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Optical second harmonic generation (SHG) can be employed to characterize the passivation quality of semiconducting material interfaces. The interface electric field (EDC) related to the existing charges at and near the interface, including the fixed oxide charges Qox, gives rise to the electric field induced second harmonic phenomenon. In this paper, we calibrate the SHG response for EDC measurement, using Al2O3/SiO2/Si(100) samples with different Qox. To perform this calibration, SHG and capacitance-voltage measurements (to access the electrical field of the samples) were made. The experimental results match well the simulated calibration curve, proving the potential of the SHG as stand-alone characterization technique for dielectric stacks on Si. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second harmonic generation (SHG) is used to characterize the interfaces of centrosymmetric materials typically used in microelectronic/optoelectronic devices. For such applications, the materials are actually multi-layer stacks, and in this case, the SHG can be difficult to interpret and model. This paper presents the theory of the second harmonic light generated from multilayer structures. The focus is on describing the nonlinear boundary conditions at the interfaces between two different materials, taking into account the distinct contributions of bulk and interface regions. Using these conditions, it is possible to calculate the second harmonic signal from any stack of materials. In this paper, we address stacks containing silicon (100) because it is a material with numerous applications. The nonlinear polarization expressions of the surface and bulk of Si(100), according to Sipe et al. [Phys. Rev. B 35, 1129 (1987)], were integrated into nonlinear boundary conditions in order to determine transmitted and reflected second harmonic waves. An analytical validation was performed on the simple case of an air–silicon interface. For multilayered stacks, the model was compared with experimental results obtained on samples corresponding to pragmatic substrates widely used in microelectronic and optoelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates the prevalence and etiology of subclinical mastitis in Țurcana sheep flocks located in south-western Romania. Milchtest and California Mastitis Test (CMT), were used for the detection of subclinical mastitis. A number of 360 milk samples across three lactation phases were analyzed. Subclinical mastitis was identified in 146 (40.6%) of sheep milk samples. Only milk samples (n = 146) collected from sheep diagnosed with subclinical mastitis were considered for microbiological analyses. Thus, Staphylococcus aureus (129/146; 88.4%) was identified as the predominant pathogen followed by Streptococcus spp. (14/146; 9.6%) Enterococcus spp. (7/146; 4.8%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (6/146; 4.1%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (5/146; 3.4%). Antimicrobial susceptibility of isolated strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp. was also tested. The results showed varying resistance patterns depending on the farm and microorganism. In heard A the highest resistance of Staphylococcus aureus was identified to polymyxin B (79.7%) followed by novobiocin (73.4%) and tetracycline (45.3%); Streptococcus spp. to streptomycin (100%), novobiocin (100%), tetracycline (100%) and Enterococcus spp. to tylosin (100%), streptomycin (75.0%) and tetracycline (75.0%). In herd B, Staphylococcus aureus showed high resistance rates to polymyxin B (86.3%), novobiocin (74.5%) and cloxacillin (39.2%); Streptococcus spp. strains to streptomycin (100%), novobiocin (100%), tetracycline (100%) and Enterococcus spp. to gentamicin (100%), streptomycin (66.7%) and erythromycin (66.7%). The obtained preliminary results indicate a potential risk that future treatments of sheep mastitis may not be effective, and demonstrated that raw unpasteurized milk can harbor antimicrobial resistance pathogens posing a threat to public health. However, further investigations involving molecular research on resistance genes are required to draw comprehensive conclusions., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethical approval: Even though the research entitled “Etiology and Antimicrobial Resistance of Subclinical Mastitis Pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp. in Sheep Milk” included live animals (ovines), however, they were not directly affected or used because the samples processed and analyzed in the study were represented by milk samples collected from sheep during milking stages. The statement was included in the Bioethics Commission Approval No. 5639. The experiments assure the proper accommodation and animal handling in accordance with the Directive 2010/63/EU. Also the experimental protocol includes methods for preventing and reducing animal distress in accordance to the recommendation of European Union and Romanian Legislation. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

The disruptive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has led the scientific community to undertake an unprecedented effort to characterize viral infection mechanisms. Among these, interactions between the viral glycosylated Spike and the human receptors ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are key to allowing virus invasion. Here, we report and test a fully rational methodology to design molecules that are capable of perturbing the interactions between these critical players in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenicity. To this end, we computationally identify substructures on the fully glycosylated Spike protein that are not intramolecularly optimized and are thus prone to being stabilized by forming complexes with ACE2 and TMPRSS2. With the aim of competing with the Spike-mediated cell entry mechanisms, we have engineered the predicted putative interaction regions in the form of peptide mimics that could compete with Spike for interaction with ACE2 and/or TMPRSS2. Experimental models of viral entry demonstrate that the designed molecules are able to interfere with viral entry into ACE2/TMPRSS2 expressing cells, while they have no effects on the entry of control viral particles that do not harbor the Spike protein or on the entry of Spike-presenting viral particles into cells that do not display its receptors on their surface.

Background and Objectives: Previous studies have shown that the levodopa treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) elevates circulating homocysteine levels, which are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and neurological disorders, or thrombosis. The present trial aimed to examine whether the intake of vitamin B12, folic acid, and vitamin D3 supplements improved homocysteine level and quality of life (QoL)., Materials and Methods: An interventional prospective trial was conducted in multiple centers across Romania. Participants with clinically established PD taking at least 300 mg/day of levodopa for more than 1 year received a daily tablet of a supplement containing 800 UI of vitamin D3, 1000 µg of folic acid, and 15 µg of vitamin B12. They were followed for 6 months and their serum homocysteine, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and QoL scores were measured at baseline and at 6 months of treatment. QoL was measured using a 15D questionnaire, which assesses mobility, vision, hearing, breathing, sleeping, eating, speech, excretion, usual activities, mental function, discomfort and symptoms, depression, distress, vitality, and sexual activity., Results: Twenty-four PD patients with a mean age of 71 ± 5.04 years (54.2% male and 45.8% female) finished the study. After the intervention, the mean score of speech, mental function, discomfort and symptoms, depression, and QoL significantly increased ( p < 0.05 for all). Also, the serum homocysteine and vitamin D were significantly enhanced ( p < 0.0001 and p = 0.025, respectively). Changes in vitamin B12 were not statistically significant at 6 months of treatment ( p = 0.996). No gender differences were found among the changes that we have demonstrated for homocysteine, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and QoL levels ( p < 0.05 for all)., Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that the dietary intake of vitamin B12, folic acid, and vitamin D3 remarkably decreased the dimensions of homocysteine and finally increased the total score of QoL in PD patients. We have successfully captured the potential benefits of the supplementation regimen over time and provided insights into the broader implications for managing PD with a focus on nutritional support.

Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors (MPNSTs) are aggressive sarcomas that can arise both sporadically and in patients with the genetic syndrome Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Prognosis is dismal, as large dimensions, risk of relapse, and anatomical localization make surgery poorly effective, and no therapy is known. Hence, the identification of MPNST molecular features that could be hit in an efficient and selective way is mandatory to envision treatment options. Here, we find that MPNSTs express high levels of the glycolytic enzyme Hexokinase 2 (HK2), which is known to shield cancer cells from noxious stimuli when it localizes at MAMs (mitochondria-associated membranes), contact sites between mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. A HK2-targeting peptide that dislodges HK2 from MAMs rapidly induces a massive death of MPNST cells. After identifying different matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) expressed in the MPNST microenvironment, we have designed HK2-targeting peptide variants that harbor cleavage sites for these MMPs, making such peptides activatable in the proximity of cancer cells. We find that the peptide carrying the MMP2/9 cleavage site is the most effective, both in inhibiting the in vitro tumorigenicity of MPNST cells and in hampering their growth in mice. Our data indicate that detaching HK2 from MAMs could pave the way for a novel anti-MPNST therapeutic strategy, which could be flexibly adapted to the protease expression features of the tumor microenvironment.

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) can radically change almost every aspect of the human experience. In the medical field, there are numerous applications of AI and subsequently, in a relatively short time, significant progress has been made. Cardiology is not immune to this trend, this fact being supported by the exponential increase in the number of publications in which the algorithms play an important role in data analysis, pattern discovery, identification of anomalies, and therapeutic decision making. Furthermore, with technological development, there have appeared new models of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DP) that are capable of exploring various applications of AI in cardiology, including areas such as prevention, cardiovascular imaging, electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, and many others. In this sense, the present article aims to provide a general vision of the current state of AI use in cardiology., Results: We identified and included a subset of 200 papers directly relevant to the current research covering a wide range of applications. Thus, this paper presents AI applications in cardiovascular imaging, arithmology, clinical or emergency cardiology, cardiovascular prevention, and interventional procedures in a summarized manner. Recent studies from the highly scientific literature demonstrate the feasibility and advantages of using AI in different branches of cardiology., Conclusions: The integration of AI in cardiology offers promising perspectives for increasing accuracy by decreasing the error rate and increasing efficiency in cardiovascular practice. From predicting the risk of sudden death or the ability to respond to cardiac resynchronization therapy to the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism or the early detection of valvular diseases, AI algorithms have shown their potential to mitigate human error and provide feasible solutions. At the same time, limits imposed by the small samples studied are highlighted alongside the challenges presented by ethical implementation; these relate to legal implications regarding responsibility and decision making processes, ensuring patient confidentiality and data security. All these constitute future research directions that will allow the integration of AI in the progress of cardiology.

Our purpose is to emphasize the role of botulinum toxin in spasticity therapy and functional recovery in patients following strokes. Our retrospective study compared two groups, namely ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients. The study group (BT group) comprised 80 patients who received focal botulinum toxin as therapy for an upper limb with spastic muscle three times every three months. The control group (ES group) comprised 80 patients who received only medical rehabilitation consisting of electrostimulation and radial shockwave therapy for the upper limb, which was applied three times every three months. Both groups received the same stretching program for spastic muscles as a home training program. We evaluated the evolution of the patients using muscle strength, Ashworth, Tardieu, Frenchay, and Barthel scales. The analysis indicated a statistically significant difference between the two groups for all scales, with better results for the BT group ( p < 0.0001 for all scales). In our study, the age at disease onset was an important prediction factor for better recovery in both groups but not in all scales. Better recovery was obtained for younger patients (in the BT group, MRC scale: rho = -0.609, p -value < 0.0001; Tardieu scale: rho = -0.365, p -value = 0.001; in the ES group, MRC scale: rho = -0.445, p -value < 0.0001; Barthel scale: rho = -0.239, p -value = 0.033). Our results demonstrated the effectiveness of botulinum toxin therapy compared with the rehabilitation method, showing a reduction of the recovery time of the upper limb, as well as an improvement of functionality and a reduction of disability. Although all patients followed a specific kinetic program, important improvements were evident in the botulinum toxin group.

The purpose of prosthetic devices is to reproduce the angular-torque profile of a healthy human during locomotion. A lightweight and energy-efficient joint is capable of decreasing the peak actuator power and/or power consumption per gait cycle, while adequately meeting profile-matching constraints. The aim of this study was to highlight the dynamic characteristics of a bionic leg with electric actuators with rotational movement. Three-dimensional (3D)-printing technology was used to create the leg, and servomotors were used for the joints. A stepper motor was used for horizontal movement. For better numerical simulation of the printed model, three mechanical tests were carried out (tension, compression, and bending), based on which the main mechanical characteristics necessary for the numerical simulation were obtained. For the experimental model made, the dynamic stresses could be determined, which highlights the fact that, under the conditions given for the experimental model, the prosthesis resists.

The Internet of Things (IoT) has gained significance in agriculture, using remote sensing and machine learning to help farmers make high-precision management decisions. This technology can be applied in viticulture, making it possible to monitor disease occurrence and prevent them automatically. The study aims to achieve an intelligent grapevine disease detection method, using an IoT sensor network that collects environmental and plant-related data. The focus of this study is the identification of the main parameters which provide early information regarding the grapevine's health. An overview of the sensor network, architecture, and components is provided in this paper. The IoT sensors system is deployed in the experimental plots located within the plantations of the Research Station for Viticulture and Enology (SDV) in Murfatlar, Romania. Classical methods for disease identification are applied in the field as well, in order to compare them with the sensor data, thus improving the algorithm for grapevine disease identification. The data from the sensors are analyzed using Machine Learning (ML) algorithms and correlated with the results obtained using classical methods in order to identify and predict grapevine diseases. The results of the disease occurrence are presented along with the corresponding environmental parameters. The error of the classification system, which uses a feedforward neural network, is 0.05. This study will be continued with the results obtained from the IoT sensors tested in vineyards located in other regions.

Background: Videos have been an important medium for providing health and risk communication to the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health officials, health care professionals, and policy makers have used videos to communicate pandemic-related content to large parts of the population. Evidence regarding the outcomes of such communication, along with their determinants, is however limited., Objective: The aim of this study was to test the impact of nonvisual information factors of video communication on 4 outcomes: trust, comprehension, intentions, and behavior., Methods: Twelve short health communication videos related to pandemics were produced and shown to a large sample of participants, applying a randomized controlled between-subjects design. Three factors were included in the creation of the videos: the topic (exponential growth, handwashing, and burden of pandemics on the health care system), the source (expert and nonexpert), and a call to action (present or absent). Participants were randomly assigned to 1 video intervention, and 1194 valid replies were collected. The data were analyzed using factorial ANOVA., Results: The 3 pandemic-related topics did not affect trust, comprehension, intentions, or behavior. Trust was positively influenced by an expert source (2.5%), whereas a nonexpert source instead had a positive effect on the proxy for behavior (5.7%) compared with the expert source. The inclusion of a call to action had a positive effect on both trust (4.1%) and comprehension (15%)., Conclusions: Trust and comprehension in pandemic-related video communication can be enhanced by using expert sources and by including a call to action, irrespective of the topic being communicated. Intentions and behavior appear to be affected to a small extent by the 3 factors tested in this study., International Registered Report Identifier (irrid): RR2-10.2196/34275., (©Daniel Adrian Lungu, Jo Røislien, Siv Hilde Berg, Ionica Smeets, Marie Therese Shortt, Henriette Thune, Kolbjørn Kallesten Brønnick. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 23.08.2023.)

Background: Genetic and metabolic heterogeneity are well-known features of cancer and tumors can be viewed as an evolving mix of subclonal populations, subjected to selection driven by microenvironmental pressures or drug treatment. In previous studies, anti-VEGF therapy was found to elicit rewiring of tumor metabolism, causing marked alterations in glucose, lactate ad ATP levels in tumors. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether differences in the sensitivity to glucose starvation existed at the clonal level in ovarian cancer cells and to investigate the effects induced by anti-VEGF therapy on this phenotype by multi-omics analysis., Methods: Clonal populations, obtained from both ovarian cancer cell lines (IGROV-1 and SKOV3) and tumor xenografts upon glucose deprivation, were defined as glucose deprivation resistant (GDR) or glucose deprivation sensitive (GDS) clones based on their in vitro behaviour. GDR and GDS clones were characterized using a multi-omics approach, including genetic, transcriptomic and metabolic analysis, and tested for their tumorigenic potential and reaction to anti-angiogenic therapy., Results: Two clonal populations, GDR and GDS, with strikingly different viability following in vitro glucose starvation, were identified in ovarian cancer cell lines. GDR clones survived and overcame glucose starvation-induced stress by enhancing mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and both pyruvate and lipids uptake, whereas GDS clones were less able to adapt and died. Treatment of ovarian cancer xenografts with the anti-VEGF drug bevacizumab positively selected for GDR clones that disclosed increased tumorigenic properties in NOD/SCID mice. Remarkably, GDR clones were more sensitive than GDS clones to the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I inhibitor metformin, thus suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy to target the OXPHOS-metabolic dependency of this subpopulation., Conclusion: A glucose-deprivation resistant population of ovarian cancer cells showing druggable OXPHOS-dependent metabolic traits is enriched in experimental tumors treated by anti-VEGF therapy., (© 2023. Italian National Cancer Institute ‘Regina Elena’.)

This review aims to measure the different aspects of summer savory including biological activity, medicinal properties, nutritional value, food application, prospective health benefits, and its use as an additive in broiler feed. Furthermore, toxicity related to this is also overviewed. Summer savory leaves are abundant in total phenolic compounds (rosmarinic acid and flavonoids) that have a powerful antioxidant impact. Rosmarinic (α-O-caffeoyl-3,4-dihydroxy-phenyl lactic) acid has been identified in summer savory as a main component. According to phytochemical investigations, tannins, volatile oils, sterols, acids, gums, pyrocatechol, phenolic compounds, mucilage, and pyrocatechol are the primary compounds of Satureja species. Summer savory extract shows considerable biological potential in antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antibacterial assays. Regarding antioxidant activity, summer savory extract displays an inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation. Summer savory also has Fe (III) reductive and free radical scavenging properties and contains minerals and vitamins. Summer savory has important biological properties, including antimicrobial activity and antioxidant activity, and protective effects against Jurkat T Cells, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, infection, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cholesterol. The leaves and stems of this plant are employed in the food, feed, and pharmacological industries due to their antioxidant properties and substantial nutritional content. Conclusively, summer savory is widely considered beneficial for human health due to its versatile properties and medicinal use., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Ejaz, Waliat, Arshad, Khalid, Khalid, Rasul Suleria, Luca, Mironeasa, Batariuc, Ungureanu-Iuga, Coţovanu and Mironeasa.)

The demand for healthy ready-to-eat foods like snacks is increasing. Physical modification of vegetal food matrices through extrusion generates significant changes in the chemical composition of the final product. There is a great variety of food matrices that can be used in extrusion, most of them being based on cereals, legumes, fruits, vegetables, or seeds. The aim of this review was to summarize the main effects of the extrusion process on the bioactive compounds content, namely phenolics, terpenes, vitamins, minerals, and fibers of vegetal mixes, as well as on their biological activity. The literature reported contradictory results regarding the changes in bioactive compounds after extrusion, mainly due to the differences in the processing conditions, chemical composition, physicochemical properties, and nutritional value of the extruded material and quantification methods. The thermolabile phenolics and vitamins were negatively affected by extrusion, while the fiber content was proved to be enhanced. Further research is needed regarding the interactions between bioactive components during extrusion, as well as a more detailed analysis of the impact of extrusion on the terpenes since there are few papers dealing with this aspect.

Traditional Romanian food products are an integral part of local culture and spirituality. These food traditions have been formed over the centuries and represent a particularly important part ofthe development of a circular economy in rural areas. In order to contribute to the development of this sector of activity we conducted a study on consumer perception of traditional Romanian food products. The purpose of this work was to identify the structure of the studies and the future directions of research related to the image of traditional food products through the bibliometric study, as well as the identification of consumer trends, of these products through a survey based on the questionnaire. The results obtained indicate that traditional Romanian food products are consumed by the majority of respondents participating in the survey and that this sector ofactivity has continuity in its development and presents a clear interest among citizens.

Increasing the biocompatibility of some biological implants through tissue engineering is important for regenerative medicine, which recently has a rapid development dynamic. In this study we used tree different washing protocols, respectively with Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), with Sodium Deoxycholate (SD), and with saline (Sa) to achieve partial decellularization of 2-3mm thick cross-sections through Wistar rat hearts. Pieces of the heart tissue were either histologically analyzed to evaluate the decellularization processes or implanted for 5 days on 9-day-old chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and then histologically analyzed to evaluate CAM-implant interactions. Histological analysis of SLS or SD washed tissues showed different microscopic features of the decellularization processes, SLS-washing leading to the formation of a completely decellularized ECM layer at the periphery of the heart tissue. Both detergents induced changes in the spatial arrangement of collagen fibers of the heart tissue. Histological analysis of the CAM implants shoved that the peripheral zone with complete decellularization induced by SLS increased the biocompatibility of heart tissue implants by favoring neovascularization and cell migration. These results suggested that the biocompatibility of the heart tissue implant can be modulated by the appropriate use of a SLS-based decellularization protocol., Competing Interests: None to declare., (Copyright © 2023, Medical University Publishing House Craiova.)

Heat treatment of sorghum kernels has the potential to improve their nutritional properties. The goal of this study was to assess the impact of dry heat treatment at two temperatures (121 and 140 °C) and grain fractionation, on the chemical and functional properties of red sorghum flour with three different particle sizes (small, medium, and large), for process optimization. The results showed that the treatment temperature had a positive effect on the water absorption capacity, as well as the fat, ash, moisture and carbohydrate content, whereas the opposite tendency was obtained for oil absorption capacity, swelling power, emulsion activity and protein and fiber content. Sorghum flour particle size had a positive impact on water absorption capacity, emulsion activity and protein, carbohydrate and fiber content, while oil absorption capacity, swelling power and fat, ash and moisture content were adversely affected. The optimization process showed that at the treatment temperature at 133 °C, an increase in fat, ash, fiber and carbohydrate content was experienced in the optimal fraction dimension of red sorghum grains. Moreover, the antioxidant performance showed that this fraction produced the best reducing capability when water was used as an extraction solvent. Starch digestibility revealed a 22.81% rise in resistant starch, while the thermal properties showed that gelatinization enthalpy was 1.90 times higher compared to the control sample. These findings may be helpful for researchers and the food industry in developing various functional foods or gluten-free bakery products.

Whole-organ plastic resin casting is a very useful method for preserving rare pathological specimens for forensic/anatomical studies and for teaching/research purposes. Many techniques have been proposed over time, but most of them use special non-commercially available resin mixtures, lengthy protocols, and are overall not easily implemented in any anatomy/pathology department that might need such a procedure for rapid organ preservation. Here, we utilized anatomical sections of the human brain, heart, kidneys, spleen, large intestine, and lungs from on-display organs that were fixed for more than 1 year in 10% neutral-buffered formalin and from a freshly processed cadaver for teaching purposes in our Human Anatomy Department, and we optimized a fast-processing protocol without the use of any clearing agents, which yields solid, clear, cylindrical resin casting blocks. The resulting protocol, which takes no longer than 4 days, proves that at least three commonly used epoxy resins from hobby shops can be utilized without any restrictions, and the use of resin or glycerin vacuum-forced impregnation even offers two choices of intrinsic contrast, depending on the nature of the preparation. A number of innovations have been included here and compared to existing publications, such as the use of a system of permanent fixation plexiglas rods that maintain the organ in the desired position and become invisible in the final block, the use of UVC sterilization of the tissue to ensure a long shelf life of the block, and the utilization of cheap cylindrical polypropylene food containers as casting molds. Altogether, we present a simple resin-embedding protocol that can be made available to any department/institution without the need for expensive materials and specially trained personnel.

This study explored the effect of substituting wheat flour (WF) with distinctive optimal doses of buckwheat flour (BF) corresponding to large, medium, and small particle sizes (PS), previously established based on an optimization process, on composite flour characteristics, dough rheology, and bread quality. The optimal dose for each PS was established in a previous study. The highest value for protein, lipid, mineral, and amino acids was found in the optimal composite flour with medium PS, with significant differences between those with large and small PS. The addition of BF in WF at doses corresponding to each fraction provides optimum rheological properties, with the large and medium PS providing higher performance compared to the small one. The same tendency was observed for volume and texture parameters of bread made from optimal composite flours with medium and large PS, respectively, but the crust and crumb lightness presented lower values than bread with small PS. Regarding the bread nutritional profile, the sample with medium PS possessed the highest protein, lipid, and ash content. Compared to the wheat bread, a considerably higher amino acid content, up to 21.22%, was found in bread made from optimal composite flours with medium and small PS, respectively. The bread samples with medium and large PS, respectively were superior in minerals, the value being up to 2.63 times higher compared to the control. Sensory characteristics results revealed that the bread samples containing 9.13% large and 10.57% medium PS were the most preferred by panelists. The results of this research make an important base to suitably develop wheat-buckwheat bread applications in the future.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds are considered a gold standard for the engineering of appropriate grafts used in regenerative medicine for tissue repair, and decellularization of myocardial tissue is one of the most studied processes for obtaining natural ECM to date. Decellularization methods, agents used, or treatment durations can be varied to optimize cardiac tissue decellularization parameters. In this work we performed a morphological and morphometric analysis of cardiac tissue subjected to decellularization protocols based on Sodium Deoxycholate (SD) or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) to identify factors that allow optimization of single-detergent based protocols for cardiac ECM manufacturing. For this, Wistar rat hearts (n=10) were subjected to 5 different decellularization protocols (n=2) and then histologically processed to achieve H&E or Azan trichrome stained sections for the morphological and morphometric analysis of the obtained ECM. The results of this study showed that SLS alters the spatial distribution of cardiac ECM collagen fibers, and SD can be successfully used in tailoring single-based detergent decellularization protocols by appropriately adjusting the application times of hypo/hyperosmotic shocks, which increases the lytic action of the detergent, and the washing times for the efficient elimination of cellular residues., Competing Interests: None to declare, (Copyright © 2023, Medical University Publishing House Craiova.)

One of the food industry's challenges is to enhance bread quality from a nutritional point of view without impacting negatively sensorial characteristics and consumer decisions on product choice. This study aimed to assess the baking characteristics of wheat bread supplemented with quinoa flour (QF) of large, medium and small particle sizes at typical doses previously established based on an optimization process, and to evaluate the optimal bread from a physical, textural, nutritional, and sensorial point of view. The results showed a decrease in the Falling number index, water absorption, dough stability, speed of protein weakening, dough extensibility, and creep-recovery compliances for optimal wheat-quinoa composite samples with large and medium particle sizes; meanwhile, for the samples with small particle sizes an opposite trend was recorded, with the exception of dough extensibility. Dough fermentation parameters and bread volume rose for all optimal formulations, while firmness decreased compared to wheat bread. All optimal bread samples presented an improved nutritional profile depending on the particle size. The protein content was up to 19% higher, ash up to 13.8%, and lipids up to fifteen times higher. A noticeable enrichment in minerals (mainly K, Mg, Na, Zn, up to 2.3 times) and essential amino acids (with 13.53%) was also obtained for all optimal breads. From an acceptability point of view, the highest score (8.70) was recorded for the optimal bread with a QF of medium particle size. These findings offer processors new information which will be useful for diversifying bakery products with an enhanced nutritional profile.

Objectives: Clearance of jaundice (CoJ) is the first key objective of Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE) for biliary atresia (BA) and its achievement is by far the best index of long-term prognosis. We sought to identify the reasons for failure [subsequent liver transplant (LT)] in this cohort., Methods: Review of single-center prospective BA database. Successful KPE was defined by achieving a postoperative bilirubin of ≤20 µmol/L. Pre-KPE and post-KPE variables were identified together with a multivariate logistic regression model to identify those observable at 3 months post-KPE. Data are quoted as median (range). A P value of ≤0.05 was significant., Results: One hundred thirty-five infants underwent KPE between January 2012 and December 2018, of which 90 (67%) achieved CoJ. From these 20 (22%) (Cohort A) underwent LT with the remainder continuing with native liver (Cohort B) (median follow-up of 4.15 years). There was no difference in age at KPE ( P = 0.41), APRi (aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio) ( P = 0.07), associated anomalies ( P = 0.7), and cytomegalovirus status ( P = 0.7) between the 2 groups. Postoperatively, both cholangitis [any episode, 18/20 (90%) vs 15/70 (21%); P < 0.0001] and portal hypertension (PHT) [gastrointestinal (GI) bleed, 10/20 (50%) vs 2/70 (2.8%); P < 0.0001] were significantly more common in cohort A. Univariate analysis showed that the most significant predictive values at 3 months for LT by 2 years were high APRi, bilirubin, international normalized ratio, and ultrasound (US)-detected ascites with multivariate logistic modeling confirming these variables with predictive values of r2 = 0.79, AUROC = 0.98., Conclusions: Failure is not preordained at KPE but due to recurrent cholangitis and/or symptoms of PHT., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2022 by European Society for European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition and North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition.)

Amaranth is an underutilized pseudocereal that can be used to supplement wheat flour (WF) in order to improve the nutritional quality of bread. Bread digestibility is impacted by particle size which produces different nutritional properties. This research aims to evaluate the baking characteristics of optimal wheat−amaranth composite flour for each studied amaranth flour (AF) particle size at doses previously established based on an optimization process and to characterize from a physical, textural, nutritional, and sensorial point of view the obtained bread. The results revealed that the optimal wheat−amaranth composite flour with medium and small particle size, respectively showed a slightly lower α-amylase activity, while dough development time was significantly higher compared to the WF. A significant (p < 0.05) decrease was observed in the elasticity, deformation energy, and dynamic rheological parameters of the optimal composite dough for all the particle sizes, whereas fermentation parameters showed higher values compared to the control, indicating the ability of the gluten structure in large, medium, and small particle sizes of AF to hold the gas and to expand without collapsing. The physical, textural, and especially nutritional characteristics of the optimal WF-AF bread were enhanced. The sensory evaluation results revealed high scores (8.70) for the acceptability of optimal bread with a medium particle size as compared to wheat bread (8.25). The protein and ash content of the optimal breads with large, medium, and small AF particle sizes, respectively, increased significantly, from 8.92 to 10.58%, and 0.82 to 0.99%, respectively, relative to the wheat flour bread (8.35% and 0.72%, respectively). The mineral content was up to two times higher in the optimal breads compared to wheat flour bread. The findings generated from this study are helpful in bakery industry for designing products with enhanced nutritional properties and for introducing new products to the market.

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive, and neurodegenerative disease, and yet with an imprecise etiopathogenesis. Although neuroinflammation was initially thought to be a secondary condition, it is now believed that microglia-induced inflammation could also contribute to the degeneration of the nigrostriatal pathway. Here, we aimed to establish the feasibility of basic inflammatory biomarkers as prognostic factors in PD. The study was based on retrospective analyses of blood samples taken from patients diagnosed with PD, as well as from healthy subjects. Complete medical records, total leukocyte count with subpopulations, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were analyzed. We calculated the serum neutrophils-to-lymphocytes ratio (NLR) and platelet-to lymphocytes ratio (PLR), and also compared the laboratory data between the PD group and the control group. Only PLR and NLR showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.001 and 0.04, respectively). In our study, ESR did not show statistically significant correlations with motor score or with disability. In our research, ESR was correlated with the disease duration (p = 0.04), and PLR showed a significant correlation with disease stage (p = 0.027) and disease duration (p = 0.001), but not with motor state. These biomarkers could prove to be effective tools for a primary evaluation of inflammation in PD, but further tests are required to properly investigate the neuroinflammatory status of these patients.

Background and Purpose: In the central nervous system, a multitude of changes have been described associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, such as microglial activation, perivascular lymphocyte cuffing, hypoxic-ischaemic changes, microthrombosis, infarcts or haemorrhages. It was sought here to assess the vascular basement membranes (vBMs) and surrounding perivascular astrocytes for any morphological changes in acute respiratory syndrome (coronavirus disease 2019, COVID-19) patients., Methods: The light microscopy morphology of the vBMs and perivascular astrocytes from brains of 14 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection was analysed and compared to four control patients utilizing fluorescent immunohistochemistry for collagen IV and astrocytes (GFAP), endothelia (CD31), tight junction 1 (TJ1) adhesion protein, as well as the aquaporin 4 (AQP4) water channel. On 2D and 3D deconvoluted images from the cortex and white matter, vessel densities, diameters, degree of gliosis, collagen IV/GFAP and GFAP/AQP4 colocalizations were calculated, as well as the fractal dimension of astrocytes and vBMs viewed in tangential planes., Results: Fractal dimension analysis of the GFAP-stained astrocytes revealed lower branching complexities and decreased GFAP/collagen IV colocalization for COVID-19 patients. Interestingly, vBMs showed significantly increased irregularities (fractal dimension values) compared to controls. Vessel diameters were increased in COVID-19 cases, especially for the white matter, TJ1 protein decreased its colocalization with the endothelia, and AQP4 reduced its co-expression in astrocytes., Conclusions: Our data on the irregularity of the basement membranes, loss of endothelial tight junction, reduction of the astrocyte end-feet and decrease of AQP4 suggest subtle morphological changes of the blood-brain barrier in COVID-19 brains that could be linked with indirect inflammatory signalling or hypoxia/hypercapnia., (© 2022 European Academy of Neurology.)

Binding of the mitochondrial chaperone TRAP1 to client proteins shapes bioenergetic and proteostatic adaptations of cells, but the panel of TRAP1 clients is only partially defined. Here we show that TRAP1 interacts with F-ATP synthase, the protein complex that provides most cellular ATP. TRAP1 competes with the peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase cyclophilin D (CyPD) for binding to the oligomycin sensitivity-conferring protein (OSCP) subunit of F-ATP synthase, increasing its catalytic activity and counteracting the inhibitory effect of CyPD. Electrophysiological measurements indicate that TRAP1 directly inhibits a channel activity of purified F-ATP synthase endowed with the features of the permeability transition pore (PTP) and that it reverses PTP induction by CyPD, antagonizing PTP-dependent mitochondrial depolarization and cell death. Conversely, CyPD outcompetes the TRAP1 inhibitory effect on the channel. Our data identify TRAP1 as an F-ATP synthase regulator that can influence cell bioenergetics and survival and can be targeted in pathological conditions where these processes are dysregulated, such as cancer., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Neurofibromin loss drives neoplastic growth and a rewiring of mitochondrial metabolism. Here we report that neurofibromin ablation dampens expression and activity of NADH dehydrogenase, the respiratory chain complex I, in an ERK-dependent fashion, decreasing both respiration and intracellular NAD + . Expression of the alternative NADH dehydrogenase NDI1 raises NAD + /NADH ratio, enhances the activity of the NAD + -dependent deacetylase SIRT3 and interferes with tumorigenicity in neurofibromin-deficient cells. The antineoplastic effect of NDI1 is mimicked by administration of NAD + precursors or by rising expression of the NAD + deacetylase SIRT3 and is synergistic with ablation of the mitochondrial chaperone TRAP1, which augments succinate dehydrogenase activity further contributing to block pro-neoplastic metabolic changes. These findings shed light on bioenergetic adaptations of tumors lacking neurofibromin, linking complex I inhibition to mitochondrial NAD + /NADH unbalance and SIRT3 inhibition, as well as to down-regulation of succinate dehydrogenase. This metabolic rewiring could unveil attractive therapeutic targets for neoplasms related to neurofibromin loss., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Digital marketing has given new life to healthcare services by enhancing their visibility in the online space. People choose online healthcare services because they can receive instant answers and communicate with specialists in their comfortable environment at the right time. The purpose of this study was to understand the impact of virtual communities on the intention to use telemedicine. The model is based on a combination of consumer desire (psychological objective) and loyalty through promotional formats (economic objective), as well as data collected from 442 respondents analyzed using structural equation modeling. The research results show that by analyzing target groups in social networks, content can be individualized, and an accurate measurement of e-patient satisfaction must be conducted in order to improve the experience of future consumers of telemedicine services. The results of this study explain what makes people want to use digital healthcare services and can serve as a guide for people who run virtual communities and help digital healthcare service providers figure out how to market their services.

While animal biodiversity is declining globally, cultural representations of animals are highly prevalent in society and play an increasing part in shaping children's perceptions of animal diversity. We studied animal portrayals in children's picture books in the Netherlands, and coded over 2,200 animals from 217 award-winning books. We found a strong bias toward vertebrates, mammals in particular. Mammals were featured more often than other animals, played more prominent roles in the story, and were visually and textually specified more strongly. Furthermore, exotic and domestic species outnumbered native species. Picture books currently are likely to reinforce children's perceptions toward only a small part of animal biodiversity. While we realize that picture books have other primary aims, picture book makers could be inspired and encouraged to diversify and specify their portrayals of the natural world. This would broaden children's perceptions of the animal kingdom and could help foster lasting connections to biodiversity.

Misleading graphs are a source of misinformation that worry many experts. Especially people with a low graph literacy are thought to be persuaded by graphs that misrepresent the underlying data. But we know little about how people interpret misleading graphs and how these graphs influence their opinions. In this study we focus on the effect of truncating the y-axis for a line chart which exaggerates an upgoing trend. In a randomized controlled trial, we showed participants either a normal or a misleading chart, and we did so in two different contexts. After they had seen the graphs, we asked participants their opinion on the trend and to give an estimation of the increase. Finally we measured their graph literacy. Our results show that context is the only significant factor in opinion-forming; the misleading graph and graph literacy had no effect. None of these factors had a significant impact on estimations for the increase. These results show that people might be less susceptible to misleading graphs than we thought and that context has more impact than a misleading y-axis., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

The aim of this research is to investigate the molecular features and microstructure of amaranth flour (AF) fractions and their partial replacement effect of wheat flour (WF) on the chemical composition, dough dynamic rheology, technological and sensory characteristics of bread. The microstructure and molecular characteristics of AF were depending on their particle size (PS). When WF replacement increased and PS decreased the composite flour was richest in protein, lipids, and ash, while the moisture and carbohydrates of these flours decreased. Dynamic rheological behavior revealed significant variations depending on PS and replacement level. Bread volume and firmness increased when more than 15% AF from large PS replaced WF, while medium and small PS at 5-15% replacements was increased the loaf porosity. Chroma values decreased and samples became darker when the replacement level increased. Moreover, replacement of WF with various AF fractions impacted bread sensory characteristics, obtaining better acceptance for large and medium PS up to 10%., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant profile and the antimicrobial activity of four different types of monofloral honey (manuka (MH), brassica rapeseed (BH), acacia (AH), and linden honey (LH)) against some bacterial/fungal ATCC strains and some multidrug-resistant strains isolated from chronic otitis in dogs. For the characterisation of the antioxidant profile of each honey, we extracted the honey samples by hydroalcoholic extraction and analysed them in terms of total polyphenols (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) using the spectrophotometric method. The antimicrobial activity was determined using the microdilution method at concentrations of 10%, 15%, and 20%, with the results expressed in OD (optical density) calculated as BIR% (bacterial inhibition rate)/MIR% (mycelial inhibition rate). The antioxidant characterisation of the analysed honey samples showed the highest antioxidant activity and concentrations of TPC and TFC in MH, followed by LH. MH was proven to be the most effective on most clinical isolates concerning the antimicrobial activity in comparison with BH, AH, and LH. Except for B. cepacia and P. vulgaris, all the clinical isolates were sensitive to the antibacterial activity of honey. Regarding the ATCC strains, MH 10% was the most effective in inhibiting all the strains tested except for P. aeruginosa. In conclusion, the efficacy classification in our study was MH > BH > AH > LH.

To raise biodiversity awareness effectively, communicators should be aware of knowledge levels in their audiences. Species identification skills have been used in the past as a measure of what people know about species, yet it is not known whether they serve as good indicators. To study the link between species identification and in-depth species knowledge, we presented an animal knowledge test to an online audience of over 7,000 Dutch adults, and used correlation and regression analyses to determine the extent to which species identification predicts in-depth knowledge about species' origin, habitat, diet, and behavior. We found that in-depth knowledge was higher in those who correctly identified species as compared with those who did not correctly identify species, for all four types of in-depth knowledge. Moreover, as compared to alternative variables (work, age, gender, and educational level), species identification was by far the best predictor for in-depth knowledge about species. However, species identification levels were generally higher than levels of in-depth knowledge, and knowledge gaps and misconceptions were uncovered. The results confirm the value of species identification tests, but also highlight limitations and challenges that should be taken into account when establishing knowledge levels and communicating biodiversity., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

With a simple synthesis and easy engineering of physicochemical properties, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have become widely used in multiple biomedical applications. The study of IONPs toxicity has become an important issue, especially as the results reported so far are contradictory and range from lack of toxicity to cellular toxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the histopathological changes induced in mouse liver by long-term intraperitoneal injection of low doses of IONPs functionalized with salicylic acid (SaIONPs). The study was performed on C57BL/6 mice that received by intraperitoneal injection (IP), every two days, 0.6ml of SaIONPs aqueous suspension (35mg/kg body weight SaIONPs that contained 20mg/kg body weight of Fe3O4) for 28 days. The results of this study showed that the cumulative dose of 105mg/kg body weight SaIONPs (62mg/kg body weight of Fe3O4) induced histopathological changes in the subcapsular region of the mouse liver, possible by the release of salicylic acid into the peritoneal cavity. The cumulative dose of 244mg/kg body weight SaIONPs (145mg/kg body weight of Fe3O4) induced liver centrilobular necrosis, which requires the use of lower doses in biological applications. However, this may prove to be beneficial in the case of targeted accumulation of SaIONPs., Competing Interests: None to declare., (Copyright © 2014, Medical University Publishing House Craiova.)

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a common, locally invasive tumor that arises within sun-damaged skin and rarely develops on the palms and soles or mucous membranes. Men generally have higher rates of BCC than women. Incidence also increases with age and the median age of diagnosis is 68 years old. Mortality from BCC is rare and cases of aggressive, local destructive, metastatic BCCs are more likely from tumors with aggressive histopathological (HP) patterns. The aim of this study was to investigate and correlate the immunohistochemical expression of p53, Ki67, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), cluster of differentiation (CD)44 and CD31 with both aggressive and nonaggressive types of BCCs. In our study, we observed a varied staining pattern for p53, with the highest reactivity noticed in the peripheral palisading zone. The staining pattern for Ki67 was similar to p53, with a more pronounced reaction in the periphery of the tumor. We found different Ki67 and p53 expression among the various subtypes of BCC. The CD31 reactivity, mostly seen in the stroma, was positive in all BCCs and varied significantly between its different HP subtypes. Regarding stromal expression of α-SMA, the adenoid and basosquamous types had the most intense reaction in our study. The CD44 tumor expression was correlated in our study to the aggressive pattern of BCCs.

Background: The nonlinear nature of contagious diseases and the potential for exponential growth can be difficult to grasp for the general public. This has strong implications for public health communication, which needs to be both easily accessible and efficient. A pandemic is an extreme situation, and the accompanying strict societal measures are generally easier to accept if one understands the underlying reasoning behind them. Bringing about informed attitude change and achieving compliance to strict restrictions requires explanations of scientific concepts and terminologies that laypersons can understand., Objective: The aim of the project is to develop effective, evidence-based modes of video communication for translating complex, but important, health messages about pandemics to both the general population and decision makers. The study uses COVID-19 as a case to learn and prepare society for handling the ongoing and future pandemics, as well as to provide evidence-based tools for the science communication toolbox., Methods: The project applies a mixed methods design, combining qualitative methods (eg, interviews, observational studies, literature reviews) and quantitative methods (eg, randomized controlled trials [RCTs]). The project brings together researchers from a wide range of academic fields, as well as communication industry professionals., Results: This study has received funding from the Trond Mohn Foundation through the Research Council of Norway's "COVID-19 Emergency Call for Proposals" March 2020. Recruitment and data collection for the exploratory first phase of the project ran from February 2021 to March 2021. Creative communication work started in May 2021, and the production of videos for use in the RCTs in the final phase of the project started in September 2021., Conclusions: The COVCOM project will take on several grand challenges within the field of communicating science and provide evidence-based tools to the science communication toolbox. A long-term goal of the project is to contribute to the creation of a more resilient health care system by developing communication responses tailormade for different audiences, preparing society for any future pandemic., International Registered Report Identifier (irrid): DERR1-10.2196/34275., (©Jo Røislien, Jane K O'Hara, Ionica Smeets, Kolbjørn Brønnick, Siv Hilde Berg, Marie Therese Shortt, Daniel Adrian Lungu, Henriette Thune, Siri Wiig. Originally published in JMIR Research Protocols (https://www.researchprotocols.org), 11.03.2022.)

The present study aimed to determine the bacteria isolated from bovine mastitis and their antimicrobial resistance in the western part of Romania. Clinical mastitis was diagnosed based on local inflammation in the udder, changes in milk, and when present, generalized symptoms. Subclinical mastitis was assessed using a rapid test-the California Mastitis Test. The identification of bacterial strains was performed based on biochemical profiles using API system tests (API 20 E, API Staph, API 20 Strep, API Coryne, API 20 NE (bioMerieux, Marcy l'Etoile, France), and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS). The prevalent isolated bacteria were Staphylococcus spp. (50/116; 43.19%), followed by Streptococcus spp. (26/116; 22.41%), E. coli (16/116; 13.79%), Corynebacterium spp. (9/116; 7.75%), Enterococcus spp. (10/116; 8.62%), and Enterobacter spp. (5/116; 4.31%). Phenotype antimicrobial resistance profiling was performed used the disc diffusion method. Generally, Gram-positive bacteria showed low susceptibility to most of the antimicrobials tested, except cephalothin. Susceptibilities to penicillins and quinolones were fairly high in Gram-negative bacteria, whereas resistance was observed to macrolides, aminoglycosides, and tetracyclines. The highest number of isolates were multidrug resistant (MDR), the resistance pathotypes identified including the most frequently antimicrobials used in cow mastitis treatment in Romania.

The economic development of the tourism in disadvantaged mountain areas has the role of sustaining their development and economic growth. The premise of a successful development of tourism in these areas is given by the authenticity of resources. This paper aims to highlight the strategic perspectives/outlook of tourism in disadvantaged mountain areas through the evaluation of strategic alternatives using the concerted analysis SWOT-AHP. The aim of this study is to support communities and actors involved in the phenomenon of tourism in disadvantaged mountain areas in order to achieve positive results and as much as possible with awareness and avoidance of risks, and prevention or combating negative consequences. During the research and analysis, in accordance with the literature, the issue of entrepreneurship was treated as a dependent variable, and the phenomenon of tourism as an independent variable. The vision of tourism planning in disadvantaged mountain areas must focus on its sustainable development that contributes to increasing entrepreneurial initiatives by diversifying and ensuring the complementarity of tourism services calibrated to the needs of tourists and adapted to new social challenges. The strategic planning in the area of the tourism of disadvantaged mountain areas represents a topical challenge in the context of promoting sustainable tourism. Currently, there is a strategy at national level for developing tourism, but there is no strategy for developing tourism in disadvantaged mountain areas., (© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V. 2021.)

Bacterial contamination of boar semen occurs with some frequency in artificial insemination centers and may have a negative effect on the quality of the semen as well as on the sows' reproductive capacity. Normally, the source of bacterial contamination in pig seminal doses is the own boar. However, distilled water or laboratory equipment used to elaborate the seminal doses can be an important source of bacterial contamination. This study focused on the identification of gram-negative bacteria in boar semen, and impact on the quality of ejaculates obtained from boar, as well as on the establishment of antimicrobial resistance patterns of isolated gram-negative bacteria. Semen samples were collected from 96 boars, ranging in age from 12-36 month, from three artificial insemination centers from the North-West of Romania. Bacterial species were identified by two methods: matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry and API 20 E (BioMerieux, France). The main bacteria isolated from the doses diluted semen were gram-negative bacteria (47.91%), with a majority of the contaminant bacteria belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae : Seratia marcescens 19.56%, Proteus mirabilis 15.21% and Escherichia coli 10.86% and to the family Pseudomonaceae : Ralstonia picketii 17.39%, Burkholderia cepacia 10.86%, Pseudomonas aeruginosa 8.69%, and Pseudomonas fluorescens 4.34%, respectively. More than half of these isolates (56.52%) were resistant to gentamycin and 58.69% were resistant to penicillin. These antibiotics are very frequently added in sperm diluent in the centers for the processing of sperm from boars in Romania. Regular monitoring for bacterial contamination is an important aspect of a control program.

TRAP1, the mitochondrial component of the Hsp90 family of molecular chaperones, displays important bioenergetic and proteostatic functions. In tumor cells, TRAP1 contributes to shape metabolism, dynamically tuning it with the changing environmental conditions, and to shield from noxious insults. Hence, TRAP1 activity has profound effects on the capability of neoplastic cells to evolve towards more malignant phenotypes. Here, we discuss our knowledge on the biochemical functions of TRAP1 in the context of a growing tumor mass, and we analyze the possibility of targeting its chaperone functions for developing novel anti-neoplastic approaches., (Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)