bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ATP Induces Interleukin-8, Intracellular Calcium Release, and ERK1/2 Phosphorylation in Bovine Endometrial Cells, Partially through P2Y Receptors
Authors: Gutierrez Noemí , Teuber Stefanie , Alarcon Pablo , Burgos Rafael A. , Hidalgo María A.
Published: February 2023

The bovine endometrium has an important defensive role in the postpartum period that acts when an inflammatory process associated with tissue damage or infection by bacteria is produced. Endometrial cells release cytokines and chemokines that recruit inflammatory cells, which release danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and initiate and regulate the inflammatory response. However, the role of ATP in bovine endometrial cells is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of ATP on interleukin-8 (IL-8) release, intracellular calcium mobilization, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and the role of P2Y receptors, in bovine endometrial cells. Bovine endometrial (BEND) cells were incubated with ATP and the IL-8 release was determined by the ELISA assay. ATP of 50 and 100 μM significantly increased IL-8 released in BEND cells (50 μM: 23.16 ± 3.82 pg/mL, p = 0.0018; 100 μM: 30.14 ± 7.43 pg/mL, p = 0.0004). ATP (50 μM) also induced rapid intracellular calcium mobilization in Fura-2AM-loaded BEND cells, as well as ERK1/2 phosphorylation (ratio 1.1 ± 0.04, p = 0.0049). Suramin (50 μM), a pan-antagonist of P2Y receptors, partially reduced the intracellular calcium mobilization, ERK1/2 phosphorylation (ratio 0.83 ± 0.08, p = 0.045), and IL-8 release (9.67 ± 0.02 pg/mL, p = 0.014) induced by ATP. Finally, BEND cells expressed higher mRNA levels of P2Y1 and P2Y2 purinergic subtype receptors, and lower levels of P2Y11 and P2Y12 receptors, as determined by RT-qPCR. In conclusion, these results showed that ATP activates pro-inflammatory responses in BEND cells, which are partially mediated via P2Y receptors, and BEND cells express the mRNA of subtypes of P2Y receptors, which could have a key role in bovine endometrial inflammation.
Bamboo Plant Part Preference Affects the Nutrients Digestibility and Intestinal Microbiota of Geriatric Giant Pandas
Authors: Yao Ying , Zhao Wenjia , Xiang Guilin , Lv Ruiqing , Dong Yanpeng , Yan Honglin , Li Mingxi
Published: February 2023

Bamboo part preference plays a critical role in influencing the nutrient utilization and gastrointestinal microbiota composition of captive giant pandas. However, the effects of bamboo part consumption on the nutrient digestibility and gut microbiome of geriatric giant pandas remain unknown. A total of 11 adult and 11 aged captive giant pandas were provided with bamboo shoots or bamboo leaves in the respective single-bamboo-part consumption period, and the nutrient digestibility and fecal microbiota of both adult and aged giant pandas in each period were evaluated. Bamboo shoot ingestion increased the crude protein digestibility and decreased the crude fiber digestibility of both age groups. The fecal microbiome of the bamboo shoot-fed giant pandas exhibited greater alpha diversity indices and significantly different beta diversity index than the bamboo leaf-fed counterparts regardless of age. Bamboo shoot feeding significantly changed the relative abundance of predominant taxa at both phylum and genus levels in adult and geriatric giant pandas. Bamboo shoot-enriched genera were positively correlated with crude protein digestibility and negatively correlated with crude fiber digestibility. Taken together, these results suggest that bamboo part consumption dominates over age in affecting the nutrient digestibility and gut microbiota composition of giant pandas.
Activity Patterns of Captive Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens)
Authors: Bugler Kathryn A. , Ross James G. , Paterson Adrian M.
Published: February 2023

We studied the activity budgets of seven Ailurus fulgens, at three zoos within Australasia, using video cameras, and in-person observations. Red panda in this study followed a crepuscular activity pattern, with another short peak of activity around midnight. Ambient temperature greatly affected panda activity patterns; red panda allocated more time to resting and sleeping when temperatures increased. This preliminary study suggests how environmental factors affect captive red panda, which will help better inform captive facilities, and how this might impact their wild conspecifics.
The Novel Structural Variation in the GHR Gene Is Associated with Growth Traits in Yaks (Bos grunniens)
Authors: Wang Fubin , Wu Xiaoyun , Ma Xiaoming , Bao Qi , Zheng Qingbo , Chu Min , Guo Xian , Liang Chunnian , Yan Ping
Published: February 2023

The growth hormone receptor (GHR) is a member of the cytokine/hematopoietic factor receptor superfamily, which plays an important role in the growth and development, immunity, and metabolism of animals. This study identified a 246 bp deletion variant in the intronic region of the GHR gene, and three genotypes, including type II, type ID, and type DD, were observed. Genotype analysis of structural variation (SV) was performed on 585 individuals from 14 yak breeds, and it was found that 246 bp deletion was present in each breed. The II genotype was dominant in all yak breeds except for SB yak. The association analysis of gene polymorphisms and growth traits in the ASD yak population showed that the 246 bp SV was significantly associated with body length at 6 months (p < 0.05). GHR messenger RNA (mRNA) was expressed in all the tested tissues, with significantly higher levels in the liver, muscle, and fat than in other organs. The results of transcription activity showed that the luciferase activity of the pGL4.10-DD vector was significantly higher than that of the pGL4.10-II vector (p < 0.05). Additionally, the transcription-factor binding prediction results showed that the SV in the runt-related transcription factor 1 (Runx1) transcription-factor binding site may affect the transcriptional activity of the GHR gene, regulating yak growth and development. This study showed that the novel SV of the GHR gene could be used as a candidate molecular marker for the selection of the early growth trait in ASD yak.
Relationships between the Content of Micro- and Macroelements in Animal Samples and Diseases of Different Etiologies
Authors: Stepanova Marina V. , Sotnikova Larisa F. , Zaitsev Sergei Yu.
Published: February 2023

Many of the micro- and macro-elements (MMEs) required by the body are found in environmental objects in concentrations different from their original concentration that can lead to dangerous animal diseases (“microelementoses”). The aim was to study the features of MME (accumulating in wild and exotic animals) in connection with particular diseases. The work using 67 mammal species from four Russian zoological institutions was completed in 2022. Studies of 820 cleaned and defatted samples (hair, fur, etc.) after “wet-acid-ashing” on an electric stove and in a muffle furnace were performed using a Kvant-2A atomic absorption spectrometer. The content of zinc, copper, iron, cadmium, lead, and arsenic was assessed. The level of MME accumulation in the animal body contributes not only to the MME status and the development of various concomitant diseases, but the condition itself can occur by intake of a number of micronutrients and/or drugs. Particular correlations between the accumulation of Zn and skin, oncological diseases, Cu—musculoskeletal, cardiovascular diseases, Fe—oncological diseases, Pb—metabolic, nervous, oncological diseases, and Cd—cardiovascular diseases were established. Therefore, monitoring of the MME status of the organism must be carried out regularly (optimally once every 6 months).
Ocular and Superficial Body Thermographic Findings in Sled Dogs before and after Competition
Authors: Spinella Giuseppe , Galimberti Andrea , Casagrande Giorgia , Maffi Sergio , Musella Vincenzo , Valentini Simona
Published: February 2023

Competitions involving sled dogs are rapidly growing and body temperature assessment could represent a prompt and non-invasive method of screening for potential pathological conditions during or after activity. The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate if thermography is able to monitor the pre- and post-competition ocular and superficial body temperature variations during a sled dog competition. It subsequently compared the data relating to the ocular temperatures in different race types: mid-distance (30 km) and sprint (≤16 km). Results showed a statistically significant increase in post-competition ocular temperature of both eyes, regardless of the length of the race. The relative increase in the temperatures of the other body surfaces was lower than the expected values, probably due to the influence of environmental and subjective factors such as the type of coat of the Siberian Husky or subcutaneous fat. Infrared thermography has therefore proved to be useful method in sled dog competition conditions for screening superficial temperature variations, as the investigation is normally conducted in an external environment and often in demanding work conditions.
MaxEnt Modeling for Predicting the Potential Wintering Distribution of Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia leucorodia) under Climate Change in China
Authors: Fu Aihua , Gao Erhu , Tang Xiaoping , Liu Zengli , Hu Faxiang , Zhan Zhenjie , Wang Jiadong , Luan Xiaofeng
Published: February 2023

Global climate change has become a trend and is one of the main factors affecting biodiversity patterns and species distributions. Many wild animals adapt to the changing living environment caused by climate change by changing their habitats. Birds are highly sensitive to climate change. Understanding the suitable wintering habitat of the Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia leucorodia) and its response to future climatic change is essential for its protection. In China, it was listed as national grade II key protected wild animal in the adjusted State List of key protected wild animals in 2021, in Near Threatened status. Few studies on the distribution of the wintering Eurasian Spoonbill have been carried out in China. In this study, we simulated the suitable habitat under the current period and modeled the distribution dynamics of the wintering Eurasian Spoonbill in response to climate change under different periods by using the MaxEnt model. Our results showed that the current suitable wintering habitats for the Eurasian Spoonbill are mainly concentrated in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River. Distance from the water, precipitation of the driest quarter, altitude, and mean temperature of the driest quarter contributed the most to the distribution model for the wintering Eurasian Spoonbill, with a cumulative contribution of 85%. Future modeling showed that the suitable distribution of the wintering Eurasian Spoonbill extends to the north as a whole, and the suitable area shows an increasing trend. Our simulation results are helpful in understanding the distribution of the wintering Eurasian Spoonbill under different periods in China and support species conservation.
Immunity and Growth Plasticity of Asian Short-Toed Lark Nestlings in Response to Changes in Food Conditions: Can It Buffer the Challenge of Climate Change-Induced Trophic Mismatch?
Authors: Lu Guang , Zhang Xinjie , Li Xinyu , Zhang Shuping
Published: February 2023

Passerine nestlings frequently suffer from sub-optimal food conditions due to climate change-induced trophic mismatch between the nestlings and their optimal food resources. The ability of nestlings to buffer this challenge is less well understood. We hypothesized that poor food conditions might induce a higher immune response and lower growth rate of nestlings, and such physiological plasticity is conducive to nestling survival. To test this, we examined how food (grasshopper nymphs) abundance affects the expression of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1 β (IL-1β) genes, plasma IGF-1 levels, body mass, and fledging rates in wild Asian short-toed lark (Alaudala cheleensis) nestlings. Linear mixed models revealed that nymph biomass significantly influenced the expression of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β genes, and the level of plasma IGF-1. The expressions of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-1β genes were negatively correlated with nymph biomass and plasma IGF-1 level. Plasma IGF-1 level, nestling body mass growth rate, was positively correlated with nymph biomass. Despite a positive correlation between the nestling fledge rate and nymph biomass, more than 60% of nestlings fledged when nymph biomass was at the lowest level. These results suggest that immunity and growth plasticity of nestlings may be an adaptation for birds to buffer the negative effects of trophic mismatch.
Differential Impacts of Cereal and Protein Sources Fed to Pigs after Weaning on Diarrhoea and Faecal Shedding of Escherichia coli, Production, and Total Tract Apparent Digestibility
Authors: Pluske John R. , Mullan Bruce P. , Kim Jae Cheol , Hampson David J.
Published: February 2023

Different cereal types, in combination with different protein sources, are fed to pigs after weaning, but their interactions and possible implications are not well researched. In this study, 84 male weaned piglets were used in a 21-day feeding trial to investigate the effects of feeding either medium-grain or long-grain extruded rice or wheat, in a factorial combination with protein sources of either vegetable or animal origin, on postweaning performance, shedding of β–haemolytic Escherichia coli, and the coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD). Pigs fed either rice type performed the same (p > 0.05) as wheat-fed pigs after weaning. The use of vegetable protein sources reduced growth rate (p < 0.001) and feed intake (p = 0.007) and deteriorated the feed conversion ratio (p = 0.028) in weeks two and three compared to pigs fed animal protein sources. The number of antibiotic treatments given for clinical diarrhoea was similar (p > 0.05). However, the faecal E. coli score showed a trend for the main effect of protein source, with pigs fed animal proteins showing a higher E. coli score than pigs fed vegetable proteins (0.63 vs. 0.43, p = 0.057). There was also a tendency for an interaction (p = 0.069) between cereal type and protein source (p = 0.069), with this difference being associated with a greater faecal score in pigs fed diets with long-grain rice plus animal proteins and wheat plus animal proteins. Significant interactions occurred for the CTTAD when assessed in week three. In general, pigs fed diets with medium-grain rice or long-grain rice with animal proteins had a higher (p < 0.001) CTTAD for dietary components than pigs fed all other diets, and vegetable proteins depressed (p < 0.001) CTTAD compared to animal proteins (main effect of protein: p < 0.001). In summary, pigs tolerated the extruded rice-based diets well and performed equivalently to pigs fed wheat as the sole cereal, and the use of vegetable proteins decreased the E. coli score.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice Regarding Antibiotic Prescription by Medical Interns: A Qualitative Study in Spain
Authors: Molina-Romera Germán , Vazquez-Cancela Olalla , Vazquez-Lago Juan Manuel , Montes-Villalba Rodrigo Alonso , Roque Fátima , Herdeiro Maria Teresa , Figueiras Adolfo
Published: February 2023

Antibiotic resistance is an issue of growing importance in the public health sphere. Medical interns are of great relevance when it comes to the source of this problem. This study therefore sought to ascertain which factors influence the management of antibiotic therapy by this population, in order to pinpoint the possible causes of misprescribing habits. We conducted a qualitative study based on focus group techniques, with groups consisting of medical interns from the Santiago de Compostela Clinical University Teaching Hospital. Our study identified factors which the participants considered to be determinants of antibiotic use and their relationship with the appearance of resistance. The single most repeated factor was the influence of the attending physician’s judgement; other factors included a high healthcare burden or prescribing inertia. This stage is an opportunity to correct misprescribing habits, by implementing educational interventions aimed at modifying the identified factors.
Tamarindus indica Extract as a Promising Antimicrobial and Antivirulence Therapy
Authors: Ghaly Mohamed F. , Albalawi Marzough Aziz , Bendary Mahmoud M. , Shahin Ahmed , Shaheen Mohamed A. , Abu Eleneen Abeer F. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Elmaaty Ayman Abo , Elrefai Mohamed F. M. , Zaitone Sawsan A. , Abousaty Amira I.
Published: February 2023

The worldwide crises from multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections are pushing us to search for new alternative therapies. The renewed interest in medicinal plants has gained the attention of our research group. Tamarindus indica L. (T. indica) is one of the traditional medicines used for a wide range of diseases. Therefore, we evaluated the antimicrobial activities of ethanolic extract of T. indica. The inhibitions zones, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and fractional inhibitor concentration indices (FICI) against Gram+ve and −ve pathogens were detected. The bioactive compounds from T. indica extract were identified by mass spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography, and bio-autographic assay. We performed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and molecular docking studies to confirm possible mechanisms of actions and antivirulence activities, respectively. We found more promising antimicrobial activities against MDR pathogens with MIC and MBC values for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), i.e., (0.78, 3.12 mg/mL) and (1.56, 3.12 mg/mL), respectively. The antimicrobial activities of this extract were attributed to its capability to impair cell membrane permeability, inducing bacterial cell lysis, which was confirmed by the morphological changes observed under SEM. The synergistic interactions between this extract and commonly used antibiotics were confirmed (FICI values < 0.5). The bioactive compounds of this extract were bis (2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl), 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, and bis(8-methylnonyl) ester. Additionally, this extract showed antivirulence activities, especially against the S. aureus protease and P. aeruginosa elastase. In conclusion, we hope that pharmaceutical companies can utilize our findings to produce a new formulation of T. indica ethanolic extract with other antibiotics.
The Assessment of Multiplex PCR in Identifying Bacterial Infections in Patients Hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bogdan Iulia , Gadela Tejaswi , Bratosin Felix , Dumitru Catalin , Popescu Alin , Horhat Florin George , Negrean Rodica Anamaria , Horhat Razvan Mihai , Mot Ion Cristian , Bota Adrian Vasile , Stoica Carmen Nicoleta , Feciche Bogdan , Csep Andrei Nicolae , Fericean Roxana Manuela , Chicin Gratiana Nicoleta , Marincu Iosif
Published: February 2023

Bacterial infection can occur in patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 in various conditions, resulting in poorer outcomes, such as a higher death rate. This current systematic review was conducted in order to assess the efficiency of multiplex PCR in detecting bacterial infections in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, as well as to analyze the most common bacterial pathogens and other factors that interfere with this diagnosis. The research was conducted using four electronic databases (PubMed, Taylor&Francis, Web of Science, and Wiley Online Library). Out of 290 studies, nine were included in the systematic review. The results supported the use of multiplex PCR in detecting bacteria, considering its high sensitivity and specificity rates. The most common bacterial pathogens found were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae. The median age at admission was 61.5 years, and the majority of patients were men (70.3%), out of a total of 1553 patients. The proportion of ICU admission was very high, with a pooled proportion of 52.6% over the analyzed studies, and an average duration of hospitalization of 13 days. The mortality rate was proportionally high, as was the rate of ICU admission, with a pooled mortality of 24.9%. It was discovered that 65.2% of all patients used antibiotics before admission, with or without medical prescription. Antibiotic treatment should be considered consciously, considering the high risks of developing antibiotic resistance.
Green Antimicrobials as Therapeutic Agents for Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Teixeira Ines D. , Carvalho Eugenia , Leal Ermelindo C.
Published: February 2023

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are one of the most serious and devastating complications of diabetes and account for a significant decrease in quality of life and costly healthcare expenses worldwide. This condition affects around 15% of diabetic patients and is one of the leading causes of lower limb amputations. DFUs generally present poor clinical outcomes, mainly due to the impaired healing process and the elevated risk of microbial infections which leads to tissue damage. Nowadays, antimicrobial resistance poses a rising threat to global health, thus hampering DFU treatment and care. Faced with this reality, it is pivotal to find greener and less environmentally impactful alternatives for fighting these resistant microbes. Antimicrobial peptides are small molecules that play a crucial role in the innate immune system of the host and can be found in nature. Some of these molecules have shown broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and wound-healing activity, making them good potential therapeutic compounds to treat DFUs. This review aims to describe antimicrobial peptides derived from green, eco-friendly processes that can be used as potential therapeutic compounds to treat DFUs, thereby granting a better quality of life to patients and their families while protecting our fundamental bio-resources.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment of Ceftazidime in Adult Patients on General Wards with Different Degrees of Renal Function: A Prospective Observational Bicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Zieck Saskia E. , de Vroom Suzanne L. , Mulder Frouke Ph. , van Twillert Gitte , Mathôt Ron A. A. , Geerlings Suzanne E. , van Hest Reinier M.
Published: February 2023

No prospective evidence exists on the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) target attainment of ceftazidime in adult patients on general wards. We aimed to investigate whether the PK/PD target of ceftazidime (50% T > MIC) is attained in adult patients on general wards with adequate and impaired renal function receiving regular and guideline-recommended reduced doses of ceftazidime. In this observational, prospective, bicenter cohort study, adult patients admitted to a general ward receiving ceftazidime as part of standard care were included. Three blood samples per patient within 72 h after start of treatment were collected. Data were analyzed with nonlinear mixed effects modeling. The primary endpoint was target attainment of 50% T > MIC during the first 24 h of treatment (50% T0–24 > MIC). Forty patients were included from whom 121 blood samples were obtained. All 25/25 patients with adequate renal function, 9/10 patients with moderately impaired renal function (eGFR 30–50 mL/min/1.73 m2) and 5/5 patients with severe impaired renal function (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2) attained 50% T0–24 > MIC when applying the clinical breakpoint MIC for Pseudomonas aeruginosa of 8 mg/L. The one patient not attaining the PK/PD target did not differ in any of the collected patients’ characteristics, except that this patient was the oldest in the study population. However, age was not statistically significantly associated with clearance or volume of distribution in the population pharmacokinetic model and, therefore, not likely the cause for this patient not attaining the PK/PD target. Our results suggest ≥90% probability of the PK/PD target attainment of ceftazidime in patients on general wards with adequate and impaired renal function receiving regular and guideline-recommended reduced doses of ceftazidime for treatment of infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and all bacteria with lower MIC-values.
Short-Term Impact of Oxytetracycline Administration on the Fecal Microbiome, Resistome and Virulome of Grazing Cattle
Authors: Rovira Pablo
Published: February 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an important public health concern around the world. Limited information exists about AMR in grasslands-based systems where antibiotics are seldom used in beef cattle. The present study investigated the impacts of oxytetracycline (OTC) on the microbiome, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and virulence factor genes (VFGs) in grazing steers with no previous exposure to antibiotic treatments. Four steers were injected with a single dose of OTC (TREAT), and four steers were kept as control (CONT). The effects of OTC on fecal microbiome, ARGs, and VFGs were assessed for 14 days using 16S rRNA sequencing and shotgun metagenomics. Alpha and beta microbiome diversities were significantly affected by OTC. Following treatment, less than 8% of bacterial genera had differential abundance between CONT and TREAT samples. Seven ARGs conferring resistance to tetracycline (tet32, tet40, tet44, tetO, tetQ, tetW, and tetW/N/W) increased their abundance in the post-TREAT samples compared to CONT samples. In addition, OTC use was associated with the enrichment of macrolide and lincosamide ARGs (mel and lnuC, respectively). The use of OTC had no significant effect on VFGs. In conclusion, OTC induced short-term alterations of the fecal microbiome and enrichment of ARGs in the feces of grazing beef cattle.
Occult Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium ST117 Displaying a Highly Mutated vanB2 Operon
Authors: Santona Antonella , Taviani Elisa , Fiamma Maura , Deligios Massimo , Hoang Hoa , Sanna Silvana , Rubino Salvatore , Paglietti Bianca
Published: February 2023

Rare information is available on clinical Enterococcus faecium encountered in Sardinia, Italy. This study investigated the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles and genotypic characteristics of E. faecium isolated at the University Hospital of Sassari, Italy, using the Vitek2 system and PCR, MLST, or WGS. Vitek2 revealed two VanB-type vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) isolates (MICs mg/L = 8 and ≥32) but failed to detect vancomycin resistance in one isolate (MIC mg/L ≤ 1) despite positive genotypic confirmation of vanB gene, which proved to be vancomycin resistant by additional phenotypic methods (MICs mg/L = 8). This vanB isolate was able to increase its vancomycin MIC after exposure to vancomycin, unlike the “classic” occult vanB-carrying E. faecium, becoming detectable by Vitek 2 (MICs mg/L ≥ 32). All three E. faecium had highly mutated vanB2 operons, as part of a chromosomally integrated Tn1549 transposon, with common missense mutations in VanH and VanB2 resistance proteins and specific missense mutations in the VanW accessory protein. There were additional missense mutations in VanS, VanH, and VanB proteins in the vanB2-carrying VREfm isolates compared to Vitek2. The molecular typing revealed a polyclonal hospital-associated E. faecium population from Clade A1, and that vanB2-VREfm, and nearly half of vancomycin-susceptible E. faecium (VSEfm) analyzed, belonged to ST117. Based on core genome-MLST, ST117 strains had different clonal types (CT), excluding nosocomial transmission of specific CT. Detecting vanB2-carrying VREfm isolates by Vitek2 may be problematic, and alternative methods are needed to prevent therapeutic failure and spread.
Cell Rearrangement and Oxidant/Antioxidant Imbalance in Huntington’s Disease
Authors: D’Egidio Francesco , Castelli Vanessa , Cimini Annamaria , d’Angelo Michele
Published: February 2023

Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of a CAG triplet repeat in the HTT gene, resulting in the production of an aberrant huntingtin (Htt) protein. The mutant protein accumulation is responsible for neuronal dysfunction and cell death. This is due to the involvement of oxidative damage, excitotoxicity, inflammation, and mitochondrial impairment. Neurons naturally adapt to bioenergetic alteration and oxidative stress in physiological conditions. However, this dynamic system is compromised when a neurodegenerative disorder occurs, resulting in changes in metabolism, alteration in calcium signaling, and impaired substrates transport. Thus, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of the cell’s answer to the stress induced by HD, focusing on the role of oxidative stress and its balance with the antioxidant system.
Limnospira indica PCC 8005 Supplementation Prevents Pelvic Irradiation-Induced Dysbiosis but Not Acute Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Segers Charlotte , Mysara Mohamed , Coolkens Amelie , Wouters Shari , Baatout Sarah , Leys Natalie , Lebeer Sarah , Verslegers Mieke , Mastroleo Felice
Published: February 2023

Pelvic irradiation-induced mucositis secondarily leads to dysbiosis, which seriously affects patients’ quality of life after treatment. No safe and effective radioprotector or mitigator has yet been approved for clinical therapy. Here, we investigated the potential protective effects of fresh biomass of Limnospira indica PCC 8005 against ionizing irradiation-induced mucositis and dysbiosis in respect to benchmark probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG ATCC 53103. For this, mice were supplemented daily before and after 12 Gy X-irradiation of the pelvis. Upon sacrifice, food supplements’ efficacy was assessed for intestinal barrier protection, immunomodulation and changes in the microbiota composition. While both could not confer barrier protection or significant immunomodulatory effects, 16S microbial profiling revealed that L. indica PCC 8005 and L. rhamnosus GG could prevent pelvic irradiation-induced dysbiosis. Altogether, our data show that—besides benchmarked L. rhamnosus GG—L. indica PCC 8005 is an interesting candidate to further explore as a radiomitigator counteracting pelvic irradiation-induced dysbiosis in the presented in vivo irradiation–gut–microbiota platform.
Telomere Attrition in Chronic Kidney Diseases
Authors: Levstek Tina , Trebušak Podkrajšek Katarina
Published: February 2023

Telomeres are dynamic DNA nucleoprotein structures located at the end of chromosomes where they maintain genomic stability. Due to the end replication problem, telomeres shorten with each cell division. Critically short telomeres trigger cellular senescence, which contributes to various degenerative and age-related diseases, including chronic kidney diseases (CKDs). Additionally, other factors such as oxidative stress may also contribute to accelerated telomere shortening. Indeed, telomeres are highly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their high guanine content. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of studies examining telomere length (TL) in CKDs to highlight the association between TL and the development and progression of CKDs in humans. We then focus on studies investigating TL in patients receiving kidney replacement therapy. The mechanisms of the relationship between TL and CKD are not fully understood, but a shorter TL has been associated with decreased kidney function and the progression of nephropathy. Interestingly, telomere lengthening has been observed in some patients in longitudinal studies. Hemodialysis has been shown to accelerate telomere erosion, whereas the uremic milieu is not reversed even in kidney transplantation patients. Overall, this review aims to provide insights into the biological significance of telomere attrition in the pathophysiology of kidney disease, which may contribute to the development of new strategies for the management of patients with CKDs.
Naringenin and Hesperidin as Promising Alternatives for Prevention and Co-Adjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Madureira Maria Beatriz , Concato Virginia Marcia , Cruz Ellen Mayara Souza , Bitencourt de Morais Juliana Maria , Inoue Fabricio Seidy Ribeiro , Concimo Santos Natália , Gonçalves Manoela Daniele , Cremer de Souza Milena , Basso Scandolara Thalita , Fontana Mezoni Mariane , Galvani Murilo , Rodrigues Ferreira Seiva Fábio , Panis Carolina , Miranda-Sapla Milena Menegazzo , Pavanelli Wander Rogério
Published: February 2023

Citrus (genus Citrus L.) fruits are essential sources of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties, such as flavonoids. These polyphenolic compounds are divided into subclasses, in which flavanones are the most prominent. Among them, naringenin and hesperidin are emerging compounds with anticancer potential, especially for breast cancer (BC). Several mechanisms have been proposed, including the modulation of epigenetics, estrogen signaling, induction of cell death via regulation of apoptotic signaling pathways, and inhibition of tumor invasion and metastasis. However, this information is sparse in the literature and needs to be brought together to provide an overview of how naringenin and hesperidin can serve as therapeutic tools for drug development and as a successful co-adjuvant strategy against BC. This review detailed such mechanisms in this context and highlighted how naringenin and hesperidin could interfere in BC carcinogenesis and be helpful as potential alternative therapeutic sources for breast cancer treatment.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem-Cell-Derived Exosomes Ameliorate Deoxynivalenol-Induced Mice Liver Damage
Authors: Meng Zitong , Liao Yuxiao , Peng Zhao , Zhou Xiaolei , Zhou Huanhuan , Nüssler Andreas K. , Liu Liegang , Yang Wei
Published: February 2023

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a kind of Fusarium toxin that can cause a variety of toxic effects. DON is mainly metabolized and detoxified by the liver. When the concentration of DON exceeds the metabolic capacity of the liver, it will trigger acute or chronic damage to the liver tissue. Previous studies demonstrated that bone marrow mesenchymal stem-cell-secreted exosomes (BMSC-exos) reduce liver injury. Therefore, we issue a hypothesis that in vitro-cultured rat BMSC-secreted exos could ameliorate liver damage after 2 mg/kg bw/day of DON exposure. In total, 144 lipids were identified in BMEC-exos, including high polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels. BMSC-exos treatment alleviated liver pathological changes and decreased levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, inflammatory factors interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and lipid peroxidation. Otherwise, low or high BMSC-exos treatment obviously changes DON-induced hepatic oxylipin patterns. According to the results from our correlation network analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient analysis, and hierarchical clustering analysis, the top 10% oxidized lipids can be classified into two categories: one that was positively correlated with copper–zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD) and another that was positively correlated with liver injury indicators. Altogether, BMSC-exos administration maintained normal liver function and reduced oxidative damage in liver tissue. Moreover, it could also significantly change the oxylipin profiles under DON conditions.
Effect of Oil Type on Spatial Partition of Resveratrol in the Aqueous Phase, the Protein Interface and the Oil Phase of O/W Emulsions Stabilized by Whey Protein and Caseinate
Authors: Chen Yang , Cheng Hao , Liang Li
Published: February 2023

Oil-in-water emulsions contain the inner oil phase, the protein membrane at the interface and the aqueous phase. In this study, the spatial partition of resveratrol was investigated in sunflower oil, fish oil, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) and peppermint oil emulsions stabilized by native whey protein isolate (WPI), heat-denatured WPI and sodium caseinate. Resveratrol was added in the aqueous phase of emulsions and its partition was analyzed in term of resveratrol solubility in bulk oil and in the aqueous phase of protein, protein concentration and interfacial protein. The final concentrations of resveratrol in the aqueous phase were basically greater than those in the oil phase of fish oil, sunflower oil and MCT oil emulsions, while the final concentrations of resveratrol in the oil phase were greater than those in the aqueous phase of peppermint oil emulsions. The difference in the interfacial partition of resveratrol and proteins increased as the polyphenol solubility in bulk oil increased. Resveratrol solubility in the oil phase drove its transfer from the aqueous phase into the oil phase in all emulsions, except that the interfacial protein also contributed to the transfer in fish oil emulsions. The oil–water interface provided the microenvironment for the enrichment of resveratrol by proteins.
Organelle-Targeted Fluorescent Probes for Sulfane Sulfur Species
Authors: Roy Biswajit , Shieh Meg , Ramush Geat , Xian Ming
Published: February 2023

Sulfane sulfurs, which include hydropersulfides (RSSH), hydrogen polysulfides (H2Sn, n > 1), and polysulfides (RSnR, n > 2), play important roles in cellular redox biology and are closely linked to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) signaling. While most studies on sulfane sulfur detection have focused on sulfane sulfurs in the whole cell, increasing the recognition of the effects of reactive sulfur species on the functions of various subcellular organelles has emerged. This has driven a need for organelle-targeted detection methods. However, the detection of sulfane sulfurs, particularly of RSSH and H2Sn, in biological systems is still a challenge due to their low endogenous concentrations and instabilities. In this review, we summarize the development and design of organelle-targeted fluorescent sulfane sulfur probes, examine their organelle-targeting strategies and choices of fluorophores (e.g., ratiometric, near-infrared, etc.), and discuss their mechanisms and ability to detect endogenous and exogenous sulfane sulfur species. We also present the advantages and limitations of the probes and propose directions for future work on this topic.
Inhibited Channel Potential of 3D NAND Flash Memory String According to Transient Time
Authors: Cho Taeyoung , Kim Hyunju , Kang Myounggon
Published: February 2023

The channel potential of natural local self-boosting (NLSB) effects in 16-layer 3D NAND flash memory was analyzed according to transient time. After a program pulse was applied to the selected word line (WL) of the inhibited string channel, the channel potential of the selected WL increased owing to NLSB. The channel potential of the selected WL, increased by NLSB, was analyzed as a function of the threshold voltage (Vth) of the adjacent cell and according to the change in time. The analysis confirmed that the channel potential value decreased gradually over time. However, it was confirmed that the rate at which the channel potential decreases was different depending on the Vth of the adjacent cell. The number of electrons in nitride is different for each Vth. These electrons affect the holes of the spacer and channel. The analysis also confirmed that the movement of electrons was caused by the difference in the hole concentration in the spacer and channel.
Model-Based Approach for the Semi-Automatic Analysis of Collagen Birefringence in Polarized Light Microscopy
Authors: Cristoforetti Alessandro , Masè Michela , Ravelli Flavia
Published: February 2023

Collagen is a key determinant of physio-pathological processes in different tissues. Polarization light microscopy (PLM) of histological sections is the gold-standard for birefringence-based collagen quantification, but post-session image analysis can be time-consuming and subjective. We propose an efficient semi-automatic computational approach for the quantification of collagen content from the analysis of PLM images of birefringent histological sections. The method is based on a physical model of light-sample interaction and birefringence effect production. It combines the information of bright and dark-field PLM images to segment the luminal region and detect the birefringent signal associated with collagen in the tissue region. User input is limited to the selection of a threshold on an image subset and the supervision of the processing, enabling fast analysis of large datasets. Modeling of the birefringence signal compensates for variability factors related to sample processing and image acquisition, such as section thickness variability and nonuniform illumination and transmittance. As a proof-of-concept, the method was applied to human cardiac tissue PLM images, acquired in 14 cardiac surgery patients with different arrhythmic profiles. The method was able to detect a significantly larger amount and higher heterogeneity of fibrosis in the atrium of patients with as opposed to without atrial fibrillation (p < 0.05). The proposed method can be a valid aid to quicken and reinforce the analysis of large sets of PLM images for the quantification of collagen distribution in different tissues and pathologies.
Improving Deep Echo State Network with Neuronal Similarity-Based Iterative Pruning Merging Algorithm
Authors: Shen Qingyu , Zhang Hanwen , Mao Yao
Published: February 2023

Recently, a layer-stacked ESN model named deep echo state network (DeepESN) has been established. As an interactional model of a recurrent neural network and deep neural network, investigations of DeepESN are of significant importance in both areas. Optimizing the structure of neural networks remains a common task in artificial neural networks, and the question of how many neurons should be used in each layer of DeepESN must be stressed. In this paper, our aim is to solve the problem of choosing the optimized size of DeepESN. Inspired by the sensitive iterative pruning algorithm, a neuronal similarity-based iterative pruning merging algorithm (NS-IPMA) is proposed to iteratively prune or merge the most similar neurons in DeepESN. Two chaotic time series prediction tasks are applied to demonstrate the effectiveness of NS-IPMA. The results show that the DeepESN pruned by NS-IPMA outperforms the unpruned DeepESN with the same network size, and NS-IPMA is a feasible and superior approach to improving the generalization performance of DeepESN. The newly proposed method has broad application prospects in real-time systems.
An IoT-Based System for Efficient Detection of Cotton Pest
Authors: Azfar Saeed , Nadeem Adnan , Ahsan Kamran , Mehmood Amir , Siddiqui Muhammad Shoaib , Saeed Muhammad , Ashraf Mohammad
Published: February 2023

Considering the importance of cotton products, timely identification of pests (flying moths—being a significant threat to cotton crops) helps to protect cotton crops and improve their production and quality. This study proposes real-time detection of Cotton Flying Moths (CFMs) with the assistance of an Internet of Things (IoT)-based system in the agricultural field. The proposed prototype contains a group of sharp infrared sensors, a Zigbee-based communication module, an Arduino 2560 Mega board, a lithium polymer battery (to power the mote), a gateway device, and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to respond as a pesticide-sprayer against the detected pest. The proposed pest detection algorithm detects the flying insects’ presence by monitoring variations in the reflected light. Based on this, it sends a detection alert to the gateway device. The gateway device sends detection coordinates to the drone/UAV to respond by spraying pesticide in the detection region. A real testbed and simulation scenarios were implemented to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed detection system. The results of the testbed implementation suggest the effectiveness of the sensor design and CFM detection. Initial results from the simulation study indicate the suitability of the proposed prototype deployment in the agricultural field. The proposed prototype would not only help minimize the use of pesticides but also maintain the quality and quantity of cotton products. The originality of this study is the custom-made and cost-effective IoT prototype for CFM detection in the agricultural field.
Stray Light Analysis and Suppression of Taiji Telescope for Space Gravitational Wave Detection Based on Phase Noise Requirement
Authors: Sang Benliang , Deng Xiaoqin , Tao Wei , Diao Yuqing , Sha Wei
Published: February 2023

The telescope is the core device for space gravitational wave detection. It is responsible for receiving signal light and emitting outgoing light simultaneously. When the high-energy outgoing laser passes through the telescope, it would produce stray light, which would interfere with the phase measurement and generate phase noise. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze and suppress the stray light of the telescope. In this paper, the requirement of point source transmittance (PST) of the Taiji telescope is obtained through theoretical derivation, which is less than 4×10−10. Through a complete analysis of stray light, we determined that the M4 was the largest source of stray light under the condition that the roughness of each optical surface is equal, which accounted for 67.22%. We also determined the most lenient requirements for surface roughness σλ, and found that when σλ of the M1, M2, M3, and M4 were 20 Å, 4 Å, 1 Å, and 1 Å, respectively, the PST was 3.89×10−10, which met the PST requirement. Next, we calculated the effect of particulate contamination on the PST, and based on the results of our analysis, we determined that the cleanliness level of the testing and storage environment of the Taiji telescope was better than 300. Finally, we evaluated the changes in the PST caused by the damage of micrometeoroids, and the analysis results showed that the stray light level would not change significantly during the service period of the Taiji Telescope.
Chains-BERT: A High-Performance Semi-Supervised and Contrastive Learning-Based Automatic Question-and-Answering Model for Agricultural Scenarios
Authors: Huang Yikang , Liu Jingwen , Lv Chunli
Published: February 2023

Achieving automatic question-and-answering for agricultural scenarios based on machine reading comprehension can facilitate production staff to query information and process data efficiently. Nevertheless, when studying agricultural question-and-answer classification, there are barriers, such as small-scale corpus, narrow content range of corpus, or the need for manual annotation. In the context of such production needs, this paper proposed a text classification model based on text-relational chains and applied it to machine reading comprehension and open-ended question-and-answer tasks in agricultural scenarios. This paper modified the BERT network based on semi-supervised and contrastive learning to enhance the model’s performance. By incorporating the text-relational chains with the BERT network, the Chains-BERT model is constructed. Our efficient mode method outperformed other methods on the CAIL2018 dataset. Ultimately, we developed an automatic question-and-answering application to embed the contrastive-learning information aggregation model in this paper. The accuracy of the proposed model exceeded that of several contrasting mainstream models in many open-source datasets. In agricultural scenarios, the model has achieved state-of-the-art levels and is the best in efficiency.