bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Faba Bean (Vicia faba L. minor) Bitterness: An Untargeted Metabolomic Approach to Highlight the Impact of the Non-Volatile Fraction
Authors: Karolkowski Adeline , Meudec Emmanuelle , Bruguière Antoine , Mitaine-Offer Anne-Claire , Bouzidi Emilie , Levavasseur Loïc , Sommerer Nicolas , Briand Loïc , Salles Christian
Published: August 2023

In the context of climate change, faba beans are an interesting alternative to animal proteins but are characterised by off-notes and bitterness that decrease consumer acceptability. However, research on pulse bitterness is often limited to soybeans and peas. This study aimed to highlight potential bitter non-volatile compounds in faba beans. First, the bitterness of flours and air-classified fractions (starch and protein) of three faba bean cultivars was evaluated by a trained panel. The fractions from the high-alkaloid cultivars and the protein fractions exhibited higher bitter intensity. Second, an untargeted metabolomic approach using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detector–tandem–high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC–DAD–HRMS) was correlated with the bitter perception of the fractions. Third, 42 tentatively identified non-volatile compounds were associated with faba bean bitterness by correlated sensory and metabolomic data. These compounds mainly belonged to different chemical classes such as alkaloids, amino acids, phenolic compounds, organic acids, and terpenoids. This research provided a better understanding of the molecules responsible for bitterness in faba beans and the impact of cultivar and air-classification on the bitter content. The bitter character of these highlighted compounds needs to be confirmed by sensory and/or cellular analyses to identify removal or masking strategies.
Liver Metabolomics and Inflammatory Profiles in Mouse Model of Fentanyl Overdose Treated with Beta-Lactams
Authors: Alasmari Fawaz , Alasmari Mohammed S. , Assiri Mohammed A. , Alswayyed Mohammed , Rizwan Ahamad Syed , Alhumaydhi Abdulrahman I. , Arif Bandar I. , Aljumayi Sahar R. , AlAsmari Abdullah F. , Ali Nemat , Childers Wayne E. , Abou-Gharbia Magid , Sari Youssef
Published: August 2023

Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid analgesic that is approved medically to treat acute and chronic pain. There is a high potential for overdose-induced organ toxicities, including liver toxicity, and this might be due to the increase of recreational use of opioids. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of beta-lactams in modulating the expression of glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1) in different body organs, including the liver. The upregulation of GLT-1 by beta-lactams is associated with the attenuation of hyperglutamatergic state, which is a characteristic feature of opioid use disorders. A novel experimental beta-lactam compound with no antimicrobial properties, MC-100093, has been developed to attenuate dysregulation of glutamate transport, in part by normalizing GLT-1 expression. A previous study showed that MC-100093 modulated hepatic GLT-1 expression with subsequent attenuation of alcohol-increased fat droplet content in the liver. In this study, we investigated the effects of fentanyl overdose on liver metabolites, and determined the effects of MC-100093 and ceftriaxone in the liver of a fentanyl overdose mouse model. Liver samples from control, fentanyl overdose, and fentanyl overdose ceftriaxone- or MC-100093-treated mice were analyzed for metabolomics using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Heatmap analysis revealed that both MC-100093 and ceftriaxone attenuated the effects of fentanyl overdose on several metabolites, and MC-100093 showed superior effects. Statistical analysis showed that MC-100093 reversed the effects of fentanyl overdose in some metabolites. Moreover, enrichment analysis revealed that the altered metabolites were strongly linked to the glucose-alanine cycle, the Warburg effect, gluconeogenesis, glutamate metabolism, lactose degradation, and ketone body metabolism. The changes in liver metabolites induced by fentanyl overdose were associated with liver inflammation, an effect attenuated with ceftriaxone pre-treatments. Ceftriaxone normalized fentanyl-overdose-induced changes in liver interleukin-6 and cytochrome CYP3A11 (mouse homolog of human CYP3A4) expression. Our data indicate that fentanyl overdose impaired liver metabolites, and MC-100093 restored certain metabolites.
Investigation of a Novel Ultra-Low-Frequency Rotational Energy Harvester Based on a Double-Frequency Up-Conversion Mechanism
Authors: Li Ning , Xia Hu , Yang Chun , Luo Tao , Qin Lifeng
Published: August 2023

Due to their lack of pollution and long replacement cycles, piezoelectric energy harvesters have gained increasing attention as emerging power generation devices. However, achieving effective energy harvesting in ultra-low-frequency (<1 Hz) rotational environments remains a challenge. Therefore, a novel rotational energy harvester (REH) with a double-frequency up-conversion mechanism was proposed in this study. It consisted of a hollow cylindrical shell with multiple piezoelectric beams and a ring-shaped slider with multiple paddles. During operation, the relative rotation between the slider and the shell induced the paddles on the slider to strike the piezoelectric beams inside the shell, thereby causing the piezoelectric beams to undergo self-excited oscillation and converting mechanical energy into electrical energy through the piezoelectric effect. Additionally, by adjusting the number of paddles and piezoelectric beams, the frequency of the piezoelectric beam struck by the paddles within one rotation cycle could be increased, further enhancing the output performance of the REH. To validate the output performance of the proposed REH, a prototype was fabricated, and the relationship between the device’s output performance and parameters such as the number of paddles, system rotation speed, and device installation eccentricity was studied. The results showed that the designed REH achieved a single piezoelectric beam output power of up to 2.268 mW, while the REH with three piezoelectric beams reached an output power of 5.392 mW, with a high power density of 4.02 μW/(cm3 Hz) under a rotational excitation of 0.42 Hz, demonstrating excellent energy-harvesting characteristics.
Yeast Deletomics to Uncover Gadolinium Toxicity Targets and Resistance Mechanisms
Authors: Grosjean Nicolas , Le Jean Marie , Ory Jordan , Blaudez Damien
Published: August 2023

Among the rare earth elements (REEs), a crucial group of metals for high-technologies. Gadolinium (Gd) is the only REE intentionally injected to human patients. The use of Gd-based contrasting agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the primary route for Gd direct exposure and accumulation in humans. Consequently, aquatic environments are increasingly exposed to Gd due to its excretion through the urinary tract of patients following an MRI examination. The increasing number of reports mentioning Gd toxicity, notably originating from medical applications of Gd, necessitates an improved risk–benefit assessment of Gd utilizations. To go beyond toxicological studies, unravelling the mechanistic impact of Gd on humans and the ecosystem requires the use of genome-wide approaches. We used functional deletomics, a robust method relying on the screening of a knock-out mutant library of Saccharomyces cerevisiae exposed to toxic concentrations of Gd. The analysis of Gd-resistant and -sensitive mutants highlighted the cell wall, endosomes and the vacuolar compartment as cellular hotspots involved in the Gd response. Furthermore, we identified endocytosis and vesicular trafficking pathways (ESCRT) as well as sphingolipids homeostasis as playing pivotal roles mediating Gd toxicity. Finally, tens of yeast genes with human orthologs linked to renal dysfunction were identified as Gd-responsive. Therefore, the molecular and cellular pathways involved in Gd toxicity and detoxification uncovered in this study underline the pleotropic consequences of the increasing exposure to this strategic metal.
International Clones of High Risk of Acinetobacter Baumannii—Definitions, History, Properties and Perspectives
Authors: Shelenkov Andrey , Akimkin Vasiliy , Mikhaylova Yulia
Published: August 2023

Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative coccobacillus with exceptional survival skills in an unfavorable environment and the ability to rapidly acquire antibiotic resistance, making it one of the most successful hospital pathogens worldwide, representing a serious threat to public health. The global dissemination of A. baumannii is driven by several lineages named ‘international clones of high risk’ (ICs), two of which were first revealed in the 1970s. Epidemiological surveillance is a crucial tool for controlling the spread of this pathogen, which currently increasingly involves whole genome sequencing. However, the assignment of a particular A. baumannii isolate to some IC based on its genomic sequence is not always straightforward and requires some computational skills from researchers, while the definitions found in the literature are sometimes controversial. In this review, we will focus on A. baumannii typing tools suitable for IC determination, provide data to easily determine IC assignment based on MLST sequence type (ST) and intrinsic blaOXA-51-like gene variants, discuss the history and current spread data of nine known ICs, IC1-IC9, and investigate the representation of ICs in public databases. MLST and cgMLST profiles, as well as OXA-51-like presence data are provided for all isolates available in GenBank. The possible emergence of a novel A. baumannii international clone, IC10, will be discussed.
Multiomic Investigations into Lung Health and Disease
Authors: Blutt Sarah E. , Coarfa Cristian , Neu Josef , Pammi Mohan
Published: August 2023

Diseases of the lung account for more than 5 million deaths worldwide and are a healthcare burden. Improving clinical outcomes, including mortality and quality of life, involves a holistic understanding of the disease, which can be provided by the integration of lung multi-omics data. An enhanced understanding of comprehensive multiomic datasets provides opportunities to leverage those datasets to inform the treatment and prevention of lung diseases by classifying severity, prognostication, and discovery of biomarkers. The main objective of this review is to summarize the use of multiomics investigations in lung disease, including multiomics integration and the use of machine learning computational methods. This review also discusses lung disease models, including animal models, organoids, and single-cell lines, to study multiomics in lung health and disease. We provide examples of lung diseases where multi-omics investigations have provided deeper insight into etiopathogenesis and have resulted in improved preventative and therapeutic interventions.
Differences in Microbial Community Composition between Uterine Horns Ipsilateral and Contralateral to the Corpus Luteum in Beef Cows on Day 15 of the Estrous Cycle
Authors: Walker Madison Blake , Holton Matthew Patrick , Callaway Todd Riley , Lourenco Jeferson Menezes , Fontes Pedro Levy Piza
Published: August 2023

This study evaluated differences in uterine microbiota composition between uterine horns ipsilateral and contralateral to the corpus luteum of beef cows on day 15 of the estrous cycle. Cows (n = 23) were exposed to an estrus synchronization protocol to exogenously induce synchronized ovulation. Cows were then euthanized on day 15 of the estrous cycle, and individual swabs were collected from uterine horns ipsilateral and contralateral to the corpus luteum using aseptic techniques. DNA was extracted, and the entire (V1–V9 hypervariable regions) 16s rRNA gene was sequenced. Sequences were analyzed, and amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were determined. Across all samples, 2 bacterial domains, 24 phyla, and 265 genera were identified. Butyribirio, Cutibacterium, BD7-11, Bacteroidales BS11 gut group, Ruminococcus, Bacteroidales RF16 group, and Clostridia UCG-014 differed in relative abundances between uterine horns. Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group, Bacteroidales UCG-001, Lachnospiraceae AC2044 group, Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia, Psudobutyribibrio, and an unidentified genus of the family Chitinophagaceae and dgA-11 gut group differed between cows that expressed estrus and those that did not. The composition of the microbial community differed between the ipsilateral and contralateral horns and between cows that expressed estrus and cows that failed to express estrus, indicating that the uterine microbiota might play a role in cow fertility.
A Scoping Review Evaluating the Current State of Gut Microbiota Research in Africa
Authors: Pheeha Sara M. , Tamuzi Jacques L. , Chale-Matsau Bettina , Manda Samuel , Nyasulu Peter S.
Published: August 2023

The gut microbiota has emerged as a key human health and disease determinant. However, there is a significant knowledge gap regarding the composition, diversity, and function of the gut microbiota, specifically in the African population. This scoping review aims to examine the existing literature on gut microbiota research conducted in Africa, providing an overview of the current knowledge and identifying research gaps. A comprehensive search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies. Databases including MEDLINE (PubMed), African Index Medicus (AIM), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Science Citation index (Web of Science), Embase (Ovid), Scopus (Elsevier), WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), and Google Scholar were searched for relevant articles. Studies investigating the gut microbiota in African populations of all age groups were included. The initial screening included a total of 2136 articles, of which 154 were included in this scoping review. The current scoping review revealed a limited number of studies investigating diseases of public health significance in relation to the gut microbiota. Among these studies, HIV (14.3%), colorectal cancer (5.2%), and diabetes mellitus (3.9%) received the most attention. The top five countries that contributed to gut microbiota research were South Africa (16.2%), Malawi (10.4%), Egypt (9.7%), Kenya (7.1%), and Nigeria (6.5%). The high number (n = 66) of studies that did not study any specific disease in relation to the gut microbiota remains a gap that needs to be filled. This scoping review brings attention to the prevalent utilization of observational study types (38.3%) in the studies analysed and emphasizes the importance of conducting more experimental studies. Furthermore, the findings reflect the need for more disease-focused, comprehensive, and population-specific gut microbiota studies across diverse African regions and ethnic groups to better understand the factors shaping gut microbiota composition and its implications for health and disease. Such knowledge has the potential to inform targeted interventions and personalized approaches for improving health outcomes in African populations.
Bibliometric Analysis of Global Trends in Research on Seasonal Variations in Gut Microbiota from 2012 to 2022
Authors: Zhai Jiancheng , Sun Xiao , Lu Rui , Hu Xueqin , Huang Zhiqiang
Published: August 2023

Seasons are the important influencing factor for gut microbiota, which in turn affects the ecology and evolution of the host. The seasonal variation in gut microbiota has increasingly attracted the attention of researchers and professionals worldwide. However, studies of seasonal variations in gut microbiota have not been systematically analyzed by bibliometrics or visual analysis. This study is based on 271 publications from 2012 to 2022 in the Web of Science Core Collection database (WOSCC) to analyze hot spots and trends in this field. The collaborations between different countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords were bibliometrically analyzed using Excel, CiteSpace (Version 6.2. R4), and VOSviewer (version 1.6.19) software. The number of publications has been increasing rapidly and shows a general upward trend. China and the Chinese Academy of Sciences are the country and institution contributing the most, respectively. The research hotspots and trends mainly include the diversity of gut microbiota communities in different seasons, the relationship between diet and gut microbiota in seasonal changes, and the relationship between gut microbiota and evolutionary adaptation in seasonal changes. This is the first bibliometric and visualization analysis of seasonal variations in gut microbiota, which may advance this field and lay the foundation for future research.
Temporal–Spatial Distributions and Influencing Factors of Heavy Metals As, Cd, Pb, and Zn in Alluvial Soils on a Regional Scale in Guangxi, China
Authors: Tian Mi , Wang Xueqiu , Zhou Jian , Chi Qinghua , Liu Dongsheng , Qiao Yu , Wu Chao , Zhou Yining , Wang Qiang , Liu Futian
Published: August 2023

Understanding the temporal–spatial distribution and influencing factors of heavy metals on a regional scale is crucial for assessing the anthropogenic impacts and natural variations in elemental geochemical behavior. This study evaluated the spatial distributions of the heavy metals As, Cd, Pb, and Zn as well as the driving mechanisms over the past 31 years in Guangxi, China, using three geochemical baseline projects (the Environmental Geochemical Monitoring Network Project (EGMON) project 1992–1996; the Geochemical Baseline (CGB) 1 project 2008–2012; and the CGB2 project 2015–2019). By calculating the variable importance using the random forest algorithm, it was found that natural factors are the primary drivers of the spatial distribution of heavy metals in the EGMON project, especially precipitation for As, the digital elevation model (DEM) for Cd and Pb, and temperature for Zn. Surface alluvial soils showed obvious heavy metal enrichment in the CGB1 project, with the gross domestic product (GDP) driving the spatial distribution of all heavy metals. In addition, the anomalous intensity and range of heavy metals in the CGB2 project decreased significantly compared with the CGB1 project, especially owing to the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) as a positive anthropogenic factor that improves the degree of rocky desertification, thus reducing the heavy metal contents of As and Pb, and the precipitation promoting the decomposition of Fe–Mn concretions and thus the migration of Cd and Zn. This research promotes an understanding of anthropogenic and natural influences on the spatiotemporal distribution of heavy metals and is of great significance for environmental monitoring and governance.
3-Ferrocenyl-estra-1,3,5 (10)-triene-17-one: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Hirshfeld Surface Analysis, DFT Studies, and Its Binding to Human Serum Albumin Studied through Fluorescence Quenching and In Silico Docking Studies
Authors: Flores-Rivera Mariola M. , Carmona-Negrón José A. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Meléndez Enrique
Published: August 2023

3-ferrocenyl-estra-1,3,5 (10)-triene-17-one (2), [Fe(C5H5)(C24H25O3)], crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2. The cyclopentadienyl (Cp) rings adopt a nearly eclipsed conformation, and the Cp plane is tilted by 87.66° with respect to the substituted phenyl plane. An average Fe-C(Cp) bond length of 2.040(13) Å was determined, similar to the one reported for ferrocene. Hirshfeld surfaces and two-dimensional fingerprint plots were generated to analyze weak intermolecular C-H···π and C-H···O interactions. Density functional theory studies revealed a 1.15 kcal/mol rotational barrier for the C3-O1 single bound. Fluorescence quenching studies and in silico docking studies suggest that human serum albumin forms a complex with 2 via a static mechanism dominated by van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonding interactions.
Polyphenolic Composition of Carlina acaulis L. Extract and Cytotoxic Potential against Colorectal Adenocarcinoma and Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Sowa Ireneusz , Mołdoch Jarosław , Paduch Roman , Strzemski Maciej , Szkutnik Jacek , Tyszczuk-Rotko Katarzyna , Dresler Sławomir , Szczepanek Dariusz , Wójciak Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Carlina acaulis is highly valued in the traditional medicine of many European countries for its diuretic, cholagogue, anthelmintic, laxative, and emetic properties. Moreover, practitioners of natural medicine indicate that it has anti-cancer potential. However, its phytochemistry is still little known. In the present study, the polyphenolic composition of the plant was investigated using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a high-resolution/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (UHPLC-HR/QTOF/MS-PDA). The fractionation of the extract was carried out using liquid-liquid extraction and preparative chromatography techniques. Cytotoxicity was assessed based on neutral red and MTT assays. The obtained data showed that the species is rich in chlorogenic acids and C-glycosides of luteolin and apigenin. The total amount of chlorogenic acids was 12.6 mg/g. Among flavonoids, kaempferol dihexosidipentose and schaftoside were the most abundant, reaching approximately 3 mg/g, followed by isoorientin, vitexin-2-O-rhamnoside, and vicenin II, each with a content of approximately 2 mg/g. Furthermore, the cytotoxic potential of the plant against human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT29) and human cervical cancer (HeLa) cells was investigated using the normal epithelial colon cell line (CCD 841CoTr) as a reference. It has been demonstrated that the ethyl acetate fraction was the most abundant in polyphenolic compounds and had the most promising anticancer activity. Further fractionation allowed for the obtaining of some subfractions that differed in phytochemical composition. The subfractions containing polyphenolic acids and flavonoids were characterized by low cytotoxicity against cancer and normal cell lines. Meanwhile, the subfraction with fatty acids was active and decreased the viability of HeLa and HT29 with minimal negative effects on CCD 841CoTr. The effect was probably linked to traumatic acid, which was present in the fraction at a concentration of 147 mg/g of dried weight. The research demonstrated the significant potential of C. acaulis as a plant with promising attributes, thus justifying further exploration of its biological activity.
Research Progress on Displacement Mechanism of Supercritical CO2 in Low-Permeability Heavy Oil Reservoir and Improvement Mechanism of Displacement Agents
Authors: Sun Yuanxiu , Zhang Weijie , Tian Jinlong , Meng Yanzhao , Zhang Liping
Published: August 2023

With the continuous growth of global energy demand and the late stage of conventional oilfield exploitation, the demand for developing and utilizing low-permeability heavy oil reservoirs is becoming increasingly urgent. However, the exploitation of low-permeability heavy oil reservoirs faces many challenges due to their high viscosity, low permeability, and complex geological conditions. To overcome these challenges, researchers have gradually introduced SC-CO2 as an oil displacement agent in the exploitation of heavy oil reservoirs. However, the oil displacement mechanism of SC-CO2 in low-permeability heavy oil reservoirs and its improvement mechanism are still not completely understood. The article provides a detailed study and understanding of the oil displacement mechanism of SC-CO2, which involves the expansion of heavy oil volume through SC-CO2 dissolution. This mechanism reduces the capillary resistance and flow resistance during the oil flow process. The permeation of CO2 disrupts the internal structure and arrangement of heavy oil, reducing its viscosity. CO2 extracts both light and heavy components from the heavy oil, reducing the residual oil saturation. In addition, the mechanism of improving the effect of oil displacement agents such as nanoparticles, polymers, and surfactants on SC-CO2 displacement was also explored. By further exploring the mechanisms and improvement mechanisms of SC-CO2 displacement for heavy oil, it can guide the selection and optimization of oil displacement agents. Furthermore, understanding the mechanism can also provide a theoretical basis for engineering practice and technical innovation. While the research on CO2 flooding is analyzed and evaluated, the obstacles and challenges that still exist at this stage are indicated, and future research work on CO2 in low-permeability heavy oil reservoirs is proposed.
Human Triosephosphate Isomerase Is a Potential Target in Cancer Due to Commonly Occurring Post-Translational Modifications
Authors: Enríquez-Flores Sergio , De la Mora-De la Mora Ignacio , García-Torres Itzhel , Flores-López Luis A. , Martínez-Pérez Yoalli , López-Velázquez Gabriel
Published: August 2023

Cancer involves a series of diseases where cellular growth is not controlled. Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, and the burden of cancer incidence and mortality is rapidly growing, mainly in developing countries. Many drugs are currently used, from chemotherapeutic agents to immunotherapy, among others, along with organ transplantation. Treatments can cause severe side effects, including remission and progression of the disease with serious consequences. Increased glycolytic activity is characteristic of cancer cells. Triosephosphate isomerase is essential for net ATP production in the glycolytic pathway. Notably, some post-translational events have been described that occur in human triosephosphate isomerase in which functional and structural alterations are provoked. This is considered a window of opportunity, given the differences that may exist between cancer cells and their counterpart in normal cells concerning the glycolytic enzymes. Here, we provide elements that bring out the potential of triosephosphate isomerase, under post-translational modifications, to be considered an efficacious target for treating cancer.
Research Progress in Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy: From Performance Optimization, Sensing Applications, to System Integration
Authors: Li Dongxiao , Xu Cheng , Xie Junsheng , Lee Chengkuo
Published: August 2023

Infrared absorption spectroscopy is an effective tool for the detection and identification of molecules. However, its application is limited by the low infrared absorption cross-section of the molecule, resulting in low sensitivity and a poor signal-to-noise ratio. Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption (SEIRA) spectroscopy is a breakthrough technique that exploits the field-enhancing properties of periodic nanostructures to amplify the vibrational signals of trace molecules. The fascinating properties of SEIRA technology have aroused great interest, driving diverse sensing applications. In this review, we first discuss three ways for SEIRA performance optimization, including material selection, sensitivity enhancement, and bandwidth improvement. Subsequently, we discuss the potential applications of SEIRA technology in fields such as biomedicine and environmental monitoring. In recent years, we have ushered in a new era characterized by the Internet of Things, sensor networks, and wearable devices. These new demands spurred the pursuit of miniaturized and consolidated infrared spectroscopy systems and chips. In addition, the rise of machine learning has injected new vitality into SEIRA, bringing smart device design and data analysis to the foreground. The final section of this review explores the anticipated trajectory that SEIRA technology might take, highlighting future trends and possibilities.
Strain Engineering of Intrinsic Ferromagnetism in 2D van der Waals Materials
Authors: Ren Hongtao , Xiang Gang
Published: August 2023

Since the discovery of the low-temperature, long-range ferromagnetic order in monolayers Cr2Ge2Te6 and CrI3, many efforts have been made to achieve a room temperature (RT) ferromagnet. The outstanding deformation ability of two-dimensional (2D) materials provides an exciting way to mediate their intrinsic ferromagnetism (FM) with strain engineering. Here, we summarize the recent progress of strain engineering of intrinsic FM in 2D van der Waals materials. First, we introduce how to explain the strain-mediated intrinsic FM on Cr-based and Fe-based 2D van der Waals materials through ab initio Density functional theory (DFT), and how to calculate magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) and Curie temperature (TC) from the interlayer exchange coupling J. Subsequently, we focus on numerous attempts to apply strain to 2D materials in experiments, including wrinkle-induced strain, flexible substrate bending or stretching, lattice mismatch, electrostatic force and field-cooling. Last, we emphasize that this field is still in early stages, and there are many challenges that need to be overcome. More importantly, strengthening the guideline of strain-mediated FM in 2D van der Waals materials will promote the development of spintronics and straintronics.
Construction of Reinforced Self-Cleaning and Efficient Photothermal PDMS@GDY@Cu Sponges toward Anticorrosion and Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Hu Yi , Pu Junmei , Hu Yingzi , Zi You , Chen Hongyan , Wang Mengke , Huang Weichun
Published: August 2023

Copper (Cu)-based materials are widely used in many fields from industry to life, including marine, medical apparatus and instruments, and microelectronic devices owing to their superior thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties. However, the interaction of copper with aggressive and fouling liquids under normal circumstances easily brings about severe bacterial accumulation, resulting in undesirable functionality degeneration and bacterial infections. In this contribution, we reported a novel copper-based sponge, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)@graphdiyne (GDY)@Cu, constructed by in situ synthesis of GDY on a commercial Cu sponge, followed by the modification of PDMS. The as-fabricated PDMS@GDY@Cu sponge not only possesses excellent self-cleaning activity against the pollution of daily drinks and dirt due to an improved static contact angle (~136°), but also display a remarkably enhanced anticorrosion performance, attributed to intimate coverage of chemically stable GDY and PDMS on the Cu sponge. Based on high photothermal effect of GDY, the PDMS@GDY@Cu sponge also displays significantly improved antibacterial activities under irradiation. In addition, due to excellent chemical stability of PDMS and GDY, self-cleaning behavior and photothermal-assisted antibacterial performance are well maintained after long-term attack of bacteria. These results demonstrate that GDY-based functional coatings hold great promises in the protection of copper devices under harsh conditions.
Cubic and Sphere Magnetic Nanoparticles for Magnetic Hyperthermia Therapy: Computational Results
Authors: Astefanoaei Iordana , Gimaev Radel , Zverev Vladimir , Tishin Alexander , Stancu Alexandru
Published: August 2023

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with various shapes and special (magnetic and thermal) properties are promising for magnetic hyperthermia. The efficiency of this therapy depends mainly on the MNPs’ physical characteristics: types, sizes and shapes. This paper presents the hyperthermic temperature values induced by cubic/sphere-shaped MNPs injected within a concentric tissue configuration (malignant and healthy tissues) when an external time-dependent magnetic field was applied. The space-time distribution of the nanoparticles as a result of their injection within a tumoral (benign/malign) tissue was simulated with the bioheat transport equation (Pennes equation). A complex thermo-fluid model that considers the space-time MNP transport and its heating was developed in Comsol Multiphysics. The cubic-shaped MNPs give a larger spatial distribution of the therapeutic temperature in the tumoral volume compared to the spherical-shaped ones. MNP doses that induce the therapeutic (hyperthermic) values of the temperature (40 ÷ 45 °C) in smaller volumes from the tumoral region were analyzed. The size of these regions (covered by the hyperthermic temperature values) was computed for different magnetite cubic/sphere-shaped MNP doses. Lower doses of the cubic-shaped MNPs give the hyperthermic values of the temperature in a larger volume from the tumoral region compared with the spheric-shaped MNPs. The MNP doses were expressed as a ratio between mass concentration and the maximum clinical accepted doses. This thermo-fluid analysis is an important computational instrument that allows the computations of the MNP doses that give therapeutic temperature values within tissues.
Nanoparticles, an Emerging Control Method for Harmful Algal Blooms: Current Technologies, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Song Jun , Xu Zhibin , Chen Yu , Guo Jiaqing
Published: August 2023

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a global concern because they harm aquatic ecosystems and pose a risk to human health. Various physical, chemical, and biological approaches have been explored to control HABs. However, these methods have limitations in terms of cost, environmental impact, and effectiveness, particularly for large water bodies. Recently, the use of nanoparticles has emerged as a promising strategy for controlling HABs. Briefly, nanoparticles can act as anti-algae agents via several mechanisms, including photocatalysis, flocculation, oxidation, adsorption, and nutrient recovery. Compared with traditional methods, nanoparticle-based approaches offer advantages in terms of environmental friendliness, effectiveness, and specificity. However, the challenges and risks associated with nanoparticles, such as their toxicity and ecological impact, must be considered. In this review, we summarize recent research progress concerning the use of nanoparticles to control HABs, compare the advantages and disadvantages of different types of nanoparticles, discuss the factors influencing their effectiveness and environmental impact, and suggest future directions for research and development in this field. Additionally, we explore the causes of algal blooms, their harmful effects, and various treatment methods, including restricting eutrophication, biological control, and disrupting living conditions. The potential of photocatalysis for generating reactive oxygen species and nutrient control methods using nanomaterials are also discussed in detail. Moreover, the application of flocculants/coagulants for algal removal is highlighted, along with the challenges and potential solutions associated with their use. This comprehensive overview aims to contribute to the development of efficient and sustainable strategies for controlling HAB control.
The Role of Astrocytes and Blood–Brain Barrier Disruption in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Cruz João Victor R. , Batista Carolina , Diniz Luan Pereira , Mendes Fabio A.
Published: August 2023

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a highly intricate neurovascular structure that plays a crucial role in maintaining neural homeostasis by selectively allowing certain molecules to enter the central nervous system (CNS). However, in the context of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a gradual decline in cognitive function, the BBB’s functionality becomes impaired. This impairment leads to the breakdown of the barrier and disrupts its ability to regulate molecular transport effectively. Consequently, cellular infiltration into the CNS occurs, along with aberrant signaling and clearance of molecules, ultimately contributing to neurological deficits. One of the key factors implicated in the failure of amyloid-beta (Aβ) transport, a hallmark of AD, is the decreased expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1). LRP1 plays a crucial role in facilitating the transport of Aβ across the BBB. Additionally, the increased levels of the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) further contribute to the deregulation of the BBB in AD. These molecular imbalances significantly impact Aβ clearance and contribute to the development and progression of AD. In this review, we aimed to summarize the critical aspects of Aβ transporters in the BBB that become dysfunctional during the pathogenesis of AD.
Strategies Used by Nurses to Maintain Person–Family Communication during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review
Authors: Teixeira Delfina , Costa Sandra , Branco Ana , Silva Ana , Polo Pablo , Nogueira Maria José
Published: August 2023

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic made nurse–patient–family communication more difficult, reducing the understanding of the patient’s wishes and current care history. COVID-19 challenged healthcare teams to develop strategies to address these changes and provide more integrated care using the technology at their disposal. So, this study aims to map the strategies used by nurses to maintain communication between the person hospitalized with COVID-19 and the family to understand which communication technologies were most used to maintain communication between the person and the family. Methods: A Scoping Review, according to the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute [JBI] with the Preferred Reporting Items for Scoping Review extension (PRISMA-ScR), research conducted between September 2022 and January 2023. The search was conducted in the databases: Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS); Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL); Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO); Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Medline), using the descriptors: family, communication, nurses, hospitals and COVID-19, and the Boolean operators “AND”. The inclusion criteria were: original articles, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, published from 2020 onwards, with access to full and free text. Results: It was found that most of the communication was unstructured with the family. The technologies most used by nurses were the telephone with video calls from the patients themselves and even from health professionals to maintain communication between the patient and the family. Conclusions: Communication between patients and families became essential during the pandemic, as it became a vital lifeline of human connection that supported the mental health of patients and their families. This study was not registered.
The Ion Channels Involved in Oxidative Stress-Related Gastrointestinal Diseases
Authors: Miranda Maria Rosaria , Vestuto Vincenzo , Moltedo Ornella , Manfra Michele , Campiglia Pietro , Pepe Giacomo
Published: August 2023

The pathogenesis of various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including gastritis, ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and cancer, can be linked to oxidative stress. It is known that reactive species carry out a crucial role in the genesis and progression of these pathologies; however, the contribution of ionic channels in their development is still under discussion. The function of ion channels in the gastrointestinal tract influences a variety of cellular processes. Acid-base balance, mucus layer, microbiota and mucosal blood flow are only some of the essential features for maintaining the mucosal integrity of the cellular barrier in the intestine, allowing for the preservation of proper permeability and ensuring tissue homeostasis. As the functional modulation of several ion channels is altered during oxidative stress conditions associated with gastrointestinal inflammation, this review focuses on contributing new insight into the roles of and the relationship between ion channels and oxidative stress in GI diseases. The association between ion channels and oxidative stress conditions could be used in diagnostics and the development of new pharmacological treatments for major gastrointestinal diseases.
Malaria Genomics, Vaccine Development, and Microbiome
Authors: Su Xinzhuan , Stadler Rachel V. , Xu Fangzheng , Wu Jian
Published: August 2023

Recent advances in malaria genetics and genomics have transformed many aspects of malaria research in areas of molecular evolution, epidemiology, transmission, host–parasite interaction, drug resistance, pathogenicity, and vaccine development. Here, in addition to introducing some background information on malaria parasite biology, parasite genetics/genomics, and genotyping methods, we discuss some applications of genetic and genomic approaches in vaccine development and in studying interactions with microbiota. Genetic and genomic data can be used to search for novel vaccine targets, design an effective vaccine strategy, identify protective antigens in a whole-organism vaccine, and evaluate the efficacy of a vaccine. Microbiota has been shown to influence disease outcomes and vaccine efficacy; studying the effects of microbiota in pathogenicity and immunity may provide information for disease control. Malaria genetics and genomics will continue to contribute greatly to many fields of malaria research.
The Therapeutic Potential of Angeli’s Salt in Mitigating Acute Trypanosoma cruzi Infection in Mice
Authors: Hideko Tatakihara Vera Lúcia , Malvezi Aparecida Donizette , Pereira Rito Santo , Lucchetti Bruno Fernando Cruz , Dos Santos Lucas Felipe , Cecchini Rubens , Yamauchi Lucy Megumi , Yamada-Ogatta Sueli Fumie , Miranda Katrina M. , Verri Waldiceu A. , Martins-Pinge Marli Cardoso , Pinge-Filho Phileno
Published: August 2023

Chagas disease (CD), caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, is a neglected tropical disease prevalent in Latin America. Infected patients are treated to eliminate the parasite, reduce the cardiomyopathy risk, and interrupt the disease transmission cycle. The World Health Organization recognizes benznidazole (BZ) and nifurtimox as effective drugs for CD treatment. In the chronic phase, both drugs have low cure rates and serious side effects. T. cruzi infection causes intense tissue inflammation that controls parasite proliferation and CD evolution. Compounds that liberate nitric oxide (NO) (NO donors) have been used as anti-T. cruzi therapeutics. Currently, there is no evidence that nitroxyl (HNO) affects T. cruzi infection outcomes. This study investigated the effects of the HNO donor Angeli’s salt (AS) on C57BL/6 mice infected with T. cruzi (Y strain, 5 × 103 trypomastigotes, intraperitoneally). AS reduced the number of parasites in the bloodstream and heart nests and increased the protective antioxidant capacity of erythrocytes in infected animals, reducing disease severity. Furthermore, in vitro experiments showed that AS treatment reduced parasite uptake and trypomastigote release by macrophages. Taken together, these findings from the murine model and in vitro testing suggest that AS could be a promising therapy for CD.
Genomic and Phylogenetic Analysis of Bacillus cereus Biovar anthracis Isolated from Archival Bone Samples Reveals Earlier Natural History of the Pathogen
Authors: Norris Michael H. , Zincke Diansy , Daegling David J. , Krigbaum John , McGraw W. Scott , Kirpich Alexander , Hadfield Ted L. , Blackburn Jason K.
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis (Bcbva) was the causative agent of an anthrax-like fatal disease among wild chimpanzees in 2001 in Côte d’Ivoire. Before this, there had not been any description of an anthrax-like disease caused by typically avirulent Bacillus cereus. Genetic analysis found that B. cereus had acquired two anthrax-like plasmids, one a pXO1-like toxin producing plasmid and the other a pXO2-like plasmid encoding capsule. Bcbva caused animal fatalities in Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Central African Republic between 2004 and 2012. (2) Methods: The pathogen had acquired plasmids in the wild and that was discovered as the cause of widespread animal fatalities in the early 2000s. Primate bones had been shipped out of the endemic zone for anthropological studies prior to the realized danger of contamination with Bcbva. Spores were isolated from the bone fragments and positively identified as Bcbva. Strains were characterized by classical microbiological methods and qPCR. Four new Bcbva isolates were whole-genome sequenced. Chromosomal and plasmid phylogenomic analysis was performed to provide temporal and spatial context to these new strains and previously sequenced Bcbva. Tau and principal component analyses were utilized to identify genetic and spatial case patterns in the Taï National Park anthrax zone. (3) Results: Preliminary studies positively identified Bcbva presence in several archival bone fragments. The animals in question died between 1994 and 2010. Previously, the earliest archival strains of Bcbva were identified in 1996. Though the pathogen has a homogeneous genome, spatial analyses of a subset of mappable isolates from Taï National Park revealed strains found closer together were generally more similar, with strains from chimpanzees and duikers having the widest distribution. Ancestral strains were located mostly in the west of the park and had lower spatial clustering compared to more recent isolates, indicating a local increase in genetic diversity of Bcbva in the park over space and time. Global clustering analysis indicates patterns of genetic diversity and distance are shared between the ancestral and more recently isolated type strains. (4) Conclusions: Our strains have the potential to unveil historical genomic information not available elsewhere. This information sheds light on the evolution and emergence of a dangerous anthrax-causing pathogen.
Frequency of Positive Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Testing for Borrelia burgdorferi on Whole Blood Samples That Tested Positive for Babesia microti by PCR from an Endemic Area for Both Infections in New York State
Authors: Wang Guiqing , Zhuge Jian , Wormser Gary P.
Published: August 2023

Because both Babesia microti and Borrelia burgdorferi can be transmitted by the bite of a single coinfected Ixodes scapularis tick, an attempt was made to determine the frequency with which whole blood samples that tested positive for B. microti infection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) would also test positive by PCR for B. burgdorferi infection. Over a 7-year period from 2013 to 2019, 119 different patients tested positive for B. microti infection by PCR on at least one blood sample. Among the 118 patients with a positive B. microti PCR blood sample that could also be tested by a qualitative PCR for B. burgdorferi, only one patient tested positive (0.85%, 95% CI 0.02 to 4.6%). Routine PCR testing of every B. microti PCR-positive blood specimen to detect B. burgdorferi coinfection appears to have a low yield, even in a highly endemic geographic area for both of these infections.