bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanowetting drives droplet and fluid transport on traveling surface waves generated by light-responsive liquid crystal polymers
Authors: De Jong Edwin , Kremer Réan , Liu Ling , Den Toonder Jaap M. J. , Onck Patrick R.
Published: June 2021

In nature, capillary forces are often driving microfluidic propulsion and droplet manipulation, and technologies have been developed to utilize these forces in applications such as lab-on-a-chip biosensors and microfluidic systems. At the same time, responsive materials have been developed that can be activated by a variety of external triggers, including light, electric fields, and temperature, to locally deform and create dynamic surface structures, such as traveling waves. Here, we combine these developments into a system that enables capillary-driven droplet transport and fluid propulsion generated by light-induced surface waves in azobenzene-embedded liquid crystal polymers. We demonstrate that the traveling waves are able to efficiently propel fluids by means of mechanowetting. We couple the wave profiles to the fluid simulations using a multiphase computational fluid dynamics approach. We study three different fluid propulsion systems, i.e., peristaltic flow, liquid slug transport, and free-standing droplet transport. The first system operates on a fluid-filled single channel and achieves relative flow speeds of u/uwave<0.01. In contrast, the slugs and droplets are transported at two orders of magnitude higher speed equal to the wave speed (u/uwave=1) by exploiting the mechanowetting effect. We quantify the capillary forces generated by the traveling surface waves. Our method opens new avenues in light-driven (digital) microfluidic systems with enhanced control of fluid flow.
Magnetic imaging and statistical analysis of the metamagnetic phase transition of FeRh with electron spins in diamond
Authors: Nava Antonio Guillermo , Bertelli Iacopo , Simon Brecht G. , Medapalli Rajasekhar , Afanasiev Dmytro , van der Sar Toeno
Published: June 2021

Magnetic imaging based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond has emerged as a powerful tool for probing magnetic phenomena in fields ranging from biology to physics. A key strength of NV sensing is its local-probe nature, enabling high-resolution spatial images of magnetic stray fields emanating from a sample. However, this local character can also form a drawback for analyzing the global properties of a system, such as a phase transition temperature. Here, we address this challenge by using statistical analyses of magnetic-field maps to characterize the first-order temperature-driven metamagnetic phase transition from the antiferromagnetic to the ferromagnetic state in FeRh. After imaging the phase transition and identifying the regimes of nucleation, growth, and coalescence of ferromagnetic domains, we statistically characterize the spatial magnetic-field maps to extract the transition temperature and thermal hysteresis width. By analyzing the spatial correlations of the maps in relation to the magnetocrystalline anisotropy and external magnetic field, we detect a reorientation of domain walls across the phase transition. The employed statistical approach can be extended to the study of other magnetic phenomena with NV magnetometry or other sensing techniques.
Optical phonon modes, static and high-frequency dielectric constants, and effective electron mass parameter in cubic In2O3
Authors: Stokey Megan , Korlacki Rafał , Knight Sean , Ruder Alexander , Hilfiker Matthew , Galazka Zbigniew , Irmscher Klaus , Zhang Yuxuan , Zhao Hongping , Darakchieva Vanya , Schubert Mathias
Published: June 2021

A complete set of all optical phonon modes predicted by symmetry for bixbyite structure indium oxide is reported here from a combination of far-infrared and infrared spectroscopic ellipsometry, as well as first principles calculations. Dielectric function spectra measured on high quality, marginally electrically conductive melt grown single bulk crystals are obtained on a wavelength-by-wavelength (also known as point-by-point) basis and by numerical reduction of a subtle free charge carrier Drude model contribution. A four-parameter semi-quantum model is applied to determine all 16 pairs of infrared-active transverse and longitudinal optical phonon modes, including the high-frequency dielectric constant, ε∞=4.05±0.05. The Lyddane–Sachs–Teller relation then gives access to the static dielectric constant, εDC=10.55±0.07. All experimental results are in excellent agreement with our density functional theory calculations and with previously reported values, where existent. We also perform optical Hall effect measurements and determine for the unintentionally doped n-type sample a free electron density of n=(2.81±0.01)×1017cm−3, a mobility of μ=(112±3)cm2/(Vs), and an effective mass parameter of (0.208±0.006)me. Density and mobility parameters compare very well with the results of electrical Hall effect measurements. Our effective mass parameter, which is measured independently of any other experimental technique, represents the bottom curvature of the Γ point in In2O3 in agreement with previous extrapolations. We use terahertz spectroscopic ellipsometry to measure the quasi-static response of In2O3, and our model validates the static dielectric constant obtained from the Lyddane–Sachs–Teller relation.
A computational study of expiratory particle transport and vortex dynamics during breathing with and without face masks
Authors: Khosronejad Ali , Kang Seokkoo , Wermelinger Fabian , Koumoutsakos Petros , Sotiropoulos Fotis
Published: June 2021

We present high-fidelity numerical simulations of expiratory biosol transport during normal breathing under indoor, stagnant air conditions with and without a facile mask. We investigate mask efficacy to suppress the spread of saliva particles that is underpinnings existing social distancing recommendations. The present simulations incorporate the effect of human anatomy and consider a spectrum of saliva particulate sizes that range from 0.1 to 10 μm while also accounting for their evaporation. The simulations elucidate the vorticity dynamics of human breathing and show that without a facile mask, saliva particulates could travel over 2.2 m away from the person. However, a non-medical grade face mask can drastically reduce saliva particulate propagation to 0.72 m away from the person. This study provides new quantitative evidence that facile masks can successfully suppress the spreading of saliva particulates due to normal breathing in indoor environments.
Power and socialization in sibling interaction
Authors: Declercq Jana
Published: June 2021

This paper analyses socialization processes in the interaction between two Belgian, Dutch-speaking sisters, aged 10 and 8, more specifically with regard to power dynamics and establishing the roles of socialization target and agent. Socialization is collaborative, but usually entails some division of roles, which is intricately linked to power dynamics. Consequently, socialization efforts, and the socialization roles of target and agent, can be discarded or contested as part of these power dynamics. The analysis shows that socialization efforts between the sisters are often accepted, but also regularly contested and resisted. Moreover, the data indicates that roles and goals of some socialization efforts are so unclear that the boundaries between socialization efforts and interactional actions that aim to gain control become blurred. In conclusion, socialization must not only be considered in terms of its learning potential, but also as a power struggle with intricate and complex negotiation dynamics.
Grapevine red blotch virus (grapevine red blotch virus).
Authors: Fuchs Marc
Published: June 2021

The economic cost of GRBV is estimated to range from US $2,213/ha to $68,548/ha, depending on the initial infection rate and quality penalties for sub-standard fruits (Ricketts et al., 2017). In addition, there has been an unprecedented rate of vineyard removals in areas where the virus is widespread due to a substantially-reduced productive lifespan of GRBV-infected vineyard parcels.
Mycosphaerella gibsonii (needle blight of pine).
Authors: Minott Annika
Published: June 2021

Mycosphaerella gibsonii is a fungal pathogen causing needle blight, primarily in Pinus species. It causes lesions on needles, first affecting lower needles and then spreading to the upper crown. The disease eventually causes needle necrosis and needle cast, leading to defoliation, stunted growth and host plant death; it is a major obstacle to the production of pine seedlings. M. gibsonii occurs in the tropics and subtropics of South and Central America, the Caribbean, sub-saharan Africa, India, South East Asia and East Asia; the native range is uncertain. Although natural dispersal by wind and water occur locally, international spread is largely due to movement of infected nursery stock. Phytosanitary control measures such as avoiding the planting of infected plants, removal and destruction of all infected pines in nurseries and cleaning between annual production cycles in nurseries can help to reduce the spread of the pathogen. It is listed as an A1 quarantine pest in the EPPO region, and is considered of quarantine significance in South America.
Popillia japonica (Japanese beetle).
Authors: Klein Michael
Published: June 2021

The Japanese beetle was first discovered in New Jersey, USA in 1916. It probably entered the USA as grubs with iris bulbs before 1912 when plant materials were first examined. Although not a pest in Japan, extensive, well-watered, turf, and a lack of parasites, allowed populations to rapidly build up and spread steadily west to the Mississippi River. The loss of the chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticides, and the end of the Federal quarantine on nursery stock, has allowed beetles to move into western states at a rapid rate. Beetles are pests of quarantine concern in the western USA and Europe. P. japonica was found on Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal in the 1980s. Again, extensive turf allowed establishment of beetles, population explosions, the infestation of that island, and subsequently of three more of the Azorean Islands. Beetles have moved considerably outside of the climatic conditions in their native Japan.
Pectobacterium brasiliense (soft rot and blackleg of ornamentals and potato).
Authors: Joshi Janak Raj , Zeng Yuan , Charkowski Amy
Published: June 2021

Pectobacterium brasiliense is a bacterial pathogen primarily infecting potato and other vegetables and ornamentals. The earliest reports of the bacterium causing disease were from Brazil in 2004 (El-Tassa and Duarte, 2004; Duarte et al., 2004). This pathogen was reported for the first time in Europe (Belgium) in 2012 (van der Wolf et al., 2017). Since then, the pathogen has been reported in many regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, North and South America. The bacterium has adapted itself to a wide range of temperatures and host species, thus it is considered a culprit for significant losses in China, South Africa, Brazil, Netherlands, Switzerland and UK (Meng et al., 2017; van der Wolf et al., 2017). Symptoms caused by P. brasiliense are indistinguishable from other soft rot Pectobacterium and Dickeya, therefore it is impossible to identify this species on the basis of field and laboratory symptoms. Unfortunately, there is no evidence of curative measures and varietal resistance (in cultivated potatoes) against this group of bacteria, so farmers rely on seed certification, exclusion and sanitation to mitigate its worst effects.
Isolation and structural elucidation of novel fusicoccan dehydroxypericonicin A from Roussoella sp
Authors: Hayasaka Ayane , Tanaka Kazuaki , Hashimoto Masaru
Published: June 2021

A potent antifungal fusicoccane dehydroxypericonicin A (1) was isolated from Roussoella sp. along with known allantofuranone (2). The relative structure of 1 was fully elucidated by NMR spectroscopic manner. The suggested relative structure was confirmed by density functional theory (DFT)-based 13C NMR chemical shift calculations. The absolute configuration was investigated by a spectral comparison of the experimental electronic circular dichroism spectrum with that based on the DFT calculations.
Comparative genome analysis reveals the presence of multiple quorum-sensing systems in plant pathogenic bacterium, Erwinia rhapontici
Authors: Morohoshi Tomohiro , Nameki Kanako , Someya Nobutaka
Published: June 2021

We present the complete genome sequences of 3 Erwinia rhapontici strains, MAFF 311153, 311154, and 311155. These chromosome sequences contained variety types of luxI/luxR gene pair involved in acylhomoserine lactone biosynthesis and reception. Large-scale insertion sequence was observed in the indigenous plasmid of MAFF 311154 and contained eraI3/eraR3 gene pair that make possible to produce acylhomoserine lactone.
Establishment of epidemiological cut-off values for cefoselis, a new fourth-generation cephalosporin, against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Li Xue , Jia Peiyao , Zhu Ying , Xu Yingchun , Yu Yunsong , Lv Yuan , Wang Minggui , Sun Ziyong , Lin Jie , Li Yun , Zheng Bo , Hu Fupin , Guo Yan , Chen Zhongju , Li Haixia , Zhang Ge , Zhang Jingjia , Kang Wei , Duan Simeng , Wang Tong , Jing Ran , Yang Qiwen
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To establish the epidemiological cut-off values (ECOFFs) for cefoselis against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Methods

We collected 2288 non-repetitive clinical isolates from five laboratories throughout four cities in China. The cefoselis MICs and inhibition zone diameters for all isolates were established using the broth microdilution method and the disc diffusion method following EUCAST guidelines. MIC ECOFFs were determined by visual estimation and ECOFFinder software. Zone diameter ECOFFs were set if a high correlation of MICs and inhibition zone diameters was found by Pearson correlation. Zone diameter ECOFFs were finally determined by the visual estimate method.

Results

MICs of cefoselis were distributed from 0.008 to >256 mg/L for the four Enterobacterales species and from 0.25 to >256 mg/L for P. aeruginosa. MIC ECOFFs were 0.125 mg/L for E. coli, K. pneumoniae and P. mirabilis, 0.25 mg/L for E. cloacae and 32 mg/L for P. aeruginosa. A high correlation of MICs and zone diameters was observed for all Enterobacterales (|r| > 0.8, P < 0.001) and a relatively high correlation was found for P. aeruginosa (|r| = 0.71, P < 0.001). The zone diameter ECOFF was 24 mm for E. cloacae, E. coli and K. pneumoniae, 26 mm for P. mirabilis and 21 mm for P. aeruginosa.

Conclusions

We determined MIC and zone diameter ECOFFs for cefoselis against four Enterobacterales species and P. aeruginosa. The establishment of ECOFFs for cefoselis provides clinicians with helpful guidance to differentiate WT and non-WT pathogens.
System and capability of public health response to nuclear or radiological emergencies in China
Authors: Fu Xi-Ming , Yuan Long , Liu Qing-Jie
Published: June 2021

In order to respond to nuclear or radiological emergencies effectively and protect the physical and mental health of the public, the national-, provincial-, municipal- and county-level public health response systems for nuclear or radiological emergencies had been established in China by the end of twentieth century. The health administrative departments at all levels have established professional emergency response teams, continue to improve their own level of emergency response systems and operating mechanisms, enhance the capabilities of radiation injury treatment, radiation monitoring and protection through training and exercises and also pay attention to the logistical support for emergency response. In this article the organizations, management system and capabilities of public health response to nuclear or radiological emergencies in China are briefly introduced. We try to strengthen information exchange and cooperation with foreign counterparts in this field in the future, so as to jointly promote the development of preparedness and response for nuclear or radiological emergencies.
The protein modifier SUMO is critical for integrity of the Arabidopsis shoot apex at warm ambient temperatures
Authors: Hammoudi Valentin , Beerens Bas , Jonker Martijs J , Helderman Tieme A , Vlachakis Georgios , Giesbers Marcel , Kwaaitaal Mark , van den Burg Harrold A
Published: June 2021

SUMO is a protein modification whose conjugate levels peak during acute heat stress. Here, we found that SUMO is also critical for plant longevity when Arabidopsis experiences a prolonged non-damaging period of 28 °C. Thermo-lethality at 28 °C was seen in sumo1/2 knockdown mutants but not in any other mutant of the SUMO pathway tested. Autoimmunity due to low SUMO1/2 expression levels was not causal for this thermo-lethality. The role of SUMO in thermo-resilience was also distinct from its requirement for thermomorphogenesis—a growth response triggered by the same warm temperature, as only the latter response was also dependent on the SUMO ligase SIZ1. Thermo-resilience at 28 °C and (acquired) thermotolerance, a response that allows plants to recover and acclimate to brief extreme temperatures, both depend on the HEAT SHOCK TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR A1 (HSFA1). Acquired thermotolerance was, however, normal in the sumo1/2 knockdown mutant. Thus, SUMO-dependent thermo-resilience is potentially controlled in a different way from the protein damage pathway that underpins thermotolerance. Close inspection of shoot apices revealed that the cell patterning and tissue integrity of the shoot apex of the SUMO1/2 knockdown mutant was lost at 28 °C but not 22 °C. We thus describe a novel SUMO-dependent phenotype.
The ‘Strange Fruit’ of Flannery O’connor: Damning Monuments in Southern Literature and Southern History
Authors: Rowan Fannin Jordan
Published: June 2021

This article revisits Flannery O’Connor’s racialised Christophany in her short story, ‘The Artificial N*’, in light of contemporary tensions over Confederate monuments in America. It explores her grotesque Christ (manifest in a suburban lawn jockey) that mysteriously acts as a means of grace and effects repentance and reconciliation. It teaches us how to read this racist statuary within the grotesque history of Confederate monuments in the American South. By further situating her story and this history in the matrix of art and community, materiality and memory, her work is able to provide a damning theological critique of the current debate around monument removal, without which we may be content to absent offending sculptures but leave untouched our unreconciled communities and sinful social order.
Haydn and the Aesthetics of Naivety
Authors: Friedman Jacob
Published: June 2021

Contending with rapid urbanization in the eighteenth century, some writers advocated a better understanding of mankind in its most ‘natural’ state. This impulse manifested itself in the arts as an idealization of ‘naivety’. Yet this ideal began to fade in the nineteenth century as Romantics prioritized intense expressivity and engagement with raw emotional complexities of life. Naivety came to be seen as an irresponsible retreat from reality. Writers on both sides of this redefinition of naivety positioned Joseph Haydn as the model ‘naive’ composer. Celebrated in his lifetime for his musical wit, Haydn nonetheless was always closely associated with his unpretentious, rustic origins. This essay contextualizes the fascination with Haydn’s supposed naivety within cultural trends at the turn of the nineteenth century and beyond. It demonstrates how changing attitudes towards the aesthetic category of naivety can partly explain the vicissitudes of Haydn’s reception history in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Changing modality behaviour in the radio light curve of blazar PKS B1144 − 379
Authors: Said N M M , Ellingsen S P , Liu J , McCallum J N , Bignall H E , Shabala S , Reynolds C
Published: June 2021

The highly variable BL Lac object PKS B1144 − 379 was monitored at 6.7 GHz using the Ceduna Radio Telescope with high cadence from 2003 to 2011. Intraday variations due to interstellar scintillation (ISS) were observed throughout the period. To complement our earlier analysis of the ISS and variability of this object, we have investigated the physical origin of changes in the modality of flux density distributions, calculated for ∼14 d observing blocks. Our analysis shows that the flux density distribution is primarily bimodal, but it changes to unimodal during the core brightening and jet expansion phases of the source. The presence of unimodal flux density distributions during these two phases is most likely due to the compactness of the scintillating component and the intrinsic evolution of the source. The existence of unimodality in the flux density distributions associated with specific phases of the source evolution also suggests that changes in the modality are unlikely due to multiple scattering screens. We propose that the physical origin of changes in the modality of the flux density distribution for PKS B1144 − 379 is most likely due to the combination of multiple bright jet features with interstellar scintillation along the line of sight between observer and source. This new approach complements our previous investigations of the temporal evolution of PKS B1144 − 379 that used interstellar scintillation and very long baseline interferometry, and the combination of these techniques provides a crucial starting point for understanding the system.
Diagnostics of homologous solar-surge plasma as observed by IRIS and SDO
Authors: Kayshap Pradeep , Singh Payal Rajdeep , Tripathi Sharad C , Padhy Harihara
Published: June 2021

Surges have regularly been observed in mostly H α 6563 Å and Ca ii 8542 Å. However, surge responses to other prominent lines of the interface region (Mg ii k 2796.35 Å and h 2803.52 Å, O iv 1401.15 Å, Si iv 1402.77 Å) are not well studied. Here, the evolution and kinematics of six homologous surges are analysed using IRIS and AIA observations. These surges were observed on 2014 July 7 and were located very close to the limb. A differential emission measure analysis is performed on these surges where the coexistence of cool (log T/K = 6.35) and relatively hot (log T/K  = 6.95) components has been found at the base. This demonstrates that the bases of surges undergo substantial heating. During the emission of these surges in the above-mentioned interface-region lines, reported here for the first time, two peaks have been observed in the initial phase of emission, where one peak is found to be constant while other one varies; i.e. is non-constant (observed red- to blueshifts across the surge evolution) in nature. This suggests the rotational motion of surge plasma. The heated base and rotating plasma suggest the occurrence of magnetic reconnection as the most likely trigger for homologous surges. During the emission of these surges, it is found that, despite them being optically thick (i.e. Rkh < 2.0), central reversal was not observed for the Mg ii k and h lines. Further, Rkh increases with surge emission in time and it is found to have a positive correlation with Doppler velocity and negative with Gaussian width.
A Systematic Review to Compare Chemical Hazard Predictions of the Zebrafish Embryotoxicity Test With Mammalian Prenatal Developmental Toxicity
Authors: Hoffmann Sebastian , Marigliani Bianca , Akgün-Ölmez Sevcan Gül , Ireland Danielle , Cruz Rebecca , Busquet Francois , Flick Burkhard , Lalu Manoj , Ghandakly Elizabeth C , de Vries Rob B M , Witters Hilda , Wright Robert A , Ölmez Metin , Willett Catherine , Hartung Thomas , Stephens Martin L , Tsaioun Katya
Published: June 2021

Originally developed to inform the acute toxicity of chemicals on fish, the zebrafish embryotoxicity test (ZET) has also been proposed for assessing the prenatal developmental toxicity of chemicals, potentially replacing mammalian studies. Although extensively evaluated in primary studies, a comprehensive review summarizing the available evidence for the ZET’s capacity is lacking. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of how well the presence or absence of exposure-related findings in the ZET predicts prenatal development toxicity in studies with rats and rabbits. A two-tiered systematic review of the developmental toxicity literature was performed, a review of the ZET literature was followed by one of the mammalian literature. Data were extracted using DistillerSR, and study validity was assessed with an amended SYRCLE's risk-of-bias tool. Extracted data were analyzed for each species and substance, which provided the basis for comparing the 2 test methods. Although limited by the number of 24 included chemicals, our results suggest that the ZET has potential to identify chemicals that are mammalian prenatal developmental toxicants, with a tendency for overprediction. Furthermore, our analysis confirmed the need for further standardization of the ZET. In addition, we identified contextual and methodological challenges in the application of systematic review approaches to toxicological questions. One key to overcoming these challenges is a transition to more comprehensive and transparent planning, conduct and reporting of toxicological studies. The first step toward bringing about this change is to create broad awareness in the toxicological community of the need for and benefits of more evidence-based approaches.
Crystal Structure and Bioinformatics Inferred Function of Protein A2617 from Methylibium petroleiphilum
Authors: Saleh Ali , Collazo Michael J. , Sawaya Michael , Cascio Duilio , Rasche Madeline
Published: June 2021

The attempt to elucidate the biological function of enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of tetrahydromethanopterin for the use in one‐carbon metabolism by archaea and select bacteria has resulted in the crystal structure of the hypothetical protein A2617 from Methylibium petroleiphilum. The structure was initially solved at 2.0 Å resolution using a selenomethionine multi‐wavelength anomalous diffraction experiment, and further refined at 1.8 Å resolution using a native dataset. The Rfactor of the current model is 0.19 and the Rfree is 0.22. The crystal structure of A2617 is a homodimer with each monomer consisting of four α‐helices connected to a barrel fold of six anti‐parallel β‐sheets with an α‐helix by a pair of anti‐parallel β‐sheets. The monomers interface to form the homodimer at the region containing four α‐helices with the barrel folds flanking both ends of the structure. A deep cleft is present at the interface of the two monomers. The overall structure of A2617 resembles that of uncharacterized archaeal homologs; however, the structure is distinct due to the lack of bound FMN in the binding pocket that is found in the archaeal homolog crystal structures. Ligand docking studies using intermediates in the tetrahydromethanopterin biosynthetic pathway indicated that A2617 has the greatest binding affinity for 6‐hydroxymethyl‐7,8‐dihydropterin‐ribofuranosylaminobenzene‐5‐phosphate. This metabolite is the substrate for the third step of tetrahydromethanopterin side chain biosynthesis, which is an oxidoreductase reaction. The homology of A2617 with FMN‐containing archaeal proteins and the findings of the ligand binding studies provide support for the role of A2617 in catalyzing a reductive reaction in the biosynthesis of the tetrahydromethanopterin side chain.

Support or Funding Information

This research was supported by National Science Foundation grant number CHE‐1508801 and by a grant from the California State University Program for Education and Research in Biotechnology (CSUPERB).
A Fluorescent, HTS‐Adaptable Coupled‐Enzyme Assay for Measurement of Human Cytosolic Sulfotransferase (SULT) 2B1b Activity and Identification of Small‐Molecule Inhibitors
Authors: Zhou Qing , Mesecar Andrew
Published: June 2021

Human cytosolic sulfotransferase (SULT) 2B1b, as a member in the SULT family, catalyzes the transfer of a sulfonate moiety (‐SO3) from the universal donor 3‐phopho‐adenosine 5′‐phophosulfate (PAPS) to the hydroxyl groups of various substrates, which leads to a change in water solubility and thus triggers various downstream effects. SULT2B1b highly prefers 3β‐hydroxysteroids, such as cholesterol, as its substrates. By switching the sulfonation state of its substrates, SULT2B1b is involved in the regulation of steroid synthesis, transportation and signaling. Furthermore, SULT2B1b has been suggested as a potential drug target for prostate cancer. Therefore, we aim to identify small‐molecule inhibitors from high‐throughput screening (HTS), and utilize them to study the physiological roles of SULT2B1b in both normal tissues and carcinogenesis as well as provide possible leads for drug discovery in the treatment of prostate cancer. Considering the lack of convenient and HTS‐adaptable activity assays for SULT2B1b, we have developed a fluorescent, coupled‐enzyme assay with real‐time fluorescence‐monitoring capabilities as opposed to the commonly used endpoint radioactivity assays. The new assay was adapted for HTS in 384‐well plates and after non‐trivial assay optimization, this activity assay resulted in a reliable performance (Z′‐factor=0.8 in preliminary study, Z‐factor=0.6~0.7 in the actual screening). Initial hits from HTS have been further validated in vitro and in cellulo. Our criteria for highly selective inhibitors of SULT2B1b include high potency in vitro, and success in mimicking the effects of SULT2B1b siRNA in cellular studies, including attenuating prostate cancer cell proliferation and decreasing cholesterol sulfate accumulation.

Support or Funding Information

This work is funded by a grant from the Department of Defense.
Expectations from Low‐Income Adults Regarding an Innovative Nutrition Education eLearning Program
Authors: Stotz Sarah , Lee Jung Sun , Hibbs Judy , White Alice
Published: June 2021

As a step in a comprehensive multi‐year formative and process evaluation of a newly developed eLearning nutrition education program targeted to SNAP‐Ed eligible adults in Georgia (southeastern USA), this study intended to obtain qualitative understanding on expectations and desires of the program from the point‐of‐view of members of the target audience regarding both format and content. Low‐income adult Georgians were recruited to participate in a series of two focus groups. This study reports the findings from the first in this series based on the participants’ expectations of the eLearning program, which informed the iterative development process of the program, titled Food eTalk. Four focus groups were conducted in a convenience sample (n=25, age 41.5 ± 15.5 years, 96% female, 60% Black, 20% Hispanic). Participants from both rural and urban areas of Georgia described their Internet access as reliable and easily available both at home and through multitude of free WiFi sources in their communities. They discussed inexpensive online access though their smartphone using free WiFi or at a computer at the public library. When asked about the format of Food eTalk, participants prefer short lessons with interactive activities, videos, and the option to pause and resume a lesson where they left off. In response to what content they wanted in the Food eTalk lessons, participants discussed the need to expand beyond traditional basic nutrition education. Every focus group included a participant‐generated discussion about the specific need for diabetes diet information. Participants suggested that basic nutrition education, such as Choose My Plate, does not provide enough information to increase their knowledge nor does basic nutrition education address their actual barriers to eating healthfully. Barriers to eating healthfully include: limited food budget, high cost of fresh produce and low cost of ‘processed’ food, cultural taste preferences that have become habitual though generations, and resistance to change with regard to diet practices. To mitigate the last two barriers, participants discussed the need for education on how to cook healthier meals and tips on how to acculturate their children to prefer healthier foods. Finally, food safety was discussed at length and included concern about safety/hygiene of food when dining out, distrust in genetically modified food, and fears of antibiotic/steroid use in animals raised for food. The implications of this qualitative study are to assist in developing a user‐centered nutrition education eLearning program using an iterative process including members of the target audience in program development.

Support or Funding Information

This project is funded by USDA SNAP Ed
Recruitment Strategies Implemented Across a Four‐State Lifestyle Intervention: Get Fruved Study
Authors: Barr Makenzie L , Olfert Melissa D. , Zhou Wenjun , Riggsbee Kristin , Mathews Anne EW , Vilaro Melissa , Kattelmann Kendra K. , Andrea Hanson , White Adrienne , Horacek Tanya , Kidd Tandalayo , Brown Onikia , Colby Sarah E
Published: June 2021

The objective of the ‘Get Fruved’ research project was to enroll college students from four universities into two courses. This community based participatory research (CBPR) multi‐university, peer‐led, social marketing and environmental intervention is aimed at improving healthful lifestyles (primarily focused on diet, stress management and physical activity) and changing campus environments to promote obesity prevention with older adolescent populations (students entering their first year of college). The four intervention universities (FL, SD, TN, and WV) attempted to recruit 30 social marketing and environmental intervention (SMEI) students, 50 peer mentors (PM), and student researchers per state (minimum of 320 students) over 5 months (August‐December 2015). Recruitment strategies included: emails, student digital announcements, talking with administrators, speaking in classes, informational booths, chalking sidewalks, flyers posted around campus in high traffic areas and word of mouth. Strategies for each state were logged weekly. The recruited students became 4‐H collegiate members and took a 3‐credit hour (SMEI) or a 1‐credit hour (PM) multi‐university course, and/or assisted with research. In these courses the students developed the intervention using a CBPR approach in collaboration with researchers and Extension Professionals. The baseline characteristics of the recruited SMEI, PM, and student researchers were assessed using demographic and behavior surveys and anthropometric data was collected. Weekly recruitment strategy logs were analyzed and states were found to have similar approaches. SMEI course (total of 74) signed up and 240 for the PM course. Approximately 60 undergraduate researchers, 40 graduate researchers, and 10 Doctoral students were recruited to work on the project as student researchers. Only 280 participants completed the survey process. Demographics between SMEI, PM, and student researchers across states were found to be statistically similar. Participants (N=280) were predominately Caucasian (84.4%) and female (87.89%), and 75.3% were 18–20 year olds. Most participants were sophomores (39.84%) followed by juniors (34.38%), freshmen (18.75%) and one graduate student (0.39%). Recruitment strategies resulted in a sample that exceeded minimum goals for PM but fell short for SMEI. Using a CBPR approach to develop partnerships with motivated students was essential to effectively plan and execute an intervention to promote healthful lifestyles on these college campuses that may help to prevent the development of obesity.

Support or Funding Information

Funding support USDA/AFRI #2014‐67001‐21851
Metabolic Fate of Curcumin in the Gastrointestinal Tract in Mice
Authors: Li Zhengze , Sun Yue , Song Mingyue , Li Fang , Xiao Hang
Published: June 2021

Curcumin (1,7‐bis (4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)‐1,6‐heptadiene‐3,5‐dione) is a major yellow‐orange pigment found in turmeric, and has been used widely as a food ingredient. Curcumin has been associated with many health benefits, but its health‐promoting potential is limited by its poor bioavailability. This is due to the fact that curcumin is poorly absorbed, and absorbed curcumin is subject to extensive biotransformation. The detailed understanding of biotransformation of curcumin is needed to facilitate the elucidation of its biological significance. This study was aimed to establish the metabolic fate of curcumin in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The male CD‐1 mice were fed with curcumin in diet (0.05% w/w) for 5 weeks. The entire GI tract and its content were harvested for LC‐MS analysis. Our results demonstrated that curcumin underwent phase I metabolism in the small intestine to yield two major metabolites, namely hexahydro‐curcumin and octahydro‐curcumin. Curcumin, hexahydro‐curcumin and octahydro‐curcumin were all subject to phase II metabolism that converted them to their corresponding glucuronides and sulfates. The majority of curcumin, hexahydro‐curcumin and octahydro‐curcumin exist as phase II conjugates in the small intestine. However, due to the action of gut microbiota, curcumin, hexahydro‐curcumin and octahydro‐curcumin almost exclusively existed in the non‐conjugated forms in the cecum and colon. Furthermore, our results suggested that gut microbiota could break down curcumin, hexahydro‐curcumin and octahydro‐curcumin to produce different fission products. In summary, our results determined the metabolic fate of curcumin in the GI tract, which can help understand the biological effects of curcumin in the GI tract as well as other related organs.

Support or Funding Information

This study was partially supported by fund from USDA.
Creating a Riboswitch‐Based Whole‐Cell Biosensor for Bisphenol A
Authors: Zorawski Marek , Shaffer Jeremy , Velasquez Erick , Liu Jane M.
Published: June 2021

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a known endocrine disruptor and potential carcinogen found in polycarbonate plastic products, food packaging, and drinking water supplies. A quick and affordable detector, such as a whole‐cell biosensor that measures the presence of BPA, would greatly benefit safety and health. We set out to develop such a method by using riboswitch‐based biosensors. Riboswitches are regions of mRNAs that control downstream gene expression and can be used as genetic sensors to create whole‐cell biosensors. Although there are no naturally occurring BPA‐riboswitches, we reasoned that we could use the power of genetic selections to generate one. Starting from a known riboswitch that regulates expression of the downstream selection marker tetA linked to the reporter gene gfp, we used PCR or Gibson Assembly to replace the aptamer domain of the switch with 40 random bases, generating plasmid libraries. We then transformed Escherichia coli with these plasmids such that each individual bacterium harbored a unique member of the library. Libraries made by Gibson Assembly resulted in 108 unique members, while those made by PCR were generally on the order of 106 members. With libraries in hand, the dualistic nature of TetA allowed us to apply dual genetic selection to identify riboswitches that express tetA‐gfp only in response to BPA. TetA is a transporter protein that pumps the antibiotic tetracycline out of the cell, rendering cells tetracycline resistant. TetA also allows toxic metals, such as Ni2+, to enter the cell, inhibiting growth. The E. coli library was grown in the presence of BPA and tetracycline. Surviving cells were switched to medium with Ni2+ and no BPA. Only those cells that express tetA‐gfp exclusively in the presence of BPA were expected to survive both positive and negative selection. We succeeded in isolating unique riboswitches that converged to single sequences from starting libraries by bringing each library through three rounds of selection with varying tetracycline and Ni2+ conditions. Ultimately, our hits proved largely unsuccessful in producing a significant increase in fluorescence when incubated with BPA for either 6 or 16 hours compared to no‐ligand controls. In order to improve the ON/OFF ratio of our riboswitches, we integrated fluorescence‐activated cell sorting into our riboswitch‐development platform, allowing us to both select for survival through dual genetic selection and screen for maximum or minimum fluorescence depending on presence or absence of the ligand of interest. Further studies will include optimizing the obtained riboswitches by mutagenesis and directed evolution.

Support or Funding Information

Research funding is provided by the NSF.
Variation of fasting plasma inflammatory markers in overweight and obese individuals
Authors: Beals Elizabeth G , Demmer Elieke , Rivera Nancy , Rogers Tara S , Gertz Erik , Van Loan Marta , German J Bruce , Smilowitz Jennifer T , Zivkovic Angela M
Published: June 2021

Methods

Thirty‐six obese individuals were asked to fast for 12 hours prior to a baseline blood draw, on four separate visits separated by one to two weeks. Inflammatory markers, including serum amyloid A (SAA) and C‐reactive protein (CRP), cytokines, and adhesion markers were measured using multiplex assays. Data was analyzed in Microsoft Excel and JMP Pro 12. Multivariate analysis was used to determine associations between markers.

Results

The results showed both positive and negative associations in the coefficient of variation (CV) of certain biomarkers in each subject. Some biomarkers, such as soluble Intracellular Adhesion Molecule (sICAM) and soluble Vascular Adhesion Molecule (sVCAM) had relatively low average CVs for all subjects (8.9% and 7.58%, respectively), whereas other biomarkers had much higher average CVs (Interleukin‐4, 77.68%). Additionally, multivariate plots of CV values for several biomarkers indicated positive associations, suggesting that within‐subject variability for these biomarkers may track similarly.

Conclusion

These results suggest that some inflammatory markers may be more appropriate as biomarkers to measure inflammation than others. The baseline blood draw was completed in the morning and in a fasting state, without an inflammatory stimulus. Therefore, biomarkers with high CV levels may fluctuate for reasons that are not well‐understood. The amount of fluctuation within each subject offers insight to better understand which biomarkers may be useful clinically. Changes in inflammatory markers are important for determining a patient's inflammatory status, which is useful for the development of personalized nutrition and medicine, and disease prevention.

Support or Funding Information

1This project was made possible by support from the National Dairy Council, Rosemont, IL. and the USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Western Human Nutrition Research Center 2This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01811329
The anti‐inflammatory effects of Spirulina platensis extract are mediated, in part, through the induction of an endotoxin tolerance‐like mechanism
Authors: Pham Tho X , Lee Ji‐Young
Published: June 2021

Endotoxin tolerance is a phenomenon where exposure of innate immune cells to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces a refractory state to subsequent endotoxin exposures, which is characterized by a lack of pro‐inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production. We previously showed that pretreatment of macrophages (MΦ) with Spirulina platensis organic extract (SPE) repressed LPS‐induced inflammatory gene expression and cytokine secretion through the inhibition of nuclear factor κB p65 nuclear translocation. We also demonstrated that splenocytes and resident peritoneal MΦ isolated from C57BL/6J mice fed a high fat/high sucrose (HF/HS) diet containing 0.25% (w/w) SPE for 16 weeks displayed significantly attenuated expression of pro‐inflammatory genes when they were stimulated ex vivo by LPS compared to those from mice on a HF/HS control diet. The objective of this study was to investigate if SPE ameliorates LPS‐induced inflammatory gene expression in MΦ via an endotoxin tolerance‐like mechanism. Compared to naïve MΦ exposed to LPS for the first time, endotoxin tolerant (ET) RAW 264.7 MΦ, bone marrow‐derived MΦ, and THP‐1 MΦ showed significantly less interleukin (IL)‐1β expression after stimulation with 100 ng/mL of LPS, which was also observed with SPE pretreatment. The expression of IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor α, and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 was also repressed in ET as well as SPE‐pretreated RAW 264.7 MΦ. Consistent with the repressed expression of pro‐inflammatory genes, the translocation of p65 into the nucleus was markedly reduced in both ET and SPE‐pretreated MΦ upon LPS stimulation. It has been demonstrated that nuclear p50 homodimer and B‐cell lymphoma 3‐encoded protein (BCL3) are increased in monocytes and MΦ with endotoxin tolerance, consequently attenuating p65 transcriptional activity. We found that both SPE‐pretreated and ET RAW 264.7 MΦ had increased nuclear protein levels of p50 and BCL3. Quantification of nuclear p50 and p65 proteins showed that in ET and SPE‐pretreated cells, p50/p65 ratios were increased by more than 3‐fold compared to naïve MΦ when they were stimulated with LPS. In addition, ET MΦ showed significantly increased expression of BCL3, p105, inhibitor of κBα and IL‐ receptor‐associated kinase M, all of which are shown to be increased in endotoxin tolerance. In contrast to the LPS‐induced endotoxin tolerance, SPE significantly increased only BCL3 and p105 expression. At the protein level, endotoxin tolerization increased nuclear p50 proteins, but not BCL3, while SPE increased the nuclear abundance of both. In conclusion, the anti‐inflammatory effect of SPE is at least partly attributable to the induction of an endotoxin tolerance‐like state in macrophages, which shares common characteristics of MΦ endotoxin tolerance, while features distinctive from endotoxin tolerance also exist with SPE treatment.

Support or Funding Information

USDA AFRI (2014‐01870)
Vasopressin Receptor Regulation in Maintaining Potassium Homeostasis in a Sus scrofa Model of Hemorrhagic Shock
Authors: Uyehara Catherine F T , Kajiura Lauren N , Murata Lee‐Ann M , Wong Sara A , Ichimura Wayne M , Hernandez Claudia A , Sarkar Joy , Rowland Michael R
Published: June 2021

We previously showed that elevated potassium (K)levels seen with severe hemorrhage appear to stimulate enhanced vasopressin(VP) release, and that in turn, elevated VP levels help correct hyperkalemia by increasing renal tubular K secretion. We thus tested whether brain VP receptors controlling vasopressin release were regulated synergistically with kidney VP receptors whichmodulated renal K excretion. We hypothesized that brain VP receptor up‐regulation may enable positive feedback for K‐stimulated augmentation of VP responsiveness in hemorrhage, and that renal VP receptor expression would reflect VP receptor mediated action on renal K excretion. Thus, in anesthetized Yorkshire cross pigs (n=35) we compared plasma VP (pVP) and plasmaK (pK) before, at the end of hemorrhage (30 ml/kg over 20 minutes), and after resuscitation, against mRNA expression of V1aR, V1bR, and V2R receptors in brain and kidney tissues collected after resuscitation. Multiple regression analysis showed that increased pVP at the end of hemorrhage positively correlated (p<0.05) with expression of V1aR and V1bR in the hypothalamus, V1bR in the anterior pituitary, and V2R in the renal cortex. Plasma K levels at the end of resuscitation were negatively correlated (p<0.05) with renalcortex V2R expression. In a different group of control animals that did not undergo hemorrhage, pVP and pK remained unchanged throughout. Results suggest that an up‐regulation of V1a and V1b receptors in the brain contributed to an amplified VP response in hemorrhage. In addition, VP appears to stimulate renal V2R expression to lower pK levels and maintain K homeostasis via a renal V2R‐mediated negative feedback mechanism.

Support or Funding Information

This project was supported by U.S. Army Medical Resarch and Materiel Command Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program grant #DAMD17‐03‐1‐0072. The views expressed in this abstract are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.