussed.
Analysis of New Colposcopy Techniques in the Diagnosis and Evolution of SIL/CIN: Comparison of Colposcopy with the DSI System (COLPO-DSI Study)
Authors: González González Virginia , Ramírez Mena María del Mar , Calvo Torres Javier , Herráiz Martínez Miguel Ángel , Serrano García Irene , Coronado Pluvio Coronado
Published: November 2023

Compared with conventional colposcopy, colposcopy assisted by DSI-map increases the detection of HSIL/CIN2+ and might help to identify the lesions more likely to regress. Introduction: Comparison of the performance of colposcopy assisted by dynamic spectral imaging (C-DSI) with that of conventional colposcopy (CC) in the diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (HSIL/CIN2 or CIN3). Materials and Methods: A total of 1655 women were referred for colposcopy between 2012 and 2020 and included in the study. Of that total, 973 were examined by the same colposcopist with C-DSI, and 682 with CC. Comparisons between CC and C-DSI were made by using the histological diagnosis performed with a punch biopsy or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) as the gold standard. A follow-up study was conducted until 2021 to detect progression to HSIL/CIN2 at 6, 12 and 24 months after first examination. Results: C-DSI provided higher sensitivity for the diagnosis of HSIL/CIN2 or CIN 3 than CC (sensitivity of 76.8% and 86.6% vs. 54.2% and 72.2%, respectively). In negative or ASCUS/LSIL Pap smear results, C-DSI showed higher sensitivity than CC (sensitivity of 66.7% and 61.5% vs. 21.4% and 33.3%, respectively). In contrast, these differences were not observed in high-grade Pap smears. The sensitivity of C-DSI in cases with HPV16/18 infection was stronger than that of CC (73.53% vs. 56.67%). The sensitivity of C-DSI to detect the progression to HSIL/CIN2+ during follow-up was 30, 17.6 and 35.7% at 6, 12 and 24 months, respectively. Conclusions: The present study shows that C-DSI in women referred for colposcopy increases the HSIL/CIN 2–3 detection rate compared to conventional colposcopy. Nevertheless, C-DSI does not seem to be an important tool to predict the evolution of the lesions during follow-up.
Visual Impairment and Low Vision Aids—A Comparison between Children and Adults
Authors: Perrault Madeleine A. , Lauer Gabriele , Voss Sabine , Seitz Berthold , Käsmann-Kellner Barbara
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: This study aims to highlight differences in the etiology and fitting of low vision aids in visually impaired children and adolescents in comparison to adults. (2) Methods: A retrospective data collection from visually impaired patients presenting to obtain assistive devices from 1 January 2016 to 30 April 2020 was conducted. A total of 502 patients were included. Inclusion criteria were a minimum age of 4 years and the chart notation of a best-corrected distance visual acuity in the patient record prior to the fitting of magnifying visual aids. (3) Results: Of the 502 patients, 147 (29.3%) were children under the age of 18 years. The most common cause of visual impairment in children was albinism, and in adults, it was age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Children showed better distance visual acuity, with a median of 0.88 logMAR (Logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution) compared to 1.0 in adults (p = 0.001). Near visual acuity was also significantly better, with a median of 0.54 logMAR in children compared to 0.9 in adults (p < 0.001). Near and distance visual acuity were significantly improved by fitting magnifying visual aids (p < 0.001). After fitting, near visual acuity averaged 0.3 logMAR, and distance visual acuity, 0.7. The most commonly prescribed aids were optical vision aids, which 68.5% of the patients received; 43.8% received electronic aids. In children, optical aids were more frequently prescribed, and in adults, electronic and acoustic aids (p < 0.001). (4) Conclusion: Visually impaired patients can regain the ability to read and improve distance vision by using individually adapted and tested magnifying vision aids, often with optical aids alone. Differences between children and adults could be discovered in the etiology and severity of visual impairment, as well as in the provision type of low vision aids.
Diurnal Variation in Urban Heat Island Intensity in Birmingham: The Relationship between Nocturnal Surface and Canopy Heat Islands
Authors: Wen Cong , Mamtimin Ali , Feng Jiali , Wang Yu , Yang Fan , Huo Wen , Zhou Chenglong , Li Rui , Song Meiqi , Gao Jiacheng , Aihaiti Ailiyaer
Published: November 2023

Urban heat islands have garnered significant attention due to their potential impact on human life. Previous studies on urban heat islands have focused on characterizing temporal and spatial variations over longer periods of time. In this study, we investigated the urban heat island (UHI) in Birmingham from September 2013 to August 2014 using higher temporal resolution SEVIRI satellite surface temperature data along with data from the Birmingham Urban Climate Laboratory (BUCL) meteorological station and the UK Meteorological Office meteorological station. Our aim was to characterize the diurnal variations in the surface urban heat island intensity (SUHII) and canopy urban heat island intensity (CUHII) and to explore their relationship under the influence of three factors (day/nighttime, season, and wind speed) using regression analysis. Our findings reveal that SUHII and CUHII exhibit relatively stable patterns at night but vary significantly during the day with opposite diurnal trends. In addition, SUHII and CUHII were more variable in spring and summer but less variable in winter. During the nighttime, SUHII represents CUHII with high confidence, especially during spring and summer, but less so during the cold season. In addition, SUHII represents CUHII with greater confidence under low-wind conditions. This study deepens our understanding of the diurnal dynamics of urban heat islands and the influence of atmospheric conditions on the relationship between surface and canopy heat islands in urban areas. The results of this study can be used for heat island studies in cities that lack high-precision observation networks and to guide sustainable urban development.
Prediction and Evolution of Carbon Storage of Terrestrial Ecosystems in the Qinling Mountains North Slope Region, China
Authors: Chen Jian , Wang Kai , Li Maomao , Wang Xianzhi , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Niu Lixin , Zhang Yanlong
Published: November 2023

The Qinling Mountains north slope region constitutes a vital terrestrial ecosystem reserve within China. This study employs land use and land cover (LULC) data spanning from 1990 to 2020. Utilizing methodologies encompassing land use classification, transfer matrix analysis, and the application of the PLUS and InVEST models, this research endeavors to elucidate the spatial-temporal dynamics of land use patterns and associated carbon storage in the region. These analyses are conducted within the context of four prospective scenarios: Natural Development Priority, Arable Land Protection Priority, Ecological Protection Priority, and Urban Development Priority, all projected onto the landscape for 2030. Notably, our findings reveal a consistent decline in carbon storage across all four scenarios for 2030 compared to the baseline year 2020. This stark reality presents substantial challenges to achieving the region’s targets of carbon peaking and eventual carbon neutrality. Furthermore, this paper meticulously delineates six key drivers contributing to this decline in carbon storage. In conclusion, it proffers nine strategic recommendations aimed at augmenting carbon storage, with an overarching objective of establishing a harmonized mechanism capable of balancing urban development, safeguarding cultivated land, fortifying ecological preservation, and enhancing carbon sequestration within the area.
Subjunctives in Romanian Languages: Micro-Parametric Variation in Complement CPs and the Periphrastic Future
Authors: Alboiu Gabriela , Hill Virginia
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to (i) establish the micro-parametric variation in the development of the subjunctive CP in Romanian languages (Daco-Romanian/DR; Aromanian/AR; Megleno-Romanian/MR; Istro-Romanian/IR) and (ii) account for derivations in which the subjunctive is integrated into the formation of the periphrastic future in these languages. Briefly, the analysis points out that the subjunctive CP in Romanian languages can display a split Fin (unlike in other Balkan languages) and that the remerging of the split Fin finds itself at different stages: complete in DR, but incomplete at different degrees in AR, MR, and IR. The compatibility of the subjunctive morphology with the derivation of the periphrastic future follows from the semantic bleaching and grammaticization of the volitional ‘will’ and ‘have’ verbs, together with the Balkan Sprachbund subjunctive mood marking, which combine in a monoclausal construction via a serial verb derivation to compositionally check a Fin marked [+finite, modal].
Infrared Spectral Signatures of Nucleobases in Interstellar Ices I: Purines
Authors: Rosa Caroline Antunes , Bergantini Alexandre , Herczku Péter , Mifsud Duncan V. , Lakatos Gergő , Kovács Sándor T. S. , Sulik Béla , Juhász Zoltán , Ioppolo Sergio , Quitián-Lara Heidy M. , Mason Nigel J. , Lage Claudia
Published: November 2023

The purine nucleobases adenine and guanine are complex organic molecules that are essential for life. Despite their ubiquitous presence on Earth, purines have yet to be detected in observations of astronomical environments. This work therefore proposes to study the infrared spectra of purines linked to terrestrial biochemical processes under conditions analogous to those found in the interstellar medium. The infrared spectra of adenine and guanine, both in neat form and embedded within an ice made of H2O:NH3:CH4:CO:CH3OH (10:1:1:1:1), were analysed with the aim of determining which bands attributable to adenine and/or guanine can be observed in the infrared spectrum of an astrophysical ice analogue rich in other volatile species known to be abundant in dense molecular clouds. The spectrum of adenine and guanine mixed together was also analysed. This study has identified three purine nucleobase infrared absorption bands that do not overlap with bands attributable to the volatiles that are ubiquitous in the dense interstellar medium. Therefore, these three bands, which are located at 1255, 940, and 878 cm−1, are proposed as an infrared spectral signature for adenine, guanine, or a mixture of these molecules in astrophysical ices. All three bands have integrated molar absorptivity values (ψ) greater than 4 km mol−1, meaning that they should be readily observable in astronomical targets. Therefore, if these three bands were to be observed together in the same target, then it is possible to propose the presence of a purine molecule (i.e., adenine or guanine) there.
Effect of Different Feeds on the Fungi Microbiome of Suffolk Crossed with Tibetan Sheep
Authors: Ren Yue , Ciwang Renzeng , Wang Jia , Mehmood Khalid , Ataya Farid Shokry , Li Kun
Published: November 2023

The gut microbiome plays an important role in the metabolism, nutrient absorption and immunocompetency of animals. The dynamics of the microbiota can be influenced by modulatory factors that involve nutrition, environment, health, diseases, etc. Few reports have been documented regarding the effects of different feeds on the fungi microbiome of Suffolk crossed with Tibetan sheep. A total of 30 Suffolk crossed with Tibetan sheep (ST sheep) were selected for the study and randomly divided into five equal groups (n = 6): AZ, BZ, CZ, DZ and EZ. Group AZ was fed with alfalfa and oat grass, whereas group BZ was fed with mixture of concentrated feed, alfalfa and oat grass. Groups CZ, DZ and EZ were fed with concentrated feed #1, #2 and #3, respectively. All experimental animals were fed twice a day for four months, and rectum samples were collected for microbiota analysis. Results revealed that 2,781,461 raw reads and 2,333,239 clean reads were achieved in the ST sheep. When compared with the sheep of groups AZ and BZ (164), the shared amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) between AZ and CZ (109), AZ (113) and DZ (118) as well as AZ along with EZ were fewer. Conspicuous different phyla (8) and genera (56) were examined and compared with free-range sheep in AZ. Genera including Xeromyces, Kazachstania, Cordyceps, Rhodotorula, Pichia, Spor, etc. were found higher in animals in the CZ, DZ and EZ groups. The results of this study provide new insights regarding the effects of different feeds on the fungi microbiome of sheep farmed on the plateau. We concluded that the differences in feed in Suffolk crossed with Tibetan sheep altered their gut microbiota.
The Poncho Lamina Technique: A Protocol for Hard and Soft Tissue Augmentation in Atrophic Ridges Receiving Adjacent Implants
Authors: Tzovairis Alexander , Leretter Marius , Vandenberghe Bart , Rossi Roberto
Published: November 2023

The current scientific knowledge and guidelines in bone and soft tissue augmentation suggest the use of staged surgical workflows as the gold standard of regenerative procedures during implant therapy. In this context, the process is always the same, regardless of the techniques applied: an alternate series of surgical acts that follow one another after the completion of a specific period of osseointegration or graft maturation. As a result, the overall surgical treatment is often long and invasive and induces scar tissue formation. This article proposes a novel, fast, and less-invasive biphasic protocol with the use of a well-documented cortical barrier mounted on healing screws that are further replaced by customized abutments at an early second stage. Two cases are reported, one for an upper maxillary edentulous area and the other for a mandibular, with a total of four implants placed. The results at 4 months postop showed an optimal soft tissue configuration for both cases, with adequate cervical profile generation and a sufficient supracrestal complex height above the implant platforms. Significant bone gains were also recorded through CBCT data collection, either with alveolar width measurements on axial slices, the superposition of pre-op and post-op datasets, or 3D visualization after bone volume segmentation.
The Enhanced Effects of Swimming and Running Preconditioning in an Experimental Model of Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Glisic Milos , Nikolic Turnic Tamara , Zivkovic Vladimir , Pindovic Bozidar , Chichkova Natalia Vasilievna , Fisenko Vladimir Petrovich , Nikolic Marina , Stijak Lazar , Yurievna Lemina Elena , Veselinovic Mirjana , Jovicic Milena , Mihajlovic Katarina , Bolevich Sergey , Jakovljevic Vladimir
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: This study was conducted to examine the influence of different swimming and running protocols as forms of physiological preconditioning on an isolated rat heart’s ischemia/reperfusion injury. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 60 male Wistar albino rats (6 weeks old, bw: 200 ± 20 g), divided into: CTRL group—a sedentary control group; sAeT—a group that underwent aerobic swimming conditioning using a swimming protocol for 8 weeks; sAnT—a group that underwent anaerobic swimming conditioning; rAeT—a group that underwent aerobic running conditioning; and rAnT—a group that underwent anaerobic running conditioning. After the preconditioning protocols, ex vivo estimating of myocardial function according to the Langendorff technique was performed. Results: The anaerobic running training decreased heart rate and the anaerobic swimming training reduced coronary flow, demonstrating the difference in the physiological heart response of aerobic/anaerobic physical training (p < 0.05). Heart rate was significantly reduced in both training swimming groups after a period of ischemia (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the anaerobic running protocol induced a significantly decreased heart rate in comparison with the aerobic running group and the sedentary group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The data from this experimental study support many protective training effects, i.e., improved contractility, improved resting heart rate, and increased physical work capacity and exercise tolerance. Physical training in the form of anaerobic running induces greater heart preconditioning for reperfusion injury in comparison with anaerobic swimming training.
An Unexpected Complication Resulting from Radiofrequency Ablation for Treating Facet Joint Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Won Hyung-Sun , Lee Shin-Hyo , Ahn Young Jean , Yang Miyoung , Kim Yeon-Dong
Published: November 2023

Lumbar facet joints have been identified as a potential source of chronic low back pain (LBP) in 15% to 45% of patients, with the prevalence of such pain varying based on specific populations and settings examined. Lumbar facet joint interventions are useful in the diagnosis as well as the therapeutic management of chronic LBP. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of medial branch nerves is recognized as a safe and effective therapy for chronic facet joint pain in the lumbosacral spine, and its efficacy has already been established. The use of RFA is currently widespread in the management of spinal pain, but it is noteworthy that there have been works in the literature reporting complications, albeit at a very low frequency. We present a case of third-degree skin burns following radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the management of facet joint syndrome. Postoperatively, the patient’s skin encircling the needle displayed a pallor and exhibited deterioration in conjunction with the anatomical anomaly. The affected area required approximately 5 months to heal completely. During RFA, heat can induce burns not only at the point of contact with the RF electrode but also along the length of the needle. Vigilant attention is necessary to ensure patient safety and to address any potential complications that may arise during the procedure, including the possibility of minor technical errors.
How to Choose the Right Treatment for Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Peritore Luigi , Labbozzetta Vincenzo , Maressa Veronica , Casuscelli Chiara , Conti Giovanni , Gembillo Guido , Santoro Domenico
Published: November 2023

Membranous nephropathy is an autoimmune disease affecting the glomeruli and is one of the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome. In the absence of any therapy, 35% of patients develop end-stage renal disease. The discovery of autoantibodies such as phospholipase A2 receptor 1, antithrombospondin and neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein has greatly helped us to understand the pathogenesis and enable the diagnosis of this disease and to guide its treatment. Depending on the complications of nephrotic syndrome, patients with this disease receive supportive treatment with diuretics, ACE inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers, lipid-lowering agents and anticoagulants. After assessing the risk of progression of end-stage renal disease, patients receive immunosuppressive therapy with various drugs such as cyclophosphamide, steroids, calcineurin inhibitors or rituximab. Since immunosuppressive drugs can cause life-threatening side effects and up to 30% of patients do not respond to therapy, new therapeutic approaches with drugs such as adrenocorticotropic hormone, belimumab, anti-plasma cell antibodies or complement-guided drugs are currently being tested. However, special attention needs to be paid to the choice of therapy in secondary forms or in specific clinical contexts such as membranous disease in children, pregnant women and patients undergoing kidney transplantation.
Changing Strategies for the Detection of Bacteria in Platelet Components in Ireland: From Primary and Secondary Culture (2010–2020) to Large Volume Delayed Sampling (2020–2023)
Authors: O’Flaherty Niamh , Bryce Louise , Nolan James , Lambert Mark
Published: November 2023

Bacterial contamination of platelet components (PC) poses the greatest microbial risk to recipients, as bacteria can multiply over the course of PC storage at room temperature. Between 2010 and 2020, the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) screened over 170,000 buffy coat-derived pooled (BCDP) and single-donor apheresis platelets (SDAPs) with the BACT/ALERT 3D microbial detection system (Biomerieux, L’Etoile, France), using a two-step screening protocol which incorporated primary and secondary cultures. Although the protocol was successful in averting septic transfusion reactions (STRs), testing large sample volumes at later time points was reported to improve detection of bacterial contamination. A modified large-volume delayed sampling (LVDS)-type protocol was adopted in 2020, which in the case of SDAP was applied to collections rather than individual splits (2020–2023, 44,642 PC screened). Rates of bacterial contamination for BCDP were 0.125% on Day-2, 0.043% on Day-4 vs. 0.191% in the post-LVDS period. SDAP contamination rates in the pre-LVDS period were 0.065% on Day-1, 0.017% on Day-4 vs. 0.072% in the post-LVDS period. Confirmed STRs were absent, and the interdiction rate for possibly contaminated SDAP was over 70%. In the post-LVDS period, BCDPs had a higher total positivity rate than SDAPs, 0.191% (1:525) versus 0.072% (1:1385), respectively, (chi-squared 12.124, 1 df, p = 0.0005). The majority of organisms detected were skin-flora-type, low pathogenicity organisms, including coagulase-negative staphylococci and Cutibacterium acnes, with little change in the frequency of clinically significant organisms identified over time. Both protocols prevented the issue of potentially harmful components contaminated (rarely) with a range of pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Serratia marcesens, Staphylococcus aureus, and streptococci. Culture positivity of outdates post-LVDS whereby 100% of expired platelets are retested provides a residual risk estimate of 0.06% (95% CI 0.016–0.150). However, bacterial contamination rates in expired platelets did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference between the pre-LVDS 0.100% (CI 0.033–0.234) and post-LVDS 0.059% (0.016–0.150) periods (chi-squared = 0.651, 1 df, p = 0.42).
Seasonal Variation in Essential Oil Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Aniba canelilla (Lauraceae): A Reliable Source of 1-Nitro-2-phenylethane
Authors: Cruz Ellen de Nazaré S. da , Barros Luana de Sousa P. , Guimarães Bruna de A. , Mourão Rosa Helena V. , Maia José Guilherme S. , Setzer William N. , da Silva Joyce Kelly do R. , Figueiredo Pablo Luis B.
Published: November 2023

Aniba canelilla (Kunth) Mez essential oil has many biological activities due to its main compound 1-nitro-2-phenylethane (1N2F), followed by methyleugenol, a carcinogenic agent. This study analyzed the influence of seasonality on yields, antioxidant capacity, and 1N2F content of A. canelilla leaf and twig essential oils. Essential oils (EOs) were extracted with hydrodistillation and analyzed with gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and a flame ionization detector. Antioxidant capacity was measured using the free radical scavenging method (DPPH). Chemometric analyses were carried out to verify the influence of climatic factors on the production and composition of EOs. 1-Nitro-2-phenylethane was the major constituent in A. canelilla EOs throughout the seasonal period (68.0–89.9%); methyleugenol was not detected. Essential oil yields and the 1N2F average did not show a statistically significant difference between the dry and rainy seasons in leaves and twigs. Moderate and significant correlations between major compounds and climate factor were observed. The twig oils (36.0 ± 5.9%) a showed greater antioxidant capacity than the leaf oils (20.4 ± 5.0%). The PCA and HCA analyses showed no statistical differences between the oil samples from the dry and rainy seasons. The absence of methyleugenolin in all months of study, described for the first time, makes this specimen a reliable source of 1N2F.
Synthesis of Chalcones: An Improved High-Yield and Substituent-Independent Protocol for an Old Structure
Authors: Donaire-Arias Ana , Poulsen Martin L. , Ramón-Costa Jaime , Montagut Ana Maria , Estrada-Tejedor Roger , Borrell José I.
Published: November 2023

Chalcones are a type of molecule that can be considered as easily synthesizable through aldol condensation or that can be readily purchased from habitual commercial vendors. However, on reviewing the literature, one realizes that there are no standard procedures for such aldol condensations, that there exists a wide range of alternative methods for the aldol condensation (indicating that such a condensation is not always simple), and that, in many cases, low yields are obtained that involve purifications by recrystallization or column chromatography. To develop a robust standard protocol independent of the nature of the substituents present on the acetophenone or the benzaldehyde involved in the aldol condensation leading to the chalcone, we made a comparison between an aldol condensation in KOH/EtOH and a Wittig reaction between the corresponding ylide and benzaldehyde in water. We describe an improved procedure for the Wittig reaction and a protocol for the elimination of the Ph3P=O byproduct (and the excess of ylide used) by filtration of the crude reaction product through a silica gel plug. We thus demonstrate that such an improved procedure can be a general method for the synthesis of chalcones in high yield and excellent purity and is clearly an improvement on the classical aldol condensation.
Conformational Stability of the N-Terminal Region of MDM2
Authors: Rizzuti Bruno , Abian Olga , Velazquez-Campoy Adrián , Neira José L.
Published: November 2023

MDM2 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase which is crucial for the degradation and inhibition of the key tumor-suppressor protein p53. In this work, we explored the stability and the conformational features of the N-terminal region of MDM2 (N-MDM2), through which it binds to the p53 protein as well as other protein partners. The isolated domain possessed a native-like conformational stability in a narrow pH range (7.0 to 10.0), as shown by intrinsic and 8-anilinonapthalene-1-sulfonic acid (ANS) fluorescence, far-UV circular dichroism (CD), and size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Guanidinium chloride (GdmCl) denaturation followed by intrinsic and ANS fluorescence, far-UV CD and SEC at physiological pH, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermo-fluorescence experiments showed that (i) the conformational stability of isolated N-MDM2 was very low; and (ii) unfolding occurred through the presence of several intermediates. The presence of a hierarchy in the unfolding intermediates was also evidenced through DSC and by simulating the unfolding process with the help of computational techniques based on constraint network analysis (CNA). We propose that the low stability of this protein is related to its inherent flexibility and its ability to interact with several molecular partners through different routes.
The Protective Effect of Marsdenia tenacissima against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity Mediated by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Zhiguang , Liang Boya , Jike Wugemo , Li Runtian , Su Xinxin , Yu Jie , Liu Tongxiang
Published: November 2023

Cisplatin (Cis) is considered to be one of the most effective drugs for killing cancer cells and remains a first-line chemotherapeutic agent. However, Cis’s multiple toxicities (especially nephrotoxicity) have limited its clinical use. Marsdenia tenacissima (Roxb.) Wight et Arn. (MT), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) employed extensively in China, not only enhances the antitumor effect in combination with Cis, but is also used for its detoxifying effect, as it reduces the toxic side effects of chemotherapy drugs. The aim of this study was to explore the therapeutic effect of MT on Cis-induced nephrotoxicity, along with its underlying mechanisms. In this study, liquid–mass spectrometry was performed to identify the complex composition of the extracts of MT. In addition, we measured the renal function, antioxidant enzymes, and inflammatory cytokines in mice with Cis-induced nephrotoxicity and conducted renal histology evaluations to assess renal injury. The expressions of the proteins related to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic markers in renal tissues was detected by Western blotting (WB). MT treatment improved the renal function, decreased the mRNA expression of the inflammatory factors, and increased the antioxidant enzyme activity in mice. A better renal histology was observed after MT treatment. Further, MT inhibited the expression of the phospho-NFκB p65 protein/NFκB p65 protein (p-p65)/p65, phospho-inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B kinase beta subunit/inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa B kinase beta subunit (p-IKKβ/IKKβ), Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), and Cleaved Caspase 3/Caspase 3 proteins, while the expression of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), Recombinant NADH Dehydrogenase, Quinone 1 (NQO1), and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) was increased. The present study showed that MT ameliorated renal injury, which mainly occurs through the regulation of the Nrf2 pathway, the NF-κB pathway, and the suppression of renal tissue apoptosis. It also suggests that MT can be used as an adjuvant to mitigate the nephrotoxicity of Cis chemotherapy.
Oxygen-Free Csp3-H Oxidation of Pyridin-2-yl-methanes to Pyridin-2-yl-methanones with Water by Copper Catalysis
Authors: Zeng Ming , Chen Jia-Le , Luo Xue , Zou Yan-Jiao , Liu Zhao-Ning , Dai Jun , Jiang Deng-Zhao , Li Jin-Jing
Published: November 2023

Aromatic ketones are important pharmaceutical intermediates, especially the pyridin-2-yl-methanone motifs. Thus, synthetic methods for these compounds have gained extensive attention in the last few years. Transition metals catalyze the oxidation of Csp3-H for the synthesis of aromatic ketones, which is arresting. Here, we describe an efficient copper-catalyzed synthesis of pyridin-2-yl-methanones from pyridin-2-yl-methanes through a direct Csp3-H oxidation approach with water under mild conditions. Pyridin-2-yl-methanes with aromatic rings, such as substituted benzene, thiophene, thiazole, pyridine, and triazine, undergo the reaction well to obtain the corresponding products in moderate to good yields. Several controlled experiments are operated for the mechanism exploration, indicating that water participates in the oxidation process, and it is the single oxygen source in this transformation. The current work provides new insights for water-involving oxidation reactions.
Insights into Enhanced Peroxydisulfate Activation with B and Fe Co-Doped Biochar from Bark for the Rapid Degradation of Guaiacol
Authors: Huang Jian , Zhu Yu , Bian Huiyang , Song Liang , Liu Yifan , Lv Yuancai , Ye Xiaoxia , Lin Chunxiang , Li Xiaojuan
Published: November 2023

A boron and iron co-doped biochar (B-Fe/biochar) from Masson pine bark was fabricated and used to activate peroxydisulfate (PDS) for the degradation of guaiacol (GL). The roles of the dopants and the contribution of the radical and non-radical oxidations were investigated. The results showed that the doping of boron and iron significantly improved the catalytic activity of the biochar catalyst with a GL removal efficiency of 98.30% within 30 min. The degradation of the GL mainly occurred through the generation of hydroxyl radicals (·OHs) and electron transfer on the biochar surface, and a non-radical degradation pathway dominated by direct electron transfer was proposed. Recycling the B-Fe/biochar showed low metal leaching from the catalyst and satisfactory long-term stability and reusability, providing potential insights into the use of metal and non-metal co-doped biochar catalysts for PDS activation.
Feeling Connected: Technology-Mediated Communication and the Relationship between Modality and Affective Outcomes
Authors: Skootsky Tamara J. , Sanchez Diana R. , Kawasaki Kentaro
Published: November 2023

The relationship between workplace communication and affective outcomes, specifically connectedness at work and affective organizational commitment, is one that warrants further investigation for practical usage in the increasingly multimodal workplace. This study considers the frequency of use across five communication modalities, that being face-to-face, email, phone calls, instant messaging, and video calls, in relation to affective outcomes, as well as their relationships with communication meaningfulness. Employed participants (n = 516) completed an online survey in which they self-reported weekly communication tendencies, experienced connectedness, and affective organizational commitment. The final sample consisted of participants across 20 different industries in the United States. The most respondents worked in Health Care and Social Assistance or Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (15% each), followed closely by respondents from Educational Services or Finance and Insurance (13% each). Data collection took place in between October 2021 and January 2022. Generally, participants who reported more frequent communication at work reported higher levels of connectedness and higher affective organizational commitment. Employees who found their communication more meaningful (irrespective of frequency) felt the most emotionally connected. Unique benefits of different communication modalities, as well as implications for hybrid and remote organizations, are discussed.
Fe-Cr-Nb-B Magnetic Particles and Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Cells Trigger Cancer Cell Apoptosis by Magneto-Mechanical Actuation
Authors: Chiriac Horia , Minuti Anca Emanuela , Stavila Cristina , Herea Dumitru-Daniel , Labusca Luminita , Ababei Gabriel , Stoian George , Lupu Nicoleta
Published: November 2023

Magnetic nanoparticles (MPs) are emerging as powerful and versatile tools for biotechnology, including cancer research and theranostic applications. Stem cell-mediated magnetic particle delivery has been previously recognized as a modality to target sites of malignancies. Here, we propose the use of adipose-derived mesenchymal cells (ADSC) for the targeted delivery of Fe-Cr-Nb-B magnetic particles to human osteosarcoma (HOS) cells and magneto-mechanical actuation (MMA) for targeting and destroying HOS cells. We show that MPs are easily incorporated by ADSCs and HOS cells, as confirmed by TEM images and a ferrozine assay. MP-loaded ADSCs display increased motility towards tumor cells compared with their unloaded counterparts. MMA of MP-loaded ADSCs induces HOS destruction, as confirmed by the MTT and live/dead assays. MMA enables the release of the MPs towards cancer cells, producing a significant decrease (about 80%) in HOS viability immediately after application. In contrast, normal human dermal fibroblasts’ (NHDFs) viability exposed to similar conditions remains high, showing a differential behavior of normal and malignant cells to MP load and MMA exposure. Taken together, the method could derive successful strategies for in vivo applications in targeting and destroying malignant cells while protecting normal cells.
Synthesis of Composite Titanate Photocatalyst via Molten Salt Processing and Its Enhanced Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Cheng Yan , Li Chenxi , Hamukwaya Shindume Lomboleni , Huang Guangdong , Zhao Zengying
Published: November 2023

Photocatalysis plays a pivotal role in environmental remediation and energy production and improving the efficiency of photocatalysts, yet enhancing its efficiency remains a challenge. Titanate has been claimed to be a very promising material amongst various photocatalysts in recent years. In this work, a novel composite photocatalyst of sodium titanate and potassium titanate was synthesized via a simple hydrothermal and molten salt calcination method. Low melting point nitrate was added in the calcination process, which helps reduce the calcination temperature. The as-prepared composite sample showed excellent photocatalytic performance compared with commercial P25 in the visible light range. According to the characterization of XRD, SEM, TEM, BET, UV–Vis, and photocatalytic property testing, the composite’s photocatalytic performance results are due to the dual optimization brought about by the layered structure and composite of titanium salts forming a heterojunction. We believe that the composite has significant application potential for the use of titanate in the field of photocatalysis. Notably, this study employed well-documented synthesis methods and adhered to established protocols for experimental procedures.
Micronutrient Status in Adult Crohn’s Disease during Clinical Remission: A Systematic Review
Authors: McDonnell Martin , Sartain Stephanie , Westoby Catherine , Katarachia Vasiliki , Wootton Stephen A. , Cummings J. R. Fraser
Published: November 2023

Adults with Crohn’s disease (CD) may be at risk of micronutrient insufficiency in clinical remission through restrictive eating, malabsorption, abnormal losses or inflammation. This systematic review synthesises the literature on micronutrient insufficiency in CD in clinical remission in terms of the prevalence of low circulating micronutrient concentrations and as a comparison against a healthy control (HC). Studies were included if the population was predominantly in remission. A total of 42 studies met the inclusion criteria; 12 were rated as low quality, leaving 30 studies covering 21 micronutrients of medium/high quality that were included in the synthesis. Vitamins D and B12 were the most frequently reported nutrients (8 and 11); there were few eligible studies for the remaining micronutrients. The prevalence studies were consistent in reporting individuals with low Vitamins A, B6, B12 and C, β-carotene, D, Magnesium, Selenium and Zinc. The comparator studies were inconsistent in finding differences with CD populations; Vitamin D, the most reported nutrient, was only lower than the HC in one-quarter of the studies. Adult CD populations are likely to contain individuals with low levels of one or more micronutrients, with the most substantial evidence for Vitamins D and B12. The studies on other micronutrients are of insufficient number, standardisation and quality to inform practice.
Ceragenins and Ceragenin-Based Core-Shell Nanosystems as New Antibacterial Agents against Gram-Negative Rods Causing Nosocomial Infections
Authors: Karasiński Maciej , Wnorowska Urszula , Durnaś Bonita , Król Grzegorz , Daniluk Tamara , Skłodowski Karol , Głuszek Katarzyna , Piktel Ewelina , Okła Sławomir , Bucki Robert
Published: November 2023

The growing number of infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacterial strains, limited treatment options, multi-species infections, high toxicity of the antibiotics used, and an increase in treatment costs are major challenges for modern medicine. To remedy this, scientists are looking for new antibiotics and treatment methods that will effectively eradicate bacteria while continually developing different resistance mechanisms. Ceragenins are a new group of antimicrobial agents synthesized based on molecular patterns that define the mechanism of antibacterial action of natural antibacterial peptides and steroid-polyamine conjugates such as squalamine. Since ceragenins have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, with little recorded ability of bacteria to develop a resistance mechanism that can bridge their mechanism of action, there are high hopes that this group of molecules can give rise to a new family of drugs effective against bacteria resistant to currently used antibiotics. Experimental data suggests that core-shell nanosystems, in which ceragenins are presented to bacterial cells on metallic nanoparticles, may increase their antimicrobial potential and reduce their toxicity. However, studies should be conducted, among others, to assess potential long-term cytotoxicity and in vivo studies to confirm their activity and stability in animal models. Here, we summarized the current knowledge on ceragenins and ceragenin-containing nanoantibiotics as potential new tools against emerging Gram-negative rods associated with nosocomial infections.