Assessment of the protein interaction between coagulation factor XII and corn trypsin inhibitor by molecular docking and biochemical validation

Background: Corn trypsin inhibitor (CTI) has selectivity for serine proteases coagulation factor XII (FXII) and trypsin. CTI is in widespread use as a reagent that specifically inhibits the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation but not the extrinsic pathway. Objectives: To investigate the molecular basis of FXII inhibition by CTI. Methods: We performed molecular docking of CTI, using its known crystal structure, with a model of the activated FXII (FXIIa) protease domain. The interaction model was verified using a panel of recombinant CTI variants tested for their ability to inhibit FXIIa enzymatic activity using a substrate cleavage assay. Results: The docking predicted that (i) the CTI central inhibitory loop P1 Arg34 side chain forms a salt bridge to the FXIIa S1 pocket Asp189 side chain (ii) residue Trp22 from the CTI helix α1 interacts with the FXIIa S3 pocket (iii) Arg43 from CTI helix α2 forms a salt bridge to FXIIa H1 pocket Asp60A. CTI amino acid substitution R34A negated all inhibitory activity whereas variants G32W, L35A, W22A or R42A-R43A reduced activity by a large degree of 108, 41, 158 and 100-fold respectively, with R27A, W37A, W39A, R42A having no effect. Synthetic peptides spanning CTI residues 20-44 had inhibitory activity 3-4000-fold less than full-length CTI. Conclusions: The data confirm the validity of a canonical model of the FXIIa-CTI interaction with helix α1 (Trp22), central inhibitory loop (Arg34) and helix α2 (Arg43) of CTI required for effective binding by contacting the S1, S3 and H1 pockets of FXIIa, respectively

Characterization of Antibiotic and Biocide Resistance Genes and Virulence Factors of Staphylococcus Species Associated with Bovine Mastitis in Rwanda

The present study was conducted from July to August 2018 on milk samples taken at dairy farms in the Northern Province and Kigali District of Rwanda in order to identify Staphylococcus spp. associated with bovine intramammary infection. A total of 161 staphylococcal isolates originating from quarter milk samples of 112 crossbred dairy cattle were included in the study. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed and isolates were examined for the presence of various resistance genes. Staphylococcus aureus isolates were also analyzed for the presence of virulence factors, genotyped by spa typing and further phenotypically subtyped for capsule expression using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Selected S. aureus were characterized using DNA microarray technology, multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and whole-genome sequencing. All mecA-positive staphylococci were further genotyped using dru typing. In total, 14 different staphylococcal species were detected, with S. aureus being most prevalent (26.7%), followed by S. xylosus (22.4%) and S. haemolyticus (14.9%). A high number of isolates was resistant to penicillin and tetracycline. Various antimicrobial and biocide resistance genes were detected. Among S. aureus, the Panton–Valentine leukocidin (PVL) genes, as well as bovine leukocidin (LukM/LukF-P83) genes, were detected in two and three isolates, respectively, of which two also carried the toxic shock syndrome toxin gene tsst-1 bovine variant. t1236 was the predominant spa type. FTIR-based capsule serotyping revealed a high prevalence of non-encapsulated S. aureus isolates (89.5%). The majority of the selected S. aureus isolates belonged to clonal complex (CC) 97 which was determined using DNA microarray based assignment. Three new MLST sequence types were detected

Colonization of Vitis vinifera L. by the Endophyte Trichoderma sp. Strain T154: Biocontrol Activity Against Phaeoacremonium minimum

[EN] Trichoderma strains used in biological control products usually exhibit high efficiency in the control of plant diseases. However, their behavior under field conditions is difficult to predict. In addition, the potential of indigenous strains has been poorly assayed as well as their possible behavior as endophytes. Hence, niche colonization is a key feature for an effective protection. In this study, we aimed to: (i) explore the possibility of using a new Trichoderma strain isolated from vine to control pathogens, (ii) study the in planta interaction with the pathogen Phaeoacremonium minimum W. Gams, Crous, M.J. Wingf. & L. Mugnai (formerly Phaeoacremonium aleophilum), a pioneer fungus involved in Grapevine Trunk Diseases (GTDs) such as esca. For this purpose, fluorescently tagged Trichoderma sp. T154 and a P. minimum strain were used for scanning electron microscopy and confocal scanning laser microscopy analyses. Data showed that the Trichoderma strain is able to colonize plants up to 12 weeks post inoculation and is located in xylem, fibers, as well as in parenchymatic tissues inside the wood. The beneficial fungus reduced colonization of the esca-related pathogen colonizing the same niches. The main observed mechanism involved in biocontrol of Trichoderma against the esca pathogen was spore adhesion, niche exclusion and only few typical hypha coiling was found between Trichoderma and the pathogen. These results suggest that the Trichoderma strain has potential for reducing the colonization of Phaeoacremonium minimum and thus, an inoculation of this biological control agent can protect the plant by limiting the development of GTD, and the strain can behave as an endophyte.SIThe grant awarded to GC-H (FPU15/04681) comes from the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Sport (Spain). We thank Pago de Carraovejas winery for the project “GLOBALVITI IDI- 20120746” “Solució n global para mejorar la producció n vitivinı́ cola frente al cambio climá tico basada en robó tica, tecnologı́ a IT y en estrategias biotecnoló gicas y de manejo del viñedo” (Global solution for enhancing viticulture production against: climatic change based on: robotics, IT technology, biotechnological strategies, and vineyard management) that was granted by the Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnoló gico Industrial –CDTI-. SC and MG received funding via DaFNE Project Nr. 101384 from the Austrian Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism (BMNT)

Gender comparison of clinical, histopathological, therapeutic and outcome factors in 185,967 colon cancer patients

Introduction: Colorectal carcinomas represent the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Germany. Although the incidence is significantly higher in men compared with women and gender is a well-established crucial factor for outcome in other diseases, detailed gender comparisons for colon cancer are lacking. Methods: This retrospective population-based cohort study included all patients diagnosed with colon cancer in Germany between 2000 and 2016 who were included in the common dataset of colorectal cancer patients from the quality conference of the German Cancer Society. We compared clinical, histopathological, and therapeutic characteristics as well as overall and recurrence-free survival. Results: A total of 185,967 patients were included in the study, of which 85,685 were female (46.1%) and 100,282 were male (53.9%). The proportion of women diagnosed with colon cancer decreased from 2000 to 2016 (f: 26.6 to 40.1%; m: 24.9 to 41.9%; p < 0.001), and the proportion of very old patients was especially high in women (f: 27.3%; m: 15.6%; p < 0.001). The localization in women was more right-sided (f: 45.0%, m: 36.7%; p < 0.001), and women had a higher tumor grading and a higher UICC stage (especially stage III nodal-positive) at diagnosis of primary colon cancer (UICC III: f: 22.7%, m: 21.0%; p < 0.001). We could detect a significantly better overall (hazard ratio: 0.853, lower 95%: 0.841, upper 95%: 0.864; p < 0.001) and recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio: 0.857, lower 95%: 0.845, upper 95%: 0.868; p < 0.001) in women compared with men, even though women received chemotherapy less frequently compared with men (f: 26.1%, m: 28.1%; p < 0.001). Conclusion: We could detect several variables that differed significantly between men and women regarding clinical, histopathological, therapeutic, and outcome factors. We believe that it is crucial to consider gender as a key factor in the diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer. Sex-specific diagnostic tools could lead to an earlier diagnosis of colon cancer in women, and ways to increase the rate of chemotherapy in women should be evaluated. Furthermore, we recommend stratifying randomized trials by gender

Analysis and assessment of the knowledge regarding to exploitation of electrical installations, risks and due to electric shock

INTRODUCTION This study presents the dangers due caused by electric shock and how they affect the human body. This is an important issue, because each of the recipients of this study is a user of electrical installations and the number of devices that may carry an unwanted threat is constantly increasing in every household.  AIM OF STUDY The main purpose of the study is to analyze the knowledge of studied population about low-voltage electrical installations in the places of their residence, as well as the danger and consequences of electrical shock. MATERIALS AND METHODS In order to verify the level of awareness of household electrical installations users, a survey was conducted, in which participants were given the opportunity to answer questions forming three main research problems. CONCLUSION A significant part of the collected results leads to the conclusion that, on average, every second person surveyed has significant shortcomings in basic training in the safe use of electrical installations, as well as its operation and, most importantly, in providing first aid to victims. A relatively large number of respondents are not aware of the need to perform maintenance work, technical inspections and basic activities ensuring safety for them and other household members. Introduction of mandatory prevention and cyclical training, e. g. during periodic building inspections, could be one of the steps to reduce the still high rate of fatal accidents due to electric shock in Poland

A study of knowledge about solar radiation and sun protection among adolescents and young adults in Poland

Introduction Solar radiation plays an important role in many biological processes of the body. It is necessary for the production of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) in the human body, which plays an essential role in maintaining bone and immune system function. Excessive and inappropriate exposure, however, can lead to serious health effects, especially when it comes to the skin.Knowledge about sun protection and the effects of solar radiation among young adults plays a key role in promoting a healthy lifestyle and cancer prevention. ObjectiveThe study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour of adolescents and young adults about solar radiation and sun protection. Materials and methodsThis study was conducted among 194 people from Poland, aged 15 to 30, consisting of adolescents and young adults. A specially developed original questionnaire was used to collect the data on knowledge about solar radiation, sun protection, and the use of creams with SPF filter. Results The study group included 117 (60.3%) women and 77 (39,7%) men. The average age of the respondents was 22,8 ±3,83 years. Most respondents are aware of the need to use sunscreen, but the frequency of use depends mainly on the season ( 34.3% always use sunscreen, and 40.4% use it mainly in the summer). There is a group of people (16.3%) who declare that they never use sun protect cream.According to the results, only a small group of respondents (7.2%) gave correct answers to all the questions and some people (6.2%) did not answer any of the questions. ConclusionsThe study shows the need for further efforts to increase the young people’s knowledge and awareness of sun protection and to promote healthy habits in the use of SPF sunscreen

Photoprotection behaviors among patients during retinoid therapy

Aim: The aim of the study was to examine patients on dermatology retinoid treatment attitudes related to skin protection against UV radiation and to check the hypothesis whether patients using retinoids are more aware of the need for photoprotection.   Material and methods: Internet-based survey about attitudes associated with sun exposure and photoprotection was carried out between March and May 2023. 176 questionnaires were subject to statistical analysis.   Results: The study showed that 73% of the responders used an SPF cream every day. Only 3,8 % didn’t use a UV protection cream. 38% used it on all the exposed body parts. 21% used it only on their face and necks and 10% used it only on their face. As many as 78% of respondents used a cream with protection SPF 50 or more. 40% of patients reapply SPF. Most of the patients use additional tools such as sunglasses, hats and caps. But only 16% use specialized UPF clothing.    Conclusion: Patients during their retinoid treatment show increased knowledge and attitude towards photoprotection. They are aware of the risks due to sensitization of their therapy and are trying to mitigate the negative effects of the UV radiation

Relationship between attachment style, socio-demographic factors and alcohol abuse

Introduction and purpose Alcohol addiction is a major problem that affects both the affected individual and their immediate surroundings. The State Agency for Solving Alcohol Problems (PARPA) estimates that approximately 900,000 people in Poland are addicted to alcohol, and harmful drinking affects an even larger number of residents. Attachment style is a pattern of establishing relationships which derives from childhood. The aim of study is to assess the propensity alcohol abuse depending on attachment style and socio-demographic factors. Materials and methods Research material has been carried out by diagnostic survey method. The analysis has been conducted on the basis of data collected with a questionnaire designed by the author consisting of demographics and major part- updated Attachment Style IDR Labs Test (IDRLRAS) and Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST). The study involved 327 participants, 6 questionnaires have been rejected due to incorrectly filled form. All of the participants gave their informed consent for the research. The inclusion criterion was the age of above 18. The research has been conducted between 07.06.23 and 28.06.23. Results and conclusions In the group of studied individuals, there are relationships between attachment style, socio-demographic factors, and predisposition to alcohol addiction. It is important to conduct a larger number of studies on a more diverse research group in order to obtain the data needed to confirm the results discussed in the later part of the paper

Evaluation of remote services and patient satisfaction - a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: Telemedicine is among the most modern branches of medicine. In the field of mental health, telepsychiatry makes it possible to replace the traditional conversation with a specialist with an e-visit. With the development of remote services, qualitative studies evaluating this type of service have begun to be conducted. The studies involve both patients and clinicians. The purpose of this study is to show the advantages perceived by patients who use telepsychiatry services, as well as concerns that may discourage further use of digital therapy. The study also includes an evaluation of telemedicine services. Material and methods: The authors created a proprietary structured questionnaire that consisted of two parts. The first concerned sociodemographic data, while the second addressed the subject of patients' evaluation with the use of telepsychiatry services, possible difficulties during e-visits and satisfaction with this type of consultation. Before completing the survey, patients filled out informed consent. The survey was conducted from November 2022 to May 2023. Results: The final group of respondents was formed by 432 people. The largest group of respondents were patients with the diagnosis: affective disorders - 24.07%. The vast majority of respondents - 81.94% - indicated the possibility of teleportation from anywhere in the world as the greatest advantage of telepsychiatry. Another advantage is not having to take time off from work or school - 78.94%. Major disadvantages included: limited treatment methods (71.07% of respondents), made it more difficult to build a therapeutic alliance 59.03%, privacy and cybersecurity concerns 43.06%. Overall, patients rate telepsychiatry well - 66% of respondents were satisfied. Conclusions: Telepsychiatry is well rated among most patients.  More research is needed to develop clear guidelines for digital therapy.  Patients receiving remote therapy should be screened for the development of addiction to mobile devices and the Internet

Update on Wilms tumor

Background: Wilms' tumor is the most common childhood renal neoplasm. Among the worst prognosis forms are the bilateral form. The symptom complex is non-specific for malignancy; the first symptoms may include hypertension. Hematuria occurs in 30% of patients. The incidence of distant metastases at the time of diagnosis in children with Wilms' tumor is estimated to be about 20%.The purpose of this article is to present a review of the literature on the standardization of diagnosis, the latest treatment standards and to assess the prognosis of Wilms' Tumor. Matherial and methods:&nbsp; Using PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases, the authors reviewed the peer-reviewed international literature from 1980-2023 using the keywords: "Wilms tumor," "renal tumor," "nephroblastoma."&nbsp; Discussion: Bilateral tumors have the worst prognosis - according to the National Wilms Tumor Study Group, long-term survival is achieved in only 12% to 56% of patients. The prognosis of Wilms' tumor is also dependent on the occurrence of recurrences - local as well as localized outside the renal tissue. A factor directly affecting long-term survival is recurrence, mainly observed within 24 months after the end of therapy. The limitations of conventional therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, in preventing recurrence in WT patients and their potential to cause long-term side effects. Conclusions: Bilateral Wilms tumor is associated with more aggressive therapy than unilateral disease.In single kidney disease, therapeutic management is aimed at radical removal of all tumor foci, whereas in bilateral tumor, the goal of any management should additionally be to try to preserve the best possible renal function. Screening in children is important in cancer. General physicians should refer patients for additional imaging studies when there are any diagnostic doubts, as cancer is characterized by a long, asymptomatic development