bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of Reduced and Oxidized Coenzyme Q10 in Finished Products
Authors: Temova Rakuša Žane , Kristl Albin , Roškar Robert
Published: February 2021

The efficiency of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplements is closely associated with its content and stability in finished products. This study aimed to provide evidence-based information on the quality and stability of CoQ10 in dietary supplements and medicines. Therefore, ubiquinol, ubiquinone, and total CoQ10 contents were determined by a validated HPLC-UV method in 11 commercial products with defined or undefined CoQ10 form. Both forms were detected in almost all tested products, resulting in a total of CoQ10 content between 82% and 166% of the declared. Ubiquinol, ubiquinone, and total CoQ10 stability in these products were evaluated within three months of accelerated stability testing. Ubiquinol, which is recognized as the less stable form, was properly stabilized. Contrarily, ubiquinone degradation and/or reduction were observed during storage in almost all tested products. These reactions were also detected at ambient temperature within the products’ shelf-lives and confirmed in ubiquinone standard solutions. Ubiquinol, generated by ubiquinone reduction with vitamin C during soft-shell capsules’ storage, may lead to higher bioavailability and health outcomes. However, such conversion and inappropriate content in products, which specify ubiquinone, are unacceptable in terms of regulation. Therefore, proper CoQ10 stabilization through final formulations regardless of the used CoQ10 form is needed.
Rapid and Sensitive Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Using Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats
Authors: Tsou Jen-Hui , Liu Hongjie , Stass Sanford A. , Jiang Feng
Published: February 2021

Rapid and accurate detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is essential for controlling the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based technique is the standard test for detection of SARS-CoV-2, which, however, requires complicated sample manipulation (e.g., RNA extraction) and is time-consuming. We previously demonstrated that clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) could precisely detect Human papillomavirus and somatic mutations of Epidermal growth factor receptor gene and Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog gene in plasma. The objective of this study was to develop CRISPR as a rapid test for sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2. We first combined reverse transcription-isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification and CRSIPR to detect SARS-CoV-2 in genomic RNA of cells infected with the virus. The CRISPR assay with guide RNA against the M gene of SARS-CoV-2 had a sensitivity of 0.1 copies per µL for detection of the virus. We then used the CRSIPR assay to directly analyze raw SARS-CoV-2 samples. The CRISPR assay could sensitively detect SARS-CoV-2 in one hour without RNA extraction. This assay can be performed at a single temperature and with minimal equipment. The results were immediately visualized either by a UV light illuminator or paper strips. The diagnostic value of the test was confirmed in nasopharyngeal swab specimens. Altogether, we have developed a rapid CRISPR test for sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2.
Design Methodology of Passive In-Line Relays for Molecular Communication in Flow-Induced Microfluidic Channel
Authors: Manocha Puneet , Chandwani Gitanjali
Published: February 2021

Molecular communication is a bioinspired communication that enables macro-scale, micro-scale and nano-scale devices to communicate with each other. The molecular communication system is prone to severe signal attenuation, dispersion and delay, which leads to performance degradation as the distance between two communicating devices increases. To mitigate these challenges, relays are used to establish reliable communication in microfluidic channels. Relay assisted molecular communication systems can also enable interconnection among various entities of the lab-on-chip for sharing information. Various relaying schemes have been proposed for reliable molecular communication systems, most of which lack practical feasibility. Thus, it is essential to design and develop relays that can be practically incorporated into the microfluidic channel. This paper presents a novel design of passive in-line relay for molecular communication system that can be easily embedded in the microfluidic channel and operate without external energy. Results show that geometric modification in the microfluidic channel can act as a relay and restore the degraded signal up-to 28%.
Random Forest Modelling of High-Dimensional Mixed-Type Data for Breast Cancer Classification
Authors: Quist Jelmar , Taylor Lawson , Staaf Johan , Grigoriadis Anita
Published: February 2021

Advances in high-throughput technologies encourage the generation of large amounts of multiomics data to investigate complex diseases, including breast cancer. Given that the aetiologies of such diseases extend beyond a single biological entity, and that essential biological information can be carried by all data regardless of data type, integrative analyses are needed to identify clinically relevant patterns. To facilitate such analyses, we present a permutation-based framework for random forest methods which simultaneously allows the unbiased integration of mixed-type data and assessment of relative feature importance. Through simulation studies and machine learning datasets, the performance of the approach was evaluated. The results showed minimal multicollinearity and limited overfitting. To further assess the performance, the permutation-based framework was applied to high-dimensional mixed-type data from two independent breast cancer cohorts. Reproducibility and robustness of our approach was demonstrated by the concordance in relative feature importance between the cohorts, along with consistencies in clustering profiles. One of the identified clusters was shown to be prognostic for clinical outcome after standard-of-care adjuvant chemotherapy and outperformed current intrinsic molecular breast cancer classifications.
Emulation of a Target Trial to Evaluate the Causal Effect of Palliative Care Consultation on the Survival Time of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Buranupakorn Tassaya , Thangsuk Phaviga , Patumanond Jayanton , Phinyo Phichayut
Published: February 2021

Palliative care has the potential to improve the quality of life of patients with incurable diseases or cancer, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A common misconception of palliative care with respect to the patient’s survival remains a significant barrier to the discipline. This study aimed to provide causal evidence for the effect of palliative care consultation on the survival time after diagnosis among HCC patients. An emulation of a target trial was conducted on a retrospective cohort of HCC patients from January 2017 to August 2019. The primary endpoint was the restricted mean survival time (RMST) at 12 months after HCC diagnosis. We used the clone–censor–weight approach to account for potential immortal time bias. In this study, 86 patients with palliative care consultation and 71 patients without palliative care consultation were included. The adjusted RMST difference was −29.7 (95% confidence interval (CI): −81.7, 22.3; p-value = 0.263) days in favor of no palliative care consultation. However, palliative care consultation was associated with an increase in the prescription of symptom control medications, as well as a reduction in life-sustaining interventions and healthcare costs. Our findings suggest that palliative care consultation was associated with neither additional survival benefit nor harm in HCC patients. The misconception that it significantly accelerates the dying process should be disregarded.
Determination of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) Using Nanoparticle-Modified Voltammetric Sensors and Electronic Tongue Principles
Authors: Wang Qing , del Valle Manel
Published: February 2021

This manuscript reports the use of nanoparticle-modified voltammetric sensors for the rapid and green determination of chemical oxygen demand in river waters and waters from agricultural waste. Four different variants of modified electrodes have been prepared: CuO nanoparticles electrogenerated over Cu and covered with Nafion film (CuO/Cu-Nf), and graphite–epoxy composites modified with Cu, CuO, and Cu–Ni alloy nanoparticles. The response features of these electrodes were assessed by calibrating them vs. glucose, glycine, ethyleneglycol, and hydrogenphtalate in alkaline media, as samples providing different difficulty in their (bio)degradation characteristics. The most sensitive electrode was demonstrated to be the (CuO/Cu-Nf) electrode, with an LOD of 12.3 mg O2·L−1. The joint information provided by the sensor array showed the ability of estimating both the organic load and the type of sample in terms of difficulty of degradation, in what can be named an intelligent sensor assembly.
Advanced Cutaneous Leiomyosarcoma of the Forearm
Authors: Cazzato Gerardo , Sergi Maria Chiara , Sablone Sara , Colagrande Anna , Lettini Teresa , Fanelli Francesco , Orsini Umberto , Ingravallo Giuseppe
Published: February 2021

Leiomyosarcoma is a malignant smooth muscle neoplasm, which is traditionally divided into superficial and deep tumors. Superficial leiomyosarcomas are quite rare entities, accounting for approximately 7% of soft tissue neoplasms and 0.04% of all cancers. Here we describe a rare case of advanced primary cutaneous leiomyosarcoma (PCL) in a 93-year-old woman, highlighting the considerable size of the lesion and the correct surgical and oncological management. The clinical story began about 4 years ago, and the neoplasia was treated only with local radiotherapy, but the patient suffered from a dramatic volumetric increase of the right arm sarcoma one year ago. Then, an amputation of the limb was performed without following adjuvant chemotherapy. Currently, she does not show signs of recurrence and is in good shape.
Fault Detection and Diagnosis Methods for Fluid Power Pitch System Components—A Review
Authors: Asmussen Magnus F. , Liniger Jesper , Pedersen Henrik C.
Published: February 2021

Wind turbines have become a significant part of the global power production and are still increasing in capacity. Pitch systems are an important part of modern wind turbines where they are used to apply aerodynamic braking for power regulation and emergency shutdowns. Studies have shown that the pitch system is responsible for up to 20% of the total down time of a wind turbine. Reducing the down time is an important factor for decreasing the total cost of energy of wind energy in order to make wind energy more competitive. Due to this, attention has come to condition monitoring and fault detection of such systems as an attempt to increase the reliability and availability, hereby the reducing the turbine downtime. Some methods for fault detection and condition monitoring of fluid power systems do exists, though not many are used in today’s pitch systems. This paper gives an overview of fault detection and condition monitoring methods of fluid power systems similar to fluid power pitch systems in wind turbines and discuss their applicability in relation to pitch systems. The purpose is to give an overview of which methods that exist and to find areas where new methods need to be developed or existing need to be modified. The paper goes through the most important components of a pitch system and discuss the existing methods related to each type of component. Furthermore, it is considered if existing methods can be used for fluid power pitch systems for wind turbine.
Detecting Leaders Country from Road Transport Emission Time-Series
Authors: De Luca Giovanni , Pizzolante Federica
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, climate change and global warming have become the main concerns worldwide. One of the main causes are the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced by human activities, especially by the transportation sector. The adherence to international agreements and the implementation of climate change policy are necessary conditions for reducing environmental problems. This paper investigates the lead–lag relationship between Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and Annex I member countries on road transport emission performance focusing on the statistical analysis of the lead–lag relationships between the road transport emission time-series from 1970–2018 extracted by the Emissions Database for Global Atmospheric Research (EDGAR) database. The analysis was carried out using the cross-correlation function between each pair of the countries’ time-series considered. Empirical results confirm that some nations have been playing a role as leaders, while others as followers. Sweden can be considered the leader, followed by Germany and France. By analyzing their environmental policy history, we can figure out a common point that explains our results.
Effects of Intra-Seasonal Drought on Kinetics of Tracheid Differentiation and Seasonal Growth Dynamics of Norway Spruce along an Elevational Gradient
Authors: Stangler Dominik Florian , Kahle Hans-Peter , Raden Martin , Larysch Elena , Seifert Thomas , Spiecker Heinrich
Published: February 2021

Research Highlights: Our results provide novel perspectives on the effectiveness and collapse of compensatory mechanisms of tracheid development of Norway spruce during intra-seasonal drought and the environmental control of intra-annual density fluctuations. Background and Objectives: This study aimed to compare and integrate complementary methods for investigating intra-annual wood formation dynamics to gain a better understanding of the endogenous and environmental control of tree-ring development and the impact of anticipated climatic changes on forest growth and productivity. Materials and Methods: We performed an integrated analysis of xylogenesis observations, quantitative wood anatomy, and point-dendrometer measurements of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) trees growing along an elevational gradient in South-western Germany during a growing season with an anomalous dry June followed by an extraordinary humid July. Results: Strong endogenous control of tree-ring formation was suggested at the highest elevation where the decreasing rates of tracheid enlargement and wall thickening during drought were effectively compensated by increased cell differentiation duration. A shift to environmental control of tree-ring formation during drought was indicated at the lowest elevation, where we detected absence of compensatory mechanisms, eventually stimulating the formation of an intra-annual density fluctuation. Transient drought stress in June also led to bimodal patterns and decreasing daily rates of stem radial displacement, radial xylem growth, and woody biomass production. Comparing xylogenesis data with dendrometer measurements showed ambivalent results and it appears that, with decreasing daily rates of radial xylem growth, the signal-to-noise ratio in dendrometer time series between growth and fluctuations of tree water status becomes increasingly detrimental. Conclusions: Our study provides new perspectives into the complex interplay between rates and durations of tracheid development during dry-wet cycles, and, thereby, contributes to an improved and mechanistic understanding of the environmental control of wood formation processes, leading to the formation of intra-annual density fluctuations in tree-rings of Norway spruce.
Toxicity Profiling of Biosurfactants Produced by Novel Marine Bacterial Strains
Authors: Voulgaridou Georgia-Persephoni , Mantso Theodora , Anestopoulos Ioannis , Klavaris Ariel , Katzastra Christina , Kiousi Despoina-Eugenia , Mantela Marini , Galanis Alex , Gardikis Konstantinos , Banat Ibrahim M. , Gutierrez Tony , Sałek Karina , Euston Stephen , Panayiotidis Mihalis I. , Pappa Aglaia
Published: February 2021

Surface active agents (SAAs), currently used in modern industry, are synthetic chemicals produced from non-renewable sources, with potential toxic impacts on humans and the environment. Thus, there is an increased interest for the identification and utilization of natural derived SAAs. As such, the marine environment is considered a promising source of biosurfactants with low toxicity, environmental compatibility, and biodegradation compared to their synthetic counterparts. MARISURF is a Horizon 2020 EU-funded project aiming to identify and functionally characterize SAAs, derived from a unique marine bacterial collection, towards commercial exploitation. Specifically, rhamnolipids produced by Marinobacter MCTG107b and Pseudomonas MCTG214(3b1) strains were previously identified and characterized while currently their toxicity profile was assessed by utilizing well-established methodologies. Our results showed a lack of cytotoxicity in in vitro models of human skin and liver as indicated by alamar blue and propidium iodide assays. Additionally, the use of the single gel electrophoresis assay, under oxidative stress conditions, revealed absence of any significant mutagenic/anti-mutagenic potential. Finally, both 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonicacid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) cell-free assays, revealed no significant anti-oxidant capacity for neither of the tested compounds. Consequently, the absence of significant cytotoxicity and/or mutagenicity justifies their commercial exploitation and potential development into industrial end-user applications as natural and environmentally friendly biosurfactants.
The Effect of Melatonin on Periodontitis
Authors: Konečná Barbora , Chobodová Paulína , Janko Jakub , Baňasová Lenka , Bábíčková Janka , Celec Peter , Tóthová Ľubomíra
Published: February 2021

Background: Periodontitis is a chronic disease with a complex etiology that includes bacterial colonization, excessive inflammation, and oxidative stress. The hormone melatonin has antioxidant properties and might contribute to alleviating chronic conditions by reducing oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of exogenous melatonin on periodontitis in an animal model of the disease as well as in patients with periodontitis. Methods: In rats with ligature-induced periodontitis, melatonin was administered in drinking water for two weeks. In the human study, patients with treatment-resistant periodontitis were asked to rinse their mouths with a solution containing melatonin or placebo every evening for two weeks. Periodontal status as well as salivary markers of oxidative stress were assessed at the end of the study. Results: Neither radiography nor μCT revealed any significant effects of melatonin on alveolar bone loss. Gum recession was the only improved macroscopic measure in rats (p < 0.05). Analysis of salivary markers of oxidative stress revealed no effects of treatment in rats or humans despite clearly elevated melatonin concentrations in melatonin treated groups. Conclusion: Our results do not support the use of melatonin for the treatment of periodontitis. However, the negative outcome is limited by the short duration of the study and the chosen route of application as well as the dose of melatonin.
Fibrinogen Interaction with Astrocyte ICAM-1 and PrPC Results in the Generation of ROS and Neuronal Death
Authors: Sulimai Nurul , Brown Jason , Lominadze David
Published: February 2021

Many neuroinflammatory diseases, like traumatic brain injury (TBI), are associated with an elevated level of fibrinogen and short-term memory (STM) impairment. We found that during TBI, extravasated fibrinogen deposited in vasculo-astrocyte interfaces, which was associated with neurodegeneration and STM reduction. The mechanisms of this fibrinogen-astrocyte interaction and its functional role in neurodegeneration are still unclear. Cultured mouse brain astrocytes were treated with fibrinogen in the presence or absence of function-blocking antibody or peptide against its astrocyte receptors intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) or cellular prion protein (PrPC), respectively. Fibrinogen interactions with astrocytic ICAM-1 and PrPC were characterized. The expression of pro-inflammatory markers, generations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) in astrocytes, and neuronal death caused by astrocyte-conditioned medium were assessed. Data showed a strong association between fibrinogen and astrocytic ICAM-1 or PrPC, overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and overproduction of ROS and NO, resulting in neuronal apoptosis and death. These effects were reduced by blocking the function of astrocytic ICAM-1 and PrPC, suggesting that fibrinogen association with its astrocytic receptors induce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, resulting in oxidative stress, and ultimately neuronal death. This can be a mechanism of neurodegeneration and the resultant STM reduction seen during TBI.
Humanized Mice as a Tool to Study Sepsis—More Than Meets the Eye
Authors: Laudanski Krzysztof
Published: February 2021

(1) Background. Repetitive animal studies that have disappointed upon translation into clinical therapies have led to an increased appreciation of humanized mice as a remedy to the shortcomings of rodent-based models. However, their limitations have to be understood in depth. (2) Methods. This is a narrative, comprehensive review of humanized mice and sepsis literature to understand the model’s benefits and shortcomings. (3) Results: Studies involving humanized models of sepsis include bacterial, viral, and protozoan etiology. Humanized mice provided several unique insights into the etiology and natural history of sepsis and are particularly useful in studying Ebola, and certain viral and protozoan infections. However, studies are relatively sparse and based on several different models of sepsis and humanized animals. (4) Conclusions. The utilization of humanized mice as a model for sepsis presents complex limitations that, once surpassed, hold some potential for the advancement of sepsis etiology and treatment.
Oxytocin and Addiction: Potential Glutamatergic Mechanisms
Authors: Sundar Megana , Patel Devon , Young Zachary , Leong Kah-Chung
Published: February 2021

Recently, oxytocin (OXT) has been investigated for its potential therapeutic role in addiction. OXT has been found to diminish various drug-seeking and drug-induced behaviors. Although its behavioral effects are well-established, there is not much consensus on how this neuropeptide exerts its effects. Previous research has given thought to how dopamine (DA) may be involved in oxytocinergic mechanisms, but there has not been as strong of a focus on the role that glutamate (Glu) has. The glutamatergic system is critical for the processing of rewards and the disruption of glutamatergic projections produces the behaviors seen in drug addicts. We introduce the idea that OXT has direct effects on Glu transmission within the reward processing pathway. Thus, OXT may reduce addictive behaviors by restoring abnormal drug-induced changes in the glutamatergic system and in its interactions with other neurotransmitters. This review offers insight into the mechanisms through which a potentially viable therapeutic target, OXT, could be used to reduce addiction-related behaviors.
DNA Organization along Pachytene Chromosome Axes and Its Relationship with Crossover Frequencies
Authors: del Priore Lucía , Pigozzi María Inés
Published: February 2021

During meiosis, the number of crossovers vary in correlation to the length of prophase chromosome axes at the synaptonemal complex stage. It has been proposed that the regular spacing of the DNA loops, along with the close relationship of the recombination complexes and the meiotic axes are at the basis of this covariation. Here, we use a cytogenomic approach to investigate the relationship between the synaptonemal complex length and the DNA content in chicken oocytes during the pachytene stage of the first meiotic prophase. The synaptonemal complex to DNA ratios of specific chromosomes and chromosome segments were compared against the recombination rates obtained by MLH1 focus mapping. The present results show variations in the DNA packing ratios of macro- and microbivalents and also between regions within the same bivalent. Chromosome or chromosome regions with higher crossover rates form comparatively longer synaptonemal complexes than expected based on their DNA content. These observations are compatible with the formation of higher number of shorter DNA loops along meiotic axes in regions with higher recombination levels.
Prime i-Ideals in Ordered n-ary Semigroups
Authors: Pornsurat Patchara , Palakawong na Ayutthaya Pakorn , Pibaljommee Bundit
Published: February 2021

We study the concept of i-ideal of an ordered n-ary semigroup and give a construction of the i-ideal of an ordered n-ary semigroup generated by its nonempty subset. Moreover, we study the notions of prime, weakly prime, semiprime and weakly semiprime ideals of an ordered n-ary semigroup.
Ecklonia cava Attenuates PM2.5-Induced Cognitive Decline through Mitochondrial Activation and Anti-Inflammatory Effect
Authors: Park Seon Kyeong , Kang Jin Yong , Kim Jong Min , Kim Hyun-Jin , Heo Ho Jin
Published: February 2021

To evaluate the effects of Ecklonia cava (E. cava) on ambient-pollution-induced neurotoxicity, we used a mouse model exposed to particulate matter smaller than 2.5 µm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5). The intake of water extract from E. cava (WEE) effectively prevented the learning and memory decline. After a behavioral test, the toll-like receptor (TLR)-4-initiated inflammatory response was confirmed by PM2.5 exposure in the lung and brain tissues, and the WEE was regulated through the inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)/inflammasome formation signaling pathway and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IFN-γ). The WEE also effectively improved the PM2.5-induced oxidative damage of the lungs and brain through the inhibition of malondialdehyde (MDA) production and the activation of mitochondrial activity (mitochondrial ROS content, mitochondria membrane potential (MMP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content, and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic molecules). In particular, the WEE regulated the cognition-related proteins (a decreased amyloid precursor protein (APP) and p-Tau, and an increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)) associated with PM2.5-induced cognitive dysfunction. Additionally, the WEE prevented the inactivation of acetylcholine (ACh) synthesis and release as a neurotransmitter by regulating the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), and ACh receptor (AChR)-α3 in the brain tissue. The bioactive compounds of the WEE were detected as the polysaccharide (average Mw; 160.13 kDa) and phenolic compounds including 2′-phloroeckol.
Removal of 4-Nitrophenol from Aqueous Solution by Using Polyphenylsulfone-Based Blend Membranes: Characterization and Performance
Authors: Yahya Ali Amer , Rashid Khalid T. , Ghadhban Maryam Y. , Mousa Noor Edin , Majdi Hasan Shaker , Salih Issam K. , Alsalhy Qusay F.
Published: February 2021

Among many contaminants in wastewater, organic phenol compounds presented a major concern to endanger the water resources safety. In the present study, blend nanofiltration (NF) membranes comprising polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) and polyethersulfone (PES) were prepared via the non-induced phase separation and their performance was examined against 4-Nitrophenol (4-NP). The PES ratio in the dope solution was varied from 6 to 9 wt.% to probe the impact of PES on the retention and permeation characteristics of the final membranes. A series of experimental tools were employed to estimate the characteristics of the membranes, including surface and cross-section, hydrophilicity, pore size and pore size distribution. Performance evaluation of the NF membranes was conducted considering two operational variables; pH and initial feed solution. About 99% removal of 4-NP along with 6.2 L/m2·h·bar was achieved at the optimum operating conditions as revealed by optimization and mathematical modelling.
Comparison of Common Enrichment Broths Used in Diagnostic Laboratories for Shiga Toxin—Producing Escherichia coli
Authors: Bording-Jorgensen Michael , Tyrrell Hannah , Lloyd Colin , Chui Linda
Published: February 2021

Acute gastroenteritis caused by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) affects more than 4 million individuals in Canada. Diagnostic laboratories are shifting towards culture-independent diagnostic testing; however, recovery of STEC remains an important aspect of surveillance programs. The objective of this study was to compare common broth media used for the enrichment of STEC. Clinical isolates including O157:H7 as well as non-O157 serotypes were cultured in tryptic soy (TSB), MacConkey (Mac), and Gram-negative (GN) broths and growth was compared using culture on sheep’s blood agar and real-time PCR (qPCR). In addition, a selection of the same isolates was spiked into negative stool and enriched in the same three broths, which were then evaluated using culture on CHROMagarTM STEC agar and qPCR. TSB was found to provide the optimal enrichment for growth of isolates with and without stool. The results from this study suggest that diagnostic laboratories may benefit from enriching STEC samples in TSB as a first line enrichment instead of GN or Mac.
Vector-Borne Blood Parasites of the Great-Tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus) in East-Central Texas, USA
Authors: Golnar Andrew J. , Medeiros Matthew C. I. , Rosenbaum Katlyn , Bejcek Justin , Hamer Sarah A. , Hamer Gabriel L.
Published: February 2021

Great-tailed grackles (Quiscalus mexicanus) have dramatically expanded into North America over the past century. However, little is known about the blood that parasites they support. Here, for the first time, we document an assemblage of trypanosome, haemosporida, and filarial nematodes co-circulating in invasive great-tailed grackles. Between February and July, 2015, 61 individuals were captured in an urban environment of College Station, Texas. Field microscopy and molecular diagnostics indicate that 52% (24/46) were visually infected with filarioid nematodes, 24% (11/46) with avian trypanosomes, and 73% (n = 44/60) with haemosporida parasites, such as Haemoproteus (Parahaemoproteus) and Plasmodium cathemerium. Overall, 87% of great-tailed grackles were infected with blood parasites. Although 50% of individuals hosted parasites from multiple phylum, no patterns of parasite assembly were observed. Results indicate that great-tailed grackles can support a relatively high level of blood parasitism. However, the consequences for avian health remain to be determined.
RNA Interference-Mediated Knockdown of Genes Encoding Spore Wall Proteins Confers Protection against Nosema ceranae Infection in the European Honey Bee, Apis mellifera
Authors: He Nan , Zhang Yi , Duan Xin Le , Li Jiang Hong , Huang Wei-Fone , Evans Jay D. , DeGrandi-Hoffman Gloria , Chen Yan Ping , Huang Shao Kang
Published: February 2021

Nosema ceranae (Opisthosporidia: Microsporidia) is an emergent intracellular parasite of the European honey bee (Apis mellifera) and causes serious Nosema disease which has been associated with worldwide honey bee colony losses. The only registered treatment for Nosema disease is fumagillin-b, and this has raised concerns about resistance and off-target effects. Fumagillin-B is banned from use in honey bee colonies in many countries, particularly in Europe. As a result, there is an urgent need for new and effective therapeutic options to treat Nosema disease in honey bees. An RNA interference (RNAi)-based approach can be a potent strategy for controlling diseases in honey bees. We explored the therapeutic potential of silencing the sequences of two N. ceranae encoded spore wall protein (SWP) genes by means of the RNAi-based methodology. Our study revealed that the oral ingestion of dsRNAs corresponding to SWP8 and SWP12 used separately or in combination could lead to a significant reduction in spore load, improve immunity, and extend the lifespan of N. ceranae-infected bees. The results from the work completed here enhance our understanding of honey bee host responses to microsporidia infection and highlight that RNAi-based therapeutics are a promising treatment for honey bee diseases.
Vertical Transmission of Extended-Spectrum, Beta-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae during Preterm Delivery: A Prospective Study
Authors: Frank Wolf Maya , Abu Shqara Raneen , Naskovica Karina , Zilberfarb Inna Amdur , Sgayer Inshirah , Glikman Daniel , Rechnitzer Hagai , Fleisher Sheffer Vered , Bornstein Jacob
Published: February 2021

Maternal carriage and vertical transmission of extended-spectrum, beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), such as Escherichia coli, hamper the treatment of infections, resulting in high morbidity. E. coli is the most frequent cause of early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS) in preterm infants, where ESBL-E are more frequently isolated. In this prospective, case-controlled study, maternal rectovaginal ESBL-E colonization and vertical transmission to preterm infants were assessed in 160 women with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM; 57.4%) or preterm labor (42.6%); additional cultures were obtained from the placenta, amnion, and umbilical cord during preterm labor. Maternal and neonatal ESBL-E-carriage rates were 17.5% and 12.9%, respectively, and the vertical-transmission rate was 50%. Maternal ESBL-E colonization among women with PPROM was 21.3%, and in women with premature labor it was 12.6%. No correlation was observed between maternal ESBL-E-colonization and previous hospitalization or antibiotic administration during pregnancy. However, a correlation was found between placental inflammation and maternal ESBL-E colonization (p = 0.007). ESBL-E-colonized infants were delivered at an earlier gestational age and were more likely to have complications. Thus, the high ESBL-E carriage rate in women with threatened preterm labor, without obvious risk factors for carriage, and a high vertical transmission rate, combined with a correlation between placental inflammation and ESBL-E carriage, support maternal–neonatal ESBL-E-colonization surveillance and active measures to prevent ESBL-E-related EOS.
Well-Dispersed Silver Nanoparticles on Cellulose Filter Paper for Bacterial Removal
Authors: Chien Hsiu-Wen , Tsai Ming-Yen , Kuo Chia-Jung , Lin Ching-Lo
Published: February 2021

In this study, a polydopamine (PDA) and polyethyleneimine (PEI)-assisted approach was developed to generate well-distributed PDA/PEI/silver (PDA/PEI/Ag) nanocomplexes on the surfaces of commercial cellulose filter papers to achieve substantial bacterial reduction under gravity-driven filtration. PDA can bind to cellulose paper and act as a reducer to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), while PEI can react with oxidative dopamine and act as a dispersant to avoid the aggregation of AgNPs. The successful immobilization of PDA/PEI/Ag nanocomplexes was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) were used as pathogen models to test the efficacy of the PDA/PEI/Ag nanocomplex-incorporated filter papers. The PDA/PEI/Ag nanocomplex-incorporated filter papers provided a substantial bacterial removal of up to 99% by simple gravity filtration. This work may be useful to develop a feasible industrial production process for the integration of biocidal AgNPs into cellulose filter paper and is recommended as a local-condition water-treatment technology to treat microbial-contaminated drinking water.
Tunable Split-Disk Metamaterial Absorber for Sensing Application
Authors: Zhang Yusheng , Lin Peng , Lin Yu-Sheng
Published: February 2021

We present four designs of tunable split-disk metamaterial (SDM) absorbers. They consist of a bottom gold (Au) mirror layer anchored on Si substrate and a suspended-top SDM nanostructure with one, two, three, and four splits named SDM-1, SDM-2, SDM-3, and SDM-4, respectively. By tailoring the geometrical configurations, the four SDMs exhibit different tunable absorption resonances spanning from 1.5 µm to 5.0 µm wavelength range. The resonances of absorption spectra can be tuned in the range of 320 nm, and the absorption intensities become lower by increasing the gaps of the air insulator layer. To increase the sensitivity of the proposed devices, SDMs exhibit high sensitivities of 3312 nm/RIU (refractive index unit, RIU), 3362 nm/RIU, 3342 nm/RIU, and 3567 nm/RIU for SDM-1, SDM-2, SDM-3, and SDM-4, respectively. The highest correlation coefficient is 0.99999. This study paves the way to the possibility of optical gas sensors and biosensors with high sensitivity.
Diet in Rheumatoid Arthritis versus Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Any Differences?
Authors: Alunno Alessia , Carubbi Francesco , Bartoloni Elena , Grassi Davide , Ferri Claudio , Gerli Roberto
Published: February 2021

In recent years, an increasing interest in the influence of diet in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) led to the publication of several articles exploring the role of food/nutrients in both the risk of developing these conditions in normal subjects and the natural history of the disease in patients with established RMDs. Diet may be a possible facilitator of RMDs due to both the direct pro-inflammatory properties of some nutrients and the indirect action on insulin resistance, obesity and associated co-morbidities. A consistent body of research has been conducted in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), while studies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are scarce and have been conducted mainly on experimental models of the disease. This review article aims to outline similarities and differences between RA and SLE based on the existing literature.
Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effects of Almonds on Facial Wrinkles and Pigmentation
Authors: Rybak Iryna , Carrington Alexis E. , Dhaliwal Simran , Hasan Aliza , Wu Hera , Burney Waqas , Maloh Jessica , Sivamani Raja K.
Published: February 2021

Background: Almonds have long been studied as a rich source of fatty acids, phytochemical polyphenols and antioxidants such as vitamin E. A recent study compared almond supplementations to a calorie-matched intervention for 16 weeks, yielding statistically significant improvement in wrinkle severity in postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II that received almonds. This study furthers that assessment with a larger population and duration of 24 weeks to assess the influence of almond consumption on wrinkle severity, skin pigmentation and other skin biophysical profiles. Objective: To investigate the effects of almond consumption on photoaging such as wrinkles and pigment intensity as well as facial biophysical parameters such as sebum production, skin hydration and water loss. Design and interventions: A prospective, randomized controlled study assessed postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I or II who consumed 20% of their daily energy consumption in either almonds or a calorie-matched snack for 24 weeks. A facial photograph and image analysis system was used to obtain standardized high-resolution photographs and information on wrinkle width and severity at 0, 8, 16 and 24 weeks. Measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin pigmentation, skin hydration and sebum production were also completed at each visit. Results: The average wrinkle severity was significantly decreased in the almond intervention group at week 16 and week 24 compared to baseline by 15% and 16%, respectively. Facial pigment intensity was decreased 20% in the almond group at week 16 and this was maintained by week 24. There were no significant differences in skin hydration or TEWL in the almond group compared to the control, although sebum excretion was increased in the control group. Conclusion: The daily consumption of almonds may improve several aspects of photoaging such as facial wrinkles and pigment intensity in postmenopausal women. In conclusion, the daily consumption of almonds may contribute to the improvement of facial wrinkles and reduction of skin pigmentation among postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II.
The Age of Phage: Friend or Foe in the New Dawn of Therapeutic and Biocontrol Applications?
Authors: Hassan Ahmad Y. , Lin Janet T. , Ricker Nicole , Anany Hany
Published: February 2021

Extended overuse and misuse of antibiotics and other antibacterial agents has resulted in an antimicrobial resistance crisis. Bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, have emerged as a legitimate alternative antibacterial agent with a wide scope of applications which continue to be discovered and refined. However, the potential of some bacteriophages to aid in the acquisition, maintenance, and dissemination of negatively associated bacterial genes, including resistance and virulence genes, through transduction is of concern and requires deeper understanding in order to be properly addressed. In particular, their ability to interact with mobile genetic elements such as plasmids, genomic islands, and integrative conjugative elements (ICEs) enables bacteriophages to contribute greatly to bacterial evolution. Nonetheless, bacteriophages have the potential to be used as therapeutic and biocontrol agents within medical, agricultural, and food processing settings, against bacteria in both planktonic and biofilm environments. Additionally, bacteriophages have been deployed in developing rapid, sensitive, and specific biosensors for various bacterial targets. Intriguingly, their bioengineering capabilities show great promise in improving their adaptability and effectiveness as biocontrol and detection tools. This review aims to provide a balanced perspective on bacteriophages by outlining advantages, challenges, and future steps needed in order to boost their therapeutic and biocontrol potential, while also providing insight on their potential role in contributing to bacterial evolution and survival.
Drug Content Uniformity: Quantifying Loratadine in Tablets Using a Created Raman Excipient Spectrum
Authors: Farquharson Amelia , Gladding Zachery , Ritchie Gary , Shende Chetan , Cosgrove Joseph , Smith Wayne , Brouillette Carl , Farquharson Stuart
Published: February 2021

Raman spectroscopy has proven valuable for determining the composition of manufactured drug products, as well as identifying counterfeit drugs. Here we present a simple method to determine the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) mass percent in a sample that does not require knowledge of the identities or relative mass percents of the inactive pharmaceutical ingredients (excipients). And further, we demonstrated the ability of the method to pass or fail a manufactured drug product batch based on a calculated acceptance value in accordance with the US Pharmacopeia method for content uniformity. The method was developed by fitting the Raman spectra of 30 Claritin® tablets with weighted percentages of the Raman spectrum of its API, loratadine, and a composite spectrum of the known excipients. The mean loratadine mass of 9.79 ± 40 mg per 100 mg tablet compared favorably to the 10.21 ± 0.63 mg per 100 mg tablet determined using high-performance liquid chromatography, both of which met the acceptance value to pass the 10 mg API product as labelled. The method was then applied to a generic version of the Claritin product that employed different excipients of unknown mass percents. A Raman spectrum representative of all excipients was created by subtracting the API Raman spectrum from the product spectrum. The Raman spectra of the 30 generic tablets were then fit with weighted percents of the pure loratadine spectrum and the created excipient spectrum, and used to determine a mean API mass for the tablets of 10.12 ± 40 mg, again meeting the acceptance value for the 10 mg API product. The data suggest that this simple method could be used to pass or fail manufactured drug product batches in accordance with the US Pharmacopeia method for content uniformity, without knowledge of the excipients.
PET/Bio-Based Terpolyester Blends with High Dimensional Thermal Stability
Authors: Park Sangyoon , Thanakkasaranee Sarinthip , Shin Hojun , Lee Youngsoo , Tak Guman , Seo Jongchul
Published: February 2021

To improve the dimensional thermal stability of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a poly(ethylene glycol 1,4-cyclohexane dimethylene (CHDM) isosorbide (ISB) terephthalate) (PEICT) known as ECOZEN®T110 (EZT) was introduced into PET using a melt blending technique. The miscibility, morphology, and thermal properties of the PET/EZT samples were investigated. The introduction of amorphous EZT into semi-crystalline PET increased the glass transition temperature (Tg) but decreased the crystallinity, which could be related to the transesterification reaction. By adding EZT contents up to 20%, the PET/EZT samples showed a single Tg, which indicated the miscibility between PET and EZT. However, two Tg values were observed in the PET/EZT samples with higher EZT contents (30–70%), indicating partial miscibility. This may have been due to the slightly different rheological and thermodynamic parameters that were affected by a higher ratio of bulky (rigid ISB and ductile CHDM) groups in EZT. However, the heat distortion temperature of the PET/EZT samples remarkably increased, which indicated that the dimensional stability was truly enhanced. Although the crystallinity of the PET/EZT samples decreased with increasing EZT content, the tensile strength and Young’s modulus decreased slightly. Based on these results, the as-prepared PET/EZT samples with high dimensional stability can be used as a high-temperature polymeric material in various applications.
Vertical Orientation of Liquid Crystal on 4-n-Alkyloxyphenoxymethyl-Substituted Polystyrene Containing Liquid Crystal Precursor
Authors: Seo Kyutae , Kang Hyo
Published: February 2021

We synthesized a series of polystyrene derivatives that were modified with precursors of liquid crystal (LC) molecules, such as 4-ethyloxyphenol (homopolymer PEOP and copolymer PEOP#; # = 20, 40, 60, and 80, where # indicates the molar fraction of 4-ethyloxyphenoxymethyl in the side chain), 4-n-butyloxyphenol (PBOP), 4-n-hexyloxyphenol (PHOP), and 4-n-octyloxyphenol (POOP), via polymer modification reaction to investigate the orientation of LC molecules on polymer films, exhibiting part of the LC molecular structure. LC molecules showed a stable and uniform vertical orientation in LC cells fabricated with polymers that have 4-ethyloxyphenoxymethyl in the range of 40–100 mol%. In addition, similar results were obtained in LC cells fabricated with homopolymers of PEOP, PBOP, PHOP, and POOP. The vertical orientation of LC molecules in LC cells fabricated with polymer films correlated to the surface energy of polymer films. For example, vertical LC orientation was observed when the total surface energies of the polymer films were lower than approximately 43.2 mJ/m2. Good alignment stabilities were observed at 150 °C and 20 J/cm2 of ultraviolet irradiation for LC cells fabricated with PEOP film.