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Pathogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes have evolved different mechanisms to evade host immune defenses, primarily through the expression of virulence factors. Among these, the Streptococcal nuclease A (SpnA), a cell wall-associated protein, is important in bacterial pathogenesis. SpnA hydrolyzes host DNA present within neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), therefore helping bacteria t
Background. An altered renal function is an essential component of the patho-physiology of pre-eclampsia. The plasma levels of low molecular mass proteins, e. g. beta-trace protein, beta-2-microglobulin and cystatin C, are increased in the third trimester of normal pregnancy. The plasma levels of cystatin C and beta-2-microglobulin are further increased in preeclampsia, and the cystatin C level ha
The microarchitecture of trabecular bone adapts to its mechanical loading environment according to Wolff's law and alters with age. Trabecular bone is a metabolically active tissue, thus, its molecular composition and microarchitecture may vary between anatomical locations as a result of the local mechanical loading environment. No comprehensive comparison of composition and microarchitecture of t
Chondroadherin (CHAD) is a cartilage matrix protein that mediates the adhesion of isolated chondrocytes. Its protein core is composed of 11 leucine-rich repeats (LRR) flanked by cysteine-rich domains. CHAD makes important interactions with collagen as well as with cell-surface heparin sulfate proteoglycans and α2β1 integrins. The integrin-binding site is located in a region of hitherto unknown str
At the emergency department, it is important to quickly and accurately identify patients at risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). One of the main tools for detecting AMI is the electrocardiogram (ECG), which can be difficult to interpret manually. There is a long history of applying machine learning algorithms to ECGs, but such algorithms are quite data hungry, and correctly labeled high-qual
Structural optimization aims to find the geometry of the best performing design in a predefined setting, using mathematical techniques. The motivation for this study can be categorized into three main benefits: efficient material usage, enhancing existing designs and enabling new technologies. All of these benefits are crucial for solving contemporary technological and environmental challenges. An
