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Soil microbial communities are an important component of biological diversity and terrestrial ecosystems which is responsible for processes such as decomposition, mineralization of nutrients, and accumulation of organic matter. One of the factors that provide information on the mechanisms regulating biodiversity is spatial scaling. We characterized the microbial communities using 16S rRNA gene sequences from DNA isolated from halite at various locations and correlated these to geographic distance in the Uyuni salt flat (Bolivia). Sequences from each site were analyzed to determine any spatial patterns of diversity, as well as to describe the microbial communities. Results suggest that different taxa are able to disperse over Uyuni's surface crust regardless of distance. As expected, ubiquitous taxa included members of Halobacteriaceae such as Haloarcula, Halorubrum, Halorhabdus, Halolamina, and halophilic bacteria Salinibacter, Halorhodospira, and unclassified members of the Gammaproteobacteria. Archaeal communities were homogeneous across the salt flat. In contrast, bacterial communities present strong local variations which could be attributed to external factors. Likely sources for these variations are the Rio Grande river influent in the south shore and the Tunupa volcano influencing the northern area.

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The Wilms' tumour suppressor gene WT1 encodes a zinc-finger transcription factor which is essential for the development of kidney, gonads, spleen and adrenals. WT1-null embryos lack all of these viscerae and they also show a thin ventricular myocardium and unexpectedly die from cardiac failure between 13 and 15 days post coitum. We studied the localization of the WT1 protein in chick and quail embryos between stages HH18 and HH35. In early embryos, WT1 protein was located in specific areas of the coelomic mesothelium adjacent to the nephric ducts, the myocardium or the primordia of the endodermal organs (gut, liver and lungs). These mesothelial areas also showed localized expression of Slug, a zinc-finger transcription factor involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transitions. WT1+ mesenchymal cells were always found below the immunoreactive mesothelial areas, either forming a narrow band on the surface of the endodermal organs (gut, liver and lungs) or migrating throughout the mesodermal organs (mesonephros, metanephros, gonads, spleen and heart). In the developing heart, the invasion of WT1+ cells started at stage HH26, and all the ventricular myocardium was pervaded by these cells, presumably derived from the epicardium, at HH30. We suggest that WT1 is not required for the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of the coelomic mesothelium, but it might be a marker of the mesothelial-derived cells, where this protein would be acting as a repressor of the differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slug is a transcription factor involved in processes such as the formation of mesoderm and neural crest, two developmental events that imply a transition from an epithelial to a mesenchymal phenotype. During late cardiac morphogenesis, mesenchymal cells originate from two epithelia – epicardial mesothelium and cushion endocardium. We aimed to check if Slug is expressed in these systems of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. We have immunolocated the Slug protein in the heart of quail embryos between Hamburger and Hamilton stages HH16 and HH30. In the proepicardium (the epicardial primordium), Slug was detected in most cells, mesothelial as well as mesenchymal. Slug immunoreactivity was strong in the mesenchyme of the endocardial cushions and subepicardium from its inception until HH24, but the immunoreactivity disappeared in later embryos. Only a small portion of the endocardial cells located in the areas of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (atrioventricular groove and outflow tract) were immunolabelled, mainly between HH16 and HH20. Endocardial cells from other cardiac segments were always negative, except for a transient, weak immunoreactivity that coincided with the development of the intertrabecular sinusoids of the ventricle. In contrast, virtually all cells of the epicardial mesothelium were immunoreactive until stage HH24. The mesenchymal cells that migrate to the heart through the spina vestibuli were also conspicuously immunoreactive. The myocardium was not labelled in the stages studied. Our results stress the involvement of Slug in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition. We suggest that Slug can constitute a reliable marker of the cardiac epithelial cells that are competent to transform into mesenchyme as well as a transient marker of the epithelial-derived mesenchymal cells in the developing heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/hypothesis. To identify the possible causes of the lengthening of the action potential duration described in patients affected by diabetes mellitus.¶Methods. We studied the effects of streptozotocin-induced diabetes on the current density of the repolarising potassium currents Ito, IK, Iss and IK1 in enzymatically isolated myocytes from three different regions of rat heart: total right ventricle, subepicardium at the apex of the left ventricle and subendocardium at the base of the left ventricle.¶Results. No changes in IK1 were found due to diabetes, but there was a uniform decrease in Ito (50 %) and Iss (40 %) current densities in the three regions. In contrast, IK diminished unevenly, with the greatest decrease in the subendocardium at the base of the left ventricle (48 %), followed by the subepicardium at the apex of the left ventricle (32 %) and right ventricle (10 %).¶Conclusion/interpretation. These findings suggest the existence of regional differences in ion channel expression associated with diabetes. The decrease of these repolarising currents could account for the lengthening of action potential and the consequent change in the Q-T interval of the ECG observed in diabetic rats. [Diabetologia (2000) 43: 101–109] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic is one of the most detrimental heavy metals on the planet due to its bio-accumulative and carcinogenic nature. In addition to humans and animals, it also has a hazardous foot print on agriculture. Arsenic in its inorganic form is readily bio-available from water sources and taken up by the crop plants through phosphate transporters due to its structural similarity with inorganic phosphate. Bio-accumulation of arsenic in crop plants can lead to an arsenic-contaminated food chain and amplify manifold the hazardous effects of arsenic pollution. Apart from phosphate transporters, different aquaporins like Nodulin26-like intrinsic proteins, plasma membrane intrinsic proteins, tonoplast intrinsic proteins, and vacuolar transporters are responsible for arsenic uptake and accumulation in plants. To withstand a higher concentration of arsenic, bacterial and fungal systems use ArsB and Acr3 efflux transporter proteins, respectively, to pump out the arsenic from the cell. In plants, Acr3 (Arsenic Compound Resistance 3) efflux protein has been reported only in Pteridophytes to efflux arsenic from cells. In this review, we have discussed different transporters involved with arsenic uptake, translocation, sequestration, and efflux with special emphasis on Acr3. We have also explored the transgenic approaches performed with ACR3 to reduce arsenic accumulation in plants and discussed the future prospects of reducing arsenic from the food chain by lowering arsenic accumulation altogether from crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engravings are the main decorations found on European megaliths, whilst pigments were known only on dolmens along the northern coast of Portugal. This paper collects data from a multidisciplinary archaeological programme aimed at searching for remnants of paint on ancient European megaliths. By developing protocols to detect these paintings on both Iberian megaliths and examples in other European areas, we were able to determine the composition of the pigments. C14 dates were also obtained where organic matter was present. Paintings, engravings, and bas-reliefs on the walls in funerary contexts, either close to the burials or at the tomb entrance, are part of the symbolic construction of these megalithic structures. Despite issues of poor conservation, pigments can potentially complete and enrich engraved motifs. By identifying new painted decoration, it may be possible to directly date the use and continued maintenance of these megaliths, to reveal the colours applied, to provide insights into the skill of the artisans, and thus a fresh approach to the study of the societies that built these monuments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of biodegradable polymers applied in active packaging systems, where additives are incorporated that aim to extend the shelf life of foods, is a promising topic in the search for ecologically correct materials. However, it is not known whether in these systems, the presence of the antimicrobials additive, will exert a negative influence on the biodegradation process of this polymeric material. Thus, in this work, the biodegradation process of poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) films additive with orange essential oil in anaerobic biodigesters was monitored, as well as the growth of microorganisms involved during the process, and the production of methane gas that is the main metabolite in this type of biodegradation. PBAT films were produced through the extrusion process and added orange essential oil at concentrations of 0 and 15% wt. were used. The films before and after the 90-day biodegradation were macroscopically evaluated by medium infrared, exploratory differential calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The results showed that the evaluated period was not sufficient to mineralize the polymer and that orange essential oil had no influence on the biodegradation process. The PBAT and PBAT/EO films were stable when submitted to biodegradation in sludge for 90 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tripartite motif (TRIM) protein superfamily is a group of E3 ubiquitin ligases characterized by the conserved RING domain, the B-box domain, and the coiled-coil domain (RBCC). It is widely involved in various physiological and pathological processes, such as intracellular signal transduction, cell cycle regulation, oncogenesis, and innate immune response. Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are composed of encephalopathy and spinal cord diseases, which have a high disability and mortality rate. Patients are often unable to take care of themselves and their life quality can be seriously declined. Initially, the function research of TRIM proteins mainly focused on cancer. However, in recent years, accumulating attention is paid to the roles they play in CNS diseases. In this review, we integrate the reported roles of TRIM proteins in the pathological process of CNS diseases and related signaling pathways, hoping to provide theoretical bases for further research in treating CNS diseases targeting TRIM proteins. TRIM proteins participated in CNS diseases. TRIM protein family is characterized by a highly conserved RBCC domain, referring to the RING domain, the B-box domain, and the coiled-coil domain. Recent research has discovered the relations between TRIM proteins and various CNS diseases, especially Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Use-wear analyses are very useful to increase knowledge about the economic and subsistence dynamics carried out by Neanderthals. In general terms, functional results traditionally came from the analysis of tools belonging to stratigraphic units whose timescale refers to geological time. This is due to the fact that many Neanderthal sites are palimpsests of reiterated occupations over time, which must be dissected to approach us to human timescale. In the stratigraphic unit xa of El Salt (Alcoi, eastern Iberia), high temporal resolution archaeostratigraphic studies have been carried out. Diachronic material assemblages have been identified, allowing us to analyse more precisely the variability of Neanderthal behaviour over time. Amongst these assemblages, three have been selected (i.e. 5.3.1, 5.3.2 and 5.3.3) in order to analyse the lithic material functionality. The results obtained bring out the performance of different tasks within each analytical framework: woodworking in 5.3.1, woodworking and animal processing in 5.3.2, and butchering activity in 5.3.3. These results reflect the existence of a series of diachronic tasks carried out in overlapping activity areas. In this way, this work evidences flint use variability in a specific area of the site across time that could have been recognised only by means of high temporal resolution analytical frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examination assessments undertaken by educational institutions are pivotal since it is one of the fundamental steps to determining students' understanding and achievements for a distinct subject or course. Questions must be framed on the topics to meet the learning objectives and assess the student's capability in a particular subject. The generation of examination questions from extensive text material is challenging and complicated. For example, massive volumes of textbooks make it time-consuming for faculties to annotate good-quality questions, keeping them manually well balanced. Thus, teachers rely on the Bloom's taxonomy's cognitive domain, a popular framework to assess students' intellectual abilities. This study's motivation is to propose a pipeline that could provide new questions from a given text corpus that could be retrieved from a particular input. These generated questions could be incorporated into a question recommender while being automatically classified under the specific cognitive domain under the Bloom's taxonomy. Literature reviews showed that the work done over the Bloom's taxonomy domain had obtained results by implementing classical machine learning methods and few with deep neural networks. The proposed network architectures have shown remarkable results and state-of-the-art architectures compared to the literature. This research study concluded that the pipeline is effective and significant in generating questions, like manually drafting questions, categorizing them into the Bloom's taxonomy's domains, and providing explicit content-based question recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Impairment of genioglossus control is a frequent "non-anatomical" cause of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in non- or mildly obese patients. Although wake-related compensatory mechanisms prevent the occurrence of obstructive events, the genioglossus control is often impaired during wakefulness. We hypothesized that the lingual motion would be altered during wakefulness in this population in patients with moderate-to-severe OSAS. Methods: We included non- or mildly obese participants with suspected OSAS. They underwent a Bucco-Linguo-Facial Motor Skills assessment using the MBLF ("Motricité Bucco-Linguo-Faciale"), which includes an evaluation of 13 movements of the tongue. This was followed by a night-attended polysomnography. We compared patients with moderate-to-severe OSAS (apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 15/h; n = 15) to patients without or with mild OSAS (AHI < 15/h; n = 24). Results: MBLF total and "tongue" sub-scores were lower in patients with moderate-to-severe OSAS: total z-score − 0.78 [− 1.31; 0.103] versus 0.20 [− 0.26; 0.31], p = 0.0011; "tongue" z-sub-score (− 0.63 [− 1.83; 0.41] versus 0.35 [0.26; 0.48], p = 0.014). There was a significant age-adjusted correlation between the "tongue" sub-score and AHI. The logistic regression model for the prediction of moderate-to-severe OSAS gave area under the curve ratio of 88.2% for MBLF score plus age. Conclusions: Myofunctional activity of the tongue is impaired during wakefulness in non- or mildly obese patients with moderate-to-severe OSAS. This study supports the lingual myofunctional assessment using the MBLF in screening of moderate-to-severe OSAS. This simple tool could help clinicians to select patients with suspected moderate-to-severe OSAS for polysomnography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PLA is a potential fully biodegradable material, but its poor toughness and heat resistance seriously limit its wide application. In this work, a strong and tough balanced PLA based PLA/PBAT material with good heat resistance was successfully prepared using a self-designed vibration injection molding (VIM) device. From the results of SEM, SAXS, and WAXD, the internal structure of samples changed apparently compared with conventional injection molded ones. The distribution of the orientated region was controlled by changing the vibration parameters. The combination of hierarchical structure and the introduction of elastomer provide the sample with improved toughness without the sacrifice of strength. The maximum impact strength of samples can reach 20.24 kJ/m2. Besides, the thermal resistance also improves. The Vicat softening temperature can reach 71.1 ℃. This work proves the superiority of hierarchical structure for PLA/PBAT samples and provides a new method to broaden the application range of PLA materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, poly-lactic acid (PLA) and poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate (PHBH) were pyrolyzed at various temperatures (300, 350, 400, 500, 600, and 700 °C) and heating rates (5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 °C min−1) using a pyrolysis–gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (Py–GC/MS). The results revealed that the main pyrolysis products of PLA were acetaldehyde, lactide (including meso-lactide and d-, l-lactide), and oligomers. Crotonic acid and its oligomers accounted for most of the PHBH pyrolyzates. The pyrolysis temperature significantly correlated with the product distribution, but the heating rate had a small effect on the product distribution. Lactide and crotonic acid were two kinds of high-value chemicals, and their highest yields were obtained at 400 and 600 °C with 29.7 and 72.6 area %, respectively. Secondary reactions could not be neglected at 700 °C, and acetaldehyde and crotonic acid decreased to 65.0 and 69.6 area %, respectively. These results imply that pyrolyzate selectivity can be controlled by temperature management during pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary anomalies encompass different conditions in terms of anomalous origin, coursing, and branching, which are occasionally associated with congenital heart disease. This study aimed to explore coronary anomalies associated with ventricular septal defect that was a stereotypical congenital heart disease. We retrospectively reviewed angiographic findings in patients with ventricular septal defect who required corrective surgery, and identified coronary abnormalities, including anomalous origin, coursing, and branching of coronary arteries based on angiography. We studied the prevalence and types of coronary anomalies among them. A total of 998 patients with ventricular septal defect was studied. Age and weight were 2.0 (2.1–15.2) months and 5.7 (4.1–8.7) kg, respectively. There were 115 patients (12%) with syndrome or genetic disorder, and 34 patients (3%) with extracardiac major organ anomalies. The overall prevalence of coronary anomalies was 6.2%. All coronary anomalies were anomalous origin and coursing, among 3 patients accompanied anomalous intrinsic coronary anatomy. Originating within aortic root above the Valsalva sinus was the most common coronary anomaly. Coronary anomalies were independently correlated with bicuspid aortic valve (odds ratio [OR]: 8.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.34–23.4) and persistent left superior caval vein (OR: 5.02, 95% CI: 1.93–11.7). We showed the possibility that minor cardiac variants, such as bicuspid aortic valve and persistent left superior caval vein, contribute to higher prevalence of coronary anomalies in patients with ventricular septal defect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quantitative microbial risk assessment was conducted to assess the health risks associated with the exposure of agricultural workers to tertiary treated wastewater in irrigated fields through soil ingestion in Cyprus. Three pathogenic microorganisms were chosen, particularly E. coli (bacteria), rotavirus (viruses) and Cryptosporidium. Two extreme exposure scenarios were investigated. Monte Carlo simulations were performed using input data from literature, and the model outputs were compared to the health standards of the World Health Organization (WHO). The results suggested that additional treatment is required for all pathogens to satisfy the health standards. Sensitivity analysis identified the source concentration and pathogen reduction due to soil aquifer passage as the most influential factors in the model outputs. Additional computations were performed to evaluate the minimum pathogen reduction due to soil aquifer passage so that the health targets are achieved for the 95 % of the output values. Rotavirus and Cryptosporidium were found to require more treatment than E. coli. The inclusion of these reference pathogens to the monitoring network of the local authorities is recommended, and the role of soil aquifer passage is emphasized on reducing the concentration of the contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: This report summarizes recent advances of flexible humidity sensors and their integrated systems. Typical examples of noncontact detections based on flexible and wearable humidity sensors are highlighted. Research opportunities and challenges of pushing flexible humidity sensors towards practical contactless measurements are discussed.In the past decade, the global industry and research attentions on intelligent skin-like electronics have boosted their applications in diverse fields including human healthcare, Internet of Things, human–machine interfaces, artificial intelligence and soft robotics. Among them, flexible humidity sensors play a vital role in noncontact measurements relying on the unique property of rapid response to humidity change. This work presents an overview of recent advances in flexible humidity sensors using various active functional materials for contactless monitoring. Four categories of humidity sensors are highlighted based on resistive, capacitive, impedance-type and voltage-type working mechanisms. Furthermore, typical strategies including chemical doping, structural design and Joule heating are introduced to enhance the performance of humidity sensors. Drawing on the noncontact perception capability, human/plant healthcare management, human–machine interactions as well as integrated humidity sensor-based feedback systems are presented. The burgeoning innovations in this research field will benefit human society, especially during the COVID-19 epidemic, where cross-infection should be averted and contactless sensation is highly desired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of highly facile synthetic procedures for the expedient synthesis of complex natural molecules is always in demand. As this aspect, the Diels–Alder reaction (DAR) has a versatile approach to the synthesis of complex natural compounds and highly regio-/stereoselcetive heterocyclic scaffolds. Additionally, α-pyrone and terpenoquinone are two versatile key intermediates that are prevalent in various bioactive natural compounds for instance, (±)-crinine, (±)-joubertinamine, (±)-pancratistatin, (−)-cyclozonarone, and 8-ephipuupehedione, etc. Hence, the current review summarizes the Diels–Alder reaction application of α-pyrone and terpenoquinone to the constructive synthesis of various natural products over the past two decades (2001–2021). Equally, it serves as a stencil for the invention and development of new synthetic strategies for high-complex molecular structured natural and heterocyclic molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate myocardial fibrosis using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) T1 mapping in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and investigate the association between left ventricular (LV) subclinical myocardial dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis.Methods: The study included 37 short-term (≤ 5 years) and 44 longer-term (> 5 years) T2DM patients and 41 healthy controls. The LV global strain parameters and T1 mapping parameters were compared between the abovementioned three groups. The association of T1 mapping parameters with diabetes duration, in addition to other risk factors, was determined using multivariate linear regression analysis. The correlation between LV strain parameters and T1 mapping parameters was evaluated using Pearson's correlation.Results: The peak diastolic strain rates (PDSRs) were significantly lower in longer-term T2DM patients compared to those in healthy subjects and short-term T2DM patients (p < 0.05). The longitudinal peak systolic strain rate and peak strain were significantly lower in the longer-term T2DM compared with the short-term T2DM group (p < 0.05). The extracellular volumes (ECVs) were higher in both subgroups of T2DM patients compared with control subjects (all p < 0.05). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that diabetes duration was independently associated with ECV (β = 0.413, p < 0.001) by taking covariates into account. Pearson's analysis showed that ECV was associated with longitudinal PDSR (r = - 0.441, p < 0.001).Conclusion: T1 mapping could detect abnormal myocardial fibrosis early in patients with T2DM, which can cause a decline in the LV diastolic function.Key Points: • CMR T1 mapping could detect abnormal myocardial fibrosis early in patients with T2DM. • The diabetes duration was independently associated with ECV. • Myocardial fibrosis can cause a decline in the LV diastolic function in T2DM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inactivation of bacteriophage MS2 under irradiation above 320 nm was investigated, focusing on different solution pH, ionic strength, and Suwannee River natural organic matter (SRNOM) concentrations when solutions contained organic or inorganic particle matters. Inorganic and organic particles were modeled using kaolinite (KAO) and Microcystis aeruginosa (MA), respectively. The results showed that the two types of particles influenced on MS2 inactivation under different conditions. The lower pH contributed to the greater MS2 aggregation within pH range of 3.0 to 8.0, leading to an increasing inactivation rate. The presence of KAO induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) under the action of irradiation above 320 nm, which promoted the inactivation of MS2. By comparison, the 1 O 2 produced by MA after irradiation promoted the inactivation at pH < 6, whereas when the pH is ≥ 6, the inactivation effect of MS2 was lower than that of particle-free solution because MS2 was no longer aggregated and MA has a shading effect. In the presence of Na+ or Ca2+ cation, irradiation above 320 nm could not effectively inactivate the MS2 under particle-free solution. By comparison, KAO increased the inactivation efficiency as a photosensitizer. With the increase of Ca2+ concentration, MS2 was more easily adsorbed to MA than aggregation. Until Ca2+ concentration reached 20 mM, the inactivation effect in MA solution was enhanced. In the presence of SRNOM, the inactivation effect increased with the increase of SRNOM concentration. When the SRNOM was 20 mM, the inactivation increased in the particle-free solution due to the greater production of 1 O 2 . Compared with the particle-free solution, the KAO and MA inactivation efficiency was lower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a vital energy resource and raw material for many industrial products, syngas (CO and H2) is of great significance. Dry reforming of methane (DRM) is an important approach to producing syngas (with a hydrogen-to-carbon-monoxide ratio of 1:1 in principle) from methane and carbon dioxide, with a lower operational cost as compared to other reforming techniques. However, many pure metallic catalysts used in DRM face deactivation issues due to coke formation or sintering of the metal particles. A systematic search for highly efficient metallic catalysts, which reduce the reaction barriers for the rate-determining steps and resist carbon deposition, is urgently needed. Nickel is a typical low-cost transition metal for activating the C-H bond in methane. In this work, we applied a two-step workflow to search for nickel-based bimetallic catalysts with doping metals M (M-Ni) by combining density functional theory (DFT) calculations and machine learning (ML). We focus on the two critical steps in DRM-CH4 and CO2 direct activations. We used DFT and slab models for the Ni(111) facet to explore the relevant reaction pathways and constructed a data set containing structural and energetic information for representative M-Ni systems. We used this dataset to train ML models with chemical-knowledge-based features and predicted CH4 and CO2 dissociation energies and barriers, which revealed the composition—activity relationships of the bimetallic catalysts. We also used these models to rank the predicted catalytic performance of candidate systems to demonstrate the applicability of ML for catalyst screening. We emphasized that ML ranking models would be more valuable than regression models in high-throughput screenings. Finally, we used our trained model to screen 12 unexplored M-Ni systems and showed that the DFT-computed energies and barriers are very close to the ML-predicted values for top candidates, validating the robustness of the trained model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solar ultraviolet index (UVI) is a key public health indicator to mitigate the ultraviolet-exposure related diseases. This study aimed to develop and compare the performances of different hybridised deep learning approaches with a convolutional neural network and long short-term memory referred to as CLSTM to forecast the daily UVI of Perth station, Western Australia. A complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) is incorporated coupled with four feature selection algorithms (i.e., genetic algorithm (GA), ant colony optimization (ACO), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and differential evolution (DEV)) to understand the diverse combinations of the predictor variables acquired from three distinct datasets (i.e., satellite data, ground-based SILO data, and synoptic mode climate indices). The CEEMDAN-CLSTM model coupled with GA appeared to be an accurate forecasting system in capturing the UVI. Compared to the counterpart benchmark models, the results demonstrated the excellent forecasting capability (i.e., low error and high efficiency) of the recommended hybrid CEEMDAN-CLSTM model in apprehending the complex and non-linear relationships between predictor variables and the daily UVI. The study inference can considerably enhance real-time exposure advice for the public and help mitigate the potential for solar UV-exposure-related diseases such as melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth hormone/insulin growth factor-1 axis is a key endocrine system that exerts profound effects on metabolism by its actions on different peripheral tissues but also in the brain. Growth hormone together with insulin growth factor-1 perform metabolic adjustments, including regulation of food intake, energy expenditure, and glycemia. The dysregulation of this hepatic axis leads to different metabolic disorders including obesity, type 2 diabetes or liver disease. In this review, we discuss how the growth hormone/insulin growth factor-1 axis regulates metabolism and its interactions with the central nervous system. Finally, we state our vision for possible therapeutic uses of compounds based in the components of this hepatic axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose diacetate (CDA) is a bio-based polymer of high hydrophilicity and low crystallinity for intrinsic moisture conductor. However, strong hydrogen bond induces interactions and close arrangement of CDA chains, which not only induces the difficulties for their thermal processing, but also restricts their water vapor permeability (WVP) properties. In this paper, diacetin (DA) and triacetin (TA) were chosen as green and effective plasticizers for CDA. The plasticizing CDA blends were evaluated by rheology, melt flow rate, mechanical test, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR). The WVP of plasticized CDA film was monitored by a moisture-permeable cup. The biodegradability of CDA materials is indicated with molecular weight analyzed by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) after hydrolysis process in cellulase solution. The red shift of stretching vibrational band of carbonyl bond in FTIR demonstrates the interaction between plasticizer and CDA. The melt fluidity of CDA material increases with the increasing amount of plasticizers. The modulus and tensile strength decrease, and the elongation at break increases as a whole by blending plasticizers. DA has one more hydroxyl than TA with better compatibility with CDA. Therefore, DA brings better chain mobility of CDA chain and accordingly better improvement in moisture permeability than TA on the same load. For the CDA-DA, with the DA content increasing, the WVP is raised from 18.2 × 10–13 g·cm−1·s−1·Pa−1 to 23.6 × 10–13 g·cm−1·s−1·Pa−1. This study suggests an effective way to increase WVP of films by enhancing the chain mobility and hydrophilicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we synthesized a kind of bio-based plasticizer epoxidized linoleic acid cardanol ester (ELCE) from cardanol and linoleic acid. Its chemical structure was characterized with FT-IR and 1H NMR. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blends plasticized with ELCE were prepared via thermoplastic blending with torque rheometer. The performance including torque, mechanical property, thermal stability, plasticizing property and migration resistance of plasticized PVC blends were investigated and compared with plasticized PVC blends with commercial plasticizer dioctyl phthalate (DOP). The results showed that ELCE improved thermal stability of PVC blends. ELCE played more excellent plasticizing effect on PVC blends than DOP. The better solvent extraction resistance and volatile resistance of ELCE make it possible to completely replace DOP in PVC products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research on black pigment rock art reported on various prehistoric image sites globally consisting of carbon compounds and manganese oxides. In this paper, we report the unprecedented use of hematite as a black pigment material in rock art. Combination of scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM–EDS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction (SR-XRD), X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman spectroscopy was able to provide detailed information on the physicochemical characteristics of red, purple and black pigment materials from Jufri Cave, Sangkulirang, East Kalimantan. The results show that the mineral hematite is the main component of all pigment materials. However, the hematite crystals in each pigment possess different properties of crystallinity and octahedral symmetry of the Fe3+ ion. The characteristic differences in hematite compounds are possibly due to the high-temperature heating process and could be caused by natural geological or anthropological factors. Besides, the discrepancy of crystallinity and distortion of octahedral symmetry in the hematite structures are presumably responsible for the color variety among hematite crystals in the pigment material. The information on the physicochemical properties obtained from this research certainly adds new insights into the characteristics of pigments in the diversity of rock art in Indonesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several gram-negative bacteria employ type III secretion systems (T3SS) to inject effector proteins into eukaryotic host cells directly from the bacterial cytoplasm. The export gate SctV (YscV in Yersinia) binds substrate:chaperone complexes such as YscX:YscY, which are essential for formation of a functional T3SS. Here, we present structures of the YscX:YscY complex alone and bound to nonameric YscV. YscX binds its chaperone YscY at two distinct sites, resembling the heterotrimeric complex of the T3SS needle subunit with its chaperone and co-chaperone. In the ternary complex the YscX N-terminus, which mediates YscX secretion, occupies a binding site within one YscV that is also used by flagellar chaperones, suggesting the interaction's importance for substrate recognition. The YscX C-terminus inserts between protomers of the YscV ring where the stalk protein binds to couple YscV to the T3SS ATPase. This primary YscV–YscX interaction is essential for the formation of a secretion-competent T3SS. Recruitment of substrates to virulent bacterial type III secretion systems remains enigmatic. Here, a crystal structure reveals two binding sites between a secretion substrate in complex with its chaperone and the cytosolic domain of the export gate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) are expected to be widely used for production of biodegradable film materials. However, poor rheological properties, low yield strength and modulus of PBAT limit its applications in some field. Herein, PBAT/poly(vinyl acetate) PVAc blends were prepared by melt mixing to overcome aforementioned shortcomings. The miscibility, phase morphology, thermal properties, rheological properties and mechanical properties of PBAT/PVAc blends were studied. Miscibility analysis showed that PBAT/PVAc blends were immiscible two-phase system. The uniform dispersion of PVAc in PBAT matrix was observed in SEM images. From thermal properties analysis, the incorporation of PVAc accelerated crystallization rate and enhances crystallization ability of PBAT. Rheological analysis demonstrated that storage modulus, loss modulus and complex viscosity of PBAT were obviously improved when PVAc was added due to the high viscosity of PVAc in melt state. Mechanical data indicated incorporation of PVAc could enhance modulus and yield strength of PBAT. When the content of PVAc was 30%, Young’s modulus and yield strength of PBAT were improved about 105% (from 203 to 416 MPa) and 53.3% (from 7.5 to 11.5 MPa), respectively. In addition, the elongation at break and tensile strength of blends decreased with the increase in PBAT loading, but all the PBAT/PVAc blends maintained the elongation at break of more than 700%, which meets the requirements of most applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewer overflows and exfiltration can potentially contaminate water bodies with pathogens from wastewater. Microbial source tracking (MST) methods such as the detection of the HF183 gene target of Bacteroides have been proposed to monitor human fecal pollution inputs to surface waters; however, the persistence of HF183 and other MST markers in water flushed from soils after contamination events is not well understood. In this study, the persistence and decay of two culture-based fecal indicators, Escherichia coli and enterococci, and two molecular MST markers, HF183 and pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV), were evaluated in riverbank soils spiked with untreated sewage, which were left idle for 1, 14, 28, 60, and 121 days under dark conditions and then flushed with synthetic rainwater. All four microbial indicators were still detected in flush water 4 months after the soil was contaminated. PMMoV persisted much longer and had a slower decay rate than the other microbial indicators, and E. coli degraded most rapidly. In consecutive flushing experiments with fresh (1 day) sewage-spiked soils, HF183, E. coli, and enterococci were all detected after 20 consecutive flushes with rainwater, but PMMoV was not detected after the fifth flush. Our findings indicate that water (e.g., stormwater interflow) flushing through riverbank soils that have previously been contaminated by sewer overflows or sewer exfiltration can potentially be a source of microbial pollution to surface waters, even for several months after the contamination occurs. Results from this study also demonstrate the benefits of using multiple human-associated fecal indicators to distinguish pollution from different microbial groups in water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to the article "Measurement of Infiltration in Small Field Plots by a Portable Rainfall Simulator: Application to Trace-Element Mobility" is presented.

Soy protein isolate (SPI) has the advantages of low cost, easy processing, stable performance and so on. However, the processing temperature of SPI is high, the processed products are hard and brittle with high water absorption capacity, so it is necessary to modify the soybean protein during processing. Small molecule plasticizer is commonly used globally to plasticize and modify soybean protein. Different plasticizer content has different plasticizing effect on protein, and the properties of materials prepared will also vary greatly. The plasticizer can affect the viscosity of the blends morphology and properties by changing the viscosity of protein phase. In this work, glycerol with the excellent plasticizing effect was selected as plasticizer, and SPI was plasticized with glycerol of different contents, and then the plasticized SPI was blended with poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)(PBAT) to prepare biodegradable blend materials. The influence of plasticizer content on the structure and properties of the blends was explored by observing the microstructure, mechanical and thermal properties of the blends. The results showed that with the increase of glycerol content, the crystallization temperature and melting temperature of the blend system increased, the chain segment was easier to move, and the glass transition temperature(Tg) decreased. At the same time, the viscosity of the blending system decreases, which improves the processing fluidity of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Blood group O of ABO blood group system is considered as a risk factor for various bleeding events, but the relationship with endoscopic treatment-associated bleeding has yet to be investigated. This study aimed to evaluate whether blood group O is associated with delayed bleeding after colorectal endoscopic resection. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study based on medical records at four university hospitals in Japan. We reviewed the records for consecutive patients who underwent colorectal endoscopic resection from January 2014 through December 2017. The primary outcome was the incidence of delayed bleeding, defined as hematochezia or melena, requiring endoscopy, transfusion, or any hemostatic intervention up to 28 days after endoscopic resection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to adjust the impact of blood group O on the delayed bleeding. Results: Among 10,253 consecutive patients who underwent colorectal endoscopic resection during the study period, 8625 patients met the criteria. In total, delayed bleeding occurred in 255 patients (2.96%). The O group had significantly more bleeding events compared with the non-O group (A, B, and AB) (relative risk, 1.62 [95% confidence interval, 1.24–2.10]; P < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, blood group O remained an independent risk factor for the bleeding (adjusted odds ratio, 1.60 [95% confidence interval, 1.18–2.17]; P = 0.002). Conclusions: Blood group O was associated with an increased risk of delayed bleeding in patients undergoing colorectal endoscopic resection. Preoperative screening for ABO blood group could improve risk assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garcinia mangostana L. (mangosteen) is a tropical fruit that has been used for medicinal purposes in Southeast Asia for centuries. With an interest in its applications to treat infection, we sought to investigate the bioactive constituents of mangosteen and identified the phenolic compound procyanidin B2 from the mangosteen pericarp by examining lipopolysaccharide (LPS) binding capacity. The LPS binding and neutralization activities of procyanidin B2 were determined by a combination of biophysical and in silico techniques. The affinity of procyanidin B2 to LPS was 1.61 × 10–5 M. Procyanidin B2 significantly neutralized LPS and selectively inhibited the LPS-induced release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α from RAW264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Binding thermodynamics revealed favorable hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions between procyanidin B2 and LPS. Molecular simulations suggested that hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions were involved in the binding process. These findings have, for the first time, shed light on the anti-inflammatory properties of procyanidin B2 through LPS binding and neutralization and provided a promising lead for the development of antiendotoxin agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli is the daily workhorse in molecular biology research labs and an important platform microorganism in white biotechnology. Its cytoplasmic membrane is primarily composed of the phospholipids phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and cardiolipin (CL). As in most other bacteria, the typical eukaryotic phosphatidylcholine (PC) is not a regular component of the E. coli membrane. PC is known to act as a substrate in various metabolic or catabolic reactions, to affect protein folding and membrane insertion, and to activate proteins that originate from eukaryotic environments. Options to manipulate the E. coli membrane to include non-native lipids such as PC might make it an even more powerful and versatile tool for biotechnology and protein biochemistry. This article outlines different strategies how E. coli can be engineered to produce PC and other methylated PE derivatives. Several of these approaches rely on the ectopic expression of genes from natural PC-producing organisms. These include PC synthases, lysolipid acyltransferases, and several phospholipid N-methyltransferases with diverse substrate and product preferences. In addition, we show that E. coli has the capacity to produce PC by its own enzyme repertoire provided that appropriate precursors are supplied. Screening of the E. coli Keio knockout collection revealed the lysophospholipid transporter LplT to be responsible for the uptake of lyso-PC, which is then further acylated to PC by the acyltransferase-acyl carrier protein synthetase Aas. Overall, our study shows that the membrane composition of the most routinely used model bacterium can readily be tailored on demand. Key points • Escherichia coli can be engineered to produce non-native methylated PE derivatives. • These lipids can be produced by foreign and endogenous proteins. • Modification of E. coli membrane offers potential for biotechnology and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many Americans access information through the evening newscasts shown on mainstream television. Nevertheless, the technological developments that our society has experienced in the last decade are changing the traditional information-access paradigm. The number of Internet consumers has increased exponentially and, among many other habits, the World Wide Web is transforming the way in which users get entertained and informed. Aware of this reality, many broadcasters use their websites as baits to attract larger and more varied audiences and, in attempts to increase viewership, they host online programs that were first aired live on television. According to the current regulations in the U.S., those reshows need to include closed captions of at least the same quality as those originally delivered on television. This paper presents the main findings of a research project exploring how this applies to the case of the national evening newscasts uploaded to the websites of four major broadcasters. Results show that efforts are being made to provide good IP-delivered subtitles, but that there is still room for improvement in terms of completeness, placement and accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the U.S., new programming broadcast on television needs to be accessible to the hearing-impaired, and closed captioning is the tool most frequently used to provide such access. From all the audiovisual content available to viewers, live programs pose the greatest challenge to captioners, who, in this scenario, are required to provide accurate subtitles that reach the viewers with as limited delay as possible. Due to the difficulties involved in the production of real-time subtitles, research exploring the quality of live captioning is not yet abundant. However, having precise insights on this matter could help improve current practices and better accommodate the users' needs. Drawing on existing literature from the field of Media Accessibility, this article presents the main findings of a study exploring the quality of the live closed captioning delivered during one of the most widely followed televised events of 2018 in the U.S.: the Super Bowl LII. The parameters that the Federal Communications Commission identifies with quality (completeness, placement, synchronicity and accuracy) were analyzed. The results point at completeness as the trait with more room for improvement and show that captions achieved impeccable placement, a commendable average latency and very high accuracy rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of small conductance (SK) Ca2+-dependent potassium channels in pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy remains uncertain. In our studies in the rat model of streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetess mellitus (STZ-DM1) a significant increase above control in the prevalence of extracellular action potentials (eAP) recorded from isolated heart left ventricles and terminating with a prominent phase of after-hyperpolarization was observed. In experiments with local delivery to the site of recording of several tested potasssium channel blockers suppression of this phase of eAP after hyperpolarization was achieved only with application of apamin, the selective SK channel inhibitor. These data suggest that eAP afterhyperpolarization phase is associated with activation of SK channels and that activity and/or expression of these channels is increased in epicardial cardiomyocytes of left ventricles of STZ-DM1 rat hearts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aimed to determine the effects of new-onset neurological symptoms (NNS) on clinically relevant outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 infection. We conducted a nationwide, comparative, retrospective, cohort study among adult, hospitalized COVID-19 patients involving 37 hospital sites from various regions in the Philippines. We included a total of 10,881 patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection (2008 had NNS while 8873 did not have NNS). The adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for mortality among the mild and severe cases were significantly higher by 1.660 (95% CI 1.132–2.435) and by 1.352 (95% CI 1.042–1.752), respectively, in the NNS group compared to those in the non-NNS group. The aHRs for respiratory failure in the NNS group were significantly increased by 1.914 (95% CI 1.346–2.722), by 1.614 (95% CI 1.260–2.068), and by 1.234 (95% CI 1.089–1.398) among the mild, severe, and critical cases, respectively. The aHRs for ICU admission in the NNS group were still significantly higher by 1.973 (95% CI 1.457–2.673) and by 1.831 (95% CI 1.506–2.226) among the mild and severe cases, respectively. Patients who had NNS were not significantly associated with a longer duration of ventilator dependence (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.954, 95% CI 0.772–1.179), longer ICU stay (aOR 0.983, 95% CI 0.772–1.252) and longer hospital admission (aOR 1.045, 95% CI 0.947–1.153). The presence of NNS significantly increases the risk of mortality, respiratory failure and ICU admission among COVID-19 patients. Registration and associated protocol publication: ClinicalTrials.gov website (NCT04386083); Espiritu AI, Sy MCC, Anlacan VMM, Jamora RDG. The Philippine COVID-19 Outcomes: a Retrospective study Of Neurological manifestations and Associated symptoms (The Philippine CORONA study): a protocol study. BMJ Open. 2020;10:e040944. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work assesses the influence of the plasticizer polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the compatibilization of poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and thermoplastic whey protein isolate (WPIT) blends. To prepare the blends, WPI was denatured at 90 °C, in the presence of PEG, to become a thermoplastic material. Dried WPIT was later mechanically blended with PBAT using a torque rheometer at 160 °C and 80 rpm. Two blends were prepared: 90% of PBAT/10% of WPIT (90_10) and 70% of PBAT/30% of WPIT (70_30). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses showed a homogenous blend morphology and good interaction between the dispersed phase and the matrix. Atomic force microscopy-based infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR) showed PBAT and WPIT bands in all studied regions of both blends, which suggests that these materials presented partial miscibility. The viscosity ratio of the PBAT/WPIT system was less than 3.5 in the high shear rate region in complex viscosity curves, which indicates that droplet break-up of WPIT may occur by the drop fibrillation mechanism. The addition of WPIT reduced the degree of crystallinity of PBAT in the blends in comparison to pristine PBAT as shown by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Mechanical tests showed that blend tensile strength and elongation at break decreased with the addition of WPIT. Elastic modulus of the blends increased compared to pristine PBAT. Barrier properties were also evaluated showing that the oxygen permeability coefficient reduced by 20% for the blend with 30% of WPIT and vapor water permeability increased with the addition of WPIT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to introduce the recombinant Lactococcus lactis MG1363 as a cell factory candidate for production of recombinant Brucella melitensis Omp16-Human IL2 (r-Omp16-IL2) and to suggest it as a promising safe, non-pathogenic mucosal live vaccine against brucellosis. Three groups of BALB/c mice (10 mice per group) were intragastrically administrated with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), L. lactis harboring the empty pAMJ2008 plasmid and with L. lactis expressing rOmp-IL2. The first two groups were classified as control groups and the third one is indicated as treatment group. Another group was injected by the intraperitoneal (i.p.) route with purified rOmp16-IL2 protein. The total serum IgG of each group was assessed with indirect ELISAs at two days before immunization and also two weeks after the last immunization. Results showed that BALB/c mice intragastrically administrated with L. lactis expressing rOmp-IL2 had dominant IgG response compared to the control (PBS administrated) group (P < 0.05). The level of IgG was significantly increased by intraperitoneally injection of recombinant Omp-IL2 in adjuvant compared to the intragastrically administration of PBS and L. lactis/pAMJ2008 as control groups, and also compared to L. lactis/pAMJ2008-rOmp-IL2 (P < 0.05). Our findings provide the use of L. lactis rOmp16-IL2 as a new promising alternative safe strategy than presently live attenuated vaccines toward developing an oral vaccine or subunit-based vaccine against brucellosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel coaxial electron beam wire feeding additive manufacturing technology (CAEBWAM) was proposed in our previous work to refine the microstructure and improve the mechanical properties of titanium alloys. In the present work, different post-heat treatments were performed to understand the microstructure evolution and the resultant mechanical properties of CAEBWAMed Ti-6Al-4V alloy. The as-built sample was dominated by equiaxed prior β microstructure, with the first several deposited layers containing columnar prior β grain morphology. The as-built alloy showed a mixed microstructure composed of large α′ martensite and fine α + β lamella. As the annealing temperature was increased, α′ martensite decomposed into α + β phase, while the width of the α lamellae increased, causeing an increase in the ductility and a decrease in the strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When microorganisms invade a host, the innate immune system first recognizes the pathogen-associated molecular patterns of these microorganisms through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are known transmembrane PRRs existing in both invertebrates and vertebrates. Upon ligand recognition, TLRs initiate a cascade of signaling events; promote the pro-inflammatory cytokine, type I interferon, and chemokine expression; and play an essential role in the modulation of the host's innate and adaptive immunity. Therefore, it is of great significance to improve our understanding of antimicrobial immune responses by studying the role of TLRs and their signal molecules in the host's defense against invading microbes. This paper aims to summarize the specificity of TLRs in recognition of conserved microbial components, such as lipoprotein, lipopolysaccharide, flagella, endosomal nucleic acids, and other bioactive metabolites derived from microbes. This set of interactions helps to elucidate the immunomodulatory effect of TLRs and the signal transduction changes involved in the infectious process and provide a novel therapeutic strategy to combat microbial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the reality of pandemic threats challenges humanity, exemplified during the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 infections, the development of vaccines targeting these etiological agents of disease has become increasingly critical. Of paramount concern are novel and reemerging pathogens that could trigger such events, including the plague bacterium Yersinia pestis. Y. pestis is responsible for more human deaths than any other known pathogen and exists globally in endemic regions of the world, including the four corners region and Northern California in the USA. Recent cases have been scattered throughout the world, including China and the USA, with serious outbreaks in Madagascar during 2008, 2013–2014, and, most recently, 2017–2018. This review will focus on recent advances in plague vaccine development, a seemingly necessary endeavor, as there is no Food and Drug Administration–licensed vaccine available for human distribution in western nations, and that antibiotic-resistant strains are recovered clinically or intentionally developed. Progress and recent development involving subunit, live-attenuated, and nucleic acid–based plague vaccine candidates will be discussed in this review. Key points: • Plague vaccine development remains elusive yet critical. • DNA, animal, and live-attenuated vaccine candidates gain traction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transposition of great arteries (TGA) is a complex congenital heart disease whose etiology is still unknown. This defect has been associated, at least in part, with genetic abnormalities involved in laterality establishment and heart outflow tract development, which suggest a genetic heterogeneity. In animal models, the evidence of association with certain genes is strong but, surprisingly, genetic anomalies of its human orthologues are found only in a low proportion of patients and in nonaffected subjects, so that the underlying causes remain as an unexplored field. Evidence related to TGA suggests different pathogenic mechanisms involved between patients with normal organ disposition and isomerism. This article reviews the most important genetic abnormalities related to TGA and contextualizes them into the mechanism of embryonic development, comparing them between humans and mice, to comprehend the evidence that could be relevant for genetic counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]