bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Multiplex RT-PCR Assay for Simultaneous Detection of Dengue and Chikungunya Viruses
Authors: Islam Mohammed Alimul , El Zowalaty Mohamed E. , Islam Sumaiya , Sharif Mohiuddin , Rahman Md. Rajibur , Amin Mohammad Robed , Ali Md. Mortuza , Rahman Md. Tanvir , Morita Kouichi , Ashour Hossam M.
Published: November 2020

The goal of the study was to develop a specific, sensitive, and cost-effective molecular RT-PCR diagnostic assay for the rapid and simultaneous detection of the serotypes of dengue virus (DENV) and Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) from sera of suspected febrile patients. A single-tube, single-step multiplex RT-PCR (mRT-PCR) assay was designed for the detection of viral genomes from clinical and field samples. Specificity and sensitivity of the mRT-PCR assay were evaluated against six different combinations using two reverse transcriptases (AMV-RT and RT-Ace) and three DNA polymerases (LA-Taq, rTaq, and Tth). Among the six combinations, the AMV-RT and LA-Taq combination was more specific and sensitive than other enzyme combinations for detecting viral genomes of DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4 (p < 0.01), and for detecting viral genomes of CHIKV (p < 0.05). The detection limits of the mRT-PCR were 10 focus forming units (FFU) for CHIKV and 1 FFU, 20 FFU, 0.1 FFU, and 10 FFU for DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4, respectively. The primers used for the mRT-PCR did not show any cross-reactivity among the serotypes of DENV or CHIKV. Specificity and sensitivity of the newly developed mRT-PCR were validated using serum samples collected from febrile patients during dengue outbreaks in Bangladesh. The sensitivity for serotype detection of DENV and CHIKV was superior to the virus isolation method and the antigen detection method using the Dengue NS1-Ag assay. This novel mRT-PCR method can be used for molecular epidemiological surveillance of DENV and CHIKV in epidemic and endemic countries.
Substitution of the Native Zn(II) with Cd(II), Co(II) and Ni(II) Changes the Downhill Unfolding Mechanism of Ros87 to a Completely Different Scenario
Authors: Grazioso Rinaldo , García-Viñuales Sara , Russo Luigi , D’Abrosca Gianluca , Esposito Sabrina , Zaccaro Laura , Iacovino Rosa , Milardi Danilo , Fattorusso Roberto , Malgieri Gaetano , Isernia Carla
Published: November 2020

The structural effects of zinc replacement by xenobiotic metal ions have been widely studied in several eukaryotic and prokaryotic zinc-finger-containing proteins. The prokaryotic zinc finger, that presents a bigger βββαα domain with a larger hydrophobic core with respect to its eukaryotic counterpart, represents a valuable model protein to study metal ion interaction with metallo-proteins. Several studies have been conducted on Ros87, the DNA binding domain of the prokaryotic zinc finger Ros, and have demonstrated that the domain appears to structurally tolerate Ni(II), albeit with important structural perturbations, but not Pb(II) and Hg(II), and it is in vitro functional when the zinc ion is replaced by Cd(II). We have previously shown that Ros87 unfolding is a two-step process in which a zinc binding intermediate converts to the native structure thorough a delicate downhill folding transition. Here, we explore the folding/unfolding behaviour of Ros87 coordinated to Co(II), Ni(II) or Cd(II), by UV-Vis, CD, DSC and NMR techniques. Interestingly, we show how the substitution of the native metal ion results in complete different folding scenarios. We found a two-state unfolding mechanism for Cd-Ros87 whose metal affinity Kd is comparable to the one obtained for the native Zn-Ros87, and a more complex mechanism for Co-Ros87 and Ni-Ros87, that show higher Kd values. Our data outline the complex cross-correlation between the protein–metal ion equilibrium and the folding mechanism proposing such an interplay as a key factor in the proper metal ion selection by a specific metallo-protein.
Anti-neoplastic Effect of Ginkgolide C through Modulating c-Met Phosphorylation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Yang Min Hee , Baek Seung Ho , Um Jae-Young , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: November 2020

Ginkgolide C (GGC) derived from Ginkgo biloba, has been reported to exhibit various biological functions. However, the anti-neoplastic effect of GGC and its mechanisms in liver cancer have not been studied previously. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-mesenchymal–epithelial transition receptor (c-Met) pathway can regulate tumor growth and metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-neoplastic effect of GGC against HCC cells and we observed that GGC inhibited HGF-induced c-Met and c-Met downstream oncogenic pathways, such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MEK/ERK. In addition, GGC also suppressed the proliferation of expression of diverse tumorigenic proteins (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Survivin, IAP-1, IAP-2, Cyclin D1, and COX-2) and induced apoptosis. Interestingly, the silencing of c-Met by small interfering RNA (siRNA) mitigated c-Met expression and enhanced GGC-induced apoptosis. Moreover, it was noted that GGC also significantly reduced the invasion and migration of HCC cells. Overall, the data clearly demonstrate that GGC exerts its anti-neoplastic activity through modulating c-Met phosphorylation and may be used as an effective therapy against HCC.
Hope in Advanced Cancer Patients in the Terminal Phase of Neoplastic Disease and Stability of Basic Mood
Authors: Baczewska Bożena , Block Bogusław , Kropornicka Beata , Malm Maria , Musiał Dagmara , Makara-Studzińska Marta , Zwolak Agnieszka
Published: November 2020

The aim of this research is to compare the hope experienced by advanced cancer patients in the terminal phase of neoplastic disease in relation to the stability of their basic mood. The study group consisted of 246 patients, average age 59.5. The youngest respondent was 18 and the oldest was 90. The diagnostic tools used in the work comprised the Personal Card designed by T. Witkowski (PC) and an NCN-36 test (Block’s Hope test), designed by B.L. Block to measure the strength of hope in people struggling with serious life-threatening diseases. The test consists of 4 subscales distinguished by factor analysis. Each subscale consists of 8 items. The test allows an evaluation of hope in the following dimensions: situational dimension (health, thelic-temporal dimension), goals to be achieved in the future, spiritual dimension (spirituality), religious beliefs, and emotional-motivational (affective) dimension (motivations). In cheerful patients who are in the terminal phase of cancer, mood stability does not constitute a major differentiating factor for experiencing hope. In sad people, on the other hand, mood stability affects the intensity of hope—those with an unstable mood are more likely to have a stronger emotional-motivational dimension of hope than sad people with a balanced mood.
Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes in Patients with Suspected COVID-19 and Their Relationship with a Negative RT-PCR Result
Authors: Cuñarro-López Yolanda , Cano-Valderrama Óscar , Pintado-Recarte Pilar , Cueto-Hernández Ignacio , González-Garzón Blanca , García-Tizón Santiago , Bujan Julia , Asúnsolo Ángel , Ortega Miguel A. , De León-Luis Juan Antonio
Published: November 2020

This study was designed to examine maternal-perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) according to the result of a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test and to investigate possible variables that could be useful for predicting a negative RT-PCR result. Participants of this retrospective cohort study were obstetrics patients with suspected COVID-19 who underwent an RT-PCR test in a tertiary hospital in Madrid, Spain. Maternal-perinatal features were analysed according to the results of this test. Clinical, radiological and analytical characteristics that could be associated with a negative result were also explored. In a final subgroup analysis, patients were included if they had pneumonia and a negative test result for the virus. Out of the 111 obstetric patients with suspected COVID-19 that were enrolled, 38.7% returned a negative result. In this RT-PCR-negative group, we recorded lower rates of pneumonia (21.4% vs. 45.6%, p = 0.009), severe or critical clinical features (4.7% vs. 11.8% and 0.0% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.02, respectively), lower lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels (168 UI/L vs. 224.5 UI/L, p = 0.003), a greater need for maternal treatment (60.3% vs 24.4%, p < 0.001), a reduced need for oxygen therapy (2.4% vs 28.8%, p < 0.001) and a lower rate of intensive care unit admission (0.0% vs. 3.7%, p = 0.046) than the RT-PCR-positive group. While no differences were found in other variables, the monocyte count was higher (946.2/μL vs. 518.8/μL, p = 0.022) in this group. The predictive model for a negative test result included the monocyte count, LDH level and no need for oxygen therapy. This model was able to identify 73.5% of patients with a negative RT-PCR result. Only 11% of the patients with pneumonia testing negative for the virus had IgG antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The proportion of pregnant women with suspected COVID-19 and a negative RT-PCR result was nearly 39%. In these patients, the symptoms were mild and the systemic severity of the disease was lower. The monocyte count, LDH level and no need for oxygen therapy were the factors that were more related to a negative test result in this group. These variables could be used to guide the management of patients with suspected COVID-19, mainly while waiting for RT-PCR results or in settings where this test is not available.
Oral Manifestations of Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome: Genotype-Phenotype Correlation Analysis
Authors: Limeres Jacobo , Serrano Candela , De Nova Joaquin Manuel , Silvestre-Rangil Javier , Machuca Guillermo , Maura Isabel , Cruz Ruiz-Villandiego Jose , Diz Pedro , Blanco-Lago Raquel , Nevado Julian , Diniz-Freitas Marcio
Published: November 2020

Background: Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) is a rare disease caused by deletion in the distal moiety of the short arm of chromosome 4. The objectives of this study were to report the most representative oral findings of WHS, relate them with other clinical characteristics of the disease, and establish possible phenotype-genotype correlation. Methods: The study was conducted at 6 reference centers distributed throughout Spain during 2018–2019. The study group consisted of 31 patients with WHS who underwent a standardized oral examination. Due to behavioral reasons, imaging studies were performed on only 11 of the children 6 years of age or older. All participants had previously undergone a specific medical examination for WHS, during which anatomical, functional, epilepsy-related, and genetic variables were recorded. Results: The most prevalent oral manifestations were delayed tooth eruption (74.1%), bruxism (64.5%), dental agenesis (63.6%), micrognathia (60.0%), oligodontia (45.5%), and downturned corners of the mouth (32.3%). We detected strong correlation between psychomotor delay and oligodontia (p = 0.008; Cramér’s V coefficient, 0.75). The size of the deletion was correlated in a statistically significant manner with the presence of oligodontia (p = 0.009; point-biserial correlation coefficient, 0.75). Conclusion: Certain oral manifestations prevalent in WHS can form part of the syndrome’s phenotypic variability. A number of the characteristics of WHS, such as psychomotor delay and epilepsy, are correlated with oral findings such as oligodontia and bruxism. Although most genotype-phenotype correlations are currently unknown, most of them seem to be associated with larger deletions, suggesting that some oral-facial candidate genes might be outside the critical WHS region, indicating that WHS is a contiguous gene syndrome.
Special Issue “Applications of Photoacoustic Spectroscopy”
Authors: Popa Cristina , Maria Bratu Ana , Petrus Mioara
Published: November 2020

Photoacoustic spectroscopy is one of the most exciting areas of research in physics and chemistry, covering a broad range of applications from agricultural to biological, including atmospheric monitoring, space science, and air-quality measurements to security and workplace surveillance, in addition to its great potential in preclinical and clinical biomedical applications [...]
Concentration-Emission Matrix (CEM) Spectroscopy Combined with GA-SVM: An Analytical Method to Recognize Oil Species in Marine
Authors: Chen Yunan , Yang Ruifang , Zhao Nanjing , Zhu Wei , Chen Xiaowei , Zhang Ruiqi , Liu Jianguo , Liu Wenqing
Published: November 2020

The establishment and development of a set of methods of oil accurate recognition in a different environment are of great significance to the effective management of oil spill pollution. In this work, the concentration-emission matrix (CEM) is formed by introducing the concentration dimension. The principal component analysis (PCA) is applied to extract the spectral feature. The classification methods, such as Probabilistic Neural Networks (PNNs) and Genic Algorithm optimization Support Vector Machine (SVM) parameters (GA-SVM), are used for oil identification and the recognition accuracies of the two classification methods are compared. The results show that the GA-SVM combined with PCA has the highest recognition accuracy for different oils. The proposed approach has great potential in rapid and accurate oil source identification.
Tamoxifen Delivery System Based on PEGylated Magnetic MCM-41 Silica
Authors: Popova Margarita , Koseva Neli , Trendafilova Ivalina , Lazarova Hristina , Mitova Violeta , Mihály Judith , Momekova Denitsa , Momekov Georgi , Koleva Iskra Z. , Aleksandrov Hristiyan A. , Vayssilov Georgi N. , Szegedi Ágnes
Published: November 2020

Magnetic iron oxide containing MCM-41 silica (MM) with ~300 nm particle size was developed. The MM material before or after template removal was modified with NH2- or COOH-groups and then grafted with PEG chains. The anticancer drug tamoxifen was loaded into the organic groups’ modified and PEGylated nanoparticles by an incipient wetness impregnation procedure. The amount of loaded drug and the release properties depend on whether modification of the nanoparticles was performed before or after the template removal step. The parent and drug-loaded samples were characterized by XRD, N2 physisorption, thermal gravimetric analysis, and ATR FT-IR spectroscopy. ATR FT-IR spectroscopic data and density functional theory (DFT) calculations supported the interaction between the mesoporous silica surface and tamoxifen molecules and pointed out that the drug molecule interacts more strongly with the silicate surface terminated by silanol groups than with the surface modified with carboxyl groups. A sustained tamoxifen release profile was obtained by an in vitro experiment at pH = 7.0 for the PEGylated formulation modified by COOH groups after the template removal. Free drug and formulated tamoxifen samples were further investigated for antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 cells.
Special Issue “Plant Extracts: Biological and Pharmacological Activity”
Authors: Capasso Raffaele , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo
Published: November 2020

The use of plant extracts for therapeutic purposes knows a wide diffusion [...]
An Updated Review on the Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Molecular Hybrids and Conjugates Bearing Imidazole Moiety
Authors: Rossi Renzo , Ciofalo Maurizio
Published: November 2020

The rapid growth of serious infections caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria, especially the nosocomial ESKAPE pathogens, has been acknowledged by Governments and scientists and is one of the world’s major health problems. Various strategies have been and are currently investigated and developed to reduce and/or delay the bacterial resistance. One of these strategies regards the design and development of antimicrobial hybrids and conjugates. This unprecedented critical review, in which our continuing interest in the synthesis and evaluation of the bioactivity of imidazole derivatives is testified, aims to summarise and comment on the results obtained from the end of the 1900s until February 2020 in studies conducted by numerous international research groups on the synthesis and evaluation of the antibacterial properties of imidazole-based molecular hybrids and conjugates in which the pharmacophoric constituents of these compounds are directly covalently linked or connected through a linker or spacer. In this review, significant attention was paid to summarise the strategies used to overcome the antibiotic resistance of pathogens whose infections are difficult to treat with conventional antibiotics. However, it does not include literature data on the synthesis and evaluation of the bioactivity of hybrids and conjugates in which an imidazole moiety is fused with a carbo- or heterocyclic subunit.
Antihyperuricemic Effect of Urolithin A in Cultured Hepatocytes and Model Mice
Authors: Adachi Shin-ichi , Sasaki Kazunori , Kondo Shinji , Komatsu Wataru , Yoshizawa Fumiaki , Isoda Hiroko , Yagasaki Kazumi
Published: November 2020

Hyperuricemia is defined as a disease with high uric acid (UA) levels in the blood and a strong risk factor for gout. Urolithin A (UroA) is a main microbial metabolite derived from ellagic acid (EA), which occurs in strawberries and pomegranates. In this study, we evaluated antihyperuricemic effect of UroA in both cultured hepatocytes and hyperuricemic model mice. In cultured hepatocytes, UroA significantly and dose-dependently reduced UA production. In model mice with purine bodies-induced hyperuricemia, oral administration of UroA significantly inhibited the increase in plasma UA levels and hepatic xanthine oxidase (XO) activity. In addition, DNA microarray results exhibited that UroA, as well as allopurinol, a strong XO inhibitor, induced downregulation of the expression of genes associated with hepatic purine metabolism. Thus, hypouricemic effect of UroA could be, at least partly, attributed to inhibition of purine metabolism and UA production by suppressing XO activity in the liver. These results indicate UroA possesses a potent antihyperuricemic effect and it could be a potential candidate for a molecule capable of preventing and improving hyperuricemia and gout.
Degradation Kinetics and Shelf Life of N-acetylneuraminic Acid at Different pH Values
Authors: Zhu Weiwei , Chen Xiangsong , Yuan Lixia , Wu Jinyong , Yao Jianming
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to investigate the stability and degradation kinetics of N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac). The pH of the solution strongly influenced the stability of Neu5Ac, which was more stable at neutral pH and low temperatures. Here, we provide detailed information on the degradation kinetics of Neu5Ac at different pH values (1.0, 2.0, 11.0 and 12.0) and temperatures (60, 70, 80 and 90 °C). The study of the degradation of Neu5Ac under strongly acidic conditions (pH 1.0–2.0) is highly pertinent for the hydrolysis of polysialic acid. The degradation kinetics of alkaline deacetylation were also studied. Neu5Ac was highly stable at pH 3.0–10.0, even at high temperature, but the addition of H2O2 greatly reduced its stability at pH 5.0, 7.0 and 9.0. Although Neu5Ac has a number of applications in products of everyday life, there are no reports of rigorous shelf-life studies. This research provides kinetic data that can be used to predict product shelf lives at different temperatures and pH values.
Occurrence of Biogenic Amines Producers in the Wastewater of the Dairy Industry
Authors: Jančová Petra , Pachlová Vendula , Čechová Erika , Cedidlová Karolína , Šerá Jana , Pištěková Hana , Buňka František , Buňková Leona
Published: November 2020

Out of six samples of wastewater produced in the dairy industry, taken in 2017 at various places of dairy operations, 86 bacterial strains showing decarboxylase activity were isolated. From the wastewater samples, the species of genera Staphylococcus, Lactococcus, Enterococcus, Microbacterium, Kocuria, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Aeromonas, Klebsiella and Enterobacter were identified by the MALDI-TOF MS and biochemical methods. The in vitro produced quantity of eight biogenic amines (BAs) was detected by the HPLC/UV–Vis method. All the isolated bacteria were able to produce four to eight BAs. Tyramine, putrescine and cadaverine belonged to the most frequently produced BAs. Of the isolated bacteria, 41% were able to produce BAs in amounts >100 mg L−1. Therefore, wastewater embodies a potential vector of transmission of decarboxylase positive microorganisms, which should be taken into consideration in hazard analyses within foodstuff safety control. The parameters of this wastewater (contents of nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, and proteins) were also monitored.
Targeting Lipid Peroxidation for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Clemente Sofia M. , Martínez-Costa Oscar H. , Monsalve Maria , Samhan-Arias Alejandro K.
Published: November 2020

Cancer is one of the highest prevalent diseases in humans. The chances of surviving cancer and its prognosis are very dependent on the affected tissue, body location, and stage at which the disease is diagnosed. Researchers and pharmaceutical companies worldwide are pursuing many attempts to look for compounds to treat this malignancy. Most of the current strategies to fight cancer implicate the use of compounds acting on DNA damage checkpoints, non-receptor tyrosine kinases activities, regulators of the hedgehog signaling pathways, and metabolic adaptations placed in cancer. In the last decade, the finding of a lipid peroxidation increase linked to 15-lipoxygenases isoform 1 (15-LOX-1) activity stimulation has been found in specific successful treatments against cancer. This discovery contrasts with the production of other lipid oxidation signatures generated by stimulation of other lipoxygenases such as 5-LOX and 12-LOX, and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) activities, which have been suggested as cancer biomarkers and which inhibitors present anti-tumoral and antiproliferative activities. These findings support the previously proposed role of lipid hydroperoxides and their metabolites as cancer cell mediators. Depletion or promotion of lipid peroxidation is generally related to a specific production source associated with a cancer stage or tissue in which cancer originates. This review highlights the potential therapeutical use of chemical derivatives to stimulate or block specific cellular routes to generate lipid hydroperoxides to treat this disease.
Influence of Pear Variety and Drying Methods on the Quality of Dried Fruit
Authors: Marzec Agata , Kowalska Hanna , Kowalska Jolanta , Domian Ewa , Lenart Andrzej
Published: November 2020

In this study, the impacts of two different pear cultivars, “Conference” and “Alexander Lucas”, on the kinetics and the final quality of samples dried by convection (CD) and microwave-convection (MCD) methods, were investigated. The quality of dried material was evaluated by the analysis of water activity, porosity, color, acoustic emission (AE) and mechanical and sensory properties. The required drying time to obtain 0.2 kg H2O/kg dry solid (d.s.) was longer for “Conference” than “Alexander Lucas” and was 20 min by CD and 5 min by MCD. The pear cultivar, in conjunction with the drying method (CD or MCD), affected the number of AE events and the work of breaking. The CD pear of the “Conference” cultivar was characterized by higher force, higher breaking work and stronger AE relative to the CD pear of the “Alexander Lucas” cultivar. There were no differences in taste or overall quality, but the hardness was higher for the CD “Conference” pear. A principal component analysis showed that panelists preferred dried fruit with good taste and overall quality but lower hardness. A positive correlation was found between the number of acoustic events and sensory hardness; thus, an acoustic method can be useful for effectively evaluating the texture of dried pears. These results show that the dried pear slices that generated fewer AE events upon breaking were perceived as better by the panelists.
Targeting TGF-β-Mediated SMAD Signaling Pathway via Novel Recombinant Cytotoxin II: A Potent Protein from Naja naja oxiana Venom in Melanoma
Authors: Derakhshani Afshin , Silvestris Nicola , Hemmat Nima , Asadzadeh Zahra , Abdoli Shadbad Mahdi , Nourbakhsh Niloufar Sadat , Mobasheri Leila , Vahedi Parviz , Shahmirzaie Morteza , Brunetti Oronzo , Safarpour Hossein , Baradaran Behzad
Published: November 2020

Since the current treatments have not resulted in the desired outcomes for melanoma patients, there is a need to identify more effective medications. Together with other snake venom proteins, cytotoxin-II has shown promising results in tumoral cells. In this study, recombinant cytotoxin-II (rCTII) was expressed in SHuffle® T7 Express cells, while the epitope mapping of rCTII was performed to reveal the antibody-binding regions of rCTII. The MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay was used to assess the viability of SK-MEL-3 and HFF-2 cells after treating these cells with rCTII. The qRT-PCR was performed to evaluate the expression levels of matrix metallopeptidase 3 (MMP-3), SMAD2, SMAD3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and miR-214 in order to reveal the rCTII-induced signaling pathways in melanoma. Our results have shown that two regions of amino acids, 6–16 and 19–44, as predicted epitopes of this toxin, are essential for understanding the toxicity of rCTII. Treating the melanoma cells with rCTII substantially inhibited the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)–SMAD signaling pathway and down-regulated the expression of MMP-3 and miR-214 as well. This cytotoxin also restored apoptosis mainly via the intrinsic pathway. The down-regulation of MMP-3 and miR-214 might be associated with the anti-metastatic property of rCTII in melanoma. The inhibitory effect of rCTII on the TGF-β signaling pathway might be associated with increased apoptosis and decreased cancer cell proliferation. It is interesting to see that the IC50 value of rCTII has been lower in the melanoma cells than non-tumoral cells, which may indicate its potential effects as a drug. In conclusion, rCTII, as a novel medication, might serve as a potent and efficient anticancer drug in melanoma.
The Strong Anti-Kinetoplastid Properties of Bee Propolis: Composition and Identification of the Active Agents and Their Biochemical Targets
Authors: Ebiloma Godwin U. , Ichoron Nahandoo , Siheri Weam , Watson David G. , Igoli John O. , De Koning Harry P.
Published: November 2020

The kinetoplastids are protozoa characterized by the presence of a distinctive organelle, called the kinetoplast, which contains a large amount of DNA (kinetoplast DNA (kDNA)) inside their single mitochondrion. Kinetoplastids of medical and veterinary importance include Trypanosoma spp. (the causative agents of human and animal African Trypanosomiasis and of Chagas disease) and Leishmania spp. (the causative agents of the various forms of leishmaniasis). These neglected diseases affect millions of people across the globe, but drug treatment is hampered by the challenges of toxicity and drug resistance, among others. Propolis (a natural product made by bees) and compounds isolated from it are now being investigated as novel treatments of kinetoplastid infections. The anti-kinetoplastid efficacy of propolis is probably a consequence of its reported activity against kinetoplastid parasites of bees. This article presents a review of the reported anti-kinetoplastid potential of propolis, highlighting its anti-kinetoplastid activity in vitro and in vivo regardless of geographical origin. The mode of action of propolis depends on the organism it is acting on and includes growth inhibition, immunomodulation, macrophage activation, perturbation of the cell membrane architecture, phospholipid disturbances, and mitochondrial targets. This gives ample scope for further investigations toward the rational development of sustainable anti-kinetoplastid drugs.
An Unbiased Approach to Mapping the Signaling Network of the Pseudorabies Virus US3 Protein
Authors: Jansens Robert J. J. , Marmiroli Sandra , Favoreel Herman W.
Published: November 2020

The US3 serine/threonine protein kinase is conserved among the alphaherpesvirus family and represents an important virulence factor. US3 plays a role in viral nuclear egress, induces dramatic alterations of the cytoskeleton, represses apoptosis, enhances gene expression and modulates the immune response. Although several substrates of US3 have been identified, an unbiased screen to identify US3 phosphorylation targets has not yet been described. Here, we perform a shotgun and phosphoproteomics analysis of cells expressing the US3 protein of pseudorabies virus (PRV) to identify US3 phosphorylation targets in an unbiased way. We identified several cellular proteins that are differentially phosphorylated upon US3 expression and validated the phosphorylation of lamin A/C at serine 404, both in US3-transfected and PRV-infected cells. These results provide new insights into the signaling network of the US3 protein kinase and may serve as a basis for future research into the role of the US3 protein in the viral replication cycle.
Exploring the Resource Value of Transvaal Red Milk Wood (Mimusops zeyheri) for Food Security and Sustainability: An Appraisal of Existing Evidence
Authors: Omotayo Abiodun Olusola , Ijatuyi Enioluwa Jonathan , Ogunniyi Adebayo Isaiah , Aremu Adeyemi Oladapo
Published: November 2020

Many African countries are endowed with rich biodiversity with enormous nutritional and economic prospects, but the majority of these resources are not fully harnessed. Exploring these neglected resources, for example, the Transvaal red milkwood tree [(Mimusops zeyheri) Sond. family: Sapotaceae] is of paramount importance for food and nutritional security as well as economic prosperity. This review provides a critical appraisal of the nutritional and health benefits as well as the economic potential of Mimusops zeyheri. The plant is known for its diverse uses among rural communities. In folk medicine, the decoction from the bark and leaves of Mimusops zeyheri are used for treating wounds and ulcers, while the root is used as an infusion taken to treat candidiasis and other health issues. The nutritional profile of the fruit tree is similar to popular exotic fruits and richer in vitamin C when compared to guava and orange. Mimusops zeyheri is a rich source of vitamins, protein, and fatty acids. Based on the rich chemical pool, especially in the fruit and seeds, it has the potential to provide an accessible, readily available, and affordable enriched functional food with valuable health benefits. However, the successful exploration of Mimusopszeyheri for food security and sustainability requires multidisciplinary research. This will help achieve the envisaged food-nutrition security and poverty alleviation potential of the plant, especially among local communities.
Taxonomy and Identification of Principal Foliar Nematode Species (Aphelenchoides and Litylenchus)
Authors: Handoo Zafar , Kantor Mihail , Carta Lynn
Published: November 2020

Nematodes are Earth’s most numerous multicellular animals and include species that feed on bacteria, fungi, plants, insects, and animals. Foliar nematodes are mostly pathogens of ornamental crops in greenhouses, nurseries, forest trees, and field crops. Nematode identification has traditionally relied on morphological and anatomical characters using light microscopy and, in some cases, scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This review focuses on morphometrical and brief molecular details and key characteristics of some of the most widely distributed and economically important foliar nematodes that can aid in their identification. Aphelenchoides genus includes some of the most widely distributed nematodes that can cause crop damages and losses to agricultural, horticultural, and forestry crops. Morphological details of the most common species of Aphelenchoides (A. besseyi, A. bicaudatus, A. fragariae, A. ritzemabosi) are given with brief molecular details, including distribution, identification, conclusion, and future directions, as well as an updated list of the nominal species with its synonyms. Litylenchus is a relatively new genus described in 2011 and includes two species and one subspecies. Species included in the Litylenchus are important emerging foliar pathogens parasitizing trees and bushes, especially beech trees in the United States of America. Brief morphological details of all Litylenchus species are provided.
Enhancing Conservation of a Globally Imperiled Rockland Herb (Linum arenicola) through Assessments of Seed Functional Traits and Multi-Dimensional Germination Niche Breadths
Authors: Pérez Héctor Eduardo , Chumana Luis Andres Ochoa
Published: November 2020

Humans currently face an extraordinary period of plant biodiversity loss. One strategy to stem further losses involves the development of species-level recovery plans that guide conservation actions. Seeds represent an important component in the life history of plants and are crucial for conservation activities. Yet, most recovery plans contain meager seed biology information. We set out to examine seed functional traits and germination niche breadth of Linum arenicola seeds exposed to a range of thermal, photoperiodic, and salinity gradients to gain perspectives on the seed biology of this endangered species that may inform conservation decision making and assist recovery plan development. We found that fresh seeds possess non-deep physiological dormancy, which may be alleviated via a four-week dry after-ripening treatment. The germination response of non-dormant seeds is subsequently promoted by constant rather than alternating temperatures. The optimum germination temperature range is 20–22 °C. Non-dormant seeds do not possess an absolute light requirement for germination, but are sensitive to low levels of salinity (EC50 = 6.34 ppth NaCl). The narrow thermal and salinity germination niche breadths reported here suggest a specialized reproductive strategy that may require careful consideration when planning ex and in situ conservation activities.
Smartphone Motion Sensor-Based Complex Human Activity Identification Using Deep Stacked Autoencoder Algorithm for Enhanced Smart Healthcare System
Authors: Alo Uzoma Rita , Nweke Henry Friday , Teh Ying Wah , Murtaza Ghulam
Published: November 2020

Human motion analysis using a smartphone-embedded accelerometer sensor provided important context for the identification of static, dynamic, and complex sequence of activities. Research in smartphone-based motion analysis are implemented for tasks, such as health status monitoring, fall detection and prevention, energy expenditure estimation, and emotion detection. However, current methods, in this regard, assume that the device is tightly attached to a pre-determined position and orientation, which might cause performance degradation in accelerometer data due to changing orientation. Therefore, it is challenging to accurately and automatically identify activity details as a result of the complexity and orientation inconsistencies of the smartphone. Furthermore, the current activity identification methods utilize conventional machine learning algorithms that are application dependent. Moreover, it is difficult to model the hierarchical and temporal dynamic nature of the current, complex, activity identification process. This paper aims to propose a deep stacked autoencoder algorithm, and orientation invariant features, for complex human activity identification. The proposed approach is made up of various stages. First, we computed the magnitude norm vector and rotation feature (pitch and roll angles) to augment the three-axis dimensions (3-D) of the accelerometer sensor. Second, we propose a deep stacked autoencoder based deep learning algorithm to automatically extract compact feature representation from the motion sensor data. The results show that the proposed integration of the deep learning algorithm, and orientation invariant features, can accurately recognize complex activity details using only smartphone accelerometer data. The proposed deep stacked autoencoder method achieved 97.13% identification accuracy compared to the conventional machine learning methods and the deep belief network algorithm. The results suggest the impact of the proposed method to improve a smartphone-based complex human activity identification framework.
Estimation of Lens Stray Light with Regard to the Incapacitation of Imaging Sensors
Authors: Ritt Gunnar , Schwarz Bastian , Eberle Bernd
Published: November 2020

We present our efforts on estimating light scattering characteristics from commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) camera lenses in order to deduce thereof a set of generic scattering parameters valid for a specific lens class (double Gauss lenses). In previous investigations, we developed a simplified theoretical light scattering model to estimate the irradiance distribution in the focal plane of a camera lens. This theoretical model is based on a 3-parameter bidirectional scattering distribution function (BSDF), which describes light scattering from rough surfaces of the optical elements. Ordinarily, the three scatter parameters of the BSDF are not known for COTS camera lenses, which makes it necessary to assess them by own experiments. Besides the experimental setup and the measurement process, we present in detail the subsequent data exploitation. From measurements on seven COTS camera lenses, we deduced a generic set of scatter parameters. For a deeper analysis, the results of our measurements have also been compared with the output of an optical engineering software. Together with our theoretical model, now stray light calculations can be accomplished even then, when specific scatter parameters are not available from elsewhere. In addition, the light scattering analyses also allow considering the glare vulnerability of optical systems in terms of laser safety.
Characterization of Response Frequency for the Pressure-Sensitive Paint Based on Fluorine-Containing Polymer Matrixes Using Oscillating Sound Wave Technique
Authors: Shao Yun , Chen Liusheng , Liao Qi , Jiang Heng , Liu Zhitian , Jin Xigao , Gao Limin
Published: November 2020

Five kinds of new homo-polymer and copolymers of methacrylate containing a fluorine ester group were synthesized and used for the binder of pressure-sensitive paint (PSP)to ensure the good compatibility between luminophore (Pt(II) meso-tetra (pentafluorophenyl) porphine (PtTFPP)) and polymer binder. In the work, we were concerned with how the structure of thesepolymers containing fluorine, especially the various ester group structure, affects the response frequency of PSP using oscillating sound wave technique. The results showed that the pressure sensitivities (Sp) of these PSP samples containing different polymers, exhibit some difference. The length of ester chain on the methacrylatepolymer affects the response frequency of PSP sensor layer composed of the polymer. The longer the chain length of the ester group, the higher the response frequency of the PSP sensor layer quenching by oxygen.
Calculation of the Overlap Function and Associated Error of an Elastic Lidar or a Ceilometer: Cross-Comparison with a Cooperative Overlap-Corrected System
Authors: Sicard Michaël , Rodríguez-Gómez Alejandro , Comerón Adolfo , Muñoz-Porcar Constantino
Published: November 2020

This paper establishes the relationship between the signal of a lidar system corrected for the incomplete overlap effect and the signal of another lidar system or a ceilometer for which the overlap function is unknown. Simple mathematical relationships permit the estimation of the overlap function of the second system as well as the associated error. Several overlap functions have been retrieved with this method over a period of 1.5 years with two lidar systems of the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain. The error when the overlap function reaches 1 is usually less than 7%. The temporal variability estimated over a period of 1.5 years is less than 11% in the first 1.5 km from the surface and peaks at 18% at heights between 1.7 and 2.4 km. The use of a non-appropriate overlap function in the retrieval of the backscatter coefficient yield errors up to 60% in the first 0.5 km and up to 20% above.
Clip-On IMU System for Assessing Age-Related Changes in Hand Functions
Authors: Lee Seungjae , Lee Hyejeong , Lee Jongshill , Ryu Hokyoung , Kim In Young , Kim Jieun
Published: November 2020

Hand functions affect the instrumental activities of daily living. While functional outcome measures, such as a targeted box and block test, have been widely used in clinical settings and provide a useful measure of overall performance, the advent of a wearable Inertial Measurement Unit(IMU)-based system enables the examination of the specific performance and kinematic parameters of hand movements. This study proposed a novel clip-on IMU system to facilitate the clinically fitted measurements of fine-motor finger and wrist joint movements. Clinical validation was conducted with the aim of characterising age-related changes in hand functions, namely grasping, transporting, and releasing blocks. Eighteen young (age 20–31) and sixteen healthy older adults (age 75–89) were evaluated during the box and block test. The results demonstrated that an older age was characterized by slower movements and higher variations and kinematic alterations in the hand functions, such as a larger range of motions at the fingers as well as kinematic trajectories. The proposed IMU system and subsequent validations highlight the value of the performance and kinematics parameters for a more comprehensive understanding of fine-motor finger and wrist movements that could shed light on further implementations in clinical and practical settings.
Business Sustainability Strategy in a Cooperative Kibbutz Industry
Authors: Moskovich Yaffa
Published: November 2020

This article describes the management approach underlying the strategic business sustainability at a kibbutz factory situated in a non-privatized collective community. The business strategy explains the outstanding success of “T Industries”—which ranks as a leading kibbutz enterprise. The research utilized qualitative methods, using deep interviews combined with document analysis. The study found that the strategic management of T Industries comprises three major components: (1) socialist concern for community wellbeing, (2) an external strategy that focuses on expansion and rendering the industry global, with numerous organizational alliances and acquisitions, and (3) an internal strategy that includes self-criticism, professionalism, creativity, and organizational learning. Strategies of the top management have the ability to integrate conflicting methods into their strategy while promoting innovation and originality and can increase economic success and reassure its sustainability for the business and the community.
Antitumor Effect of Sugar-Modified Cytosine Nucleosides on Growth of Adult T-Cell Leukemia Cells in Mice
Authors: Maeda Naoyoshi , Matsuda Akira , Otsuguro Satoko , Takahashi Masahiko , Fujii Masahiro , Maenaka Katsumi
Published: November 2020

Adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) is a CD4+ T-cell neoplasm caused by human T-cell leukemia virus type I. As the prognosis for patients with ATL remains extremely poor due to resistance to conventional chemotherapy regimens, introduction of novel therapeutic agents is needed. Previous studies have reported that nucleosides 2′-deoxy-2′-methylidenecytidine (DMDC) and its derivative 2′-deoxy-2′-methylidene-5-fluorocytidine (FDMDC) exhibit antitumor activities in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and solid tumor cell lines. Another nucleoside, 1-(2-azido-2-deoxy-β-D-arabinofuranosyl)cytosine (cytarazid), is considered a therapeutic drug with antitumor activity in human solid tumors. In this study, we investigated the effects of these nucleosides on cell growth in vitro and in vivo using relevant leukemia cell lines and NOD/Shi-scid, IL-2Rgnull (NOG) mice, respectively. The nucleosides demonstrated significant cytotoxic effects in ATL and T-ALL cell lines. Intraperitoneal administration of FDMDC and DMDC into tumor-bearing NOG mice resulted in significant suppression of tumor growth without lethal side effects. Our findings support a therapeutic application of these nucleosides against tumor progression by targeting DNA polymerase-dependent DNA synthesis in patients with ATL.
Potential of Anti-MUC1 Antibodies as a Targeted Therapy for Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Bose Mukulika , Mukherjee Pinku
Published: November 2020

Gastrointestinal cancers (GI) account for 26% of cancer incidences globally and 35% of all cancer-related deaths. The main challenge is to target cancer specific antigens. Mucins are heavily O-glycosylated proteins overexpressed in different cancers. The transmembrane glycoprotein MUC1 is the most likeable target for antibodies, owing to its specific overexpression and aberrant glycosylation in many types of cancers. For the past 30 years, MUC1 has remained a possible diagnostic marker and therapeutic target. Despite initiation of numerous clinical trials, a comprehensively effective therapy with clinical benefit is yet to be achieved. However, the interest in MUC1 as a therapeutic target remains unaltered. For all translational studies, it is important to incorporate updated relevant research findings into therapeutic strategies. In this review we present an overview of the antibodies targeting MUC1 in GI cancers, their potential role in immunotherapy (i.e., antibody-drug and radioimmunoconjugates, CAR-T cells), and other novel therapeutic strategies. We also present our perspectives on how the mechanisms of action of different anti-MUC1 antibodies can target specific hallmarks of cancer and therefore be utilized as a combination therapy for better clinical outcomes.
INSCRIPTION ABOUT THE BUILDING AND PAINTING OF THE EPIPHANY CATHEDRAL IN KOSTROMA EPIPHANY CONVENT OF ANASTASIA (CIR4010)
Authors: Avdeyev Aleksandr G.
Published: November 2020

The paper is dedicated to the scientific publication and commentary on the construction and painting of the Epiphany Cathedral in Kostroma Epiphany Convent of Anastasia (CIR4010) in 1559-1562/63. The Cathedral was built with the blessing
of St. Macarius, Metropolitan of Moscow, on the initiative and at the expense of Hegumen Isaiya (worldly Shaposhnikov) and the monastic brothers, as well as on the donations made by Prince Vladimir of Staritsa and others. The paper states that the Cathedral was consecrated by Archbishop Nikandr of Rostov on June 8, 1559, on the day of the namesake of Feodor, son of Ivan the Terrible, and the consecration ceremony was of a Church-state character. The inscription contains unique information, which has not been preserved in other sources, about the attachment of particles of the relics of St. Theodore the Black, Prince of Yaroslavl and his offsprings David and Konstantin in the antimins of the consecrated Church, as well as the fresco painting of the Cathedral, produced in 1562/61. Thus, the published inscription is a unique monument of memorial epigraphy, reporting both information on the architectural and art history of Kostroma in the late 1550s to the early 1560s, and containing important material about reverence of St. Theodore, Prince of Yaroslavl, and his offsprings in Kostroma land.