Ab initio investigation of excited state charge transfer pathways in differently capped bithiophene cages

The electronic excitations of conformationally constrained bithiophene cage systems as previously investigated by Lewis et al. (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 143, 18548 (2021)) are revisited, employing the correlated ab initio Scaled Opposite-Spin Algebraic Diagrammatic Construction Second Order electronic structure method. Quantitative descriptors are determined to assess the extent of charge transfer between the bithiophene moieties and the capping domains, represented by either phenyl or triazine groups. The investigation substantiates intrinsic differences in the photophysical behavior of these two structural variants and reveals the presence of lower-energy excited states characterized by noteworthy charge transfer contributions in the triazine cage system. The manifestation of this charge transfer character is discernible even at the Franck-Condon geometry, persisting throughout the relaxation of the excited state. By examining isolated monomer building blocks, we confirm the existence of analogous charge transfer contributions in their excitations. Employing this methodological approach facilitates the prospective identification of potential wall/cap chromophore pairs, wherein charge transfer pathways can be accessed within the energetically favorable regime.

Investigating the Effect of Contextual Cueing with Face Stimuli on Electrophysiological Measures in Younger and Older Adults

Extracting repeated patterns from our surroundings plays a crucial role in contextualizing information, making predictions, and guiding our behavior implicitly. Previous research showed that contextual cueing enhances visual search performance in younger adults. In this study, we investigated whether contextual cueing could also improve older adults' performance and whether age-related differences in the neural processes underlying implicit contextual learning could be detected. Twenty-four younger and 25 older participants performed a visual search task with contextual cueing. Contextual information was generated using repeated face configurations alongside random new configurations. We measured RT difference between new and repeated configurations; ERPs to uncover the neural processes underlying contextual cueing for early (N2pc), intermediate (P3b), and late (r-LRP) processes; and multiscale entropy and spectral power density analyses to examine neural dynamics. Both younger and older adults showed similar contextual cueing benefits in their visual search efficiency at the behavioral level. In addition, they showed similar patterns regarding contextual information processing: Repeated face configurations evoked decreased finer timescale entropy (1-20 msec) and higher frequency band power (13-30 Hz) compared with new configurations. However, we detected age-related differences in ERPs: Younger, but not older adults, had larger N2pc and P3b components for repeated compared with new configurations. These results suggest that contextual cueing remains intact with aging. Although attention- and target-evaluation-related ERPs differed between the age groups, the neural dynamics of contextual learning were preserved with aging, as both age groups increasingly utilized more globally grouped representations for repeated face configurations during the learning process.

Population Norms for the EQ-5D-5L, PROPr and SF-6D in Hungary

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to develop population norms for three preference-accompanied measures [EQ-5D-5L, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS)-preference scoring system (PROPr) and Short-Form Six-Dimension (SF-6D)] in Hungary.

METHODS

In November 2020, an online cross-sectional survey was conducted among a representative sample of the Hungarian adult general population (n = 1631). Respondents completed the Hungarian versions of the EQ-5D-5L, PROMIS-29+2 version 2.1 and 36-item Short Form Survey version 1 (SF-36v1). The association of utilities with sociodemographic and health-related characteristics of respondents was analysed using multivariate regressions.

RESULTS

The proportion of respondents reporting problems ranged from 8 to 44% (self-care to pain/discomfort) on the EQ-5D-5L, 39-94% (physical function to sleep) on PROPr and 38-87% (role limitations to vitality) on the SF-6D. Problems related to physical function, self-care, usual activities/role limitations and pain increased with age, while mental health problems decreased in all three measures. In almost all corresponding domains, respondents indicated the fewest problems on the EQ-5D-5L and the most problems on the SF-6D. The mean EQ-5D-5L, PROPr and SF-6D utilities were 0.900, 0.535 and 0.755, respectively. Female gender (PROPr, SF-6D), a lower level of education (EQ-5D-5L, PROPr), being unemployed or a disability pensioner (EQ-5D-5L), being underweight or obese (SF-6D), lack of physical exercise (all) and polypharmacy (all) were associated with significantly lower utilities. PROPr yielded the lowest and EQ-5D-5L the highest mean utilities in 28 of 30 chronic health conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents the first set of Hungarian population norms for the EQ-5D-5L, PROPr and SF-6D. Our findings can serve as reference values in clinical trials and observational studies and contribute to the monitoring of population health and the assessment of disease burden in Hungary.

Finding Pattern in the Noise: Persistent Implicit Statistical Knowledge Impacts the Processing of Unpredictable Stimuli

Humans can extract statistical regularities of the environment to predict upcoming events. Previous research recognized that implicitly acquired statistical knowledge remained persistent and continued to influence behavior even when the regularities were no longer present in the environment. Here, in an fMRI experiment, we investigated how the persistence of statistical knowledge is represented in the brain. Participants (n = 32) completed a visual, four-choice, RT task consisting of statistical regularities. Two types of blocks constantly alternated with one another throughout the task: predictable statistical regularities in one block type and unpredictable ones in the other. Participants were unaware of the statistical regularities and their changing distribution across the blocks. Yet, they acquired the statistical regularities and showed significant statistical knowledge at the behavioral level not only in the predictable blocks but also in the unpredictable ones, albeit to a smaller extent. Brain activity in a range of cortical and subcortical areas, including early visual cortex, the insula, the right inferior frontal gyrus, and the right globus pallidus/putamen contributed to the acquisition of statistical regularities. The right insula, inferior frontal gyrus, and hippocampus as well as the bilateral angular gyrus seemed to play a role in maintaining this statistical knowledge. The results altogether suggest that statistical knowledge could be exploited in a relevant, predictable context as well as transmitted to and retrieved in an irrelevant context without a predictable structure.

Protein glycosylation in lung cancer from a mass spectrometry perspective

Lung cancer is a severe disease for which better diagnostic and therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. Increasing evidence implies that aberrant protein glycosylation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and progression of lung cancer. Differences in glycosylation patterns have been previously observed between healthy and cancerous samples as well as between different lung cancer subtypes, which suggests untapped diagnostic potential. In addition, understanding the changes mediated by glycosylation may shed light on possible novel therapeutic targets and personalized treatment strategies for lung cancer patients. Mass spectrometry based glycomics and glycoproteomics have emerged as powerful tools for in-depth characterization of changes in protein glycosylation, providing valuable insights into the molecular basis of lung cancer. This paper reviews the literature on the analysis of protein glycosylation in lung cancer using mass spectrometry, which is dominated by manuscripts published over the past 5 years. Studies analyzing N-glycosylation, O-glycosylation, and glycosaminoglycan patterns in tissue, serum, plasma, and rare biological samples of lung cancer patients are highlighted. The current knowledge on the potential utility of glycan and glycoprotein biomarkers is also discussed.

Lectin-Based Immunophenotyping and Whole Proteomic Profiling of CT-26 Colon Carcinoma Murine Model

A murine colorectal carcinoma (CRC) model was established. CT26 colon carcinoma cells were injected into BALB/c mice's spleen to study the primary tumor and the mechanisms of cell spread of colon cancer to the liver. The CRC was verified by the immunohistochemistry of Pan Cytokeratin and Vimentin expression. Immunophenotyping of leukocytes isolated from CRC-bearing BALB/c mice or healthy controls, such as CD19+ B cells, CD11+ myeloid cells, and CD3+ T cells, was carried out using fluorochrome-labeled lectins. The binding of six lectins to white blood cells, such as galectin-1 (Gal1), siglec-1 (Sig1), Sambucus nigra lectin (SNA), Aleuria aurantia lectin (AAL), Phytolacca americana lectin (PWM), and galectin-3 (Gal3), was assayed. Flow cytometric analysis of the splenocytes revealed the increased binding of SNA, and AAL to CD3 + T cells and CD11b myeloid cells; and increased siglec-1 and AAL binding to CD19 B cells of the tumor-bearing mice. The whole proteomic analysis of the established CRC-bearing liver and spleen versus healthy tissues identified differentially expressed proteins, characteristic of the primary or secondary CRC tissues. KEGG Gene Ontology bioinformatic analysis delineated the established murine CRC characteristic protein interaction networks, biological pathways, and cellular processes involved in CRC. Galectin-1 and S100A4 were identified as upregulated proteins in the primary and secondary CT26 tumor tissues, and these were previously reported to contribute to the poor prognosis of CRC patients. Modelling the development of liver colonization of CRC by the injection of CT26 cells into the spleen may facilitate the understanding of carcinogenesis in human CRC and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

PARP14 Contributes to the Development of the Tumor-Associated Macrophage Phenotype

Cancers reprogram macrophages (MΦs) to a tumor-growth-promoting TAM (tumor-associated MΦ) phenotype that is similar to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) enzymes regulate various aspects of MΦ biology, but their role in the development of TAM phenotype has not yet been investigated. Here, we show that the multispectral PARP inhibitor (PARPi) PJ34 and the PARP14 specific inhibitor MCD113 suppress the expression of M2 marker genes in IL-4-polarized primary murine MΦs, in THP-1 monocytic human MΦs, and in primary human monocyte-derived MΦs. MΦs isolated from PARP14 knockout mice showed a limited ability to differentiate to M2 cells. In a murine model of TAM polarization (4T1 breast carcinoma cell supernatant transfer to primary MΦs) and in a human TAM model (spheroids formed from JIMT-1 breast carcinoma cells and THP-1-MΦs), both PARPis and the PARP14 KO phenotype caused weaker TAM polarization. Increased JIMT-1 cell apoptosis in co-culture spheroids treated with PARPis suggested reduced functional TAM reprogramming. Protein profiling arrays identified lipocalin-2, macrophage migration inhibitory factor, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 as potential (ADP-ribosyl)ation-dependent mediators of TAM differentiation. Our data suggest that PARP14 inhibition might be a viable anticancer strategy with a potential to boost anticancer immune responses by reprogramming TAMs.

Dogs' social susceptibility is differentially affected by various dog-Human interactions. A study on family dogs, former shelter dogs and therapy dogs

When pre-treated with social stimuli prior to testing, dogs are more susceptible to human influence in a food preference task. This means, after a positive social interaction they are more willing to choose the smaller amount of food indicated by the human, as opposed to their baseline preference for the bigger amount. In the current study we investigate if and how various forms of social interaction modulate choices in the same social susceptibility task, testing dogs with varying early life history (pet dogs, therapy dogs, former shelter dogs). In line with previous studies, dogs in general were found to be susceptible to human influence as reflected in the reduced number of "bigger" choices in the human influence, compared to baseline, trials. This was true not only for pet dogs with a normal life history, but also for dogs adopted from a shelter. Therapy dogs, however, did not uniformly change their preference for the bigger quantity of food in the human influence trials; they only did so if prior to testing they had been pre-treated with social stimuli by their owner (but not by a stranger). Pet dogs were also more influenced after pre-treatment with social stimuli by their owner compared to ignoring and separation; however after pre-treatment by a stranger their behaviour did not differ from ignoring and separation. Former shelter dogs on the other hand were equally influenced regardless of pre-treatment by owner versus stranger. In summary these results show that dogs' social susceptibility is modulated by both interactions immediately preceding the test as well as by long term social experiences.

Quantifying the Suitability of Biosignals Acquired During Surgery for Multimodal Analysis

Goal: Recently, large datasets of biosignals acquired during surgery became available. As they offer multiple physiological signals measured in parallel, multimodal analysis - which involves their joint analysis - can be conducted and could provide deeper insights than unimodal analysis based on a single signal. However, it is unclear what percentage of intraoperatively acquired data is suitable for multimodal analysis. Due to the large amount of data, manual inspection and labelling into suitable and unsuitable segments are not feasible. Nevertheless, multimodal analysis is performed successfully in sleep studies since many years as their signals have proven suitable. Hence, this study evaluates the suitability to perform multimodal analysis on a surgery dataset (VitalDB) using a multi-center sleep dataset (SIESTA) as reference. Methods: We applied widely known algorithms entitled "signal quality indicators" to the common biosignals in both datasets, namely electrocardiography, electroencephalography, and respiratory signals split in segments of 10 s duration. As there are no multimodal methods available, we used only unimodal signal quality indicators. In case, all three signals were determined as being adequate by the indicators, we assumed that the whole signal segment was suitable for multimodal analysis. Results: 82% of SIESTA and 72% of VitalDB are suitable for multimodal analysis. Unsuitable signal segments exhibit constant or physiologically unreasonable values. Histogram examination indicated similar signal quality distributions between the datasets, albeit with potential statistical biases due to different measurement setups. Conclusions: The majority of data within VitalDB is suitable for multimodal analysis.

A synthetic flavonoid derivate in the plasma membrane transforms the voltage-clamp fluorometry signal of CiHv1

Voltage-clamp fluorometry (VCF) enables the study of voltage-sensitive proteins through fluorescent labeling accompanied by ionic current measurements for voltage-gated ion channels. The heterogeneity of the fluorescent signal represents a significant challenge in VCF. The VCF signal depends on where the cysteine mutation is incorporated, making it difficult to compare data among different mutations and different studies and standardize their interpretation. We have recently shown that the VCF signal originates from quenching amino acids in the vicinity of the attached fluorophores, together with the effect of the lipid microenvironment. Based on these, we performed experiments to test the hypothesis that the VCF signal could be altered by amphiphilic quenching molecules in the cell membrane. Here we show that a phenylalanine-conjugated flavonoid (4-oxo-2-phenyl-4H-chromene-7-yl)-phenylalanine, (later Oxophench) has potent effects on the VCF signals of the Ciona intestinalis HV 1 (CiHv1) proton channel. Using spectrofluorimetry, we showed that Oxophench quenches TAMRA (5(6)-carboxytetramethylrhodamine-(methane thiosulfonate)) fluorescence. Moreover, Oxophench reduces the baseline fluorescence in oocytes and incorporates into the cell membrane while reducing the membrane fluidity of HEK293 cells. Our model calculations confirmed that Oxophench, a potent membrane-bound quencher, modifies the VCF signal during conformational changes. These results support our previously published model of VCF signal generation and point out that a change in the VCF signal may not necessarily indicate an altered conformational transition of the investigated protein.

Saturation Transfer Difference NMR and Molecular Docking Interaction Study of Aralkyl-Thiodigalactosides as Potential Inhibitors of the Human-Galectin-3 Protein

Human Galectin-3 (hGal-3) is a protein that selectively binds to β-galactosides and holds diverse roles in both normal and pathological circumstances. Therefore, targeting hGal-3 has become a vibrant area of research in the pharmaceutical chemistry. As a step towards the development of novel hGal-3 inhibitors, we synthesized and investigated derivatives of thiodigalactoside (TDG) modified with different aromatic substituents. Specifically, we describe a high-yielding synthetic route of thiodigalactoside (TDG); an optimized procedure for the synthesis of the novel 3,3'-di-O-(quinoline-2-yl)methyl)-TDG and three other known, symmetric 3,3'-di-O-TDG derivatives ((naphthalene-2yl)methyl, benzyl, (7-methoxy-2H-1-benzopyran-2-on-4-yl)methyl). In the present study, using competition Saturation Transfer Difference (STD) NMR spectroscopy, we determined the dissociation constant (Kd) of the former three TDG derivatives produced to characterize the strength of the interaction with the target protein (hGal-3). Based on the Kd values determined, the (naphthalen-2-yl)methyl, the (quinolin-2-yl)methyl and the benzyl derivatives bind to hGal-3 94, 30 and 24 times more strongly than TDG. Then, we studied the binding modes of the derivatives in silico by molecular docking calculations. Docking poses similar to the canonical binding modes of well-known hGal-3 inhibitors have been found. However, additional binding forces, cation-π interactions between the arginine residues in the binding pocket of the protein and the aromatic groups of the ligands, have been established as significant features. Our results offer a molecular-level understanding of the varying affinities observed among the synthesized thiodigalactoside derivatives, which can be a key aspect in the future development of more effective ligands of hGal-3.

Comparison of Different Vascular Biomarkers for Predicting In-Hospital Mortality in Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Severe SARS-CoV-2 elicits a hyper-inflammatory response that results in intravascular inflammation with endothelial injury, which contributes to increased mortality in COVID-19. To predict the outcome of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, we analyzed the baseline level of different biomarkers of vascular disorders in COVID-19 subjects upon intensive care unit (ICU) admission and prior to any vaccination. A total of 70 severe COVID-19 patients (37 survivors and 33 non-survivors) were included with 16 age- and sex-matched controls. Vascular dysfunction was monitored via soluble VCAM-1, E-selectin, ACE2 and Lp-PLA2, while abnormal platelet activation was evaluated by soluble P-selectin and CD40L in parallel. These results were correlated with routine laboratory parameters and disease outcomes. Among these parameters, VCAM-1 and ACE2 showed significantly higher serum levels in COVID-19 patients with early death vs. convalescent subjects. VCAM-1 was significantly correlated with the Horowitz index (r = 0.3115) and IL-6 (r = 0.4599), while ACE2 was related to E-selectin (r = 0.4143) and CD40L (r = 0.2948). Lp-PLA2 was altered in none of these COVID-19 subcohorts and showed no relationship with the other parameters. Finally, the pre-treatment level of VCAM-1 (≥1420 ng/mL) and ACE2 activity (≥45.2 μU/mL) predicted a larger risk for mortality (Log-Rank p = 0.0031 and p = 0.0117, respectively). Vascular dysfunction with endothelial cell activation is linked to lethal COVID-19, and highly elevated soluble VCAM-1 and ACE2 at admission to ICU may predict unfavorable outcomes.

Persistently High Procalcitonin and C-Reactive Protein Are Good Predictors of Infection in Acute Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Infected necrotizing pancreatitis (INP) is associated with an increased risk of organ failure and mortality. Its early recognition and timely initiation of antibiotic therapy can save patients' lives. We systematically searched three databases on 27 October 2022. In the eligible studies, the presence of infection in necrotizing pancreatitis was confirmed via a reference test, which involved either the identification of gas within the necrotic collection through computed tomography imaging or the examination of collected samples, which yielded positive results in Gram staining or culture. Laboratory biomarkers compared between sterile necrotizing pancreatitis and INP were used as the index test, and our outcome measures included sensitivity, specificity, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the ROC curve (AUC). Within the first 72 hours (h) after admission, the AUC of C-reactive protein (CRP) was 0.69 (confidence interval (CI): 0.62-0.76), for procalcitonin (PCT), it was 0.69 (CI: 0.60-0.78), and for white blood cell count, it was 0.61 (CI: 0.47-0.75). After the first 72 h, the pooled AUC of CRP showed an elevated level of 0.88 (CI: 0.75-1.00), and for PCT, it was 0.86 (CI: 0.60-1.11). The predictive value of CRP and PCT for infection is poor within 72 h after hospital admission but seems good after the first 72 h. Based on these results, infection is likely in case of persistently high CRP and PCT, and antibiotic initiation may be recommended.

Co-Administration of Proton Pump Inhibitors May Negatively Affect the Outcome in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treated with Vedolizumab

Concomitant medications may alter the effect of biological therapy in inflammatory bowel disease. The aim was to investigate the effect of proton pump inhibitors on remission rates in patients with inflammatory bowel disease treated with the gut-selective vedolizumab. Patients from the Hungarian nationwide, multicenter vedolizumab cohort were selected for post hoc analysis. Primary outcomes were the assessment of clinical response and endoscopic and clinical remission at weeks 14 and 54. Secondary outcomes were the evaluation of the combined effect of concomitant steroid therapy and other factors, such as smoking, on remission. A total of 108 patients were identified with proton pump inhibitor data from 240 patients in the original cohort. Patients on steroids without proton pump inhibitors were more likely to have a clinical response at week 14 than patients on concomitant PPI (95% vs. 67%, p = 0.005). Non-smokers with IBD treated with VDZ were more likely to develop a clinical response at week 14 than smokers, particularly those not receiving PPI compared with patients on co-administered PPI therapy (81% vs. 53%, p = 0.041, and 92% vs. 74%, p = 0.029, respectively). We found that the use of PPIs in patients treated with VDZ may impair the achievement of response in certain subgroups. Unnecessary PPI prescriptions should be avoided.

CO2 and H2 Activation on Zinc-Doped Copper Clusters

Here we systematically investigate the CO2 and H2 activation and dissociation on small Cun Zn0/+ (n=3-6) clusters using Density Functional Theory. We show that Cu6 Zn is a superatom, displaying an increased HOMO-LUMO gap and is inert towards CO2 or H2 activation or dissociation. While other neutral clusters weakly activate CO2 , the cationic clusters preferentially bind the CO2 in monodentate nonactivated way. Notably, Cu4 Zn allows for the dissociation of activated CO2 , whereas larger clusters destabilize all activated CO2 binding modes. Conversely, H2 dissociation is favored on all clusters examined, except for Cu6 Zn. Cu3 Zn+ and Cu4 Zn, favor the formation of formate through the H2 dissociation pathway rather than CO2 dissociation. These findings suggest the potential of these clusters as synthetic targets and underscore their significance in the realm of CO2 hydrogenation.

Quantitative Analysis of NKX2-3 Expression in Human Colon: An Immunohistochemical Study

In mice, Nkx2-3 homeodomain transcription factor defines the vascular specification of secondary and tertiary lymphoid tissues of the intestines. In human studies, polymorphisms in NKX2-3 have been identified as a susceptibility factor in inflammatory bowel diseases, whereas in mice, its absence is associated with protection against experimental colitis and enhanced intestinal epithelial proliferation. Here, we investigated the expression of NKX2-3 in normal, polyp, and adenocarcinoma human colon samples using immunohistochemistry and quantitative morphometry, correlating its expression with endothelial and mesenchymal stromal markers. Our results revealed that the expression of NKX2-3 is regionally confined to the lamina propria and lamina muscularis mucosae, and its production is restricted mostly to endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells with variable co-expression of CD34, alpha smooth muscle antigen (αSMA), and vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1). The frequency of NKX2-3-positive cells and intensity of expression correlated inversely with aging. Furthermore, in most colorectal carcinoma samples, we observed a significant reduction of NKX2-3 expression. These findings indicate that the NKX2-3 transcription factor is produced by both endothelial and non-endothelial tissue constituents in the colon, and its expression changes during aging and in colorectal malignancies. (J Histochem Cytochem XX: XXX-XXX, XXXX).

Hungarian population norms for the 15D generic preference-accompanied health status measure

OBJECTIVES

15D is a generic preference-accompanied health status measure covering a wide range of health areas, including sensory functions. The aim of this study was to establish population norms for the 15D instrument in Hungary.

METHODS

2000 members of the Hungarian adult general population participated in an online cross-sectional survey in August 2021. The sample was broadly representative in terms of gender, age groups, highest level of education, geographical region, and settlement type. Index values were derived using the Norwegian 15D value set. In addition to providing population norms, mean index values were computed for 32 physical and 24 mental health condition groups.

RESULTS

Most respondents (78.7%) reported problems in at least one 15D domain. The most problems were reported with sleeping (50.7%), followed by vitality (49.2%), distress (43.6%), discomfort and symptoms (31.2%), depression (31.1%), sexual activities (29.6%), breathing (28.1%), and vision (27.8%). The mean 15D index value was 0.810. With advancing age categories, the 15D index values showed an inverse U-shaped curve. Generally, mean index values in respondents with mental health conditions were lower [range 0.299 (post-traumatic stress disorder) to 0.757 (smoking addiction)] than those of respondents with physical conditions [range 0.557 (liver cirrhosis) to 0.764 (allergies)].

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided 15D population norms of the Hungarian general population; furthermore, this is the first study to provide population norms for the 15D in any country. The values established in this study can serve as benchmarks for evaluating efficacy outcomes in clinical trials, quantifying disease burden and identifying unmet needs.

Content validity of the EQ-5D-5L with skin irritation and self-confidence bolt-ons in patients with atopic dermatitis: a qualitative think-aloud study

OBJECTIVES

Two bolt-on dimensions (skin irritation, self-confidence) have been developed for the EQ-5D-5L to improve its content validity and responsiveness in psoriasis. However, the two bolt-ons are not strictly psoriasis-specific and are potentially relevant in other skin conditions. This study aims to explore the content validity of the EQ-5D-5L with two bolt-ons in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

METHODS

In 2021-2022, qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 adult AD patients at a university dermatology clinic in Hungary. We aimed for a heterogeneous sample in terms of age, gender, education and disease severity. Patients completed the EQ-5D-5L with two bolt-ons using a think-aloud protocol. Probing questions were posed to investigate item relevance, potential conceptual overlaps, missing concepts and the appropriateness of the recall period. Interview transcripts were subjected to thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The EQ-5D-5L with the two bolt-ons covered the most important aspects of health-related quality of life in AD patients. Most patients found both the skin irritation and self-confidence bolt-ons relevant. Fifteen potential missing concepts were identified, but only two (social relationships, judgement by others) were identified by more than one patient. A smaller conceptual overlap was found between the skin irritation and pain/discomfort dimensions in 7 patients (35%). Half the patients expressed a preference for a recall period of 1 week rather than of 'today'.

CONCLUSIONS

The EQ-5D-5L with skin irritation and self-confidence bolt-ons showed good relevance, comprehensiveness and comprehensibility in patients with AD. However, in terms of comprehensiveness, social relationships and judgement by others (stigma) may be missing from the questionnaire.

Discharge protocol in acute pancreatitis: an international survey and cohort analysis

There are several overlapping clinical practice guidelines in acute pancreatitis (AP), however, none of them contains suggestions on patient discharge. The Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group (HPSG) has recently developed a laboratory data and symptom-based discharge protocol which needs to be validated. (1) A survey was conducted involving all members of the International Association of Pancreatology (IAP) to understand the characteristics of international discharge protocols. (2) We investigated the safety and effectiveness of the HPSG-discharge protocol. According to our international survey, 87.5% (49/56) of the centres had no discharge protocol. Patients discharged based on protocols have a significantly shorter median length of hospitalization (LOH) (7 (5;10) days vs. 8 (5;12) days) p < 0.001), and a lower rate of readmission due to recurrent AP episodes (p = 0.005). There was no difference in median discharge CRP level among the international cohorts (p = 0.586). HPSG-protocol resulted in the shortest LOH (6 (5;9) days) and highest median CRP (35.40 (13.78; 68.40) mg/l). Safety was confirmed by the low rate of readmittance (n = 35; 5%). Discharge protocol is necessary in AP. The discharge protocol used in this study is the first clinically proven protocol. Developing and testifying further protocols are needed to better standardize patients' care.

Using intra-breath oscillometry in obesity hypoventilation syndrome to detect tidal expiratory flow limitation: a potential marker to optimize CPAP therapy

BACKGROUND

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has profound effects in obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). Current therapy initiation focuses on upper airway patency rather than the assessment of altered respiratory mechanics due to increased extrapulmonary mechanical load.

METHODS

We aimed to examine the viability of intra-breath oscillometry in optimizing CPAP therapy for OHS. We performed intra-breath oscillometry at 10 Hz in the sitting and supine positions, followed by measurements at increasing CPAP levels (none-5-10-15-20 cmH2O) in awake OHS patients. We plotted intra-breath resistance and reactance (Xrs) values against flow (V') and volume (V) to identify tidal expiratory flow limitation (tEFL).

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients (65.7% male) completed the study. We found a characteristic looping of the Xrs vs V' plot in all patients in the supine position revealing tEFL: Xrs fell with decreasing flow at end-expiration. Intra-breath variables representing expiratory decrease of Xrs became more negative in the supine position [end-expiratory Xrs (mean ± SD): -1.9 ± 1.8 cmH2O·s·L- 1 sitting vs. -4.2 ± 2.2 cmH2O·s·L- 1 supine; difference between end-expiratory and end-inspiratory Xrs: -1.3 ± 1.7 cmH2O·s·L- 1 sitting vs. -3.6 ± 2.0 cmH2O·s·L- 1 supine, p < 0.001]. Increasing CPAP altered expiratory Xrs values and loop areas, suggesting diminished tEFL (p < 0.001). 'Optimal CPAP' value (able to cease tEFL) was 14.8 ± 4.1 cmH2O in our cohort, close to the long-term support average of 13.01(± 2.97) cmH2O but not correlated. We found no correlation between forced spirometry values, patient characteristics, apnea-hypopnea index and intra-breath oscillometry variables.

CONCLUSIONS

tEFL, worsened by the supine position, can be diminished by stepwise CPAP application in most patients. Intra-breath oscillometry is a viable method to detect tEFL during CPAP initiation in OHS patients and tEFL is a possible target for optimizing therapy in OHS patients.

Mannich-type modifications of (-)-cannabidiol and (-)-cannabigerol leading to new, bioactive derivatives

(-)-Cannabidiol (CBD) and (-)-cannabigerol (CBG) are two major non-psychotropic phytocannabinoids that have many beneficial biological properties. However, due to their low water solubility and prominent first-pass metabolism, their oral bioavailability is moderate, which is unfavorable for medicinal use. Therefore, there is a great need for appropriate chemical modifications to improve their physicochemical and biological properties. In this study, Mannich-type reaction was used for the synthetic modification of CBD and CBG for the first time, and thus fifteen new cannabinoid derivatives containing one or two tertiary amino groups were prepared. Thereafter the antiviral, antiproliferative and antibacterial properties of the derivatives and their effects on certain skin cells were investigated. Some modified CBD derivatives showed remarkable antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 without cytotoxic effect, while synthetic modifications on CBG resulted in a significant increase in antiproliferative activity in some cases compared to the parent compound.

On the Rich Chemistry of Pseudo-Protic Ionic Liquid Electrolytes

Mixing weak acids and bases can produce highly complicated binary mixtures, called pseudo-protic ionic liquids, in which a complex network of effects determines the physicochemical properties that are currently impossible to predict. In this joint computational-experimental study, we investigated 1-methylimidazole-acetic acid mixtures through the whole concentration range. Effects of the varying ionization and excess of either components on the properties, such as density, diffusion coefficients, and overall hydrogen bonding structure were uncovered. A special emphasis was put on understanding the multiple factors that govern the conductivity of the system. In the presence of an excess of acetic acid, the 1-methylimidazolium acetate ion pairs dissociate more efficiently, resulting in a higher concentration of independently moving, conducting ions. However, the conductivity measurements showed that higher concentrations of acetic acid improve the conductivity beyond this effect, suggesting in addition to standard dilution effects the occurrence of Grotthuss diffusion in high acid-to-base ratios. The results here will potentially help designing novel electrolytes and proton conducting systems, which can be exploited in a variety of applications.

Efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy for advanced urothelial carcinoma in real-life clinical practice: results of a multicentric, retrospective study

Clinical trials revealed significant antitumor activity for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC). Due to their strict eligibility criteria, clinical trials include selected patient cohorts, and thus do not necessarily represent real-world population outcomes. In this multicentric, retrospective study, we investigated real-world data to assess the effectiveness of pembrolizumab and atezolizumab and to evaluate the prognostic value of routinely available clinicopathological and laboratory parameters. Clinical and follow-up data from mUC patients who received ICIs (01/2017-12/2021) were evaluated. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and duration of response (DOR) were used as endpoints. Patients' (n = 210, n = 76 atezolizumab and 134 pembrolizumab) median OS and PFS were 13.6 and 5.9 months, respectively. Impaired ECOG-PS, the presence of visceral, liver or bone metastases, and hemoglobin levels were independently associated with poor OS and DCR. Furthermore, Bellmunt risk factors and the enhanced Bellmunt-CRP score were shown to be prognostic for OS, PFS and DCR. In conclusion, ICIs are effective treatments for a broad range of mUC patients. Our results confirmed the prognostic value of numerous risk factors and showed that Bellmunt risk scores can further be improved when adding CRP to the model.

Time-trend treatment effect of cardiac resynchronization therapy with or without defibrillator on mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the impact of cardiac resynchronization therapy with a defibrillator (CRT-D) on mortality, comparing it with CRT with a pacemaker (CRT-P). Additionally, the study sought to identify subgroups, evaluate the time trend in treatment effects, and analyze patient characteristics, considering the changing indications over the past decades.

METHODS AND RESULTS

PubMed, CENTRAL, and Embase up to October 2021 were screened for studies comparing CRT-P and CRT-D, focusing on mortality. Altogether 26 observational studies were selected comprising 128 030 CRT patients, including 55 469 with CRT-P and 72 561 with CRT-D device. Cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator was able to reduce all-cause mortality by almost 20% over CRT-P [adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 0.85; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.76-0.94; P < 0.01] even in propensity-matched studies (HR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.80-0.87; P < 0.001) but not in those with non-ischaemic aetiology (HR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.79-1.15; P = 0.19) or over 75 years (HR: 1.08; 95% CI 0.96-1.21; P = 0.17). When treatment effect on mortality was investigated by the median year of inclusion, there was a difference between studies released before 2015 and those thereafter. Time-trend effects could be also observed in patients' characteristics: CRT-P candidates were getting older and the prevalence of ischaemic aetiology was increasing over time.

CONCLUSION

The results of this systematic review of observational studies, mostly retrospective with meta-analysis, suggest that patients with CRT-D had a lower risk of mortality compared with CRT-P. However, subgroups could be identified, where CRT-D was not superior such as non-ischaemic and older patients. An improved treatment effect of CRT-D on mortality could be observed between the early and late studies partly related to the changed characteristics of CRT candidates.

Enhancing ultrafiltration performance for dairy wastewater treatment using a 3D printed turbulence promoter

Dairy factories annually generate an increasing amount of wastewater, which can cause eutrophication due to high concentrations of amino acids and lipids. To address this issue, membrane technology has emerged as a promising solution, but membrane fouling remains a significant challenge, since it can cause decreased flux, decrease membrane rejection performance, and increased energy demand. This study aimed to reduce membrane fouling by integrated a three-dimensional printed (3DP) turbulence promoter into an ultrafiltration dead-end cell and varying stirring speeds. Two mathematical models, Hermia and resistance-in-series, were used to analyze the fouling process. According to both models, the cake layer formation model indicated the most prevalent fouling mechanism. Specific energy demand, permeate flux, membrane rejection, and membrane reversible and irreversible resistances were measured, calculated, and compared. The results suggest that the combination of an integrated 3DP turbulence promoter and high stirring speeds can effectively reduce membrane fouling in a dairy wastewater treatment module.

Maize Production under Drought Stress: Nutrient Supply, Yield Prediction

Maize yield forecasting is important for the organisation of harvesting and storage, for the estimation of the commodity base and for the provision of the country's feed and food demand (export-import). To this end, a field experiment was conducted in dry (2021) and extreme dry (2022) years to track the development of the crop to determine the evolution of the relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) and leaf area index (LAI) for better yield estimation. The obtained results showed that SPAD and LAI decreased significantly under drought stress, and leaf senescence had already started in the early vegetative stage. The amount of top dressing applied at V6 and V12 phenophases did not increase yield due to the low amount of rainfall. The 120 kg N ha-1 base fertiliser proved to be optimal. The suitability of SPAD and LAI for maize yield estimation was modelled by regression analysis. Results showed that the combined SPAD-LAI was suitable for yield prediction, and the correlation was strongest at the VT stage (R2 = 0.762).

Impacts of Plastics on Plant Development: Recent Advances and Future Research Directions

Plastics have inundated the world, with microplastics (MPs) being small particles, less than 5 mm in size, originating from various sources. They pervade ecosystems such as freshwater and marine environments, soils, and the atmosphere. MPs, due to their small size and strong adsorption capacity, pose a threat to plants by inhibiting seed germination, root elongation, and nutrient absorption. The accumulation of MPs induces oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity in plants, which also impacts plant development, mineral nutrition, photosynthesis, toxic accumulation, and metabolite production in plant tissues. Furthermore, roots can absorb nanoplastics (NPs), which are then distributed to stems, leaves, and fruits. As MPs and NPs harm organisms and ecosystems, they raise concerns about physical damage and toxic effects on animals, and the potential impact on human health via food webs. Understanding the environmental fate and effects of MPs is essential, along with strategies to reduce their release and mitigate consequences. However, a full understanding of the effects of different plastics, whether traditional or biodegradable, on plant development is yet to be achieved. This review offers an up-to-date overview of the latest known effects of plastics on plants.

Comprehensive analyses of the occurrence of a fungicide resistance marker and the genetic structure in Erysiphe necator populations

Genetically distinct groups of Erysiphe necator, the fungus causing grapevine powdery mildew infect grapevine in Europe, yet the processes sustaining stable genetic differences between those groups are less understood. Genotyping of over 2000 field samples from six wine regions in Hungary collected between 2017 and 2019 was conducted to reveal E. necator genotypes and their possible differentiation. The demethylase inhibitor (DMI) fungicide resistance marker A495T was detected in all wine regions, in 16% of the samples. Its occurrence differed significantly among wine regions and grape cultivars, and sampling years, but it did not differ between DMI-treated and untreated fields. Multilocus sequence analyses of field samples and 59 in vitro maintained isolates revealed significant genetic differences among populations from distinct wine regions. We identified 14 E. necator genotypes, of which eight were previously unknown. In contrast to the previous concept of A and B groups, European E. necator populations should be considered genetically more complex. Isolation by geographic distance, growing season, and host variety influence the genetic structuring of E. necator, which should be considered both during diagnoses and when effective treatments are planned.

Dog brains are sensitive to infant- and dog-directed prosody

When addressing preverbal infants and family dogs, people tend to use specific speech styles. While recent studies suggest acoustic parallels between infant- and dog-directed speech, it is unclear whether dogs, like infants, show enhanced neural sensitivity to prosodic aspects of speech directed to them. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging on awake unrestrained dogs we identify two non-primary auditory regions, one that involve the ventralmost part of the left caudal Sylvian gyrus and the temporal pole and the other at the transition of the left caudal and rostral Sylvian gyrus, which respond more to naturalistic dog- and/or infant-directed speech than to adult-directed speech, especially when speak by female speakers. This activity increase is driven by sensitivity to fundamental frequency mean and variance resulting in positive modulatory effects of these acoustic parameters in both aforementioned non-primary auditory regions. These findings show that the dog auditory cortex, similarly to that of human infants, is sensitive to the acoustic properties of speech directed to non-speaking partners. This increased neuronal responsiveness to exaggerated prosody may be one reason why dogs outperform other animals when processing speech.

Intact predictive processing in autistic adults: evidence from statistical learning

Impairment in predictive processes gained a lot of attention in recent years as an explanation for autistic symptoms. However, empirical evidence does not always underpin this framework. Thus, it is unclear what aspects of predictive processing are affected in autism spectrum disorder. In this study, we tested autistic adults on a task in which participants acquire probability-based regularities (that is, a statistical learning task). Twenty neurotypical and 22 autistic adults learned a probabilistic, temporally distributed regularity for about 40 min. Using frequentist and Bayesian methods, we found that autistic adults performed comparably to neurotypical adults, and the dynamics of learning did not differ between groups either. Thus, our study provides evidence for intact statistical learning in autistic adults. Furthermore, we discuss potential ways this result can extend the scope of the predictive processing framework, noting that atypical processing might not always mean a deficit in performance.

Introduction of an Ultraviolet C-Irradiated 4T1 Murine Breast Cancer Whole-Cell Vaccine Model

The advent of immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatments. However, the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors may entail severe side effects, with the risk of therapeutic resistance. The generation of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells or CAR-NK cells requires specialized molecular laboratories, is costly, and is difficult to adapt to the rapidly growing number of cancer patients. To provide a simpler but effective immune therapy, a whole-cell tumor vaccine protocol was established based on ultraviolet C (UCV)-irradiated 4T1 triple-negative breast cancer cells. The apoptosis of tumor cells after UVC irradiation was verified using resazurin and Annexin V/propidium iodide flow cytometric assays. Protective immunity was achieved in immunized BALB/c mice, showing partial remission. Adoptive transfer of splenocytes or plasma from the mice in remission showed a protective effect in the naive BALB/c mice that received a living 4T1 tumor cell injection. 4T1-specific IgG antibodies were recorded in the plasma of the mice following immunization with the whole-cell vaccine. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and oligonucleotide 2006 (ODN2006) adjuvants were used for the transfer of splenocytes from C57BL/6 mice into cyclophosphamide-treated BALB/c mice, resulting in prolonged survival, reduced tumor growth, and remission in 33% of the cases, without the development of the graft-versus-host disease. Our approach offers a simple, cost-effective whole-cell vaccine protocol that can be administered to immunocompetent healthy organisms. The plasma or the adoptive transfer of HLA-matching immunized donor-derived leukocytes could be used as an immune cell therapy for cancer patients.

Position-dependent sequence motif preferences of SpCas9 are largely determined by scaffold-complementary spacer motifs

Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) nuclease exhibits considerable position-dependent sequence preferences. The reason behind these preferences is not well understood and is difficult to rationalise, since the protein establishes interactions with the target-spacer duplex in a sequence-independent manner. We revealed here that intramolecular interactions within the single guide RNA (sgRNA), between the spacer and the scaffold, cause most of these preferences. By using in cellulo and in vitro SpCas9 activity assays with systematically designed spacer and scaffold sequences and by analysing activity data from a large SpCas9 sequence library, we show that some long (>8 nucleotides) spacer motifs, that are complementary to the RAR unit of the scaffold, interfere with sgRNA loading, and that some motifs of more than 4 nucleotides, that are complementary to the SL1 unit, inhibit DNA binding and cleavage. Furthermore, we show that intramolecular interactions are present in the majority of the inactive sgRNA sequences of the library, suggesting that they are the most important intrinsic determinants of the activity of the SpCas9 ribonucleoprotein complex. We also found that in pegRNAs, sequences at the 3' extension of the sgRNA that are complementary to the SL2 unit are also inhibitory to prime editing, but not to the nuclease activity of SpCas9.

Interaction of Fumonisin B1, N-Palmitoyl-Fumonisin B1, 5-O-Palmitoyl-Fumonisin B1, and Fumonisin B4 Mycotoxins with Human Serum Albumin and Their Toxic Impacts on Zebrafish Embryos

Fumonisins are frequent food contaminants. The high exposure to fumonisins can cause harmful effects in humans and animals. Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is the most typical member of this group; however, the occurrence of several other derivatives has been reported. Acylated metabolites of FB1 have also been described as possible food contaminants, and the very limited data available suggest their significantly higher toxicity compared to FB1. Furthermore, the physicochemical and toxicokinetic properties (e.g., albumin binding) of acyl-FB1 derivatives may show large differences compared to the parent mycotoxin. Therefore, we tested the interactions of FB1, N-palmitoyl-FB1 (N-pal-FB1), 5-O-palmitoyl-FB1 (5-O-pal-FB1), and fumonisin B4 (FB4) with human serum albumin as well as the toxic effects of these mycotoxins on zebrafish embryos were examined. Based on our results, the most important observations and conclusions are the following: (1) FB1 and FB4 bind to albumin with low affinity, while palmitoyl-FB1 derivatives form highly stable complexes with the protein. (2) N-pal-FB1 and 5-O-pal-FB1 likely occupy more high-affinity binding sites on albumin. (3) Among the mycotoxins tested, N-pal-FB1 showed the most toxic effects on zebrafish, followed by 5-O-pal-FB1, FB4, and FB1. (4) Our study provides the first in vivo toxicity data regarding N-pal-FB1, 5-O-pal-FB1, and FB4.

Comprehensive Analysis of the Prognostic Value of Circulating MMP-7 Levels in Urothelial Carcinoma: A Combined Cohort Analysis, Systematic Review, and Meta-Analysis

Lymph node (LN) status is the most significant prognostic factor for invasive urothelial bladder cancer (UBC); however, the optimal extent of LN dissection (LND) is debated. We assessed circulating matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) as a prognostic factor and decision-making marker for the extent of LND. Preoperative serum MMP-7 levels were determined in two independent UBC cohorts (n = 188; n = 68) and in one control cohort (n = 97) by using the ELISA method. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the prognostic role of circulating pretreatment MMP-7 levels were performed. Serum MMP-7 levels were higher in patients compared to controls (p < 0.001) with the highest levels in LN-positive cases. Half of LN-positive UBC patients had low MMP-7 levels, whereas the survival of LN-negative patients with high serum MMP-7 findings was poor. MMP-7 levels were independently associated with poor survival in both cohorts (p = 0.006, p < 0.001). Accordingly, our systematic review of six eligible publications revealed a 2.5-fold higher mortality risk in patients with high MMP-7 levels. In conclusion, preoperative MMP-7 level is a validated and independent prognostic factor in urothelial cancer. It cannot be used to decide between regional or extended LND but may be useful in identifying LN-negative high-risk patients with potentially undetected metastases.

Cytokine profile of the epidermis is region specific and may determine the characteristics of inflammation

Recent data indicate that distinct skin areas show different microbial/chemical milieu. Keratinocytes (KC) respond to these stimuli by producing cytokine mediators. Therefore, we aimed to determine KC-derived cytokine expression in distinct healthy skin regions (gland-poor [GP], sebaceous gland-rich [SGR] and apocrine gland-rich [AGR]), and their changes in skin diseases of the given regions (atopic dermatitis [AD], papulopustular rosacea [PPR] and psoriasis). Cytokines were analysed at the mRNA and protein levels, and literature analysis was performed for functional categorization. The three regions showed characteristically different cytokine patterns. GP was featured by an IL-25/IL-33/IL-36RA/IL-38/IL-18 cytokine milieu, SGR was characterized by IL-23/IL-17C/IL-18, and AGR skin exhibited a mixed IL-25/IL-33/IL-23/IL-18 profile. Literature analyses revealed different homeostatic and proinflammatory roles of these cytokine patterns (Th2 related in GP, Th17 related in SGR and mixed Th2/Th17 in AGR). In skin diseases which are primarily epidermal cytokine-driven (AD, PPR), the level of the regionally characteristic cytokines were further elevated, in contrast to the autoantigen-driven psoriasis, where the cytokine pattern was independent from the localization. Healthy skin regions are equipped with different KC-derived cytokine profiles, which may influence each region's capability of mediator production in certain types of dermatoses.

Hungarian Linguistic, Cross-Cultural and Age Adaptation of Transition Specific Questionnaires in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Objective: In the TRANS-IBD clinical trial, the outcomes are measured with selected validated questionnaires. Cross-cultural and age adaptations of the Self-Efficacy Scale for adolescents and young adults (IBD-SES), the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ), and the Self-Management and Transition Readiness Questionnaire (STARx) were performed. Methods: Linguistic and cultural adaptation was carried out with the usage of reliability coefficients (Cronbach's α coefficients, Spearman's rank correlation), and with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; root Mean Square Error of Approximation [RMSEA], Comparative Fit Index [CFI], and Tucker-Lewis Index [TLI]). Results: 112 adolescents participated in the study (45.5% male, mean age 17 ± 1.98 years). CFA was acceptable in the IBD-SES and the TRAQ. Internal consistency was acceptable in IBD-SES and good in TRAQ (0.729; 0.865, respectively). Test-retest reliability was good in IBD-SES, but below the acceptable threshold in TRAQ (ρ = 0.819; ρ = 0.034). In STARx tools, RMSEA showed poor fit values, CFI and TLI were below acceptable fit values, and internal consistency was not satisfied (0.415; 0.693, respectively), while test-retest reliabilities were acceptable (ρ = 0.787; ρ = 0.788, respectively). Conclusions: Cross-cultural, age-specific adaptation was successfully completed with IBD-SES and TRAQ. Those are comparable to the original validated versions. The adaption of the STARx tools was not successful.

Tilorone increases glucose uptake in vivo and in skeletal muscle cells by enhancing Akt2/AS160 signaling and glucose transporter levels

Skeletal muscle plays a major role in whole-body glucose metabolism. Insulin resistance in skeletal muscle is characterized by decreased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake resulting from impaired intracellular trafficking and decreased glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) expression. In this study, we illustrated that tilorone, a low-molecular-weight antiviral agent, improves glucose uptake in vitro and in vivo. Tilorone increased bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling in C2C12 myoblasts, the transcription of multiple BMPs (BMP2, BMP4, BMP7, and BMP14), Smad4 expression, and the phosphorylation of BMP-mediated Smad1/5/8. The activation of Akt2/AS160 (TBC1D4) signaling, the critical regulator of GLUT4 translocation, was also increased, as well as the levels of GLUT4 and GLUT1, leading to enhanced uptake of the radioactively labeled glucose analog ¹⁸ F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (¹⁸ FDG). However, this excess glucose content did not result in increased ATP formation by mitochondrial respiration; both basal and ATP-linked respiration were diminished, thereby contributing to the induction of AMPK. In differentiated myotubes, AS160 phosphorylation and ¹⁸ FDG uptake also increased. Moreover, tilorone administration further increased insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of Akt2 and glucose uptake of myotubes indicating an insulin-sensitizing effect. Importantly, during in vivo experiments, the systemic administration of tilorone resulted in increased ¹⁸ FDG uptake of skeletal muscle, liver, and adipose tissue in C57BL/6 mice. Our results provide new perspectives for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, which has a limited number of treatments that regulate protein expression or translocation.

Predictive value of molecular subtypes and APOBEC3G for adjuvant chemotherapy in urothelial bladder cancer

OBJECTIVE

Although targeted approaches have become available in second- and third-line settings, platinum-based chemotherapy remains the standard first-line treatment for advanced muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Therefore, the prediction of platinum resistance is of utmost clinical importance.

METHODS

In this study, we established a routine compatible method for the molecular classification of MIBC samples according to various classification systems and applied this method to evaluate the impact of subtypes on survival after adjuvant chemotherapy. This retrospective study included 191 patients with advanced MIBC (pT≥3 or pN+) who underwent radical cystectomy, with or without adjuvant chemotherapy. A 48-gene panel and classifier rule set were established to determine molecular subtypes according to TCGA, MDA, LundTax, and Consensus classifications. Additionally, 12 single platinum-predictive candidate genes were assessed. The results were correlated with patients' clinicopathological and follow-up data and were validated using independent data sets.

RESULTS

Our final evaluation of 159 patients demonstrated better survival in the luminal groups for those who received chemotherapy compared with those who did not. In contrast, no such differences were observed in basal subtypes. The use of chemotherapy was associated with better survival in patients with high APOBEC3G expression (p < 0.002). This association was confirmed using an independent data set of patients who received neoadjuvant platinum therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed method robustly replicates the most commonly used transcriptome-based subtype classifications from paraffin-embedded tissue samples. The luminal, but not basal, molecular subtypes had the greatest benefit from adjuvant platinum therapy. We identified and validated APOBEC3G as a novel predictive marker for platinum-treated patients.

Owner-rated hyperactivity/impulsivity is associated with sleep efficiency in family dogs: a non-invasive EEG study

Subjective sleep disturbances are reported by humans with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, no consistent objective findings related to sleep disturbances led to the removal of sleep problems from ADHD diagnostic criteria. Dogs have been used as a model for human ADHD with questionnaires validated for this purpose. Also, their sleep physiology can be measured by non-invasive methods similarly to humans. In the current study, we recorded spontaneous sleep EEG in family dogs during a laboratory session. We analyzed the association of sleep macrostructure and deep sleep (NREM) slow-wave activity (SWA) with a validated owner-rated ADHD questionnaire, assessing inattention (IA), hyperactivity/impulsivity (H/I) and total (T) scores. Higher H/I and T were associated with lower sleep efficiency and longer time awake after initial drowsiness and NREM. IA showed no associations with sleep variables. Further, no association was found between ADHD scores and SWA. Our results are in line with human studies in which poor sleep quality reported by ADHD subjects is associated with some objective EEG macrostructural parameters. This suggests that natural variation in dogs' H/I is useful to gain a deeper insight of ADHD neural mechanisms.

Gender role attitudes and father practices as predictors of nonresident father-child contact

Due to an increasing number of parental union dissolutions, a growing number of fathers does not cohabit with their biological children. This article analyses individual and societal gender role attitudes as well as societal father practices as determinants of nonresident father-child contact. Previous research shows that individual-level factors influence the relationship between nonresident fathers and their children. Research on resident fathers indicates that individual attitudes and societal contexts affect father-child involvement. Little is known on the relationship between individual gender role attitudes as well as societal gender role attitudes and father practices and nonresident fathers’ involvement in their children’s lives. To shed more light thereon, we examine data from eleven Eastern and Western European countries from the first wave of the Gender and Generations Survey. We analyze two samples: One consisting of nonresident fathers of children aged 0 to 13 and one of fathers of adolescents aged 14 to 17. Logistic regression models assess if individual and societal gender role attitudes as well as societal father practices predict the probability of monthly father-child contact. Contact between nonresident fathers is affected by different factors depending on whether the focus is on children or adolescents. Societal gender role attitudes and societal father practices predict the probability of monthly contact between fathers and their children; individual gender role attitudes are less important. Individual gender role attitudes, on the other hand, predict the probability of monthly contact between nonresident fathers and their adolescent children; societal factors matter less for this age group.

Nonregistration, discontinuation, and nonpublication of randomized trials: A repeated metaresearch analysis

BACKGROUND

We previously found that 25% of 1,017 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) approved between 2000 and 2003 were discontinued prematurely, and 44% remained unpublished at a median of 12 years follow-up. We aimed to assess a decade later (1) whether rates of completion and publication have increased; (2) the extent to which nonpublished RCTs can be identified in trial registries; and (3) the association between reporting quality of protocols and premature discontinuation or nonpublication of RCTs.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We included 326 RCT protocols approved in 2012 by research ethics committees in Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada in this metaresearch study. Pilot, feasibility, and phase 1 studies were excluded. We extracted trial characteristics from each study protocol and systematically searched for corresponding trial registration (if not reported in the protocol) and full text publications until February 2022. For trial registrations, we searched the (i) World Health Organization: International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (ICTRP); (ii) US National Library of Medicine (ClinicalTrials.gov); (iii) European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Database (EUCTR); (iv) ISRCTN registry; and (v) Google. For full text publications, we searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. We recorded whether RCTs were registered, discontinued (including reason for discontinuation), and published. The reporting quality of RCT protocols was assessed with the 33-item SPIRIT checklist. We used multivariable logistic regression to examine the association between the independent variables protocol reporting quality, planned sample size, type of control (placebo versus other), reporting of any recruitment projection, single-center versus multicenter trials, and industry versus investigator sponsoring, with the 2 dependent variables: (1) publication of RCT results; and (2) trial discontinuation due to poor recruitment. Of the 326 included trials, 19 (6%) were unregistered. Ninety-eight trials (30%) were discontinued prematurely, most often due to poor recruitment (37%; 36/98). One in 5 trials (21%; 70/326) remained unpublished at 10 years follow-up, and 21% of unpublished trials (15/70) were unregistered. Twenty-three of 147 investigator-sponsored trials (16%) reported their results in a trial registry in contrast to 150 of 179 industry-sponsored trials (84%). The median proportion of reported SPIRIT items in included RCT protocols was 69% (interquartile range 61% to 77%). We found no variables associated with trial discontinuation; however, lower reporting quality of trial protocols was associated with nonpublication (odds ratio, 0.71 for each 10% increment in the proportion of SPIRIT items met; 95% confidence interval, 0.55 to 0.92; p = 0.009). Study limitations include that the moderate sample size may have limited the ability of our regression models to identify significant associations.

CONCLUSIONS

We have observed that rates of premature trial discontinuation have not changed in the past decade. Nonpublication of RCTs has declined but remains common; 21% of unpublished trials could not be identified in registries. Only 16% of investigator-sponsored trials reported results in a trial registry. Higher reporting quality of RCT protocols was associated with publication of results. Further efforts from all stakeholders are needed to improve efficiency and transparency of clinical research.

77Se-Enriched Selenoglycoside Enables Significant Enhancement in NMR Spectroscopic Monitoring of Glycan-Protein Interactions

Detailed investigation of ligand-protein interactions is essential for better understanding of biological processes at the molecular level. Among these binding interactions, the recognition of glycans by lectins is of particular importance in several diseases, such as cancer; therefore, inhibition of glycan-lectin/galectin interactions represents a promising perspective towards developing therapeutics controlling cancer development. The recent introduction of 77Se NMR spectroscopy for monitoring the binding of a selenoglycoside to galectins prompted interest to optimize the sensitivity by increasing the 77Se content from the natural 7.63% abundance to 99%. Here, we report a convenient synthesis of 77Se-enriched selenodigalactoside (SeDG), which is a potent ligand of the medically relevant human galectin-3 protein, and proof of the expected sensitivity gain in 2D 1H, 77Se correlation NMR experiments. Our work opens perspectives for adding isotopically enriched selenoglycans for rapid monitoring of lectin-binding of selenated as well as non-selenated ligands and for ligand screening in competition experiments.

The NKCC1 ion transporter modulates microglial phenotype and inflammatory response to brain injury in a cell-autonomous manner

The NKCC1 ion transporter contributes to the pathophysiology of common neurological disorders, but its function in microglia, the main inflammatory cells of the brain, has remained unclear to date. Therefore, we generated a novel transgenic mouse line in which microglial NKCC1 was deleted. We show that microglial NKCC1 shapes both baseline and reactive microglia morphology, process recruitment to the site of injury, and adaptation to changes in cellular volume in a cell-autonomous manner via regulating membrane conductance. In addition, microglial NKCC1 deficiency results in NLRP3 inflammasome priming and increased production of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), rendering microglia prone to exaggerated inflammatory responses. In line with this, central (intracortical) administration of the NKCC1 blocker, bumetanide, potentiated intracortical lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokine levels. In contrast, systemic bumetanide application decreased inflammation in the brain. Microglial NKCC1 KO animals exposed to experimental stroke showed significantly increased brain injury, inflammation, cerebral edema and worse neurological outcome. Thus, NKCC1 emerges as an important player in controlling microglial ion homeostasis and inflammatory responses through which microglia modulate brain injury. The contribution of microglia to central NKCC1 actions is likely to be relevant for common neurological disorders.

Peptide Inhibitors of Kv1.5: An Option for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation

The human voltage gated potassium channel Kv1.5 that conducts the IKur current is a key determinant of the atrial action potential. Its mutations have been linked to hereditary forms of atrial fibrillation (AF), and the channel is an attractive target for the management of AF. The development of IKur blockers to treat AF resulted in small molecule Kv1.5 inhibitors. The selectivity of the blocker for the target channel plays an important role in the potential therapeutic application of the drug candidate: the higher the selectivity, the lower the risk of side effects. In this respect, small molecule inhibitors of Kv1.5 are compromised due to their limited selectivity. A wide range of peptide toxins from venomous animals are targeting ion channels, including mammalian channels. These peptides usually have a much larger interacting surface with the ion channel compared to small molecule inhibitors and thus, generally confer higher selectivity to the peptide blockers. We found two peptides in the literature, which inhibited IKur: Ts6 and Osu1. Their affinity and selectivity for Kv1.5 can be improved by rational drug design in which their amino acid sequences could be modified in a targeted way guided by in silico docking experiments.

The fungus Kalmusia longispora is able to cause vascular necrosis on Vitis vinifera

Fungal diseases in agronomically important plants such as grapevines result in significantly reduced production, pecuniary losses, and increased use of environmentally damaging chemicals. Beside the well-known diseases, there is an increased interest in wood-colonizing fungal pathogens that infect the woody tissues of grapevines. In 2015, a traditional isolation method was performed on grapevine trunks showing symptoms of trunk diseases in Hungary. One isolate (T15142) was identified as Kalmusia longispora (formerly Dendrothyrium longisporum) according to morphological and phylogenetic analyses. To evaluate the pathogenicity of this fungus on grapevines, artificial infections were carried out under greenhouse and field conditions, including the CBS 824.84 and ex-type CBS 582.83 strains. All isolates could be re-isolated from inoculated plants; however, varying virulence was observed among them in terms of the vascular necrosis caused. The incidence and severity of this symptom seemed to be congruent with the laccase-producing capabilities of the isolates. This is the first report on the ability of Kalmusia longispora to cause symptoms on grapevines, and on its possible dependence on laccase secretion.

Interhemispheric asymmetry during NREM sleep in the dog

Functional hemispheric asymmetry was evidenced in many species during sleep. Dogs seem to show hemispheric asymmetry during wakefulness; however, their asymmetric neural activity during sleep was not yet explored. The present study investigated interhemispheric asymmetry in family dogs using non-invasive polysomnography. EEG recordings during 3-h-long afternoon naps were carried out (N = 19) on two occasions at the same location. Hemispheric asymmetry was assessed during NREM sleep, using bilateral EEG channels. To include periods with high homeostatic sleep pressure and to reduce the variance of the time spent in NREM sleep between dogs, the first two sleep cycles were analysed. Left hemispheric predominance of slow frequency range was detected in the first sleep cycle of sleep recording 1, compared to the baseline level of zero asymmetry as well as to the first sleep cycle of sleep recording 2. Regarding the strength of hemispheric asymmetry, we found greater absolute hemispheric asymmetry in the second sleep cycle of sleep recording 1 and 2 in the frequency ranges of alpha, sigma and beta, compared to the first sleep cycle. Differences between sleep recordings and consecutive sleep cycles might be indicative of adaptation-like processes, but do not closely resemble the results described in humans.

Single Isomer N-Heterocyclic Cyclodextrin Derivatives as Chiral Selectors in Capillary Electrophoresis

In order to better understand the chiral recognition mechanisms of positively charged cyclodextrin (CD) derivatives, the synthesis, the pKa determination by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-pH titration and a comparative chiral capillary electrophoretic (CE) study were performed with two series of mono-substituted cationic single isomer CDs. The first series of selectors were mono-(6-N-pyrrolidine-6-deoxy)-β-CD (PYR-β-CD), mono-(6-N-piperidine-6-deoxy)-β-CD (PIP-β-CD), mono-(6-N-morpholine-6-deoxy)-β-CD (MO-β-CD) and mono-(6-N-piperazine-6-deoxy)-β-CD (PIPA-β-CD), carrying a pH-adjustable moiety at the narrower rim of the cavity, while the second set represented by their quaternarized, permanently cationic counterparts: mono-(6-N-(N-methyl-pyrrolidine)-6-deoxy)-β-CD (MePYR-β-CD), mono-(6-N-(N-methyl-piperidine)-6-deoxy)-β-CD (MePIP-β-CD), mono-(6-N-(N-methyl-morpholine)-6-deoxy)-β-CD (MeMO-β-CD) and mono-(6-N-(4,4-N,N-dimethyl-piperazine)-β-CD (diMePIPA-β-CD). Based on pH-dependent and selector concentration-dependent comparative studies of these single isomer N-heterocyclic CDs presented herein, it can be concluded that all CDs could successfully be applied as chiral selectors for the enantiodiscrimination of several negatively charged and zwitterionic model racemates. The substituent-dependent enantiomer migration order reversal of dansylated-valine using PIP-β-CD contrary to PYP-β-CD, MO-β-CD and PIPA-β-CD was also studied by 1H- and 2D ROESY NMR experiments.

Silica@zirconia Core@shell Nanoparticles for Nucleic Acid Building Block Sorption

The development of delivery systems for the immobilization of nucleic acid cargo molecules is of prime importance due to the need for safe administration of DNA or RNA type of antigens and adjuvants in vaccines. Nanoparticles (NP) in the size range of 20-200 nm have attractive properties as vaccine carriers because they achieve passive targeting of immune cells and can enhance the immune response of a weakly immunogenic antigen via their size. We prepared high capacity 50 nm diameter silica@zirconia NPs with monoclinic/cubic zirconia shell by a green, cheap and up-scalable sol-gel method. We studied the behavior of the particles upon water dialysis and found that the ageing of the zirconia shell is a major determinant of the colloidal stability after transfer into the water due to physisorption of the zirconia starting material on the surface. We determined the optimum conditions for adsorption of DNA building blocks, deoxynucleoside monophosphates (dNMP), the colloidal stability of the resulting NPs and its time dependence. The ligand adsorption was favored by acidic pH, while colloidal stability required neutral-alkaline pH; thus, the optimal pH for the preparation of nucleic acid-modified particles is between 7.0-7.5. The developed silica@zirconia NPs bind as high as 207 mg dNMPs on 1 g of nanocarrier at neutral-physiological pH while maintaining good colloidal stability. We studied the influence of biological buffers and found that while phosphate buffers decrease the loading dramatically, other commonly used buffers, such as HEPES, are compatible with the nanoplatform. We propose the prepared silica@zirconia NPs as promising carriers for nucleic acid-type drug cargos.

Impaired cytoplasmic domain interactions cause co-assembly defect and loss of function in the p.Glu293Lys KNCJ2 variant isolated from an Andersen-Tawil syndrome patient

AIMS

Subunit interactions at the cytoplasmic domain interface (CD-I) have recently been shown to control gating in inward rectifier potassium channels. Here we report the novel KCNJ2 variant p.Glu293Lys that has been found in a patient with Andersen-Tawil syndrome type 1 (ATS1), causing amino acid substitution at the CD-I of the inward rectifier potassium channel subunit Kir2.1. Neither has the role of Glu293 in gating control been investigated nor has a pathogenic variant been described at this position. This study aimed to assess the involvement of Glu293 in CD-I subunit interactions and to establish the pathogenic role of the p.Glu293Lys variant in ATS1.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The p.Glu293Lys variant produced no current in homomeric form and showed dominant-negative effect over wild-type (WT) subunits. Immunocytochemical labelling showed the p.Glu293Lys subunits to distribute in the subsarcolemmal space. Salt bridge prediction indicated the presence of an intersubunit salt bridge network at the CD-I of Kir2.1, with the involvement of Glu293. Subunit interactions were studied by the NanoLuc® Binary Technology (NanoBiT) split reporter assay. Reporter constructs carrying NanoBiT tags on the intracellular termini produced no bioluminescent signal above background with the p.Glu293Lys variant in homomeric configuration and significantly reduced signals in cells co-expressing WT and p.Glu293Lys subunits simultaneously. Extracellularly presented reporter tags, however, generated comparable bioluminescent signals with heteromeric WT and p.Glu293Lys subunits and with homomeric WT channels.

CONCLUSIONS

Loss of function and dominant-negative effect confirm the causative role of p.Glu293Lys in ATS1. Co-assembly of Kir2.1 subunits is impaired in homomeric channels consisting of p.Glu293Lys subunits and is partially rescued in heteromeric complexes of WT and p.Glu293Lys Kir2.1 variants. These data point to an important role of Glu293 in mediating subunit assembly, as well as in gating of Kir2.1 channels.