bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a Data-Driven Approach in Order to Improve the Safety and Quality of Patient Care
Authors: Cascini Fidelia , Santaroni Federico , Lanzetti Riccardo , Failla Giovanna , Gentili Andrea , Ricciardi Walter
Published: May 2021

Objective: To improve the safety and quality of patient care in hospitals by shaping clinical pathways throughout the patient journey.

Study Setting: A risk model designed for healthcare organizations in the context of the challenges arising from comorbidity and other treatment-related complexities.

Study Design: The core of the model is the patient and his intra-hospital journey, which is analyzed using a data-driven approach. The structure of a predictive model to support organizational and clinical decision-making activities is explained. Data relating to each step of the intra-hospital journey (from hospital admission to discharge) are extracted from clinical records.

Principal Findings: The proposed approach is feasible and can be used effectively to improve safety and quality. It enables the evaluation of clinical risks at each step of the patient journey.

Conclusion: Based on data from real cases, the model can record and calculate, over time, variables and behaviors that affect the safety and quality of healthcare organizations. This provides a greater understanding of healthcare processes and their complexity which can, in turn, advance research relating to clinical pathways and improve strategies adopted by organizations.
A Scoping Review of Evidence-Informed Recommendations for Designing Inclusive Playgrounds
Authors: Brown Denver M. Y. , Ross Timothy , Leo Jennifer , Buliung Ron N. , Shirazipour Celina H. , Latimer-Cheung Amy E. , Arbour-Nicitopoulos Kelly P.
Published: May 2021

Background: Playgrounds provide children with many sensory, motor, and socioemotional experiences that are critical to child development. Unfortunately, playgrounds also represent an environment where children with disabilities experience barriers to accessing play. Structures and materials that are prominently found in almost all playground designs (e.g., swings, slides, sand) can present as obstacles for many children with disabilities to engage in independent play.

Aims: This scoping review engaged in the empirical literature to address the research question, “What are the evidence-informed recommendations for designing inclusive playgrounds to enable participation for children with disabilities?” Consideration was given not only to the physical design of playgrounds, but also the playgrounds' surrounding built and social environments.

Methods: A systematic search of Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, EMBase, ERIC and Scopus was conducted. Only peer-reviewed literature published in English between January 1990 and January 2021, with a primary focus on inclusive playground structure design related to any type of disability were included. Data extraction included the study author(s), year of publication, country of origin, purpose, disability types considered, methods, sample characteristics and key findings. Key findings were synthesized into evidence-informed recommendations, which were later collated, using inductive content analysis, into five broader thematically congruent groups.

Results: Thirty-five studies were included using case study (n = 17); observational (n = 6); survey (n = 5); experimental (n = 4); and multiple study (n = 3) designs. Thirteen evidence-based recommendations and one promising practice were categorized into five broad playground elements: entry points; surfacing and paths; features to foster inclusive play; staffing/supervision; and design process.

Conclusion: These recommendations build upon previous design-based best-practices that focused exclusively on the physical design of the playground. Our recommendations have implications for how future playgrounds should be designed to maximize usability and inclusiveness and the overall playground experiences for children with disabilities.
Sepsis: When a Simple Infection Becomes Deadly
Authors: Farthing Andrew G. , Howell Jessie , Baillie J. Kenneth , Forde Taya , Garrett Alice , Goodyear Carl S. , Gracie Jennifer , Graham Colin , Hammarton Tansy C. , Murphy Michael E. , Peveler William J. , Pybus Simon , Sajib Mohammad Saiful Islam , Thomson Gill , Jimenez Melanie
Published: May 2021

The immune system plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body by working around the clock to recognize and respond to infection. Inflammation is part of the immune system’s protective response to an infection. The inflammatory response is incredibly powerful, so much so that it can damage the body’s cells if it is not tightly controlled. Sometimes, inflammation affects the whole body—this is called sepsis. The powerful and complex mechanisms in place to wipe out the infection can cause serious damage to healthy cells and tissues. Uncontrolled inflammation can cause irreversible damage to the body’s organs, such as the kidneys, eventually causing organs to shut down. If sepsis is not treated rapidly, it can lead to death. In this article, we describe the symptoms and diagnosis of sepsis and some of the current research being performed to better understand this dangerous process.
Assessment of Risk Factors for the Occurrence of a High-Output Ileostomy
Authors: Seifarth Claudia , Augustin Leonard N. , Lehmann Kai S. , Stroux Andrea , Lauscher Johannes C. , Kreis Martin E. , Holmer Christoph
Published: May 2021

Background: Ileostomy is often required in patients undergoing bowel resections for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), colorectal cancer, and emergencies. Unfortunately, some patients develop a high-output stoma (HOS). This condition affects homeostasis and may be life threatening. We aimed to identify possible risk factors for the development of HOS.

Patients and methods: From 2012 to 2018, 296 patients who underwent ileostomy at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin were retrospectively analyzed. Emergency operations were included. Diverting ileostomy, end ileostomies and anastomotic stomata with at least part ileum, were examined. HOS was defined as stoma output of more than 1,000 mL per day for more than 3 days. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to detect potential risk factors for the development of HOS.

Results: 41 of 296 patients developed HOS (13.9%). Mortality was 0.3%. In the univariate analysis, age (p < 0.002), diagnosis (Crohn's disease, p = 0.005), arterial hypertension (p = 0.023), surgical procedure (right-sided colectomy, small bowel resection, p < 0.001), open technique (p < 0.002), emergencies (p = 0.014), and anastomotic ileostomy (p < 0.001) were identified as risk factors. In the multivariable logistic regression, older age, diagnosis (Crohn's disease) and surgical procedure (right-sided colectomy, separate ileostomy, small bowel resection) remained significant risk factors.

Conclusion: The occurrence of HOS is a relevant problem after ileostomy. The identification of risk factors for a high-output may be helpful for monitoring, early diagnosis and initiation of therapy as well as in the planning of close follow-up care.
Application of Volatilome Analysis to the Diagnosis of Mycobacteria Infection in Livestock
Authors: Rodríguez-Hernández Pablo , Rodríguez-Estévez Vicente , Arce Lourdes , Gómez-Laguna Jaime
Published: May 2021

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are small molecular mass metabolites which compose the volatilome, whose analysis has been widely employed in different areas. This innovative approach has emerged in research as a diagnostic alternative to different diseases in human and veterinary medicine, which still present constraints regarding analytical and diagnostic sensitivity. Such is the case of the infection by mycobacteria responsible for tuberculosis and paratuberculosis in livestock. Although eradication and control programs have been partly managed with success in many countries worldwide, the often low sensitivity of the current diagnostic techniques against Mycobacterium bovis (as well as other mycobacteria from Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex) and Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis together with other hurdles such as low mycobacteria loads in samples, a tedious process of microbiological culture, inhibition by many variables, or intermittent shedding of the mycobacteria highlight the importance of evaluating new techniques that open different options and complement the diagnostic paradigm. In this sense, volatilome analysis stands as a potential option because it fulfills part of the mycobacterial diagnosis requirements. The aim of the present review is to compile the information related to the diagnosis of tuberculosis and paratuberculosis in livestock through the analysis of VOCs by using different biological matrices. The analytical techniques used for the evaluation of VOCs are discussed focusing on the advantages and drawbacks offered compared with the routine diagnostic tools. In addition, the differences described in the literature among in vivo and in vitro assays, natural and experimental infections, and the use of specific VOCs (targeted analysis) and complete VOC pattern (non-targeted analysis) are highlighted. This review emphasizes how this methodology could be useful in the problematic diagnosis of tuberculosis and paratuberculosis in livestock and poses challenges to be addressed in future research.
Active Loading Control Design for a Wearable Exoskeleton with a Bowden Cable for Transmission
Authors: Wang Zhipeng , Rho Seungmin , Yang Chifu , Jiang Feng , Ding Zhen , Yi Chunzhi , Wei Baichun
Published: May 2021

Exoskeletons with a Bowden cable for power transmission have the advantages of a concentrated mass and flexible movement. However, their integrated motor is disturbed by the Bowden cable’s friction, which limits the performance of the force loading response. In this paper, we solve this problem by designing an outer-loop feedforward-feedback proportion-differentiation controller based on an inner loop disturbance observer. Firstly, the inner loop’s dynamic performance is equivalent to the designed nominal model using the proposed disturbance observer, which effectively compensates for the parameter perturbation and friction disturbance. Secondly, based on an analysis of the stability of the inner loop controller, we obtain the stability condition and discuss the influence of modeling errors on the inner loop’s dynamic performance. Thirdly, to avoid excessive noise from the force sensors being introduced into the designed disturbance observer, we propose the feedforward-feedback proportion-differentiation controller based on the nominal model and pole configuration, which improves the outer loop’s force loading performance. Experiments are conducted, which verify the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Review of Magnetoelectric Sensors
Authors: Gao Junqi , Jiang Zekun , Zhang Shuangjie , Mao Zhineng , Shen Ying , Chu Zhaoqiang
Published: May 2021

Multiferroic magnetoelectric (ME) materials with the capability of coupling magnetization and electric polarization have been providing diverse routes towards functional devices and thus attracting ever-increasing attention. The typical device applications include sensors, energy harvesters, magnetoelectric random access memories, tunable microwave devices and ME antennas etc. Among those application scenarios, ME sensors are specifically focused in this review article. We begin with an introduction of materials development and then recent advances in ME sensors are overviewed. Engineering applications of ME sensors are followed and typical scenarios are presented. Finally, several remaining challenges and future directions from the perspective of sensor designs and real applications are included.
Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity and Its Relationship with Soil Properties in Camellia oleifera
Authors: Liu Rui-Cheng , Xiao Zhi-Yan , Hashem Abeer , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Wu Qiang-Sheng
Published: May 2021

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are well known for their important physiological implications on diversified host plants, while the information on AMF diversity and its relationship with soil properties of Camellia oleifera is yet not fully understood. In the proposed study, high-throughput sequencing of small subunit ribosomal RNA was performed to analyze the AMF diversity of the rhizosphere and endosphere of 20-year-old C. oleifera Xianglin in the field at Wuhan (China) and their relationship with soil physico-chemical properties. As high as 30.73–41.68% of the roots of C. oleifera were colonized by indigenous AMF with a spore density of 66–111 spores/10 g soil. The surface soil (0–20 cm) showed significantly higher root fungal colonization, spore density, soil hyphal length, and easily extractable glomalin-related soil protein content than the sub-surface soil (20–40 cm). Soil pH value, available K, and NO3−-N content affected the root and soil mycorrhizal development, whilst soil pH proved to be the most influential soil property governing their variability. A total of 467 OTUs associated with AMF were detected from the endosphere and rhizosphere, representing 10 genera and 138 species, of which 295 OTUs and 9 genera were jointly observed. The genus Glomus displayed maximum relative abundance (>86%) in both endosphere and rhizosphere. Scutellospora was detected in the endosphere, but absent in the rhizosphere. The endosphere recorded a relatively higher number of OTUs and alpha diversity indices (Shannon, Simpson, and PD index) of AMF than rhizosphere. Our study, hence, revealed that C. oleifera in fields was mainly colonized by Glomus, coupled with comparatively greater AMF diversity in the endosphere than in the rhizosphere, governed predominantly by soil pH, NO3−-N content, and available K content.
Finite Element Analysis and Experiment of the Bruise Behavior of Carrot under Impact Loading
Authors: Xia Xudong , Xu Zhanhong , Yu Chennan , Zhou Qiaojun , Chen Jianneng
Published: May 2021

Root–stem separating is one of the most important processes in carrot harvesting, but it is easy to cause damage due to the impact. In order to reduce the damage of carrot harvesting and provide the basis for the design of the separation mechanism, the damage mechanism of carrot was studied by the finite element method (FEM) and pendulum experiment in this study. Through the simulation analysis and the pendulum experiment, it was found that the critical damage impact force was 45.2 N and 43.1 N, respectively. Comparing the two results, the critical impact force of the carrot was basically the same, with an error of 4.87%. In conclusion, the FEM was reliable for the carrot damage prediction, and the critical impact force could be used for the design of a carrot harvesting mechanism.
Methodology of Analyzing Maize Density Loss in Smallholder’s Fields and Potential Optimize Approach
Authors: An Zhichao , Wang Chong , Jiao Xiaoqiang , Kong Zhongliang , Jiang Wei , Zhang Dong , Ma Wenqi , Zhang Fusuo
Published: May 2021

Increasing plant density is a key measure to close the maize (Zea mays L.) yield gap and ensure food security. However, there is a large plant density difference in the fields sown by agronomists and smallholders. The primary cause of this phenomenon is the lack of an effective methodology to systematically analyze the density loss. To identify the plant density loss processes from experimental plots to smallholder fields, a research methodology was developed in this study involving a farmer survey and measurements in a smallholder field. The results showed that the sowing density difference caused by farmer decision-making and plant density losses caused by mechanical and agronomic factors explained 15.5%, 5.5% and 6.8% of the plant density difference, respectively. Changing smallholder attitudes toward the value of increasing the plant density could help reduce this density loss and increase farm yields by 12.3%. Therefore, this methodology was effective for analyzing the plant density loss, and to clarify the primary causes of sowing density differences and plant density loss. Additionally, it was beneficial to identify the priorities and stakeholders who share responsibility for reducing the density loss. The methodology has wide applicability to address the sowing density differences and plant density loss in other areas to narrow crop yield gaps and ensure food security.
Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) as a Novel Multipurpose Crop for the Mediterranean Region of Europe: Challenges and Opportunities of Their Cultivation
Authors: Rossini Francesco , Virga Giuseppe , Loreti Paolo , Iacuzzi Nicolò , Ruggeri Roberto , Provenzano Maria Elena
Published: May 2021

The common hop (Humulus lupulus L.) is a dioecious perennial climbing plant, mainly known for the use of its female inflorescences (cones or, simply, “hops”) in the brewing industry. However, the very first interest towards hops was due to its medicinal properties. Actually, the variety of compounds present in almost all plant parts were (and still are) used to treat or prevent several ailments and metabolic disorders, from insomnia to menopausal symptoms as well as obesity and even cancer. Although hops are predominantly grown for hopping beer, the increasing interest in natural medicine is widening new interesting perspectives for this crop. Moreover, the recent success of the craft beer sector all over the world, made the cultivated hop come out from its traditional growing areas. Particularly, in Europe this resulted in a movement towards southern countries such as Italy, which added itself to the already existing hop industry in Portugal and Spain. In these relatively new environments, a complete knowledge and expertise of hop growing practices is lacking. Overall, while many studies were conducted globally on phytochemistry, bioactivity, and the genetics of hops, results from public research activity on basic hop agronomy are very few and discontinuous as well. The objective of this article is to provide an overview of possible uses, phenology, and agronomic aspects of hops, with specific reference to the difficulties and opportunities this crop is experiencing in the new growing areas, under both conventional and organic farming. The present review aims to fill a void still existing for this topic in the literature and to give directions for farmers that want to face the cultivation of such a challenging crop.
Urea-Doped Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles as Sustainable Nitrogen Nanofertilizers for Viticulture: Implications on Yield and Quality of Pinot Gris Grapevines
Authors: Gaiotti Federica , Lucchetta Marco , Rodegher Giacomo , Lorenzoni Daniel , Longo Edoardo , Boselli Emanuele , Cesco Stefano , Belfiore Nicola , Lovat Lorenzo , Delgado-López José Manuel , Carmona Francisco J. , Guagliardi Antonietta , Masciocchi Norberto , Pii Youry
Published: May 2021

In recent years, the application of nanotechnology for the development of new “smart fertilizers” is regarded as one of the most promising solutions for boosting a more sustainable and modern grapevine cultivation. Despite showing interesting potential benefits over conventional fertilization practices, the use of nanofertilizers in viticulture is still underexplored. In this work, we investigated the effectiveness of non-toxic calcium phosphate nanoparticles (Ca3(PO4)2∙nH2O) doped with urea (U-ACP) as a nitrogen source for grapevine fertilization. Plant tests were performed for two years (2019–2020) on potted adult Pinot gris cv. vines grown under semi-controlled conditions. Four fertilization treatments were compared: N1: commercial granular fertilization (45 kg N ha−1); N2: U-ACP applied in fertigation (36 kg N ha−1); N3: foliar application of U-ACP (36 kg N ha−1); C: control, receiving no N fertilization. Plant nitrogen status (SPAD), yield parameters as well as those of berry quality were analyzed. Results here presented clearly show the capability of vine plants to recognize and use the nitrogen supplied with U-ACP nanoparticles either when applied foliarly or to the soil. Moreover, all of the quali–quantitative parameters measured in vine plants fed with nanoparticles were perfectly comparable to those of plants grown in conventional condition, despite the restrained dosage of nitrogen applied with the nanoparticles. Therefore, these results provide both clear evidence of the efficacy of U-ACP nanoparticles as a nitrogen source and the basis for the development of alternative nitrogen fertilization strategies, optimizing the dosage/benefit ratio and being particularly interesting in a context of a more sustainable and modern viticulture.
Integrating Straw Management and Seeding to Improve Seed Yield and Reduce Environmental Impacts in Soybean Production
Authors: Xu Cailong , Li Ruidong , Song Wenwen , Wu Tingting , Sun Shi , Shen Weiliang , Hu Shuixiu , Han Tianfu , Wu Cunxiang
Published: May 2021

Multiple cropping systems boost grain yields and have an immense potential to increase land productivity. In such cropping systems in China, soybean is directly seeded after the wheat harvest in early June. After the wheat harvest, the farmland has low amounts of soil moisture and contains large amounts of wheat straw, which negatively affect soybean growth and yields. To address these challenges, an integrated management practice (IMP) than can achieve precise direct seeding and straw mulching return, was developed. In this study, differences in the soil temperature and moisture, seedling quality, dry matter accumulation, soybean yield, and greenhouse gas emissions were investigated between IMP and the farmers’ practices (FP). Compared with the FP treatment, IMP significantly increased the soil moisture and decreased the soil temperature in the topsoil layer. In addition, under the IMP treatment, the rate of emergence and developmental uniformity of soybean plants significantly increased by 21.7% and 99.5%, respectively, thus increasing the leaf area index by 30.0% and dry matter accumulation by 12.0% and, in turn, increasing soybean yields by 24.7%. A principal component analysis showed that the dry matter weight, relative water content, leaf area index, and developmental uniformity were strong sensitivity indices for the IMP treatment. In addition, the intensity of emission of N2O and greenhouse gases under IMP both decreased significantly by 25.1% and 28.9% compared with the FP, respectively. Thus, it was concluded that IMP is a suitable farming practice for sustainable agricultural production, and it has broad prospects for application in wheat–soybean double cropping systems in China and other similar areas globally.
Seed Coating with Biowaste Materials and Biocides—Environment-Friendly Biostimulation or Threat?
Authors: Skwarek Monika , Wala Mateusz , Kołodziejek Jeremi , Sieczyńska Katarzyna , Lasoń-Rydel Magdalena , Ławińska Katarzyna , Obraniak Andrzej
Published: May 2021

The presented study assessed the effect of bovine (BC) and fish (FC) waste-derived collagen, poly(hexamethylenebiguanide) hydrochloride (PHMB) and waste dolomite on the emergence of seedlings, growth and development of pea (Pisum sativum L. ‘Lasso’) plants. The seed coating method was used to apply the binding agents. Some of the studied agents were showed to significantly affect the index of emergence velocity (IEV) and of emergence synchrony (IES), but not the final emergence percentage (FEP). The results showed that treatment of the pea seeds with BC, FC and PHMB had a slightly positive effect on plant growth, whereas negative effects of dolomite were observed, i.e., detrimental differences in morphological traits of stipules. Moreover, BC, FC and PHMB improved maximal efficiency of PSII (FV/FM) and did not negatively influence chlorophyll content. Analyses demonstrated positive effects of FC and PHMB and negative ones of BC and dolomite on elemental composition of roots and shoots of the studied plant species. We suggest that the FC and PHMB can be used as promising agents for improvement of plant growth, whereas usage of BC and dolomite should be limited.
Effects of Dietary Inclusion Level of Microwave-Dried and Press-Defatted Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Meal on Productive Performance, Cecal Volatile Fatty Acid Profile, and Egg Quality in Laying Hens
Authors: Park Seol-Hwa , Kim Hye-Ran , Baek Youl-Chang , Ryu Chae-Hwa , Ji Sang-Yun , Jeong Jin-Young , Kim Minji , Jung Hyunjung , Kim Byeonghyeon
Published: May 2021

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal (HILM) is a promising alternative to soybean meal (SBM). However, little information is available on the effect of microwave-dried HILM as a dietary protein source in the diets of laying hens. We studied the effect of dietary inclusion level of microwave-dried HILM on productive performance, cecal volatile fatty acid profile, egg quality, overall fatty acid profile, and heavy metal residues of the egg in laying hens. A total of 144 laying hens (25-week-old) were randomly assigned to three dietary groups (eight replicates and six birds/cage): a control diet, and two experimental diets in which SBM was replaced with 2% HILM (2HILM) and 4% HILM (4HILM). The laying hens that fed the HILM showed satisfactory results in productive performance and egg quality. Branched-chain fatty acid levels increased linearly (p < 0.001) with dietary treatment in the cecal digesta. Total monounsaturated fatty acid increased linearly (p < 0.01), while total polyunsaturated fatty acid decreased linearly (p < 0.01) in the eggs by dietary treatments. Heavy metals, magnesium, zinc, and aluminum were increased linearly with dietary treatment; however, undesirable heavy metals were under permissible levels. Thus, microwave-dried HILM could be a possible alternative to SBM in the diets of laying hens; however, improvements in fatty acid profile are needed.
Status of Sperm Functionality Assessment in Wildlife Species: From Fish to Primates
Authors: van der Horst Gerhard
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: in order to propagate wildlife species (covering the whole spectrum from species suitable for aquaculture to endangered species), it is important to have a good understanding of the quality of their sperm, oocytes and embryos. While sperm quality analyses have mainly used manual assessment in the past, such manual estimations are subjective and largely unreliable. Accordingly, quantitative and cutting-edge approaches are required to assess the various aspects of sperm quality. The purpose of this investigation was to illustrate the latest technology used in quantitative evaluation of sperm quality and the required cut-off points to distinguish the differential grades of fertility potential in a wide range of vertebrate species. (2) Methods: computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) with an emphasis on sperm motility, 3D tracking and flagellar and sperm tracking analysis (FAST), as well as quantitative assessment of sperm morphology, vitality, acrosome status, fragmentation and many other complimentary technologies. (3) Results: Assessing sperm quality revealed a great deal of species specificity. For example, in freshwater fish like trout, sperm swam in a typical tight helical pattern, but in seawater species sperm motility was more progressive. In amphibian species, sperm velocity was slow, in contrast with some bird species (e.g., ostrich). Meanwhile, in African elephant and some antelope species, fast progressive sperm was evident. In most species, there was a high percentage of morphologically normal sperm, but generally, low percentages were observed for motility, vitality and normal morphology evident in monogamous species. (4) Conclusions: Sperm quality assessment using quantitative methodologies such as CASA motility, FAST analysis, morphology and vitality, as well as more progressive methodologies, assisted in better defining sperm quality—specifically, sperm functionality of high-quality sperm. This approach will assist in the propagation of wildlife species.
Semicarbazide Accumulation, Distribution and Chemical Forms in Scallop (Chlamys farreri) after Seawater Exposure
Authors: Xing Lihong , Sun Weihong , Sun Xiaojie , Peng Jixing , Li Zhaoxin , Zhu Panpan , Zheng Xuying
Published: May 2021

Semicarbazide is a newly recognized marine pollutant and has the potential to threaten marine shellfish, the ecological equilibrium and human health. In this study, we examined the accumulation, distribution, and chemical forms of semicarbazide in scallop tissues after exposure to 10, 100, and 1000 μg/L for 30 d at 10 °C. We found a positive correlation between semicarbazide residues in the scallops and the exposure concentration (p < 0.01). Semicarbazide existed primarily in free form in all tissues while bound semicarbazide ranged from 12.1 to 32.7% and was tissue-dependent. The time for semicarbazide to reach steady-state enrichment was 25 days and the highest levels were found in the disgestive gland, followed by gills while levels in gonads and mantle were similar and were lowest in adductor muscle. The bioconcentration factor (BCF) of semicarbazide at low exposure concentrations was higher than that at high exposure concentrations. These results indicated that the scallop can uptake semicarbazide from seawater and this affects the quality and safety of these types of products when used as a food source.
The Different Colors of mAbs in Solution
Authors: Ambrogelly Alexandre
Published: May 2021

The color of a therapeutic monoclonal antibody solution is a critical quality attribute. Consistency of color is typically assessed at time of release and during stability studies against preset criteria for late stage clinical and commercial products. A therapeutic protein solution’s color may be determined by visual inspection or by more quantitative methods as per the different geographical area compendia. The nature and intensity of the color of a therapeutic protein solution is typically determined relative to calibrated standards. This review covers the analytical methodologies used for determining the color of a protein solution and presents an overview of protein variants and impurities known to contribute to colored recombinant therapeutic protein solutions.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Probability of Target Attainment of Different Dosing Regimens of Ceftazidime in Critically Ill Patients with a Proven or Suspected Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection
Authors: Werumeus Buning Annabel , Hodiamont Caspar J. , Lechner Natalia M. , Schokkin Margriet , Elbers Paul W. G. , Juffermans Nicole P. , Mathôt Ron A. A. , de Jong Menno D. , van Hest Reinier M.
Published: May 2021

Altered pharmacokinetics (PK) of hydrophilic antibiotics in critically ill patients is common, with possible consequences for efficacy and resistance. We aimed to describe ceftazidime population PK in critically ill patients with a proven or suspected Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and to establish optimal dosing. Blood samples were collected for ceftazidime concentration measurement. A population PK model was constructed, and probability of target attainment (PTA) was assessed for targets 100% T > MIC and 100% T > 4 × MIC in the first 24 h. Ninety-six patients yielded 368 ceftazidime concentrations. In a one-compartment model, variability in ceftazidime clearance (CL) showed association with CVVH. For patients not receiving CVVH, variability in ceftazidime CL was 103.4% and showed positive associations with creatinine clearance and with the comorbidities hematologic malignancy, trauma or head injury, explaining 65.2% of variability. For patients treated for at least 24 h and assuming a worst-case MIC of 8 mg/L, PTA was 77% for 100% T > MIC and 14% for 100% T > 4 × MIC. Patients receiving loading doses before continuous infusion demonstrated higher PTA than patients who did not (100% T > MIC: 95% (n = 65) vs. 13% (n = 15); p < 0.001 and 100% T > 4 × MIC: 20% vs. 0%; p = 0.058). The considerable IIV in ceftazidime PK in ICU patients could largely be explained by renal function, CVVH use and several comorbidities. Critically ill patients are at risk for underexposure to ceftazidime when empirically aiming for the breakpoint MIC for P. aeruginosa. A loading dose is recommended.
Comparison of Antivirulence Activities of Black Ginseng against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus According to the Number of Repeated Steaming and Drying Cycles
Authors: Lee Young-Seob , Kim Kwan-Woo , Yoon Dahye , Kim Geum-Soog , Kwon Dong-Yeul , Kang Ok-Hwa , Lee Dae Young
Published: May 2021

Korean ginseng has been widely used in Eastern medicine for thousands of years. The contents of the compounds in ginseng roots change depending on the amount of steaming and drying, and the drying method used. Black ginseng (BG) is the Korean ginseng processed by repeated steaming and drying. In this study, 5-year-old fresh Korean ginseng roots were steamed and dried 3 or 5 times, and we investigated how many cycles of steaming and drying are preferable for antivirulence activities against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). As a result, the antivirulence activities was increased by the treatment of BG that was steamed and dried three times, and the effect was further increased by five-time processed BG. Moreover, an ELISA showed that the TNF-α production of RAW264.7 cells stimulated by MRSA supernatants was inhibited by subinhibitory concentrations of BG extract. The expression of Hla, staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA), and staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), an important virulence factor in the pathogenicity of MRSA, was found to decrease when bacterial cells were treated with BG extract. The antivirulence activities of BG were not simply due to pathogen growth inhibition; the BG extract was shown to decrease agrA, hla, sea, and seb expression in MRSA. Therefore, BG strongly reduces the secretion of the virulence factors produced by Staphylococcus aureus, suggesting that a BG-based structure may be used for the development of drugs aimed at staphylococcal virulence-related exoproteins. This study suggests that BG could be used as a promising natural compound in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
Escherichia coli Antibiotic Resistance Patterns from Co-Grazing and Non-Co-Grazing Livestock and Wildlife Species from Two Farms in the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: van den Honert Michaela Sannettha , Gouws Pieter Andries , Hoffman Louwrens Christiaan
Published: May 2021

Although limited, studies have found conflicting results on whether co-grazing results in significant antibiotic resistance transfer between species. This type of farming system can act as a vector in the geographical spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment. The aim of this study was to determine the antibiotic-resistant patterns between co-grazing and non-co-grazing livestock and wildlife species in South Africa. Escherichia coli was isolated from the faeces of various wildlife and livestock species from two farms in South Africa and was tested for antibiotic resistance using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method against chloramphenicol, nalidixic acid, ampicillin, streptomycin, sulphafurazole, and tetracycline. A selection of some common antibiotic-resistant genes (blaCMY, aadA1, sul1, sul2, tetA, and tetB) were detected using PCR. The E. coli isolates from wildlife and livestock that co-grazed showed no significant differences in antibiotic resistance patterns. However, this was not the case for tetracycline resistance as the livestock isolates were significantly more resistant than the co-grazing wildlife isolates. The E. coli isolates from the non-co-grazing livestock and wildlife had significant differences in their antibiotic susceptibility patterns; the wildlife E. coli isolates were significantly more resistant to sulphafurazole and streptomycin than the livestock isolates, whilst those isolated from the cattle were significantly more resistant to ampicillin than the wildlife and sheep isolates. The results of this study suggest that there could be an exchange of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes between livestock and wildlife that co-graze.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Predisposing Factors for Surgical Site Infections Caused by Bacterial Pathogens Exhibiting Multidrug-Resistant Patterns
Authors: Mohamed Abdikarim Hussein , Mohamud Hussein Ali , Arslan Ebubekir
Published: May 2021

Background: Surgical site infection is the most common kind of nosocomial infection in developed and developing countries. Objectives: Our aim was to identify the prevalence of factors predisposing to multidrug resistance and the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of pathogens. Method: This retrospective study enrolled 10,878 patients who underwent operations in 2018–2020. Pathogens were identified using eosin methylene blue agar. Mueller–Hinton agar was used to assess antimicrobial sensitivity and resistance. In total, 382 patients with confirmed surgical site infection (SSI), whose culture showed growth, were included in the study. Results: The prevalence of SSI in the current study was 3.5%. Escherichia coli was the predominant pathogen (35.8%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (21.8%). Antibiotic use, chronic renal failure, diabetes, and emergency operations were found to increase the likelihood of multidrug resistance (OR = 6.23, CI = 1.443–26.881, p = 0.014; OR = 5.67, CI = 1.837–19.64, p = 0.02; OR = 2.54, CI = 1.46–7.35, p = 0.03; OR = 1.885, CI = 1.067–3.332, p = 0.002, respectively). The pathogens showed different levels of antimicrobial resistance against ceftriaxone (72.7%), ciprofloxacin (46.6%), and gentamicin (34%). Antimicrobial resistance of about 1–3.4% was exhibited by linezolid, tigecycline, and teicoplanin. Conclusion: The study presented significantly increased multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacteriaceae pathogens isolated from surgical sites. They involve significant morbidity and mortality rates and increased health-related costs.
Antioxidant Activity of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Seed Oil in Drosophila melanogaster Larvae under Non-Stress and H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress Conditions
Authors: Vitorović Jelena , Joković Nataša , Radulović Niko , Mihajilov-Krstev Tatjana , Cvetković Vladimir J. , Jovanović Nikola , Mitrović Tatjana , Aleksić Ana , Stanković Nemanja , Bernstein Nirit
Published: May 2021

The oil extracted from hemp seeds has significant nutritional and biological properties due to the unique composition of polyunsaturated fatty acids and various antioxidant compounds. The potential of this oil for the prevention of oxidative stress and for the treatment of oxidative-stress-induced ailments is of increasing interest. Most studies of hemp seed oil were conducted in-vitro, meaning we lack information about effects and activity in vivo. In the present study, we evaluated the hypothesis that hemp seed oil at different concentrations improves the oxidative state of D. melanogaster, under non-stress as well as hydrogen-peroxide-induced stress. We analyzed the effects of hemp seed oil on oxidative stress markers and on the life cycle of D.melanogaster under non-stress and hydrogen-peroxide-induced stress conditions. D.melanogaster larvae were exposed to hemp seed oil concentrations ranging from 12.5 to 125 μL/mL. The results revealed that under non-stress conditions, oil concentrations up to 62.5 µL/mL did not induce negative effects on the life cycle of D. melanogaster and maintained the redox status of the larval cells at similar levels to the control level. Under oxidative stress conditions, biochemical parameters were significantly affected and only two oil concentrations, 18.7 and 31.2 µL/mL, provided protection against hydrogen peroxide stress effects. A higher oil concentration (125 μL/mL) exerted negative effects on the oxidative status and increased larval mortality. The tested oil was characterized chemically by NMR, transesterification, and silylation, followed by GC-MS analyses, and was shown to contain polyunsaturated fatty acid triglycerides and low levels of tocopherols. The high levels of linoleic and linolenic acids in the oil are suggested to be responsible for the observed in vivo antioxidant effects. Taken together, the results show that hemp seed oil is effective for reducing oxidative stress at the cellular level, thus supporting the hypothesis. The obtained results point to the potential of hemp seed oil for the prevention and treatment of conditions caused by the action of reactive oxygen species.
Glucose-Impaired Corneal Re-Epithelialization Is Promoted by a Novel Derivate of Dimethyl Fumarate
Authors: Giurdanella Giovanni , Longo Anna , Salerno Loredana , Romeo Giuseppe , Intagliata Sebastiano , Lupo Gabriella , Distefano Alfio , Platania Chiara Bianca Maria , Bucolo Claudio , Li Volti Giovanni , Anfuso Carmelina Daniela , Pittalà Valeria
Published: May 2021

Glucose induces corneal epithelial dysfunctions characterized by delayed wound repair. Nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mediates cell protection mechanisms even through the Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) up-regulation. Here, we synthesized new HO-1 inducers by modifying dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and used docking studies to select VP13/126 as a promising compound with the best binding energy to Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (keap1), which is the the regulator of Nrf2 nuclear translocation. We verified if VP13/126 protects SIRC cells from hyperglycemia compared to DMF. SIRC were cultured in normal (5 mM) or high glucose (25 mM, HG) in presence of DMF (1–25 μM) or VP13/126 (0.1–5 μM) with or without ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 (15 μM). VP13/126 was more effective than DMF in the prevention of HG-induced reduction of cell viability and proliferation. Reduction of wound closure induced by HG was similarly counteracted by 1 μM VP13/126 and 10 μM DMF. VP13/126 strongly increased phospho/total ERK1/2 and restored HO-1 protein in HG-treated SIRC; these effects are completely counteracted by PD98059. Moreover, high-content screening analysis showed a higher rate of Nrf2 nuclear translocation induced by VP13/126 than DMF in HG-stimulated SIRC. These data indicate that VP13/126 exerts remarkable pro-survival properties in HG-stimulated SIRC, promoting the Nrf2/HO-1 axis.
Central Administration of Ampelopsin A Isolated from Vitis vinifera Ameliorates Cognitive and Memory Function in a Scopolamine-Induced Dementia Model
Authors: Hong Yuni , Choi Yun-Hyeok , Han Young-Eun , Oh Soo-Jin , Lee Ansoo , Lee Bonggi , Magnan Rebecca , Ryu Shi Yong , Choi Chun Whan , Kim Min Soo
Published: May 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the progressive degeneration of the function of the central nervous system or peripheral nervous system and the decline of cognition and memory abilities. The dysfunctions of the cognitive and memory battery are closely related to inhibitions of neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and brain-derived cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) to associate with the cholinergic system and long-term potentiation. Vitis vinifera, the common grapevine, is viewed as the important dietary source of stilbenoids, particularly the widely-studied monomeric resveratrol to be used as a natural compound with wide-ranging therapeutic benefits on neurodegenerative diseases. Here we found that ampelopsin A is a major compound in V. vinifera and it has neuroprotective effects on experimental animals. Bath application of ampelopsin A (10 ng/µL) restores the long-term potentiation (LTP) impairment induced by scopolamine (100 μM) in hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapses. Based on these results, we administered the ampelopsin A (10 ng/µL, three times a week) into the third ventricle of the brain in C57BL/6 mice for a month. Chronic administration of ampelopsin A into the brain ameliorated cognitive memory-behaviors in mice given scopolamine (0.8 mg/kg, i.p.). Studies of mice’s hippocampi showed that the response of ampelopsin A was responsible for the restoration of the cholinergic deficits and molecular signal cascades via BDNF/CREB pathways. In conclusion, the central administration of ampelopsin A contributes to increasing neurocognitive and neuroprotective effects on intrinsic neuronal excitability and behaviors, partly through elevated BDNF/CREB-related signaling.
Comment on Menzel et al. Common and Novel Markers for Measuring Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Ex Vivo in Research and Clinical Practice—Which to Use Regarding Disease Outcomes? Antioxidants 2021, 10, 414
Authors: Mrakic-Sposta Simona , Gussoni Maristella , Montorsi Michela , Vezzoli Alessandra
Published: May 2021

Recently, Menzel A et al. published a review titled “Origin and Physiological Aspects of Oxidative Stress (OS), inflammation and markers of OS, relation to disease and practical aspects” [...]
Molybdenum-Induced Regulation of Antioxidant Defense-Mitigated Cadmium Stress in Aromatic Rice and Improved Crop Growth, Yield, and Quality Traits
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Hussain Saddam , He Longxin , Ashraf Muhammad Furqan , Ihtisham Muhammad , Warraich Ejaz Ahmad , Tang Xiangru
Published: May 2021

Cadmium (Cd) stress causes serious disruptions in plant metabolism, physio-biochemical responses, crop yield, and grain quality characteristics. A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the role of molybdenum (Mo) in mitigating Cd-induced adversities on plant growth, yield attributes, and grain quality characteristics of a popular aromatic rice cultivar ‘Xiangyaxiangzhan’. The Mo was applied at 0.15 mg kg−1 soil in both control (no Cd) and Cd-contaminated (100 mg kg−1) soils. A treatment with Mo-free (−Mo) soil was also maintained for comparison. The results showed that Cd toxicity significantly (p < 0.05) reduced plant dry biomass, grain yield, photosynthetic efficiency, and pigment contents, and impaired chloroplast ultra-structural configuration and simultaneously destabilized the plant metabolism owing to higher accumulation of hydrogen peroxide, electrolyte leakage, and malondialdehyde contents. However, Mo supply improved grain yield and 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline content by 64.75% and 77.09%, respectively, under Cd stress, suggesting that Mo supply mitigated Cd-provoked negative effects on yield attributes and grain quality of aromatic rice. Moreover, Mo supply enhanced photosynthesis, proline, and soluble protein content, and also strengthened plant metabolism and antioxidant defense through maintaining higher activities and transcript abundance of ROS-detoxifying enzymes at the vegetative, reproductive, and maturity stages of aromatic rice plants under Cd toxicity. Collectively, our findings indicated that Mo supply strengthened plant metabolism at prominent growth stages through an improved enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense system, thereby increasing grain yield and quality characteristics of aromatic rice under Cd toxicity.
Construction Planning and Scheduling of a Renovation Project Using BIM-Based Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Nusen Pornpote , Boonyung Wanarut , Nusen Sunita , Panuwatwanich Kriengsak , Champrasert Paskorn , Kaewmoracharoen Manop
Published: May 2021

Renovation is known to be a complicated type of construction project and prone to errors compared to new constructions. The need to carry out renovation work while keeping normal business activities running, coupled with strict governmental building renovation regulations, presents an important challenge affecting construction performance. Given the current availability of robust hardware and software, building information modeling (BIM) and optimization tools have become essential tools in improving construction planning, scheduling, and resource management. This study explored opportunities to develop a multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) on existing BIM. The data were retrieved from a renovation project over the 2018–2020 period. Direct and indirect project costs, actual schedule, and resource usage were tracked and retrieved to create a BIM-based MOGA model. After 500 generations, optimal results were provided as a Pareto front with 70 combinations among total cost, time usage, and resource allocation. The BIM-MOGA can be used as an efficient tool for construction planning and scheduling using a combination of existing BIM along with MOGA into professional practices. This approach would help improve decision-making during the construction process based on the Pareto front data provided.