Search

The SARS‐CoV‐2 3C‐like protease (3CLpro) has emerged as a key target for drug development owing to its crucial role in viral replication of SARS‐CoV‐2 virus. In this study, we employed a ligand‐based virtual screening strategy to identify potential small molecules capable of binding to SARS‐CoV‐2 3CLpro. Using GC376 as a reference compound, we conducted a comprehensive search in a chemical database and identified 178 candidate molecules (CPLs) with structural similarity to GC376. Molecular docking analyses revealed that several CPLs exhibited superior binding affinities to SARS‐CoV‐2 3CLpro compared to GC376. Notably, CPL‐390, CPL‐374, and CPL‐306 displayed the highest binding energies, indicating their potential as inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2 3CLpro. Detailed analysis of noncovalent interactions and molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MMGBSA) calculations further supported the binding affinity of CPLs to SARS‐CoV‐2 3CLpro. Key interactions with catalytic residues and steric hindrance within the binding pocket highlighted potential inhibition mechanisms for CPL‐306, CPL‐374, and CPL‐390. Moreover, pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that CPL‐306, CPL‐374, and CPL‐390 possessed favorable absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties, positioning them as promising candidates for further drug development. In contrast, GC376 exhibited less favorable pharmacological characteristics, emphasizing the need for novel compounds with improved profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Nitrogen isotopes (δ15N) are widely used to study human nursing and weaning ages. Conventional methods involve sampling 1‐mm thick sections of tooth dentine—producing an averaging effect that integrates months of formation. We introduce a novel protocol for measuring δ15N by multicollector secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). Materials and Methods: We sampled dentine δ15N on a weekly to monthly basis along the developmental axis in two first molars of healthy children from Australia and New Zealand (n = 217 measurements). Nitrogen isotope ratios were determined from measurements of CN− secondary molecular ions in ~35 μm spots. By relating spot position to enamel formation, we identified prenatal dentine, as well as sampling ages over more than 3 years. We also created calcium‐normalized barium and strontium maps with laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. Results: We found rapid postnatal δ15N increases of ~2‰–3‰, during which time the children were exclusively breastfed, followed by declines as the breastfeeding frequency decreased. After weaning, δ15N values remained stable for several months, coinciding with diets that did not include meat or cow's milk; values then varied by ~2‰ starting in the third year of life. Barium did not show an immediate postnatal increase, rising after a few months until ~1–1.5 years of age, and falling until or shortly after the cessation of suckling. Initial strontium trends varied but both individuals peaked months after weaning. Discussion: Developmentally informed SIMS measurements of δ15N minimize time averaging and can be precisely related to an individual's early dietary history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review explores the state‐of‐the‐art of thermoelectric materials, covering different crystalline structures and material families (e.g., chalcogenides, Zintl phases, skutterudites, clathrates, oxides, half‐Heusler, organic–inorganic composites, metal–organic frameworks, and silicides). It examines their corresponding thermoelectric properties while considering the synthesis methods employed, paying significant attention to those that particularly follow sustainable routes. Additionally, the work addresses current challenges in the field, such as enhancing stability at high temperatures and reducing manufacturing costs. The understanding gained in this field opens avenues for designing more efficient and sustainable devices to convert waste heat into electrical energy, thereby advancing cleaner technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic solar cells (OSCs), especially those employing bulk heterojunction architecture, present a promising avenue in renewable energy technology. These devices utilize organic materials and can be doped by solvents such as dimethylformamide (DMF), tetrahydrofuran (THF), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Solvent doping (DMF, THF, and DMSO) is observed to augment the efficiency of OSCs. However, a trade‐off exists between the volume of solvent used and the device's efficiency. The judicious selection of solvents is crucial as it directly impacts the environmental footprint of the fabrication process and the power conversion efficiency. Notably, the use of solvents in OSC fabrication contributes to reducing the environmental impact across various categories, in particular Abiotic Depletion, Global Warming, and Human Toxicity. Among the solvents studied, THF demonstrates the most significant reduction in environmental impact. Therefore, optimizing the choice and volume of solvents in OSC fabrication is paramount for achieving both enhanced device performance and minimal environmental footprint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Purpose Methods Results Conclusions Targeted radiotherapies with low‐energy ions show interesting possibilities for the selective irradiation of tumor cells, a strategy particularly appropriate for the treatment of disseminated cancer. Two promising examples are boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) and targeted radionuclide therapy with α$\alpha$‐particle emitters (TAT). The successful clinical translation of these radiotherapies requires the implementation of accurate radiation dosimetry approaches able to take into account the impact on treatments of the biological effectiveness of ions and the heterogeneity in the therapeutic agent distribution inside the tumor cells. To this end, biophysical models can be applied to translate the interactions of radiations with matter into biological endpoints, such as cell survival.The NanOx model was initially developed for predicting the cell survival fractions resulting from irradiations with the high‐energy ion beams encountered in hadrontherapy. We present in this work a new implementation of the model that extends its application to irradiations with low‐energy ions, as the ones found in TAT and BNCT.The NanOx model was adapted to consider the energy loss of primary ions within the sensitive volume (i.e., the cell nucleus). Additional assumptions were introduced to simplify the practical implementation of the model and reduce computation time. In particular, for low‐energy ions the narrow‐track approximation allowed to neglect the energy deposited by secondary electrons outside the sensitive volume, increasing significantly the performance of simulations. Calculations were performed to compare the original hadrontherapy implementation of the NanOx model with the present one in terms of the inactivation cross sections of human salivary gland cells as a function of the kinetic energy of incident α$\alpha$‐particles.The predictions of the previous and current versions of NanOx agreed for incident energies higher than 1 MeV/n. For lower energies, the new NanOx implementation predicted a decrease in the inactivation cross sections that depended on the length of the sensitive volume.We reported in this work an extension of the NanOx biophysical model to consider irradiations with low‐energy ions, such as the ones found in TAT and BNCT. The excellent agreement observed at intermediate and high energies between the original hadrontherapy implementation and the present one showed that NanOx offers a consistent, self‐integrated framework for describing the biological effects induced by ion irradiations. Future work will focus on the application of the latest version of NanOx to cases closer to the clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A robust method for analysing acrylamide in plantain and cassava snacks was developed using SPME and GC‐FID. Optimised via Box–Benkhen design, the method met European standards with a calibration curve R2 > 99%, detection limit 63 μg kg−1, and quantification limit 212 μg kg−1. Precision was <17.76% as per Horwitz equation. Acrylamide levels in fried ripe plantain were 894.40 ± 56.35 μg kg−1 and in cassava snacks 59.42 ± 2.46 μg kg−1. This validated method offers an efficient means for acrylamide control in thermally processed foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porphyrias are rare, mostly inherited disorders resulting from altered activity of specific enzymes in the haem synthesis pathway that lead to accumulation of pathway intermediates. Photocutaneous symptoms occur when excess amounts of photoreactive porphyrins circulate in the blood to the skin, whereas increases in potentially neurotoxic porphyrin precursors are associated with neurovisceral symptoms. Current therapies are suboptimal and their mechanisms are not well established. As described here, emerging therapies address underlying disease mechanisms by introducing a gene, RNA or other specific molecule with the potential to cure or slow progression of the disease. Recent progress in nanotechnology and nanoscience, particularly regarding particle design and formulation, is expanding disease targets. More secure and efficient drug delivery systems have extended our toolbox for transferring specific molecules, especially into hepatocytes, and led to proof‐of‐concept studies in animal models. Repurposing existing drugs as molecular chaperones or haem synthesis inhibitors is also promising. This review summarizes key examples of these emerging therapeutic approaches and their application for hepatic and erythropoietic porphyrias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating environmental degradation and tightening regulations worldwide since the 1990s have heightened environmental concerns among organizations, necessitating innovative and sustainable responses to climate change. This article aims to explore opportunities and challenges of sustainable innovations for mitigating climate change within companies. A systematic literature review was conducted, encompassing 42 articles from 2005 to 2022. Most studies originate from European countries, particularly from institutions like Sapienza University of Rome, Jinan University, and Amsterdam Business School. Notable authors include Rosa Maria Dangelico, Ans Kolk, and Jonatan Pinkse. The most cited journals include Business Strategy and the Environment, Journal of Cleaner Production, and Sustainability (MDPI). Identified opportunities for companies embracing climate change mitigation through innovation include enhanced image and competitiveness. Challenges comprise high implementation costs, ambiguous sustainable development guidelines, partnership scarcity, technological risk uncertainties, consumer acceptance concerns, deficient tools for low‐carbon product development, and the sociotechnical system's influence. Moreover, companies face hurdles like reliance on supply chain complementary capabilities and regulatory uncertainties. Future research should prioritize less costly sustainability practices and examine the sociotechnical factor's impact on sustainable innovation adoption. Prohibitive investment costs hinder companies from embracing these practices, highlighting the need for cost‐effective alternatives. Understanding the sociotechnical dynamic's role in driving or obstructing sustainable innovation adoption is crucial for comprehensive analysis and effective strategy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Methods Results Conclusions Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from protective gloves is often caused by rubber additives, such as accelerators. However, while accelerator‐free rubber gloves are available, they still cause ACD in some individuals.A new allergen, 2‐cyаnоethyl dimethyldithiocarbamate, (CEDMC), has recently been identified in accelerator‐free gloves, and we here provide a first in vitro characterisation of CEDMC in a dendritic cell (DC)‐like cell model along with three reference sensitizer rubber chemicals, consisting of tetraethylthiuram disulfide (TETD) and two xanthogenates.Cellular responses after the exposure to the rubber chemicals were assessed using a transcriptomic approach, multiplex cytokine secretion profiling, and flow cytometry to determine DC model activation marker expression and apoptosis induction.CEDMC and all other sensitizers were classified as strong skin sensitizers with the transcriptomic approach. They all significantly increased IL‐8 secretion and exposure to all except one increased CD86 DC activation marker expression. When tested, CEDMC induced apoptosis, however, delayed compared to TETD.The in vitro data corroborate CEDMC, TETD, and investigated xanthogenates as skin sensitizers. Transcriptomic analyses further reveal unique cellular responses induced by CEDMC, which together with future study can contribute to better understanding of cellular mechanisms underlying the sensitising capacity of rubber chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we report our observations from the study of the classical Robinson annulation reaction under solvent‐free mechanochemical activation by means of high‐speed ball milling. In particular, the enantioselective synthesis of the Wieland‐Miescher ketone was used as model reaction. (S)‐Proline was employed as chiral organocatalyst, either alone or in the presence of additives in order to determine their influence on the reaction's speed and stereoselectivity. Most interesting, among the additives that were examined, four solvate ionic liquids (SIL) afforded the desired product with significantly improved enantioselectivity relative to the mechanochemically‐activated reaction catalyzed by (S)‐proline alone. Furthermore, the required reaction time was reduced from 3 days to 90 min. The potential of other proline‐type organocatalysts was explored in this ball‐milling process. Initial attempts to increase the scope of the reaction to afford related annulation products were unsuccessful. HPLC‐MS experiments were carried out in order to detect some of the species that intervene in the mechanism of the (S)‐proline‐catalyzed Robinson cyclization reaction involving 2‐methyl‐1,3‐cyclohexanedione and methyl vinyl ketone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: There is a need for effective anti‐COVID‐19 treatments, mainly for individuals at risk of severe disease such as the elderly and the immunosuppressed. Drug repositioning has proved effective in identifying drugs that can find a new application for the control of coronavirus disease, in particular COVID‐19. The purpose of the present study was to find synergistic antiviral combinations for COVID‐19 based on lethal mutagenesis. Experimental Approach: The effect of combinations of remdesivir and ribavirin on the infectivity of SARS‐CoV‐2 in cell culture has been tested. Viral populations were monitored by ultra‐deep sequencing, and the decrease of infectivity as a result of the treatment was measured. Key Results: Remdesivir and ribavirin exerted a synergistic inhibitory activity against SARS‐CoV‐2, quantified both by CompuSyn (Chou‐Talalay method) and Synergy Finder (ZIP‐score model). In serial passage experiments, virus extinction was readily achieved with remdesivir‐ribavirin combinations at concentrations well below their cytotoxic 50 value, but not with the drugs used individually. Deep sequencing of treated viral populations showed that remdesivir, ribavirin, and their combinations evoked significant increases of the number of viral mutations and haplotypes, as well as modification of diversity indices that characterize viral quasi‐species. Conclusion and Implications: SARS‐CoV‐2 extinction can be achieved by synergistic combination treatments based on lethal mutagenesis. In addition, the results offer prospects of triple drug treatments for effective SARS‐CoV‐2 suppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dermoscopy is a non‐invasive, cost‐effective tool useful in the assessment of pigmented lesions. The aim of this study was to analyze the dermoscopic features in excised melanomas in a tertiary hospital in Brazil and the influence of Breslow thickness on the dermoscopic features observed. Methods: An observational, cross‐sectional study in which dermoscopic images of 43 melanomas were evaluated. The patients were divided into three groups: in situ, thin invasive melanoma (Breslow thickness <1 mm), and thick invasive melanoma (Breslow thickness ≥1 mm). Results: We studied 33 patients with 43 melanomas. Twenty‐one (48.8%) were melanoma in situ, 16 (37.2%) were thin melanomas, and 6 (14%) were thick melanomas. The most frequent dermoscopic criteria observed in all cases were atypical pigment network, multiple colors (3 or more), asymmetrical blotches, and peripheral asymmetric dots and globules. There was a statistically significant difference in the three groups regarding the frequency of atypical vessels, white scar areas, blue‐white veil, shiny white structures, and radial streaming. The group of invasive melanomas presented with a higher frequency and statistical significance (P < 0.05) of atypical vessels, white scar areas, blue‐white veil, and shiny white structures when compared to in situ melanomas. The presence of radial streaming and blue‐white veil was more frequent in thick invasive melanomas than in thin invasive melanomas. The presence of a higher number of structures was seen in invasive melanomas, with a median of 5 and 7.5 structures for thin and thick invasive tumors, respectively. Conclusions: In line with prior data, we identified an association between invasive melanomas and structures linked to fibrosis and tumor vascularity. Specifically, we noted the presence of atypical vessels, scar‐like white areas, a blue‐white veil, and shiny white structures. Also, a higher number of dermoscopic structures was seen in invasive melanomas. In thicker melanomas, we observed additional findings, including a higher frequency of radial streaming and a blue‐white veil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the effect of heat treatment on the characteristics and properties of cold spray additive manufactured 316L stainless steel employing traditional and a new metal knitting strategy is investigated. 316L feedstock powder characteristics, the geometry of the bulk, microstructure, porosity, microhardness, mechanical isotropy, and residual stress are analyzed in both strategies in as‐sprayed and heat‐treated conditions. Results show that the traditional deposition strategy produced higher mechanical resistance, whereas metal knitting presents a better part geometry accuracy. The heat treatment significantly improves the material strength and the quality of the parts by recovery and recrystallization phenomena. The same microhardness and planar isotropy are achieved after heat treatment of samples produced by both strategies. A discussion about the mechanisms, microstructural, and residual stress evolution is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Extrusion cooking of cereal‐legume flour mixture is an innovative strategy to introduce nutrient‐enriched ready‐to‐eat snacks to the market. However, this thermal process triggers the formation of compounds that could impact safety aspects of these products. Maillard reaction markers and the end products known as melanoidins were evaluated to assess the toxicological and bioactive profiles of extruded snacks from corn‐plus‐common‐bean‐flour combinations. Different molecular weight fractions were isolated and purified to analyze their antioxidant activity and to investigate the role of melanoidins.The snack formulated with an 84:16 ratio of corn:common bean flours exhibited an enhanced toxicological profile. It displayed the lowest levels of acrylamide and furanic compounds, along with reduced blockage of lysine residues in the protein. Extrusion increased the antioxidant activity of uncooked flours (30 to 64%) and total phenolic compounds (26 to 50%), and decreased the available lysine (−72.7 to −79.5%). During the fractionation process, it was established that compounds within the range of 3–10 kDa made the greatest contribution to antioxidant activity. The fraction greater than 10 kDa, which included melanoidins, displayed 7 to 33% lower antioxidant activity. The purification of the fraction greater than 10 kDa revealed that pure melanoidins represented approximately one‐third of the antioxidant activity in that fraction. Non‐covalent adducts linked to the melanoidin core therefore had a relevant role in the antioxidant action of formulated snacks.This investigation illustrates the importance of considering both potential risks and associated benefits of compounds formed during the Maillard reaction while developing new extruded snacks. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the stepwise synthesis of a novel series of heterometallic gold(I)/palladium(II) complexes supported by heteroditopic imidazol‐2‐ylidene/triazol‐5‐ylidene ligands. All new compounds were characterized by means of 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, melting points, and elemental analyses. The versatility of the ligand platforms, additionally allows for the preparation of cationic chelate biscarbenic palladium(II) complexes through full deprotonation of the mixed azolium precursors. Characterization studies were completed by the determination of the molecular structures of some synthetic intermediates. The new biscarbenic palladium(II) complexes were tested as catalysts in the cross‐coupling of boronic acid to a variety of chloroarenes and the hydrosilylation of terminal alkynes. Both catalytic processes provide good to excellent yields under low catalyst loadings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Monte Carlo simulations have been considered for a long time the gold standard for dose calculations in conventional radiotherapy and are currently being applied for the same purpose in innovative radiotherapy techniques such as targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT). Purpose: We present in this work a benchmarking study of the latest version of the Transport d'Ions Lourds Dans l'Aqua & Vivo (TILDA‐V) Monte Carlo track structure code, highlighting its capabilities for describing the full slowing down of α$\alpha$‐particles in water and the energy deposited in cells by α$\alpha$‐emitters in the context of TRT. Methods: We performed radiation transport simulations of α$\alpha$‐particles (10 keV u−1${\rm u}^{-1}$–100 MeV u−1${\rm u}^{-1}$) in water with TILDA‐V and the Particle and Heavy Ion Transport code System (PHITS) version 3.33. We compared the predictions of each code in terms of track parameters (stopping power, range and radial dose profiles) and cellular S‐values of the promising radionuclide astatine‐211 (211At$^{211}{\rm At}$). Additional comparisons were made with available data in the literature. Results: The stopping power, range and radial dose profiles of α$\alpha$‐particles computed with TILDA‐V were in excellent agreement with other calculations and available data. Overall, minor differences with PHITS were ascribed to phase effects, that is, related to the use of interaction cross sections computed for water vapor or liquid water. However, important discrepancies were observed in the radial dose profiles of monoenergetic α$\alpha$‐particles, for which PHITS results showed a large underestimation of the absorbed dose compared to other codes and experimental data. The cellular S‐values of 211At$^{211}{\rm At}$ computed with TILDA‐V agreed within 4% with the values predicted by PHITS and MIRDcell. Conclusions: The validation of the TILDA‐V code presented in this work opens the possibility to use it as an accurate simulation tool for investigating the interaction of α$\alpha$‐particles in biological media down to the nanometer scale in the context of medical research. The code may help nuclear medicine physicians in their choice of α$\alpha$‐emitters for TRT. Further research will focus on the application of TILDA‐V for quantifying radioinduced damage on the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Levodopa‐induced dyskinesias (LID) are frequent in Parkinson's disease (PD). Objective: To analyze the change in the frequency of LID over time, identify LID related factors, and characterize how LID impact on patients' quality of life (QoL). Patients and Methods: PD patients from the 5‐year follow‐up COPPADIS cohort were included. LID were defined as a non‐zero score in the item "Time spent with dyskinesia" of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale—part IV (UPDRS‐IV). The UPDRS‐IV was applied at baseline (V0) and annually for 5 years. The 39‐item Parkinson's disease Questionnaire Summary Index (PQ‐39SI) was used to asses QoL. Results: The frequency of LID at V0 in 672 PD patients (62.4 ± 8.9 years old; 60.1% males) with a mean disease duration of 5.5 ± 4.3 years was 18.9% (127/672) and increased progressively to 42.6% (185/434) at 5‐year follow‐up (V5). The frequency of disabling LID, painful LID, and morning dystonia increased from 6.9%, 3.3%, and 10.6% at V0 to 17.3%, 5.5%, and 24% at V5, respectively. Significant independent factors associated with LID (P < 0.05) were a longer disease duration and time under levodopa treatment, a higher dose of levodopa, a lower weight and dose of dopamine agonist, pain severity and the presence of motor fluctuations. LID at V0 (β = 0.073; P = 0.027; R2 = 0.62) and to develop disabling LID at V5 (β = 0.088; P = 0.009; R2 = 0.73) were independently associated with a higher score on the PDQ‐39SI. Conclusion: LID are frequent in PD patients. A higher dose of levodopa and lower weight were factors associated to LID. LID significantly impact QoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic has spurred an unparalleled scientific endeavor to elucidate the virus' structure, infection mechanisms, and pathogenesis. Two‐dimensional culture systems have been instrumental in shedding light on numerous aspects of COVID‐19. However, these in vitro systems lack the physiological complexity to comprehend the infection process and explore treatment options. Three‐dimensional (3D) models have been proposed to fill the gap between 2D cultures and in vivo studies. Specifically, spheroids, composed of lung cell types, have been suggested for studying SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and serving as a drug screening platform. Methods: 3D lung spheroids were prepared by coculturing human alveolar or bronchial epithelial cells with human lung stromal cells. The morphology, size, and ultrastructure of spheroids before and after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were analyzed using optical and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect spike protein and, thus, the virus presence in the spheroids. Multiplex analysis elucidated the cytokine release after virus infection. Results: The spheroids were stable and kept their size and morphology after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection despite the presence of multivesicular bodies, endoplasmic reticulum rearrangement, tubular compartment‐enclosed vesicles, and the accumulation of viral particles. The spheroid responded to the infection releasing IL‐6 and IL‐8 cytokines. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that coculture spheroids of epithelial and stromal cells can serve as a cost‐effective infection model for the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus. We suggest using this 3D spheroid as a drug screening platform to explore new treatments related to the cytokines released during virus infection, especially for long COVID treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the frequency of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) associated or not with oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD), and the epidemiological profile and traditional risk factors in Latin America. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in 17 Latin American centres. There were included cases of OSCC, analysing age, gender, OSCC and their association with previous OPMD. Clinicopathological variables were retrieved. The condition of sequential‐OSCC versus OSCC‐de novo (OSCC‐dn) was analysed concerning the aforementioned variables. Quantitative variables were analysed using Student's t‐test, and qualitative variables with chi‐square. Results: In total, 2705 OSCC were included with a mean age of 62.8 years old. 55.8% were men. 53.75% of the patients were smokers and 38% were common drinkers. The lateral tongue border was the most affected site (24.65%). There were regional variations in OPMD, being leukoplakia the most frequent. Of the overall 2705 OSCC cases, 81.4% corresponded to OSCC‐dn, while s‐OSCC were 18.6%. Regarding lip vermillion SCC, 35.7% corresponded to de novo lip SCC and 64.3% were associated with previous OPMD. Conclusions: In Latin America, OSCC‐dn seems to be more frequent with regional variations of some clinical and histopathological features. Further prospective studies are needed to analyse this phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic microbial communities colonize plants growing under various abiotic stress conditions. Candelilla (Euphorbia antisyphilitica Zucc.) is a shrub that develops functionally in arid and semi‐arid zones of Mexico; these conditions generate an association between the plant and the microorganisms, contributing to the production of enzymes as a defense mechanism for resistance to abiotic stress. The objective of this research was to isolate and identify endophyte fungi of candelilla and bioprospection of these endophytic fungi for enzyme production using candelilla by‐products. Fungi were isolated and identified using ITS1/ITS4 sequencing. Their potency index (PI) was evaluated in producing endoglucanase, xylanase, amylase, and laccase. Fermentation was carried out at 30°C for 8 days at 200 rpm, with measurements every 2 days, using candelilla by‐products as substrate. All fungi exhibited higher cellulase, amylase, and laccase activities on the 2nd, 6th, and 8th day of fermentation, respectively, of fermentation. The fungus Aspergillus niger ITD‐IN4.1 showed the highest amylase activity (246.84 U/mg), the genus Neurospora showed the highest cellulase activity, reaching up to 13.45 FPU/mg, and the strain Neurospora sp. ITD‐IN5.2 showed the highest laccase activity (3.46 U/mg). This work provides the first report on the endophytic diversity of E. antisyphilitica and its potential role in enzyme production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pompe Disease (PD) is a metabolic myopathy caused by variants in the GAA gene, resulting in deficient enzymatic activity. We aimed to characterize the clinical features and related genetic variants in a series of Mexican patients. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of clinical records of patients diagnosed with LOPD, IOPD or pseudodeficiency. Results: Twenty‐nine patients were included in the study, comprising these three forms. Overall, age of symptom onset was 0.1 to 43 years old. The most frequent variant identified was c.‐32‐13T>G, which was detected in 14 alleles. Among the 23 different variants identified in the GAA gene, 14 were classified as pathogenic, 5 were likely pathogenic, and 1 was a variant of uncertain significance. Two variants were inherited in cis arrangement and 2 were pseudodeficiency‐related benign alleles. We identified two novel variants (c.1615 G>A and c.1076‐20_1076‐4delAAGTCGGCGTTGGCCTG). Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this series represent the largest phenotypic and genotypic characterization of patients with PD in Mexico. Patients within our series exhibited a combination of LOPD and IOPD associated variants, which may be related to genetic diversity within Mexican population. Further population‐wide studies are required to better characterize the incidence of this disease in Mexican population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The study of the total content of essential minerals in food is important; however, only these values do not provide truly accurate information regarding their nutritional value. Bioaccessibility and bioavailability are key concepts that provide us with more precise information about these values. This study focuses on quantifying calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc in adult supplementation samples, specifically fortified dairy products (FDP) and modified enteral and oral nutrition formulas (EONF) for adults. The samples used in this work were digested using nitric acid and oxygen peroxide to quantify the total contents of Ca, Fe, Mg and Zn. The effectiveness of the acid decomposition procedure was evaluated through an accuracy test using the NIST 1547 certified sample, which exhibited recovery percentages of 97% for Ca, 95% for Fe, 101% for Mg and 90% for Zn. To assess bioaccessibility, extraction procedures were conducted using the in vitro Simple Bioaccessibility Extraction Test (SBET). The bioaccessibility ranges, expressed as percentages, were 14%–62% for Ca, 23%–65% for Fe, 21%–46% for Mg and 33%–64% for Zn. Based on the results, it can be concluded that evaluating bioaccessibility is important for assessing the nutritional content of adult supplementation, as the labelled contents are not always accessible to the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides insight into the trophic strategy of a little‐known top predator and allows for a better understanding of the selective pressures that shape its diet. We studied the diet of European honey‐buzzards, a raptor specialized in consuming social wasp brood. The ratio of predator to prey biomasses is one of the highest among raptors. Considering the prey size and ingestion rate hypothesis, we investigated the honey‐buzzard's preferences for native and exotic eusocial vespid species. We also described other prey items in the diet and how diet changes throughout the breeding season. We installed trail cameras in 24 honey‐buzzard nests in north‐western Spain in 2018–2021. We estimated the proportion and daily rate of delivery of native common‐wasps, invasive Asian‐hornets, reptiles, and birds and the honey‐buzzard's preferences for vespid species. We performed LMMs, GLMMs, and CLMMs to analyse relationships between response variables and predictors. Honey‐buzzards mainly consumed vespids (82% of prey). Common‐wasps and Asian‐hornets were almost the only two vespids consumed. The invasive hornet was the second most consumed prey, but common‐wasps were preferred. Vespids became more important as the age and number of nestlings increased. Our results suggest that this diet is the adaptive result of the conflict between being a median‐sized insect‐eating nidicolous raptor and collecting enough morsels for the growth of its nestlings. This would allow them to deliver a relatively large amount of biomass to the nest with a high ingestion rate. We discussed implications of our findings for the management of the invasive wasp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we synthesized a series of nine tetraalkylammonium salts derived from N‐methyl morpholine and assessed their antibacterial efficacy against Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The investigated morpholinium cations differ by the length of one linear alkyl chain, which ranges from 1 to 18 carbon atoms. We found that compounds with alkyl chains in the n‐C12H25‐(n‐dodecyl) to C16H33‐(n‐hexadecyl) display the highest bactericidal effects, exhibiting Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) values of 3.9 μg/mL – surpassing the effectiveness of the commercial drug Linezolid. Conversely, compounds with shorter chains (<5 carbon atoms) are inactive against MRSA, establishing a clear structure‐activity relationship. Assays on A. salina reveal that short‐alkyl‐chain morpholinium derivatives, inactive against MRSA), are moderately toxic, while the strongest bactericides of our set demonstrate high or extreme toxicity to A. salina. Our findings underscore the potential of morpholine derivatives as a means to control Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and pinpoint the need to develop safe applications for these compounds given their potential toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current global change scenarios demand knowledge on how anthropogenic impacts affect ecosystem functioning through changes in food web structure. Frugivorous mesocarnivores are a key link in trophic cascades because, while their abundance and behaviour are usually controlled by apex predators, they can provide high‐quality seed‐dispersal services to plant communities. Thus, the recent rewilding of large carnivores worldwide can trigger cascading effects for plants.We investigated the top‐down effects of an apex predator (Iberian lynx Lynx pardinus) on seed‐dispersal services mediated by two mesocarnivore species (red fox Vulpes vulpes and stone marten Martes foina) at the plant community level by comparing areas with and without lynx in a Mediterranean mountain range in Southern Spain.We collected scats of mesocarnivores (n = 1575) to assess frugivory and seed dispersal of 15 plant species over two consecutive fruiting seasons and two habitat types (open and forest). Specifically, we assessed the effect of lynx presence on (i) seed occurrence and fleshy‐fruit biomass per scat, (ii) number of scats containing seeds and (iii) diversity of dispersed seeds.The quantity and diversity of dispersed seeds drastically decreased under predation risk for both mesocarnivore's species. Seed dispersal by stone martens was negatively affected by the presence of lynx, with a marked reduction in the number of scats with seeds (93%) and the diversity of dispersed seeds (46%). Foxes dispersed 68% fewer seeds in open habitats when coexisting with lynx, probably leading to differential contributions to seed‐dispersal effectiveness among habitats.Our study reveals a novel trophic cascade from apex predators to plant communities. The behavioural responses of frugivorous mesocarnivores to predation risk and the reduction in the intensity of their faecal deposition pattern are probably related to their lower abundance when co‐occurring with apex predators. While rewilding apex predators is a successful conservation tool, attention should be paid to cascading effects across food webs, particularly where frugivore megafauna is missing and mesocarnivores provide unique services to plants. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on natural resource exploitation is vital for conservation but scarce in developing nations, which encompass most of the world and often lack the capacity to produce it. A growing approach to generate information about resource use in the context of developing nations relies on surveys of resource users about their recollections (recall) of past harvests. However, the reliability of harvest recalls remains unclear. Here, we show that harvest recalls can be as accurate to data collected by standardized protocols, despite that recalls are variable and affected by the age of the recollecting person and the length of time elapsed since the event. Samples of harvest recalls permit relatively reliable reconstruction of harvests for up to 39 years in the past. Harvest recalls therefore have strong potential to inform data‐poor resource systems and curb shifting baselines around the world at a fraction of the cost of conventional approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental variation commonly drives functional trait diversity within species, among species, and across communities. Climate and shared evolutionary history can both influence trait–environment relationships. We studied variation in plant functional traits among closely related Costus species occurring across environmental gradients, the extent to which this variation occurs within single species, and how that variation may be influenced by shared evolutionary history. We measured leaf, aboveground stem, rhizome, and fine root traits of 17 species of Costus in eight sites in Costa Rica and Panama, which varied in elevation, temperature, and precipitation. We then assessed the relationships among traits and environmental variables and estimated the phylogenetic signal of the traits. We observed significant relationships between functional traits and climate. Stomatal conductance decreased, but stem density and rhizome dry matter content increased with decreasing mean annual temperature and precipitation seasonality in both cross‐species and single‐species analyses. This suggests that herbaceous species have a similar trade‐off between plant hydraulic efficiency and safety as found in woody plants. Mean annual temperature was a stronger driver of trait variation than mean annual precipitation. We also found phylogenetic signal in leaf and stem structural traits (i.e., closely related species are more similar than distantly related species), but not in physiological or belowground traits. Our results demonstrate significant trait variation within and among species of Costus, a widespread understory and herbaceous genus in the tropics, which is driven by both climate and shared evolutionary history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activated carbon (AC) materials from renewable sources are widely used in electrochemical applications due to their well‐known high surface area. However, their application as electrode material in double‐layer electrochemical devices may be limited due to their relatively low electrical conductivity and lightweight. To overcome these limitations, the incorporation of pseudocapacitance metal oxide nanoparticles is an optimum approach. These nanoparticles can provide a second energy storage mechanism to the composite, mitigating the loss of surface area associated with their incorporation. As a result, the composite material is endowed with increased conductivity and higher density, making it more suitable for practical implementation in real devices. In this study, we have incorporated a fine dispersion of 1 % of MnO clusters into a highly porous activated carbon synthesized from walnut shells (WAC). The high‐resolution electron microscopy studies, combined with their related analytical techniques, allow us to determine the presence of the cluster within the matrix carbon precisely. The resulting MnO@WAC composite demonstrated significantly improved capacitive behavior compared with the WAC material, with increased volumetric capacitance and higher charge retention at higher current densities. The composite's electrochemical performance suggests its potential as a promising electrode material for supercapacitors, addressing drawbacks associated with traditional AC materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Academic stress is a problem that affects students due to a number of factors that are considered stressors. These include academic overload and completion of assignments and exams, exacerbated by such external conditions as family, social and economic problems. Together, these can affect emotional and physical health, which may lead in the long term to developing a number of pathologies, given the alteration of immunological homoeostasis with which they are related. Objective: To evaluate the effect of academic stress on the production of cytokines IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐10 in Morphology students in the Faculty of Health Sciences of the Universidad del Cauca during an academic period. Methodology: A descriptive longitudinal study was carried out with a population of 78 students studying Morphology, among the subjects with the highest academic load in the Physiotherapy, Medicine, Nursing and Phonoaudiology programs in the Faculty. Academic stress was assessed in the students by applying the Academic Stress Questionnaire (ASQ), and through quantification of the IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐10 cytokines using the ELISA (Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay) technique in three "moments" of the academic semester: Moment 1: beginning of the academic semester; Moment 2: week of evaluations of 70% of the semester; Moment 3: week of final exams. Results: The students perceived stress as "normal" at Moment 1, while at Moments 2 and 3 it was perceived as "quite a lot", with percentages of 48.7% and 50%, respectively. The predominant stressors were: "methodological deficiencies", "academic overload", and "exams", for the three moments of the study. "Physical exhaustion" was the most prevalent stress response at all three moments, followed by "irascible behaviour" (Moment 2 and 3), and "sleep disturbances" (Moment 3). To cope with the stress, the students resorted mainly to "planning and management of personal resources" in the three moments of the study. A progressive increase in the pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐6 and TNF‐α and a decrease in IL‐10 were observed at all three moments. A correlation was found between some questions belonging to the "methodological deficiencies", "beliefs about performance", "sleep disturbances", "physical exhaustion" and "irascible behaviour" dimensions with IL‐6, IL‐1β, TNF‐α and IL. −10. Conclusion: The morphology students suffer increased stress indicators (perceived stress and pro‐inflammatory cytokines) throughout the academic period. The "methodological deficiencies", "academic overload" and "exams" stressors, together with "physical exhaustion", "sleep disturbances" and "irascible behaviour", possibly influence the production of the IL‐6, TNF‐α and IL‐10 cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the room- and high-temperature (650 °C) tensile and low-cycle-fatigue behavior of Inconel 718 produced by laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) with a four-step heat treatment and compares the results to the conventional wrought material. The microstructure after heat treatment is characterized on different length scales. Compared to the wrought variant, the elastic and yield properties are comparable at both test temperatures while tensile strength, ductility, and strain hardening capacity are lower. The fatigue life of the PBF-LB/M variant at room temperature is slightly lower than that of the wrought material, while at 650 °C, it is vice versa. The cyclic stress response for both material variants is characterized by cyclic softening, which is more pronounced at the higher test temperature. High strain amplitudes (≥0.7%) at room temperature and especially a high testing temperature result in the formation of multiple secondary cracks at the transitions of regions comprising predominantly elongated grain morphology and columns of stacked grains with ripple patterns in the PBF-LB/M material. This observation and pronounced crack branching and deflection indicate that the cracks are controlled by sharp micromechanical gradients and local <001> crystallite clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Round rays (family: Urotrygonidae) are commonly caught as by‐catch by shrimp trawl fisheries in the tropical eastern Pacific (TEP). However, little information on their life history and catch species composition exists for most round ray species, preventing the evaluation of the impact of fishing on their populations. The mean size at sexual maturity (DW50), seasonal variation by maturity stages, and fecundity for two round ray species caught during shrimp trawl research cruises in the south‐eastern Gulf of California (northern TEP) were estimated using a multi‐model approach and inference for the first time, to determine the part of the population of each species that is being affected by shrimp trawling. Disc width (DW) ranged from 7.0 to 30.9 cm for the spotted round ray (Urobatis maculatus), and 7.2–33.5 cm for the thorny stingray (Urotrygon rogersi), with females reaching larger sizes than males in both species. The DW50 was estimated at 12.8 and 11.8 cm DW for the males and females of U. maculatus, respectively, whereas for U.rogersi, it was 15.0 and 18.4 cm DW for males and females, respectively. Embryos were found in females ≥14.5 cm DW in both species. The maximum fecundity was five embryos for U. maculatus (mean = 3.1 ± 0.2 S.E., mode = 4), and six embryos for U. rogersi (mean = 3.0 ± 0.3 S.E., mode = 2). Fecundity and embryo size did not vary with maternal size. Male and female immature and mature individuals for both species, including pregnant females, were found in the catches in all seasons of the year. Our results can help determine the vulnerability of the studied species populations to fishing pressure from shrimp trawling in the northern TEP and guide the development of future monitoring strategies and conservation actions for these species, if necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Applied Ecology is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Summary: Pomegranate peel polyphenols, specifically the punicalagin, have gained importance due to their potential antioxidant capacity and because of this different methodologies to encapsulate and protect the polyphenols for proposing their uses have been proposed. The objective of the present work was to optimise the spray drying of pomegranate peel polyphenols and additionally to evaluate their antioxidant activity based on lipid oxidation inhibition. The spray‐drying process was optimised via Taguchi L9 orthogonal array considering the feed flow (3.0, 4.5, and 6.0 mL min−1), temperature (125, 150, and 200 °C), and airflow (30, 35, and 40 m3 h−1). The lipid oxidation inhibition was the response variable. The optimal spray‐drying conditions were experimentally validated, and the changes in polyphenols were analysed by HPLC‐ESI‐MS. The spray‐drying conditions optimised at which the polyphenols better preserved their antioxidant capacity (i.e., 87.40% of inhibition) were feed flow, 4.5 mL min−1; temperature, 125 °C; and airflow, 35 m3 h−1. However, temperature control was the most critical factor for obtaining good quality spray‐dried polyphenols (37.65% of influence). This permitted us to propose that spray‐dried pomegranate peel polyphenols could be used as antioxidants in edible oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aims of this study were to design a novel titanium surface coated with a PVA hydrogel matrix and chitosan‐based nanoparticles and to investigate the antibiotic release and its ability to inhibit microbial activity. Methods: Two drug delivery systems were developed and mixed. Chitosan‐based nanoparticles (NP) and a polyvinyl alcohol film (PVA). The size, ζ‐potential, stability, adhesive properties, and encapsulation profile of NP, as well as the release kinetics of drug delivery systems and their antimicrobial ability of PVA and PVANP films, were studied on Ti surfaces. The systems were loaded with doxycycline, vancomycin, and doxepin hydrochloride. Results: Nanoparticles presented a ζ‐potential greater than 30 mV for 45 days and the efficiency drug encapsulation was 26.88% ± 1.51% for doxycycline, 16.09% ± 10.24% for vancomycin and 17.57% ± 11.08% for doxepin. In addition, PVA films were loaded with 125 μg/mL of doxycycline, 125 μg/mL of vancomycin, and 100 μg/mL of doxepin. PVANP‐doxycycline achieved the antibacterial effect at 4 h while PVA‐doxycycline maintained its effect at 24 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The presence of cannon A waves, the so called "frog sign", has traditionally been considered diagnostic of atrioventricular nodal re‐entrant tachycardia (AVNRT). Nevertheless, it has never been systematically evaluated. The aim of this study is to assess the independent diagnostic utility of cannon A waves in the differential diagnosis of supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs). Methods: We prospectively included 100 patients who underwent an electrophysiology (EP) study for SVT. The right jugular venous pulse was recorded during the study. In 61 patients, invasive central venous pressure (CVP) was registered as well. CVP increase is thought to be related with the timing between atria and ventricle depolarization; two groups were prespecified, the short VA interval tachycardias (including typical AVNRT and atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT) mediated by a septal accessory pathway) and the long VA interval tachycardias (including atypical AVNRT and AVRT mediated by a left free wall accessory pathway). Results: The relationship between cannon A waves and AVNRT did not reach the statistical significance (OR: 3.01; p =.058); On the other hand, it was clearly associated with the final diagnosis of a short VA interval tachycardia (OR: 10.21; p <.001). CVP increase showed an inversely proportional relationship with the VA interval during tachycardia (b = −.020; p <.001). CVP increase was larger in cases of AVNRT (4.0 mmHg vs. 1.2 mmHg; p <.001) and short VA interval tachycardias (3.9 mmHg vs. 1.2 mmHg; p <.001). Conclusion: The presence of cannon A waves is associated with the final diagnosis of short VA interval tachycardias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paspalum guenoarum is a warm‐season perennial grass, with a caespitose growth habit. The species is native to southern Brazilian grasslands and has been used in interspecific hybridizations because of its high palatability, resistance to trampling and grazing, and cold tolerance. Previous studies reported improvements in forage production and the nutritive value of hybrid material. However, there are limited data about seed production and seed quality of these hybrids. The aim of this study was to quantify the optimal time to harvest seed of three Paspalum plicatulum × P. guenoarum hybrids (08Q01, 104026, and 105052). Seed yield and seed quality were determined. Hybrids were harvested at 10, 20, and 30 days after flowering and evaluated for the components of seed yield, vigor, and viability. The optimum time to harvest was 20 days after the beginning of flowering. A >50% yield reduction, due to seed shattering, occurred when harvesting was delayed beyond 20 days. Harvesting <20 days after flowering resulted in a high percentage of empty spikelets and seeds with low vigor and viability. About 75% of the seed shattering took place 10–20 days after flowering, and for the 104026 and 105052 hybrids, >50% of seed was during this period. Hybrid 105052 had superior seed yield (2380 ± 280 kg ha−1) and similar seed quality. These two characteristics, among others, are the most important ones when recommending a new commercial cultivar for release. Core Ideas: Native grass seeds are vital for sustaining livestock productivity in southern Brazil.There is a gap between seed yield and seed quality due to the harvest time in Paspalum hybrids.Delayed harvesting can halve seed yield, while early harvesting affects seed quality.Hybrids of Paspalum plicatulum × P. guenoarum are promising candidates for commercial cultivars due to seed traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to explore the interplay between frailty, physical function, physical activity, nutritional status, and their impact on the quality of life and depressive status in older adults with frailty. Methods: A cross‐sectional study involving 235 pre‐frail/frail older adults residing in Spanish communities was conducted. Frailty was assessed using Fried's criteria, physical function was evaluated using the Short Physical Performance Battery, and physical activity levels were measured via wrist‐worn accelerometers. Nutritional status was determined using the Mini‐Nutritional Assessment alongside anthropometric measurements. Quality of life was gauged using the EuroQoL 5‐Dimension 5‐Level, while depressive status was assessed using the Yesavage 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale. Multivariate linear regression and logistic regression analyses were employed to elucidate the associations of these factors with quality of life and depression. Results: Our findings revealed significant correlations between various factors and quality of life. Notably, reported fatigue (β = −0.276, p = 0.002), performance in the 4‐m gait test (β = −0.242, p = 0.001), the score on the short version of the Mini‐Nutritional Assessment (β = 0.312, p = 0.002), and engagement in light physical activity (β = 0.180, p = 0.023) were all found to be associated with quality of life. In terms of depressive symptoms, the Mini‐Nutritional Assessment score emerged as a protective factor (Odds ratio, OR: 0.812, p < 0.001), as did participation in moderate physical activity (OR: 0.988, p = 0.028). Conversely, fatigue (OR: 3.277, p = 0.003) and a slow gait speed (OR: 1.136, p = 0.045) were identified as risk factors for depressive symptoms. Conclusions: This study underscores the detrimental association of fatigue and slow gait speed on both quality of life and depressive status among older adults with frailty. In contrast, engaging in physical activity and addressing malnutrition risk emerge as critical protective factors for enhancing quality of life and ameliorating depressive symptoms in this population. Clinical trial registration: This is a study that uses cross‐sectional data from a trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT05610605). Key points: Good nutritional status significantly contributes to improved quality of life and reduced depressive symptoms in older adults with frailty.Light physical activity is positively associated with perceived quality of life, while moderate physical activity helps in reducing depressive symptoms in this population.The presence of exhaustion, fatigue, and slow gait speed is negatively associated with both the quality of life and depressive status in older adults with frailty.Handgrip strength and gait speed emerged as vital contributors to quality of life and depression in older adults with frailty, highlighting their importance as modifiable factors for intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of 3D biomodelling and surgical guides for the treatment of small subungual glomus tumors. Glomus tumors are benign neoplasms that cause significant pain for patients. The article describes the development of a custom-made surgical guide using 3D technologies and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance preoperative planning and surgical precision. The use of 3D printing and virtual reality navigation has the potential to improve diagnosis and surgical management. The article emphasizes the importance of complete tumor excision to reduce recurrence and postsurgical complications. [Extracted from the article]

We present a case of disulfiram‐induced mania in a patient with both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and psychostimulant use disorder (PUD), without a history of psychosis or mania. This acute presentation may be linked to the increased dopamine levels caused by disulfiram metabolism. Our patient developed manic symptoms 10 days after starting disulfiram, prescribed to treat the AUD. It should be noted that the symptoms resolved rapidly after disulfiram cessation during hospitalization. Disulfiram use is an effective treatment for alcohol dependence. However, there are safety concerns associated with it and it requires close monitoring, particularly in patients with a history of mania, psychosis, or psychostimulant use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of a chiral isothiourea, namely, (4aR,8aR)‐3‐phenyl‐4a,5,6,7,8,8a‐hexahydrobenzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1‐b]thiazol‐9‐ium bromide, C15H17N2S+·Br−, with potential organocatalytic and anti‐inflammatory activity is reported. The preparation of the heterocycle of interest was carried out in two high‐yielding steps. The hydrobromide salt of the isothiourea of interest provided suitable crystals for X‐ray diffraction analysis, the results of which are reported. Salient observations from this analysis are the near perpendicular arrangement of the phenyl ring and the mean plane of the heterocycle. This conformational characteristic may be relevant with regard the stereoselectivity induced by the chiral isothiourea in asymmetric reactions. Furthermore, evidence was found for the existence of an S...Br− halogen bond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the impact of social pensions on old‐age poverty. To achieve causal identification, we leverage the reduction in the minimum eligibility age of Mexico's flagship non‐means‐tested social pension program. We find that the program's expansion significantly reduced extreme poverty, mainly among indigenous seniors and in rural areas. However, it had negligible effects on labor force participation, suggesting that social pensions were not effective in ensuring minimum economic well‐being and simultaneously inducing retirement among seniors at early stages of old age. The program's small cash transfer and mistargeting are among the main explanations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Anesthesia often exacerbates memory recall difficulties in individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. METHODS: We used in vivo Ca2+ imaging, viral‐based circuit tracing, and chemogenetic approaches to investigate anesthesia‐induced remote memory impairment in mouse models of presymptomatic AD. RESULTS: Our study identified pyramidal neuron hyperactivity in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) as a significant contributor to anesthesia‐induced remote memory impairment. This ACC hyperactivation arises from the disinhibition of local inhibitory circuits and increased excitatory inputs from the hippocampal CA1 region. Inhibiting hyperactivity in the CA1‐ACC circuit improved memory recall after anesthesia. Moreover, anesthesia led to increased tau phosphorylation in the hippocampus, and inhibiting this hyperphosphorylation prevented ACC hyperactivity and subsequent memory impairment. DISCUSSION: Hippocampal‐cortical hyperactivity plays a role in anesthesia‐induced remote memory impairment. Targeting tau hyperphosphorylation shows promise as a therapeutic strategy to mitigate anesthesia‐induced neural network dysfunction and retrograde amnesia in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Chagas cardiomyopathy (ChC) is the most severe clinical form of Chagas disease and, in association with psychosocial factors, can compromise the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of affected patients. To date, there is no specific instrument to assess the HRQoL of these patients, and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLwHFQ), specific for heart failure, is being used both in research and current clinical practice. Therefore, we aimed to verify the validity of the MLwHFQ in the assessment of HRQoL of patients with ChC. Methods: Fifty patients with ChC (50.6 ± 10.1 years, NYHA I‐III) were evaluated. The MLwHFQ, Short‐Form of Health Survey (SF‐36), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Human Activity Profile (HAP) were applied. All patients underwent echocardiography and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET). Results: The MLwHFQ score correlated with almost all SF‐36 domains (with r‐value ranging from −0.38 to −0.69), except pain (p = 0.118). The MLwHFQ score also correlated with the BDI score (r = 0.748; p < 0.001), HAP score (r = −0.558; p = 0.001), peak oxygen uptake (r = −0.352; p = 0.01), and left ventricular ejection fraction (r = −0.329; p = 0.021). There was no significant difference in the score found on the MLwHFQ among NYHA classes (p = 0.101), as well as between patients with systolic dysfunction (n = 30) and preserved cardiac function (n = 20) (p = 0.058). Similarly, there was no significant difference in the score found on the physical (p = 0.423) and mental (p = 0.858) components of SF‐36 between patients with systolic dysfunction and preserved cardiac function (p = 0.271 and p = 0.609, respectively). There was also no difference in the mental component of SF‐36 among NYHA classes (p = 0.673). However, the HRQoL using the physical component of SF‐36 was worse in advanced NYHA classes (p = 0.014). Conclusion: MLwHF correlated with most SF‐36 HRQoL domains, depressive symptoms, physical activity, and systolic function and seems to be valid in assessing the HRQoL of ChC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral refraction is believed to be involved in the development of myopia. The aim of this study was to compare the relative peripheral refraction (RPR) at four different levels of illuminance, ranging from photopic conditions to complete darkness, using an open‐field autorefraction method. The RPR was calculated for each eccentricity by subtracting central from peripheral autorefraction measurements. The study included 114 myopic eyes from 114 subjects (mean age of 21.81 ± 1.91 years) and the mean difference in RPR between scotopic and photopic conditions (0 and 300 lux, respectively) was +0.32 D at 30° temporal and +0.37 D at 30° in the nasal visual field (NVF). Statistically significant differences were observed between 0 and 300 lux at 30° in the temporal visual field and at 30° and 20° in the NVF. Our results revealed a significant increase in relative peripheral hyperopia with increasing visual field eccentricity along the horizontal visual field in myopic eyes of young adults. Furthermore, this relative peripheral hyperopia increased as illumination decreased. These findings suggest that an increase in peripheral illuminance may protect against myopic eye growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Au/ZnO systems have been investigated in recent years as alternatives to improve the photocatalytic performance obtained by pure ZnO and other nanocatalysts based on ZnO nanostructures. ZnO nanoparticles and Au/ZnO nanocatalysts were successfully synthesized by facile and low‐cost methods, such hydrothermal synthesis and chemical reduction method, respectively. The plasmonic nanocatalysts were fabricated at different Au precursor (HAuCl4) concentrations (0.5–5 mM) to obtain different Au contents (0.31–13.9 at.%) on the ZnO surface. The influence of Au content on the ZnO surface and its photocatalytic activity was studied. RESULTS: The photocatalytic activities of pure ZnO and Au/ZnO nanocatalysts were evaluated in the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) solution under UV light. The Au/ZnO nanocatalyst with the lowest Au content (0.31 at.%) showed the best photocatalytic performance, reaching an MB degradation rate of 99.99% within 60 min (an enhancement of 60% compared with ZnO nanoparticles) and a reaction rate constant of 4.186 min−1 (×10−2), which is higher than those of other novel and complex nanocatalysts based on ZnO. Moreover, five cycles of self‐cleaning and an outstanding durability of 25 aging months were obtained during photocatalytic applications. CONCLUSION: As demonstrated, a high amount of Au nanospheres on the ZnO surface is not necessary to enhance its photocatalytic activity. This synthesis process offers the possibility of obtaining the optimum amount of Au loading over the ZnO surface to reach a better photocatalytic performance, good self‐cleaning ability, and outstanding durability in comparison with other complex and recently reported catalysts (composites based on ZnO nanostructures). © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and evaluation of synthesis materials are crucial to reducing the morbidity and magnitude of post‐enterorrhaphy surgical complications. Despite the possibility of production, chitosan thread has not yet been used in enterorrhaphy, and its effects on intestinal healing have not been evaluated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of chitosan thread on the intestinal wall repair of rabbits submitted to cecorrhaphy. For this, 42 rabbits were allocated into two groups with 21 animals. One group was submitted to cecorrhaphy with chitosan suture thread (CG) and the other with poliglecaprone suture thread (PG). The occurrence of postoperative complications, the intensity of edema, cellular response, formation of granulation tissue, as well as the deposition and maturation of collagen fibers, and the intensity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF‐α) expression, were evaluated during the intestinal wall repair process. The evaluations occurred on the 5th, 15th, and 25th postoperative (PO) days. The animals did not develop peritonitis, but adherence was observed in six animals from CG and seven from PG, with no difference between groups. The polymorphonuclear infiltrate showed higher intensity and higher amount of type III collagen fibers in CG on the 15th PO day. In contrast, a lower amount of type I collagen fibers was observed in CG samples on the 25th PO day. Therefore, the chitosan thread used for cecorrhaphy in rabbits results in minimal postoperative complications, presents biocompatibility, and bioactively assists the tissue repair process of the cecal wall, inducing minimal tissue reaction, stimulating the deposition of type III collagen fibers in the proliferative phase, with sustained VEGF‐α expression, but with reduced deposition of type I fibers, indicating a delay in collagen maturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co‐inoculation of soybean with plant growth‐promoting microorganisms has the potential to increase yield, and the Amazon is a biome rich in these beneficial microorganisms. Soybean is the most important grain crop in Brazil and is highly benefited by inoculation with Bradyrhizobium spp. strains, both of which represent exotic symbiotic partners. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of soybean co‐inoculation with Amazonian strains of Trichoderma asperellum and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Greenhouse and field experiments were conducted during the 2020 and 2021 crop seasons in Brazil, respectively. The experimental design was completely randomized in the greenhouse, and randomized blocks were used in the field, both with 3 × 2 factorial schemes. Standard inoculation with Bradyrhizobium and co‐inoculation with T. asperellum and B. amyloliquefaciens was considered the first factor, and the second factor was represented by phosphate fertilization (0 and 100 kg ha−1 of P2O5). The root system volumes were 25% and 17% higher than those of the standard inoculation with T. asperellum and B. amyloliquefaciens, respectively. In 2020, co‐inoculation with T. asperellum increased yield by 15%, plant height by 27%, and net profit by up to 121 USD compared with standard inoculation. In 2021, co‐inoculation with T. asperellum and B. amyloliquefaciens resulted in increases in several growth parameters compared to those with standard inoculation, including 7% and 13% greater yields, and 159 USD and 309 USD increases in net profit, respectively. Our results indicate the possibility of expanding soybean co‐inoculation with local strains of Bacillus and Trichoderma, with benefits for productivity and profitability. Core Ideas: It is possible to expand the co‐inoculation of soybean with other microorganisms.Regionalized strains can benefit soybean productivity and profitability.Amazonian strains in soybean co‐inoculation promote increased root volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]