bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Status and Liver Function of Young Turkeys Receiving a Diet with Full-Fat Insect Meal from Hermetia illucens
Authors: Ognik Katarzyna , Kozłowski Krzysztof , Stępniowska Anna , Listos Piotr , Józefiak Damian , Zduńczyk Zenon , Jankowski Jan
Published: August 2020

We hypothesized that full-fat insect meal from Hermetia illucens (HI) larvae can be an acceptable source of protein and energy in the diet of young turkeys, in an amount adapted to the nutritional needs of these birds, and at the same time can improve their antioxidant status and metabolism. The turkeys were fed a control diet (HI0) without the insect meal, and three diets with increasing HI content of 5%, 10% and 15% (treatments HI5, HI10 and HI15, respectively). The use of 10% or 15% HI in the diet of young turkeys, while beneficially raising levels of P, Fe and Hb, has a negative effect on lipid metabolism, increasing TC levels, lipid oxidation, and fat deposition in the liver. The inclusion of 5% HI in the diet of young turkeys has no adverse effect on the lipid status and histology of the liver, but it does not improve antioxidant status. To conclude, the level of HI meal in the diet of turkeys should not exceed 5%. However, as similar studies on turkeys have not yet been published, overly general conclusions should not be drawn from the results of the present study, and further research is necessary.
High Prevalence and Diversity of Cephalosporin-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Including Extraintestinal Pathogenic E. coli CC648 Lineage in Rural and Urban Dogs in Northwest Spain
Authors: Abreu-Salinas Fátima , Díaz-Jiménez Dafne , García-Meniño Isidro , Lumbreras Pilar , López-Beceiro Ana María , Fidalgo Luis Eusebio , Rodicio María Rosario , Mora Azucena , Fernández Javier
Published: August 2020

The aim of this work was to assess the prevalence of extended spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL)- and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in fecal samples recovered from rural and urban healthy dogs in Northwest Spain (Galicia) to identify potential high-risk clones and to molecularly characterize positive isolates regarding the genes coding for ESBL/pAmpC resistance and virulence. Thirty-five (19.6%) out of 179 dogs were positive for cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, including Escherichiacoli and Klebsiella pneumoniae (39 and three isolates, respectively). All the isolates were multidrug resistant, with high rates of resistance to different drugs, including ciprofloxacin (71.4%). A wide diversity of ESBL/pAmpC enzymes, as well as E. coli phylogroups (A, B1, C, D, E, F and clade I) were found. The eight isolates (20.5%) found to conform to the ExPEC status, belonged to clones O1:H45-clade I-ST770 (CH11-552), O18:H11-A-ST93-CC168 (CH11-neg), O23:H16-B1-ST453-CC86 (CH6-31), and O83:H42-F-ST1485-CC648 (CH231-58), with the latter also complying the uropathogenic (UPEC) status. The three K. pneumoniae recovered produced CTX-M-15 and belonged to the ST307, a clone previously reported in human clinical isolates. Our study highlights the potential role of both rural and urban dogs as a reservoir of high-risk Enterobacteriaceae clones, such as the CC648 of E. coli and antimicrobial resistance traits. Within a One-Health approach, their surveillance should be a priority in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
Country Income Is Only One of the Tiles: The Global Journey of Antimicrobial Resistance among Humans, Animals, and Environment
Authors: Pieri Angela , Aschbacher Richard , Fasani Giada , Mariella Jole , Brusetti Lorenzo , Pagani Elisabetta , Sartelli Massimo , Pagani Leonardo
Published: August 2020

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most complex global health challenges today: decades of overuse and misuse in human medicine, animal health, agriculture, and dispersion into the environment have produced the dire consequence of infections to become progressively untreatable. Infection control and prevention (IPC) procedures, the reduction of overuse, and the misuse of antimicrobials in human and veterinary medicine are the cornerstones required to prevent the spreading of resistant bacteria. Purified drinking water and strongly improved sanitation even in remote areas would prevent the pollution from inadequate treatment of industrial, residential, and farm waste, as all these situations are expanding the resistome in the environment. The One Health concept addresses the interconnected relationships between human, animal, and environmental health as a whole: several countries and international agencies have now included a One Health Approach within their action plans to address AMR. Improved antimicrobial usage, coupled with regulation and policy, as well as integrated surveillance, infection control and prevention, along with antimicrobial stewardship, sanitation, and animal husbandry should all be integrated parts of any new action plan targeted to tackle AMR on the Earth. Since AMR is found in bacteria from humans, animals, and in the environment, we briefly summarize herein the current concepts of One Health as a global challenge to enable the continued use of antibiotics.
Genetic Determinants for Metal Tolerance and Antimicrobial Resistance Detected in Bacteria Isolated from Soils of Olive Tree Farms
Authors: Glibota Nicolás , Grande Mª José , Galvez Antonio , Ortega Elena
Published: August 2020

Copper-derived compounds are often used in olive tree farms. In a previous study, a collection of bacterial strains isolated from olive tree farms were identified and tested for phenotypic antimicrobial resistance and heavy metal tolerance. The aim of this work was to study the genetic determinants of resistance and to evaluate the co-occurrence of metal tolerance and antibiotic resistance genes. Both metal tolerance and antibiotic resistance genes (including beta-lactamase genes) were detected in the bacterial strains from Cu-treated soils. A high percentage of the strains positive for metal tolerance genes also carried antibiotic resistance genes, especially for genes involved in resistances to beta-lactams and tetracycline. Significant associations were detected between genes involved in copper tolerance and genes coding for beta-lactamases or tetracycline resistance mechanisms. A significant association was also detected between zntA (coding for a Zn(II)-translocating P-type ATPase) and tetC genes. In conclusion, bacteria from soils of Cu-treated olive farms may carry both metal tolerance and antibiotic resistance genes. The positive associations detected between metal tolerance genes and antibiotic resistance genes suggests co-selection of such genetic traits by exposure to metals.
Structure–Biological Activity Relationships of Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Phenolic Compounds: Health Properties and Bioavailability
Authors: Rodríguez-López Paloma , Lozano-Sanchez Jesús , Borrás-Linares Isabel , Emanuelli Tatiana , Menéndez Javier A. , Segura-Carretero Antonio
Published: August 2020

Extra-virgin olive oil is regarded as functional food since epidemiological studies and multidisciplinary research have reported convincing evidence that its intake affects beneficially one or more target functions in the body, improves health, and reduces the risk of disease. Its health properties have been related to the major and minor fractions of extra-virgin olive oil. Among olive oil chemical composition, the phenolic fraction has received considerable attention due to its bioactivity in different chronic diseases. The bioactivity of the phenolic compounds could be related to different properties such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, although the molecular mechanism of these compounds in relation to many diseases could have different cellular targets. The aim of this review is focused on the extra-virgin olive oil phenolic fraction with particular emphasis on (a) biosynthesis, chemical structure, and influence factors on the final extra-virgin olive oil phenolic composition; (b) structure–antioxidant activity relationships and other molecular mechanisms in relation to many diseases; (c) bioavailability and controlled delivery strategies; (d) alternative sources of olive biophenols. To achieve this goal, a comprehensive review was developed, with particular emphasis on in vitro and in vivo assays as well as clinical trials. This report provides an overview of extra-virgin olive oil phenolic compounds as a tool for functional food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical applications.
Effect of Wine Lees as Alternative Antioxidants on Physicochemical and Sensorial Composition of Deer Burgers Stored during Chilled Storage
Authors: Alarcón Marina , López-Viñas Manuel , Pérez-Coello María Soledad , Díaz-Maroto María Consuelo , Alañón María Elena , Soriano Almudena
Published: August 2020

Wine lees from two grape varieties (Vitis vinifera L. Cv. “verdejo” and “palomino”) were studied as natural preservatives in deer burgers compared with the traditional additive sodium ascorbate. Burgers packed in modified atmosphere packaging and stored in refrigeration were analyzed at 0, 4, 8, and 12 days. The addition of lees (2.5% and 5%) produced a reduction of pH and variations in color (L* and a*), higher antioxidant capacity and phenolic content, lower lipid and protein oxidation, and the inhibition of psychotrophic aerobic bacteria and enterobacteria during the storage time. Likewise, burgers with lees kept the aldehydes concentration (volatile compounds indicators of lipid oxidation) over storage time, while esters, acids, and other compounds, previously present in lees, increased. These changes provided new odor and taste attributes like wine, bakery, and raisin notes. Therefore, the addition of wine lees had an antioxidant and antimicrobial effect and produced new sensory attributes in deer burgers.
The Role of Dietary Phenolic Compounds in Epigenetic Modulation Involved in Inflammatory Processes
Authors: Číž Milan , Dvořáková Adéla , Skočková Veronika , Kubala Lukáš
Published: August 2020

A better understanding of the interactions between dietary phenolic compounds and the epigenetics of inflammation may impact pathological conditions and their treatment. Phenolic compounds are well-known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-cancer properties, with potential benefits in the treatment of various human diseases. Emerging studies bring evidence that nutrition may play an essential role in immune system modulation also by altering gene expression. This review discusses epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, post-translational histone modification, and non-coding microRNA activity that regulate the gene expression of molecules involved in inflammatory processes. Special attention is paid to the molecular basis of NF-κB modulation by dietary phenolic compounds. The regulation of histone acetyltransferase and histone deacetylase activity, which all influence NF-κB signaling, seems to be a crucial mechanism of the epigenetic control of inflammation by phenolic compounds. Moreover, chronic inflammatory processes are reported to be closely connected to the major stages of carcinogenesis and other non-communicable diseases. Therefore, dietary phenolic compounds-targeted epigenetics is becoming an attractive approach for disease prevention and intervention.
Flavonoids with Glutathione Antioxidant Synergy: Influence of Free Radicals Inflow
Authors: Ilyasov Igor , Beloborodov Vladimir , Antonov Daniil , Dubrovskaya Anna , Terekhov Roman , Zhevlakova Anastasiya , Saydasheva Asiya , Evteev Vladimir , Selivanova Irina
Published: August 2020

This report explores the antioxidant interaction of combinations of flavonoid–glutathione with different ratios. Two different 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical (ABTS•+)-based approaches were applied for the elucidation of the antioxidant capacity of the combinations. Despite using the same radical, the two approaches employ different free radical inflow systems: An instant, great excess of radicals in the end-point decolorization assay, and a steady inflow of radicals in the lag-time assay. As expected, the flavonoid–glutathione pairs showed contrasting results in these two approaches. All the examined combinations showed additive or light subadditive antioxidant capacity effects in the decolorization assay. This effect showed slight dilution dependence and did not change when the initial ABTS•+ concentration was two times as high or low. However, in the lag-time assay, different types of interaction were detected, from subadditivity to considerable synergy. Taxifolin–glutathione combinations demonstrated the greatest synergy, at up to 112%; quercetin and rutin, in combination with glutathione, revealed moderate synergy in the 30–70% range; while morin–glutathione appeared to be additive or subadditive. In general, this study demonstrated that, on the one hand, the effect of flavonoid–glutathione combinations depends both on the flavonoid structure and molar ratio; on the other hand, the manifestation of the synergy of the combination strongly depends on the mode of inflow of the free radicals.
Investigation the Integration of Heliostat Solar Receiver to Gas and Combined Cycles by Energy, Exergy, and Economic Point of Views
Authors: Alizadeh S. M. , Ghazanfari Arezoo , Ehyaei M. A. , Ahmadi Abolfazal , Jamali D. H. , Nedaei Navid , Davarpanah Afshin
Published: August 2020

Due to the high amount of natural gas resources in Iran, the gas cycle as one of the main important power production system is used to produce electricity. The gas cycle has some disadvantages such as power consumption of air compressors, which is a major part of gas turbine electrical production and a considerable reduction in electrical power production by increasing the environment temperature due to a reduction in air density and constant volumetric airflow through a gas cycle. To overcome these weaknesses, several methods are applied such as cooling the inlet air of the system by different methods and integration heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) with the gas cycle. In this paper, using a heliostat solar receiver (HSR) in gas and combined cycles are investigated by energy, exergy, and economic analyses in Tehran city. The heliostat solar receiver is used to heat the pressurized exhaust air from the air compressor in gas and combined cycles. The key parameter of the three mentioned analyses was calculated and compared by writing computer code in MATLAB software. Results showed the use of HSR in gas and combined cycles increase the annual average energy efficiency from 28.4% and 48.5% to 44% and 76.5%, respectively. Additionally, for exergy efficiency, these increases are from 29.2% and 49.8% to 45.2% and 78.5%, respectively. However, from an economic point of view, adding the HRSG increases the payback period (PP) and it decreases the net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR).
Comprehensive Study of Strata Movement Behavior in Mining a Longwall Top Coal Caving Panel of a Composite Coal Seam with Partings
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Guo Linfeng , Cao Guangming , Zhao Xidong , Wang Pengfei , Huo Tianhong , Yang Gang , Hao Cheng , Wang Qiang
Published: August 2020

Strata movement due to extraction of a longwall panel is of great significance both in terms of environment and ground control. Thick coal seam extraction is expected to severely disturb the overburden, which is critical. Most studies use only one or two methods to investigate strata movement that are not thorough or comprehensive. This paper presents a detailed comprehensive case study of strata movement in extraction of a longwall top coal caving panel of a composite coal seam with partings in the Baozigou Coal Mine. The caved zone and fractured zone development were captured through physical modeling by incorporating the digital image correlation method (DICM), universal distinct element code (UDEC) numerical modeling, and field observation with the method of high-pressure water injection. The result of the physical modeling is 90 m. The numerical modeling result is 84 m. Field data show that the fractured zone is 81 m. Therefore, it demonstrates that the results from different methods are consistent, which indicates that the results from this comprehensive study are reliable and scientific.
Multiblock Analysis Applied to TD-NMR of Butters and Related Products
Authors: Roger Jean-Michel , Garcia Silvia Mas , Cambert Mireille , Rondeau-Mouro Corinne
Published: August 2020

This work presents a novel and rapid approach to predict fat content in butter products based on nuclear magnetic resonance longitudinal (T1) relaxation measurements and multi-block chemometric methods. The potential of using simultaneously liquid (T1L) and solid phase (T1S) signals of fifty samples of margarine, butter and concentrated fat by Sequential and Orthogonalized Partial Least Squares (SO-PLS) and Sequential and Orthogonalized Selective Covariance Selection (SO-CovSel) methods was investigated. The two signals (T1L and T1S) were also used separately with PLS and CovSel regressions. The models were compared in term of prediction errors (RMSEP) and repeatability error (σrep). The results obtained from liquid phase (RMSEP ≈ 1.33% and σrep≈ 0.73%) are better than those obtained with solid phase (RMSEP ≈ 5.27% and σrep≈ 0.69%). Multiblock methodologies present better performance (RMSEP ≈ 1.00% and σrep≈ 0.47%) and illustrate their power in the quantitative analysis of butter products. Moreover, SO-Covsel results allow for proposing a measurement protocol based on a limited number of NMR acquisitions, which opens a new way to quantify fat content in butter products with reduced analysis times.
Studies of Water-Vapour Adsorption Dynamics of High-Efficiency Desiccant Based on Aluminium Oxide and NaX Zeolite
Authors: Meshcheryakov Eugene , Kozlov Maxim , Reshetnikov Sergey , Isupova Lyubov , Livanova Alesia , Kurzina Irina
Published: August 2020

The dynamic capacity of the commercial desiccant (NaX zeolite) and the adsorbent, synthesised based on low-temperature modifications of aluminium oxide, obtained from bayerite-containing hydroxide, was determined with respect to water vapour. Experimental studies were carried out using a pilot installation at the atmospheric pressure and increased pressure (up to 0.6 MPa) and high humidity. The increase in the height of the layer of the adsorbents leads to an increase of their dynamic capacity with respect to water vapour and the protective power (action) time of the layer. It was shown that at the atmospheric pressure and the pressure of up to 0.3 MPa, the dynamic capacity of NaX is greater; at a higher pressure, the adsorption capacity of the developed adsorbent Al2O3 becomes greater than the zeolite capacity, which allows recommending it as a desiccant at increased pressure.
Progress in Electrodeposition of Zinc and Zinc Nickel Alloys Using Ionic Liquids
Authors: Maniam Kranthi Kumar , Paul Shiladitya
Published: August 2020

Zinc (Zn) and zinc–nickel (Zn–Ni) electrodeposition has been widely used in many industries, such as automotive and aerospace, for corrosion protection of steel components owing to their excellent corrosion resistance. Conventional zinc and zinc–nickel electrodeposition is performed in different types of aqueous baths (acid and alkaline). Such electrolytes suffer from certain drawbacks such as hydrogen gas evolution, low coulombic efficiencies, and environmental toxicity. Electrodeposition of Zn and Zn–Ni alloys from ionic liquids has gained significant attention in aerospace and automotive sectors owing to the different environments they provide for electrodeposition. This paper reviews the progress in deposition of zinc and zinc-nickel alloys in non-aqueous systems, especially ionic liquids. In addition, the challenges and technological developments associated with the Zn and Zn–Ni deposition on different substrates and the factors that need to be considered while electroplating at an industrial scale are discussed.
Time-Aware Music Recommender Systems: Modeling the Evolution of Implicit User Preferences and User Listening Habits in A Collaborative Filtering Approach
Authors: Sánchez-Moreno Diego , Zheng Yong , Moreno-García María N.
Published: August 2020

Online streaming services have become the most popular way of listening to music. The majority of these services are endowed with recommendation mechanisms that help users to discover songs and artists that may interest them from the vast amount of music available. However, many are not reliable as they may not take into account contextual aspects or the ever-evolving user behavior. Therefore, it is necessary to develop systems that consider these aspects. In the field of music, time is one of the most important factors influencing user preferences and managing its effects, and is the motivation behind the work presented in this paper. Here, the temporal information regarding when songs are played is examined. The purpose is to model both the evolution of user preferences in the form of evolving implicit ratings and user listening behavior. In the collaborative filtering method proposed in this work, daily listening habits are captured in order to characterize users and provide them with more reliable recommendations. The results of the validation prove that this approach outperforms other methods in generating both context-aware and context-free recommendations.
A Unified Framework for Automatic Detection of Wound Infection with Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Wu Jin-Ming , Tsai Chia-Jui , Ho Te-Wei , Lai Feipei , Tai Hao-Chih , Lin Ming-Tsan
Published: August 2020

Background: The surgical wound is a unique problem requiring continuous postoperative care, and mobile health technology is implemented to bridge the care gap. Our study aim was to design an integrated framework to support the diagnosis of wound infection. Methods: We used a computer-vision approach based on supervised learning techniques and machine learning algorithms, to help detect the wound region of interest (ROI) and classify wound infection features. The intersection-union test (IUT) was used to evaluate the accuracy of the detection of color card and wound ROI. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of our model was adopted in comparison with different machine learning approaches. Results: 480 wound photographs were taken from 100 patients for analysis. The average value of IUT on the validation set with fivefold stratification to detect wound ROI was 0.775. For prediction of wound infection, our model achieved a significantly higher AUC score (83.3%) than the other three methods (kernel support vector machines, 44.4%; random forest, 67.1%; gradient boosting classifier, 66.9%). Conclusions: Our evaluation of a prospectively collected wound database demonstrates the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed system, which has been developed for automatic detection of wound infections in patients undergoing surgical procedures.
Susceptibility to Seismic Amplification and Earthquake Probability Estimation Using Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) Model in Odisha, India
Authors: Jena Ratiranjan , Pradhan Biswajeet , Alamri Abdullah M.
Published: August 2020

The eastern region of India, including the coastal state of Odisha, is a moderately seismic-prone area under seismic zones II and III. However, no major studies have been conducted on earthquake probability (EPA) and hazard assessment (EHA) in Odisha. This paper had two main objectives: (1) to assess the susceptibility of seismic wave amplification (SSA) and (2) to estimate EPA in Odisha. In total, 12 indicators were employed to assess the SSA and EPA. Firstly, using the historical earthquake catalog, the peak ground acceleration (PGA) and intensity variation was observed for the Indian subcontinent. We identified high amplitude and frequency locations for estimated PGA and the periodograms were plotted. Secondly, several indicators such as slope, elevation, curvature, and amplification values of rocks were used to generate SSA using predefined weights of layers. Thirdly, 10 indicators were implemented in a developed recurrent neural network (RNN) model to create an earthquake probability map (EPM). According to the results, recent to quaternary unconsolidated sedimentary rocks and alluvial deposits have great potential to amplify earthquake intensity and consequently lead to acute ground motion. High intensity was observed in coastal and central parts of the state. Complicated morphometric structures along with high intensity variation could be other parameters that influence deposits in the Mahanadi River and its delta with high potential. The RNN model was employed to create a probability map (EPM) for the state. Results show that the Mahanadi basin has dominant structural control on earthquakes that could be found in the western parts of the state. Major faults were pointed towards a direction of WNW–ESE, NE–SW, and NNW–SSE, which may lead to isoseismic patterns. Results also show that the western part is highly probable for events while the eastern coastal part is highly susceptible to seismic amplification. The RNN model achieved an accuracy of 0.94, precision (0.94), recall (0.97), F1 score (0.96), critical success index (CSI) (0.92), and a Fowlkes–Mallows index (FM) (0.95).
Thermal Modeling Approaches for a LiCoO2 Lithium-ion Battery—A Comparative Study with Experimental Validation
Authors: Paccha-Herrera Edwin , Calderón-Muñoz Williams R. , Orchard Marcos , Jaramillo Francisco , Medjaher Kamal
Published: August 2020

Temperature prediction of a battery plays a significant role in terms of energy efficiency and safety of electric vehicles, as well as several kinds of electric and electronic devices. In this regard, it is crucial to identify an adequate model to study the thermal behavior of a battery. This article reports a comparative study on thermal modeling approaches by using a LiCoO2 26650 lithium-ion battery, and provides a methodology to characterize electrothermal phenomena. Three approaches have been implemented numerically—a thermal lumped model, a 3D computational fluid dynamics model, and an electrochemical model based on Newman, Tiedemann, Gu and Kim formulation. The last two methods were solved using ANSYS Fluent software. Simulations were validated with experimental measurements of the cell surface temperature at constant current discharge and under a highway driving cycle. Results show that the three models are consistent with actual temperature measurements. The electrochemical method has the lower error at 0.5C. Nevertheless, this model provides the higher error ( 1.3∘C) at 1.5C, where the maximum temperature increase of the cell was 18.1∘C. Under the driving cycle, all the models are in the same order of error. Lumped model is suitable to simulate a wide range of battery operating conditions. Furthermore, this work was expanded to study heat generation, voltage and heat transfer coefficient under natural convection.
Liposome-Based Bioassays
Authors: Sforzi Jacopo , Palagi Lorenzo , Aime Silvio
Published: August 2020

This review highlights the potential of using liposomes in bioassays. Liposomes consist of nano- or micro-sized, synthetically constructed phospholipid vesicles. Liposomes can be loaded with a number of reporting molecules that allow a dramatic amplification of the detection threshold in bioassays. Liposome-based sensors bind or react with the biological components of targets through the introduction of properly tailored vectors anchored on their external surface. The use of liposome-based formulations allows the set-up of bioassays that are rapid, sensitive, and often suitable for in-field applications. Selected applications in the field of immunoassays, as well as recognition/assessment of corona proteins, nucleic acids, exosomes, bacteria, and viruses are surveyed. The role of magnetoliposomes is also highlighted as an additional tool in the armory of liposome-based systems for bioassays.
Structural Features Defining NF-κB Inhibition by Lignan-Inspired Benzofurans and Benzothiophenes
Authors: Dao-Huy Toan , Latkolik Simone , Bräuer Julia , Pfeil Andreas , Stuppner Hermann , Schnürch Michael , Dirsch Verena M. , Mihovilovic Marko D.
Published: August 2020

A series of 2-arylbenzofurans and 2-arylbenzothiophenes was synthesized carrying three different side chains in position five. The synthesized compounds were tested for NF-κB inhibition to establish a structure activity relationship. It was found that both, the side chain in position five and the substitution pattern of the aryl moiety in position two have a significant influence on the inhibitory activity.
Immune Regulation, but Not Antibacterial Activity, Is a Crucial Function of Hepcidins in Resistance against Pathogenic Bacteria in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linn.)
Authors: Phan-Aram Pagaporn , Mahasri Gunanti , Kayansamruaj Pattanapon , Amparyup Piti , Srisapoome Prapansak
Published: August 2020

In this study, the functions of a recombinant propeptide (rProOn-Hep1) and the synthetic FITC-labelled mature peptides sMatOn-Hep1 and sMatOn-Hep2 were analyzed. Moreover, sMatOn-Hep1 and sMatOn-Hep2 were mildly detected in the lymphocytes of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and strongly detected in head kidney macrophages. The in vitro binding and antibacterial activities of these peptides were slightly effective against several pathogenic bacteria. Immune regulation by sMatOn-Hep1 was also analyzed, and only sMatOn-Hep1 significantly enhanced the phagocytic index in vitro (p < 0.05). Interestingly, intraperitoneal injection of sMatOn-Hep1 (10 or 100 µg) significantly elevated the phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and lysozyme activity and clearly decreased the iron ion levels in the livers of the treated fish (p < 0.05). Additionally, sMatOn-Hep1 enhanced the expression levels of CC and CXC chemokines, transferrin and both On-Hep genes in the liver, spleen and head kidney, for 1–96 h after injection, but did not properly protect the experimental fish from S. agalactiae infection after 7 days of treatment. However, the injection of S. agalactiae and On-Heps indicated that 100 μg of sMatOn-Hep1 was very effective, while 100 μg of rProOn-Hep1 and sMatOn-Hep2 demonstrated moderate protection. Therefore, On-Hep is a crucial iron-regulating molecule and a key immune regulator of disease resistance in Nile tilapia.
Arachidonic Acid as an Early Indicator of Inflammation during Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Development
Authors: Sztolsztener Klaudia , Chabowski Adrian , Harasim-Symbor Ewa , Bielawiec Patrycja , Konstantynowicz-Nowicka Karolina
Published: August 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease characterized by excessive lipid deposition. Lipid metabolism disturbances are possibly associated with hepatocyte inflammation development and oxidative balance impairment. The aim of our experiment was to examine the first moment when changes in plasma and liver arachidonic acid (AA) levels as a pro-inflammatory precursor may occur during high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD development. Wistar rats were fed a diet rich in fat for five weeks, and after each week, inflammation and redox balance parameters were evaluated in the liver. The AA contents in lipid fractions were assessed by gas–liquid chromatography (GLC). Protein expression relevant to inflammatory and lipogenesis pathways was determined by immunoblotting. The oxidative system indicators were determined with assay kits. Our results revealed that a high-fat diet promoted an increase in AA levels, especially in the phospholipid (PL) fraction. Importantly, rapid inflammation development via increased inflammatory enzyme expression, elevated lipid peroxidation product content and oxidative system impairment was caused by the HFD as early as the first week of the experiment. Based on these results, we may postulate that changes in AA content may be an early indicator of inflammation and irreversible changes in NAFLD progression.
Combined Treatment with Fasudil and Menthol Improves Functional Recovery in Rat Spinal Cord Injury Model
Authors: Kim JeongHoon , Joshi Hari Prasad , Kim Kyoung-Tae , Kim Yi Young , Yeo Keundong , Choi Hyemin , Kim Ye Won , Choi Un-Yong , Kumar Hemant , Sohn Seil , Shin Dong Ah , Han In-Bo
Published: August 2020

Neuroprotective measures by preventing secondary spinal cord injury (SCI) are one of the main strategies for repairing an injured spinal cord. Fasudil and menthol may be potent neuroprotective agents, which act by inhibiting a rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) and suppressing the inflammatory response, respectively. We hypothesized that combined treatment of fasudil and menthol could improve functional recovery by decreasing inflammation, apoptosis, and glial scar formation. We tested our hypothesis by administering fasudil and menthol intraperitoneally (i.p.) to female Sprague Dawley rats after moderate static compression (35 g of impounder for 5 min) of T10 spinal cord. The rats were randomly divided into five experimental groups: (i) sham animals received laminectomy alone, (ii) injured (SCI) and untreated (saline 0.2 mL/day, i.p.) rats, (iii) injured (SCI) rats treated with fasudil (10 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for two weeks, (iv) injured (SCI) rats treated with menthol (10 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for twoweeks, (v) injured (SCI) rats treated with fasudil (5 mg/kg/day, i.p.) and menthol (10 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for two weeks. Compared to single treatment groups, combined treatment of fasudil and menthol demonstrated significant functional recovery and pain amelioration, which, thereby, significantly reduced inflammation, apoptosis, and glial/fibrotic scar formation. Therefore, combined treatment of fasudil and menthol may provide effective amelioration of spinal cord dysfunction by a synergistic effect of fasudil and menthol.
Nutritional Supplementation Concurrent with Nutrition Education Accelerates the Wound Healing Process in Patients with Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Basiri Raedeh , Spicer Maria T. , Levenson Cathy W. , Ormsbee Michael J. , Ledermann Thomas , Arjmandi Bahram H.
Published: August 2020

Trials on nutritional supplements for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) have only evaluated the effects of supplementation with specific nutrients. Additionally, nutrition education has not been a systematic part of these studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a nutrient-dense formula combined with nutrition education on wound healing in DFU patients. Twenty-nine patients were randomly assigned to the treatment group (n = 15) receiving two servings of supplements daily plus nutrition education or control group (n = 14) that received the standard of care but no additional nutritional or educational intervention. Both groups were followed for a maximum of 12 weeks. Wound healing, as measured by planimetry, was examined at baseline and every four weeks until complete wound closure or up to 12 weeks. There were no significant differences between groups for BMI, age, duration of diabetes, wound age estimation, or wound area at baseline. The treatment group experienced a faster wound healing rate (6.43 mm2/week more reduction in the wound area) than the control group. The mean reduction in the wound area during the first four weeks of the study was almost 13-fold greater in the treatment group compared to the control group (18.0 mm2/week vs. 1.4 mm2/week, respectively). Our findings showed that nutrition supplementation plus nutrition education significantly accelerated wound healing in DFU patients compared to those who just received a standard-of-care regimen.
PTEN, a Barrier for Proliferation and Metastasis of Gastric Cancer Cells: From Molecular Pathways to Targeting and Regulation
Authors: Ashrafizadeh Milad , Najafi Masoud , Ang Hui Li , Moghadam Ebrahim Rahmani , Mahabady Mahmood Khaksary , Zabolian Amirhossein , Jafaripour Leila , Bejandi Atefe Kazemzade , Hushmandi Kiavash , Saleki Hossein , Zarrabi Ali , Kumar Alan Prem
Published: August 2020

Cancer is one of the life-threatening disorders that, in spite of excellent advances in medicine and technology, there is no effective cure for. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are extensively applied in cancer therapy, but their efficacy in eradication of cancer cells, suppressing metastasis, and improving overall survival of patients is low. This is due to uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells and their high migratory ability. Finding molecular pathways involved in malignant behavior of cancer cells can pave the road to effective cancer therapy. In the present review, we focus on phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) signaling as a tumor-suppressor molecular pathway in gastric cancer (GC). PTEN inhibits the PI3K/Akt pathway from interfering with the migration and growth of GC cells. Its activation leads to better survival of patients with GC. Different upstream mediators of PTEN in GC have been identified that can regulate PTEN in suppressing growth and invasion of GC cells, such as microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs. It seems that antitumor agents enhance the expression of PTEN in overcoming GC. This review focuses on aforementioned topics to provide a new insight into involvement of PTEN and its downstream and upstream mediators in GC. This will direct further studies for evaluation of novel signaling networks and their targeting for suppressing GC progression.
High Carbohydrate 19-9 Antigen Serum Levels in Patients with Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer and Primary Occult Cancer
Authors: Malaguarnera Giulia , Latteri Saverio , Madeddu Roberto , Catania Vito Emanuele , Bertino Gaetano , Perrotta Rosario Emanuele , Dinotta Francesco , Malaguarnera Michele
Published: August 2020

Background: Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), despite having a favourable prognosis, present an increased risk of occult malignancies. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the usefulness of the mucinous marker carbohydrate 19-9 antigen (CA 19-9) in the diagnosis of occult cancers. (1) Patients and Methods: This is a case control study in which 480 patients with NMSC and 480 matched control subjects with dermatitis were enrolled; 208 patients with NMSC showed upper-normal CA 19-9 values, and 272 showed under-normal CA 19-9 values. (2) Results: The 208 patients positive for CA 19-9 included 87 with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and 121 with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The 272 patients negative for CA 19-9 included 107 with BCC and 165 with SCC. For the SCC patients, CA 19-9 serum levels were significant in 121 of the patients (positive), 66 of which were affected by cancer; CA 19-9 was within the normal range in 165 patients, of which 30 were diagnosed with cancer. In the SCC patients, the CA 19-9 sensitivity was 68%, the specificity was 70%, the positive predictive value (PPV) was 54% (95%) and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 81%. In the BCC patients, the CA 19-9 sensitivity was 70%, the specificity was 66%, the PPV was 48% and the NPV was 83%. In the dermatitis patients (controls), we observed 121 patients that were CA 19-9 positive, with 15 malignancies, and 359 CA 19-9-negative patients, with three malignancies. (3) Conclusions: To confirm the association between CA 19-9 and an elevated risk of malignancies in NMSC, prospective cohort studies should be performed.
Finite Element Analysis Investigate Pulmonary Autograft Root and Leaflet Stresses to Understand Late Durability of Ross Operation
Authors: Nappi Francesco , Nenna Antonio , Lemmo Francesca , Chello Massimo , Chachques Juan Carlos , Acar Christophe , Larobina Domenico
Published: August 2020

Ross operation might be a valid option for congenital and acquired left ventricular outflow tract disease in selected cases. As the pulmonary autograft is a living substitute for the aortic root that bioinspired the Ross operation, we have created an experimental animal model in which the vital capacity of the pulmonary autograft (PA) has been studied during physiological growth. The present study aims to determine any increased stresses in PA root and leaflet compared to the similar components of the native aorta. An animal model and a mathematical analysis using finite element analysis have been used for the purpose of this manuscript. The results of this study advance our understanding of the relative benefits of pulmonary autograft for the management of severe aortic valve disease. However, it launches a warning about the importance of the choice of the length of the conduits as mechanical deformation, and, therefore, potential failure, increases with the length of the segment subjected to stress. Understanding PA root and leaflet stresses is the first step toward understanding PA durability and the regions prone to dilatation, ultimately to refine the best implant technique.
Diagnosis and Management of Type 1 Sialidosis: Clinical Insights from Long-Term Care of Four Unrelated Patients
Authors: Coppola Antonietta , Ianniciello Marta , Vanli-Yavuz Ebru N. , Rossi Settimio , Simonelli Francesca , Castellotti Barbara , Esposito Marcello , Tozza Stefano , Troisi Serena , Bellofatto Marta , Ugga Lorenzo , Striano Salvatore , D’Amico Alessandra , Baykan Betul , Striano Pasquale , Bilo Leonilda
Published: August 2020

Background: Sialidosis is a rare autosomal recessive disease caused by NEU1 mutations, leading to neuraminidase deficiency and accumulation of sialic acid-containing oligosaccharides and glycopeptides into the tissues. Sialidosis is divided into two clinical entities, depending on residual enzyme activity, and can be distinguished according to age of onset, clinical features, and progression. Type 1 sialidosis is the milder, late-onset form, also known as non-dysmorphic sialidosis. It is commonly characterized by progressive myoclonus, ataxia, and a macular cherry-red spot. As a rare condition, the diagnosis is often only made after few years from onset, and the clinical management might prove difficult. Furthermore, the information in the literature on the long-term course is scarce. Case presentations: We describe a comprehensive clinical, neuroradiological, ophthalmological, and electrophysiological history of four unrelated patients affected by type 1 sialidosis. The long-term care and novel clinical and neuroradiological insights are discussed. Discussion and conclusions: We report the longest follow-up (up to 30 years) ever described in patients with type 1 sialidosis. During the course, we observed a high degree of motor and speech disability with preserved cognitive functions. Among the newest antiseizure medication, perampanel (PER) was proven to be effective in controlling myoclonus and tonic–clonic seizures, confirming it is a valid therapeutic option for these patients. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) disclosed new findings, including bilateral gliosis of cerebellar folia and of the occipital white matter. In addition, a newly reported variant (c.914G > A) is described.
Sleep, Little Baby: The Calming Effects of Prenatal Speech Exposure on Newborns’ Sleep and Heartrate
Authors: Lang Adelheid , del Giudice Renata , Schabus Manuel
Published: August 2020

In a pilot study, 34 fetuses were stimulated daily with a maternal spoken nursery rhyme from week 34 of gestation onward and re-exposed two and five weeks after birth to this familiar, as well as to an unfamiliar rhyme, both spoken with the maternal and an unfamiliar female voice. During auditory stimulation, newborns were continuously monitored with polysomnography using video-monitored hdEEG. Afterward, changes in sleep–wake-state proportions during familiar and unfamiliar voice stimulation were analyzed. Our preliminary results demonstrate a general calming effect of auditory stimulation exclusively in infants who were prenatally “familiarized” with a spoken nursery rhyme, as evidenced by less waking states, more time spent in quiet (deep) sleep, and lower heartrates. A stimulation naïve group, on the other hand, demonstrated no such effects. Stimulus-specific effects related to the familiarity of the prenatally replayed voice or rhyme were not evident in newborns. Together, these results suggest “fetal learning” at a basic level and point to a familiarization with auditory stimuli prior to birth, which is evident in the first weeks of life in behavioral states and heartrate physiology of the newborn.
Factors Influencing Central Nervous System Abnormalities in m.11778G>A Carriers
Authors: Finsterer Josef
Published: August 2020

With interest, we read the article by Jonak et al [...]
Cancer Nanomedicine
Authors: Hoskins Clare
Published: August 2020

This Special Issue on Cancer Nanomedicine within Cancers brings together 46 cutting-edge papers covering research within the field along with insightful reviews and opinions reflecting our community [...]
Single-Cell Heterogeneity of Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphomas Revealed Using RNA-Seq Technologies
Authors: Rassek Karolina , Iżykowska Katarzyna
Published: August 2020

Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs) represent a large, heterogeneous group of non-Hodgkin lymphomas that primarily affect the skin. Among multiple CTCL variants, the most prevalent types are mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS). In the past decade, the molecular genetics of CTCL have been the target of intense study, increasing the knowledge of CTCL genomic alterations, discovering novel biomarkers, and potential targets for patient-specific therapy. However, the detailed pathogenesis of CTCL development still needs to be discovered. This review aims to summarize the novel insights into molecular heterogeneity of malignant cells using high-throughput technologies, such as RNA sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing, which might be useful to identify tumour-specific molecular signatures and, therefore, offer guidance for therapy, diagnosis, and prognosis of CTCL.
Natural Born Killers: NK Cells in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Franks S. Elizabeth , Wolfson Benjamin , Hodge James W.
Published: August 2020

Cellular therapy has emerged as an attractive option for the treatment of cancer, and adoptive transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) expressing T cells has gained FDA approval in hematologic malignancy. However, limited efficacy was observed using CAR-T therapy in solid tumors. Natural killer (NK) cells are crucial for tumor surveillance and exhibit potent killing capacity of aberrant cells in an antigen-independent manner. Adoptive transfer of unmodified allogeneic or autologous NK cells has shown limited clinical benefit due to factors including low cell number, low cytotoxicity and failure to migrate to tumor sites. To address these problems, immortalized and autologous NK cells have been genetically engineered to express high affinity receptors (CD16), CARs directed against surface proteins (PD-L1, CD19, Her2, etc.) and endogenous cytokines (IL-2 and IL-15) that are crucial for NK cell survival and cytotoxicity, with positive outcomes reported by several groups both preclinically and clinically. With a multitude of NK cell-based therapies currently in clinic trials, it is likely they will play a crucial role in next-generation cell therapy-based treatment. In this review, we will highlight the recent advances and limitations of allogeneic, autologous and genetically enhanced NK cells used in adoptive cell therapy.