Clinical patterns and outcomes of patients affected by primary malignant melanoma of the oral mucosa: A European multicenter retrospective chart review.

Introduction: The purpose of this European multicenter study was to describe and assess the characteristics, diagnosis, management, and recurrence of oral malignant melanoma at different European oral and maxillofacial surgery centers.

Materials And Methods: This study was based on a systematic computer-assisted database that allowed the recording of data for all primary oral mucosal melanomas treated in the involved surgical units across Europe between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2022. The following data were recorded for each patient: gender, age, site, TNM staging, metastases, symptoms, imaging features, histopathological features, treatment, complications, recurrence, follow up, and survival.

Validation of the Postnatal Growth and Retinopathy of Prematurity (G-ROP) criteria in a Slovene cohort.

Purpose To validate the Postnatal Growth and ROP (G-ROP) study criteria for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening in a Slovenian cohort. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of preterm infants screened in 2021 at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia. The G-ROP criteria were systematically applied.

Protocol for the fabrication of self-standing (nano)cellulose-based 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering.

Three-dimensional (3D) and porous scaffolds made from nanocellulosic materials hold significant potential in tissue engineering (TE). Here, we present a protocol for fabricating self-standing (nano)cellulose-based 3D scaffolds designed for in vitro testing of cells from skin and cartilage tissues. We describe steps for preparation of nanocellulose ink, scaffold formation using 3D printing, and freeze-drying.

SABR tolerance after prostatectomy: pushing the boundaries of ultrahypofractionation.

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and tolerance of ultra-hypofractionated SABR (stereotactic ablative radiation therapy) protocol following radical prostatectomy.

Patients And Methods: We included patients undergoing adjuvant or salvage SABR between April 2019 and April 2023 targeting the surgical bed and pelvic lymph nodes up to a total dose of 36.25 Gy (7.

Inconsistent terminology in rodent anatomy hinders appropriate blood sampling in laboratory animal science: A review of blood sampling techniques on the head of mice.

Blood sampling is often performed during animal studies. This is more challenging in mice than in larger animal species owing to their size and lack of blood vessel visibility. Guidelines for blood sampling in mice and papers on animal welfare often refer to the submandibular, cheek, buccal, and anterior facial veins.

Design of the Multi-Bioactive Graphene-Oxide/Gelatin/Alginate Scaffolds as Dual ECM-Mimetic and Specific Wound Healing Phase-Target Therapeutic Concept for Advanced Wound Healing.

To develop and evaluate graphene oxide/gelatin/alginate scaffolds for advanced wound therapy capable of mimicking the native extracellular matrix (ECM) and bio-stimulating all specific phases of the wound healing process, from inflammation and proliferation to the remodeling of damaged skin tissue in three dimensions. The scaffolds were engineered as interpenetrating polymeric networks by the crosslinking reaction of gelatin in the presence of alginate and characterized by structural, morphological, mechanical, swelling properties, porosity, adhesion to the skin tissue, wettability, and in vitro simultaneous release of the active agents. Biocompatibility of the scaffolds were evaluated in vitro by MTT test on fibroblasts (MRC5 cells) and in vivo using assay.

Enteric Coated Pellets with Lactoferrin for Oral Delivery: Improved Shelf Life of the Product.

Background/objectives: Lactoferrin (Lf), a multifunctional iron-binding protein, has considerable potential for use as an active ingredient in food supplements due to its numerous positive effects on health. As Lf is prone to degradation, we aimed to develop a formulation that would ensure sufficient stability of Lf in the gastrointestinal tract and during product storage.

Methods: A simple, efficient, and well-established technology that has potential for industrial production was used for the double-coating of neutral pellet cores with an Lf layer and a protective enteric coating.

Superhydrophobic Coatings Based on PMMA-Siloxane-Silica and Modified Silica Nanoparticles Deposited on AA2024-T3.

The study aimed to develop a superhydrophobic coating on the aluminium alloy 2024-T3 surface. The desired surface roughness and low surface energy were achieved with SiO nanoparticles, synthesised via the Stöber method and modified with alkyl silane (AS) or perfluoroalkyl silane (FAS). To enhance particle adhesion to the alloy substrate, nanoparticles were incorporated into a hybrid sol-gel coating composed of tetraethyl orthosilicate, methyl methacrylate, and 3-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane.

Comparing Hydrolysable and Condensed Tannins for Tannin Protein-Based Foams.

Tannin-based foams have gained attention as a potential bio-based alternative to conventional synthetic foams. Traditionally, namely condensed tannins (CT) have been used, leaving the potential of hydrolysable tannins (HT) largely unexplored. This study compared the performance of chestnut (HT) and quebracho (CT) in tannin-protein-based foams at different tannin ratios.

Synthesis of Anti-Inflammatory Drugs' Chalcone Derivatives and a Study of Their Conformational Properties Through a Combination of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Molecular Modeling.

Background: In this study, two chalcone analogs were synthesized through in silico and experimental methods, and their potential to inhibit the lipoxygenase enzyme, which plays a role in the inflammation pathway, was assessed. Specifically, this study is a continuation of previous research in which chalcone derivatives were synthesized and characterized.

Objectives/methods: In the current work, we present the re-synthesis of two chalcones, with a focus on their docking studies, NMR analysis, and dynamic simulations.

Posterior Fossa Stereotactic Biopsy with Leksell Vantage Frame-Case Series and Review of Literature.

Stereotactic biopsy of posterior fossa lesions, which are often inoperable, enables a safe trajectory and provides tissue samples for accurate diagnosis, which is crucial for correct treatment since the latest World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System from 2021 places immense emphasis on molecular diagnostics. Stereotactic biopsy using the Leksell Vantage headframe is, due to its rigid design, extremely accurate, but stiffer, making the procedure more challenging and the learning curve steeper. This retrospective analysis demonstrates the introduction of the new Leksell Vantage headframe in day-to-day practice at the University Medical Center in Maribor, Slovenia, in demanding procedures of posterior fossa biopsies, and also provides a review of the literature available on the topic with emphasis on the technical aspect of posterior fossa biopsy using the Leksell Vantage headframe in adults.

Comparing Repaired Subscapularis Tendon Integrity Using Ultrasound in Onlay Versus Inlay Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty.

The importance of the subscapularis tendon in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has been increasingly emphasized lately. Recent studies have indicated that a repaired subscapularis tendon has better functional outcomes. This study is aimed at comparing the healing rate of repaired subscapularis tendons between onlay and inlay Bony Increased Offset-Reversed Shoulder Arthroplasty (BIO-RSA).

Evaluation of Mechanochemically Prepared CePO∙HO Nanoparticles as UV Filter for Photoprotective Formulations.

Rhabdophane, CePO∙HO, nanoparticles were prepared by mechanochemical synthesis with different durations and thoroughly characterized by various characterization techniques. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the optimal synthesis duration was 15 min, since, in this case, pure rhabdophane is obtained, without traces of contamination by the vessel material. The size of the obtained nanoparticles, as determined from high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images, was around 5 nm.

Mononuclear Aluminum-Fluoride Ions, AlF-Study of Plausible Frameworks of Complexes with Biomolecules and Their In Vitro Toxicity.

The importance of fluorine and aluminum in all aspects of daily life has led to an enormous increase in human exposure to these elements in their various forms. It is therefore important to understand the routes of exposure and to investigate and understand the potential toxicity. Of particular concern are aluminum-fluoride complexes (AlF), which are able to mimic the natural isostructural phosphate group and influence the activity of numerous essential phosphoryl transferases.

Laparoscopic and Open Distal Pancreatectomy-An Initial Single-Institution Experience with a Propensity Score Matching Analysis.

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy is a minimally invasive approach for the surgical treatment of neoplasms in the distal pancreas. This study aimed to compare this approach to the open procedure. A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of 400 pancreatectomies was performed.

Alkali-Activated Mineral Residues in Construction: Case Studies on Bauxite Residue and Steel Slag Pavement Tiles.

This research aimed to investigate the potential of using alkali activation technology to valorize steel slag and bauxite residue for the production of high-performance pavement blocks. By utilizing these industrial by-products, the study seeks to reduce their environmental impact and support the development of sustainable construction materials. Lab-scale testing showed that bauxite pavers showed a decrease in mechanical strength with increasing replacement of ordinary Portland cement.

Determination of the Critical Voltage for the Observation of Uncoated Wood Samples in Electron Microscopy.

Electron microscopy (EM) is a key tool for studying the microstructure of wood; however, observing uncoated samples poses a challenge due to surface charging. This study aims to identify the critical voltage that allows for the effective observation of uncoated wood samples without significant loading. As part of the experiment, samples of different wood species were tested, including Acacia ( L.

An Overview of the Nutritional Requirements of Honey Bees ( Linnaeus, 1758).

Honey bees are known for their wide global distribution, their ease of handling, and their economic and ecological value. However, they are often exposed to a wide variety of stress factors. Therefore, it is essential for beekeepers to maintain healthy bee colonies.

Genetic Background of Macular Telangiectasia Type 2.

Macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel) is a slowly progressive macular disorder that is often diagnosed late due to the gradual onset of vision loss. Recent advances in diagnostic techniques have facilitated earlier detection and have shown that MacTel is more common than initially thought. The disease is genetically complex, and multiple variants contribute incrementally to the overall risk.

Metagenomic Sequencing for Diagnosing Listeria-Induced Rhombencephalitis in Patient and Contaminated Cheese Samples: A Case Report.

Among the various causes of rhomboencephalitis, infection is the most common. However, conventional microbiological methods often yield negative results, making diagnosis challenging and leading to extensive, often inconclusive, diagnostics. Advanced molecular techniques like metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) offer a powerful and efficient approach to pathogen identification.

Relationship Between the Use of Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches for Monitoring Physical Activity and the Sociodemographic Characteristics of Long-Term Care Residents During the COVID-19 Lockdown.

: The use of wearable fitness technology is a trend nowadays and has significant potential in promoting an active lifestyle among long-term care (LTC) residents. The objectives of this observational study were to examine the use of fitness trackers and smartwatches for monitoring physical activity and to analyze the relationship between the use of these technological solutions and the sociodemographic characteristics of LTC residents during the COVID-19 lockdown. : Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 198 LTC residents stationed in eleven organizational units that provide long-term accommodation services for older adults in the city of Zagreb in Croatia.

Atypical Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) Associated with a Novel MT-CYB:m.15309T>C(Ile188Thr) Variant.

The study presents a detailed examination and follow-up of a Slovenian patient with an Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)-like phenotype and bilateral optic neuropathy in whom genetic analysis identified a novel variant :m.15309T>C (Ile188Thr). We provide detailed analysis of the clinical examinations of a male patient with bilateral optic neuropathy from the acute stage to 8 years of follow-up.

Genomic Rewilding of Domestic Animals: The Role of Hybridization and Selection in Wolfdog Breeds.

: The domestication of the grey wolf () and subsequent creation of modern dog breeds have significantly shaped the genetic landscape of domestic canines. This study investigates the genomic effects of hybridization and breeding management practices in two hybrid wolfdog breeds: the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog (CSW) and the Saarloos Wolfdog (SAW). : We analyzed the genomes of 46 CSWs and 20 SAWs, comparing them to 12 German Shepherds (GSHs) and 20 wolves (WLFs), which served as their ancestral populations approximately 70-90 years ago.

The Impact of Storage Conditions on DNA Preservation in Human Skeletal Remains: A Comparison of Freshly Excavated Samples and Those Stored for 12 Years in a Museum Depot.

As the field of ancient DNA research continues to evolve and produce significant discoveries, it is important to address the crucial limitations it still faces. Under conducive conditions, DNA can persist for thousands of years within human skeletal remains, but, as excavation occurs, the environment abruptly changes, often leading to the loss of DNA and valuable genetic information. Proper storage procedures are needed to mediate DNA degradation and maintain sample integrity.

Insights into the Allosteric Regulation of Human Hsp90 Revealed by NMR Spectroscopy.

Human heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is one of the most important chaperones that play a role in the late stages of protein folding. Errors in the process of the chaperone cycle can lead to diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, the activity of Hsp90 must be carefully regulated.