bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular and phenotypic identification of bacterial species isolated from cows with mastitis from three regions of Poland
Authors: Dobrut Anna , Siemińska Izabela , Sroka-Oleksiak Agnieszka , Drożdż Kamil , Sobońska Joanna , Mroczkowska Urszula , Brzychczy-Włoch Monika 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Bovine mastitis is a widespread disease affecting dairy cattle worldwide and it generates substantial losses for dairy farmers. Mastitis may be caused by bacteria, fungi or algae. The most common species isolated from infected milk are, among others, Streptococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and non-aureus staphylococci and mammaliicocci. The aim of this paper is to determine the frequency of occurrence of bacterial species in milk samples from cows with mastitis from three regions of Poland: the north-east, the south-west and the south. To this end 203 milk samples taken from cows with a clinical form (CM) of mastitis (n = 100) and healthy animals (n = 103) were examined, which included culture on an appropriate medium followed by molecular detection of E. coli, S. aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus uberis, as one of the most common species isolated from mastitis milk.

Results
The results obtained indicated that S. uberis was the most commonly cultivated CM species (38%, n = 38), followed by S. aureus (22%, n = 22), E. coli (21%, n = 21) and S. agalactiae (18%, n = 18). Similar frequencies in molecular methods were obtained for S. uberis (35.1%) and S. aureus (28.0%). The variation of sensitivity of both methods may be responsible for the differences in the E. coli (41.0%, p = 0.002) and S. agalactiae (5.0%, p = 0.004) detection rates. Significant differences in composition of species between three regions of Poland were noted for E. coli incidence (p < 0.001), in both the culture and molecular methods, but data obtained by the PCR method indicated that this species was the least common in north-eastern Poland, while the culture method showed that in north-eastern Poland E. coli was the most common species. Significant differences for the molecular method were also observed for S. uberis (p < 0.001) and S. aureus (p < 0.001). Both species were most common in southern and south-western Poland.

Conclusions
The results obtained confirm the need to introduce rapid molecular tests for veterinary diagnostics, as well as providing important epidemiological data, to the best of our knowledge data on Polish cows in selected areas of Poland is lacking.
Natural approach of using nisin and its nanoform as food bio-preservatives against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus and E.coli O157:H7 in yoghurt
Authors: Elsherif Walaa M. , Hassanien Alshimaa A. , Zayed Gamal M. , Kamal Sahar M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Natural antimicrobial agents such as nisin were used to control the growth of foodborne pathogens in dairy products. The current study aimed to examine the inhibitory effect of pure nisin and nisin nanoparticles (nisin NPs) against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and E.coli O157:H7 during the manufacturing and storage of yoghurt. Nisin NPs were prepared using new, natural, and safe nano-precipitation method by acetic acid. The prepared NPs were characterized using zeta-sizer and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In addition, the cytotoxicity of nisin NPs on vero cells was assessed using the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of nisin and its nanoparticles were determined using agar well-diffusion method. Further, fresh buffalo’s milk was inoculated with MRSA or E.coli O157:H7 (1 × 106 CFU/ml) with the addition of either nisin or nisin NPs, and then the inoculated milk was used for yoghurt making. The organoleptic properties, pH and bacterial load of the obtained yoghurt were evaluated during storage in comparison to control group.

Results
The obtained results showed a strong antibacterial activity of nisin NPs (0.125 mg/mL) against MRSA and E.coli O157:H7 in comparison with control and pure nisin groups. Notably, complete eradication of MRSA and E.coli O157:H7 was observed in yoghurt formulated with nisin NPs after 24 h and 5th day of storage, respectively. The shelf life of yoghurt inoculated with nisin nanoparticles was extended than those manufactured without addition of such nanoparticles.

Conclusions
Overall, the present study indicated that the addition of nisin NPs during processing of yoghurt could be a useful tool for food preservation against MRSA and E.coli O157:H7 in dairy industry.
Nine-year seroepidemiological study of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus infection in feral horses in Cape Toi, Japan
Authors: Mekata Hirohisa , Yamada Kentaro , Umeki Kazumi , Yamamoto Mari , Ochi Akihiro , Umekita Kunihiko , Kobayashi Ikuo , Hirai Takuya , Okabayashi Tamaki 
Published: May 2024

AbstractSevere fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a fatal zoonosis caused by ticks in East Asia. As SFTS virus (SFTSV) is maintained between wildlife and ticks, seroepidemiological studies in wildlife are important to understand the behavior of SFTSV in the environment. Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan, is an SFTS-endemic area, and approximately 100 feral horses, called Misaki horses (Equus caballus), inhabit Cape Toi in Miyazaki Prefecture. While these animals are managed in a wild-like manner, their ages are ascertainable due to individual identification. In the present study, we conducted a seroepidemiological survey of SFTSV in Misaki horses between 2015 and 2023. This study aimed to understand SFTSV infection in horses and its transmission to wildlife. A total of 707 samples from 180 feral horses were used to determine the seroprevalence of SFTSV using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Neutralization testing was performed on 118 samples. In addition, SFTS viral RNA was detected in ticks from Cape Toi and feral horses. The overall seroprevalence between 2015 and 2023 was 78.5% (555/707). The lowest seroprevalence was 55% (44/80) in 2016 and the highest was 92% (76/83) in 2018. Seroprevalence was significantly affected by age, with 11% (8/71) in those less than one year of age and 96.7% (435/450) in those four years of age and older (p < 0.0001). The concordance between ELISA and neutralization test results was 88.9% (105/118). SFTS viral RNA was not detected in ticks (n = 516) or feral horses. This study demonstrated that horses can be infected with SFTSV and that age is a significant factor in seroprevalence in wildlife. This study provides insights into SFTSV infection not only in horses but also in wildlife in SFTS-endemic areas.
Hydrops fetalis caused by a complex congenital heart defect with concurrent hypoplasia of pulmonary blood vessels and lungs visualized by micro-CT in a French Bulldog
Authors: Szaluś-Jordanow Olga , Barszcz Karolina , Mądry Wojciech , Buczyński Michał , Czopowicz Michał , Gierulski Adam , Moroz-Fik Agata , Mickiewicz Marcin , Grzegorczyk Michał , Jaroszewicz Jakub 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Hydrops fetalis (HF) is fluid accumulation in fetus body cavities and subcutaneous tissue. The condition has been described in various farm and companion animal species, including dogs. Most of cases result from a heart defect. Exact nature of this defect is rarely clarified.

Case presentation
A newborn, male French bulldog puppy with severe HF underwent a full anatomopathological examination to diagnose the primary cause of HF. Based on the anatomopathological examination, fetal ultrasound, and micro-computed tomography, transposition of the great arteries with hypoplasia of the ascending aorta, aortic arch interruption, ostium secundum atrial septal defect, severe tricuspid valve dysplasia, as well as hypoplasia of pulmonary vessels and lungs were diagnosed.

Conclusions
This is the first report of HF caused by severe, complex congenital heart defects with concurrent pulmonary vessel and lung hypoplasia.
Erianin inhibits the progression of triple-negative breast cancer by suppressing SRC-mediated cholesterol metabolism
Authors: Li Ming , Kang Shiyao , Deng Xuming , Li Huimin , Zhao Yuan , Tang Wenru , Sheng Miaomiao 
Published: May 2024

AbstractTriple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is highly malignant and lacks effective biotherapeutic targets. The development of efficient anticancer drugs with low toxicity and few side effects is a hotspot in TNBC treatment research. Although erianin is known to have potent antitumor activity, its regulatory mechanism and target in TNBC have not been fully elucidated, hampering further drug development. This study showed that erianin can significantly inhibit TNBC cell proliferation and migration, promote cell apoptosis, and inhibit the growth of transplanted tumors in mice. Mechanistically, through network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking and cellular thermal shift assays, we preliminarily identified SRC as the cellular target of erianin. Erianin potently inhibited the expression of SRC, which mediated the anticancer effect of erianin in TNBC. Moreover, erianin can downregulate the expression of genes related to cholesterol synthesis and uptake by targeting SRC, interfering with cholesterol levels in TNBC, thereby inhibiting the progression of TNBC in vivo and in vitro. Taken together, our results suggest that erianin may inhibit the progression of TNBC by suppressing SRC-mediated cholesterol metabolism, and erianin has the great potential to be an effective treatment for TNBC patients.
Phytochemical evaluation of Ziziphus mucronata and Xysmalobium undulutum towards the discovery and development of anti-malarial drugs
Authors: Buthelezi Muzi N. , Tshililo Vhahangwele G. , Kappo Abidemi P. , Simelane Mthokozisi B. C. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
The development of resistance by Plasmodium falciparum is a burdening hazard that continues to undermine the strides made to alleviate malaria. As such, there is an increasing need to find new alternative strategies. This study evaluated and validated 2 medicinal plants used in traditional medicine to treat malaria.

Methods
Inspired by their ethnobotanical reputation of being effective against malaria, Ziziphus mucronata and Xysmalobium undulutum were collected and sequentially extracted using hexane (HEX), ethyl acetate (ETA), Dichloromethane (DCM) and methanol (MTL). The resulting crude extracts were screened for their anti-malarial and cytotoxic potential using the parasite lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, respectively. This was followed by isolating the active compounds from the DCM extract of Z. mucronata using silica gel chromatography and structural elucidation using spectroscopic techniques (NMR: 1H, 12C, and DEPT). The active compounds were then targeted against P. falciparum heat shock protein 70–1 (PfHsp70-1) using Autodock Vina, followed by in vitro validation assays using ultraviolet–visible (UV–VIS) spectroscopy and the malate dehydrogenase (MDH) chaperone activity assay.

Results
The extracts except those of methanol displayed anti-malarial potential with varying IC50 values, Z. mucronata HEX (11.69 ± 3.84 µg/mL), ETA (7.25 ± 1.41 µg/mL), DCM (5.49 ± 0.03 µg/mL), and X. undulutum HEX (4.9 ± 0.037 µg/mL), ETA (17.46 ± 0.024 µg/mL) and DCM (19.27 ± 0.492 µg/mL). The extracts exhibited minimal cytotoxicity except for the ETA and DCM of Z. mucronata with CC50 values of 10.96 and 10.01 µg/mL, respectively. Isolation and structural characterization of the active compounds from the DCM extracts revealed that betulinic acid (19.95 ± 1.53 µg/mL) and lupeol (7.56 ± 2.03 µg/mL) were responsible for the anti-malarial activity and had no considerable cytotoxicity (CC50 > µg/mL). Molecular docking suggested strong binding between PfHsp70-1, betulinic acid (− 6.8 kcal/mol), and lupeol (− 6.9 kcal/mol). Meanwhile, the in vitro validation assays revealed the disruption of the protein structural elements and chaperone function.

Conclusion
This study proves that X undulutum and Z. mucronata have anti-malarial potential and that betulinic acid and lupeol are responsible for the activity seen on Z. mucronata. They also make a case for guided purification of new phytochemicals in the other extracts and support the notion of considering medicinal plants to discover new anti-malarials.
Integrin-linked kinase mRNA expression in circulating mononuclear cells as a biomarker of kidney and vascular damage in experimental chronic kidney disease
Authors: Campillo Sofía , Gutiérrez-Calabrés Elena , García-Miranda Susana , Griera Mercedes , Fernández Rodríguez Loreto , de Frutos Sergio , Rodríguez-Puyol Diego , Calleros Laura 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Traditional biomarkers of chronic kidney disease (CKD) detect the disease in its late stages and hardly predict associated vascular damage. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is a scaffolding protein and a serine/threonine protein kinase that plays multiple roles in several pathophysiological processes during renal damage. However, the involvement of ILK as a biomarker of CKD and its associated vascular problems remains to be fully elucidated.

Methods
CKD was induced by an adenine-rich diet for 6 weeks in mice. We used an inducible ILK knockdown mice (cKD-ILK) model to decrease ILK expression. ILK content in mice's peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was determined and correlated with renal function parameters and with the expression of ILK and fibrosis and inflammation markers in renal and aortic tissues. Also, the expression of five miRNAs that target ILK was analyzed in whole blood of mice.

Results
The adenine diet increased ILK expression in PBMCs, renal cortex, and aortas, and creatinine and urea nitrogen concentrations in the plasma of WT mice, while these increases were not observed in cKD-ILK mice. Furthermore, ILK content in PBMCs directly correlated with renal function parameters and with the expression of renal and vascular ILK and fibrosis and inflammation markers. Finally, the expression of the five miRNAs increased in the whole blood of adenine-fed mice, although only four correlated with plasma urea nitrogen, and of those, three were downregulated in cKD-ILK mice.

Conclusions
ILK, in circulating mononuclear cells, could be a potential biomarker of CKD and CKD-associated renal and vascular damage.

Graphical Abstract

ILK content in circulating mononuclear cells reflects renal and vascular damage in a CKD experimental model.
Angiolipoma associated with antiretroviral switch therapy: a case report
Authors: Taylor Gregory H. , Pandit Neha Sheth 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Angiolipomas have been well described in patients with HIV exposed to protease inhibitors with possible resolution after switching to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based regimens. Resolution of symptoms have occurred with switches to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based regimens; however, little is known regarding the development of angiolipomas when switching from NNRTI- to modern, integrase strand transfer inhibitor-based regimens. We describe a patient who underwent switch therapy from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine/efavirenz (TDF/FTC/EFV) to tenofovir alafenamide/FTC/bictegravir (TAF/FTC/BIC) who later developed angiolipomas.

Case Presentation
A 55-year-old male had been on TDF/FTC/EFV for 8 years before switching to TAF/FTC/BIC. Nineteen months after antiretroviral switch, the patient presented with multiple lesions in the upper extremities and abdomen. Diagnostic biopsies revealed non-encapsulated angiolipomas and HHV-8 and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease was ruled out. New lesions continued to appear 29 months after ART switch, after which now lesions appeared and prior lesions remained stable with no increase in size noted. No surgical intervention or change in antiretroviral therapy was needed.

Conclusions
Angiogenesis may have been suppressed with TDF/FTC/EFV treatment, however when switched to TAF/FTC/BIC, promoted the growth of angiolipomas. Clinicians should be aware of the impact of switching to modern ART therapies resulting in possible adipogenesis.
Immersive VR for upper-extremity rehabilitation in patients with neurological disorders: a scoping review
Authors: Ceradini Matteo , Losanno Elena , Micera Silvestro , Bandini Andrea , Orlandi Silvia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Neurological disorders, such as stroke and chronic pain syndromes, profoundly impact independence and quality of life, especially when affecting upper extremity (UE) function. While conventional physical therapy has shown effectiveness in providing some neural recovery in affected individuals, there remains a need for improved interventions. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising technology-based approach for neurorehabilitation to make the patient’s experience more enjoyable. Among VR-based rehabilitation paradigms, those based on fully immersive systems with headsets have gained significant attention due to their potential to enhance patient’s engagement.

Methods
This scoping review aims to investigate the current state of research on the use of immersive VR for UE rehabilitation in individuals with neurological diseases, highlighting benefits and limitations. We identified thirteen relevant studies through comprehensive searches in Scopus, PubMed, and IEEE Xplore databases. Eligible studies incorporated immersive VR for UE rehabilitation in patients with neurological disorders and evaluated participants’ neurological and motor functions before and after the intervention using clinical assessments.

Results
Most of the included studies reported improvements in the participants rehabilitation outcomes, suggesting that immersive VR represents a valuable tool for UE rehabilitation in individuals with neurological disorders. In addition, immersive VR-based interventions hold the potential for personalized and intensive training within a telerehabilitation framework. However, further studies with better design are needed for true comparison with traditional therapy. Also, the potential side effects associated with VR head-mounted displays, such as dizziness and nausea, warrant careful consideration in the development and implementation of VR-based rehabilitation programs.

Conclusion
This review provides valuable insights into the application of immersive VR in UE rehabilitation, offering the foundation for future research and clinical practice. By leveraging immersive VR’s potential, researchers and rehabilitation specialists can design more tailored and patient-centric rehabilitation strategies, ultimately improving the functional outcome and enhancing the quality of life of individuals with neurological diseases.
PPP2R2A inhibition contributes to preeclampsia by regulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis modulation potential of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Liu Yan , Gu Fangle , Gao Jun , Gu Yingyan , Li Zhiyue , Lu Dan , Zhang Yanxin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
The precise mechanisms underlying preeclampsia (PE) pathogenesis remain unclear. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are involved in the pathology of PE. The aim of our study was to identify the effects of protein phosphatase 2 regulatory subunit B α (PPP2R2A) on MSCs and ascertain its latent role in the progression of PE.

Methods
Reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression of PPP2R2A in decidual tissue and decidual (d)MSCs from healthy pregnant women and patients with PE as well as the expression levels of Bax and Bcl-2 in dMSCs. The levels of p-PI3K, PI3K, p-AKT, and AKT were determined using western blotting. Cell growth, apoptosis, and migration were analyzed using MTT, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays, respectively. Human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) tube formation ability was assayed using a HUVEC capillary-like tube formation assay.

Results
PPP2R2A was downregulated in decidual tissues and dMSCs of patients with PE when compared with that in healthy pregnant women. Moreover, upregulation of PPP2R2A enhanced cell proliferation, reduced apoptotic dMSC, inhibited Bax expression, and increased Bcl-2 levels. Conditioned medium from PPP2R2A-overexpressing dMSCs promoted HTR-8/SVneo cell migration and angiogenesis of HUVEC. Furthermore, the PPP2R2A plasmid suppressed PI3K/AKT pathway activation in dMSCs. However, these effects were partially reversed by LY2940002 treatment.

Conclusion
PPP2R2A inhibition contributes to PE by regulating the proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis of MSCs, providing a new therapeutic target for PE diagnosis and treatment.
Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) grip on T-cells: investigating the viral tapestry of activation
Authors: Letafati Arash , Bahavar Atefeh , Tabarraei Alijan , Norouzi Mehdi , Amiri Abdollah , Mozhgani Sayed-Hamidreza 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Human T-cell Lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) belongs to retroviridae which is connected to two major diseases, including HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL). This study aims to investigate the mRNA expressions of key proteins correlated to T-cell activation in asymptomatic carriers (ACs) HTLV-1 infected patients, shedding light on early molecular events and T-cell activation following HTLV-1 infection.

Material and Methods
The study involved 40 participants, including 20 ACs and 20 healthy subjects. Blood samples were collected, ELISA assessment for screening and confirmation with PCR for Trans-activating transcriptional regulatory protein (Tax) and HTLV-1 basic leucine zipper factor (HBZ) of the HTLV-1 were done. mRNA expressions of C-terminal Src kinase (CSK), Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3 Beta (GSK3β), Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 14 (MAP3K14 or NIK), Phospholipase C Gamma-1 (PLCG1), Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase non-Receptor Type 6 (PTPN6) and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase-7 (SLP-76) and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase14 (MAP3K7 or TAK1) were assayed using RT-qPCR. Statistical analyses were performed using PRISM and SPSS software.

Results
While there were no significant upregulation in CSK and PTPN6 in ACs compared to healthy individuals, expression levels of GSK3β, MAP3K14, PLCG1, SLP-76, and TAK1 were significantly higher in ACs compared to healthy subjects which directly contributes to T-cell activation in the HTLV-1 ACs.

Conclusion
HTLV-1 infection induces differential mRNA expressions in key proteins associated with T-cell activation. mRNAs related to T-cell activation showed significant upregulation compared to PTPN6 and CSK which contributed to T-cell regulation. Understanding these early molecular events in ACs may provide potential markers for disease progression and identify therapeutic targets for controlling viral replication and mitigating associated diseases. The study contributes novel insights to the limited literature on T-cell activation and HTLV-1 pathogenesis.