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BMI1, also known as B lymphoma Mo-MLV insertion region 1, is a protein in the Polycomb group that is implicated in various cellular processes, including stem cell self-renewal and the regulation of cellular senescence. BMI1 plays a role in the regulation of retinal progenitor cells and the renewal of adult neuronal cells. However, the presence, location, and quantification of BMI1 in the adult human eye have never previously been reported. In this study, we collected 45 frozen globes from eye banks, and ocular tissues were dissected. Protein was quantified by utilizing a custom electrochemiluminescence (ECL) assay developed to quantify the BMI1 protein. BMI1 was found in all ocular tissues at the following levels: the retina (1483.6 ± 191.7 pg/mL) and the RPE (296.4 ± 78.1 pg/mL). BMI1 expression was noted ubiquitously in the GCL (ganglion cell layer), the INL (inner nuclear layer), the ONL (outer nuclear layer), and the RPE (retinal pigment epithelium) via immunofluorescence, with higher levels in the inner than in the outer retinal layers and the RPE. These data confirm that BMI1 is expressed in the human retina. Further studies will illuminate the role that BMI1 plays in ocular cells. BMI1 levels are lower in aged retinas, possibly reflecting changes in retinal somatic and stem cell maintenance and disease susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue illness, caused by the dengue viruses, continues to be a major global health concern, with increasing incidence and the emergence of severe manifestations such as neurological complications. An overview of the current understanding of dengue epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and research priorities is presented here. Dengue transmission has escalated in recent years, exacerbated by factors such as vector expansion, climate change, and socioeconomic challenges. The clinical spectrum of dengue ranges from mild febrile illness to severe manifestations, including hemorrhagic fever and neurological complications. Neurological manifestations of dengue, once considered rare, are now increasingly reported, encompassing encephalitis, myelitis, and Guillain–Barré Syndrome, among others. Diagnosis primarily relies on laboratory methods such as RT/PCR, NS1 antigen detection, and serological assays. Despite advancements in understanding the dengue pathogenesis, there remains a critical need for effective vaccines, antiviral drugs, improved surveillance methods, predictive models for disease severity, and long-term studies on post-Dengue sequelae. Integrated programs and holistic approaches to dengue control are essential for mitigating its impact. Addressing these research priorities will be pivotal in combating dengue and reducing its global burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silybin is a natural flavonolignan with potential anticancer, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties. In the present study, various loadings of silybin (1, 3, and 5 wt%) were encapsulated in poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) fibers by electrospinning, in order to produce new pharmaceutical composites with improved bioactive and drug delivery properties. The morphological characteristics of the composite fibrous structures were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the encapsulation efficiency and the release rate of silybin were quantified using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The analysis of the membranes' thermal behavior by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed the existence of interaction between PCL and silybin. An investigation of the cytocompatibility of the composite membranes revealed that normal cells displayed an unimpeded proliferation in the respective silybin concentrations; however, tumor cell growth demonstrated a dose-dependent inhibition. Furthermore, an effective antioxidant activity against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in HEK-293 cells was observed for the prepared electrospun fibrous mats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The increase in the average life expectancy of people, the deterioration of the environment, and the stress of various etiologies, all these reasons contribute to the rising prevalence of Parkinson's disease. With this, the relevance of developing drugs for the prevention and treatment of it increases. Parkinson's disease is accompanied by a disruption of the protein structure and inflammatory processes. One of the approaches to combating this disease is the use of pharmabiotics based on bacteria that are able to produce enzymes that help maintain the native structure of proteins, i.e., possessing chaperone activity. Previously, L. fermentum U-21 has demonstrated the potential for use as a pharmabiotic. This study focuses on one of the proteins secreted by these bacteria, whose activity can help maintain the native state of proteins in patient tissues. We demonstrated the chaperone activity of the mixture of proteins secreted by L. fermentum U-21 cells and the presence of ClpL among these proteins. In vivo and in vitro tests showed the chaperone activity of ClpL. These findings indicate an involvement of the ClpL chaperone in the disaggregase activity and pharmabiotic properties of L. fermentum U-21. The L. fermentum U-21 strain, known for secreting chaperones into the extracellular milieu, emerges as a promising candidate for the development of novel therapeutics termed disaggregases for Parkinson's disease. Our study focuses on characterizing the secreted protein encoded by the C0965_000195 locus in the genome of this strain. Through sequence analysis and structural predictions, the protein encoded by C0965_000195 is identified as ClpL, homologs of which are known for their chaperone functions. The chaperone activity of ClpL from L. fermentum U-21 is investigated in vivo by assessing the refolding of luciferases with varying thermostabilities from Aliivibrio fischeri and Photorhabdus luminescens within Escherichia coli cells. The results indicate that the clpL gene from L. fermentum U-21 can compensate for the absence of the clpB gene, enhancing the refolding capacity of thermodenatured proteins in clpB-deficient cells. In vitro experiments demonstrate that both spent culture medium containing proteins secreted by L. fermentum U-21 cells, including ClpL, and purified heterologically expressed ClpL partially prevent the thermodenaturation of luciferases. The findings suggest that the ClpL protein from L. fermentum U-21, exhibiting disaggregase properties against aggregating proteins, may represent a key component contributing to the pharmabiotic attributes of this strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is the most geographically widespread tickborne viral infection worldwide and has a fatality rate of up to 62%. Despite its widespread range and high fatality rate, no vaccines or treatments are currently approved by regulatory agencies in the United States or Europe. Supportive treatment remains the standard of care, but the use of antiviral medications developed for other viral infections have been considered. We reviewed published literature to summarize the main aspects of CCHFV infection in humans. We provide an overview of diagnostic testing and management and medical countermeasures, including investigational vaccines and limited therapeutics. CCHFV continues to pose a public health threat because of its wide geographic distribution, potential to spread to new regions, propensity for genetic variability, potential for severe and fatal illness, and limited medical countermeasures for prophylaxis and treatment. Clinicians should become familiar with available diagnostic and management tools for CCHFV infections in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tickborne infection that can range from asymptomatic to fatal and has been described in >30 countries. Early identification and isolation of patients with suspected or confirmed CCHF and the use of appropriate prevention and control measures are essential for preventing human-to-human transmission. Here, we provide an overview of the epidemiology, clinical features, and prevention and control of CCHF. CCHF poses a continued public health threat given its wide geographic distribution, potential to spread to new regions, propensity for genetic variability, and potential for severe and fatal illness, in addition to the limited medical countermeasures for prophylaxis and treatment. A high index of suspicion, comprehensive travel and epidemiologic history, and clinical evaluation are essential for prompt diagnosis. Infection control measures can be effective in reducing the risk for transmission but require correct and consistent application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been tracking SARS-CoV-2 mutations. The SARS-CoV-2 consistently mutated throughout the pandemic, which resulted in many variants. A variant is a viral genome containing one or more genetic code mutations. Deep learning techniques have been successfully used in many viral classification problems associated with viral infection diagnosis, metagenomics, phylogenetics, and analysis. This work proposed an effective viral genome classifier for SARS-CoV-2 variants using the deep neural network based on the stacked sparse autoencoder (SSAE). Aiming to achieve the best performance of the model, we explored the utilization of image representations of the complete genome sequences as the SSAE input. The dataset based on Chaos Game Representation (CGR) images was generated and applied to the experiments of classification of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC). The SSAE technique provided great performance results, achieving classification accuracy of 99.9% for the validation set and 99.8% for the test set. Finally, the results indicated the relevance of using this deep learning technique in genome classification problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coatings with xenogenic materials, made of detonation nanodiamonds, provide additional strength and increase elasticity. A functionally developed surface of nanodiamonds makes it possible to apply antibiotics. Previous experiments show the stability of such coatings; however, studies on stability in the bloodstream and calcification of the material in natural conditions have yet to be conducted. Tritium-labeled nanodiamonds (negative and positive) were obtained by the tritium activation method and used to develop coatings for a pork aorta to analyze their stability in a pig’s bloodstream using a radiotracer technique. A chitosan layer was applied from a solution of carbonic acid under high-pressure conditions to prevent calcification. The obtained materials were used to prepare a porcine conduit, which was surgically stitched inside the pig’s aorta for four months. The aorta samples, including nanodiamond-coated and control samples, were analyzed for nanodiamond content and calcium, using the radiotracer and ICP-AES methods. A histological analysis of the materials was also performed. The obtained coatings illustrate a high in vivo stability and low levels of calcification for all types of nanodiamonds. Even though we did not use additional antibiotics in this case, the development of infection was not observed for negatively charged nanodiamonds, opening up prospects for their use in developing coatings [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread adoption of Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs) is being propelled, not only in the realm of private vehicles but also within transit systems. This development serves to enhance urban transport activities, rendering transportation more appealing to passengers. The present study aims to identify and examine the safety effects of testing different operational speed shuttle bus services in various future mobility conditions. To investigate impacts of autonomous shuttle bus services and to further examine their operational speed, the microscopic simulation method was performed. Specifically, four sets of simulation scenarios were comprised: a baseline scenario representing the current conditions and three operational speed scenarios (15 km/h, 30 km/h and 45 km/h) for an autonomous shuttle service. Each one of these sets included eleven CAV market penetration rates (MPRs) of CAVs of the general traffic (ranging from 0 to 100% in 10% increments). By analyzing the trajectory data extracted from microsimulation, traffic conflicts were identified and further analyzed by developing Mixed-Effects Multinomial Logit Regression models (ME-MLMs) in order to associate conflict type taking into account network characteristics as well as traffic conditions. Several aspects were determined as statistical significant parameters influencing type of conflict. The analysis yielded several significant findings that provide quantitative measurements and assessments of the effects observed, enabling a better understanding of the safety implications associated with the widespread adoption of automated services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Past findings demonstrate that arthropods can egest midgut microbiota into the host skin leading to dual colonization of the vertebrate host with pathogens and saliva microbiome. A knowledge gap exists on how the saliva microbiome interacts with the pathogen in the saliva. To fill this gap, we need to first define the microbial composition of mosquito saliva. Methods: The current study aimed at analyzing and comparing the microbial profile of Aedes albopictus saliva and midgut as well as assessing the impact of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection on the midgut and saliva microbial composition. Colony-reared Ae. albopictus strains were either exposed to ZIKV infectious or noninfectious bloodmeal. At 14 ays postinfection, the 16S V3–V4 hypervariable rRNA region was amplified from midgut and saliva samples and sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq platform. The relative abundance and diversity of midgut and saliva microbial taxa were assessed. Results: We observed a richer microbial community in the saliva compared with the midgut, yet some of the microbial taxa were common in the midgut and saliva. ZIKV infection did not impact the microbial diversity of midgut or saliva. Further, we identified Elizabethkingia spp. in the Ae. albopictus saliva. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the microbial community of the Ae. albopictus saliva as well as the influence of ZIKV infection on the microbial composition of its midgut and saliva. The identification of Elizabethkingia spp., an emerging pathogen of global health significance, in Ae. albopictus saliva is of medical importance. Future studies to assess the interactions between Ae. albopictus saliva microbiome and ZIKV could lead to novel strategies for developing transmission barrier tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specialized pro‐resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) are known for their anti‐inflammatory and pro‐resolving actions. The aim of the present study was to find new functions of the SPM resolvin D1n‐3 DPA (RvD1n‐3 DPA) on oral epithelial cells. As a starting point, we used a dataset obtained by RNA high‐throughput sequencing of oral epithelial cells exposed to TNF‐α and RvD1n‐3 DPA versus TNF‐α alone. GOrilla enrichment analysis showed that the actin cytoskeleton was significantly overrepresented after adjustment for multiple hypothesis testing. As actin, amongst others, is closely related to cell migration, we then explored whether RvD1n‐3 DPA can modulate oral epithelial cell migration. To this end, we used an in vitro cell migration model, including TNF‐α treatment, to mimic an inflammatory cell state. The analysis revealed that RvD1n‐3 DPA increased oral epithelial cell migration in the presence but not in the absence of TNF‐α. Addition of RvD1n‐3 DPA also induced F actin accumulation around the cell nucleus, indicating that RvD1n‐3 DPA potentially can mediate processes of intracellular transport. This indicates that this lipid mediator may be a promising therapeutic candidate in oral mucosal wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tickborne infection that can range from asymptomatic to fatal and has been described in >30 countries. Early identification and isolation of patients with suspected or confirmed CCHF and the use of appropriate prevention and control measures are essential for preventing human-to-human transmission. Here, we provide an overview of the epidemiology, clinical features, and prevention and control of CCHF. CCHF poses a continued public health threat given its wide geographic distribution, potential to spread to new regions, propensity for genetic variability, and potential for severe and fatal illness, in addition to the limited medical countermeasures for prophylaxis and treatment. A high index of suspicion, comprehensive travel and epidemiologic history, and clinical evaluation are essential for prompt diagnosis. Infection control measures can be effective in reducing the risk for transmission but require correct and consistent application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is the most geographically widespread tickborne viral infection worldwide and has a fatality rate of up to 62%. Despite its widespread range and high fatality rate, no vaccines or treatments are currently approved by regulatory agencies in the United States or Europe. Supportive treatment remains the standard of care, but the use of antiviral medications developed for other viral infections have been considered. We reviewed published literature to summarize the main aspects of CCHFV infection in humans. We provide an overview of diagnostic testing and management and medical countermeasures, including investigational vaccines and limited therapeutics. CCHFV continues to pose a public health threat because of its wide geographic distribution, potential to spread to new regions, propensity for genetic variability, potential for severe and fatal illness, and limited medical countermeasures for prophylaxis and treatment. Clinicians should become familiar with available diagnostic and management tools for CCHFV infections in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celiac disease (CeD) is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten proteins, affecting approximately 1 % of the global population. The 33‐mer deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) is a metabolically modified wheat‐gluten superantigen for CeD. Here, we demonstrate that the 33‐mer DGP spontaneously assembles into oligomers with a diameter of approximately 24 nm. The 33‐mer DGP oligomers present two main secondary structural motifs–a major polyproline II helix and a minor β‐sheet structure. Importantly, in the presence of 33‐mer DGP oligomers, there is a statistically significant increase in the permeability in the gut epithelial cell model Caco‐2, accompanied by the redistribution of zonula occludens‐1, a master tight junction protein. These findings provide novel molecular and supramolecular insights into the impact of 33‐mer DGP in CeD and highlight the relevance of gliadin peptide oligomerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the effects of the 33-mer deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) on permeability in the intestinal epithelial cell model. It was found that the 33-mer DGP spontaneously aggregates into oligomers with a diameter of approximately 24 nm. These oligomers significantly increase permeability in the intestinal epithelial cell model and lead to a redistribution of the tight junction protein Zonula occludens-1. The results provide new insights into the effects of the 33-mer DGP in celiac disease and emphasize the importance of gliadin peptide oligomerization. The study examines the aggregation and secondary structure of the 33-mer deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP). It was found that the DGP forms oligomers and has a predominant PPII helix structure. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that the oligomers are stabilized by non-binding interactions and hydrogen bonds. The enrichment of the DGP peptide had effects on differentiated Caco-2 cells. The study investigates the effects of the 33-mer DGP peptide on the permeability of Caco-2 monolayers. It was found that the 33-mer DGP impairs the permeability of the monolayer and leads to disruption of the cell structure. This was demonstrated by a decrease in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and changes in the localization of Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). The results suggest that the oligomerization of the 33-mer DGP plays a role in impairing intestinal permeability and may potentially lead to inflammation and gastrointestinal diseases. The study opens up new research opportunities related to celiac disease and other illnesses. [Extracted from the article]

Clinical practice entails a translation of research that assists in the use of scientific data and therapeutic evidence for the benefit of the patient. This review critically summarizes the potential impact of cannabinoids in conjunction with other drugs when associated with treatments for epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain. In these associations, potential drug interactions may occur and alter the predicted clinical results. Therefore, the potential for drug interactions must always be assessed to avoid therapeutic failures and/or increased side effects. Some effects may be additive, synergistic, or antagonistic, but changes in absorption, distribution, metabolism, particularly through cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes (e.g., CYP2C9 and CYP3A4), and excretion may also occur. For example, the combination of cannabis-derived compounds and the antifungal drug ketoconazole, a CYP3A4 inhibitor, increases the plasma concentration of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). In contrast, rifampicin, a CYP3A4 inducer, stands out for reducing plasma THC levels by approximately 20–40% and 50% to 60% for CBD. Other CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers are likely to have a similar effect on plasma concentrations if co-administered. Pharmacokinetic interactions with anticonvulsant medications have also been reported, as have pharmacodynamic interactions between cannabinoids and medications with sympathomimetic effects (e.g., tachycardia, hypertension), central nervous system depressants (e.g., drowsiness, ataxia), and anticholinergics (e.g., tachycardia and somnolence). Although further studies are still pending, there is currently clinical evidence supporting drug interactions with cannabinoids, requiring doctors to evaluate the risk of drug combinations with cannabinoids and vice versa. The tables provided here were designed to facilitate the identification of biorelevant interactions that may compromise therapeutic efficacy and toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), caused by CCHF virus, is a tickborne disease that can cause a range of illness outcomes, from asymptomatic infection to fatal viral hemorrhagic fever; the disease has been described in >30 countries. We conducted a literature review to provide an overview of the virology, pathogenesis, and pathology of CCHF for clinicians. The virus life cycle and molecular interactions are complex and not fully described. Although pathogenesis and immunobiology are not yet fully understood, it is clear that multiple processes contribute to viral entry, replication, and pathological damage. Limited autopsy reports describe multiorgan involvement with extravasation and hemorrhages. Advanced understanding of CCHF virus pathogenesis and immunology will improve patient care and accelerate the development of medical countermeasures for CCHF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tickborne infection that can range from asymptomatic to fatal and has been described in >30 countries. Early identification and isolation of patients with suspected or confirmed CCHF and the use of appropriate prevention and control measures are essential for preventing human-to-human transmission. Here, we provide an overview of the epidemiology, clinical features, and prevention and control of CCHF. CCHF poses a continued public health threat given its wide geographic distribution, potential to spread to new regions, propensity for genetic variability, and potential for severe and fatal illness, in addition to the limited medical countermeasures for prophylaxis and treatment. A high index of suspicion, comprehensive travel and epidemiologic history, and clinical evaluation are essential for prompt diagnosis. Infection control measures can be effective in reducing the risk for transmission but require correct and consistent application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is the most geographically widespread tickborne viral infection worldwide and has a fatality rate of up to 62%. Despite its widespread range and high fatality rate, no vaccines or treatments are currently approved by regulatory agencies in the United States or Europe. Supportive treatment remains the standard of care, but the use of antiviral medications developed for other viral infections have been considered. We reviewed published literature to summarize the main aspects of CCHFV infection in humans. We provide an overview of diagnostic testing and management and medical countermeasures, including investigational vaccines and limited therapeutics. CCHFV continues to pose a public health threat because of its wide geographic distribution, potential to spread to new regions, propensity for genetic variability, potential for severe and fatal illness, and limited medical countermeasures for prophylaxis and treatment. Clinicians should become familiar with available diagnostic and management tools for CCHFV infections in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction of plants and soil bacteria rhizobia leads to the formation of root nodule symbiosis. The intracellular form of rhizobia, the symbiosomes, are able to perform the nitrogen fixation by converting atmospheric dinitrogen into ammonia, which is available for plants. The symbiosis involves the resource sharing between two partners, but this exchange does not include equivalence, which can lead to resource scarcity and stress responses of one of the partners. In this review, we analyze the possible involvement of the autophagy pathway in the process of the maintenance of the nitrogen-fixing bacteria intracellular colony and the changes in the endomembrane system of the host cell. According to in silico expression analysis, ATG genes of all groups were expressed in the root nodule, and the expression was developmental zone dependent. The analysis of expression of genes involved in the response to carbon or nitrogen deficiency has shown a suboptimal access to sugars and nitrogen in the nodule tissue. The upregulation of several ER stress genes was also detected. Hence, the root nodule cells are under heavy bacterial infection, carbon deprivation, and insufficient nitrogen supply, making nodule cells prone to autophagy. We speculate that the membrane formation around the intracellular rhizobia may be quite similar to the phagophore formation, and the induction of autophagy and ER stress are essential to the success of this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron is an essential nutrient for all living organisms. Both iron deficiency and excess can be harmful. Bone, a highly metabolic active organ, is particularly sensitive to fluctuations in iron levels. In this study, we investigated the effects of dietary iron overload on bone homeostasis with a specific focus on two frequently utilized mouse strains: 129/Sv and C57BL/6J. Our findings revealed that after 6 weeks on an iron-rich diet, 129/Sv mice exhibited a decrease in trabecular and cortical bone density in both vertebral and femoral bones, which was linked to reduced bone turnover. In contrast, there was no evidence of bone changes associated with iron overload in age-matched C57BL/6J mice. Interestingly, 129/Sv mice exposed to an iron-rich diet during their prenatal development were protected from iron-induced bone loss, suggesting the presence of potential adaptive mechanisms. Overall, our study underscores the critical role of genetic background in modulating the effects of iron overload on bone health. This should be considered when studying effects of iron on bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Internet of Things (IoT) is introduced in systems with electrical machines, such as in electric drive systems, wind energy generating systems, and small and special machines, to remote monitor and control the operation for data acquisition and analysis. These systems can integrate with the equipment and retrofit the existing installations. At the end of the control loops there are always motors, or actuators, of big or small ratings, of rotating or linear movements, electrical or nonelectrical, which must produce the motion. This article analyses selected aspects of research and applications of IoT-based control in electric drive systems and of wind energy conversion systems with induction machines. Various applications and study cases of control systems of electrical machines with IoT technology are described. With the IoT-based control of induction machine systems operators can remotely monitor parameters and obtain accurate real-time feedback during fast changing duty cycle operation. Thus, IoT creates multipurpose instruments in the remote control of induction machines. The paper offers a comprehensive analysis of IoT-based control applications in the field of induction machines, with technical details of design, construction, experimental testing, and prototyping, that are useful to energy engineering specialists in the sector of electric drives and wind energy conversion systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodontitis is associated with significant alveolar bone loss. Patients with iron overload suffer more frequently from periodontitis, however, the underlying mechanisms remain largely elusive. Here, we investigated the role of transferrin receptor 2 (Tfr2), one of the main regulators of iron homeostasis, in the pathogenesis of periodontitis and the dental phenotype under basal conditions in mice. As Tfr2 suppresses osteoclastogenesis, we hypothesized that deficiency of Tfr2 may exacerbate periodontitis‐induced bone loss. Mice lacking Tfr2 (Tfr2−/−) and wild‐type (Tfr2+/+) littermates were challenged with experimental periodontitis. Mandibles and maxillae were collected for microcomputed tomography and histology analyses. Osteoclast cultures from Tfr2+/+ and Tfr2−/− mice were established and analyzed for differentiation efficiency, by performing messenger RNA expression and protein signaling pathways. After 8 days, Tfr2‐deficient mice revealed a more severe course of periodontitis paralleled by higher immune cell infiltration and a higher histological inflammation index than Tfr2+/+ mice. Moreover, Tfr2‐deficient mice lost more alveolar bone compared to Tfr2+/+ littermates, an effect that was only partially iron‐dependent. Histological analysis revealed a higher number of osteoclasts in the alveolar bone of Tfr2‐deficient mice. In line, Tfr2‐deficient osteoclastic differentiation ex vivo was faster and more efficient as reflected by a higher number of osteoclasts, a higher expression of osteoclast markers, and an increased resorptive activity. Mechanistically, Tfr2‐deficient osteoclasts showed a higher p38‐MAPK signaling and inhibition of p38‐MAPK signaling in Tfr2‐deficient cells reverted osteoclast formation to Tfr2+/+ levels. Taken together, our data indicate that Tfr2 modulates the inflammatory response in periodontitis thereby mitigating effects on alveolar bone loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of obesity is rising globally and effective strategies to treat obesity are needed. Intermittent fasting, a dietary intervention for weight management, has received growing interest from the general public, as well as healthcare professionals, as a form of lifestyle intervention. Methods: We executed a rapid review using PUBMED database to identify systematic reviews that examined the impact of intermittent fasting on metabolic indices, published between 2011 and 2022. Results: Intermittent fasting leads to weight loss of a similar magnitude to continuous energy restriction. Most of the evidence shows that intermittent fasting leads to greater fat loss as measured by fat mass (kg) or body fat percentage compared to an ad libitum diet, but fat loss attained during intermittent fasting is not significantly different to continuous energy restriction, although recent evidence shows intermittent fasting to be superior. There is mixed evidence for the impact of intermittent fasting on insulin resistance, fasting glucose and lipid profile. Some studies focused on populations of Muslim people, which showed that Ramadan fasting may lead to weight loss and improvement of metabolic parameters during fasting, although the effects are reversed when fasting is finished. Conclusions: Intermittent fasting is more effective than an ad libitum dietary intake, and equally or more effective as continuous energy restriction, for weight management. However, there is inconclusive evidence on whether intermittent fasting has a clinically beneficial effect on glucose and lipid metabolism. Key points: Intermittent fasting (IF) encompasses time restricted eating, alternate day fasting and intermittent energy restrictionIF is more effective for weight loss and reduction with respect to body mass index than ad libitum dietary intakeIF is equally or more effective as continuous energy restriction for weight management [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review, we discuss the current evidence on classic and newer oral anticoagulant therapy, older drugs such as HCQ and statins, and new potential treatment targets in APS. Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) remain the cornerstone treatment for thrombotic events in APS. In patients fulfilling criteria for definite APS presenting with a first venous thrombosis, treatment with VKAs with a target international normalized ratio (INR) 2.0–3.0 is recommended. In patients with arterial thrombosis, treatment with VKA with target INR 2.0–3.0 or 3.0–4.0 is recommended by recent guidelines, considering the individual's bleeding and thrombosis recurrence risk. A combination of VKAs and low-dose aspirin (75–100 mg/daily) may also be considered. According to available evidence direct oral anticoagulants should be avoided in patients with arterial thrombosis and/or those with triple aPL positivity. Adjunctive treatment with HCQ and/or statins can be considered, especially in anticoagulation treatment–refractory APS. Potential targeted treatments in APS include B-cell targeting, complement inhibition, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition, IFN targeting, adenosine receptors agonists, CD38 targeting or chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. The safety and efficacy of these treatment targets needs to be examined in well-designed randomized controlled trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are one of the most exciting sources that offer valuable opportunities for investigating the evolution of energy fraction given to magnetic fields and particles through microphysical parameters during relativistic shocks. The delayed onset of GeV–TeV radiation from bursts detected by the Fermi Large Area Telescope and Cherenkov Telescopes provide crucial information in favour of the external-shock model. Derivation of the closure relations (CRs) and the light curves in external shocks requires knowledge of GRB afterglow physics. In this manuscript, we derive the CRs and light curves in a stratified medium with variations of microphysical parameters of the synchrotron and synchrotron self-Compton (SSC) afterglow model radiated by an electron distribution with a hard and soft spectral index. Using Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations, we apply the current model to investigate the evolution of the spectral and temporal indices of those GRBs reported in the Second Gamma-ray Burst Catalog (2FLGC), which comprises 29 bursts with photon energies above 10 GeV and of those bursts (GRB 180720B, 190114C, 190829A, and 221009A) with energetic photons above 100 GeV, which can hardly be modelled with the CRs of the standard synchrotron scenario. The analysis shows that (i) the most likely afterglow model using synchrotron and SSC emission on the 2FLGC corresponds to the constant-density scenario, and (ii) variations of spectral (temporal) index keeping the temporal (spectral) index constant could be associated with the evolution of microphysical parameters, as exhibited in GRB 190829A and GRB 221009A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic substrates introduced to the environment during the Anthropocene have introduced new pathways for microbial selection and dispersal. Some plastic‐colonising microorganisms have adapted phenotypes for plastic degradation (selection), while the spatial transport (dispersal) potential of plastic colonisers remains controlled by polymer‐specific density, hydrography and currents. Plastic‐degrading enzyme abundances have recently been correlated with concentrations of plastic debris in open ocean environments, making it critical to better understand colonisation of hydrocarbon degraders with plastic degradation potential in urbanised watersheds where plastic pollution often originates. We found that microbial colonisation by reputed hydrocarbon degraders on microplastics (MPs) correlated with a spatial contaminant gradient (New York City/Long Island waterways), polymer types, temporal scales, microbial domains and putative cell activity (DNA vs. RNA). Hydrocarbon‐degrading taxa enriched on polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride substrates relative to other polymers and were more commonly recovered in samples proximal to New York City. These differences in MP colonisation could indicate phenotypic adaptation processes resulting from increased exposure to urban plastic runoff as well as differences in carbon bioavailability across polymer types. Shifts in MP community potential across urban coastal contaminant gradients and polymer types improve our understanding of environmental plastic discharge impacts toward biogeochemical cycling across the global ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the cell-free supernatant of a Haematococcus pluvialis culture (CFS) was implemented in the current study, under illumination conditions. The reduction of Ag+ to AgNPs by the CFS could be described by a pseudo-first-order kinetic equation at the temperature range tested. A high reaction rate during synthesis and stable AgNPs were obtained at 45 °C, while an alkaline pH (pH = 11.0) and a AgNO3 aqueous solution to CFS ratio of 90:10 (v/v) proved to be the most effective conditions in AgNPs synthesis. A metal precursor (AgNO3) at the concentration range tested (1–5 mM) was the limited reactant in the synthesis process. The synthesis of AgNPs was accomplished under static and agitated conditions. Continuous stirring enhanced the rate of reaction but induced aggregation at prolonged incubation times. Zeta potential and polydispersity index measurements indicated stable AgNPs and the majority of AgNPs formation occurred in the monodisperse phase. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed the face-centered cubic structure of the formed AgNPs, while TEM analysis revealed that the AgNPs were of a quasi-spherical shape with a size from 30 to 50 nm. The long-term stability of the AgNPs could be achieved in darkness and at 4 °C. In addition, the synthesized nanoparticles showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Recent achievements in molecular modeling of reaction mechanisms of the enzymatic ATP conversion to ADP or cAMP are discussed. Both of these reactions are initiated by the nucleophilic attack of an oxygen atom, but the P–O bridging bond cleavage occurs via different mechanisms, dissociative and associative. These mechanisms differ in the order of formation and cleavage of P–O bonds. For ATP ases, the dissociative mechanism is assumed, whereas ATP conversion to the cAMP occurs via associative mechanism. We suggest a novel approach based on the molecular dynamics simulations with combined quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics potentials of the enzyme–substrate complexes that can discriminate dissociative and associative reaction pathways by analysis of length distributions of the cleaving and forming P–O bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theoretical evidence and previous studies suggest that oralnutrient supplementation (ONS) with n-3 fatty acids for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has the potential to lower disease activity indicators and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) uptake. A systematic search was conducted on five databases/registries from inception until May 23, 2021 with the aim to identify randomized placebo-controlled trials comparing n-3 supplements to placebo on disease-specific outcomes. A total of 23 studies matched the criteria (PROSPERO: CRD42019137041). Pooled analyses revealed that n-3 ONS provided a small effect in reducing pain [standardized mean difference (SMD): −0.16, 95% confidence intervals (CI): −0.40 to 0.09], and tender (SMD: −0.20, 95% CI: −0.46 to 0.05) and swollen joint count (SMD: −0.10, 95% CI: −0.28 to 0.07). In sensitivity analyses, there was a small effect in the reduction of NSAIDs intake (SMD: −0.22, 95% CI: −0.90 to 0.46), and c-reactive protein was reduced only by 0.21 mg/dL (95% CI: −0.75 to 0.33). Similar findings were observed regarding other objective/subjective outcomes. The certainty of the evidence was mostly of "very low/low" quality. Overall, n-3 ONS in RA might have a limited clinical benefit. Previous findings suggesting a reduction in NSAID intake may have been biased from the inadequate blinding of interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groups of animals often cooperate on shared tasks, but individual contributions are not necessarily equal: individuals can specialize on different tasks (division of labour) or vary in total work performed. Either of these patterns can have fitness consequences. However, few studies have examined division of labour and workload inequality in vertebrates. We analysed individual contributions to parental care in the greater ani, Crotophaga major , a bird that nests communally in groups of two or three pairs and up to two nonbreeding helpers. We examined nearly 600 h of video footage of 10 groups to quantify individual contributions to nest building, incubation, brooding and nestling feeding. There was no clear evidence of division of labour; rather, contributions across some behaviours were positively correlated, suggesting individual differences in overall work performed. Indeed, helpers and one of the breeding pairs in three-pair groups contributed significantly less than the other two pairs. Inequality in overall workload, as measured by the Gini coefficient, was significantly higher in three-pair groups than in two-pair groups, as predicted by collective action theory. However, there were no significant differences in inequality of specific behaviours between two- and three-pair groups, possibly due to low sample size. Finally, anecdotal observations of aggression directed at the pair that contributed the least to parental care in three-pair groups suggested that the lowest-contributing pair's access to the nest might be limited by such aggression, which could be driven by conflicts of interest over group size and membership. • Parental care workload was unevenly distributed in a communally nesting bird. • In two-pair groups, breeding pairs shared workload relatively evenly. • In three-pair groups, one breeding pair contributed less care than expected. • Neither two-pair nor three-pair groups showed clear evidence of division of labour. • Workload inequality may reflect attempts to limit access to the nest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The division of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) into different classes, other than the 'short' and 'long', has been an active field of research. We investigate whether GRBs can be classified based on a broader set of parameters, including prompt and plateau emission ones. Observational evidence suggests the existence of more GRB subclasses, but results so far are either conflicting or not statistically significant. The novelty here is producing a machine-learning-based classification of GRBs using their observed X-rays and optical properties. We used two data samples: the first, composed of 203 GRBs, is from the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory (Swift /XRT), and the latter, composed of 134 GRBs, is from the ground-based Telescopes and Swift /UVOT. Both samples possess the plateau emission (a flat part of the light curve happening after the prompt emission, the main GRB event). We have applied the Gaussian mixture model (GMM) to explore multiple parameter spaces and subclass combinations to reveal if there is a match between the current observational subclasses and the statistical classification. With these samples and the algorithm, we spot a few microtrends in certain cases, but we cannot conclude that any clear trend exists in classifying GRBs. These microtrends could point towards a deeper understanding of the physical meaning of these classes (e.g. a different environment of the same progenitor or different progenitors). However, a larger sample and different algorithms could achieve such goals. Thus, this methodology can lead to deeper insights in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite significant efforts to control cancer progression and to improve oncology treatment outcomes, recurrence and tumor resistance are frequently observed in cancer patients. These problems are partly related to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been developed as a therapeutic approach for solid tumors; however, it remains unclear how this therapy can affect CSCs. In this review, we focus on the effects of PDT on CSCs and the possible changes in the CSC population after PDT exposure. Tumor response to PDT varies according to the photosensitizer and light parameters employed, but most studies have reported the successful elimination of CSCs after PDT. However, some studies have reported that CSCs were more resistant to PDT than non-CSCs due to the increased efflux of photosensitizer molecules and the action of autophagy. Additionally, using different PDT approaches to target the CSCs resulted in increased sensitivity, reduction of sphere formation, invasiveness, stem cell phenotype, and improved response to chemotherapy. Lastly, although mainly limited to in vitro studies, PDT, combined with targeted therapies and/or chemotherapy, could successfully target CSCs in different solid tumors and promote the reduction of stemness, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach requiring evaluation in robust pre-clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Until recently, the study of cyanobacteria and microalgae has been hampered by the need to cultivate these organisms to gain insight into their cytomorphology, life cycle and molecular biology. However, various microbial species characterized by thick sheaths of exopolymeric substances were difficult to isolate in culture due to their associated symbiotic bacteria. Other microbes evaded culture. Such challenges have now been overcome by the development of metagenomic techniques that allow direct DNA sequencing from environmental samples, as well as high resolution microscopy techniques that permit direct imaging of environmental samples. The sampling of understudied taxa from extreme environments and of toxic species has been facilitated by specialized robotic equipment. Single-cell sequencing has allowed for the proper characterization of microalgal species and their response to environmental changes. Various strains of cyanobacteria, microalgae and macroalgae have gained renewed interest for their high-value metabolites. This paper provides an overview of the emerging technologies and explains how they are being used to identify such strains and their products for industrial application. Advances in genetic engineering and CRISPR technology have facilitated the production of strains that are more amenable to culture, metabolite extraction, scale-up and application in biorefinery approaches. Emerging analytical techniques are discussed, with the advent of multiomics and its application in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Frailty is not an end state of aging, but rather represents physiological vulnerability across multiple systems that unfolds across adulthood. However, examinations of frailty at the midlife transition, and how frailty may impact other age-sensitive traits, such as processing speed (PS), remain scarce. Our research aims were to examine frailty and frailty-speed associations before midlife, a ripe developmental period for healthy aging interventions. Methods Using data from the Colorado Adoption/Twin Study of Lifespan behavioral development and cognitive aging (N  = 1,215; M age = 33.23 years; standard deviation = 4.98), we constructed 25-item (FI25) and 30-item (FI30) frailty indices. PS was measured using the Colorado Perceptual Speed task and WAIS-III Digit Symbol (DS) subtest. Multilevel models accounted for clustering among siblings and adjusted for sex, race, ethnicity, adoption status, educational attainment, and age. Results Reliability of FI measures was apparent from strong intraclass correlations (ICCs) among identical twin siblings, although ICC patterns across all siblings suggested that FI variability may include nonadditive genetic contributions. Higher FI was associated with poorer PS performance but was significant for DS only (B FI25 = −1.17, p  = .001, d  = −0.12; B FI30 = −1.21, p  = .001, d  = −0.12). Furthermore, the negative frailty-DS association was moderated by age (B FI25×age = −0.14, p  = .042; B FI30×age=−0.19, p  = .008) where increasingly worse performance with higher frailty emerged at older ages. Discussion Frailty is evident before midlife and associated with poorer PS, an association that magnifies with age. These findings help elucidate the interrelationship between indicators of frailty and cognitive performance for adults approaching midlife, an understudied period within life-span development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author provides an update on antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and introduces the main topics discussed in the special issue for APS including APS pathogenesis, genomics and epigenetics, epidemiology of APS, and classic autoantibodies.

The Second Gamma-ray Burst Catalogue (2FLGC) was announced by the Fermi Large Area Telescope (Fermi-LAT) Collaboration. It includes 29 bursts with photon energy higher than 10 GeV. Gamma-ray burst (GRB) afterglow observations have been adequately explained by the classic synchrotron forward-shock model, however, photon energies greater than 10 GeV from these transient events are challenging, if not impossible, to characterize using this afterglow model. Recently, the closure relations (CRs) of the synchrotron self-Compton (SSC) forward-shock model evolving in a stellar wind and homogeneous medium was presented to analyse the evolution of the spectral and temporal indexes of those bursts reported in 2FLGC. In this work, we provide the CRs of the same afterglow model, but evolving in an intermediate density profile (∝r−k) with 0 ≤ k ≤ 2.5, taking into account the adiabatic/radiative regime and with/without energy injection for any value of the electron spectral index. The results show that the current model accounts for a considerable subset of GRBs that cannot be interpreted in either stellar-wind or homogeneous afterglow SSC model. The analysis indicates that the best-stratified scenario is most consistent with k = 0.5 for no-energy injection and k = 2.5 for energy injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Whether beverage quality affects changes in glycaemic traits and type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk is unknown. We examined associations of a previously developed Healthy Beverage Index (HBI) with insulin resistance, and risk of prediabetes and T2D. Methods: We included 6769 participants (59% female, 62.0 ± 7.8 years) from the Rotterdam Study cohort free of diabetes at baseline. Diet was assessed using food-frequency questionnaires at baseline. The HBI included 10 components (energy from beverages, meeting fluid requirements, water, coffee and tea, low-fat milk, diet drinks, juices, alcohol, full-fat milk, and sugar-sweetened beverages), with a total score ranging from 0 to 100. A higher score represents a healthier beverage pattern. Data on study outcomes were available from 1993 to 2015. Multivariable linear mixed models and Cox proportional-hazards regression models were used to examine associations of the HBI (per 10 points increment) with two measurements of HOMA-IR (a proxy for insulin resistance), and risk of prediabetes and T2D. Results: During follow-up, we documented 1139 prediabetes and 784 T2D cases. Mean ± SD of the HBI was 66.8 ± 14.4. Higher HBI score was not associated with HOMA-IR (β: 0.003; 95% CI − 0.007, 0.014), or with risk of prediabetes (HR: 1.01; 95% CI 0.97, 1.06), or T2D (HR: 1.01; 95% CI 0.96, 1.07). Conclusion: Our findings suggest no major role for overall beverage intake quality assessed with the HBI in insulin resistance, prediabetes and T2D incidence. The HBI may not be an adequate tool to assess beverage intake quality in our population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of "undetectable = untransmittable (U = U)" has been revolutionary in both the prevention and treatment of persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Most studies proving the concept of U = U used an HIV RNA (viral load [VL]) cutoff of 200 copies/mL to define being undetectable. Since then, increasingly sensitive commercial VL assays, sometimes down to a lower limit of detection (LLD) of 20 copies/mL, lead to confusion about the definition of "undetectable" and when someone is truly considered untransmittable. VLs between the LLD and 200 copies/mL have been associated with future virologic failure; however, no data exist to suggest that intervening in those patients leads to any meaningful benefits. In the absence of a demonstrable benefit of reporting such low VLs, we view this practice as harmful. We suggest recommendations for adjusting VL reporting and improving provider counseling, and call for research designs to mitigate the harms of overly sensitive VL testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The PORTEC-2 update suggested that substantial lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) and abnormal p53 expression (p53abnl) predict for poorer outcomes and that these patients should be treated with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). We aim to determine if patients with these risk factors who undergo a lymph node (LN) assessment show similar outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed 126 patients with FIGO 2009 stage IA grade 3, stage IB grade 1–2, and stage IIIC (positive LN but no other stage II/III risk factors) endometrioid endometrial cancer who underwent LN assessment. Local (LR), regional recurrences (RR), and distant metastases were analyzed using competing risk methods, and overall survival (OS) was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier. Median follow-up time was 37.2 months. OS was significantly different between patients with and without p53abnl expression (16.7% versus 3.1% deceased), and between patients with and without LVSI (11.1% versus 1.5% deceased; p < 0.01 for both). The 2-year cumulative incidence of LR for patients with p53abnl versus wild type p53 and LVSI versus no LVSI was 11.1% (95% CI 0–25.6) versus 2.2% (95% CI 0–5.25; p = 0.04), and 11.4% (95% CI 2.0–20.9) versus 0%, respectively (p < 0.01). The 2-year cumulative RR in patients with LVSI versus no LVSI was 6.9% (95% CI 0–14.4) versus 0% (p = 0.05). No patients who completed pelvic RT experienced an in-field recurrence. Despite LN assessment, patients with high-intermediate risk early-stage or stage IIIC (with positive lymph nodes only but no other stage II or III risk factors) endometrial cancer with p53abnl expression and/or LVSI have worse outcomes. These patients may derive benefit from intensification with EBRT to improve local and pelvic control. • Abnormal p53 expression and extensive lymphovascular invasion (LVI) are poor prognostic factors in endometrial cancer. • Despite LN assessment, survival, local and regional control was worse for patients with p53abnl expression and/or LVI. • No patients who completed pelvic RT experienced an in-field recurrence. • Patients with p53abnl expression and/or LVI may derive benefit from intensification with external beam radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, a prototype of a portable device for the potentiometric determination of antioxidant capacity based on a new measurement principle is proposed. A feature of the approach is the use of an electrochemical microcell with separated spaces and two identical electrodes with immobilized reagents. An antioxidant solution is introduced into one half-cell, and the antioxidants interact with the reagents. The other half-cell contains only reagents. The potential difference between the electrodes is due to the change in the ratio of the oxidized and reduced form of the reagents, which occurs as a result of the reaction with the antioxidants in one of the half-cells and is related to their concentration. The range of linearity of the microcell with immobilized reagents is 40–4000 μM-eq, and the limit of detection is 20 μM-eq. The device was successfully tested in the analysis of standard antioxidant solutions. The recoveries were (92–113)%, and the relative standard deviation did not exceed 15%. A good correlation was found between the data obtained by the approach and the potentiometric method in a macrocell for fruit juice analysis. Pearson's coefficient for the obtained experimental data was 0.9955. The proposed portable device is promising and can be used in field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While cells in the human body function in an environment where the blood supply constantly delivers nutrients and removes waste, cells in conventional tissue culture well platforms are grown with a static pool of media above them and often lack maturity, limiting their utility to study cell biology in health and disease. In contrast, organ-chip microfluidic systems allow the growth of cells under constant flow, more akin to the in vivo situation. Here, we differentiated human induced pluripotent stem cells into dopamine neurons and assessed cellular properties in conventional multi-well cultures and organ-chips. We show that organ-chip cultures, compared to multi-well cultures, provide an overall greater proportion and homogeneity of dopaminergic neurons as well as increased levels of maturation markers. These organ-chips are an ideal platform to study mature dopamine neurons to better understand their biology in health and ultimately in neurological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wide‐bandgap perovskites are of paramount importance as the photoactive layer of the top cell in high‐efficiency tandem solar cells. Comparably high Br contents are required to widen the perovskite bandgap. However, the increase in Br content causes heterogeneous halide distribution and photoinstability. Here, the positive effect of the additive methylammonium chloride (MACl) on the optical and electronic properties of Br‐rich perovskite, deposited using N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) as co‐solvent and the gas quenching method, is investigated. Simultaneous in situ grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering and photoluminescence spectroscopy are used to track the evolution of the structural and optoelectronic properties of the perovskites with different amounts of Br and MACl during the spin‐coating and thermal annealing steps. The formation mechanism is elucidated in the presence of MACl. It is observed that chloride ions inhibit the intermediate phases, favoring the formation of a perovskite phase with higher crystallinity. Nano X‐ray fluorescence mapping recognizes Br‐richer and poorer nanometric domains, whose average sizes reduce for samples with MACl. In conclusion, it is demonstrated that adding MACl affects the formation of wide‐bandgap perovskites via destabilization of the intermediate phases and acts on the homogenization of the halide distribution, leading to improved solar cell performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging evidence suggests distinct neurobiological correlates of alcohol use disorder (AUD) between sexes, which however remain largely unexplored. This work from ENIGMA Addiction Working Group aimed to characterize the sex differences in gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) correlates of AUD using a whole‐brain, voxel‐based, multi‐tissue mega‐analytic approach, thereby extending our recent surface‐based region of interest findings on a nearly matching sample using a complementary methodological approach. T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from 653 people with AUD and 326 controls was analyzed using voxel‐based morphometry. The effects of group, sex, group‐by‐sex, and substance use severity in AUD on brain volumes were assessed using General Linear Models. Individuals with AUD relative to controls had lower GM volume in striatal, thalamic, cerebellar, and widespread cortical clusters. Group‐by‐sex effects were found in cerebellar GM and WM volumes, which were more affected by AUD in females than males. Smaller group‐by‐sex effects were also found in frontotemporal WM tracts, which were more affected in AUD females, and in temporo‐occipital and midcingulate GM volumes, which were more affected in AUD males. AUD females but not males showed a negative association between monthly drinks and precentral GM volume. Our results suggest that AUD is associated with both shared and distinct widespread effects on GM and WM volumes in females and males. This evidence advances our previous region of interest knowledge, supporting the usefulness of adopting an exploratory perspective and the need to include sex as a relevant moderator variable in AUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research is to study the bactericidal effects of copper--polypyrrole (PPy) composites deposited onto 316L stainless steel (SS) modified with silver nanoparticles (Np). The antimicrobial properties were evaluated against twenty-four strains of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Among the twenty-four strains studied, isolates included reference strains (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Escherichia coli 0157:H7 EDL 933, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644), as well as strains isolated from food and clinical samples. The antimicrobial activity of the composites demonstrated that all PPy-modified films had antibacterial properties. Notably, Cu-PPyAgNp500 exhibited the strongest inhibitory activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Surface modification of 316L SS with these films is a promising and viable alternative for the development of novel antibacterial composites that can inhibit the growth of a significant number of bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can be affected in the context of spondyloarthritis (SpA) with detrimental impact on individuals’ quality of life. Intra-articular inflammation, synovitis, enthesitis, disc displacement and cervical vertebrae malalignment are some of the pathophysiological phenomena involved. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) incidence appears to be higher in patients with ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis, especially when clinical evaluation includes not only imaging but relevant history, TMJ examination and diagnostic criteria for TMD. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score and Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ) quality of life score could be useful tools. Panoramic radiographs and ultrasound can be used for screening but in symptomatic patients magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is preferable. Conservative management and early pharmacological treatment can prevent permanent joint impairment. For refractory cases, early referral to Legislation for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) specialists is indicated. The aim of this narrative review is to address the involvement of TMJ in SpA and to encourage clinicians to incorporate TMJ assessment in their physical examination and basic screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]