bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Gate Geometry on the Characteristics of AlGaN/GaN Nanochannel HEMTs for High-Linearity Applications
Authors: Zhang Meng , Chen Yilin , Guo Siyin , Lu Hao , Zhu Qing , Mi Minhan , Wu Mei , Hou Bin , Yang Ling , Ma Xiaohua , Hao Yue
Published: July 2023

In this study, AlGaN/GaN nanochannel high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) with tri-gate (TGN-devices) and dual-gate (DGN-devices) structures were fabricated and investigated. It was found that the peak value of the transconductance (Gm), current gain cut-off frequency (fT) and power gain cut-off frequency (fmax) of the TGN-devices were larger than that of the DGN-devices because of the enhanced gate control from the top gate. Although the TGN-devices and DGN-devices demonstrated flattened transconductance, fT and fmax profiles, the first and second transconductance derivatives of the DGN-devices were lower than those of the TGN-devices, implying an improvement in linearity. With the nanochannel width decreased, the peak value of the transconductance and the first and second transconductance derivatives increased, implying the predominant influence of sidewall gate capacitance on the transconductance and linearity. The comparison of gate capacitance for the TGN-devices and DGN-devices revealed that the gate capacitance of the tri-gate structure was not simply a linear superposition of the top planar gate capacitance and sidewall gate capacitance of the dual-gate structure, which could be attributed to the difference in the depletion region shape for tri-gate and dual-gate structures.
Biologically Active Compounds from Probiotic Microorganisms and Plant Extracts Used as Biopreservatives
Authors: Teneva Desislava , Denev Petko
Published: July 2023

Ensuring the microbiological safety of food products is a pressing global concern. With the increasing resistance of microorganisms to chemical agents and the declining effectiveness of synthetic preservatives, there is a growing need for alternative sources of natural, bioactive compounds with antimicrobial activity. The incorporation of probiotics and plant extracts into food formulations not only enriches foodstuffs with microorganisms and phytochemicals with biologically active compounds, but also provides a means for product preservation. The current review considers the importance of the process of biological preservation for providing safe foods with high biological value, natural origin and composition, and prolonged shelf life, thereby improving consumers’ quality of life. To accomplish this goal, this review presents a series of examples showcasing natural preservatives, including beneficial bacteria, yeasts, and their metabolites, as well as phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and alkaloids from plant extracts. By summarizing numerous studies, identifying research challenges and regulatory barriers for their wider use, and outlining future directions for investigation, this article makes an original contribution to the field of biopreservation.
Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of Exopolysaccharides Produced by Lysobacter soyae sp. nov Isolated from the Root of Glycine max L.
Authors: Kim Inhyup , Chhetri Geeta , So Yoonseop , Park Sunho , Jung Yonghee , Woo Haejin , Seo Taegun
Published: July 2023

Microbial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) have attracted attention from several fields due to their high industrial applicability. In the present study, rhizosphere strain CJ11T was isolated from the root of Glycine max L. in Goyang-si, Republic of Korea, and a novel exopolysaccharide was purified from the Lysobacter sp. CJ11T fermentation broth. The exopolysaccharide’s average molecular weight was 0.93 × 105 Da. Its monosaccharide composition included 72.2% mannose, 17.2% glucose, 7.8% galactose, and 2.8% arabinose. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified the exopolysaccharide carbohydrate polymer functional groups, and the structural properties were investigated using nuclear magnetic resonance. In addition, a microstructure of lyophilized EPS was determined by scanning electron microscopy. Using thermogravimetric analysis, the degradation of the exopolysaccharide produced by strain CJ11T was determined to be 210 °C. The exopolysaccharide at a concentration of 4 mg/mL exhibited 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free-radical-scavenging activity of 73.47%. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequencing results revealed that strain CJ11T was a novel isolate for which the name Lysobacter soyae sp. nov is proposed.
Updates on the Virulence Factors Produced by Multidrug-Resistant Enterobacterales and Strategies to Control Their Infections
Authors: Azam Mohd W. , Zarrilli Raffaele , Khan Asad U.
Published: July 2023

The Enterobacterales order is a massive group of Gram-negative bacteria comprised of pathogenic and nonpathogenic members, including beneficial commensal gut microbiota. The pathogenic members produce several pathogenic or virulence factors that enhance their pathogenic properties and increase the severity of the infection. The members of Enterobacterales can also develop resistance against the common antimicrobial agents, a phenomenon called antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Many pathogenic Enterobacterales members are known to possess antimicrobial resistance. This review discusses the virulence factors, pathogenicity, and infections caused by multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales, especially E. coli and some other bacterial species sharing similarities with the Enterobacterales members. We also discuss both conventional and modern approaches used to combat the infections caused by them. Understanding the virulence factors produced by the pathogenic bacteria will help develop novel strategies and methods to treat infections caused by them.
Cross-Linked Enzyme Aggregate (CLEA) Preparation from Waste Activated Sludge
Authors: Liu Ziyi , Smith Stephen R.
Published: July 2023

Enzymes are used extensively as industrial bio-catalysts in various manufacturing and processing sectors. However, commercial enzymes are expensive in part due to the high cost of the nutrient medium for the biomass culture. Activated sludge (AS) is a waste product of biological wastewater treatment and consists of microbial biomass that degrades organic matter by producing substantial quantities of hydrolytic enzymes. Recovering enzymes from AS therefore offers a potential alternative to conventional production techniques. A carrier-free, cross-linked enzyme aggregate (CLEA) was produced from crude AS enzyme extract for the first time. A major advantage of the CLEA is the combined immobilization, purification, and stabilization of the crude enzymes into a single step, thereby avoiding large amounts of inert carriers in the final enzyme product. The AS CLEA contained a variety of hydrolytic enzymes and demonstrated high potential for the bio-conversion of complex organic substrates.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Use of Anti-Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Agents for Aspiration Pneumonia in Older Patients Using a Nationwide Japanese Administrative Database
Authors: Koga Satoru , Takazono Takahiro , Kido Takashi , Muramatsu Keiji , Tokutsu Kei , Tokito Takatomo , Okuno Daisuke , Ito Yuya , Yura Hirokazu , Takeda Kazuaki , Iwanaga Naoki , Ishimoto Hiroshi , Sakamoto Noriho , Yatera Kazuhiro , Izumikawa Koichi , Yanagihara Katsunori , Fujino Yoshihisa , Fushimi Kiyohide , Matsuda Shinya , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: July 2023

Studies indicated potential harm from empirical broad-spectrum therapy. A recent study of hospitalizations for community-acquired pneumonia suggested that empirical anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) therapy was associated with an increased risk of death and other complications. However, limited evidence supports empirical anti-MRSA therapy for older patients with aspiration pneumonia. In a nationwide Japanese database, patients aged ≥65 years on admission with aspiration pneumonia were analyzed. Patients were divided based on presence of respiratory failure and further sub-categorized based on their condition within 3 days of hospital admission, either receiving a combination of anti-MRSA agents and other antibiotics, or not using MRSA agents. An inverse probability weighting method with estimated propensity scores was used. Out of 81,306 eligible patients, 55,098 had respiratory failure, and 26,208 did not. In the group with and without respiratory failure, 0.93% and 0.42% of the patients, respectively, received anti-MRSA agents. In patients with respiratory failure, in-hospital mortality (31.38% vs. 19.03%, p < 0.001), 30-day mortality, and 90-day mortality were significantly higher, and oxygen administration length was significantly longer in the anti-MRSA agent combination group. Anti-MRSA agent combination use did not improve the outcomes in older patients with aspiration pneumonia and respiratory failure, and should be carefully and comprehensively considered.
Acaricidal Biominerals and Mode-of-Action Studies against Adult Blacklegged Ticks, Ixodes scapularis
Authors: Cave Grayson L. , Richardson Elise A. , Chen Kaiying , Watson David W. , Roe R. Michael
Published: July 2023

Ticks in the USA are the most important arthropod vector of microbes that cause human and animal disease. The blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis, the focus of this study, is able to transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease in humans in the USA. The main approach to tick control is the use of chemical acaricides and repellents, but known and potential tick resistance to these chemicals requires the discovery of new methods of control. Volcanic glass, Imergard, was recently developed to mimic the insecticide mode of action of the minerals from diatoms (diatomaceous earth, DE) for the control of malaria mosquitoes in Africa. However, studies on the use of these minerals for tick control are minimal. In a dipping assay, which was put into DE (Celite), the times of 50 and 90% death of adult female I. scapularis were 7.3 and 10.5 h, respectively. Our mimic of DE, Imergard, killed ticks in 6.7 and 11.2 h, respectively. In a choice-mortality assay, ticks moved onto a treated surface of Imergard and died at 11.2 and 15.8 h, respectively. Ticks had greater locomotor activity before death when treated by dipping for both Imergard and Celite versus the no-mineral control. The ticks after making contact with Imergard had the mineral covering most of their body surface shown by scanning electron microscopy with evidence of Imergard inside their respiratory system. Although the assumed mode of action of Imergard and Celite is dehydration, the minerals are not hygroscopic, there was no evidence of cuticle damage, and death occurred in as little as 2 h, suggesting minimal abrasive action of the cuticle. Semi-field and field studies are needed in the future to examine the practical use of Imergard and Celite for tick control, and studies need to examine their effect on tick breathing and respiratory retention of water.
Old Folks, Bad Boon: Antimicrobial Resistance in the Infant Gut Microbiome
Authors: Saturio Silvia , Rey Alejandra , Samarra Anna , Collado Maria Carmen , Suárez Marta , Mantecón Laura , Solís Gonzalo , Gueimonde Miguel , Arboleya Silvia
Published: July 2023

The development of the intestinal microbiome in the neonate starts, mainly, at birth, when the infant receives its founding microbial inoculum from the mother. This microbiome contains genes conferring resistance to antibiotics since these are found in some of the microorganisms present in the intestine. Similarly to microbiota composition, the possession of antibiotic resistance genes is affected by different perinatal factors. Moreover, antibiotics are the most used drugs in early life, and the use of antibiotics in pediatrics covers a wide variety of possibilities and treatment options. The disruption in the early microbiota caused by antibiotics may be of great relevance, not just because it may limit colonization by beneficial microorganisms and increase that of potential pathogens, but also because it may increase the levels of antibiotic resistance genes. The increase in antibiotic-resistant microorganisms is one of the major public health threats that humanity has to face and, therefore, understanding the factors that determine the development of the resistome in early life is of relevance. Recent advancements in sequencing technologies have enabled the study of the microbiota and the resistome at unprecedent levels. These aspects are discussed in this review as well as some potential interventions aimed at reducing the possession of resistance genes.
The Hepatitis B Virus Genotypes E to J: The Overlooked Genotypes
Authors: Toyé Rayana Maryse , Loureiro Carmen Luisa , Jaspe Rossana Celeste , Zoulim Fabien , Pujol Flor Helene , Chemin Isabelle
Published: July 2023

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes E to J are understudied genotypes. Genotype E is found almost exclusively in West Africa. Genotypes F and H are found in America and are rare in other parts of the world. The distribution of genotype G is not completely known. Genotypes I and J are found in Asia and probably result from recombination events with other genotypes. The number of reported sequences for HBV genotypes E to J is small compared to other genotypes, which could impact phylogenetic and pairwise distance analyses. Genotype F is the most divergent of the HBV genotypes and is subdivided into six subgenotypes F1 to F6. Genotype E may be a recent genotype circulating almost exclusively in sub-Saharan Africa. Genotype J is a putative genotype originating from a single Japanese patient. The paucity of data from sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America is due to the under-representation of these regions in clinical and research cohorts. The purpose of this review is to highlight the need for further research on HBV genotypes E to J, which appear to be overlooked genotypes.
Antimicrobial Resistance and Biofilm Formation of Escherichia coli Isolated from Pig Farms and Surroundings in Bulgaria
Authors: Kaleva Mila D. , Ilieva Yana , Zaharieva Maya Margaritova , Dimitrova Lyudmila , Kim Tanya Chan , Tsvetkova Iva , Georgiev Yordan , Orozova Petya , Nedev Krasimir , Najdenski Hristo
Published: July 2023

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a ubiquitous microorganism with pathogenic and saprophytic clones. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence, virulence, antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation of E. coli in three industrial farms in Bulgaria, as well as their adjacent sites related to the utilization of manure (feces, wastewater in a separator, lagoons, means of transport, and soils). The isolation of single bacterial cultures was performed via standard procedures with modifications, and E. coli isolates were identified via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disk diffusion method was used to assess antimicrobial resistance, and PCR was used to detect genes for antibiotic resistance (GAR) (qnr, aac(3), ampC, blaSHV/blaTEM and erm) and virulence genes (stx, stx2all, LT, STa, F4 and eae). The protocol of Stepanović was utilized to measure the biofilm formation of the isolates. A total of 84 isolates from different samples (n = 53) were identified as E. coli. Almost all demonstrated antimicrobial resistance, and most of them demonstrated resistance to multiple antibiotics from different classes. No virulence genes coding the Shiga toxin or enterotoxins or those associated with enteropathogenicity were detected. No GAR from those tested for quinolones, aminoglycosides and macrolides were found. However, all isolates that were resistant to a penicillin-class antibiotic (56) had β-lactamase-producing plasmid genes. All of them had ampC, and 34 of them had blaTEM. A total of 14 isolates formed strongly adherent biofilms. These results in a country where the use of antibiotics for growth promotion and prophylaxis in farms is highly restricted corroborate that the global implemented policy on antibiotics in human medicine and in animal husbandry needs revision.
Potential Self-Attenuation of Arsenic by Indigenous Microorganisms in the Nakdong River
Authors: Won Sangmin , Shin Chajeong , Kang Ho Young
Published: July 2023

The toxic element arsenic (As) has become the major focus of global research owing to its harmful effects on human health, resulting in the establishment of several guidelines to prevent As contamination. The widespread industrial use of As has led to its accumulation in the environment, increasing the necessity to develop effective remediation technologies. Among various treatments, such as chemical, physical, and biological treatments, used to remediate As-contaminated environments, biological methods are the most economical and eco-friendly. Microbial oxidation of arsenite (As(III)) to arsenate (As(V)) is a primary detoxification strategy for As remediation as it reduces As toxicity and alters its mobility in the environment. Here, we evaluated the self-detoxification potential of microcosms isolated from Nakdong River water by investigating the autotrophic and heterotrophic oxidation of As(III) to As(V). Experimental data revealed that As(III) was oxidized to As(V) during the autotrophic and heterotrophic growth of river water microcosms. However, the rate of oxidation was significantly higher under heterotrophic conditions because of the higher cell growth and density in an organic-matter-rich environment compared to that under autotrophic conditions without the addition of external organic matter. At an As(III) concentration > 5 mM, autotrophic As(III) oxidation remained incomplete, even after an extended incubation time. This inhibition can be attributed to the toxic effect of the high contaminant concentration on bacterial growth and the acidification of the growth medium with the oxidation of As(III) to As(V). Furthermore, we isolated representative pure cultures from both heterotrophic- and autotrophic-enriched cultures. The new isolates revealed new members of As(III)-oxidizing bacteria in the diversified bacterial community. This study highlights the natural process of As attenuation within river systems, showing that microcosms in river water can detoxify As under both organic-matter-rich and -deficient conditions. Additionally, we isolated the bacterial strains HTAs10 and ATAs5 from the microcosm which can be further investigated for potential use in As remediation systems. Our findings provide insights into the microbial ecology of As(III) oxidation in river ecosystems and provide a foundation for further investigations into the application of these bacteria for bioremediation.
Safety and Tolerability of Six Months of Isoniazid Plus Pyridoxine or Three Months of Rifampicin for Tuberculosis among Subjects with Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Tamez-Torres Karla M. , Mongua-Rodríguez Norma , Ferreyra-Reyes Leticia , Torres-Gonzalez Pedro , Delgado-Sánchez Guadalupe , Martínez-Hernández Maribel , Bobadilla-del-Valle Miriam , Jasso-Sosa Velma Y. , López-Castillo Priscila del S. , Ferreira-Guerrero Elizabeth , Cruz-Hervert Luis Pablo , Sifuentes-Osornio Jose , Aguilar-Salinas Carlos A. , García-García Lourdes , Ponce-de-Leon Alfredo
Published: July 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing problem, particularly in low- and medium-resource countries. We conducted an open-label, parallel-group, randomized, and controlled trial in a tertiary care center in Mexico City to assess TB preventive treatment (TPT) with isoniazid (INH) or rifampicin (RIF) in people with type 2 DM. Participants were assigned six months of INH 300 mg/day plus pyridoxine 75 mg or three months of RIF 600 mg/day. The primary outcomes were adverse events resulting in permanent treatment cessation and considered possibly or probably related to study drugs. We included 130 subjects, 68 randomized to INH and 62 to RIF. We prematurely halted the study based on recommendations of the Adverse Event Safety Panel. There was no difference between arms in the overall frequency of adverse events. However, the INH group had significantly more permanent treatment interruptions due to grade 2 recurrent or grade 3 or 4 hepatoxicity. In comparison, the RIF arm had more treatment interruptions due to grade 3 or 4 gastrointestinal intolerance. TPT using INH or RIF is not safe enough to be considered a universal indication to patients with type 2 DM and TB infection. These results underline the need to search for alternative TB preventions with better safety profiles for type 2 DM patients.
CD147 rs8259T>A Variant Confers Susceptibility to COVID-19 Infection within the Mexican Population
Authors: Amezcua-Guerra Luis M. , Guzmán-Martín Carlos A. , Montúfar-Robles Isela , Springall Rashidi , Hernández-Díazcouder Adrián , Barbosa-Cobos Rosa Elda , Sánchez-Muñoz Fausto , Ramírez-Bello Julián
Published: July 2023

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Clinical manifestations of COVID-19 range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe respiratory failure. Nowadays, extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN), also known as cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147) or BASIGIN, has been studied as enabling viral entry and replication within host cells. However, the impact of the CD147 rs8259T>A single nucleotide variant (SNV) on SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility remains poorly investigated. Objective: To investigate the impact of rs8259T>A on the CD147 gene in individuals from Mexico with COVID-19 disease. Methods: We genotyped the CD147 rs8359T>A SNV in 195 patients with COVID-19 and 185 healthy controls from Mexico. In addition, we also measured the expression levels of CD147 and TNF mRNA and miR-492 from whole blood of patients with COVID-19 through RT-q-PCR. Results: We observed a significant association between the CD147 rs8259T>A SNV and susceptibility to COVID-19: T vs. A; OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.02–1.81; p = 0.037; and TT vs. AA; OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.01–3.09; p = 0.046. On the other hand, we did not find differences in CD147, TNF or miR-492 expression levels when considering the genotypes of the CD147 rs8259T>A SNV. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the CD147 rs8259T>A variant is a risk factor for COVID-19.
Probiotic Properties of Pediococcus pentosaceus JBCC 106 and Its Lactic Acid Fermentation on Broccoli Juice
Authors: Park Sang-Kyu , Jin Hao , Song Nho-Eul , Baik Sang-Ho
Published: July 2023

To understand the biological roles of Pediococcus pentosaceus strains as probiotics isolated from the traditional Korean fermented food, Jangajji, Pediococcus pentosaceus was selected based on its high cinnamoyl esterase (CE) and antioxidant activities. The acid and bile stability, intestinal adhesion, antagonistic activity against human pathogens, cholesterol-lowering effects, and immune system stimulation without inflammatory effects were evaluated. Nitric oxide (NO) levels were measured in co-culture with various bacterial stimulants. Fermentation ability was measured by using a broccoli matrix and the sulforaphane levels were measured. Resistance to acidic and bilious conditions and 8% adherence to Caco-2 cells were observed. Cholesterol levels were lowered by 51% by assimilation. Moreover, these strains exhibited immunomodulatory properties with induction of macrophage TNF-α and IL-6 and had microstatic effects on various pathogens. Co-culture with various bacterial stimulants resulted in increased NO production. Fermentation activity was increased with the strains, and higher sulforaphane levels were observed. Therefore, in the future, the applicability of the selected strain to broccoli matrix-based fermented functional foods should be confirmed.
Implications of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infected Hospitalised Patients with Co-Infections and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Aldali Jehad A. , Aldali Hamzah J. , Aljohani Razan , Algahtani Mohammad , Meo Sultan Ayoub , Alharbi Saad , Al-Afghani Hani , Aldabaseh Linda Nazmi , Al Rubai Elham Hamed , Fallata Abdulaziz , Zahrani Saleh Abdullah , Al Zahrani Mohanad Atiah
Published: July 2023

The clinical severity of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may rise because of acquiring a co-infection during the hospital stay of the patients. The rate of hospital co-infection alongside COVID-19 infection remains low. However, the mortality rates and intensive care unit (ICU) admission remains ambiguous. The present study investigates the implications of COVID-19 hospitalised infected patients with co-infection and the clinical outcomes. In this study, 142 patients were included. The eligible patients who tested positive for COVID-19 infection were hospitalised for more than two days. Each patient’s characteristics and laboratory results were collected, such as who was admitted to the intensive care unit and who was discharged or expired. The results revealed that out of the 142 hospitalised patients, 25 (17.6%) were co-infection positive, and 12 identified types of co-infection: two Gram-positive bacterial infections, one fungal infection and nine Gram-negative bacterial infections. In addition, 33 (23.2%) were ICU admitted, 21 were co-infection negative and 12 were co-infection positive. Among the 12 ICU admitted with co-infection, 33.4% were discharged. The death rate and ICU admission had a p-value < 0.05, indicating statistical significance for co-infected patients compared to non-co-infected patients. It was concluded that co-infection remains very low within hospitalised COVID-19-infected patients but can have severe outcomes with increased ICU admission and increased mortality rates. Thus, implementing infection preventive measures to minimize the spread of hospital-acquired infections among COVID-19 hospitalised patients.
Comparative Genetic Characterization of CTX-M-Producing Escherichia coli Isolated from Humans and Pigs with Diarrhea in Korea Using Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Seo Kwang-Won , Do Kyung-Hyo , Lee Wan-Kyu
Published: July 2023

Pathogenic E. coli causes intra- and extraintestinal diseases in humans and pigs and third-generation cephalosporins are the primary option for the treatment of these diseases. The objective of this study was to investigate the characteristics and correlation between CTX-M-producing E. coli from humans and pigs regarding CTX-M-producing E. coli using next-generation sequencing and bioinformatic tools. Among the 24 CTX-M–producing E. coli, three types of CTX-M genes (CTX-M-12, CTX-M-14, and CTX-M-15) were detected in humans and four types of CTX-M genes (CTX-M-14, CTX-M-15, CTX-M-55, and CTX-M-101) were detected in pigs. A total of 24 CTX-M–producing E. coli isolates also showed the following antimicrobial resistance genes: other B-Lactam resistance gene (75.0%); aminoglycoside resistance genes (75.0%); phenicol resistance genes (70.8%); tetracycline resistance genes (70.8%); sulfonamide resistance genes (66.7%); quinolone resistance genes (62.5%); trimethoprim resistance genes (54.2%); and fosfomycin resistance genes (8.3%). FII (92.3%) and FIB (90.9%) were the most common plasmid replicon in humans and pigs, respectively. A total of thirty-eight different genes associated with virulence 24 CTX-M–producing E. coli and all isolates contained at least more than one virulence gene. A total of 24 CTX-M–producing E. coli isolates showed 15 diverse sequence types (STs): thirteen isolates from human belonged to 6 different STs, and 11 isolates from pig belonged to 9 different STs. The presence of virulence genes in E. coli together with antimicrobial resistance genes (including CTX-M genes) emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive surveillance and persistent monitoring of the food chain to avoid all types of bacterial contamination, regardless of human or pig origin.
Magnesium Binding by Cyberlindnera jadinii Yeast in Media from Potato Wastewater and Glycerol
Authors: Kot Anna M. , Błażejak Stanisław , Nosek Klaudia , Synowiec Alicja , Chlebowska-Śmigiel Anna , Pobiega Katarzyna
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the magnesium-binding capacity of Cyberlindnera jadinii yeast in media prepared from potato wastewater and glycerol (after biodiesel production), supplemented with magnesium salt. The research was carried out in two stages. In the first, the ability to binding magnesium by yeast in media supplemented with various doses of this element was tested. In the second stage, after selecting the appropriate dose of magnesium, the culture was carried out in a bioreactor. The composition of the yeast biomass was also analysed in terms of lipids and protein content and amino acid composition. Studies have shown that this type of medium can be used as a culture medium for the growth of C. jadinii yeast. In the first stage of the study, the most magnesium (8.97 mg/gd.m.) was bound by yeast cells after 48 h of cultivation in a medium supplemented with the addition of magnesium at a dose of 2 g/L. In the second stage of the research, the highest magnesium content in the biomass (7.9 mg/gd.m.) was noted after 24 h of cultivation in the same medium. The lipid and protein contents in the biomass obtained after 24 h of cultivation in the bioreactor were 6.35 and 43.73%, respectively. The main fatty acids present in the yeast lipids were oleic acid (59.4%) and linoleic acid (8.6%). Analysis of the amino acid profile of the proteins showed the highest proportions were glutamic acid (13.7%) and aspartic acid (11%).
Diversity and Functional Distribution Characteristics of Myxobacterial Communities in the Rhizosphere of Tamarix chinensis Lour in Ebinur Lake Wetland, China
Authors: Chen Xuemei , He Bo , Ding Cheng , Qi Xiaoyun , Li Yang , Hu Wenge
Published: July 2023

Soil salinity and desertification are seriously threatening the ecological environment of Ebinur Lake Wetland. Myxobacteria are the main soil microbes in this wetland. However, it is still unclear if the myxobacterial community structure and diversity can improve the ecological environment of Ebinur Lake Wetland by regulating soil nutrient cycling. Therefore, based on high-throughput sequencing of 16SrRNA gene technology, the composition, function, and diversity of the myxobacterial community in the rhizosphere of Tamarix chinensis Lour in Ebinur Lake Wetland were studied. Rhizosphere soil samples were collected from 10 sampling sites (S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, and S10) for three months (April, July, and October) to explore the main biotic and abiotic factors affecting the diversity and functions of myxobacterial communities. The results revealed that diversity of myxobacterial communities was mainly influenced by the seasons. The diversity of myxobacterial communities was significantly higher in the month of July, as compared to April and October. FAPROTAX functional prediction revealed that, in addition to predation or parasitic functions, myxobacteria were mainly involved in ecological functions, such as nitrite respiration, nitrite ammonification, and nitrogen respiration. The Spearman correlation analysis of the diversity and function of myxobacteria and bacteria showed that there were significant positive correlations between myxobacteria diversity, function, and bacterial diversity. The co-occurrence analysis of myxobacteria and bacterial networks showed that over time, myxobacteria interacted differently with different bacterial networks and jointly regulated the microbial community in the rhizosphere of Tamarix chinensis Lour through predation or cooperation. The redundancy analysis of soil physicochemical factors as well as the myxobacterial community showed that electrical conductivity, exchangeable calcium, and exchangeable potassium were the most important abiotic factors affecting the diversity, structure, and function of the myxobacterial community. These results reveal that myxobacteria may play important roles in degrading nitrogen compounds and regulating the activity of soil microorganisms. This study provides theoretical support for the ecological restoration of Ebinur Lake Wetland and lays the foundation for the future development and utilization of myxobacteria resources.
Reactive Paper Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Rapid Detection of Estrogens in Cosmetics
Authors: Song Dongning , Liu Jing , Liu Yang
Published: July 2023

Rapid detection of harmful estrogens in cosmetics is essential in protecting public health. To reduce time-consuming pretreatment and analytical procedures, a novel reactive paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (RPSI-MS) methodology was developed. RPSI-MS is suitable for quantitatively analyzing estrogens in cosmetics by utilizing an online derivatization reaction between estrogens and 2-fluoro-1-methyl-pyridinium-p-toluene-sulfonate (FluMP). Using estradiol valerate as the internal standard (I.S.), three estrogens, estradiol, estriol, and ethinyloestradiol, in cosmetics were quantitatively characterized within minutes. Multiple parameters were optimized including FluMP concentration and volume, triethylamine amount as well as the drying time. The three estrogens displayed good linearity ranging from 0.002 to 1 μg/mL, with R2 above 0.99. The recovery results of all the estrogens were within 80~111%. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.001 μg/mL for the three estrogens. Compared to conventional paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PSI-MS), extraction is not required and the detection sensitivity of RPSI-MS was improved by 34,000, 80,000, and 1400 times for estradiol, estriol, and ethinyloestradiol, respectively. The protocol established in this paper is sensitive, eco-friendly, and suitable for rapid testing of estrogens in cosmetics.
Highly Selective and Stable Cu Catalysts Based on Ni–Al Catalytic Systems for Bioethanol Upgrading to n-Butanol
Authors: Xiao Yan , Zhan Nannan , Li Jie , Tan Yuan , Ding Yunjie
Published: July 2023

The catalytic upgrading of ethanol into butanol through the Guerbet coupling reaction has received increasing attention recently due to the sufficient supply of bioethanol and the versatile applications of butanol. In this work, four different supported Cu catalysts, i.e., Cu/Al2O3, Cu/NiO, Cu/Ni3AlOx, and Cu/Ni1AlOx (Ni2+/Al3+ molar ratios of 3 and 1), were applied to investigate the catalytic performances for ethanol conversion. From the results, Ni-containing catalysts exhibit better reactivity; Al-containing catalysts exhibit better stability; but in terms of ethanol conversion, butanol selectivity, and catalyst stability, a corporative effect between Ni–Al catalytic systems can be clearly observed. Combined characterizations such as XRD, TEM, XPS, H2-TPR, and CO2/NH3-TPD were applied to analyze the properties of different catalysts. Based on the results, Cu species provide the active sites for ethanol dehydrogenation/hydrogenation, and the support derived from Ni–Al–LDH supplies appropriate acid–base sites for the aldol condensation, contributing to the high butanol selectivity. In addition, catalysts with strong reducibility (i.e., Cu/NiO) may be easily deconstructed during catalysis, leading to fast deactivation of the catalysts in the Guerbet coupling process.
On Integral INICS Aromaticity of Pyridodiazepine Constitutional Isomers and Tautomers
Authors: Jarończyk Małgorzata , Ostrowski Sławomir , Dobrowolski Jan Cz.
Published: July 2023

The structure, energetics, and aromaticity of c.a. 100 constitutional isomers and tautomers of pyrido[m,n]diazepines (m = 1, 2; n = 2, 3, 4, 5; m ≠ n) were studied at the B3LYP/cc-pVTZ level. The pyrido[1,3]diazepines appear the most, while pyrido[2,4]diazepines are the least stable (ca. 26 kcal/mol). In the pyrido[1,n]diazepine group (n = 2–5), the [1,5] isomers are higher in energy by ca. 4.5 kcal/mol and the [1,4] ones by ca. 7 kcal/mol, and the pyrido[1,2]diazepines are the least stable (ca. 20 kcal/mol). All the most stable pyrido[1,n]diazepines have N-atoms near the ring’s junction bond but on opposite sites. The most stable [2,n]-forms are also those with the pyridine ring N6-atom near the junction bond. Surprisingly, for the [1,2]-, [1,3]-, and [1,4]-isomer condensation types of pyridine and diazepine rings, the same N9 > N7 > N6 > N8 stability pattern obeys. The stability remains similar in a water medium simulated with the Polarizable Continuum Model of the solvent and is conserved when calculated using the CAM-B3LYP or BHandHlyp functionals. The ring’s aromaticity in the pyridine[m,n]diazepines was established based on the integral INICS index resulting from the NICSzz-scan curves’ integration. The integral INICS index is physically justified through its relation to the ringcurrent as demonstrated by Berger, R.J.F., et al. Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 2022, 24, 624. The six-membered pyrido rings have negative INICSZZ indices and can be aromatic only if they are not protonated at the N-atom. All protonated pyrido and seven-membered rings exhibit meaningful positive INICSZZ values and can be assigned as antiaromatic. However, some non-protonated pyrido rings also have substantial positive INICSZZ indices and are antiaromatic. A weak linear correlation (R2 = 0.72) between the INICSZZ values of the pyridine I(6) and diazepine I(7) rings exists and is a consequence of the communication between the π-electron systems of the two rings. The juxtaposition of the INICS descriptor of the six- and seven-membered rings and diverse electron density parameters at the Ring Critical Points (RCP) revealed good correlations only with the Electrostatic Potentials from the electrons and nuclei (ESPe and ESPn). The relationships with other RCP parameters like electron density and its Laplacian, total energy, and the Hamiltonian form of kinetic energy density were split into two parts: one nearly constant for the six-membered rings and one linearly correlating for the seven-membered rings. Thus, most of the electron density parameters at the RCP of the six-membered rings of pyridodiazepines practically do not change with the diazepine type and the labile proton position. In contrast, those of the seven-membered rings display aromaticity changes in the antiaromatic diazepine with its ring structural modifications.
Significance of Five-Membered Heterocycles in Human Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors
Authors: Frühauf Anton , Behringer Martin , Meyer-Almes Franz-Josef
Published: July 2023

Five-membered heteroaromatic rings, in particular, have gained prominence in medicinal chemistry as they offer enhanced metabolic stability, solubility and bioavailability, crucial factors in developing effective drugs. The unique physicochemical properties and biological effects of five-membered heterocycles have positioned them as key structural motifs in numerous clinically effective drugs. Hence, the exploration of five-ring heterocycles remains an important research area in medicinal chemistry, with the aim of discovering new therapeutic agents for various diseases. This review addresses the incorporation of heteroatoms such as nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur into the aromatic ring of these heterocyclic compounds, enhancing their polarity and facilitating both aromatic stacking interactions and the formation of hydrogen bonds. Histone deacetylases are present in numerous multiprotein complexes within the epigenetic machinery and play a central role in various cellular processes. They have emerged as important targets for cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and other therapeutic indications. In histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi’s), five-ring heterocycles perform various functions as a zinc-binding group, a linker or head group, contributing to binding activity and selective recognition. This review focuses on providing an up-to-date overview of the different five-membered heterocycles utilized in HDACi motifs, highlighting their biological properties. It summarizes relevant publications from the past decade, offering insights into the recent advancements in this field of research.
Expanding the Efficacy of Fingermark Enhancement Using ToF-SIMS
Authors: Charlton Deborah , Costa Catia , Hinder Steven J. , Watts John F. , Bailey Melanie J.
Published: July 2023

Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) has been shown to enhance fingermark recovery compared to standard processes used by police forces, but there is no data to show how generally applicable the improvement is. Additionally, ToF-SIMS can be run in either positive or negative ion mode (or both), and there is no data on which mode of operation is most effective at revealing fingerprints. This study aims to fill these gaps by using ToF-SIMS to image fingerprints deposited on two common exhibit-type surfaces (polyethylene and stainless steel) using 10 donors and ageing fingerprints in either ambient, rainwater, or underground for 1 and 5 months. In all, 120 fingerprints were imaged using ToF-SIMS, and each was run in positive and negative modes. A fingerprint expert compared the fingerprint ridge detail produced by the standard process to the ToF-SIMS images. In over 50% of the samples, ToF-SIMS was shown to improve fingerprint ridge detail visualised by the respective standard process for all surfaces tested. In over 90% of the samples, the ridge detail produced by ToF-SIMS was equivalent to standard development across all different ageing and exposure conditions. The data shows that there is a benefit to running the ToF-SIMS in both positive and negative modes, even if no ridge detail was seen in one mode.
Recent Advances of Constructing Metal/Semiconductor Catalysts Designing for Photocatalytic CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Yuan Zhimin , Zhu Xianglin , Jiang Zaiyong
Published: July 2023

With the development of the world economy and the rapid advancement of global industrialization, the demand for energy continues to grow. The significant consumption of fossil fuels, such as oil, coal, and natural gas, has led to excessive carbon dioxide emissions, causing global ecological problems. CO2 hydrogenation technology can convert CO2 into high-value chemicals and is considered one of the potential ways to solve the problem of CO2 emissions. Metal/semiconductor catalysts have shown good activity in carbon dioxide hydrogenation reactions and have attracted widespread attention. Therefore, we summarize the recent research on metal/semiconductor catalysts for photocatalytic CO2 hydrogenation from the design of catalysts to the structure of active sites and mechanistic investigations, and the internal mechanism of the enhanced activity is elaborated to give guidance for the design of highly active catalysts. Finally, based on a good understanding of the above issues, this review looks forward to the development of future CO2 hydrogenation catalysts.
The Method and Study of Detecting Phenanthrene in Seawater Based on a Carbon Nanotube–Chitosan Oligosaccharide Modified Electrode Immunosensor
Authors: Wu Yuxuan , Qu Wei , Qiu Chengjun , Chen Kaixuan , Zhuang Yuan , Zeng Zexi , Yan Yirou , Gu Yang , Tao Wei , Gao Jiaqi , Li Ke
Published: July 2023

Phenanthrene (PHE), as a structurally simple, tricyclic, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs), is widely present in marine environments and organisms, with serious ecological and health impacts. It is crucial to study fast and simple high-sensitivity detection methods for phenanthrene in seawater for the environment and the human body. In this paper, a immunosensor was prepared by using a multi-wall carbon nanotube (MWCNTs)-chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) nanocomposite membrane loaded with phenanthrene antibody. The principle was based on the antibody–antigen reaction in the immune reaction, using the strong electron transfer ability of multi-walled carbon nanotubes, coupled with chitosan oligosaccharides with an excellent film formation and biocompatibility, to amplify the detection signal. The content of the phenanthrene in seawater was studied via differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) using a potassium ferricyanide system as a redox probe. The antibody concentration, pH value, and probe concentration were optimized. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the response peak current of the phenanthrene was inversely proportional to the concentration of phenanthrene, in the range from 0.5 ng·mL−1 to 80 ng·mL−1, and the detection limit was 0.30 ng·mL−1. The immune sensor was successfully applied to the detection of phenanthrene in marine water, with a recovery rate of 96.1~101.5%, and provided a stable, sensitive, and accurate method for the real-time monitoring of marine environments.
Experimental and Theoretical Biological Probing of Schiff Bases as Esterase Inhibitors: Structural, Spectral and Molecular Insights
Authors: Raza Muhammad Asam , Mumtaz Muhammad Waseem , Öztürk Seyhan , Latif Muhammad , Aisha  , Ashraf Adnan , Dege Necmi , Dogan Onur Erman , Agar Erbil , Rehman Shafiq Ur , Noor Awal
Published: July 2023

The present study was designed to evaluate the in vitro and in silico potential of the Schiff bases (Z)-4-ethoxy-N-((5-nitrothiophen-2-yl)methylene)benzenamine (1) and (Z)-2,4-diiodo-6-((2-methyl-3-nitrophenylimino)methyl)phenol (2). These Schiff bases were synthesized according to a reported method using ethanol as a solvent, and each reaction was monitored on a TLC until completion of the reaction. The structures of both compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic techniques such as UV–Vis, FTIR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. Molecular structure was determined using single-crystal XRD, which revealed that compounds 1 and 2 were monoclinic and triclinic, respectively. Hirshfeld surface analysis (HS) and 2D fingerprint plots were used to determine the intermolecular interactions along the contact contribution in the crystalline molecules. The structures of both compounds were optimized through a hybrid functional method B3LYP using the 6-31G(d,p) basis set, and various structural parameters were studied. The experimental and theoretical parameters (bond angle and bond length) of the compounds were compared with each other and are in close agreement. The in vitro esterase potential of the synthesized compounds was checked using a spectrophotometric model, while in silico molecular docking studies were performed with AutoDock against two enzymes of the esterase family. The docking studies and the in vitro assessment predicted that such molecules could be used as enzyme inhibitors against the tested enzymes: acetylcholine esterase (AChE) and butyrylcholine esterase (BChE).
Photochemical Uncaging of Aldehydes and Ketones via Photocyclization/Fragmentation Cascades of Enyne Alcohols: An Unusual Application for a Cycloaromatization Process
Authors: Campbell Adam , Dos Santos Nikolas R. , Alabugin Igor
Published: July 2023

We utilized a cycloaromatization reaction driven by relief of excited state antiaromaticity to photouncage aldehydes and ketones. We developed several synthetic routes towards the synthesis of photocaged carbonyls as allylically substituted 3-(2-(arylethynyl)phenyl)prop-2-en-1-ols. A library of photocaged aryl aldehydes and ketones containing donors and acceptors, as well as several photocaged fragrance aldehydes and the steroid 5α-cholestan- 3 -one, were synthesized and demonstrated photouncaging in good to excellent yields.
Synergistic Effects between Lignin, Cellulose and Coal in the Co-Pyrolysis Process of Coal and Cotton Stalk
Authors: Ding Xuehe , Yan Lihua , Guo Chang , Jia Dianzeng , Guo Nannan , Wang Luxiang
Published: July 2023

In this work, Qiqunahu (QQH) coal, cotton stalk, cellulose and lignin extracted from cotton stalk were selected as raw materials to study the effects of the co-pyrolysis of coal and cotton stalk. Online thermogravimetric mass spectrometry (TG-MS) was used to analyse mass loss and gas release characteristics during co-pyrolysis. The results reveal that the mixture of cotton stalk and coal can significantly enhance the reactivity of the blends and promote the formation of effective gas. The cellulose in the cotton stalk promotes the generation of H2 and CO2 during the co-pyrolysis of coal and cotton stalks. Lignin promotes the production of CH4 and CO2. Cellulose and lignin show an inhibitory effect on the precipitation of small molecular weight hydrocarbon gases during co-pyrolysis. This study provides a better understanding for the co-pyrolysis of biomass and coal.