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Obesity causes insulin resistance (IR) through systemic low-grade inflammation and can lead to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the mechanisms that cause IR and T2DM in non-obese individuals are unclear. The Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat develops IR spontaneously and is a model of non-obese T2DM. These rats exhibit hyperglycemia beginning at weaning and exhibit lower body mass than control Wistar rats. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that macrophages of GK rats are permanently in a pro-inflammatory state, which may be associated with a systemic inflammation condition that mimics the pathogenesis of obesity-induced T2DM. Using eighteen-week-old GK and control Wistar rats, we investigated the proportions of M1 (pro-inflammatory) and M2 (anti-inflammatory) macrophages isolated from the peritoneal cavity. Additionally, the production of inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cultured macrophages under basal and stimulated conditions was assessed. It was found that phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) stimulation increased GK rat macrophage ROS production 90-fold compared to basal levels. This response was also three times more pronounced than in control cells (36-fold). The production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), tended to be upregulated in cultured macrophages from GK rats under basal conditions. Macrophages from GK rats produced 1.6 times more granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), 1.5 times more monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and 3.3 times more TNF-α than control cells when stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (p = 0.0033; p = 0.049; p = 0.002, respectively). Moreover, compared to control cells, GK rats had 60% more M1 (p = 0.0008) and 23% less M2 (p = 0.038) macrophages. This study is the first to report macrophage inflammatory reprogramming towards a pro-inflammatory state in GK rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory destructive disease occurring in periodontal supporting tissues. Atherosclerosis(AS) is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases. Periodontitis can promote the development and progression of AS. Macrophage polarization is closely related to the development and progression of the above two diseases, respectively. The purpose of this animal study was to evaluate the effect of periodontitis on aortic lesions in atherosclerotic mice and the role of macrophage polarization in this process. 45 ApoE-/-male mice were randomly divided into three groups: control (NC), atherosclerosis (AS), and atherosclerosis with periodontitis (AS + PD). Micro CT, serological testing and pathological testing(hematoxylin–eosin staining, oil red O staining and Masson staining) were used for Evaluate the modeling situation. Immunohistochemistry(IHC) and immunofluorescence(IF) were performed to evaluate macrophage content and macrophage polarization in plaques. Cytokines associated with macrophage polarization were analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(Elisa). The expression of macrophages in plaques was sequentially elevated in the NC, AS, and AS + PD groups(P < 0.001). The expression of M1 and M1-related cytokines showed the same trend(P < 0.05). The expression of M2 and M2-related cytokines showed the opposite trend(P < 0.05). The rate of M1/M2 showed that AS + PD > AS > NC. Our preliminary data support that experimental periodontitis can increase the content of macrophage in aortic plaques to exacerbate AS. Meanwhile, experimental periodontitis can increase M1 macrophages, and decrease M2 macrophages, increasing M1/M2 in the plaque. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In transitional economies, contract farming is widely recognized as a means for addressing numerous market failures affecting small farmers. Reviewing the scholarship on contract farming, we show that its traditional understandings have been framed by the narratives of transaction cost economics and power dynamics. We critically evaluate these narratives and demonstrate how stakeholder theory, with its relational understanding of business, offers a more comprehensive understanding of contract farming. We argue that a stakeholder theory perspective underscores the trust-based and collaborative nature of successful contract farming arrangements. It highlights the importance of informal and moral stakeholder relationships that compensate for the limitations of weak enforcement mechanisms and inadequate legal frameworks in transitional economies. This way, a stakeholder theory perspective on contract farming highlights its strategic management and business ethics dimensions, offering valuable guidance for cultivating successful stakeholder relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The AISI M2 coatings were prepared on H13 die steel substrates by laser cladding technology. The effects of MoS2 addition on the microstructure and wear resistance of the coatings were investigated. The results showed that adding MoS2 can reduce the wear rate of M2 coating, enhance the hardness of the coating, and affect the wear mechanism of the coating. The wear rate of the M2 coating is 3.33 × 10−5 mm3/N·m, mainly consisting of oxidative wear and abrasive wear. When the MoS2 addition reached 7 wt%, the wear rate is only 1.88 × 10−5 mm3/N·m, and the wear mechanism is mainly oxidative wear. The microstructure of the coatings was analyzed using X-ray diffraction techniques and scanning electron microscopy techniques, and its mechanism was thoroughly studied. MoS2 can refine grains and promote fine grain hardening. The average grain size of the M2 coating is 3.42 μm, but the average grain size of the coating containing 7 wt% MoS2 decreases to 1.40 μm.

Abstract Background Open fractures are challenging due to susceptibility to Staphylococcus aureus infections. This study examines the impact of Vancomycin-Loaded Calcium Sulfate (VLCS) and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) on macrophage behavior in enhancing healing and infection resistance. Both VLCS and NPWT were evaluated individually and in combination to determine their effects on macrophage polarization and infection resistance in open fractures. Methods Through single-cell RNA sequencing, genomic expressions in macrophages from open fracture patients treated with VLCS and NPWT were compared to a control group. The analysis focused on MBD2 gene changes related to macrophage polarization. Results Remarkable modifications in MBD2 expression in the treatment group indicate a shift towards M2 macrophage polarization. Additionally, the combined treatment group exhibited greater improvements in infection resistance and healing compared to the individual treatments. This shift suggests a healing-promoting atmosphere with improved infection resilience. Conclusions VLCS and NPWT demonstrate the ability to alter macrophage behavior toward M2 polarization, which is crucial for infection prevention in open fractures. The synergistic effect of their combined use shows even greater promise in enhancing outcomes in orthopedic trauma care.

Local communities play a crucial role in the entrepreneurship ecosystem. The role and massive influence of the local environment raise several questions. This paper aims to answer the following questions: (1) how and why the local communities affect SMEs’ sustainability, (2) which pillar of sustainability plays a stronger role in this matter, (3) which internal and external motivators drive a firm’s sustainability actions, and (4) whether company and personal characteristics have a significant effect on local patronage.

Background: Open fractures are challenging due to susceptibility to Staphylococcus aureus infections. This study examines the impact of Vancomycin-Loaded Calcium Sulfate (VLCS) and negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) on macrophage behavior in enhancing healing and infection resistance. Both VLCS and NPWT were evaluated individually and in combination to determine their effects on macrophage polarization and infection resistance in open fractures. Methods: Through single-cell RNA sequencing, genomic expressions in macrophages from open fracture patients treated with VLCS and NPWT were compared to a control group. The analysis focused on MBD2 gene changes related to macrophage polarization. Results: Remarkable modifications in MBD2 expression in the treatment group indicate a shift towards M2 macrophage polarization. Additionally, the combined treatment group exhibited greater improvements in infection resistance and healing compared to the individual treatments. This shift suggests a healing-promoting atmosphere with improved infection resilience. Conclusions: VLCS and NPWT demonstrate the ability to alter macrophage behavior toward M2 polarization, which is crucial for infection prevention in open fractures. The synergistic effect of their combined use shows even greater promise in enhancing outcomes in orthopedic trauma care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The peroxisomal biogenesis factor 19 (PEX19) is necessary for early peroxisomal biogenesis. PEX19 has been implicated in the replication of a variety of viruses, but the details pertaining to the mechanisms of how PEX19 engages in the life cycle of these viruses still need to be elucidated. Here, we demonstrated that the C terminus of PEX19 interacted with the cytoplasmic tail region of the M2 protein of the influenza A virus (IAV) and inhibited the viral growth titers. IAV infection or PEX19 knockdown triggered a reduction in the peroxisome pool and led to the accumulation of ROS and cell damage, thereby creating favorable conditions for IAV replication. Moreover, a reduction in the peroxisome pool led to the attenuation of early antiviral response mediated by peroxisome MAVS and downstream type III interferons. This study also showed that the interaction between IAV M2 and PEX19 affected the binding of PEX19 to the peroxisome-associated protein PEX14 and peroxisome membrane protein 24 (PMP24). Collectively, our data demonstrate that host factor PEX19 suppresses the replication of the IAV, and the IAV employs its M2 protein to mitigate the restricting role of PEX19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the effect of formal and informal institutional settings and of the governance of inter-organizational relationships on innovation at the cluster level. The research primarily relies on quantitative methods, utilizing data obtained from a survey involving 115 firms and 12 in-depth interviews. Supplementary qualitative information from the interviews has also been incorporated into the analysis. The results support the hypothesis that innovative firms should consider not only the impact of different governance modes but also how these modes align with the existing local contexts. Failure to do so may result in firms becoming entrenched in the prevailing practices and products of a specific location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of Palestine Studies / Filistin Araştırmaları Dergisi is the property of Bulletin of Palestine Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor advancement in many ways, such as inducing angiogenesis and the formation of new blood vessels that provide tumors with nourishment and oxygen. TAMs also facilitate tumor invasion and metastasis by secreting enzymes that degrade the extracellular matrix and generating pro-inflammatory cytokines that enhance the migration of tumor cells. TAMs also have a role in inhibiting the immune response against malignancies. To accomplish this, they release immunosuppressive cytokines such as IL-10, and TAMs can hinder the function of T cells and natural killer cells, which play crucial roles in the immune system's ability to combat cancer. The role of TAMs in breast cancer advancement is a complex and dynamic field of research. Therefore, TAMs are a highly favorable focus for innovative breast cancer treatments. This review presents an extensive overview of the correlation between TAMs and breast cancer development as well as its role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) shedding light on their impact on tumor advancement and immune evasion mechanisms. Notably, our study provides an innovative approach to employing nanomedicine approaches for targeted TAM therapy in breast cancer, providing an in-depth overview of recent advances in this emerging field.

AbstractIntellectual capital is now recognized as a factor influencing organizational progress. However, many Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME’s) in Indonesia still need to understand the importance of intellectual capital to support their organizational performance. This study aims to strengthen intellectual capital succession in MSME’s in Indonesia to improve their competitiveness, financial performance, and sustainability. The population of this study is all MSME’s players in Indonesia. At the same time, the research sample selection is carried out using the criteria, namely MSME’s that have been running their business for at least ten years and use technology in business activities. The calculation of the minimum number of samples was determined from this research method using the SEM (Structural Equation Modeling) analysis test by carrying out several tests, namely composite reliability, coefficient determination, and hypothesis testing. Scientific tests found that human capital affects structural capital, relational capital, and the competitiveness of MSME’s in Indonesia. Structural and relational capital mediate the strong relationship between human capital and the competitiveness of MSME’s in Indonesia. Structural and relational capital can also mediate the strong relationship between human capital and the continuity of MSME’s businesses in Indonesia. Meanwhile, the relationship between human capital and the financial performance of MSME’s in Indonesia can only be weakly mediated by structural and relational capital. These findings certainly provide new evidence about the importance of intellectual capital for the sustainability and competitiveness of today’s MSME’s businesses.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important cell-to-cell communication mediators. This paper focuses on the regulatory role of tumor-derived EVs on macrophages. It aims to investigate the causes of tumor progression and therapeutic directions. Tumor-derived EVs can cause macrophages to shift to M1 or M2 phenotypes. This indicates they can alter the M1/M2 cell ratio and have pro-tumor and antiinflammatory effects. This paper discusses several key points: first, the factors that stimulate macrophage polarization and the cytokines released as a result; second, an overview of EVs and the methods used to isolate them; third, how EVs from various cancer cell sources, such as hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, lung carcinoma, breast carcinoma, and glioblastoma cell sources carcinoma, promote tumor development by inducing M2 polarization in macrophages; and fourth, how EVs from breast carcinoma, pancreatic carcinoma, lungs carcinoma, and glioblastoma cell sources carcinoma also contribute to tumor development by promoting M2 polarization in macrophages. Modified or sourced EVs from breast, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer can repolarize M2 to M1 macrophages. This exhibits anti-tumor activities and offers novel approaches for tumor treatment. Therefore, we discovered that macrophage polarization to either M1 or M2 phenotypes can regulate tumor development. This is based on the description of altering macrophage phenotypes by vesicle contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrophages are crucial cells in the human body's innate immunity and are engaged in a variety of non-inflammatory reactions. Macrophages can develop into two kinds when stimulated by distinct internal environments: proinflammatory M1-like macrophages and anti-inflammatory M2-type macrophages. During inflammation, the two kinds of macrophages are activated alternatively, and maintaining a reasonably steady ratio is critical for maintaining homeostasis in vivo. M1 macrophages can induce inflammation, but M2 macrophages suppress it. The imbalance between the two kinds of macrophages will have a significant impact on the illness process. As a result, there are an increasing number of research being conducted on relieving or curing illnesses by altering the amount of macrophages. This review summarizes the role of macrophage polarization in various inflammatory diseases, including autoimmune diseases (RA, EAE, MS, AIH, IBD, CD), allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, allergic dermatitis, allergic asthma), atherosclerosis, obesity and type 2 diabetes, metabolic homeostasis, and the compounds or drugs that have been discovered or applied to the treatment of these diseases by targeting macrophage polarization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Secretome from M1 and M2 macrophages were generated to treat keloid fibroblasts. • M2 secretome enhances the fibrogenic profile of keloid fibroblasts. • M1 secretome attenuates the fibrogenic profile of keloid fibroblasts. • M1 secretome prevents from profibrotic effect of TGF-β1 in keloid fibroblasts. • First demonstration that M1/M2 macrophages differentially impact fibrogenesis in keloid. Keloid refers to a fibroproliferative disorder characterized by an accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components at the dermis level, overgrowth beyond initial wound, and formation of tumor-like nodule areas. Treating keloid is still an unmet clinical need and the lack of an efficient therapy is clearly related to limited knowledge about keloid etiology, despite the growing interest of the scientific community in this pathology. In past decades, keloids were often studied in vitro through the sole prism of fibroblasts considered as the major effector of ECM deposition. Nevertheless, development of keloids results from cross-interactions of keloid fibroblasts (KFs) and their surrounding microenvironment, including immune cells such as macrophages. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of M1 and M2 monocyte-derived macrophages on KFs in vitro. We focused on the effects of the macrophage secretome on fibrosis-related criteria in KFs, including proliferation, migration, differentiation, and ECM synthesis. First, we demonstrated that M2-like macrophages enhanced the fibrogenic profile of KFs in culture. Then, we surprisingly founded that M1-like macrophages can have an anti-fibrogenic effect on KFs, even in a pro-fibrotic environment. These results demonstrate, for the first time, that M1 and M2 macrophage subsets differentially impact the fibrotic fate of KFs in vitro , and suggest that restoring the M1/M2 balance to favor M1 in keloids could be an efficient therapeutic lever to prevent or treat keloid fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research proposes a mathematical model for the vehicle routing problem (VRP), which involves pickup and delivery of cargos to different depots. Vehicle capacity and energy consumption that varies with load are both contributing factors. The mathematical model seeks to simultaneously reduce costs and waiting time for customers. Multi-objective particle swarm optimisation (MPSO) and Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II) are proposed as methods to solve the model. This is implemented and solved in the GAMS software for moderate-sized problems, and the results are compared to those obtained by two different algorithms in order to validate the model and algorithms. Then, the results are compared with those obtained by NSGA-II algorithm based on comparative metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple method (first-order approximation) to determine the impact of M2 and the Strehl Ratio on the effective focusable spot size avoiding complex propagations of the beam wavefront is proposed. The model is based upon previous models and the definition of M2 and the Strehl Ratio in a simple manner. This work provides qualitative and quantitative estimates for the interplay of M2 and the Strehl Ratio on the effectively focusable spot size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current study is to examine the mediating role of organizational pride on the relationship between ethical leadership and employees’ creativity. Using a convenience sample of (130) managers, heads of the department, and their employees from private hospitals in Jordan, the data were gathered by questionnaire. The current study adopted a quantitative approach. Furthermore, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the study hypotheses. The current study reveals that ethical leadership has a significant and positive impact on employees' creativity. On the other side, the results of the study showed that ethical leadership has a significant and positive impact on organizational pride. Additionally, the current study also showed that organizational pride has a significant and positive impact on employees' creativity. Finally, it has been found that there is a mediation impact on the relationship between ethical leadership and employees' creativity. These findings may help the leader to focus heavily on organizational pride to foster the relationship between ethical leadership and employees’ creativity.

Aim/purpose – This pilot study explores the main obstacles hindering the effective implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). By thoroughly understanding these barriers, organizations can develop customized strategies and interventions to overcome them, facilitating smoother and more successful AI adoption. The paper’s primary goal is to help organizations understand the barriers to AI adoption to develop tailored strategies and interventions to overcome these challenges, leading to a more efficient and successful integration of AI. Through a rigorous examination of real-world experiences and perceptions, this paper seeks to elucidate the multifaceted challenges that impede the effective deployment of AI solutions.

A simple method (first-order approximation) to determine the impact of M2 and the Strehl Ratio on the effective focusable spot size avoiding complex propagations of the beam wavefront is proposed. The model is based upon previous models and the definition of M2 and the Strehl Ratio in a simple manner. This work provides qualitative and quantitative estimates for the interplay of M2 and the Strehl Ratio on the effectively focusable spot size.

Germinal matrix hemorrhage is one of the leading causes of morbidity, mortality, and acquired infantile hydrocephalus in preterm infants in the United States, with little progress made in its clinical management. Blood clots have been shown to elicit secondary brain injury after germinal matrix hemorrhage, by disrupting normal cerebrospinal fluid circulation and absorption after germinal matrix hemorrhage causing post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus development. Current evidence suggests that rapid hematoma resolution is necessary to improve neurological outcomes after hemorrhagic stroke. Various articles have demonstrated the beneficial effects of stimulating the polarization of microglia cells into the M2 phenotype, as it has been suggested that they play an essential role in the rapid phagocytosis of the blood clot after hemorrhagic models of stroke. N-formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), a G-protein-coupled receptor, has been shown to be neuroprotective after stroke. FPR2 activation has been associated with the upregulation of phagocytic macrophage clearance, yet its mechanism has not been fully explored. Recent literature suggests that FPR2 may play a role in the stimulation of scavenger receptor CD36. Scavenger receptor CD36 plays a vital role in microglia phagocytic blood clot clearance after germinal matrix hemorrhage. FPR2 has been shown to phosphorylate extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), which then promotes the transcription of the dual-specificity protein phosphatase 1 (DUSP1) gene. In this review, we present an intrinsic outline of the main components involved in FPR2 stimulation and hematoma resolution after germinal matrix hemorrhage.

Banks play an essential role in the economy, therefore, their performance must be maintained. Compared to other business sectors, the banking sector has continually achieved the greatest market shares over several periods. When a bank becomes more efficient, it can raise its income and market prices as well as investor confidence. This study examines various factors that influence operational efficiency and the implication for market prices. In 2016 – 2021 years, 28 banking companies were sampled from all banking companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Purposive sampling was used for data collection, and linear multiple regression was used for data processing by running tests such as descriptive statistics, determination, regression equations, hypotheses, and implications. The findings reveal a statistically significant relationship between a firm’s size, capital adequacy, loan-to-deposit ratio, net interest, and inflation with operational efficiency, while non-performing loans and exchange rates have no a substantial impact. Additionally, capital adequacy, loan-to-deposit ratio, inflation, and exchange rates had statistically significant effects on market prices, although operational efficiency, non-performing loans, and net interest did not. The mediating analysis reveals that there is no interaction between non-performing loans and net interest with market prices, but it is a mediator for other variables. The research is important for a variety of stakeholders, including managers, investors, and policymakers, who are interested in resolving banking business operations, increasing financial performance, and preserving market prices by establishing mitigation strategies related to specific-internal and external factors.

[Display omitted] Macrophages are known to depict two major phenotypes: classically activated macrophages (M1), associated with high production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and alternatively activated macrophages (M2), which present an anti-inflammatory function. A precise control over M1-M2 polarization is a promising strategy in therapeutics to modulate both tissue regeneration and tumor progression processes. However, this is not a simple task as macrophages behave differently depending on the microenvironment. In agreement with this, non-consistent data have been reported regarding macrophages response to magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs). To investigate the impact of both tissue microenvironment and MNPs properties on the obtained macrophage responses, single-core (SC) and multi-core (MC) citrate coated MNPs, are synthesized and, afterwards, loaded with a macrophage polarization trigger, IL-4. The developed MNPs are then tested in macrophages subjected to different stimuli. We demonstrate that macrophages treated with low concentrations of MNPs behave differently depending on the polarization stage independently of the concentration of iron. Moreover, we find out that MNPs size and morphology determines the effect of the IL-4 loaded MNPs on M1 macrophages, since IL-4 loaded SC MNPs favor the polarization of M1 macrophages towards M2 phenotype, while IL-4 loaded MC MNPs further stimulate the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some rare earth elements are occupational and environmental toxicants and can cause organ and systemic damage; therefore, they have attracted global attention. Neodymium oxide (Nd2O3) is a rare earth element that is refined and significantly utilized in China. The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) H19 is encoded by the H19/IGF2 imprinted gene cluster located on human chromosome 11p15.5. H19 has become a research focus due to its ectopic expression leading to the promotion of fibrosis. However, the mechanisms by which it causes pulmonary fibrosis are elusive. This investigation indicates that biologically active Nd2O3 increases H19, SNIP1, and c-myc, decreases miR-29a-3p, accelerates macrophage M2 polarization, and causes pulmonary fibrosis in mice lung tissues. In macrophage-differentiated THP-1 cells, Nd2O3 (25 μg/ml) enhanced H19, SNIP1, and c-myc, reduced miR-29a-3p, accelerated macrophages M2 polarization, and stimulated fibrogenic cytokine (TGF-β1) secretion. Furthermore, the coculturing of Nd2O3-treated macrophage-differentiated THP-1 cells. And human embryonic lung fibroblast cells activated lung fibroblast, which increases the levels of collagen I, α-SMA, p-Smad2/3, and Smad4, whereas H19 knockdown or miR-29a-3p upregulation in macrophages had opposite effects. Moreover, it was revealed that H19/miR-29a-3p/SNIP1/c-myc regulatory axis is involved in pulmonary fibrosis induced by Nd2O3. Therefore, this study provides new molecular insights into the mechanism of pulmonary fibrosis by Nd2O3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that the in vivo administration of soil-derived bacteria with anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties, such as Mycobacterium vaccae NCTC 11659, can prevent a stress-induced shift toward an inflammatory M1 microglial immunophenotype and microglial priming in the central nervous system (CNS). It remains unclear whether M. vaccae NCTC 11659 can act directly on microglia to mediate these effects. This study was designed to determine the effects of M. vaccae NCTC 11659 on the polarization of naïve BV-2 cells, a murine microglial cell line, and BV-2 cells subsequently challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Briefly, murine BV-2 cells were exposed to 100 µg/mL whole-cell, heat-killed M. vaccae NCTC 11659 or sterile borate-buffered saline (BBS) vehicle, followed, 24 h later, by exposure to 0.250 µg/mL LPS (Escherichia coli 0111: B4; n = 3) in cell culture media vehicle (CMV) or a CMV control condition. Twenty-four hours after the LPS or CMV challenge, cells were harvested to isolate total RNA. An analysis using the NanoString platform revealed that, by itself, M. vaccae NCTC 11659 had an "adjuvant-like" effect, while exposure to LPS increased the expression of mRNAs encoding proinflammatory cytokines, chemokine ligands, the C3 component of complement, and components of inflammasome signaling such as Nlrp3. Among LPS-challenged cells, M. vaccae NCTC 11659 had limited effects on differential gene expression using a threshold of 1.5-fold change. A subset of genes was assessed using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR), including Arg1, Ccl2, Il1b, Il6, Nlrp3, and Tnf. Based on the analysis using real-time RT-PCR, M. vaccae NCTC 11659 by itself again induced "adjuvant-like" effects, increasing the expression of Il1b, Il6, and Tnf while decreasing the expression of Arg1. LPS by itself increased the expression of Ccl2, Il1b, Il6, Nlrp3, and Tnf while decreasing the expression of Arg1. Among LPS-challenged cells, M. vaccae NCTC 11659 enhanced LPS-induced increases in the expression of Nlrp3 and Tnf, consistent with microglial priming. In contrast, among LPS-challenged cells, although M. vaccae NCTC 11659 did not fully prevent the effects of LPS relative to vehicle-treated control conditions, it increased Arg1 mRNA expression, suggesting that M. vaccae NCTC 11659 induces an atypical microglial phenotype. Thus, M. vaccae NCTC 11659 acutely (within 48 h) induced immune-activating and microglial-priming effects when applied directly to murine BV-2 microglial cells, in contrast to its long-term anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects observed on the CNS when whole-cell, heat-killed preparations of M. vaccae NCTC 11659 were given peripherally in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a highly malignant tumor derived from hematopoietic stem cells and commonly occurs in visceral organs or skin. Visceral HSAs are particularly aggressive and progress rapidly despite multimodal treatment. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a central role in carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and metastasis in humans and murine models. In this retrospective study, we investigated the prevalence and phenotype of TAMs in privately owned, treatment-naïve dogs with naturally occurring HSA. We used CD204 as a general macrophage marker and CD206 as a marker for M2-polarized macrophages. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from HSAs in the spleen (n = 9), heart (n = 6), and other locations (n = 12) from 17 dogs were sectioned and immunohistochemically labeled with CD204 and CD206 antibodies. The mean number of log(CD204)- and log(CD206)-positive cells and the ratio of log(CD206/CD204)-positive cells were compared with normal surrounding tissues and between tumor locations. There were significantly more macrophages and M2 macrophages, and a higher ratio of M2 macrophages to total macrophages in tumor hot spots (P =.0002, P <.0001, and P =.0002, respectively) and in tumor tissues outside of hot spots (P =.009, P =.002, and P =.007, respectively) than in normal surrounding tissues. There were no significant differences between tumor locations, but there was a trend toward higher numbers of CD204-positive macrophages within the splenic tumors. There was no association between histological parameters or clinical stage and TAM numbers or phenotype. As in humans, TAMs in dogs with HSA have a predominantly M2-skewed phenotype. Dogs with HSA could serve as excellent models to evaluate new TAM-reprogramming therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some rare earth elements are occupational and environmental toxicants and can cause organ and systemic damage; therefore, they have attracted global attention. Neodymium oxide (Nd2O3) is a rare earth element that is refined and significantly utilized in China. The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) H19 is encoded by the H19/IGF2 imprinted gene cluster located on human chromosome 11p15.5. H19 has become a research focus due to its ectopic expression leading to the promotion of fibrosis. However, the mechanisms by which it causes pulmonary fibrosis are elusive. This investigation indicates that biologically active Nd2O3 increases H19, SNIP1, and c-myc, decreases miR-29a-3p, accelerates macrophage M2 polarization, and causes pulmonary fibrosis in mice lung tissues. In macrophage-differentiated THP-1 cells, Nd2O3 (25 μg/ml) enhanced H19, SNIP1, and c-myc, reduced miR-29a-3p, accelerated macrophages M2 polarization, and stimulated fibrogenic cytokine (TGF-β1) secretion. Furthermore, the coculturing of Nd2O3-treated macrophage-differentiated THP-1 cells. And human embryonic lung fibroblast cells activated lung fibroblast, which increases the levels of collagen I, α-SMA, p-Smad2/3, and Smad4, whereas H19 knockdown or miR-29a-3p upregulation in macrophages had opposite effects. Moreover, it was revealed that H19/miR-29a-3p/SNIP1/c-myc regulatory axis is involved in pulmonary fibrosis induced by Nd2O3. Therefore, this study provides new molecular insights into the mechanism of pulmonary fibrosis by Nd2O3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Riwayat: Educational Journal of History & Humanities is the property of Riwayat: Educational Journal of History & Humanities and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The data provided here relate to the research paper “Assessing the complementarity of TD-NMR, solid-state NMR and Dynamic Vapor Sorption in the characterization of polysaccharide-water interactions”. The original data from TD-NMR, ss-NMR and DVS is provided in .dps, topspin and .xls formats respectively, allowing other authors to repeat our processing protocols using different parameters. We also include results obtained by varying the signal treatments. The analysis of these multimodal data have highlighted a variation in polysaccharide-water interactions depending on the type of assembly. These datasets are very useful for discriminating between water bound to polysaccharides and water absorbed or adsorbed into polysaccharide network, a key element in understanding interactions in these assemblies and an essential approach for developing tailor-made polysaccharides-based products.

This paper estimates the effect of indigenous risk management practices (used by entrepreneurs) on small firm growth amid the current economic crisis in Ghana. The paper hypothesizes that indigenous risk management practices positively affect the growth of informal micro and small agri-food processing firms during the current economic crisis in Ghana. Cross–sectional and limited panel data (covering four years – from the end of 2019 to the end of 2022) have been used in the analysis. Firm Growth has been estimated using sales volume and the number of employees. Findings indicate that apart from savings for business purposes as an indigenous risk management strategy, diversification of economic activities, subscription to formal insurance, forward contracting, cooperative marketing, borrowing, sale of assets, and temporary wage employment outside the business exert a positive influence on small firm growth in terms of sales. Subscription to formal insurance and temporary wages outside the entrepreneur's business positively influence firm growth as related to growth in employee size. We recommend that policymakers design and implement policies that initiate and facilitate the development of marketing cooperatives to negotiate fair prices. This essential tool can help mitigate marketing risks to the agri-food processing entrepreneur. The police should facilitate rolling out skills development programs to increase entrepreneurs' capacities in forward contracting arrangements. Again, entrepreneurs of agri-food processing firms in the wider Ghanaian population should be educated on the need to subscribe to formal insurance to insulate them in times of property loss or personal accidents.

This study examines how blockchain and digital currency have affected the supply of credit and financial stability. It pays particular attention to industry-based analyses and options presented by cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and digital currencies for the credit supply and financial stability. A positivistic or quantitative research design is employed. The method of data collection is a survey-based questionnaire, as well as the time interval data method, from December 2021 to December 2022. The study sample comprises of five industrial zones of Punjab. The respondents are businessmen, managers, and employees (N = 449). The study finds that the use of various digital currencies quickly transforms business. The study shows that most industries do not require central banks and, instead, concentrate on modern digital currency and blockchain systems for monetary transfers. The private and public models of physical money will likely fail in the future. Rather, central banks should adopt digital currency and blockchain with an online technological payment strategy in order to enhance domestic financial stability and payment systems.

Abstract Clinical cases and experimental evidence revealed that electronic cigarettes (ECIG) induce serious adverse health effects, but underlying mechanisms remain to be fully uncovered. Based on recent exploratory evidence, investigating the effects of ECIG on macrophages can broadly define potential mechanisms by focusing on the effect of ECIG exposure with or without nicotine. Here we investigated the effect of ECIG-aerosol exposure on macrophages (MQ) phenotype, inflammatory response, and function of macrophages. MQ were cultured at air liquid interface and exposed to ECIG-aerosol. Oxidative stress was determined by reactive oxygen species (ROS), heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and heme oxygenase1 (HMOX1). Lipid accumulation and lipid peroxidation were defined by lipid staining and level of malondialdehyde (MDA) respectively. MQ polarization was identified by surface expression markers CD86, CD11C and CD206 as well as pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in gene and protein level. Phagocytosis of E. coli by MQ was investigated by fluorescence-based phagocytosis assay. ECIG-aerosol exposure in presence or absence of nicotine induced oxidative stress evidenced by ROS, HSP60, GPx, GPx4 and HMOX1 upregulation in MQ. ECIG-aerosol exposure induced accumulation of lipids and the lipid peroxidation product MDA in MQ. Pro-inflammatory MQ (M1) markers CD86 and CD11C but not anti-inflammatory MQ (M2) marker CD206 were upregulated in response to ECIG-aerosol exposure. In addition, ECIG induced pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1beta and IL-8 in gene level and IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1beta in protein level whereas ECIG exposure downregulated anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in protein level. Phagocytosis activity of MQ was downregulated by ECIG exposure. shRNA mediated lipid scavenger receptor ‘CD36’ silencing inhibited ECIG-aerosol-induced pro-inflammatory MQ polarization and recovered phagocytic activity of MQ. ECIG exposure alters lung lipid homeostasis and thus induced inflammation by inducing M1 type MQ and impair phagocytic function, which could be a potential cause of ECIG-induced lung inflammation in healthy and inflammatory exacerbation in disease condition.

The peroxisomal biogenesis factor 19 (PEX19) is necessary for early peroxisomal biogenesis. PEX19 has been implicated in the replication of a variety of viruses, but the details pertaining to the mechanisms of how PEX19 engages in the life cycle of these viruses still need to be elucidated. Here, we demonstrated that the C terminus of PEX19 interacted with the cytoplasmic tail region of the M2 protein of the influenza A virus (IAV) and inhibited the viral growth titers. IAV infection or PEX19 knockdown triggered a reduction in the peroxisome pool and led to the accumulation of ROS and cell damage, thereby creating favorable conditions for IAV replication. Moreover, a reduction in the peroxisome pool led to the attenuation of early antiviral response mediated by peroxisome MAVS and downstream type III interferons. This study also showed that the interaction between IAV M2 and PEX19 affected the binding of PEX19 to the peroxisome-associated protein PEX14 and peroxisome membrane protein 24 (PMP24). Collectively, our data demonstrate that host factor PEX19 suppresses the replication of the IAV, and the IAV employs its M2 protein to mitigate the restricting role of PEX19.

This study tests a framework of business-to-business (B2B) sellers’ sales performance motivations in services firms. An exploratory-descriptive research design was used and data was collected from 389 respondents working in the services-orientated business sector of Norway. The study's results verify that B2B service sales are complex contexts and situations for B2B seller services firms and their B2B customers to handle. Many elements are required to reach a final deal. Therefore, services firms must maintain seller motivation throughout the B2B services sales process, which is usually hard and may involve psychological wear-out. Consequently, this study examines and verifies an important area of sales performance indicators, namely B2B sellers’ motivations in services firms, and explains B2B sellers’ intrinsic and extrinsic motivations.

Clinical cases and experimental evidence revealed that electronic cigarettes (ECIG) induce serious adverse health effects, but underlying mechanisms remain to be fully uncovered. Based on recent exploratory evidence, investigating the effects of ECIG on macrophages can broadly define potential mechanisms by focusing on the effect of ECIG exposure with or without nicotine. Here we investigated the effect of ECIG-aerosol exposure on macrophages (MQ) phenotype, inflammatory response, and function of macrophages. MQ were cultured at air liquid interface and exposed to ECIG-aerosol. Oxidative stress was determined by reactive oxygen species (ROS), heat shock protein 60 (HSP60), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and heme oxygenase1 (HMOX1). Lipid accumulation and lipid peroxidation were defined by lipid staining and level of malondialdehyde (MDA) respectively. MQ polarization was identified by surface expression markers CD86, CD11C and CD206 as well as pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in gene and protein level. Phagocytosis of E. coli by MQ was investigated by fluorescence-based phagocytosis assay. ECIG-aerosol exposure in presence or absence of nicotine induced oxidative stress evidenced by ROS, HSP60, GPx, GPx4 and HMOX1 upregulation in MQ. ECIG-aerosol exposure induced accumulation of lipids and the lipid peroxidation product MDA in MQ. Pro-inflammatory MQ (M1) markers CD86 and CD11C but not anti-inflammatory MQ (M2) marker CD206 were upregulated in response to ECIG-aerosol exposure. In addition, ECIG induced pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1beta and IL-8 in gene level and IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1beta in protein level whereas ECIG exposure downregulated anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in protein level. Phagocytosis activity of MQ was downregulated by ECIG exposure. shRNA mediated lipid scavenger receptor 'CD36' silencing inhibited ECIG-aerosol-induced pro-inflammatory MQ polarization and recovered phagocytic activity of MQ. ECIG exposure alters lung lipid homeostasis and thus induced inflammation by inducing M1 type MQ and impair phagocytic function, which could be a potential cause of ECIG-induced lung inflammation in healthy and inflammatory exacerbation in disease condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Macrophages are an integral part of the tumor microenvironment, playing a role in immunoregulation. We investigated the antigenic and cytokine macrophages profile derived from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in lung affected by cancer (cBALF) and healthy lung (hBALF) of 36 patients. Macrophages markers: CD206, CD163, CD80, CD86, CD40, Arginase-1, and CD68 were evaluated by flow cytometry. Cytokines (IL-1 RA, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-12, IL-23, and TGF-β) profile was analyzed. There was higher median proportion of macrophages in cBALF than in hBALF. The population of macrophages presented immunophenotype: cCD68+bright CD206+bright CD163+bright CD80+ CD86+ CD40+bright CD45+ cArginase+. We observed some trends in the expression of the analyzed antigens in clBALF and hlBLAF. High concentrations of IL-1RA and IL-6 and correlations between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in cBALF and hBALF supernatants were found. We expanded knowledge of the macrophages polarization, their diversity and unique properties based on the antigenic pattern and cytokine profile. Macrophages play an important role in the suppression and activation of immune anti-cancer response, but little is known about dominant macrophage phenotype in the lung cancer environment, evaluated by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The aim of this study was to characterize macrophages in BALF from a lung affected by cancer (cBALF) and a healthy lung (hBALF) of the same patient regarding their individual macrophage polarization and selected cytokines profile. A total of 36 patients with confirmed lung cancer were investigated. Macrophages markers: CD206 CD163 CD80 CD86 CD40 CD45, Arginase-1, and CD68 were evaluated by flow cytometry. Cytokines (IL-1 RA, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-12, IL-23, and TGF-β) profile was analyzed. There was higher median proportion of macrophages in Cbalf than in Hbalf. The population of macrophages presented immunophenotype: Ccd68+bright CD206+bright CD163+bright CD80+ CD86+ CD40+bright CD45+ cArginase+. We observed some trends in the expression of the analyzed antigens in clBALF and hlBLAF. The highest concentrations of IL-1RA and IL-6 were in Cbalf and Hbalf supernatant. There were the correlations between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The findings showed that macrophages include a diverse and plastic group with the presence of different antigens and cytokines, and determining the target phenotype is a complex and variable process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Microglia M2 phenotype in combination with pericytes improves escape latency in photothrombotic model of ischemia. • Microglia and pericytes combinatory transplantation improve social memory in ischemic animals. • Administration of pericytes alone or in combination with microglia enhances spatial learning and memory in ischemic animals. • Microglia and pericytes combinatory transplantation increase GAP-43 expression in ischemic animals. • Administration of pericytes alone or in combination with microglia diminishes IL-1 levels in ischemic animals. Cerebral ischemia is one of the major problems threatening global health. Many of the cerebral ischemia survivors would suffer from the physical and cognitive disabilities for their whole lifetime. Cell based-therapies have been introduced as a therapeutic approach for alleviating ischemia-enforced limitations. Photothrombotic stroke model was applied on the left medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of adult male BALB/c mice. Then, pericytes isolated from brain microvessels of adult male BALB/c mice, microglia isolated from brain cortices of the neonatal male BALB/c mice, and M2 phenotype shifted microglia by IL-4 treatment were used for transplantation into the injured area after 24 h of ischemia induction. The behavioural outcomes evaluated by social interaction and Barnes tests and the levels of growth associated protein (GAP)-43 and inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1 protein were assessed by western blotting 7 days after cell transplantation. Animals in both of the microglia + pericytes and microglia M2 + pericytes transplanted groups showed better performance in social memory as well as enhanced spatial learning and memory compared to ischemic controls. Also, improved escape latency was only observed in microglia M2 + pericytes (p < 0.01) group compared to ischemic controls. GAP-43 showed significant protein expression in microglia + pericytes and microglia M2 + pericytes groups compared to the control group. Conversely, IL-1 levels diminished in all of the pericytes microglia + pericytes, and microglia M2 + pericytes groups compared to the ischemic controls. Current study highlights efficiency of M2 microglia and pericytes combinatory transplantation therapeutic role on relieving ischemic stroke outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In traditional Japanese medicine, Rhei Rhizoma is used as a purgative, blood stasis-resolving and antipsychotic drug. The latter two properties are possibly related to anti-inflammatory effects. Microglia regulate inflammation in the central nervous system. M1 microglia induce inflammation, while M2 microglia inhibit inflammation and show neurotrophic effects. This study investigated the effects from water extracts of roots of cultivated Rheum species in Nagano Prefecture, Japan (strain C, a related strain to a Japanese cultivar, 'Shinshu-Daio'; and strain 29, a Chinese strain) and 3 kinds of Rhei Rhizoma available in the Japanese market, and also examined their constituents on the polarization of cultured microglia. All extracts significantly decreased M1 microglia, and strains C and 29 significantly increased M2 microglia. Furthermore, the extracts of both strains significantly increased the M2/M1 ratio. Among the constituents of Rhei Rhizoma, (+)-catechin (2), resveratrol 4′-O-β-D-(6″-O-galloyl) glucopyranoside (5), isolindleyin (8), and physcion (15) significantly increased the M2/M1 ratio. The contents of the constituents in water extract of each strain were quantified using HPLC. The extracts of strains C and 29 contained relatively large amounts of 2 and 5; and 2, 8, and 15, respectively. This study showed the water extracts of roots of cultivated Rheum strains in Japan had the effects of M2 polarization of microglia, suggesting that these strains become the candidate to develop anti-inflammatory Rhei Rhizoma. Moreover, the suitable chemical composition to possess anti-inflammatory activity in the brain was clarified for the future development of new type of Rhei Rhizoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive alcohol consumption impairs the immune system, induces oxidative stress, and triggers the activation of peripheral blood (PB) monocytes, thereby contributing to alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We analyzed the M1/M2 phenotypes of circulating classical monocytes and macrophage-derived monocytes (MDMs) in excessive alcohol drinkers (EADs). PB samples from 20 EADs and 22 healthy controls were collected for isolation of CD14+ monocytes and short-term culture with LPS/IFNγ, IL4/IL13, or without stimulation. These conditions were also used to polarize MDMs into M1, M2, or M0 phenotypes. Cytokine production was assessed in the blood and culture supernatants. M1/M2-related markers were analyzed using mRNA expression and surface marker detection. Additionally, the miRNA profile of CD14+ monocytes was analyzed. PB samples from EADs exhibited increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Following short-term culture, unstimulated blood samples from EADs showed higher levels of soluble TNF-α and IL-8, whereas monocytes expressed increased levels of surface TNF-α and elevated mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inducible nitric oxide synthase. MDMs from EADs showed higher levels of TNF-α and CD206 surface markers and increased IL-10 production. LPS/IFNγ induced higher mRNA expression of Nrf2 only in the controls. miRNA analysis revealed a distinctive miRNA profile that is potentially associated with liver carcinogenesis and ALD through inflammation and oxidative stress. This study confirms the predominantly pro-inflammatory profile of PB monocytes among EADs and suggests immune exhaustion features in MDMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]