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Spatially coordinated ERK signaling events ("SPREADs") transmit radially from a central point to adjacent cells via secreted ligands for EGFR and other receptors. SPREADs maintain homeostasis in non-pulmonary epithelia, but it is unknown whether they play a role in the airway epithelium or are dysregulated in inflammatory disease. To address these questions, we measured SPREAD activity with live-cell ERK biosensors in human bronchial epithelial cell lines (HBE1 and 16HBE) and primary human bronchial epithelial (pHBE) cells, in both submerged and biphasic Air-Liquid Interface (ALI) culture conditions (i.e., differentiated cells). Airway epithelial cells were exposed to pro-inflammatory cytokines relevant to asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Type 1 pro-inflammatory cytokines significantly increased the frequency of SPREADs, which coincided with epithelial barrier breakdown in differentiated pHBE cells. Furthermore, SPREADs correlated with IL-6 peptide secretion and the appearance of localized clusters of phospho-STAT3 immunofluorescence. To probe the mechanism of SPREADs, cells were co-treated with pharmacological treatments (gefitinib, tocilizumab, hydrocortisone) or metabolic modulators (insulin, 2-deoxyglucose). Hydrocortisone, inhibitors of receptor signaling, and suppression of metabolic function decreased SPREAD occurrence, implying that pro-inflammatory cytokines and glucose metabolism modulate SPREADs in human airway epithelial cells via secreted EGFR and IL6R ligands. We conclude that spatiotemporal ERK signaling plays a role in barrier homeostasis and dysfunction during inflammation of the airway epithelium. This novel signaling mechanism could be exploited clinically to supplement corticosteroid treatment for asthma and COPD.

Abstract Streptococcus dysgalactiae (S. dysgalactiae ) is a common pathogen of humans and various animals. However, the phylogenetic position of animal S. dysgalactiae isolates and their zoonotic potential remain unclear. Most molecular epidemiological studies explicate beta-hemolytic streptococci according to their MLST and M protein gene (emm) types. Although human S. dysgalactiae isolates are relatively well characterized, the data concerning animal isolates are scarce. Here, we report the molecular characteristics and antimicrobial resistance of S. dysgalactiae strains recovered from sheep and their genetic relationship with isolates from other animal hosts and humans. Overall, 11 PFGE pulsotypes, five MLST sequence types (STs), and two emm types were distinguished, with ST248 and stL1376 being the most prevalent, indicating genetic diversity among tested 17 ovine isolates. Some isolates exhibited resistance to doxycycline (59%), erythromycin (6%), ciprofloxacin (6%), and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (6%), harboring various resistance determinants. Phylogenetic analysis showed that studied ovine isolates grouped together with human S. dysgalactiae isolates from the cases of zoonotic infections. Moreover, some ovine isolates shared identical STs and emm gene sequences with human non-invasive and invasive S. dysgalactiae strains. These findings suggest a possible link between human and ovine isolates and indicate the zoonotic potential of this pathogen.

The Society for the German Language (GfdS) in Wiesbaden has been selecting the word of the year since 1971. The first “winner” in the surveys was the adjective aufmüpfig (‘rebellious’), followed in second and third place by the nouns Junktim and Umweltschutz (‘environmental protection’). 20 years later, the ‘non-word’ of the year was added to the list. The list of non-words was opened in 1991 by the adjective ausländerfrei (‘free of foreigners’). The announcement of the selected terms has since become a public event with far-reaching resonance and sometimes controversial discussions (keyword: ‘semantic battles’). In this article, the author places the topic in the context of linguistic research and describes the socio-economic and day-to-day political background that largely determines the respective selection of words and non-words. Several examples are used to focus on the influence of socio-political circumstances on the use of language (such as the fall of the Berlin Wall and reunification, migration and xenophobia, Russia’s war against Ukraine as a turning point).

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient for most eukaryotic phytoplankton. Zn uptake by phytoplankton within the euphotic zone results in nutrient-like dissolved Zn (dZn) profiles with a large dynamic range. The combination of key biochemical uses for Zn and large vertical gradients in dZn implies the potential for rapid rates of Zn removal from the surface ocean. However, due to the ease of contamination at sea, direct measurements of dZn uptake within natural environments have not been previously made. To investigate the demand for dZn and for dissolved cadmium (dCd; a closely related nutrient-like element) within Southern Ocean phytoplankton communities, we conducted 67Zn and 110Cd tracer uptake experiments within the Amundsen Sea, Ross Sea, and Terra Nova Bay of the Southern Ocean. We observed a high magnitude of Zn uptake (ρZn > 100 pmol dZn L−1 d−1) into the particulate phase that was consistent with ambient depleted dZn surface concentrations. High biomass and low partial pressure of carbon dioxide in seawater (seawater pCO2) appeared to contribute to ρZn, which also led to increases in ρCd likely through the upregulation of shared transport systems. These high ρZn measurements further imply that only short timescales are needed to deplete the large winter dZn inventory down to the observed surface levels in this important carbon-capturing region. Overall, the high magnitude of Zn uptake into the particulate fraction suggests that even in the Zn-rich waters of the Southern Ocean, high Zn uptake rates can lead to Zn depletion and potential Zn scarcity.

Reconstructions of palaeoseismicity are useful for understanding and mitigating seismic hazard risks. We apply cosmogenic 36Cl exposure-age dating and measurements of rare-earth elements and yttrium (REE-Y) concentrations to the palaeoseismic history of the Sparta Fault, Greece. Bayesian-inference Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) modelling of 36Cl concentrations along a 7.2 m long vertical profile on the Sparta Fault scarp at Anogia indicate an increase in the average slip rate of the scarp from 0.8–0.9 mm yr−1 6.5–7.7 kyr ago to 1.1–1.2 mm yr−1 up to the devastating 464 BCE earthquake. The average exhumation of the entire scarp up to the present day is 0.7–0.8 mm yr−1. Modelling does not indicate additional exhumation of the Sparta Fault after 464 BCE. The Sparta Fault scarp is composed of fault breccia, containing quartz and clay-lined pores, in addition to host-rock-derived clasts of calcite and microcrystalline calcite cement. The impurities control the distribution of REE-Y in the fault scarp surface and contribute spatial variation to 36Cl concentrations, which precludes the identification of individual earthquakes that have exhumed the Sparta Fault scarp from either of these data sets. REE-Y may illustrate processes that localize slip to a discrete fault plane in the Earth's near-surface, but their potential use in palaeoseismicity would benefit from further evaluation.

Evidence-based instructional practices (EBIPs) have been shown to benefit students in undergraduate biology, but little is known about the degree to which community college (CC) biology instructors use EBIPs or the barriers they encounter. We surveyed CC biology instructors to characterize how they use EBIPs, their capacity to use EBIPs, and perceived barriers to their use, and to explore which factors are associated with EBIP use. CC biology instructors report using EBIPs to a similar degree as other populations of undergraduate biology faculty; they generally believe EBIPs to be effective and are motivated to use EBIPs. Consistent with the theory of planned behavior, instructor belief in EBIP effectiveness, collegial support, and perceived knowledge of and skill in using EBIPs positively influence their use. The main barriers to using EBIPs reported by CC instructors included the need to cover large amounts of course content, lack of time to prepare for using EBIPs, and student resistance. Our findings point to a number of approaches that may promote the use of EBIPs by CC biology instructors, including professional development to increase instructor knowledge and skill, addressing tensions between content volume and the use of EBIPs, and providing resources to make implementing EBIPs time efficient.

Introduction Lipedema is a chronic condition that affects the majority of women. It involves swelling in fatty parts of the body such as the buttocks, hips, thighs and calves. It usually develops during a period of hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy or menopause) and is often confused with lymphoedema or obesity, leading to a delay in correct diagnosis and the introduction of effective treatment. Fat oedema is estimated to affect 1 in 72,000 people. However, these figures, according to many sources, are much underestimated compared to the actual occurrence of the condition due to misdiagnosis. [1] Purpose of Research The aim of this work is to commonize the knowledge around the problem of lipedema, presenting the current diagnosis and treatment. State of knowledge Lipaemia is a chronic disease characterised by the development of fatty oedema in the lower extremities (in some cases also in the upper extremities), which is resistant to exercise. The pathogenesis of the disease is unclear and diagnosis and treatment still require much research. Review Methods The literature review was based on the most recent studies. PubMed and Google Scholar open databases were used in the research. The focus was put on literature published between 2013 and 2024. Summary Lipedema hinders women's physical, psychological and social functioning. Current diagnosis and treatment is not sufficient to be certain of an accurate diagnosis and to apply appropriate treatment. However, knowledge about this disease is becoming more publicised, through media, among other means, and research is being conducted at a larger scale.

Summary: Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is an important risk factor for multiple chronic diseases, increasing mortality and reducing life expectancy. The associations between emerging surrogates for IR, triglyceride-glucose index (TyG) and TyG-related indicators, with all-cause mortality and life expectancy in middle-aged and older patients in primary care are unclear. Methods: This study originated from the Polish primary care cohort LIPIDOGRAM2015, including patients aged ≥45 years. Baseline fasting triglycerides and fasting glucose were used to derive TyG. Other TyG-related indicators included TyG-adjusted body mass index (TyG-BMI), TyG-adjusted waist circumference (TyG-WC), TyG-adjusted waist-to-hip, and TyG-adjusted waist-to-height. In this longitudinal analysis, we assessed associations between TyG-related indicators with total all-cause mortality, premature (age at death ≤75 years) all-cause mortality and years of life lost (YLL). Findings: We included 10,688 patients (mean age 61.8 ± 9.3 years; 63.5% female). Cumulative total and premature all-cause mortality were 7.2% and 4.6%, respectively, during 5.7 years (IQR 5.6–5.7) of follow-up. Lowest (Q1) and highest quartile (Q4) of TyG-BMI and TyG-WC were associated with total all-cause mortality (second quartile [Q2]: reference; TyG-BMI: Q1: aHR 1.33, 95% CI 1.07–1.65, Q4: aHR 1.28, 95% CI 1.03–1.58; TyG-WC: Q1: aHR 1.44, 95% CI 1.14–1.82, Q4: aHR 1.29, 95% CI 1.04–1.59), similar results for premature all-cause mortality. Within age 45–80 years, compared with Q2 and third quartile, YLL were 4.49 and 5.46 years for TyG-BMI Q1 and Q4, respectively, 3.24 and 5.31 years for TyG-WC Q1 and Q4, respectively. Interpretation: TyG-BMI and TyG-WC demonstrated a U-shaped association with total and premature all-cause mortality. Low and high levels of TyG-BMI and TyG-WC were associated with reduced life expectancy. Despite the relatively short follow-up period, significant associations were still observed, but longer follow-up studies are required to further explore these relationships. Funding: Polish Lipid Association, College of Family Physician in Poland, Valeant in Poland.

Introduction and Purpose of Research: Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) or Willis-Ekbom disease, is a common neurological disorder significantly impacting one’s sleep and quality of life. It often coexists with various health issues, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Aim of study: The primary purpose of this research is to explore diverse therapeutic options for RLS which are tailored to individual patient needs. In order to understand the complex pathophysiology of the discussed disease, recent advancements are taken into account. Material and Methods of Research: The review is grounded in findings from 36 recent studies sourced through a systematic search of open-access databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on literature published between 2004 and 2024. Results: Adequate and effective management of RLS include non-pharmacological interventions, such as physical activity, acupuncture, yoga and near-infrared light therapy, which can complement pharmacotherapy or prevail as the primary treatment form. Iron therapy emerges as vital for many patients. The correlation between iron metabolism and RLS symptoms requires further analysis and research. Pharmacological strategies involve dopaminergic medications, low-potency opioids, and benzodiazepines, with a target on minimizing side effects and dependency. Conclusion: RLS affects approximately 5-10% of the population, severely disrupting sleep and daily functioning. The condition constrains individualized management, integrating non-pharmacological forms of treatment with pharmacological therapies to improve patient outcomes and reduce dependence on medication.

Introduction & Purpose of Research: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Given the high prevalence of PCOS and its impact on infertility, this research explores strategies to stimulate ovulation and improve pregnancy outcomes. To address this issue comprehensively, we specifically selected six main treatment methods: lifestyle changes, clomiphene citrate, antidiabetic drugs, gonadotropin analogues, aromatase inhibitors, and surgical approaches. Our aim was to review various studies, including meta-analyses and comparisons of methods from published texts, to gain valuable insights into the topic.

Introduction and Purpose of Research: Vegetarianism, characterized by the exclusion of meat, poultry, fish, seafood, and their derivatives, has gained popularity as studies continue to highlight its positive impact on health. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the health and lifestyle impacts of vegetarian diets by examining both the benefits and potential risks. Review Methods: The review is grounded in findings from 40 recent studies sourced through a systematic search of open-access databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on literature published between 2000 and 2024. Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge: Vegetarian diets are associated with significant health benefits, including reduced risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, largely due to their high content of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Additionally, vegetarians tend to have lower BMI and improved cholesterol and blood pressure levels. However, unbalanced vegetarian diets may lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as protein, vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can impact overall health. Conclusion: Properly planned vegetarian diets are healthy, nutritionally correct and can be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Careful selection of meal ingredients and adequate supplementation are key to maximising the benefits and counteracting the potential risks associated with such diets.

The objective of this article is to assess the efficacy and safety of diverse therapeutic strategies for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), encompassing both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Additionally, the review identifies potential avenues for future research within this domain. The article compares the results of selected studies. We conducted a literature search in November of 2024, using PubMed. Six studies were identified, chosen, and appraised. Among these studies, three are systematic reviews and three are narrative literature reviews. If it comes to treatment efficacy studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of several strategies. Ketamine and esketamine have shown rapid and substantial efficacy in mitigating the symptoms of TRD. Augmentation with aripiprazole and quetiapine has also been found to enhance the response to antidepressant treatment. The combination of olanzapine and fluoxetine is effective for treating TRD, however, it may be associated with metabolic side effects. Augmentation with lithium, triiodothyronine (T3), and lamotrigine shows promising results, though further research is required to fully evaluate their efficacy and safety in TRD management. The management of TRD is associated with several challenges. These include the absence of a standardized definition and grading system, which impedes the comparison of research outcomes. The multifactorial nature of TRD further complicates the development of a universal treatment strategy. Summarizing, there are several treatment strategies available for TRD, however, the most effective approach should be personalized for each patient. Ongoing research is critical to advancing our understanding of TRD and developing more effective therapeutic options.

Apnea of prematurity (AOP) is a significant health issue affecting neonates born before the 37th week of gestation. It results from the immaturity of respiratory control mechanisms and is often exacerbated by various coexisting factors, which can intensify symptoms and lead to severe health consequences. Despite extensive research on the underlying mechanisms of AOP, a single effective treatment has yet to be identified. Current therapies, such as caffeine administration, are associated with potential adverse effects. Emerging interventions, including sensory stimulation, carbon dioxide inhalation, positional changes, and aromatherapy, offer promising alternatives. These approaches have the potential to complement standard treatments while being less invasive.

Introduction and Purpose of Research Nicotine pouches, popular especially among young people, are smokeless alternatives to traditional tobacco. Placed in the mouth, they release nicotine absorbed through the mucosa, reducing withdrawal symptoms and avoiding harmful tobacco smoke. Often used for smoking cessation, they are considered lower-risk than smoking and may help reduce smoking rates. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the impact of nicotine pouches on overall human health. Review Methods The review is based on 39 articles found in PubMed databases published between 2006–2024. Conclusion While nicotine pouches and snus are marketed as lower-risk alternatives to smoking, their health implications are still significant. These products, popular among young adults and athletes, may help with smoking cessation but carry risks, particularly with long-term use. Research suggests nicotine pouches and snus may have no performance-enhancing effects in sports and could impair physical performance, including endurance and strength. Moreover, their use is linked to various health concerns such as cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, oral mucosal changes, and decreased sperm count. Snus has been associated with a modest increase in cardiovascular disease risk, although the risks are lower than smoking. Additionally, smokeless tobacco use is linked to an increased risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma, especially in women. The use of snus during pregnancy has also been linked to higher risks of post-neonatal mortality and other adverse outcomes. Despite these findings, there is a need for more extensive, well-controlled studies to fully understand the long-term health effects of smokeless tobacco products and their role in public health.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. This leads to pain, inflammatory states, and disruptions in the functioning of pelvic organs, including infertility. Physical activity influences the symptoms of endometriosis associated with the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue in the body. This study analyzes available scientific evidence regarding the role of physical activity in alleviating pain caused by endometriosis. Research findings indicate that regular physical exercise of varying intensity can provide benefits by reducing inflammation, improving pelvic blood flow, and reducing muscle tension. The impact of physical activity on the hormonal system, including the modulation of endorphin levels and the endocannabinoid system, may contribute to pain relief. The effectiveness of exercise in endometriosis therapy depends on the type of exertion, its intensity and frequency, as well as individual factors such as the severity of the disease and the patient's health status. Studies point to yoga, Pilates, and aerobic exercises as the most beneficial forms of activity. Regardless of the type of activity studied, the most crucial factor is the frequency and duration of the exercise. The study also emphasizes the need for further research to develop personalized recommendations for physical activity for patients with endometriosis. In conclusion, physical activity can provide valuable support in the treatment of endometriosis, contributing to an improvement in the quality of life of patients through pain reduction and overall well-being.

Background Attending to patient-reported outcomes (PROs) using data visualisation dashboards could enhance shared decision-making (SDM) and care delivery for serious chronic illnesses. However, few studies have evaluated real-world strategies and resulting implementation outcomes of PRO dashboards.Method From June 2020 to January 2022, we implemented an electronic health record (EHR)-integrated PRO dashboard for advanced cancer and chronic kidney disease. Based on implementation science guidelines (eg, Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence-based Implementation Strategies, Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance), we monitored use and captured adaptations in implementation strategies. Clinicians (n=7) and patients (n=30) responded to a 6-month survey that included appropriateness, acceptability, adoption and sustainability.Results Out of 1450 eligible patients, 748 (52%) completed at least one PRO invitation (reach). 37% of PRO questionnaire invitations (1421/3882) were completed (fidelity to PRO completion), with higher rates occurring when more implementation strategies were adopted. Among completed postvisit surveys from patients, 57% indicated that the dashboard was discussed at an eligible visit (fidelity to dashboard use). In the 6-month survey, patients endorsed the dashboard’s acceptability and appropriateness: 77% felt it frequently provided clear information and 63% felt it frequently met their needs. Most patients (77%) and clinicians (86%) valued the dashboard for increasing SDM, and 57% of clinicians endorsed the dashboard’s clinical sustainability.Discussion This pilot study demonstrated the clinical appropriateness, acceptability and feasibility of implementing an EHR-integrated PRO dashboard for advanced cancer and chronic kidney disease. Results also point to areas for improvement, including strategies to further support patient and clinician engagement, PRO completion and sustainability in real-world implementation.

This review explores treatment approaches and therapies for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental condition affecting adults, with symptoms often persisting from childhood into adulthood. The research examines the efficacy, tolerability, and accessibility of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions. ADHD management necessitates a multimodal approach combining medications, behavioral therapies, and educational interventions tailored to individual needs. The analysis focuses on stimulant and non-stimulant medications, including methylphenidate, amphetamines, atomoxetine, and alpha-2 agonists, with regional variations in treatment guidelines. Stimulants, primarily methylphenidate and amphetamine formulations, demonstrate robust efficacy in symptom reduction for patients. Non-stimulant options like atomoxetine are recommended for patients with contraindications to stimulants. Emerging formulations, such as extended-release medications, address tolerance and adherence challenges. Psychosocial interventions, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), complement pharmacological treatments by targeting organizational skills, emotional regulation, and comorbidities like anxiety and depression. Evidence suggests that combined approaches improve long-term functional outcomes, such as academic performance and interpersonal relationships. Despite advances, gaps in treatment access and the need for individualized care remain significant challenges. This review underscores the importance of ongoing research to optimize ADHD management strategies and ensure equitable access to effective therapies worldwide.

The aim of the study was to determine the causes of eutrophication in small urban water reservoirs located in the UMCS Botanical Garden in Lublin, supplied via surface and groundwater. The research (hydrological, hydrobiological, and hydrochemical), which included both field and laboratory work, was conducted during the growing season in the years 2022–2023. These ponds are fed by waters from the Czechówka River and, to a lesser extent, by groundwater (seepage). Both river and groundwater are characterised by high concentrations of mineral forms of nitrogen and phosphorus, ranging from 1.49 to 12.0 mg N∙dm–3 and 0.07 to 0.21 mg P∙dm–3, respectively. This contributes to the intensive development of phytoplankton, especially during the summer period, with diatoms dominating the phytoplankton structure. The trophic state of the ponds ranges from eutrophic to hypertrophic. The study showed that the high degree of eutrophication was due to the load of nutrients delivered by the waters of the Czechówka River. Despite having several times higher concentrations of mineral and total nitrogen than in the river water, the spring water feeding the ponds had a negligible impact on the quality of the pond water due to low flow rate (

W artykule zaprezentowano wyniki badań nad techniką miękkiego tłuka użytą do wykonania wiórów krzemiennych znalezionych na wybranych stanowiskach z późnego paleolitu z terenu Pomorza Zachodniego. Analizowano materiały z trzech stanowisk: Kocierz 3, Buniewice 7 i Wołczkowo 1, związanych ze społecznościami kultur Federmesser i ahrensburskiej oraz prawdopodobnie Bromme i świderskiej, datowane na XII i XI tysiąclecie p.n.e., oraz przygotowane obecnie wyroby eksperymentalne. Stworzona kolekcja referencyjna obejmowała wióry odbijane tłukami mineralnymi (kamiennymi) oraz organicznymi (z poroża). Wszystkie wyroby poddano technologicznej klasyfikacji dynamicznej, a następnie analizom statystycznym. Otrzymane rezultaty wskazują na używanie przez paleolitycznych krzemieniarzy obu rodzajów tłuków z różną częstotliwością, przy czym stwierdzono, że w starszych zespołach udział narzędzi wykonanych tłukami mineralnymi był wyraźnie wyższy, zaś w zespołach młodszych proporcje te były bardziej wyrównane. Zaobserwowano także zróżnicowanie ze względu na pozycję wyrobu w łańcuchu operacji.

Sarcomas are a rare type of malignancy with limited treatment options so far. This analysis aimed to describe the impact of lymphadenectomy on treating sarcoma patients. Sarcomas characterized by lymphatic spread are rare. For this reason, lymphadenectomy is not a procedure that is performed frequently. However, there are histological subtypes that spread more frequently through lymphatic vessels, such as rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), epithelioid sarcoma (ES), clear cell sarcoma (CCS), and angiosarcoma. On the other hand, synovial sarcoma (SS) is not characterized by an increased tendency to lymphogenous metastases. In our study, we focus on these subtypes of sarcomas. The relationship between lymphadenectomy results and the subsequent prognosis of the patients was investigated. Metastases in the lymph nodes are diagnosed synchronously with distant metastases or when the primary tumor is detected. At the same time, despite lymphadenectomy, sarcoma patients developed further distant metastases. Currently, lymphadenectomy is not a routinely recommended method of treatment for patients with sarcomas. Most often, its potential use is indicated in the case of epithelioid sarcoma, clear cell sarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma after a previous positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) result. Multicenter randomized prospective clinical trials on the role of lymphadenectomy in the treatment of sarcomas are needed.

ABSTRACTEthanolamine is an abundant compound in the gastrointestinal tract and a valuable source of carbon and nitrogen for pathogenic bacteria harboring ethanolamine utilization (eut) genes. Eut-positive pathogens can consume free ethanolamine to outcompete commensal microbes, which often lack eut genes, and establish infection. Ethanolamine can also act as a host recognition signal for eut-positive pathogens to upregulate virulence genes during colonization. Therefore, reducing free ethanolamine titers may represent a novel approach to preventing infection by eut-positive pathogens. Interestingly, the commensal microorganism Levilactobacillus brevis ATCC 14869 was found to encode over 18 eut genes within its genome. This led us to hypothesize that L. brevis can compete with eut-positive pathogens by clearing free ethanolamine from the environment. Our results demonstrate that despite being unable to metabolize ethanolamine under most conditions, L. brevis ATCC 14869 responds to the compound by increasing the expression of genes encoding proteins involved in microcompartment formation and adhesion to the intestinal epithelial barrier. The improved intestinal adhesion of L. brevis in the presence of ethanolamine also enhanced the exclusion of eut-positive pathogens from adhering to intestinal epithelial cells. These findings support further studies to test whether L. brevis ATCC 14869 can counter enteric pathogens and prevent or reduce the severity of infections. Overall, the metabolic capabilities of L. brevis ATCC 14869 offer a unique opportunity to add to the armamentarium of antimicrobial therapies as well as our understanding of the mechanisms used by beneficial microbes to sense and adapt to host microenvironments.

Despite increasing awareness of the benefits of partnerships with start-ups, corporates are often hesitant to collaborate due to perceived barriers, resulting in failed or suboptimal collaborations. This paper explores and assesses the key barriers that hinder corporates from successfully collaborating with startups. Based on a CAWI interviews with corporations, it evaluates both the significance and the severity of these obstacles, as well as the challenges involved in establishing effective partnerships. Additionally, the study examines how various corporate characteristics—such as company size, experience with startups, strategic approaches, and methods of engagement—impact the success of these collaborations. The findings reveal that corporates face significant challenges in partnering with startups. Major barriers include difficulties in identifying suitable startups, a lack of understanding of startup innovations, and concerns over financial risks associated with startup projects. Other obstacles, though less prominent, include fears of reputational damage if collaborations fail and limited support from corporate leadership for engaging with startups. This research highlights the need for enhanced strategies and knowledge-sharing to overcome these barriers, ultimately leading to more effective corporate-startup collaborations. This paper makes a key contribution by filling a significant research gap in the evaluation of barriers to corporate-startup collaborations, particularly by identifying new and unexplored obstacles that have not been previously documented in the literature. By expanding the catalogue of known barriers and analyzing corporate characteristics that affect collaboration outcomes, the study offers valuable insights for improving strategies and fostering more successful partnerships between corporates and startups.

Abstract Background Dermatophytosis is a common skin infection of cats and many other animals. A reliable diagnosis is crucial because of the zoonotic potential of dermatophytes. The routine mycological diagnostic procedures for dermatophytosis are widely known, but in the case of some isolates, identification based on phenotypic characteristics may be incorrect. Infections caused by Chrysosporium spp. are usually described in reptiles, but in other animals they are uncommon. Case presentation This study presents a description of a cat with dermatological lesions, that was mistakenly diagnosed with Trichophyton spp. dermatophytosis. Clinical material for mycological examination was collected from alopecic areas on the back of the neck, the ventral abdomen, and the hindlimbs. The initial identification based on phenotypic properties indicated Trichophyton spp. The result of the MALDI-ToF MS allowed the exclusion of the Trichophyton genus. Ultimately, the correct identification as Chrysosporium articulatum was obtained based on the sequencing of ribosomal genes. Conclusions Interpretation of the results of the mycological examination of samples collected from animals’ skin or hair shafts is always challenging. Thus, careful consideration of the primary cause of the clinical lesions observed on the skin is mandatory, and the culture results are worth supporting by molecular methods.

Introduction Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) that is often underdiagnosed. The aim of the study was to determine predictors of sexual activity and function in patients with multiple sclerosis. Material and Methods A total of 134 MS patients were included in the study. Sexual activity and function were assessed by the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ). Symptoms of sexual dysfunction related to multiple sclerosis (the Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19; MSISQ-19), disability status in multiple sclerosis (the Expanded Disability Status Scale; EDSS), gender and age were also taken into account. Results As preliminary analyses for the regression model, Pearson correlation analysis was performed. This analysis indicated that all predictors (gender, age, EDSS score, and all three MSISQ-19 subscales) were significantly associated with the explained variable (sexual activity and function) in the expected direction. Finally, hierarchical regression showed that significant predictors of sexual activity and function were: (a) male gender, (b) age (negative relationship), and (c) primary sexual dysfunction symptoms (negative relationship). Conclusions Sexual activity and function can be predicted by using the MSISQ-19, which makes it a useful tool for communication between clinicians and patients.

Aim: The aim of this article is to present the existing formal and legal conditions related to the placing on the market and using in the national market of pumps and pump kits – both fire pumps and those intended for firefighting water supply systems. The paper also discusses other selected regulations relating to the product group in question. In addition, an issue not arising from the construction regulations, but equally important in terms of ensuring an adequate level of safety in buildings, was raised, i.e. the admittance of control panels for firefighting equipment (in this case pumps), which can form an integral part of the pump kits in question. The results of the analysis can also be applied to other selected products in the area of fire protection and the requirements that these products must meet before they can be placed on the market and put into use. Introduction: Fire water systems are among the most commonly used fire extinguishing systems in buildings. Despite their popularity, quite often investors, designers and users of buildings, as well as the manufacturers of pump kits themselves, have doubts about the requirements for placing these products on the market. The authors’ discussion of the current requirements is intended to consolidate knowledge in this area, clarify the marketing of construction products and resolve possible doubts. Methodology: The publication uses the results of the authors’ own analysis on the basis of the interpretation of the legislation, as well as available normative and literature sources. Conclusions: The analysis shows that fire pumps and pump kits are covered by the obligation to carry out national assessment and verification of constancy of performance in system 1 and to draw up a national declaration of performance as well as to mark the product with a construction mark (before placing it on the market or making it available on the national market). Moreover, from 1 January 2021, the obligation under consideration was extended to pumps for fire water supply systems, and from 1 July 2022 also to pump kits for fire water supply systems. Furthermore, it was pointed out that the sub-assembly acting as the control panel for the firefighting equipment, insofar as it is present in the pump kits in question, is also subject to admittance Keywords: fire pumps, pumps for firefighting water supply systems, “B” construction mark, national technical assessment

This article deals with the current public discussion in Germany about so-called gendering. It is a kind of “culture war” between a small but very vocal social group fighting tooth and nail for “gender equality” in everyday language practice and the advocates of language purity and the opponents of language distortion on the other side. The author begins with a brief account of earlier attempts to manipulate language for ideological and political purposes before moving on to the various forms of distortion of contemporary German in terms of a completely false interpretation of women’s emancipation. Language is an invaluable cultural asset that must be protected just like cultural and natural monuments (monument and nature conservation).