Evaluation of the interface of metallic-coated biodegradable polymeric stents with prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Polymeric coronary stents, like the ABSORB™, are commonly used to treat atherosclerosis due to their bioresorbable and cell-compatible polymer structure. However, they face challenges such as high strut thickness, high elastic recoil, and lack of radiopacity. This study aims to address these limitations by modifying degradable stents produced by additive manufacturing with poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) with degradable metallic coatings, specifically zinc (Zn) and magnesium (Mg), deposited via radiofrequency (rf) magnetron sputtering.

The impact of atrial voltage and conduction velocity phenotypes on atrial fibrillation recurrence.

Introduction: Low atrial voltage and slow conduction velocity (CV) have been associated with atrial fibrillation (AF); however, their interaction and relative importance as early disease markers remain incompletely understood. We aimed to elucidate the relationship between atrial voltage and CV using high-density electroanatomic (HDE) maps of patients with AF.

Methods: HDE maps obtained during sinus rhythm in 52 patients with AF and five healthy controls were analysed.

Exploring the Gastrointestinal Microbiome of Eurasian Griffon Vultures () Under Rehabilitation in Portugal and Their Potential Role as Reservoirs of Human and Animal Pathogens.

The Eurasian griffon vulture (), a widely distributed scavenger, plays a crucial role in ecosystem health by consuming decomposing carcasses. Scavengers have adapted to avoid disease from the rotting carrion they feed on, probably through a specialized gut microbiome. This study aimed to characterize the gut microbiome of (n = 8) present in two rehabilitation centers in mainland Portugal and evaluate their potential as reservoirs of pathogens.

Adherence in Evidence-Based Neurotrauma Guidelines: A Worldwide Survey.

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) management guidelines vary across regions and there is limited research on real-world adherence to these guidelines. We conducted a global survey to assess the adherence of neurosurgeons to TBI guidelines and evidence-based medicine (EBM).

Method: A 24-item survey was created using Google Forms, covering demographic information, neurotrauma training, basic knowledge of EBM, surgical and in-hospital management.