Multicomponent Synthesis of Fluorescent Thiazole-Indole Hybrids and Thiazole-Based Novel Polymers.

Herein, we report an efficient multicomponent reaction for the synthesis of trisubstituted thiazoles involving a one-pot C-C, C-N, and C-S bond-forming process from the readily available starting materials. The reaction of arylglyoxal, indole, and aryl thioamides in the acetic acid medium under sealed heating conditions provided 3-(2,4-diarylthiazol-5-yl)-1H-indoles (4) in good to excellent yields. Using a similar reaction strategy, the reaction of arylglyoxal, aryl thioamide, and 2,5-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone provided structurally interesting bis-thiazoles having dihydroxy-1,4-benzoquinone linker (9). All of the products were fully characterized by spectroscopic techniques. We also recorded single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) of compounds 4b and 9a for unambiguous structure determination. Indole-linked trisubstituted thiazoles (4) exhibit prominent fluorescence properties. The relative fluorescence quantum yields of all of the thiazole-linked indoles were measured in the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) medium with respect to quinine sulfate in 0.1 M H2SO4 as reference. The scope of this reaction was further explored by preparing novel polymers 11a and 11b using naphthalene/benzene-1,4-bis(carbothioamide) in multicomponent polymerization.

18F-NaF PET uptake characteristics of coronary artery culprit lesions in a cohort of patients of acute coronary syndrome with ST-elevation myocardial infarction and chronic stable angina: A hybrid fluoride PET/CTCA study.

BACKGROUND: 18F-NaF PET/CT identifies high-risk plaques due to active calcification in coronary arteries with potential to characterize plaques in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (MI) and chronic stable angina (CSA) patients. METHODS: Twenty-four MI and 17 CSA patients were evaluated with 18F-NaF PET/CTCA for SUVmax and TBR values of culprit and non-culprit plaques in both groups (inter-group and intra-group comparison), and pre- and post-interventional MI plaques sub-analysis. RESULTS: Culprit plaques in MI patients had significantly higher SUVmax (1.6; IQR 0.6 vs 1.3; IQR 0.3, P = 0.03) and TBR (1.4; IQR 0.6 vs 1.1; IQR 0.4, P = 0.006) than culprit plaques of CSA. Pre-interventional culprit plaques of MI group (n = 11) revealed higher SUVmax (P = 0.007) and TBR (P = 0.008) values than culprit CSA plaques. Culprit plaques showed significantly higher SUVmax (P = 0.006) and TBR (P = 0.0003) than non-culprit plaques in MI group, but without significant difference between culprit and non-culprit plaques in CSA group. With median TBR cutoff value of 1.4 in MI culprit plaques, 6/7 plaques (85.7%) among the event prone non-culprit lesions had TBR values > 1.4 in CSA group. CONCLUSION: The study shows higher SUVmax and TBR values in MI culprit plaques and comparable TBR values for event prone plaques of CSA group in identifying high-risk plaques.

Differential Susceptibility of Catheter Biomaterials to Biofilm-Associated Infections and Their Remedy by Drug-Encapsulated Eudragit RL100 Nanoparticles.

Biofilms are the cause of major bacteriological infections in patients. The complex architecture of Escherichia coli (E. coli) biofilm attached to the surface of catheters has been studied and found to depend on the biomaterial's surface properties. The SEM micrographs and water contact angle analysis have revealed that the nature of the surface affects the growth and extent of E. coli biofilm formation. In vitro studies have revealed that the Gram-negative E. coli adherence to implanted biomaterials takes place in accordance with hydrophobicity, i.e., latex > silicone > polyurethane > stainless steel. Permanent removal of E. coli biofilm requires 50 to 200 times more gentamicin sulfate (G-S) than the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) to remove 90% of E. coli biofilm (MBIC90). Here, in vitro eradication of biofilm-associated infection on biomaterials has been done by Eudragit RL100 encapsulated gentamicin sulfate (E-G-S) nanoparticle of range 140 nm. It is 10-20 times more effective against E. coli biofilm-associated infections eradication than normal unentrapped G-S. Thus, Eudragit RL100 mediated drug delivery system provides a promising way to reduce the cost of treatment with a higher drug therapeutic index.

Mediastinal Mass, Cancer, or Infection, Atypical Paraesophageal Actinomycosis Infection, Clinical and Surgical Approach.

Actinomyces israelii (AI) is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that lives commensally on and within humans as a typical colonizer within the gastrointestinal tract, including the mouth. As an opportunistic pathogen, infection often results from tissue injury or breach of the mucosal barrier (ie, during various dental or GI procedures, aspiration, or specific pathologies such as diverticulitis). Symptoms generally present slowly as a non-tender, indurated mass that evolves into multiple abscesses, fistulae, or draining sinus tracts without regard for anatomical barriers, including fascial planes or lymphatic drainage. However, it may also present as an acute suppurative infection with pain and rapid progression to abscess formation.

Biofilm Inhibition on Medical Devices and Implants Using Carbon Dots: An Updated Review.

Biofilms are an intricate community of microbes that colonize solid surfaces, communicating via a quorum-sensing mechanism. These microbial aggregates secrete exopolysaccharides facilitating adhesion and conferring resistance to drugs and antimicrobial agents. The escalating global concern over biofilm-related infections on medical devices underscores the severe threat to human health. Carbon dots (CDs) have emerged as a promising substrate to combat microbes and disrupt biofilm matrices. Their numerous advantages such as facile surface functionalization and specific antimicrobial properties, position them as innovative anti-biofilm agents. Due to their minuscule size, CDs can penetrate microbial cells, inhibiting growth via cytoplasmic leakage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and genetic material fragmentation. Research has demonstrated the efficacy of CDs in inhibiting biofilms formed by key pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Consequently, the development of CD-based coatings and hydrogels holds promise for eradicating biofilm formation, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy, reducing clinical expenses, and minimizing the need for implant revision surgeries. This review provides insights into the mechanisms of biofilm formation on implants, surveys major biofilm-forming pathogens and associated infections, and specifically highlights the anti-biofilm properties of CDs emphasizing their potential as coatings on medical implants.

Measurement of mandibular incisive canal diameter using cone beam computed tomography.

Cone beam computed tomography was used for measuring the diameter of a Mandibular incisive canal. The dental practice can now visualize small bone structures with low dose and high spatial resolution due to the introduction of CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography). Therefore, it is of interest to measure the diameter of the MIC (Mandibular Incisive Canal) using the CBCT. Fifty CBCT scans obtained for implant placement preoperative planning were included in the study material. Observers carefully examined the CBCT data to determine the MIC's presence & position. The inner diameter of the MIC was measured by taking the longest distance between the inner cortical borders of the canal which was further analyzed using software CS3D software. The collected data were further subjected to statistical analysis. The average mean of the population was 1.7130±.5178. The average diameter of MIC in males was 1.735±.5406 and in females was 1.6800±.4934. Complications from implant surgery in the anterior mandible may be prevented by utilizing CBCT scans to analyze the smallest diameter of the MIC.

Thermoresponsive and Injectable Pluronic F127 Hydrogel for Loading Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells.

BACKGROUND: Stem cell-based therapies display immense potential in regenerative medicine, highlighting the crucial significance of devising efficient delivery methods. This study centers on a pioneering approach that utilizes Pluronic F127 (PF127) as a thermoresponsive and injectable hydrogel designed for the encapsulation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AdMSCs). METHODS: The degradation profile, gelation time, and microstructure of the PF127 hydrogel were thoroughly examined. AdMSCs were isolated, expanded, and characterized based on their multi-lineage differentiation potential. AdMSCs from the third passage were specifically employed for encapsulation within the PF127 hydrogel. Subsequently, the cytotoxicity of the AdMSC-loaded PF127 hydrogel was assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and apoptosis assays. RESULTS: Characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the PF127 hydrogel exhibited a porous structure, indicating its suitability for accommodating AdMSCs and facilitating wound healing. The PF127 hydrogel demonstrated reversible phase transitions, rendering it suitable for in vivo applications. Studies on the gelation time of PF127 hydrogel unveiled a concentration-dependent decrease in gelation time, offering adaptability for diverse medical applications. Analysis of the degradation profile showcased a seven-day degradation period, leading to the decision for weekly topical applications. Cytotoxicity assessments confirmed that AdMSCs loaded into the PF127 hydrogel maintained heightened metabolic activity for up to one week, affirming the safety and appropriateness of the PF127 hydrogel for encapsulating cellular therapeutics. Furthermore, cell apoptosis assays consistently indicated low rates of apoptosis, emphasizing the viability and robust health of AdMSCs when delivered within the hydrogel. CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the vast potential of PF127 hydrogel as a versatile and biocompatible delivery system for AdMSCs in the realm of regenerative medicine. Boasting adjustable gelation properties and a remarkable capacity for cell encapsulation, this pioneering delivery system presents a promising path for applications in tissue engineering and wound healing. Ultimately, these advancements propel and elevate the landscape of regenerative medicine.

Current aspects of organoid technology for biomaterial toxicity analysis.

Organoids provide us an opportunity to understand how diseases affect cellular physiology, human tissues or organs. They are indespensible tools for biomaterial toxicity analysis, drug discovery and regenerative medicine.

Polypyrrole-based nanomaterials: A novel strategy for reducing toxic chemicals and others related to environmental sustainability applications.

Aqueous contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, dyes, personal care products, etc., are the common water contaminants that show adverse health effects. Photocatalysis is one of the well-known techniques to treat these water contaminants. Currently, most inorganic photocatalysts show a poor balance between adsorption and photocatalytic activity. In addition, heavy metal pollution and low biosafety are significant concerns in photocatalysis. Thus, environmentally friendly photocatalysts are required to avoid the secondary pollution caused by some inorganic semiconductor-photocatalysts. Organic polymer-based photocatalysts are low-cost, stable, non-toxic, and can utilize visible and NIR light for photocatalysis. In this review, we have discussed polypyrrole as a photocatalyst. Polypyrrole is a conducting organic polymer photocatalyst that is highly stable with high charge mobility and strong binding sites for photocatalytic reactions. Besides these advantages, polypyrrole has limitations, such as high charge recombination due to a small bandgap and poor dispersity. So we have explored the modifications to polypyrrole photocatalysts, such as doping and heterojunctions. Further, we have explained the applications of polypyrrole in photocatalysis as an adsorbent, sensitizer, degradation of pollutants, and energy production. Finally, the future aspects of polypyrrole photocatalysis are also explored to improve the path of future research.

Improved production of biogas via microbial digestion of pressmud using CuO/Cu2O based nanocatalyst prepared from pressmud and sugarcane bagasse waste.

Biogas production through anaerobic digestions of organic wastes using microbes is a potential alternative to maintain the long term sustainability of the environment and also to full-fill the energy demands and waste management issues. In this context, pressmud can be a vital substrate which is generated from sugarcane industries and found to be broadly available. In this work, biogas improvement has been investigated in presence of CuO/Cu2O based nanocatalyst wherein pressmud is employed as a substrate in anaerobic digestion. Herein, CuO/Cu2O based nanocatalyst has been prepared using the aqueous extract prepared from the combination of PM and SCB which is employed as a reducing agent. The physicochemical properties of CuO/Cu2O nanocatalyst have been probed through different techniques and it is noticed that using 1.0 % CuO/Cu2O based nanocatalyst employed in AD process, cumulative biogas 224.7 mL CH4 /g VS could be recorded after 42 days.

A Saliva-Based RNA Extraction-Free Workflow Integrated With Cas13a for SARS-CoV-2 Detection.

A major bottleneck in scaling-up COVID-19 testing is the need for sophisticated instruments and well-trained healthcare professionals, which are already overwhelmed due to the pandemic. Moreover, the high-sensitive SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics are contingent on an RNA extraction step, which, in turn, is restricted by constraints in the supply chain. Here, we present CASSPIT (Cas13 Assisted Saliva-based & Smartphone Integrated Testing), which will allow direct use of saliva samples without the need for an extra RNA extraction step for SARS-CoV-2 detection. CASSPIT utilizes CRISPR-Cas13a based SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection, and lateral-flow assay (LFA) readout of the test results. The sample preparation workflow includes an optimized chemical treatment and heat inactivation method, which, when applied to COVID-19 clinical samples, showed a 97% positive agreement with the RNA extraction method. With CASSPIT, LFA based visual limit of detection (LoD) for a given SARS-CoV-2 RNA spiked into the saliva samples was ~200 copies; image analysis-based quantification further improved the analytical sensitivity to ~100 copies. Upon validation of clinical sensitivity on RNA extraction-free saliva samples (n = 76), a 98% agreement between the lateral-flow readout and RT-qPCR data was found (Ct<35). To enable user-friendly test results with provision for data storage and online consultation, we subsequently integrated lateral-flow strips with a smartphone application. We believe CASSPIT will eliminate our reliance on RT-qPCR by providing comparable sensitivity and will be a step toward establishing nucleic acid-based point-of-care (POC) testing for COVID-19.

Craniofacial and upper airway profile assessment in North Indian patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

INTRODUCTION: Upper airway imaging can often identify the anatomical risk factors for sleep apnea and provide sufficient insight into the pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a case-control, observational study at a tertiary care hospital in North India. All cases and controls underwent lateral cephalometry and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for craniofacial and upper airway evaluation. Only the cases had polysomnography testing for confirmation of OSA and assessing the severity of disease. RESULTS: Forty cases and an equal number of matched controls were recruited. On X-ray cephalometry, it was observed that the cases had a significantly larger hyoid mandibular distance and soft palate length; and shorter mandibular length. The MRI cephalometric variables were significantly different, the soft palate length, tongue length, and submental fat were longer while the retropalatal and retroglossal distance was shorter amongst the cases. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the cephalometric parameters and the indices of severity of OSA. An increased hyoid mandibular distance and soft palate length, and a decrease in the lower anterior facial height were found to be predictive of severe OSA (Apnea-Hypopnea Index ->30/h). An increased hyoid mandibular distance, soft palate length, and the tongue length and a reduced mandibular length were found to be predictive of need for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) pressures of ≥15 cm H2O. There were significant differences between the cephalometric parameters of the Indian OSA patients and patients from other ethnicities reported in the literature. CONCLUSIONS: OSA patients had a significantly smaller upper airway compared to age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched controls and cephalometric variables correlated with the indices of OSA severity. The cephalometric assessment was also predictive of severe OSA and the need for higher pressures of CPAP. This indicates the important role of upper airway anatomy in the pathogenesis of OSA.

Novel Use of Orbita Plates in Mandibular Body Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Isolated fractures of the mandibular body separate the dentate border and compress lower border when subjected to masticatory forces. This study aims at evaluating the efficacy of two Orbita plates in Champy's osteosynthesis lines along with achieving 3D configuration and preventing trauma to mental foramen. AIMS: (1) To achieve a near 3D configuration by fixing the terminal parts of both plates in contact with each other; (2) to preserve the mental nerve within the ellipse created by two Orbita plates; and (3) to prevent damage to the root apices from the upper plate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was performed on 20 patients with mandible body fracture through the mental foramina. With the intraoral vestibular approach, two Orbita miniplates were fixed in Champy's osteosynthesis lines. A geometrically closed quadrangular relationship was achieved in the shape of an ellipse, with the mental nerve emerging from it. RESULTS: Fracture healing was optimum in all the cases along with satisfactory occlusion. Postoperative intermaxillary fixation was not required. Mental nerve function impairment was insignificant. CONCLUSION: This served to achieve satisfactory functional outcomes in patients with mandible body fracture without injury to roots and along with achieving a geometrically close quadrangular relationship even where 3D miniplates cannot be placed.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis/Stevens-Johnson syndrome: current trends in management.

BACKGROUND: Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening condition that involves sloughing of the skin at the dermoepidermal junction. TEN is a well-recognized syndrome and is part of a range of severe mucocutaneous intolerance reactions, mostly elicited by drugs and/or their metabolites. Reported mortality rates vary widely from 20 to 75%. Several systemic treatment protocols for TEN have been published; however, none has been formally standardized in a randomized controlled trial. The present study documents the current management principles and trends seen in 16 patients admitted with TEN or Stevens-Johnson syndrome over a 5-year period at the Concord Repatriation General Hospital Burns Unit. METHOD: Data were collected by retrospective chart review, and parameters included in the study were patient demographics, causative agents, percentage total body surface area and/or mucosal involvement, complications, treatment and outcome. In particular, dressing choice and documented healing of skin lesions were noted. RESULTS: Sixteen patients were identified, with the beta-lactam antibiotics most commonly implicated as the cause. Complications tended to relate to degree of sepsis and/or mucous membrane involvement. Nanocrsytalline silver dressings, such as Acticoat (Smith & Nephew, Mount Waverley, Victoria, Australia), were used predominantly in more recent cases. CONCLUSION: The shift in dressing choice from traditional Vaseline-impregnated gauze coincided with a general trend towards the use of nanocrystalline silver dressings for superficial burns after 2003. The nanocrystalline silver dressings have shown considerable advantage over previously used dressings, with no adverse reactions noted and good healing of the skin lesions for all patients.

Endovascular management of isolated axillary artery aneurysm--a case report.

The purpose of this paper is to report a case of axillary artery aneurysm, successfully treated by percutaneous transfemoral self-expandable polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) covered Wallgraft stent. A 20-year-old man presented with sudden-onset, severe aching pain of left upper limb that occurred while doing isometric exercise. He had feeble left brachial and radial pulses. Angiography revealed a 21 x 14 mm left axillary artery aneurysm with a 15 mm neck. There was an organized clot in the midpart of the left brachial artery. The aneurysm was successfully closed with a self-expandable 10 x 30 mm Wallgraft endoprosthesis PTFE graft stent, via the right femoral route. A check angiogram at 6 weeks of follow-up showed a patent stent with no endovascular leak. At 1 year of follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic with normal upper limbs pulsations. Axillary artery aneurysm may be treated with a stent graft, which is an effective, rapid, and definite treatment and is an acceptable alternative to standard open surgical repair.

Treatment of partial-thickness burns: a prospective, randomized trial using Transcyte.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of three burns dressings (TransCyte, a bio-engineered skin substitute; Biobrane; and Silvazine cream (silver sulphadiazine and 0.2% chlorhexidine)), in treating children with partial-thickness burns. The primary objective was to determine the days until > or =90% re-epithelialization. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the number of wounds requiring autografting and the number of dressing changes/local wound care required. METHODS: Study wounds were identified on each patient and the patients were randomized to receive TransCyte or Biobrane or Silvazine. Assessment of study wound closure began at 2 days after treatment and continued at least every other day thereafter until the wounds re-epithelialized or were autografted. A laser Doppler imaging system was used as an adjunct to assessing the depth of the burn. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients with 58 wound sites enrolled in the study (TransCyte, n = 20, Biobrane, n = 17; Silvazine, n = 21). Mean time to re-epithelialization was 7.5 days for TransCyte, 9.5 days for Biobrane, and 11.2 days for Silvazine. The number of wounds requiring autografting were 5/21 (24%) for Silvazine, 3/17 (17%) for Biobrane, and 1/20 (5%) for TransCyte. CONCLUSIONS: When used in partial-thickness burns in children, TransCyte promotes fastest re-epithelialization and required less overall dressings then Biobrane or Silvazine. Patients who received Silvazine or Biobrane require more autografting than those treated with TransCyte.