PRPF8 increases the aggressiveness of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating FAK/AKT pathway via fibronectin 1 splicing

López-Cánovas Juan L.,Hermán-Sánchez Natalia,del Rio-Moreno Mercedes,Fuentes-Fayos Antonio C.,Lara-López Araceli,Sánchez-Frias Marina E.,Amado Víctor,Ciria Rubén,Briceño Javier,de la Mata Manuel,Casta 생화학분자생물학회 2023 Experimental and molecular medicine Vol.55 No.-

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) pathogenesis is associated with alterations in splicing machinery components (spliceosome and splicing factors) and aberrant expression of oncogenic splice variants. We aimed to analyze the expression and potential role of the spliceosome component PRPF8 (pre-mRNA processing factor 8) in HCC. PRPF8 expression (mRNA/protein) was analyzed in a retrospective cohort of HCC patients (n = 172 HCC and nontumor tissues) and validated in two in silico cohorts (TCGA and CPTAC). PRPF8 expression was silenced in liver cancer cell lines and in xenograft tumors to understand the functional and mechanistic consequences. In silico RNAseq and CLIPseq data were also analyzed. Our results indicate that PRPF8 is overexpressed in HCC and associated with increased tumor aggressiveness (patient survival, etc.), expression of HCC-related splice variants, and modulation of critical genes implicated in cancer-related pathways. PRPF8 silencing ameliorated aggressiveness in vitro and decreased tumor growth in vivo. Analysis of in silico CLIPseq data in HepG2 cells demonstrated that PRPF8 binds preferentially to exons of protein-coding genes, and RNAseq analysis showed that PRPF8 silencing alters splicing events in multiple genes. Integrated and in vitro analyses revealed that PRPF8 silencing modulates fibronectin (FN1) splicing, promoting the exclusion of exon 40.2, which is paramount for binding to integrins. Consistent with this finding, PRPF8 silencing reduced FAK/AKT phosphorylation and blunted stress fiber formation. Indeed, HepG2 and Hep3B cells exhibited a lower invasive capacity in membranes treated with conditioned medium from PRPF8-silenced cells compared to medium from scramble-treated cells. This study demonstrates that PRPF8 is overexpressed and associated with aggressiveness in HCC and plays important roles in hepatocarcinogenesis by altering FN1 splicing, FAK/AKT activation and stress fiber formation.

Transvaginal ultrasound evaluation of the ureter

Juan Ramón Pérez Vidal,Carmen Llanos Llanos,Inmaculada Gómez Carrascosa,María Orenes Moreno,Pilar Marín Sánchez 대한산부인과학회 2022 Obstetrics & Gynecology Science Vol.65 No.4

ObjectiveIn this video, we present our technique for ureter assessment during pelvic ultrasound examination. MethodsWe used a general electric Voluson E10 (General electric, Wauwatosa, WI, USA) to perform transvaginal ultrasonography. These images were shared after thorough counselling, and obtaining informed consent from the patient. Thisvideo was edited using FinalCut ProX® (Apple Inc, Cupertino, CA, USA). ResultsWe systematized this routine after assessing the cervix, uterus, and adnexa. The vaginal probe was slightly removed tofocus on the urethra. Next, we approached the hand on the contralateral thigh to the ureter. At this point, the probewas directed to the lateral pelvic wall where the ureteric orifice was found. Then, we raised our hands and performan internal rotation movement to ascend the ureteral segments until it is related to the iliac vessels. ConclusionThe urinary tract may be involved in gynecological pathologies. Transvaginal ultrasound is an easy, reproducible, andwell-tolerated examination that can be used to evaluate the ureters below the pelvic brim. 영어

Fluorescence Guided Surgery with 5-Aminolevulinic Acid for Resection of Spinal Cord Ependymomas

Rafael García Moreno,Luis Miguel Bernal García,Hyaissa Ippolito Bastidas,Carlos Andrés Mondragón Tirado,Aurora Moreno Flores,Juan Pablo Sosa Cabezas,José Manuel Cabezudo Artero 대한척추외과학회 2019 Asian Spine Journal Vol.13 No.1

Study Design: A retrospective study. Purpose: We report our experience with 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA)–assisted resection of spinal cord ependymomas in adults. Overview of Literature: Ependymoma is the most frequent primary spinal cord tumor in adults. Surgery is the treatment of choice in most cases. However, while complete resection is achieved in approximately 80% of cases, clinical improvement is achieved in 15% only. Five-ALA fluorescence–guided surgery seems to be useful for this tumor type. Methods: We studied 14 patients undergoing 5-ALA fluorescence-guided surgery for spinal cord ependymomas in our service. The modified McCormick classification was used to determine clinical status and the degree of resection was assessed with magnetic resonance imaging. Results: Of the 14 patients, the tumor showed an intense emission of fluorescence in 12 and the fluorescence was weak and nonuniform in two. Complete resection was achieved in 11 cases. According to the McCormick classification, 10 patients improved, two remained the same, and two deteriorated. Conclusions: Our results confirm that 5-ALA fluorescence-guided resection is useful in spinal cord ependymoma resection. Although the rate of complete resections is similar to that in published series without 5-ALA, clinical results are better when using 5-ALA with a lower percentage of clinical deterioration.

Green technologies for the extraction of proteins from jackfruit leaves (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam)

Laura Cristina Moreno-Na´jera,Juan Arturo Ragazzo-Sa´nchez,Cristina Regla Gasto´n-Pen˜a,Montserrat Caldero´n-Santoyo 한국식품과학회 2020 Food Science and Biotechnology Vol.29 No.12

The application of emerging technologies suchas ultrasound, microwaves and high hydrostatic pressure,allows the extraction of compounds in a sustainable mannerfrom a vegetable matrix with a high value such asjackfruit leaf proteins (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam). Currently, the main method of protein extraction is basedon the precipitation with the use of an aggressive solvent,therefore it is necessary to optimize extraction methodswith a minimum waste production. In the protein extractionof jackfruit leaves, we obtained a content of 84.1 mg/gusing solvents. On the other hand, emergent extractionssuch as ultrasound, microwaves, and high hydrostaticpressure showed concentrations of 96.3, 95.6 and147.3 mg/g, respectively. In addition, we found that thebest extraction agent was 0.5 M NaCl, offering a range ofpossibilities that support green technologies as an imperativechange in the food industry.

Skin Testing With Peach Peel Extract Versus Serum IgE to Pru p 3 as a Stronger Predictor of Peach-Induced Anaphylaxis

Somoza Maria Luisa,Prieto-Moreno Pfeifer Ana,Martín-Pedraza Laura,Victorio Puche Laura,Esteban Rodríguez Angel,Blanca-López Natalia,Eva Fernández González Abel,Fernández-Caldas Enrique,Morán Morales M 대한천식알레르기학회 2021 Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research Vol.13 No.6

The most important peach fruit allergen is Pru p 3, followed by Pru p 1, Pru p 4, and Pru p 7. We aimed to assess their role in subjects with peach fruit-induced allergy (anaphylaxis and OAS) and compare skin prick tests (SPT) vs. specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) for predicting anaphylaxis. We also selected a control group. SPT included prevalent inhalant and plant food allergens plus peach peel extract. The sIgE to Pru p 1, Pru p 3, Pru p 4, and Pru p 7 were quantified. Compared with controls (n = 42), cases (n = 41) were younger (P = 0.003), more frequently female (P < 0.05) and had higher SPT positivity to peach peel (44% vs. 2.4%, P < 0.0001). There were significant differences in sensitization to several pollens: Olea europaea, Artemisia vulgaris, Prunus persica, Platanus acerifolia (all P < 0.001); and fruits: apple (P < 0.04), peanut (P < 0.002), tomato (P < 0.005), and melon (P < 0.05). Pru p 3 sIgE was detected in 61% of all cases (85% anaphylaxis and 38% OAS; P < 0.01 each) and 5% of controls (P < 0.001). Pru p 4 sIgE was present in 19% of cases and 7% of controls. The sIgE to Pru p 1 and Pru p 7 were not found. The odds ratio to predict anaphylaxis for peach peel SPT was 113 (confidence interval [CI], 20–613; P < 0.0001); for sIgE to Pru p 3, 22 (CI, 5.3–93; P < 0.0001); and for SPT positivity to selected plant food allergens, 5 (CI, 1–19; P < 0.05). In our study group, SPT with peel peach extract was a better predictor of anaphylaxis than Pru p 3 sIgE or other variables considered. The role of sIgE to Pru p 1, Pru p 4, and Pru p 7 seemed negligible.

Degradation of microalgae from freshwater by UV radiation

M.M. Barrado-Moreno,J. Beltrán-Heredia,J. Martín-Gallardo 한국공업화학회 2017 Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Vol.48 No.-

Algae (Chlorella,Microcystis, Oocystis and Scenedesmus) degradation by ultraviolet radiation has beeninvestigated. The radiation source was a low pressure mercury vapor lamp which emits monochromaticradiation at 254 nm. Experiments include initial algae concentration variation. After a period of exposureto UV radiation, algal mass concentration was reduced by more than 80%. The results were interpretedunder Line Source Spherical Emission model, so quantum yield was the appropriate target variable forexplaining the process. Global quantum yields are determined for Chlorella, Microcystis, Oocystis andScenedesmus being 7.75104, 3.65105, 2.28 105, 1.74104mg E 1, respectively.

Provision of a protein-rich supplement for grazing suckling female beef calves to improve productive performance and metabolic response

Moreno Deilen S,Ortega Román M,Marquez David C,Moreira Thiago R,Santos Edson J dos,Almeida Daniel M de,Paulino Mário Fonseca,Rennó Luciana Navajas,Detmann Edenio 아세아·태평양축산학회 2022 Animal Bioscience Vol.35 No.8

Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the provision of a proteinrich supplement on productive performance, and metabolic profile on grazing suckling female beef calves in tropical conditions during 150 d of experimentation. Methods: Fifty-six Nellore suckling female calves, and their respective dams were distributed in a completely randomised design and made to undergo two treatments as follows: UNS (without supplementation), and SUP (supplementation with 5 g/kg body weight [BW] of a protein supplement). Throughout the experiment, animal performance and metabolic profile were evaluated. Also, ureagenesis and gluconeogenesis were assessed for gene expression. Results: SUP female calves showed a higher voluntary intake (p≤0.03) of the diet components evaluated, digestibility of organic matter (p≤0.02) and microbial nitrogen production (MICN; p≤0.02) compared to UNS female calves. In its turn, serum urea nitrogen (p≤0.01) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (p≤0.03) levels and ureagenesis (p≤0.04) increased in SUP female calves compared to UNS female calves. Blood glucose and triglyceride levels were not affected by supplementation. The average daily gain (ADG) from SUP female calves was higher (p≤0.02) compared with UNS female calves. However, supplementation did not affect the body measures of the animals. Conclusion: In summary, provision of a protein-rich supplement improves the intake and nutrients digestibility, ADG and final BW and increases metabolic indicators of the protein status in grazing suckling female beef calves in tropical conditions. Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the provision of a protein-rich supplement on productive performance, and metabolic profile on grazing suckling female beef calves in tropical conditions during 150 d of experimentation.Methods: Fifty-six Nellore suckling female calves, and their respective dams were distributed in a completely randomised design and made to undergo two treatments as follows: UNS (without supplementation), and SUP (supplementation with 5 g/kg body weight [BW] of a protein supplement). Throughout the experiment, animal performance and metabolic profile were evaluated. Also, ureagenesis and gluconeogenesis were assessed for gene expression.Results: SUP female calves showed a higher voluntary intake (p≤0.03) of the diet components evaluated, digestibility of organic matter (p≤0.02) and microbial nitrogen production (MICN; p≤0.02) compared to UNS female calves. In its turn, serum urea nitrogen (p≤0.01) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (p≤0.03) levels and ureagenesis (p≤0.04) increased in SUP female calves compared to UNS female calves. Blood glucose and triglyceride levels were not affected by supplementation. The average daily gain (ADG) from SUP female calves was higher (p≤0.02) compared with UNS female calves. However, supplementation did not affect the body measures of the animals.Conclusion: In summary, provision of a protein-rich supplement improves the intake and nutrients digestibility, ADG and final BW and increases metabolic indicators of the protein status in grazing suckling female beef calves in tropical conditions.

Saturated Proportional-integral-type Control of UWMRs with Experimental Evaluations

Javier Moreno-Valenzuela,Luis Gonzalo Montoya-Villegas,Ricardo Pérez-Alcocer,Raúl Rascón 제어·로봇·시스템학회 2022 International Journal of Control, Automation, and Vol.20 No.1

In this paper, a saturated proportional-integral (PI)-type controller for unicycle-type wheeled mobile robots (UWMRs) is designed. The advantages of the novel controller are the robustness to external disturbances and the ability to keep the control into admissible limits. The desired trajectory should satisfy the so-called virtual reference system and be bounded for all time. Lyapunov’s theory and Barbalat’s lemma are used to prove the convergence of the tracking errors. An analysis of when the system is affected by disturbances is also given. To assess the performance of the proposed controller, an experimental real-time comparison of five schemes, including the proposed one, is presented. All the tested controllers guarantee the motion control goal and can produce saturated control action. A circular reference trajectory for the tracking task is used to perform the comparison. The proposed PI-type controller presents the best trajectory tracking performance, while the generated control action remains bounded.

Identification and Tuning Methods for PI Control Systems Based on Symmetric Send-on-delta Sampling

José Sánchez Moreno,María Guinaldo Losada,Antonio Visioli,Sebastián Dormido Bencomo 제어·로봇·시스템학회 2019 International Journal of Control, Automation, and Vol.17 No.11

Two procedures for the definition of an autotuning algorithm for event-based proportional-integral (PI) control systems are proposed in this contribution. Firstly, a method for the identification of the most common transfer functions used for tuning PI controllers is explained. The rationale of the identification method is based on the limit cycles that the event-based sampler and a convenient tuning of the PI controller can produce in the closed loop. The identification method is designed for controller tuning, that is, fitting the behaviour of the process in the range of frequencies between ω−180◦ and ω−135◦ . Secondly, a new method for tuning the event-based PI controller is explained. The main control objective of the new tuning rule is to generate a set of parameters that introduces the process in a limit cycle at a user-specified inter-event time. However, by introducing an oscillation margin in the tuning rule, the method generalizes to produce controller parameters that avoid limit cycles with a certain robustness margin. Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the tuning rule to force the system to oscillate at a specified frequency as a consequence of the events triggered by the event-based sampler.

NOISE MAPPING OF DENSELY POPULATED NEIGHBORHOODS - EXAMPLE OF COPACABANA

Fernando A.N.C. Pinto,Maysa D. Moreno M. 한국소음진동공학회 2008 한국소음진동공학회 국제학술대회논문집 Vol.2008 No.7