bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Investigation of Flow Characteristics of Molten Steel in the Tundish with Channel Induction Heating
Authors: Yang Bin , Lei Hong , Xu Yingshi , Liu Kun , Han Peng
Published: November 2021

In the continuous process, fluid flow is an important physical phenomena in the tundish, as it affects the process of heat transfer, bubble motion and inclusion collision-coalescence and grow up. This paper undertakes a detailed numerical investigation of fluid flow characteristics in the tundish with and without induction heating. The individual unit method and the volume subtraction model are applied to analyze the flow characteristics. A quantitative evaluation method of flow characteristics is proposed to investigate the flow characteristics. In the tundish with and without induction heating, firstly, the main flow behavior of molten steel is mixed flow in the receiving chamber; secondly, the main flow behavior of molten steel is plug flow in the channel; lastly, the main flow pattern is mixed flow, and the minor flow pattern is plug flow in the discharging chamber. The method of the volume subtraction model is an effective way to analyze the flow characteristics in the tundish with channel induction heating.
Lipid Metabolism, Carcass Characteristics and Longissimus dorsi Muscle Fatty Acid Composition of Tropical Crossbred Beef Cattle in Response to Desmanthus spp. Forage Backgrounding
Authors: Mwangi Felista W. , Blignaut David J. C. , Charmley Edward , Gardiner Christopher P. , Malau-Aduli Bunmi S. , Kinobe Robert T. , Malau-Aduli Aduli E. O.
Published: November 2021

Lipid metabolism, carcass characteristics and fatty acid (FA) composition of the Longissimus dorsi (loin eye) muscle were evaluated in tropical crossbred steers backgrounded on Desmanthus spp. (desmanthus) with or without feedlot finishing. It was hypothesized that steers backgrounded on isonitrogenous diets augmented with incremental proportions of desmanthus will produce carcasses with similar characteristics and FA composition. Forty-eight Brahman, Charbray and Droughtmaster crossbred beef steers were backgrounded for 140 days on Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) hay augmented with 0, 15, 30 or 45 percent desmanthus on dry matter basis. Lucerne (Medicago sativa) hay was added to the 0, 15 and 30 percent desmanthus diets to ensure that they were isonitrogenous with the 45 percent desmanthus diet. After backgrounding, the two heaviest steers in each pen were slaughtered and the rest were finished in the feedlot for 95 days before slaughter. Muscle biopsy samples were taken at the beginning and end of the backgrounding phase. Carcasses were sampled at slaughter for intramuscular fat (IMF) content, fat melting point (FMP) and FA composition analyses. Increasing the proportion of desmanthus in the diet led to a linear increase in docosanoic acid (p = 0.04) and omega-6/omega-3 polyunsaturated FA ratio (n-6/n-3 PUFA; p = 0.01), while docosahexaenoic acid decreased linearly (p = 0.01). Feedlot finishing increased hot carcass weight, subcutaneous fat depth at the P8 site and dressing percentage (p ≤ 0.04). The n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio was within the recommended < 5 for human diets. IMF was within the consumer-preferred ≥3% level for palatability. The hypothesis that steers backgrounded on isonitrogenous diets augmented with incremental proportions of desmanthus will produce similar carcass characteristics and FA composition was accepted. These findings indicate that a combination of tropical beef cattle backgrounding on desmanthus augmented forage and short-term feedlot finishing produces healthy and highly palatable meat.
Metabolomics in Autoimmune Diseases: Focus on Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematous, and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Yoon Naeun , Jang Ah-Kyung , Seo Yerim , Jung Byung Hwa
Published: November 2021

The metabolomics approach represents the last downstream phenotype and is widely used in clinical studies and drug discovery. In this paper, we outline recent advances in the metabolomics research of autoimmune diseases (ADs) such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MuS), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The newly discovered biomarkers and the metabolic mechanism studies for these ADs are described here. In addition, studies elucidating the metabolic mechanisms underlying these ADs are presented. Metabolomics has the potential to contribute to pharmacotherapy personalization; thus, we summarize the biomarker studies performed to predict the personalization of medicine and drug response.
Effect of Exercise on Brain Health: The Potential Role of Lactate as a Myokine
Authors: Hashimoto Takeshi , Tsukamoto Hayato , Ando Soichi , Ogoh Shigehiko
Published: November 2021

It has been well established in epidemiological studies and randomized controlled trials that habitual exercise is beneficial for brain health, such as cognition and mental health. Generally, it may be reasonable to say that the physiological benefits of acute exercise can prevent brain disorders in late life if such exercise is habitually/chronically conducted. However, the mechanisms of improvement in brain function via chronic exercise remain incompletely understood because such mechanisms are assumed to be multifactorial, such as the adaptation of repeated acute exercise. This review postulates that cerebral metabolism may be an important physiological factor that determines brain function. Among metabolites, the provision of lactate to meet elevated neural activity and regulate the cerebrovascular system and redox states in response to exercise may be responsible for exercise-enhanced brain health. Here, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the influence of exercise on brain health, particularly cognitive performance, with the underlying mechanisms by means of lactate. Regarding the influence of chronic exercise on brain function, the relevance of exercise intensity and modality, particularly high-intensity interval exercise, is acknowledged to induce “metabolic myokine” (i.e., lactate) for brain health.
Disinfectant and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Studies of Staphylococcus aureus Strains and ST398-MRSA and ST5-MRSA Strains from Swine Mandibular Lymph Node Tissue, Commercial Pork Sausage Meat and Swine Feces
Authors: Beier Ross , Andrews Kathleen , Hume Michael , Sohail Muhammad , Harvey Roger , Poole Toni , Crippen Tawni , Anderson Robin
Published: November 2021

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) causes gastrointestinal illness worldwide. Disinfectants are used throughout the food chain for pathogenic bacteria control. We investigated S. aureus bioavailability in swine Mandibular lymph node tissue (MLT) and pork sausage meat (PSM), established susceptibility values for S. aureus to disinfectants, and determined the multilocus sequence type of MRSA strains. Antimicrobial and disinfectant susceptibility profiles were determined for 164 S. aureus strains isolated from swine feces (n = 63), MLT (n = 49) and PSM (n = 52). No antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was detected to daptomycin, nitrofurantoin, linezolid, and tigecycline, while high AMR prevalence was determined to erythromycin (50.6%), tylosin tartrate (42.7%), penicillin (72%), and tetracycline (68.9%). Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains, ST398 (n = 6) and ST5 (n = 1), were found in the MLT and PSM, 4 MRSA in MLT and 3 MRSA strains in the PSM. About 17.5% of feces strains and 41.6% of MLT and PSM strains were resistant to chlorhexidine. All strains were susceptible to triclosan and benzalkonium chloride, with no cross-resistance between antimicrobials and disinfectants. Six MRSA strains had elevated susceptibilities to 18 disinfectants. The use of formaldehyde and tris(hydroxylmethyl)nitromethane in DC&R was not effective, which can add chemicals to the environment. Didecyldimethylammonium chloride and benzyldimethylhexadecylammonium chloride were equally effective disinfectants. ST398 and ST5 MRSA strains had elevated susceptibilities to 75% of the disinfectants tested. This study establishes susceptibility values for S. aureus strains from swine feces, mandibular lymph node tissue, and commercial pork sausage against 24 disinfectants. Since it was demonstrated that S. aureus and MRSA strains can be found deep within swine lymph node tissue, it may be beneficial for the consumer if raw swine lymph node tissue is not used in uncooked food products and pork sausage.
Special Issue: Role of Bacterial Chromatin in Environmental Sensing, Adaptation and Evolution
Authors: Dame Remus T.
Published: November 2021

A typical bacterial cell is micron-sized and contains a genome several million base pairs in length [...]
Metataxonomic Analysis of Bacteria Entrapped in a Stalactite’s Core and Their Possible Environmental Origins
Authors: Michail George , Karapetsi Lefkothea , Madesis Panagiotis , Reizopoulou Angeliki , Vagelas Ioannis
Published: November 2021

Much is known about microbes originally identified in caves, but little is known about the entrapment of microbes (bacteria) in stalactites and their possible environmental origins. This study presents data regarding the significant environmental distribution of prokaryotic bacterial taxa of a Greek stalactite core. We investigated the involvement of those bacteria communities in stalactites using a metataxonomic analysis approach of partial 16S rRNA genes. The metataxonomic analysis of stalactite core material revealed an exceptionally broad ecological spectrum of bacteria classified as members of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, and other unclassified bacteria. We concluded that (i) the bacterial transport process is possible through water movement from the upper ground cave environment, forming cave speleothems such as stalactites, (ii) bacterial genera such as Polaromonas, Thioprofundum, and phylum Verrucomicrobia trapped inside the stalactite support the paleoecology, paleomicrobiology, and paleoclimate variations, (iii) the entrapment of certain bacteria taxa associated with water, soil, animals, and plants such as Micrococcales, Propionibacteriales, Acidimicrobiales, Pseudonocardiales, and α-, β-, and γ-Proteobacteria.
Antimicrobial Activity of Chemically and Biologically Treated Chitosan Prepared from Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Pupal Shell Waste
Authors: Lagat Mevin Kiprotich , Were Samuel , Ndwigah Francis , Kemboi Violah Jepkogei , Kipkoech Carolyne , Tanga Chrysantus Mbi
Published: November 2021

Globally, the broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of chitin and chitosan has been widely documented. However, very little research attention has focused on chitin and chitosan extracted from black soldier fly pupal exuviae, which are abundantly present as byproducts from insect-farming enterprises. This study presents the first comparative analysis of chemical and biological extraction of chitin and chitosan from BSF pupal exuviae. The antibacterial activity of chitosan was also evaluated. For chemical extraction, demineralization and deproteinization were carried out using 1 M hydrochloric acid at 100 °C for 2 h and 1 M NaOH for 4 h at 100 °C, respectively. Biological chitin extraction was carried out by protease-producing bacteria and lactic-acid-producing bacteria for protein and mineral removal, respectively. The extracted chitin was converted to chitosan via deacetylation using 40% NaOH for 8 h at 100 °C. Chitin characterization was done using FTIR spectroscopy, while the antimicrobial properties were determined using the disc diffusion method. Chemical and biological extraction gave a chitin yield of 10.18% and 11.85%, respectively. A maximum chitosan yield of 6.58% was achieved via chemical treatment. From the FTIR results, biological and chemical chitin showed characteristic chitin peaks at 1650 and 1550 cm−1—wavenumbers corresponding to amide I stretching and amide II bending, respectively. There was significant growth inhibition for Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans when subjected to 2.5 and 5% concentrations of chitosan. Our findings demonstrate that chitosan from BSF pupal exuviae could be a promising and novel therapeutic agent for drug development against resistant strains of bacteria.
Nutraceuticals and Herbal Food Supplements for Weight Loss: Is There a Prebiotic Role in the Mechanism of Action?
Authors: Bertuccioli Alexander , Cardinali Marco , Biagi Marco , Moricoli Sara , Morganti Ilaria , Zonzini Giordano Bruno , Rigillo Giovanna
Published: November 2021

Numerous nutraceuticals and botanical food supplements are used with the intention of modulating body weight. A recent review examined the main food supplements used in weight loss, dividing them according to the main effects for which they were investigated. The direct or indirect effects exerted on the intestinal microbiota can also contribute to the effectiveness of these substances. The aim of this review is to evaluate whether any prebiotic effects, which could help to explain their efficacy or ineffectiveness, are documented in the recent literature for the main nutraceuticals and herbal food supplements used for weight loss management. Several prebiotic effects have been reported for various nutraceutical substances, which have shown activity on Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., Akkermansia muciniphila, Faecalibacterium prausnitzi, Roseburia spp., and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Different prebiotics have beneficial effects on weight and the related metabolic profile, in some cases even acting on the microbiota with mechanisms that are completely independent from those nutraceuticals for which certain products are normally used. Further studies are necessary to clarify the different levels at which a nutraceutical substance can exert its action.
High-Fructose Diet Alters Intestinal Microbial Profile and Correlates with Early Tumorigenesis in a Mouse Model of Barrett’s Esophagus
Authors: Proaño-Vasco Andrea , Baumeister Theresa , Metwaly Amira , Reitmeier Sandra , Kleigrewe Karin , Meng Chen , Gigl Michael , Engleitner Thomas , Öllinger Rupert , Rad Roland , Steiger Katja , Anand Akanksha , Strangmann Julia , Thimme Robert , Schmid Roland M. , Wang Timothy C. , Quante Michael
Published: November 2021

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is mostly prevalent in industrialized countries and has been associated with obesity, commonly linked with a diet rich in fat and refined sugars containing high fructose concentrations. In meta-organisms, dietary components are digested and metabolized by the host and its gut microbiota. Fructose has been shown to induce proliferation and cell growth in pancreas and colon cancer cell lines and also alter the gut microbiota. In a previous study with the L2-IL-1B mouse model, we showed that a high-fat diet (HFD) accelerated EAC progression from its precursor lesion Barrett’s esophagus (BE) through changes in the gut microbiota. Aiming to investigate whether a high-fructose diet (HFrD) also alters the gut microbiota and favors EAC carcinogenesis, we assessed the effects of HFrD on the phenotype and intestinal microbial communities of L2-IL1B mice. Results showed a moderate acceleration in histologic disease progression, a mild effect on the systemic inflammatory response, metabolic changes in the host, and a shift in the composition, metabolism, and functionality of intestinal microbial communities. We conclude that HFrD alters the overall balance of the gut microbiota and induces an acceleration in EAC progression in a less pronounced manner than HFD.
Hide-and-Seek: A Game Played between Parasitic Protists and Their Hosts
Authors: Kolářová Iva , Valigurová Andrea
Published: November 2021

After invading the host organism, a battle occurs between the parasitic protists and the host’s immune system, the result of which determines not only whether and how well the host survives and recovers, but also the fate of the parasite itself. The exact weaponry of this battle depends, among others, on the parasite localisation. While some parasitic protists do not invade the host cell at all (extracellular parasites), others have developed successful intracellular lifestyles (intracellular parasites) or attack only the surface of the host cell (epicellular parasites). Epicellular and intracellular protist parasites have developed various mechanisms to hijack host cell functions to escape cellular defences and immune responses, and, finally, to gain access to host nutrients. They use various evasion tactics to secure the tight contact with the host cell and the direct nutrient supply. This review focuses on the adaptations and evasion strategies of parasitic protists on the example of two very successful parasites of medical significance, Cryptosporidium and Leishmania, while discussing different localisation (epicellular vs. intracellular) with respect to the host cell.
Grazing Induced Shifts in Phytoplankton Cell Size Explain the Community Response to Nutrient Supply
Authors: Charalampous Evangelia , Matthiessen Birte , Sommer Ulrich
Published: November 2021

Phytoplankton cell size is important for a multitude of functional traits such as growth rates, storage capabilities, and resistance to grazing. Because these response traits are correlated, selective effects on mean community cell size of one environmental factor should impact the ability of phytoplankton to cope with other factors. Here, we experimentally apply expectations on the functional importance of phytoplankton cell size to the community level. We used a natural marine plankton community, and first altered the community’s cell size structure by exposing it to six different grazer densities. The size-shifted communities were then treated with a saturated nutrient pulse to test how the changes in community size structure influenced the mean community growth rate in the short-term (day 1–3) and nutrient storage capacity in the postbloom phase. Copepod grazing reduced the medium-sized phytoplankton and increased the share of the smallest (<10 µm3) and the largest (>100,000 µm3). Communities composed of on average small cells grew faster in response to the nutrient pulse, and thus confirmed the previously suggested growth advantage of small cells for the community level. In contrast, larger phytoplankton showed better storage capabilities, reflected in a slower post-bloom decline of communities that were on average composed of larger cells. Our findings underline that the easily measurable mean cell size of a taxonomically complex phytoplankton community can be used as an indicator trait to predict phytoplankton responses to sequential environmental changes.
Regulation of d-Aspartate Oxidase Gene Expression by Pyruvate Metabolism in the Yeast Cryptococcus humicola
Authors: Imanishi Daiki , Zaitsu Sota , Takahashi Shouji
Published: November 2021

d-Aspartate oxidase (DDO) is a peroxisomal flavoenzyme that catalyzes the oxidative deamination of acidic d-amino acids. In the yeast Cryptococcus humicola strain UJ1, the enzyme ChDDO is essential for d-Asp utilization and is expressed only in the presence of d-Asp. Pyruvate carboxylase (Pyc) catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to oxaloacetate and is involved in the import and activation of certain peroxisomal flavoenzymes in yeasts. In this study, we analyzed the role of Pyc in the expression of ChDDO gene in C. humicola strain UJ1. PYC gene disruption (∆Chpyc1) in strain UJ1 resulted in growth retardation on glucose and NH4Cl medium. The growth was restored by supplying oxaloacetate from l-Asp or α-ketoglutarate by a transaminase. On the other hand, the supply of oxaloacetate from d-Asp by ChDDO was not able to prevent growth retardation because of a significant decrease in ChDDO gene expression at the transcriptional level. The addition of pyruvate significantly decreased ChDDO gene transcription in the ∆Chpyc1 strain but increased the same in the wild-type strain, even though the intracellular pyruvate content was similar in both strains. These results suggest that ChDDO gene expression might be regulated by pyruvate metabolism, as well as by the presence of d-Asp.
Diversity Distribution, Driving Factors and Assembly Mechanisms of Free-Living and Particle-Associated Bacterial Communities at a Subtropical Marginal Sea
Authors: Yuan Huatao , Li Tangcheng , Li Hongfei , Wang Cong , Li Ling , Lin Xin , Lin Senjie
Published: November 2021

Free-living (FL) and particle-associated (PA) bacterioplankton communities play critical roles in biogeochemical cycles in the ocean. However, their community composition, assembly process and functions in the continental shelf and slope regions are poorly understood. Based on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we investigated bacterial communities’ driving factors, assembly processes and functional potentials at a subtropical marginal sea. The bacterioplankton community showed specific distribution patterns with respect to lifestyle (free living vs. particle associated), habitat (slope vs. shelf) and depth (surface vs. DCM and Bottom). Salinity and water temperature were the key factors modulating turnover in the FL community, whereas nitrite, silicate and phosphate were the key factors for the PA community. Model analyses revealed that stochastic processes outweighed deterministic processes and had stronger influences on PA than FL. Homogeneous selection (Hos) was more responsible for the assembly and turnover of FL, while drift and dispersal limitation contributed more to the assembly of PA. Importantly, the primary contributor to Hos in PA was Gammaproteobacteria:Others, whereas that in FL was Cyanobacteria:Bin6. Finally, the PICRUSt2 analysis indicated that the potential metabolisms of carbohydrates, cofactors, amino acids, terpenoids, polyketides, lipids and antibiotic resistance were markedly enriched in PA than FL.
Xerotolerance: A New Property in Exiguobacterium Genus
Authors: López María Castillo , Galán Beatriz , Carmona Manuel , Navarro Llorens Juana María , Peretó Juli , Porcar Manuel , Getino Luis , Olivera Elías R. , Luengo José M. , Castro Laura , García José Luís
Published: November 2021

The highly xerotolerant bacterium classified as Exiguobacterium sp. Helios isolated from a solar panel in Spain showed a close relationship to Exiguobacterium sibiricum 255-15 isolated from Siberian permafrost. Xerotolerance has not been previously described as a characteristic of the extremely diverse Exiguobacterium genus, but both strains Helios and 255-15 showed higher xerotolerance than that described in the reference xerotolerant model strain Deinococcus radiodurans. Significant changes observed in the cell morphology after their desiccation suggests that the structure of cellular surface plays an important role in xerotolerance. Apart from its remarkable resistance to desiccation, Exiguobacterium sp. Helios strain shows several polyextremophilic characteristics that make it a promising chassis for biotechnological applications. Exiguobacterium sp. Helios cells produce nanoparticles of selenium in the presence of selenite linked to its resistance mechanism. Using the Lactobacillus plasmid pRCR12 that harbors a cherry marker, we have developed a transformation protocol for Exiguobacterium sp. Helios strain, being the first time that a bacterium of Exiguobacterium genus has been genetically modified. The comparison of Exiguobacterium sp. Helios and E. sibiricum 255-15 genomes revealed several interesting similarities and differences. Both strains contain a complete set of competence-related DNA transformation genes, suggesting that they might have natural competence, and an incomplete set of genes involved in sporulation; moreover, these strains not produce spores, suggesting that these genes might be involved in xerotolerance.
An Overview of Bioprocesses Employing Specifically Selected Microbial Catalysts for γ-Aminobutyric Acid Production
Authors: Dahiya Divakar , Manuel Jemima V. , Nigam Poonam Singh
Published: November 2021

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an important chemical compound in the human brain. GABA acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter by inducing hyperpolarization of cellular membranes. Usually, this pharmaceutically important compound is synthesized using a chemical process, but in this short overview we have only analysed microbial processes, which have been studied for the biosynthesis of this commercially important compound. The content of this article includes the following summarised information: the search for biological processes showed a number of lactic acid bacteria and certain species of fungi, which could be effectively used for the production of GABA. Strains found to possess GABA-producing pathways include Lactobacillus brevis CRL 1942, L. plantarum FNCC 260, Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus Y2, Bifidobacterium strains, Monascus spp., and Rhizopus spp. Each of these strains required specific growth conditions. However, several factors were common among these strains, such as the use of two main supplements in their fermentation medium—monosodium glutamate and pyridoxal phosphate—and maintaining an acidic pH. Optimization studies of GABA production were comprised of altering the media constituents, modifying growth conditions, types of cultivation system, and genetic manipulation. Some strains increased the production of GABA under anaerobic conditions. Genetic manipulation focused on silencing some genes or overexpression of gadB and gadC. The conclusion, based on the review of information available in published research, is that the targeted manipulation of selected microorganisms, as well as the culture conditions for an optimised bioprocess, should be adopted for an increased production of GABA to meet its increasing demand for food and pharmaceutical applications.
Succession of Microbial Communities in Waste Soils of an Iron Mine in Eastern China
Authors: Zhang Qin , Wei Pengfei , Banda Joseph Frazer , Ma Linqiang , Mao Weiao , Li Hongyi , Hao Chunbo , Dong Hailiang
Published: November 2021

The reclamation of mine dump is largely centered on the role played by microorganisms. However, the succession of microbial community structure and function in ecological restoration of the mine soils is still poorly understood. In this study, soil samples with different stacking time were collected from the dump of an iron mine in China and the physicochemical characteristics and microbial communities of these samples were comparatively investigated. The results showed that the fresh bare samples had the lowest pH, highest ion concentration, and were the most deficient in nutrients while the acidity and ion concentration of old bare samples decreased significantly, and the nutritional conditions improved remarkably. Vegetated samples had the weakest acidity, lowest ion concentration, and the highest nutrient concentration. In the fresh mine soils, the iron/sulfur-oxidizers such as Acidiferrobacter and Sulfobacillus were dominant, resulting in the strongest acidity. Bacteria from genera Acidibacter, Metallibacterium, and phyla Cyanobacteria, WPS-2 were abundant in the old bare samples, which contributed to the pH increase and TOC accumulation respectively. Acidobacteriota predominated in the vegetated samples and promoted nutrient enrichment and plant growth significantly. The microbial diversity and evenness of the three types of soils increased gradually, with more complex microbial networks, suggesting that the microbial community became more mature with time and microorganisms co-evolved with the mine soils.
Avian Influenza Virus Status and Maternal Antibodies in Nestling White Ibis (Eudocimus albus)
Authors: Christie Katherine F. , Poulson Rebecca L. , Seixas Julia Silva , Hernandez Sonia M.
Published: November 2021

The White Ibis (Eudocimus albus), a nomadic wading bird, has increased its exploitation of urban habitats in South Florida, United States, and has recently established several urban breeding colonies. Certain characteristics of ibis ecology could position them in the natural cycle of the avian influenza virus (AIV). In fact, experimentally infected ibises were shown to be competent hosts for multiple AIV subtypes, and seroconversion to AIV has been documented in adult ibises in natural populations. However, the mechanisms of transmission and the timing of infection are unclear as we have yet to isolate AIV from a free-living ibis. To investigate the age-specific AIV dynamics of ibis, we captured nestlings (n = 115) weekly for 1–4 weeks from urban and natural settings in 2020 and 2021. We collected choanal/cloacal swabs for rRT-PCR and virus isolation, and plasma to screen for maternal AIV antibodies. AIV was not detected in any individual by virus isolation; however, maternal antibodies to AIV were detected in 95% of nestlings, with varying rates of catabolism. These results confirm that nestlings are afforded maternal antibodies from adults at rates reflective of higher adult seroprevalence than previously documented and that nestlings in breeding colonies may have some degree of protection and are unlikely to become infected with AIV.
Classification of In Vitro Phage–Host Population Growth Dynamics
Authors: Sørensen Patricia E. , Ng Duncan Y. K. , Duchateau Luc , Ingmer Hanne , Garmyn An , Butaye Patrick
Published: November 2021

The therapeutic use of bacteriophages (phage therapy) represents a promising alternative to antibiotics to control bacterial pathogens. However, the understanding of the phage–bacterium interactions and population dynamics seems essential for successful phage therapy implementation. Here, we investigated the effect of three factors: phage species (18 lytic E. coli-infecting phages); bacterial strain (10 APEC strains); and multiplicity of infection (MOI) (MOI 10, 1, and 0.1) on the bacterial growth dynamics. All factors had a significant effect, but the phage appeared to be the most important. The results showed seven distinct growth patterns. The first pattern corresponded to the normal bacterial growth pattern in the absence of a phage. The second pattern was complete bacterial killing. The remaining patterns were in-between, characterised by delayed growth and/or variable killing of the bacterial cells. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the phage–host dynamics is an important factor in the capacity of a phage to eliminate bacteria. The classified patterns show that this is an essential factor to consider when developing a phage therapy. This methodology can be used to rapidly screen for novel phage candidates for phage therapy. Accordingly, the most promising candidates were phages found in Group 2, characterised by growth dynamics with high bacterial killing.
Achromobacter spp. Surgical Site Infections: A Systematic Review of Case Reports and Case Series
Authors: Ronin Eve , Derancourt Christian , Cabié André , Marion-Sanchez Karine
Published: November 2021

Achromobacter species are isolated from rare but severe healthcare-associated infections, including surgical site infections. They are considered to preferentially infect immunocompromised patients but so far with limited evidence. We conducted a systematic review on Achromobacter spp. surgical site infections (SSIs) to determine if such infections were indeed more commonly associated with immunocompromised patients. The secondary objective was to describe the characteristics of infected patients. Eligible articles had to be published before 30 September 2020 and to report Achromobacter spp. SSIs across all surgical specialties excluding ophthalmology. Analyses were performed on individual data without meta-analysis. Cases were divided into 2 subgroups: one group which had either prosthesis or implant and the other group which did not. A first selection led to a review of 94 articles, of which 37 were analyzed. All were case reports or case series and corresponded to 49 infected patients. Most of the patients were under 65 years of age and had undergone a heart or digestive surgery followed by deep infection with no co-infecting pathogens. Nine out of the 49 cases were immunocompromised, with similar distribution between the two subgroups (16.6% and 20%, respectively). This review suggests that Achromobacter spp. SSIs do not preferentially target immunocompromised patients.
Special Issue: Diversity of Extremophiles in Time and Space
Authors: Puente-Sánchez Fernando , Chavarría Max
Published: November 2021

Extreme environments are fascinating ecosystems that have allowed us to increase our knowledge about the evolutionary processes of life [...]
The Inadvertent Activation of Silicate Minerals Flotation and Their Depression in Molybdenite Beneficiation
Authors: Miao Yu , Long Tao , Wang Jingjun , Lai Fu , Zuo Weiran , Guo Bao
Published: November 2021

The Wushan Operation has been studied as a case study, particularly relevant to the copper-molybdenum separation circuit, in which efforts have been made to improve the quality of the molybdenum concentrate through diagnostic analysis. A key finding has been the appearance of coarser silicate minerals in the molybdenum concentrate due to their inadvertent activation in flotation. The suitable silicate minerals flotation conditions occurs, most likely, due to upstream bulk flotation regarding the usage of novel collectors and metal cations bearing process water. The flotation of silicate minerals can be diminished by the implementation of water glass and regrinding. The mechanisms underlying flotation behaviors have been revealed by using advanced in-situ surface analysis and particle size analysis techniques.
Incorporating Kinetic Modeling in the Development Stages of Hard Rock Mine Projects
Authors: Toubri Youssef , Vermette Denys , Demers Isabelle , Beier Nicholas , Benzaazoua Mostafa
Published: November 2021

Weathering cell test, designed specifically to overcome material-limited constraints, yields prompt and efficient experimental assessment during the development stages of mining projects. However, it has barely benefited from geochemical modeling tools despite their ease of use. Accordingly, this paper aims to strengthen the upstream geochemical assessment via parametric analysis that simulates the effect of various mineral assemblages on leachate quality recovered from weathering cells. The main objective is to simulate the pH in presence of silicate neutralizing minerals and Mn release from carbonates based upon minimal characterization data. The public domain code PHREEQC was used for geochemical kinetic modeling of four weathering cells. The kinetic model utilized a water film concept to simulate diffusion of chemical elements from mineral surfaces to the pore water. The obtained results suggest that the presence of the silicate neutralizing minerals slightly affects the Mn release from carbonates. Furthermore, plagioclases could supply a significant neutralization potential when they predominate the mineral assemblage. Finally, coupling weathering cell test and parametric analyses illuminate the pH evolution for various mineral proportion scenarios.
Influence of the Addition of Blast Furnace Slag to Alkali-Activated Mixtures Based on Natural Zeolites
Authors: Strejcová Kateřina , Tišler Zdeněk , Sharkov Nikita , Michálková Martina , Peroutková Kateřina , Svobodová Eliška
Published: November 2021

This study focuses on a comparison of alkali-activated materials based on natural zeolites without and with the addition of blast furnace slag and their subsequent modification by acid leaching. The addition of slag to alkali-activated mixtures is generally used to increase the strength. The subsequent modification of its chemical, textural and mechanical properties by acid leaching makes this material usable in other industries, especially in the chemical industry. This study aimed to examine the influence of the addition of blast furnace slag to alkali-activated mixtures based on natural zeolites and observe the effect of subsequent acid leaching on the chemical, textural and mechanical properties and CO2 adsorption capacity of these materials. The modification of alkali-activated materials was carried out by acid leaching using 0.1 M HCl and then using 3 M HCl. The properties of these materials were determined using N2 physisorption, Hg porosimetry, XRF, XRD, DRIFT, TGA and strength measurements. The results showed that the addition of blast furnace slag significantly increased the cutting-edge strength of the obtained materials and affected the textural properties, especially in leached samples. The presence of blast furnace slag generated a higher proportion of mesopores, which are attributed to the presence of the calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) phase and are easily removed by leaching, as shown by the XRF results. The obtained data showed an improvement in properties and extension of the potential applicability of these materials in the chemical industry, especially for catalytic and adsorption applications.
Application of probiotics in trout farms in North-West Russia
Authors: Nechaeva Tamara Alexeyevna , Shchepetkina Svetlana Vladimirovna
Published: November 2021

In recent years, various probiotic and immunomodulating drugs have been actively used in aquaculture. The group of probiotics includes preparations of the Vetom series, created on the basis of the spore-forming bacteria Bacillus subtilus and Bacillus licheniformis. Recently, a large positive experience has been accumulated in the use of Vetom 1.1 in fish farming. The drug is actively used in trout cage farms in Karelia and the Leningrad region. Vetom 1.1 was administered orally with food at a dosage of 50–75 mg/kg ichthyomass per day for 10 days. An improvement in the epizootic state of fish was observed: regeneration of the affected fins and branchial epithelium, normalization of the blood state. Biocomplex Multibacterin (previously in research — Multibacterin OMEGA-10) is a functional food based on lactobacillus (Lactobacillus acidophilus). The drug has a high antagonistic activity against microorganisms — pathogens of bacterial etiology, stimulates the synthesis of immunoglobulins, improves metabolic processes in the body of animals, and stimulates regeneration processes. Multibacterin is recommended for introduction into trout feed in case of toxicosis, bacterial and fungal infection at a dosage of 0.1 ml/kg of ichthyomass for 10 days. The study of the effect of the Multibacterin biocomplex on the state of rainbow trout of different age groups, reared under different conditions, was carried out. With the introduction of the probiotic Multibacterin into the feed, a decrease in the death of fish was noted to 9.5% versus 20% in the control. An improvement in the state of the branchial epithelium was revealed, and the development of the regenerative process on the affected branchial lobes was noted. These preparations help to maintain the immunity of fish and can be recommended for use in aquaculture.
OPTICAL SYSTEM DESIGN OF THE DETECTOR FOR SOLAR TERAHERTZ EMISSION MEASUREMENTS
Authors: KVASHNIN Aleksandr A. , LOGACHEV Valery I. , PHILIPPOV Maksim V. , MAKHMUTOV Vladimir S. , MAKSUMOV Osman , STOZHKOV Yury I. , KALININ Evgeny V. , ORLOV Andrey A. , OZOLIN Vladimir V. , IZMAYLOV Georgy N. , KRIVOLAPOVA Olga Yu. , GAYFUTDINOVA Anastasia G.
Published: November 2021

The objectives and scientific tasks of the planned space experiment “Solntse-Terahertz” to be performed onboard the ISS Russian Segment are briefly described in the paper. In particular, the aim of the experiment is to study uninvestigated solar electromagnetic emission in the terahertz domain, in ~ 1012 – 1013 Hz (300-30 µm) frequency range. It is expected to obtain new data on solar active region emission including solar flare emission. These data are necessary to clarify the nature of solar activity and construct physical model of charged particle acceleration in active regions during solar flares and other astrophysical objects. We focus on the telescope optical system design and evaluation of main characteristics of this system. Results of simulations and comparison with the experimental verification of obtained characteristics are presented. A close correlation of the estimations and experimental results was obtained. As a result, main parameters of the telescope optical system of experimental hardware “Solntse-Terahertz” were determined.
Key words: Sun, solar flares, terahertz emission, optical system.
CRYOGENIC GREASE LUBRICANTS FOR ROCKET AND SPACE TECHNOLOGY
Authors: PLOTNIKOV Andrey D. , VODOLAZHSKIY Aleksandr V. , YAKUPOVA Natalya S.
Published: November 2021

The paper represents requirements for cryogenic grease lubricants used in the rocket and space technology. Data on lubricants based on perfluoropolyether liquid FEN is provided. New lubricant testing methods enabling to analyze their chemical composition and low-temperature characteristics are proposed. Quoted are investigation results for the equivalents of previously used cryogenic lubricants NIKA, NIRA and «Ametist». A practical relevance of the paper has been proven by introduction of low-temperature lubricants «Sever» currently being used in rocket and space items, as well аs successful application of the developed lubricant incoming inspection procedures at RSC Energia.
Key words: low-temperature lubricant, perfluoropolyether liquid FEN, viscosity, solidification temperature, IR spectrum, potential evaporation.
COMPUTER PROCEDURE FOR SELECTING PARAMETERS OF THE PERIPHERAL DOCKING ASSEMBLY LATCH MECHANISM
Authors: CHERNYSHEV Ivan E.
Published: November 2021

When developing the country’s made peripheral docking assembly consistent with the International Docking System Standard a task arose concerning reduction of dimensions of the latch mechanisms that ensure the capture. The article describes the mode of operation of these mechanisms. Proposed is a procedure which makes it possible to choose such a layout of their joints in which the links are inside a given area during operation. A uniform LPτ-sequence is used to form various options of the joints layout. A criterion of maximum loads acting on the links is described. It is shown that the dimensions of the existing latch mechanism can be decreased only with an increase of the load-carrying capability of the links. The proposed procedure is part of a software tool computerizing the design of a new latch mechanism.
Key words: spacecraft docking, peripheral docking assembly, latch mechanism, capture, LPτ-sequence.
DIFFUSION-VACUUM TECHNOLOGY OF MANUFACTURING LARGE AXISYMMETRIC ASSEMBLIES OF METAL MESH MATERIALS FOR HEAT EXCHANGE PATHS
Authors: PELEVIN Fedor V.
Published: November 2021

Requirements for improving the reliability, service life, and increasing a specific pulse of liquid-propellant rocket engines justify a need for transfer to new designs and manufacturing technologies of regenerative engine cooling system. The paper describes a advanced diffusion-vacuum technology of manufacturing a regenerative cooling circuit for liquid-propellant rocket engine based on the concept of inter-channel coolant transpiration through a porous metal mesh material. The method of diffusion welding of metal wire mesh in vacuum makes it possible to obtain large axisymmetric blanks of metal mesh materials necessary to manufacture the regenerative cooling path of the liquid-propellant rocket engine and recuperative heat exchanger (RHE). The possibility of developing a high-efficient low-gradient porous heat exchange path obtained using a metal mesh material (MMM) has been experimentally confirmed. It is recommended to use metal woven cloth and twill filter screens of standard size П24–П60, С120 as a basic material for manufacturing MMM.
Key words: diffusion-vacuum technology, porous mesh material, regenerative cooling system, inter-channel coolant transpiration.
USE OF METHANE IN CLOSED-LOOP LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS FOR SPACE MISSIONS
Authors: ZHELEZNYAKOV Alexandr G. , GUZENBERG Arkady S. , ROMANOV Sergey Yu. , YURGIN Alexey V. , RYABKIN Aleksandr M. , GLUKHIKH Sergey A.
Published: November 2021

The paper discusses the use of methane (generated in the process of oxygen recovery from carbon dioxide released by the crew during its hydrogenation in the Sabatier reaction, with subsequent extraction of 61% of oxygen through electrolysis of the resultant water) in a regenerative life support system for crews on space missions.
It demonstrates that the methane resulting from Sabatier reaction can be used both for pyrolysis in order to return the resulting hydrogen into this reaction so as to extract 100% of oxygen from carbon dioxide, and for producing food protein for life support in space. The use of methane pyrolysis was enabled by new technologies which allowed lowering the process temperature down to 500–700°C and obtaining the easy-to-remove carbon. It provides recommendations for designing space systems for methane pyrolysis.
The paper makes the case for use of the existing processes for industrial production of protein from methane using methanotrophic bacteria in the production of food protein for space food rations, determines the balance of a closed-loop methanotrophic reaction, provides calculation basis and recommendations for designing space systems for methanotrophic production of food protein.
Development of a system for food protein production from methane will enable its use as one of the systems for providing food on the Moon and Mars, as well as a backup system in space transportation missions.
Key words: space missions, crew life support, СО2 hydration, methane pyrolysis, methanotrophic bacteria, food protein.
Resistance to PPE Using by Gas Station Attendants
Authors: Ananda Vieira de Lima Almeida  , Vitor Erick Cardoso Freitas
Published: November 2021

The discussion about the use, or not, of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) by gas station attendants has been growing, in the contemporary context, due to the expansive increase in the consequences generated by the absence of this essential equipment at gas stations. The present study highlighted the importance of raising awareness among the attendants regarding their working conditions, mainly due to the high exposure to toxic compounds. At this core, resistance to use PPE by these workers comesfrom sociocultural issues that notoriously influence the conditionsimposed by this service. In this logic, the case study, determined by the book of Research Methodology by Marconi and Lakatos (2003), thistheme is based on data collection at gasstationsin the city of Salvador- BA, in 2021, to highlight the situations faced by these professionals and, consequently, the impacts on their quality of life and health. The resistance to the use of this equipment harms the present and future well-being of the attendants.
Essential Oil Extraction: Being Green and Emerging Technologies
Authors: Carlos Alberto Tosta Machado  , Herman Augusto Lepikson  , Matheus Antônio Nogueira de Andrade  , Paulo Renato Câmera da Silva
Published: November 2021

The essential oil extraction industry responds for a significant role as a raw material supplier to the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and cleaning product segments. These oils are produced mainly via steam distillation in small businesses, applying systems with broad opportunities when technology is concerned. This paper aims to present the technological features to optimize extraction effectiveness (yield) and energy consumption. The answer to the question in the title involves improvement proposals to green extraction and the impact on business. This study is the continuation of the one previously published in the number 3/2021 of this Journal, entitled “Essential Oil Steam Distillation: Manufacturing 4.0”.