The 2023 MDPI Annual Report has
been released!
 
14 pages, 994 KiB  
Review
Complications of Pelvic Prolapse Surgery Using Mesh: A Systematic Review
by Alexandru Dabica, Oana Balint, Flavius Olaru, Cristina Secosan, Ligia Balulescu, Simona Brasoveanu, Marilena Pirtea, Diana Popin, Ioana Flavia Bacila and Laurentiu Pirtea
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(6), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14060622 (registering DOI) - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a public health problem that influences millions of women around the globe, and it has a significant impact on the quality of life. From the FDA statement regarding the complications of using mesh implants in POP surgery [...] Read more.
Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a public health problem that influences millions of women around the globe, and it has a significant impact on the quality of life. From the FDA statement regarding the complications of using mesh implants in POP surgery to studies that have shown the benefits and side effects, we conducted a systematic review investigating the complications associated with surgical mesh implantation for POP repair. Methods: Relevant studies were identified through a comprehensive search of scientific databases. Studies evaluating the use of mesh in POP surgery and reporting on associated complications were included. Results: Among 2816 studies, 28 studies met the research criteria, with a total number of 8958 patients, revealing that in laparoscopic mesh surgery, the rate of mesh exposure was lower compared to vaginal mesh surgery, among other complications. Conclusions: Laparoscopic mesh surgery is superior as a long-term approach for POP repair compared to vaginal mesh surgery, offering lower complication rates and potentially better anatomical success. However, vaginal mesh surgery remains a valuable option for patients who are unsuitable for laparoscopy due to specific factors. Future research should explore alternative techniques, like pectopexy with or without mesh, to further improve surgical outcomes and patient experience. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 1536 KiB  
Article
Honoring Inágofli’e’ and Alofa: Developing a Culturally Grounded Health Promotion Model for Queer and Transgender Pacific Islanders
by Santino Giovanni Camacho, Wilson Ta, Kilohana Haitsuka, Såhi Velasco, Roldy Aguero Ablao, Falefia Brandon Fuamatu, Jr., Eve Cruz, V. Kalei Kanuha and Michael Spencer
Genealogy 2024, 8(2), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/genealogy8020074 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Although culturally grounded health interventions (CGHI) have shown efficacy in improving Indigenous health, few CGHI for Queer and Transgender Pacific Islander (QTPI) communities exist to address their health promotion. This study explores QTPI experiences of health for cultural mechanisms to develop [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Although culturally grounded health interventions (CGHI) have shown efficacy in improving Indigenous health, few CGHI for Queer and Transgender Pacific Islander (QTPI) communities exist to address their health promotion. This study explores QTPI experiences of health for cultural mechanisms to develop CGHI for QTPI health promotion. (2) Methods: Using Indigenist community-engaged research methodologies, we collaborated with the United Territories of Pacific Islanders Alliance of Washington and Guma’ Gela’ to conduct 11 exploratory semi-structured interviews with QTPI community members living in the Puget Sound area of Washington state. These interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. (3) Results: QTPI well-being was greatly influenced by how settler colonialism impacted their connectedness to their families, communities, and cultures. We also found that inágofli’e’ and alofa, relational values in CHamoru and Sāmoan culture, played essential roles in facilitating QTPI health. Many participants fostered these values through chosen family, community care, and Indigenous mobilities. (4) Conclusions: Our findings indicate a need for CGHI that facilitate inágofli’e’ and alofa for QTPI to combat settler colonialism’s impacts on QTPI well-being. Finally, we present a community-centered conceptual model for culturally grounded health promotion in QTPI communities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health and Wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 970 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Landslide Susceptibility in the Moxi Tableland of China by Using a Combination of Deep-Learning and Factor-Refinement Methods
by Zonghan He, Wenjun Zhang, Jialun Cai, Jing Fan, Haoming Xu, Hui Feng, Xinlong Luo and Zhouhang Wu
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 5042; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14125042 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Precisely assessing the vulnerability of landslides is essential for effective risk assessment. The findings from such assessments will undoubtedly be in high demand, providing a solid scientific foundation for a range of critical initiatives aimed at disaster prevention and control. In the research, [...] Read more.
Precisely assessing the vulnerability of landslides is essential for effective risk assessment. The findings from such assessments will undoubtedly be in high demand, providing a solid scientific foundation for a range of critical initiatives aimed at disaster prevention and control. In the research, authors set the ancient core district of Sichuan Moxi Ancient Town as the research object; they conduct and give the final result of the geological survey. Fault influences are commonly utilized as key markers for delineating strata in the field of stratigraphy, and the slope distance, slope angle, slope aspect, elevation, terrain undulation, plane curvature, profile curvature, mean curvature, relative elevation, land use type, surface roughness, water influence, distance of the catchment, cumulative water volume, and the Normalized Vegetation Index (NDVI) are used along roads to calculate annual rainfall. With the purpose of the establishment of the evaluation system, there are 17 factors selected in total. Through the landslide-susceptibility assessment by the coupled models of DNN-I-SVM and DNN-I-LR nine factors had been selected; it was found that the Area Under the Curve (AUC) value of the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC) was high, and the accuracy of the model is relatively high. The coupler, DNN-I-LR, gives 0.875 of an evaluation accuracy of AUC, higher than DNN-I-SVM, which yielded 0.860. It is necessary to note that, in this region, compared to the DNN-I-SVM model, the DNN-I-LR coupling model has better fitting and prediction abilities. Full article
18 pages, 632 KiB  
Article
Antiparasitic Evaluation of Aquiluscidin, a Cathelicidin Obtained from Crotalus aquilus, and the Vcn-23 Derivative Peptide against Babesia bovis, B. bigemina and B. ovata
by Edwin Esaú Hernández-Arvizu, Masahito Asada, Shin-Ichiro Kawazu, Carlos Agustín Vega, Angelina Rodríguez-Torres, Rodrigo Morales-García, Aldo J. Pavón-Rocha, Gloria León-Ávila, Bruno Rivas-Santiago and Juan Mosqueda
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060496 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Babesiosis is a growing concern due to the increased prevalence of this infectious disease caused by Babesia protozoan parasites, affecting various animals and humans. With rising worries over medication side effects and emerging drug resistance, there is a notable shift towards researching babesiacidal [...] Read more.
Babesiosis is a growing concern due to the increased prevalence of this infectious disease caused by Babesia protozoan parasites, affecting various animals and humans. With rising worries over medication side effects and emerging drug resistance, there is a notable shift towards researching babesiacidal agents. Antimicrobial peptides, specifically cathelicidins known for their broad-spectrum activity and immunomodulatory functions, have emerged as potential candidates. Aquiluscidin, a cathelicidin from Crotalus aquilus, and its derivative Vcn-23, have been of interest due to their previously observed antibacterial effects and non-hemolytic activity. This work aimed to characterize the effect of these peptides against three Babesia species. Results showed Aquiluscidin's significant antimicrobial effects on Babesia species, reducing the B. bigemina growth rate and exhibiting IC50 values of 14.48 and 20.70 μM against B. ovata and B. bovis, respectively. However, its efficacy was impacted by serum presence in culture, and it showed no inhibition against a B. bovis strain grown in serum-supplemented medium. Conversely, Vcn-23 did not demonstrate babesiacidal activity. In conclusion, Aquiluscidin shows antibabesia activity in vitro and its efficacy is affected by the presence of serum in the culture medium. Nevertheless, this peptide represents a candidate for further investigation of its antiparasitic properties and provides insights into potential alternatives for the treatment of babesiosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Tick Research)
13 pages, 458 KiB  
Article
An Efficient and Eco-Friendly Procedure for Electrophilic Thiocyanation of Anilines and 1-(Substituted benzylidene)-2-phenyl Hydrazines
by A. M. M. Mallikarjunaswamy, Gouthami Kuruvalli, Khajamohiddin Syed, Vaddi Damodara Reddy and Vipin A. Nair
Chemistry 2024, 6(3), 476-488; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemistry6030027 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Thiocyanates form an important class of organic compounds commonly found in natural products that exhibit excellent antimicrobial activity. The electrophilic thiocyanation is one of the most effective methods of introducing a -SCN functional group to the parent organic molecule. In this work, we [...] Read more.
Thiocyanates form an important class of organic compounds commonly found in natural products that exhibit excellent antimicrobial activity. The electrophilic thiocyanation is one of the most effective methods of introducing a -SCN functional group to the parent organic molecule. In this work, we explored an eco-friendly and highly efficient method for thiocyanation of anilines and 1-(substituted benzylidene)-2-phenylhydrazines using commercially available N-bromoscuccinimide (NBS) and potassium thiocyanate (KSCN). The optimized protocol afforded thiocyanates with good regioselectivity and excellent yields in comparison to the available methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Green and Environmental Chemistry)
16 pages, 2454 KiB  
Article
Occurrence and Mechanisms Conferring Multiple Resistance to ALS-Inhibiting and Auxins Mimics Herbicides in Papaver rhoeas from Tunisia
by Myriem Chtourou, Maria Dolores Osuna, Germán Mora Marín, Zeineb Hada, Joel Torra and Thouraya Souissi
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061249 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Herbicide-resistant corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas L.) is one of the most important broadleaved weeds and the number of resistant cases is still growing. The aims of this study were to confirm the resistance of P. rhoeas from Tunisia to ALS inhibitors and [...] Read more.
Herbicide-resistant corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas L.) is one of the most important broadleaved weeds and the number of resistant cases is still growing. The aims of this study were to confirm the resistance of P. rhoeas from Tunisia to ALS inhibitors and auxin mimics and investigate the mechanisms of Target-Site Resistance (TSR) and Non-Target Site Resistance (NTSR) involved. Dose–response trials to determine cross-resistance patterns for ALS inhibitors and auxin mimics were conducted in a greenhouse. In this study, multiple resistance to tribenuron-methyl and dicamba but not to 2,4-D was found in P. rhoeas populations. Cross-resistance to imazamox was confirmed as well. Sequence analysis of the ALS gene detected target-site mutations in codon 197 of the ALS gene, namely, Pro197His, Pro197Thr, Pro197Leu, and Pro197Asn. In this study, the metabolism experiments with malathion (a cytochrome P450 inhibitor) showed that malathion reduced resistance to imazamox, indicating that P450 is involved in the resistance. TSR and NTSR mechanisms to ALS inhibitors likely coexist. The findings of this study revealed a significant synergistic interaction between malathion and dicamba in particular populations, suggesting that the resistance to auxin mimics can be conferred by enhanced metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Herbicides and Chemical Control of Weeds)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 5246 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Purkinje Meter as a Tool for Intraocular Lens Position Measurement
by Eliska Palkovicova, Jiri Cendelin and Petr Kudrna
Inventions 2024, 9(3), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions9030066 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Due to the increasing demands of today’s society on visual quality and patient comfort, and due to the growing interest in the implantation of new and more complex intraocular lens (IOL) designs, determining the IOL position occupies an important position in current ophthalmological [...] Read more.
Due to the increasing demands of today’s society on visual quality and patient comfort, and due to the growing interest in the implantation of new and more complex intraocular lens (IOL) designs, determining the IOL position occupies an important position in current ophthalmological practice. The dynamic Purkinje meter combines the construction of static Purkinje meters, presented in recent years, with dynamic examination of the IOL position according to the optical axis of the IOL. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inventions and Innovations in Optical Sensing Materials and Devices)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3642 KiB  
Article
Comparison of the Climate Change Tolerance of Native and Non-Native Species Used or Potentially Used as Ornamentals in Mediterranean Areas
by Pilar Soriano, Reyes Mora, Elena Estrelles and M. Isabel Martínez-Nieto
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060620 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
As a consequence of climate change, temperature and rainfall regimes are being modified, threatening the survival of the current gardening concept in many areas of the world. This situation highlights the need to investigate the potential of other species, especially in more sensitive [...] Read more.
As a consequence of climate change, temperature and rainfall regimes are being modified, threatening the survival of the current gardening concept in many areas of the world. This situation highlights the need to investigate the potential of other species, especially in more sensitive areas such as the Mediterranean Basin. The aim of this research is to study the resilience of adapted species to promote sustainable gardening. To achieve this, seven species belonging to three families (Amaranthaceae, Lamiaceae and Asteraceae) used or potentially used as ornamentals were selected to compare their tolerance at the germinative stage to different levels of temperature (10 °C to 35 °C) and water stress created by PEG 6000 (−0.10 MPa to −2.5 MPa). Germination percentage, mean germination time, base temperature, thermal time, base water potential and hydrotime were calculated. The results showed a good response to high temperature and low osmotic potential in most of the species, and germination even increased under certain stress levels. Salsola oppositifolia presented by far the best results in terms of germination under high-water-stress conditions and the second best at high temperatures. The extraordinary response of Celosia argentea, an alien species, highlighted the risk of it becoming an invasive species. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 8021 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Transcriptomes to Identify Genes during Bud Dormancy of Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Huanghua’
by Huiquan Wang, Chunying Liu, Qinghua Ye, Yunyu Shen, Shaohua Wu and Lizhong Lin
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 619; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060619 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
The study of pear dormancy mechanisms is currently a major research area in pear production and has high economic significance for agricultural production. We selected the southern sand pear cultivar Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Huanghua’ as the test material to study the pear dormancy process [...] Read more.
The study of pear dormancy mechanisms is currently a major research area in pear production and has high economic significance for agricultural production. We selected the southern sand pear cultivar Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Huanghua’ as the test material to study the pear dormancy process through microscopic observation of pear flower buds. The endodormancy period is abbreviated as D_bud. Similarly, the endodormancy release initiation period and the ecodormancy period are referred to as DB_bud and G_bud, respectively. Meanwhile, RNA sequencing was used to obtain the gene expression profile of Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Huanghua’ flower buds. The RNA sequencing results indicated that there were 224 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in endodormancy (D) vs. endodormancy release initiation period (DB), while 975 were identified between endodormancy and ecodormancy (G). Finally, a total of 868 DEGs were found in the DB vs. G comparison. The expression levels of the genes Pbr009498.1 (LAX1-1), Pbr012348.1 (LAX1-2), Pbr021158.1 (GH35), and Pbr031621.1 (LAX2) encoding IAA were significantly higher during the DB_bud than during the D_bud. The expression level of Pbr025864.2 (IAA13) during the D_bud was significantly higher than the DB_bud and G_bud. The Pbr041942.1 (GID1B) gene also showed a significant increase during ecodormancy. Taken together, these results suggest that these genes, annotated as LAX1, GH35, LAX2, IAA13, and GID1C, are involved in endodormancy maintenance and in the transition from endodormancy to ecodormancy in Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Huanghua’. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2927 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effects of Salicylic Acid and Bacillus butanolivorans KJ40 for Enhancing Napa Cabbage (Brassica napa subsp. pekinensis) Resilience to Water-Deficit Stress
by Sang Tae Kim and Mee Kyung Sang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060618 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Climate change exacerbates drought, globally impacting crop production and necessitating the adoption of sustainable strategies. This study investigates the potential synergistic effects of salicylic acid (SA) and Bacillus butanolivorans KJ40 (KJ40) on napa cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis) under water-deficit stress conditions by [...] Read more.
Climate change exacerbates drought, globally impacting crop production and necessitating the adoption of sustainable strategies. This study investigates the potential synergistic effects of salicylic acid (SA) and Bacillus butanolivorans KJ40 (KJ40) on napa cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis) under water-deficit stress conditions by watering withheld for five days. Results demonstrate that the combined application of KJ40 and SA, particularly at concentrations of 0.5 mM and 1 mM, significantly enhances plant growth and mitigates the negative impacts of water deficit. Moreover, the combination treatment with SA (0.5 mM) and KJ40 (1 × 108 cells/mL) reduces lipid oxidation and enhances antioxidant enzyme activity, indicating improved plant stress tolerance. Analysis of soil microbial profiles reveals alterations in metabolic activity and substrate utilization patterns, suggesting potential changes in rhizosphere dynamics. Additionally, this study examines the impact of SA on KJ40 population dynamics in soil, revealing concentration-dependent effects on bacterial survival. Overall, the combination of KJ40 and SA was effective in mitigating water-deficit stress in napa cabbage. These findings highlight the combination as a novel synergistic strategy to enhance plant resilience to water-deficit stress, offering insights into plant–microbe interactions and soil ecosystem dynamics. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3813 KiB  
Article
Integration of RNA-Seq and Metabolite Analysis Reveals the Key Floral Scent Biosynthetic Genes in Herbaceous Peony
by Shadrack Kanyonji Kimani, Shuxian Wang, Jinyi Xie, Tingting Bao, Xiaotong Shan, Hongjie Li, Adnan, Li Wang, Xiang Gao and Yueqing Li
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060617 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Floral scent is an essential and genetically complex trait in herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.); however, specific genes related to metabolic and regulatory networks remain scantily studied. Our study integrated metabolite profiling and RNA-sequencing to screen floral scent biosynthetic genes. Hence, the [...] Read more.
Floral scent is an essential and genetically complex trait in herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.); however, specific genes related to metabolic and regulatory networks remain scantily studied. Our study integrated metabolite profiling and RNA-sequencing to screen floral scent biosynthetic genes. Hence, the major molecules identified by headspace collection combined with cultivar-specific GC-MS analysis were geraniol, β-caryophyllene, 2-phenylethanol (2-PE), citronellol, and 1,8-cineole. Genes related to terpenoids and 2-PE biosynthesis were identified after the assembly and annotation of the P. lactiflora transcriptomes. Eight angiosperm-specific terpene synthases (TPSs) from the TPS-a and TPS-b clades, as well as enzymes linked to 2-PE synthesis such as aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), phenylacetaldehyde reductase (PAR), and geranial reductase (GER) were identified. The biochemical analysis of the enzymes encoded by PlPAR1 and PlGER1 generated 2-PE from phenylacetaldehyde (PAld). The pairwise alignment of AADC1 reveals a splice variant lacking a 124 bp fragment, thus highlighting the possible role of alternative splicing in modulating floral scent composition. This study offers insights into the molecular-level biosynthesis of terpenoids and 2-PE in Peonia taxa, and provides the basis for the functional characterization, breeding, and bioengineering of prospective candidate genes for the production of floral volatiles in the Paeonia genus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1360 KiB  
Article
Effects of Storage Duration and Temperature on Browning and Quality of Postharvest Bamboo Shoots
by Pei-Rong Wu, San-Gwang Hwang, Chang-Lin Chen and Huey-Ling Lin
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060616 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Due to the high respiration rate and ethylene production at the cut surface of bamboo (Dendrocalamus latifloxus Munro) shoots after harvesting, browning and lignification at the cut surface reduce their quality and shelf life. Due to the demand of consumers, using physical [...] Read more.
Due to the high respiration rate and ethylene production at the cut surface of bamboo (Dendrocalamus latifloxus Munro) shoots after harvesting, browning and lignification at the cut surface reduce their quality and shelf life. Due to the demand of consumers, using physical treatment to inhibit microbial growth and maintain quality has become more and more popular. In this study, bamboo shoots were treated with hot water at 70 °C for 30 s after harvesting and then stored at 1, 3, or 5 °C for 4 weeks to measure the quality change. Our results show that the L* value and h° angle at the cut surface of the bamboo shoots were significantly higher, but the respiration rate was significantly lower when stored at 1 °C compared with those at 3 and 5 °C. In terms of quality, the bamboo shoots showed lower firmness and cutting force values, and no decay was observed at 1 °C. The results from the shelf simulation test with rewarming of the cold-treated bamboo shoots at ambient temperature (25 °C) for 1 day indicated that the L* value and h° angle were significantly higher for the bamboo shoots stored at 1 °C compared with those stored at 3 and 5 °C. Taken together, browning and lignification at the cut surface were effectively inhibited, quality was maintained, and the storage life could be extended to 4 weeks at 1 °C. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 7467 KiB  
Article
Conceptualizing Scaffold Guided Breast Tissue Regeneration in a Preclinical Large Animal Model
by Matthew Cheng, Jan Janzekovic, Ronja Finze, Mina Mohseni, Siamak Saifzadeh, Flavia M. Savi, Owen Ung, Michael Wagels and Dietmar W. Hutmacher
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060593 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Scaffold-guided breast tissue regeneration (SGBTR) can transform both reconstructive and cosmetic breast surgery. Implant-based surgery is the most common method. However, there are inherent limitations, as it involves replacement of tissue rather than regeneration. Regenerating autologous soft tissue has the potential to provide [...] Read more.
Scaffold-guided breast tissue regeneration (SGBTR) can transform both reconstructive and cosmetic breast surgery. Implant-based surgery is the most common method. However, there are inherent limitations, as it involves replacement of tissue rather than regeneration. Regenerating autologous soft tissue has the potential to provide a more like-for-like reconstruction with minimal morbidity. Our SGBTR approach regenerates soft tissue by implanting additively manufactured bioresorbable scaffolds filled with autologous fat graft. A pre-clinical large animal study was conducted by implanting 100 mL breast scaffolds (n = 55) made from medical-grade polycaprolactone into 11 minipigs for 12 months. Various treatment groups were investigated where immediate or delayed autologous fat graft, as well as platelet rich plasma, were added to the scaffolds. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were performed on explanted scaffolds to determine the volume and distribution of the regenerated tissue. Histological analysis was performed to confirm the tissue type. At 12 months, we were able to regenerate and sustain a mean soft tissue volume of 60.9 ± 4.5 mL (95% CI) across all treatment groups. There was no evidence of capsule formation. There were no immediate or long-term post-operative complications. In conclusion, we were able to regenerate clinically relevant soft tissue volumes utilizing SGBTR in a pre-clinical large animal model. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3870 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Thermal Osteonecrosis during Bone Drilling Using a Three-Dimensional Finite Element Model
by Yung-Chuan Chen, Yi-Jung Tsai, Hao-Yuan Hsiao, Yen-Wei Chiu, You-Yao Hong, Yuan-Kun Tu and Chih-Kun Hsiao
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060592 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Bone drilling is a common procedure used to create pilot holes for inserting screws to secure implants for fracture fixation. However, this process can increase bone temperature and the excessive heat can lead to cell death and thermal osteonecrosis, potentially causing early fixation [...] Read more.
Bone drilling is a common procedure used to create pilot holes for inserting screws to secure implants for fracture fixation. However, this process can increase bone temperature and the excessive heat can lead to cell death and thermal osteonecrosis, potentially causing early fixation failure or complications. We applied a three-dimensional dynamic elastoplastic finite element model to evaluate the propagation and distribution of heat during bone drilling and assess the thermally affected zone (TAZ) that may lead to thermal necrosis. This model investigates the parameters influencing bone temperature during bone drilling, including drill diameter, rotational speed, feed force, and predrilled hole. The results indicate that our FE model is sufficiently accurate in predicting the temperature rise effect during bone drilling. The maximum temperature decreases exponentially with radial distance. When the feed forces are 40 and 60 N, the maximum temperature does not exceed 45 °C. However, with feed forces of 10 and 20 N, both the maximum temperatures exceed 45 °C within a radial distance of 0.2 mm, indicating a high-risk zone for potential thermal osteonecrosis. With the two-stage drilling procedure, where a 2.5 mm pilot hole is predrilled, the maximum temperature can be reduced by 14 °C. This suggests that higher feed force and rotational speed and/or using a two-stage drilling process could mitigate bone temperature elevation and reduce the risk of thermal osteonecrosis during bone drilling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Engineering and Biomaterials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1028 KiB  
Review
Orthobiologic Management Options for Degenerative Disc Disease
by Cezar Augusto Alves de Oliveira, Bernardo Scaldini Oliveira, Rafael Theodoro, Joshua Wang, Gabriel Silva Santos, Bruno Lima Rodrigues, Izair Jefthé Rodrigues, Daniel de Moraes Ferreira Jorge, Madhan Jeyaraman, Peter Albert Everts, Annu Navani and José Fábio Lana
Bioengineering 2024, 11(6), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11060591 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a pervasive condition that limits quality of life and burdens economies worldwide. Conventional pharmacological treatments primarily aimed at slowing the progression of degeneration have demonstrated limited long-term efficacy and often do not address the underlying causes of the [...] Read more.
Degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a pervasive condition that limits quality of life and burdens economies worldwide. Conventional pharmacological treatments primarily aimed at slowing the progression of degeneration have demonstrated limited long-term efficacy and often do not address the underlying causes of the disease. On the other hand, orthobiologics are regenerative agents derived from the patient’s own tissue and represent a promising emerging therapy for degenerative disc disease. This review comprehensively outlines the pathophysiology of DDD, highlighting the inadequacies of existing pharmacological therapies and detailing the potential of orthobiologic approaches. It explores advanced tools such as platelet-rich plasma and mesenchymal stem cells, providing a historical overview of their development within regenerative medicine, from foundational in vitro studies to preclinical animal models. Moreover, the manuscript delves into clinical trials that assess the effectiveness of these therapies in managing DDD. While the current clinical evidence is promising, it remains insufficient for routine clinical adoption due to limitations in study designs. The review emphasizes the need for further research to optimize these therapies for consistent and effective clinical outcomes, potentially revolutionizing the management of DDD and offering renewed hope for patients. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 1544 KiB  
Review
Therapeutic Nonsense Suppression Modalities: From Small Molecules to Nucleic Acid-Based Approaches
by Pedro Morais, Rui Zhang and Yi-Tao Yu
Biomedicines 2024, 12(6), 1284; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12061284 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Nonsense mutations are genetic mutations that create premature termination codons (PTCs), leading to truncated, defective proteins in diseases such as cystic fibrosis, neurofibromatosis type 1, Dravet syndrome, Hurler syndrome, Beta thalassemia, inherited bone marrow failure syndromes, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and even cancer. These [...] Read more.
Nonsense mutations are genetic mutations that create premature termination codons (PTCs), leading to truncated, defective proteins in diseases such as cystic fibrosis, neurofibromatosis type 1, Dravet syndrome, Hurler syndrome, Beta thalassemia, inherited bone marrow failure syndromes, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and even cancer. These mutations can also trigger a cellular surveillance mechanism known as nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) that degrades the PTC-containing mRNA. The activation of NMD can attenuate the consequences of truncated, defective, and potentially toxic proteins in the cell. Since approximately 20% of all single-point mutations are disease-causing nonsense mutations, it is not surprising that this field has received significant attention, resulting in a remarkable advancement in recent years. In fact, since our last review on this topic, new examples of nonsense suppression approaches have been reported, namely new ways of promoting the translational readthrough of PTCs or inhibiting the NMD pathway. With this review, we update the state-of-the-art technologies in nonsense suppression, focusing on novel modalities with therapeutic potential, such as small molecules (readthrough agents, NMD inhibitors, and molecular glue degraders); antisense oligonucleotides; tRNA suppressors; ADAR-mediated RNA editing; targeted pseudouridylation; and gene/base editing. While these various modalities have significantly advanced in their development stage since our last review, each has advantages (e.g., ease of delivery and specificity) and disadvantages (manufacturing complexity and off-target effect potential), which we discuss here. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epigenetic Regulation and Its Impact for Medicine)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 330 KiB  
Review
Current and Future Perspectives on the Management of Helicobacter pylori: A Narrative Review
by Charlene Deane, Orlaith Kelly and Colm O’Morain
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060541 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a pathogen, has decreased globally in the last decade. To date, the management of H. pylori has focused on a reactive approach, whereby those diagnosed are treated with antimicrobials and acid suppression in combination. [...] Read more.
The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a pathogen, has decreased globally in the last decade. To date, the management of H. pylori has focused on a reactive approach, whereby those diagnosed are treated with antimicrobials and acid suppression in combination. This review article provides an overview of the shift in the management of H. pylori from a reactive approach towards a proactive ‘screen and treat’ approach; the article reflects the current pharmacological landscape for H. pylori treatment by exploring similarities such as the first-line prescription of quadruple therapy in most countries and provides a summary table of the best practice guidance from Europe, Asia, and North America. It explores significant ongoing challenges in management, such as rising antimicrobial resistance rates, and explores a potential ‘work smart’ approach to antimicrobial susceptibility testing. We explore the role of registry databases in providing data on treatment efficacy and safety and how they can support a strategic approach to H. pylori treatment. We question if such a database’s availability, update, and regular audit should serve as a key quality indicator in a population screening programme. Despite a call for vaccination against H. pylori and decades of research, not many have made it to a phase-three clinical trial. We explore the challenges that have complicated the development of such a vaccine, such as the genetic diversity of H. pylori, immunotolerance, and limitations of mouse models in research; we reflect on how these challenges are contributing to a low likelihood of having a vaccine in the short–medium term. Lastly, it explores the heterogeneity in research on probiotics and their role as an adjunct in the management of H. pylori. Full article
27 pages, 15029 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Anti-Bacterial Activity of Arachidonic Acid against the Cariogenic Bacterium Streptococcus mutans in Combination with Triclosan and Fluoride
by Avraham Melkam, Ronit Vogt Sionov, Miriam Shalish and Doron Steinberg
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060540 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Dental caries is a global health problem that requires better prevention measures. One of the goals is to reduce the prevalence of the cariogenic Gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus mutans. We have recently shown that naturally occurring arachidonic acid (AA) has both anti-bacterial and [...] Read more.
Dental caries is a global health problem that requires better prevention measures. One of the goals is to reduce the prevalence of the cariogenic Gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus mutans. We have recently shown that naturally occurring arachidonic acid (AA) has both anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities against this bacterium. An important question is how these activities are affected by other anti-bacterial compounds commonly used in mouthwashes. Here, we studied the combined treatment of AA with chlorhexidine (CHX), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), triclosan, and fluoride. Checkerboard microtiter assays were performed to determine the effects on bacterial growth and viability. Biofilms were quantified using the MTT metabolic assay, crystal violet (CV) staining, and live/dead staining with SYTO 9/propidium iodide (PI) visualized by spinning disk confocal microscopy (SDCM). The bacterial morphology and the topography of the biofilms were visualized by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM). The effect of selected drug combinations on cell viability and membrane potential was investigated by flow cytometry using SYTO 9/PI staining and the potentiometric dye DiOC2(3), respectively. We found that CHX and CPC had an antagonistic effect on AA at certain concentrations, while an additive effect was observed with triclosan and fluoride. This prompted us to investigate the triple treatment of AA, triclosan, and fluoride, which was more effective than either compound alone or the double treatment. We observed an increase in the percentage of PI-positive bacteria, indicating increased bacterial cell death. Only AA caused significant membrane hyperpolarization, which was not significantly enhanced by either triclosan or fluoride. In conclusion, our data suggest that AA can be used together with triclosan and fluoride to improve the efficacy of oral health care. Full article
23 pages, 14231 KiB  
Article
Environmentally Relevant Antibiotic Concentrations Exert Stronger Selection Pressure on River Biofilm Resistomes than AMR-Reservoir Effluents
by Gabriela Flores-Vargas, Jordyn Bergsveinson and Darren R. Korber
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060539 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Freshwater environments are primary receiving systems of wastewater and effluents, which carry low concentrations of antibiotics and antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria and genes. Aquatic microbial communities are thus exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of antibiotics (ERCA) that presumably influence the acquisition and spread of [...] Read more.
Freshwater environments are primary receiving systems of wastewater and effluents, which carry low concentrations of antibiotics and antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria and genes. Aquatic microbial communities are thus exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of antibiotics (ERCA) that presumably influence the acquisition and spread of environmental AMR. Here, we analyzed ERCA exposure with and without the additional presence of municipal wastewater treatment plant effluent (W) and swine manure run-off (M) on aquatic biofilm resistomes. Microscopic analyses revealed decreased taxonomic diversity and biofilm structural integrity, while metagenomic analysis revealed an increased abundance of resistance, virulence, and mobile element-related genes at the highest ERCA exposure levels, with less notable impacts observed when solely exposed to W or M effluents. Microbial function predictions indicated increased gene abundance associated with energy and cell membrane metabolism and heavy metal resistance under ERCA conditions. In silico predictions of increased resistance mechanisms did not correlate with observed phenotypic resistance patterns when whole communities were exposed to antimicrobial susceptibility testing. This reveals important insight into the complexity of whole-community coordination of physical and genetic responses to selective pressures. Lastly, the environmental AMR risk assessment of metagenomic data revealed a higher risk score for biofilms grown at sub-MIC antibiotic conditions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2592 KiB  
Article
Do High Doses of Multiple Antibiotics Loaded into Bone Cement Spacers Improve the Success Rate in Staphylococcal Periprosthetic Joint Infection When Rifampicin Cannot Be Employed?
by Lourdes Prats-Peinado, Tanya Fernández-Fernández, Miguel Márquez-Gómez, José Antonio Matas-Diaz, Mar Sánchez-Somolinos, Sofía de la Villa-Martínez, Javier Vaquero-Martín and Pablo Sanz-Ruiz
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060538 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Rifampicin is one of the mainstays in treating staphylococcal prosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, discontinuation due to intolerance, drug interactions, and adverse events is common. Two-stage revision surgery remains the gold standard, with the number of revision arthroplasties steadily increasing. This study aims [...] Read more.
Rifampicin is one of the mainstays in treating staphylococcal prosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, discontinuation due to intolerance, drug interactions, and adverse events is common. Two-stage revision surgery remains the gold standard, with the number of revision arthroplasties steadily increasing. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a novel two-stage revision protocol for staphylococcal prosthetic joint infection (PJI) utilizing bone cement spacers loaded with multiple high doses of antibiotics. Additionally, it seeks to analyze outcomes in patients ineligible for rifampicin treatment. A retrospective review of 43 cases of staphylococcal hip and knee prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) from 2012 to 2020 was conducted. In all instances, a commercial cement containing 1 g of gentamicin and 1 g of clindamycin, augmented with 4 g of vancomycin and 2 g of ceftazidime, was employed to cast a spacer manually after thorough surgical debridement. We report an eradication rate of 82%, with no significant differences observed (p = 0.673) between patients treated with (84%, n = 19) and without rifampicin (79%, n = 24). There were no disparities in positive culture rates (7%), spacer replacement (18%), or survival analysis (p = 0.514) after an average follow-up of 68 months (range 10–147) in the absence of systemic toxicity and surgical complications superimposable to those previously reported. In conclusion, two-stage revision with local high doses of ceftazidime, vancomycin, gentamicin, and clindamycin demonstrates high effectiveness in treating staphylococcal PJIs. Notably, systemic rifampicin does not influence the outcomes. This protocol, with multiple high doses of antibiotics loaded into the bone cement spacer, is presented as a viable and safe alternative for patients unsuitable for rifampicin treatment. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 951 KiB  
Article
Incidence of Antibiotic Exposure for Suspected and Proven Neonatal Early-Onset Sepsis between 2019 and 2021: A Retrospective, Multicentre Study
by Liesanne E. J. van Veen, Bo M. van der Weijden, Niek B. Achten, Lotte van der Lee, Jeroen Hol, Maaike C. van Rossem, Maarten Rijpert, Anna O. J. Oorthuys, Ron H. T. van Beek, Gerdien H. Dubbink-Verheij, René F. Kornelisse, Laura H. van der Meer-Kapelle, Karen Van Mechelen, Suzanne Broekhuizen, A. Carin M. Dassel, J. W. F. M. Corrie Jacobs, Paul W. T. van Rijssel, Gerdien A. Tramper-Stranders, Annemarie M. C. van Rossum and Frans B. Plötz
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060537 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Management of suspected early-onset sepsis (EOS) is undergoing continuous evolution aiming to limit antibiotic overtreatment, yet current data on the level of overtreatment are only available for a select number of countries. This study aimed to determine antibiotic initiation and continuation rates for [...] Read more.
Management of suspected early-onset sepsis (EOS) is undergoing continuous evolution aiming to limit antibiotic overtreatment, yet current data on the level of overtreatment are only available for a select number of countries. This study aimed to determine antibiotic initiation and continuation rates for suspected EOS, along with the incidence of culture-proven EOS in The Netherlands. In this retrospective study from 2019 to 2021, data were collected from 15 Dutch hospitals, comprising 13 regional hospitals equipped with Level I-II facilities and 2 academic hospitals equipped with Level IV facilities. Data included birth rates, number of neonates started on antibiotics for suspected EOS, number of neonates that continued treatment beyond 48 h and number of neonates with culture-proven EOS. Additionally, blood culture results were documented. Data were analysed both collectively and separately for regional and academic hospitals. A total of 103,492 live-born neonates were included. In 4755 neonates (4.6%, 95% CI 4.5–4.7), antibiotic therapy was started for suspected EOS, and in 2399 neonates (2.3%, 95% CI 2.2–2.4), antibiotic treatment was continued beyond 48 h. Incidence of culture-proven EOS was 1.1 cases per 1000 live births (0.11%, 95% CI 0.09–0.14). Overall, for each culture-proven EOS case, 40.6 neonates were started on antibiotics and in 21.7 neonates therapy was continued. Large variations in treatment rates were observed across all hospitals, with the number of neonates initiated and continued on antibiotics per culture-proven EOS case varying from 4 to 90 and from 4 to 56, respectively. The high number of antibiotic prescriptions compared to the EOS incidence and wide variety in clinical practice among hospitals in The Netherlands underscore both the need and potential for a novel approach to the management of neonates with suspected EOS. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 138728 KiB  
Article
Multi-Omics Insights into Disulfidptosis-Related Genes Reveal RPN1 as a Therapeutic Target for Liver Cancer
by Yan He, Yue Hu, Yunsheng Cheng, Xutong Li, Chuanhong Chen, Shijie Zhang, Huihu He and Feng Cao
Biomolecules 2024, 14(6), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14060677 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Disulfidptosis, a newly identified mode of programmed cell death, is yet to be comprehensively elucidated with respect to its multi-omics characteristics in tumors, specific pathogenic mechanisms, and antitumor functions in liver cancer. This study included 10,327 tumor and normal tissue samples from 33 [...] Read more.
Disulfidptosis, a newly identified mode of programmed cell death, is yet to be comprehensively elucidated with respect to its multi-omics characteristics in tumors, specific pathogenic mechanisms, and antitumor functions in liver cancer. This study included 10,327 tumor and normal tissue samples from 33 cancer types. In-depth analyses using various bioinformatics tools revealed widespread dysregulation of disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) in pan-cancer and significant associations with prognosis, genetic variations, tumor stemness, methylation levels, and drug sensitivity. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression and LASSO regression were used to screen and construct prognosis-related hub DRGs and predictive models in the context of liver cancer. Subsequently, single cell analysis was conducted to investigate the subcellular localization of RPN1, a hub DRG, in various solid tumors. Western blotting was performed to validate the expression of RPN1 at both cellular and tissue levels. Additionally, functional experiments, including CCK8, EdU, clone, and transwell assays, indicated that RPN1 knockdown promoted the proliferative and invasive capacities of liver cancer cells. Therefore, this study elucidated the multi-omics characteristics of DRGs in pan-cancer and established a prognostic model for liver cancer. Additionally, this study revealed the molecular functions of RPN1 in liver cancer, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for this disease. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 1328 KiB  
Review
Role of Secretory Mucins in the Occurrence and Development of Cholelithiasis
by Zeying Zhao, Ye Yang, Shuodong Wu and Dianbo Yao
Biomolecules 2024, 14(6), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14060676 - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Cholelithiasis is a common biliary tract disease. However, the exact mechanism underlying gallstone formation remains unclear. Mucin plays a vital role in the nuclear formation and growth of cholesterol and pigment stones. Excessive mucin secretion can result in cholestasis and decreased gallbladder activity, [...] Read more.
Cholelithiasis is a common biliary tract disease. However, the exact mechanism underlying gallstone formation remains unclear. Mucin plays a vital role in the nuclear formation and growth of cholesterol and pigment stones. Excessive mucin secretion can result in cholestasis and decreased gallbladder activity, further facilitating stone formation and growth. Moreover, gallstones may result in inflammation and the secretion of inflammatory factors, which can further increase mucin expression and secretion to promote the growth of gallstones. This review systematically summarises and analyses the role of mucins in gallstone occurrence and development and its related mechanisms to explore new ideas for interventions in stone formation or recurrence. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Open Access Journals

Browse by Indexing Browse by Subject Selected Journals
Back to TopTop