bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Behavior Mechanism of K and Na during the Synthesis of VN Alloy
Authors: Li Lanjie , Wang Xindong , Zhang Caidong , Lu Mingliang , Wang Haixu , Wan Heli
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the sources of K and Na in vanadium-nitrogen (VN) alloys and their effects on the furnace structure were studied. The results show that K and Na are mainly present as counter-ions of decavanadate and dodecanadate in ammonium polyvanadate (APV) and vanadium trioxide (V2O3). In the production process of VN, the concentration of K in the scab produced in the kiln is 25 times higher than that of the vanadium raw material, the concentration of Na is 15 times higher than that of the raw material, and the degree of enrichment of K is stronger than that of Na. Additionally, in the VN products, K and Na are mainly distributed uniformly in the form of KCN and NaCN. The results also found that the K and Na vapors during the production of VN promoted the formation of VN. However, K, Na steam, KCN, NaCN, K2CO3, Na2CO3 and other potassium-sodium high-temperature corrosive substances cause strong corrosion of the furnace lining, graphite sagger, push plate, and heating elements. Therefore, in the process of synthesizing VN, the raw materials of K and Na content of impurity elements must be reasonably controlled. The results not only analyzed the source of K and Na, but also analyzed the characteristics of their enrichment and the influence on the equipment.
No Indices of Increased Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Individuals with Reactive Postprandial Hypoglycemia
Authors: Volčanšek Špela , Rahne Perc Urška , Lunder Mojca , Pongrac Barlovič Draženka
Published: December 2022

Reactive postprandial hypoglycemia (RPH) is an understudied condition that lacks clinical definition, knowledge of future health implications, and an understanding of precise underlying mechanisms. Therefore, our study aimed to assess the glycemic response after glucose ingestion in individuals several years after the initial evaluation of RPH and to compare glucose regulation in individuals with RPH vs. healthy volunteers. We assessed the inter- and intra-individual differences in glucose, insulin, and C-peptide concentrations during 5-h oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs); the surrogate markers of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR and Matsuda index); and beta-cell function (distribution index and insulinogenic index). The study included 29 subjects with RPH (all females, aged 39 (28, 46) years) and 11 sex-, age-, and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls. No biochemical deterioration of beta-cell secretory capacity and no progression to dysglycemia after 6.4 ± 4.2 years of follow-up were detected. RPH subjects were not insulin resistant, and their insulin sensitivity did not deteriorate. RPH subjects exhibited no differences in concentrations or in the shape of the glucose-insulin curves during the 5-h OGTTs compared to age- and BMI-matched controls. No increased incident type 2 diabetes risk indices were evident in individuals with RPH. This dictates the need for further research to investigate the magnitude of future diabetes risk in individuals experiencing RPH.
Effects of Enzymatic Cottonseed Protein Concentrate as a Feed Protein Source on the Growth, Plasma Parameters, Liver Antioxidant Capacity and Immune Status of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)
Authors: Zhang Qile , Liang Hualiang , Xu Pao , Xu Gangchun , Zhang Lu , Wang Yongli , Ren Mingchun , Chen Xiaoru
Published: December 2022

This study appraised the impact of enzymatic cottonseed protein concentrate (ECP) as a fish meal (FM) substitute on the growth and health of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) (initial weight 14.99 ± 0.03 g). Five diets with equal nitrogen, fat, and energy were designed to replace 0%, 7.78%, 15.56%, 23.33%, and 31.11% FM by adding 0%, 3.6%, 7.2%, 10.8%, and 14.4% ECP, named ECP0, ECP3.6, ECP7.2, ECP10.8, and ECP14.4, respectively. We fed 300 fish with five experimental diets for 60 days. The results revealed that weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) did not notably reduce until the addition of ECP exceeded 7.2%. The proximate composition of fish was not affected by the amount of ECP added in diets. Plasma total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) concentrations increased with the increase of ECP dosage, while the triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) concentrations and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity showed an opposite trend. For hepatic antioxidant capacity, the hepatic total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, glutathione (GSH) content, and the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and CAT were increased by ECP, while the hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the expression of kelch-like-ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) were decreased. With regard to inflammation, the expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were inhibited by ECP. In summary, the amount of ECP added to diet can reach 7.2% to replace 15.56% FM without hampering the growth of largemouth bass, and ECP can improve the antioxidant and immune capacity.
Moringa oleifera and Propolis in Cattle Nutrition: Characterization of Metabolic Activities in the Rumen In Vitro
Authors: Mahmood Mubarik , Samli Hasan Ersin , Sener-Aydemir Arife , Sharma Suchitra , Zebeli Qendrim , Khiaosa-ard Ratchaneewan
Published: December 2022

Moringa oleifera by-products such as seed cake and leaves are protein-rich ingredients, while raw propolis has the potential to influence ruminal protein metabolism. These substances are also known to be sources of functional compounds. With these properties, they could modulate ruminal fermentation activities. Using the rumen simulation technique, we investigated ruminal fermentation and the antioxidant properties of four dietary treatments. These included a control diet (CON) without supplementation; the CON diet top-dressed on a dry matter (DM) basis, either with moringa seed cake (MSC, containing 49% crude protein (CP)), moringa leaf powder (ML, containing 28% CP), or raw propolis (PRO, 3% CP). MSC, ML, and PRO accounted for 3.8, 7.4, and 0.1% of the total diet DM, respectively. Both ML and MSC resulted in 14 and 27% more ammonia concentration, respectively than CON and PRO (p < 0.05). MSC increased the propionate percentage at the expense of acetate (p < 0.05). Both ML and MSC decreased methane percentages by 7 and 10%, respectively, compared to CON (p < 0.05). The antioxidant capacity of the moringa seed cake, moringa leaf powder, and raw propolis were 1.14, 0.56, and 8.56 mg Trolox/g DM, respectively. However, such differences were not evident in the fermentation fluid. In conclusion, the supplementation of moringa seed cake desirably modulates rumen microbial activities related to protein and carbohydrate metabolism.
Metabolites of Moringa oleifera Activate Physio-Biochemical Pathways for an Accelerated Functional Recovery after Sciatic Nerve Crush Injury in Mice
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Hussain Ghulam , Hameed Arruje , Iftikhar Iqra , Ibrahim Muhammad , Asghar Rahat , Nisar Izzat , Farooq Tahir , Khalid Tanzila , Rehman Kanwal , Assiri Mohammed
Published: December 2022

In this study, the functional metabolites of Moringa oleifera (MO) were screened to evaluate their possible role in accelerated functional retrieval after peripheral nerve injury (PNI). MO leaves were used for extract preparation using solvents of different polarities. Each dry extract was uniformly mixed in rodents’ chow and supplemented daily at a dose rate of 2 g/kg body weight from the day of nerve crush until the completion of the trial. The sciatic functional index (SFI) and muscle grip strength were performed to assess the recovery of motor functions, whereas the hotplate test was performed to measure the regain of sensory functions. An optimal level of oxidative stress and a controlled glycemic level mediates a number of physio-biochemical pathways for the smooth progression of the regeneration process. Therefore, total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glycemic levels were analyzed in metabolite-enriched extract-treated groups compared to the control. The supplementation of polar extracts demonstrated a significantly high potential to induce the retrieval of sensory and motor functions. Further, they were highly effective in controlling oxidative stress, facilitating accelerated nerve generation. This study has highlighted MO as a sustainable source of nutritive metabolites and a valuable target for drug development.
An In-Silico Evaluation of Anthraquinones as Potential Inhibitors of DNA Gyrase B of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Amorim Juliana Carolina , Cabrera Bermeo Andrea E. , Vásquez Urgilés Viviana E. , Martínez León Maritza R. , Carpio Arévalo Juan M.
Published: December 2022

The World Health Organization reported that tuberculosis remains on the list of the top ten threats to public health worldwide. Among the main causes is the limited effectiveness of treatments due to the emergence of resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. One of the main drug targets studied to combat M. tuberculosis is DNA gyrase, the only enzyme responsible for regulating DNA topology in this specie and considered essential in all bacteria. In this context, the present work tested the ability of 2824 anthraquinones retrieved from the PubChem database to act as competitive inhibitors through interaction with the ATP-binding pocket of DNA gyrase B of M. tuberculosis. Virtual screening results based on molecular docking identified 7122772 (N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-9,10-dioxoanthracene-2-sulfonamide) as the best-scored ligand. From this anthraquinone, a new derivative was designed harbouring an aminotriazole moiety, which exhibited higher binding energy calculated by molecular docking scoring and free energy calculation from molecular dynamics simulations. In addition, in these last analyses, this ligand showed to be stable in complex with the enzyme and further predictions indicated a low probability of cytotoxic and off-target effects, as well as an acceptable pharmacokinetic profile. Taken together, the presented results show a new synthetically accessible anthraquinone with promising potential to inhibit the GyrB of M. tuberculosis.
Three Methods Assessing the Association of the Endophytic Entomopathogenic Fungus Metarhizium robertsii with Non-Grafted Grapevine Vitis vinifera
Authors: Ponchon Mathilde , Reineke Annette , Massot Marie , Bidochka Michael J. , Thiéry Denis , Papura Daciana
Published: December 2022

Characterizing the association of endophytic insect pathogenic fungi (EIPF) with plants is an important step in order to understand their ecology before using them in biological control programs. Since several methods are available, it is challenging to identify the most appropriate for such investigations. Here, we used two strains of Metarhizium robertsii: EF3.5(2) native to the French vineyard environment and ARSEF-2575-GFP a laboratory strain expressing a green fluorescent protein, to compare their potential of association with non-grafted grapevine Vitis vinifera. Three methods were used to evaluate the kinetics of rhizosphere and grapevine endospheric colonization: (i) Droplet Digital (ddPCR), a sensitive molecular method of M. robertsii DNA quantification in different plant parts, (ii) culture-based method to detect the live fungal propagules from plant tissues that grew on the medium, (iii) confocal imaging to observe roots segments. Both strains showed evidence of establishment in the rhizosphere of grapevines according to the culture-based and ddPCR methods, with a significantly higher establishment of strain EF3.5(2) (40% positive plants and quantified median of exp(4.61) c/μL) compared to strain ARSEF-2575-GFP (13% positive plants and quantified median of exp(2.25) c/μL) at 96–98 days post-inoculation. A low incidence of association of both strains in the grapevine root endosphere was found with no significant differences between strains and evaluation methods (15% positive plants inoculated with strain EF3.5(2) and 5% with strain ARSEF-2575-GFP according to culture-based method). ddPCR should be used more extensively to investigate the association between plants and EIPF but always accompanied with at least one method such as culture-based method or confocal microscopy.
Structural Features and Thermal Behavior of Ion-Exchanged Clinoptilolite from Beli Plast Deposit (Bulgaria)
Authors: Dimowa Louiza , Petrova Nadia , Tzvetanova Yana , Petrov Ognyan , Piroeva Iskra
Published: December 2022

The structural features and the thermal behavior of natural, Na-, Ca-, K-, Mg-, and Cd-exchanged clinoptilolite from the Beli Plast deposit (Bulgaria) were studied. Purified clinoptilolite sample was preliminary prepared and ion-exchanged at 100 °C for six days. DSC-TG analyses were performed for all studied forms. The effects in the DSC curves show differences with temperature due to release of weakly bound H2O molecules and strongly bound ones. The endotherm minima temperatures were between 78 and 115 °C decreasing in the sequence K- < Na- < Natural- < Ca- ≤ Mg- < Cd-clinoptilolite. The hydrate complexes around the exchanged cations also influenced the DSC curves. The cation-coordinating H2O molecules and the non-coordinating ones were determined by XRD structural refinement for all exchanged samples. The H2O molecules of the cation–hydrate complexes are released at higher temperatures than weakly bound ones and affected the DSC curves differently. The structural adjustments made by the Rietveld method, as well as the applied EDS analyzes for the chemical composition of the samples, allowed us to correlate these data to the thermal characteristics of the studied clinoptilolite samples.
A Study on the Raman Spectral Characteristics of Garnet from the Jiama Copper Polymetallic Deposit in Tibet
Authors: Fu Minghai , Dai Jingjing , Zhao Longxian
Published: December 2022

Raman spectroscopy is an important method to analyze and measure mineral composition and structure, which has the advantages of being non-destructive and rapid. This study considered garnet from the Jiama copper polymetallic deposit in Tibet to carry out micro-Raman spectrum and electron microprobe research to analyze the Raman spectrum characteristics of garnet with different components to reveal its indicative significance for garnet composition and skarn mineralization. The results showed that the Raman peaks T, X, A1, A2, and A3 shift toward lower wavenumber with the increase in andradite (And) content. The variations in T, X, and A2 are more obvious than those of A1 and A3. When And > 50%, the three Raman peaks (T, X, and A2) range are 173–174, 234–239, 513–525 cm−1; when And < 50%, they are 177–178, 240–244, 527–543 cm−1. The Raman peaks also shift with the cation radius and relative atomic mass. Different peaks moved in the low-frequency direction with the increase in the X2+ and Y3+ radius, and the X2+ atomic mass. The Raman spectrum can indicate the composition change in garnet. Raman spectrum analysis of garnet is of great significance for skarn zoning and prospecting.
Development of Nanocomposite Coatings
Authors: Khan Zulfiqar A. , Nazir Mian H. , Saeed Adil
Published: December 2022

This Special Issue in Nanomaterials, “Development of Nanocomposite Coatings”, was set up with the aim to provide authors with an opportunity to showcase their latest developments in this field [...]
Rapid Fabrication of Wavelength-Scale Micropores on Metal by Femtosecond MHz Burst Bessel Beam Ablation
Authors: Cheng Yang , Lu Yu , Yang Qing , Zhong Jun , Xu Mengchen , Gou Xiaodan , Kai Lin , Hou Xun , Chen Feng
Published: December 2022

The preparation of the wavelength-scale micropores on metallic surfaces is limited by the high opacity of metal. At present, most micropores reported in the literature are more than 20 µm in diameter, which is not only large in size, but renders them inefficient for processing so that it is difficult to meet the needs of some special fields, such as aerospace, biotechnology, and so on. In this paper, the rapid laser fabrications of the wavelength-scale micropores on various metallic surfaces are achieved through femtosecond MHz burst Bessel beam ablation. Taking advantage of the long-depth focal field of the Bessel beam, high-density micropores with a diameter of 1.3 µm and a depth of 10.5 µm are prepared on metal by MHz burst accumulation; in addition, the rapid fabrication of 2000 micropores can be achieved in 1 s. The guidelines and experimental results illustrate that the formations of the wavelength-scale porous structures are the result of the co-action of the laser-induced periodic surface structure (LIPSS) effect and Bessel beam interference. Porous metal can be used to store lubricant and form a lubricating layer on the metallic surface, thus endowing the metal resistance to various liquids’ adhesion. The microporous formation process on metal provides a new physical insight for the rapid preparation of wavelength-scale metallic micropores, and promotes the application of porous metal in the fields of catalysis, gas adsorption, structural templates, and bio-transportation fields.
Strengthening Modulus and Softening Strength of Nanoporous Gold in Multiaxial Tension: Insights from Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Li Jiejie , Li Jie , Chen Yangheng , Chen Jian
Published: December 2022

The functionalized applications of nanoporous metals place clear requirements on their basic mechanical properties, yet there is a lack of research on the mechanical response under multiaxial loading conditions. In this work, the mechanical behaviors of nanoporous gold under multiaxial tension are investigated via molecular dynamics simulations. The mechanical properties under different loading conditions are compared and the microstructure evolution is analyzed to clarify the deformation mechanisms of nanoporous gold in biaxial and triaxial tension. It is found that the modulus of nanoporous gold in multiaxial tension is strengthened and the strength is softened compared to uniaxial tension. The failure of nanoporous gold in multiaxial tension is dominated by the progressive yielding, necking, and rupture of ligaments along the multiple uniaxial loading directions. The dislocation activity under multiaxial loads is more intense and more prone to plastic deformation, ultimately resulting in lower strength and smaller failure strain. The findings provide more insight into the understanding of the deformation mechanisms of nanoporous metals under complex stress states.
Photochemical Method for Laser Absorption
Authors: Tang Weiwei , Zhang Yinuo , Qi Xingyu , Duanmu Yu , Yao Yue
Published: December 2022

During the laser application process, laser energy is usually converted into heat energy, causing high temperature, which affects the (high-speed) aircraft in routine flight. A completely novel photochemical method was investigated to potentially minimize the energy effect of the laser beam. Ag nanoparticles/C3N4 were synthesized by an ultra-low temperature reduced deposit method with Ag mean diameters of 5–25 nm for photofixation of N2. The absorption performance of laser can be improved by using appropriate charge density and small size Ag metal particles. The energy absorption rate was 7.1% over Ag/C3N4 (−40) at 5 mJ/cm2 of laser energy.
Synthesis, Properties and Applications of Polymeric Nanomaterials
Authors: Perduca Massimiliano
Published: December 2022

The term “polymeric nanomaterials” is commonly used for all polymer-based nanomaterials, but it is mainly applied to nanospheres and nanocapsules [...]
Evaluating the High-Temperature Properties and Reaction Mechanism of Terminal Blend Rubber/Nano Silica Composite Modified Asphalt Using Activated Rubber
Authors: Lushinga Nonde , Dong Zejiao , Cao Liping
Published: December 2022

Terminal blend (TB) rubberized asphalt is a popular technology in the production of rubberized asphalt. However, it always presents challenges regarding the inadequate high-temperature rutting performance of the binders. Additionally, crumb rubber (CR), a modifier of asphalt is a cross-linked material which presents poor compatibility between CR particles and bitumen. Incorporating nanomaterials and pretreating CR particles are two possible solutions to address this drawback. But the performance improvement and modification mechanism of the composite TB binders is not clearly understood. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to evaluate the high-temperature properties and reaction mechanism of the TB rubber/nano silica composite modified asphalt using microwave activated rubber. To achieve the research purpose, bitumen penetration grade 80–100 was first modified with 8% CR particles at elevated temperature to produce TB rubberized asphalt followed by the addition of 0.5, 1.5 and 3.0% weight percentage of nano silica to produce TB rubber/nano silica composite modified asphalt. Short and long-term aging tests were performed on samples by thin film oven test (TFOT) and pressure aging vessel (PAV) prior to chemical and rheological tests. The results of the study shows that nano silica has a great influence on the high temperature rutting resistance, storage stability and anti-aging properties of TB rubberized asphalt. Nano silica promoted good interaction and compatibility between CR particles and bitumen and improved the overall rheological properties of the binders. XRD test results revealed that the TB rubberized/nano silica composite modified asphalt samples were amorphous materials and did not have a crystalline structure. The reaction mechanism between rubber and asphalt was found to be physical, whereas nano silica interacted chemically with TB rubberized asphalt. In light of these findings, this research concluded that nano silica evidently improves the high-temperature rutting properties of TB rubberized asphalt, which deserves further exploration and application.
Reduced Graphene Oxide-Coated CuFeO2 with Fenton-like Catalytic Degradation Performance for Terramycin
Authors: Wang Liping , Liu Gonghao , Zhang Mingyu , Luo Kun , Pang Ya
Published: December 2022

A novel Fenton-like catalyst made of reduced graphene oxide-coated CuFeO2 (rGO-coated CuFeO2) was synthesized by the hydrothermal reaction method to remove terramycin from aqueous solutions. The catalytic degradation performance of rGO-coated CuFeO2 for terramycin was verified with H2O2 activation. The characterization reveals that rGO-coated CuFeO2 has a micro- and mesoporous structure, with groups such as C=C/C−C, CH2−CO, and HO−C=O found on the surface. The Fenton-like catalytic degradation of terramycin by rGO-coated CuFeO2 was in line with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, and the elevated temperature accelerated the reaction. Terramycin was catalytically degraded by rGO-coated CuFeO2 in two steps: terramycin was first adsorbed by rGO, and then Fenton-like degradation took place on its surface. This research presents new insight into the design and fabrication of Fenton-like catalysts with enhanced performance.
Heat-Killed Bifidobacterium bifidum B1628 May Alleviate Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice, and the Anti-Inflammatory Effect Is Associated with Gut Microbiota Modulation
Authors: Feng Cuijiao , Zhang Weiqin , Zhang Tao , He Qiuwen , Kwok Lai-Yu , Tan Yan , Zhang Heping
Published: December 2022

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with gut dysbiosis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of heat-killed Bifidobacterium bifidum B1628 (HB1628) in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. The following three mouse groups were included (n = eight per group): NC (normal control), DSS (colitis), and HB1628 (colitis and postbiotic). The mice in the DSS group showed significant weight loss and histological damage, developed bloody diarrhea, scored high in the disease activity index (DAI), and exhibited increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) and decreases in an anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-13) in the serum. These changes were accompanied by gut microbiota modulation in colitis mice (decreases in Rikenellaceae and Eubacterium; increases in Peptostreptococcaceae, Bacteroides vulgatus, and Parasutterella excrementihominis). The HB1628 group had lower DAIs, histology scores, and serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α), but higher levels of an anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-13), compared with the DSS group, suggesting a less severe inflammatory state after the HB1628 intervention. Additionally, HB1628 improved DSS-induced gut dysbiosis, which is evidenced by increases in intestinal beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, and decreases in known unfavorable taxa in IBD, e.g., Porphyromonadaceae, Subdoligranulum, Lachnospiraceae bacterium 3_1_46FAA, and Alistipes indistinctus. Functional metagenomics revealed three significantly enriched metabolic pathways in the HB1628 group (namely, the aerobic respiration I [cytochrome c] pathway and the superpathways of L-phenylalanine biosynthesis and L-tryptophan biosynthesis, respectively). In conclusion, our results showed that HB1628 effectively improved the inflammation state and tissue damage in DSS-induced colitis mice, and the symptom relief effect was accompanied by obvious gut microbiota remodulation.
14-3-3 Activated Bacterial Exotoxins AexT and ExoT Share Actin and the SH2 Domains of CRK Proteins as Targets for ADP-Ribosylation
Authors: Ebenwaldner Carmen , Hornyak Peter , García-Saura Antonio Ginés , Torretta Archimede , Anoosheh Saber , Hofer Anders , Schüler Herwig
Published: December 2022

Bacterial exotoxins with ADP-ribosyltransferase activity can be divided into distinct clades based on their domain organization. Exotoxins from several clades are known to modify actin at Arg177; but of the 14-3-3 dependent exotoxins only Aeromonas salmonicida exoenzyme T (AexT) has been reported to ADP-ribosylate actin. Given the extensive similarity among the 14-3-3 dependent exotoxins, we initiated a structural and biochemical comparison of these proteins. Structural modeling of AexT indicated a target binding site that shared homology with Pseudomonas aeruginosa Exoenzyme T (ExoT) but not with Exoenzyme S (ExoS). Biochemical analyses confirmed that the catalytic activities of both exotoxins were stimulated by agmatine, indicating that they ADP-ribosylate arginine residues in their targets. Side-by-side comparison of target protein modification showed that AexT had activity toward the SH2 domain of the Crk-like protein (CRKL), a known target for ExoT. We found that both AexT and ExoT ADP-ribosylated actin and in both cases, the modification compromised actin polymerization. Our results indicate that AexT and ExoT are functional homologs that affect cytoskeletal integrity via actin and signaling pathways to the cytoskeleton.
High Parasitic Loads Quantified in Sylvatic Triatoma melanica, a Chagas Disease Vector
Authors: Valença-Barbosa Carolina , Finamore-Araujo Paula , Moreira Otacílio Cruz , Alvarez Marcus Vinicius Niz , Borges-Veloso André , Barbosa Silvia Ermelinda , Diotaiuti Liléia , de Souza Rita de Cássia Moreira
Published: December 2022

Triatoma melanica is a sylvatic vector species in Brazil. In We aimed to characterize the Trypanosoma cruzi discrete typing units (DTUs), the parasitic loads, and the blood meal sources of insects collected in rocky outcrops in rural areas in the state of Minas Gerais. An optical microscope (OM) and kDNA-PCR were used to examine natural infection by T. cruzi, and positive samples were genotyped by conventional multilocus PCR. Quantification of the T. cruzi load was performed using qPCR, and the blood meal sources were identified by Sanger sequencing the 12S rRNA gene. A total of 141 T. melanica were captured. Of these, ~55% (61/111) and ~91% (63/69) were positive by OM and KDNA-PCR, respectively. We genotyped ~89% (56/63) of the T. cruzi-positive triatomines, with TcI (~55%, 31/56) being the most prevalent DTU, followed by TcIII (~20%, 11/56) and TcII (~7%, 4/56). Only TcI+TcIII mixed infections were detected in 10 (~18%) specimens. A wide range of variation in the parasitic loads of T. melanica was observed, with an overall median value of 104 parasites/intestine, with females having higher T. cruzi loads than N2, N4, and N5. TcII showed lower parasitic loads compared to TcI and TcIII. The OM positive diagnosis odds ratio between T. cruzi infection when the parasite load is 107 compared to 103 was approximately 29.1. The most frequent blood meal source was Kerodon rupestris (~58%), followed by Thrichomys apereoides (~18%), Wiedomys cerradensis (~8%), Galactis cuja (~8%) and Gallus gallus (~8%). Our findings characterize biological and epidemiological aspects of the sylvatic population of T. melanica in the study area, highlighting the need to extend surveillance and control to this vector.
A Population-Based Evaluation of Polymicrobial Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Authors: Hindy Joya-Rita , Quintero-Martinez Juan A. , Lahr Brian D. , DeSimone Daniel C. , Baddour Larry M.
Published: December 2022

Objective: To provide an evaluation of incidence and six-month mortality rates of polymicrobial Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (p-SAB) in the United States (US). Methods: A retrospective population-based study of all incident adults with monomicrobial SAB (m-SAB) and p-SAB in Olmsted County, Minnesota (MN) from 1 January 2006, through 31 December 2020, was conducted. Demographics, clinical characteristics, in-hospital outcomes, and six-month survival were compared between groups. Results: Overall, 31 incident p-SAB cases occurred during the 15-year study period, corresponding to an overall age- and sex-standardized incidence rate of 1.9/100,000 person-years (95% CI, 1.3–2.6). One-third of p-SAB cases were due to MRSA, and almost one-half (15/31) were caused by Gram-positive bacteria. As compared to the 541 cases with incident m-SAB, p-SAB patients were more likely to have a catheter-related infection (p = 0.008) and less likely to be community-acquired cases (p = 0.027). The unadjusted risk of six-month mortality was greater in the p-SAB group (14/31, 45.2%) compared to the m-SAB group (144/541, 26.6%) (HR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.12–3.36, p = 0.018). After adjusting for relevant covariates, this difference approached significance (HR = 1.93, 95% = CI 0.96–3.87, p = 0.064). Conclusions: To our knowledge, the current investigation represents the only US population-based study evaluating p-SAB patients. We found lower incidence rates for p-SAB than previously reported, with almost one-half of the cases caused by Gram-positive bacteria. Furthermore, these patients had poor survival compared to incident m-SAB cases.
A Familiar Outbreak of Monophasic Salmonella serovar Typhimurium (ST34) Involving Three Dogs and Their Owner’s Children
Authors: Russini Valeria , Corradini Carlo , Rasile Emilia , Terracciano Giuliana , Senese Matteo , Bellagamba Federica , Amoruso Roberta , Bottoni Francesco , De Santis Paola , Bilei Stefano , De Marchis Maria Laura , Bossù Teresa
Published: December 2022

Salmonella is a Gram-negative enteric bacterium responsible for the foodborne and waterborne disease salmonellosis, which is the second most reported bacterial zoonosis in humans. Many animals are potential sources of salmonellosis, including dogs, cats, and other pets. We report the case of an outbreak of salmonellosis in a family in central Italy, affecting two children and involving their three dogs as carriers. One of the children needed medical care and hospitalisation. Isolation and analysis of stool samples from the sibling and the animals present in the house were carried out. Serotyping allowed the identification of S. enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium in its monophasic variant for all the isolates. The results of whole-genome sequencing confirmed that the strains were tightly related. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test documented the resistance to ampicillin, sulfamethoxazole, and tetracycline. The origin of the zoonotic outbreak could not be assessed; however, the case study showed a clear passage of the pathogen between the human and non-human members of the family. The possibility of a transmission from a dog to a human suggests the need for further studies on the potential ways of transmission of salmonellosis through standard and alternative feed.
Approximations to Diagnosis and Therapy of COVID-19 in Nervous Systems Using Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Rojas Karen , Verdugo-Molinares Maritza G. , Ochoa-Ruiz Andrea G. , Canales Alejandro , Reza-Zaldivar Edwin E. , Limón-Rojas Areli , Vallejo-Cardona Alba Adriana
Published: December 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 virus was first identified at the end of December 2019, causing the disease known as COVID-19, which, due to the high degree of contagion, was declared a global pandemic as of 2020. The end of the isolation was in 2022, thanks to the global multidisciplinary work of the massive vaccination campaigns. Even with the current knowledge about this virus and the COVID-19 disease, there are many questions and challenges regarding diagnosis and therapy in the fight against this virus. One of the big problems is the so-called "long COVID", prolonged symptomatology characterized as a multiorgan disorder manifested as brain fog, fatigue, and shortness of breath, which persist chronically after the disease resolution. Therefore, this review proposes using extracellular vesicles (EVs) as a therapeutic or diagnostic option to confront the sequelae of the disease at the central nervous system level. Development: the review of updated knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 is generally addressed as well as the current classification of extracellular vesicles and their proposed use in therapy and diagnosis. Through an analysis of examples, extracellular vesicles are highlighted to learn what happens in the central nervous system during and after COVID-19 and as a therapeutic option. Conclusions: even though there are limitations in the knowledge of the neurological manifestations of COVID-19, it is possible to observe the potential use of extracellular vesicles in therapy or as a diagnostic method and even the importance of their study for the knowledge of the pathophysiology of the disease
Whole-Genome Sequencing of Six Neglected Arboviruses Circulating in Africa Using Sequence-Independent Single Primer Amplification (SISPA) and MinION Nanopore Technologies
Authors: Schulz Ansgar , Sadeghi Balal , Stoek Franziska , King Jacqueline , Fischer Kerstin , Pohlmann Anne , Eiden Martin , Groschup Martin H.
Published: December 2022

On the African continent, a large number of arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) with zoonotic potential have been described, and yet little is known of most of these pathogens, including their actual distribution or genetic diversity. In this study, we evaluated as a proof-of-concept the effectiveness of the nonspecific sequencing technique sequence-independent single primer amplification (SISPA) on third-generation sequencing techniques (MinION sequencing, Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Oxford, UK) by comparing the sequencing results from six different samples of arboviruses known to be circulating in Africa (Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), Dugbe virus (DUGV), Nairobi sheep disease virus (NSDV), Middleburg virus (MIDV) and Wesselsbron virus (WSLV)). All sequenced samples were derived either from previous field studies or animal infection trials. Using this approach, we were able to generate complete genomes for all six viruses without the need for virus-specific whole-genome PCRs. Higher Cq values in diagnostic RT-qPCRs and the origin of the samples (from cell culture or animal origin) along with their quality were found to be factors affecting the success of the sequencing run. The results of this study may stimulate the use of metagenomic sequencing approaches, contributing to a better understanding of the genetic diversity of neglected arboviruses.
Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Patients in Busia County Referral Hospital, Kenya
Authors: Obanda Benear Apollo , Cook Elizabeth A. J. , Fèvre Eric M. , Bebora Lilly , Ogara William , Wang Shu-Hua , Gebreyes Wondwossen , Ngetich Ronald , Wandede Dolphine , Muyodi Johnstone , Blane Beth , Coll Francesc , Harrison Ewan M. , Peacock Sharon J. , Gitao George C.
Published: December 2022

Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen associated with hospital, community, and livestock-acquired infections, with the ability to develop resistance to antibiotics. Nasal carriage by hospital inpatients is a risk for opportunistic infections. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns, virulence genes and genetic population structure of S. aureus nasal isolates, from inpatients at Busia County Referral Hospital (BCRH) were analyzed. A total of 263 inpatients were randomly sampled, from May to July 2015. The majority of inpatients (85.9%) were treated empirically with antimicrobials, including ceftriaxone (65.8%) and metronidazole (49.8%). Thirty S. aureus isolates were cultured from 29 inpatients with a prevalence of 11% (10.3% methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA), 0.8% methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA)). Phenotypic and genotypic resistance was highest to penicillin-G (96.8%), trimethoprim (73.3%), and tetracycline (13.3%) with 20% of isolates classified as multidrug resistant. Virulence genes, Panton-Valentine leukocidin (pvl), toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (tsst-1), and sasX gene were detected in 16.7%, 23.3% and 3.3% of isolates. Phylogenetic analysis showed 4 predominant clonal complexes CC152, CC8, CC80, and CC508. This study has identified that inpatients of BCRH were carriers of S. aureus harbouring virulence genes and resistance to a range of antibiotics. This may indicate a public health risk to other patients and the community.
Cross-Over Pathogenic Bacteria Detected in Infected Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and Peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) in Bulgaria
Authors: Kizheva Yoana , Georgiev Georgi , Donchev Deyan , Dimitrova Melani , Pandova Maria , Rasheva Iliyana , Hristova Petya
Published: December 2022

The ability of certain human pathogens to adapt to plants without losing their virulence toward people is a major concern today. Thus, the aim of the present work was the investigation of the presence of cross-over pathogenic bacteria in infected tomato and pepper plants. The objects of the study were 21 samples from seven different parts of the plants and three from tomato rhizosphere. In total, 26 strains were isolated, identified by MALDI-TOF, and phenotypically characterized. The PCR amplification of the rpoB gene was applied as an approach for the rapid detection of cross-over pathogens in plant samples. A great bacterial diversity was revealed from tomato samples as nine species were identified (Leclercia adecarboxylata, Pseudesherichia vulneris, Enterobacter cancerogenus, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter bugandensis, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, Pantoea agglomerans, Pantoea ananatis, and Pectobacterium carotovorum). Polymicrobial contaminations were observed in samples T2 (tomato flower) and T10 (tomato fruit). Five species were identified from pepper samples (P. agglomerans, L. adecarboxylata, Pseudomonas sp., Pseudomonas putida, and Enterococcus sp.). Antibiotic resistance patterns were assigned in accordance with EFSA recommendations. All isolates showed varying resistance to the tested antibiotics. The genetic basis for the phenotypic antibiotic resistance was not revealed. No genes for the virulence factors were found among the population. To our knowledge, this is the first overall investigation of tomato and pepper cross-over pathogenic bacterial populations in Bulgaria.
Morphological Traits Evaluated with Random Forest Method Explains Natural Classification of Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) Cultivars
Authors: Szűgyi-Reiczigel Zsófia , Ladányi Márta , Bisztray György Dénes , Varga Zsuzsanna , Bodor-Pesti Péter
Published: December 2022

There are hundreds of morphologic and morphometric traits available to classify and identify grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) genotypes, while statistical evaluation of those has certain limitations, especially when we have no information about the traits that are discriminative to a certain sample set. High numbers of investigated characters could cause redundancy, while reducing those numbers may result in data loss. Grapevine is one of the most important horticultural crops, with many cultivars in production. The characterization of the genotypes is of undeniably high importance. In this study, we analyzed a dataset of scientific and historical importance with 125 morphological traits of 97 grapevine cultivars described by Németh in 1966. However, the traits are not independent in a set of a large number of categorical traits with too few cultivars. Therefore, the number of traits was first reduced using a simple and effective algorithm to eliminate traits with redundant information content using the asymmetric measure of association Goodman and Kruskal’s λ. We reduced the number of traits from 125 to 59 without any information loss. For the classification, we applied a random forest (RF) method. In this way, 93% of the cultivars were correctly classified using only four traits of the data set. To our knowledge, only a few studies applied a trait elimination algorithm similar to ours in ampelography that can be used for other biological data sets of similar structure. The classification results give a morphological explanation to several cultivars from the Carpathian Basin, a territory where all three Vitis vinifera L. geographical groups, occidentalis, orientalis and pontica, are represented. We found that the information-loss-avoiding data reduction method we applied in our study solved the redundancy-caused interdependencies and provided a suitable dataset for classifying grapevine genotypes. For example, this method may successfully be applied in digital image analysis-based traditional morphometric investigations in ampelography.
The Role of Lichens, Mosses, and Vascular Plants in the Biodeterioration of Historic Buildings: A Review
Authors: Cozzolino Alessia , Adamo Paola , Bonanomi Giuliano , Motti Riccardo
Published: December 2022

Biodeterioration is defined as the alteration of a given substrate due to a combination of physical and chemical factors produced by living organisms when attached to such materials. This phenomenon attracts scientific research attention due to its risk in causing destruction to outdoor cultural rock heritage sites. In this review, an update on the state-of-art regarding the biodeterioration phenomenon is represented in order to highlight the type of colonizing vegetation and possible mechanisms behind the corresponding deterioration. For this reason, 62 articles with a focus on lichens, mosses, and higher plants were investigated by evaluating the role of construction materials and different plant species related to the hazard index. The results showed that trees and shrubs are the most harmful plant life forms, for example, Ficus carica, Ailanthus altissima, and Capparis spinosa, while regarding building materials, those characterized by high porosity, such as andesite and argillaceous limestone, are more vulnerable to plant colonization. Further studies are needed to examine in detail the relationship between colonizing organisms, intrinsic elements of the substrate, and external factors, as well as the refinement of measures to prevent and control colonization by plants.
The Integral Boosting Effect of Selenium on the Secondary Metabolism of Higher Plants
Authors: Skrypnik Liubov , Feduraev Pavel , Golovin Anton , Maslennikov Pavel , Styran Tatiana , Antipina Maria , Riabova Anastasiia , Katserov Dmitriy
Published: December 2022

Selenium is a micronutrient with a wide range of functions in animals, including humans, and in microorganisms such as microalgae. However, its role in plant metabolism remains ambiguous. Recent studies of Se supplementation showed that not only does it increase the content of the element itself, but also affects the accumulation of secondary metabolites in plants. The purpose of this review is to analyze and summarize the available data on the place of selenium in the secondary metabolism of plants and its effect on the accumulation of some plant metabolites (S- and N-containing secondary metabolites, terpenes, and phenolic compounds). In addition, possible molecular mechanisms and metabolic pathways underlying these effects are discussed. It should be noted that available data on the effect of Se on the accumulation of secondary metabolites are inconsistent and contradictory. According to some studies, selenium has a positive effect on the accumulation of certain metabolites, while other similar studies show a negative effect or no effect at all. The following aspects were identified as possible ways of regulating plant secondary metabolism by Se-supplementation: changes occurring in primary S/N metabolism, hormonal regulation, redox metabolism, as well as at the transcriptomic level of secondary metabolite biosynthesis. In all likelihood, the confusion in the results can be explained by other, more complex regulatory mechanisms in which selenium is involved and which affect the production of metabolites. Further study on the involvement of various forms of selenium in metabolic and signaling pathways is crucial for a deeper understanding of its role in growth, development, and health of plants, as well as the regulatory mechanisms behind them.
Assessment of the Hormetic Effect of Arsenic on Growth and Physiology of Two Cultivars of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Piršelová Beáta , Galuščáková Ľudmila , Lengyelová Libuša , Kubová Veronika , Jandová Vilma , Hegrová Jitka
Published: December 2022

Although growth stimulation at low arsenic doses was observed in several plants, few studies have focused on this phenomenon in more detail. The effects of different concentrations of arsenic (0–50 mg kg−1 of soil: As0–As50) on the growth and selected physiological parameters of two maize cultivars (Zea mays L. cvs. Chapalu and MvNK 333) were tested. Cultivar MvNK 333 manifested a generally higher tolerance to As than cv. Chapalu, which may be related to the lower content of As in the tissues. The highest stimulatory effect of As was recorded at doses of As1 and As2 (cv. Chapalu), and at the As5 dose (MvNK 333), there was an increase in shoot elongation, biomass, and relative water content (RWC), as well as the content of photosynthetic pigments. The stimulatory effect of lower doses of As apparently represents an adaptation mechanism that is associated with water content regulation in the given conditions. The stomata of the studied cultivars were involved in this regulation in different ways. While cv. Chapalu exhibited increased numbers of stomata on both sides of leaves, cv. MvNK 333 instead responded to the given conditions with decreased stomata size. Although hormetic manifestations closely related to changes in stomatal number and size were observed, a typical stomatal hormetic response was not observed in the given range of As doses.