Disruption Of Structure Research Articles

Development and research progress of suture button fixation Latarjet procedure

To review the development and research progress of suture button fixation Latarjet procedure. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to summarize the development and related modified techniques of the suture button fixation Latarjet procedure. Since the Latarjet procedure was first introduced by French scholar Latarjet in 1954, it has undergone three key transformations, resulting in suture button fixation Latarjet procedure, which has shown satisfactory outcomes in treatment of recurrent shoulder dislocation. However, there are still drawbacks such as the risk of impingement of the graft on surrounding tissues, and the surgical disruption of anatomical structures like the coracoclavicular ligament and the pectoralis minor muscle. The scholars have proposed several modified techniques based on the suture button fixation Latarjet procedure to further reduce complications from impingement of the graft, to lower the glenohumeral contact pressure, and to eliminate the impact of surgery on the physiological structures of the shoulder joint. The modified techniques include the arthroscopic suture button fixation Latarjet procedure using FiberTape Cerclage, reconstruction of the coracoacromial ligament during congruent-arc Latarjet procedures, and limit unique coracoid osteotomy suture button Latarjet procedure (LU-tarjet procedure). These modified techniques have also shown good clinical outcomes. Additionally, other related modified techniques for reconstruction of the glenoid, such as Chinese unique Inlay Bristow procedure (Cuistow procedure), arthroscopic glenoid bone grafting with soft fixation, and all-arthroscopic modified Eden-Hybinette procedure, have also demonstrated favorable efficacy. However, there is still a lack of long-term follow-up results for these techniques and comparative studies between them. Suture button fixation Latarjet procedure is an effective method for the treatment of recurrent shoulder dislocation. There are various techniques, but there is no recognized gold standard, and further clinical and basic research is needed.

Impact of Cr Doping on the Structural, Optical, and Magnetic Properties of Sol-Gel-Synthesized Bi0.80Ba0.10Pr0.10FeO3 Nanopowders.

The sol-gel route was used to synthesize a series of compounds of the system Bi0.8Ba0.10Pr0.10Fe1-x Cr x O3 within the 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.15 compositional range. To explore the impact of Cr3+ ion substitution on the structural, dielectric, optical, and magnetic properties, we introduced varying concentrations of Cr3+ while maintaining a fixed 10% atomic concentration of each Ba2+ and Pr2+ in BiFeO3. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a structural phase transition from rhombohedral (R3c) for an undoped (i.e., without Cr) sample to two coexisting phases, i.e., a mix of rhombohedral and orthorhombic (Pbnm) phases for the Cr-doped samples. Cr3+ doping significantly changes the band gap energy from 1.84 eV (x = 0.0) to 1.93 eV (x = 0.15), which makes this material suitable for photovoltaic applications. Furthermore, each sample exhibited ferromagnetic behavior due to the disruption of the spiral spin structures and adjustments in superexchange interactions, attributed to modifications in the Fe-O and Fe-O-Fe bond lengths. A reduction in magnetization is observed at higher Cr concentrations that can be ascribed to the dilution of magnetic moments due to the increase of the orthorhombic phase percentage and the introduction of nonmagnetic Cr3+ ions. Our results show that Cr doping in the Bi0.8Ba0.10Pr0.10FeO3 system induces enhanced multiferroic properties at room temperature.

Melatonin and resveratrol alleviate molecular and metabolic toxicity induced by Bisphenol A in endometrial organoids

Bisphenol A (BPA), a widespread environmental contaminant, poses concerns due to its disruptive effects on physiological functions of the uterine endometrium. In contrast, melatonin (MT) and Resveratrol (RSV) are under scrutiny for their potential protective roles against BPA-induced damage. For the efficacy and ethical concerns in the animal test, endometrial organoids, three-dimensional models mimicking endometrium, serve as crucial tools for unraveling the impact of environmental factors on reproductive health. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the morphological, molecular and metabolic responses of porcine endometrial organoids to BPA and assess the potential protective effects of MT and RSV. Porcine uteri were prepared, digested with collagenase, mixed with Matrigel, and incubated at 38°C with 5 % CO2. Passaging involved dissociation through trypsin-EDTA treatment and subculturing. The culture medium was refreshed every 2–3 days. To investigate the environmental impact on reproductive health, endometrial organoids were treated with BPA (0.5 µM), MT (with/without BPA at 0.1 µM), and/or RSV (10 µM). Various molecular screening using gene expression, western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and metabolites profiling were assessed the effects of BPA, MT, and RSV in terms of cell viability, morphology, reproductivity, and metabolism alteration in the endometrial organoids. As expected, BPA induced structural and molecular disruptions in organoids, affecting cytoskeletal proteins, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and epithelial/mesenchymal markers. It triggered oxidative stress and apoptotic pathways, altered miRNA expression, and disrupted the endocannabinoid system. The level of glucose, galactose, and essential amino acids were increased or decreased by approximately 1.5–3 times in BPA-treated groups compared to the control groups (p-value < 0.05), indicating metabolic changes. Moreover, MT and RSV treated groups exhibited protective effects, mitigating BPA-induced disruptions across multiple pathways. For the first time, our study models endometrial organoids, advancing understanding of environmental impacts on reproductive health.

Plant Flavonoids with Antimicrobial Activity against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become a serious threat to human public health and global economic development, and there is an urgent need to develop new antimicrobial agents. Flavonoids are the largest group of plant secondary metabolites, and the anti-S. aureus and anti-MRSA activities of flavonoids have now been widely reported. The aim of this Review is to describe plant-derived flavonoid active ingredients and their effects and mechanisms of inhibitory activity against MRSA in order to provide insights for screening novel antimicrobial agents. Here, 85 plant-derived flavonoids (14 flavones, 21 flavonols, 26 flavanones, 9 isoflavones, 12 chalcones, and 3 other classes) with anti-MRSA activity are reviewed. Among these flavonoids, flavones and isoflavones generally showed the most significant anti-MRSA activity (MICs: 1-8 μg/mL). The results of the present Review display that most of the flavonoids with excellent anti-MRSA activity were derived from Morus alba L. and Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud. The antibacterial mechanism of flavonoids against MRSA is mainly achieved by disruption of membrane structures, inhibition of efflux pumps, and inhibition of β-lactamases and bacterial virulence factors. We hope this Review can provide insights into the development of novel antimicrobials based on natural products for treating MRSA infections.

Transient receptor potential mucolipin 1 circumvents oxidative stress in primary human melanocytes.

Transient Receptor Potential Mucolipin 1 (TRPML1) serves as a pivotal reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensor in cells, which is implicated in the regulation of autophagy. However, its function in melanocyte autophagy under oxidative stress remains elusive. The expression and ion channel function of TRPML1 were investigated using immunofluorescence and calcium imaging in primary human melanocytes (MCs). After activating TRPML1 with MLSA1 (TRPML1 agonist), autophagy-related molecules were investigated via western blot. ROS level, apoptosis- and autophagy-related molecules were investigated after pretreatment with MLSA1. After interference with TRPML1 expression, mitochondrial structures were visualized by electron microscopy with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2）treatment. TRPML1 was expressed and functionally active in primary human MCs, and its activation promotes elevated expression of LC3-II and reduced apoptosis and ROS levels under oxidative stress. TRPML1 downregulation caused mitochondrial swelling and disruption of cristae structures under oxidative stress in primary human MCs. TRPML1 might mediate lysosomal autophagy in primary human MCs under oxidative stress, participating in mechanisms that maintain the oxidative and antioxidant systems in balance.

Protective effect of Albizia chinensis saponin on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats focus on mucus and mucosal barriers

This study aims to explore the protective effect of Albizia chinensis saponin on ethanol-induced acute gastric ulcer in rats and elucidate its mechanisms. SD rats were deprived of water for 24 hours before the experiment. The control group and model group were administered water by gavage, and the positive drug group received rabeprazole sodium solution(40 mg·kg~(-1)) by gavage. The experimental groups were given different doses of Albizia chinensis saponin solution(3, 10, and 30 mg·kg~(-1)). After 30 minutes, the control group received 1.5 mL of water by gavage, while the other groups were administered an equal volume of 95% ethanol for modeling. After six hours, the rats were killed by cervical dislocation, and the stomachs were collected. The ulcer area was measured, and the ulcer index was calculated. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining was performed to assess histopathological changes in gastric tissue. Periodic acid-Schiff(PAS) staining was used to evaluate the distribution of gastric mucosal surface mucus. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was employed to measure the levels of phospholipids and aminohexose in the gastric mucosa. Western blot was performed to determine the expression levels of the bicarbonate transporter, matrix metalloproteinase, and tight junction-associated proteins in gastric tissue. Immunohistochemistry(IHC) staining was conducted to quantify the number of positive cells for secreted mucin and tight junction-associated proteins. The results showed that the gastric tissue surface of rats in the control group was smooth without ulceration, and the gastric ulcer index of rats in the model group was 35±11. Albizia chinensis saponin at doses of 3, 10, and 30 mg·kg~(-1) resulted in inhibition rates of gastric ulcer of 46%(P&lt;0.01), 85%(P&lt;0.001), and 100%(P&lt;0.001), respectively. Severe disruption of gastric mucosal structure and absence of the mucus layer were observed in the model group. Compared with the model group, the Albizia chinensis saponin group showed intact gastric mucosal surface mucus layer, significantly increased levels of phospholipids and aminohexose in the mucus, increased number of MUC5AC positive cells, and upregulated expression levels of the bicarbonate transporter SLC26A3 and CFTR. It also showed decreased phosphorylation of JNK and c-Jun, reduced expression levels of MMP-8, elevated expression of TIMP-1, and increased expression levels of Occludin and ZO-1. In conclusion, Albizia chinensis saponin enhances the function of the mucus-bicarbonate barrier by upregulating the content of MUC5AC, phospholipids, and aminohexose and increasing the expression levels of the bicarbonate transporter SLC26A3 and CFTR. Moreover, Albizia chinensis saponin exerts its protective effects on gastric ulcers by inhibiting the JNK signaling pathway to prevent excessive activation of MMP-8, thereby reducing the degradation of Occludin and ZO-1 and enhancing the mucosal barrier function. In summary, Albizia chinensis saponin exerts its anti-gastric ulcer effects by simultaneously enhancing the mucus barrier and the mucosal barrier.

Interaction between methyl red and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide under the influence of sodium polystyrene sulphonate in ethanol-water binary solvent systems: A spectrophotometric investigation

This research aims to comprehensively investigate and analyze the UV–visible spectroscopic behavior of the methyl red (MR)-cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) system under the influence of sodium polystyrene sulfonate (NaPSS) in aqueous and different volume fractions (v.f.) of ethanol (EtOH)–H2O (0.1, 0.2, and 0.3) at 298.15 ± 0.2 K. In EtOH–H2O solvent systems, the triple interactions of dyes-surfactants-polyelectrolyte (DSP) complex systems are entirely novel. MR interacts with CTAB in NaPSS in the binary solvent media (0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 v.f. of EtOH–H2O) resulting in the formation of ion-pairs at very low CTAB concentrations, far below their apparent critical micelle concentration (CMC*) reducing the absorbance, and the new complexes above the CMC* due to solubilization of the MR into CTAB micelles observed by distinct spectral shifts. The CMC* values obtained from spectroscopic data increase in the order: (CMC*)water< (CMC*)0.1< (CMC*)0.2< (CMC*)0.3. This is because of the reduced polarity or dielectric constant and increased degree of water structure disruption around the hydrophobic chains of CTAB, where micelle formation occurs at somewhat higher concentrations. The Gibbs energy of micellization (ΔGmo) increases in the order: (ΔGmo=−16.89)water <(ΔGmo=−16.17)0.1<(ΔGmo=−15.62)0.2<(ΔGmo=−15.38)0.3, which further supports the inhibitory effect of increasing ethanol content towards micellization. In the post-micellar region, the decrease in hydrophobic interactions and an increase in electrostatic interactions lead to a rise in the overall binding constant value. This means that, when NaPSS is present, the stronger electrostatic interactions in the post-micellar region contribute significantly to the increased binding of CTAB micelles with MR. The tautomeric activity of MR and the solvent composition played a prime role in affecting the interaction mechanism, as evidenced by the blue and red spectral shifts.

Mixed alkali effect on the mechanical, thermal and biological properties of 58S bioactive glass

Bioactive glasses (BG) containing silicon, phosphorous, and boron have emerged as promising materials for bone tissue engineering. Modifying ions play a multifaceted role in BGs, influencing their structure, properties, and biological activity that depends on their size, charge, and coordination chemistry. This study investigates the addition of sodium borate (Na2B4O7) to the 58S BG and the mixed alkali effect (MAE) resulting from incorporating Na and B ions into the CaO–SiO2–P2O5 system. In specific concentrations, Na+ and Ca2+ ions function as network modifiers, introducing structural disruptions and generating defects that impact the glass transition temperature (Tg), crystallization temperature (Tc), hardness, and sintering characteristics. The physicochemical characterization of BGs confirms the incorporation of Na and B structures. Furthermore, the Na and B doped glass sample with a [Na/Si] ratio of 0.045 exhibits favorable properties for promoting cell attachment, including forming a hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer over the surface, thereby accelerating human placental mesenchymal stem cells (hPMSCs) proliferation. The findings demonstrate the potential of Na2B4O7 incorporation in BG for bone tissue engineering applications.

Co-treatment of human GBM cell lines with imipridone ONC206 and tumor treating fields: Effect on on cell death and p-AKT.

e14033 Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary brain malignancy with dismal prognosis. Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy is available for the treatment of both newly diagnosed and recurrent glioblastoma and represents a new category of treatment modalities in oncologic therapy. Despite decades of study, few FDA approved modalities are available for GBM and provide limited survival improvements for patients. AKT functions as a key serine/threonine kinase in the RTK/PTEN/PI3K pathway, and extensive genomic analysis of GBM has revealed that this pathway is mutated in a significant majority of GBM cases. Activation of this pathway ultimately leads to the activation of AKT, and phospho-AKT levels are elevated in the majority of GBM tumor samples and cell lines. Studies have shown that increased p-AKT levels contribute to uncontrolled growth, resistance to apoptosis, and enhanced invasive capabilities of glioma cells, which are characteristics of tumor progression in GBM. AKT serves as a critical hub in this pathway, enabling the amplification of growth signals, thereby making the inhibition of AKT an appealing and promising therapeutic target for treating GBM. Imipridone ONC206 is under clinical development for treatment of pediatric and adult patients with primary brain tumors (NCT04732065 and NCT04541082). Here we show inhibition of p-AKT as well as upregulation of cleaved PARP following cotreatment of ONC206 and TTFields. Methods: We investigated the effect of ONC206 at IC50s plus TTFields in LN229, U138, U251 and T98G human GBM cell lines at different time points. Effect of treatment on cPARP, BCL-2, CHOP, caspase-10, and p-AKT were investigated using western blot. Results: Treatment with ONC206 at the IC50 in T98G cells with TTFields at 24h showed synergistic upregulation of cPARP as well as inhibition of BCL-2. At 96hour time point, inhibition of p-AKT was observed following all treatments (ONC206, TTFields, and co-application compared to control. In U251 cells, following treatment of ONC206 and TTFields, inhibition of BCL-2 was observed at 24h time point. Upregulation of CHOP and Casapse-10 at 96h time point was seen, as well as inhibition of p-AKT. Spheroid models showed structure disruption and growth arrest following combination treatment. At 72 h time point co treatment with ONC206 and TTFields resulted in synergistic upregulation of cleaved PARP. Conclusions: Here we showed cotreatment with TTFields and ONC206 results in inhibition of p-AKT, the key node in GBM growth pathway. This is the first report of cleaved PARP upregulation following TTFields and ONC206 in Human GBM cell line. Further studies to investigate the in vivo efficacy of TTField treatment in GBM with ONC206 are warranted. More studies are needed to understand the exact mechanism of synergy.

Modifying lignin composition and xylan O-acetylation induces changes in cell wall composition, extractability, and digestibility

BackgroundLignin and xylan are important determinants of cell wall structure and lignocellulosic biomass digestibility. Genetic manipulations that individually modify either lignin or xylan structure improve polysaccharide digestibility. However, the effects of their simultaneous modifications have not been explored in a similar context. Here, both individual and combinatorial modification in xylan and lignin was studied by analysing the effect on plant cell wall properties, biotic stress responses and integrity sensing.ResultsArabidopsis plant co-harbouring mutation in FERULATE 5-HYDROXYLASE (F5H) and overexpressing Aspergillus niger acetyl xylan esterase (35S:AnAXE1) were generated and displayed normal growth attributes with intact xylem architecture. This fah1-2/35S:AnAXE1 cross was named as hyper G lignin and hypoacetylated (HrGHypAc) line. The HrGHypAc plants showed increased crystalline cellulose content with enhanced digestibility after chemical and enzymatic pre-treatment. Moreover, both parents and HrGHypAc without and after pre-treating with glucuronyl esterase and alpha glucuronidase exhibited an increase in xylose release after xylanase digestion as compared to wild type. The de-pectinated fraction in HrGHypAc displayed elevated levels of xylan and cellulose. Furthermore, the transcriptomic analysis revealed differential expression in cell wall biosynthetic, transcription factors and wall-associated kinases genes implying the role of lignin and xylan modification on cellular regulatory processes.ConclusionsSimultaneous modification in xylan and lignin enhances cellulose content with improved saccharification efficiency. These modifications loosen cell wall complexity and hence resulted in enhanced xylose and xylobiose release with or without pretreatment after xylanase digestion in both parent and HrGHypAc. This study also revealed that the disruption of xylan and lignin structure is possible without compromising either growth and development or defense responses against Pseudomonas syringae infection.

Chemotherapy-induced gut microbiome disruption, inflammation, and cognitive decline in female patients with breast cancer

Chemotherapy is notorious for causing behavioral side effects (e.g., cognitive decline). Notably, the gut microbiome has recently been reported to communicate with the brain to affect behavior, including cognition. Thus, the aim of this clinical longitudinal observational study was to determine whether chemotherapy-induced disruption of the gut microbial community structure relates to cognitive decline and circulating inflammatory signals. Fecal samples, blood, and cognitive measures were collected from 77 patients with breast cancer before, during, and after chemotherapy. Chemotherapy altered the gut microbiome community structure and increased circulating TNF-α. Both the chemotherapy-induced changes in microbial relative abundance and decreased microbial diversity were related to elevated circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. Participants reported subjective cognitive decline during chemotherapy, which was not related to changes in the gut microbiome or inflammatory markers. In contrast, a decrease in overall objective cognition was related to a decrease in microbial diversity, independent of circulating cytokines. Stratification of subjects, via a reliable change index based on 4 objective cognitive tests, identified objective cognitive decline in 35% of the subjects. Based on a differential microbial abundance analysis, those characterized by cognitive decline had unique taxonomic shifts (Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, Fusicatenibacter, Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-003, and Subdoligranulum) over chemotherapy treatment compared to those without cognitive decline. Taken together, gut microbiome change was associated with cognitive decline during chemotherapy, independent of chemotherapy-induced inflammation. These results suggest that microbiome-related strategies may be useful for predicting and preventing behavioral side effects of chemotherapy.

Structural and functional disruption of subcortical limbic structures related with executive function in pediatric bipolar disorder

BackgroundImpaired cognition has been demonstrated in pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD). The subcortical limbic structures play a key role in PBD. However, alternations of anatomical and functional characteristics of subcortical limbic structures and their relationship with neurocognition of PBD remain unclear. MethodsThirty-six PBD type I (PBD-I) (15.36 ± 0.32 years old), twenty PBD type II (PBD-II) (14.80 ± 0.32 years old) and nineteen age-gender matched healthy controls (HCs) (14.16 ± 0.36 years old) were enlisted. Primarily, the volumes of the subcortical limbic structures were obtained and differences in the volumes were evaluated. Then, these structures served as seeds of regions of interest to calculate the voxel-wised functional connectivity (FC). After that, correlation analysis was completed between volumes and FC of brain regions showing significant differences and neuropsychological tests. ResultsCompared to HCs, both PBD-I and PBD-II patients showed a decrease in the Stroop color word test (SCWT) and digit span backward test scores. Compared with HCs, PBD-II patients exhibited a significantly increased volume of right septal nuclei, and PBD-I patients presented increased FC of right nucleus accumbens and bilateral pallidum, of right basal forebrain with right putamen and left pallidum. Both the significantly altered volumes and FC were negatively correlated with SCWT scores. SignificanceThe study revealed the role of subcortical limbic structural and functional abnormalities on cognitive impairments in PBD patients. These may have far-reaching significance for the etiology of PBD and provide neuroimaging clues for the differential diagnosis of PBD subtypes. ConclusionsDistinctive features of neural structure and function in PBD subtypes may contribute to better comprehending the potential mechanisms of PBD.

Saccharification and structural changes in Areca catechu husk fiber

AbstractAreca nut husk (ANH) holds promise as a viable biomass source for xylose production. Xylose is a precursor for various biochemicals. However, the recalcitrant nature of ANH makes saccharification more complex. To address this, lime and acid pretreatments were carried out to enhance the susceptibility of biomass to saccharification. Before this, a compositional analysis was conducted to determine the initial constituents of the feedstock. Saccharification was conducted under the following conditions: 2% (wV−1) substrate loading, 100 rpm agitation, and 30 °C hydrolysis temperature for 12 h hydrolysis time at pH 4.5 to 5.0. However, parameters like xylanase enzyme loading were varied to enhance the saccharification of the ANH. The results demonstrated that acid‐treated husk (ATH), lime‐treated husk (LTH), and raw husk (RH) achieved the highest yield (gg−1) of reducing sugar, approximately 90, 83, and 15%, respectively, at an enzyme loading of 15.0 IUg−1. Various analytical techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), zeta potential, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were used to examine structural changes in the native, pretreated, and saccharified residues of ANH. The analysis revealed that a significant amount of partial crystalline and amorphous cellulose in the ANH biomass was hydrolyzed during the saccharification process. However, saccharification also led to the removal of amorphous substances, disruption of the crystalline structure, and conversion of crystalline regions into amorphous domains.

Unlocking roles of cationic and aromatic residues in peptide amphiphiles in treating drug-resistant gram-positive pathogens

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a rising threat to global health because the number of essential antibiotics used for treating MDR infections is increasingly compromised. In this work we report a group of new amphiphilic peptides (AMPs) derived from the well-studied G3 (G(IIKK)3I-NH2) to fight infections from Gram-positive bacteria including susceptible Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), focusing on membrane interactions. Time-dependent killing experiments revealed that substitutions of II by WW (GWK), II by FF (GFK) and KK by RR (GIR) resulted in improved bactericidal efficiencies compared to G3 (GIK) on both S. aureus and MRSA, with the order of GWK > GIR > GFK > GIK. Electronic microscopy imaging revealed structural disruptions of AMP binding to bacterial cell walls. Fluorescence assays including AMP binding to anionic lipoteichoic acids (LTA) in cell-free and cell systems indicated concentration and time-dependent membrane destabilization associated with bacterial killing. Furthermore, AMP’s binding to anionic plasma membrane via similar fluorescence assays revealed a different extent of membrane depolarization and leakage. These observations were supported by the penetration of AMPs into the LTA barrier and the subsequent structural compromise to the cytoplasmic membrane as revealed from SANS (small angle neutron scattering). Both experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed that GWK and GIR could make the membrane more rigid but less effective in diffusive efficiency than GIK and GFK through forming intramembrane peptide nanoaggregates associated with hydrophobic mismatch and formation of fluidic and rigid patches. The reported peptide-aggregate-induced phase-separation emerged as a crucial factor in accelerated membrane disintegration and fast bacterial killing. This work has demonstrated the importance of membrane interactions to the development of more effective AMPs and the relevance of the approaches as reported in assisting this area of research.

Lessons for tomorrow: The role of relationships and mindfulness in sustaining services during a crisis.

The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented demands on hospitals around the globe, making timely crisis response critical for organizational success. One mechanism that has played an effective role in health care service management during large-scale crises is the Hospital Incident Command System. The aim of this article was to understand the role of HICS in the management of a large academic medical center and its impact on relationships and communication among providers in the delivery of services during a crisis. This mixed methods study was based on meeting observations, document reviews, semistructured interviews, and two measures of team performance within an academic medical center in the Northeast during the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were applied, and qualitative data were coded and analyzed for themes. HICS provided a systematic information-sharing and decision-making process that increased communication and coordination among team members. Analyses indicate a correlation between dimensions of relational coordination and organizational mindfulness. Qualitative data revealed the importance of shared meetings and huddles and the evolution of HICS across multiple waves of the crisis. HICS facilitated organizational improvements during the crisis response and generated opportunities to maintain specific coordination practices beyond the crisis. The prolonged implementation of HICS during the COVID-19 pandemic created challenges, including the disruption of the routine leadership structure. Applying relational coordination and organizational mindfulness frameworks may allow hospitals to leverage communications and relationships within a high-stakes environment to improve service delivery.

Protective effect of zinc gluconate on intestinal mucosal barrier injury in antibiotics and LPS-induced mice

ObjectiveThe aim of the study is to investigate the function and mechanism of Zinc Gluconate (ZG) on intestinal mucosal barrier damage in antibiotics and Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mice.MethodsWe established a composite mouse model by inducing intestinal mucosal barrier damage using antibiotics and LPS. The animals were divided into five groups: Control (normal and model) and experimental (low, medium, and high-dose ZG treatments). We evaluated the intestinal mucosal barrier using various methods, including monitoring body weight and fecal changes, assessing pathological damage and ultrastructure of the mouse ileum, analyzing expression levels of tight junction (TJ)-related proteins and genes, confirming the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, and examining the structure of the intestinal flora.ResultsIn mice, the dual induction of antibiotics and LPS led to weight loss, fecal abnormalities, disruption of ileocecal mucosal structure, increased intestinal barrier permeability, and disorganization of the microbiota structure. ZG restored body weight, alleviated diarrheal symptoms and pathological damage, and maintained the structural integrity of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). Additionally, ZG reduced intestinal mucosal permeability by upregulating TJ-associated proteins (ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-1, and JAM-A) and downregulating MLCK, thereby repairing intestinal mucosal barrier damage induced by dual induction of antibiotics and LPS. Moreover, ZG suppressed the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, demonstrating anti-inflammatory properties and preserving barrier integrity. Furthermore, ZG restored gut microbiota diversity and richness, evidenced by increased Shannon and Observed features indices, and decreased Simpson’s index. ZG also modulated the relative abundance of beneficial human gut bacteria (Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, Parabacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Akkermansia) and harmful bacteria (Proteobacteria and Enterobacter), repairing the damage induced by dual administration of antibiotics and LPS.ConclusionZG attenuates the dual induction of antibiotics and LPS-induced intestinal barrier damage and also protects the intestinal barrier function in mice.

#1609 Effect of dapagliflozin in proteinuria reduction and glomerular filtration rate in a group of Alport syndrome patients

Abstract Background and Aims Alport syndrome (AS) is the most common cause of inherited chronic kidney disease. This disorder is caused by deleterious variants on COL4A3, COL4A4 or COL4A5 genes. These genes codify the proteins that constitute collagen type IV of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). Alterations in any of collagen type IV constituents cause disruption of the GMB structure, allowing the leakage of red blood cells and proteins, mainly albumin, into the urine resulting in kidney damage and loss of renal function. In AS progressive kidney impairment can be delayed or possibly prevented by timely initiation of renin angiotensin aldosterone inhibitors (RAAi): in males with X-linked AS and in autosomal recessive AS ARAS at diagnosis and in females with XLAS and autosomal dominant AS at the onset of microalbuminuria. Recently, it was showed that sodium-cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) reduce proteinuria and slow the progression of kidney disease in many glomerular diseases. Thus, also in AS, SGLT2i could be promising in renal disease progression control. The aim of this study was to determine the proteinuria reduction and the effect on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a group of AS patients with persistent proteinuria besides the use of RAAi in maximum tolerated doses after adding SGLT2i to the treatment. Method This study was single-center, observational and prospective study evolving 8 AS adult patients, without a diagnosis of diabetes, with persistent proteinuria besides the use of RAAi in maximum tolerated doses. All patients were prescribed wit dapagliflozin 10 mg daily. We determine the changes from baseline of urinary protein/creatine (Up/cr) and glomerular filtration rate (based on epiGFR formula). Results Eight AS patients were included in this study. All were male patients. One patient has XLAS and the other 7 patients have ADAS. No patient was diabetic, and all were under RAAi in maximum tolerated doses. We determine de Up/cr and epiGFR at baseline and median time of 213.5 days (IQR 208.3-259) after SGLT2i initiation. At baseline, the median of Up/cr was 1.4 (IQR 0.8-2.1) and after SGLT2i Up/cr was 1.5 (0.8-2.6), p = 0.727. Up/cr, after SGLT2i treatment, reduced in 3 patients and worsened in 5. Median epiGFR at baseline was 80.3 ml/min (IQR 40.9-109.5) and after SGLT2i initiation was 74.7 ml/min (40.4-112.0), p = 0.727. Conclusion In this study, we did not observe an improvement in Up/cr of AS patients with SGLT2i treatment. A slight decrease in GFR was observed that may be due to the well know hemodynamic effects of SGLT2i. The small cohort and short time of the study are factors that can interfere in these results and should not discourage the treatment of AS patients with SGLT2i.

Resilience and psychological distress in the transition to university: the mediating role of emotion regulation

Young adults face numerous challenges during their first year of university, which is considered by various researchers to be a time of potential threat and acute stress. These challenges were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in disruption of old learning and social structures that make it all the more difficult to adapt. The purpose of this study was to understand the relationship between resilience, emotion regulation, and psychological distress during the transition to university. A sample of 417 students (250 females, 60%) aged 18to 33 years (Mage = 19.87, SDage = 1.47) was recruited at an Italian university using a random sampling method. Paper questionnaires were completed in classrooms. Resilience was assessed with the Resilience Scale, emotion regulation with the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-18, and psychological distress with the Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scales-21. Results showed that (a) resilience was negatively correlated with difficulties in emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, and stress; (b) difficulties in emotion regulation were positively correlated with depression, anxiety, and stress; and (c) difficulties in emotion regulation significantly mediated the relationship between resilience and psychological distress. These findings shed light on the relationship between resilience and difficulties in emotion regulation during university transfer and call on higher education institutions to take steps to promote successful emotion regulation in first-year students to facilitate a positive transition to university.

Synthesis of Ag@SiO2 core-shell nanoparticles for antibacterial application in water-based acrylic polymer coatings

In this study, Ag@SiO2 core-shell nanoparticles were synthesized using the Stöber method and then physically mixing with MPS functionalized poly (styrene-co-acrylate) (PSA) emulsion to obtain a novel antibacterial composite material (PSA/Ag@SiO2). The dispersion of composite latexes was improved by the formation of Si-O-Si covalent bonds, and the migration of AgNPs on the surface of composite films enhanced their antimicrobial activity. Analysis of UV-Vis absorption spectra, TEM images, XPS and XRD data confirmed the core-shell structure of Ag@SiO2 and the successful coating of AgNPs by SiO2. TEM micrographs showed that Ag@SiO2 core-shell nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed in the composite latexes, with an average particle size of 198 nm for PSA/Ag@SiO2 composite latexes, larger than that of PSA latexes (162 nm). FTIR spectra also indicated the presence of Si-O-Si covalent bonds resulting from the sol-gel reaction between MPS functionalized PSA with Ag@SiO2. XPS and WCA characterization revealed the disruption of the core-shell structure of Ag@SiO2, leading to the migration of AgNPs to the air-film interface. The results of antibacterial activity demonstrated that PSA/Ag@SiO2 composite films displayed antibacterial activity against both E. coli and S. aureus, and the former displayer a slightly better antibacterial activity than the latter. The water-based acrylic polymer coatings with antibacterial properties explored in current work have various applications in wood paints, varnishes, metal protection, decorative systems and other related fields.

Evaluation of ultrasound and pulsed electric field combinations on the cooking Losses, texture Profile, and Taste-Related amino acids of chicken breast meat

The search to improve the quality of meat while maintaining its nutritional value and flavor profile has driven the investigation of emerging clean-label non-thermal technologies in the field of meat processing. Ultrasound (US) and pulsed electric field (PEF) treatments have emerged as promising tools for producing high-quality meat products. This study investigated the combined effects of ultrasound and PEF on chicken breast meat quality, focusing on cooking loss, texture, and taste-related amino acids. Ultrasound (24.5 kHz, 300 W, 10 min) combined with PEF for 30 s (1.6, 3.3, and 5.0 kV/cm as US + PEF 1, US + PEF 3, and US + PEF 5, respectively) significantly reduced cooking losses (up to 28.78 %), potentially improving the product yield. Although US + PEF significantly (p < 0.05) affected pH, particularly at a higher PEF intensity (5 kV/cm), the overall color appearance of the treated meat remained unchanged. The combined treatments resulted in a tenderizing effect and decreased meat hardness, adhesiveness, and chewiness. Interestingly, US + PEF with increasing PEF intensity (1.6 to 5.0 kV/cm) led to a gradual increase in taste-related amino acids (aspartic acid, glutamic acid, etc.), potentially enhancing flavor. FTIR spectra revealed alterations in protein and lipid structures following treatment, suggesting potential modifications in meat quality. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed significant changes in the texture and structure of US + PEF-treated meat, depicting structural disruptions. Furthermore, Pearson’s correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) revealed a clear relationship between the physicochemical characteristics, free amino acids, color, and texture attributes of chicken meat. By optimizing treatment parameters, US + PEF could offer a novel approach to improve chicken breast meat quality.