bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability Analysis and Control Strategy of a Generalized Food Chain Model
Authors: Zhang Liping
Published: March 2023

The stability analysis and control strategy for a generalized food chain model is considered in this paper. Firstly, we investigate the existence of the positive equilibrium and give the conditions of local asymptotic stability. Meanwhile, we design a feedback controller and prove the stability of the proposed model with the controller by using the Lyapunov function. Due to the addition of control, the unstable food chain system can become stable. At last, the analysis results are verified by numerical simulations. Our results may help to maintain the stability of the biological systems and avoid ecosystem imbalance.
Figure Volume Calculation Based on Lidar Scanning Technology
Authors: Wang Feng , Zhang Xiaojie , Wang Wei , Zhang Kaikai
Published: March 2023

Aiming at the problems of earthmoving, low efficiency and complex calculation of ground object volume in the process of traditional engineering operation, a volume calculation method based on lidar scanning technology is proposed in this paper. The point cloud data of space volume was obtained by UAV lidar scanning system, and the regular grid method was used to resample the point cloud and obtained the volume of space volume. Taking the vehicle as an example, collected the twice point cloud data of the ground and the vehicle, calculated the trajectory and coordinates, the original data are pre-processing and resampled. The volume of surface vehicle was calculated by dividing regular grid and compared with the actual volume. The error was only 0.19% at the resampling interval of 0.25m. The results show that the method has high calculation efficiency and precision, and provides a reference for relevant engineering applications.
High-throughput microgel biofabrication via air-assisted co-axial jetting for cell encapsulation, 3D bioprinting, and scaffolding applications
Authors: Pal Vaibhav , Singh Yogendra Pratap , Gupta Deepak , Alioglu Mecit Altan , Nagamine Momoka , Kim Myoung Hwan , Ozbolat Ibrahim T
Published: March 2023

Microgels have recently received widespread attention for their applications in a wide array of domains such as tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and cell and tissue transplantation because of their properties like injectability, modularity, porosity, and the ability to be customized in terms of size, form, and mechanical properties. However, it is still challenging to mass (high-throughput) produce microgels with diverse sizes and tunable properties. Herein, we utilized an air-assisted co-axial device (ACAD) for continuous production of microgels in a high-throughput manner. To test its robustness, microgels of multiple hydrogels and their combination, including alginate (Alg), gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) and Alg–GelMA, were formed at a maximum production rate of ∼65 000 microgels s−1 while retaining circularity and a size range of 50–500 µm based on varying air pressure levels. The ACAD platform allowed single and multiple cell encapsulation with 74 ± 6% efficiency. These microgels illustrated appealing rheological properties such as yield stress, viscosity, and shear modulus for bioprinting applications. Specifically, Alg microgels have the potential to be used as a sacrificial support bath while GelMA microgels have potential for direct extrusion both on their own or when loaded in a bulk GelMA hydrogel. Generated microgels showed high cell viability (>90%) and proliferation of MDA-MB-231 and human dermal fibroblasts over seven days in both encapsulation and scaffolding applications, particularly for GelMA microgels. The developed strategy provides a facile and rapid approach without any complex or expensive consumables and accessories for scalable high-throughput microgel production for cell therapy, tissue regeneration and 3D bioprinting applications.
Sulfur isotope engineering of exciton and lattice dynamics in

MoS2

monolayers
Authors: Varade Vaibhav , Haider Golam , Pirker Luka , Panda Jaganandha , Sykora Jan , Frank Otakar , Kalbac Martin , Vejpravova Jana
Published: March 2023

The optoelectronic properties of two-dimensional (2D) atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are predominantly governed by excitons and their interaction with lattice and various physical fields. Therefore, it is essential to understand the role played by excitons in the light–matter interaction processes. We introduce sulfur isotope engineering for the first time in the TMDC family, which enables us to disentangle the crucial role played by phonons in the optoelectronic properties of TMDCs. With the gradual introduction of heavier isotopes in chemical vapor deposition growth

M
o
S

2

, we discovered a systematic variation of lattice phonon energy. Consequently, the transient and steady-state spontaneous photoluminescence spectra were dramatically altered. Accordingly, the isotopically pure monolayers (MLs) show more intrinsic properties with enhanced emission efficiencies than isotopically mixed

M
o
S

2

MLs. The variation of the free exciton energies with temperature for the isotopically modified

M
o
S

2

MLs can be well described by Varshini’s equation. Along with the enormous significance for practical applications, our study provides a unique platform to understand the fundamentals of optical processes in 2D systems, where the lattice-related quasi-particles play a dominant role.
Optimizing Treatment for Human Immunodeficiency Virus to Improve Clinical Outcomes Using Precision Medicine
Authors: Jetsupphasuk Michael , Hudgens Michael G , Lu Haidong , Cole Stephen R , Edwards Jessie K , Adimora Adaora A , Althoff Keri N , Silverberg Michael J , Rebeiro Peter F , Lima Viviane D , Marconi Vincent C , Sterling Timothy R , Horberg Michael A , Gill M John , Kitahata Mari M , Moore Richard D , Lang Raynell , Gebo Kelly , Rabkin Charles , Eron Joseph J
Published: March 2023

In first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment, some subgroups of patients may respond better to an efavirenz-based regimen than an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (InSTI)-based regimen, or vice versa, due to patient characteristics modifying treatment effects. Using data based on nearly 16,000 patients from the North American AIDS Cohort Collaboration on Research and Design from 2009–2016, statistical methods for precision medicine were employed to estimate an optimal treatment rule that minimizes the 5-year risk of the composite outcome of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-defining illnesses, serious non-AIDS events, and all-cause mortality. The treatment rules considered were functions that recommend either an efavirenz- or InSTI-based regimen conditional on baseline patient characteristics such as demographic information, laboratory results, and health history. The estimated 5-year risk under the estimated optimal treatment rule was 10.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 8.6, 11.3), corresponding to an absolute risk reduction of 2.3% (95% CI: 0.9, 3.8) when compared with recommending an efavirenz-based regimen for all patients and 2.6% (95% CI: 1.0, 4.2) when compared with recommending an InSTI-based regimen for all. Tailoring ART to individual patient characteristics may reduce 5-year risk of the composite outcome compared with assigning all patients the same drug regimen.
Spared speech fluency is associated with increased functional connectivity in the speech production network in semantic variant primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Montembeault Maxime , Miller Zachary A , Geraudie Amandine , Pressman Peter , Slegers Antoine , Millanski Carly , Licata Abigail , Ratnasiri Buddhika , Mandelli Maria Luisa , Henry Maya , Cobigo Yann , Rosen Howard J , Miller Bruce L , Brambati Simona M , Gorno-Tempini Maria Luisa , Battistella Giovanni
Published: March 2023

Semantic variant primary progressive aphasia is a clinical syndrome characterized by marked semantic deficits, anterior temporal lobe atrophy and reduced connectivity within a distributed set of regions belonging to the functional network associated with semantic processing. However, to fully depict the clinical signature of semantic variant primary progressive aphasia, it is necessary to also characterize preserved neural networks and linguistic abilities, such as those subserving speech production. In this case-control observational study, we employed whole-brain seed-based connectivity on task-free MRI data of 32 semantic variant primary progressive aphasia patients and 46 healthy controls to investigate the functional connectivity of the speech production network and its relationship with the underlying grey matter. We investigated brain-behaviour correlations with speech fluency measures collected through clinical tests (verbal agility) and connected speech (speech rate and articulation rate). As a control network, we also investigated functional connectivity within the affected semantic network. Patients presented with increased connectivity in the speech production network between left inferior frontal and supramarginal regions, independent of underlying grey matter volume. In semantic variant primary progressive aphasia patients, preserved (verbal agility) and increased (articulation rate) speech fluency measures correlated with increased connectivity between inferior frontal and supramarginal regions. As expected, patients demonstrated decreased functional connectivity in the semantic network (dependent on the underlying grey matter atrophy) associated with average nouns' age of acquisition during connected speech. Collectively, these results provide a compelling model for studying compensation mechanisms in response to disease that might inform the design of future rehabilitation strategies in semantic variant primary progressive aphasia.
New and old GFR equations: a European perspective
Authors: Delanaye Pierre , Cavalier Etienne , Pottel Hans , Stehlé Thomas
Published: March 2023

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is estimated in clinical practice from equations based on the serum concentration of endogenous biomarkers and demographic data. The 2009 creatinine-based Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation (CKD-EPI2009) was recommended worldwide until 2021, when it was recalibrated to remove the African-American race factor. The CKD-EPI2009 and CKD-EPIcr2021 equations overestimate GFR of adults aged 18–30 years, with a strong overestimation in estimated GFR (eGFR) at age 18 years. CKD-EPICr2021 does not perform better than CKD-EPI2009 in US population, overestimating GFR in non-Black subjects, and underestimating it in Black subjects with the same magnitude. CKD-EPICr2021 performed worse than the CKD-EPI2009 in White Europeans, and provides no or limited performance gains in Black European and Black African populations. The European Kidney Function Consortium (EKFC) equation, which incorporates median normal value of serum creatinine in healthy population, overcomes the limitations of the CKD-EPI equations: it provides a continuity of eGFR at the transition between pediatric and adult care, and performs reasonably well in diverse populations, assuming dedicated scaling of serum creatinine (Q) values is used. The new EKFC equation based on cystatin C (EKFCCC) shares the same mathematical construction, namely, it incorporates the median cystatin C value in the general population, which is independent of sex and ethnicity. EKFCCC is therefore a sex-free and race-free equation, which performs better than the CKD-EPI equation based on cystatin C. Despite advances in the field of GFR estimation, no equation is perfectly accurate, and GFR measurement by exogenous tracer clearance is still required in specific populations and/or specific clinical situations.
Survival of multiple arterial grafting in diabetic populations: a 20-year national experience
Authors: Ren Justin , Royse Colin , Tian David H , Gupta Aashray , Royse Alistair
Published: March 2023

OBJECTIVES

Diabetics may have diminished survival after coronary artery bypass grafting even with multiple arterial revascularization. We compared multi-arterial versus single-arterial grafting (SAG) survival in diabetic and non-diabetic patients undergoing primary isolated bypass surgery.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac-Thoracic Surgical Database from June 2001 to January 2020. Patients were classified as having either single or multiple arterial grafting irrespective of the number of venous grafts. The end points were long-term all-cause mortality and 30-day clinical outcomes, which was compared in 1:1 propensity score-matched patients. Cox regression model was used to assess interactions between diabetes and the treatment effect of multi-arterial grafting, reported as hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs). Short-term outcomes were compared with McNemar’s paired t-test.

RESULTS

From 69 624 patients, matching generated 17 474 non-diabetic and 10 989 diabetic patient pairs. At a median [interquartile range] of 5.9 [3.2–9.6] years postoperative, mortality was significantly lower after multi-arterial grafting for both diabetic (HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.76–0.90, P < 0.001) and non-diabetic (HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.82–0.95; P < 0.001) cohorts than SAG. The incidence of 30-day myocardial infarction was significantly higher in single than multiple arterial grafting for both cohorts (diabetic, P = 0.029; non-diabetic, P < 0.001). The interaction analysis suggested an insignificant effect of diabetes (P = 0.55) on the observed survival advantage. Further stratification by diabetic management generated consistent results.

CONCLUSIONS

Multi-arterial grafting was associated with improved overall survival compared to SAG for both non-diabetic and diabetic patients.
No wheat crisis: trade liberalization and transportation innovation in Quebec during the 1830s and 1840s
Authors: Geloso Vincent , Plemmons Alicia , Thomas Andrew
Published: March 2023

In the first half of the nineteenth century, the wheat oriented agrarian economy of Lower Canada saw a rapid collapse in wheat production. These developments have been blamed on factors ranging from soil exhaustion to cultural conservatism and used to infer falling living standards in the colony. We provide evidence suggesting this collapse was largely the result of adjustment to the trade shock that followed the Colonial Trade Act of 1831 and a rapid reduction in freight costs between the Canadian colonies. Areas more exposed to external markets—as proxied by road access—shifted away from wheat production.
Unmet needs in valvular heart disease
Authors: Messika-Zeitoun David , Baumgartner Helmut , Burwash Ian G , Vahanian Alec , Bax Jeroen , Pibarot Philippe , Chan Vince , Leon Martin , Enriquez-Sarano Maurice , Mesana Thierry , Iung Bernard
Published: March 2023

Valvular heart disease (VHD) is the next epidemic in the cardiovascular field, affecting millions of people worldwide and having a major impact on health care systems. With aging of the population, the incidence and prevalence of VHD will continue to increase. However, VHD has not received the attention it deserves from both the public and policymakers. Despite important advances in the pathophysiology, natural history, management, and treatment of VHD including the development of transcatheter therapies, VHD remains underdiagnosed, identified late, and often undertreated with inequality in access to care and treatment options, and there is no medication that can prevent disease progression. The present review article discusses these gaps in the management of VHD and potential actions to undertake to improve the outcome of patients with VHD.
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: relevance of a dedicated dyspnoea clinic
Authors: Verwerft Jan , Soens Lucie , Wynants Jokke , Meysman Marc , Jogani Siddharth , Plein Danielle , Stroobants Sarah , Herbots Lieven , Verbrugge Frederik H
Published: March 2023

Background and aims

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a syndrome with a heterogeneous presentation. This study provides an in-;depth description of haemodynamic and metabolic alterations revealed by systematic assessment through cardiopulmonary exercise testing combined with exercise echocardiography (CPETecho) within a dedicated dyspnoea clinic.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients (n = 297), referred to a dedicated dyspnoea clinic using a standardized workup including CPETecho, with HFpEF diagnosed through a H2FPEF score ≥6 or HFA-PEFF score ≥5, were evaluated. A median of four haemodynamic/metabolic alterations was uncovered per patient: impaired stroke volume reserve (73%), impaired chronotropic reserve (72%), exercise pulmonary hypertension (65%), and impaired diastolic reserve (64%) were the most frequent cardiac alterations. Impaired peripheral oxygen extraction and a ventilatory limitation were present in 40% and 39%, respectively. In 267 patients (90%), 575 further diagnostic examinations were recommended (median of two tests per patient). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, coronary or amyloidosis workup, ventilation–perfusion scanning, and pulmonology referral were each recommended in approximately one out of three patients. In 293 patients (99%), 929 cardiovascular drug optimizations were performed (median of 3 modifications per patient). In 110 patients (37%), 132 cardiovascular interventions were performed, with ablation as the most frequent procedure.

Conclusion

Holistic workup of HFpEF patients within a multidisciplinary, dedicated dyspnoea clinic, including systematic implementation of CPETecho reveals various haemodynamic/metabolic alterations, leading to further diagnostic testing and potential treatment changes in the majority of cases.
Characterization of the cervicovaginal microbiota of female beef cattle harboringCampylobacter fetussubsp.venerealisusing 16S rDNA gene sequencing
Authors: De Carli Silvia , Breyer Gabriela Merker , Lopes Cassiane Elisabete , Zitelli Larissa Caló , Contreras Laura Victoria Quishpe , Valle Stella de Faria , Siqueira Franciele M
Published: March 2023

Bovine genital campylobacteriosis (BGC) is a leading cause of return to estrus in cows. The etiologic agent, Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis (Cfv) is transmitted by venereal route. Hence, the surrounding reproductive tract microenvironment could play a role in return to estrus in cows. The presence of Cfv in cervicovaginal mucus of Angus breed females provide three experimental groups, which were subject to bacteriome analyses: 10 Cfv-positive cows (CVP), 10 Cfv-negative cows (CVN), and 10 nonsexually active heifers (NSA). Cows with return to estrus showed higher bacterial richness than NSA. Beta diversity analysis showed a significant difference (P = 0.006) in bacterial composition among the three groups analyzed (CVP, CVN, and NSA). However, no significant difference was found when comparing the CVP versus CVN groups. Ureaplasma and Pseudomonas were the genera most frequently observed in NSA, being Ureaplasma the predictor genus to that group, whereas Alistipes, Bacteroides, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, UCG-005, and UCG-10 were both significantly more abundant and predictors genera in cows with return to estrus. Our results provide an overview of the cervicovaginal bacterial microbiota in cows harboring Cfv and improve the knowledge of the pathogenesis of BGC.
Writing Milan and Turin in the Light of (Failed) Utopia: Luciano Bianciardi and Paolo Volponi
Authors: Brecciaroli Giulia
Published: March 2023

This article examines a series of novels by Italian writers, Luciano Bianciardi and Paolo Volponi, that capture the transformations brought about by the post-World War II economic growth in the urban-industrial society of Northern Italy. The analysis draws on utopia as, in Ruth Levitas’s words, a ‘desire for a better way of living and being’ and explores how the writers’ frustrated aspirations for social reform result in a dystopic portrayal of Milan and Turin, seen as sites of social injustice, anomie and authoritative power. Italy’s unprocessed past traumas reverberate through urban descriptions: the threat of totalitarianism lingers in industrial architecture and the ways in which urban spaces are organized. Textual analysis refers to Michel Foucault to explore how spatial organization may enhance individualism and productivity. As powerful economic centres, Milan and Turin are privileged locations from which Bianciardi and Volponi reflect on the idiosyncrasies of modernization and on their failed utopian ambitions for a more egalitarian Italian society.
Composite Assessment Using Intestinal Ultrasound and Calprotectin Is Accurate in Predicting Histological Activity in Ulcerative Colitis: A Cohort Study
Authors: Goodsall Thomas M , Day Alice S , Andrews Jane M , Ruszkiewicz Andrew , Ma Christopher , Bryant Robert V
Published: March 2023

Background

Beyond endoscopic remission, histological remission in ulcerative colitis (UC) is predictive of clinical outcomes. Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) may offer a noninvasive surrogate marker for histological activity; however, there are limited data correlating validated ultrasound and histological indices.

Aim

Our aim was to determine the correlation of IUS activity in UC with a validated histological activity index.

Methods

Twenty-nine prospective, paired, same-day IUS/endoscopy/histology/fecal calprotectin (FC) cases were included. Intestinal ultrasound activity was determined using the Milan Ultrasound Criteria, histological activity using the Nancy Histological Index, endoscopic activity using Mayo endoscopic subscore and Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index of Severity, and clinical activity using the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Score.

Results

Histological activity demonstrated a significant linear association with overall IUS activity (coefficient 0.14; 95% CI, 0.03-0.25; P = .011). Intestinal ultrasound activity was also significantly associated with endoscopic activity (0.32; 95% CI, 0.14-0.49; P < 0.001), total Mayo score (0.31; 95% CI, 0.02-0.60; P = .036) but not FC (0.10; 95% CI, −0.01 to 0.21; P = .064) or clinical disease activity (0.04; 95% CI, −0.21 to 0.28; P = .768). A composite of IUS and FC showed the greatest association (1.31; 95% CI, 0.43-2.18; P = .003) and accurately predicted histological activity in 88% of cases (P = .007), with sensitivity of 88%, specificity 80%, positive predictive value 95%, and negative predictive value 57%.

Conclusions

Intestinal ultrasound is an accurate noninvasive marker of histological disease activity in UC, the accuracy of which is further enhanced when used in composite with FC. This can reduce the need for colonoscopy in routine care by supporting accurate point-of-care decision-making in patients with UC.
Amendment of a thermophile-fermented compost to humus improves the growth of female larvae of the Hercules beetleDynastes hercules(Coleoptera: scarabaeidae)
Authors: Asano Futo , Tsuboi Arisa , Moriya Shigeharu , Kato Tamotsu , Tsuji Naoko , Nakaguma Teruno , Ohno Hiroshi , Miyamoto Hirokuni , Kodama Hiroaki
Published: March 2023

Aims

Hercules beetle is a popular pet and large adult individuals are considered valuable. Incorporating compost prepared from marine animals and fermented by thermophilic bacteria into the humus benefits the gut microflora of several livestock. Here, we evaluated whether this compost improves the growth of the Hercules beetle (Dynastes hercules hercules) larvae.

Methods and Results

We mixed the compost grains with the humus at a final concentration of 1% (w/w) and transferred ∼90 days old Hercules beetle larvae to fresh humus with or without the compost. After 72 days rearing period, only the female larvae reared in the humus with compost exhibited superior growth, compared with those grown in compost-free humus. The gut bacterial composition was determined at 0 and 46 day after transferring the larvae to humus with or without compost. Improved growth of the female larvae was associated with increased abundance of Mollicutes and decreased abundance of Gammaproteobacteria.

Conclusion

The thermophile-fermented compost has a probiotic effect on the female Hercules beetle larvae that is mediated by altered gut microflora.
Interplay between rhizobial nodulation and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal colonization inLotus japonicusroots
Authors: Tsikou Daniela , Nikolaou Christina N , Tsiknia Myrto , Papadopoulou Kalliope K , Ehaliotis Constantinos
Published: March 2023

Aims

This study aims to identify main factors that influence the tripartite association of legumes with arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) and nitrogen-fixing rhizobia.

Methods and Results

Concurrent inoculations with Mesorhizobium loti and four AMF strains were performed on the model legume Lotus japonicus. Nodulation was significantly enhanced by all AMF strains, under normal conditions, and by specific AMF strains under heat-stress conditions. The impact of rhizobia on mycorrhizal colonization was AMF strain dependent. Co-inoculation trials, where either AMF or rhizobia were restricted outside the root, showed that the symbiotic phenotypes are not influenced by microbial interactions at the pre-symbiotic stage. External application of nutrients showed that P enhances nodulation, while N application does not enhance mycorrhizal colonization.

Conclusions

Nodulation and mycorhization affect one another during advanced stages of the symbiosis. AMF strains may enhance nodulation under both normal and high environmental temperatures. Rhizobium-AMF compatibility is critical, as rhizobium may positively affect specific AMF strains, an effect that does not derive from increased N uptake.
A profitable function ofCeriporia lacerataHG2011 on nodulation and biological nitrogen fixation of green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Yin Jie , Sui Zongming , Yuan Ling , Huang Jianguo
Published: March 2023

Aims

Green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a popular vegetable worldwide. The use of beneficial fungi is a simple and effective way to improve the biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) of this leguminous vegetable.

Methods and Results

A micro-plot was conducted to investigate the enhancement of BNF using 15N natural abundance technology and agronomic performances of green bean caused by wood-rot fungus Ceriporia lacerata HG2011. The results showed the soil for frequently growing green bean featured abundant native rhizobia, and newly inoculated rhizobia may have to compete with them in nodulation and only highly competitive rhizobia can succeed. The addition of C. lacerata HG2011 to the soil increased the population of ammonia oxidizers, nitrifiers, and phosphorus (P)-mobilizing microbes in rhizosphere, accelerated nitrification and P mobilization, creating a favorable soil environment with high P and low ammonia for BNF. Green bean received C. lacerata HG2011 had higher dehydrogenase activity in roots and higher nodulation rate and large nodules. These phenomena implied abundant supplies of adenosine triphosphate, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrogen, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen for BNF in the roots, a large proportion of N2 fixation tissues, and a greater sink for receiving photosynthates. As a result, C. lacerata HG2011 considerably increased the percentage of N derived from the atmosphere, BNF, and plant nutrient uptake (including N, P, and potassium), leading to 15.58%–28.51% of biomass increasment and 9.82%–17.03% of peapod yield increasment along with quality improvement compared with non-fungal application.

Conclusions

C. lacerata HG2011 increased the nodulation and BNF of green bean, accelerated the nutrient uptake (NPK) and therefore improved the yield and peapod quality of green bean.

Significance and Impact of Study

The study demonstrates that C. lacerata HG2011 could be used as a biofertilizer for BNF improvement of legumes.
Optimization and adsorption characteristics of beads based on heat-inactivated bacterial biomaterial towards the pesticide Cypermethrin
Authors: Chen Yuan , Zhang Mengmei , Zhao Tianye , Lai Jinghui , Wang Yuanqing , Zhou Qiao , Li Jianlong , Hu Kaidi , Li Qin , Ao Xiaolin , Chen Shujuan , Yang Yong , Zou Likou , Liu Shuliang
Published: March 2023

Aims

Beads containing heat-inactivated bacterial biomaterial (BBBs) were prepared for removal of cypermethrin (CPM) and the conditions for this removal were evaluated and optimized via single-factor coupled orthogonal experiments based on five factors. The adsorption characteristics of BBBs and the binding mechanism were then explored.

Methods and Results

Results showed that the adsorption rate of CPM could reach 98% with beads prepared under optimized conditions: equal volumes of Lactobacillus cell debris derived from 1×1011 CFU; 2% hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and 2.5% activated carbon concentration, were mixed to give mixture TM, and this and SA, was mixed 1:4 with sodium alginate (SA) and beads were prepared using a 26-Gauge needle). The best adsorption conditions were initial CPM concentration of 10 mg l-1, incubation time of 24 h, and rotational speed of 180 rpm. BBBs have a well-formed structure and abundant surface functional groups, such as –COOH, –OH, –NH, –CH, –CO, –C=C. The adsorption process conformed to pseudo-second-order kinetic, and it was also a Freundlich monolayer adsorption, and the calculated maximum adsorption capacity was 9.69 mg g-1 under optimized conditions.

Conclusions

BBBs showed the highest CPM removal capacity and a good tolerance ability.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Our results provided a theoretical foundation for developing an adsorbent with heat-inactivated Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) RS60 for removing CPM in wastewater or drinks.
Geobacillus stearothermophilusandBacillus atrophaeusspores exhibit linear inactivation kinetic performance when treated with an industrial scale vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VH2O2) sterilization process
Authors: McEvoy Brian , Maksimovic Ana , Rowan Neil J
Published: March 2023

Aims

This study aims to determine the inactivation kinetics of Geobacillus stearothermophilus and Bacillus atrophaeus biological indicators, treated with vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VH2O2) at an industrial scale. There is an assumption that sterilization processes generate linear kinetic plots of treated biological indicators that are used for informing probability-based decision-making by the MedTech industry for effective sterilization treatments; however, this has not been reported for sterilization using VH2O2.

Methods and results

Survivor curves were generated, and sterilization performances were separately determined using G. stearothermophilus and B. atrophaeus biological indicators following the development of appropriate process challenge devices (PCDs). Regression analysis revealed that the inactivation kinetics for VH2O2-treated microorganisms exhibited log linear profiles. The use of scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed no significant topographical changes in the outer surface of these VH2O2-treated spores.

Conclusions

Both biological indicators exhibited log linear inactivation kinetics when treated with an industrial scale vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VH2O2) sterilization process. Therefore, this novel finding corroborates and proves the appropriateness of using VH2O2 as a sterilization method in accordance with applicable ISO standards.
Anti-amoebic activity of a series of benzofuran/benzothiophene derivatives againstAcanthamoeba castellaniibelonging to the T4 genotype
Authors: Akbar Noor , El-Gamal Mohammed I , Zaraei Seyed-Omar , Saeed Balsam Qubais , Khan Naveed Ahmed , Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah
Published: March 2023

Aims

To determine the anti-amoebic activity of benzofuran/benzothiophene-possessing compounds against Acanthamoeba castellanii of the T4 genotype.

Method and results

A series of benzofuran/benzothiophene-possessing compounds were tested for their anti-amoebic activities, in particular, to block encystation and excystation processes in amoebae. Cytotoxicity of the compounds were evaluated using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. The amoebicidal assay results revealed significant anti-amoebic effects against A. castellanii. Compounds 1p and 1e showed the highest amoebicidal activity, eliminating 68% and 64% of the amoebae, respectively. These compounds remarkably repressed both the encystation and excystation processes in A. castellanii. Furthermore, the selected compounds presented minimal cytotoxic properties against human cells, as well as considerably abridged amoeba-mediated cytopathogenicity when compared to the amoebae alone.

Conclusions

Our findings show that benzofuran/benzothiophene derivatives depict potent anti-amoebic activities; thus these compounds should be used as promising and novel agents in the rationale development of therapeutic strategies against Acanthamoeba infections.
Effects of a prothioconazole- and tebuconazole-based fungicide on the yield, silage characteristics, and fungal mycobiota of corn harvested and conserved as whole-crop and high-moisture ear silages
Authors: Ferrero Francesco , Prencipe Simona , Tabacco Ernesto , Ferrocino Ilario , Borreani Giorgio , Spadaro Davide
Published: March 2023

Aims

To analyze the effect of a prothioconazole- and tebuconazole-based fungicide on the yield and silage characteristics of whole-crop corn (WCC) and high-moisture ear corn (HMC) silages and on the fungal community dynamics from the harvest to aerobic exposure.

Methods and results

Corn were untreated (NT) or treated (T) with a prothioconazole- and tebuconazole-based fungicide and harvested as WCC and HMC. Silages were conserved for 60 and 160 d and subjected to an aerobic stability test. The fungicide increased the yield per hectare however, it did not affect the main nutritional characteristics of WCC or HMC. The main chemical, fermentative and microbial characteristics, dry matter (DM) losses and aerobic stability were mainly affected by the conservation time, regardless of the treatment. Fusarium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, and Penicillium genera were identified as dominant before ensiling, but Aspergillus and Penicillium became dominant after silo opening and aerobic exposure. Yeast population during ensiling and aerobic deterioration resulted in a simplification, with Pichia and Kazachstania genera being dominant.

Conclusions

The application of fungicide improved the DM, starch, and net energy for lactation (NEL) yield per hectare but had no consistent effect on the microbial and fermentative silage quality and aerobic stability.
Clioquinol and 8-hydroxyquinoline-5-sulfonamide derivatives damage the cell wall ofPythium insidiosum
Authors: Pippi Bruna , Zanette Régis A , Joaquim Angélica R , Krummenauer Maria E , Merkel Simone , Reginatto Paula , Vainstein Marilene H , Andrade Saulo F , Fuentefria Alexandre M , Tondolo Juliana S M , Loreto Érico S , Santurio Janio M
Published: March 2023

Aims

To evaluate the antimicrobial activity and to determine the pharmacodynamic characteristics of three 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives (8-HQs) against Pythium insidiosum, the causative agent of pythiosis.

Methods and Results

Antimicrobial activity was tested by broth microdilution and MTT assays. The antimicrobial mode of action was investigated using sorbitol protection assay, ergosterol binding assay, and scanning electron microscopy. Clioquinol, PH151, and PH153 were active against all isolates, with MIC values ranging from 0.25 to 2 µg ml-1. They also showed a time- and dose-dependent antimicrobial effect, damaging the P. insidiosum cell wall.

Conclusions

Together, these results reinforce the potential of 8-HQs for developing new drugs to treat pythiosis.
Effect of lactic acid bacteria on the control ofFusarium oxysporumandRalstonia solanacearumon singly infected and co-infected tomato plants
Authors: Vargas C , Jiménez H R , Almario C González , Almario A González
Published: March 2023

Aim

To evaluate the effect of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on the control of Fol59 and Rs on singly infected and co-infected tomato plants and to address molecular pathways that may be involved in this interaction.

Methods and Results

To assess the development of the disease, individual infection and coinfection were stimulated in plants under controlled conditions, at two concentrations of Rs and Fol59 applied at two different moments. Additionally, the antagonistic activity of LAB against Rs and Fol59 in vitro and its biocontrol efficacy in planta were evaluated. Preliminary results indicate that inoculation with 1 × 106 microconidia ml−1 of Fol59 and 1 × 108 cfu ml−1 of Rs may be a reliable synchronous coinfection method. Of the 68 LAB strains evaluated in vitro, AC13, AC40, and AC49 had an antagonistic effect on both pathogens, with AC40 showing the highest efficacy rate after submerging the seeds in suspension and sowing them in substrate. Finally, gene expression experiments confirmed the AC40 effect on the expression of PR-1a, ERF1, and LoxA genes.

Conclusion

The delayed appearance of symptoms and the reduced severity of the disease may be associated with the expression of PR-1a, ERF1, and LoxA genes related to salicylic acid, ethylene, and jasmonic acid pathways respectively.
A review of the potential for bacteriophages to effect antibiofilm activity, using selected examples
Authors: Cooper I
Published: March 2023

It has been over a hundred years since the original publications on bacteriophages were first presented. In the following century, the world of microbiology has moved on significantly. In 2015, ∼100 years later, the UK Government and the Wellcome Trust published a report on the current state of antimicrobial resistance, with guidance for the future. The pressing need for new antibiotics, or alternatives to them, is one of the fundamental drivers of research in to the application of bacteriophages to treat incidents of infectious disease. This review will look at research published on the use of bacteriophages, with a specific focus on their use against bacterial biofilms.
Phenotypic characterization and genome analysis reveal the probiotic potential of a banyan endophyteBacillus velezensisK1
Authors: Soni Riteshri , Keharia Hareshkumar , Shah Krina , Jain Neeraj
Published: March 2023

Aim

The current study aimed to scrutinize the probiotic traits and safety aspects of Bacillus velezensis K1 through experimental and supporting genome studies.

Methods and Results

The seven cultures previously isolated from the aerial roots of Ficus benghalensis were initially screened for their antibacterial activity as well as acid and bile tolerance. The isolate K1 was found to be the most potent and was further investigated for probiotic traits and safety. K1 showed tolerance to simulated digestive juices and 0.3% bile. It showed notable aggregation, cell surface hydrophobicity, and adherence to HT-29 cells. K1 significantly prevented the adhesion of E. coli O157: H7 and S. enterica ATCC 13076 to HT-29 in cell culture assays. K1 could hydrolyze phytate and complex polysaccharides. The genes related to stress tolerance, adhesion, antimicrobial activity, and production of vitamins, viz. thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, folate, and biotin were annotated in the K1 genome. K1 was found to be non-hemolytic, noncytotoxic, as well as susceptible to antibiotics. No virulence or toxin-encoding genes were identified in its genome.

Conclusions

B. velezensis K1 is a prospective probiotic with the ability to tolerate gastrointestinal stress, adhere to intestinal surfaces, and inhibit enteropathogens.
Gamma aminobutyric acid production by commercially available probiotic strains
Authors: Monteagudo-Mera Andrea , Fanti Valentina , Rodriguez-Sobstel Claudia , Gibson Glenn , Wijeyesekera Anisha , Karatzas Kimon-Andreas , Chakrabarti Bhismadev
Published: March 2023

Aims

Certain bacteria can produce gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) from glutamate in the human intestinal tract, leading to the possibility of altering GABA levels through diet. To this end, we assessed the ability of seven commercially available probiotic supplements to produce GABA.

Method and results

Probiotic strains were compared for GABA production in pure culture. The bacteria were inoculated at a concentration of 107 CFU ml−1 in 10 ml MRS supplemented with monosodium glutamate (1% w/v), both with and without oligofructose-enriched inulin (OFI) (1% w/v). Two strains with the highest production of GABA were further assessed for 48 h in pH-controlled anaerobic batch cultures inoculated with faecal bacteria. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS) was used for quantification of GABA and microbiota composition was determined through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Levilactobacillus brevis LB01 (CGMCC 16921) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v (DSM 9843) were the most efficient producers of GABA. High GABA levels (28.32 mmol l−1 ± 0.29) were produced by the probiotic strain L. brevis LB01 at pH 5.4–5.6. This was significantly higher than the levels of GABA produced by L. plantarum (4.8 mmol l−1 ± 6.8) and a negative control (2.9 mM ± 3.1). The addition of OFI did not further stimulate GABA production under the conditions tested. The ability of these strains to produce GABA in-vitro was further evaluated in a faecal microbiota environment. Once again, L.brevis LB01 produced the highest levels of GABA (40.24 mmol l−1 ± 20.98).

Conclusions

L. brevis LB01 was found to be the most efficient probiotic strain, of those tested, for GABA production.
Advances in research on virulence factors ofAcinetobacter baumanniiand their potential as novel therapeutic targets
Authors: Zhou Jian-Xia , Feng Ding-Yun , Li Xia , Zhu Jia-Xin , Wu Wen-Bin , Zhang Tian-tuo
Published: March 2023

Acinetobacter baumannii is a strictly aerobic, nonmotile, nonfermenting, gram-negative bacillus. It is a highly infectious and invasive pathogen with high mortality and morbidity rates among immunodeficient patients. Due to increasing levels of drug resistance and the inefficiency of existing antimicrobial treatments, it is crucial to develop novel agents to control this pathogen. Several recent studies have investigated virulence factors that are associated with the pathogenesis of A. baumannii, and could thus serve as novel therapeutic targets. The present review comprehensively summarizes the current understanding of these virulence factors and their mechanisms in A. baumannii. We also highlight factors that could be potential therapeutic targets, as well as list candidate virulence factors for future researchers and clinical practitioners.
Virtual Reality as Pain Relief in Burn Care: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effectiveness on Pain During Multiple Dressing Changes
Authors: Blokzijl Susanne J , Lamberts Kirsten F , Nieuwenhuis Marianne K , Beerthuizen Gerard I J M , Spikman Jacoba M
Published: March 2023

This pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR)-distraction on pain during multiple Wound Dressing Changes (WDCs). Furthermore, associations between demographic, clinical, and psychological factors and pain during WDC were determined. Participants were randomized to either the VR-condition or Care As Usual (CAU)-condition. Both groups received standard wound care and pain medication. The VR-group additionally received VR-distraction. The primary outcome measure was pain intensity (VAT 0–10). Secondary outcome measures were pain medication (Fentanyl spray and/or Piritramide) and satisfaction with WDC (VAT 0–10). Only 38 patients (VR-group: n = 21; CAU-group: n = 17) of the 128 intended patients were included during the study period due to several limitations (strict exclusion criteria and restrictions of the VR-equipment). No significant differences were found between both groups on pain intensity and medication. Both groups were also equally satisfied with WDC. Age showed a significant negative correlation with pain during WDC. In view of the small sample size, this study has restricted power and should be considered a pilot. Nevertheless, a RCT with between-subjects design across multiple WDCs was feasible and, given the speed of VR-developments, we expect larger, better powered RCTs to be possible in the near future, for which our experiences and recommendations are relevant.
Federal Home Loan Banks and Financial Stability
Authors: Gissler Stefan , Narajabad Borghan , Tarullo Daniel K
Published: March 2023

The Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBs) are the less well-known siblings of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Since these government-sponsored enterprises were created in 1932, changes in housing finance markets have rendered largely irrelevant their original purpose of increasing the availability of mortgages. Yet the level and scope of their activities have increased dramatically in recent decades. These activities have at times both exacerbated risks to financial stability and obstructed the missions of federal financial regulators. Behind these undesirable outcomes lies the public/private hybrid nature of the FHLBs. The private ownership and control of the FHLBs provide an incentive to take advantage of the considerable public privileges from which they benefit—including an explicit line of credit from the United States Government and an implied guarantee of all their debt similar to that enjoyed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac before the Global Financial Crisis. This article examines past incidence and future potential for the FHLBs to amplify financial stability risks. It offers a framework for regulatory reform by the Federal Housing Finance Agency to contain these risks and avoid harmful interference with the activities of other federal regulators.
Spatial and social organization of the burrowing rodent Clyomys laticeps (Thomas, 1909)
Authors: Ferrando Claire Pauline Röpke , Oshima Júlia Emi de Faria , Lacey Eileen A , Leiner Natália Oliveira
Published: March 2023

Burrowing rodents display diverse patterns of social organization, ranging from solitary to group living. Differences in social organization are often inferred from patterns of space use, particularly differences in the degree to which individual home ranges overlap. Here, we characterize patterns of space use in a poorly studied species of burrow-dwelling echimyid rodent, the Broad-headed Spiny Rat (Clyomys laticeps). Specifically, we use radiotelemetry studies of a free-living population in Parque Estadual da Serra de Caldas Novas (Goiás, Brazil) to evaluate previous, apparently contradictory reports suggesting that this species is both solitary and social. A total of 20 adult (12 females, 8 males) C. laticeps were monitored via telemetry during two consecutive cycles of annual wet and dry seasons. The resulting data indicate that although overlap of individual home ranges was common, co-occurrence of adults in time and space was rare and was limited to male–female pairs, a pattern that is most consistent with a solitary lifestyle in which individuals occupy distinct burrow systems. Neither sex nor season affected spatial overlap; this outcome is consistent with evidence suggesting that reproduction in this species occurs throughout the year. Although home ranges for males were larger than those for females, areas occupied by both males and females overlapped with multiple opposite-sex individuals, making it difficult to determine from spatial data whether the study population was polygynous or polygynandrous. While genetic data are needed to characterize fully the mating system of these animals, our analyses provide the first detailed information regarding spatial relationships in C. laticeps, thereby allowing more accurate placement of this species within a larger, comparative behavioral framework and facilitating efforts to identify factors contributing to social diversity among burrow-dwelling rodents.