bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Population Density, Availability of Gynecological Services, and Cervical Cancer Incidence and Mortality Across Administrative Units in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina During 2016–2020
Authors: Vuković Vladimir , Štrbac Mirjana , Ristić Mioljub , Skočibušić Siniša , Cilović-Lagarija Šeila , Aćimović Jela , Šiljak Slađana , Živković Perišić Snežana , Nikolić Nataša , Ljubičić Stefan , Pustahija Tatjana , Rajčević Smiljana , Patić Aleksandra , Dugandžija Tihomir , Mandić Aljoša , Petrović Vladimir
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Burden of cervical cancer in Central and Eastern Europe is higher than in other parts of Europe. We analyzed cervical cancer epidemiology in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina (the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Srpska) from January 2016 to December 2020, exploring the role of available sociodemographic factors and healthcare service parameters on incidence and mortality rates, using an ecological approach based on aggregated data. Materials and Methods: Incidence and mortality rates are standardized using the method of direct standardization with the World-ASR-W. Administrative units are grouped by tertiles of incidence and mortality to explore sociodemographic factors and healthcare parameters across these groups. Results: Average age-standardized incidence rates of cervical cancer per 100,000 females were 19.28 in Serbia, 12.48 in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and 22.44 in the Republic of Srpska. Mortality rates per 100,000 females were 6.67, 5.22, and 4.56 in Serbia, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Republic of Srpska, respectively. Several parameters of sociodemographics and health service usage differed significantly across units grouped by tertiles based on incidence level, i.e., female population ≥ 15 years old (p = 0.028), population density (p = 0.046), percent of gynecologists in the primary healthcare (p = 0.041), number of gynecologists per 10,000 females ≥ 15 years (p = 0.007), and the area-to-gynecologist ratio (p = 0.010). A moderate negative correlation was found between incidence and population density (rho = −0.465, p = 0.017), and a moderate positive correlation between incidence and area-to-gynecologist ratio (rho = 0.534, p = 0.005). Conclusions: Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer among women in developing countries. Implementing tailored activities, such as educational programs, preventive services, and investments in healthcare infrastructure, particularly at the administrative units’ level, can help in reducing health disparities and improving health outcomes.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns and Antimicrobial Therapy of Infections Caused by Elizabethkingia Species
Authors: Huang Chienhsiu
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Elizabethkingia species have become significant sources of infections acquired in hospital settings and are commonly linked to high mortality rates. Antimicrobial resistance can be influenced by Elizabethkingia species, geographical location, antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods, and the time of bacterial isolation. There are distinct antimicrobial susceptibility patterns among species, and the investigation into potential antibiotic susceptibility variations among species is beneficial. There is no guidance on the treatment of Elizabethkingia species infections in the literature. Consequently, the purpose of this review was to elaborate on the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Elizabethkingia species through a scoping review of existing studies on the antibiograms of the Elizabethkingia species and on the illness caused by Elizabethkingia species. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search in PubMed and Web of Science between 1 January 2000 and 30 April 2024 identified all studies, including those that examined antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and antimicrobial therapy of infections caused by Elizabethkingia species. I considered studies on antimicrobial susceptibility testing for Elizabethkingia species in which only broth microdilution methods and agar dilution methods were used. Results: The sensitivity levels of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica to piperacillin–tazobactam (5–100%), ciprofloxacin (0–43.4%), levofloxacin (30–81.8%), trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (0–100%), tigecycline (15–100%), minocycline (60–100%), and rifampicin (94–100%) varied. The sensitivity levels of Elizabethkingia anophelis to piperacillin–tazobactam (3.3–93.3%), ciprofloxacin (1–75%), levofloxacin (12–100%), trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (1.02–96.7%), tigecycline (0–52.2%), minocycline (97.5–100%), and rifampicin (20.5–96%) varied. The sensitivity levels of Elizabethkingia miricola to piperacillin–tazobactam (41.6–94.0%), ciprofloxacin (14–75%), levofloxacin (77.0–100%), trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (18.0–100%), tigecycline (50%), minocycline (100%), and rifampicin (66–85.7%) varied. Conclusions: The majority of the isolates of Elizabethkingia species were susceptible to minocycline and rifampin. This issue requires professional knowledge integration and treatment recommendations.
The Langmuir Monolayer as a Model Membrane System for Studying the Interactions of Poly(Butyl Cyanoacrylate) Nanoparticles with Phospholipids at the Air/Water Interface
Authors: Yordanov Georgi , Minkov Ivan , Balashev Konstantin
Published: December 2024

Poly(butyl cyanoacrylate) (PBCA) nanoparticles have numerous applications, including drug and gene delivery, molecular imaging, and cancer therapy. To uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying their interactions with cell membranes, we utilized a Langmuir monolayer as a model membrane system. This approach enabled us to investigate the processes of penetration and reorganization of PBCA nanoparticles when deposited in a phospholipid monolayer subphase. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was employed to visualize Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films of these nanoparticles. Additionally, we examined the state of a monolayer of Pluronic F68, a stabilizer of PBCA nanoparticles in suspension, by measuring the changes in relative surface area and surface potential over time in the barostatic regime following PBCA suspension spreading. Based on these findings, we propose a molecular mechanism for nanoparticle reorganization at the air–water interface.
Charge-Induced Structural Stability and Electronic Property of Sb, Bi, and PbTe Monolayers
Authors: Wang Chang-Tian , Xu Yuanji , Zhou Chang
Published: December 2024

Flat honeycomblike Sb and Bi monolayers have been fabricated epitaxially on Ag(111) and SiC(0001) substrates, respectively, although their freestanding structures are found to prefer a buckled form. Based on ab initio total energy calculations and phonon mode analysis, here we reveal that the charge (electron) can essentially induce the structural stability of planar antimonene and bismuthene. With increasing of the charge, the flat antimonene and bismuthene become more stable than the buckled form in energy, as the charge is larger than 0.22–0.24 electrons per atom. Meanwhile, the phonon modes can also be stable with increasing charge for flat monolayer. Similar behavior is also found in PbTe monolayers. The present results provide an excellent account for experimental observations and reveal the stabilization mechanism of the flat honeycomb-like Sb, Bi, and PbTe monolayers.
Investigations into Capillary Forces and Capillary Rise in a Three-Finger Microgripper and a Plate: Numerical Simulations and Experimental Validation
Authors: Xu Zhi , Fan Zenghua , Gao Jun , Zhang Kun , Zhang Xiang
Published: December 2024

The assembly and position adjustment of micro-components have wide applications in micro-electromechanical systems, wafer packaging and biomedicine. However, current single-finger microgrippers only allow for the pickup and release of micro-components. In the present study, a three-finger capillary microgripper was developed to pick up, release and adjust the position of micro-components. The capillary force and the capillary rise generated by the capillary bridge were investigated by simulation and experiments. A simulation model was set up by the minimum energy method. On the established experimental platform, capillary forces were measured at different separation distances. When the volume was 0.9 μL, the maximum capillary forces gained from the capillary bridge model and experiments were 95.2 μN and 96.0 μN, respectively. A comparison of the capillary bridge models and the experimental results of the capillary forces demonstrate the reliability of the capillary bridge models. The influences of various parameters were investigated in detail by the capillary bridge model. The results demonstrate that when the side of the probe is hydrophilic, the variations in the capillary force with various factors such as separation distance and capillary bridge volume is non-monotonic, which is caused by the restriction of the probe edge.
750 V Breakdown in GaN Buffer on 200 mm SOI Substrates Using Reverse-Stepped Superlattice Layers
Authors: You Shuzhen , Lei Yilong , Wang Liang , Chen Xing , Zhou Ting , Wang Yi , Wang Junbo , Liu Tong , Li Xiangdong , Zhao Shenglei , Zhang Jincheng , Hao Yue
Published: December 2024

In this work, we demonstrated the epitaxial growth of a gallium nitride (GaN) buffer structure on 200 mm SOI (silicon-on-insulator) substrates. This epitaxial layer is grown using a reversed stepped superlattice buffer (RSSL), which is composed of two superlattice (SL) layers with different Al component ratios stacked in reverse order. The upper layer, with a higher Al component ratio, introduces tensile stress instead of accumulative compressive stress and reduces the in situ curvature of the wafer, thereby achieving a well-controlled wafer bow ≤ ±50 µm for a 3.3 µm thick buffer. Thanks to the compliant SOI substrate, good crystal quality of the grown GaN layers was obtained, and a breakdown voltage of 750 V for a 3.3 µm thick GaN buffer was achieved. The breakdown field strength of the epitaxial GaN buffer layer on the SOI substrate is estimated to be ~2.27 MV/cm, which is higher than the breakdown field strength of the GaN-on-Si epitaxial buffer layer. This RSSL buffer also demonstrated a low buffer dispersion of less than 10%, which is good enough for the further processing of device and circuit fabrication. A D-mode GaN HEMT was fabricated on this RSSL buffer, which showed a good on/off ratio of ~109 and a breakdown voltage of 450 V.
Optimizing Stretchability and Electrical Stability in Bilayer-Structured Flexible Liquid Metal Composite Electrodes
Authors: Kim Min-Gi , Nam Kun-Woo , Kim Won-Jin , Park Sung-Hoon
Published: December 2024

Gallium-based liquid metals remain in a liquid state at room temperature and exhibit excellent electrical and thermal conductivities, low viscosity, and low toxicity, making them ideal for creating highly stretchable and conductive composites suitable for flexible electronic devices. Despite these benefits, conventional single-layer liquid metal composites face challenges, such as liquid metal leakage during deformation (e.g., stretching or bending) and limited elongation due to incomplete integration of the liquid metal within the elastomer matrix. To address these limitations, we introduced a bilayer structure into liquid metal composites, comprising a lower polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) layer and an upper PDMS-liquid metal mixed layer. In the mixed layer, the liquid metal precipitates, forming a conductive network spanning both layers. This bilayer composite structure demonstrated significantly improved stretchability and elongation compared to pure PDMS or single-layer composites. Additionally, by adjusting the size and content of the liquid metal particles, we optimized the composite’s mechanical and electrical properties. Under optimal conditions, spherical liquid metal particles deform into elliptical shapes under tensile stress, increasing conductive pathways and reducing electrical resistance. The combined effects of the bilayer structure and particle shape deformation enhanced the composite’s stretchability and elongation, supporting its potential for flexible electronics applications.
Development of GaN-Based, 6.6 kW, 450 V, Bi-Directional On-Board Charger with Integrated 1 kW, 12 V Auxiliary DC-DC Converter with High Power Density
Authors: Reali Alessandro , Alemanno Alessio , Ronchi Fabio , Rossi Carlo , Florian Corrado
Published: December 2024

Automotive-grade GaN power switches have recently been made available in the market from a growing number of semiconductor suppliers. The exploitation of this technology enables the development of very efficient power converters operating at much higher switching frequencies with respect to components implemented with silicon power devices. Thus, a new generation of automotive power components with an increased power density is expected to replace silicon-based products in the development of higher-performance electric and hybrid vehicles. 650 V GaN-on-silicon power switches are particularly suitable for the development of 3–7 kW on-board battery chargers (OBCs) for electric cars and motorcycles with a 400 V nominal voltage battery pack. This paper describes the design and implementation of a 6.6 kW OBC for electric vehicles using automotive-grade, 650 V, 25 mΩ, discrete GaN switches. The OBC allows bi-directional power flow, since it is composed of a bridgeless, interleaved, totem-pole PFC AC/DC active front end, followed by a dual active bridge (DAB) DC-DC converter. The OBC can operate from a single-phase 90–264 Vrms AC grid to a 200–450 V high-voltage (HV) battery and also integrates an auxiliary 1 kW DC-DC converter to connect the HV battery to the 12 V battery of the vehicle. The auxiliary DC-DC converter is a center-tapped phase-shifted full-bridge (PSFB) converter with synchronous rectification. At the low-voltage side of the auxiliary converter, 100 V GaN power switches are used. The entire OBC is liquid-cooled. The first prototype of the OBC exhibited a 96% efficiency and 2.2 kW/L power density (including the cooling system) at a 60 °C ambient temperature.
The First Report of mcr-1-Carrying Escherichia coli, Isolated from a Clinical Sample in the North-East of Romania
Authors: Vlad Mădălina-Alexandra , Lixandru Brîndușa-Elena , Muntean Andrei-Alexandru , Trandafir Irina , Luncă Cătălina , Tuchiluş Cristina
Published: December 2024

Colistin resistance poses a significant clinical challenge, particularly in Gram-negative bacteria. This study investigates the occurrence of plasmid-mediated colistin resistance among Enterobacterales isolates (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterobacter spp.) and non-fermentative rods (Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). We analyzed 114 colistin-resistant isolates that were selected, based on resistance phenotypes, and isolated between 2019 and 2023. To achieve this, we used the rapid immunochromatographic test, NG-Test® MCR-1; multiplex PCR for mcr-1 to mcr-8, and real-time PCR for mcr-1 and mcr-2. One E. coli isolate was identified as carrying the mcr-1 gene, confirmed by NG-Test® MCR-1, multiplex PCR and whole-genome sequencing. This strain, belonging to ST69, harbored four plasmids, harboring different antimicrobial resistance genes, with mcr-1 being located on a 33,304 bp circular IncX4 plasmid. No mcr-2 to mcr-8-positive isolates were detected, prompting further investigation into alternative colistin resistance mechanisms. This is the first report of a mcr-1-positive, colistin-resistant E. coli isolated from a human clinical sample in the North-East of Romania.
Structural Characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Encapsulin in Complex with Dye-Decolorizing Peroxide
Authors: Cuthbert Bonnie J. , Chen Xiaorui , Burley Kalistyn , Batot Gaëlle , Contreras Heidi , Dixon Shandee , Goulding Celia W.
Published: December 2024

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is the causative agent of tuberculosis, the world’s deadliest infectious disease. Mtb uses a variety of mechanisms to evade the human host’s defenses and survive intracellularly. Mtb’s oxidative stress response enables Mtb to survive within activated macrophages, an environment with reactive oxygen species and low pH. Dye-decolorizing peroxidase (DyP), an enzyme involved in Mtb’s oxidative stress response, is encapsulated in a nanocompartment, encapsulin (Enc), and is important for Mtb’s survival in macrophages. Encs are homologs of viral capsids and encapsulate cargo proteins of diverse function, including those involved in iron storage and stress responses. DyP contains a targeting peptide (TP) at its C-terminus that recognizes and binds to the interior of the Enc nanocompartment. Here, we present the crystal structure of the Mtb-Enc•DyP complex and compare it to cryogenic-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) Mtb-Enc structures. Investigation into the canonical pores formed at symmetrical interfaces reveals that the five-fold pore for the Mtb-Enc crystal structure is strikingly different from that observed in cryo-EM structures. We also observe DyP-TP electron density within the Mtb-Enc shell. Finally, investigation into crystallographic small-molecule binding sites gives insight into potential novel avenues by which substrates could enter Mtb-Enc to react with Mtb-DyP.
Pulsed Electric Field Pretreatment Enhances the Enzyme Hydrolysis of Baker’s Yeast
Authors: Veleva Ralitsa , Ganeva Valentina , Zhiponova Miroslava
Published: December 2024

Baker’s yeast is a key starting material for producing extracts with diverse compositions and applications. This study investigates the effect of pulsed electric field (PEF) pretreatment, which induces irreversible electropermeabilization, on the enzymatic hydrolysis of yeast. Cell suspensions were exposed to monopolar rectangular pulses in a continuous flow system followed by 4 h of incubation with Alcalase at concentrations of 0.2% and 0.5%. PEF pretreatment significantly improved enzymatic hydrolysis, with maximum intracellular content recovery under electrical conditions resulting in outlet temperatures of 56–58 °C. The released protein reached 163.7 ± 13 mg per gram of dry cell weight (DCW). SDS-PAGE analysis showed that the extracts predominantly contained peptides with molecular masses below 4.7 kDa. The phenolic content was comparable to that of cell lysates obtained after mechanical disruption. The free α-amino nitrogen content and total antioxidant activity reached 218.2 ± 26 mg/gDCW and 53.4 ± 4.6 mg TE/gDCW, respectively, representing 3.2-fold and 2.65-fold increases compared to cell lysates. The hydrolysates from PEF-pretreated cells demonstrated a positive effect on the proliferation of the human keratinocyte cell line HaCat. The obtained data lead to the conclusion that PEF pretreatment is a promising approach to enhance the production of yeast hydrolysates with various applications.
Effect of Spirulina on the Rumen Microbiota and Serum Biochemical Parameters of Lambs
Authors: Wang Zhijun , Liu Xiangdong , Zhao Muqier , Ma Weiqin , Wang Yuxuan , Jia Yushan , Ge Gentu
Published: December 2024

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is rich in a variety of fermentable fibers and prebiotics, which can promote the proliferation of beneficial flora in the intestinal tract of ruminants and optimize the balance of microorganisms in the rumen. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with Spirulina has a beneficial effect on the rumen microbial community and serum indices in lambs. For this purpose, 36 lambs with a mean weight of 21.68 kg (standard deviation 1.04 kg) and an age of approximately 5 months (standard deviation 4 days) were selected for the study. The same scale was used for age standard deviation, i.e., 4 days/30.5 days (1 month) = 0.13 months. All lambs were randomly assigned into two treatments, and received non-Spirulina diet as the control (CK treatment) and the Spirulina added diet (Spirulina was added at a rate of 3% of the fresh weight of the diet). The results indicated that the triacylglycerol (p < 0.0001), alanine transaminase (ALT) (p < 0.0001), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p < 0.0001), glucose (p < 0.0001), immunoglobulin G (p = 0.0066) and insulin (p = 0.0025) levels were markedly increased in the Spirulina treatment compared to those in the CK treatment. The principal coordinates analysis showed that the bacterial community did not cluster separately between the CK and Spirulina treatments. Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria were the dominant members of the community in two treatments. Prevotella were the primary genera, followed by the Lachnospiraceae_NK3A20_group, Olsenella, Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-001 and Ruminococcus, and a significant (p < 0.05) difference was found in Olsenella between the two treatments. These results suggest that the addition of Spirulina is more beneficial for serum biochemical parameters and rumen microbiota of lambs. Overall, these findings contribute to the development of strategies to improve rumen microbial communities for healthy ecosystems on the Mongolian Plateau and provide a scientific basis for the use of Spirulina in feed.
Genomic Characterization of Bacillus sp. THPS1: A Hot Spring-Derived Species with Functional Features and Biotechnological Potential
Authors: Mwamburi Samuel Mwakisha , Islam Sk Injamamul , Dinh-Hung Nguyen , Dangsawat Orathai , Sowanpreecha Rapeewan , Khang Luu Tang Phuc , Montha Napatsorn , Therdtatha Phatthanaphong , Dwinanti Sefti Heza , Permpoonpattana Patima , Linh Nguyen Vu
Published: December 2024

Bacillus sp. THPS1 is a novel strain isolated from a high-temperature hot spring in Thailand, exhibiting distinctive genomic features that enable adaptation to an extreme environment. This study aimed to characterize the genomic and functional attributes of Bacillus sp. THPS1 to understand its adaptation strategies and evaluate its potential for biotechnological applications. The draft genome is 5.38 Mbp with a GC content of 35.67%, encoding 5606 genes, including those linked to stress response and sporulation, which are essential for survival in high-temperature conditions. Phylogenetic analysis and average nucleotide identity (ANI) values confirmed its classification as a distinct species within the Bacillus genus. Pangenome analysis involving 19 others closely related thermophilic Bacillus species identified 1888 singleton genes associated with heat resistance, sporulation, and specialized metabolism, suggesting adaptation to nutrient-deficient, high-temperature environments. Genomic analysis revealed 12 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), including those for polyketides and non-ribosomal peptides, highlighting its potential for synthesizing secondary metabolites that may facilitate its adaptation. Additionally, the presence of three Siphoviridae phage regions and 96 mobile genetic elements (MGEs) suggests significant genomic plasticity, whereas the existence of five CRISPR arrays implies an advanced defense mechanism against phage infections, contributing to genomic stability. The distinctive genomic features and functional capacities of Bacillus sp. THPS1 make it a promising candidate for biotechnological applications, particularly in the production of heat-stable enzymes and the development of resilient bioformulations.
Persistence of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in Patients with Bacteremia: Incidence, Clinical and Microbiologic Characters, and Outcomes
Authors: Kim Sarah , Ji Sehyeon , Cho David , Lee Ahrang , Jeong Hae Seong , Kim Minji , Kim Seong Eun , Park Kyung-Hwa , Jung Sook In , Kim Uh Jin , Shin Sung Un , Kang Seung Ji
Published: December 2024

The risk factors and outcomes associated with persistent Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacteremia are not well-defined. This retrospective cohort study analyzed 214 cases of S. maltophilia bacteremia diagnosed between 2005 and 2022 at two university hospitals, focusing on the clinical and microbiologic characteristics and outcomes of persistent bacteremia. Persistent S. maltophilia bacteremia, defined as the detection of S. maltophilia for ≥5 days after the initial blood culture, occurred in 25.7% of cases and was significantly associated with mechanical ventilation, polymicrobial infections, and increased 30-day mortality. The early administration of appropriate antibiotics reduced the likelihood of persistence. Isolates from persistent cases demonstrated increased biofilm formation. Molecular typing revealed no specific genotype linked to bacteremia persistence. Resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole significantly increased over the study period. Our study offers new insights into the under-explored issue of persistent S. maltophilia bacteremia, a condition that constitutes a notable proportion of bloodstream infections and carries high mortality.
The Killer Saccharomyces cerevisiae Toxin: From Origin to Biomedical Research
Authors: Molina-Vera Carlos , Morales-Tlalpan Verónica , Chavez-Vega Amairani , Uribe-López Jennifer , Trujillo-Barrientos Jessica , Campos-Guillén Juan , Chávez-Servín Jorge Luis , García-Gasca Teresa , Saldaña Carlos
Published: December 2024

The killer systems of S. cerevisiae are defined by the co-infection of two viral agents, an M virus and a helper virus. Each killer toxin is determined by the type of M virus (ScV-M1, ScV-M2, ScV-M28, and ScV-Mlus), which encodes a specific toxin (K1, K2, K28, and Klus). Since their discovery, interest in their potential use as antimicrobial agents has driven research into the mechanisms of action of these toxins on susceptible cells. This review provides an overview of the key aspects of killer toxins, including their origin and the evolutionary implications surrounding the viruses involved in the killer system, as well as their potential applications in the biomedical field and as a biological control strategy. Special attention is given to the mechanisms of action described to date for the various S. cerevisiae killer toxins.
Petrogenesis of Diorite-Porphyrite in the Southern Xintai Area of the Mid-Western Shandong Peninsula, North China Craton: Insights from Geochronology, Mineralogy, Geochemistry, and Sr-Nd-Hf Isotopes
Authors: Jin Lijie , Wang Jilin , Qin Pinrui , Li Chunjia , Xu Shuang , Han Zhixin , Wang Wei , Liu Wei , Wang Zisheng , Gao Jilei , Li Fangfang
Published: December 2024

The Early Cretaceous intermediate intrusive rocks have important significance in understanding the crust–mantle interaction, iron mineralization, and tectonic evolution in the western Shandong Peninsula. In this study, we present new zircon U–Pb ages, and Hf isotope, whole-rock geochemistry, Sr–Nd isotopes, and the mineral chemistry of the diorite-porphyrite in the southern Xintai area, mid-western Shandong Peninsula. The diorite-porphyrite formed at ca. 125 Ma. They have intermediate SiO2 (59.57–62.29 wt.%) and MgO (2.78–3.58 wt.%) contents, high Mg# values (53–56), high Sr (589–939 ppm) and low Y (9.2–10.8 ppm) contents, and high Sr/Y ratios (54–94), showing adakitic affinity. The diorite-porphyrite exhibits lower zircon εHf(t) values (−30.1 to 7.5) and whole-rock εNd(t) values (−3.5 to −6.0), with (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios of 0.70514–0.70567. We suggest that the diorite-porphyrite was derived from the partial melting of the local delamination of lower continental crust and then by the interaction with the enriched lithospheric mantle. The genesis of diorite-porphyrite may be related to the rollback process of the Paleo-Pacific slab in the Early Cretaceous. This geodynamic process induced the melting of the enriched lithospheric mantle, subducted oceanic crust, and local delamination of lower continental crust, which produced different types of adakitic magmatism in the western Shandong Peninsula.
Temperature Controls Initial REE Enrichment in Peraluminous Granites: Implication from the Parent Granites in the Shangyou Ion-Adsorption Type REE Deposit
Authors: Zou Jiaohua , Xu Chongwen , Yan Qinghe , Zhu Jiang
Published: December 2024

The initial enrichment of rare earth elements (REE) in granites plays an important role for the generation of ion-adsorption type REE deposits. It has been summarized that the mineralization-related granitoids are mostly peraluminous, but the enrichment mechanism of REE in this peraluminous granite is currently not well understood. In this study, we conducted geochronology, petrological, and geochemical investigations on the biotite granite and muscovite granite from the Shangyou complex in Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province. Zircon U-Pb dating indicates that both the biotite granite and muscovite granite generated in the Early Silurian (ca. 433–434 Ma). The high aluminum saturation index and occurrence of muscovite and old zircon cores indicate that they belong to the S-type granite and are derived from the melting of metagreywacke. The relatively higher FeOT contents, Mg# values, and zirconium saturation temperatures (760–873 °C) for the biotite granite resulted from hydrous melting with the involvement of mantle material. In contrast, the muscovite granite with low FeOT contents, Mg# values, Nb/Ta ratios, and zirconium saturation temperatures (748–761 °C) indicates a purely crust-derived melt formed by muscovite dehydration melting. There is a positive correlation of REE contents with the formation temperature and Th contents in both the Shangyou granites and the data collected from global peraluminous granites. This indicates that temperature plays a key role in the REE enrichment in peraluminous granites, as the high-temperature condition could promote the melting of REE-rich and Th-rich accessory minerals of allanite and REE-phosphate and result in the increases in both REE contents and Th contents in the melts. Given the fact that the parent granites for ion-adsorbing REE deposits are mostly peraluminous and generated in the extensional setting in South China, we concluded that peraluminous granite formed under high-temperature extensional tectonic settings favors initial REE enrichment, which further contributes to the formation of ion-adsorbing REE deposits in South China.
Study on the Preparation of High-Quality Quartz and Its Mechanism by Combining Pretreatment with Metallurgy
Authors: Huang Hongjun , Zhang Ning
Published: December 2024

As a strategically important resource with stable properties, high-purity quartz plays a crucial role in various fields such as high-purity quartz crucibles, semiconductors, and electronics. Currently, the availability of high-quality quartz resources is gradually diminishing, and there are no high-quality quartz deposits in some areas, making the improvement of low-quality quartz essential. This study focuses on the quartz sand produced through river dredging in Yueyang. The detected SiO2 content is 92.31%, which enables the secondary utilization of waste resources and provides significant environmental benefits. In this study, the iron oxide removal efficiency achieved through magnetic separation pretreatment can reach 87.24%. Following flotation, calcination, and leaching processes, high-purity quartz products with a total impurity content of less than 100 ppm were successfully obtained. In addition, the factors affecting magnetic separation and calcination effect were studied, and the process parameters for reference were obtained. The mechanism of microwave impurity removal was investigated using SEM, TG-MS, and in-situ XRD, demonstrating the feasibility of producing high-purity quartz from low-quality quartz.
Enhancing Methylene Blue Adsorption Performance of Ti3C2Tx@Sodium Alginate Foam Through Pore Structure Regulation
Authors: Hu Yi , Wang Hongwei , Ren Xianliang , Wu Fang , Liu Gaobin , Zhang Shufang , Luo Haijun , Fang Liang
Published: December 2024

Pore structural regulation is expected to be a facile way to enhance the adsorption performance of MXene. In this work, spherical foam composites consisting of Ti3C2Tx and sodium alginate (SA) were synthesized via a vacuum freeze-drying technique. By varying the solution volume of Ti3C2Tx, four distinct Ti3C2Tx@SA spherical foams with honeycomb-like and lamellar structures with a pore diameter in the range of 100–300 μm were fabricated. Their methylene blue (MB) adsorption performances were then systematically compared. The results revealed that the honeycomb-like porous-structured spherical foams have a significantly higher adsorption capacity than their lamellar counterparts. Notably, the Ti3C2Tx@SA honeycomb-like porous foam exhibited a remarkable maximum adsorption capacity (qm) of 969 mg/g, positioning it at the forefront of MB adsorbent materials. Respective analysis of the adsorption kinetics, thermodynamics, and isotherm model indicated that this MB adsorption of Ti3C2Tx@SA honeycomb-like porous foam is characterized to be a physical, endothermic, and monolayer adsorption. The Ti3C2Tx@SA honeycomb-like porous foam also demonstrated excellent resistance to ion interference and good reusability, further attesting to its substantial potential for practical applications. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis was employed to elucidate the adsorption mechanism, which was found to involve the synergistic effect of electrostatic adsorption and amidation reaction. This work not only offers new avenues for the development of high-performance adsorption materials but also provides crucial insights into the structural design and performance optimization of porous materials.
Antibacterial and Photocatalytic Activities of Leonotis ocymifolia (L. ocymifolia)-Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles Annealed at Different Temperatures
Authors: Mutukwa Dorcas , Taziwa Raymond Tichaona , Tichapondwa Shepherd Masimba , Khotseng Lindiwe
Published: December 2024

This research achieved the successful synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs through an eco-friendly method, utilizing the leaf extract of Leonotis ocymifolia (L.O.). This innovative approach not only highlights the potential of green synthesis but also underscores the effectiveness of natural resources in nanoparticle production. The influence of annealing temperature on the properties and performance of the synthesized ZnO NPs was evaluated by varying the annealing temperatures as follows: unannealed (000), 350 °C (350), 550 °C (550), and 750 °C (750). The XRD analysis of L.O-mediated ZnO NPs confirmed the synthesis of highly crystalline wurtzite-structured ZnO NPs, with calculated average crystallite sizes that ranged between 13.8 and 20.4 nm. The UV–Vis spectra revealed a single strong absorption peak ranging from 354 to 375 nm, and the absorption peaks red-shifted with an increase in annealing temperature. The SEM micrographs showed that annealing temperature had an effect on the morphology, particle size, and distribution, with the average particle of 53.7–66.3 nm. The BET analysis revealed that the surface area of the prepared ZnO NPs was between 31.6 and 13.2 m2/g. In addition to its significant impact on the characteristics of the L.O-mediated, annealing temperature notably boosts the L.O-mediated capacity to photodegrade Methylene blue (MB) dye. Moreover, it exhibited significant antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The photodegradation studies under UV irradiation and in 180 min revealed 750 (71.1%) had the highest degradation efficiency compared to 000, 350, and 550. The antibacterial tests showed that 000 had greater antibacterial efficacy than 350, 550, and 750. The results from this work suggest that annealing temperature had a significant effect on the structural, morphological, and optical properties and performance of L.O-mediated ZnO NPs.
Influence of Copper Valence in CuOx/TiO2 Catalysts on the Selectivity of Carbon Dioxide Photocatalytic Reduction Products
Authors: Ni Sha , Wu Wenjing , Yang Zichao , Zhang Min , Yang Jianjun
Published: December 2024

The Cu cocatalyst supported on the surface of TiO2 photocatalysts has demonstrated unique activity and selectivity in photocatalytic CO2 reduction. The valence state of copper significantly influences the catalytic process; however, due to the inherent instability of copper’s valence states, the precise role of different valence states in CO2 reduction remains inadequately understood. In this study, CuOx/TiO2 catalysts were synthesized using an in situ growth reduction method, and we investigated the impact of various valence copper species on CO2 photocatalytic reduction. Our results indicate that Cu+ and Cu0 serve as primary active sites, with the selectivity for CH4 and CO products during CO2 photoreduction being closely related to their respective ratios on the catalyst surface. The adsorption and activation mechanisms of CO on both Cu+ and Cu0 surfaces are identified as critical factors determining product selectivity in photocatalytic processes. Furthermore, it is confirmed that Cu+ primarily facilitates CH4 production while Cu0 is responsible for generating CO. This study provides valuable insights into developing highly selective photocatalysts.
Low-Temperature Hydrotreatment of C4/C5 Fractions Using a Dual-Metal-Loaded Composite Oxide Catalyst
Authors: Du Zhou , Li Renyi , Shen Zhenghui , Hai Xiao , Zou Ruqiang
Published: December 2024

C4 and C5 fractions are significant by-products in the ethylene industry, with considerable research and economic potential when processed through hydrogenation technology to enhance their value. This study explored the development of hydrotreating catalysts using composite oxides as carriers, specifically enhancing low-temperature performance by incorporating electronic promoters and employing specialized surface modification techniques. This approach enabled the synthesis of non-noble metal hydrogenation catalysts supported on Al2O3–TiO2 composite oxides. The catalysts were characterized using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction, N2 adsorption-desorption, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ammonia temperature-programmed desorption, infrared spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Mo–Ni/Al2O3–TiO2 catalysts were optimized for low-temperature hydrotreating of C4 and C5 fractions, demonstrating stable performance at inlet temperatures far below those typically required. This finding enables a shift from traditional gas-phase to gas–liquid two-phase reactions, eliminating the need for high-pressure steam in industrial settings. As a result, energy consumption is reduced, and operational stability is significantly improved.
Nutritional Management in Stricturing Crohn’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cavalcanti Elisabetta , Marra Antonella , Mileti Alessia , Donghia Rossella , Curlo Margherita , Mastronardi Mauro
Published: December 2024

Background: More than half of patients with Crohn’s disease develop intestinal fibrosis induced intestinal obstruction with debilitating symptoms throughout their disease course. The incidence of stricture formation in CD has remained unchanged over the last several decades. Factors promoting intestinal fibrosis are currently unclear, but diet may represent an underestimated risk factor for intestinal fibrosis by modification of both the host immune response and intestinal microbial composition. Evaluating the impact of diet on the course of IBD is very complex. Sarcopenia is a common problem in IBD patients and correlates with an increased rate of disease. Skeletal muscle index (SMI) is an important parameter to measure sarcopenia and is an easily accessible tool for evaluating the likelihood of complications in individuals with CD. Methods: Using a randomized and controlled pilot design, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of 12 months of short-term dietary intervention based on essential amino acid (EAA) and sodium butyrate (NaB) supplementation in the management of stricturing Crohn’s disease patients. Results: After the treatment in the diet EAA/NaB group, we revealed a statistically significant improvement of muscle mass (61.49 ± 5.47 vs. control 86 ± 10.70, p = 0.01) and SMI index (9.97 ± 1.79 vs. control 7.60 ± 2.29, p = 0.02). In addition, the measurement of skeletal muscle mass in CD patients has been suggested to be crucial for predicting the disease course. Indeed, after one year, surgery was required in 4/10 control group patients (40%) and 1/10 study group (10%) patients, underlining the importance of body composition alterations and adequate dietary intake in the management of these patients. Conclusions: Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these results; nonetheless this nutritional approach could become an integral part in the treatment of stricturing CD patients to improve disease outcomes and increase the quality of life in these patients.
Spanlastic Nano-Vesicles: A Novel Approach to Improve the Dissolution, Bioavailability, and Pharmacokinetic Behavior of Famotidine
Authors: Almohamady Hend I. , Mortagi Yasmin , Gad Shadeed , Zaitone Sawsan , Alshaman Reem , Alattar Abdullah , Alanazi Fawaz E. , Hanna Pierre A.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Drugs exhibiting poor aqueous solubility present a challenge to efficient delivery to the site of action. Spanlastics (a nano, surfactant-based drug delivery system) have emerged as a powerful tool to improve solubility, bioavailability, and delivery to the site of action. This study aimed to better understand factors affecting the physicochemical properties of spanlastics, quantify their effects, and use them to enhance the bioavailability of famotidine (FMT), a model histamine H2 receptor antagonist (BCS class IV). Methods: FMT was incorporated into nano-spanlastics drug delivery system. The ethanol injection method, Box–Behnken design, and mathematical modeling were utilized to fabricate famotidine-loaded nano-spanlastics and optimize the formula. Spanlastics were characterized for their particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, drug loading, compatibility of the excipients (using DSC), in vitro drug release, and in vivo pharmacokinetics. Results: Span 60 (the non-ionic surfactant) and tween 60 (the edge activator) gave rise to spanlastics with the best characteristics. The optimal spanlastic formulation exhibited small particle size (<200 nm), appropriate polydispersity index (<0.4), and zeta potential (>−30 mV). The entrapment efficiency and drug loading of the optimum formula assured its suitability for hydrophobic drug entrapment as well as practicability for use. DSC assured the compatibility of all formulation components. The drug release manifested a biphasic release pattern, resulting in a fast onset and sustained effect. Spanlastics also showed enhanced Cmax, AUC0–24, and bioavailability. Conclusions: Spanlastics manifested improved FMT dissolution, drug release characteristics, membrane permeation, and pharmacokinetic behavior.
Suppression of NNK Metabolism by Anthocyanin-Rich Haskap Berry Supplementation Through Modulation of P450 Enzymes
Authors: Amararathna Madumani , Hoskin David W. , Goralski Kerry B. , Rupasinghe H. P. Vasantha
Published: December 2024

Oral supplementation of anthocyanins-rich haskap (Lonicera caerulea) berry (HB) reduces 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK)-induced lung tumorigenesis, cytotoxicity, DNA damage, and modulated inflammation in vitro and in vivo. The procarcinogen NNK is metabolically activated by cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes, producing reactive metabolites that induce lung carcinogenesis. Hypothesis: Therefore, we hypothesized that the HB-modulated protective effect against NNK could be due to its ability to suppress P450 enzymes. Methods: HB (6 mg of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside [C3G] in 0.2 g of HB/mouse/day) was given to A/J mice as a dietary supplement following subsequent administration of NNK (100 mg/kg body weight). The liver tissues of mice were analyzed to determine the expression of P450s and metabolites. Results: HB upregulated the expression of cyp2a4 and cyp2a5 mRNA and nuclear receptor/transcription factor (PPARα) in NNK-deprived hepatic tissues. With NNK, HB downregulated the expression of cyp2a4 and cyp2a5 and facilitated the formation of non-carcinogenic NNK metabolites. Molecular docking indicated a high binding affinity and strong hydrophobic interactions between C3G and its major metabolites, peonidin-3-O-glucoside, petunidin-3-O-glucoside, peonidin and cyanidin with Cyp2a5 and with human P450 homologue CYP2A13. Conclusions: HB could be a potential dietary supplement to inhibit the P450 activated NNK carcinogenic metabolites formation. Hence, inhibiting the activation of NNK by lung CYP2A13 through dietary HB supplementation could be a strategy to reduce lung carcinogenesis among smokers. Understanding the effect of HB on the activity of CYP2A13 in human studies is necessary before recommending these natural compounds as therapeutics.
Isolation and Characterization of Lytic Bacteriophages Capable of Infecting Diverse Multidrug-Resistant Strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: PaCCP1 and PaCCP2
Authors: Parra Boris , Sandoval Maximiliano , Arriagada Vicente , Amsteins Luis , Aguayo Cristobal , Opazo-Capurro Andrés , Dechesne Arnaud , González-Rocha Gerardo
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat, which is exacerbated by the lack of new antibiotics and the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) superbugs. Comprehensive efforts and alternative strategies to combat AMR are urgently needed to prevent social, medical, and economic consequences. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a pathogen responsible for a wide range of infections, from soft tissue infections to life-threatening conditions such as bacteremia and pneumonia. Bacteriophages have been considered as a potential therapeutic option to treat bacterial infections. Our aim was to isolate phages able to infect MDR P. aeruginosa strains. Methods: We isolated two lytic phages, using the conventional double layer agar technique (DLA), from samples obtained from the influent of a wastewater treatment plant in Concepción, Chile. The phages, designated as PaCCP1 and PaCCP2, were observed by electron microscopy and their host range was determined against multiple P. aeruginosa strains using DLA. Moreover, their genomes were sequenced and analyzed. Results: Phage PaCCP1 is a member of the Septimatrevirus genus and phage PaCCP2 is a member of the Pbunavirus genus. Both phages are tailed and contain dsDNA. The genome of PaCCP1 is 43,176 bp in length with a GC content of 54.4%, encoding 59 ORFs, one of them being a tRNA gene. The genome of PaCCP2 is 66,333 bp in length with a GC content of 55.6%, encoding 102 non-tRNA ORFs. PaCCP1 is capable of infecting five strains of P. aeruginosa, whereas phage PaCCP2 is capable of infecting three strains of P. aeruginosa. Both phages do not contain bacterial virulence or AMR genes and contain three and six putative Anti-CRISPR proteins. Conclusions: Phages PaCCP1 and PaCCP2 show promise as effective treatments for MDR P. aeruginosa strains, offering a potential strategy for controlling this clinically important pathogen through phage therapy.