Distinct effects of intravenous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy on ischemic and non-ischemic lungs after ischemia-reperfusion injury.

BACKGROUND: The preclinical efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy after intravenous infusion has been promising, but clinical studies have yielded only modest results. Although most preclinical studies have focused solely on the ischemic lung, it is crucial to evaluate both lungs after ischemia-reperfusion injury, considering the various mechanisms involved. This study aimed to bridge this gap by assessing the acute effects of bone marrow MSC(BM) infusion before ischemic insult and evaluating both ischemic and non-ischemic lungs after reperfusion. METHODS: Eighteen male Wistar rats (403 ± 23 g) were anesthetized and mechanically ventilated using a protective strategy. After baseline data collection, the animals were randomized to 3 groups (n = 6/group): (1) SHAM; (2) ischemia-reperfusion (IR), and (3) intravenous MSC(BM) infusion followed by IR. Ischemia was induced by complete clamping of the left hilum, followed by 1 h of reperfusion after clamp removal. At the end of the experiment, the right and left lungs (non-ischemic and ischemic, respectively) were collected for immunohistochemistry and molecular biology analysis. RESULTS: MSC(BM)s reduced endothelial cell damage and apoptosis markers and improved markers associated with endothelial cell integrity in both lungs. In addition, gene expression of catalase and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 increased after MSC(BM) therapy. In the ischemic lung, MSC(BM) therapy mitigated endothelial cell damage and apoptosis and increased gene expression associated with endothelial cell integrity. Conversely, in the non-ischemic lung, apoptosis gene expression increased in the IR group but not after MSC(BM) therapy. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates distinct effects of MSC(BM) therapy on ischemic and non-ischemic lungs after ischemia-reperfusion injury. The findings underscore the importance of evaluating both lung types in ischemia-reperfusion studies, offering insights into the therapeutic potential of MSC(BM) therapy in the context of lung injury.

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF POSTTRAUMATIC ANKLE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A MULTICENTER PERSPECTIVE.

Besides the acute injury and trauma-induced macroscopic alterations, the evolution to posttraumatic ankle osteoarthritis (PTOA) is a complex process progressing at the tissue and molecular level. Furthermore, changes in the molecular pathways affect chondrocyte viability. Treatment modalities for PTOA focal or confined disease include innovative techniques. OBJECTIVE: Our purpose is to increase medical awareness based on scientific evidence of pathophysiology, molecular biology, and treatment of post-traumatic ankle osteoarthritis. METHODS: To support the perspectives of the experts, evidence from the scientific literature respected the PRISMA guidelines and the PICOS search strategy was used. We included case-control, cohort, experimental studies and case reports, written in English. RESULTS: The authors were homogeneously exposed to 282 selected abstracts and 114 full articles directly related to post-traumatic osteoarthritis after malleolar fractures. CONCLUSION: The pathophysiological factors involved in posttraumatic ankle osteoarthritis, such as biological, structural, mechanical, and molecular changes must be studied together, as the interaction between these factors determines the risk of progression of PTOA. Inhibition of a single catabolic molecule or cascade probably is not sufficient to alter the natural progression of the pathological process. Evidence level V, expert opinion.

A evolução para a osteoartrite pós-traumática do tornozelo (PTOA) a partir da lesão aguda e das alterações macroscópicas induzidas pelo trauma é um processo complexo, que progride em nível tecidual e molecular. Além disso, as alterações nas vias moleculares afetam a viabilidade dos condrócitos. As modalidades focais ou confinadas de tratamento para PTOA incluem técnicas inovadoras. Objetivo: Nosso objetivo é aumentar a conscientização médica, com base em evidências científicas de fisiopatologia, biologia molecular e tratamento da osteoartrite pós-traumática do tornozelo. Métodos: Para o embasamento das perspectivas dos autores experts, as evidências da literatura científica respeitaram as diretrizes Prisma e a estratégia de busca Picos foi empregada. Incluímos estudos de caso-controle, de coorte, experimentais e relatos de caso, escritos em inglês. Resultados: Os autores foram expostos de forma homogênea a 282 resumos e 114 artigos completos, diretamente relacionados à osteoartrite pós-traumática após fraturas maleolares. Conclusão: Os fatores fisiopatológicos envolvidos na osteoartrite pós-traumática do tornozelo, como alterações biológicas, estruturais, mecânicas e moleculares, devem ser estudados em conjunto, pois a interação entre esses fatores determina o risco de progressão da PTOA. A inibição de uma única molécula catabólica ou cascata provavelmente não é suficiente para alterar a progressão natural do processo patológico. Nível de evidência V, opinião do especialista.

Colombian consensus for the molecular diagnosis of endometrial cancer / Consenso colombiano para el diagnóstico molecular del cáncer de endometrio.

Objective: The Cancer Genome Atlas research program (TCGA) developed the molecular classification for endometrial cancer with prognostic and therapeutic utility, which was replaced by the ProMisE (Proactive Molecular Risk Classifier for Endometrial Cancer) classification by consensus and international guidelines due to its high cost. This article aims to present national recommendations from an expert consensus that allows unification and implementation of the molecular classification for women with endometrial cancer nationwide, with a rational use of resources and technology. Methods: Consensus of 36 experts in clinical oncology, oncological gynecology, pathology, and genetics, with clinical practice in the national territory. The leader group performed a literature review and structuring of questions rated 1 to 9 points. A modified nominal group technique was used. There was a face-to-face meeting with master presentations, deliberative dialogue, and Google Forms (Google LLC, Mountain View, CA, USA) questionnaire voting with analysis and discussion of responses. The non-consensual responses led to a second round of voting. The final manuscript was finally prepared and revised. Results: Seven recommendations were formulated integrating the panelist responses based on evidence, but adjusted to the Colombian context and reality. Recommendation 1. The molecular classification is recommended in all the endometrial cancers using the immunohistochemistry markers as subrogated results from the molecular profile initially proposed in the TCGA classification. Recommendation 2. The sequential test strategy is recommended, starting with the immunohistochemistry markers (p53, MLH1, MSH 2, MSH6, PMS2) simultaneously in all the patients, defining to request POLE (DNA polymerase epsilon) (if available) according to the risk classification based on the surgical piece. Recommendation 3. It is recommended, that the gynecologist oncologist should be the one to request the POLE (if available) according to the final pathology report. This test must be requested for all endometrial cancers stage I-II, except in low risk (stage IA low grade endometrioid histology without linfovascular invasion normal p53) and, stages III-IV without residual disease, without affecting the request of subrogated immunohistochemistry molecular markers upon histology. The consensus proposes that the POLE is requested after the immunohistochemistry and according to the categories in the risk classification established by the 2020 ESGO/ESTRO/ESP guidelines. Recommendation 4. It is recommended to perform immunohistochemistry for hormonal receptors for all women with endometrial cancer and the HER2 in patients with p53abn, simultaneously with the others immunohistochemistry markers. Recommendation 5. It is recommended to perform the immunohistochemistry markers (p53, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 y PMS2) in an initial endometrial biopsy or curettage when the specimen is adequate and available. In case the initial immunohistochemistry is inconclusive, or there are histological discrepancies between the initial and definitive pathology, it is recommended to repeat the molecular profile in the surgical pathology. The immunohistochemistry markers must be reported in the pathology report according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) recommendations, independently of the type of sample. Recommendation 6. It is recommended to perform MLH1 promoter methylation testing in patients who exhibit loss of expression of MLH1 in immunohistochemistry whether it is accompanied or not with loss of expression of PMS2. All the patients with deficient MMR (mismatch repair), should be sent for genetic counseling to rule out Lynch syndrome. Recommendation 7. It is recommended to consider the molecular classification in addition to the classical histopathological criteria when making adjuvant judgments, as incorporated by the classification of prognostic groups of the 2020 ESGO/ESTRO/ESP guidelines. Conclusions: It is necessary to implement the molecular classification of endometrial cancer in clinical practice in accordance to the Colombian context, due to its prognostic and probably predictive value. This will enable the characterization of the Colombian population in order to offer individualized guided treatments. This is an academic and nonregulatory document.

Objetivos: el programa Cancer Genome Atlas Research (TCGA) desarrolló la clasificación molecular para cáncer endometrial con utilidad pronóstica y terapéutica, la cual ha sido reemplazada por consensos y guías internacionales por la clasificación ProMisE (Proactive Molecular Risk Classifier for Endometrial Cancer) debido a su alto costo. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar recomendaciones a nivel nacional derivadas de un consenso de expertos que permitan unificar e implementar la clasificación molecular para mujeres con cáncer endometrial, mediante un uso racional de recursos y tecnología. Materiales y métodos: consenso de 36 expertos en oncología clínica, ginecología oncológica, patología y genética con práctica clínica en el territorio nacional. El grupo líder realizó una revisión de la literatura y estructuración de preguntas calificadas de 1 a 9 puntos. Se utilizó la técnica de grupo nominal modificada. Se efectuaron reuniones presenciales con presentaciones magistrales, diálogo deliberativo y votación de cuestionario Google Forms (Google LLC, Mountain View, CA, USA) con análisis y discusión de respuestas. Las respuestas no consensuadas se llevaron a una segunda ronda de votación. Finalmente, se elaboró y revisó el manuscrito final. Resultados: se formularon siete recomendaciones integrando las respuestas de las panelistas basadas en evidencia, pero ajustadas al contexto y a la realidad colombiana. Recomendación 1. Se recomienda realizar la clasificación molecular en todos los carcinomas endometriales utilizando los marcadores de inmunohistoquímica como resultados subrogados del perfil molecular inicialmente propuesto en la clasificación del TCGA. Recomendación 2. Se recomienda la estrategia secuencial de testeo iniciando por los marcadores de inmunohistoquímica (p53, MLH1, MSH 2, MSH6, PMS2) simultáneamente en todas las pacientes, y definir la solicitud del POLE (polimerasa épsilon del DNA) (si se encuentra disponible) de forma diferida de acuerdo con la clasificación de riesgo basado en la pieza quirúrgica. Recomendación 3. Se recomienda que sea el ginecólogo oncólogo quien solicite el POLE (si se encuentra disponible) de acuerdo con el reporte de patología definitivo. Esta prueba se debe solicitar a todos los cánceres endometriales de estadio I-II, excepto los de bajo riesgo (estadio IA endometrioide de bajo grado sin invasión linfovascular p53 normal) y estadio III-IV sin enfermedad residual, sin afectar la solicitud de los marcadores moleculares subrogados por inmunohistoquímica de acuerdo con la histología. El consenso propone que la solicitud del POLE se realice posterior a la inmunohistoquímica y de acuerdo con la clasificación del riesgo según las categorías establecidas por la guía ESGO/ESTRO/ESP del 2020. Recomendación 4. Se recomienda realizar simultáneamente con los otros marcadores de inmunohistoquímica la prueba para receptores hormonales en todas las pacientes con cáncer endometrial y el HER2 en pacientes con p53abn. Recomendación 5. Se recomienda que los marcadores de inmunohistoquímica (p53, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 y PMS2) se realicen en la biopsia/legrado endometrial inicial cuando la muestra es adecuada y está disponible. En caso de inmunohistoquímica inicial no concluyente, o discrepancias histológicas entre la patología inicial y definitiva, se recomienda repetir el perfil molecular en la patología quirúrgica. Los marcadores de inmunohistoquímica deben reportarse en el informe de patología de acuerdo con las recomendaciones del CAP (College of American Pathologists), independientemente del tipo de muestra. Recomendación 6. Se recomienda realizar estudio de metilación de promotor de MLH1 en pacientes con pérdida de expresión de MLH1 en la inmunohistoquímica, acompañado o no de pérdida de expresión de PMS2. Todas las pacientes con déficit de MMR (mismatch repair), deben ser enviadas a genética para descartar síndrome de Lynch. Recomendación 7. Se recomienda tener en cuenta la clasificación molecular, además de los criterios histopatológicos clásicos para la toma de decisiones de adyuvancia, tal como los incorpora la clasificación de los grupos pronósticos de la guía ESGO/ ESTRO/ESP del 2020. Conclusiones: es necesario implementar la clasificación molecular de cáncer de endometrio en la práctica clínica acorde al contexto colombiano, dado su valor pronóstico y posiblemente predictivo. Esto permitirá la caracterización de la población colombiana para ofrecer tratamientos guiados de manera individualizada. Se trata de un documento académico y no regulatorio.

Transcriptome and microbiome-immune changes across preinvasive and invasive anal cancer lesions.

Anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) is a rare gastrointestinal malignancy linked to high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which develops from precursor lesions like low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HGSILs). ASCC incidence varies across populations and poses increased risk for people living with HIV. Our investigation focused on transcriptomic and metatranscriptomic changes from squamous intraepithelial lesions to ASCC. Metatranscriptomic analysis highlighted specific bacterial species (e.g., Fusobacterium nucleatum, Bacteroides fragilis) more prevalent in ASCC than precancerous lesions. These species correlated with gene-encoding enzymes (Acca, glyQ, eno, pgk, por) and oncoproteins (FadA, dnaK), presenting potential diagnostic or treatment markers. Unsupervised transcriptomic analysis identified distinct sample clusters reflecting histological diagnosis, immune infiltrate, HIV/HPV status, and pathway activities, recapitulating anal cancer progression's natural history. Our study unveiled molecular mechanisms in anal cancer progression, aiding in stratifying HGSIL cases based on low or high risk of progression to malignancy.

Aptamer-associated colorimetric reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay for detection of dengue virus.

Current diagnostic methods for dengue, such as serological tests, have limitations in terms of cross-reactivity with other viruses. To address this issue, we explored the potential of combining the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique with the affinity of aptamers to develop point-of-care testing. In this study, we utilized 60 serum samples. An aptamer capable of binding to the dengue virus was employed as a platform for capturing genetic material, and its performance was compared to a commercial kit. Dengue virus was detected through RT-PCR and colorimetric reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), allowing visual observation of the results without the need for equipment. In the context of the aptamer LAMP assay, our analysis revealed the detection of the dengue virus in 38 out of 60 samples, with 95% sensitivity and 100% specificity compared to RT-PCR and/or APTA-RT-PCR. Importantly, we observed no cross-reaction when assessing samples positive for the zika virus, underscoring the assay's selectivity. This innovative aptameric capture of the viral RNA in combination with the RT-LAMP (APTA-RT-LAMP) method has the potential to offer valuable molecular insights into neglected infectious diseases in a simpler and faster manner. IMPORTANCE: Dengue is a neglected tropical disease of significant epidemiological importance in tropical and subtropical countries. Current diagnostics for this infection present challenges, such as cross-reactivity in serological tests. Finding ways to enhance the diagnosis of this disease is crucial, given the absence of specific treatments. An accurate, simple, and effective diagnosis contributes to the improved management of infected individuals. In this context, our work combines molecular biology techniques, such as isothermal loop amplification, with aptamers to detect the dengue virus in biological samples. Our method produces colorimetric results based on a color change, with outcomes available in less than 2 hours. Moreover, it requires simpler equipment compared to molecular PCR tests.

Cribado prenatal de aneuploidías mediante análisis de ácido desoxirribonucleíco libre total circulante en plasma materno. Revisión narrativa / Prenatal screening for aneuploidies by analysis of circulating total free deoxyribonucleic acid in maternal plasma. Narrative review

La prueba prenatal no invasiva es un método de cribado de aneuploidías fetales y de resultar con riesgo alto debe ser confirmado a través de prueba genética diagnóstica. Es la prueba de detección más sensible y específica para las aneuploidías fetales comunes y minimiza la realización de técnicas invasivas, solo para las gestantes con riesgo elevado. Se debe realizar asesoramiento genético pre- y poscribado. Este estudio tiene como objetivo describir los fundamentos básicos de la prueba prenatal no invasiva mediante el análisis del ácido desoxirribonucleíco libre circulante en plasma materno para cribado de aneuploidías, y de los métodos primordiales y avances en biología molecular incluyendo las tecnologías de secuenciación de nueva generación, que lo han facilitado, considerando sus beneficios y limitaciones al aplicarla en la práctica clínica, en este campo que cambia con tanta rapidez(AU)

The non-invasive prenatal test is a screening method for fetal aneuploidies and if the result is at high risk, it must be confirmed through diagnostic genetic test. It is the most sensitive and specific detection test for common fetal aneuploidies and minimizes the use of invasive techniques, only for pregnant women at high risk. Genetic counseling should be performed before and after screening. This study aims to describe the basic fundamentals of non-invasive prenatal testing by analyzing free circulating deoxyribonucleic acid in maternal plasma for aneuploidy screening, and the primary methods and advances in molecular biology, including next-generation sequencing technologies, which have facilitated it, considering its benefits and limitations when applying it in clinical practice, in this rapidly changing field(AU)

Utilidad de GeneXpert MTB/RIF en el diagnóstico de tuberculosis frente a la baciloscopia / Utility of GeneXpert MTB/RIF in the Diagnosis of Tuberculosis Compared to Sputum Smear Microscopy

Introducción: La implementación de un método diagnóstico adecuado y eficiente es crucial para la detección temprana de la tuberculosis. Esto no solo permite un control efectivo de la enfermedad para evitar su transmisión y progresión hacia estadios más graves, además previene el desarrollo de resistencia a los fármacos en los pacientes.Objetivo: Evaluar la utilidad de la prueba molecular GeneXpert MTB/RIF en el diag-nóstico de Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, en comparación con la bacilos-copia, utilizando el cultivo como referencia.Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional y no expe-rimental de corte transversal, se incluyeron 253 muestras de pacientes de ambos sexos y de variados rangos de edad, que fueron evaluadas mediante baciloscopia, GeneXpert MTB/RIF y cultivo. El estudio se centró en muestras procesadas en un Hospital público de la ciudad de Quito durante el período de enero de 2021 a mayo de 2022Resultados: La prueba molecular GeneXpert MTB/RIF mostró una sensibilidad del 94,7% y una especificidad del 93,9% para el diagnóstico de Mycobacterium tu-berculosis complex. Además, se identificó un caso de resistencia a la rifampicina.Conclusión: Este estudio confirma la eficacia de la prueba molecular GeneXpert MTB/RIF sobre la baciloscopia para el diagnóstico oportuno de Mycobacterium tu-berculosis complex. Sin embargo, es esencial considerar las diversas condiciones de las muestras y pacientes para optimizar la precisión diagnóstica

Introduction: Implementing an appropriate and efficient diagnostic method is cru-cial for the early detection of tuberculosis. This not only allows for effective control of the disease to prevent its transmission and progression to more severe stages but also prevents the development of drug resistance in patients.Objective: To evaluate the utility of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF molecular test in diag-nosing Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, compared to sputum smear micros-copy, using culture as the reference. Material and Methods: A descriptive, observational, and non-experimental cross-sectional study was conducted, including 253 samples from patients of both sexes and various age ranges, which were assessed using sputum smear micros-copy, GeneXpert MTB/RIF, and culture. The study focused on samples processed at a Quito ́s Public Hospital during the period from January 2021 to May 2022.Results: The GeneXpert MTB/RIF molecular test showed a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 93.9% for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis com-plex. Additionally, a case of resistance to rifampicin was identified.Conclusion: This study confirms the effectiveness of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF mo-lecular test over sputum smear microscopy for the timely diagnosis of tuberculosis. However, it is essential to consider the diverse conditions of the samples and pa-tients to optimize diagnostic accuracy

The interaction of the FTO gene and age interferes with macronutrient and vitamin intake in women with morbid obesity.

Fat mass and obesity-related (FTO) gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) interferes with food preferences that impact macronutrient intake. Few studies have investigated the relationship of this polymorphisms with the intake of micronutrients. Moreover, studies have shown multiple micronutrient deficiencies in patients with obesity. This work evaluated the effect of the FTO rs9939609 gene polymorphism on dietary nutritional quality and food intake of macronutrients and vitamins in of women with obesity candidates for metabolic surgery. The study included 106 women (24 to 60 years old) with BMIs of 36.1 to 64.8 kg/m2. A food frequency questionnaire validated for the local population was applied to obtain information about food intake. The Index of Nutritional Quality (INQ) was used to assess the adequacy of macronutrient and vitamin intake. Energy, protein and lipid intakes were higher in carriers of the A allele compared to TT in the younger age groups but were similar in the class of subjects aged ≥45 years. The INQ for protein was higher in carriers of the A allele than in carriers of the TT allele. The INQs for protein, carbohydrate, vitamins B2, B3 and B6 decreased, whereas the INQ for vitamin C increased with advancing age. The INQ for vitamin A was lower in AA than in TT, regardless of age, whereas vitamin E was higher in younger AA than in older AA. The INQ for vitamin B9 was higher in younger women than in older women. In conclusion, the FTO gene contributed to the intake of more energy, protein and lipids and interfered with the intake of vitamins B9, A and E. With the exception of vitamin A, the effect of the genotype was attenuated with ageing.

Prophylactic treatment with the c-Abl inhibitor, neurotinib, diminishes neuronal damage and the convulsive state in pilocarpine-induced mice.

The molecular mechanisms underlying seizure generation remain elusive, yet they are crucial for developing effective treatments for epilepsy. The current study shows that inhibiting c-Abl tyrosine kinase prevents apoptosis, reduces dendritic spine loss, and maintains N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunit 2B (NR2B) phosphorylated in in vitro models of excitotoxicity. Pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE) in mice promotes c-Abl phosphorylation, and disrupting c-Abl activity leads to fewer seizures, increases latency toward SE, and improved animal survival. Currently, clinically used c-Abl inhibitors are non-selective and have poor brain penetration. The allosteric c-Abl inhibitor, neurotinib, used here has favorable potency, selectivity, pharmacokinetics, and vastly improved brain penetration. Neurotinib-administered mice have fewer seizures and improved survival following pilocarpine-SE induction. Our findings reveal c-Abl kinase activation as a key factor in ictogenesis and highlight the impact of its inhibition in preventing the insurgence of epileptic-like seizures in rodents and humans.

Aetiological molecular identification of sexually transmitted infections that cause urethral discharge syndrome and genital ulcer disease in Brazilian men: a nationwide study.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about the aetiology of urethral discharge syndrome (UDS) and genital ulcer disease (GUD) in Brazil due to limited access to laboratory tests and treatment based mainly on the syndromic approach. OBJECTIVES: To update Brazilian treatment guidelines according to the current scenario, the first nationwide aetiological study for UDS and GUD was performed. METHODS: Male participants with urethral discharge (UD) and/or genital ulcer (GU) reports were enrolled. Sample collection was performed by 12 sentinel sites located in the five Brazilian regions. Between 2018 and 2020, 1141 UD and 208 GU samples were collected in a Universal Transport Medium-RT (Copan). A multiplex quantitative PCR kit (Seegene) was used to detect UD: Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), M. hominis (MH), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), Ureaplasma parvum (UP), U. urealyticum (UU) and another kit to detect GU: cytomegalovirus (CMV), Haemophilus ducreyi (HD), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1), herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV2), lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), Treponema pallidum (TP) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). RESULTS: In UD samples, the frequency of pathogen detection was NG: 78.38%, CT: 25.6%, MG: 8.3%, UU: 10.4%, UP: 3.5%, MH: 3.5% and TV: 0.9%. Coinfection was assessed in 30.9% of samples, with 14.3% of NG/CT coinfection. The most frequent pathogen identified in GU was HSV2, present in 40.8% of the samples, followed by TP at 24.8%, LGV and CMV at 1%, and HSV1 at 0.4%. Coinfection of TP/HSV2 was detected in 4.4% of samples. VZV and HD were not detected. In 27.7% of the GU samples, no pathogen was detected. CONCLUSION: This study provided the acquisition of unprecedented data on the aetiology of UDS and GUD in Brazil, demonstrated the presence of a variety of pathogens in both sample types and reaffirmed the aetiologies known to be most prevalent globally.

De novo assembly of the complete mitochondrial genome of Mycetophylax simplex Emery, 1888 through organelle targeting revels no substantial expansion of gene spacers, but rather some slightly shorter genes.

Mitochondria play a key role in cell biology and have their own genome, residing in a highly oxidative environment that induces faster changes than the nuclear genome. Because of this, mitochondrial markers have been exploited to reconstruct phylogenetic and phylogeographic relationships in studies of adaptation and molecular evolution. In this study, we determined the complete mitogenome of the fungus-farming ant Mycetophylax simplex (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) and conducted a comparative analysis among 29 myrmicine ant mitogenomes. Mycetophylax simplex is an endemic ant that inhabits sand dunes along the southern Atlantic coast. Specifically, the species occur in the ecosystem known as "restinga", within the Atlantic Forest biome. Due to habitat degradation, land use and decline of restinga habitats, the species is considered locally extinct in extremely urban beaches and is listed as vulnerable on the Brazilian Red List (ICMBio). We employed a mitochondrion-targeting approach to obtain the complete mitogenome through high-throughput DNA sequencing technology. This method allowed us to determine the mitogenome with high performance, coverage and low cost. The circular mitogenome has a length of 16,367 base pairs enclosing 37 genes (13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs and 2 rRNAs) along with one control region (CR). All the protein-coding genes begin with a typical ATN codon and end with the canonical stop codons. All tRNAs formed the fully paired acceptor stems and fold into the typical cloverleaf-shaped secondary structures. The gene order is consistent with the shared Myrmicinae structure, and the A + T content of the majority strand is 81.51%. Long intergenic spacers were not found but some gene are slightly shorter. The phylogenetic relationships based on concatenated nucleotide and amino acid sequences of the 13 protein-coding genes, using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods, indicated that mitogenome sequences were useful in resolving higher-level relationship within Formicidae.

Borderline ovarian tumors: a review of its biology, molecular profile, and management / Tumores borderline de ovário: uma revisão de sua biologia, perfil molecular e manejo

Borderline ovarian tumors typically exhibit indolent behavior and boast a favorable prognosis; however, a subset of patients experiences disease recurrence and progression to low-grade ovarian carcinoma. The complex biology underlying these phenomena has been illuminated through molecular analyses. KRAS and BRAF mutations have emerged as recurrent ?ndings in borderline ovarian tumors. Speci?cally, KRAS mutations have been linked to a higher risk of recurrence and progression to low-grade ovarian carcinoma, while BRAF mutations seem to confer a protective e?ect, inducing a senescent state that mitigates the likelihood of progression. In this comprehensive review, we explore the biology and the molecular pro?le of borderline ovarian tumors, shedding light on recent discoveries that have enriched our comprehension. Additionally, we discuss the current state of borderline ovarian tumors management. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment. While cytotoxic therapies role is limited so far, molecular characterization emphasizes the imminent potential for personalized therapeutic approaches.

Os tumores borderline de ovário geralmente exibem comportamento indolente e apresentam prognóstico favorável; no entanto, um subconjunto de pacientes apresenta recorrência da doença e progressão para carcinoma de ovário de baixo grau. A biologia complexa subjacente a estes fenômenos foi iluminada através de análises moleculares. Mutações KRAS e BRAF surgiram como achados recorrentes em tumores borderline de ovário. Especificamente, as mutações KRAS têm sido associadas a um maior risco de recorrência e progressão para carcinoma de ovário de baixo grau, enquanto as mutações BRAF parecem conferir um efeito protetor, induzindo um estado senescente que mitiga a probabilidade de progressão. Nesta revisão abrangente, exploramos a biologia e o perfil molecular dos tumores borderline de ovário, lançando luz sobre descobertas recentes que enriqueceram nossa compreensão. Além disso, discutimos o estado atual do manejo de tumores borderline de ovário. A cirurgia continua sendo o pilar de tratamento. Embora o papel das terapias citotóxicas seja limitado até o momento, a caracterização molecular enfatiza o potencial iminente para abordagens terapêuticas personalizadas.

Microbial contamination profile on esthetic elastomeric ligatures through the checkerboard DNA-DNA hybridization technique : A randomized split-mouth study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to assess the microbial contamination of three different brands of esthetic elastomeric ligatures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Different brands of esthetic ligatures (Unistick Pearl [American Orthodontics, Sheboygan, WI, USA], Power Sticks Pearl [Ortho Technology, Tampa, FL, USA], and Ease [Obscure, 3M Unitek, Monrovia, CA, USA]) were randomly assigned to permanent canines of 25 patients (aged 11-18 years) undergoing corrective orthodontic treatment. After 30 days, the ligatures were removed, processed, and the biofilm composition was analyzed by checkerboard DNA-DNA hybridization for 40 bacterial species. The microbiological data were analyzed using a nonparametric mixed model. RESULTS: The ligatures presented intense microbial contamination after 30 days, but no statistically significant differences were observed among the three groups (p > 0.05). The levels of the evaluated individual species and proportions of the microbial complexes showed no statistically significant differences among the ligature groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Esthetic elastomeric ligatures became multicolonized by several bacterial species after 30 days of exposure to the oral cavity. However, no relevant differences were observed among the biofilm composition formed on the different ligature brands.

Forty Years of Inferential Methods in the Journals of the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution.

We are launching a series to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the first issue of Molecular Biology and Evolution. In 2024, we will publish virtual issues containing selected papers published in the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution journals, Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution. Each virtual issue will be accompanied by a perspective that highlights the historic and contemporary contributions of our journals to a specific topic in molecular evolution. This perspective, the first in the series, presents an account of the broad array of methods that have been published in the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution journals, including methods to infer phylogenies, to test hypotheses in a phylogenetic framework, and to infer population genetic processes. We also mention many of the software implementations that make methods tractable for empiricists. In short, the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution community has much to celebrate after four decades of publishing high-quality science including numerous important inferential methods.

Salivary proteomic profile of response to different resistance training protocols: A case report.

Resistance training (RT) with blood flow restriction (BFR) or high intensity (HI) are effective to increase muscle mass. To understand this effect, techniques known as "omics" are used to identify possible biomarkers. This study analyzed the salivary proteomic profile of healthy individuals trained before and after two RT protocols both designed with eight exercises for upper- and lower-limbs, one performed at low percentage of one-maximum repetition (%1RM) with BFR technique, and other at high %1RM (HI) without BRF technique. Four healthy males between 18 and 28 years participated in the study. Stimulated saliva was collected before (BBFR/BHI) and immediately after (ABFR/AHI) the two RT protocols. All protein-related processing was performed using label-free proteomic. The difference in expression between groups was expressed as p < .05 for downregulated proteins and 1-p > .95 for upregulated proteins. There was difference in salivary flow between ABFR and BBFR (p = .005). For HI, 87 proteins were found after the practice and 119 before. Three hemoglobin isoforms were increased in AHI compared with BHI. In the BFR comparison, 105 proteins were identified after (ABFR) and 70 before (BBFR). Among those increased ABFR, we highlight five hemoglobin isoforms and Deleted in malignant brain tumors 1 protein. Between ABFR and AHI, 17 isoforms of histones, Transaldolase, Transketolase, Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, and Antileukoproteinase were decreased ABFR. For HI, there was an increase in proteins related to oxidative stress and metabolism of the musculoskeletal system, compared with BFR. HI seems to induce higher anabolic signaling to muscle mass increase and antiatherosclerotic effects.

Saliva direct PCR protocol for HLA-DQB1*02 genotyping.

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune disorder, that is triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. The HLA-DQB1*02 allele is the main predisposing genetic factor and a candidate for first-line genotyping screening. We designed and validated a simple, DNA purification-free PCR protocol directly from crude saliva, enabling the detection of the DQB1*02 allele. This assay also distinguishes homozygous from heterozygous carriers. We propose this method for use in mass screening and/or epidemiological studies.

Pathophysiology of posttraumatic ankle osteoarthritis: a multicenter perspective / Fisiopatologia da osteoartrite pós-traumática do tornozelo: perspectiva multicêntrica

ABSTRACT Besides the acute injury and trauma-induced macroscopic alterations, the evolution to posttraumatic ankle osteoarthritis (PTOA) is a complex process progressing at the tissue and molecular level. Furthermore, changes in the molecular pathways affect chondrocyte viability. Treatment modalities for PTOA focal or confined disease include innovative techniques. Objective: Our purpose is to increase medical awareness based on scientific evidence of pathophysiology, molecular biology, and treatment of post-traumatic ankle osteoarthritis. Methods: To support the perspectives of the experts, evidence from the scientific literature respected the PRISMA guidelines and the PICOS search strategy was used. We included case-control, cohort, experimental studies and case reports, written in English. Results: The authors were homogeneously exposed to 282 selected abstracts and 114 full articles directly related to post-traumatic osteoarthritis after malleolar fractures. Conclusion: The pathophysiological factors involved in posttraumatic ankle osteoarthritis, such as biological, structural, mechanical, and molecular changes must be studied together, as the interaction between these factors determines the risk of progression of PTOA. Inhibition of a single catabolic molecule or cascade probably is not sufficient to alter the natural progression of the pathological process. Evidence level V, expert opinion.

RESUMO A evolução para a osteoartrite pós-traumática do tornozelo (PTOA) a partir da lesão aguda e das alterações macroscópicas induzidas pelo trauma é um processo complexo, que progride em nível tecidual e molecular. Além disso, as alterações nas vias moleculares afetam a viabilidade dos condrócitos. As modalidades focais ou confinadas de tratamento para PTOA incluem técnicas inovadoras. Objetivo: Nosso objetivo é aumentar a conscientização médica, com base em evidências científicas de fisiopatologia, biologia molecular e tratamento da osteoartrite pós-traumática do tornozelo. Métodos: Para o embasamento das perspectivas dos autores experts, as evidências da literatura científica respeitaram as diretrizes Prisma e a estratégia de busca Picos foi empregada. Incluímos estudos de caso-controle, de coorte, experimentais e relatos de caso, escritos em inglês. Resultados: Os autores foram expostos de forma homogênea a 282 resumos e 114 artigos completos, diretamente relacionados à osteoartrite pós-traumática após fraturas maleolares. Conclusão: Os fatores fisiopatológicos envolvidos na osteoartrite pós-traumática do tornozelo, como alterações biológicas, estruturais, mecânicas e moleculares, devem ser estudados em conjunto, pois a interação entre esses fatores determina o risco de progressão da PTOA. A inibição de uma única molécula catabólica ou cascata provavelmente não é suficiente para alterar a progressão natural do processo patológico. Nível de evidência V, opinião do especialista.

Subclinical circulation of Chicken infectious anaemia virus- A Sero-molecular study.

Chicken infectious anaemia-an important immunosuppressive viral disease of chicken-gained much attention in the recent past. Based on huge mortality and production loss observed in the fast-growing poultry sector, the present study aimed to find out the current status of the chicken infectious anaemia virus (CIAV), among chicken flocks in the Punjab state of India by sero-molecular study. The sera from the blood samples were tested for anti-CIAV antibodies by indirect ELISA and also compared with haematological parameters. DNA from sero-positive samples underwent PCR amplification, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the most conserved genomic region (VP3 gene) to detect viraemia in asymptomatic birds. The serological study using indirect ELISA showed a high sero-positivity of 77.27% in chicken flocks. Additionally, the present study also revealed the high molecular evidence (72.54%) of CIAV in apparently healthy birds. Genetic analysis showed that all CIAVs have conserved VP3 genes without any nucleotide substitutions, indicating presence of CIAV and its subclinical circulation among apparently healthy flocks. The wide distribution of CIAV among birds may be the reason for huge mortality and production loss. Further, it is suggested that studies be conducted to find out the co-involvement of CIAV with other immunosuppressive microbial agents and the immunosuppressive effect of CIAV in apparently healthy birds. Also, its role in vaccine failure and outbreaks of various other avian diseases needs to be explored.

Kinin B1 receptor controls maternal adiponectin levels and influences offspring weight gain.

Given the importance of the kinin B1 receptor in insulin and leptin hormonal regulation, which in turn is crucial in maternal adaptations to ensure nutrient supply to the fetus, we investigated the role of this receptor in maternal metabolism and fetoplacental development. Wild-type and kinin B1 receptor-deficient (B1KO) female mice were mated with male mice of the opposite genotype. Consequently, the entire litter was heterozygous for kinin B1 receptor, ensuring that there would be no influence of offspring genotype on the maternal phenotype. Maternal kinin B1 receptor blockade reduces adiponectin secretion by adipose tissue ex vivo, consistent with lower adiponectin levels in pregnant B1KO mice. Furthermore, fasting insulinemia also increased, which was associated with placental insulin resistance, reduced placental glycogen accumulation, and heavier offspring. Therefore, we propose the combination of chronic hyperinsulinemia and reduced adiponectin secretion in B1KO female mice create a maternal obesogenic environment that results in heavier pups.

An ivermectin - atorvastatin combination impairs nuclear transport inhibiting dengue infection in vitro and in vivo.

Dengue virus (DENV) uses cellular nuclear transport machinery to import some proteins into the nucleus. Recently, the non-structural protein 3 (NS3) of DENV was localized in the nucleus of infected cells; however, its nuclear import mechanism is still unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that Ivermectin (IVM) inhibits the nuclear localization of NS3 through the inhibition of the Importin α/ß1 pathway. We also report that Atorvastatin (ATV) can modulate the nuclear transport of NS3 protease and NS5 polymerase of DENV-2. On the other hand, we found that IVM and ATV treatments reduce the alteration of nuclear pore complex (NPC) proteins, and an IVM+ATV combination reduced DENV infection both in vitro and in vivo. Hence, we conclude that ATV transport inhibition is an additional antiviral effect of this drug, suggesting a potential anti-DENV therapy in combination with IVM.