bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Results of Effect of Rotational Grazing of Farmed Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) on the Biochemical Status of Soil
Authors: Futa Barbara , Tajchman Katarzyna , Steiner-Bogdaszewska Żaneta , Drozd Leszek , Gruszecki Tomasz M.
Published: March 2021

The aim of the study was to identify the trends and dynamics of changes in the chemical and biochemical properties of soil induced by rotational grazing of farmed deer. Soils pH and the content of mineral nitrogen forms, total nitrogen, and organic carbon were determined in the study and the activity of three soil enzymes. The monitored soils were slightly acidic and neutral, with pH in 1 mol KCldm−3 ranging from 6.37 to 7.03. The contents of content of organic carbon, total nitrogen in the monitored soils were in the range of 9.42–19.37 gkg−1 and 1.13–2.24 gkg−1, respectively, while the contents of N-NH4+ and N-NO3− of 1.34–7.08 mgkg−1 and 102.8–619.5 mgkg−1, respectively. The mean levels of nitrate nitrogen in the pasture soils were lower than that in the mown soil. The soils from the pastures were characterized by a higher level of available phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium forms than the mown soil. In the deer grazing areas, the activity of all enzymes was clearly higher than in the soil from the control plot. The results of the present pilot study have demonstrated a positive effect of cervid grazing on the biochemical parameters of the soil environment.
Host-Parasite Relationships in Porcine Ascariosis: Anticoagulant Potential of the Third Larval Stage of Ascaris suum as a Possible Survival Mechanism
Authors: Diosdado Alicia , Simón Fernando , Morchón Rodrigo , González-Miguel Javier
Published: March 2021

In order to evade the response of their hosts, helminth parasites have evolved precise and highly regulated mechanisms, including migration strategies of the larval stages. In regard to porcine ascariosis caused by Ascaris suum, its infective third-stage larvae (AsL3) undergo a complex migratory route through the bloodstream of their host before establishing in the small intestine to reach maturation. Despite the benefits attributed to this migration, blood clots formation could compromise larvae survival. The aim of this work was to study the interaction between the cuticle and excretory/secretory antigens of AsL3 and the host coagulation cascade. Larvae were obtained after incubating and hatching A. suum eggs, after which the antigenic extracts were produced. Their ability to disrupt the coagulation cascade was studied using anticoagulation and chromogenic assays, and techniques based on electrophoresis. The obtained results showed that both antigenic extracts possessed anticoagulant potential, being able to inhibit the intrinsic, extrinsic and/or common pathways of the blood coagulation cascade as well as the activated factor X. Moreover, three A. suum serpin proteins were identified as candidates to inhibit this host coagulation factor. To the best of our knowledge, this study shows, for the first time, the anticoagulant potential of the infective larvae of A. suum, which could be used by the parasite as a mechanism to facilitate its invasion and survival in the host.
Productive Performance and Meat Characteristics of Kids Fed a Red Orange and Lemon Extract
Authors: Salzano Angela , Damiano Sara , D’Angelo Livia , Ballistreri Gabriele , Claps Salvatore , Rufrano Domenico , Maggiolino Aristide , Neglia Gianluca , De Palo Pasquale , Ciarcia Roberto
Published: March 2021

This study evaluates the animal performance and meat characteristics of 60 Saanen suckling kids daily fed a red orange and lemon extract (RLE), rich in anthocyanins. In our methodology, after colostrum administration, animals are randomly assigned to two treatments: Treatment group (Group RLE; n = 30) that received RLE (90 mg/kg live body weight) as oral food additive, and a control group (Group CON; n = 30) that received a standard diet. Animals are slaughtered after 40 days. The RLE administration did not influence daily weight gain, carcass measurements, or incidences (expressed as a percentage) of different anatomical regions on the whole carcass weight. On the contrary, RLE supplementation significantly improved the oxidative profile of the meat seven days after slaughtering, as demonstrated by the reduced levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS; p < 0.01) and hydroperoxides (p < 0.01) in Group RLE compared to Group CON. A significant influence of RLE administration is observed on day 7 for yellowness (p < 0.01). There are also lower saturated and higher monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids concentration in Group RLE meat (p < 0.01), which also shows lower atherogenic and thrombogenic indexes (p < 0.01) compared to Group CON. The study demonstrates that the supplementation of a diet with RLE rich in anthocyanins is effective to improve the meat quality.
The Feasibility of Using Yellow Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor): Towards a Sustainable Aquafeed Industry
Authors: Shafique Laiba , Abdel-Latif Hany M. R. , Hassan Faiz-ul , Alagawany Mahmoud , Naiel Mohammed A. E. , Dawood Mahmoud A. O. , Yilmaz Sevdan , Liu Qingyou
Published: March 2021

The success of the aquafeed industry mainly depends on the availability of raw ingredients with high nutritional value, such as fishmeal (FM). However, the increased demand for FM elevates its prices and leads to high feed costs. Thus, there is an urgent need to find suitable alternatives for FM in fish diets to achieve sustainability in aquaculture. Currently, attention is being paid to the possibility of using insect meals as FM substitutes in aquafeed because of their relatively high nutritional quality. TM is one of those insects that can be regarded as a unique candidate because of its relatively high nutritional value. TM are rich sources of essential amino acids (methionine), lipids, and fatty acids, which vary based on the developmental stage of the worms. Although TM have an abundant amount of chitin as a fiber source and other anti-nutritional factors, numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of partial or complete substitution of FM by T. molitor in fish diets. In this context, we reviewed the current research findings on the achievable inclusion levels of T. molitor versus FM substitution in the diets of several finfish and shellfish species. We discussed the potential use of T. molitor as an FM substitute in fish diets and evaluated its effects on growth, biometric indices, and body composition. Besides, the hematological parameters, immunological responses, antioxidative efficacy, intestinal health status, and sensory criteria of fish fed T. molitor-based diets were also assessed.
Four Unusual Cases of Congenital Forelimb Malformations in Dogs
Authors: Di Pietro Simona , Rapisarda Giuseppe Santi , Cicero Luca , Angileri Vito , Morabito Simona , Cassata Giovanni , Macrì Francesco
Published: March 2021

Four dogs were presented with thoracic limb deformity. After clinical and radiographic examinations, a diagnosis of congenital malformations was performed for each of them. In one case, a deformity involving both the radial and ulnar side of the distal limb was observed. Based on clinical and radiological evaluations, a diagnosis of postaxial terminal longitudinal ulnar hemimelia was performed. The term ectrodactyly was used to refer different malformations characterized by skin and soft tissue separation of the distal forelimb observed in two dogs. Simple complete uncomplicated syndactyly of the right forelimb, and complex incomplete uncomplicated syndactyly of the left forelimb were diagnosed in the fourth case. To the authors’ knowledge, ectrodactyly and simple complete uncomplicated syndactyly are very uncommon anomalies in companion animals and have been rarely documented. Moreover, postaxial terminal longitudinal ulnar hemimelia has still not been reported in dogs.
Molecular Detection and Phylogeny of Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Related Variants in Small Ruminants from Turkey
Authors: Aktaş Münir , Özübek Sezayi , Uluçeşme Mehmet Can
Published: March 2021

Anaplasma phagocytophilum causes tick-borne fever in small ruminants. Recently, novel Anaplasma variants related to A. phagocytophilum have been reported in ruminants from Tunisia, Italy, South Korea, Japan, and China. Based on 16S rRNA and groEL genes and sequencing, we screened the frequency of A. phagocytophilum and related variants in 433 apparently healthy small ruminants in Turkey. Anaplasma spp. overall infection rates were 27.9% (121/433 analyzed samples). The frequency of A. phagocytophilum and A. phagocytophilum-like 1 infections was 1.4% and 26.5%, respectively. No A. phagocytophilum-like 2 was detected in the tested animals. The prevalence of Anaplasma spp. was comparable in species, and no significant difference was detected between sheep and goats, whereas the prevalence significantly increased with tick infestation. Sequencing confirmed PCR-RFLP data and showed the presence of A. phagocytophilum and A. phagocytophilum-like-1 variant in the sampled animals. Phylogeny-based on 16S rRNA gene revealed the A. phagocytophilum-like 1 in a separate clade together with the previous isolates detected in small ruminants and ticks. In this work, A. phagocytophilum-like 1 has been detected for the first time in sheep and goats from Turkey. This finding revealed that the variant should be considered in the diagnosis of caprine and ovine anaplasmosis.
Milk Beta-Hydroxybutyrate and Fat to Protein Ratio Patterns during the First Five Months of Lactation in Holstein Dairy Cows Presenting Treated Left Displaced Abomasum and Other Post-Partum Diseases
Authors: Lei Mariana Alves Caipira , Simões João
Published: March 2021

The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and fat to protein content (F:P) ratio patterns in the milk of Holstein cows with postpartum diseases throughout the first five months of lactation. This prospective study was performed at Vestjyske Dyrlaeger ApS (Nørre Nebel, Denmark). The milk fat, protein, and BHB were evaluated in the Danish Eurofins laboratory according to the monthly averaged days in milk (DIM1 to 5). According to clinical records, five groups were formed: A (control group; cows without diseases; n = 32), B (cows with left displaced abomasum -LDA- and concomitant diseases; n = 25); C (cows with other diseases up to DIM3; n = 13); D (cows with foot disorders up to DIM3; n = 26); and E (cows with disease manifestations in DIM4 and DIM5; n = 26). All the sick cows were treated after diagnosis, and laparoscopy was performed on cows with LDA. In group B, a higher concentration of BHB (0.18 ± 0.02 mmol/L; p < 0.001) was observed than in the control group (0.07 ± 0.02 mmol/L; p < 0.001) in DIM1, presenting an odds ratio (OR) = 8.9. In all groups, BHB decreased to 0.03–0.05 mmol/L (p < 0.05) since DIM3. The F:P ratio was higher in group B (1.77 ± 0.07) than in group A (1.32 ± 0.06; p < 0.05) in DIM1. A similar profile is observed in DIM2. It was observed that animals in group B were four to six times more likely to have a F:P ratio ≥1.29 during DIM1 (OR = 4.0; 95% CI:1.3–14.4; p = 0.01) and DIM2 (OR = 5.9; 95% CI %:1.9–21.9; p < 0.01), than cows in group A. There were also moderate and high correlations between the F:P ratio and the BHB for DIM1 (r = 0.57; r2 = 0.33; RSD = 0.09; p < 0.001) and DIM2 (r = 0.78; r2 = 0.60; RSD = 0.07; p < 0.001), respectively. We concluded that animals affected by LDA in the postpartum period have a higher concentration of BHB in milk in DIM1 and all treated animals quickly recover BHB levels up to DIM3. The F:P ratio is a viable and economic indicator, mainly in DIM1 and DIM2, to estimate BHB concentration and energy balance in cows with LDA and other postpartum diseases.
Association of Body Condition Score with Ultrasound Measurements of Backfat and Longissimus Dorsi Muscle Thickness in Periparturient Holstein Cows
Authors: Siachos Nektarios , Oikonomou Georgios , Panousis Nikolaos , Banos Georgios , Arsenos Georgios , Valergakis Georgios E.
Published: March 2021

Most cows experience a period of nutrient deficit during the periparturient period. Body condition scoring (BCS) is widely used on farms to assess body nutrient reserves and mobilization. The aims of this study were to: (i) determine the association of BCS with ultrasound measurements of backfat (BFT) and longissimus dorsi muscle thickness (LDT) during the periparturient period of Holstein cows from different herds, accounting for potential sources of variation, such as herd, parity and period relative to calving and (ii) establish reference intervals (RIs) for BFT and LDT per BCS estimate. Two-hundred and fifty-two cows from six commercial farms were used. Body condition scores, BFT and LDT were assessed at seven time-points during the periparturient period. Assessments of BCS estimates as predictors of BFT and LDT and the contribution of BFT and LDT to BCS estimates were performed with the use of linear mixed models. Reference intervals for BFT and LDT per BCS estimate were established with the Reference Value Advisor. One unit of BCS change was associated with 8.2 mm of BFT and 10.9 mm of LDT pre- and postpartum. Range of BFT and LDT in established RIs per BCS was wide with significant overlap. Both subcutaneous fat and, to a lesser degree, skeletal muscle reserves contribute to BCS estimation. Repeated BCS estimations credibly predict energy balance status in periparturient dairy cows. The metabolic state of muscle tissue should be assessed by repeated ultrasound measurements.
MicroRNA-148a Regulates the Proliferation and Differentiation of Ovine Preadipocytes by Targeting PTEN
Authors: Jin Xiayang , Hao Zhiyun , Zhao Mengli , Shen Jiyuan , Ke Na , Song Yize , Qiao Lirong , Lu Yujie , Hu Liyan , Wu Xinmiao , Wang Jiqing , Luo Yuzhu
Published: March 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been found to be involved in lipid deposition and metabolism. However, there have been no reports on the roles of miR-148a in the proliferation and adipogenesis of preadipocytes in sheep. In this study, the expression of miR-148a was profiled in the eight tissues of Tibetan ewes and differentiated preadipocytes, and the role of miR-148a in differentiation and proliferation of ovine preadipocytes was investigated using Oil Red O staining, CCK-8, EdU staining, cell cycle detection, and RT-qPCR. The effect of PTEN on the differentiation of ovine preadipocytes was also investigated. The miR-148a was widely expressed in the eight tissues investigated and had significantly increased expression in liver, spleen and subcutaneous adipose tissues, and the heart. The expression of miR-148a continued to increase with the differentiation of ovine preadipocytes. The over-expression of miR-148a significantly promoted differentiation but inhibited the proliferation of ovine preadipocytes. The inhibition of miR-148a had the opposite effect on the differentiation and proliferation of ovine preadipocytes with over-expressed miR-148a. The results from the dual luciferase reporter assays showed that miR-148a mimic significantly decreased the luciferase activity of PTEN-3′UTR dual luciferase reporter vector, suggesting that PTEN is a target gene of miR-148a. In over-expressed-PTEN preadipocytes, the number of lipid droplets remarkably decreased, and the expression levels of adipogenesis marker genes PPARγ, FASN, FATP4, GLUT4, C/EBPβ and LPL were also significantly down-regulated. These results suggest that miR-148a accelerated the adipogenic differentiation of ovine preadipocytes by inhibiting PTEN expression, and also inhibited the proliferation of ovine preadipocytes.
Posterior Mandibular Displacement—A Systematic Review Based on Animal Studies
Authors: Lyros Ioannis , Makrygiannakis Miltiadis A. , Lykogeorgos Theodoros , Ferdianakis Efstratios , Tsolakis Apostolos I.
Published: March 2021

Treating extreme mandibular growth is challenging. The mandible is pushed backwards to address itsprotrusion. Nevertheless, conclusions after such displacement in animals have been contradictory. The aim of the present review is to present measurable alterations of the mandible and the condyle following retractionin healthy rats or rabbits. PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were accessed for relevant studies up to October 2020. Eligibility was determined by the PICOS process, while the risk of bias was estimated with SYRCLE’s risk of bias tool. Retraction resulted in a more distal molar occlusion and the condyle rested more posteriorly. Mandibular anteroposterior bilateral growth restriction was achieved, the condylar process measured smaller and its angulation increased. The condylar neck thickened, its posterior surface flattened, the coronoid process was measured longer, and enlarged retromolar density was registered. Differences in the ramus height and the intercondylar distance were insignificant. Changes persisted for the period of study and subsequently the mandible resumed its inherited growth pattern. The timing of mandibular shaping and TMJ outcomes might depend on the properties of the applied force. Stability is of concern and well-structured, long-term studies are expected to resolve the issue and further clarify the results of posterior mandibular displacement.
Do Growing Rabbits with a High Growth Rate Require Diets with High Levels of Essential Amino Acids? A Choice-Feeding Trial
Authors: Marín-García Pablo Jesús , López-Luján Mari Carmen , Ródenas Luís , Martínez-Paredes Eugenio , Cambra-López María , Blas Enrique , Pascual Juan José
Published: March 2021

As a consequence of the genetic selection process in growing rabbits, there are currently fast-growing animals exhibiting an average daily gain that may exceed 45 g/d. The protein requirements of these animals, namely amino acid requirements, may differ from animals with low growth rates. The objective of this work was to evaluate growth performance, the coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD), the apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of amino acids and nutrient retention of fast-growing rabbits when they had access to a diet with high levels of amino acids and/or a diet formulated with current nutritional recommendations in a choice-feeding trial. To this end, two diets were formulated: the M diet following current nutritional recommendations for growing rabbits (including 8.1, 5.8 and 6.9 g/kg dry matter (DM) of total lysine, sulphur amino acids and threonine, respectively) and the H diet with higher levels of total lysine, sulphur amino acids and threonine (9.4, 6.6 and 7.8 g/kg DM, respectively). A total of 220 weaned rabbits, from a paternal line selected for the growth rate, had free access to the M diet, the H diet or both (MH) diets from 28 to 63 days of age. The CTTAD of DM, crude protein and gross energy from 49 to 53 days of age as well as the AID of amino acids of the diets at 63 days of age were determined. Protein, amino acids and energy retained in the empty body from 28 to 63 days of age were also registered. No significant differences in growth performance, CTTAD, AID and nutrient retention between dietary treatments were observed. However, animals fed the H diet showed a higher AID of cysteine (p < 0.05) and higher threonine retention (p < 0.05) compared to the M diet. As regards the choice-feeding trial, MH animals showed a higher feed intake of the M diet compared to the H diet (+8.61%; p < 0.001), and furthermore, more than 50% of the animals preferred the M diet throughout the experimental period (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that animals with high growth rates do not show significantly higher productive traits when fed the H diet compared to the M diet. As regards choice feeding, MH animals were capable of choosing their preferred diet, showing high intra-individual repeatability in preference for the M diet. It would be interesting to continue studying this behaviour of choice based on amino acid levels.
Insights into the Mitochondrial and Nuclear Genome Diversity of Two High Yielding Strains of Laying Hens
Authors: Heumann-Kiesler Clara , Sommerfeld Vera , Iffland Hanna , Bennewitz Jörn , Rodehutscord Markus , Hasselmann Martin
Published: March 2021

Mitochondria are essential components of eukaryotes as they are involved in several organismic key processes such as energy production, apoptosis and cell growth. Despite their importance for the metabolism and physiology of all eukaryotic organisms, the impact of mitochondrial haplotype variation has only been studied for very few species. In this study we sequenced the mitochondrial genome of 180 individuals from two different strains of laying hens. The resulting haplotypes were combined with performance data such as body weight, feed intake and phosphorus utilization to assess their influence on the hens in five different life stages. After detecting a surprisingly low level of genetic diversity, we investigated the nuclear genetic background to estimate whether the low mitochondrial diversity is representative for the whole genetic background of the strains. Our results highlight the need for more in-depth investigation of the genetic compositions and mito-nuclear interaction in individuals to elucidate the basis of phenotypic performance differences. In addition, we raise the question of how the lack of mitochondrial variation developed, since the mitochondrial genome represents genetic information usually not considered in breeding approaches.
Mechanical Nociceptive Threshold, Tissue Alterations and Horn Growth in Calves after Injection of Isoeugenol or Clove Oil under the Horn Bud
Authors: Juffinger Anna , Schoiswohl Julia , Stanitznig Anna , Krametter-Frötscher Reinhild , Wittek Thomas , Waiblinger Susanne
Published: March 2021

Disbudding of calves is a common, painful intervention. Due to cytotoxic and anesthetic properties, the injection of clove oil or its component isoeugenol may be less detrimental to animal welfare. We investigated mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT), possible tissue alterations and horn growth for up to 12 weeks after injection of 1.5 mL clove oil (CLOV), isoeugenol (ISO) or saline (CON) or after hot-iron disbudding (BURN; with local anesthesia and sedation, n = 10/treatment). MNT was measured using von Frey filaments and a pressure algometer at four locations around the horn bud. There was a treatment*time point interaction (linear mixed model, p < 0.05). MNT decreased most strongly and for the longest time for BURN in most calves at least for 3 weeks. For ISO, the decrease was less distinct and most calves’ values returned to baseline after 1–2 weeks. MNT in CLOV was intermediate, with decreased values up to 3 weeks in some animals. 12 weeks after the treatment, horn growth was prevented in about 50% of the horns in CLOV and ISO. Tissue alterations such as swellings of the eyelids often occurred in CLOV, but less so in ISO. Our results suggest that injection of isoeugenol causes less pain and thus seems to be beneficial compared to hot-iron disbudding, while clove oil was not advantageous. Regarding the effectiveness of isoeugenol to prevent horn growth, more studies are needed.
Mortality Following Clostridioides difficile Infection in Europe: A Retrospective Multicenter Case-Control Study
Authors: Czepiel Jacek , Krutova Marcela , Mizrahi Assaf , Khanafer Nagham , Enoch David A. , Patyi Márta , Deptuła Aleksander , Agodi Antonella , Nuvials Xavier , Pituch Hanna , Wójcik-Bugajska Małgorzata , Filipczak-Bryniarska Iwona , Brzozowski Bartosz , Krzanowski Marcin , Konturek Katarzyna , Fedewicz Marcin , Michalak Mateusz , Monpierre Lorra , Vanhems Philippe , Gouliouris Theodore , Jurczyszyn Artur , Goldman-Mazur Sarah , Wultańska Dorota , Kuijper Ed J. , Skupień Jan , Biesiada Grażyna , Garlicki Aleksander
Published: March 2021

We aimed to describe the clinical presentation, treatment, outcome and report on factors associated with mortality over a 90-day period in Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate regression analyses were performed on data collected in a retrospective case-control study conducted in nine hospitals from seven European countries. A total of 624 patients were included, of which 415 were deceased (cases) and 209 were still alive 90 days after a CDI diagnosis (controls). The most common antibiotics used previously in both groups were β-lactams; previous exposure to fluoroquinolones was significantly (p = 0.0004) greater in deceased patients. Multivariate logistic regression showed that the factors independently related with death during CDI were older age, inadequate CDI therapy, cachexia, malignancy, Charlson Index, long-term care, elevated white blood cell count (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), bacteraemia, complications, and cognitive impairment. In addition, older age, higher levels of WBC, neutrophil, CRP or creatinine, the presence of malignancy, cognitive impairment, and complications were strongly correlated with shortening the time from CDI diagnosis to death. CDI prevention should be primarily focused on hospitalised elderly people receiving antibiotics. WBC, neutrophil count, CRP, creatinine, albumin and lactate levels should be tested in every hospitalised patient treated for CDI to assess the risk of a fatal outcome.
Microscopic Analysis of Bacterial Inoculum Effect Using Micropatterned Biochip
Authors: Hwang Jung Ho , Lee Sang Young , Choi Jungil
Published: March 2021

Antimicrobial resistance has become a major problem in public health and clinical environments. Against this background, antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) has become necessary to cure diseases in an appropriate and timely manner as it indicates the necessary concentration of antibiotics. Recently, microfluidic based rapid AST methods using microscopic analysis have been shown to reduce the time needed for the determination of the proper antibiotics. However, owing to the inoculum effect, the accurate measurement of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) is difficult. We tested four standard bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Enterococcus faecalis, against five different antibiotics: piperacillin, cefotaxime, amikacin, levofloxacin, and ampicillin. The results showed that overall, the microfluidic system has a similar inoculum effect compared to the conventional AST method. However, due to the different testing conditions and determination protocols of the growth of the microfluidic based rapid AST, a few results are not identical to the conventional methods using optical density. This result suggests that microfluidic based rapid AST methods require further research on the inoculum effect for practical use in hospitals and can then be used for effective antibiotic prescriptions.
Preventive Antibiotic Prescribing Habits among Professionals Dedicated to Oral Implantology: An Observational Study
Authors: Salgado-Peralvo Angel Orión , Kewalramani Naresh , Peña-Cardelles Juan Francisco , Mateos-Moreno María Victoria , Monsalve-Guil Loreto , Jiménez-Guerra Álvaro , Ortiz-García Iván , Velasco-Ortega Eugenio
Published: March 2021

The prescription of preventive antibiotics (PA) in oral implantology is a controversial issue. The study aimed to determine the prescribing habits of PA in professionals dedicated to oral implantology in various treatments in healthy and at-risk patients. This is a cross-sectional observational study based on the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) guidelines. An electronic survey consisting of 4 blocks of questions was sent to members of the Spanish Society of Implants. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. A total of 303 participants (20.8%) responded to the questionnaire. One percent never prescribed PA, 55.4% prescribed them always, and 43.6% prescribed them sometimes. Ninety-six percent administered them preoperatively, while 92.4% administered them postoperatively. The most commonly used antibiotic is amoxicillin followed by amoxicillin with clavulanic acid (875/125 mg). Clindamycin is the most commonly administered antibiotic in patients with allergies. Professionals dedicated to oral implantology frequently prescribe PA in both healthy and at-risk patients, especially perioperatively. Immediate implant placement, sinus lifts, bone regeneration, and multiple implant placement are the treatments in which PA are most commonly prescribed, as well as in patients with heart valve prostheses or a history of bacterial endocarditis and immunodeficiency.
Prior Antibiotic Therapy and the Onset of Healthcare-Associated Infections Sustained by Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in Intensive Care Unit Patients: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Migliara Giuseppe , Baccolini Valentina , Isonne Claudia , Cianfanelli Sara , Di Paolo Carolina , Mele Annamaria , Lia Lorenza , Nardi Angelo , Salerno Carla , Caminada Susanna , Cammalleri Vittoria , Alessandri Francesco , Tellan Guglielmo , Ceccarelli Giancarlo , Venditti Mario , Pugliese Francesco , Marzuillo Carolina , De Vito Corrado , De Giusti Maria , Villari Paolo
Published: March 2021

Epidemiological research has demonstrated direct relationships between antibiotic consumption and the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. In this nested case–control study, we assessed whether prior exposure to antibiotic therapy and its duration affect the onset of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) sustained by MDR Klebsiella pneumoniae (MDR-Kp) in intensive care unit patients. Cases were defined as patients who developed an MDR-Kp HAI. Controls matched on sex and the length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay were randomly selected from the at-risk population. Any antibiotic agent received in systemic administration before the onset of infection was considered as antibiotic exposure. Multivariable conditional logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the effect of prior exposure to each antibiotic class (Model 1) or its duration (Model 2) on the onset of HAIs sustained by MDR-Kp. Overall, 87 cases and 261 gender-matched controls were compared. In Model 1, aminoglycosides and linezolid independently increased the likelihood of developing an MDR-Kp HAI, whereas exposure to both linezolid and penicillins reduced the effect of linezolid alone. In Model 2, cumulative exposure to aminoglycosides increased the likelihood of the outcome, as well as cumulative exposures to penicillins and colistin, while a previous exposure to both penicillins and colistin reduced the influence of the two antibiotic classes alone. Our study confirms that aminoglycosides, penicillins, linezolid, and colistin may play a role in favoring the infections sustained by MDR-Kp. However, several double exposures in the time window before HAI onset seemed to hinder the selective pressure exerted by individual agents.
Antibiotic Use in Periodontal Therapy among French Dentists and Factors Which Influence Prescribing Practices
Authors: Agossa Kevimy , Sy Kadiatou , Mainville Théo , Gosset Marjolaine , Jeanne Sylvie , Grosgogeat Brigitte , Siepmann Florence , Loingeville Florence , Dubar Marie
Published: March 2021

The aim of the present survey is to investigate the use of antibiotics during periodontal therapy among French dentists with a focus on exploring potential differences between various groups of practitioners. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to different groups of practitioners including members of (i) the French Society of Periodontology and Implantology; (ii) the College of University Teachers in Periodontology and, (iii) private practitioners participating in the French general dental practice-based research network. 272 questionnaires were included in the analysis. Prescription patterns were globally in line with the current recommendations. Systemic antibiotics are most frequently used as a first-line therapy in necrotizing periodontitis (92%) and aggressive periodontitis (53.3% to 66.1%). However, malpractice still exists, including in the management of periodontal abscesses. Antibiotics are prescribed (i) less frequently for periodontal abscesses and (ii) more frequently for generalized aggressive periodontitis by members of the periodontal society and University college (p < 0.05). Amoxicillin (59.9%) and the amoxicillin + metronidazole (59.6%) combination were the most frequently prescribed molecules. Providing a high number of periodontal treatments per week, being more recently graduated, having a post-graduate certificate in periodontology and holding or having held an academic position/hospital practice were all factors associated with a better knowledge of and/or more adequate antibiotic use.
Protective Effect of Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim. Extract against Ethanol-Induced Gastritis in Rats
Authors: Boby Naila , Abbas Muhammad Aleem , Lee Eon-Bee , Im Zi-Eum , Hsu Walter H. , Park Seung-Chun
Published: March 2021

Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim (Korean pear) has been used for hundreds of years as a traditional herbal medicine for asthma, cough, and atopic dermatitis in Korea and China. Although it was originally shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiatopic properties, its gastroprotective effects have not been investigated. In the present study, we evaluated the protective effects of Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim extract (PUE) against ethanol-induced gastritis in rats. The bioactive compound profile of PUE was determined by gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The gastroprotection of PUE at different doses (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) prior to ethanol ingestion was evaluated using an in vivo gastritis rat model. Several endpoints were evaluated, including gastric mucosal lesions, cellular degeneration, intracellular damage, and immunohistochemical localization of leucocyte common antigen. The gastric mucosal injury and ulcer score were determined by evaluating the inflamed gastric mucosa and by histological examination. To identify the mechanisms of gastroprotection by PUE, antisecretory action and plasma prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), gastric mucosal cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), and histamine levels were measured. PUE exhibited significant antioxidant effects with IC50 values of 56.18 and 22.49 µg/mL for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′- azino-di-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) inhibition (%), respectively. In addition, GC/MS and HPLC analyses revealed several bioactive compounds of PUE. Pretreatment with PUE significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the ulcer index by preventing gastric mucosal lesions, erosion, and cellular degeneration. An immunohistochemical analysis revealed that PUE markedly attenuated leucocyte infiltration in a dose-dependent manner. The enhancement of PGE2 levels and attenuation of cAMP levels along with the inhibition of histamine release following PUE pretreatment was associated with the cytoprotective and healing effects of PUE. In contrast, the downregulation of the H+/K+ ATPase pathway as well as muscarinic receptor (M3R) and histamine receptor (H2R) inhibition was also involved in the gastroprotective effects of PUE; however, the expression of cholecystokinin-2 receptors (CCK2R) was unchanged. Finally, no signs of toxicity were observed following PUE treatment. Based on our results, we conclude that PUE represents an effective therapeutic option to reduce the risk of gastritis and warrants further study.
A Novel Vasoactive Peptide “PG1” from Buffalo Ice-Cream Protects from Angiotensin-Evoked High Blood Pressure
Authors: Carrizzo Albino , Basilicata Manuela Giovanna , Pepe Giacomo , Sørensen Kasper K. , Ciccarelli Michele , Sarno Veronica Di , Damato Antonio , Venturini Eleonora , Borrelli Anna , Musella Simona , Abate Mario , Pietro Paola Di , Ostacolo Carmine , Campiglia Pietro , Vecchione Carmine
Published: March 2021

Background: Arterial hypertension is the most important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, myocardial infarction, heart failure, renal failure and peripheral vascular disease. In the last decade, milk-derived bioactive peptides have attracted attention for their beneficial cardiovascular properties. Methods: Here, we combined in vitro chemical assay such as LC-MS/MS analysis of buffalo ice cream, ex vivo vascular studies evaluating endothelial and smooth muscle responses using pressure myograph, and translational assay testing in vivo the vascular actions of PG1 administration in murine models. Results: We demonstrate that a novel buffalo ice-cream-derived pentapeptide “QKEPM”, namely PG1, is a stable peptide that can be obtained at higher concentration after gastro-intestinal digestions (GID) of buffalo ice-cream (BIC). It owns potent vascular effect in counteract the effects of angiotensin II-evoked vasoconstriction and high blood pressure levels. Its effects are mediated by the inhibitory effect on AT1 receptor leading to a downregulation of p-ERK½/Rac1-GTP and consequent reduction of oxidative stress. Conclusions: These results strongly candidate PG1, as a novel bioactive peptide for the prevention and management of hypertension, thus expanding the armamentarium of preventive strategies aimed at reducing the incidence and progression of hypertension and its related cardiovascular complications.
N-Acetyl Cysteine Overdose Inducing Hepatic Steatosis and Systemic Inflammation in Both Propacetamol-Induced Hepatotoxic and Normal Mice
Authors: Liou Gunn-Guang , Hsieh Cheng-Chi , Lee Yi-Ju , Li Pin-Hung , Tsai Ming-Shiun , Li Chi-Ting , Wang Sue-Hong
Published: March 2021

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose induces acute liver damage and even death. The standard therapeutic dose of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) cannot be applied to every patient, especially those with high-dose APAP poisoning. There is insufficient evidence to prove that increasing NAC dose can treat patients who failed in standard treatment. This study explores the toxicity of NAC overdose in both APAP poisoning and normal mice. Two inbred mouse strains with different sensitivities to propacetamol-induced hepatotoxicity (PIH) were treated with different NAC doses. NAC therapy decreased PIH by reducing lipid oxidation, protein nitration and inflammation, and increasing glutathione (GSH) levels and antioxidative enzyme activities. However, the therapeutic effects of NAC on PIH were dose-dependent from 125 (N125) to 275 mg/kg (N275). Elevated doses of NAC (400 and 800 mg/kg, N400 and N800) caused additional deaths in both propacetamol-treated and normal mice. N800 treatments significantly decreased hepatic GSH levels and induced inflammatory cytokines and hepatic microvesicular steatosis in both propacetamol-treated and normal mice. Furthermore, both N275 and N400 treatments decreased serum triglyceride (TG) and induced hepatic TG, whereas N800 treatment significantly increased interleukin-6, hepatic TG, and total cholesterol levels. In conclusion, NAC overdose induces hepatic and systemic inflammations and interferes with fatty acid metabolism.
Tart Cherry Extract Containing Chlorogenic Acid, Quercetin, and Kaempferol Inhibits the Mitochondrial Apoptotic Cell Death Elicited by Airborne PM10 in Human Epidermal Keratinocytes
Authors: Kim Do-Wan , Jung Dae-Hwa , Sung Junghee , Min In Sun , Lee Sei-Jung
Published: March 2021

Tart cherry (Prunus cerasus L.), a medicinal food containing high concentrations of phytochemicals, has a variety of antioxidant activities and health benefits. Here, we investigate the functional effect of tart cherry during apoptotic cell death elicited by airborne particulate matter with a diameter of <10 μm (PM10) in human epidermal keratinocyte HaCaT cells. The PM10 particles significantly induced cytotoxicity in the HaCaT cells. The decrease in cell viability was restored upon treatment with tart cherry extract (200 μg/mL) containing chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol. Tart cherry inhibited the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsible for the distinctive activations of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in PM10-treated HaCaT cells. Interestingly, tart cherry significantly inhibited the expression of apoptosis-related genes (B-Cell Lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax), and caspase-3) as regulated by the activation of transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). These results demonstrate that tart cherry is a medicinal food that blocks the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis induced by PM10 in human epidermal keratinocytes.
Strategies to Broaden the Applications of Olive Biophenols Oleuropein and Hydroxytyrosol in Food Products
Authors: Monteiro Mariana , Silva Andreia F. R. , Resende Daniela , Braga Susana S. , Coimbra Manuel A. , Silva Artur M. S. , Cardoso Susana M.
Published: March 2021

Oleuropein (OLE) and hydroxytyrosol (HT) are olive-derived phenols recognised as health-promoting agents with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antitumor activities, providing a wide range of applications as functional food ingredients. HT is Generally Recognised as Safe (GRAS) by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), whereas OLE is included in EFSA daily consumptions recommendations, albeit there is no official GRAS status for its pure form. Their application in food, however, may be hindered by challenges such as degradation caused by processing conditions and undesired sensorial properties (e.g., the astringency of OLE). Among the strategies to overcome such setbacks, the encapsulation in delivery systems and the covalent and non-covalent complexation are highlighted in this review. Additionally, the synthesis of OLE and HT derivatives are studied to improve their applicability. All in all, more research needs however to be carried out to investigate the impact of these approaches on the sensory properties of the final food product and its percussions at the gastrointestinal level, as well as on bioactivity. At last limitations of these approaches at a scale of the food industry must also be considered.
Effect of Cooking Methods on the Antioxidant Capacity of Foods of Animal Origin Submitted to In Vitro Digestion-Fermentation
Authors: Navajas-Porras Beatriz , Pérez-Burillo Sergio , Valverde-Moya Álvaro , Hinojosa-Nogueira Daniel , Pastoriza Silvia , Rufián-Henares José Ángel
Published: March 2021

The human body is exposed to oxidative damage to cells and though it has some endogenous antioxidant systems, we still need to take antioxidants from our diet. The main dietary source of antioxidants is vegetables due to their content of different bioactive molecules. However, there are usually other components of the diet, such as foods of animal origin, that are not often linked to antioxidant capacity. Still, these foods are bound to exert some antioxidant capacity thanks to molecules released during gastrointestinal digestion and gut microbial fermentation. In this work, the antioxidant capacity of 11 foods of animal origin has been studied, submitted to different culinary techniques and to an in vitro digestion and gut microbial fermentation. Results have shown how dairy products potentially provide the highest antioxidant capacity, contributing to 60% of the daily antioxidant capacity intake. On the other hand, most of the antioxidant capacity was released during gut microbial fermentation (90–98% of the total antioxidant capacity). Finally, it was found that the antioxidant capacity of the studied foods was much higher than that reported by other authors. A possible explanation is that digestion–fermentation pretreatment allows for a higher extraction of antioxidant compounds and their transformation by the gut microbiota. Therefore, although foods of animal origin cannot be compared to vegetables in the concentration of antioxidant molecules, the processes of digestion and fermentation can provide some, giving animal origin food some qualities that could have been previously unappreciated.
Redox Active Antimicrobial Peptides in Controlling Growth of Microorganisms at Body Barriers
Authors: Brzoza Piotr , Godlewska Urszula , Borek Arkadiusz , Morytko Agnieszka , Zegar Aneta , Kwiecinska Patrycja , Zabel Brian A. , Osyczka Artur , Kwitniewski Mateusz , Cichy Joanna
Published: March 2021

Epithelia in the skin, gut and other environmentally exposed organs display a variety of mechanisms to control microbial communities and limit potential pathogenic microbial invasion. Naturally occurring antimicrobial proteins/peptides and their synthetic derivatives (here collectively referred to as AMPs) reinforce the antimicrobial barrier function of epithelial cells. Understanding how these AMPs are functionally regulated may be important for new therapeutic approaches to combat microbial infections. Some AMPs are subject to redox-dependent regulation. This review aims to: (i) explore cysteine-based redox active AMPs in skin and intestine; (ii) discuss casual links between various redox environments of these barrier tissues and the ability of AMPs to control cutaneous and intestinal microbes; (iii) highlight how bacteria, through intrinsic mechanisms, can influence the bactericidal potential of redox-sensitive AMPs.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction Plays a Relevant Role in Pathophysiology of Peritoneal Membrane Damage Induced by Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Ramil-Gómez Olalla , Rodríguez-Carmona Ana , Fernández-Rodríguez Jennifer Adriana , Pérez-Fontán Miguel , Ferreiro-Hermida Tamara , López-Pardo Mirian , Pérez-López Teresa , López-Armada María J.
Published: March 2021

Preservation of the peritoneal membrane is an essential determinant of the long-term outcome of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of PD-related peritoneal membrane injury. We hypothesized that mitochondria may be implicated in the mechanisms that initiate and sustain peritoneal membrane damage in this setting. Hence, we carried out ex vivo studies of effluent-derived human mesothelial cells, which disclosed a significant increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) production and a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in mesothelial cells with a fibroblast phenotype, compared to those preserving an epithelial morphology. In addition, in vitro studies of omentum-derived mesothelial cells identified mtROS as mediators of the EMT process as mitoTEMPO, a selective mtROS scavenger, reduced fibronectin protein expression induced by TGF-ß1. Moreover, we quantified mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) levels in the supernatant of effluent PD solutions, disclosing a direct correlation with small solute transport characteristics (as estimated from the ratio dialysate/plasma of creatinine at 240 min), and an inverse correlation with peritoneal ultrafiltration. These results suggest that mitochondria are involved in the EMT that human peritoneal mesothelial cells suffer in the course of PD therapy. The level of mtDNA in the effluent dialysate of PD patients could perform as a biomarker of PD-induced damage to the peritoneal membrane.