Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a multifunctional cytokine that contributes to the progression of several cancers. MIF overexpression has been reported in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients. However, the exact role of MIF in HNSCC is not fully understood. Our aim was to evaluate the amount of secreted MIF and the role of MIF in the proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis in HNSCC cell lines. The MIF levels in conditioned media from human primary (HN18 and HN30) and metastatic (HN17 and HN31) HNSCC cell lines were evaluated using ELISA. The HNSCC cell lines were treated with recombinant MIF and its effect on proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptotic status was determined by MTT and flow cytometry, respectively. The HNSCC-secreted MIF concentration ranged from 49.33‒860 pg/ml. Exogenous MIF (25 ng/ml) significantly increased HN18, HN30, and HN31 cell proliferation. Moreover, MIF induced cell cycle progression and inhibited apoptosis in these cells. However, MIF did not affect growth or apoptosis in HN17 cell. In conclusion, the HNSCC cell lines were evaluated secrete MIF. Exogenous MIF promotes various effects on proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis in HNSCC cells.

Many anti-tumor effects of group-specific component-derived macrophage-activating factors (GcMAFs) have been reported; however, the specific mechanisms remain unclear. Controlling tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment is essential for cancer treatment. This study assessed the role of GcMAF in macrophage activation, elucidated the mechanisms by which it exerts its anti-tumor effects, and determined its effects on TAMs in the tumor microenvironment. GcMAF-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and EMT6 breast tumor cells were co-cultured in a 0.4-µm pore cell culture insert, and gene and protein expression and cell viability were evaluated. DNA microarray analysis of GcMAF-stimulated RAW264.7 cells was conducted. The induction of M2 RAW264.7 cells by interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 was analyzed. GcMAF stimulation increased the tumor necrosis factor-α and inducible nitric oxide synthase mRNA and protein levels in RAW264.7 cells but decreased the viability of co-cultured EMT6 cells. These results were confirmed in the M2 RAW264M2.7 cells, suggesting that GcMAF exerts anti-tumor effects by inducing the differentiation of macrophages into the M1 type and reprogramming M2 macrophages to the M1 type. The anti-tumor activity of GcMAF via M2-to-M1 macrophage reprogramming could aid in developing novel cancer immunotherapies.

The authors argue that despite significant numbers of foreign workers present in the Russian labor market Russia remains unattractive for highly skilled foreign workers. The economic crisis the country has faced since 2014 has resulted in a further outflow of foreign nationals from OECD countries. So Russia has to look for employees among newcomers from the former Soviet states, the majority of whom come from Central Asia. Russian politics with regard to immigration is characterized by the collision between “geopolitical” and domestic policy rationales. On one hand, seeking to maximize its influence in the post-Soviet space Russia provides preferential conditions of employment for citizens of partner countries in the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union. On the other hand, the Kremlin is afraid to liberalize its approach to immigration and the integration of immigrants through fear of losing popularity among the electorate. The second substantial feature of Russian immigration politics is an extreme level of securitization of migration issues. The government considers these issues primarily through a policing lens. One cannot claim that the Russian state does not take any steps to liberalize “migratory regulation”; however, the effect of these measures is being vastly reduced by new restrictions. In addition, liberally designed laws do not bring the expected results due to the corrupt practices that pervade the whole of migration regulation.

Macrophages are well known for the involvement in the biocompatibility, as well as biodistribution, of nano(bio)materials. Although there are a number of rodent cell lines, they may not fully recapitulate primary cell responses; particularly for those of human cells. Isolation of tissue resident macrophages, from humans, is difficult and may result in insufficient cells with which to determine the possible interaction with nano(bio)materials. Isolation of primary human monocytes, and differentiation to monocyte-derived macrophages, may provide a useful tool with which to study, further, these interactions. To that end, we developed a standard operating procedure for this differentiation, as part of the REFINE project, and used it to measure the secretion of bioactive molecules from M1 and M2 differentiated monocytes in response to model nano(bio)materials, following an initial assessment of pyrogenic contamination which may confound, potential, observations. The SOP was deployed in two partner institutions with, broadly, similar results. The work presented here shows the utility of this assay but, highlights the relevance of donor variability in responses to nano(bio)materials. Whilst donor variability can provide some, logistical, challenges to application of such assays, this variability is much closer to the heterogeneous cells that are present in vivo, compared to homogeneous, non-human, cell lines.

Macrophages are essential innate immune cells characterized by a high diversity and plasticity. In vitro, their full dynamic range of activation profiles include the classical pro-inflammatory (M1) and the alternative anti-inflammatory (M2) program. Bistability usually arises in biological systems that contain a positive-feedback loop or a mutually inhibitory, double-negative-feedback loop, which are common regulatory motifs reported for macrophage transitions from one activation state to the other one. This switch-like behavior of macrophage is observed at four different levels. First, a decision-making module in signal transduction includes mutual inhibitory interactions between M1 (STAT1 and NF-KB/p50-p65) and M2 (STAT3 and NF-KB/p50-p50) signaling pathways. Second, a switch-like behavior at the gene expression level includes complex network motifs of transcription factors and miRNAs. Third, those changes impact metabolic gene expression leading to several switches in energy production, NADPH and ROS production, TCA cycle functionality, biosynthesis and nitrogen metabolism. Fourth, metabolic changes are monitored by specialized metabolic sensors coupled to AMPK and mTOR activity to provide stability by maintaining the signals to promote either M1 or M2 activation. The targeting of robust molecular switches has the potential to treat a broad range of widespread diseases such as sepsis, cancer or chronic inflammatory diseases.

Leishmanial skin lesions are characterized by inflammatory hypoxia alongside the activation of hypoxia inducible factors, HIF-1a and HIF-2a, and subsequent expression of the HIF-a target VEGF-A during Leishmania major infection. However, the factors responsible for HIF-a activation are not known. We hypothesize hypoxia and pro-inflammatory stimuli contribute to HIF-a activation during infection. RNASeq on leishmanial lesions found transcripts associated with HIF-1a signaling are induced. To determine whether hypoxia contributes to HIF-a activation, we followed the fate of myeloid cells infiltrating from the blood and into hypoxic lesions. Recruited myeloid cells experience hypoxia when they enter inflamed lesions, and the length of time in lesions increases their hypoxic signature. To determine whether pro-inflammatory stimuli in the inflamed tissue can also influence HIF-a activation, we subjected macrophages to various pro-inflammatory stimuli and measured VEGF-A. While parasites alone did not induce VEGF-A, and pro-inflammatory stimuli only modestly induce VEGF-A, HIF- stabilization increases VEGF-A during infection. HIF-a stabilization does not impact parasite entry, growth or killing. Alternatively, the absence of ARNT/HIF- signaling enhances parasite internalization. Altogether, these findings suggest HIF-a is active during infection, and while macrophage HIF-a activation promotes lymphatic remodeling through VEGF-A production, HIF-a activation does not impact parasite internalization or control.

Structural and functional materials are subjected to harsh oxidizing environments that lead to a rapid decline in their surface chemical stability. At high-temperatures, the diffusion of atoms is erratic; thus, the reactive elements (REs) get a chance to migrate to the surface and look for oxygen-reactive sites. Their migration from the lattice sites creates vacancies in the matrix and thus weakens the bond, making the material prone to environmental degrading factors. Subsequently, the inward diffusion of oxygen, sulfur, nitrogen, or carbon may occupy these vacancies, resulting in undesired precipitation at the grain boundary, which is usually brittle. The solubility and dissociation of attacking species and corrosion products play the most critical role in corrosion in high-temperature water. To evade such situations, Ti, Al, and Cr are added in Ni/Fe-based alloys, forming a dense oxide layer on the surface that impedes further surface migration of ions. The stability of the alloys is then determined by the capability of these oxide layers to heal or reform during spalling/cracking. This review attempts to understand the migration of REs at the interfaces to prepare structural materials in any unexpected set of oxidizing service conditions. This review will also try to establish the interaction mechanism of REs novel/conventionally added in the alloys with the oxidizing elements in the environments to design better degradation-resistant high-temperature alloys.

Commonly macrophages are categorized into M1 and M2 subsets. M1 macrophages are defined as inflammatory cells and may contribute to tissue injury, while, M2 macrophages play a central role in tissue remodeling and control of immune responses. It seems that the existence of these cells in graft location is effective for control of inflammation and improvement of transplantation consequences. Although the relative contribution of M2 cells in organ transplantation is not clear, the accumulation of these cells in acute and chronic injury models of transplantation was shown. In some cases, the depletion of M2 cells leads to the amelioration of disease; however in other causes, skewing the response in M2 cells leads to an augmentation of graft fibrosis and worsening of graft condition. In spite of these findings, the benefits of such strategies and their implications in human disease are not clearly understood. The purpose of this mini-review is to highlight the role of alternatively activated M2-type macrophages in the improvement or reduction of the kidney transplantation outcome.

Tailings generated by mining account for the largest proportion of global waste from industrial activities. Copper is relatively uncommon world-wide, with low concentrations in sediments and waters, yet is very elevated around mining sites. On the Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan, USA, jutting out into Lake Superior, 140 mines extracted native copper from the Portage Lake Volcanic Series, part of an intercontinental rift system. Between 1901-1932, two mills at Gay (Mohawk, Wolverine) sluiced 22.7 million metric tonnes (MMT) of copper-rich tailings (stamp sands) into Grand (Big) Traverse Bay. Here we examine: 1) 3D coastal elevation and reef bathymetry, 2) particle dispersal, 3) copper concentrations and leaching, plus 4) shoreline toxicity. About 10 MMT of tailings created a migrating coastal beach that stretches 7 km from the Gay pile to the Traverse River Seawall. Another 10 MMT are moving underwater on the coastal shelf, threatening Buffalo Reef, an important lake trout and whitefish breeding ground. Aerial photos, ALS (plane) LiDAR, and relatively inexpensive UAS (drone) surveys characterize shoreline structure and aid initial remediation. Because sands (natural beach quartz, stamp sand basalt) are silicates of similar density, particle dispersal is similar and challenging. However, stamp sand beaches contrast greatly with natural sand beaches in both physical profile and chemistry. Dispersing particles retain copper, and release toxic concentrations. Leaching is elevated by exposure to high DOC and low pH waters. Field experiments, shoreline seining, and benthic sampling confirm serious impacts on aquatic biota, supporting tailings removal.

To elucidate mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC)-tumor intricate and ambiguous interactions, the reliable cell labeling and tracking techniques are imperative. Traditional methods of cell labelling have limitations mostly relevant to need for genetic modification what demands the exploration for alternative strategies. Here, we propose using fluorescent photoconvertible microcapsules containing Rhodamine B (RhB) to study mMSC migration in brain tumors. These 3 μm sized microcapsules are readily internalised by cells and undergo photoconversion under 561 nm laser exposure with fluorescence blue shift on demand. Optimal photoconversion was achieved with a laser irradiation duration of 0.4 ms, which provide a maximal brightness of photoconverted label without an excessive laser exposure on cells. Capsules modified with polyallylamine hydrochloride demonstrated the best potential for intracellular uptake without significantly affecting cell viability, motility, or proliferation. The optimal ratio of 20 capsules per mMSC was determined for labeling. Moreover, migration of individual mMSCs within 2D and 3D glioblastoma cell (EPNT-5) colonies over 2 days and in vivo tumor settings over 7 days was tracked. Our study unveils a robust platform for investigating MSC-tumor dynamics, offering insights into therapeutic strategies. Photoconvertible microcapsules could also become an indispensable tool for studying complex fundamental processes of cell-cell interactions for a wide range of problems in biology and medicine.

Drug resistance in melanoma is a major hindrance in cancer therapy. Growth hormone (GH) plays a pivotal role in contributing to resistance to chemotherapy. Knocking down or blocking the GH receptor has been shown to sensitize the tumor cells to chemotherapy. Extensive studies have demonstrated that exosomes, a subset of extracellular vesicles, play an important role in drug resistance by transferring key factors to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy. In this study, we explore how GH modulates exosomal cargoes from melanoma cells and their role in drug resistance. We treated the melanoma cells with GH, doxorubicin, and GHR antagonist, pegvisomant, and analyzed the exosomes released. Additionally, we administered these exosomes to recipient cells. The GH-treated melanoma cells released exosomes with elevated levels of ABC transporters (ABCC1 and ABCB1), N-cadherin and MMP2, enhancing drug resistance and migration in recipient cells. GHR antagonism reduced these exosomal levels, restoring drug sensitivity and attenuating migration. Overall, our findings highlight a novel role of GH in modulating exosomal cargoes that drive chemoresistance and metastasis in melanoma. This understanding provides insights to the mechanisms of GH in melanoma chemoresistance and suggests GHR antagonism as a potential therapy to overcome chemoresistance in melanoma treatment.

Background: Our previous study highlighted important healthcare access and utilization concerns among new immigrants. Hence, in this study, we aimed to explore the role of public and patient involvement (PPI) may have in enhancing the accessibility and their contribution to migration health studies. Method: An open and in-depth interactive consecutive virtual discussion was conducted among volunteer asylum seekers and refugees from Eritrea and Syria in Switzerland. The novel PPI establishment had three phases; inception, training phase, and contribution phase. Result: At the beginning, the concept of PPI was apprehensive to grasp, as it was a new approach. After training and consecutive discussions, volunteers were ardent to engage actively. Hence, among the prime findings were the PPI's role and effect in raising awareness, PPI's role in exploring and communicating the healthcare system accessibilities and utilization among their community, the impact of PPI in echoing the healthcare needs of their fellow migrants, and PPI's contribution in enhancing and strengthening migration health researches. Conclusion: The PPI volunteers in the study were keen to raise their community's awareness through their networks, and bridge the research gap between researchers and the public.

Leishmaniasis is a complex infectious parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, belonging to a group of neglected tropical diseases. It poses significant global health challenges, particularly in socio-economically disadvantaged regions. Macrophages, as innate immune cells, play a crucial role in initiating the inflammatory response against the pathogens responsible for this disease. Macrophage polarization, the process of differentiating macrophages into pro-inflammatory (M1) or anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes, is essential for the immune response in leishmaniasis. The M1 phenotype is associated with resistance to Leishmania infection, while the M2 phenotype is predominant in susceptible environments. Notably, various immune cells, including T cells, play a significant role in modulating macrophage polarization by releasing cytokines that influence macrophage maturation and function. Furthermore, other immune cells can also impact macrophage polarization in a T-cell-dependent manner. Therefore, this review comprehensively examines macrophage polarization's role in leishmaniasis and other immune cells' potential involvement in this intricate process.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and the therapies of AD with anti-amyloid1-42 (Aβ) monoclonal antibodies are associated with the vascular complications of brain edema, hemorrhage, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) termed amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIAs). The neuropathology of normal and AD brains demonstrates that monocyte/macrophages (MMs) are critical in successful brain clearance in healthy brain by up-loading, transporting, and degrading Aβ but fail degradation and clearance in AD patients by releasing Aβ into vessels at the blood-brain barrier, causing vasculitis and ARIAs. The naturally-formed epoxides (EpFAs) of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA’s), including arachidonic, docosahexaenoic, and eicosapentaenoic fatty acids, may repair degradation of Aβ by regulating Aβ-degrading enzymes, inflammatory cytokines, and unfolded protein response (UPR) to endoplasmic reticulum stress in a homeostatic fashion. EpFAs are, however, degraded by the soluble epoxide hydrolase enzyme (sEH) but are protected by the sEH inhibitor (sEHI) TPPU. In the cultures of AD patients’ macrophages, TPPU with the epoxide EEQ, and the cGAS/STING inhibitor H-151 increased uptake of Aβ at 2 hours and degradation of Aβ at 24 hours. In conclusion, the soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor TPPU with omega-3 fatty acids and the cGAS/STING inhibitor H-151 increase Aβ uptake and degradation in macrophages of AD patients, and potentially enhancing Aβ clearance in the AD brain.

Parental labour migration, either one or both parents, has been associated with various challenges among left-behind children (LBC). However, there is a limited understanding of the LBC’s own views and experiences of social and mental wellbeing and how the new daily life circumstances they encounter following their parents’ migration impact them. This study aimed to understand the influence of parental migration and its aftermath on the social and mental wellbeing of children and adolescents (referred to as LBC) in two rural districts in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative design, data were collected through individual in-depth interviews with LBC (n=24) aged 14 to 18 years, recruited using the snowball sampling technique. Data were thematically analysed, guided by a qualitative data analysis framework. The findings showed that parental migration negatively impacted the social wellbeing of LBC. This impact was reflected in negative labelling from friends and changes in familial roles which influenced their social interactions and activities with peers. Parental migration also caused challenges to the mental wellbeing of LBC. These manifested in the LBC experiencing fractured emotional bonds, leading to negative emotions, including stress, anxiety, sadness, depression, frustration, loss of motivation, and self-imposed isolation, which were associated with their parents’ migration and abrupt disruptions in parent-child communication. The transition to new life situations with caregivers after parental migration and the dynamics within the caregivers’ households were additional factors that detrimentally affected their mental well-being. Unmet basic needs and educational needs due to financial hardships faced by mothers and caregivers, further exacerbated mental health challenges for the children. The findings indicate the importance and improvement of policies and interventions in Indonesia (e.g., counselling services, non-cash food assistance, family hope program, direct cash assistance) that cover and address the diverse needs of mothers or caregivers and the LBC.

The potentially active A subunit of coagulation factor XIII (FXIII-A) is an intracellular transglutaminase expressed in various cell types including platelets and monocytes/macrophages. It is involved in stabilizing protein structures by cross-linking through Nε-(?-L-glutamyl)-L-lysyl iso-peptide bonds. Macrophages are major cellular constituents of the atherosclerotic plaque and are important in determining its structural/functional features. Two of their important functions are the accumulation of oxidized LDL in the lipid core, and by cross-linking structural proteins they may stabilize the plaque and protect the thrombi of atherogenic origin against fibrinolytic degradation. It is important to know whether these functions operate in parallel utilizing the same cellular compartments. First, we showed that monocyte-derived human macrophages significantly increase their FXIII-A content when up-taking oxidized LDL. This phenomenon is very likely independent of the process of transformation into foam cells, as the transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells into foam cells fails to result in the expression of FXIII-A. FXIII containing macrophage-like cells are abundant in the plaque and FXIII-A is also present in the extracellular core. Several cells co-stained for FXIII-A and for Oil Red O suggest that expression of FXIII-A and lipid up-take are common features of macrophages present in the atherosclerotic plaque.

Tumor-associated macrophages are a key component in the tumor microenvironment, secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs) such as exosomes and other various factors for intercellular communication. However, macrophage-derived EVs heterogeneity and their cytotoxicity to cancer cells has not been well understood. Here, we aimed to separately isolate various types of macro-phage-EVs by size exclusion chromatography (SEC) method and investigate EV transmission and cytotoxicity to oral cancer cells. For fluorescence-labeling of cellular and EV membranes, palmitoylation signal-fused GFP and tdTomato were expressed in THP-1 monocytic cells and HSC-3 oral cancer cells, respectively. We found that fluorescence-labeled EVs secreted by macrophages were highly transmissive to oral cancer cells than those from parental monocytic cells. In a co-culture system and conditioned medium (CM), a macrophage-secreted unidentified factor was cytotoxic to oral cancer cells. We fractionated macrophage-derived EVs by the SEC method and performed western blotting to characterize various EV types. Three fractions were characterized: small exosomes (EXO-S: < 50 nm) fraction containing HSP90α, HSP90β, CD63 (EV marker) and β-actin; large exosomes (EXO-L: 50-200 nm) fraction containing CD9 (EV marker) and HSP90β; large EVs (100-500 nm) fraction. Notably, the macrophage-derived small exosomes fraction was cytotoxic to oral cancer cells, while large exosomes and large EVs were not. There-fore, it was implicated that macrophage-derived small exosomes are cytotoxic with high trans-mission potential to cancer cells.

Inflammation plays a key role in the development and progression of type-2 diabetes (T2D), a disease characterised by peripheral insulin resistance and systemic glucolipotoxicity. Visceral adipose tissue (AT) is the main source of inflammation early in disease course. Macrophages are innate immune cells that populate all peripheral tissues, including AT. Dysregulated AT macrophage (ATM) responses to microenvironmental changes are at the root of aberrant inflammation and development of insulin resistance, locally and systemically. The inflammatory activation of macrophages is regulated at multiple levels: cell surface receptor stimulation, intracellular signalling, transcriptionally and metabolically. This review will cover the main mechanisms involved in AT inflammation and insulin resistance in T2D. First, we will describe the physiological and pathological changes in AT that lead to inflammation and insu- lin resistance. We will next focus on the transcriptional and metabolic mechanisms described that lead to the activation of ATMs. We will discuss more novel metabolic mechanisms that influence macrophage polarisation in other disease or tissues contexts that may be relevant to future work in insulin resistance and T2D.

Progress in macrophage research is crucial for numerous applications in medicine, including cancer and infectious diseases. However, the existing methods to manipulate living macrophages are labor intense and inconvenient. Here we show that macrophage membranes can be reconstituted after storage for months at 4C, with their CD206 receptor selectivity and specificity being similar to that in the living cells. Then, we have developed a mannose ligand, specific to CD206, linked with PEG as IR spectroscopy marker to detect binding with the macrophage receptor. PEG was selected due to its unique adsorption band of C-O-C group at IR spectra, which does not overlap with other biomolecule’s spectroscopic feature. Next, competitive binding assay versus the PEG-bound ligand, has enabled selection of other higher-affinity ligands specific to CD206. Further, those higher-affinity ligands were used to differentiate activated macrophages in patient’s bronchoalveolar (BAL) or nasopharyngeal (NPL) lavage. CD206- control cells (HEK293T) showed only non-specific binding. Therefore, biochips based on reconstituted macrophage membranes as well as PEG-trimannoside as an IR spectroscopic marker, can be used to develop new methods facilitating macrophage research and macrophage-focused drug discovery.

Expression of miR-21 has been found to be altered in almost all types of cancers and it has been classified as an oncogenic microRNA. In addition, expression of tumor suppressor gene RECK is associated with miR-21 overexpression in high-grade cervical lesions. In the present study we analyze the role of miR-21 in RECK gene regulation in cervical cancer cells. To identify the downstream cellular target genes of upstream miR-21, we silenced endogenous miR-21 expression using siRNAs. We analyzed the expression of miR-21 and RECK, as well as functional effects on cell proliferation and migration. We found that in cervical cancer cells there was an inverse correlation between miR-21 expression and RECK mRNA and protein expression. SiRNAs to miR-21 increased luciferase reporter activity in construct plasmids containing the RECK-3′-UTR microRNA response elements MRE21-1, MRE21-2, and MRE21-3. The role of miR-21 in cell proliferation was also analyzed and cancer cells transfected with siRNAs exhibited a markedly reduced cell proliferation and migration. Our findings indicate that miR-21 post-transcriptionally down-regulates the expression of RECK to promote cell proliferation and cell migration inhibition in cervical cancer cell survival. Therefore, miR-21 and RECK may be potential therapeutic targets in gene therapy for cervical cancer.

Coilia nasus is an important fish resource in the Yangtze River, and the Yangtze River Estuary is a crucial migration pathway for it. In this study, we used otolith microchemistry to analyze the strontium/calcium (Sr/Ca) ratios and Sr contents in the sagitta otolith of C. nasus from the south branch (SB) and north branch (NB) of the Yangtze River Estuary, and obtained the diversity of migration patterns and spawning grounds distribution for C. nasus. The results indicate that C. nasus from both branches include two types of habitat history: freshwater (F)-brackish water (B) (Type I) and F-B-seawater (S) (Type II), with Type I being dominant at 62.50% in both branches. The C. nasus from SB comprises six migration patterns, while that from NB has seven migration patterns. The C. nasus from both branches hatch in F habitats. At the time of capture, the C. nasus from SB predominantly remain in F, accounting for 62.5%, while C. nasus from NB primarily stay in B, accounting for 87.5%. Throughout the migration process, C. nasus from both branches switch between different habitats, with C. nasus from NB exhibiting more frequent transitions between F and B, showing a greater reliance on the estuarine brackish habitat. The radius of the first blue region near the core (Lf) and freshwater coefficient (Fc) of otolith for C. nasus from both branches are divided into three groups: Long-distance freshwater dependence (LD), medium-distance freshwater-dependent (MD), and short-distance freshwater dependence (SD), with the LD only appearing in the SB, while the NB is primarily represented by the MD. There is a correlation between the differences in Lf among different groups of C. nasus and the differences in the distance from the spawning grounds of C. nasus in different sections of the Yangtze River to the Estuary (DYRE), reflecting the distribution pattern of C. nasus spawning grounds in different sections of the Yangtze River. This study provides theoretical guidance for the protection of migration pathway and maintenance of spawning grounds for C. nasus, which has significant practical value in the precise management of C. nasus resources in the Yangtze River Estuary.

Background. Azithromycin (AZM) is widely used in cystic fibrosis (CF) treatment following clinical trials demonstrating improved lung function and fewer pulmonary exacerbations. While the precise mechanisms remain elusive, immunomodulatory actions are thought to be involved. We previously reported impaired phagocytosis and defective anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization in CF macrophages. This study systematically analyzed the effect of AZM on the functions of unpolarized and M1/M2 polarized macrophages in CF. Methods: Monocytes, isolated from the venous blood of patients with CF (pwCF) and healthy controls (HCs) were differentiated into monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) and infected with P. aeruginosa. P. aeruginosa uptake and killing by MDMs in the presence or absence of AZM was studied. M1 and M2 macrophage polarizations were induced and their functions and cytokine release were analyzed. Results: Following AZM treatment, both HC and CF MDMs exhibited a significant increase in P. aeruginosa uptake and killing, however, lysosomal acidification remained unchanged. AZM treatment led to higher activation of ERK1/2 in both HC and CF MDMs. Pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 using U0126 significantly reduced P. aeruginosa uptake in HC MDMs. M1 macrophage polarization remained unaffected, however, AZM treatment led to increased IL-6 and IL-10 release in both HC and CF M1 macrophages. AZM also significantly increased the phagocytic index for both pHrodo E. coli and S. aureus in CF M1 macrophages. In CF, AZM treatment promoted anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization, with an increased percentage of CD209+ M2 macrophages, induction of the M2 gene CCL18, along with its secretion in the culture supernatant. However, AZM did not restore endocytosis in CF, another essential feature of M2 macrophages. Conclusions: This study highlights the cellular functions and molecular targets of AZM which may involve improved uptake of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, restored anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization in CF. This may in turn shape the reduced lung inflammation observed in clinical trials. In addition, we confirmed the role of ERK1/2 activation for bacterial uptake.

Cambodia is a predominantly agrarian society, with a majority of the population residing in rural areas and relying on agriculture for food and income. The primary sources of food for the Khmer society are rice and fish. However, the country faces vulnerabilities due to climate change, natural disasters, impacts of hydropower and infrastructure development, and land grabs, which disrupt food sources and the livelihoods of local communities. Since 2015, the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) has been actively promoting rice production for export, resulting in increased rice farming seasons and annual rice production. Despite these efforts, a significant portion of the population still experiences food insecurity. Therefore, this study aims to explore the reasons why food security issues persist despite the government program to increase rice production. The study involves a review of existing literature and an examination of food security in three provinces in the Cambodian Mekong Delta. It concludes that, on the one hand, the increased rice production has increased food availability, but access to and utilization of food have been challenged by indebtedness, increased cost of production and migration, and on the other hand, the rights to foods have been challenged by land crabs, water conflicts, and lack of sectoral integrations of food systems; and compounded by climate change and environmental degradation, which all contribute to food security.

The G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER; G protein-coupled estrogen receptor 30, also known as GPR30) is a novel estrogen receptor and has emerged as a promising target for ovarian cancer. GPER, a seven-transmembrane receptor, suppresses cellular viability and migration in studied ovarian cancer cells. However, its impact on the fallopian tube, which is the potential origin of high-grade serous (HGSC) ovarian cancer, has not been addressed. This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship of GPER, ovarian cancer subtypes, i.e., high-grade serous cell lines (OV90 and OVCAR420), as well as potential HGSC ovarian cancer origin (i.e., the fallopian tube cell line FT190). The selective ligand assessed here is the agonist G-1, which was utilized in an in vitro study to characterize its effects on cellular viability and migration. As a result, this study has addressed the effect of a specific GPER antagonist in combination with an agonist on cell viability, providing a better understanding of the effects of these compounds on our diverse group of studied cell lines. Strikingly, attenuated cell proliferation and migration behaviors were observed in the presence of G-1. Thus, our in vitro study reveals the impact of the origin of HGSC ovarian cancers and highlights the GPER agonist G-1 as a potential therapy for ovarian cancer.

The international literature shows a polarised debate on the impacts of climate change on migration. Some studies find a positive linkage, whereas others find a negative one. It is, without a doubt, a complex process better considered case-specific. There is no available information on the relationship between climate change and migration in Colombia, despite past research exploring each of these subjects independently. This study intends explicitly to investigate this linkage gap. Consequently, this paper's essential contribution is that it builds a bridge between climate change scenarios and migratory science for the first time in Colombia. Despite their limitations, the theoretical and methodological framework suggested by IOM (2009b pp. 86, Section B, Chapter II) is demonstrated in this study to be very valid since it provides a methodology to predict where future flows will occur (based on past evidence). The methodological approaches of SLA and NELM explained in section A in the IV Chapter are also valuable for analysing and approaching this study's conclusions. The primary conclusions of this study indicate that the "Coffee Region," Valle, and Atlantic (or Caribbean Coast) provinces that mainly send emigrants to Spain and the US are the key internal regions responsible for most of the international migration from Colombians. The same areas are especially vulnerable to the impacts of upcoming climate change in the A1B scenario produced by the IDEAM (2010) for 2040 and 2100. Thus, future flows of migrants are expected from these regions (2040-2100). However, issues such as visa requirements or the costs associated with migration constitute international barriers to this flow. The sensitivity of these regions can also be associated with internal migration flows, more armed conflict, and forced displacement in a cyclical process. Theoretically, a resurgence of Colombia's armed conflict and displacement due to climate change can be expected. However, the need for empirical studies in Colombia to support this analysis is imperative and is the most crucial recommendation arising from this study.

This paper draws on data from a representative city-wide household food security survey of Nairobi conducted in 2017 to examine the importance of food remitting to households in contemporary Nairobi. The next section of the paper provides an overview of urbanization and the rapid growth of Nairobi which has led to growing socio-economic inequality, precarious livelihoods for the majority, and growing food insecurity, as context for the more detailed empirical analysis of food security and food remittances that follows. It is followed by a description of the survey methodology and sections analyzing the differences between migrant and non-migrant households in Nairobi. Attention then turns to the phenomenon of food remitting, showing that over 50% of surveyed households in the city had received food remittances in the previous year. The paper then uses multivariate logistic regression to identify the relationship between Nairobi household characteristics and the probability of receiving food remittances from rural areas. The findings suggest that there are exceptions to the standard migration and poverty-driven explanatory model of the drivers of rural-urban food remitting and that greater attention should be paid to other motivations for maintaining rural-urban connectivity in Africa.

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a reversible cellular program that transiently places epithelial (E) cells into pseudo-mesenchymal (M) cell states. The malignant progression and resistance of many types of carcinomas depends on EMT activation, partial EMT and hybrid E/M status in neoplastic cells. EMT is activated by tumor microenvironmental TGFβ signal and EMT-inducing transcription factors, such as ZEB1/2 in tumor cells. However, reverse EMT factors are less studied. We demonstrate that transcription factor SCAND1 can revert mesenchymal and hybrid E/M phenotype of cancer cells to a more epithelial, less invasive status and inhibit their proliferation and migration. SCAND1 is a SCAN domain-containing protein and hetero-oligomerizes with SCAN-zinc finger transcription factors, such as MZF1, for accessing DNA and transcriptional co-repression of target genes. We found that SCAND1-MZF1 co-expression and interaction correlated with maintaining epithelial features, whereas the simultaneous loss of SCAND1 and MZF1 correlated with mesenchymal features of tumor cells. Overexpression of SCAND1 over endogenous MZF1 in DU-145 prostate cancer cells reverted their hybrid E/M status into cobblestone morphology with increased epithelial adhesion by E-cadherin and β-catenin relocation. Consistently, co-expression analysis in TCGA PanCancer Atlas revealed that both SCAND1 and MZF1 co-express and are negatively correlated with EMT driver genes, including CTNNB1, ZEB1, ZEB2 and TGFBR, in prostate tumor specimens. In addition, SCAND1 overexpression suppressed tumor cell proliferation by reducing the MAP3K-MEK-ERK signaling pathway. Of note, SCAND1-overexpressing DU-145 cells migrated slower than control cells with decreased lymph node metastasis of prostate cancer in a mouse tumor xenograft model. Kaplan-Meyer analysis showed high expression of MZF1 and SCAND1 to correlate with better prognoses in pancreatic cancer and head and neck cancers, although with poorer prognosis in kidney cancer. Overall, these data suggest that the combination of SCAND1-MZF1 complexes may revert the EMT mechanism in cancer to establish an epithelial phenotype. These effects seem to include co-repression of EMT-driver genes and suppression of tumor cell proliferation via inhibition of the MAP3K-MEK-ERK signaling pathway.

The reliance on cloud computing services and related technologies has increased due to their many benefits, including resource sharing and the need for organizations to maintain their competitive advantage in the digital market. Also, the pace of cloud growth has significantly increased because of COVID-19. Many companies and businesses have shifted their core processes to the cloud for seamless operations during the pandemic. This migration of legacy systems to the cloud creates many opportunities for businesses. However, on the other hand, it may also bring substantial challenges. Hence, a careful decision is needed to align with company goals. In this paper, we demonstrate the need and advantages of cloud computing, followed by highlighting AWS's characteristics as one of the leading cloud service providers. We also discuss the merger of AWS with SDN to improve cloud data security and performance. The outcomes of this study can provide a data migration strategy and guide decision-makers toward a secure and sustainable migration to a cloud computing environment.

Macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) acquire functionally distinct properties in response to various environmental stimuli; the interaction of these cells with myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in tumor microenvironments regulates cancer progression. Immunodeficient mice lacking T cells are less likely to reject human cancer cells because of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) mismatches. The xenograft tumor microenvironment, comprising human cancer and mouse host cells, exhibits more complex bidirectional signaling and function than a syngeneic tumor microenvironment. Here human and mouse colorectal cancer cells were transplanted into nude mice to elucidate differences in macrophage, DC, and MDSC functions in human xenograft and mouse allograft tumor models. Plasma interferon-γ and interleukin-18 concentrations in the former model after intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration were significantly higher than those in the latter model and non-transplanted control group. Splenic MHC class I, II, and CD80 expression increased in CD11b+ and MDSC populations after LPS administration in only the xenograft tumor model. The number of CD80- and MRC1-expressing cells decreased upon LPS administration in only the xenograft tumor. These results suggxest that macrophages and DCs function normally in xenograft tumor models, whereas their functions in response to LPS administration vary in allograft tumor models.

An event of increasing interest during host-pathogen interactions is the differentiation of patrolling monocytes (MOs) and the polarization of naive MOs into macrophage subsets (MФs). Therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating this event are under investigation. This review focuses on the mechanisms of induction, development, and profile of MФs polarized toward classically proinflammatory (M1) or alternatively anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes in response to bac-teria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. It highlights nuclear (PPARγ), cytoplasmic, and cell surface receptors (pattern recognition receptors/PPRs), microenvironmental mediators, and immune signaling. MФs polarize into phenotypes: M1 MФs, activated by IFN-γ, pathogen-associated mo-lecular patterns (PAMPs, e.g. LPS)/DAMPs and membrane-bound PPRs ligands (TLRs/CLRs lig-ands); or M2 MФs (a, b, c and d), induced by IL-4, -10 and -13, antigen-antibody complexes, and helminth PAMPs. The kinetics of M1 and M2 polarization evolve in a pathogen-specific manner, with or without canonicity, and can vary widely. Ultimately, this can result in varying degrees of host protection or more severe disease outcome. While the host is driving an effective MФs po-larization, pathogens are attempting to shift it to increase pathogenicity. The latter results from a bias toward an ineffective M1 or M2 response due to microbial virulence factors, culminating in pathogen evasion of host defenses. Plasticity of M1/M2 phenotypes is also ensured by cellu-lar/genomic reprogramming. Because modulation of this event can occur at multiple points, providing a therapeutic/vaccine design target to boost microbicidal (M1) or tissue repair (M2) response during the inflammation-to-resolution transition; new insights and emerging perspec-tives may have clinical implications.

Macrophages are the key effector cells of innate immunity which show two polarized states: M1, classically activated and M2, alternatively activated. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) which usually show M2 polarization, are immunosuppressive cells that enhance tumor metastasis and invasion. Also, enrichment of TAMs is known to be closely associated with poor prognosis of cancer patients. Therefore, TAMs are considered to be promising targets for immunotherapy. Importantly, tumor-derived exosomes emerged as a crucial player in immune regulation which can remodel the tumor microenvironment towards immunosuppressive state. Of note, few studies have shown that exosomes could induce polarization of macrophages towards M2 type in tumor condition, while others showed activation of M1 or mixed phenotype. Considering the role of TAMs in cancer, there is an urgent need to decipher the exosome-mediated cross-talk between tumor cells and macrophages.For this, we used murine model of Dalton’s lymphoma (DL), wherein, firstly, we evaluated increased exosome burden by assessing exosome level in serum as well as in various tissues of tumor-bearing host. Next, proteomic profiling of lymphoma-derived exosomes was done which revealed the presence of immunomodulatory proteins. Of note, these proteins were known to alter the macrophage polarization. In order to assess the effect of these exosomes on macrophages, we performed in vitro study using RAW264.7 cells. In vitro study revealed that frequent uptake of exosomes mediated a morphological change in macrophages which reduced their phagocytic activity. In parallel, exosomes increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and inhibited LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) level in macrophages. Also, exosomes upregulated the expression of arginase-1 (an M2 marker) in macrophages but decreased the LPS-induced nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2) (an M1 marker) expression. Moreover, we observed a pro-tumoral cytokine profile in macrophages incubated with exosomes. Our study suggests that exosome load increases in lymphoma-bearing hosts systemically. Importantly, lymphoma-derived exosomes mediate the activation of macrophages towards pro-tumoral M2 type. Our results give an insight into the exosome-mediated tumor and immune cell cross-talk which could serve as an important prospect for targeting in cancer immunotherapy.

Organ shortage is one of the most pressing issues with regard to human mortality. This issue is further complicated by the fact that HLA matching is required for patients, leading to restricted choices for transplant. If organs or tissues from non- or partially-HLA–matched donors could be edited such they evade cytotoxic T cells as well as natural killer cells, it would ameliorate the organ shortage problem.

The assessment of soil contamination in the vicinity of integrated siderurgical plants is of outmost importance for agroecosystems and human health, and sensitive techniques should be employed for accurate assessment of chemical elements (metals, potential toxic elements, rare earths, radioelements) in soil and further evaluation of potential ecological and safety risk. In this paper a total of 45 major, minor and trace elements (Al, As, Au, Ba, Br, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Dy, Eu, Fe, Hf, Hg, I, K, La, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Nd, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sb, Sc, Sm, Sn, Sr, Ta, Tb, Th, Ti, Tm, U, V, W, Y, Yb, Zn and Zr) were quantified in soils located around a large siderurgical works (Galati, SE Romania) using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) in combination with X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The statistical analysis results and vertical distribution patterns for three depths (0-5 cm, 5-20 cm, 20-30 cm) indicate inputs of toxic elements in the sites close to the ironmaking and steelmaking facilities and industrial wastes dumping site. For selected elements, a comparison with historical, legislated and world reported concentration values in soil was performed and depth migration, contamination and toxic risk indices were assessed. The distribution of major, rock forming elements was closer to the Upper Continental Crust (UCC), and to the Dobrogea loess, finding confirmed by the ternary diagram of the incompatible trace elements Sc, La and Th, as well as by the La to Th rate. At the same time, the La/Th vs. Sc and Th/Sc vs. Zr/Sc bi-plots suggested a felsic origin and a weak recycling of soils mineral components.

Lymph nodes are secondary lymphoid organs that appear as bean-like nodules usually <1 cm in size, and they are localized throughout the body. Many antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells and macrophages reside in lymph nodes, where they mediate host defense responses against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. In cancers, antigen-presenting cells induce cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) to react to cancer cell–derived antigens. Macrophages located in the lymph node sinus are of particular interest in relation to anti-cancer immune responses because many studies using both human specimens and animal models have suggested that lymph node macrophages play a key role in activating anti-cancer CTLs. The regulation of lymph node macrophages therefore represents a potentially promising novel approach in anti-cancer therapy.

Various authors have highlighted the importance of marriage as a social marker that alter the so-cial categorization of individuals and their relationships from youth to adulthood according to the cultural construction of the life course in Arab countries. This article aims to analyze the in-teraction between the socio-political framework (structure) and the capacity for individual action (agency) in the context of biographical experiences to achieve emancipation in Morocco. This per-spective responds to the demand of different authors to include the subjective approaches of young people in the process of analysis. This analysis will be guided by some questions: Which is the capacity of young Arabs to decide the orientation of their life trajectories? What factors (cultural, family, socioeconomic, educational, etc.) create and shape the expectations of young people re-garding their transition to adult life? Is there a specific model of emancipation in the Arab Medi-terranean countries?

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular biological process involved in migration of primary cancer cells to secondary sites facilitating metastasis. Besides, EMT also confers properties such as stemness, drug resistance and immune evasion which can aid a successful colonization at the distant site. EMT is not a binary process; recent evidence suggests that cells in partial EMT or hybrid E/M phenotype(s) can have enhanced stemness and drug resistance as compared to those undergoing a complete EMT. Moreover, partial EMT enables collective migration of cells as clusters of circulating tumor cells or emboli, further endorsing that cells in hybrid E/M phenotypes may be the ‘fittest’ for metastasis. Here, we review mechanisms and implications of hybrid E/M phenotypes, including their reported association with hypoxia. Hypoxia-driven activation of HIF-1α can drive EMT. In addition, cyclic hypoxia, as compared to acute or chronic hypoxia, shows the highest levels of active HIF-1α and can augment cancer aggressiveness to a greater extent, including enriching for a partial EMT phenotype. We also discuss how metastasis is influenced by hypoxia, partial EMT and collective cell migration, and call for a better understanding of interconnections among these mechanisms. We discuss the known regulators of hypoxia, hybrid EMT and collective cell migration and highlight the gaps which needs to be filled for connecting these three axes which will increase our understanding of dynamics of metastasis and help control it more effectively.

Piscirickettsia salmonis is an intracellular bacterial fish pathogen that causes piscirickettsiosis, a disease with numerous negative impacts in the Chilean salmon farming industry. Although transcriptomic studies of P. salmonis and its host have been performed, dual host-pathogen proteomic approaches during infection are still missing. Considering that gene expression not always corresponds with observed phenotype, and bacteriological culture studies inadequately reflect infection conditions, to improve the existing knowledge for the pathogenicity of P. salmonis we present here a global proteomic profiling of Salmon salar macrophage-like cell cultures infected with P. salmonis LF-89. The proteomic analyses identified several P. salmonis proteins from two temporally different stages of macrophages infection; some of them related to key functions for bacterial survival in other intracellular pathogens. Metabolic differences were observed in early-stage infection bacteria, compared to late-stage infections. Virulence factors related to membrane, LPS and surface component modifications, cell motility, toxins and secretion systems also varied between the infection stages. Pilus proteins, beta-hemolysin and the T6SS were characteristic of the early-infection stage, while fimbria, upregulation of 10 toxins or effector proteins, and the Dot/Icm T4SS were representative of the late-infection stage bacteria. Previously described virulence-related genes in P. salmonis plasmids were identified by proteomic assays during infection in SHK-1 cells, accompanied by an increase of mobile-related elements. By comparing the infected and un-infected proteome of SHK-1 cells, we observed changes in cellular and ROS homeostasis, innate immune response, microtubules and actin cytoskeleton organization and dynamics, alteration in phagosome components, iron transport and metabolism, and amino acids, nucleoside and nucleotide metabolism, together with an overall energy and ATP production alteration. Our global proteomic profiling and the current knowledge of the P. salmonis infection process allowed us to propose a model of the macrophage-P. salmonis interaction.

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is a pleiotropic myelopoietic growth factor and proinflammatory cytokine, clinically used for multiple indications and serving as a promising target for treatment of many disorders, including cancer, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, asthma, COVID-19. We have previously shown that dimeric Ca2+-bound forms of S100A6 and S100P proteins, members of the multifunctional S100 protein family, are specific to GM-CSF. To probe selectivity of these interactions, the affinity of recombinant human GM-CSF to dimeric Ca2+-loaded forms of 18 recombinant human S100 proteins was studied by surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy. Of them, only S100A4 protein specifically binds to GM-CSF with equilibrium dissociation constant, Kd, values of 0.3-2 μM, as confirmed by intrinsic fluorescence and chemical crosslinking data. Calcium removal prevents S100A4 binding to GM-CSF, whereas monomerization of S100A4/A6/P proteins disrupts S100A4/A6 interaction with GM-CSF and induces a slight decrease in S100P affinity for GM-CSF. Structural modelling indicates the presence in the GM-CSF molecule of a conserved S100A4/A6/P-binding site, consisting of the residues from its termini, helices I and III, some of which are involved in the interaction with GM-CSF receptors. The predicted involvement of the ‘hinge’ region and F89 residue of S100P in GM-CSF recognition was confirmed by mutagenesis. Examination of S100A4/A6/P ability to affect GM-CSF signaling showed that S100A4/A6 inhibit GM-CSF/S100-induced suppression of viability of monocytic THP-1 cells. The ability of the S100 proteins to modulate GM-CSF activity is relevant to progression of various neoplasms and other diseases, according to bioinformatics analysis. The direct regulation of GM-CSF signaling by extracellular forms of the S100 proteins should be taken into account in the clinical use of GM-CSF and development of the therapeutic interventions targeting GM-CSF or its receptors.

Macrophage-derived chemokine belongs to the CC subfamily. It is produced by dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages with or without external stimulation. We have previously shown a statistically significant depletion of MDC/CCL22 concentrations in a number of studies concerning COVID-19. These shifts in concentrations demonstrated stability unrelated to the SARS-CoV-2 genetic variant and remained noticeable even in convalescent patients. In this work, we analyze MDC/CCL22 dynamics in various diseases, including those that manifest with inflammation in lung tissue. In addition, we provide our hypothesis on such a decrease in MDC/CCL22 concentrations in COVID-19. If its secretion by producer cells is unperturbed, then it is possible for viral products to bind to this chemokine and to block its functional activity. There is, however, another possible explanation directly linked to depletion in DC subpopulations and the inhibition of their function. We also discuss MDC/CCL22's role in the immunology of novel coronavirus infection, based on both our own data and other studies.

This study investigates the effect of perceived discrimination on the mental health of Afghan refugees, and secondly, tests the distress moderating effects of pre-migration traumatic experiences and post-resettlement adjustment factors. In a cross-sectional design, 259 Afghans completed surveys assessing perceived discrimination and a number of other factors using scales developed through inductive techniques. Multivariate analyses consisted of a series of hierarchical regressions testing the effect of perceived discrimination on distress, followed by a sequential analysis of moderator variables. Perceived discrimination was significantly associated with higher distress, and this relationship was stronger among those with a strong intra-ethnic identity, high civic engagement, and high pre-resettlement traumatic experiences. Discrimination is a significant source of stress for Afghan refugees, which may exacerbate stresses associated with other post-migration stressors. Future research is needed to tailor interventions that can help mitigate the stress associated with discrimination among this highly vulnerable group.

An intricate relationship between impaired immune functions and the age-related accumulation of tissue senescent cells (SC) is rapidly emerging. The immune system is unique as it undergoes mutually inclusive and deleterious processes of immunosenescence and cellular senescence with advancing age. While factors inducing immunosenescence and cellular senescence may be shared, however, both these processes are fundamentally different which holistically influence the aging immune system. Immunosenescence is a well-characterized phenomenon, but our understanding and biological impact of cellular senescence in immune cells, especially in the innate immune cells such as macrophages, is only beginning to be understood. Tissue-resident macrophages are long-lived, and while functioning in tissue-specific and niche-specific microenvironments, senescence in macrophages can be directly influenced by senescent host cells which may impact organismal aging. In addition, evidence of age-associated immunometabolic changes as drivers of altered macrophage phenotype and functions such as inflamm-aging is also emerging. The present review describes the emerging impact of cellular senescence vis-à-vis immunosenescence in aging macrophages, its biological relevance with other senescent non-immune cells, and known immunometabolic regulators. Gaps in our present knowledge, as well as strategies aimed at understanding cellular senescence and its therapeutics in the context of macrophages, have been reviewed.

The rapid advancements and the merging of hybrid quantum-classical computing, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL) pose a potentially unseen and significant threat to encryption that may impact Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) transition timelines. There is a direct hybrid quantum-classical computing threat on cryptography, and there is also a direct threat AI/ML on cryptography. However, the synergistic combination of these technologies presents known and unknown threats that need attention, focus action, and research. This paper reviews Grover's Adaptive Search (GAS), which combines Grover's Algorithm with adaptive techniques to optimize search further, potentially making it even more efficient for attacking encryption. This work also examines the quantum-accelerated Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd (HHL) Algorithm, designed to solve systems of linear equations exponentially faster than classical algorithms in certain conditions. The HHL algorithm can solve some lattice-based problems, which have implications for lattice-based encryption. This technological confluence and its potential impact on cryptography and encryption necessitate a proactive and coordinated approach to developing and implementing quantum-resistant AI/ML cryptographic solutions. This paper reviews the technological confluence and its potential implications for classical cryptography and PQC transition timelines and calls for further research.

Albanian migration has always reflected a family character, be that before 1945 when Albania was not yet completely isolated, as well as after 1990 when borders were reopened. This feature characterized all types of movement, internal or international, permanent or seasonal migration, return migration or transnational movements, and remigration. The role of the family has been very important in making decisions regarding migration and answering questions from why to how to migrate, from when to where, whom to ask for help or how to invest remittances. Based on the case study of a rural area in Northern Albania, The Administrative Unit of Dajç, this article explores in detail the roles of family and kinship on decisions regarding return migration, the re-adjustment process, remigration or transnational life. By exploring the role of the family context in remigration and vice-versa the article reflects that the family biography – including the lifestyle, plans for the future or expectations - has changed due to previous migration experiences or challenges and difficulties when returning to the home country. It demonstrates how individual decisions to migrate or to ‘return home’ are negotiated and supported within families making transnational life a family project. The article adopts a new approach in the Albanian Migration Studies which may be implied on broader areas for further research in the future.

The Evolutionary history and domestication of Camels are largely unexplored because of the lack of well dated early archaeological records. However, limited records suggest that domestication of Camels likely happened in the late second millennium BCE. Over the time, camels have helped human for their basic needs like meat, milk, wool, dung to long routes transportation. This multifaceted animal has helped the mankind to connect through continents and in trade majorly through the Silk route. In India, both dromedary and Bactrian camels are found and their habitat is entirely different from each other, dromedaries inhabit in hot deserts and Bactrians are found mostly in cold places (Nubra Valley, Ladakh). Fewer studies on Indian dromedaries have been conducted but no such studies are done on Bactrian camels. It is needed to study the genetics of Bactrian camels to find out their genetic affinity and evolutionary history with other Bactrians found in different parts of the world. Furthermore, parallel studies on humans and Bactrian camel are required to understand the co-evolution and migration pattern of humans during their dispersal in different time periods.

Anthropogenic change is associated with population growth, land use change, and changing economies. However, internal migration patterns and armed conflicts are also key drivers behind anthropogenic and demographic processes. To better understand this sort of change, we explore the spatial relationship between forced migration due to armed conflict and changing demographic factors in Colombia, a country which has a recent history of 7 million internal migrants. In addition, we use remote sensing, Google Earth Engine, as well as spatial statistical analyses of demographic data in order to measure anthropogenic change between 1984 and 2008; and we look into spatiotemporal relationships between both demographic and anthropogenic changes, which are caused by forced migration. We find, thus, that the latter is significantly and positively related to an increasing rural-urban kind of migration which originates in armed conflict, and results show that it is also negatively associated with interregional expulsion. Indeed, anthropogenic prints (term hereafter used to denote changes in nighttime satellite imagery) pertaining to different regions have had different sensitivities towards forced migration, and across different time periods. Finally we discuss how social and political phenomena such as Colombia’s armed conflict can have significant effects on the dynamics and motions of humans and territories in countries of the Global South.

Cell migration is essential for physiological, pathological and biomedical processes such as, in embryogenesis, wound healing, immune response, cancer metastasis, tumour invasion and inflammation. In light of this, quantifying mechanical properties during the process of cell migration is of great interest in experimental sciences, yet few theoretical approaches in this direction have been studied. In this work, we propose a theoretical and computational approach based on the optimal control of geometric partial differential equations to estimate cell membrane forces associated with cell polarisation during migration. Specifically, cell membrane forces are inferred or estimated by fitting a mathematical model to a sequence of images, allowing us to capture dynamics of the cell migration. Our approach offers a robust and potentially accurate framework to compute geometric mechanical membrane forces associated with cell polarisation during migration and also yields geometric information of independent interest, we illustrate one such example that involves quantifying cell proliferation levels which are associated with cell division, cell fusion or cell death.

Abstract: Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) is an autoimmune/autoinflammatory disease affecting large vessels in patients over 50 years old. The disease presents as an acute inflammatory response with two phenotypes, cranial-GCA and Large Vessel Vasculitis (LV)-GCA, involving the thoracic aor-ta and its branches. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomogra-phy (18F-FDG PET-CT) is among the imaging techniques contributing to diagnosis of patients with systemic disease. However, its association with soluble inflammatory markers is still elu-sive. This proof-of-concept study aims to identify novel soluble serum biomarkers in PET/CT pos-itive patients with LV-GCA and associate them with active (0 months) and inactive disease (6 months following treatment), in sequential samples. The Most-Disease-Segment Target-to-Background Ratio (TBRMDS) was calculated for 9 LV-GCA patients, while 12 cranial-GCA and 7 Polymyalgia Rheumatica patients with negative initial PET/CT served as disease controls. Serum macrophage-related cytokines were evaluated by Cytometric Bead Array (CBA). Finally, previously published NMR-metabolomics data acquired at the same blood sampling were associated with PET/CT findings. TBRMDS was significantly increased in active versus inactive disease (3.45 vs. 2.55, p=0.008). The analysis identified 6 serum metabolites, as more sensitive to change from the active to inactive state. Among them, choline levels were exclusively altered in the LV-GCA group, but not the disease controls. Cytokine levels were not associated with PET/CT activity. Combining with CRP, ESR, and TBRMDS a composite index was generated to depict well the differences between active and inactive systemic LV-GCA (25.45 vs 11.45, p=0.0039). These preliminary results could pave the way for more extensive studies integrating serum metabolomic parameters with PET/CT imaging data to extract sensitive composite disease indexes useful for the everyday clinical practice.

Background: We screened key genes involved in the dedifferentiation process of thyroid cancer by analyzing differentially expressed genes in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Methods: We analyzed differentially expressed genes in ATC from GEO database and constructed a co-expression network using Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) . Cytoscape was used to calculate top ten key genes based on their gene scores. DEPDC1 was selected as interest gene for further validation, including examination of its prognostic relationship with thyroid cancer, correlation analysis with thyroid differentiation markers, immune cell infiltration, and tumor microenvironment. The impact of DEPDC1 on cancer cell migration, invasion, and proliferation was validated through downregulation and overexpression of DEPDC1 gene in thyroid cancer cell lines c643 and BCPAP. Results: We identified top 10 key genes in ATC: AURKA, TPX2, RACGAP1, MELK, DLGAP5, DEPDC1, KIF2C, NCAPG, CCNB1, and PBK. DEPDC1 showed a strong correlation with the prognosis of thyroid cancer. The odds ratio (OR) for overall survival was 3.5 (P=0.016) in individuals with high DEPDC1 expression, and the OR for disease-free survival was 2.6 (P=0.003). Additionally, the analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the expression of DEPDC1 and thyroid differentiation markers. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis demonstrated that DEPDC1 co-expressed genes were enriched in cellular processes, cell cycle pathways, and dynamic protein groups. Matrix and immune scoring indicated tumor microenvironment and immune scores were associated with DEPDC1 expression. TIMER2.0 online analysis revealed a strong correlation between DEPDC1 expression and immune cell infiltration in papillary thyroid carcinoma. After downregulation of DEPDC1 expression, the invasion, migration, and proliferation abilities of tumor cells were significantly reduced. Conversely, overexpression of DEPDC1 exhibited the opposite effect. Conclusion: DEPDC1, a newly identified dedifferentiation gene in thyroid cancer, inversely correlated with the degree of differentiation. High expression of DEPDC1 promotes cancer progression and leads to poor prognosis in thyroid cancer.

Lung cancer is a prevalent and aggressive neoplasm worldwide, contributing to significant mortality rates. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) constitutes the bulk of the steroid hormone in human plasma, has a robust antiproliferative effect, and induces cell death in various tumor cells. However, its role in lung cancer cells remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the influence of DHEA on the proliferation, viability, autophagy, and migration of several lung cancer cell lines, including A549, HCC827, and NCI-H2347. Cell proliferation was assessed through crystal violet staining; cell number and viability were evaluated using trypan blue staining; viability was confirmed by MTT reduction, a method that is also an indicator of metabolic activity; migration was assessed via a wound healing assay. Autophagy was evaluated using a specific kit, while cell death was determined by annexin-V-FITC/propidium iodide staining and caspase-3/7 activity assay. The results indicate that DHEA significantly reduced proliferation, cell number, metabolic activity, and migration in all examined lung tumor cells. These effects correlate with an increased autophagy induced by DHEA. No signs of apoptosis or necrosis were observed across the range of DHEA concentrations used. Although these findings are preliminary, they suggest that DHEA could hold promise as an alternative treatment option for various subtypes of lung cancer.

This study was conducted to identify soil cadmium (Cd) removal pathways and their contribution rates during phytoremediation by Pennisetum hybridum, as well as to comprehensively assess its phytoremediation potential. Multilayered soil column tests and farmland simulating lysimeter tests were conducted to investigate the Cd phytoextraction and migration patterns in topsoil and subsoil simultaneously. The aboveground annual yield of P. hybridum grown in the lysimeter was 206 ton·ha–1. The total amount of Cd extracted in P. hybridum shoots was 234 g·ha–1, which was similar to that of other typical phytoremediation plants. After the test, the topsoil Cd removal rate was 21.50%–35.81%, whereas the extraction efficiency in P. hybridum shoots was only 4.17%–8.53%. These findings indicate that extraction by plant shoots was not the most important contributor to the decrease of Cd in the topsoil. The proportions of Cd retained by root cell wall was approximately 50% of the total Cd in root. Based on column test results, P. hybridum treatment led to a significant decrease in soil pH and considerably enhanced Cd migration to subsoil and groundwater. P. hybridum decreases Cd in the topsoil through multiple pathways and provides a relatively ideal material for phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soils.

Climate change-induced events amplify existing social, political, economic, infrastructural and environmental concerns in many Global South cities, and perhaps no city is more vulnerable than Bangladesh’s capital of Dhaka. Climate-induced rural-urban migration is a profound concern, and Dhaka’s political leaders have embraced technology-based innovation as a solution pathway. This article explores the societal impact of Dhaka’s innovation environment strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Employing a case study qualitative methodology, our three findings expand knowledge about innovation-urban climate mitigation as understood by Dhaka-based entrepreneurs: First, the most effective innovations were not the most technologically advanced, but those with the highest degree of participant ownership. Second, gaps between recipient, corporate and governmental understandings of effective mitigation and adaptation harmed projects, and were driven by different definitions of risk and competing understandings of vulnerability. Third, even the most technical climate adaptation measures were inherently political in their application. We discuss how to better position urban climate innovation infrastructures in Bangladesh and beyond, including developing a better recognition of innovation lifecycles for urban climate adaptation and widening our definitions of ‘innovation’ to better incorporate more effective and inclusive climate adaptation solutions.

The aim of this research involves investigating the elimination of nitrogen ions from groundwater through the application of dynamic permeable reactive barriers (PRB) utilizing A400-nZVI. The aim also implyies determining barrier parameters, as well as assessing the overall retention capacity of nitrogen ions through percolation with a potassium nitrate solution. The research involves obtaining zero valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI), which were synthesized and doped onto an anionic resin support material (A400) through the reduction reaction of ferrous ions with sodium borohydride (NaBH4). This was achieved by preparing a ferrous sulfate solution, contacting it with the ion exchange resin at various solid-liquid mass ratios, and gradually adding sodium borohydride under continuous stirring in an oxygen-free environment to create the A400-nZVI barrier. The outcomes of this study, focusing on the development of permeable reactive barriers composed of nanovalent iron and ion exchangers, demonstrate significant potential in purification processes when appropriately dimensioned. The research specifically evaluated the efficacy of NO3- removal using the A400-nZVI permeable reactive barrier, conducting laboratory tests that simulated a naturally stratified aquifer with high nitrate contamination.

As a fundamental, overall, and strategic issue facing human society, human migration is a key factor affecting the development of countries and cities given constantly changing population numbers. The fuzziness of the spatiotemporal attributes of human migration limits the pool of open-source data for human migration prediction, leading to a relative lag in human migration prediction algorithm research. This study expands the definition of human migration research, reviews the progress of research into human migration prediction, and classifies and compares human migration algorithms based on open-source data. It also explores the critical uncertainty factors restricting the development of human migration prediction. Given the effect of human migration prediction, in combination with artificial intelligence and big data technology, the paper concludes with specific suggestions and countermeasures aimed at enhancing human migration prediction research results to serve economic and social development and national strategy.

Inhalational anesthetics was previously reported to suppress glioma cell malignancy, but underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The present study aims to investigate the effects of sevoflurane and desflurane on glioma cell malignancy changes via microRNA (miRNA) modulation. The cultured H4 cells were exposed to 3.6% sevoflurane or 10.3% desflurane for 2 hrs. The miR-138, -210 and -335 expression were determined with qRT-PCR. Cell proliferation and migration were assessed with wound healing assay, Ki67 staining and cell count kit 8 (CCK8) assay with/without miR-138/-210/-335 inhibitor transfections. The miRNA downstream proteins, hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), were also determined with immunofluorescent staining. Sevoflurane and desflurane exposure to glioma cells inhibited their proliferation and migration. Sevoflurane exposure increased miR-210 expression whereas desflurane exposure upregulated both miR-138 and miR-335 expressions. The administration of inhibitor of miR-138, -210 or -335 inhibited the suppressing effects of sevoflurane or desflurane on cell proliferation and migration, in line with the HIF-1α and MMP9 expression changes. These data indicated that inhalational anesthetics, sevoflurane and desflurane, inhibited glioma cell malignancy via miRNA upregulation and their downstream effectors, HIF-1α and MMP9, downregulation. The implication of the current study warrants further study.

Leishmania spp. is the aetiologic agent of leishmaniasis, a disease endemic in several developing countries. The parasite expresses and secretes several virulence factors that subvert macrophage function and immune response. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can carry molecules of the parasites that show immunomodulatory effects on macrophage activation and disease progression. In the present work, we detected a significantly higher expression of lpg3 and gp63 genes in Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes recovered after successive experimental infections (IVD-P) compared to those cultured for a long period (LT-P). In addition, we observed a significantly higher percentage of infection and internalized parasites in groups of macrophages infected with IVD-P. Macrophages previously treated with EVs from LT-P showed higher percentages of infection and production of inflammatory cytokines after challenge with the parasite compared to untreated ones. However, macrophages infected with parasites and treated with EVs did not reduce the parasite load. In addition, no synergistic effects were observed in infected macrophages treated with EVs and reference drugs. In conclusion, parasites cultured for a long period in vitro and recovered from animals’ infection differently affect the macrophage response. Furthermore, EVs produced by these parasites affected macrophage response in the early infection of these cells.

We aimed to evaluate the protective effects of acetyl-xylogalactan on the activity of RAW264.7 macrophages against heat stress. To this end, we assessed cell survival, phagocytic activity, in-tracellular Ca2+ level, mitochondria potential exchange, apoptotic assay findings, galactosidase activity and the RNA-seq by NGS and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) expression. In our evaluation of macrophage morphology at 37°C and 41°C, the macrophages showed an oval shape at 41°C , unlike the spindle shape at 37°C. Therefore, 41°C was chosen as the heat stress condition. Subsequently, we designed an experiment to evaluate changes in the RAW264.7 macrophages after acetyl-xylogalactan treatment under heat stress. The survival of RAW264.7 macrophages treated with acetyl-xylogalactan was higher than that of controls that were not treated with acetyl-xylogalactan. Moreover, on the basis of the results of the annexin-V detection assay, the apoptotic activity of macrophages appeared to have reduced after treatment with ac-etyl-xylogalactan. Moreover, treatment with acetyl-xylogalactan resulted in a stronger recovery trend in the intracellular Ca2+ and mitochondrial membrane potential after heat stress. RNA sequencing and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) illustrated that Sarcodia suieae acetyl-xylogalactan could upregulate the expression of the anti-apoptosis Cflar gene and down-regulate the expression of the apoptosis factors Ddit3, and Hyou1 to protect macrophages under heat stress.

Some p53 mutants lose their tumor suppressor activity and acquire new oncogenic functions, known as a gain of function. Recent studies have shown that p53 mutants can exert oncogenic effects through specific miRNAs. We identified the differentially expressed miRNA profiles of the three most frequent p53 mutants (p53R273C, p53R248Q, and p53R175H) in the Saos-2 cell line (null p53) transfected as compared with p53WT transfected cells. The association between these miRNAs and the signaling pathways in which they might participate was performed through the miRPath Software. QRT-PCR was employed to validate the miRNAs profiles. In addition, we explored if the induction of cell migration and invasion by the p53R48Q mutant was dependent on the miR-182-5p. We observed that p53 mutants have an overall negative effect on miRNA expression. Likewise, we found miRNAs differentially expressed associated with regulating Oncogenic signaling pathways. We found overexpression of miR-182-5p, which is associated with processes such as cell migration and invasion. Inhibition of mutant p53R248Q and miR-182-5p increased FOXF2-MTSS1 levels and decreased cell migration and invasion. Our results suggest that p53 mutants increase the expression of miR-182-5p, and this miRNA is also necessary to induce cell migration and invasion by the p53R248Q mutant in a cancer cell model.

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits, which disrupt the signal transduction in neurons and other glia cells. The pathological protein Tau and amyloid-β contributes to the disrupted microglial signaling pathways, actin cytoskeleton, and cellular receptor expression. The important secondary messenger lipids i.e., phosphatidylinositols are largely affected by protein deposits of amyloid-beta in Alzheimer’s disease. Phosphatidylinositols are the product of different phosphatidylinositol kinases and the state of phosphorylation at D3, D4, and D5 positions of inositol ring. PI 3, 4, 5-P3 involves in phagocytic cup formation and relates actin remodeling whereas PI 4, 5-P2-mediates the process of phagosomes formation and further fusion with early endosome. The necessary activation of actin-binding proteins such as Rac, WAVE complex, and ARP2/3 complex for the actin polymerization in the process of phagocytosis, migration is regulated and maintained by PI 3, 4, 5-P3 and PI 4, 5-P2. Dietary fatty acids depending on their ratio and types of intake influence secondary lipid messenger along with the cellular content of phaphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. The deposited Aβ deposits and extracellular Tau seed disrupt levels of phosphatidylinositol and actin cytoskeletal changes that hamper microglia signaling pathways in AD. We hypothesize that being a lipid species intracellular levels of phosphatidylinositol would be regulated by dietary fatty acids. We keen to understand different types of phosphatidylinositol species levels in signaling events such as phagocytosis and actin remodeling owing to the exposure of various types of dietary fatty acids.

The studies regarding macrophage lncRNAs described in this review can help provide valuable information for developing treatments for various pathological conditions involving macrophages. Over the past century, molecular biology's focus has transitioned from proteins to DNA, and now to RNA. Once considered merely a genetic information carrier, RNA is now recognized as both a vital element in early cellular life and a regulator in complex organisms. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are over 200 bases long but do not code for proteins, play roles in gene expression regulation and signal transduction by inducing epigenetic changes or interacting with various proteins and RNAs. These interactions exhibit a range of functions in various cell types including macrophages. Notably, some macrophage lncRNAs influence the activation of NF-κB, a crucial transcription factor governing immune and inflammatory responses. Macrophage NF-κB is instrumental in the progression of various pathological conditions including sepsis, atherosclerosis, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and hypersensitivity. It orchestrates gene expression related to immune responses, inflammation, cell survival, and proliferation. Consequently, its malfunction is a key contributor to the onset and development of these diseases. This review summarizes the role of lncRNAs that regulate NF-κB in macrophage activation and inflammation, especially focusing on their implications in human diseases and their potential as therapeutic targets

Macrophages are cells involved in the primary response to debris derived from wear of implanted CoCr alloys. The biocompatibility of wear particles from a high carbon CoCr alloy produced under polarization in physiological hyaluronic acid (HA) solution was evaluated in J774A.1 mouse macrophages cultures. Polarization was applied to mimic the electrical interactions observed in living tissues. Wear tests were performed in a pin-on-disk tribometer integrating an electrochemical cell in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and in PBS supplemented with 0.3% HA, physiological synovial fluid concentration, used as lubricant solution. Wear particles produced in 0.3% HA solution showed a higher biocompatibility in J774A.1 macrophages in comparison to those elicited by PBS. A considerable improvement in macrophages biocompatibility in the presence of 0.3 % of HA was further observed by the application of polarization at potentials having current densities typical of injured tissues suggesting that polarization produces an effect on the surface of the metallic material that leads to the production of wear particles that are macrophages biocompatible and less cytotoxic. The results showed the convenience to consider electric interactions together with other particles parameters, as are size and composition, to get a better understanding of the biological effects of the wear products.

Background: Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease that results from a combination of endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory arterial wall disorder. Stenosis of the carotid artery caused by atherosclerotic plaques is responsible for approximately 10-20% of strokes and transient ischemic attacks, and the low-grade intraplaque inflammation interferes with lesion stability and progression. Methods: In this cohort study, initially, 119 patients were enrolled who underwent carotid endarterectomy. Of these, 67 cases with active perilesional inflammatory infiltrate were chosen for further immunohistochemical examination. The CD68+ infiltrate, iNOS2+, Arg1, and CD31 expressions were quantified around the lipid core by digital morphometry. These results were correlated with the presence of morphological changes leading to plaque instability: ulceration, thrombosis, intraplaque hemorrhage, the presence of the lipid core, calcification, and neovascularization. Results: Patients with a stronger macrophage CD68+ infiltrate were associated with intraplaque hemorrhage (p=0.003). In 12 cases with dominant iNOS2 positivity, the occurrence of atherothrombosis was significantly more frequent (p=0.046). Plaque neovascularization, characterized by CD31+, was correlated with atherothrombosis (p=0.02). Conclusion: The intensity of macrophage infiltration correlates with intraplaque hemorrhage, and the presence of pro-inflammatory iNOS2+ macrophages is associated with atherothrombosis in endarterectomized carotid plaques. Neovascularization also has potential thrombotic capacity.

Historical legacy of Eastern European and Balkans’ health systems was mutually interdependent and shaped by local socioeconomic circumstances. Three distinctive systems of risk sharing and health financing to develop since the late XIX century were the Bismarck, Beveridge, and Semashko systems. Modern day healthcare systems in these countries are challenged by population ageing, accelerated innovation in medical technology, growing purchasing power and rising demand for healthcare services. Supply side changes contribute to demand side efficiency bottlenecks in financing, driving the costs of the already expensive medical care up. All of the nations have a large share of citizens experiencing difficulty with affordability and access to medical care, particularly in rural and remote areas. Network of Health technology assessment agencies have mushroomed over the past three decades. Principles of health economics theory and cost-effective resource allocation are slowly gaining ground in governing authorities’ mindset and decision-making process. For many years to come, pharmaceuticals and medical services will remain dependent on out-of-pocket spending. Currently accelerating and spreading 4.0 Industrial Revolution, together with the Belt and Road Initiative, are likely to substantially impact the further economic development of this vast region. Post-Pandemic ‘Green’ Recovery strategies adopted by many of the Eastern European governments shall also make this transition towards sustainable development more difficult and challenging given the large dependency of all these economies upon traditional carbon fuels.

Caribbean SIDS are among the most vulnerable to climate change which will have a disproportionate impact on local environments and economies. Whilst there is a growing literature on how Caribbean SIDS can adapt to become more resilient a question that has received little attention is with regard to migration as an unplanned response. It is recognised that events such as hurricanes and flooding can lead to internal relocation in the short term but societal responses to droughts through migration have not generally been investigated. This paper seeks to address this by considering the case of the island of Carriacou, part of the state of Grenada. Carriacou with its small population, limited land area and local economy, historically based on agriculture has had a high degree of migration. This is in part a response to limited economic opportunities. Environmental stress manifest through limited water availability, inappropriate land management and social conditions is likely to be exacerbated by climate change and variability. Resultant increases in the frequency and intensity of droughts, in the absence of proactive interventions, are likely to result in non-linear migration, both to Grenada itself and beyond.

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading malignancy diseases worldwide, especially in Asian. CAST is a potential oncogene in GC carcinogenesis process. The character of macrophage infiltration in GC microenvironment was also unaddressed. Methods: We first applied machine searching in gene candidate evaluation of GC. CAST expression was analyzed via the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2) database. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was downloaded from STRING. We investigated the impact of CAST on clinical prognosis using Kaplan-Meier plotter. The correlations between CAST and Lgr5 and macrophage infiltration in GC was surveyed via TIMER 2.0. Finally, GeneMANIA was also used to evaluate the possible functional linkage between genes. Results: After machine-assisted searching, CAST expression was found signicant difference in the overall survival of GC patients. STRING revealed CAST related proteomics and transcriptomics associations, mainly about CAPN family. Moreover, CAST significantly impacts the prognosis of GC from other datasets validation. Notably, high CAST expression was correlated with worse overall survival in GC patients (hazard ratio = 1.59; logrank P = 9.4 x 10-8). CAST and Lgr5 expressions were both positively correlated with WNT 2 and WNT 2B. Among GC patients in several datasets, CAST and macrophage infiltration evaluated together showed no obvious trend toward poor clinical overall survival. Conclusion: CAST plays an important role in GC clinical prognosis and is associated with WNT 2/WNT 2B/Lgr5. Our study denmostrated that CAST in GC overall survival is regulated by macrophage infiltration.

Abstract: Oleuropein, the major compound of olive leaves, has been reported to exert numerous pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and anticancer. The purpose of this study is to evaluate, for the first time, the effect of oleuropein-rich leaf extracts (ORLE) in already-developed colon tumours colon tumours arising in an Apc (adenomatous polyposis coli) mutated PIRC rats (F344/NTac-Apcam1137). Here, we were able to investigate in parallel the anti-cancer effect of ORLE, both in vivo and in vitro, and its anti-inflammatory effect on macrophages, which represents a critical and abundant population in most solid tumours microenvironment. We found that in vivo ORLE treatment promoted apoptosis and attenuated iNOS activity both in colon tumours as in peritoneal macrophages of PIRC rats. We confirmed in vitro using primary RAW264.7 cells: ORLE reduced iNOS activity in parallel with COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1, IL-6 and TGF-. These findings suggest that ORLE possess a strong anti-inflammatory activity, which could be crucial for dampening the pro-tumourigenic activity elicited by a chronic inflammatory state generated by either tumour cells or tumour-associated macrophages.

Background: Cutaneous Melanoma (SKCM) is characterized by significant heterogeneity in its molecular, genomic, and immunologic characteristics. Methods: Whole transcriptome RNAseq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas of SKCM (n=328) was utilized. The immune microenvironment was characterized using CIBERSORTX to identify immune cell type composition. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering was performed based on immune cell type content. Samples were separated into those obtained from the primary tumor site and regional skin or soft tissue (locoregional), or distant metastasis and regional lymph node (metastatic). Analysis of overall survival (OS) was performed using Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox-regression multivariable analyses. Results: Four immune clusters were identified, largely defined by lymphocyte:monocyte (L:M) ratio, monocyte-enrichment, and M0-macrophage-enrichment (L:MLow, MonocyteHigh, M0High; L:MLow, MonocyteMid, M0Low; L:MMid, MonocyteLow, M0Low; L:MHigh, MonocyteLow, M0Low). The L:MLow, MonocyteHigh, M0High cluster demonstrated significantly worse OS than clusters 2-4 in the locoregional group (HR 2.804, 95% CI 1.262–6.234, p=0.0114). Membership in the L:MLow, MonocyteHigh, M0High cluster was an independently poor prognostic factor for survival (HR 3.03, 95% CI 1.12–8.20, p=0.029). The L:MLow, MonocyteHigh, M0High cluster correlated with higher rates of metastasis and decreased predicted response to immune checkpoint blockade compared to the other clusters as determined by the Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion tool (TIDE). Conclusion: Distinct tumor immune clusters with a M0-macrophage-enriched, L:M ratio low phenotype in the primary melanoma tumor site independently characterize an aggressive phenotype that may differentially respond to treatment.

In preserving genetic diversity among domestic animal breeds, the strategies emphasizing be-tween-breed diversity may be not optimal by neglecting within-breed variation. The present study aimed to assess the extent of the population subdivision of Mangalica pigs and the contri-bution of migration intensity to their substructure. Genealogy analysis was performed for breeding animals born between 1981 and 2023 examining three colour variations (Blonde, Swal-low-Belly, and Red). The fixation index (FST) was calculated and evaluated by Multidimensional Scaling and Clustering to expose the population substructure. The average FST is 0.04 for the Blonde and 0.05 for the Swallow-Belly and the Red while in the active herds, these parameters are smaller being 0.03 and 0.04, respectively. The migration of individuals affected 61.63% of the Blonde, 75.53% of the Swallow-Belly, and 63.64% of the Red breed herds. No population sub-structure was found in any Mangalica breed which can be explained by the extensive within breed migration among the herds.

Cell migration crucial contributor to metastasis, a critical process associated with the mortality of cancer patients. The initiation of metastasis is triggered by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), along with the changes of the expression of EMT marker proteins. Inflammation plays a significant role in carcinogenesis and metastasis. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a typical inflammatory agent, promoted the generation of superoxide through the activation of p-Tyr42 RhoA, Rho-dependent kinase 2 (ROCK2) and the phosphorylation of p47phox. In addition, p-Tyr42 RhoA activated phospholipase D1 (PLD1), with PLD1 and phosphatidic acid (PA) being involved in superoxide production. PA also regulated the expression of EMT maker proteins. Consequently, we have identified MHY9 (Miosin IIA, NMIIA) as a PA-binding protein in response to LPS. MYH9 also contributed cell migration and the alteration of the expression of EMT marker proteins. P-Tyr42 RhoA, PLD1 and MYH9 associated to form a complex, which was distributed in both the cytosol and nucleus. In addition, we have found that p-Tyr42 RhoA and PLD1 associated with the ZEB1 promoter. Taken together, we propose that p-Tyr42 RhoA and PLD1, responsible for producing PA, and PA-bound MYH9 are involved in the regulation of ZEB1 expression, thereby promoting cell migration.

When we discuss migration and compare national trends, the topic most commonly centers on undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers. However, there is also considerable variation in internal migration patterns, with differences found between and within nations. Many factors shape whether, why, and where people relocate. Over the last few decades, the world's two largest economies - the United States and China - have seen domestic migration changes happening in opposite directions. China has become increasingly mobile and experienced urbanization. In contrast, the U.S. has seen a steady decline in the rate at which its population relocates, with cities experiencing net migration losses as citizens leave for suburbs. This paper examines these trends using data from the last decade to compare the two nations in areas of internal migration, urbanization, housing, social mobility, and economic growth.

This is a study of Political Economy on religion and migration management in the United States of America (USA). This paper offers a review of migrants-citizens relations in the USA, with attention to the pendulum effect, moving from integration policies (open doors and melting pot agenda) to official persecution (raids and deportations), with a high social opportunity cost. There has been a split between the State and civil society, causing civil disobedience and sanctuary network across the country. Also, it is paid attention to the American post-modern paradox, as a result of culture wars and identity politics that imply a violation of American constitutional principles (i.e. religious liberty, freedom of movement, to pursuit the happiness). Special attention is paid to the development of the Sanctuary Movement, as an ongoing example of the sociocultural upheaval bringing grassroots society into confrontation with powerful elites by promoting resistance and offering help to the needy, even if this results in sanctions. This movement was revitalized after the values crisis of 2008, but it has also been polarized between those who follow the traditional approach to socio-religious action in the form of peaceful civil disobedience, and those who follow the ideological anti-system and communitarian approach, which causes greater tension for the immigrants themselves

Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are the major cell type in the epi- or sub-retinal membranes in the pathogenesis of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), which is a blinding fibrotic eye disease and still short of effective medicine. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate if Chalocomoracin (CMR), a novel purified compound from fungus-infected mulberry leaves, is able to inhibit vitreous-induced signaling events and cellular responses intrinsic to PVR. Our studies have revealed that the CMR IC50 for ARPE-19 cells is 35.5 μM at 72 hours, and that 5 μM CMR inhibits vitreous-induced Akt activation and p53 suppression; in addition we have discovered that this chemical effectively blocks vitreous-stimulated proliferation, migration and contraction of ARPE-19 cells, suggesting that CMR is a promising PVR prophylactic.

Following our previous success in identifying new steroid-based anticancer agents, we herein disclosed the structural requirements for retaining high potency against cancer cells and associated modes of action. The structurally novel steroidal dimer by001 inhibited growth of different esophageal cancer cells and colony formation at low micromolar levels, elevated cellular ROS levels and caused mitochondrial dysfunction. Mechanistic studies showed that by001 induced cell death through the mitochondria and death receptor-mediated apoptotic pathways and autophagy induction, as well as inhibited migration.

The loss of vitamin D3 upregulated protein 1 (VDUP1) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various inflammation-related diseases. Notably, reduced expression of VDUP1 has been observed in clinical specimens of ulcerative colitis (UC). However, the role of VDUP1 deficiency in colitis remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of VDUP1 in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced experimental colitis in mice. VDUP1-deficient mice were more susceptible to DSS-induced colitis than their wild-type (WT) littermates after 2% DSS administration. VDUP1-deficient mice exhibited an increased disease activity index (DAI) and histological scores, as well as significant colonic goblet cell loss and an increase in apoptotic cells. These changes were accompanied by a significant decrease in MUC2 mRNA expression and a marked increase in proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines within damaged tissues. Furthermore, phosphorylated NF-B p65 expression was significantly upregulated in damaged tissues in the context of VDUP1 deficiency. VDUP1 deficiency also led to significant infiltration of macrophages into the site of ulceration. An in vitro chemotaxis assay confirmed that VDUP1 deficiency enhanced bone marrow-derived macrophage (BMDM) chemotaxis induced by CCL2. Overall, the loss of VDUP1 plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of UC, and blocking VDUP1 dissociation may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of UC.

The complex interplay between dietary factors, inflammation, and macrophage polarization is pivotal in the pathogenesis and progression of chronic liver diseases (CLDs). Omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) have been attracted attention due to their potential to modulate inflammation and exert protective effects in various pathological conditions. This review explores the emerging role of omega-3 FAs and their specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) in the context of macrophage polarization, with a focus on chronic liver diseases. Omega-3, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have promising effects in mitigating inflammation and enhancing the resolution of inflammatory responses. They influence the M1/M2 macrophage phenotype balance, promoting a shift towards the M2 anti-inflammatory phenotype. SPMs, such as resolvins (Rvs), protectins (PDs), and maresins (MaRs), have emerged as potent regulators of inflammation and macrophage polarization. They show anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving properties. These mediators modulate the expression of cytokines, facilitate the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells, and promote tissue repair. MaR1, in particular, has demonstrated significant hepatoprotective effects by promoting M2 macrophage polarization, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting key inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB. In the context of CLD, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis, omega-3 and their SPMs have shown promise in attenuating liver injury, promoting tissue regeneration, and modulating macrophage phenotypes. However, the mechanisms underlying their effects and their interactions with other cell types within the liver microenvironment require further investigation. Understanding the intricate relationship among SPM and macrophage polarization holds unlimited potential for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for chronic liver diseases.

Voids in face-centered cubic (fcc) metals are commonly assumed to form by the aggregation of vacancies; however, the mechanisms of vacancy clustering and diffusion are not fully understood. In this study, we use computational modeling to provide a detailed insight into the structures and formation energies of primary vacancy clusters, mechanisms and barriers for their migration in bulk copper, and how these properties are affected at simple grain boundaries. The calculations were carried out using Embedded Atom Method (EAM) potentials and Density Functional Theory (DFT) and employed the Site-Occupation Disorder code (SOD), the Activation Relaxation Technique nouveau (ARTn) and the Knowledge Led Master Code (KLMC). We investigate stable structures and migration paths and barriers for clusters of up to six vacancies. Migration of vacancy clusters occurs via hops of individual constituent vacancies with di-vacancies having a significantly smaller migration barrier than mono-vacancies and other clusters. This barrier is further reduced when di-vacancies interact with grain boundaries. This interaction leads to the formation of self-interstitial atoms and introduces significant changes into the boundary structure. Tetra-, penta-, and hexa-vacancy clusters exhibit increasingly complex migration paths and higher barriers than smaller clusters. Finally, the direct comparison with the DFT results shows that EAM can accurately describe the vacancy-induced relaxation effects in the Cu bulk and in grain boundaries. Significant discrepancies between the two methods were found in structures with a higher number of low-coordinated atoms, such as penta-vacancies and di-vacancy absortion by grain boundary. These results will be useful for modeling the mechanisms of diffusion of complex defect structures and provide further insights into the structural evolution of metal films under thermal and mechanical stress.

Cloud computing has become a widespread technology due to ICT advancements. It allows businesses to move and take advantage of the pay-as-you-go price model. Enterprises pay for what they use and don't have to buy, setup, or maintain resources. However, outsourcing core resources such as storage, servers, operating systems, and software applications from a third party needs careful decisions to take advantage of cloud facilities. Choice of appropriate service provider, deployment and service model must be aligned with business needs and goals. In this paper, we will present cloud computing benefits, cloud deployment methods, services, state-of-the-art migration methods, tools and techniques and will conclude with the role of SDN in cloud computing.

Dual specificity phosphatase 2 (DUSP2) regulates the activation of members in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, which is involved in a variety of cellular processes like cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and migration. DUSP2 also regulates the expression of inflammatory mediators in macrophages, however, it remains unknown whether DUSP2 participates in macrophage migration. Here, using the tail fin injury model in zebrafish larvae, we found that deletion of DUSP2 inhibited expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and macrophage chemokines. Moreover, live imaging results showed that migration of macrophages to the injury site was inhibited after DUSP2 deletion. This inhibitory effect was mediated through reduced activation of extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) in DUSP2 knockout zebrafish.

International migration is closely tied to demographic, socioeconomic, and environmental factors and their interaction with migration policies. Using a combination of a gravity econometric model and an overlapping generations model, we estimate the probability of bilateral migration among 160 countries in the period of 1960 to 2000 and use these findings to project international migration flows and their implication for income inequality within and between countries in the 21st century under five shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs). Our results show that international migration not only increases the welfare in developing countries, but also closes the inequality gap within and between low-skilled and high-skilled labor in these countries. In most developed countries on the contrary, international migration increases the inequality gap and slightly reduces output. These changes are not uniform and vary significantly across countries depending on their population growth and human capital development trajectories. Overall, while migration is strongly affected by inequality between developed and developing countries, it has an ambiguous impact on inequality within and between countries.

Liquid manipulation by photoisomerization attracts recent attentions as a new active droplet control method for micro-chemical analysis. Such a non-inverse manipulation can be realized by a use of solution liquid of surfactant that exhibits the \emph{cis}-\emph{trans} isomerization triggered by light irradiation with a specific wavelength such as ultraviolet light. Since the isomerization is accompanied by changes in fluid properties, a light irradiation on one of liquid-air interfaces of a liquid column in a tube would generate differences in the wettability accompanied between the both sides of the finite liquid column. Although this technique has been demonstrated experimentally by Muto et al. (\emph{Euro.~Phys.~J.~Special Topics}, {\bf 226}, 2016, 1199--1205), its dynamics and developments of each isomer distribution are not understood. In order to reveal the liquid-column migration phenomenon, we have performed numerical simulations of air-liquid two-phase flows and its scalar transport of the isomer, using the Volume-of-Fluid method in conjunction with the Continuum-Surface-Force model and Continuous-Species-Transfer method. We validated present results by comparison with experimental result in terms of the migration distance of the liquid column. We confirmed a termination of the liquid-column migration occurs when the \emph{cis} isomer distribution reaches the non-irradiated region. The migration speed was less dependent on the liquid-column length and was proportional to the tube diameter.

The Tumor Microenviroment (TME) is a complex milieu that is increasingly recognized as a key factor in multiple stages of disease progression and responses to therapy as well as escape from immune surveillance. However, the precise contribution of specific immune effector and immune suppressor components of the TME in Burkitt lymphoma (BL) remains poorly understood. In this paper, we applied the computational algorithm CIBERSORT to Gene Expression Profile (GEP) datasets of 40 BL samples to draw a map of immune and stromal components of TME. Furthermore, by VECTRA multispectral immunofluorescence (IF) and multiple immunohistochemistry (IHC), we investigated the TME of an additional series of 40 BL cases and evaluated the possible role of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint axis. Our results indicated that M2 polarized macrophages are the most prominent TME component in BL. In addition, we investigated the correlation between PD-L1 and latent membrane protein-2A (LMP2A) expression on tumour cells, highlighting a subgroup of BL cases characterized by a non- canonical latency program of EBV with an activated PD-L1 pathway. In conclusion, our study analysed the TME in BL and identified a tolerogenic immune signature highlighting new potential therapeutic targets.

Glioblastomas (GBMs) are aggressive and invasive cancers of the brain, associated with high rates of tumor recurrence and poor patient outcomes despite initial treatment. Targeting cell migration is therefore of interest in highly invasive cancers such as GBMs, to prevent tumor dissemination and regrowth. One current aim of GBM research focusses on assessing anti-migratory properties of novel or repurposed inhibitors, including plant-based drugs which display anti-cancer properties. We investigated the potential anti-migratory activity of plant-based products with known cytotoxic effects in cancers, using a range of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) migration and invasion assays as well as immunofluorescence microscopy to determine specific anti-migratory and phenotypic effects of three plant-derived compounds, Turmeric, Indigo and Magnolia bark, on established glioma cell lines. Migrastatic activity was observed in all three drugs, with Turmeric exerting the most inhibitory effect on GBM cell migration into scratches and from the spheroid edge at all timepoints investigated (p < 0.001). We also observed novel cytoskeletal phenotypes affecting actin and focal adhesion dynamics. By determining the migrastatic activity of Turmeric, Indigo and Magnolia on GBM cell migration, we demonstrate a potential role for Turmeric as a novel GBM anti-migratory therapeutic, in combination with the current standard of care, to prevent tumor recurrence and promote patient survival.

This study investigates the intricate relationship between Venezuelan migration and urban growth in Colombia from 2018 to 2021. The study employs remote sensing data and social network metrics to uncover migration patterns and their impact on urban expansion. The methodology consists of three stages. Firstly, nighttime satellite imagery is used to analyze year-over-year urban growth in Colombia. Secondly, social network data estimates Venezuelan migration, overcoming challenges of underreporting and informal border crossings. Lastly, an econometric analysis explores the quantitative link between Venezuelan migration and urban growth, integrating socioeconomic variables to address endogeneity. The findings reveal the complex interplay of Venezuelan migration, socioeconomic factors, and urban growth. The study outlines remote sensing analysis, introducing the Anthropogenic Footprint Expansion Index (AFEI) to quantify urban growth. Facebook API data estimates migration trends and explores socioeconomic impacts on urban expansion. The analysis uncovers migration, poverty, aging, and urban population proportion as key factors affecting Colombia's urban landscape. Furthermore, the research underscores how Venezuelan migration affected short-term urban expansion pre- and post-COVID-19. Migration had a notable effect before the pandemic, but this influence waned afterward. The study highlights migration's short-term nature and emphasizes age demographics' role in medium-term dynamics.

With the intensification of population aging in rural areas, it becomes increasingly important to analyze the post-retirement migration intention of rural residents and the variables influencing these intentions. In this study, we focus on rural residents aged 45 to 60 and investigate the main variables that influence the post-retirement migration intention of rural residents, using survey data collected from 164 households in three different rural areas and the logistic regression model. From the result of this study, we found that gender, part-time employment, savings level, children's residence and occupation stability, and interest in urban living positively affect migration intention. In contrast, the number of rural companions, relationships with others in rural areas, and evaluation of rural living have a negative effect. In addition, we employ age and the proportion of mobile income as control variables to examine the variables that influence the post-retirement migration intention in different age groups and mobile income groups. The analysis reveals that, the variables influencing post-retirement migration intention varied across age groups and mobile income groups, and this variation can be attributed to the differences between groups' characteristics.

Macrophages exhibit impaired phagocytosis, adhesion, migration, and cytokine production in space, hindering their ability to elicit immune responses. Considering that the combined effect of spaceflight microgravity and radiation is multiscale and multifactorial in nature, it is expected that contradictory findings are common in the field. This theory paper reanalyzes research on the macrophage spaceflight response across multiple timescales from seconds to weeks, and spatial scales from the molecular, intracellular, extracellular, to the physiological. Key findings include time-dependence of both pro-inflammatory activation and integrin expression. Here, we introduce the time-dependent, intracellular localization of MRTF-A as a hypothetical confounder of macrophage activation. We discuss the mechanosensitive MRTF-A/SRF pathway dependence on the actin cytoskeleton/nucleoskeleton, microtubules, membrane mechanoreceptors, hypoxia, oxidative stress, and intracellular/extracellular crosstalk. By adopting a multiscale perspective, this paper provides the first mechanistic answer for a three-decade-old question regarding impaired cytokine secretion in microgravity—and strengthens the connection between the recent advances in mechanobiology, microgravity, and the spaceflight immune response. Finally, we hypothesize MRTF involvement and complications in treating spaceflight-induced cardiovascular, skeletal, and immune disease.

Hepatic macrophages act as the liver’s first line of defense against injury. Their differentiation into pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory subpopulations is a critical event that maintains a delicate balance between liver injury and repair. In our investigation, we explored the influence of the small heterodimer partner (SHP), a nuclear receptor primarily associated with metabolism, on macrophage differentiation during the innate immune response. During macrophage differentiation, we observed significant alterations in Shp mRNA expression. Deletion of SHP promoted M1 differentiation while interfering with M2 polarization. Conversely, overexpression of SHP resulted in increased expression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (Pparg), a master regulator of anti-inflammatory macrophage differentiation, thereby inhibiting M1 differentiation. Upon lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection, there was a notable increase in the pro-inflammatory M1-like macrophages, accompanied by exacerbated infiltration of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) into the livers of Shp myeloid cell specific knockout (Shp-MKO). Concurrently, we observed significant induction of tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnfa) and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (Ccl2) expression in LPS-treated Shp-MKO livers. Additionally, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) pathways were activated in LPS-treated Shp-MKO livers. Consistently, both pathways were hindered in SHP overexpression macrophages. Finally, we demonstrated that SHP interacts with p65, thereby influencing macrophage immune repones. In summary, our study uncovered a previously unrecognized role of SHP in promoting anti-inflammatory macrophage differentiation during the innate immune response. This was achieved by SHP acting as a regulator for the Pparg, MAPK and NF-kB pathways.

Background: Cardiac development is a complex developmental process. The early cardiac straight tube is composed of an external myocardial layer and an internal endocardial lining. Soon after rightward looping, the embryonic heart becomes externally covered by a new epithelial lining, the embryonic epicardium. A subset of these embryonic epicardial cells migrate and colonize the embryonic myocardium, contributing to distinct cell types. In recent years, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern proepicardium and embryonic epicardium formation has greatly increased. We have recently witnessed a novel layer of complexity governing gene regulation with the discovery of non-coding RNAs. Our laboratory recently identified three distinct lncRNAs, adjacent to the Wt1, Bmp4 and Fgf8 chicken gene loci, with enhanced expression in the proepicardium that are distinctly regulated by Bmp, Fgf and thymosin 4, providing support of their plausible implication in epicardial formation. Methods: Expression of lncRNAs was analyzed in different chicken and mouse tissues as well as their subcellular distribution in chicken proepicardial, epicardial, ventricle explants and in different murine cardiac cell types. lncRNA transcriptional regulation was analyzed by using siRNAs and expression vectors of different transcription factors in chicken and mouse. Antisense oligonucleotides were used to inhibit Gm14014 expression. Cardiac injury was induced ex vivo in mouse ventricle explants by cryoinjury. Furthermore, RT-qPCR, immunocytochemistry, RNA pulldown, Western blot, viability and cell migration assays were conducted to investigate the biological function of Wt1_76127 and Gm14014. Results: We demonstrated that Wt1_76127 in chicken and its evolutionarily conserved homologue Gm14014 in mice are widely distributed in different embryonic and adult tissues and distinctly regulated by cardiac enriched transcription factors, particularly Mef2c and Nkx2.5. Gm14014 is distinctly regulated in mouse ventricular cryoinjury ex vivo models, displaying a negative correlation with epicardial and epithelial to mesenchymal transition markers. Furthermore, silencing assays demonstrated that mouse Gm14014, but not chicken Wt1_76127, is essential for epicardial, but not endocardial or myocardial cell migration. Such process is governed by partnering with Myl9, promoting cytoskeletal remodeling. Conclusion: Our data evidence that Gm14014 plays a pivotal role in epicardial cell migration essential for heart regeneration.

Climate change is one of the widely acknowledged challenges faced by international communities in the 21^st century. It poses challenges to fundamental elements of our understanding of appropriate goals for socioeconomic policies, such as the connection of prosperity, growth, equity and sustainable development. Human activities-induced climatic changes have been widely perceived as threatening criteria for the long-term resilience of societies and communities throughout the world. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (UNIPCC) reported that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels for energy generation, is changing the climate of Earth. Despite contributing less towards the causes, poor citizens of developing countries bear a lot of its impacts. In particular, women and girls face a major impact and finally, they migrate due to the social gender division and scarcity of food. Studies on gender and climate change-induced migration are scarce. This study provides an overview of the induced impact of climate change on the livelihood, health and migration of women and girls. The aim of this study would significantly advance our understanding of the current inter-linkages between migration, displacement patterns and climate change impacts.

Oral cancer is a major public health burden worldwide. The lack of biomarkers for early diagnosis has increased the difficulty in managing this disease. Recent studies have reported that neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), a secreted glycoprotein, is upregulated in various tumors. In our study we found that NGAL was significantly downregulated in primary malignant and metastatic tissues of oral cancer compared to normal tissues. The downregulation of NGAL was strongly correlated with the degree of differentiation and stage (I-IV), and can serve as a prognostic biomarker for oral cancer. Tobacco carcinogens were also found to be involved in the downregulation of NGAL. Mechanistic studies revealed that knockdown of NGAL increased oral cancer cell proliferation, survival, and migration, and also induced resistance against cisplatin. Silencing of NGAL activated mTOR signaling and reduced autophagy by the LKB1-AMPK-p53-Redd1 signaling axis. Moreover, cyclin-D1, Bcl-2, and MMP-9 were upregulated, and caspase-9 was downregulated, suggesting that silencing of NGAL increases oral cancer cell proliferation, survival, and migration. Thus, from our study it is evident that downregulation of NGAL activates the mTOR pathway and helps in the progression of oral cancer.

To understand lung damage caused by COVID-19, we deduced two-phase lung damage mechanisms. After the lungs are infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus, the affected lung tissue swells and surface properties of pulmonary capillaries change, resulting in an increased flow resistance of affected capillaries. If a sufficient number of capillaries are affected by the infection, the swelling and increased cell wall adhesion collectively raise pulmonary vascular resistance. The increased vascular resistance further increases the dwell times of WBCs in affected capillaries and nearly capillaries. When pulmonary pressure is sufficiently higher, WBCs are forced to squeeze into interstitial spaces or alveolar spaces when local pressures are higher than what the capillaries can withstand. When more and more WBCs are dynamically retained, the flow resistance of more capillaries rises, pulmonary vascular resistance rises, and pulmonary pressure rises. The rise in the pulmonary pressure in turn results in elevated capillary pressures. When capillary pressures around the alveoli are sufficiently high, they cause interstitial pressures to change from normally negative values to positive values. The positive pressures cause fluid leakage to the alveolar space and thus degrade lung function. Tissue swelling, and occupation of WBCs in interstitial spaces and alveolar spaces further reduce compressible volume, and thus cause further rise in the pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary pressure. When the pulmonary pressure has reached a critical point as in the second phase, the blood breaks capillary walls and squeezes through interstitial spaces to reach alveolar spaces, resulting in irreversible lung damages. The available free volume in the thorax cage, organ usable capacities, temperature and humid are expected to have great impacts on degree of lung damages. The free volume in the thorax cage, lung usable surplus capacity, and other organ usable capacities determine the arrival time of last-phase irreversible damage. The mechanisms imply that the top priority for protecting lungs is maintaining pulmonary micro-circulation and preserving organ functions in the entire disease course while controlling viral reproduction should be stressed in the earliest time possible. The mechanisms also explain leukecytes are recruited and migrated into inflamed tissues by increasing their dwell times caused by increased local flow resistance.

Rising obesity and associated multi-systemic complications amplify the health burden. Euphorbia kansui (EK) extract is clinically recognized for managing obesity. In human study, 240 obese individuals were categorized into two cohorts: those receiving solely herbal medicine (HM group), and those administered EK concomitantly with herbal medicine (EK group). An in vivo examination using C57BL/6-Lepob/Lepob mice elucidated mechanisms involving macrophages and gut microbiota, with associated metabolic advantages. The clinical study revealed a significant 7.22% body weight reduction during 91.55 average treatment days, and examined 16.71% weight loss at 300 days after treatment. In the whole subjects, 60.4%, 21.3% and 6.3% achieved weight reductions exceeding 5%, 10% and 15%, respectively. Impressively, the EK group exhibited superior weight loss compared to the HM group (EK: -7.73% vs. HM: -6.27%, p=0.012). The anti-obesity effect was positively associated with EK therapy frequency and herbal medicine duration. In vivo, EK significantly improved insulin sensitivity and mitigated infiltration of adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) by modulating the CD11c+ and CD206+ subtypes. EK also correlated with increased Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes populations and reduced Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia. Consequently, EK is an effective adjunctive anti-obesity therapy offering metabolic benefits by modulating ATMs and gut microbiota profiles.

Cardiac development is a complex developmental process that results in the formation of the four-chambered organ from a single linear heart tube. In the early stages of development, the linear heart tube is composed of only two tissue layers, an external myocardium that is internally lined by the endocardium. Subsequently, the proepicardium emerges at the septum transversum and soon thereafter proepicardial cells will migrate into the naked myocardium, leading to the formation of the embryonic epicardium. As cardiac development proceeds, epicardial-derived cells migrate into the subepicardial space and subsequently invade the developing ventricular chambers leading to the contribution of distinct cardiovascular cell types such as the cardiac fibroskeleton and different components of coronary vasculature. At present, the molecular mechanisms that regulate the transitional process from the proepicardium to the embryonic myocardium are largely unexplored. In this study we have implemented an ex vivo proepicardium/septum transversum (PE/ST)-embryonic myocardium explant model and we demonstrated that miR-223, but not miR-195, is capable of modulating PE/ST migration, a process that seems to be mediated by Slug expression. Thus, our study demonstrates for the first time the implication of distinct microRNAs in the PE/ST to embryonic myocardium transition in chicken embryonic hearts.

Bone marrow derived adult human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) possess therapeutic qualities that enable them to enhance wound repair. However, the mechanisms by which this occurs remains poorly understood. Basic mechanisms may include the directed migration of delivered cells to target sites and/or the production and release of soluble factors that act at a distance. Allogeneic and even xenogeneic cells may effectively participate in wound repair. Labeled hMSCs were delivered to full-thickness skin wounds that were created in immunologically competent mice. The delivery occurred on day 3 post-wounding using two different carriers; one which released cells and one which retained cells. The fates of the delivered cells were tracked for up to 25 days. During this period, released cells migrated as a tight cohort deep into the wound to reach the subdermal vascular plexus. Simultaneously, enhanced formation of granulation tissue was evident. This migration of hMSCs was not essential in that enhanced granulation tissue formation and wound contraction occurred when cells were retained in the carrier matrix. This provided further evidence for the release of therapeutic factors by hMSCs to sites of injury.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma is one of the most predominant malignancies with high fatality rate and is rising at an alarming rate because it is quite resistant to radioand chemotherapy. The proliferation, migration and activation of endothelial cells are involved in tumor occurrence and development. Indirubin is the major active anti-tumor ingredient of a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. In this research, Td-ECs were derived from human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by treating HUVECs with the conditioned medium of human liver cancer cell line HepG2. The effects of indirubin on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis of Td-ECs were assessed. Indirubin significantly inhibited Td-EC cell proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Indirubin also inhibited Td-EC migration and angiogenesis. However, indirubin’s effects on HUVECs were weaker than on Td-ECs.

The saphenous vein is the conduit of choice for bypass grafting. Unfortunately, the hemodynamic stress associated with the arterial environment of the bypass vein graft leads to the development of intimal hyperplasia (IH), an excessive cellular growth and collagen deposition that results in restenosis and secondary graft occlusion. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a ubiquitous redox-modifying gasotransmitter that inhibits IH. H2S is produced via the reverse trans-sulfuration pathway by 3 enzymes: cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). However, the expression and regulation of these enzymes in the human vasculature remains unclear. Here, we investigated the expression of CSE, CBS and 3-MST in segments of native human saphenous vein and large arteries. Furthermore, we evaluated the regulation of these enzymes in vein segments cultured under static, venous (7 mmHg pressure) or arterial (100 mmHg pressure) pressure. CSE was expressed in the media, neointima and intima of the vessels and was negatively regulated by arterial shear stress. Adenoviral-mediated CSE overexpression or RNA interference-mediated CSE knock-down revealed that CSE inhibited primary human VSMC migration but not proliferation. We propose that high shear stress in arteriovenous bypass grafts inhibits CSE expression in both the media and endothelium, which may contribute to increased VSMC migration in the context of IH.

Calcium-activated potassium channels (KCa) are the important participants in calcium signaling pathways due to their ability to be activated by increase of the intracellular free calcium concentration. KCa channels are involved in the regulation of various processes in the cells under normal, as well as pathophysiological conditions, including oncotransformation. Previously, with the use of patch-clamp method, we registered the KCa activity in the plasma membrane of human myeloid leukemia K562 cell line. Here, we performed the molecular and functional identification of KCa channels and have uncovered their role in proliferation, migration and invasion of K562 cells. Using a combined approach, we identified the functional activity of SK2, SK3 and IK channels in the plasma membrane of the cells. Selective SK and IK channel inhibitors, apamin and TRAM-34, reduced the proliferative, migratory and invasive capabilities of human myeloid leukemia cells. At the same time, the viability of K562 cells was not affected by KCa channel inhibitors. Our data imply that SK/IK channel inhibitors could be used to slow down the proliferation and spreading of leukemia cells that express functionally active KCa channels in the plasma membrane.

Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris C60 is a probiotic strain of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) which induces various immune modifications in myeloid lineage cells. These modifications subsequently reg-ulate T cell function, resulting in enhanced immunity both locally and systemically. Here, we report that C60 suppresses tumor growth by enhancing macrophage function via metabolic al-terations, thereby increasing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in a murine melanoma model. Intragastric (i.g.) administration of C60 significantly reduced tumor volume compared to saline administration in mice. The anti-tumor function of intratumor (IT) macrophage was up-regulated in mice administered with C60, as evidenced by an increased inflammatory phenotype (M1) rather than an anti-inflammatory/reparative (M2) phenotype, along with enhanced anti-gen-presenting ability, resulting in increased tumor antigen-specific CD8+ T cells. Through this functional modification, we identified that C60 establishes a glycolysis-dominant metabolism, rather than fatty acid oxidation (FAO), in IT macrophages, leading to increased intracellular ATP levels. To address the question of why orally supplemented C60 exhibits functions in distal places, we found a possibility that bacterial cell wall components, which could be distributed throughout the body from the gut, may induce stimulatory signals in peripheral macrophages via Toll-like receptors (TLRs) signaling activation. Thus, C60 strengthens macrophage anti-tumor immunity by promoting a predominant metabolic shift towards glycolysis upon TLR-mediated stimulation, thereby increasing substantial energy production.

This study investigated the inhibitory effect of Siegesbeckia orientalis ethanolic extract (SOE) on growth and metastasis of hepatic tumors in C57BL/6JNarl mice, which is the model of tumor-igenesis induced by subcutaneous injection of Hepa1-6 murine hepatoma cells on the back of mice. Feeding 25 mg SOE/kg BW daily for 14 days effectively reduced the hepatoma weight in tu-mor-bearing mice by 59.7%. SOE intervention reduced the expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene in tumor tissue by 48.5% and down-regulated the antioxidant system, by reducing the gene ex-pression of catalase (48.0%), glutathione peroxidase (46.3%), and superoxide dismutase (32.0%). In addition, SOE intervention increased the production of ROS by 21.4%, and the gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 by 135.3%, 179.3% and 91.7%, respectively, indicating that SOE intervention promoted the acute inflammatory response. Results of H&E staining analysis showed that SOE had the ability to inhibit angiogenesis in tumor tissue. Fur-thermore, SOE treatment inhibited the expression of migration-related genes, such as MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9 and β-catenin, and the inhibition rates were 24.8%, 27.4%, 10.4% and 21.9%, respectively. These results imply that SOE had the ability to suppress tumor metastasis. On the other hand, SOE intervention decreased the serum contents of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 by 27.4%, 30.4%, and 30.7%, respectively, indicating that SOE intervention has an anti-inflammatory effect on normal tissues of mice. Since SOE intervention had no signif-icant effect on liver and kidney weights, and no mice died throughout the experiment, it shows that it is safe to feed SOE under this experimental condition. Based on the above results, SOE has a great potential to be used in the treatment of hepatoma.

Chickpea is an essential legume, a staple food in many cultures and contains nutrients with potential health benefits. The chickpea water (CPW) leached out after cooking is usually discarded, which may potentially have significant anti-cancer and other health beneficial properties. This study compared the in-vitro bioactivity of CPW with chickpea polyphenol extract (CPPE) to evaluate its impact on pathways of colorectal cancer progression and development. Morphological observation by APOPercentage, cell viability detection using a cytotoxic assay and cell migration-scratch assay points to measure rate of metastasis were employed. Overall antioxidant activity of CPW and CPPE were measured using ABTS and DPPH free-radical assays. At 50 µg/mL concentration and above, both CPW and CPPE extracts significantly reduce cell viability in HT-29 colon cancer cell lines (p < 0.05). Moreover, a quantitative analysis of the extent of apoptosis demonstrated that at 250 and 500 μg/mL concentrations, both extracts induced significant apoptosis compared to the untreated control. Meanwhile, the cell migration scratch area decreases by 34.42% and 15.27% when treated with CPW and CPPE, respectively. In summary, CPW demonstrated comparable in vitro anti-cancer properties and antioxidant activity in colorectal cancer cells to CPPE. Further, in vivo studies are warranted to evaluate the physiological bioactivity of CPW and CPPE in targeting pathways of cancer development and progression

The Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis (EHS), featured by an exceptionally intense compression orogeny and an extremely rapid surface erosion rate, stands out as a prime area for investigating surface processes and landscape evolution. Understanding the formation of the EHS holds significant importance in advancing our comprehension of the evolutionary dynamics within the Tibetan Plateau and the complex interplay between endogenic and exogenic geological processes. Currently, two models, namely the tectonic aneurysm and the syntaxis expansion model, have been proposed to explain the formation and evolution of this syntaxis. In this study, we employ a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating geomorphic indices such as slope, relief, Hypsometric Integral (HI), Normalized Channel Steepness (Ksn), River Slope-Basin Area Integration (χ), combined with erosion rates on long-medium-short term timescales obtained from thermochronology, cosmogenic nuclides 10Be and landslide disaster probability data. Our findings suggest a relatively high tectonic activity in the confluence of the Yigong and Parlung Rivers in the northern end of the syntaxis. Moreover, our data reveals that spatial variability of tectonic activity is the primary driver of regional geomorphologic features and the spatial-temporal characteristics of erosion observed in the EHS, with lithology and climatic precipitation playing a lesser role. Furthermore, the northwards migration of the EHS appears to elucidate the shift of tectonic activity and rapid erosion from the core of the syntaxis near the Namche Barwa towards the confluence of the Yigong and Parlung Rivers. This northwards migration of the EHS underscores the need for increased attention to the high geological hazard risk in the northern part of the EHS.

In the broad context of vulnerability detection, deep learning has achieved considerable progress but faces generalization challenges in multilingual environments . We introduce a novel approach named AST-FMVD, which leverages transfer learning and abstract syntax trees. By employing semantic similarity clustering and context-aware technology, the method constructs node mapping relationships between different languages, enabling zero-shot learning in vulnerability detection. The method was validated by applying Java's vulnerability detection model in the Python domain, successfully demonstrating that AST-FMVD retains the original model's detection capabilities in the target domain. In conclusion, the proposed method offers a promising solution to the inherent problems in multi-language vulnerability detection, signifying a potential leap in the application of deep learning, transfer learning, and abstract syntax trees for improved cross-domain performance.