bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-Hospital Levels of Circulating MicroRNAs as Potential Predictors of Left Ventricular Remodeling Post-Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Węgiel Michał , Surmiak Marcin , Malinowski Krzysztof Piotr , Dziewierz Artur , Surdacki Andrzej , Bartuś Stanisław , Rakowski Tomasz
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: Biochemical and molecular regulation of both adaptive and pathological responses of heart tissue to ischemic injury is widely investigated. However, it is still not fully understood. Several biomarkers are tested as predictors of left ventricle (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between selected microRNAs (miRNAs) and LV function and morphology in patients after MI. Materials and Methods: Selected miRNAs related to heart failure were assessed in the acute phase of MI: miR-150-3p, miR-21-5p, miR-19b-3p, miR-155-5p, miR-22-5p. Echocardiography with 3D imaging was performed at baseline and after 6 months. Remodeling was defined as >20% increase in LV end-diastolic volume, whereas reverse remodeling was defined as >10% reduction in LV end-systolic volume. Results: Eighty patients entered the registry. Remodeling occurred in 26% and reverse remodeling was reported in 51% of patients. In the presented study, none of the analyzed miRNAs were found to be a significant LV remodeling predictor. The observed correlations between miRNAs and other circulating biomarkers of myocardial remodeling were relatively weak. Conclusions: Our analysis does not demonstrate an association between the analyzed miRNAs and LV remodeling in patients with MI.
The Influence of Platelet-Rich Fibrin on the Healing of Bone Defects after Harvesting Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone Grafts
Authors: Milovanovic Darko , Vukman Petar , Gavrilovic Dusica , Begovic Ninoslav , Stijak Lazar , Sreckovic Svetlana , Kadija Marko
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: A bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB) autograft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is still considered the gold standard among many orthopedic surgeons, despite anterior knee pain and kneeling pain being associated with bone defects at the harvest site. Bioregenerative products could be used to treat these defects, perhaps improving both the postoperative discomfort and the overall reconstruction. Materials and methods: During a year-long period, 40 patients were enrolled in a pilot study and divided into a study group, in which bone defects were filled with Vivostat® PRF (platelet-rich fibrin), and a standard group, in which bone defects were not filled. The main outcome was a decrease in the height and width of the bone defects, as determined by magnetic resonance imaging on the control exams during the one-year follow-up. The secondary outcomes included an evaluation of kneeling pain, measured with a visual analog scale (VAS), and an evaluation of the subjective knee scores. Results: The application of Vivostat® PRF resulted in a more statistically significant reduction in the width of the defect compared with that of the standard group, especially at 8 and 12 months post operation (p < 0.05). Eight months following the surgery, the study group’s anterior knee pain intensity during kneeling was statistically considerably lower than that of the standard group (p < 0.05), and the statistical difference was even more obvious (p < 0.01) at the last follow-up. Each control examination saw a significant decrease in pain intensity in both the groups, with the values at each exam being lower than those from the prior exam (p < 0.01). A comparison of subjective functional test results 12 months post operation with the preoperative ones did not prove a statistically significant difference between the groups. Conclusions: The use of Vivostat® PRF reduces kneeling pain and accelerates the narrowing of bone defects after ACLR with a BTB graft, but without confirmation of its influence on the subjective knee score.
Update on the Pharmacological Actions of Enoxaparin in Nonsurgical Patients
Authors: Imbalzano Egidio , Orlando Luana , Dattilo Giuseppe , Gigliotti De Fazio Marianna , Camporese Giuseppe , Russo Vincenzo , Perrella Alessandro , Bernardi Francesca Futura , Di Micco Pierpaolo
Published: January 2024

Low-molecular-weight heparins are a class of drugs derived from the enzymatic depolymerization of unfractionated heparin that includes enoxaparin. Several studies have been performed on enoxaparin in recent years, in particular for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism and for the treatment of acute coronary syndrome. Furthermore, the use of enoxaparin has been extended to other clinical situations that require antithrombotic pharmacological prevention, such as hemodialysis and recurrent abortion. In this review, we report the main clinical experiences of using enoxaparin in the prevention of VTE in nonsurgical patients.
Women’s Awareness of Reproductive Health
Authors: Zalewska Oliwia , Wszołek Katarzyna , Pięt Małgorzata , Wilczak Maciej , Chmaj-Wierzchowska Karolina
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: reproductive disorders are a serious global concern in medical, social, and demographic contexts. According to estimates, approximately 10–15% of couples around the world suffer from infertility. Numerous studies have shown that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as a high-fat diet, a postponed decision to start a family, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption, risky sexual behavior, psychiatric diseases, and chronic stress, have a negative influence on the fertility of women. The main goal of this study is to assess the knowledge of women about reproductive health, infertility risk factors, and causes of infertility and to determine whether the level of this knowledge varies based on sociodemographic variables. Materials and Methods: a survey was conducted among 111 patients who anonymously filled in a questionnaire comprising questions regarding fertility and its deficiencies. The results were analyzed using the Chi-square test and Fisher’s test. Results: the survey results indicated that women had a good or very good level of knowledge of the causes of infertility. The obtained test results were statistically significant (p < 0.05), but the studied group did not possess sufficient knowledge of the symptoms characterizing the diseases related to limited fertility (p > 0.05). The level of knowledge on the diagnosis of infertility did not depend on the age of the examined people, their educational level, or personal experience in this field (p > 0.05). The results also revealed that the awareness of women on reproductive health was poor. The studied women had a low level of knowledge of infertility risk factors, and their knowledge did not correlate with age, educational level, or personal experiences. Conclusions: information on the aspects of reproductive health should be widely disseminated through public educational campaigns, aimed at correcting erroneous convictions among women about the risk factors for infertility and assisting them in improving fertility.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Biological Therapy in Patients with Psoriasis: Body Image and Quality of Life
Authors: Wu Chia-Lien , Chang Ya-Ching , Yao Wen-Teng , Chiang Tsay-I
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: Psoriasis is a chronic, long-term, incurable skin inflammatory disease characterized by the excessive proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes, dilation of blood vessels, thickening of the skin, and the formation of visible red patches of variable sizes. The impact on patients differs with the severity of the disease, leading to physiological discomfort and psychological distress, which significantly affect the quality of life. The etiology of psoriasis is not completely clear, but immune cells, including type 1 and type 17 cytokine-producing cells modulated by regulatory T cells (Tregs), play a critical role in driving the disease pathogenesis. With the ability to specifically target inflammatory markers, biologics can efficiently inhibit the spread of inflammation to achieve therapeutic effects. The goal was to explore the changes in body image and quality of life in psoriasis patients undertaking therapies with biologic agents. Materials and Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental, single-sample, pretest–posttest design. Forty-four psoriasis patients were recruited from the dermatology outpatient clinics at two medical centers in northern Taiwan. A structured questionnaire, including demographic information, the Body Image Scale (BIS), and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), was used as a research tool. Questionnaire assessments were conducted both before and three months after the biologic agent intervention. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: Our results indicated a significant difference in body image between psoriasis patients before and after intervention with biologic agents. In addition, overall quality of life (QoL) also showed significant improvements before and after biologic agent intervention. There was a positive correlation between body image and quality of life in psoriasis patients. Conclusions: The treatment for psoriasis has evolved rapidly in recent years, and biologic agents have proven to be effective therapies to improve the quality of life for psoriasis patients. Our study suggests that health-related education and psychological support can further benefit psoriasis patients to willingly and positively undertake treatment and therefore improve their positive body image and quality of life.
IgG Antibody Responses to Epstein-Barr Virus in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Their Effective Potential for Disease Diagnosis and Pathological Antigenic Mimicry
Authors: Fonseca André , Szysz Mateusz , Ly Hoang Thien , Cordeiro Clara , Sepúlveda Nuno
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: The diagnosis and pathology of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) remain under debate. However, there is a growing body of evidence for an autoimmune component in ME/CFS caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and other viral infections. Materials and Methods: In this work, we analyzed a large public dataset on the IgG antibodies to 3054 EBV peptides to understand whether these immune responses could help diagnose patients and trigger pathological autoimmunity; we used healthy controls (HCs) as a comparator cohort. Subsequently, we aimed at predicting the disease status of the study participants using a super learner algorithm targeting an accuracy of 85% when splitting data into train and test datasets. Results: When we compared the data of all ME/CFS patients or the data of a subgroup of those patients with non-infectious or unknown disease triggers to the data of the HC, we could not find an antibody-based classifier that would meet the desired accuracy in the test dataset. However, we could identify a 26-antibody classifier that could distinguish ME/CFS patients with an infectious disease trigger from the HCs with 100% and 90% accuracies in the train and test sets, respectively. We finally performed a bioinformatic analysis of the EBV peptides associated with these 26 antibodies. We found no correlation between the importance metric of the selected antibodies in the classifier and the maximal sequence homology between human proteins and each EBV peptide recognized by these antibodies. Conclusions: In conclusion, these 26 antibodies against EBV have an effective potential for disease diagnosis in a subset of patients. However, the peptides associated with these antibodies are less likely to induce autoimmune B-cell responses that could explain the pathogenesis of ME/CFS.
Hemorrhagic Pneumonia Caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in Patients with Hematologic Malignancies—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Huang Chienhsiu , Kuo Sufang , Lin Lichen
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: There is a need for information regarding the clinical picture of hemorrhagic pneumonia caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in patients with hematologic malignancies. In this study, we aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with hemorrhagic pneumonia caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Materials and Methods: A review of the clinical picture of hemorrhagic pneumonia based on reported cases in the literature was performed. In addition, patients with hematologic malignancies who had a Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection were included in the meta-analysis to evaluate risk factors for hemorrhagic pneumonia. Results: A total of 91 patients had hemorrhagic pneumonia. Acute myeloid leukemia was present in 57 patients (62.6%). Those with bacteremia accounted for 94%, while those with neutropenia accounted for 95% and those with thrombocytopenia accounted for 86.7%. Hemorrhagic pneumonia was a risk factor for mortality of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infection in patients with hematologic malignancies. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were identified as risk factors for hemorrhagic pneumonia. Conclusions: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacteremia with hemorrhagic pneumonia in patients with hematologic malignancies is a situation with rapid development and high mortality. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were risk factors for hemorrhagic pneumonia in patients with hematologic malignancies and with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia bacteremia; thus, these patients should be managed with caution.
Economic Aspects of Mechanical Pre-Treatment’s Role in Precious Metals Recovery from Electronic Waste
Authors: Blumbergs Ervins , Shishkin Andrei , Markus Karlis , Serga Vera , Goljandin Dmitri , Klauson Artur , Abramovskis Vitalijs , Baronins Janis , Zarkov Aleksej , Pankratov Vladimir
Published: January 2024

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) make up 3 to 5% of all electronic waste. The metal content of spent PCBs can reach 40%. They usually contain valuable metals, such as Ag, Au, and Pd, as well as other metals such as Cu, Sn, Pb, Cd, Cr, Zn, Ni, and Mn. However, the metallic part of a whole PCB is 40–60% including the Cu layers between the fiberglass–polymer layers. The paper describes the economics of the valuable metal (Ag, Au, Pd)-containing concentrate preparation from a raw PCB. We considered the influence of the pre-treatment method of PCBs before the extraction of valuable metals on the extraction self-cost change. The disintegration method is based on the high-energy impact of the particles of the material to be ground, thus causing the separation of the metallic components of the PCB. In the course of the work, single and double direct grinding using the method of disintegration was studied. For the calculation, the test batch of 10,000 kg of two types of PCB was taken for estimation of the self costs and potential profit in the case of complete valuable metals (Ag, Au, Pd) plus Cu extraction. It was shown that from 10,000 kg of studied PCB, it is possible to obtain 1144 and 1644 kg of metal-rich concentrate, which should be further subjected to electro-hydrochlorination for metals leaching. The novelty of this research lies in the fact that a technical and economic analysis has been carried out on a newly developed combined technology for processing electronic waste. This included mechanical processing and electrochemical leaching with the help of the active chlorine that is formed in situ. The real (not specially selected or prepared) waste PCBs were used for the process’s economical efficiency evaluation. The main findings showed that despite the high content of Cu in the studied PCBs, the commercial value was insignificant in relation to the total income from the Ag, Au, and Pd sale. A correlation was established between the self-cost decrease after separative disintegration of PCBs by metal content increase (by specific metals such as Au, Ag, Pd, and Cu) with the metal potential yield after extraction.
A Review of Deformation Mechanisms, Compositional Design, and Development of Titanium Alloys with Transformation-Induced Plasticity and Twinning-Induced Plasticity Effects
Authors: Fu Yu , Gao Yue , Jiang Wentao , Xiao Wenlong , Zhao Xinqing , Ma Chaoli
Published: January 2024

Metastable β-type Ti alloys that undergo stress-induced martensitic transformation and/or deformation twinning mechanisms have the potential to simultaneously enhance strength and ductility through the transformation-induced plasticity effect (TRIP) and twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) effect. These TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys represent a new generation of strain hardenable Ti alloys, holding great promise for structural applications. Nonetheless, the relatively low yield strength is the main factor limiting the practical applications of TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys. The intricate interplay among chemical compositions, deformation mechanisms, and mechanical properties in TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys poses a challenge for the development of new TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys. This review delves into the understanding of deformation mechanisms and strain hardening behavior of TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys and summarizes the role of β phase stability, α″ martensite, α′ martensite, and ω phase on the TRIP/TWIP effects. This is followed by the introduction of compositional design strategies that empower the precise design of new TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys through multi-element alloying. Then, the recent development of TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys and the strengthening strategies to enhance their yield strength while preserving high-strain hardening capability are summarized. Finally, future prospects and suggestions for the continued design and development of high-performance TRIP/TWIP Ti alloys are highlighted.
A Link between Neutron and Ion Irradiation Hardening for Stainless Austenitic and Ferritic-Martensitic Steels
Authors: Margolin Boris , Sorokin Alexander , Belyaeva Lyubov
Published: January 2024

Radiation hardening is studied for stainless austenitic and ferritic-martensitic chromium steels after ion and neutron irradiation at various temperatures. Austenitic and ferritic-martensitic steels irradiated up to 30 dpa in various nuclear reactors and ion accelerators are studied at various temperatures. A change in Vickers microhardness is used as the radiation hardening parameter. A methodology is developed that allows one to determine the ion irradiation parameters, which ensure the radiation hardening of ferritic-martensitic and austenitic steels, as close as possible to the radiation hardening of the same steels under neutron irradiation. A transferability function is introduced to connect the irradiation temperatures for ion and neutron irradiation that provides the same radiation hardening. On the basis of the obtained experimental data, after ion and neutron irradiation the transferability functions are determined for the investigated austenitic and ferritic-martensitic steels, which connect the temperatures for ion and neutron irradiation and provide the same radiation hardening at a given damage dose.
Metabolic Regulations of Smilax china L. against β-Amyloid Toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Yan Lili , Deng Yuchan , Du Yulan , Fang Xutong , Fang Xin , Zhang Qiang
Published: January 2024

Smilax china L. (Chinaroot) is a natural herb that has multiple uses, such as being used to make tea and food. Both its roots and leaves have different uses due to their unique components. In this study, we analyzed the extract of S. china. roots using LC-HRMS and evaluated the neuroprotective effects and metabolic regulation of S. china on Caenorhabditis elegans. Chinaroot extract prolonged the life span of healthy nematodes, delayed the paralysis time of transgenic CL4176, and reduced the level of β-amyloid deposition in transgenic CL2006. The comprehensive analysis of metabolomics and qRT-PCR revealed that Chinaroot extract exerted neuroprotective effects through the valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation and fatty acid degradation pathways. Moreover, we first discovered that the expressions of T09B4.8, ech-7, and agxt-1 were linked to the neuroprotective effects of Chinaroot. The material exerted neuroprotective effects by modulating metabolic abnormalities in AD model C. elegans. Our study provides a new foundation for the development of functional food properties and functions.
Measurement of Oxidative Stress Index (OSI) in Penile Corpora Cavernosa and Peripheral Blood of Peyronie’s Disease Patients: A Report of 49 Cases
Authors: Paulis Gianni , Paulis Andrea , De Giorgio Giovanni , Quattrocchi Salvatore
Published: January 2024

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the penile albuginea. Oxidative stress (OS) is important for the development of the disease; therefore, it seemed interesting to us to directly measure OS at both the site of the disease and in peripheral blood. For a precise OS study, it is necessary to evaluate not only the single results of the total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) but also their ratio: OS index (OSI) (arbitrary unit) = TOS/TAS × 100. This study included 49 PD patients examined and diagnosed in our Peyronie’s care center and a control group of 50 cases. We collected blood samples from both the penis and a vein in the upper extremity; we used d-ROMs and PAT-test (FRAS kit) for OS measurement. Pearson’s study found a statistical correlation between penile OSI values and PD plaque volumes: p-value = 0.002. No correlation was found between systemic OSI values and PD plaque volumes: p-value = 0.27. Penile OSI values were significantly reduced after the elimination of the PD plaque (p < 0.00001). The mean value of the penile OSI indices in the PD patients after plaque elimination corresponded to 0.090 ± 0.016 (p = 0.004). The comparison between the penile OSI values of the PD patients (with plaque elimination) and the control group revealed no statistically significant differences (p = 0.130). The absence of a correlation between Peyronie’s plaque volume and systemic OSI values indicates that it is preferable to carry out the OS study by taking a sample directly from the site of the disease. By carrying out a penile OSI study, it would be possible to obtain a precise plaque-volume-dependent oxidative marker. Even if the study did not demonstrate any correlation between OSI indices and anxious–depressive state, we detected a high prevalence of anxiety (81.6%) and depression (59.1%) in PD patients.
Obesity in Pregnancy as a Risk Factor in Maternal and Child Health—A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Orós Miriam , Lorenzo Marta , Serna María Catalina , Siscart Júlia , Perejón Daniel , Salinas-Roca Blanca
Published: January 2024

The prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen dramatically in the last few years. This has led to an increase in both conditions in pregnant women. Obesity and overweight are associated with complications for both the mother and the newborn. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of obesity and its association with the risk of complications during pregnancy. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of pregnant women who delivered from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2018. Results: A higher prevalence of obesity is observed in the group of women aged 35 or older. Women with a BMI > 25 present a higher risk of cesarean section (aOR 1.49, 95% CI: 1.37–1.61), preeclampsia (aOR 1.64, 95% CI: 1.19–2.26), high-risk pregnancy (aOR 2.34, 95% CI: 1.68–2.6), Apgar < 7 at one minute (aOR 1.53, 95% CI: 1.25–1.89) and macrosomia (aOR 2.08, 95% CI: 1.83–2.37). Maternal overweight and obesity are important determinants of the risk of complications for both the mother and the newborn.
A Review on Dry Anaerobic Digestion: Existing Technologies, Performance Factors, Challenges, and Recommendations
Authors: Hayyat Umer , Khan Muhammad Usman , Sultan Muhammad , Zahid Umair , Bhat Showkat Ahmad , Muzamil Mohd
Published: January 2024

With the increase in the growing rate of municipal solid waste throughout the world and due to the high moisture and organic components of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, dry anaerobic digestion has become the future direction to cope with this waste while reducing the impact on the environment, including climate change. Dry anaerobic digestion has become a promising technology that converts the organic fraction of municipal solid waste into combustible biogases, which can be used as an alternative energy source. However, the technology faces several challenges that must be addressed to enhance its performance and adoption. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the current technologies used for dry anaerobic digestion in OFMSW and delves into the various factors that influence the performance of these technologies. This review paper also identifies and discusses the challenges faced in optimizing and scaling up these technologies, such as feedstock pretreatment requirements, characteristics of inoculum, and other crucial parameters.
Recent Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches in Fungal Keratitis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Ghenciu Laura Andreea , Faur Alexandra Corina , Bolintineanu Sorin Lucian , Salavat Madalina Casiana , Maghiari Anca Laura
Published: January 2024

Fungal keratitis represents a potentially sight-threatening infection associated with poor prognosis, as well as financial burden. Novel diagnostic methods include polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR)-based approaches, metagenomic deep sequences, in vivo confocal microscopy, and antifungal susceptibility testing. The ideal therapeutic approaches and outcomes have been widely discussed in recent times, with early therapy being of the utmost importance for the preservation of visual acuity, minimizing corneal damage and reducing the scar size. However, combination therapy can be more efficacious compared to monotherapy. Understanding the pathogenesis, early diagnosis, and prevention strategies can be of great importance. In this narrative, we discuss the recent progress that may aid our understanding of the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mycotic keratitis.
Infective Endocarditis Due to Kingella kingae
Authors: Joye Raphael , Cousin Vladimir L. , Malaspinas Iliona , Mwizerwa Leonce , Bouhabib Maya , Nalecz Tomasz , Sologashvili Tornike , Beghetti Maurice , L’Huillier Arnaud G. , Wacker Julie
Published: January 2024

Infective endocarditis due to Kingella kingae is a rare but serious invasive infection that occurs mostly in children. Recent advances in nucleic acid amplification testing as well as in cardiac imaging have enabled more accurate diagnosis. A good understanding of the epidemiology and virulence factors remains crucial to guide the therapeutic approach. Here, we synthesize the current state of knowledge on epidemiological features, pathophysiological insights, complications, and therapy regarding Kingella kingae endocarditis in children and adults. Finally, throughout this comprehensive review, knowledge gaps and areas for future research are also identified.
Valorization of Food Waste into Single-Cell Protein: An Innovative Technological Strategy for Sustainable Protein Production
Authors: Sekoai Patrick T. , Roets-Dlamini Yrielle , O’Brien Frances , Ramchuran Santosh , Chunilall Viren
Published: January 2024

The rapidly increasing population and climate change pose a great threat to our current food systems. Moreover, the high usage of animal-based and plant-based protein has its drawbacks, as these nutritional sources require many hectares of land and water, are affected by seasonal variations, are costly, and contribute to environmental pollution. Single-cell proteins (SCPs) are gaining a lot of research interest due to their remarkable properties, such as their high protein content that is comparable with other protein sources; low requirements for land and water; low carbon footprint; and short production period. This review explores the use of food waste as a sustainable feedstock for the advancement of SCP processes. It discusses SCP studies that exploit food waste as a substrate, alongside the biocatalysts (bacteria, fungi, yeast, and microalgae) that are used. The operational setpoint conditions governing SCP yields and SCP fermentation routes are elucidated as well. This review also demonstrates how the biorefinery concept is implemented in the literature to improve the economic potential of “waste-to-protein” innovations, as this leads to the establishment of multiproduct value chains. A short section that discusses the South African SCP scenario is also included. The technical and economic hurdles facing second-generation SCP processes are also discussed, together with future perspectives. Therefore, SCP technologies could play a crucial role in the acceleration of a “sustainable protein market”, and in tackling the global hunger crisis.
Potential for Use of Species in the Subfamily Erynioideae for Biological Control and Biotechnology
Authors: Gryganskyi Andrii P. , Hajek Ann E. , Voloshchuk Nataliya , Idnurm Alexander , Eilenberg Jørgen , Manfrino Romina G. , Bushley Kathryn E. , Kava Liudmyla , Kutovenko Vira B. , Anike Felicia , Nie Yong
Published: January 2024

The fungal order Entomophthorales in the Zoopagomycota includes many fungal pathogens of arthropods. This review explores six genera in the subfamily Erynioideae within the family Entomophthoraceae, namely, Erynia, Furia, Orthomyces, Pandora, Strongwellsea, and Zoophthora. This is the largest subfamily in the Entomophthorales, including 126 described species. The species diversity, global distribution, and host range of this subfamily are summarized. Relatively few taxa are geographically widespread, and few have broad host ranges, which contrasts with many species with single reports from one location and one host species. The insect orders infected by the greatest numbers of species are the Diptera and Hemiptera. Across the subfamily, relatively few species have been cultivated in vitro, and those that have require more specialized media than many other fungi. Given their potential to attack arthropods and their position in the fungal evolutionary tree, we discuss which species might be adopted for biological control purposes or biotechnological innovations. Current challenges in the implementation of these species in biotechnology include the limited ability or difficulty in culturing many in vitro, a correlated paucity of genomic resources, and considerations regarding the host ranges of different species.
Epidemiology of Cefotaxime-Hydrolysing β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli in Children with Diarrhoea Reported Globally between 2012 and 2022
Authors: Karambwe Simbarashe , Traoré Afsatou Ndama , Potgieter Natasha
Published: January 2024

The global spread of cefotaxime-hydrolysing β-lactamase (CTX-M)-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) and its associated impact on paediatric diarrhoeal treatment and management has become a public health concern. This review assessed surveillance studies on CTX-M-producing E. coli associated with diarrhoea in children published between 2012 and 2022 globally. A total of thirty-eight studies were included for data analysis, categorised into continental regions, and tabulated. The majority (68%) of studies were conducted in Asian countries while few studies were conducted in Europe (11%) and Africa (18%), respectively. On the African continent, the majority (11%) of studies were conducted in Northern Africa while no studies were reported in East Africa. On the American continent, 3% of the studies were reported from South America. The studies included were classified into diarrheagenic E. coli (74%; 28/38) and faecal carriage (26%; 10/38). Of all the E. coli pathotypes associated with CTX-M production, EPEC was frequently reported. The prevalence of CTX-M-producing E. coli including the CTX-M-15-producing variants ranged between 1% and 94%. About 37% of the studies generalised the report as blaCTX-M-positive E. coli. The use of sequencing in characterising the CTX-M-producing E. coli was reported in only 32% of all the studies. This review provides information on the epidemiology of CTX-M-15-producing E. coli in paediatric diarrhoea and the extent to which surveillance is being performed. This is relevant in informing clinical practice for the management of diarrhoea as well as the design of future surveillance studies.
Monitoring of Animal Feed Contamination by Mycotoxins: Results of Five Years of Official Control by an Accredited Italian Laboratory
Authors: Franchino Cinzia , Vita Valeria , Iammarino Marco , De Pace Rita
Published: January 2024

Mycotoxin contamination of animal feed is a complex issue in both animal wellness and food safety. The most diffused mycotoxins subject to the official control of animal feed are Aflatoxin B1 (AF), Zearalenone (ZEA), Deoxynivalenol (DON), Ochratoxin A (OCRA), Fumonisins (FUMO), and T-2/HT-2 toxins. This work describes the results of five years of monitoring focused on the evaluation of mycotoxin contamination of animal feed. Analytical determinations were carried out by means of accredited ELISA. The obtained results showed a non-alarming scenario, with several samples resulting as “non-compliant” according to the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) set in European Regulation No. 574/2011. Out of 722 analyzed samples coming from 2 Italian regions, Apulia and Basilicata, 14 samples were characterized by mycotoxin concentrations higher than related MRL; in particular, 5, 4, and 5 non-compliant samples for DON, AF, and ZEA, respectively. This study also evaluated the possible correlations between mycotoxin type and feed use with a special focus on animal sensitivity to mycotoxins.
Applications of Clays in Nanocomposites and Ceramics
Authors: Kalendova Alena , Kupkova Jana , Urbaskova Martina , Merinska Dagmar
Published: January 2024

Clays and clay minerals are common natural materials, the unique properties of which have attracted the interest of the industry, especially because these materials are easily available, cheap, and non-toxic. Clays and clay minerals are widely used in many applications, such as in ceramic production, in the clarification of liquids, pollutant adsorbers, filler in composites and nanocomposites, soil amendments, in pharmacy, etc. This review assesses the development in the area of clay application in nanocomposites and ceramics. The first part of this study covers polymer/clay nanocomposites. Topics of interest include nanofiller sources for polymer nanocomposites, the possible ways of clay modification, polymer/clay nanocomposite classification and their processing, and polymer matrix overview with possible enhancement of nanocomposite properties. Some of the applications have already been commercialized. Approximately 80% of the polymer/clay nanocomposites are destined for the automotive, aeronautical, and packaging industries. The second part of this study describes ceramic materials with a focus on silicate ceramics. Talc and kaolinite represent the main natural raw materials for traditional ceramic applications. Less traditional cordierite, steatite, and forsterite could offer property enhancement and seem to be useful in electronics, electrical engineering, catalysts, solar thermal storage, or medical applications.
Statistical Characterization of Food-Derived α-Amylase Inhibitory Peptides: Computer Simulation and Partial Least Squares Regression Analysis
Authors: Li Wenhui , Yang Shangci , An Jiulong , Wang Min , Li He , Liu Xinqi
Published: January 2024

α-Amylase inhibitory peptides are used to treat diabetes, but few studies have statistically characterized their interaction with α-amylase. This study performed the molecular docking of α-amylase with inhibitory peptides from published papers. The key sites, side chain chargeability, and hydrogen bond distribution characteristics were analyzed. Molecular dynamics simulated the role of key sites in complex stability. Moreover, partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used to analyze the contribution of different amino acids in the peptides to inhibition. The results showed that, for the α-amylase molecule, His201 and Gln63, with the highest interaction numbers (INs, 15, 15) and hydrogen bond values (HBVs, 11.50, 10.33), are the key sites on α-amylase, and amino acids with positively charged side chains were important for inhibitory activity. For the inhibitory peptides, Asp and Arg had the highest HBVs, and amino acids with charged side chains were more likely to form hydrogen bonds and exert inhibitory activity. In molecular dynamics simulations, peptides involving key binding sites formed more stable complexes with α-amylase than α-amylase alone, suggesting enhanced inhibitory effects. Further, PLSR results showed that amino acids close to the N-terminus of the inhibitory peptide, located in the third and fifth positions, were significantly correlated with its inhibitory activity. In conclusion, this study provides a new approach to developing and screening α-amylase inhibitors.
Chloramine Disinfection of Levofloxacin and Sulfaphenazole: Unraveling Novel Disinfection Byproducts and Elucidating Formation Mechanisms for an Enhanced Understanding of Water Treatment
Authors: Sun Zhenkun , Chen Zhenyi , Chung Lan Mow Marie Celine , Liao Xiaowen , Wei Xiaoxuan , Ma Guangcai , Wang Xueyu , Yu Haiying
Published: January 2024

The unrestricted utilization of antibiotics poses a critical challenge to global public health and safety. Levofloxacin (LEV) and sulfaphenazole (SPN), widely employed broad-spectrum antimicrobials, are frequently detected at the terminal stage of water treatment, raising concerns regarding their potential conversion into detrimental disinfection byproducts (DBPs). However, current knowledge is deficient in identifying the potential DBPs and elucidating the precise transformation pathways and influencing factors during the chloramine disinfection process of these two antibiotics. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of reaction pathways, encompassing piperazine ring opening/oxidation, Cl-substitution, OH-substitution, desulfurization, and S−N bond cleavage, during chloramine disinfection. Twelve new DBPs were identified in this study, exhibiting stability and persistence even after 24 h of disinfection. Additionally, an examination of DBP generation under varying disinfectant concentrations and pH values revealed peak levels at a molar ratio of 25 for LEV and SPN to chloramine, with LEV contributing 11.5% and SPN 23.8% to the relative abundance of DBPs. Remarkably, this research underscores a substantial increase in DBP formation within the molar ratio range of 1:1 to 1:10 compared to 1:10 to 1:25. Furthermore, a pronounced elevation in DBP generation was observed in the pH range of 7 to 8. These findings present critical insights into the impact of the disinfection process on these antibiotics, emphasizing the innovation and significance of this research in assessing associated health risks.
Towards Industrially Important Applications of Enhanced Organic Reactions by Microfluidic Systems
Authors: Zafar Ayesha , Takeda China , Manzoor Asif , Tanaka Daiki , Kobayashi Masashi , Wadayama Yoshitora , Nakane Daisuke , Majeed Adnan , Iqbal Muhammad Adnan , Akitsu Takashiro
Published: January 2024

This review presents a comprehensive evaluation for the manufacture of organic molecules via efficient microfluidic synthesis. Microfluidic systems provide considerably higher control over the growth, nucleation, and reaction conditions compared with traditional large-scale synthetic methods. Microfluidic synthesis has become a crucial technique for the quick, affordable, and efficient manufacture of organic and organometallic compounds with complicated characteristics and functions. Therefore, a unique, straightforward flow synthetic methodology can be developed to conduct organic syntheses and improve their efficiency.
Assessment of Tilapia Skin Collagen for Biomedical Research Applications in Comparison with Mammalian Collagen
Authors: Huang Jyun-Yuan , Wong Tzyy-Yue , Tu Ting-Yuan , Tang Ming-Jer , Lin Hsi-Hui , Hsueh Yuan-Yu
Published: January 2024

Collagen is an important material for biomedical research, but using mammalian tissue-derived collagen carries the risk of zoonotic disease transmission. Marine organisms, such as farmed tilapia, have emerged as a safe alternative source of collagen for biomedical research. However, the tilapia collagen products for biomedical research are rare, and their biological functions remain largely unexamined. In this study, we characterized a commercial tilapia skin collagen using SDS-PAGE and fibril formation assays and evaluated its effects on skin fibroblast adhesion, proliferation, and migration, comparing it with commercial collagen from rat tails, porcine skin, and bovine skin. The results showed that tilapia skin collagen is a type I collagen, similar to rat tail collagen, and has a faster fibril formation rate and better-promoting effects on cell migration than porcine and bovine skin collagen. We also confirmed its application in a 3D culture for kidney cells’ spherical cyst formation, fibroblast-induced gel contraction, and tumor spheroid interfacial invasion. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the freeze-dried tilapia skin collagen scaffold improved wound closure in a mouse excisional wound model, similar to commercial porcine or bovine collagen wound dressings. In conclusion, tilapia skin collagen is an ideal biomaterial for biomedical research.
Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2 into CO with Cyclometalated Pt(II) Complexes of N^C^N Pincer Dipyridylbenzene Ligands: A DFT Study
Authors: Sarantou Antonia , Tsipis Athanassios
Published: January 2024

In this work, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to study the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into CO using a series of Pt(II) square planar complexes with the general formula [Pt(5-R-dpb)Cl] (dpb = 1,3-di(2-pyridyl)benzene anion, R = H, N,N-dimethylaniline,T thiophene, diazaborinine). The CO2-into-CO conversion process is thought to proceed via two main steps, namely the photocatalytic/reduction step and the main catalytic step. The simulated absorption spectra exhibit strong bands in the range 280–460 nm of the UV-Vis region. Reductive quenching of the T1 state of the complexes under study is expected to be favorable since the calculated excited state redox potentials for the reaction with sacrificial electron donors are highly positive. The redox potentials reveal that the reductive quenching of the T1 state, important to the overall process, could be modulated by suitable changes in the N^C^N pincer ligands. The CO2 fixation and activation by the three coordinated Pt(II) catalytically active species are predicted to be favorable, with the Pt–CO2 bond dissociation energies D0 in the range of −36.9–−10.3 kcal/mol. The nature of the Pt–CO2 bond of the Pt(II) square planar intermediates is complex, with covalent, hyperconjugative and H-bonding interactions prevailing over the repulsive electrostatic interactions. The main catalytic cycle is estimated to be a favorable exergonic process.
Wastewater Characterization: Chemical Oxygen Demand or Total Organic Carbon Content Measurement?
Authors: Wojnárovits László , Homlok Renáta , Kovács Krisztina , Tegze Anna , Takács Ezsébet
Published: January 2024

The long time (2 h) required for measurement, expensive chemicals (Ag2SO4), and toxic reagents (K2Cr2O7, HgSO4) limit the application of the standard method for measuring the oxygen equivalent of organic content in wastewater (chemical oxygen demand, COD). In recent years, the COD has increasingly been replaced by the total organic carbon (TOC) parameter. Since the limit values of the pollution levels are usually given in terms of the COD, efforts are being made to find the correlation between these parameters. Several papers have published correlation analyses of COD and TOC for industrial and municipal wastewater, but the relationship has not been discussed for individual chemicals. Here, this relationship was investigated using 70 contaminants (laboratory chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides). The calculated COD values, in most cases, agreed, within ~10%, with the experimental ones; for tetracyclines and some chloroaromatic molecules, the measured values were 20–50% lower than the calculated values. The COD/TOC ratios were between 2 and 3: for macrolides, they were ~3; for fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines, they were ~2. The molecular structure dependence of the ratio necessitates the establishing of the correlation on an individual basis. In advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), the ratio changes during degradation, limiting the application of TOC instead of COD.
Review on the Applications of Selected Metal-Based Complexes on Infectious Diseases
Authors: Dube Nondumiso P. , Thatyana Maxwell , Mokgalaka-Fleischmann Ntebogeng S. , Mansour Ahmed M. , Tembu Vuyelwa J. , Manicum Amanda-Lee E.
Published: January 2024

Fatalities caused by infectious diseases (i.e., diseases caused by parasite, bacteria, and viruses) have become reinstated as a major public health threat globally. Factors such as antimicrobial resistance and viral complications are the key contributors to the death numbers. As a result, new compounds with structural diversity classes are critical for controlling the virulence of pathogens that are multi-drug resistant. Derivatization of bio-active organic molecules with organometallic synthons is a promising strategy for modifying the inherent and enhanced properties of biomolecules. Due to their redox chemistry, bioactivity, and structural diversity, organometallic moieties make excellent candidates for lead structures in drug development. Furthermore, organometallic compounds open an array of potential in therapy that existing organic molecules lack, i.e., their ability to fulfill drug availability and resolve the frequent succumbing of organic molecules to drug resistance. Additionally, metal complexes have the potential towards metal-specific modes of action, preventing bacteria from developing resistance mechanisms. This review’s main contribution is to provide a thorough account of the biological efficacy (in vitro and in vitro) of metal-based complexes against infectious diseases. This resource can also be utilized in conjunction with corresponding journals on metal-based complexes investigated against infectious diseases.
Zeolitic Imidazole Framework (ZIF)–Sponge Composite for Highly Efficient U(VI) Elimination
Authors: Duan Shengxia , Long Xinshu , Liu Jian , Jin Xiaomin , Zhao Guihong , Li Jiaxing , Liu Zaidao
Published: January 2024

Herein, a zeolitic imidazole framework (ZIF-67) composite was prepared by a rapid, simple and inexpensive situ hybridization technique applying polyurethane sponge (PU) as support, which was designated as ZIF-67-PU. The ZIF-67 nanoparticle was successfully supported on the surface of sponge skeletons mainly through electrostatic attraction as well as probable π−π stacking interactions with PAM modification of the sponge. The resultant ZIF-67-PU exhibited a remarkably enhanced U(VI) elimination capacity of 150.86 mg∙g−1 on the basis of the Langmuir isotherm model, in comparison to pristine sponge. Additionally, the mechanism for U(VI) elimination was mainly achieved through the complex reaction between C–N(H)/–OH groups in ZIF-67 and U(VI), based on XPS investigations. ZIF-67-PU represents a simple, feasible and low-cost disposal option for preparing ZIF-coated sponges of any shape that can enhance the U(VI) elimination capacity. Furthermore, this approach can be widely applied to the preparation of various kinds of MOF-sponges through this situ hybridization technique.