bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic “Molecular Portraits” of Biomembranes Drawn by Their Lateral Nanoscale Inhomogeneities
Authors: Efremov Roman G.
Published: June 2021

To date, it has been reliably shown that the lipid bilayer/water interface can be thoroughly characterized by a sophisticated so-called “dynamic molecular portrait”. The latter reflects a combination of time-dependent surface distributions of various physicochemical properties, inherent in both model lipid bilayers and natural multi-component cell membranes. One of the most important features of biomembranes is their mosaicity, which is expressed in the constant presence of lateral inhomogeneities, the sizes and lifetimes of which vary in a wide range—from 1 to 103 nm and from 0.1 ns to milliseconds. In addition to the relatively well-studied macroscopic domains (so-called “rafts”), the analysis of micro- and nanoclusters (or domains) that form an instantaneous picture of the distribution of structural, dynamic, hydrophobic, electrical, etc., properties at the membrane-water interface is attracting increasing interest. This is because such nanodomains (NDs) have been proven to be crucial for the proper membrane functioning in cells. Therefore, an understanding with atomistic details the phenomena associated with NDs is required. The present mini-review describes the recent results of experimental and in silico studies of spontaneously formed NDs in lipid membranes. The main attention is paid to the methods of ND detection, characterization of their spatiotemporal parameters, the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of their formation. Biological role of NDs in cell membranes is briefly discussed. Understanding such effects creates the basis for rational design of new prospective drugs, therapeutic approaches, and artificial membrane materials with specified properties.
Structure, Biosynthesis, and Biological Activity of Succinylated Forms of Bacteriocin BacSp222
Authors: Śmiałek Justyna , Nowakowski Michał , Bzowska Monika , Bocheńska Oliwia , Wlizło Agnieszka , Kozik Andrzej , Dubin Grzegorz , Mak Paweł
Published: June 2021

BacSp222 is a multifunctional peptide produced by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius 222. This 50-amino acid long peptide belongs to subclass IId of bacteriocins and forms a four-helix bundle molecule. In addition to bactericidal functions, BacSp222 possesses also features of a virulence factor, manifested in immunomodulatory and cytotoxic activities toward eukaryotic cells. In the present study, we demonstrate that BacSp222 is produced in several post-translationally modified forms, succinylated at the ε-amino group of lysine residues. Such modifications have not been previously described for any bacteriocins. NMR and circular dichroism spectroscopy studies have shown that the modifications do not alter the spatial structure of the peptide. At the same time, succinylation significantly diminishes its bactericidal and cytotoxic potential. We demonstrate that the modification of the bacteriocin is an effect of non-enzymatic reaction with a highly reactive intracellular metabolite, i.e., succinyl-coenzyme A. The production of succinylated forms of the bacteriocin depends on environmental factors and on the access of bacteria to nutrients. Our study indicates that the production of succinylated forms of bacteriocin occurs in response to the changing environment, protects producer cells against the autotoxicity of the excreted peptide, and limits the pathogenicity of the strain.
Comparative Genomics of Eight Fusarium graminearum Strains with Contrasting Aggressiveness Reveals an Expanded Open Pangenome and Extended Effector Content Signatures
Authors: Alouane Tarek , Rimbert Hélène , Bormann Jörg , González-Montiel Gisela A. , Loesgen Sandra , Schäfer Wilhelm , Freitag Michael , Langin Thierry , Bonhomme Ludovic
Published: June 2021

Fusarium graminearum, the primary cause of Fusarium head blight (FHB) in small-grain cereals, demonstrates remarkably variable levels of aggressiveness in its host, producing different infection dynamics and contrasted symptom severity. While the secreted proteins, including effectors, are thought to be one of the essential components of aggressiveness, our knowledge of the intra-species genomic diversity of F. graminearum is still limited. In this work, we sequenced eight European F. graminearum strains of contrasting aggressiveness to characterize their respective genome structure, their gene content and to delineate their specificities. By combining the available sequences of 12 other F. graminearum strains, we outlined a reference pangenome that expands the repertoire of the known genes in the reference PH-1 genome by 32%, including nearly 21,000 non-redundant sequences and gathering a common base of 9250 conserved core-genes. More than 1000 genes with high non-synonymous mutation rates may be under diverse selection, especially regarding the trichothecene biosynthesis gene cluster. About 900 secreted protein clusters (SPCs) have been described. Mostly localized in the fast sub-genome of F. graminearum supposed to evolve rapidly to promote adaptation and rapid responses to the host’s infection, these SPCs gather a range of putative proteinaceous effectors systematically found in the core secretome, with the chloroplast and the plant nucleus as the main predicted targets in the host cell. This work describes new knowledge on the intra-species diversity in F. graminearum and emphasizes putative determinants of aggressiveness, providing a wealth of new candidate genes potentially involved in the Fusarium head blight disease.
Synthesis of Novel Acyl Derivatives of 3-(4,5,6,7-Tetrabromo-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)propan-1-ols—Intracellular TBBi-Based CK2 Inhibitors with Proapoptotic Properties
Authors: Chojnacki Konrad , Wińska Patrycja , Karatsai Olena , Koronkiewicz Mirosława , Milner-Krawczyk Małgorzata , Wielechowska Monika , Rędowicz Maria Jolanta , Bretner Maria , Borowiecki Paweł
Published: June 2021

Protein kinase CK2 has been considered as an attractive drug target for anti-cancer therapy. The synthesis of N-hydroxypropyl TBBi and 2MeTBBi derivatives as well as their respective esters was carried out by using chemoenzymatic methods. Concomitantly with kinetic studies toward recombinant CK2, the influence of the obtained compounds on the viability of two human breast carcinoma cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) was evaluated using MTT assay. Additionally, an intracellular inhibition of CK2 as well as an induction of apoptosis in the examined cells after the treatment with the most active compounds were studied by Western blot analysis, phase-contrast microscopy and flow cytometry method. The results of the MTT test revealed potent cytotoxic activities for most of the newly synthesized compounds (EC50 4.90 to 32.77 µM), corresponding to their solubility in biological media. We concluded that derivatives with the methyl group decrease the viability of both cell lines more efficiently than their non-methylated analogs. Furthermore, inhibition of CK2 in breast cancer cells treated with the tested compounds at the concentrations equal to their EC50 values correlates well with their lipophilicity since derivatives with higher values of logP are more potent intracellular inhibitors of CK2 with better proapoptotic properties than their parental hydroxyl compounds.
Segmentation and Identification of Vertebrae in CT Scans Using CNN, k-Means Clustering and k-NN
Authors: Altini Nicola , De Giosa Giuseppe , Fragasso Nicola , Coscia Claudia , Sibilano Elena , Prencipe Berardino , Hussain Sardar Mehboob , Brunetti Antonio , Buongiorno Domenico , Guerriero Andrea , Tatò Ilaria Sabina , Brunetti Gioacchino , Triggiani Vito , Bevilacqua Vitoantonio
Published: June 2021

The accurate segmentation and identification of vertebrae presents the foundations for spine analysis including fractures, malfunctions and other visual insights. The large-scale vertebrae segmentation challenge (VerSe), organized as a competition at the Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention (MICCAI), is aimed at vertebrae segmentation and labeling. In this paper, we propose a framework that addresses the tasks of vertebrae segmentation and identification by exploiting both deep learning and classical machine learning methodologies. The proposed solution comprises two phases: a binary fully automated segmentation of the whole spine, which exploits a 3D convolutional neural network, and a semi-automated procedure that allows locating vertebrae centroids using traditional machine learning algorithms. Unlike other approaches, the proposed method comes with the added advantage of no requirement for single vertebrae-level annotations to be trained. A dataset of 214 CT scans has been extracted from VerSe’20 challenge data, for training, validating and testing the proposed approach. In addition, to evaluate the robustness of the segmentation and labeling algorithms, 12 CT scans from subjects affected by severe, moderate and mild scoliosis have been collected from a local medical clinic. On the designated test set from Verse’20 data, the binary spine segmentation stage allowed to obtain a binary Dice coefficient of 89.17%, whilst the vertebrae identification one reached an average multi-class Dice coefficient of 90.09%. In order to ensure the reproducibility of the algorithms hereby developed, the code has been made publicly available.
Adherence to Immunosuppression Medications among Heart Transplant Recipients: Challenges, Opportunities, and Potential Role of Digital Approaches in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Hussain Tasmeen , Nassetta Keira , Badawy Sherif M.
Published: June 2021

Society and medical practice have been restructured dramatically to avoid further spread of the COVID-19 virus; telehealth/telemedicine, mask wearing, and nationwide social distancing practices have become widespread. However, we still face unprecedented challenges in fields where patients require frequent and active follow-up visits for monitoring, including that of solid-organ transplant, and in particular, heart transplant. Adherence to immunosuppression remains a unique challenge in heart transplantation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Failure to adhere to immunosuppression can have disastrous consequences, including graft rejection and death. In this article, we discuss challenges related to adherence to immunosuppression medications among heart transplant recipients, as well as opportunities to leverage digital approaches and interventions to monitor and optimize adherence behavior and health outcomes in this population.
Blood Pressure and Transient Postoperative Neurologic Deterioration, Following Superficial Temporal-to-Middle Cerebral Artery Anastomosis in Adult Patients with Moyamoya Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Oh Tak-Kyu , Kim Ji-Hyeon , Lee Ho-Young , Kim Seong-Eun , Kim Tac-Keun , Bang Jae-Seung , Han Moon-Ku , Oh Chang-Wan , Bae Hee-Joon , Jeon Young-Tae
Published: June 2021

We investigated whether intraoperative systolic blood pressure (ISBP) is associated with the risk of transient neurologic deficits (TND) following superficial temporal-to-middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) anastomosis in adult patients with moyamoya disease (MMD). In this retrospective observational study, data from adult patients with MMD who had undergone STA-MCA anastomosis at a single tertiary academic hospital during May 2003–April 2014 were examined. Data on patient characteristics were obtained from electronic medical records, including the details of comorbidities and laboratory findings. TND was the primary outcome of interest. Out of 192 patients (228 hemispheres), 66 (29%) hemispheres had TND after surgery. There were significant differences in ISBP between patients with and without TND. The lowest ISBP quartile was independently associated with TND (odds ratio: 5.50; 95% confidence interval: 1.96–15.46). Low ISBP might lead to TND after STA-MCA anastomosis in adult patients with MMD. In patients with poor perfusion status, low ISBP was associated with an increased risk of TND. Our findings suggest that strict ISBP control might be required to prevent TND after anastomosis in patients with MMD, in particular, in patients with poor perfusion status. Given limitations due to the retrospective design, further studies are needed to clarify these findings.
Porosity Distribution in Single Cone Root Canal Fillings Performed by Operators with Different Clinical Experience: A microCT Assessment
Authors: Drukteinis Saulius , Bilvinaite Goda , Tusas Paulius , Shemesh Hagay , Peciuliene Vytaute
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to assess the porosity distribution of BioRoot RCS/single gutta-percha point root-canal fillings performed by a general dental practitioner and endodontist. Fourteen plastic models of maxillary premolars with two roots were selected and shaped with HyFlex EDM instruments to a size 40/0.04 taper and randomly divided into two experimental groups. A total of 14 canals in each group were obturated by two different operators with one HyFlex EDM size 40 gutta-percha point and BioRoot RCS sealer. The specimens were scanned with a high-resolution micro-computed tomography scanner, and the porosity of the fillings at the coronal, middle, and apical thirds of the root canals was qualified and quantified. The differences between groups and root-canal thirds were compared using Mann–Whitney, Friedman, and Wilcoxon tests with the significance level set at p < 0.05. The highest number of pores was observed in the apical third of root-canal fillings in both groups; however, the porosity distribution between the two groups was not significantly different in the apical and middle thirds (p > 0.05). Statistically significant differences were determined only in the coronal third (p < 0.05). The predominance of open pores was detected in all root-canal thirds and groups, with no significant differences in the number of open pores between the coronal and middle thirds (p > 0.05).
Application of Telehealth in Prenatal Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Cross-Sectional Survey of Polish Women
Authors: Jakubowski Dominik , Sys Dorota , Kajdy Anna , Lewandowska Roksana , Kwiatkowska Ewa , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta , Rabijewski Michał , Torbé Andrzej , Kwiatkowski Sebastian
Published: June 2021

To reduce the risk of infection of SARS-CoV-2 during commuting to the clinic or due to contact with medical staff, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has recommended arranging some appointments in the form of “telehealth”. The aim of the study was to assess the access to medical care in pregnancy during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the role of telehealth in the implementation of prenatal care standards. This is a cross-sectional study. The study group included 618 women who were pregnant and/or gave birth in Poland during the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of the participants experienced difficulties accessing medical care because of the pandemic. The correlation between this experience and the use of the hybrid healthcare model was established. The affiliation to public or private healthcare was irrelevant. There was no relationship between healthcare (private/public or in-person/hybrid) and implementation of the prenatal care standards. To ensure safe access to prenatal care for pregnant women, recommendations for a hybrid pregnancy management model should be created with detailed information regarding which appointments patients must be present for in-person and which can be conducted remotely. To reduce the risks associated with movement and interpersonal contact, all visits during which tests and screenings take place should be conducted in-person; other appointments can be arranged in the form of telehealth.
Impact of Fly Ash on Time-Dependent Properties of Agro-Waste Lightweight Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Maghfouri Mehdi , Alimohammadi Vahid , Azarsa Pejman , Asadi Iman , Doroudi Yashar , Balakrishnan Balamohan
Published: June 2021

The utilization of by-products and waste materials to substitute for the natural or manufactured resources is considered as a practical way to obtain green building materials. In concrete mixtures, amongst the many available options, Fly Ash (FA) as a by-product pozzolan has been used as a partial replacement of cement. As for the aggregates, lightweight agro-waste oil palm shell (OPS) can be used as a replacement to conventional aggregate for the production of lightweight aggregate concrete. The present communication aims to investigate the impact of FA on time-dependent development properties of OPS lightweight aggregate concrete, including density, water absorption, compressive strength up to 120-days, and drying shrinkage up to the age of 365-days under standard moist curing, partially early curing, and non-curing conditions. Additionally, drying shrinkage crack development was investigated. In this study, two series of concrete mixtures with different substitution levels of OPS (0%, 50%, and 100%) and FA were tested. From the obtained results, it was concluded that the incorporation of fly ash in OPS concrete reduces the density and compressive strength values. Dually, the initial and final water absorption values plus the rate of drying shrinkage at early and long-term ages increased. On top of that, a high potential of drying shrinkage crack, especially for mixtures with 100% OPS, was identified.
The Impact of Offshore Wind Farms on Sea State Demonstrated by Airborne LiDAR Measurements
Authors: Bärfuss Konrad , Schulz-Stellenfleth Johannes , Lampert Astrid
Published: June 2021

The increasing number of wind farms installed in the North Sea has an impact on the downstream wind speed. This has been hypothesized as well for sea state properties. Wave effects can be expected in particular in fetch-limited conditions with offshore wind directions. With systematic flights deploying an airborne laser scanner, these impacts are shown directly for the first time. The flights were conducted perpendicular to the main wind direction upstream and downstream of the cluster of the offshore wind parks Amrumbank West, Nordsee Ost, and Meerwind Süd/Ost. The flight legs covered the area potentially influenced by the wind parks and the undisturbed area next to the wind parks. The analysis of the spectral energy distribution shows a re-distribution of the wave energy in the downstream area with enhanced energy at smaller wavelengths. The effect is still clearly visible at a distance of 55 km. As the sea surface constitutes the link between the atmosphere and the ocean, it is very likely that wind parks modify the properties of the water column as well.
Keratinases Produced by Aspergillus stelliformis, Aspergillus sydowii, and Fusarium brachygibbosum Isolated from Human Hair: Yield and Activity
Authors: Alwakeel Suaad S. , Ameen Fuad , Al Gwaiz Hussah , Sonbol Hana , Alghamdi Salma , Moharram Ahmad M. , Al-Bedak Osama A.
Published: June 2021

Twenty fungal strains belonging to 17 species and isolated from male scalp hair were tested for their capacity to hydrolyze keratinous material from chicken feather. The identification of the three most efficient species was confirmed by sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of rDNA. Activities of fungal keratinases produced by Aspergillus stelliformis (strain AUMC 10920), A. sydowii (AUMC 10935), and Fusarium brachygibbosum (AUMC 10937) were 113, 120, and 130 IU mg−1 enzymes, respectively. The most favorable conditions were at pH 8.0 and 50 °C. Keratinase activity was markedly inhibited by EDTA and metal ions Ca+2, Co+2, Ni+2, Cu+2, Fe+2, Mg+2, and Zn+2, with differences between the fungal species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on the activity of keratinase produced by A. stelliformis, A. sydowii, and F. brachygibbosum. F. brachygibbosum keratinase was the most active, but the species is not recommended because of its known phytopathogenicty. Aspergillus sydowii has many known biotechnological solutions and here we add another application of the species, as producer of keratinases. We introduce A. stelliformis as new producer of active fungal keratinases for biotechnological solutions, such as in the management of keratinous waste in poultry industry.
Biocontrol Potential of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens against Botrytis pelargonii and Alternaria alternata on Capsicum annuum
Authors: Kazerooni Elham Ahmed , Maharachchikumbura Sajeewa S. N. , Al-Sadi Abdullah Mohammed , Kang Sang-Mo , Yun Byung-Wook , Lee In-Jung
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to assess the ability of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, to augment plant growth and suppress gray mold and leaf spot in pepper plants. Morphological modifications in fungal pathogen hyphae that expanded toward the PGPR colonies were detected via scanning electron microscope. Furthermore, preliminary screening showed that PGPR could produce various hydrolytic enzymes in its media. Treatments with B. amyloliquefaciens suppressed Botrytis gray mold and Alternaria leaf spot diseases on pepper caused by Botrytis pelargonii and Alternaria alternata, respectively. The PGPR strain modulated plant physio-biochemical processes. The inoculation of pepper with PGPR decreased protein, amino acid, antioxidant, hydrogen peroxide, lipid peroxidation, and abscisic acid levels but increased salicylic acid and sugar levels compared to those of uninoculated plants, indicating a mitigation of the adverse effects of biotic stress. Moreover, gene expression studies confirmed physio-biochemical findings. PGPR inoculation led to increased expression of the CaXTH genes and decreased expression of CaAMP1, CaPR1, CaDEF1, CaWRKY2, CaBI-1, CaASRF1, CaSBP11, and CaBiP genes. Considering its beneficial effects, the inoculation of B. amyloliquefaciens can be proposed as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic chemical fungicides.
Patient and Family Preferences on Health System-Led Direct Contact for Cascade Screening
Authors: Henrikson Nora B. , Blasi Paula , Figueroa Gray Marlaine , Tiffany Brooks T. , Scrol Aaron , Ralston James D. , Fullerton Stephanie M. , Lim Catherine Y. , Ewing John , Leppig Kathleen A.
Published: June 2021

Health benefits to relatives of people at known genetic risk for hereditary cancer syndromes is key to realizing the promise of precision medicine. We conducted a qualitative study to design a patient- and family-centered program for direct contact of relatives to recommend cascade genetic testing. We conducted two rounds of data collection using focus groups followed by individual interviews with patients with HBOC or Lynch syndrome and a separate sample of people with a family history of hereditary cancers. Results indicate that U.S.-based health system-led direct contact of relatives is acceptable to patients and families, should take a programmatic approach, include consent of relatives before proband testing, complement to existing patient-mediated disclosure, and allow for relative control of information. Our findings suggest a set of requirements for U.S.-based direct contact programs that could ultimately benefit more relatives than current approaches.
Towards a Responsible Transition to Learning Healthcare Systems in Precision Medicine: Ethical Points to Consider
Authors: Wouters Roel H. P. , van der Graaf Rieke , Rigter Tessel , Bunnik Eline M. , Ploem M. Corrette , de Wert Guido M. W. R. , Dondorp Wybo J. , Cornel Martina C. , Bredenoord Annelien L.
Published: June 2021

Learning healthcare systems have recently emerged as a strategy to continuously use experiences and outcomes of clinical care for research purposes in precision medicine. Although it is known that learning healthcare transitions in general raise important ethical challenges, the ethical ramifications of such transitions in the specific context of precision medicine have not extensively been discussed. Here, we describe three levers that institutions can pull to advance learning healthcare systems in precision medicine: (1) changing testing of individual variability (such as genes); (2) changing prescription of treatments on the basis of (genomic) test results; and/or (3) changing the handling of data that link variability and treatment to clinical outcomes. Subsequently, we evaluate how patients can be affected if one of these levers are pulled: (1) patients are tested for different or more factors than before the transformation, (2) patients receive different treatments than before the transformation and/or (3) patients’ data obtained through clinical care are used, or used more extensively, for research purposes. Based on an analysis of the aforementioned mechanisms and how these potentially affect patients, we analyze why learning healthcare systems in precision medicine need a different ethical approach and discuss crucial points to consider regarding this approach.
A New Measure of Market Inefficiency
Authors: Stephens Christopher R. , Benink Harald A. , Gordillo José Luís , Pardo-Guerra Juan Pablo
Published: June 2021

Financial crises, such as the Great Financial Crisis of 2007–2009 and the COVID-19 Crisis of 2020–2021, lead to high volatility in financial markets and highlight the importance of the debate on the Efficient Markets Hypothesis, a corollary of which is that in an efficient market it should not be possible to systematically make excess returns. In this paper, we discuss a new empirical measure—Excess Trading Returns—that distinguishes between market and trading returns and that can be used to measure inefficiency. We define an Inefficiency Matrix that can provide a complete, empirical characterization of the inefficiencies inherent in a market. We illustrate its use in the context of empirical data from a pair of model markets, where information asymmetries can be clearly understood, and discuss the challenges of applying it to market data from commercial exchanges.
Foreign Direct Investment in GCC Countries: The Essential Influence of Governance and the Adoption of IFRS
Authors: Siriopoulos Costas , Tsagkanos Athanasios , Svingou Argyro , Daskalopoulos Evangelos
Published: June 2021

This paper presents an analysis of the factors affecting foreign direct investments, focusing on governance quality and adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards on countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, which are a special case of study due to their idiosyncratic characteristics, rich natural resources and geographical position. Panel data analysis was conducted, implementing three different models (Fixed Effect, Random Effect, and Arellano Bond Dynamic Model). The results show that the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards is a strong determinant that promotes foreign direct investments. As regards the governance quality, the block of Gulf Cooperation Council countries has fulfilled the minimum level of governance pre-conditions relative to foreign direct investments. In addition, governance indicators associated with law, rules, and corruption are more influential determinants for foreign direct investments.
Reconstruction of Large Osteochondral Lesions in the Knee: Focus on Fixation Techniques
Authors: Weber Christian D. , Migliorini Filippo , Hildebrand Frank
Published: June 2021

Large (>3 cm2), focal osteochondral lesions (OCL) may result in poor functional outcomes and early secondary osteoarthritis of the knee. The surgical management of these OCL remains challenging. The treatment strategy must be tailored to various aspects, including lesion-specific (e.g., size, location, chronicity), joint-specific (e.g., instability, limb alignment, meniscal status), and patient-specific factors (e.g., age, activity level, comorbidities). Simple chondroplasty and bone marrow stimulation (BMS) techniques should be reserved for smaller lesions, as they only realize midterm clinical benefits, related to inferior wear characteristics of the induced fibrocartilage (type I collagen). Therefore, much attention has been focused on surgical restoration with hyaline cartilage (type II collagen), based on chondrocyte transplantation and matrix-assisted autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI). Limited graft availability, staged procedures (MACI), and high treatment costs are limitations of these techniques. However, acute traumatic OCL of the femoral condyles and patellofemoral joint may also be suitable for preservation by surgical fixation. Early detection of the fragment facilitates primary repair with internal fixation. The surgical repair of the articular surface may offer promising clinical and cost-effective benefits as a first-line therapy but remains under-investigated and potentially under-utilized. As a unique characteristic, the fixation technique allows the anatomic restoration of the hyaline articular surface with native cartilage and the repair of the subchondral bone. In this manuscript, we present a case series of large OCL around the knee that were preserved by surgical fixation. Furthermore, various implants and techniques reported for this procedure are reviewed.
Salinity Stress in Potato: Understanding Physiological, Biochemical and Molecular Responses
Authors: Chourasia Kumar Nishant , Lal Milan Kumar , Tiwari Rahul Kumar , Dev Devanshu , Kardile Hemant Balasaheb , Patil Virupaksh U. , Kumar Amarjeet , Vanishree Girimalla , Kumar Dharmendra , Bhardwaj Vinay , Meena Jitendra Kumar , Mangal Vikas , Shelake Rahul Mahadev , Kim Jae-Yean , Pramanik Dibyajyoti
Published: June 2021

Among abiotic stresses, salinity is a major global threat to agriculture, causing severe damage to crop production and productivity. Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is regarded as a future food crop by FAO to ensure food security, which is severely affected by salinity. The growth of the potato plant is inhibited under salt stress due to osmotic stress-induced ion toxicity. Salinity-mediated osmotic stress leads to physiological changes in the plant, including nutrient imbalance, impairment in detoxifying reactive oxygen species (ROS), membrane damage, and reduced photosynthetic activities. Several physiological and biochemical phenomena, such as the maintenance of plant water status, transpiration, respiration, water use efficiency, hormonal balance, leaf area, germination, and antioxidants production are adversely affected. The ROS under salinity stress leads to the increased plasma membrane permeability and extravasations of substances, which causes water imbalance and plasmolysis. However, potato plants cope with salinity mediated oxidative stress conditions by enhancing both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities. The osmoprotectants, such as proline, polyols (sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, lactitol, and maltitol), and quaternary ammonium compound (glycine betaine) are synthesized to overcome the adverse effect of salinity. The salinity response and tolerance include complex and multifaceted mechanisms that are controlled by multiple proteins and their interactions. This review aims to redraw the attention of researchers to explore the current physiological, biochemical and molecular responses and subsequently develop potential mitigation strategies against salt stress in potatoes.
Therapeutic Properties of Edible Mushrooms and Herbal Teas in Gut Microbiota Modulation
Authors: Vamanu Emanuel , Dinu Laura Dorina , Pelinescu Diana Roxana , Gatea Florentina
Published: June 2021

Edible mushrooms are functional foods and valuable but less exploited sources of biologically active compounds. Herbal teas are a range of products widely used due to the therapeutic properties that have been demonstrated by traditional medicine and a supplement in conventional therapies. Their interaction with the human microbiota is an aspect that must be researched, the therapeutic properties depending on the interaction with the microbiota and the consequent fermentative activity. Modulation processes result from the activity of, for example, phenolic acids, which are a major component and which have already demonstrated activity in combating oxidative stress. The aim of this mini-review is to highlight the essential aspects of modulating the microbiota using edible mushrooms and herbal teas. Although the phenolic pattern is different for edible mushrooms and herbal teas, certain non-phenolic compounds (polysaccharides and/or caffeine) are important in alleviating chronic diseases. These specific functional compounds have modulatory properties against oxidative stress, demonstrating health-beneficial effects in vitro and/or In vivo. Moreover, recent advances in improving human health via gut microbiota are presented. Plant-derived miRNAs from mushrooms and herbal teas were highlighted as a potential strategy for new therapeutic effects.
Combination of rRT-PCR and Anti-Nucleocapsid/Anti-Spike Antibodies to Characterize Specimens with Very Low Viral SARs-CoV-2 Load: A Real-Life Experience
Authors: Florou Zoe , Zigra Meropi , Kartalidis Philippos , Tsilipounidaki Katerina , Papadamou Georgia , Belia Aikaterini , Fthenakis George C. , Petinaki Efthymia
Published: June 2021

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the true positivity among people, whose results of initial testing of nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) showed a very low viral load of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Seventy-seven people detected with low viral loads of SARs-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal samples (Ct ≥ 35) were enrolled in the study. For this purpose, a second NPS was collected for rRT-PCR (real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) combined with a pair of serum samples for detection of anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N) and anti-spike (anti-S) antibodies. In 8 people, subsequent examinations indicated an increase in viral loads, thereafter, followed by an increase of anti-N and anti-S antibodies, findings compatible with an early stage of COVID-19 infection. In 9 people, who already had increased anti-N antibodies, subsequent examination showed a decrease or absence of viral load and an increase in antibodies, indicative of a late stage of COVID-19 infection. In 60 people, subsequent examination showed absence of infection (as indicated by absence of viral load and antibodies). We propose that the combination of a second NPS and one serum-specimen, both taken three days after the first NPS, helps significantly to avoid false-positive results.
Epidemiological Significance of SARS-CoV-2 RNA Dynamic in Naso-Pharyngeal Swabs
Authors: Calistri Paolo , Danzetta Maria Luisa , Amato Laura , Cito Francesca , Di Giuseppe Alessandra , Zenobio Valentina , Morelli Daniela , Puglia Ilaria , Caporale Marialuigia , Scialabba Silvia , Savini Giovanni , Migliorati Giacomo , D’Alterio Nicola , Lorusso Alessio
Published: June 2021

From 16 March to 15 December 2020, 132,357 naso-pharyngeal/oropharyngeal swabs were collected in the province of Teramo, Abruzzo Region, Italy, and tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA by a commercially available molecular assay. A total of 12,880 swabs resulted positive. For 8212 positive patients (4.150 women and 4.062 men) the median age was statistically different between women (median: 49.55 ± 23.9 of SD) and men (median: 48.35 ± 23.5 of SD) while no differences were found in the comparison between the cycle threshold for the N protein-encoding gene (CT N) median values and gender. Differences were observed in the CT N gene median values of swabs collected from March to September as well as in the pairwise comparison between September and October and between November and December. The CT N gene median values observed in specific periods characterizing the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in 2020 were also compared with the incidence of COVID-19 cases; a strong inverse correlation was highlighted (Pearson correlation coefficient = −0.978). Our findings confirm the usefulness of the CT N values as an indirect detection parameter to monitor viral loads in the population.
The Role of Metal Ions in Fungal Organic Acid Accumulation
Authors: Karaffa Levente , Fekete Erzsébet , Kubicek Christian P.
Published: June 2021

Organic acid accumulation is probably the best-known example of primary metabolic overflow. Both bacteria and fungi are capable of producing various organic acids in large amounts under certain conditions, but in terms of productivity-and consequently, of commercial importance-fungal platforms are unparalleled. For high product yield, chemical composition of the growth medium is crucial in providing the necessary conditions, of which the concentrations of four of the first-row transition metal elements, manganese (Mn2+), iron (Fe2+), copper (Cu2+) and zinc (Zn2+) stand out. In this paper we critically review the biological roles of these ions, the possible biochemical and physiological consequences of their influence on the accumulation of the most important mono-, di- and tricarboxylic as well as sugar acids by fungi, and the metal ion-related aspects of submerged organic acid fermentations, including the necessary instrumental analytics. Since producing conditions are associated with a cell physiology that differs strongly to what is observed under “standard” growth conditions, here we consider papers and patents only in which organic acid accumulation levels achieved at least 60% of the theoretical maximum yield, and the actual trace metal ion concentrations were verified.
In Silico Insights into the Mechanism of Action of Epoxy-α-Lapachone and Epoxymethyl-Lawsone in Leishmania spp.
Authors: Peixoto Juliana Figueiredo , Oliveira Adriane da Silva , Monteiro Patrícia Queiroz , Gonçalves-Oliveira Luiz Filipe , Andrade-Neto Valter Viana , Ferreira Vitor Francisco , Souza-Silva Franklin , Alves Carlos Roberto
Published: June 2021

Epoxy-α-lapachone (Lap) and Epoxymethyl-lawsone (Law) are oxiranes derived from Lapachol and have been shown to be promising drugs for Leishmaniases treatment. Although, it is known the action spectrum of both compounds affect the Leishmania spp. multiplication, there are gaps in the molecular binding details of target enzymes related to the parasite’s physiology. Molecular docking assays simulations were performed using DockThor server to predict the preferred orientation of both compounds to form stable complexes with key enzymes of metabolic pathway, electron transport chain, and lipids metabolism of Leishmania spp. This study showed the hit rates of both compounds interacting with lanosterol C-14 demethylase (−8.4 kcal/mol to −7.4 kcal/mol), cytochrome c (−10.2 kcal/mol to −8.8 kcal/mol), and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (−8.5 kcal/mol to −7.5 kcal/mol) according to Leishmania spp. and assessed compounds. The set of molecular evidence reinforces the potential of both compounds as multi-target drugs for interrupt the network interactions between parasite enzymes, which can lead to a better efficacy of drugs for the treatment of leishmaniases.
H/D Exchange Processes in Flavonoids: Kinetics and Mechanistic Investigations
Authors: Bonaldo Federico , Mattivi Fulvio , Catorci Daniele , Arapitsas Panagiotis , Guella Graziano
Published: June 2021

Several classes of flavonoids, such as anthocyanins, flavonols, flavanols, and flavones, undergo a slow H/D exchange on aromatic ring A, leading to full deuteration at positions C(6) and C(8). Within the flavanol class, H-C(6) and H-C(8) of catechin and epicatechin are slowly exchanged in D2O to the corresponding deuterated analogues. Even quercetin, a relevant flavonol representative, shows the same behaviour in a D2O/DMSOd6 1:1 solution. Detailed kinetic measurements of these H/D exchange processes are here reported by exploiting the time-dependent changes of their peak areas in the 1H-NMR spectra taken at different temperatures. A unifying reaction mechanism is also proposed based on our detailed kinetic observations, even taking into account pH and solvent effects. Molecular modelling and QM calculations were also carried out to shed more light on several molecular details of the proposed mechanism.
Facile Synthesis of Bio-Antimicrobials with “Smart” Triiodides
Authors: Edis Zehra , Bloukh Samir Haj
Published: June 2021

Multi-drug resistant pathogens are a rising danger for the future of mankind. Iodine (I2) is a centuries-old microbicide, but leads to skin discoloration, irritation, and uncontrolled iodine release. Plants rich in phytochemicals have a long history in basic health care. Aloe Vera Barbadensis Miller (AV) and Salvia officinalis L. (Sage) are effectively utilized against different ailments. Previously, we investigated the antimicrobial activities of smart triiodides and iodinated AV hybrids. In this work, we combined iodine with Sage extracts and pure AV gel with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as an encapsulating and stabilizing agent. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), microstructural analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-Ray-Diffraction (XRD) analysis verified the composition of AV-PVP-Sage-I2. Antimicrobial properties were investigated by disc diffusion method against 10 reference microbial strains in comparison to gentamicin and nystatin. We impregnated surgical sutures with our biohybrid and tested their inhibitory effects. AV-PVP-Sage-I2 showed excellent to intermediate antimicrobial activity in discs and sutures. The iodine within the polymeric biomaterial AV-PVP-Sage-I2 and the synergistic action of the two plant extracts enhanced the microbial inhibition. Our compound has potential for use as an antifungal agent, disinfectant and coating material on sutures to prevent surgical site infections.
Preparation of Lignin Carbon/Zinc Oxide Electrode Material and Its Application in Supercapacitors
Authors: Guo Gaijuan , Zhou Zijing , Li Jinda , Yan Hong , Li Fen
Published: June 2021

In this paper, carbon/zinc oxide (LC/ZnO) composites were successfully synthesized and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman, thermogravimetry, and N2 adsorption–desorption, and tested by electrochemical performance. Studies have shown that the morphology of LC/ZnO composites is that lignin pellets are embedded in ZnO microplates. The lignin carbon in the composites mainly exists in an amorphous structure, and the specific surface area and pore channels of metal oxides are increased by the presence of lignin carbon. The electrochemical performance test shows that the carbonization temperature of LC/ZnO with the highest specific capacitance is 550 °C, and the capacitance retention rate reaches 96.74% after 1000 cycles of testing, indicating that the composite material has good cycle stability. Compared with the control group, it is found that the specific capacitance of LC/ZnO-550 °C is 2.3 times and 1.8 times that of ZnO-550 °C and LC-550 °C, respectively. This shows that during the electrochemical test, the lignin carbon and the metal oxide promote each other and act synergistically. In addition, the composite material exhibits the characteristics of a pseudo-capacitance capacitor, indicating that the redox reaction occurred in the electrochemical performance test.
Tailoring the Thermal Conductivity of Rubber Nanocomposites by Inorganic Systems: Opportunities and Challenges for Their Application in Tires Formulation
Authors: Mirizzi Lorenzo , Carnevale Mattia , D’Arienzo Massimiliano , Milanese Chiara , Di Credico Barbara , Mostoni Silvia , Scotti Roberto
Published: June 2021

The development of effective thermally conductive rubber nanocomposites for heat management represents a tricky point for several modern technologies, ranging from electronic devices to the tire industry. Since rubber materials generally exhibit poor thermal transfer, the addition of high loadings of different carbon-based or inorganic thermally conductive fillers is mandatory to achieve satisfactory heat dissipation performance. However, this dramatically alters the mechanical behavior of the final materials, representing a real limitation to their application. Moreover, upon fillers’ incorporation into the polymer matrix, interfacial thermal resistance arises due to differences between the phonon spectra and scattering at the hybrid interface between the phases. Thus, a suitable filler functionalization is required to avoid discontinuities in the thermal transfer. In this challenging scenario, the present review aims at summarizing the most recent efforts to improve the thermal conductivity of rubber nanocomposites by exploiting, in particular, inorganic and hybrid filler systems, focusing on those that may guarantee a viable transfer of lab-scale formulations to technological applicable solutions. The intrinsic relationship among the filler’s loading, structure, morphology, and interfacial features and the heat transfer in the rubber matrix will be explored in depth, with the ambition of providing some methodological tools for a more profitable design of thermally conductive rubber nanocomposites, especially those for the formulation of tires.
Perturbating Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonds through Substituent Effects or Non-Covalent Interactions
Authors: Lamsabhi Al Mokhtar , Mó Otilia , Yáñez Manuel
Published: June 2021

An analysis of the effects induced by F, Cl, and Br-substituents at the α-position of both, the hydroxyl or the amino group for a series of amino-alcohols, HOCH2(CH2)nCH2NH2 (n = 0–5) on the strength and characteristics of their OH···N or NH···O intramolecular hydrogen bonds (IMHBs) was carried out through the use of high-level G4 ab initio calculations. For the parent unsubstituted amino-alcohols, it is found that the strength of the OH···N IMHB goes through a maximum for n = 2, as revealed by the use of appropriate isodesmic reactions, natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis and atoms in molecules (AIM), and non-covalent interaction (NCI) procedures. The corresponding infrared (IR) spectra also reflect the same trends. When the α-position to the hydroxyl group is substituted by halogen atoms, the OH···N IMHB significantly reinforces following the trend H < F < Cl < Br. Conversely, when the substitution takes place at the α-position with respect to the amino group, the result is a weakening of the OH···N IMHB. A totally different scenario is found when the amino-alcohols HOCH2(CH2)nCH2NH2 (n = 0–3) interact with BeF2. Although the presence of the beryllium derivative dramatically increases the strength of the IMHBs, the possibility for the beryllium atom to interact simultaneously with the O and the N atoms of the amino-alcohol leads to the global minimum of the potential energy surface, with the result that the IMHBs are replaced by two beryllium bonds.
Review: β-glucans as Effective Antibiotic Alternatives in Poultry
Authors: Schwartz Betty , Vetvicka Vaclav
Published: June 2021

The occurrence of microbial challenges in commercial poultry farming causes significant economic losses. Antibiotics have been used to control diseases involving bacterial infection in poultry. As the incidence of antibiotic resistance turns out to be a serious problem, there is increased pressure on producers to reduce antibiotic use. With the reduced availability of antibiotics, poultry producers are looking for feed additives to stimulate the immune system of the chicken to resist microbial infection. Some β-glucans have been shown to improve gut health, to increase the flow of new immunocytes, increase macrophage function, stimulate phagocytosis, affect intestinal morphology, enhance goblet cell number and mucin-2 production, induce the increased expression of intestinal tight-junctions, and function as effective anti-inflammatory immunomodulators in poultry. As a result, β-glucans may provide a new tool for producers trying to reduce or eliminate the use of antibiotics in fowl diets. The specific activity of each β-glucan subtype still needs to be investigated. Upon knowledge, optimal β-glucan mixtures may be implemented in order to obtain optimal growth performance, exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity, and optimized intestinal morphology and histology responses in poultry. This review provides an extensive overview of the current use of β glucans as additives and putative use as antibiotic alternative in poultry.