Crystal Structure, Theoretical Analysis, and Protein/DNA Binding Activity of Iron(III) Complex Containing Differently Protonated Pyridoxal-S-Methyl-Isothiosemicarbazone Ligands.

Pyridoxal-S-methyl-isothiosemicarbazone (PLITSC) is a member of an important group of ligands characterized by different complexation modes to various transition metals. In this contribution, a new complex containing two differently protonated PLITSC ligands ([Fe(PLITSC-H)(PLITSC)]SO4)∙2.5H2O was obtained. The crystal structure was solved by the X-ray analysis and used further for the optimization at B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p)(H,C,N,O,S)/def2-TZVP(Fe) level of theory. Changes in the interaction strength and bond distance due to protonation were observed upon examination by the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules. The protein binding affinity of [Fe(PLITSC-H)(PLITSC)]SO4 towards transport proteins (Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) and Human Serum Albumin (HSA)) was investigated by the spectrofluorimetric titration and molecular docking. The interactions with the active pocket containing fluorescent amino acids were examined in detail, which explained the fluorescence quenching. The interactions between complex and DNA were followed by the ethidium-bromide displacement titration and molecular docking. The binding along the minor groove was the dominant process involving complex in the proximity of DNA.

Synthesis of furan-modified cationic cellulose for stereo-specific imprinting and separation of S-indacrinone via Diels-Alder reaction.

This study introduces a novel approach for the separation of indacrinone (IC) enantiomers, crucial in treating edema, hypertension, and hyperuricemia. A cationic biopolymer from furan-2-ylmethylhydrazine-cellulose (FUH-CE), derived from cyanoethyl cellulose (CEC), serving as a substrate in molecular imprinting. A key innovation is the use of the Diels-Alder reaction for efficient cross-linking with bis(maleimido)ethane (BME). This chemical strategy resulted in molecularly imprinted microparticles with high selectivity for the S-IC enantiomer, which can be eluted by adjusting the solution's pH. Extensive characterization confirmed the chemical modifications and selective binding efficacy of these biopolymers. Utilizing separation columns, our method achieved an impressive chiral resolution of (±)-IC, with an enantiomeric excess (ee) of 95 % for R-IC during the loading phase and 97 % for S-IC during elution. Under optimized conditions, the biopolymer demonstrated a maximum binding capacity of 131 mg/g at pH 6. This advanced approach represents a significant advancement in chiral separation technology, offering a robust and efficient technique for the selective isolation of enantiomers. This method not only enhances potential targeted therapeutic applications but also provides a scalable solution for industrial chiral separations.

Thermodynamic, chemical, and electrochemical studies of Aloe ferox Mill extract as a naturally developing copper corrosion inhibitor in HCl solution.

Copper can be susceptible to corrosion in acidic cleaning solutions for desalination system, especially if the solution is highly concentrated or if the cleaning process involves extended exposure to the acid. In the current work, Aloe ferox Mill (AFM extract) can be used as a natural origin corrosion inhibitor for copper in 1.0 M HCl solution. The corrosion mitigation qualities of AFM extract were assessed by means of electrochemical, gravimetric, and surface examinations. AFM extract is a mixed-type inhibitor, based on polarization research findings. The inhibitory effectiveness of AFM extract rises with concentration, reaching its maximum level (93.3%) at 250 mg L-1. The inclusion of AFM extract raises the activation energy for the corrosion reaction from 7.15 kJ mol-1 (blank solution) to 28.6 kJ mol-1 (at 250 mg L-1 AFM extract).

Antibacterial and Anticandidal Activity of the Nanostructural Composite of a Spirothiazolidine-Derivative Assembled on Silver Nanoparticles.

Our aims in this work are the preparation of an ionic liquid based on heterocyclic compounds with Ag nanoparticles and the investigation of its application as an antibacterial and anticandidal agent. These goals were achieved through the fabrication of an ionic liquid based on Ag nanoparticles with 5-Amino-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-hexadecyl-7-(4-methylphenyl)-2-H spiro[cyclohexane1,2'-[1,3]thiazolo [4,5-b]pyridine]-6-carbonitrile (P16). The nanostructure of the prepared ionic liquid was characterized using techniques such as FTIR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, UV, SEM, and TEM. The biological activity of the prepared compound (P16) and its nanocomposites with Ag nanoparticles was tested using five clinical bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa 249; Escherichia coli 141; Enterobacter cloacae 235; Staphylococcus epidermidis BC 161, and methicillin-resistant S. aureus 217), and three Candida species (Candida utilis ATCC 9255; C. tropicalis ATCC 1362, and C. albicans ATCC 20402). The FTIR, 1HNMR, and 13CNMR results confirmed the chemical structure of the synthesized P16 compound. The nanostructure of the prepared ionic liquid was determined based on data obtained from the UV, SEM, and TEM tests. The antibacterial and anticandidal results showed that the biological activity of the compound (P16) was enhanced after the formation of nanocomposite structures with Ag nanoparticles. Moreover, the biological activity of the compound itself (P16) and that of its nanocomposite structure with Ag nanoparticles was higher than that of ampicillin and amphotericin B, which were used as control drugs in this work.

The lived experiences of nurse preceptors in training new nurses in Qatar: qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: The role of preceptors is vital in the successful integration of new graduate nurses in hospital settings. This study aimed to explore the experiences of nurse preceptors in training newly joined nurses in Qatar. METHODS: Qualitative study was conducted between May 2022 and May 2023. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted through MS Teams with 13 nurse preceptors who had completed preceptorship training and trained at least one newly joined nurse. Participants were recruited until data saturation was obtained and data were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS: The results of the study revealed several main themes: teaching strategies and progressive skill development in preceptorship, challenges faced by the preceptor and preceptor better supported in training new nurses. The preceptors utilized different techniques to support new nurses including demonstration, discussion, use of technology, application of real-life clinical scenarios, simulations, and a gradual decrease in supervision to promote independence. However, a significant challenge was also reported including preceptors experienced high levels of exhaustion from the dual responsibilities of training new staff while also performing their regular care duties. CONCLUSIONS: The study underscores the fundamental role preceptors play in the training and development of newly joined nurses. While the challenges are considerable, particularly related to managing workload, the sense of achievement following the successful completion of training a new nurse suggests a strong commitment to this role. Despite the challenges, preceptors demonstrated innovative strategies to ensure the successful development of their preceptees, highlighting the importance of preceptorship in nursing education and practice.

Nurse's experience working 12-hour shift in a tertiary level hospital in Qatar: a mixed method study.

BACKGROUND: The use of 12-h shifts for nursing staff has become common in many healthcare settings, including tertiary hospitals, due to its potential benefits such as reduced handover time and increased continuity of care. However, there is limited research on the experiences of nurses working 12-h shifts, particularly in the context of Qatar, where the healthcare system and nursing workforce may have unique characteristics and challenges. This study aimed to explore the experiences of nurses working 12-h shifts in a tertiary hospital in Qatar, including their perceptions of physical health, fatigue, stress, job satisfaction, service quality, and patient safety. METHODS: A mixed method study design was applied consisting of a survey and semi-structured interviews. Data was collected from 350 nurses through an online survey and from 11 nurses through semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed using Shapiro-Wilk test and the difference between demographic variables and scores were examined using Whitney U test and Kruskal- Wallis test. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative interviews. RESULTS: The results from quantitative study revealed nurses perception in working 12-h shift has negative impact in their wellbeing, satisfaction as well as patient care outcomes. Thematic analysis revealed real stress and burnout and experienced an enormous amount of pressure going for work. CONCLUSIONS: Our study provides an understanding of the nurse's experience working 12-h shift in a tertiary level hospital in Qatar. A mixed method approach informed us that, nurses are not satisfied with the 12-h shift and interviews revealed high level of stress and burnout among nurses resulting in job dissatisfaction and negative health concerns. Nurses also reported that it is challenging to stay productive and focused throughout their new shift pattern.

EFFECT OF AGE AND GENDER ON FASTING AND FOOD-STIMULATED LEVELS OF CALCITONIN, PARATHYROID, AND GASTRIN HORMONES IN HEALTHY ADULTS.

Objective: To investigate the effect of age and gender on basal and food-stimulated serum calcitonin (CT), parathyroid hormone (PTH), and gastrin levels among healthy adults. Methods: Ninety-six healthy adults (76 men and 20 women) aged between 21 and 43 years were recruited. Serum CT, PTH, and gastrin levels were measured after a 9-hour overnight fast, and 1 and 3 hours postprandially. Results: PTH levels decreased early and increased late after feeding. This change was significant in men but not in women. CT levels increased in response to food intake in men but not in women. Gastrin levels were significantly increased after feeding in both men and women. Mean basal and food stimulated CT, PTH, and gastrin levels did not significantly differ between genders. Fasting and post-prandial PTH levels were higher while gastrin levels were lower in older subjects (>30 years old) compared to younger subjects (≤30 years old). Fasting and postprandial CT levels were not significantly different between age groups. Conclusion: Age had a significant effect on fasting and food-stimulated PTH and gastrin hormone levels. The effect of age on PTH levels was independent of baseline vitamin D levels. Men showed significant changes in CT and PTH levels in response to feeding compared to women, although the mean hormone levels were not significantly different between men and women. Abbreviations: CT = calcitonin; MTC = medullary thyroid carcinoma; PTH = parathyroid hormone; SD = standard deviation.

PIXE and GC-MS investigation for the determination of the chemical composition of Syrian Cuminum cyminum L.

The chemical composition and concentration of Syrian cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) were investigated. The particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analytical technique was used to analyze a wide range of elements from Mg to Sr. The advantages and disadvantages of the PIXE technique in plant material elemental analysis are discussed. A high level of iron was detected in the cumin samples, clarifying the possible contribution of cumin to maintaining the immune system. The contribution of the elements in cumin seeds to the dietary recommended intakes (DRI) of elements was evaluated. Additionally, GC-MS measurements were performed to determine the chemical composition of cumin essential oil. Twenty-one components were identified, and cuminaldehyde, γ-terpinene, o-cymene, limonene and ß-pinene were determined to be the major constituents. A correlation between the chemical composition of cumin seeds and their use as a traditional remedy is proposed.

Effect of platelet-activating factor (PAF) on stallion sperm motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction.

Phospholipids are an essential component of all mammalian cells; platelet activating factor (PAF=1-O-alkyl-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) is a signalling phospholipid that has many biological properties in addition to platelet activation. PAF receptors have been detected on stallion spermatozoa; therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of synthetic PAF on the motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction of stallion spermatozoa. Treatment of ten stallion semen samples with 10(-4)-10(-13) mol PAF l(-1) resulted in significant differences in motility and capacitation (r(2)=0.81 and 0.83, respectively). Statistical analysis indicated that PAF also has an effect on acrosome reaction (r(2)=0.20). PAF concentrations, incubation time and their interaction had a highly significant (P<0.01) effect on motility. After capacitation in vitro with PAF, and induction of the acrosome reaction by progesterone, transmission electron microscopy was conducted on the spermatozoa of three stallions to detect the true acrosome reaction. Differences in PAF concentrations were highly significant (r(2) for intact: 97.2; reacted: 89.8; and vesiculated: 98.1). The results indicate that a lower concentration of PAF enhances motility and induces capacitation of stallion spermatozoa, whereas a higher concentration of PAF induces the acrosome reaction.

Haematocrit measurements during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery: comparison of three stat methods with a blood cell counter.

Monitoring packed cell volume (PCV) is essential to safeguard oxygen delivery to the tissues during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). We compared the results obtained using a PCV monitor, a blood gas analyser and a microcentrifuge with those from a laboratory-based automated blood cell counter. PCV was measured in 221 samples of 40 patients undergoing open-heart surgery. The limits of agreement (mean difference +/- 2 SD) was unacceptably wide when the results obtained with the PCV monitor and the blood gas analyser were compared with those of the automated blood cell counter. This was most pronounced when PCV was measured in low concentration samples. The microcentrifuge showed good limits of agreement regardless of sample concentration. The data suggests that measurement of PCV by either continuous monitoring or by a blood gas analyser is not an accurate alternative to an established laboratory method. The microcentrifuge is the most accurate method of the ones investigated to measure haematocrit during CPB.

[Giant peripheral tear of the retinal pigmented epithelium]. / Déchirure géante et périphérique de l'épithélium pigmentaire rétinien.

The authors present a case of gigantic tear of the retinal pigmented epithelium. This tear was situated in the middle periphery and seems to have appeared spontaneously together with a carotid-cavernous fistula. The functional outcome was favorable. The authors deal with the various possible patho-physiological mechanisms.

[Double-blind study of the comparative action of indomethacin 0.1% and placebo on the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier]. / Etude en double insu de l'action comparée de l'indométacine à 0.1% et d'un placebo sur la rupture de la barrière hémato-aqueuse.

The oral fluorophotometric exploration is able to simultaneously quantify the permeability of the blood aqueous (KIN, KOUT) and blood-retinal (PVPR) barriers. It is possible to detect the breakdown of the blood aqueous barrier 3 days after cataract surgery with this fluorophotometric method. Ocular inflammation is responsible for this leakage and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs prevent this breakdown. In this paper, we studied the effect of 0.1% indomethacin treatment to patients before and after cataract surgery. This double-blind study was performed in 34 patients: 18 patients in the indomethacin group and 16 patients in the placebo group. We showed that the apparent transfer coefficient of fluorescein in the anterior chamber (KIN) was statistically lower in the indomethacin group (0.0220 +/- 0.0179 hr-1) than in the placebo group (0.0371 +/- 0.0187 hr-1) on the 3rd postoperative day (p = 0.027).