bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Indoor Air Quality of Four Primary Health Care Centers in Qatar
Authors: Abdelrahman Hana , Abu-Rub Lubna , Al Mana Hassan , Alhorr Yousef , Al Thani Asmaa , Qotba Hamda , Yassine Hadi M. , Eltai Nahla O.
Published: October 2022

Airborne bacteria pose a potential risk to human health upon inhalation in the indoor environments of health care facilities. Airborne bacteria may originate from various sources, including patients, workers, and daily visitors. Hence, this study investigates the quantity, size, and identification of airborne bacteria indoors and outdoors of four Primary Health Care Centers (PHCC) in Doha, Qatar. Air samples were collected from the lobby, triage room, and outside environment of the centers, including, Qatar University (QU-HC), Al-Rayyan (AR-HC), Umm-Ghuwailina (UG-HC), and Old Airport (OA-HC) between August 2020 and March 2021, throughout both the hot and the cold seasons. Samples were collected using an Anderson six-stage cascade impactor. The mean of the total colony-forming units was calculated per cubic meter of air (CFU/m3). QU-HC had the lowest mean of total bacterial count compared with other centers in the indoor and outdoor areas with 100.4 and 99.6 CFU/m3, respectively. In contrast, AR-HC had the highest level, with 459 CFU/m3 indoors, while OA-HC recorded the highest bacterial concentration of the outdoor areas with a total mean 377 CFU/m3. In addition, 16S rRNA sequencing was performed for genera identification. Staphylococcus, Acinetobacter, Bacillus, and Pseudomonas were the four most frequently identified bacterial genera in this study. The abundance of airborne bacteria in the four health centers was higher in the cold season. About 46% of the total airborne bacterial count for three PHCC centers exceeded 300 CFU/m3, making them uncompliant with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation for indoor settings. Consequently, an IAQ standards should be shaped to establish a baseline for measuring air pollution in Qatar. Additionally, it is crucial to understand seasonal fluctuations better so that hospitals can avoid rising and spreading infection peaks.
Screening of Bacteria Inhibiting Clostridium perfringens and Assessment of Their Beneficial Effects In Vitro and In Vivo with Whole Genome Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Jiang Zipeng , Su Weifa , Yang Mingzhi , Li Wentao , Gong Tao , Zhang Yu , Wen Chaoyue , Wang Xinxia , Wang Yizhen , Jin Mingliang , Lu Zeqing
Published: October 2022

Various countries and organizations call for banning the use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) as prophylaxis and for growth promotion in the livestock industry. Hence, seeking a substitute for antibiotics is strongly required by the livestock industry to maintain the productivity level and profits. Probiotics could represent one viable solution because of their beneficial effects on host health and maintaining the intestinal microbiota balance. In the present study, we aimed to isolate bacterial strains with probiotics properties from JinHua pig (a Chinese native pig breed) gastrointestinal tract that have antagonistic activity against to common disease-causing bacteria on farms. The four most potent strains were isolated (PP31, BA11, BA40, BV5) by the agar well diffusion method and further characterized by acid, bile salt, trypsin tolerance, whole genome sequencing (WGS), and suppressing Clostridium perfringens adhesion to IPEC-J2 cells. According to these results, BA40 had the highest number and variety of probiotic secondary metabolic secretion genes and capacity to exclude the attachment of Clostridium perfringens to IPEC-J2 cells as same as PB6. The animal experiment in vivo illustrated that BA40 and PB6 could reduce the phenomenon induced by Clostridium perfringens challenge of body weight loss, colon length decrease, pro-inflammatory cytokine increase, and Clostridium perfringens and Escherichia coli increase. The present study provides evidence that BA40 could represent a novel probiotic candidate as PB6, which exhibited some probiotic features and mitigated the burden of Clostridium perfringens associated gut disease.
Lactic Acid Bacteria and Bacteriocins: Novel Biotechnological Approach for Biopreservation of Meat and Meat Products
Authors: Bhattacharya Dipanwita , Nanda Pramod Kumar , Pateiro Mirian , Lorenzo José M. , Dhar Pubali , Das Arun K.
Published: October 2022

Meat and meat products are perishable in nature, and easily susceptible to microbial contamination and chemical deterioration. This not only results in an increased risk to health of consumers, but also causes economic loss to the meat industry. Some microorganisms of the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) group and their ribosomal-synthesized antimicrobial peptides—especially bacteriocins—can be used as a natural preservative, and an alternative to chemical preservatives in meat industry. Purified or partially purified bacteriocins can be used as a food additive or incorporated in active packaging, while bacteriocin-producing cells could be added as starter or protective cultures for fermented meats. Large-scale applications of bacteriocins are limited, however, mainly due to the narrow antimicrobial spectrum and varying stability in different food matrixes. To overcome these limitations, bioengineering and biotechnological techniques are being employed to combine two or more classes of bacteriocins and develop novel bacteriocins with high efficacy. These approaches, in combination with hurdle concepts (active packaging), provide adequate safety by reducing the pathogenicity of spoilage microorganisms, improving sensory characteristics (e.g., desirable flavor, texture, aroma) and enhancing the shelf life of meat-based products. In this review, the biosynthesis of different classes of LAB bacteriocins, their mechanism of action and their role in the preservation of meats and meat products are reviewed.
Responses of Bacterial Community Structure, Diversity, and Chemical Properties in the Rhizosphere Soil on Fruiting-Body Formation of Suillus luteus
Authors: Zhou Yixin , Shi Zhichao , Pang Qiliang , Liang Xiufeng , Li Hongtao , Sui Xin , Li Chongwei , Song Fuqiang
Published: October 2022

Mycorrhiza helper bacteria (MHB) play an important role in driving mycorrhizal formation. There are few reports on the relationship between bacteria and fruiting growths. Taking mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil from sporocarps of the S. luteus and non-mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil of the host plant (Larix gmelinii), we measured the bacterial community structure and diversity and chemical properties to clarify the effect of bacteria on fruiting-body formation. The bacterial diversity was significantly higher in mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil (p < 0.05) than that in non-mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil. The relative abundance of Burkholderia, Bradyrhizobium, Pseudomonas, and Rhizobium was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil than in non-mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil. The soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), ammonium nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), and the activity of catalase, urease, and phosphatase in mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in non-mycorrhizal rhizosphere soil. A redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that dominant bacteria are closely related to soil enzyme activity and physicochemical properties (p < 0.05). The boletus recruits a large number of bacteria around the plant roots that speed up nutrient transformation and increase the soil nutrient content, providing an important guarantee for mycelium culture and fruiting-body formation. These findings provide ideas for the nutritional supply of boletus sporocarps and lay the theoretical foundation for the efficient artificial cultivation of boletus.
Real-Time PCR Protocol for Detection and Quantification of Three Pathogenic Members of the Vibrionaceae Family
Authors: Costa Cátia , Ferreira Guilherme D. , Simões Marco , Silva Joana L. , Campos Maria J.
Published: October 2022

Vibriosis, an often-fatal disease induced by pathogenic members of the Vibrionaceae family, causes severe economic losses in aquacultures. To mitigate/avoid vibriosis outbursts, it is vital to detect and quantify these pathogens as early as possible. However, standard microbiological methods are time-consuming and often underestimate cell counts, which calls for the development of valid alternatives. In this study, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was employed to detect the pathogenic species Vibrio alginolyticus, Listonella anguillara, and Vibrio harveyi using a new primer pair targeting the groEL gene. In addition, the DNA extraction efficiency of three methods, two commercial kits and the boiling method, was compared. The most efficient method was the DNeasy Blood and Tissue kit, with a detection limit ranging between 154 and 600 CFU mL−1 in the case of V. alginolyticus and L. anguillara, and 48 CFU mL−1 for V. harveyi. Thus, this study presents the development and evaluation of a method for the early quantification of all three species in saline suspensions. However, the results obtained by spiking a microalgae sample with V. harveyi emphasize the importance of adjusting the DNA control’s standard curve to the relevant extraction matrices, as it affects the DNA extraction efficiency and may hamper an accurate quantification with qPCR.
Luminescent 1,10-Phenanthroline β-Diketonate Europium Complexes with Large Second-Order Nonlinear Optical Properties
Authors: Fagnani Francesco , Colombo Alessia , Malandrino Graziella , Dragonetti Claudia , Pellegrino Anna Lucia
Published: October 2022

Substitution of the diglyme ligand of [Eu(hfa)3(diglyme)] (where hfa is hexafluoroacetylacetonate) with a simple 1,10-phenanthroline leads to a six-fold increase of the product μβEFISH, as measured by the Electric-Field-Induced Second Harmonic generation (EFISH) technique. Similarly, [Eu(tta)3(1,10-phenanthroline)] (where Htta is 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone) is characterized by a large second-order NLO response. Both 1,10-phenanthroline europium complexes have great potential as multifunctional materials for photonics.
The Impact of Different Pretreatment Processes (Freezing, Ultrasound and High Pressure) on the Sensory and Functional Properties of Black Garlic (Allium sativum L.)
Authors: Chan Kai-Hui , Chang Chao-Kai , Gavahian Mohsen , Yudhistira Bara , Santoso Shella Permatasari , Cheng Kuan-Chen , Hsieh Chang-Wei
Published: October 2022

Black garlic (BG) is an emerging derivative of fresh garlic with enhanced nutritional properties. This study aimed to develop functional BG products with good consumer acceptance. To this end, BG was treated with freezing (F-BG), ultrasound (U-BG), and HHP (H-BG) to assess its sensory and functional properties. The results showed that F-BG and H-BG had higher S-allyl-cysteine (SAC), polyphenol, and flavonoid contents than BG. H-BG and F-BG displayed the best sensory quality after 18 days of aging, while 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), SAC, and polyphenols were identified as the most influential sensory parameters. Moreover, the F-BG and H-BG groups achieved optimal taste after 18 days, as opposed to untreated BG, which needed more than 24 days. Therefore, the proposed approaches significantly reduced the processing time while enhancing the physical, sensory, and functional properties of BG. In conclusion, freezing and HHP techniques may be considered promising pretreatments to develop BG products with good functional and sensory properties.
Tannin-Derived Hard Carbon for Stable Lithium-Ion Anode
Authors: He Ming-Jun , Xu Lai-Qiang , Feng Bing , Hu Jin-Bo , Chang Shan-Shan , Liu Gong-Gang , Liu Yuan , Xu Bing-Hui
Published: October 2022

Graphite anodes are well established for commercial use in lithium-ion battery systems. However, the limited capacity of graphite limits the further development of lithium-ion batteries. Hard carbon obtained from biomass is a highly promising anode material, with the advantage of enriched microcrystalline structure characteristics for better lithium storage. Tannin, a secondary product of metabolism during plant growth, has a rich source on earth. But the mechanism of hard carbon obtained from its derivation in lithium-ion batteries has been little studied. This paper successfully applied the hard carbon obtained from tannin as anode and illustrated the relationship between its structure and lithium storage performance. Meanwhile, to further enhance the performance, graphene oxide is skillfully compounded. The contact with the electrolyte and the charge transfer capability are effectively enhanced, then the capacity of PVP-HC is 255.5 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 400 mA g−1, with a capacity retention rate of 91.25%. The present work lays the foundation and opens up ideas for the application of biomass-derived hard carbon in lithium anodes.
Preparation of Mixed Bis-N-Heterocyclic Carbene Rhodium(I) Complexes
Authors: Azpíroz Ramón , Karataş Mert Olgun , Passarelli Vincenzo , Özdemir Ismail , Pérez-Torrente Jesús J. , Castarlenas Ricardo
Published: October 2022

A series of mixed bis-NHC rhodium(I) complexes of type RhCl(η2-olefin)(NHC)(NHC’) have been synthesized by a stepwise reaction of [Rh(μ-Cl)(η2-olefin)2]2 with two different NHCs (NHC = N-heterocyclic carbene), in which the steric hindrance of both NHC ligands and the η2-olefin is critical. Similarly, new mixed coumarin-functionalized bis-NHC rhodium complexes have been prepared by a reaction of mono NHC complexes of type RhCl(NHC-coumarin)(η2,η2-cod) with the corresponding azolium salt in the presence of an external base. Both synthetic procedures proceed selectively and allow the preparation of mixed bis-NHC rhodium complexes in good yields.
Conjugated Polymers-Based Ternary Hybrid toward Unique Photophysical Properties
Authors: Al-Asbahi Bandar Ali , AlSalhi Mohamad S. , Jumali Mohammad Hafizuddin Hj. , Fatehmulla Amanullah , Qaid Saif M. H. , Mujamammi Wafa Musa , Ghaithan Hamid M.
Published: October 2022

The improvement of optical and optoelectronic properties of the individual poly [2-methoxy-5- (2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MEH-PPV), poly[2-methoxy-5-(3,7-dimethyl-octyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene]–End capped with Dimethyl phenyl (OC1C10–PPV–DMP), and poly (9,9′-di- n -octylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl) (F8) was revealed by blending them in ternary hybrid with optimal ratio (F8/2 wt.% MEH-PPV/2 wt.% OC1C10–PPV–DMP). All individual and optimal ternary solutions were prepared via the solution-blending method followed by depositing them onto glass and ITO substrates using spin-coating technique. The semi-crystalline phase of the ternary hybrid and the strong mixing between the conjugated polymers were evidenced by observing the X-ray diffraction patterns that related to F8 into the hybrid diffractogram. The optical and optoelectronic properties of all prepared thin films were investigated in terms of absorption and emission spectra, Commission International d′Eclairage (CIE) coordinates, and current–voltage (I-V) characterizations. Emission peaks at the entire range of visible spectrum can be revealed from the ternary hybrid of the three individual conjugated polymers, producing white emission as evidenced from the emission spectrum and CIE coordinates of the hybrid. Among all fabricated organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) devices, the ternary hybrid-based-OLED revealed the best performance in terms of current and turn-on voltage.
Metabolomic Analysis of Phytochemical Compounds from Agricultural Residues of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Contreras-Angulo Laura Aracely , Moreno-Ulloa Aldo , Carballo-Castañeda Rommel A. , León-Felix Josefina , Romero-Quintana José Geovanni , Aguilar-Medina Maribel , Ramos-Payán Rosalío , Heredia J. Basilio
Published: October 2022

The eggplant is a fruit rich in natural products and produced worldwide. However, its cultivation generates a large amount of scarcely used agricultural residues with poor chemical characterization. This study aimed to identify and quantify the metabolome and determine the composition of select phytochemicals and the overall antioxidant capacity of various anatomical parts of the plant. The plant’s root, leaf, stem, and fruit were analyzed by quantitative mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics and chemoinformatics, and phytochemicals were quantified by spectrophotometric analysis. Moreover, we determined the total antioxidant capacity of the distinct plant parts to infer a possible biological effect of the plant’s metabolites. Various secondary metabolites were identified as terpenes, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, and saponins, distributed throughout the plant. The leaf and fruit presented the highest concentration of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and alkaloids, accompanied by the highest antioxidant capacity. Although the stem and root showed the lowest abundance of secondary metabolites, they provided around 20% of such compounds compared with the leaf and fruit. Overall, our study improved the understanding of the eggplant metabolome and concluded that the plant is rich in secondary metabolites, some with antioxidant properties, and shows potential nutraceutical and biopharmaceutical applications.
Investigations of the Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon and Elemental Profile of Smoked Fish
Authors: Aksun Tümerkan Elif Tuğçe
Published: October 2022

Fish are vulnerable to environmental pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and heavy metals. As one of the most commonly applied processing methods, the smoking of different species has been applied globally. Hence, this study aims to investigate the smoking process on the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and elemental accumulation of the five different species (rainbow trout, Atlantic bonito, horse mackerel, sea bass, and Atlantic bluefin tuna) which are commonly processed and traded in the smoked fish industry. The processing yield, water holding capacity, and pH were also investigated. The results revealed that the proximal differences among fish species influence the water holding capacity, processing yield, and pH which are very important for process sustainability and the quality of the end product. The main finding was the proximal composition impact on the accumulation of both PAHs and heavy metals at different levels. While all of the tested samples were below the maximum permissible limit, some of the heavy metals, especially toxic elements, were found above the acceptable limit. Horse mackerel is determined to be the species most vulnerable to PAHs and heavy metal accumulation.
Potential of Essential Oil-Based Anticholinesterase Insecticides against Anopheles Vectors: A Review
Authors: Rants’o Thankhoe A. , Koekemoer Lizette L. , Panayides Jenny-Lee , van Zyl Robyn L.
Published: October 2022

The insect nervous system is critical for its functional integrity. The cholinergic system, of which acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a key enzyme, is essential to the Anopheles (consisting of major malaria vector species) nervous system. Furthermore, the nervous system is also the primary target site for insecticides used in malaria vector control programs. Insecticides, incorporated in insecticide-treated nets and used for indoor residual spraying, are a core intervention employed in malaria vector control. However, Anopheles resistance against these insecticides has grown rapidly. Due to this major setback, novel agents with potential activity against resistant Anopheles and/or capacity to overcome resistance against current WHO-approved insecticides are urgently needed. The essential oils have the potential to be natural sources of novel insecticides with potential to inhibit the Anopheles AChE target. In the current review, the scientific evidence highlights the ability of essential oils and specific essential oil constituents to serve as anticholinesterase insecticides. For this reason, the published data from scientific databases on the essential oils and essential oil constituents on anticholinesterase, ovicidal, larvicidal, pupicidal and adulticidal activities were analyzed. The identification of major constituents in active essential oils and their possible influence on the biological activity have also been critically evaluated. Furthermore, the toxicity to mammals as well as potential activity against the mammalian AChE target has also been reviewed. The importance of identifying novel potent insecticides from essential oils has been discussed, in relation to human safety and cost-effectiveness. Finally, the critical insights from this review can be used to inform future researchers towards potent and safe anticholinesterase insecticides for the management of Anopheles malaria vectors.
Anti-HIV Ermiasolides from Croton megalocarpus
Authors: Terefe Ermias Mergia , Okalebo Faith Apolot , Derese Solomon , Langat Moses K. , Mas-Claret Eduard , Qureshi Kamal Ahmad , Jaremko Mariusz , Muriuki Joseph
Published: October 2022

In recent years, elucidation of novel anti-HIV bioactive compounds from natural products is gaining importance rapidly, not only from the research and publications, but also from controlled clinical studies. Here we report three new anti-HIV eudesmane-type sesquiterpenes, 5β-Hydroxy-8α-methoxy eudesm-7(11)-en-12,8-olide (1), 5β,8α-Dihydroxy eudesm-7(11)-en-12,8-olide (2) and 5β-Hydroxy-8H-β-eudesm-7(11)-en-12,8-olide (3). These are trivially named ermiasolide A-C and were isolated from the bark of Croton megalocarpus. 5β-Hydroxy-8α-methoxy eudesm-7(11)-en-12,8-olide (1), showed the highest anti-HIV activity by inhibiting 93% of the viral replication with an IC50 = 0.002 µg/mL. On the other hand, 5β-Hydroxy-8H-β-eudesm-7(11)-en-12,8-olide (3) and 5β,8α-dihydroxy eudesm-7(11)-en-12,8-olide (2), inhibited viral replication by 77.5% at IC50 = 0.04 µg/mL and 69.5% at IC50 = 0.002 µg/mL, respectively. Molecular docking studies showed that the proposed mechanism of action leading to these results is through the inhibition of HIV-protease.
Fluorescent Light Energy in the Management of Multi Drug Resistant Canine Pyoderma: A Prospective Exploratory Study
Authors: Marchegiani Andrea , Fruganti Alessandro , Bazzano Marilena , Cerquetella Matteo , Dini Fabrizio , Spaterna Andrea
Published: October 2022

The increase in prevalence of staphylococcal antimicrobial resistance has been also associated with pyoderma in dogs, and prolonged antibiotic treatment, as often needed in severe cases of pyoderma, has been related to influencing possible development of multidrug resistance (MDR). Fluorescent light energy (FLE) has been indicated to improve pyoderma lesions as adjunct therapy to systemic antibiotics. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of FLE on clinical signs of MDR canine deep pyoderma (CDP) and interdigital furunculosis (CIF) when administered as solely management. Sixteen client-owned dogs affected by CIF (five dogs) and CDP (eleven dogs) were scored using a dedicated scoring system and received a single FLE applications twice weekly, until clinical resolution was achieved. Mean time to achieve complete resolution was 5.20 ± 3.56 weeks (median 3 weeks) for CIF cases and 4.18 ± 1.47 weeks (median 4 weeks) for CDP ones. FLE shows promise as an aid to managing clinical signs while reducing reliance on antibiotics for MDR CDP and CIF. In this study, FLE was responsible for the decrease in lesion scores and resolution of MDR pyoderma infection without any adjunct therapy, having a potential useful role to play in antibiotic stewardship programs, efficiently promoting complete clinical resolution of MDR lesions while optimizing the use of antibiotics.
Multidistrict Host–Pathogen Interaction during COVID-19 and the Development Post-Infection Chronic Inflammation
Authors: Fanelli Marialaura , Petrone Vita , Buonifacio Margherita , Delibato Elisabetta , Balestrieri Emanuela , Grelli Sandro , Minutolo Antonella , Matteucci Claudia
Published: October 2022

Due to the presence of the ACE2 receptor in different tissues (nasopharynx, lung, nervous tissue, intestine, liver), the COVID-19 disease involves several organs in our bodies. SARS-CoV-2 is able to infect different cell types, spreading to different districts. In the host, an uncontrolled and altered immunological response is triggered, leading to cytokine storm, lymphopenia, and cellular exhaustion. Hence, respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and systemic multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) are established. This scenario is also reflected in the composition of the microbiota, the balance of which is regulated by the interaction with the immune system. A change in microbial diversity has been demonstrated in COVID-19 patients compared with healthy donors, with an increase in potentially pathogenic microbial genera. In addition to other symptoms, particularly neurological, the occurrence of dysbiosis persists after the SARS-CoV-2 infection, characterizing the post-acute COVID syndrome. This review will describe and contextualize the role of the immune system in unbalance and dysbiosis during SARS-CoV-2 infection, from the acute phase to the post-COVID-19 phase. Considering the tight relationship between the immune system and the gut–brain axis, the analysis of new, multidistrict parameters should be aimed at understanding and addressing chronic multisystem dysfunction related to COVID-19.
COVID-19 Treatment—Current Status, Advances, and Gap
Authors: Ho Chian , Lee Ping-Chin
Published: October 2022

COVID-19, which emerged in December 2019, was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020. The disease was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It has caused millions of deaths worldwide and caused social and economic disruption. While clinical trials on therapeutic drugs are going on in an Accelerating COVID-19 Therapeutic Interventions and Vaccines (ACTIV) public–private partnership collaboration, current therapeutic approaches and options to counter COVID-19 remain few. Therapeutic drugs include the FDA-approved antiviral drugs, Remdesivir, and an immune modulator, Baricitinib. Hence, therapeutic approaches and alternatives for COVID-19 treatment need to be broadened. This paper discusses efforts in approaches to find treatment for COVID-19, such as inhibiting viral entry and disrupting the virus life cycle, and highlights the gap that needs to be filled in these approaches.
Clonal Dissemination of Multidrug-Resistant and Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae Clonal Complex in a Chinese Hospital
Authors: Wang Yi , Hua Mingxi , Wang Jingqiao , Xing Wen , Chen Jiatian , Liu Jingyuan , Du Pengcheng
Published: October 2022

The emergence of high antimicrobial-resistant and hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp) clones in clinics has become a cause of concern in recent years. Despite the global spread of the clonal complex (CC) 258, hvKp of other non-CC258 subgroups also emerged. Here, by performing a retrospective study from July 2019 to August 2020 in a Chinese hospital, we obtained 25 K. pneumoniae isolates belonging to CC15. By antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole genome sequencing and analysis, we obtained the resistant phenotypes and genotypes of these isolates. Twenty-one isolates (84%) were carbapenem-resistant, and eighteen were blaKPC-2 positive. In addition, ten isolates were identified as putative hvKp and seven were carbapenem-resistant hvKp. Nine isolates carried the pLVPK-like virulence plasmid, which contains the fragment including rmpA2, peg-589, iutA, and iucABCD. Another isolate carried iucA. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolates belonged to four lineages, and the putative hvKp isolates were identified in three of these. Two independent sublineages of putative hvKp were caused by the acquisition of pLVPK-like virulence plasmid. Based on comparative genomic analysis, the number of pairwise single nucleotide polymorphisms amongst the four sublineages, Lineage 1a, 1b, 2a, and 2b, were 1–43, 2–13, 129–279, and 3–4, respectively, indicating clonal transmission of Lineage 1a, 1b, and 2b. These results indicate that multiple lineages of CC15 carbapenem-resistant hvKp have emerged in the hospital and caused nosocomial transmission, and that the spreading of virulence plasmids among classic K. pneumoniae subtypes might become more common and happen more easily. These findings highlight the importance of surveillance of local epidemics of non-CC258 subgroups in hospitals.
Pharmacist-Managed Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Programs within Australian Hospital and Health Services—A National Survey of Current Practice
Authors: Firman Paul , Tan Ken-Soon , Clavarino Alexandra , Taing Meng-Wong , Whitfield Karen
Published: October 2022

Pharmacist-managed therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) services have demonstrated positive outcomes in the literature, including reduced duration of therapy and decreased incidence of the adverse effects of drug therapy. Although the evidence has demonstrated the benefits of these TDM services, this has predominately been within international healthcare systems. The extent to which pharmacist-managed TDM services exist within Australia, and the roles and responsibilities of the pharmacists involved compared to their counterparts in other countries, remains largely unknown. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted evaluating pharmacist-managed TDM programs within Australian hospital and healthcare settings. Pharmacist perceptions were also explored about the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and barriers associated with implementing a pharmacist-managed TDM service. A total of 92 surveys were returned, which represents a response rate of 38%. Pharmacist-managed TDM programs were present in 15% of respondents. It is only in the minority of hospitals where there is a pharmacist-managed service, with pharmacists involved in recommending pathology and medication doses. The programs highlighted improved patient outcomes but had difficulty maintaining the educational packages and training. For hospitals without a service, a lack of funding and time were highlighted as barriers. Based on the findings of this survey, there is minimal evidence of pharmacist-managed TDM models within Australian hospital and health services. A standardized national approach to pharmacist-managed TDM services and recognition of this specialist area for pharmacists could be a potential solution to this.
Pharmacotherapy Problems in Best Possible Medication History of Hospital Admission in the Elderly
Authors: Marinović Ivana , Samardžić Ivana , Falamić Slaven , Bačić Vrca Vesna
Published: October 2022

Transfer of care is a sensitive process, especially for the elderly. Polypharmacy, potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs), drug-drug interactions (DDIs), and renal risk drugs (RRDs) are important issues in the elderly. The aim of the study was to expand the use of the Best Possible Medication History (BPMH) and to evaluate polypharmacy, PIMs, DDIs, and inappropriately prescribed RRDs on hospital admission, as well as to determine their mutual relationship and association with patients’ characteristics. An observational prospective study was conducted at the Internal Medicine Clinic of Clinical Hospital Dubrava. The study included 383 elderly patients. Overall, 49.9% of patients used 5–9 prescription medications and 31.8% used 10 or more medications. EU(7)-PIMs occurred in 80.7% (n = 309) of the participants. In total, 90.6% of participants had ≥1 potential DDI. In total, 43.6% of patients were found to have estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, of which 64.7% of patients had one or more inappropriately prescribed RRDs. The clinical pharmacist detected a high incidence of polypharmacy, PIMs, DDIs, and inappropriately prescribed RRDs on hospital admission. This study highlights the importance of early detection of pharmacotherapy problems by using the BPMH in order to prevent their circulation during a hospital stay. The positive correlations between polypharmacy, PIMs, DDIs, and inappropriately prescribed RRDs indicate that they are not independent, but rather occur simultaneously.
Femtosecond Laser Direct Writing of Antireflection Microstructures on the Front and Back Sides of a GaSe Crystal
Authors: Yelisseyev Alexander , Fedyaj Vladislav , Simonov Victor , Isaenko Ludmila , Lobanov Sergey , Shklyaev Alexander , Simanchuk Andrey , Babin Sergey , Dostovalov Alexander
Published: October 2022

The development of antireflection coatings is crucially important to improve the performance of various photonic devices, for example, to increase the efficiency of harmonic generators based on high-refractive index crystals with significant Fresnel losses. A promising technique for the reducing of radiation reflection is to change the refractive index by fabrication of antireflection microstructures (ARM) on the surface. This paper presents the results of ARM direct writing on the surfaces of a nonlinear GaSe crystal (of ε modification, according to Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy data) using fs laser radiation and a multiples approach. An increase in transmission from 65% to 80% for an ARM fabricated on one side of the crystal and up to 94% for ARMs fabricated on both sides is demonstrated. The increase in transmission with the increasing pulse energy, as well as with an increase in the number of pulses used for the formation of a single crater, is shown. The experimental results of ARM transmission of GaSe are in qualitative agreement with the simulation results based on the measured profiles and morphology of the ARM structures.
The Effect of the Spin and Orbital Parts of the Poynting Vector on Light Localization in Solid-Core Micro-Structured Optical Fibers
Authors: Alagashev Grigory , Stafeev Sergey , Kotlyar Victor , Pryamikov Andrey
Published: October 2022

The optical properties of solid-core micro-structured optical fibers (SC MOFs) have been studied for a long time. The process of the energy outflow of the core modes has always been associated with the process of constructive interference of the core modes fields under reflection from the photonic crystal cladding. In this paper, we want to offer a new look at the light localization in the core of SC MOFs related to the behavior of spin and orbital parts of the Poynting vector of these core modes and singularities arising in it. Such an approach can help in forming a better understanding of the process of the core modes energy leakage and also in the creation of SC MOFs with a simplified design and low losses.
Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Leaf Extract Concentration Affects Performance and Oxidative Stress in Green Peach Aphids (Myzus persicae (Sulzer)
Authors: Quandahor Peter , Gou Yuping , Lin Chunyan , Liu Changzhong
Published: October 2022

This study was conducted to determine the aphicidal effect of a leaf extract of the Atlantic potato cultivar on the performance of green peach aphids. Three concentrations of the leaf extract (100, 75, and 50% potato extract), synthetic pesticide (Beta cypermethrin 4.5%), and distilled water (control) treatments were applied in a greenhouse experiment. The results showed that the synthetic pesticide, which was used as a standard check, caused the maximum aphid mortality, followed by the 100% potato leaf extract. Compared with the other botanical treatments, the 100% extract produced low mean rates of survival, aphids’ average daily reproduction, the number of nymphs per plant, and the number of nymphs per adult. This treatment also increased the accumulation of hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione-s-transferase, mixed-function oxidase, and carboxylesterase content in the green peach aphid. Moreover, the 100% extract also protected the host plants against green peach aphid attacks by demonstrating higher chlorophyll content, net photosynthesis, above-ground fresh weight, and above-ground dry weight of the host plant. This study demonstrates that the highest concentration of potato (Atlantic cultivar) leaf extract (100% extract) could be used as the appropriate dosage for the control of green peach aphids on potatoes, which could greatly reduce the use of synthetic insecticides and promote ecosystem sustainability.
Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Physiological and Biochemical Responses in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Voloshina Marina , Rajput Vishnu , Minkina Tatiana , Vechkanov Evgeniy , Mandzhieva Saglara , Mazarji Mahmoud , Churyukina Ella , Plotnikov Andrey , Krepakova Maria , Wong Ming
Published: October 2022

This work aimed to study the toxic implications of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the physio-biochemical responses of spring barley (Hordeum sativum L.). The experiments were designed in a hydroponic system, and H. sativum was treated with two concentrations of ZnO NPs, namely 300 and 2000 mg/L. The findings demonstrated that ZnO NPs prevent the growth of H. sativum through the modulation of the degree of oxidative stress and the metabolism of antioxidant enzymes. The results showed increased malondialdehyde (MDA) by 1.17- and 1.69-fold, proline by 1.03- and 1.09-fold, and catalase (CAT) by 1.4- and 1.6-fold in shoots for ZnO NPs at 300 and 2000 mg/L, respectively. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased by 2 and 3.3 times, ascorbate peroxidase (APOX) by 1.2 and 1.3 times, glutathione-s-transferase (GST) by 1.2 and 2.5 times, and glutathione reductase (GR) by 1.8 and 1.3 times in roots at 300 and 2000 mg/L, respectively. However, the level of δ-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) decreased by 1.4 and 1.3 times in roots and by 1.1 times in both treatments (nano-300 and nano-2000), respectively, indicating changes in the chlorophyll metabolic pathway. The outcomes can be utilized to create a plan of action for plants to withstand the stress brought on by the presence of NPs.
Preparation and Properties of Electrospun PLLA/PTMC Scaffolds
Authors: Jiang Dengbang , Zou Haoying , Zhang Heng , Zhao Wan , Lan Yaozhong , Yuan Mingwei
Published: October 2022

Poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and PLLA/poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) scaffolds characterised by different PLLA:PTMC mass ratios (10:0, 9:1, 8:2, 7:3, 6:4 and 5:5) were prepared via electrospinning. The results showed that increasing the PTMC content in the spinning solution caused the following effects: (1) the diameter of the prepared PLLA/PTMC electrospun fibres gradually increased from 188.12 ± 48.87 nm (10:0) to 584.01 ± 60.68 nm (5:5), (2) electrospun fibres with uniform diameters and no beads could be prepared at the PTMC contents of >30%, (3) the elastic modulus of the fibre initially increased and then decreased, reaching a maximum value of 74.49 ± 8.22 Mpa (5:5) and (4) the elongation at the breaking point of the fibres increased gradually from 24.71% to 344.85%. Compared with the PLLA electrospun fibrous membrane, the prepared PLLA/PTMC electrospun fibrous membrane exhibited considerably improved mechanical properties while maintaining good histocompatibility.
Lithium-Ion Cell Characterization, Using Hybrid Current Pulses, for Subsequent Battery Simulation in Mobility Applications
Authors: Nacu Rares Catalin , Fodorean Daniel
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a characterization method for a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pouch cell is presented and evaluated, using a method that applies to hybrid current pulses called hybrid power pulse characterization (HPPC). The purpose of the study is to validate the developed mathematical model capable of offering good results for virtualization of the cell with extrapolation capability for the entire battery. This type of characterization was tested before but on cells with low capacity where relatively small currents were applied. Here, the model is intended to be used for the development of electrical mobility applications, such as electric vehicles (EV) and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), where high capacity and currents are required through the cell. The comparison between the real and simulated cell was made with two sets of results obtained from HPPC and using the FTP-72 speed profile by emulating real current conditions, where both show that the method is reliable under the tested conditions and can be used for the considered application.
Low-Field NMR Analyses of Gels and Starch-Stabilized Emulsions with Modified Potato Starches
Authors: Baranowska Hanna Maria , Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz
Published: October 2022

Many different biopolymers are used to stabilize emulsions, of which starch is of particular concern. To improve the characteristics and technical utility of native starch, various types of changes can be made. This article is a report describing the molecular dynamics of water by the low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF NMR) of chemically (E 1412 and E 1420) and physically modified starch (LU 1432) gels and the effect of their use on the stability of oil/water emulsions obtained using bovine and porcine fats. The analysis of changes in spin–spin and spin–lattice relaxation times over time showed that the presence of the type of starch modification significantly affects the values of T1 and T2 relaxation times, as well as the correlation times. Research on time-related changes in water binding in oil-in-water emulsions showed that potato starch modified by chemical methods can be used as an emulsifier. Compared to physically modified starch, chemically modified starches have a much better water-binding capacity.
Characterization, Chemical Compounds and Biological Activities of Marrubium vulgare L. Essential Oil
Authors: Rached Sara , Imtara Hamada , Habsaoui Amar , Mzioud Khaoula , Haida Sara , Saleh Asmaa , Al kamaly Omkulthom , Alahdab Ahmad , Parvez Mohammad , Ourras Samah , El Fartah Souad
Published: October 2022

As consumer trends shift towards more natural and ecological consumption patterns, industrialists are actively working towards substituting synthetic chemicals with natural and vegan products that contain bioactive properties. Thus, considering the shifts in customer demand and the growing concern around vegetable sourced productions, this work aims to contribute to the valorization of aromatic and medicinal Moroccan plants. By focusing on the Marrubium vulgare L. species, our objective is to carry out a physicochemical characterization to determine its chemical composition and biological activities. The volatile fraction collected by hydrodistillation (0.61%) and analyzed by GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry) contains five main compounds: 3-Thujanone, Eugenol, Topanol, Menthone and Piperitone. The antioxidant activity has been estimated by applying the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging test and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The values of inhibitory concentration prove that our oil is a good antioxidant, with values of IC50 = 1.136 mg/mL and IC50 = 2.998 mg/mL, respectively, for the DPPH and FRAP tests. The results of the antifungal activity indicate a significant inhibition of mycelial growth for both tested molds, as well as a total inhibition of spore production at a concentration of 0.25 µL/mL.
Determining the Effect of Process Parameters on Shearing Strength of Rotated Clinching Joint Using the Response Surface Method
Authors: He Yulin , Yang Lianfa , Dang Jing , Gao Aliang , Ma Jianping
Published: October 2022

Rotated clinching is a novel cold plastic deformation joining process, which is suitable for the multi-point simultaneous joining of sheet metals. However, the effect of various parameters on the mechanical properties of joints using rotated clinching remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to analyse the important parameters that affect the joint’s shearing strength and relationship between them. The relational expression between the four process parameters (die depth, rotation angle, small fillet radius and large fillet radius) and joint shearing strength was established using the response surface method. Additionally, the quantitative relationship between them was expressed by this relational expression, and the significance of process parameters were evaluated using the analysis of variance. The results revealed that the most significant parameter regarding the shearing strength was die depth h, with the contribution of 47.1%, followed by rotation angle α and small fillet radius r1, with the contributions of 26.8% and 8.2%, respectively, whereas the large fillet radius R1 is the least significant, there is a significant interaction effect between R1 and α, with the contribution of 5.4%. The shearing strength had a negative relationship with the die depth h and small fillet r1, whereas it had a positive relationship with rotation angle α. The predicted maximum value of the shearing strength was 1231.92 N at h = 2.29 mm, r1 = 0.46 mm, R1 = 1.27 mm and α = 18.45° in the range of given design parameter values. The experimental values of the shearing strength comprised approximately 74% of the predicted values.
Sorption of Mercury in Batch and Fixed-Bed Column System on Hydrochar Obtained from Apple Pomace
Authors: Szostak Krzysztof , Hodacka Gabriela , Długosz Olga , Pulit-Prociak Jolanta , Banach Marcin
Published: October 2022

This paper presents the methodology for the preparation of hydrochar obtained from waste materials of natural origin and investigates its applicability for removing mercury ions from aqueous systems. The sorption properties of the obtained hydrochar were investigated in a batch and in a flow-through column system. The hydrochar material was obtained from apple pomace, which was hydrothermally carbonized in 230 °C for 5 h in a hydrothermal reactor. The hydrochar formed in the process was thermally activated with an inert gas flow—CO2. Obtained materials were characterised with XRD, FTIR-ATR, SEM-EDS and nitrogen sorption (BET) analyses, which confirmed the obtaining of a highly porous carbon material with a specific surface area of 145.72 m2/g and an average pore diameter of 1.93 nm. The obtained hydrochar was analysed for sorption of mercury ions from aqueous solutions. Equilibrium isotherms (Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin–Radushkevich, Temkin, Hill, Redlich-Peterson, Sips and Toth) and kinetic models (pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order, Elovich and intraparticle diffusion) were determined. The sorption process of mercury on the obtained material is best described using the Freundlich isotherm and a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. This indicates that the process is chemical in nature The sorption of mercury ions from an aqueous solution with a concentration of C0 = 100 mg Hg/dm3 has been also carried out in a flow-through column system. The data obtained from adsorption were fitted to mathematical dynamic models (Bohart–Adams, Thomas, Yoon–Nelson, Clark, BDST and Yan) to illustrate the bed breakthrough curves and to determine the characteristic column parameters. The Yan model has the best fit across the study area, although the Thomas model better predicts the maximum capacity of the bed, which is qmax = 111.5 mg/g.