Alphaviral genetic background of self-amplifying RNA enhances protein expression and immunogenicity against SARS-CoV-2 antigen.

Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vectors are a next-generation RNA technology that extends the expression of heterologous genes. Clinical trials have shown the dose-sparing capacity of saRNA vectors in a vaccine context compared to conventional messenger RNA. However, saRNA vectors have historically been based on a limited number of alphaviruses, and only the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus-based saRNA vaccines have been used clinically.

Spatial-economic scenarios to increase resilience to urban flooding.

Due to accelerating climate change and the need for new development to accommodate population growth, adaptation of urban drainage systems has become a pressing issue in cities. Questions arise whether decentralised urban drainage systems are a better alternative to centralised systems, and whether Nature Based Solutions' (NBS) multifunctionality also brings economic benefits. This research aims to develop spatio-economic scenarios to support cities in increasing their resilience to urban flooding with NBS.

Exploring Rapid Response Team Activation Impact in Patients with Cirrhosis with Acute Decompensation.

Background: Cirrhosis is associated with significant healthcare utilization, yet data about in-hospital decompensations remain sparse. Additionally, the impact of liver transplant candidacy status on resuscitation and outcomes is largely unknown.

Aims: We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of resuscitation events for patients with cirrhosis with acute decompensation, analyzing liver transplant candidacy and intensive care unit (ICU) transfer parameters.

Identification, characterization, and cellular localization of Leishmania major CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase.

The eukaryotic parasite Leishmania is the causative agent of the disease leishmaniasis, the second largest parasitic killer in the world behind malaria. A large percentage of Leishmania membrane phospholipids is phosphatidylcholine (PC), formed via the Kennedy pathway, where the enzyme CTP: phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase (CCT) catalyzes the second, rate limiting step. Leishmania major CCT was expressed in non-pathogenic Leishmania tarentolae and exhibited activity that increased 10-fold in the presence of PC:oleate lipid vesicles.