bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attenuation of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans virulence using curcumin-decorated nanophytosomes-mediated photo-sonoantimicrobial chemotherapy
Authors: Pourhajibagher Maryam , Bahador Abbas
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to focus on the simultaneous use of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) and sonodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (SACT), which is called photo-sonodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PSACT) to attenuate the virulence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Following the synthesis of Curcumin-decorated nanophytosomes (Cur-NPhs) as a novel photo-sonosensitizer, its particle size, polydispersity, ζ-potential surface morphology, physical stability, drug release, and entrapment efficiency were determined. In the Cur-NPhs-PSACT, the antimicrobial activities of Cur-NPhs against A. actinomycetemcomitans were investigated using cell viability, biofilm killing/degradation, metabolic activity, expression of quorum-sensing-associated qseB and qseC genes, and biofilm-associated rcpA gene under blue laser irradiation plus ultrasonic waves. Characterization tests showed the presence of a sphere-shaped vesicle and the self-closed structure of Cur-NPhs, resulting in a high drug-loading content and encapsulation efficiency. However, the antimicrobial effect of Cur-NPhs-PSACT was dose-dependent, PSACT using the high concentrations of Cur-NPhs (50 × 10–4 g/L) showed significant reductions (P < 0.05) in cell viability (13.6 log10 CFU/mL), biofilm killing/degradation (65%), metabolic activity (89.6%,), and mRNA levels of virulence determinant genes (qseB; 9.8-fold, qseC; 10.2-fold, and recA; 10.2-fold). This study concludes that the Cur-NPhs-PSACT had antimicrobial activities against A. actinomycetemcomitans by downregulating the expression of virulence genes, and may attenuate this bacterium that decreases periodontal disease severity in patients.
Full pathogen characterisation: species identification including the detection of virulence factors and antibiotic resistance genes via multiplex DNA-assays
Authors: Wolff Noa , Hendling Michaela , Schroeder Fabian , Schönthaler Silvia , Geiss Andreas F. , Bedenic Branka , Barišić Ivan
Published: March 2021

Antibiotic resistances progressively cause treatment failures, and their spreading dynamics reached an alarming level. Some strains have already been classified as highly critical, e.g. the ones summarised by the acronym ESKAPE (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter spp.). To restrain this trend and enable effective medication, as much information as possible must be obtained in the least possible time. Here, we present a DNA microarray-based assay that screens for the most important sepsis-relevant 44 pathogenic species, 360 virulence factors (mediate pathogenicity in otherwise non-pathogenic strains), and 409 antibiotic resistance genes in parallel. The assay was evaluated with 14 multidrug resistant strains, including all ESKAPE pathogens, mainly obtained from clinical isolates. We used a cost-efficient ligation-based detection platform designed to emulate the highly specific multiplex detection of padlock probes. Results could be obtained within one day, requiring approximately 4 h for amplification, application to the microarray, and detection.
Brucellosis in wildlife in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Simpson Gregory , Thompson Peter N. , Saegerman Claude , Marcotty Tanguy , Letesson Jean-Jacques , de Bolle Xavier , Godfroid Jacques
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to consolidate current knowledge of wildlife brucellosis in Africa and to analyse available predictors of infection. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Information on species, test used, test results, area, rainfall, livestock and wildlife contact and year of study were extracted. This systematic review revealed 42 prevalence studies, nine disease control articles and six articles on epidemiology. Brucella abortus, Brucella melitensis, Brucella inopinata and Brucella suis were reported in wildlife. The prevalence studies revealed serological evidence of brucellosis in buffalo, antelope (positive in 14/28 species), carnivores (4/12) and other species (7/20) over the last five decades. Buffalo populations were more likely to be infected and had a higher seroprevalence than other species; the pooled seroprevalence was 13.7% (95% CI 10.3–17.3%) in buffalo, 7.1% (95% CI 1.1–15.5%) in carnivores and 2.1% (95% CI 0.1–4.9%) in antelope. Wildlife in high rainfall areas (≥ 800 mm) were more likely to be infected, and infected populations showed higher seroprevalence in high rainfall areas and in studies published after 2000. Domestic animal contact was associated with increased seroprevalence in antelope and carnivore species, but not in buffalo, supporting the hypothesis that buffalo may be a reservoir species.
Lactobacillus acidophilus LA5 improves saturated fat-induced obesity mouse model through the enhanced intestinal Akkermansia muciniphila
Authors: Ondee Thunnicha , Pongpirul Krit , Visitchanakun Peerapat , Saisorn Wilasinee , Kanacharoen Suthicha , Wongsaroj Lampet , Kullapanich Chitrasak , Ngamwongsatit Natharin , Settachaimongkon Sarn , Somboonna Naraporn , Leelahavanichkul Asada
Published: March 2021

Obesity, a major healthcare problem worldwide, induces metabolic endotoxemia through the gut translocation of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), a major cell wall component of Gram-negative bacteria, causing a chronic inflammatory state. A combination of several probiotics including Lactobacillus acidophilus 5 (LA5), a potent lactic acid-producing bacterium, has previously been shown to attenuate obesity. However, data on the correlation between a single administration of LA5 versus microbiota alteration might be helpful for the probiotic adjustment. LA5 was administered daily together with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 8 weeks in mice. Furthermore, the condition media of LA5 was also tested in a hepatocyte cell-line (HepG2 cells). Accordingly, LA5 attenuated obesity in mice as demonstrated by weight reduction, regional fat accumulation, lipidemia, liver injury (liver weight, lipid compositions, and liver enzyme), gut permeability defect, endotoxemia, and serum cytokines. Unsurprisingly, LA5 improved these parameters and acidified fecal pH leads to the attenuation of fecal dysbiosis. The fecal microbiome analysis in obese mice with or without LA5 indicated; (i) decreased Bacteroidetes (Gram-negative anaerobes that predominate in non-healthy conditions), (ii) reduced total fecal Gram-negative bacterial burdens (the sources of gut LPS), (iii) enhanced Firmicutes (Gram-positive bacteria with potential benefits) and (iv) increased Verrucomycobia, especially Akkermansia muciniphila, a bacterium with the anti-obesity property. With LA5 administration, A. muciniphila in the colon were more than 2,000 folds higher than the regular diet mice as determined by 16S rRNA. Besides, LA5 produced anti-inflammatory molecules with a similar molecular weight to LPS that reduced cytokine production in LPS-activated HepG2 cells. In conclusion, LA5 attenuated obesity through (i) gut dysbiosis attenuation, partly through the promotion of A. muciniphila (probiotics with the difficulty in preparation processes), (ii) reduced endotoxemia, and (iii) possibly decreased liver injury by producing the anti-inflammatory molecules.
Genetic variation of RNF145 gene and blood lipid levels in Xinjiang population, China
Authors: Ming Jing , Wei Xian , Han Min , Adi Dilare , Abuzhalihan Jialin , Wang Yong-Tao , Yang Yi-Ning , Li Xiao-Mei , Xie Xiang , Fu Zhen-Yan , Gai Min-Tao , Ma Yi-Tong
Published: March 2021

Dyslipidemia is one of the main risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD). The E3 ubiquitin ligase which is encoded by the ring finger protein 145 (RNF145) gene is very important in the mediation of cholesterol synthesis and effectively treats hypercholesterolemia. Thus, the purpose of the present research is to investigate the connection between the polymorphism of the RNF145 gene and cholesterol levels in the populations in Xinjiang, China. A total of 1396 participants (Male: 628, Female: 768) were included in this study for genetic analysis of RNF145 gene, and we used the modified multiple connection detection response (iMLDR) technology to label two SNPs (rs17056583, rs12188266) of RNF145 genotyping. The relationship between the genotypes and the lipid profiles was analyzed with general linear model analysis after adjusting confounding variables. Through the analysis of the two SNPs in RNF145 gene, we discovered that both rs17056583 and rs12188266 were related to total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations (All P < 0.001). In addition, the association of rs17056583 and rs12188266 with lipid profiles concentrations is still statistically significant after multivariate adjustment of sex, age, smoking, obesity, drinking, diabetes, hypertension and lipid profiles. Meanwhile, we also found that rs17056583 was associated with high triglycerides concentrations before and after adjustment (All P < 0.001). Our study shows that both rs17056583 and rs12188266 SNPs of RNP145 gene are related to TC and LDL-C concentrations in Xinjiang population.
Retinal hyperspectral imaging in the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lim Jeremiah K. H. , Li Qiao-Xin , Ryan Tim , Bedggood Phillip , Metha Andrew , Vingrys Algis J. , Bui Bang V. , Nguyen Christine T. O.
Published: March 2021

Hyperspectral imaging of the retina has recently been posited as a potentially useful form of spectroscopy of amyloid-beta (Aβ) protein in the eyes of those with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The concept of using the retina as a biomarker for AD is an attractive one, as current screening tools for AD are either expensive or inaccessible. Recent studies have investigated hyperspectral imaging in Aβ models however these studies have been in younger mice. Here we characterised hyperspectral reflectance profile in 6 to 17 months old 5xFAD mice and compare this to Aβ in isolated preparations. Hyperspectral imaging was conducted across two preparations of Aβ using a custom built bench ophthalmoscope. In the in vitro condition, 1 mg of purified human Aβ42 was solubilised and left to aggregate for 72 h. This soluble/insoluble Aβ mixture was then imaged by suspending the solution at a pipette tip and compared against phosphate buffered saline (PBS) control (n = 10 ROIs / group). In the in vivo condition, a 5xFAD transgenic mouse model was used and retinae were imaged at the age of 6 (n = 9), 12 (n = 9) and 17 months (n = 8) with age matched wildtype littermates as control (n = 12, n = 13, n = 15 respectively). In the vitro condition, hyperspectral imaging of the solution showed greater reflectance compared with vehicle (p < 0.01), with the greatest differences occurring in the short visible spectrum (< 500 nm). In the in vivo preparation, 5xFAD showed greater hyperspectral reflectance at all ages (6, 12, 17 months, p < 0.01). These differences were noted most in the short wavelengths at younger ages, with an additional peak appearing at longer wavelengths (~ 550 nm) with advancing age. This study shows that the presence of Aβ (soluble/insoluble mixture) can increase the hyperspectral reflectance profile in vitro as well as in vivo. Differences were evident in the short wavelength spectrum (< 500 nm) in vitro and were preserved when imaged through the ocular media in the in vivo conditions. With advancing age a second hump around ~ 550 nm became more apparent. Hyperspectral imaging of the retina does not require the use of contrast agents and is a potentially useful and non-invasive biomarker for AD.
A prediction model for childhood obesity in New Zealand
Authors: Butler Éadaoin M. , Pillai Avinesh , Morton Susan M. B. , Seers Blake M. , Walker Caroline G. , Ly Kien , Tautolo El-Shadan , Glover Marewa , Taylor Rachael W. , Cutfield Wayne S. , Derraik José G. B. ,   COPABS Collaborators, Galland Barbara C. , Taylor Barry J. , Tricker Peter
Published: March 2021

Several early childhood obesity prediction models have been developed, but none for New Zealand's diverse population. We aimed to develop and validate a model for predicting obesity in 4–5-year-old New Zealand children, using parental and infant data from the Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ) cohort. Obesity was defined as body mass index (BMI) for age and sex ≥ 95th percentile. Data on GUiNZ children were used for derivation (n = 1731) and internal validation (n = 713). External validation was performed using data from the Prevention of Overweight in Infancy Study (POI, n = 383) and Pacific Islands Families Study (PIF, n = 135) cohorts. The final model included: birth weight, maternal smoking during pregnancy, maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, paternal BMI, and infant weight gain. Discrimination accuracy was adequate [AUROC = 0.74 (0.71–0.77)], remained so when validated internally [AUROC = 0.73 (0.68–0.78)] and externally on PIF [AUROC = 0.74 [0.66–0.82)] and POI [AUROC = 0.80 (0.71–0.90)]. Positive predictive values were variable but low across the risk threshold range (GUiNZ derivation 19–54%; GUiNZ validation 19–48%; and POI 8–24%), although more consistent in the PIF cohort (52–61%), all indicating high rates of false positives. Although this early childhood obesity prediction model could inform early obesity prevention, high rates of false positives might create unwarranted anxiety for families.
Safety of switching between rituximab biosimilars in onco-hematology
Authors: Urru Silvana A. M. , Spila Alegiani Stefania , Guella Anna , Traversa Giuseppe , Campomori Annalisa
Published: March 2021

Comparable clinical efficacy and safety of the reference rituximab (MABTHERA) and its biosimilars has been established in randomized trials. However, safety concerns are often raised when switching from reference to biosimilar products and between different biosimilars. In this prospective observational study we aimed at evaluating the safety of switching between reference and biosimilar rituximab (TRUXIMA and RIXATHON) at Trento General Hospital (Italy). All patients (n = 83) with Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL, n = 72) and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL, n = 11) who received rituximab between March 2018 and March 2019 were asked to take part in the study. In 2017 and 2018 two tenders were carried out and two different biosimilars became available in the hospital, these were used sequentially. Thus, patients with or without previous treatments with the originator rituximab either received a biosimilar or were switched between different biosimilars. The incidence of adverse events in these groups of patients is described. The study population received 465 rituximab infusions and all received biosimilars. Fifty patients (60%) experienced at least one switch between different biosimilars or between rituximab originator and biosimilar, whereas 33 (40%) received one of the two biosimilars and one patient received reference rituximab. Adverse events (n = 146) were reported in 71 patients (84.5%). Treatment-related grade 3–4 events were reported in 5 patients (5.9%), whereas grade 1 rituximab related infusion events were observed in 6 patients (7.1%). No safety signal emerged in association with the use of a specific biosimilar nor with the practice of switching. Adverse events were similar, in terms of seriousness and frequency, to those described in the literature, providing further support to the clinical safety of rituximab biosimilars.
Association between CYP2C19 polymorphisms and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing stent procedure for cerebral artery stenosis
Authors: Li Yan-Jiao , Chen Xuan , Tao Li-Na , Hu Xin-Yuan , Wang Xin-Lu , Song Yan-Qing
Published: March 2021

We investigated the effect of CYP2C19 polymorphisms on the clinical outcomes of clopidogrel therapy in patients after stenting procedure for cerebral artery stenosis in northeast China. 568 patients performed CYP2C19 genotype screening in the neurosurgery department of our hospital; 154 patients were finally recruited according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and followed-up for 6 months. Ischemic events including (1) transient ischemic attack (TIA); (2) stent thrombosis; (3) ischemic stroke; and (4) death were defined as primary clinical endpoints. The frequencies of CYP2C19*1, *2 and *3 alleles in 568 patients were 63.1%, 31.1% and 5.8%, respectively. 154 patients were classified into extensive (65 patients; 42.2%), intermediate (66 patients; 42.9%), and poor (23 patients; 14.9%) metabolizer groups. A χ2 test showed a significant difference in primary clinical endpoints at 6 months (P = 0.04), and a multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that the CYP2C19 loss-of-function (LOF) alleles associated with post-procedure prognosis. The Kaplan–Meier curve revealed that there was no significant difference in ischemic events between *2 and *3 alleles carriers. Our study verifies that CYP2C19 *2 and *3 have significant impact on the clinical outcomes of clopidogrel therapy in patients with stenting procedure for cerebral artery stenosis in China.
Impact of corneal parameters, refractive error and age on density and morphology of the subbasal nerve plexus fibers in healthy adults
Authors: Roszkowska Anna M. , Wylęgała Adam , Gargano Romana , Spinella Rosaria , Inferrera Leandro , Orzechowska-Wylęgała Bogusława , Aragona Pasquale
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to analyze corneal sub-basal nerve plexus (SBNP) density and morphology and their relationships with corneal parameters and refractive status. In this single center study, in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) was performed in 76 eyes of 38 healthy subjects aged 19–87 (mean age 34.987 ± 1.148). Nerve fiber analysis was performed using Confoscan 4 microscope with semi-automated software (Nidek Technologies, Italy) The nerve fiber length (NFL) µm/mm2, nerve fiber density (NFD) no./mm2, tortuosity coefficient (TC), and nerve beadings density (NBD) no./mm were considered. Relationship between SBNP parameters and corneal curvature, thickness, diameter, and refraction were analyzed. Additionally, the association with gender, laterality and age were determined. NFL was inversely correlated with age (r = − 0.528, p < 0.001), myopic refractive error (spherical value) (r = − 0.423, p < 0.001), and cylindrical power (r = − 0.340, p = 0.003). NFD was inversely correlated with age (r = − 0.420, p < 0.001) and myopic refractive error (r = − 0.341, p = 0.003). NBD showed a low inverse correlation with cylindrical power (r = − 0.287, p = 0.012) and a slight positive correlation with K (r = 0.230, p = 0.047). TC showed a significant negative correlation between age (r = − 0.500, p < 0.001) and myopic refractive error (r = − 0.351, p = 0.002). Additionally, there were strong positive correlations between NFL and NFD (r = 0.523, p < 0.001), NFL and TI (r = 0.603, p < 0.001), and NFD and TC (r = 0.758, p < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis revealed age to be the most significant factor affecting SBNP density (B = − 0.467, p = 0.013) and length (B = − 61.446, p < 0.001); myopic refractive error reduced both SBNP density (B = − 2.119, p = 0.011) and length (B = − 158.433, p = 0.016), while gender and laterality had no significant effects (p > 0.005). SBNP fiber length decreases with age, myopic refractive error and cylindrical power. SBNP fiber density reduces with age and myopic refractive error. Corneal nerve parameters are not influenced by gender or laterality.
Machine learning to determine optimal conditions for controlling the size of elastin-based particles
Authors: Cobb Jared S. , Engel Alexandra , Seale Maria A. , Janorkar Amol V.
Published: March 2021

This paper evaluates the aggregation behavior of a potential drug and gene delivery system that combines branched polyethyleneimine (PEI), a positively-charged polyelectrolyte, and elastin-like polypeptide (ELP), a recombinant polymer that exhibits lower critical solution temperature (LCST). The LCST behavior of ELP has been extensively studied, but there are no quantitative ways to control the size of aggregates formed after the phase transition. The aggregate size cannot be maintained when the temperature is lowered below the LCST, unless the system exhibits hysteresis and forms irreversible aggregates. This study shows that conjugation of ELP with PEI preserves the aggregation behavior that occurs above the LCST and achieves precise aggregate radii when the solution conditions of pH (3, 7, 10), polymer concentration (0.1, 0.15, 0.3 mg/mL), and salt concentration (none, 0.2, 1 M) are carefully controlled. K-means cluster analyses showed that salt concentration was the most critical factor controlling the hydrodynamic radius and LCST. Conjugating ELP to PEI allowed crosslinking the aggregates and achieved stable particles that maintained their size below LCST, even after removal of the harsh (high salt or pH) conditions used to create them. Taken together, the ability to control aggregate sizes and use of crosslinking to maintain stability holds excellent potential for use in biological delivery systems.
Characteristics of bilirubin photochemical changes under green light-emitting diodes in humans compared with animal species
Authors: Nii Kohichiroh , Okada Hitoshi , Itoh Susumu , Kusaka Takashi
Published: March 2021

Phototherapy using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) centered on the green spectrum, which has a high cyclobilirubin production rate, was as effective as that centered on the blue spectrum for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. There are no reports of species differences in bilirubin photochemical changes in this spectrum, and the characteristics of bilirubin photochemical changes in humans must be elucidated to proceed with the development of new light sources that include these spectra. This report describes the characteristic photochemical kinetics of bilirubin under green-spectrum LEDs in human, rat, rabbit, dog, pig, sheep, bovine and chicken serum albumin and rhesus monkey serum. These albumin-bilirubin complex solutions were irradiated by green LEDs, and the time-course changes in bilirubin photoisomers were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. The cyclobilirubin production rates in humans, pigs, and monkeys were significantly higher than those in other species. The rate constant of (EZ)-cyclobilirubin production from (EZ)-bilirubin ‘k’ was significantly higher in humans and monkeys than in other species. In conclusion, bilirubin photochemical kinetics under green spectrum LEDs in humans were characterized by a high cyclobilirubin production rate at a low substrate concentration. The bilirubin photochemical kinetics in monkeys were similar to those in humans.
The effects of the miR-21/SMAD7/TGF-β pathway on Th17 cell differentiation in COPD
Authors: He Shengyang , Sun Shenghua , Lu Junjuan , Chen Lili , Mei Xiang , Li Liqiu , Zeng Zhengpeng , Zhong Mubin , Xie Lihua
Published: March 2021

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex disease with multiple etiologies, while smoking is the most established one. The present study investigated the modulation of T-helper 17 (Th17) cell differentiation by the miR-21/Smad7/TGF-β pathway, and their roles in COPD. Lung tissues were obtained from lung cancer patients with or without COPD who underwent lobotomy and the levels of miR-21, TGF-β/Smad signaling molecules, RORγT, and other Th17-related cytokines were detected. Mouse COPD models were built by exposing both wild-type (WT) and miR-21−/− mice to cigarette smoke (CS) and cigarette smoke extract (CSE) intraperitoneal injection. Isolated primary CD4+ T cells were treated with either CS extract, miR-21 mimics or inhibitors, followed by measuring Th17 cells markers and the expression of TGF-β/Smad signaling molecules and RORγT. Increased levels of miR-21, Smad7, phosphorylated (p)-Smad2, p-Smad3, TGF-β, and Th17-related cytokines was detected in the lungs of COPD patients. Lung function in modeled WT mice, but not miR-21−/− ones, deteriorated and the number of inflammatory cells in the lung tissues increased compared to the control WT-mice. Moreover, primary CD4+ lymphocytes tend to differentiate into Th17 cells after the treatment with CSE or miR-21 mimics, and the expression of RORγT and the TGF-β/Smad signaling were all increased, however miR-21 inhibitors worked reversely. Our findings demonstrated that Th17 cells increased under COPD pathogenesis and was partially modulated by the miR-21/Smad7/TGF-β pathway.
Novel Crabtree negative yeast from rumen fluids can improve rumen fermentation and milk quality
Authors: Suntara Chanon , Cherdthong Anusorn , Uriyapongson Suthipong , Wanapat Metha , Chanjula Pin
Published: March 2021

Upgrading the nutritive value of rice straw (RS) is necessary to increase its contribution to enhancing meat and milk production. Present work verified whether novel Crabtree negative yeast inoculant could promote RS utilization, rumen fermentation, and milk quality in tropical crossbred lactating Holstein cows. The new stain of Crabtree negative yeasts (Pichia kudriavzeviiKKU20 andCandida tropicalisKKU20) was isolated from the rumen of dairy cattle. This study used 6 multiparous crossbreds between Holstein Frisian × Zebu dairy cows in their mid-lactation period. Dairy cows were randomly allocated to three ensiled RS with various yeast stains includingSaccharomyces cerevisiae,P. kudriavzeviiKKU20, andC. tropicalisKKU20 according to a 3 × 3 replicated Latin square design. Crabtree-negative yeast (P. kudriavzeviiandC. tropicalis) increased the apparent digestibility of dry matter by about 6.9% when compared with Crabtree-positive yeast (S. cerevisiae). Bacterial populations were highest with ensiled RS byC. tropicalisKKU20. Ensiled RS with Crabtree-negative yeasts were significantly increased with total volatile fatty acids, but they did not affect volatile fatty acid profiles. Milk protein precentage was highest at 35.6 g/kg whenC. tropicalis was fed, and lowest when applied withS. cerevisiaeandP. kudriavzeviiKKU20 in ensiled RS at 34.5 and 34.1 g/kg, respectively. Thus, feeding ensiled RS with novel Crabtree negative yeast could improve RS digestion, rumen fermentation, and milk protein content in dairy cows.
Evaluation of polyhexamethylene guanidine-induced lung injuries by chest CT, pathologic examination, and RNA sequencing in a rat model
Authors: Kim Cherry , Jeong Sang Hoon , Kim Jaeyoung , Lee Ki Yeol , Cha Jaehyung , Lee Chang Hyun , Park Eun-Kee , Lee Ju-Han
Published: March 2021

Our aim was to correlate chest CT and pathologic findings of polyhexamethylene guanidine phosphate (PHMG)-induced lung injuries in a rat model, to determine whether PHMG exposure causes lung tumors, and to explore genetic alterations according to PHMG exposure under the guidance of CT. A PHMG solution was intratracheally administrated to 40 male rats. Chest CT was carried out in all rats and both lungs were collected for histopathologic evaluation. At 4- and 8-weeks post-instillation, one lobe of the right lung from 3 rats was subjected to RNA sequencing. At least one abnormal CT finding was found in all rats at all weeks. The major CT findings were inflammation, fibrosis, and tumors in the pathologic analysis, where significant changes were observed over time. The lung lesions remained persistent after 8 weeks of PHMG exposure. In the pathologic analysis, the extent/severity of inflammation did not show statistically significant changes over time, whereas the extent/severity of fibrosis increased continuously up to 6 weeks after PHMG exposure and then decreased significantly at 8 weeks. Bronchiolar-alveolar adenomas which have malignant potential were found in 50% of rats at 6 and 8 weeks after PHMG exposure. Also, several genes associated with lung cancer, acute lung injury, and pulmonary fibrosis were detected. Our study revealed that PHMG-induced lung injury and its changes according to the number of weeks after exposure were demonstrated using chest CT and pathologic evaluation. In addition, we showed that PHMG exposure caused lung tumors and genetic alterations according to PHMG exposure under the guidance of CT.
Transcriptome of rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) exposed to total-body irradiation
Authors: Li Yaoxiang , Singh Jatinder , Varghese Rency , Zhang Yubo , Fatanmi Oluseyi O. , Cheema Amrita K. , Singh Vijay K.
Published: March 2021

The field of biodosimetry has seen a paradigm shift towards an increased use of molecular phenotyping technologies including omics and miRNA, in addition to conventional cytogenetic techniques. Here, we have used a nonhuman primate (NHP) model to study the impact of gamma-irradiation on alterations in blood-based gene expression. With a goal to delineate radiation induced changes in gene expression, we followed eight NHPs for 60 days after exposure to 6.5 Gy gamma-radiation for survival outcomes. Analysis of differential gene expression in response to radiation exposure yielded 26,944 dysregulated genes that were not significantly impacted by sex. Further analysis showed an increased association of several pathways including IL-3 signaling, ephrin receptor signaling, ErbB signaling, nitric oxide signaling in the cardiovascular system, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and inflammasome pathway, which were associated with positive survival outcomes in NHPs after acute exposure to radiation. This study provides novel insights into major pathways and networks involved in radiation-induced injuries that may identify biomarkers for radiation injury.
Microstructure and shear properties of ultrasonic-assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints under thermal cycling
Authors: Cui Jianguo , Zhang Keke , Zhao Di , Pan Yibo
Published: March 2021

Through ultrasonic wave assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1) soldering test and − 40 to 125 °C thermal shock test, the microstructure and shear properties of Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints under thermal cycling were studied by the SEM, EDS and XRD. The results show that the Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints with high quality and high reliability can be obtained by ultrasonic assistance. When the ultrasonic vibration power is 88 W, the ultrasonic-assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RE0.05Ni/Cu solder joints exhibits the optimized performance. During the thermal cycling process, the shear strength of ultrasonic-assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints had a linear relationship with the thickness of interfacial intermetallic compound (IMC). Under the thermal cycling, the interfacial IMC layer of ultrasonic-assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints consisted of (Cu,Ni)6Sn5 and Cu3Sn. The thickness of interfacial IMC of ultrasonic-assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints was linearly related to the square root of equivalent time. The growth of interfacial IMC of ultrasonic-assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints had an incubation period, and the growth of IMC was slow within 300 cycles. And after 300 cycles, the IMC grew rapidly, the granular IMC began to merge, and the thickness and roughness of IMC increased obviously, which led to a sharp decrease in the shear strength of the solder joints. The 0.05 wt% Ni could inhibit the excessive growth of IMC, improve the shear strength of solder joints and improve the reliability of solder joints. The fracture mechanism of ultrasonic-assisted Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RExNi/Cu solder joints changed from the ductile–brittle mixed fracture in the solder/IMC transition zone to the brittle fracture in the interfacial IMC.
Impact of g force and timing on the characteristics of platelet-rich fibrin matrices
Authors: Castro Ana B. , Andrade C. , Li X. , Pinto N. , Teughels W. , Quirynen M.
Published: March 2021

Recently, new centrifugation protocols for the preparation of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) have been introduced in an attempt to further improve the beneficial impact of these 2nd generation platelet concentrate membranes. This in-vitro study aimed to compare the biological and physical characteristics of three types of PRF membranes using two different centrifuges with adapted relative centrifugal forces (RCF): leucocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin, advanced platelet-rich fibrin, and advanced platelet-rich fibrin+. Release of growth factors, macroscopic dimensions, cellular content and mechanical properties of the respective membranes, prepared from blood of the same individual were explored. Furthermore, the impact of timing (blood draw-centrifugation and centrifugation-membrane preparation) was assessed morphologically as well as by electron microscopy scanning. No statistically significant differences amongst the three PRF modifications could be observed, neither in their release of growth factors or the cellular content, nor in clot/membrane dimensions. The difference between both centrifuges were negligible when the same g-force was used. A lower g-force, however, reduced membrane tensile strength. Timing in the preparation process had a significant impact. Adaptation of RCF only had a minimal impact on the final characteristics of PRF membranes.
Chromosomal regions strongly associated with waist circumference and body mass index in metabolic syndrome in a family-based study
Authors: Daneshpour Maryam S. , Zarkesh Maryam , Masjoudi Sajedeh , Azizi Fereidoun , Hedayati Mehdi
Published: March 2021

Obesity is the most crucial phenotype in metabolic syndrome (MetS), and waist circumference (WC) and body mass index (BMI) are two common indexes to define obesity. It is an accepted fact that genetic and environmental interaction influence obesity and MetS. Microsatellites are a subcategory of tandem repeats with a length of 1 to 10 nucleotides. Tandem repeats make up repetitive genomic regions. Differences in the number of tandem repeats or their variation (alleles) result in microsatellite polymorphisms. Thus, we attempted to find microsatellite variation associated with WC and BMI in a family-based study. Twelve microsatellite markers were selected to investigate possible genes or chromosomal regions in 91 families with at least one affected MetS. The cut-off values for BMI and WC were considered 25 kg/m2 and 90 cm, respectively. In all members of the families, the strongest association was observed between the marker D11S1304 (allele 1) with both WC and BMI, independently, by the biallelic model in the family-based association test analysis (P < 0.05). Besides, when we compared high- and low-level groups in members with MetS, the markers D8S1743 and D11S1304 (allele 1) showed a strong association with WC (P = 0.0080) and BMI (P = 0.0074), respectively. When the simultaneous detection of the high WC and MetS status was used as a trait, the strongest association was observed with the marker D8S1743 (P = 0.0034). Moreover, when BMI with the high MetS status was used as a trait, the strongest association was observed with the marker D8S1743 (allele 4) (P = 0.0034). The obtained results showed a relationship between obesity and MetS with markers on the selected regions on chromosomes 8 and 11, and to a lesser degree, on chromosome 12.
Posturography with head movements in the assessment of balance in chronic unilateral vestibular lesions
Authors: Janc Magdalena , Sliwinska-Kowalska Mariola , Politanski Piotr , Kaminski Marek , Jozefowicz-Korczynska Magdalena , Zamyslowska-Szmytke Ewa
Published: March 2021

The aim of our study was to validate the method of head-shake static posturography (HS-posturography) in healthy individuals and to establish the value of this novel method in the diagnostics of patients with unilateral vestibular lesion (UV). The study included 202 participants divided into two groups, one consisting of 133 patients with canal paresis CP > 19% and one of 69 healthy subjects. Participant was tested according to the standard protocol of static posturography (SP), and with head movements of 0.3 Hz (HS 40), 0.6 Hz (HS 70) in random order controlled by a metronome. HS-posturography revealed a similar repeatability and internal consistency as the standard posturography. In patients with UV, 4th condition revealed higher sensitivity (74%) and specificity (71%) in HS 40 than in the standard posturography (67%, 65% respectively) and HS 70 (54%, 70% respectively). Static posturography and HS- posturography revealed a high reliability of the testing method. The head movements added to static posturography improve the sensitivity and specificity of the method in group with vestibular impairment. The most important test for that purpose seems to be the one on unstable surface with the eyes closed, with low frequency of head movements.
Effects of SLC22A2 808G>T polymorphism and bosutinib concentrations on serum creatinine in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia receiving bosutinib therapy
Authors: Abumiya Maiko , Takahashi Naoto , Takahashi Saori , Yoshioka Tomoko , Kameoka Yoshihiro , Miura Masatomo
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of SLC22A2 808G>T polymorphism and trough concentrations (C0) of bosutinib on serum creatinine in 28 patients taking bosutinib. At 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after administration, analysis of bosutinib C0 and creatinine was performed at the same time of day. Significant correlations were observed between bosutinib C0 and the change rate of serum creatinine or the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; r = 0.328, P < 0.001 and r = − 0.315, P < 0.001, respectively). These correlations were particularly high in patients having the SLC22A2 808G/G genotype (r = 0.345 and r = − 0.329, respectively); however, in patients having the 808T allele, there were no significant differences. In multivariate analyses, the SLC22A2 808G/G genotype, patient age, bosutinib C0 and second-line or later bosutinib were independent factors influencing the change rate of creatinine. Bosutinib elevated serum creatinine through organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2). We observed a 20% increase in serum creatinine with a median bosutinib C0 of 63.4–73.2 ng/mL. Periodic measurement of serum creatinine after bosutinib therapy is necessary to avoid progression to severe renal dysfunction from simple elevation of creatinine mediated by OCT2 following bosutinib treatment.
Neural precursor cells are decreased in the hippocampus of the delayed carbon monoxide encephalopathy rat model
Authors: Ochi Shinichiro , Sekiya Keisuke , Abe Naoki , Funahashi Yu , Kumon Hiroshi , Yoshino Yuta , Nishihara Tasuku , Boku Shuken , Iga Jun-ichi , Ueno Shu-ichi
Published: March 2021

The pathophysiology of delayed carbon monoxide (CO) encephalopathy remains unclear. In this study, the effects of CO exposure on the dentate gyrus (DG) were investigated in a Wistar rat model by histochemical and molecular methods. Model rats showed significant cognitive impairment in the passive-avoidance test beginning 7 days after CO exposure. Immunohistochemistry showed that compared to the control, the cell number of SRY (sex-determining region Y)-box 2 (SOX2)+/brain lipid binding protein (BLBP)+/glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)+ cells in the DG was significantly less, but the number of SOX2+/GFAP− cells was not, reflecting a decreased number of type 1 and type 2a neural precursor cells. Compared to the control, the numbers of CD11b+ cells and neuron glial antigen 2+ cells were significantly less, but the number of SOX2−/GFAP+ cells was not. Flow cytometry showed that the percent of live microglial cells isolated from the hippocampus in this CO rat model was significantly lower than in controls. Furthermore, mRNA expression of fibroblast growth factor 2 and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor, which are neurogenic factors, was significantly decreased in that area. We conclude that, in this rat model, there is an association between delayed cognitive impairment with dysregulated adult hippocampal neurogenesis and glial changes in delayed CO encephalopathy.
Evaluation of UBE3A antibodies in mice and human cerebral organoids
Authors: Sen Dilara , Drobna Zuzana , Keung Albert J.
Published: March 2021

UBE3A is an E3 ubiquitin ligase encoded by the neurally imprinted UBE3A gene. The abundance and subcellular distribution of UBE3A has been the topic of many previous studies as its dosage and localization has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders including Autism, Dup15q syndrome, and Angelman syndrome. While commercially available antibodies have been widely employed to determine UBE3A localization, an extensive analysis and comparison of the performance of different UBE3A antibodies has not been conducted. Here we evaluated the specificities of seven commercial UBE3A antibodies in two of the major experimental models used in UBE3A research, mouse and human pluripotent stem cell-derived neural cells and tissues. We tested these antibodies in their two most common assays, immunofluorescence and western blot. In addition, we also assessed the ability of these antibodies to capture dynamic spatiotemporal changes of UBE3A by utilizing human cerebral organoid models. Our results reveal that among the seven antibodies tested, three antibodies demonstrated substantial nonspecific immunoreactivity. While four antibodies show specific localization patterns in both mouse brain sections and human cerebral organoids, these antibodies varied significantly in background signals and staining patterns in undifferentiated human pluripotent stem cells.
Lactobacillus rhamnosusFJSYC4-1 andLactobacillus reuteriFGSZY33L6 alleviate metabolic syndromeviagut microbiota regulation
Authors: Zheng Fuli , Wang Zhi , Stanton Catherine , Ross R. Paul , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Yang Bo , Chen Wei
Published: March 2021

Lactobacillus can regulate the gut microbiota and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which can induce satiety hormones, inhibit food intake and increase satiety, and thus improve metabolic syndrome.
The validity of nanoparticle enhanced molecular laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Tang Zhiyang , Liu Ke , Hao Zhongqi , Liu Kun , Zhang Wen , Li Qingzhou , Zhu Chenwei , Chen Ji , Li Xiangyou
Published: March 2021

The geometric constraint was first proposed to improve the enhancement factor of NEMLIBS. The validity of NEMLIBS to improve the detection ability of molecular bands was discussed.
Ultra-dehydration of a reactive epichlorohydrin-containing organic mixture using a defect-free thin carbon molecular sieve composite membrane
Authors: Kim Seong-Joong , Kwon YongSung , Kim DaeHun , Park Hosik , Cho Young Hoon , Nam Seung-Eun , Park You-In
Published: March 2021

A high-performance thin carbon molecular sieve (CMS) composite membrane was prepared using a drop-coating process for dehydration of a ternary mixture (water/IPA/ECH) by a pervaporation process.
Fully spin-polarized Weyl fermions and in/out-of-plane quantum anomalous Hall effects in a two-dimensional d0 ferromagnet
Authors: Jin Lei , Wang Lirong , Zhang Xiaoming , Liu Ying , Dai Xuefang , Gao Hongli , Liu Guodong
Published: March 2021

A YN2 monolayer can realize multiple topological phases, determined based on the magnetization direction. In particular, the in-plane QAHE can be realized in a d0 ferromagnet.
Improved stability and efficiency of perovskite/organic tandem solar cells with an all-inorganic perovskite layer
Authors: Wu Xin , Liu Yizhe , Qi Feng , Lin Francis , Fu Huiting , Jiang Kui , Wu Shengfan , Bi Leyu , Wang Deng , Xu Fang , Jen Alex K.-Y. , Zhu Zonglong
Published: March 2021

This work presents high-performance and stable all-inorganic perovskite/organic tandem solar cells with a champion efficiency of 18.06% and excellent stability under light and thermal conditions.
Polymer bulk-heterojunction synaptic field-effect transistors with tunable decay constant
Authors: Ke Yudan , Yu Rengjian , Lan Shuqiong , He Lihua , Yan Yujie , Yang Huihuang , Shan Liuting , Chen Huipeng , Guo Tailiang
Published: March 2021

Small angle-neutron scattering was used to elucidate the current decay mechanism of synaptic field-effect transistors based on a polymer bulk p–n heterojunction.
A synergistic Cs2CO3ETL treatment to incorporate Cs cation into perovskite solar cellsviatwo-step scalable fabrication
Authors: Yavari Mozhgan , Liu Xueping , Webb Thomas , Jayawardena K. D. G. Imalka , Xiang Yuren , Kern Stefanie , Hinder Steven , Macdonald Thomas J. , Silva S. Ravi P. , Sweeney Stephen J. , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2021

Cs incorporation into perovskite filmviaa thin Cs2CO3layer ETL passivation treatment.
Highly efficient bilateral doping of single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Goldt Anastasia E. , Zaremba Orysia T. , Bulavskiy Mikhail O. , Fedorov Fedor S. , Larionov Konstantin V. , Tsapenko Alexey P. , Popov Zakhar I. , Sorokin Pavel , Anisimov Anton S. , Inani Heena , Kotakoski Jani , Mustonen Kimmo , Nasibulin Albert G.
Published: March 2021

Bilateral SWCNT doping procedure.
Changing the structural and physical properties of 3-arm star poly(δ-valerolactone)s by a branch-point design
Authors: Ogiwara Hibiki , Ishiwari Fumitaka , Kimura Tadahiro , Yamashita Yukihiro , Kajitani Takashi , Sugimoto Atsuki , Tokita Masatoshi , Takata Masaki , Fukushima Takanori
Published: March 2021

This study provides an answer to the question of whether polymer properties can be modulated by the design of branching points.
Potential and challenges of engineering mechanically flexible molecular crystals
Authors: Hasija Avantika , Chopra Deepak
Published: March 2021

Crystal adaptronics has undergone tremendous developments that have been utilized to rationalize dynamics in crystals. This highlight discusses about the role of intermolecular interactions in rationalizing mechanical responses in crystals.
The room temperature synthesis of a CuO-Bi-BiOBr ternary Z-scheme photocatalyst for enhanced sunlight driven alcohol oxidation
Authors: Bisht Narendra Singh , Mehta S. P. S. , Sahoo Nanda Gopal , Dandapat Anirban
Published: March 2021

The room temperature synthesis of an all-solid-state Z-scheme CuO-doped BiOBr (CuO-Bi-BiOBr) photocatalyst has been described.
Ba3YB3O9based phosphor ceramic plates with excellent thermal stability for wLED applications
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Zhang Yuanpeng , Zhang Yuepin , Hu Jianxu
Published: March 2021

The as-synthesized phosphor ceramic plates (PCPs) with different mass ratios of Eu3+doped Ba3YB3O9, Tb3+doped Ba3YB3O9, and Eu2+doped BaMgAl10O17phosphors exhibit various colours under different excitation.
Unveiling the role of the lone electron pair in sesquioxides at high pressure: compressibility of β-Sb2O3
Authors: Sans Juan Angel , Manjón Francisco Javier , Pereira André Luis de Jesus , Ruiz-Fuertes Javier , Popescu Catalin , Muñoz Alfonso , Rodríguez-Hernández Plácida , Pellicer-Porres Julio , Cuenca-Gotor Vanesa Paula , Contreras-García Julia , Ibañez Jordi , Monteseguro Virginia
Published: March 2021

The study of electronic topology in very subtle phase transitions allows us to understand the physical chemical interactions involved. Here, we correlate the changes in the internal compressibility with lone electron pair interactions.
Nickel(ii) complexes based on dithiolate–polyamine binary ligand systems: crystal structures, hirshfeld surface analysis, theoretical study, and catalytic activity study on photocatalytic hydrogen generation
Authors: Adhikari Suman , Bhattacharjee Tirtha , Bhattacharjee Sharmila , Daniliuc Constantin Gabriel , Frontera Antonio , Lopato Eric M. , Bernhard Stefan
Published: March 2021

To ascertain the influence of binary ligand systems on the coordination modes of the Ni(ii) metal center and resulting supramolecular architectures, three Ni(ii) thiolate complexes have been synthesized in high yield in one step in water and structurally characterized.
Time-dependent surface modification of uranium oxides exposed to water plasma
Authors: El Jamal Ghada , Gouder Thomas , Eloirdi Rachel , Jonsson Mats
Published: March 2021

The dynamics of water plasma induced redox changes in UO2 films are monitered with X-Ray photoelectron Photoemission (XPS) and Ultra-Violet Photoemission (UPS) spectroscopy as a function of exposure time.