bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zoonotic Malaria Risk in Serra Do Mar, Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: Rangel Marina E. O. , Duarte Ana Maria R. C. , Oliveira Tatiane M. P. , Mucci Luis F. , Loss Ana Carolina , Loaiza Jose R. , Laporta Gabriel Z. , Sallum Maria Anice M.
Published: October 2023

Here, the main goal is to assess natural infections of Plasmodium spp. in anophelines in a forest reserve from the same region where we previously found a surprisingly high rate (5.2%) of plasmodia infections (n = 25) in Kerteszia mosquitoes (N = 480) on the slopes of Serra do Mar, Atlantic Forest, Brazil. The mosquito collection sampling was carried out at the Legado das Águas Forest Reserve using CDC light traps and Shannon traps at night (5–10 pm) in 3-day collections in November 2021 and March, April, May, and November 2022. The captured specimens were morphologically identified at the species level and had their genomic DNA extracted in pools of up to 10 mosquitoes/pool. Each pool was tested using 18S qPCR and cytb nested PCR plus sequencing. A total of 5301 mosquitoes, mostly belonging to the genus Kerteszia (99.7%), were sampled and sorted into 773 pools. Eight pools positive for Plasmodium spp. were identified: four for Plasmodium spp., one for P. vivax or P. simium, one for P. malariae or P. brasilianum, and two for the P. falciparum-like parasite. After Sanger sequencing, two results were further confirmed: P. vivax or P. simium and P. malariae or P. brasilianum. The minimum infection rate for Kerteszia mosquitoes was 0.15% (eight positive pools/5285 Kerteszia mosquitoes). The study reveals a lower-than-expected natural infection rate (expected = 5.2% vs. observed = 0.15%). This low rate relates to the absence of Alouatta monkeys as the main simian malaria reservoir in the studied region. Their absence was due to a significant population decline following the reemergence of yellow fever virus outbreaks in the Atlantic Forest from 2016 to 2019. However, this also indicates the existence of alternative reservoirs to infect Kerteszia mosquitoes. The found zoonotic species of Plasmodium, including the P. falciparum-like parasite, may represent a simian malaria risk and thus a challenge for malaria elimination in Brazil.
Ticks and Chlamydia-Related Bacteria in Swiss Zoological Gardens Compared to in Contiguous and Distant Control Areas
Authors: Vanat Vincent , Aeby Sébastien , Greub Gilbert
Published: October 2023

Ticks are vectors of numerous agents of medical importance and may be infected by various Chlamydia-related bacteria, such as members of Parachlamydiaceae and Rhabdochlamydiaceae families, which are sharing the same biphasic life cycle with the pathogenic Chlamydia. However, the veterinary importance of ticks and of their internalized pathogens remains poorly studied. Thus, we wondered (i) whether the prevalence of ticks was higher in zoological gardens than in control areas with similar altitude, vegetation, humidity and temperature, and (ii) whether the presence of Chlamydia-related bacteria in ticks may vary according to the environment in which the ticks are collected. A total of 212 Ixodes ricinus ticks were collected, and all were tested for the presence of DNA from any member of the Chlamydiae phylum using a pan-Chlamydiae quantitative PCR (qPCR). We observed a higher prevalence of ticks outside animal enclosures in both zoos, compared to in enclosures. Tick prevalence was also higher outside zoos, compared to in enclosures. With 30% (3/10) of infected ticks, the zoological gardens presented a prevalence of infected ticks that was higher than that in contiguous areas (13.15%, 10/76), and higher than the control distant areas (8.65%, 9/104). In conclusion, zoological gardens in Switzerland appear to contain fewer ticks than areas outside zoological gardens. However, ticks from zoos more often contain Chlamydia-like organisms than ticks from contiguous or distant control areas.
Telacebec Interferes with Virulence Lipid Biosynthesis Protein Expression and Sensitizes to Other Antibiotics
Authors: Zhou Zhiyu , Wattiez Ruddy , Constant Patricia , Marrakchi Hedia , Soetaert Karine , Mathys Vanessa , Fontaine Véronique , Zeng Sheng
Published: October 2023

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), remains a public health issue, particularly due to multi-drug-resistant Mtb. The bacillus is wrapped in a waxy envelope containing lipids acting as essential virulence factors, accounting for the natural antibiotic resistance of mycobacteria. Telacebec (previously known as Q203) is a promising new anti-TB agent inhibiting the cytochrome bc1 complex of a mycobacterial electron transport chain (ETC). Here, we show that the telacebec-challenged M. bovis BCG exhibited a reduced expression of proteins involved in the synthesis of phthiocerol dimycocerosates (PDIMs)/phenolic glycolipids (PGLs), lipid virulence factors associated with cell envelope impermeability. Consistently, telacebec, at concentrations lower than its MIC, downregulated the transcription of a PDIM/PGL-synthesizing operon, suggesting a metabolic vulnerability triggered by the drug. The drug was able to synergize on BCG with rifampicin or vancomycin, the latter being a drug exerting a marginal effect on PDIM-bearing bacilli. Telacebec at a concentration higher than its MIC had no detectable effect on cell wall PDIMs, as shown by TLC analysis, a finding potentially explained by the retaining of previously synthesized PDIMs due to the inhibition of growth. The study extends the potential of telacebec, demonstrating an effect on mycobacterial virulence lipids, allowing for the development of new anti-TB strategies.
Relationship between Bacterial Vaginosis and Sexually Transmitted Infections: Coincidence, Consequence or Co-Transmission?
Authors: Abou Chacra Linda , Ly Claudia , Hammoud Alissa , Iwaza Rim , Mediannikov Oleg , Bretelle Florence , Fenollar Florence
Published: October 2023

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious global problem, causing disease, suffering, and death. Although bacterial vaginosis (BV) is not considered to be an STI, it may be associated with an increased risk of contracting a wide range of STIs. We sought to assess the link between the different microorganisms involved in STIs and BV. A total of 290 vaginal swabs from 290 women sent for diagnostic purposes to the clinical microbiology laboratory of the Marseille University Public Hospitals were tested by specific qPCR targeting STI-causing microorganisms and BV. Of these 290 swabs, 15.2% (44/290) were diagnosed with at least one STI-causing microorganism and 17.2% (50/290) with BV. The prevalence of STIs was significantly higher in women with BV (28%, 14/50) than in those without (20.4%, 51/240). The prevalence of co-infections involving two STI-causing microorganisms was significantly more frequent in women with BV than in those without (18% [8/50] vs. 2% [5/250]; p < 0.001). The prevalence of monoinfections and polyinfections with STI-causing microorganisms was lower in women without BV than in those with (8.8% [21/240] vs. 28% [14/50]), p < 0.001 and 2% (5/240) vs. 8% (4/50), p = 0.05, respectively). Our data suggest that a correlation between BV and STI may exist, with a higher prevalence of both monoinfections and polyinfections involving STI-causing microorganisms in women with BV. Further research is needed to better understand BV and its links to STIs.
Different Responses of Soil Bacterial and Fungal Communities in Three Typical Vegetations following Nitrogen Deposition in an Arid Desert
Authors: Zhang Zhihao , Tang Gangliang , Chai Xutian , Liu Bo , Gao Xiaopeng , Zeng Fanjiang , Wang Yun , Zhang Bo
Published: October 2023

The effects of increased nitrogen (N) deposition on desert ecosystems have been extensively studied from a plant community perspective. However, the response of soil microbial communities, which play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, to N inputs and plant community types remains poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a two-year N-addition experiment with five gradients (0, 10, 30, 60, and 120 kg N ha−1 year−1) to evaluate the effect of increased N deposition on soil bacterial and fungal communities in three plant community types, namely, Alhagi sparsifolia Shap., Karelinia caspia (Pall.) Less. monocultures and their mixed community in a desert steppe located on the southern edge of the Taklimakan Desert, Northwest China. Our results indicate that N deposition and plant community types exerted an independent and significant influence on the soil microbial community. Bacterial α-diversity and community dissimilarity showed a unimodal pattern with peaks at 30 and 60 kg N ha−1 year−1, respectively. By contrast, fungal α-diversity and community dissimilarity did not vary significantly with increased N inputs. Furthermore, plant community type significantly altered microbial community dissimilarity. The Mantel test and redundancy analysis indicated that soil pH and total and inorganic N (NH4+ and NO3−) levels were the most critical factors regulating soil microbial communities. Similar to the patterns observed in taxonomic composition, fungi exhibit stronger resistance to N addition compared to bacteria in terms of their functionality. Overall, our findings suggest that the response of soil microbial communities to N deposition is domain-specific and independent of desert plant community diversity, and the bacterial community has a critical threshold under N enrichment in arid deserts.
Yeast Peptides Improve the Intestinal Barrier Function and Alleviate Weaning Stress by Changing the Intestinal Microflora Structure of Weaned Lambs
Authors: Li Yanjun , Han Lulu , Liu Jie , Kang Lingyun , Zhao Ling , Cui Kai
Published: October 2023

Early weaning stress in lambs leads to decreased feed intake, damage to intestinal morphology, changes in the microbial flora structure, and subsequent complications. Yeast peptides are antimicrobial peptides with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and bacteriostasis effects. To study the effects of yeast peptides on relieving weaning stress in lambs, 54 lambs were randomly divided into three groups: ewe-reared (ER), yeast-peptide-treated (AP), and early-weaned (EW) lambs. The body weight and dry matter intake did not significantly differ among all groups. After weaning, the daily gain and feed conversion rate decreased significantly (p < 0.01), but AP showed an upward trend. In the EW group, immunoglobulin (Ig) levels changed significantly post-weaning (IgG decreased; IgA and IgM increased); the villi shortened, the crypt depth increased, and the villi height/crypt depth decreased (p < 0.001). The abundance and diversity of microflora among all groups were not significantly different. A column coordinate analysis showed significant differences in the intestinal microbial structure between the AP and EW groups. Lactobacillus, Aeriscardovia, Ruminosaceae_UCG-014, and Catenisphaera may play key roles in alleviating weaning stress in lambs. Our study provides new clues for alleviating weaning stress in lambs by describing the influence of yeast peptides on the intestinal microflora during weaning.
A Polyvalent Adhesin–Toxoid Multiepitope-Fusion-Antigen-Induced Functional Antibodies against Five Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Adhesins (CS7, CS12, CS14, CS17, and CS21) but Not Enterotoxins (LT and STa)
Authors: Li Siqi , Seo Hyesuk , Upadhyay Ipshita , Zhang Weiping
Published: October 2023

The increasing prevalence and association with moderate-to-severe diarrhea make enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) adhesins CS7, CS12, CS14, CS17, and CS21 potential targets of ETEC vaccines. Currently, there are no vaccines licensed to protect against ETEC, a top cause of children’s diarrhea and travelers’ diarrhea. Recently, a polyvalent adhesin protein (adhesin MEFA-II) was demonstrated to induce antibodies that inhibited adherence from these five ETEC adhesins and reduced the enterotoxicity of ETEC heat-stable toxin (STa), which plays a key role in causing ETEC-associated diarrhea. To improve adhesin MEFA-II for functional antibodies against STa toxin and the other ETEC toxin, heat-labile toxin (LT), we modified adhesin MEFA-II by adding another STa toxoid and an LT epitope; we examined the new antigen immunogenicity (to five adhesins and two toxins) and more importantly antibody functions against ETEC adherence and STa and LT enterotoxicity. Data show that mice intramuscularly immunized with the new antigen (adhesin MEFA-IIb) developed robust IgG responses to the targeted adhesins (CS7, CS12, CS14, CS17, and CS21) and toxins (STa and LT). Mouse antibodies inhibited the adherence of ETEC strains expressing any of these five adhesins but failed to neutralize STa or LT enterotoxicity. In further studies, rabbits intramuscularly immunized with adhesin MEFA-IIb developed robust antigen-specific antibodies; when challenged with an ETEC isolate expressing CS21 adhesin (JF2101, CS21, and STa), the immunized rabbits showed a significant reduction in intestinal colonization by ETEC bacteria. These data indicate that adhesin MEFA-IIb is broadly immunogenic and induces functional antibodies against the targeted ETEC adhesins but not the toxins.
Effects of Varying Levels of Wheat Bran Dietary Fiber on Growth Performance, Fiber Digestibility and Gut Microbiota in Erhualian and Large White Pigs
Authors: Du Taoran , Li Pinghua , Niu Qing , Pu Guang , Wang Binbin , Liu Gensheng , Li Pinghui , Niu Peipei , Zhang Zongping , Wu Chengwu , Hou Liming , Hedemann Mette Skou , Zhao Qingbo , Huang Ruihua
Published: October 2023

To evaluate the tolerance of a high-fiber diet in Erhualian pigs (Er-HL), the present investigation systematically investigated the ramifications of varying wheat bran fiber levels, specified as total dietary fiber (TDF) values of 14.07%, 16.32%, 17.99%, and 18.85%, on growth performance, fiber digestibility and gut microbiota in Er-HL, large Large White pigs (L-LW, the same physiological stage as the Er-HL) and small Large White pigs (S-LW, the same body weight as the Er-HL). Our results revealed that fiber levels exerted no discernable impact on growth performance (average daily feed intake (ADFI), and average daily gain (ADG)) of Er-HL (p > 0.05). Conversely, L-LW exhibited a decrease in ADFI and ADG with increasing fiber levels (p < 0.05). Notably, the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of various fiber components, including neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), hemicellulose, TDF and insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), in Er-HL were significantly higher than those in S-LW and L-LW irrespective of diets (p < 0.05). The ATTD of cellulose and hemicellulose in Er-HL significantly decreased with increasing fiber levels (p < 0.05), yet remained statistically indifferent when comparing the 7%-wheat-bran-replaced diet (7% WRB, TDF 16.32%) to the basal diet (TDF 14.07%) (p > 0.05). The cecal microbiota of Er-HL had higher richness estimators (Chao1 and ACE) than those of S-LW and L-LW irrespective of diets (p < 0.01). Breed serves as a pivotal determinant in shaping swine gut microbiota. Thirteen genera were selected as the key bacteria related to high fiber digestibility of Er-HL. Further functional examination of these key genera elucidated an enrichment of pathways pertinent to carbohydrate metabolism in Er-HL samples compared with S-LW and L-LW samples. In summary, Er-HL exhibited high-fiber tolerance both in terms of growth performance and fiber digestibility compared with Large White pigs. Specifically, the ATTD of NDF, ADF, hemicellulose, IDF and TDF were significantly higher in Er-HL compared with L-LW and S-LW, irrespective of diets. Fiber level exerted no discernable impact on growth performance (ADFI, ADG) and the ATTD of fiber (NDF, ADF, IDF and TDF) in Er-HL. The optimum fiber level of the Er-HL was identified as 7% WRB (TDF 16.32%). Thirteen genera were ascertained to significantly contribute to high fiber digestibility of Er-HL, correlating with an enhancement of carbohydrate metabolism pathways.
Revealing the Role of Coal Gangue-Biochar Composite for Removing SO42− from Water: Adsorption Mechanisms and Application Effects
Authors: Chen Xing , Tang Zhi , Li Guolian , Zhang Jiamei , Xie Fazhi , Zheng Liugen
Published: October 2023

Sulfate ions are commonly found in water, but excessive concentrations of these ions can have detrimental effects on the aquatic environment. In this study, reed straw was chosen as the raw material for producing biochar, which was then pyrolyzed with coal gangue to create environmentally friendly adsorption materials. This innovative approach aims to combat the issue of elevated SO42− concentrations in water while efficiently utilizing solid waste. The results showed that the adsorption process best fit the when the was pH 2 and the dosage was 8 g·L−1, and the adsorption capacity reached the maximum of 49.56 mg·g−1. Via extensive characterization, kinetic studies, and isotherm experiments on the modified biochar, we determined that the mechanism of SO42− adsorption primarily involves electrostatic adsorption, physical adsorption, and chemical adsorption. The toxicology experiments showed that the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the amount of malondialdehyde decreased, and the content of chlorophyll and soluble protein increased. These findings suggest that modified biochar can mitigate the harmful effects of SO42− on reeds to a certain extent, ultimately promoting the growth of these plants.
In Situ Hybridization (RNAscope) Detection of Bluetongue Virus Serotypes 10 and 17 in Experimentally Co-Infected Culicoides sonorensis
Authors: Carpenter Molly , Benavides Obon AnaMario , Kopanke Jennifer , Lee Justin , Reed Kirsten , Sherman Tyler , Rodgers Case , Stenglein Mark , McDermott Emily , Mayo Christie
Published: October 2023

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is a segmented, double-stranded RNA virus transmitted by Culicoides biting midges. Infection of domestic and wild ruminants with BTV can result in a devastating disease and significant economic losses. As a virus with a segmented genome, reassortment among the BTV serotypes that have co-infected a host may increase genetic diversity, which can alter BTV transmission dynamics and generate epizootic events. The objective of this study was to determine the extent of dissemination and characterize the tropism of BTV serotypes 10 and 17 in co-infected Culicoides sonorensis. Midges were exposed to both BTV serotypes via blood meal and processed for histologic slides 10 days after infection. An in situ hybridization approach was employed using the RNAscope platform to detect the nucleic acid segment 2 of both serotypes. Observations of the mosaic patterns in which serotypes did not often overlap suggest that co-infection at the cellular level may not be abundant with these two serotypes in C. sonorensis. This could be a consequence of superinfection exclusion. Understanding BTV co-infection and its biological consequences will add an important dimension to the modeling of viral evolution and emergence.
Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Infection among Hemodialysis Patients from Southern Bulgaria
Authors: Kevorkyan Ani , Golkocheva-Markova Elitsa , Raycheva Ralitsa , Rangelova Vanya , Komitova Radka , Atanasova Mariya , Tzekov Valeri , Kostadinova Tanya , Chardakova Tsvetelina
Published: October 2023

Viral hepatitis B and C are widely recognized problems in hemodialysis (HD) patients. There have been increasing reports of the importance of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) in recent years, but the worldwide data on the seroprevalence of HEV among them are conflicting. The aim of the present study was to assess the seroprevalence of HEV in HD patients and to analyze the predictors of seropositivity. This study was conducted in 2020 in the central part of southern Bulgaria. A total of 225 patients were enrolled. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the determination of anti-HEV IgM/IgG was used. All patients were tested for the presence of HEV RNA. Anti-HEV IgM alone and anti-HEV IgG alone were found in 6 (2.7%) and 14 (6.2%) patients, respectively, and in 4 (1.8%) patients, they were found simultaneously. All patients were HEV RNA-negative. The overall HEV seroprevalence was 10.7% (24/225). The binominal logistic regression analysis of available predictors confirmed the role of vascular access and a duration of dialysis treatment over 5 years as predictors significantly associated with increased risk for HEV, and the consumption of bottled water with lower levels of HEV IgG seroprevalence among hemodialysis patients. The accumulated data are the basis for comparative analysis in subsequent trials in the same dialysis centers and for enhancing the range of screening markers used in this particular patient group.
Risks of Brucella spp. Infection in Dogs
Authors: Ebani Valentina Virginia
Published: October 2023

Dogs are known to be susceptible to different Brucella species, even though canine brucellosis is usually associated with B [...]
The Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of P13#1, a Cathelicidin-like Achiral Peptoid
Authors: Cafaro Valeria , Bosso Andrea , Di Nardo Ilaria , D’Amato Assunta , Izzo Irene , De Riccardis Francesco , Siepi Marialuisa , Culurciello Rosanna , D’Urzo Nunzia , Chiarot Emiliano , Torre Antonina , Pizzo Elio , Merola Marcello , Notomista Eugenio
Published: October 2023

Cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) are powerful molecules with antimicrobial, antibiofilm and endotoxin-scavenging activities. These properties make CAMPs very attractive drugs in the face of the rapid increase in multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, but they are limited by their susceptibility to proteolytic degradation. An intriguing solution to this issue could be the development of functional mimics of CAMPs with structures that enable the evasion of proteases. Peptoids (N-substituted glycine oligomers) are an important class of peptidomimetics with interesting benefits: easy synthetic access, intrinsic proteolytic stability and promising bioactivities. Here, we report the characterization of P13#1, a 13-residue peptoid specifically designed to mimic cathelicidins, the best-known and most widespread family of CAMPs. P13#1 showed all the biological activities typically associated with cathelicidins: bactericidal activity over a wide spectrum of strains, including several ESKAPE pathogens; the ability to act in combination with different classes of conventional antibiotics; antibiofilm activity against preformed biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, comparable to that of human cathelicidin LL-37; limited toxicity; and an ability to inhibit LPS-induced proinflammatory effects which is comparable to that of “the last resource” antibiotic colistin. We further studied the interaction of P13#1 with SDS, LPSs and bacterial cells by using a fluorescent version of P13#1. Finally, in a subcutaneous infection mouse model, it showed antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities comparable to ampicillin and gentamicin without apparent toxicity. The collected data indicate that P13#1 is an excellent candidate for the formulation of new antimicrobial therapies.
The Synthetic Peptide GA-Hecate and Its Analogs Inhibit Multiple Steps of the Chikungunya Virus Infection Cycle In Vitro
Authors: Ayusso Gabriela Miranda , da Silva Sanches Paulo Ricardo , Carvalho Tamara , Santos Igor Andrade , Martins Daniel Oliveira Silva , Lima Maria Letícia Duarte , da Conceição Pâmela Jóyce Previdelli , Bittar Cíntia , Merits Andres , Cilli Eduardo Maffud , Jardim Ana Carolina Gomes , Rahal Paula , Calmon Marilia Freitas
Published: October 2023

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) belongs to the Alphavirus genus and is responsible for significant outbreaks worldwide. Currently, there is no approved antiviral therapy against CHIKV. Bioactive peptides have great potential for new drug development. Here, we evaluated the antiviral activity of the synthetic peptide GA-Hecate and its analogs PSSct1905 and PSSct1910 against CHIKV infection. Initial screening showed that all three peptides inhibited the CHIKV replication cycle in baby hamster kidney fibroblast cells (BHK-21) and human hepatocarcinoma epithelial cells (Huh-7). GA-Hecate and its analog PSSct1905 were the most active, demonstrating suppression of viral infection by more than 91%. The analog PSSct1905 exhibited a protective effect in cells against CHIKV infection. We also observed that the analogs PSSct1905 and PSSct1910 affected CHIKV entry into both cell lines, inhibiting viral attachment and internalization. Finally, all tested compounds presented antiviral activity on the post-entry steps of CHIKV infection in all cells evaluated. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of the peptide GA-Hecate and its analogs as novel anti-CHIKV compounds targeting different stages of the viral replication cycle, warranting the development of GA-Hecate-based compounds with broad antiviral activity.
Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Properties of Suregada Genus: A Review
Authors: Mangisa Mandisa , Kemboi Douglas , Fouche Gerda , Nthambeleni Rudzani , Langat Moses Kiprotich , Tarirai Clemence , Cheek Martin , Gonyela Odwa , Tembu Vuyelwa Jacqueline
Published: October 2023

Plants of the Suregada Roxb. ex Rottler (formerly Gelonium Roxb. ex Willd) are utilized to treat various ailments, namely, hepatic, gum diseases, pyrexia, eczema, and venereal diseases. This review links the reported compounds to ethnomedicinal uses through pharmacological activities. The compounds possess anticancer, anti-allergic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-HIV properties. From the previous reports, 32 known species of the Suregada genus have been investigated morphologically, and nine were investigated for their phytochemistry and pharmacology. Phytochemistry, ethnomedicinal, and pharmacological uses of the other 23 Suregada species are not known and/or not reported. In this review, abietane diterpenoids are the main compounds expressed by the Suregada, accounting for 71 of the 114 reported compounds. Ten triterpenoids and sterols, one aliphatic, two lignans, five flavonoids, and twenty-one nitrogen-containing compounds have been reported from the genus.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Some New 3-Aryl-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-ones and 3-Aryl-2-(benzylthio)quinazolin-4(3H)-ones as Antioxidants; COX-2, LDHA, α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase Inhibitors; and Anti-Colon Carcinoma and Apoptosis-Inducing Agents
Authors: El-Sayed Nahed Nasser Eid , Al-Otaibi Taghreed M. , Barakat Assem , Almarhoon Zainab M. , Hassan Mohd. Zaheen , Al-Zaben Maha I. , Krayem Najeh , Masand Vijay H. , Ben Bacha Abir
Published: October 2023

Oxidative stress, COX-2, LDHA and hyperglycemia are interlinked contributing pathways in the etiology, progression and metastasis of colon cancer. Additionally, dysregulated apoptosis in cells with genetic alternations leads to their progression in malignant transformation. Therefore, quinazolinones 3a–3h and 5a–5h were synthesized and evaluated as antioxidants, enzymes inhibitors and cytotoxic agents against LoVo and HCT-116 cells. Moreover, the most active cytotoxic derivatives were evaluated as apoptosis inducers. The results indicated that 3a, 3g and 5a were efficiently scavenged DPPH radicals with lowered IC50 values (mM) ranging from 0.165 ± 0.0057 to 0.191 ± 0.0099, as compared to 0.245 ± 0.0257 by BHT. Derivatives 3h, 5a and 5h were recognized as more potent dual inhibitors than quercetin against α-amylase and α-glucosidase, in addition to 3a, 3c, 3f and 5b–5f against α-amylase. Although none of the compounds demonstrated a higher efficiency than the reference inhibitors against COX-2 and LDHA, 3a and 3g were identified as the most active derivatives. Molecular docking studies were used to elucidate the binding affinities and binding interactions between the inhibitors and their target proteins. Compounds 3a and 3f showed cytotoxic activities, with IC50 values (µM) of 294.32 ± 8.41 and 383.5 ± 8.99 (LoVo), as well as 298.05 ± 13.26 and 323.59 ± 3.00 (HCT-116). The cytotoxicity mechanism of 3a and 3f could be attributed to the modulation of apoptosis regulators (Bax and Bcl-2), the activation of intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways via the upregulation of initiator caspases-8 and -9 as well as executioner caspase-3, and the arrest of LoVo and HCT-116 cell cycles in the G2/M and G1 phases, respectively. Lastly, the physicochemical, medicinal chemistry and ADMET properties of all compounds were predicted.
Advances in Diagnostics and Drug Discovery against Resistant and Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Shleider Carnero Canales Christian , Marquez Cazorla Jessica , Furtado Torres André Henrique , Monteiro Filardi Eloise T. , Di Filippo Leonardo Delello , Costa Paulo Inácio , Roque-Borda Cesar Augusto , Pavan Fernando Rogério
Published: October 2023

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) represents a subclinical, asymptomatic mycobacterial state affecting approximately 25% of the global population. The substantial prevalence of LTBI, combined with the risk of progressing to active tuberculosis, underscores its central role in the increasing incidence of tuberculosis (TB). Accurate identification and timely treatment are vital to contain and reduce the spread of the disease, forming a critical component of the global strategy known as “End TB.” This review aims to examine and highlight the most recent scientific evidence related to new diagnostic approaches and emerging therapeutic treatments for LTBI. While prevalent diagnostic methods include the tuberculin skin test (TST) and interferon gamma release assay (IGRA), WHO’s approval of two specific IGRAs for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) marked a significant advancement. However, the need for a specific test with global application viability has propelled research into diagnostic tests based on molecular diagnostics, pulmonary immunity, epigenetics, metabolomics, and a current focus on next-generation MTB antigen-based skin test (TBST). It is within these emerging methods that the potential for accurate distinction between LTBI and active TB has been demonstrated. Therapeutically, in addition to traditional first-line therapies, anti-LTBI drugs, anti-resistant TB drugs, and innovative candidates in preclinical and clinical stages are being explored. Although the advancements are promising, it is crucial to recognize that further research and clinical evidence are needed to solidify the effectiveness and safety of these new approaches, in addition to ensuring access to new drugs and diagnostic methods across all health centers. The fight against TB is evolving with the development of more precise diagnostic tools that differentiate the various stages of the infection and with more effective and targeted treatments. Once consolidated, current advancements have the potential to transform the prevention and treatment landscape of TB, reinforcing the global mission to eradicate this disease.
Broadband Enhancement in the Spectral Response of Photovoltaic Modules with Flower-like Silver Particles
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhang Feng , Fan Xinmin , Lu Yabin , Wang Chunyan , Huang Xiaodong , Zhang Lujun
Published: October 2023

Recent research has indicated that metal nanoparticles, known for their unique optical properties, can enhance the spectral response of photovoltaic modules. Since most nanoparticles demonstrate enhancement effects within a specific wavelength range, broadening the spectral response of photoelectric devices is critical for their application in imaging, energy harvesting, and optical communication. In this study, we applied flower-like silver particles to achieve this broadband enhancement. The optical absorption of photovoltaic modules, featuring an amorphous Si p-i-n structure, was improved across a broad wavelength range of 400~2000 nm by integrating these flower-like silver particles, resulting in an approximately tenfold increase in peak spectral responsivity. The theoretical investigation further elaborates that the enhancement originates from the near-field effects of silver particles due to the interaction of different parts of the flower-like silver particles. Through these studies, we demonstrate that utilizing the flower-like silver particles with roughness surface can achieve the spectral response of the photoelectric device enhanced in broadband range, which can improve the utilization efficiency of optical energy for the applications of sensing, imaging, optical communication, and energy harvesting.
Review on Analysis Methods Enabled by Hyperspectral Imaging for Cultural Relic Conservation
Authors: Pei Zhongming , Huang Yong Mao , Zhou Ting
Published: October 2023

In this review, the conservation methods for various types of cultural relics enabled by hyperspectral imaging are summarized, and the hyperspectral cameras and techniques utilized in the process from data acquisition to analyzation are introduced. Hyperspectral imaging is characterized by non-contact detection, broadband, and high resolution, which are of great significance to the non-destructive investigation of cultural relics. However, owing to the wide variety of cultural relics, the utilized equipment and methods vary greatly in the investigations of the associated conservation. Previous studies generally select a single type of cultural relic for conservation. That is, seldom study has focused on the application of hyperspectral techniques to generalized conservation methods that are simultaneously suitable for different types of cultural relics. Hence, some widely used hyperspectral cameras and imaging systems are introduced first. Subsequently, according to the previous investigations, the methods used for image acquisition, image correction, and data dimensionality reduction in hyperspectral techniques are described. Thirdly, a summary of methods in cultural relic conservation based on hyperspectral techniques is presented, which involves pigments, grottoes and murals, and painting and calligraphy. Later, some challenges and potential development prospects in hyperspectral-based methods are discussed for future study. Finally, the conclusions are given.
Generation of Light Fields with Controlled Non-Uniform Elliptical Polarization When Focusing on Structured Laser Beams
Authors: Khonina Svetlana N. , Ustinov Andrey V. , Porfirev Alexey P.
Published: October 2023

We study the sharp focusing of the input structured light field that has a non-uniform elliptical polarization: the parameters of the ellipse depend on the position in the input plane (we limited ourselves to the dependence only on the angular variable). Two types of non-uniformity were considered. The first type corresponds to the situation when the semi-axes of the polarization ellipse are fixed while the slope of the major semi-axis changes. The second type is determined by the situation when the slope of the major semi-axis of the polarization ellipse is constant, and the ratio between the semi-axis changes (we limited ourselves to the trigonometric dependence of this ratio on the polar angle). Theoretical and numerical calculations show that in the case of the first type of non-uniformity, if the tilt angle is a multiple of the polar angle with an integer coefficient, then the intensity distribution has rotational symmetry, and the energy flow is radially symmetric and has the negative direction near the optical axis. In this second case, the intensity symmetry is not very pronounced, but with an odd dependence of the ratio of the semi-axes of the polarization ellipse, the focused field at each point has a local linear polarization, despite the rather complex form of the input field. In addition, we investigate the distribution of the longitudinal component of the Poynting vector. The obtained results may be used for the formation of focused light fields with the desired distributions of polarization, Poynting vector density, or spin angular momentum density in the field of laser manipulation and laser matter interaction.
Sufism in the Contemporary Shii Seminary?
Authors: Asghari SeyedAmirHossein
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the intersection of Sufism and philosophy in the Shii context during the post-Mulla Ṣadrā era. Specifically, it traces the scholars who emphasized Ṣadrian philosophical and mystical approaches on both theoretical and practical levels and identifies the roots of the Ṣūfī order in the Shia seminary after 1850, namely the Ṣūfī school of Najaf. I argue that these scholars were connected to Ṣūfī orders such as the Dhahabīyya and the Niʻmatullāhī order, contrary to the claim that they were not affiliated with any formal Ṣūfī order. Furthermore, I highlight the reluctance of the masters and followers of the contemporary “Ṣūfī School of Najaf” to reveal their Ṣūfī connections in the anti-Ṣūfī dominant environment of the seminary. Ultimately, this paper provides a comprehensive understanding of the connections between philosophy and Ṣūfīsm in the post-Mulla Ṣadrā era and speculates on the roots, origin, and development of such a school in the contemporary Shīʿī seminary.
Sustainable Valorization of Organic Materials as Substrates for Soilless Crops in Protected Environments in the Venezuelan Andes
Authors: Arias Karen , Sulbarán José , Mendoza Welsk , Escalona Argelia , Salas-Sanjuán María del Carmen
Published: October 2023

Agricultural production activities generate a large amount of waste, most of which is of organic origin from plant remains. These residues could easily be transformed into a resource, specifically, into a substrate for use in soilless cultivation; however, in most cases, they are not used. Therefore, a characterization of local agricultural residues was carried out to determine their use as a substrate for crop cultivation without soil in a protected environment. The selected substrates were Sphagnum peat, coir fiber, and compost, which were managed alone or in mixtures of 50/50, 75/25, or 25/75% v/v ratios. We also included a mixture of virgin mountain soil and earthworm humus (known as INIA mixture) because it is used by local growers. The results showed that the substrates based on coir fiber, peat, and mixtures of both presented suitable characteristics for horticultural crops. On the contrary, compost-based substrates had high pH values and low organic matter contents that could be improved before use. The relationship found between the evaluated parameters of each substrate allowed us to establish that variables, such as the content of organic matter and water at different tensions and particle sizes, can be utilized to make a quick selection of the substrates produced locally, which would lead to the use of waste in a way that is more consistent with sustainable agricultural production and minimal environmental impact, by being used in the production of crops in containers without soil. In addition, these results can be used as an alternative reference in localities where these residues are easily available.
Rewilding the Detroit, Michigan, USA–Windsor, Ontario, Canada Metropolitan Area
Authors: Hartig John H.
Published: October 2023

Rewilding attempts to increase biodiversity and restore natural ecosystem processes by reducing human influence. Today, there is growing interest in rewilding urban areas. Rewilding of the Detroit, Michigan, USA and Windsor, Ontario, Canada metropolitan area, and its shared natural resource called the Detroit River, has been delineated through the reintroduction of peregrine falcons and osprey, and a return of other sentinel species like bald eagles, lake sturgeon, lake whitefish, walleye, beaver, and river otter. Rewilding has helped showcase the value and benefits of environmental protection and restoration, ecosystem services, habitat rehabilitation and enhancement, and conservation, including social and economic benefits. Improved ecosystem health and rewilding have become a catalyst for re-establishing a reconnection between urban denizens and natural resources through greenways and water trails. The provision of compelling outdoor experiences in nature, in turn, can help foster a personal attachment to the particular place people call home that can help inspire a stewardship ethic.
FMEA Model in Risk Analysis for the Implementation of AGV/AMR Robotic Technologies into the Internal Supply System of Enterprises
Authors: Bekishev Yuriy , Pisarenko Zhanna , Arkadiev Vladislav
Published: October 2023

In the evolving economic landscape, Industry 4.0 emphasizes strategic planning and operational progress for large enterprises. This transformation relies on smart robotization technologies like AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) and AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) for reducing transportation time, thereby reducing energy costs per unit of production, increasing energy efficiency, as well as replacing combustible-fuel-powered tools with electric ones. A number of concerns arise with their introduction into the production cycle. This research aims to provide a methodical basis for averting substantial mistakes when executing projects centered around the incorporation of AGVs/AMRs into in-house logistics systems. The FMEA method and empirical analysis were employed to achieve a more accurate risk assessment. APIS and MS Excel softwares were chosen. We investigated the potential hazards related to the incorporation of mobile robotic solutions and identified both external and internal threats. To streamline and improve project efficiency, a risk management algorithm for high-tech projects is presented in the paper. Integrating FMEA into projects implementing robotic technologies can lead to significant enhancements in risk reduction, and therefore cost savings, efficiency, safety, and quality, while fostering a culture of collaboration and problem solving. The research contributes to the literature by introducing an AMR planning and control framework to guide managers in the decision-making process, thereby supporting them to achieve optimal performance. Finally, we propose an agenda for future research within the field of interest.
Multifactor Risk Attribution Applied to Systemic, Climate and Geopolitical Tail Risks for the Eurozone Banking Sector
Authors: Bettin Giulia , Mensi Gian Marco , Recchioni Maria Cristina
Published: October 2023

The aim of this work is to introduce an innovative methodology for performing risk attribution within a multifactor risk framework. We applied this analysis to the assessment of systemic, climate, and geopolitical risks relative to a representative sample of Eurozone banks between 2011 and 2022. Comparing the results to the output of a bivariate approach, we found that contemporaneous tail crises generate combined equity losses exceeding partial analysis estimates. We then attributed the combined risk to each factor and to the effect of their interaction by employing our proposed frequency-based approach. For our computations, we used multivariate GARCH, Monte Carlo simulations, and a suite of Eurozone-specific factors. Our results show that total combined risk is on average 18% higher than traditional systemic risk estimates, that climate risk more than doubled in our period of analysis, and that geopolitical risk surged to over 5% of total combined risk. Our climate risk estimate is in line with the results of the 2022 European Central Bank climate stress test, and our geopolitical risk measure shows a positive correlation with the GPRD and Threats index.
Data-Driven Inverse Kinematics Approximation of a Delta Robot with Stepper Motors
Authors: Zhao Anni , Toudeshki Arash , Ehsani Reza , Sun Jian-Qiao
Published: October 2023

The Delta robot is a parallel robot that is over-actuated and has a highly nonlinear dynamic model, which poses a significant challenge to its control design. The inverse kinematics that maps the motor angles to the position of the end effector is highly nonlinear and extremely important for the control design of the Delta robot. It has been experimentally shown that geometry-based inverse kinematics is not accurate enough to capture the dynamics of the Delta robot due to manufacturing component errors, measurement errors, joint flexibility, backlash, friction, etc. To address this issue, we propose a neural network model to approximate the inverse kinematics of the Delta robot with stepper motors. The neural network model is trained with randomly sampled experimental data and implemented on the hardware in an open-loop control for trajectory tracking. Extensive experimental results show that the neural network model achieves excellent performance in terms of the trajectory tracking of the Delta robot under different operation conditions, and outperforms the geometry-based inverse kinematics model. A critical numerical observation indicates that neural networks trained with the specific trajectory data fall short of anticipated performance due to a lack of data. Conversely, neural networks trained on random experimental data capture the rich dynamics of the Delta robot and are quite robust to model uncertainties compared to geometry-based inverse kinematics.
Hand Prosthesis Sensorimotor Control Inspired by the Human Somatosensory System
Authors: Stefanelli Enrica , Cordella Francesca , Gentile Cosimo , Zollo Loredana
Published: October 2023

Prosthetic hand systems aim at restoring lost functionality in amputees. Manipulation and grasping are the main functions of the human hand, which are provided by skin sensitivity capable of protecting the hand from damage and perceiving the external environment. The present study aims at proposing a novel control strategy which improves the ability of the prosthetic hand to interact with the external environment by fostering the interaction of tactile (forces and slipping) and thermoceptive sensory information and by using them to guarantee grasp stability and improve user safety. The control strategy is based on force control with an internal position loop and slip detection, which is able to manage temperature information thanks to the interaction with objects at different temperatures. This architecture has been tested on a prosthetic hand, i.e., the IH2 Azzurra developed by Prensilia s.r.l, in different temperature and slippage conditions. The prosthetic system successfully performed the grasping tasks by managing the tactile and thermal information simultaneously. In particular, the system is able to guarantee a stable grasp during the execution of the tasks. Additionally, in the presence of an external stimulus (thermal or slippage), the prosthetic hand is able to react and always reacts to the stimulus instantaneously (reaction times ≤ 0.04 s, comparable to the one of the human being), regardless of its nature and in accordance with the control strategy. In this way, the prosthetic device is protected from damaging temperatures, the user is alerted of a dangerous situation and the stability of the grasp is restored in the event of a slip.
Keypoint Detection and Description through Deep Learning in Unstructured Environments
Authors: Petrakis Georgios , Partsinevelos Panagiotis
Published: October 2023

Feature extraction plays a crucial role in computer vision and autonomous navigation, offering valuable information for real-time localization and scene understanding. However, although multiple studies investigate keypoint detection and description algorithms in urban and indoor environments, far fewer studies concentrate in unstructured environments. In this study, a multi-task deep learning architecture is developed for keypoint detection and description, focused on poor-featured unstructured and planetary scenes with low or changing illumination. The proposed architecture was trained and evaluated using a training and benchmark dataset with earthy and planetary scenes. Moreover, the trained model was integrated in a visual SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Maping) system as a feature extraction module, and tested in two feature-poor unstructured areas. Regarding the results, the proposed architecture provides a mAP (mean Average Precision) in a level of 0.95 in terms of keypoint description, outperforming well-known handcrafted algorithms while the proposed SLAM achieved two times lower RMSE error in a poor-featured area with low illumination, compared with ORB-SLAM2. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that investigates the potential of keypoint detection and description through deep learning in unstructured and planetary environments.