Recent publications
Background
Although there are established guidelines for the selection of suitable candidates, objective and timely referral for the use of apomorphine remains challenging.
Objectives
This research examined how telemonitoring may facilitate referrals for continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion in Parkinson's disease (PD).
Methods
A Blind Rater and a multi‐disciplinary team (MDT) including an expert PD nurse, neurologist, and geriatrician determined apomorphine pump treatment eligibility for 20 patients with PD. The MDT considered telemonitoring data and physical examination to determine eligibility. The Blind Rater used only telemonitoring data (PDMonitor®) to evaluate eligibility.
Results
The results show that using wearable sensors to determine appropriateness of apomorphine pump treatment is similar to a complete method that combines objective motor symptom monitoring with clinical evaluation. The MDT and blind rater had a 0.89 Cohen's kappa coefficient, which suggests high rate of agreement. The best‐performing objective metric for differentiating patients who were recommended (APO) from those non‐recommended (non‐APO) for apomorphine pump therapy, was the device‐reported percentage of time in the “ON” state, which takes into consideration the “OFF” and dyskinesia time. The APO group had lower values in this metric and could be differentiated from the non‐APO group accurately (85%).
Conclusions
Using telemonitoring to determine eligibility for apomorphine therapy might improve evaluation and treatment in patients with PD and, therefore help improve their quality of life.
Radiation quality for determining biological effects is commonly linked to the microdosimetric quantity lineal energy (y) and to the dose-mean lineal energy (). Calculations of are typically performed by specialised Monte Carlo track-structure (MCTS) codes, which can be time-intensive. Thus, microdosimetry-based analytic models are potentially useful for practical calculations. Analytic model calculations of proton and radiation protection quality factor (Q) values in sub-micron liquid water spheres (diameter 10–1000 nm) over a broad energy range (1 MeV–1 GeV) are compared against MCTS simulations by PHITS, RITRACKS, and Geant4-DNA. Additionally, an improved analytic microdosimetry model is proposed. The original analytic model of Xapsos is refined and model parameters are updated based on Geant4-DNA physics model. Direct proton energy deposition is described by an alternative energy-loss straggling distribution and the contribution of secondary electrons is calculated using the dielectric formulation of the relativistic Born approximation. MCTS simulations of proton values using the latest versions of the PHITS, RITRACKS, and Geant4-DNA are reported along with the Monte Carlo Damage Simulation (MCDS) algorithm. The datasets are then used within the Theory of Dual Radiation Action (TDRA) to illustrate variations in Q with proton energy. By a careful selection of parameters, overall differences at the ~ 10% level between the proposed analytic model and the MCTS codes can be attained, significantly improving upon existing models. MCDS estimates of are generally much lower than estimates from MCTS simulations. The differences of Q among the examined methods are somewhat smaller than those of . Still, estimates of proton Q values by the present model are in better agreement with MCTS-based estimates than the existing analytic models. An improved microdosimetry-based analytic model is presented for calculating proton values over a broad range of proton energies (1 MeV–1 GeV) and target sizes (10–1000 nm) in very good agreement with state-of-the-art MCTS simulations. It is envisioned that the proposed model might be used as an alternative to CPU-intensive MCTS simulations and advance practical microdosimetry and quality factor calculations in medical, accelerator, and space radiation applications.
This study aims at exploring the potential of inorganic wide-bandgap mixed-halide aluminum-containing perovskites of Cs3AlIxBr6−x for solar harvesting, by investigating their structural, electronic and optical properties through density functional theory using the augmented plane wave plus local orbital method. The structural properties were calculated with the PBE-GGA potential. Volume optimization and negative formation energies confirm the structural and thermal stability of the compounds. The electronic and optical properties were calculated using Tran–Blaha modified Becke–Johnson (TB-mBJ) potential. The TB-mBJ corrected band gaps revealed that these materials belong to the wide-bandgap (WBG) perovskite family, displaying band gaps in the range of 3–5 eV. The electronic properties confirm their direct bandgap nature, with the I-p and Br-p states mainly contributing to the formation of the valence band and the Al-s, Al-p and Cs-d states to the conduction band. Absorption coefficients range from 10 to140 × 10⁴ per cm in the UV region, thus making these WBG perovskites suitable for applications in this region. Optical properties show absorption of light beyond 3 eV and validate the calculated electronic band gaps. Absorption coefficients, optical conductivity and dielectric function (real and imaginary) were calculated and revealed a peak shift from higher to lower energies with increasing I concentration. The above results suggest that these materials can be highly considered for use in photovoltaics, optoelectronic devices (light-emitting diodes, photodiodes), to power small batteries in the Internet of Things, in agrivoltaics and in fabrication of semi-transparent solar cells.
Exfoliation syndrome (XFS) was first described in 1917 by the Finnish ophthalmologist John Lindberg and currently affects 60–70 million people worldwide. Of these, 15–17 million have increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and 5–6 million are estimated to suffer from exfoliative glaucoma (XFG), a threatening form of secondary open-angle glaucoma that develops as a consequence of XFS and is considered the most common identifiable cause of open-angle glaucoma worldwide. Its aggressive course and worldwide prevalence make it critical for ophthalmologists to be familiar with the full clinical spectrum of the disease. Cataract surgery in XFS is characterized by a greater rate of surgical difficulties, operative complications, and subsequent visual loss.
The present study investigates the linkages among the futures prices of feeder cattle, live cattle and lean hogs in the US. This has been pursued using a flexible methodology that allows modelling price relationships at different parts of their joint distribution. Data are daily closing prices for the period between 1/1/2015 and 12/31/2023. According to the empirical results: i) livestock commodities boom together and crash (with one exception) together, ii) extreme price decreases are transmitted with higher intensity compared to extreme price increases, iii) transmission asymmetries in prices, between livestock commodities, can occur at the tails as well as at the median of the joint distributions. Lastly, opportunities for speculators to profit from the spread between the commodities of feeder cattle and live cattle can be present.
Skin-sparing mastectomy or nipple-sparing mastectomy is usually combined with sentinel lymph node biopsy and often followed by immediate breast reconstruction. Currently, methylene blue dye (MBD) is being used for the localization of the sentinel lymph node during mastectomy in patients with early breast cancer. However, MBD has been associated with skin complications. Two patients underwent a nipple-sparing mastectomy followed by immediate reconstruction with silicone implants. MBD was injected into the subareolar area to identify the sentinel lymph node. The 2 cases were complicated by MBD. The first case developed 2 gangrenous areas on the site of the MBD injection. The second one developed skin necrosis as well. The use of MBD is responsible for skin complications, such as skin necrosis. In detail, discussion before surgery must be done when organizing immediate breast reconstruction using silicone implants.
Genomic DNA (gDNA) extraction is an important step in many molecular studies of fungal biology, and it is necessary to evaluate the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and efficacy of different extraction methods to ensure successful amplification of the target gene and minimize deoxyribo-nucleic acid (DNA) degradation. The modified cetyltri-methylammonium bromide (CTAB) method was found to be effective in releasing high molecular weight gDNA with minimal protein contamination. Based on anticipated gDNA yield and quality, extraction time, cost effectiveness, successful amplification, and waste management, our findings serve as a guide for selecting techniques of gDNA extraction from fungal species. This study presents a modified CTAB method for extracting DNA from a variety of fungal species including Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria, Dothiorella, and Fusarium. Comparison of three cell crushing methods reveals similar gDNA yields, demonstrating the method's effectiveness. Furthermore, the modified CTAB method is cost-effective and safe, eliminating the need for grinding with liquid nitrogen or bead beating. The method has a potential use for nucleic-based fungal disease diagnosis such as fish fungal diseases, plant pathogens, fruit rot associated pathogens, and human fungal diseases as we were successful in PCR amplifying several gene loci from varied fungal pathogens.
The use of hybrids, developed by grafting homogeneous catalysts onto supporting materials, has already demonstrated significant potential in various catalytic processes. These systems combine the advantages of homogeneous catalysts, such as high activity and selectivity, with those of solid supports, including enhanced recyclability. Catalytic hydrogen (H2) production via dehydrogenation of C1 organic molecules targeting its use in fuel cells is a contemporary scientific issue directly connected with climate crisis. Here, Iminophospine hybrid [SiO2@benzNP] and its reduced analogue [SiO2@benzNHP] were synthesized, covalently grafted on colloidal SiO2, fully characterized (FT‐IR, RAMAN, TGA, ssNMR, BET), and used for in‐situ synthesis of [SiO2@benzNP‐FeII] and [SiO2@benzNHP‐FeII] catalytic complexes for H2 production from formic acid (HCOOH) and formaldehyde (HCHO), at 80 °C. In HCOOH, both heterogenized catalysts exhibit high selectivity, producing H2 and CO2 in a 1 : 1 ratio, without CO contamination, making them ideal for fuel cell applications. [SiO₂@benzNHP‐FeII] catalyst demonstrated superior performance in both substates. In HCOOH dehydrogenation, over 82,000 turnover number (TONs) were achieved and retained its efficiency for over five cycles, without any further metal addition. In HCHO dehydrogenation, it showed excellent efficiency as well, achieving 1.3 L of pure H2 with TONs exceeding 7,000, in 3 consecutive uses. Advanced spectroscopic analysis confirmed the stability and structural integrity of the catalysts, linking the Schiff base reduction and N−H groups to enhanced activity, durability and reusability. This study demonstrates the potential of hybrid materials with non‐noble metals for cost‐effective and sustainable H2 production, paving the way for scalable renewable energy solutions.
The HslVU enzyme complex, a proteasomal analog found in bacteria, consists of two components, i.e., the HslV protease and the HslU ATPase. These proteins come together to form a functional enzyme complex, where the C-terminal helix of each HslU subunit is inserted into the binding pocket of each HslV dimer. This interaction leads to the activation of the HslV protease through allosteric mechanisms , enabling its enzymatic function. This bacterial complex is reflected as an attractive target for drug development due to its presence in disease-causing microorganisms and concurrent absence in humans. The objective of this research was to identify certain promising drug candidates that could excessively stimulate the HslV protease, leading to uncontrolled protein breakdown in the pathogens. Four dihydro-pyrimidone derivatives have been identified as potential activators of HslV protease exhibiting high docking scores, favorable binding patterns, and significant in vitro activation capabilities. These compounds have demonstrated effective dose 50 values within the sub-micromolar range, i.e., 0.4-0.58 μM. Normal mode analysis investigations provided additional confirmation regarding the stability of the conformational interactions between the HslV protease and the active compounds. In addition, the predicted absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity properties of these lead compounds remarkably demonstrated their considerable drug-like and non-toxic qualities. This study not only presents more potent small non-peptide activators of the HslV protease but also enhances the understanding regarding the mechanism of HslVU complex activation via small non-peptidic molecules.
Background Waist circumference (WC) and its allometric counterpart, “a body shape index” (ABSI), are risk factors for colorectal cancer (CRC); however, it is uncertain whether associations with these body measurements are limited to specific molecular subtypes of the disease. Methods Data from 2,772 CRC cases and 3,521 controls were pooled from four cohort studies within the Genetics and Epidemiology of Colorectal Cancer Consortium. Four molecular markers (BRAF mutation, KRAS mutation, CpG island methylator phenotype, and microsatellite instability) were analysed individually and in combination (Jass-types). Multivariable logistic and multinomial logistic models were used to assess the associations of WC and ABSI with overall CRC risk and in case-only analyses evaluating heterogeneity by molecular subtype, respectively. Results Higher WC (ORper 5cm=1.06, 95%CI:1.04-1.09) and ABSI (ORper 1-SD=1.07, 95%CI:1.00-1.14) were associated with elevated CRC risk. There was no evidence of heterogeneity between the molecular subtypes. No difference was observed regarding the influence of WC and ABSI on the four major molecular markers in proximal colon, distal colon, and rectal cancer, as well as in early and later onset CRC. Associations did not differ in the Jass-type analysis. Conclusions Higher WC and ABSI were associated with elevated CRC risk; however, they do not differentially influence all four major molecular mutations involved in colorectal carcinogenesis but underscore the importance of maintaining a healthy body weight in CRC prevention. Impact The proposed results have potential utility in colorectal cancer prevention.
Entomopathogens produce a plethora of substances, called secondary metabolites, to facilitate insect infection and maintain their vital functions. These metabolites not only suppress the insects’ immune system, but can also have direct negative effects on insects such as contact toxicity, antifeedant, egg-laying deterrence, decrease of developmental rate and weight gain and others. Despite decades of intensive research, many aspects of their biosynthesis pathways, modes of action and ecological roles remain poorly understood or even unknown. This chapter describes the current knowledge on the use of secondary metabolites as biopesticides in the context of Integrated Pest Management. The latest studies evaluating their insecticidal activity in laboratory bioassays and field trials are presented. Future challenges and considerations for the full exploitation of secondary metabolites in pest management strategies are discussed.
Acinetobacter baumannii is a notorious pathogen associated with life-threatening infections, with its outer membrane protein A (OmpA) being a key contributor to its pathogenicity by targeting epithelial cell apoptosis. The study presents an in silico analysis of chalcone derivatives as potential therapeutic agents against the outer membrane protein A (OmpA) of Acinetobacter baumannii. We performed molecular docking to evaluate the binding interactions, revealing that isobavachalcone exhibited the highest binding affinity. Further fragment optimization (FOI) of isobavachalcone improved its binding energy. Additionally, ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) analysis was conducted to assess the pharmacokinetic properties of the compounds. Antigenicity and allergenicity of the protein show that this protein is virulent and antigenic. Moreover, molecular docking was performed and the result shows that isobavachalcone showed the highest binding energy at -6.7 kcal/mol. Furthermore, for a more potent compound, fragment optimization was performed and led to a new lead compound fragment optimized isobavachalcone (FOI) which shows increased binding energy −6 kcal/mol. ADMET and toxicity analysis was performed of both the compounds isobavachalcone and FOI which revealed favorable pharmacokinetic profiles for both compounds, but toxicity analysis showed discrepancies, with the isobavachalcone exhibiting toxicity but FOI compound showing no detectable toxicity. This underscores the importance of structure optimization in drug development. Overall, chalcone derivatives show promise as antibacterial agents against A. baumannii, with computational analyses aiding in compound selection and optimization. While both isobavachalcone and its FOI showed favorable pharmacokinetics, in vivo and in vitro validation is needed to confirm their therapeutic potential.
Institution pages aggregate content on ResearchGate related to an institution. The members listed on this page have self-identified as being affiliated with this institution. Publications listed on this page were identified by our algorithms as relating to this institution. This page was not created or approved by the institution. If you represent an institution and have questions about these pages or wish to report inaccurate content, you can contact us here.
Information
Address
Ioánnina, Greece
Website