Fascinating Role Research Articles

Microbial extracellular electron transfer in the human gastrointestinal tract

Microbial extracellular electron transfer in the human gastrointestinal tract Gratian Ting and Arpita Bose from Washington University in St. Louis discuss the fascinating role that extracellular electron transfer plays within the human gut. The human gut microbiome contains around hundreds of trillions of bacteria, and a great diversity of species. In fact, the number of bacteria in the human gut is similar in number to all the cells in the human body, further signifying the heterogeneity and significance of this microbiota. The habitat filtering of the human gut, defined as the non-random survival of microorganisms in relation to characteristics of the surrounding environment, is influenced by two important factors: host and diet. Disruption of normal host gut processes through various means, could cause cell death and dysbiosis, disrupting host-mediated habitat filtering. However, diet plays a far more common role in this process. Different dietary behaviors exist between individuals from cultural, moral, economic, and other means.

Dystroglycan-HSPG interactions provide synaptic plasticity and specificity.

This study examined the roles of the laminin and proteoglycan receptor dystroglycan (DG) in extracellular matrix stabilization and cellular mechanosensory processes conveyed through communication between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cytoskeleton facilitated by DG. Specific functional attributes of HS-proteoglycans (HSPGs) are conveyed through interactions with DG and provide synaptic specificity through diverse interactions with an extensive range of cell attachment and adaptor proteins which convey synaptic plasticity. HSPG-DG interactions are important in phototransduction and neurotransduction and facilitate retinal bipolar-photoreceptor neuronal signaling in vision. Besides synaptic stabilization, HSPG-DG interactions also stabilize basement membranes and the ECM and have specific roles in the assembly and function of the neuromuscular junction. This provides neuromuscular control of muscle systems that control conscious body movement as well as essential autonomic control of diaphragm, intercostal and abdominal muscles and muscle systems in the face, mouth and pharynx which assist in breathing processes. DG is thus a multifunctional cell regulatory glycoprotein receptor and regulates a diverse range of biological and physiological processes throughout the human body. The unique glycosylation of the αDG domain is responsible for its diverse interactions with ECM components in cell-ECM signaling. Cytoskeletal cell regulatory switches assembled by the βDG domain in its role as a nuclear scaffolding protein respond to such ECM cues to regulate cellular behavior and tissue homeostasis thus DG has fascinating and diverse roles in health and disease.

Predictive role and molecular biological function of proline-rich small repeat protein SPRR3 in the diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma

The fascinating role of SPRR3 in various malignant tumors has prompted extensive research to unravel its expression patterns and prognostic significance. To comprehensively investigate SPRR3, we leveraged multiple datasets containing invaluable biomedical information, specifically focusing on the comparative analysis of SPRR3 gene expression levels across different cancer types. Meticulous examination of lung adenocarcinoma allowed us to delve deeper into the correlation between SPRR3 expression and its molecular biological functions. Our comprehensive analysis encompassed 33 malignant tumors, and the results unveiled significant differential expression of SPRR3 across a range of malignancies. Moreover, this aberrant expression of SPRR3 was observed to be closely associated with poorer prognosis in these malignant tumors. Notably, our investigation also unearthed a compelling link between SPRR3 and immune infiltrating cells in lung adenocarcinoma. The utilization of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and survival curves in our study illustrated the immense potential of SPRR3 as a highly accurate predictor of cancer. These findings further emphasize the possibility of SPRR3 serving as a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for a diverse array of cancers.

Evaluation of Fascin expression in oral erosive lichen planus and its relationship with potential of malignant transformation

Background. Fascin is a protein that is increased in many epithelial cancers, and this increased expression is related to the more aggressive behavior and metastasis of many of these cancers. Considering the relatively high prevalence of oral lichen planus (OLP) and the inconsistencies regarding its malignant transformation potential, this study aimed to investigate the expression level of fascin in OLP and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methods. In this experimental study, 27 samples of erosive OLP and 30 samples of OSCC were immunohistochemically stained with fascin. The extent of fascin expression (epithelial cells with cytoplasmic immunoreactivity) in OLP was categorized into 4 scores based on the extent of epithelial staining. SCC specimens were scored according to the intensity and percentage of staining, and the sum of these two numbers was finally considered the total score, which ranged from 0 to 7. Fascin expression in two groups was compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results. About half of the lichen planus samples (48.15%) received a score of 3. Most of the SCC samples received a score of 5 or 6. The comparison of the expression of fascin between the two groups demonstrated a statistically significant difference (P<0.001). Conclusion. The increased expression of fascin in lichen planus and SCC may indicate the role of fascin in carcinogenesis. Practical Implications. Overexpression of fascin in lichen planus and SCC may be a diagnostic marker for malignant transformation and a prognostic marker, respectively.

Microbial Primer: The catalytic biofilm matrix.

The extracellular matrix of microbial biofilms has traditionally been viewed as a structural scaffold that retains the resident bacteria in the biofilm. Moreover, a role of the matrix in the tolerance of biofilms to antimicrobials and environmental stressors was recognized early in biofilm research. However, as research progressed it became apparent that the biofilm matrix can also be involved in processes such as bacterial migration, genetic exchange, ion capture and signalling. More recently, evidence has accumulated that the biofilm matrix can also have catalytic functions. Here we review foundational research on this fascinating catalytic role of the biofilm matrix.

The role of accessories in organizing the clothing ensemble

The secret of making beautiful combine is hidden in the little parts and details. Accessories are always essential parts of wardrobes regardless of whether they are a man or a woman. These indispensable parts adapt to everyone and fashion lovers' style with a variety of tastes. From daily combinations to supper combinations, from office elegance to special occasions, your clothes have the power to change the atmosphere entirely. We will talk about the fascinating role of accessories on clothing in this article.

Thyroid hormone action in adult neurogliogenic niches: the known and unknown.

Over the last decades, thyroid hormones (THs) signaling has been established as a key signaling cue for the proper maintenance of brain functions in adult mammals, including humans. One of the most fascinating roles of THs in the mature mammalian brain is their ability to regulate adult neurogliogenic processes. In this respect, THs control the generation of new neuronal and glial progenitors from neural stem cells (NSCs) as well as their final differentiation and maturation programs. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the cellular organization of adult rodent neurogliogenic niches encompassing well-established niches in the subventricular zone (SVZ) lining the lateral ventricles, the hippocampal subgranular zone (SGZ), and the hypothalamus, but also less characterized niches in the striatum and the cerebral cortex. We then discuss critical questions regarding how THs availability is regulated in the respective niches in rodents and larger mammals as well as how modulating THs availability in those niches interferes with lineage decision and progression at the molecular, cellular, and functional levels. Based on those alterations, we explore the novel therapeutic avenues aiming at harnessing THs regulatory influences on neurogliogenic output to stimulate repair processes by influencing the generation of either new neurons (i.e. Alzheimer's, Parkinson's diseases), oligodendrocytes (multiple sclerosis) or both (stroke). Finally, we point out future challenges, which will shape research in this exciting field in the upcoming years.

Fascinating Role of Silicon dioxide Nanoparticles and Co-inoculation of Mycorrhiza and Rhizobacteria to Combat NaCl Stress: Changes in Physiological Characteristics, Uptake of Nutrient Elements, and Enhancing Photosystem II Activities in Wheat

Fascinating Role of Silicon dioxide Nanoparticles and Co-inoculation of Mycorrhiza and Rhizobacteria to Combat NaCl Stress: Changes in Physiological Characteristics, Uptake of Nutrient Elements, and Enhancing Photosystem II Activities in Wheat

Representation Of LGBTQIA+ People in Selected Indian Web Series: A Study

LGBTQIA+ is an acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual. These terms describe the gender identity of those who do not come into the male and female categories. Before 2018 homosexual act between adults was unconstitutional in India under section 377 but on 6th September 2018 Indian supreme court neglected this and their sexual activities or homosexuality became a legal act in India. In the whole world, the media plays a very important and fascinating role to represent any controversy. Now our media like television, OTTs, and cinema also represent the content that discusses the idea of LGBT people. Nowadays the younger generation is moving or shifting towards OTT platforms. On the OTT platform, presenting this kind of content is becoming useful. OTTS is becoming the most trending and easy to represent the difficulties, trauma, depression, raising questions for identities, gender trouble, and the bitterness of life lived by LGBTQIA+. The aim of this article is to drill the concept of representation and acceptance of third-gender people in Indian society through OTT platforms and also it will put light on myths regarding third gender. It has been more than five years since the LGBT+ community and homosexuality are becoming a legal act in India but it has given only legal acceptance. In our society and especially in a small town their acceptance and their sexual acts are still unacceptable and odd. So, media and screens have the power to bring both positive and negative change in the stereotype myths regarding queer people. This research will focus on ‘Mismatched season 2’, ‘Four More Shots Please’ ‘Made in Heaven’, and ‘His Storyy’.

Oxygen Vacancy Modulation towards High‐Performance Layered Oxide Cathodes for Lithium/Sodium‐Ion Batteries

AbstractOxygen vacancies (Vo) as a common structural defect play a critical and fascinating role in regulating the physico‐chemical properties of metal oxides. For the layered transitional‐metal oxides (LTMOs) used as the popular cathodes for lithium/sodium‐ion batteries (LIBs or SIBs), Vo can modulate their intrinsic multi‐scale structural properties, thereby significantly affecting the final electrochemical performance. In this concept article, we summarize the fundamental structural regulation mechanisms of Vo in lithium/sodium‐based LTMOs in terms of ligand, local, and crystal structures. Finally, the current challenges and outlooks of Vo engineering are highlighted for future development of high‐performance layered oxide cathode materials.

Toll-like receptor-guided therapeutic intervention of human cancers: molecular and immunological perspectives.

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) serve as the body's first line of defense, recognizing both pathogen-expressed molecules and host-derived molecules released from damaged or dying cells. The wide distribution of different cell types, ranging from epithelial to immune cells, highlights the crucial roles of TLRs in linking innate and adaptive immunity. Upon stimulation, TLRs binding mediates the expression of several adapter proteins and downstream kinases, that lead to the induction of several other signaling molecules such as key pro-inflammatory mediators. Indeed, extraordinary progress in immunobiological research has suggested that TLRs could represent promising targets for the therapeutic intervention of inflammation-associated diseases, autoimmune diseases, microbial infections as well as human cancers. So far, for the prevention and possible treatment of inflammatory diseases, various TLR antagonists/inhibitors have shown to be efficacious at several stages from pre-clinical evaluation to clinical trials. Therefore, the fascinating role of TLRs in modulating the human immune responses at innate as well as adaptive levels directed the scientists to opt for these immune sensor proteins as suitable targets for developing chemotherapeutics and immunotherapeutics against cancer. Hitherto, several TLR-targeting small molecules (e.g., Pam3CSK4, Poly (I:C), Poly (A:U)), chemical compounds, phytocompounds (e.g., Curcumin), peptides, and antibodies have been found to confer protection against several types of cancers. However, administration of inappropriate doses of such TLR-modulating therapeutics or a wrong infusion administration is reported to induce detrimental outcomes. This review summarizes the current findings on the molecular and structural biology of TLRs and gives an overview of the potency and promises of TLR-directed therapeutic strategies against cancers by discussing the findings from established and pipeline discoveries.

Micromorphological observation of HLE cells under knockdown of Fascin using LV-SEM.

Liver cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in Japan with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as the major histological subtype. Successful novel treatments for HCC have been reported; however, recurrences or metastasis may occur, which results in poor prognoses and high mortality of HCC patients. Fascin, an actin-bundling protein, regulates cell adhesion, migration, and invasion. Its overexpression positively correlates with poor prognosis of malignant tumors, and Fascin is considered as one of the tumor biomarkers and therapeutic target proteins. In this study, we attempted to reveal the relationship between Fascin and HCC using HLE, one of the human HCC cell lines. We performed the study with classical immunocytochemistry and recently developed techniques, such as wound-healing assay, spheroid cultivation, and low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy (LV-SEM). Non-Fascin-knockdown (FKD) cell spheroid had a regular spherical appearance with tight cell-cell connections, while FKD cell spheroid had an irregular shape with loose cell-cell connections. Cells of non-FKD spheroid presented fibrous protrusions on the cell surface, contrarily, cells of FKD spheroids showed bulbous-shaped protrusions. Morphological observation of FKD and non-FKD HLE spheroids were performed using LV-SEM. Our study may help to reveal the roles of Fascin in the process of HCC formation and its malignancy.

Roles of Fascin in Dendritic Cells.

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen-presenting cells that play a crucial role in activating naive T cells through presenting antigen information, thereby influencing immunity and anti-cancer responses. Fascin, a 55-kDa actin-bundling protein, is highly expressed in mature DCs and serves as a marker protein for their identification. However, the precise role of fascin in intratumoral DCs remains poorly understood. In this review, we aim to summarize the role of fascin in both normal and intratumoral DCs. In normal DCs, fascin promotes immune effects through facilitating DC maturation and migration. Through targeting intratumoral DCs, fascin inhibitors enhance anti-tumor immune activity. These roles of fascin in different DC populations offer valuable insights for future research in immunotherapy and strategies aimed at improving cancer treatments.

Role of Ambassadors in Development Diplomacy in the Context of Nepal

Diplomacy has existed for a long time as an integral component of maintaining relations with other countries as required by factors like geopolitical aspects, international situation, population size, the economy's productivity, security sensitiveness, military strength, and main law of the land. Diplomacy is a vital tool for implementing foreign policy construed as an art of dealing with the diplomats of other countries for the host country’s benefit. The style and manner of diplomacy are shifting with time in the form of expanding the sphere of influence by the stronger power over the weaker power, economic domination, marine power, and navigational supremacy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by the foreign minister, ministry staff, and ambassadors abroad constitute the key actors in executing development diplomacy. Nepal has failed to grasp the opportunity due to her inability to select skillful candidates for such fascinating but challenging roles at various times compared to the past. Development diplomacy constitutes a significant part of overall diplomacy for most of the developing countries as is the case of Nepal with a major thrust of receiving development cooperation as much as possible from the advanced countries in the form of grants as well as loans with the minimum possible rate of interest.

The Actin Crosslinker Fascin Regulates Cell Chirality.

The left-right (L-R) asymmetry of the cells, or cell chirality, is a well-known intrinsic property derived from the dynamic organization of the actin cytoskeleton. Cell chirality can be regulated by actin-binding proteins such as α-actinin-1 and can also be mediated by certain signaling pathways, such as protein kinase C (PKC) signaling. Fascin, an actin crosslinker known to mediate parallel bundling of actin filaments, appears as a prominent candidate in cell chirality regulation, given its role in facilitating cell migration as an important PKC substrate. Here, it is shown that the chirality of NIH/3T3 cells can be altered by PKC activation and fascin manipulation. With either small-molecule drug inhibition or genetic knockdown of fascin, the chirality of 3T3 cells is reversed from a clockwise (CW) bias to a counterclockwise (CCW) bias on ring-shaped micropatterns, accompanied by the reversal in cell directional migration. The Ser-39 fascin-actin binding sites are further explored in cell chirality regulation. The findings of this study reveal the critical role of fascin as an important intermediator in cell chirality, shedding novel insights into the mechanisms of L-R asymmetric cell migration and multicellular morphogenesis.

Chaperonin: Co-chaperonin Interactions.

Co-chaperonins function together with chaperonins to mediate ATP-dependent protein folding in a variety of cellular compartments. Chaperonins are evolutionarily conserved and form two distinct classes, namely, group I and group II chaperonins. GroEL and its co-chaperonin GroES form part of group I and are the archetypal members of this family of protein folding machines. The unique mechanism used by GroEL and GroES to drive protein folding is embedded in the complex architecture of double-ringed complexes, forming two central chambers that undergo conformational rearrangements that enable protein folding to occur. GroES forms a lid over the chamber and in doing so dislodges bound substrate into the chamber, thereby allowing non-native proteins to fold in isolation. GroES also modulates allosteric transitions of GroEL. Group II chaperonins are functionally similar to group I chaperonins but differ in structure and do not require a co-chaperonin. A significant number of bacteria and eukaryotes house multiple chaperonin and co-chaperonin proteins, many of which have acquired additional intracellular and extracellular biological functions. In some instances, co-chaperonins display contrasting functions to those of chaperonins. Human HSP60 (HSPD) continues to play a key role in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, in particular autoimmune diseases and cancer. A greater understanding of the fascinating roles of both intracellular and extracellular Hsp10 on cellular processes will accelerate the development of techniques to treat diseases associated with the chaperonin family.

Nucleolus and Nucleolar Stress: From Cell Fate Decision to Disease Development.

Besides the canonical function in ribosome biogenesis, there have been significant recent advances towards the fascinating roles of the nucleolus in stress response, cell destiny decision and disease progression. Nucleolar stress, an emerging concept describing aberrant nucleolar structure and function as a result of impaired rRNA synthesis and ribosome biogenesis under stress conditions, has been linked to a variety of signaling transductions, including but not limited to Mdm2-p53, NF-κB and HIF-1α pathways. Studies have uncovered that nucleolus is a stress sensor and signaling hub when cells encounter various stress conditions, such as nutrient deprivation, DNA damage and oxidative and thermal stress. Consequently, nucleolar stress plays a pivotal role in the determination of cell fate, such as apoptosis, senescence, autophagy and differentiation, in response to stress-induced damage. Nucleolar homeostasis has been involved in the pathogenesis of various chronic diseases, particularly tumorigenesis, neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic disorders. Mechanistic insights have revealed the indispensable role of nucleolus-initiated signaling in the progression of these diseases. Accordingly, the intervention of nucleolar stress may pave the path for developing novel therapies against these diseases. In this review, we systemically summarize recent findings linking the nucleolus to stress responses, signaling transduction and cell-fate decision, set the spotlight on the mechanisms by which nucleolar stress drives disease progression, and highlight the merit of the intervening nucleolus in disease treatment.

Fascin is essential for mammary gland lactogenesis

Fascin expression has commonly been observed in certain subtypes of breast cancer, where its expression is associated with poor clinical outcome. However, its role in normal mammary gland development has not been elucidated. Here, we used a fascin knockout mouse model to assess its role in normal mammary gland morphogenesis and lactation. Fascin knockout was not embryonically lethal, and its effect on the litter size or condition at birth was minimal. However, litter survival until the weaning stage significantly depended on fascin expression solely in the nursing dams. Accordingly, pups that nursed from fascin−/− dams had smaller milk spots in their abdomen, suggesting a lactation defect in the nursing dams. Mammary gland whole-mounts of pregnant and lactating fascin−/− mice showed significantly reduced side branching and alveologenesis. Despite a typical composition of basal, luminal, and stromal subsets of mammary cells and normal ductal architecture of myoepithelial and luminal layers, the percentage of alveolar progenitors (ALDH+) in fascin−/− epithelial fraction was significantly reduced. Further in-depth analyses of fascin−/− mammary glands showed a significant reduction in the expression of Elf5, the master regulator of alveologenesis, and a decrease in the activity of its downstream target p-STAT5. In agreement, there was a significant reduction in the expression of the milk proteins, whey acidic protein (WAP), and β-casein in fascin−/− mammary glands. Collectively, our data demonstrate, for the first time, the physiological role of fascin in normal mammary gland lactogenesis, an addition that could reveal its contribution to breast cancer initiation and progression.

POSITIONING SPICES AS A TOURISM PRODUCT FOR FOREIGNERS: A STUDY FROM THE INDIAN PERSPECTIVE

Spice Tourism is an emerging sector in tourism majorly focusing on the impact of spices on tourism choices, growth, and distinctiveness. Because of the fascinating role of spices in tourism growth and diversification in new emerging economies, there is an increased demand for the promotion and growth of spice tourism in many developing economies like India and Sri Lanka. However, a comprehensive investigation is lacking pertaining to spice tourism. In this situation, the present research attempts to bring together and discuss the role of spices as an instrument to entice foreign tourists visiting India. A structured survey instrument in the form of a questionnaire was used for data collection from 400 inbound foreign tourists at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi. This study has provided directions to the practitioners and academicians in uncovering a diversity of perspectives on the emerging spice tourism market. It also suggests the role of spices as a tactical tool to recreate the destination image of India as a spice tourism destination. The research can also be utilized to examine the foreign tourist’s spice preferences in India, which can be used by stakeholders and practitioners to entice and enhance their revisit to India.

Dancing Queen: Marie de Médicis' Ballets at the Court of Henri IV by Melinda J. Gough

Reviewed by: Dancing Queen: Marie de Médicis' Ballets at the Court of Henri IV by Melinda J. Gough Catherine Gaughan Gough, Melinda J. Dancing Queen: Marie de Médicis' Ballets at the Court of Henri IV. UP of Toronto, 2019. ISBN 978-1-4875-2679-5. Pp. 378. Dancing Queen sheds new light on Marie de Medici's ballets presented at the turn of the seventeenth century and her enormous contribution to the genre of court entertainment as both patron and performer, most notably the ways in which the performing arts were used as a vehicle for politically engaged queenship. Thoroughly researched from a wealth of previously unavailable primary sources, this interdisciplinary project explores these performances through theories and methodologies derived from literary studies, social and political history, theater and art history, sociology, musicology, women and gender studies. The book highlights the queen's political authority expressed through textual and visual iconographies combining Christian and classical imagery, as well as a larger defence of Bourbon legitimacy in early modern France. Marie de Medici' fascinating role in the revival of the arts in Henri IV's court includes selecting lesser status performers or the king's illegitimate son dressed en travesti and her savvy use of court ballets for political purposes. At the heart of this project is the French-to-English translation of three early seventeenth-century royal women's ballets made available for the first time: Ballet of the Sixteen Virtues, Ballet of Diana and her Nymphs, and Ballet de Madame. The book creates a vivid picture of the ways in which cultural activities in France aided political legitimation and negotiations not previously explored in standard histories of French court ballet. The numerous images, as well as the extensive bibliography and notes, serve as helpful resources for further study in the field. Overall, the five chapters trace modern women's theatrical and political agency across linguistic and geographical borders, and the insightful analyses of the ballets provide a deeper understanding not only of the dances themselves but of the political implications for the Habsburg-Bourbon rapprochement. An engaging and informative read, Dancing Queen will be an asset to any French history collection and a keen reference point for research focusing on dance and women's studies in early modern queenship and court culture. [End Page 221] Catherine Gaughan Ryerson University (ON, Canada) Copyright © 2022 American Association of Teachers of French