bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Density and Fertilization on Crude Protein Synthesis in Forage Maize in a Semiarid Rain-Fed Area
Authors: Wang Hongli , Zhang Xucheng , Zhang Guoping , Fang Yanjie , Hou Huizhi , Lei Kangning , Ma Yifan
Published: March 2023

Density and fertilization mode are the key factors regulating crude protein synthesis in forage maize; however, there is a lack of systematic understanding of the regulation mechanism. Here, the nitrogen/potassium ratio (N/K), free amino acid (AA) content, crude protein synthesis key enzyme activities (nitrate reductase (NR), glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT)) and crude protein content and yield in leaves, stems, and grain of forage maize, as well as the relationships among them, were explored. The results showed that the N/K of DL-40 (60,000 plants per ha−1, 40% N topdressing at large trumpet stage) and DH-50 (75,000 plants per ha−1, 50% N topdressing at large trumpet stage) significantly increased in leaves, stems, and grain, and correspondingly, NR, GS, and GPT activities in leaves, NR activities in stems, NR and GPT activities in grain, and delayed the decline in AA content. After tasseling, for DL-40 and DH-50 the crude protein content increased by 74.1% and 39.8% in leaves, respectively, 19.9% and 25.6% in grain, respectively, and crude protein yield increased by 16.7% and 35.2% in leaves, respectively, and 23.5% and 25.9% in grain, respectively. There were significant quadratic parabolic relationships of NR, GS, and GPT activities with proportion of topdressing. There was a significant relationship of crude protein content with NR activity in leaves, with NR, GS, and GPT activities in stems and with GPT activity in grain. Regulating the key enzyme activity by adjusting the density and fertilization can significantly improve the crude protein yield of forage maize. Treatments DL-40 and DH-50 significantly increased crude protein content and yield by increasing plant N/K, NR activity in leaves, NR activity in stems, and GPT activity in grain, but slowed the decrease in AA content in leaves, stems, and grain.
The Effect of N and KH2PO4 on Skin Color, Sugars, and Organic Acids of “Flame Seedless” Grape
Authors: Wu Linnan , Wang Fangxia , Sha Riye , Li Xujiao , Yu Kun , Feng Jianrong
Published: March 2023

Anthocyanins, soluble sugars, and organic acids play a vital role in the color and flavor of grape berries. N and KH2PO4 are essential nutrients for grape growth and development. However, the research on the effects of foliar spraying of KH2PO4 on the skin color and flavor of grapes under different N levels were not systematic. In this study, “Flame seedless” grapes were used as the test material. There were six treatments in this experiment, including low nitrogen (LN), low nitrogen + KH2PO4 (LNK), moderate nitrogen (MN), moderate nitrogen + KH2PO4 (MNK), high nitrogen (HN), and high nitrogen + KH2PO4 (HNK). Foliar spraying of KH2PO4 on grapes significantly increased total K, anthocyanin contents, and the color index of red grapes (CIRG) in LN, MN, and HN. In the N and KH2PO4 treatments, foliar spraying of KH2PO4 significantly increased the content of methylated, acetylated, and coumarylated anthocyanins under MN treatment. The glucose and fructose contents of MNK were the highest compared to other treatments. The sole use of N showed the highest glucose and fructose contents with MN application. Anthocyanin had a significant positive correlation with soluble sugars; and showed a significant negative correlation with organic acids. Overall, foliar spraying of 0.5% KH2PO4 improved the color and flavor of “Flame seedless” grapes under all N levels, with the most significant effect at MN.
Coffee Pulp Biomass Utilization on Coffee Production and Its Impact on Energy Saving, CO2 Emission Reduction, and Economic Value Added to Promote Green Lean Practice in Agriculture Production
Authors: Rahmah Devi Maulida , Mardawati Efri , Kastaman Roni , Pujianto Totok , Pramulya Rahmat
Published: March 2023

The global market’s sustainability demand for coffee as a result of environmental concerns has influenced coffee producers to practice green coffee production. The efforts to improve the environmental performance of coffee production should also consider the other sustainability aspects: energy and economics. Using a green fertilizer from agricultural biomass can lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions since the cultivation process, which is directly impacted by fertilizer use, has been identified as an environmental damage hotspot for coffee production. This study aims to determine the impact of coffee pulp biomass utilization on coffee production in terms of energy savings, CO2 emission reduction, and economic value added. The methodologies used were environmental Life Cycle Assessment, energy requirement analysis, life cycle costing, and eco-efficiency analysis. The study findings showed that using coffee pulp biomass in coffee cultivation impacted the energy savings, environmental damage reduction, and increased economic value added. Applying coffee pulp biomass can potentially reduce 39–87% of cumulative energy demand, 49.69–72% of CO2 emissions, and 6–26% of the economic value-added increase. Moreover, coffee pulp utilization as a fertilizer is recommended to be applied broadly to promote sustainable coffee production according to its beneficial impact. This study provided that scientific information farmers need to apply green fertilizers in coffee production.
Effect of N Fertilizer Dosage and Base/Topdressing Ratio on Potato Growth Characteristics and Yield
Authors: Fang Xiaoting , Xiang Zhuqing , Ma Haiyan , Wang Fang , Wang Qiang , Li Peihua , Zheng Shunlin
Published: March 2023

Nitrogen fertilizer is an important kinetic energy for potato production. To study the effect of nitrogen(N) fertilizer application and the topdressing ratio on potato growth and yield, different N application levels: N75 (75 kg ha−1), N150 (150 kg ha−1), N225 (225 kg ha−1) and different N fertilizer base/topdressing ratios: T1 (2:8), T2 (5:5), T3 (8:2), and T4 (10:0) were used to find the best N fertilizer operation. The results showed that higher yields can be obtained when 120–180 kg ha−1 N was applied under the base/topdressing ratio of 8:2 in silt loam (sand–silt–clay: 29-50-21). The base N fertilizer dosage largely determined the root morphology, while topdressing fertilizer mainly affected the leaf photosystem, however, rhizosphere topdressing at the early stages of bud emergence did not immediately affect the leaf soluble protein and the sugar content. Topdressing N increased the tuber crude protein and ascorbic acid content to some extent, but had weak effect on the amylose/amylopectin ratio, for the starch content was mainly influenced by total N application. When base N fertilizer was low, it could be compensated by applying fertilizer during flowering, though when the amount of base fertilizer was sufficient, topdressing would cause a decrease in the average single potato weight and an increase in potato sets per plant, thereby reducing the commercial potato rate. Overall, adopting a suitable base/topdressing ratio can promote plant growth and improve tuber quality and yield. However, the relationship between the specific application amount and the ratio under different soil texture conditions needs further study.
Combining a Mutant Allele of FAD2-1A with HD Improves the ω-6/ω-3 Ratio in Soybeans
Authors: Kim Hwayeop , Jo Hyun , Lee Jeong-Dong
Published: March 2023

The intake of foods with unbalanced ω-6/ω-3 ratios causes various health problems. Commodity soybeans generally have a ω-6/ω-3 ratio of 6–7:1. The recommended ratio in terms of health benefits is <4:1. This study aimed to identify the appropriate combination of mutant alleles that can reduce the ω-6/ω-3 ratio using three segregating soybean populations. F2 individuals from each population were genotyped for three different alleles of microsomal delta-12 fatty acid desaturase 2 enzyme (FAD2-1A) and an allele of homeodomain-like transcriptional regulator (HD) genes, and their five major fatty acids were assessed. F2 seeds carrying both fad2-1a and hd had slightly different ω-6/ω-3 ratios according to the different fad2-1a alleles. The fad2-1aDEL, fad2-1aS117N, and fad2-1aW293STOP alleles combined with a hd allele resulted in ω-6/ω-3 ratios with a range of 1.9–2.7:1, 2.7–3.9:1, and 2.6–3.6:1 in soybean seeds, respectively. This study revealed that the induction of mutations in FAD2-1ADEL and HD was the most efficient strategy to improve the ω-6/ω-3 ratio and elevate the ω-3 fatty acid concentrations in soybean seeds. These results provide useful information in soybean breeding programs to release a new soybean cultivar with a lower ω-6/ω-3 ratio and elevated ω-3 fatty acids, which can be a beneficial ingredient for soybean-based foods.
Genetic Diversity in Oilseed and Vegetable Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Accessions Revealed by Nuclear and Mitochondrial Molecular Markers
Authors: Zhang Dongsuo , Yu Haibo , Gao Lianliang , Wang Jing , Dong Hui , Guo Yuan , Hu Shengwu
Published: March 2023

Genetic diversity analysis is a fundamental work for effective management and utilization of plant germplasm. Brassica juncea is an economically important crop, including both oilseed and vegetable types. In the present study, a total of 99 accessions of Brassicaceae family, including 84 mustard (50 oilseed and 34 vegetable types) in China and 15 other Brassicaceae accessions were evaluated for their genetic diversity using nuclear and mitochondrial molecular markers. All accessions were evaluated using 18 simple sequence repeats, 20 sequence related amplified polymorphisms, and 7 intron-exon splice junction primers, and in total, 232 polymorphic fragments were obtained. The unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic mean cluster analysis indicated that all accessions could be divided into three major clusters, with cluster I including all 50 oilseed mustard, cluster II including 34 vegetable mustard, and cluster III containing 15 other Brassicaceae accessions. The results of principal component analysis and population structure analysis were in accordance with the cluster result. Molecular variance analysis revealed that the genetic variation was 34.07% among populations and 65.93% within Brassica species, which indicates existence of considerable genetic variation among oilseed and vegetable B. juncea species. Based on an InDel and a SNP locus reported in B. juncea mitochondrial genome, all the 84 B. juncea mitochondrial genomes were divided into three mitotypes (MTs1-3), 22 accessions of MT1, 20 accessions of MT2, and 42 accessions of MT3. In addition, the results of the modified multiplex PCR, Indel and SNP could identify pol-, cam-, nap- (or MT4), Bol-, Bni-, Esa-, and In-cytoplasmic types in 15 other Brassicaceae accessions. Together, oilseed and vegetable B. juncea can be used for broadening the genetic background for each other.
Bibliometric Analysis on the Impact of Climate Change on Crop Pest and Disease
Authors: Yang Qiliang , Du Tianmu , Li Na , Liang Jiaping , Javed Tehseen , Wang Haidong , Guo Jinjin , Liu Yanwei
Published: March 2023

Affected by global warming, the frequency of crop pests and diseases have increased, causing huge losses to agricultural production. To better grasp the development and trends of research on the effects of climate change on crop pests and diseases, the literature on the impact of climate change on crop pests and diseases published from 1990 to 2021 in the Web of Science (WOS) core collection database was used. This study explores the literature characteristics and hotspot evolution through the bibliometric visualization analysis software COOC, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace, with a view to identifying the changing characteristics and trends of research changes in this field. The results showed that the number of literature on the impact of climate change on crop pests and diseases increased rapidly. The main fields involved include environmental sciences, ecology, and agronomy. Papers in these fields mainly published in journals, such as PLos One, Forest Ecology and Management, and Frontiers in Plant Science. The country with the highest number of publications was the United States, followed by China and Australia. The most prolific authors in the top 20 are research scholars from China. The first author of the top 20 highly cited papers was from the United States. It was found that that current research on the impact of climate change on crop pests and diseases mainly focuses on agricultural production and food safety. Modelling and crop growth has maintained steady development. At present, research in this field mainly focuses on pest management strategies under the impact of climate change, the response of single species, and the complex ecological mechanisms behind the response. This study provides unique insights into the research field of the impact of climate change on crop pests and diseases and provides a reference direction for future research development in this field.
Effects of Fishmeal Replacement by Clostridium Autoethanogenum Protein Meal on Cholesterol Bile Acid Metabolism, Antioxidant Capacity, Hepatic and Intestinal Health of Pearl Gentian Grouper (Epinephelus Fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus Lanceolatus ♂)
Authors: Huang Bocheng , Shi Menglin , Pang Aobo , Tan Beiping , Xie Shiwei
Published: March 2023

In this study, we present data from an eight-week growth trial with pearl gentian grouper fed either a reference diet (FM) with a fishmeal level of 50%, or test diet wherein 15% (CAP15), 30% (CAP30), 45% (CAP45), and 60% (CAP60) fishmeal was replaced by Clostridium autoethanogenum protein meal (CAP). Results showed that the weight gain and daily feed intake ratio of CAP60 were significantly lower than the FM group. In the serum, compared to the FM group, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), the activities of alanine aminotransferase in CAP60 and CAP45 groups, and acid phosphatase in the CAP60 group were significantly higher, while the content of total cholesterol in CAP60 and CAP45 groups was significantly lower. In the liver, compared to the control group, the content of MDA in the CAP60 group was significantly higher. 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase in CAP30 to CAP60 groups and farnesoid X receptor in CAP60 were significantly upregulated. In distal intestines, the activities of trypsin and superoxide dismutase of CAP30 to CAP60 groups were significantly lower than the FM group. In conclusion, for pearl gentian grouper, CAP could replace up to 45% of the fishmeal in the feed, while a 60% replacement level will affect cholesterol bile acid metabolism and health.
Insights into Early Ontogenesis of Salmo salar: RNA Extraction, Housekeeping Gene Validation and Transcriptional Expression of Important Primordial Germ Cell and Sex-Determination Genes
Authors: Bhat Irfan Ahmad , Dubiel Milena Malgorzata , Rodriguez Eduardo , Jónsson Zophonías Oddur
Published: March 2023

The challenge in extracting high-quality RNA impedes the investigation of the transcriptome of developing salmonid embryos. Furthermore, the mRNA expression pattern of important PGC and SD genes during the initial embryonic development of Salmo salar is yet to be studied. So, in the present study, we aimed to isolate high-quality RNA from eggs and developing embryos to check vasa, dnd1, nanos3a, sdf1, gsdf, amh, cyp19a, dmrt1 and foxl2 expression by qPCR. Additionally, four HKGs (GAPDH, UB2L3, eEf1a and β-actin) were validated to select the best internal control for qPCR. High-quality RNA was extracted, which was confirmed by spectrophotometer, agarose gel electrophoresis and Agilent TapeStation analysis. UB2L3 was chosen as a reference gene because it exhibited lower intra- and inter-sample variation. vasa transcripts were expressed in all the developmental stages, while dnd1 was expressed only up to 40 d°C. Nanos3a was expressed in later stages and remained at its peak for a shorter period, while sdf1 showed an irregular pattern of mRNA expression. The mRNA expression levels of SD genes were observed to be upregulated during the later stages of development, prior to hatching. This study presents a straightforward methodology for isolating high-quality RNA from salmon eggs, and the resulting transcript profiles of significant PGC and SD genes in S. salar could aid in improving our comprehension of reproductive development in this commercially important species.
Assessment of Stress Caused by Environmental Changes for Improving the Welfare of Laboratory Beagle Dogs
Authors: Lee Gwang-Hoon , Jo Woori , Kang Tae-Ku , Oh Taeho , Kim KilSoo
Published: March 2023

Animal stress is influenced by environmental factors, yet only a few studies have evaluated the effects of environmental stress on captive dogs. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of environmental and social enrichment on the stress levels of captive dogs housed in a lab. We assessed stress levels in eight Beagle dogs by measuring their body weight, cortisol levels, a stress hormone, the alkaline phosphatase activity in serum, the number of steps per hour, as well as clinical sign observations in a changed environment for 6 weeks. Four dogs assigned to a control group were raised alone in a relatively narrow place without toys; four dogs assigned to an experimental group were raised together in a relatively large place with toys. The body weight of the control group remained unchanged, while that of the experimental group decreased. Cortisol levels in the control group increased throughout, whereas those in the experimental group increased for up to 2 weeks and decreased thereafter. Consequently, cortisol levels in the experimental group significantly decreased compared to the control group at 6 weeks (p = 0.048). Fighting was observed among the dogs in the experimental group at 3 weeks; thus, one dog was separated from the group. The number of steps per hour was more than twice as high in the experimental than in the control group. Thereby, we determined that social housing, with appropriate companions and environmental enrichment materials, can reduce stress levels in captive dogs more efficiently than in single housing without such materials. Our study provides useful insights for captive animal organizations, such as kenneled dogs’ management, to improve animal welfare.
Prediction of the Net Energy of Wheat from Chemical Analysis for Growing Ducks
Authors: Liang Yanru , Hou Qinteng , Yu Mengchao , Chang Yaqi , Zhao Hua , Liu Guangmang , Chen Xiaoling , Tian Gang , Cai Jingyi , Jia Gang
Published: March 2023

The goal of this study was to determine the net energy (NE) value of wheat for growing ducks and establish a NE prediction equation based on the grain’s chemical composition. Forty wheat samples were selected based on bulk weight from major wheat-producing regions in China. A total of 460 1-week-old ducks (initial body weight (BW): 134.86 ± 3.32 g) were randomly assigned to 46 diets, including a basal diet, 5 restricted feeding diets and 40 test diets. Each diet contained five replicates, each with two ducks. The basic diet was a corn–soybean meal, and 40 kinds of experimental diets were prepared by mixing the basic diet with 20% wheat. A prediction equation for the NE concentration was created using the chemical make-up of wheat samples. The results indicated that the NE and apparent metabolism energy (AME) content of 40 wheat samples ranged from 6.81 to 9.12 MJ/kg and from 11.03 to 14.34 MJ/kg, respectively. The ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and AME were highly correlated with NE value (p < 0.01), with the AME and NE showing the strongest correlation (r = 0.884). Chemical features could be used to predict the NE values with accuracy, and the prediction equation was strengthened by the inclusion of the AME. The best-fit equation was as follows: NE = 0.380 AME − 0.147 NDF − 0.274 ADF + 5.262 (R2 = 0.874, RSD = 0.19, p < 0.001). In summary, the NE value of wheat is 8.49 ± 0.30 MJ/kg for growing ducks, and the chemical composition can be used to accurately predict NE in wheat.
Awareness and Use of Canine Quality of Life Assessment Tools in UK Veterinary Practice
Authors: Roberts Claire , Blackwell Emily J. , Roe Emma , Murrell Joanna C. , Mullan Siobhan
Published: March 2023

The use of formal canine quality of life (QOL) assessment tools in veterinary practice has been recommended. An online survey investigated awareness, use and barriers to use of these tools in the UK. An anonymous 24-question survey was advertised through veterinary groups and social media. Ninety veterinary surgeons and twenty veterinary nurses responded. Thirty-two respondents (29.1%) were aware of the existence of formal canine QOL assessment tools. Of the three tools listed, current use was less than four per cent. No statistically significant influence of respondent age, role (veterinary surgeon or nurse) or possession of additional qualifications was found on the awareness of QOL tools (p > 0.05). Over half of respondents (55.5%) would ‘certainly’ or ‘probably’ be willing to use a QOL assessment tool. The main barrier to use was lack of time. Other barriers included a perceived resistance from owners. Although current use and awareness of canine QOL assessment tools in UK veterinary practice is low, veterinary professionals appear willing to use the tools within their daily practice. This discrepancy implies that QOL assessment tools are not well disseminated to veterinary surgeons and nurses in practice and that various barriers inhibit their use.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measurements of the Proximal Palmar Cortex of the Third Metacarpal Bone and the Suspensory Ligament in Non-Lame Endurance Horses before and after Six Months of Training
Authors: Likon Ines , Dyson Sue , Nagy Annamaria
Published: March 2023

Proximal metacarpal injury is common in endurance horses, yet exercise-induced changes in this region have not been described. This study aimed to document objective exercise-induced changes in the proximal palmar cortex of the third metacarpal bone (PcMcIII) and the suspensory ligament (SL). Low-field magnetic resonance (MR) images of both proximal metacarpal regions were obtained from six novice and six experienced horses, before and after six months of endurance training. Measurements were acquired in T1-weighted transverse MR images at four levels and included the thickness of the PcMcIII, the mediolateral width, and the dorsopalmar depth of the entire SL and its lobes. We used t-tests or their nonparametric equivalents to compare the measurements from the two examinations and both novice and experienced horses. The medial aspect of PcMcIII was significantly thicker in experienced horses than in novice horses at 2 and 3 cm distal to the carpometacarpal joint. This likely reflects the cumulative effect of long-term exercise and possibly age. The PcMcIII was significantly thicker medially than laterally. There was no significant difference between pre- and post-season measurements. Six months of endurance training were not sufficient to induce changes in the thickness of PcMcIII or the SL that are detectable in low-field MR images.
Serving Two Masters: Effect of Escherichia coli Dual Resistance on Antibiotic Susceptibility
Authors: Jeje Olusola , Ewunkem Akamu J. , Jeffers-Francis Liesl K. , Graves Joseph L.
Published: March 2023

The prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria and their increased pathogenicity has led to a growing interest in metallic antimicrobial materials and bacteriophages as potential alternatives to conventional antibiotics. This study examines how resistance to excess iron (III) influences the evolution of bacteriophage resistance in the bacterium Escherichia coli. We utilized experimental evolution in E. coli to test the effect of the evolution of phage T7 resistance on populations resistant to excess iron (III) and populations without excess iron resistance. Phage resistance evolved rapidly in both groups. Dual-resistant (iron (III)/phage) populations were compared to their controls (excess iron (III)-resistant, phage-resistant, no resistance to either) for their performance against each stressor, excess iron (III) and phage; and correlated resistances to excess iron (II), gallium (III), silver (I) and conventional antibiotics. Excess iron (III)/phage-resistant populations demonstrated superior 24 h growth compared to all other populations when exposed to increasing concentrations of iron (II, III), gallium (III), ampicillin, and tetracycline. No differences in 24 h growth were shown between excess iron (III)/phage-resistant and excess iron (III)-resistant populations in chloramphenicol, sulfonamide, and silver (I). The genomic analysis identified selective sweeps in the iron (III) resistant (rpoB, rpoC, yegB, yeaG), phage-resistant (clpX →/→ lon, uvaB, yeaG, fliR, gatT, ypjF, waaC, rpoC, pgi, and yjbH) and iron (III)/phage resistant populations (rcsA, hldE, rpoB, and waaC). E. coli selected for resistance to both excess iron (III) and T7 phage showed some evidence of a synergistic effect on various components of fitness. Dual selection resulted in correlated resistances to ionic metals {iron (II), gallium (III), and silver (I)} and several conventional antibiotics. There is a likelihood that this sort of combination antimicrobial treatment may result in bacterial variants with multiple resistances.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis in One-Stage Revision of Septic Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ciccullo Carlo , Neri Thomas , Farinelli Luca , Gigante Antonio , Philippot Rémi , Farizon Frederic , Boyer Bertrand
Published: March 2023

Background: Total knee replacement (TKA) is becoming a routine procedure in orthopedic surgery. One of the possible complications of this surgery is periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). The purpose of this study is to identify, through a literature review, which antibiotic is used as prophylaxis for septic one-stage revision TKA and what is the rationale for its use. Methods: We searched: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO on Ovid, the Cochrane Library, and the Google Scholar Database. The searches were limited by date (January 2005 to September 2022) and to the English language. All types of original research were considered, including prospective or retrospective longitudinal studies, cross-sectional studies, and randomized trials. The specific search terms were ((antibiotic [MeSH]) AND (prophylaxis)) and (TKA OR TKR OR “Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee” [MeSH] OR ((knee) adj2 (replace* OR arthroplasty* OR prosthe*))). Results: Despite our research efforts, we found no article capable of answering the question of which antibiotic to use as surgical prophylaxis for a septic revision one-stage TKA. Conclusions: Although the research results are inconclusive, we would recommend using the same antibiotic prophylaxis as for primary joint replacement, i.e., cefazolin, as it was recommended for its low side effect rate and relative effectiveness.
Potential Strategies to Control the Risk of Antifungal Resistance in Humans: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Rabaan Ali A. , Sulaiman Tarek , Al-Ahmed Shamsah H. , Buhaliqah Zainab A. , Buhaliqah Ali A. , AlYuosof Buthina , Alfaresi Mubarak , Al Fares Mona A. , Alwarthan Sara , Alkathlan Mohammed S. , Almaghrabi Reem S. , Abuzaid Abdulmonem A. , Altowaileb Jaffar A. , Al Ibrahim Maha , AlSalman Eman M. , Alsalman Fatimah , Alghounaim Mohammad , Bueid Ahmed S. , Al-Omari Awad , Mohapatra Ranjan K.
Published: March 2023

Fungal infections are becoming one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in people with weakened immune systems. Mycoses are becoming more common, despite greater knowledge and better treatment methods, due to the regular emergence of resistance to the antifungal medications used in clinical settings. Antifungal therapy is the mainstay of patient management for acute and chronic mycoses. However, the limited availability of antifungal drug classes limits the range of available treatments. Additionally, several drawbacks to treating mycoses include unfavourable side effects, a limited activity spectrum, a paucity of targets, and fungal resistance, all of which continue to be significant issues in developing antifungal drugs. The emergence of antifungal drug resistance has eliminated accessible drug classes as treatment choices, which significantly compromises the clinical management of fungal illnesses. In some situations, the emergence of strains resistant to many antifungal medications is a major concern. Although new medications have been developed to address this issue, antifungal drug resistance has grown more pronounced, particularly in patients who need long-term care or are undergoing antifungal prophylaxis. Moreover, the mechanisms that cause resistance must be well understood, including modifications in drug target affinities and abundances, along with biofilms and efflux pumps that diminish intracellular drug levels, to find novel antifungal drugs and drug targets. In this review, different classes of antifungal agents, and their resistance mechanisms, have been discussed. The latter part of the review focuses on the strategies by which we can overcome this serious issue of antifungal resistance in humans.
Teicoplanin-Resistant Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci: Do the Current Susceptibility Testing Methods Reliably Detect This Elusive Phenotype?
Authors: Balasiu Adriana D. , MacKenzie Colin R.
Published: March 2023

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS), members of the skin commensal microbiota, are increasingly associated with local or systemic infections due to a shift in patient populations in recent decades. Subsequently, more CoNS strains have been subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST), thus leading to the increased detection of teicoplanin resistance. However, data concerning teicoplanin resistance among CoNS strains remain limited, heterogeneous, and inconclusive. We collected 162 consecutive CoNS strains identified using Vitek-2 as teicoplanin-resistant and tested them with a range of AST methods. The results of standard and high inoculum broth microdilution (sBMD; hBMD), agar dilution (AD) after 24 h and 48 h incubation, standard and macrogradient diffusion strip (sGDT, MET), screening agar, and disc diffusion were compared to assess their robustness and to establish a diagnostic algorithm to detect teicoplanin resistance. sBMD was used as the reference method, and the lowest number of strains were teicoplanin-resistant using this method. sGDT and disc diffusion generated similar results to sBMD. Compared with sBMD, AD-24 h generated the lowest number of false teicoplanin-resistant strains, followed by hBMD, AD-48 h, and Vitek-2. sGDT, a fast, easy, affordable method in diagnostic settings, generated the highest rate of false teicoplanin-susceptible strains. Vitek-2 testing produced the highest number of teicoplanin-resistant strains. Only in two strains was the initial Vitek-2 teicoplanin resistance confirmed using five other AST methods. In conclusion, the different antibiotic susceptibility testing methods generated inconsistent, inconclusive, and discrepant results, thus making it difficult to establish a diagnostic algorithm for suspected teicoplanin resistance. Teicoplanin testing proved to be challenging and easily influenced by technical factors. This study aimed not only to raise awareness of teicoplanin resistance testing but also of the need for future studies focusing on the clinical efficacy of teicoplanin in relation to its susceptibility results.
Comparison of Broth Microdilution, Disk Diffusion and Strip Test Methods for Cefiderocol Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing on KPC-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Bovo Federica , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Ambretti Simone , Gaibani Paolo
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the reference broth microdilution (BMD) method with the Disk Diffusion (DD) test and strip test against a collection of 75 well-characterized Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC-Kp) clinical strains to assess cefiderocol (CFD) antimicrobial activity. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on KPC-Kp strains by Illumina iSeq100 platform. The Categorical Agreement (CA) between the BMD method and DD test was 92% (69/75) with a Major Error (ME) of 16.7% (6/36). Additionally, the CA between the BMD method and test strip was 90.7% (68/75) with a Very Major Error (VME) of 17.9% (7/39) and 82.7% (62/75) between the strip test and DD with a ME of 30.2%. KPC-Kp strains showing resistance to CFD were 27 out of 75 (36%) by three methods. Specifically, 51.9% (14/27) of KPC-Kp resistant to CFD harbored blaKPC-3, while 48.1% (13/27) harbored mutated blaKPC-3. Moreover, KPC-Kp strains carrying a mutated blaKPC-3 gene exhibited high MIC values (p value < 0.001) compared to wild-type blaKPC-3. In conclusion, the DD test resulted as a valid alternative to the BMD method to determine the in vitro susceptibility to CFD, while the strip test exhibited major limitations.
Oxidation of Aldehydes Used as Food Additives by Peroxynitrite
Authors: Alcolado Clara I. , Garcia-Rio Luis , Mejuto Juan C. , Moreno Inmaculada , Poblete Francisco J. , Tejeda Juan
Published: March 2023

Benzaldehyde and its derivatives are used as food supplements. These substances can be used mainly as flavorings or as antioxidants. Besides, peroxynitrite, an oxidizing agent, could be formed in canned food. Both species could react between them. The present article has focused on the kinetic study of the oxidation of aldehydes by peroxynitrite. A reaction mechanism that justifies all the experimental results is proposed. This mechanism, in acidic media, passes through three competitive pathways: (a) a radical attack that produces benzoic acid. (b) peracid oxidation, and (c) a nucleophilic attack of peroxynitrous acid over aldehyde to form an intermediate, X, that produces benzoic acid, or, through a Cannizzaro-type reaction, benzoic acid and benzyl alcohol. All rate constants involved in the third pathway (c) have been calculated. These results have never been described in the literature in acid media. A pH effect was analyzed.
Preparation and Evaluation of 6-Gingerol Derivatives as Novel Antioxidants and Antiplatelet Agents
Authors: Ahmed Sara H. H. , Gonda Tímea , Agbadua Orinamhe G. , Girst Gábor , Berkecz Róbert , Kúsz Norbert , Tsai Meng-Chun , Wu Chin-Chung , Balogh György T. , Hunyadi Attila
Published: March 2023

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is widely used as a spice and a traditional medicine. Many bioactivities have been reported for its extracts and the isolated compounds, including cardiovascular protective effects. Different pathways were suggested to contribute to these effects, like the inhibition of platelet aggregation. In this study, we synthesised fourteen 6-gingerol derivatives, including eight new compounds, and studied their antiplatelet, COX-1 inhibitor, and antioxidant activities. In silico docking of selected compounds to h-COX-1 enzyme revealed favourable interactions. The investigated 6-gingerol derivatives were also characterised by in silico and experimental physicochemical and blood–brain barrier-related parameters for lead and preclinical candidate selection. 6-Shogaol (2) was identified as the best overall antiplatelet lead, along with compounds 3 and 11 and the new compound 17, which require formulation to optimize their water solubility. Compound 5 was identified as the most potent antioxidant that is also promising for use in the central nervous system (CNS).
Involvement of Intracellular TAGE and the TAGE–RAGE–ROS Axis in the Onset and Progression of NAFLD/NASH
Authors: Sakasai-Sakai Akiko , Takeda Kenji , Takeuchi Masayoshi
Published: March 2023

The repeated excessive intake of sugar, a factor that contributes to the onset of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progression to the chronic form of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), markedly increases the hepatocyte content of glyceraldehyde (GA), a glucose/fructose metabolic intermediate. Toxic advanced glycation end-products (toxic AGEs, TAGE) are synthesized by cross-linking reactions between the aldehyde group of GA and the amino group of proteins, and their accumulation has been implicated in the development of NAFLD/NASH and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous findings not only showed that hepatocyte disorders were induced by the intracellular accumulation of TAGE, but they also indicated that extracellular leakage resulted in elevated TAGE concentrations in circulating fluids. Interactions between extracellular TAGE and receptor for AGEs (RAGE) affect intracellular signaling and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which may, in turn, contribute to the pathological changes observed in NAFLD/NASH. RAGE plays a role in the effects of the extracellular leakage of TAGE on the surrounding cells, which ultimately promote the onset and progression of NAFLD/NASH. This review describes the relationships between intracellular TAGE levels and hepatocyte and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) damage as well as the TAGE–RAGE–ROS axis in hepatocytes, HSC, and HCC cells. The “TAGE theory” will provide novel insights for future research on NAFLD/NASH.
H2S-Enriched Flush out Does Not Increase Donor Organ Quality in a Porcine Kidney Perfusion Model
Authors: Maassen Hanno , Venema Leonie H. , Weiss Marc G. , Huijink Tobias M. , Hofker H. Sijbrand , Keller Anna K. , Mollnes Tom E. , Eijken Marco , Pischke Søren E. , Jespersen Bente , van Goor Harry , Leuvenink Henri G. D.
Published: March 2023

Kidney extraction time has a detrimental effect on post-transplantation outcome. This study aims to improve the flush-out and potentially decrease ischemic injury by the addition of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) to the flush medium. Porcine kidneys (n = 22) were extracted during organ recovery surgery. Pigs underwent brain death induction or a Sham operation, resulting in four groups: donation after brain death (DBD) control, DBD H2S, non-DBD control, and non-DBD H2S. Directly after the abdominal flush, kidneys were extracted and flushed with or without H2S and stored for 13 h via static cold storage (SCS) +/− H2S before reperfusion on normothermic machine perfusion. Pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1b and IL-8 were significantly lower in H2S treated DBD kidneys during NMP (p = 0.03). The non-DBD kidneys show superiority in renal function (creatinine clearance and FENa) compared to the DBD control group (p = 0.03 and p = 0.004). No differences were seen in perfusion parameters, injury markers and histological appearance. We found an overall trend of better renal function in the non-DBD kidneys compared to the DBD kidneys. The addition of H2S during the flush out and SCS resulted in a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines without affecting renal function or injury markers.
Combined Intake of Fish Oil and D-Fagomine Prevents High-Fat High-Sucrose Diet-Induced Prediabetes by Modulating Lipotoxicity and Protein Carbonylation in the Kidney
Authors: Méndez Lucía , Muñoz Silvia , Barros Lorena , Miralles-Pérez Bernat , Romeu Marta , Ramos-Romero Sara , Torres Josep Lluís , Medina Isabel
Published: March 2023

Obesity has been recognized as a major risk factor for chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance being an early common metabolic feature in patients suffering from this syndrome. This study aims to investigate the mechanism underlying the induction of kidney dysfunction and the concomitant onset of insulin resistance by long-term high-fat and sucrose diet feeding in Sprague Dawley rats. To achieve this goal, our study analyzed renal carbonylated protein patterns, ectopic lipid accumulation and fatty acid profiles and correlated them with biometrical and biochemical measurements and other body redox status parameters. Rats fed the obesogenic diet developed a prediabetic state and incipient kidney dysfunction manifested in increased plasma urea concentration and superior levels of renal fat deposition and protein carbonylation. An obesogenic diet increased renal fat by preferentially promoting the accumulation of saturated fat, arachidonic, and docosahexaenoic fatty acids while decreasing oleic acid. Renal lipotoxicity was accompanied by selectively higher carbonylation of proteins involved in the blood pH regulation, i.e., bicarbonate reclamation and synthesis, amino acid, and glucose metabolisms, directly related to the onset of insulin resistance. This study also tested the combination of antioxidant properties of fish oil with the anti-diabetic properties of buckwheat D-Fagomine to counteract diet-induced renal alterations. Results demonstrated that bioactive compounds combined attenuated lipotoxicity, induced more favorable lipid profiles and counteracted the excessive carbonylation of proteins associated with pH regulation in the kidneys, resulting in an inhibition of the progression of the prediabetes state and kidney disease.
DIC Measurement of Welding-Induced Deformation on a Train Bogie Moving Bolster Subassembly
Authors: Genovese Katia , Nortano Nicola , Salvato Rocco , Mozzillo Rocco
Published: March 2023

The experimental evaluation of welding-induced distortion is a topic of great interest to both the scientific and industrial communities. With the aim of addressing a specific need in an industrial context, this paper investigates the capabilities of a stereo–Digital Image Correlation (stereo–DIC) system to measure the weld-induced distortion of the front-plate of a bogie train bolster subassembly. Currently, the deviation from planarity of this surface is measured at less than five points using a CMM in the post-weld cooled state. An additional machining process is then used to bring the surface within the tolerance required to join the welded assembly to the train body through a threaded flange. The paper shows that DIC can provide accurate full-field distortion and strain maps over the entire 588 mm × 308 mm surface of the front plate. The distinct strength of DIC over the currently used inspection technique is its ability to provide highly spatially dense data that are unaffected by rigid body motion. This can be advantageous in terms of saving time in the post-weld inspection and reducing errors in the finishing process. In addition, DIC capabilities revealed important information that was not available from the CMM, such as the full-surface map of the initial deviation of the plate from its nominal geometry and its asymmetric deformation after welding. Finally, the full-field nature of the experimental data obtained allows for seamless integration with FE thermo-mechanical simulations for numerical model validation, stress calculation, and optimization of geometry and technological processes.
Sandy Loam Soil Shear Strength Parameters and Its Colour
Authors: El Hariri Alaa , Ahmed Ahmed Elawad Eltayeb , Kiss Péter
Published: March 2023

The shear strength parameters—the shear cohesion and the internal friction angle—are important parameters in calculating the shear strength of the soil, which is a mechanical property reflecting the resistance of the soil to shearing. This article embeds shear cohesion and internal friction angle results of the sandy loam soil measured using the direct shear test relying on drawing the Mohr–Coulomb line. Beside the shear strength parameters, this article contains colour results of the tested soil at different moisture contents, measured using the spectrophotometric technology in the visible band (spectrum; 400–700 nm). Measuring the soil colour might be the simplest way in the field for identifying the shear strength and its parameters in case of having the colour linked to the shear strength parameters through the moisture content of the soil, and this target is achieved by laboratory empirical work. The process of correlating the soil colour and the shear strength parameters at different moisture contents is presented in this article. The measurements were carried out at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE—Department of Vehicle Technology Laboratory).
Development of Innovative Lateral Resistance Systems Featuring Earthquake-Protective Dampers
Authors: Farzampour Alireza , Mansouri Iman , Mortazavi Seyed Javad , Retzepis Eleni , Kaloop Mosbeh R. , Hu Jong-Wan
Published: March 2023

Several conventional structural systems require sufficient retrofitting design procedures, improvements, and reconstructions to withstand lateral loads and to decrease the occurrence of damage. High strength capacity and ductility for seismic lateral resisting systems improve the structural vulnerabilities and limit damage concentrations in areas subject to seismic conditions. Several types and shapes of structural systems with appropriate ductility and energy dissipation features are currently established as structural fuses to enhance the general performance of the structures and decrease seismic ramifications. To enhance the energy dissipation performance and concentration of the inelasticity, improving the ductile behavior and limiting the unpredictable accumulation of plastic strains is essential. The conventional eccentrically braced systems are examined and reestablished, and the effects of shear fuses used in high-rise buildings are investigated for prototype buildings by implementing the verified simulations. Next, seismic protective fuse systems with innovative dampers consisting of several butterfly-shaped shear links are established. Ultimately, the design guidelines are established based on the conventional eccentrically braced frames (EBFs), which are redesigned with the use of noble seismic protective fuses, and the hysteretic behavior is obtained and compared accordingly.
Efficient Computer-Based Method for Adjusting the Stiffness of Subject-Specific 3D-Printed Insoles during Walking
Authors: Geiger Franziska , Kebbach Maeruan , Vogel Danny , Weissmann Volker , Bader Rainer
Published: March 2023

Diabetes-adapted insoles are essential in prevention and rehabilitation of foot ulcers in diabetic foot syndrome. However, their manufacture is labour-intensive and costly. Therefore, the study aims to present an alternative method that allows the individual adjustment of the stiffness of the insoles using the finite element (FE) method and subsequent 3D printing. In the study, 3D gait analysis followed by musculoskeletal modelling was used to determine the boundary conditions of a healthy subject for the FE model. While muscle forces are elaborately implemented in most studies, this FE model presented a more efficient way by using ankle moments and joint reaction forces. The deviation between the simulated plantar peak pressure and the experimentally determined using the Pedar system amounted to 234 kPa in the heel area and 30 kPa in the toe area. The stiffness of the individual insole was adjusted by applying soft insole plugs in areas where high plantar pressures occurred during walking. Three different Young’s moduli were analysed in these areas (0.5 MPa, 1.0 MPa, 1.5 MPa). The computer-based approach to adjust the stiffness of an individual insole revealed a plantar peak pressure reduction by 37% in the heel area and by 119% in the toe area with a Young’s modulus of 0.5 MPa. The presented method could be a valuable tool in the cost-efficient development and engineering of subject-specific 3D-printed insoles for patients with diabetic foot syndrome.