bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Litter Removal Counteracts the Effects of Warming on Soil Bacterial Communities in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Li Guanwen , Wu Yang , Chen Wenjing , Zhao Ziwen , Li Yuanze , Qiao Leilei , Liu Guobin , Xue Sha
Published: November 2024

Climate warming and high-intensity human activities threaten the stability of alpine meadow ecosystems. The stability of the soil microbial community is crucial for maintaining ecological service function. However, the effects of warming and litter removal on microbial interactions, community-building processes, and species coexistence strategies remain unclear. In this study, we used a fiberglass open-top chamber to simulate global change, and moderate grazing in winter was simulated by removing above-ground litter from all plants in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, China, to investigate the effects of warming, litter removal, and interactions on soil microbial communities. The treatments included (1) warming treatment (W); (2) litter removal treatment (L); (3) the combined treatment (WL); and (4) control (CK). The results show that compared with the control treatment, warming, litter removal, and the combined treatments increased bacterial Shannon diversity but reduced fungal Shannon diversity, and warming treatment significantly changed the bacterial community composition. Warming, litter removal, and the combined treatments reduced the colinear network connectivity among microorganisms but increased the modularity of the network, and the average path distance and average clustering coefficient were higher than those in the control group. Stochastic processes played a more important role in shaping the microbial community composition, and soil–available phosphorus and soil ammonium contributed more to the βNTI of the bacterial community, while total phosphorus and NAG enzyme in the soil contributed more to the βNTI of the fungal community. Notably, litter removal counteracts the effects of warming on bacterial communities. These results suggest that litter removal may enhance bacterial community stability under warming conditions, providing insights for managing alpine meadow ecosystems in the context of climate change.
Efficacy and Safety of Keratosept Eye Drops in Patients with Punctate Keratitis: Clinical and Microbiological Evaluation on 50 Eyes
Authors: Troisi Mario , Costagliola Ciro , Rinaldi Michele , Strianese Diego , Chiariello Vecchio Elisabetta , Troisi Salvatore
Published: November 2024

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of eye drops with antiseptic and re-epithelizing properties (Keratosept®, Bruschettini, Genova, Italy) on 50 eyes affected by punctate keratitis of suspected microbial origin. A biomicroscopic examination, fluorescein dye staining test (Fluotest), tear break-up time test (TBUT), and the ocular surface disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire were used to assess treatment efficacy. Treatment success was defined as a negative Fluotest and an OSDI score <12 on the 15th day of treatment. According to this definition, Keratosept®, either alone or in combination with antibiotics, was effective in over 80% of microbial and nonmicrobial forms. Conjunctival swabs were taken from all patients for culture examination with an antibiogram and sensitivity test for Keratosept®; 32/43 (74.4%) forms with positive culture for the bacteria were sensitive to Keratosept®. A total of 35/38 (92%) eyes treated with this product alone achieved full treatment success without any apparent adverse effects. These results suggest the use of Keratosept® eye drops in punctate keratitis as an alternative or in combination with established antibiotic therapies. Further studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy in different infectious forms and identify other indications for using this product.
Understanding the Pathogenesis, Biocontrol Mechanisms, and Factors Influencing Biocontrol Effectiveness for Soil-Borne Diseases in Panax Plants
Authors: Wang Zhaobei , Wang Shuoye , Yang Hongyan
Published: November 2024

Panax plants are known for their significant medicinal and economic value. Being perennial, they are prone to soil-borne diseases during cultivation. However, there has been limited research on the pathogenesis of soil-borne diseases and the diversity of pathogens. While biological control has gained attention for its efficacy and environmental benefits, the factors affecting its efficiency still need thorough evaluation. This review summarizes the influence of biotic factors, such as pathogens and hosts, and environmental factors on the occurrence of soil-borne diseases and pathogen diversity. Additionally, we synthesized bacterial, actinobacterial, and fungal diversity for the biocontrol of soil-borne diseases and their functional mechanisms. Moreover, the review delves into the factors influencing the efficacy of biocontrol, including microbial species, the inoculation method and inoculation volume, and inoculant composition. This article serves as a valuable resource for enhancing the efficiency of biological control and optimizing strategies for managing soil-borne diseases in Panax cultivation in the future.
Novel Populations of Mycobacterium smegmatis Under Hypoxia and Starvation: Some Insights on Cell Viability and Morphological Changes
Authors: Zaragoza-Contreras Ruben , Aguilar-Ayala Diana A. , García-Morales Lázaro , Ares Miguel A. , Helguera-Repetto Addy Cecilia , Cerna-Cortés Jorge Francisco , León-Solis Lizbel , Suárez-Sánchez Fernando , González-Y-Merchand Jorge A. , Rivera-Gutiérrez Sandra
Published: November 2024

The general features of the shift to a dormant state in mycobacterial species include several phenotypic changes, reduced metabolic activities, and increased resistance to host and environmental stress conditions. In this study, we aimed to provide novel insights into the viability state and morphological changes in dormant M. smegmatis that contribute to its long-term survival under starvation or hypoxia. To this end, we conducted assays to evaluate cell viability, morphological changes and gene expression. During starvation, M. smegmatis exhibited a reduction in cell length, the presence of viable but non-culturable (VBNC) cells and the formation of anucleated small cells, potentially due to a phenomenon known as reductive cell division. Under hypoxia, a novel population of pleomorphic mycobacteria with a rough surface before the cells reached nonreplicating persistence 1 (NRP1) was identified. This population exhibited VBNC-like behaviour, with a loss of cell wall rigidity and the presence of lipid-body-like structures. Based on dosR and hspX expression, we suggest that M. smegmatis encounters reductive stress conditions during starvation, while lipid storage may induce oxidative stress during hypoxia. These insights into the heterogeneous populations presented here could offer valuable opportunities for developing new therapeutic strategies to control dormant mycobacterial populations.
Comparison of QIAstat-Dx and BioFire FilmArray Gastrointestinal Panels in a Pediatric Population
Authors: Suleiman Mohammed , Iqbal Muhammad , Tang Patrick , Pérez-López Andrés
Published: November 2024

Accurate laboratory diagnosis of gastroenteritis is important to ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment and proper isolation precautions. This study evaluated the performance of the QIAGEN QIAstat-Dx gastrointestinal panel (QGP) in comparison to the bioMerieux BioFire FilmArray gastrointestinal panel (BGP) for the detection of gastrointestinal pathogens in 110 pediatric patients being evaluated for gastroenteritis at our hospital. We compared 23 different bacterial, viral, and parasite enteropathogens detected by the QGP against the BGP. The overall positive percent agreement (PPA) for all compared targets was 96.2% and the overall negative percent agreement (NPA) for all compared targets was 99.7%. Our study shows that QIAstat-Dx QGP provides comparable results to the BioFire BGP in our pediatric population. Additionally, the PCR cycle threshold (Ct) value reported by the QGP is potentially a helpful tool in estimating the load of the detected pathogen in stool samples.
Assessment of Biofilm Formation and Anti-Inflammatory Response of a Probiotic Blend in a Cultured Canine Cell Model
Authors: Gallina Nicholas L. F. , Irizarry Tardi Nicole , Li Xilin , Cai Alvin , Horn Mandy J. , Applegate Bruce M. , Reddivari Lavanya , Bhunia Arun K.
Published: November 2024

Gut dysbiosis and an inflamed bowel are growing concerns in mammals, including dogs. Probiotic supplements have been used to restore the natural microbial community and improve gastrointestinal health. Biofilm formation, antimicrobial activities, and immunological responses of probiotics are crucial to improving gut health. Thus, we tested a commercial probiotic blend (LabMAX-3), a canine kibble additive comprising Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lacticaseibacillus casei, and Enterococcus faecium for their ability to inactivate common enteric pathogens; their ability to form biofilms; epithelial cell adhesion; and their anti-inflammatory response in the Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cell line. Probiotic LabMAX-3 blend or individual isolates showed a strong inhibitory effect against Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, and Campylobacter jejuni. LabMAX-3 formed biofilms comparable to Staphylococcus aureus. LabMAX-3 adhesion to the MDCK cell line (with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS) pretreatment) showed comparable adhesion and biofilm formation (p < 0.05) to L. casei ATCC 334 used as a control. LabMAX-3 had no cytotoxic effects on the MDCK cell line during 1 h exposure. The interleukin-10 (IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) ratio of LabMAX-3, compared to the L. casei control, showed a significant increase (p < 0.05), indicating a more pronounced anti-inflammatory response. The data show that LabMAX-3, a canine kibble supplement, can improve gastrointestinal health.
Treatment of Cigarette Butts: Biodegradation of Cellulose Acetate by Rot Fungi and Bacteria
Authors: Morales-Vera Rodrigo , Cantillana Javiera , Arto-Paz Félix , Hernández Camila , Echeverría-Vega Alex , Valdés Cristian
Published: November 2024

This study demonstrated the biodegradation of two different brands of cigarette butts (CBs), which are primarily composed of cellulose acetate, by four distinct microorganisms. These included the white rot fungus Pleurotus ostreatus, the brown rot fungus Lentinus lepideus, and the bacteria Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas putida. After 31 days of treatment, weight loss measurements revealed a mass loss of 24–34%, where B. cereus exhibited the greatest efficacy in terms of mass loss for both brands of CBs. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), confocal microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed changes in the surface of the CBs, attributable to structural wear and material breakdown, indicating effective biodegradation by the evaluated microorganisms. Furthermore, the analyses confirmed changes in the surface of the CBs, attributable to structural wear and material breakdown, indicating effective biodegradation by the evaluated microorganisms.
Insights into Nitrogen-Associated Protein 50 (NAP50) as a Tyrosyl–DNA Phosphodiesterase in Dinoflagellates
Authors: Tang Lu , Tam Nora Fung-Yee , Lam Winnie , Lee Thomas Chun-Hung , Xu Steven Jing-Liang , Lee Fred Wang-Fat
Published: November 2024

Nitrogen-associated protein 50 (NAP50) is an abundant plastid protein with an unknown function identified in Alexandrium affine (Dinophyceae). No progress has been made in discovering the function of NAP50 since its first characterization in 2009. The present study is a continuation of work on the predicted function of NAP50. The results show that the NAP50 gene lacks introns but contains abundant base substitutions, consistent with the characteristics of dinoflagellate nuclear genes. The NAP50 protein is found to be widely expressed in dinoflagellate lineages through bioinformatics analysis and Western blotting, suggesting that NAP50 is not exclusive to Alexandrium, which differs from previous understandings. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that NAP50 belongs to the tyrosyl–DNA phosphodiesterase (TDP) family; however, it is structurally distinct from the TDP2 that is present in some dinoflagellate species. The three-dimensional structure and biological functions of NAP50 are predicted using deep learning algorithms. Based on evolutionary relationships and functional predictions, NAP50 may play a role in repairing plastid DNA damage and potentially contribute to the transcription of plastid genes in dinoflagellates.
Response of Alfalfa Leaf Traits and Rhizosphere Fungal Communities to Compost Application in Saline–Sodic Soil
Authors: Wei Tian-Jiao , Li Guang , Cui Yan-Ru , Xie Jiao , Liang Zheng-Wei , Guan Fa-Chun , Li Zhong-He
Published: November 2024

Soil salinization is considered a major global environmental problem due to its adverse effects on agricultural sustainability and production. Compost is an environmentally friendly and sustainable measure used for reclaiming saline–sodic soil. However, the responses of the physiological characteristics of alfalfa and the structure and function of rhizosphere fungal communities after compost application in saline–sodic soil remain elusive. Here, a pot experiment was conducted to explore the effect of different compost application rates on soil properties, plant physiological traits, and rhizosphere fungal community characteristics. The results showed that compost significantly increased soil nutrients and corresponding soil enzyme activities, enhanced leaf photosynthesis traits, and ion homeostasis compared with the control treatment. We further found that the rhizosphere fungal communities were dominated by Sodiomyces at the genus level, and the relative abundance of pathogenic fungi, such as Botryotrichum, Plectosphaerella, Pseudogymnoascus, and Fusarium, declined after compost application. Moreover, the α-diversity indexes of the fungal community under compost application rates of 15% and 25% significantly decreased in comparison to the control treatment. The soil SOC, pH, TP, and TN were the main environmental factors affecting fungal community composition. The leaf photosynthetic traits and metal ion contents showed significantly positive correlations with Sodiomyces and Aspergillus. The fungal trophic mode was dominated by Pathotroph–Saprotroph–Symbiotroph and Saprotroph. Overall, our findings provide an important basis for the future application of microbial-based strategies to improve plant tolerance to saline-alkali stress.
Genomic and Transcriptomic Comparison Between Invasive Non-Typhoidal Salmonella and Non-Invasive Isolates
Authors: Shang Tongyao , Chen Qiuli , Shi Weina , Wang Yue , Feng Ye
Published: November 2024

Invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella (iNTS) poses a significant threat to global public health. Salmonella enterica Enteritidis and Typhimurium are the primary serovars responsible for both invasive diseases and gastroenteritis. This study aims to investigate the genomic and transcriptomic differences between isolates associated with these contrasting clinical presentations. We retrieved genomes of Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium from Enterobase, utilizing blood and stool isolates as representatives for iNTS and non-iNTS, respectively. An indistinguishable phylogenetic relationship was revealed between the blood and stool isolates for both serovars. Few genes were specifically identified in iNTS. Random forest and principal coordinates analysis permitted moderate discrimination between the two sources of isolates based on overall genome content. Notably, the blood isolates of Salmonella Typhimurium displayed an elevated level of antimicrobial resistance and genome degradation compared to stool isolates. Meanwhile, transcriptome sequencing identified few genes that were differentially expressed between blood and stool isolates. Hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis did not effectively differentiate the expression profile of iNTS from non-iNTS. In summary, few genes could serve as reliable biomarkers to distinguish iNTS and non-iNTS at either the genomic or transcriptomic level. Nevertheless, iNTS has indeed accumulated subtle genomic differences from non-iNTS, which might contribute to invasiveness.
Microbial Basis for Suppression of Soil-Borne Disease in Crop Rotation
Authors: Wang Boxi , Sugiyama Shuichi
Published: November 2024

The effect of crop rotation on soil-borne diseases is a representative case of plant–soil feedback in the sense that plant disease resistance is influenced by soils with different cultivation histories. This study examined the microbial mechanisms inducing the differences in the clubroot (caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae pathogen) damage of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis) after the cultivation of different preceding crops. It addresses two key questions in crop rotation: changes in the soil bacterial community induced by the cultivation of different plants and the microbial mechanisms responsible for the disease-suppressive capacity of Chinese cabbage. Twenty preceding crops from different plant families showed significant differences in the disease damage, pathogen density, and bacterial community composition of the host plant. Structural equation modelling revealed that the relative abundance of four key bacterial orders in Chinese cabbage roots can explain 85% and 70% of the total variation in pathogen density and disease damage, respectively. Notably, the relative dominance of Bacillales and Rhizobiales, which have a trade-off relationship, exhibited predominant effects on pathogen density and disease damage. The disease-suppressive soil legacy effects of preceding crops are reflected in compositional changes in key bacterial orders, which are intensified by the bacterial community network.
In-Vitro Antimicrobial Activities of Grape Seed, Green Tea, and Rosemary Phenolic Extracts Against Liver Abscess Causing Bacterial Pathogens in Cattle
Authors: Salih Harith M. , Amachawadi Raghavendra G. , Kang Qing , Li Yonghui , Nagaraja Tiruvoor G.
Published: November 2024

Liver abscesses, which occur in finishing cattle, are of significant economic concern to the feedlot industry. The causative agents include both Fusobacterium necrophorum subspecies (F. necrophorum and F. funduliforme), Trueperella pyogenes (T. pyogenes), and Salmonella enterica serotype Lubbock (S. Lubbock). Tylosin, a macrolide antibiotic, is supplemented in the feed to reduce liver abscesses. However, due to the concern with emergence of antimicrobial resistance, the antimicrobial activities of the plant-based phenolic compounds could be an antibiotic alternative to control liver abscesses. We investigated the inhibitory activities of phenolic compounds extracted from grape seed, green tea, and rosemary on liver-abscess-causing bacterial pathogens. Total phenolic content was determined spectrophotometrically. Anaerobic Brain–Heart Infusion broth (for Fusobacterium) and Muller–Hinton broth (for S. enterica and T. pyogenes) with phenolic extracts at 0, 0.1, 1, and 2 mg/mL were prepared. Growth was measured at 0, 12, 24 and 48 h by determining bacterial concentrations. A micro-broth dilution method was used to quantify the inhibition. Grape seed and green tea phenolics inhibited growth of both Fusobacterium subspecies, T. pyogenes and S. enterica. Green tea at 1 mg/mL concentration was more effective in inhibiting the growth of Fusobacterium when compared to grape seed and rosemary. Green tea at 2 mg/mL was more effective than at 1 mg/mL against Salmonella. The inhibitory effect was dose-dependent, which was consistent across all strains within the same bacterial species. The phenolic extracts were inhibitory against T. pyogenes with minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 6.25 to 12.5 µg/mL. Among the phenolic extracts tested, green tea showed the most potent activity, suggesting its strong potential as a natural alternative to conventional antibiotics. Plant-based phenolic compounds supplemented in the feed may have the potential to control liver abscesses.
High-Resolution Reconstruction of Oxidation–Reduction Conditions: Raman Spectroscopy and μ-XRF Analysis of Manganese Nodule and Crust on Tabletop of Western Pacific Magellan Seamounts
Authors: Park Jinsub , Hwang Huijeong , An Hyeonho , Yang Kiho
Published: November 2024

Ferromanganese (Fe-Mn) deposits are widely used in paleoenvironmental reconstructions owing to their mineralogical and geochemical properties. We analyzed Fe-Mn deposits using micro-X-ray fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy to study the paleo-ocean environment. Samples were collected from the OSM-XX seamount in the western Pacific. The Fe-Mn crust was divided into three parts: phosphatized, massive non-phosphatized, and porous non-phosphatized. Vernadite was identified in all layers. Furthermore, in the nodule, high values of Mn, Ni, and Cu were observed near the nucleus, with vernadite and todorokite, and these values decreased outward. A high Mn/Fe ratio near the nucleus indicates early diagenetic processes. Formation of Fe-Mn nodules began around 19–16 Ma, and this period corresponded to a minor phosphatization event and persistent reducing conditions. From 11–10 Ma, the Mn/Fe and Co/Mn ratios decreased due to the formation of a western Pacific warm pool during this period. Subsequently, with the opening of the Indonesian seaway and global cooling, the Mn/Fe and Co/Mn ratios in the Fe-Mn deposits increased again. The comparative analysis of variations in Mn/Fe ratio and vernadite crystallinity in the Fe-Mn deposits confirmed that it is possible to reconstruct paleo-productivity and redox condition changes in the western Pacific Magellan Seamount.
Genesis and Tectonic Implications of Early Cretaceous Granites in the Haobugao Area, Southern Great Xing’an Range: Insights from Zircon U–Pb Geochronology, Hf Isotopic Composition, and Petrochemistry
Authors: Li Mengling , Yu Henan , Tian Yi , Yue Haixin , He Yanping , Yu Yingbo , Sun Zhenjun
Published: November 2024

In the Huanggangliang–Ganzhuermiao metallogenic belt in the southern Great Xing’an Range, the Haobugao Pb–Zn deposit is the most widespread skarn-type polymetallic deposit. The observed mineralization processes in this area are closely associated with both magmatic and tectonic activity. The zircon U–Pb ages of two granitoid phases are 134.0 ± 0.6 Ma and 133.4 ± 0.9 Ma (Early Cretaceous). High SiO2 content (average mass fractions of 77.98 wt.% and 73.25 wt.%), high alkalinity (average mass fractions of 6.19 wt.% and 8.78 wt.%), and low CaO levels (average mass fractions of 0.16 wt.% and 0.12 wt.%) are characteristic of these rocks. They are also enriched in high-field-strength elements (HFSEs) (Th, U, Ta, Zr, Hf, etc.) and depleted in large ion lithophile elements (LILEs) (Ba, Sr, etc.). Furthermore, the Nb/Ta ratios (7.80~8.82, 10.00~10.83) point to a crustal origin of the magma. The zircon Hf isotopic compositions suggest that the melting of young crust derived from Meso-Neoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic depleted mantle gave rise to the magma in these granite porphyries. These rocks formed in an extensional environment driven by the subduction and retreat of the Paleo-Pacific plate during the Early Cretaceous.
Syntheses, Structures, and Photocatalytic and Sonocatalytic Degradations of Methyl Blue of Cu(II) and Mn(II) Coordination Polymers Based on Tri(triazole) and Dicarboxylate Ligands
Authors: Yin Chao , Wang Xing , Ding Jian-Gang , Li Bao-Long , Wu Bing , Hu Chuan-Jiang
Published: November 2024

Cu(II) and Mn(II) coordination polymers [Cu(ttpa)(sub)]n (Cuttpa or 1) and {[Mn2(ttpa)2(nip)2(H2O)2]·3H2O}n (Mnttpa or 2) (ttpa = tris(4-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)phenyl)amine, H2sub = suberic acid, nip = 5-nitroisophthalicate) were hydrothermally prepared and the structures were characterized. Cuttpa exhibited a 2D (4,4) network based on [Cu2(COO)4] dimers with upper and lower dangled ttpa ligands and a 2D → 3D polythreaded network. Mnttpa showed a 2D (4,4) network with dangled uncoordinated triazole rings from ttpa ligands and nitro groups from nip2− ligands and a 2D → 3D polythreaded network. Eg data of Cuttpa and Mnttpa were 1.88 eV and 2.11 eV. Cuttpa and Mnttpa exhibited good catalytic activity for the decomposition of methyl blue (MB) under visible light and supersound irradiation. The decomposition mechanism using Cuttpa was explored. The holes (h+) and •OH hydroxyl radicals played the main roles, and the •O2− superoxide radicals played certain auxiliary roles in the decomposition of MB within the Cuttpa catalyst.
The Presence of Some Minor Aspergillus and Penicillium Unregulated Mycotoxins in Main Cereals Cultivated in Albania
Authors: Topi Dritan , Damani Zamir , Babič Janja , Jakovac-Strajn Breda , Tavčar-Kalcher Gabrijela
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: Food and feed safety legislation does not concern all the mycotoxins generated by Penicillium and Aspergillus spp. Certain mycotoxins, including mycophenolic acid (MPA), cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), penicillic acid (PA), roquefortine C (ROQ C), and gliotoxin (GLI), are regarded as having lower toxicity levels, and hence are not included in food and feed legislation. It is obvious that xenobiotics, including mycotoxins, exert synergistic harmful health effects on human and animal when exposed through food and feed. (2) Methods: The presence of these substances in maize and wheat grown in Albania across two consecutive harvesting seasons was investigated by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). (3) Results: The findings indicated the presence of these mycotoxins in maize grain but not in wheat grain. In the 2014 season, they exhibited a higher contamination incidence than in the 2015 season. The most commonly detected mycotoxin was MPA, followed by CPA and ROQ C toxin, while PA and GLI were not detected. The MPA revealed a concentration range of 72.9–3447 μg/kg, with a mean value of 1064 μg/kg. Mycophenolic acid was detected in the maize samples collected during the 2015 season. (4) Conclusions: These findings suggest that focusing the investigation only on “controlled” mycotoxins will not produce a proper risk assessment and may not adequately address the possible harmful impacts of mycotoxins on human and animal health due to mycotoxins’ co-occurrence.
Mycophenolate Mofetil, an Inhibitor of Inosine Monophosphate Dehydrogenase, and Tofacitinib, a Janus Kinase Inhibitor, Attenuate Airway Inflammation and Hyperresponsiveness in a Mouse Model of Allergic Asthma
Authors: Kravčenia Bernard , Maślanka Tomasz
Published: November 2024

Treatment-resistant asthma remains an unresolved clinical problem and a challenge for current medical science. Consequently, there is a growing and urgent need to develop novel or alternative therapeutic options for the treatment of asthma. The research problem raised in this study was to assess and compare mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), an inhibitor of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, and tofacitinib (TFB), a Janus kinase inhibitor, for anti-asthmatic properties, and consequently to determine whether these agents may have potential as alternative options for treatment of allergic asthma. For this purpose, we assessed the effect of administration of MMF and TFB on the development of a mouse model of allergic airway inflammation (AAI) and accompanying CD4+ (cluster of differentiation 4) T-cell immune response in the lung-draining mediastinal lymph nodes (MLNs) and lungs, i.e., in the inductive and effector sites, respectively, of the immune response underlying the development of allergic asthma. The results from a histopathological scoring system demonstrated that the administration of MMF and TFB did not prevent or abolish ovalbumin-induced AAI, but strongly attenuated its severity. The pulmonary function tests revealed that the treatment with MMF and TFB significantly reduced methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction. These results indicate that the treatment with TFB and MMF attenuated the development of ovalbumin-induced AAI. The magnitude of the anti-asthmatic effect was comparable between both agents. The study revealed that the impairment of the clonal expansion of effector CD4+ T cells in the MLNs is a critical event in the mechanism underlying the anti-asthmatic effect of MMF and TFB. Apart from this, the findings of the study strongly suggest that the suppression of the interleukin-33/suppression of tumorigenicity-2 signaling pathway may constitute an additional mechanism responsible for producing this effect. In turn, the results indicate that the anti-asthmatic action induced by the studied agents is not mediated by the generation of forkhead box protein 3-expressing CD4+ regulatory T cells. Clinical implication of the results: the results suggest that MMF and TFB may exert anti-asthmatic action, and thus they may be considered therapeutic options for the treatment of allergic asthma cases resistant to conventional/existing treatment.
Phytochemical Composition and Characterization of In Vitro Bioactivities from Pinus Using Green Process
Authors: Chammam Amel , Romdhane Mehrez , Fillaudeau Luc , Bouajila Jalloul
Published: November 2024

Pinus species are notable in Mediterranean regions due to their ecological and economic importance. Various parts of these species are widely used in traditional medicine, especially pinecones, which are a significant source of bioactive compounds. The current study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and biological properties of the aqueous extracts obtained by maceration from three Pinus petal fractions, from P. halepensis Mill., P. brutia Ten., and P. pinea L. (APW, BPW, and PPW respectively), and the core fractions of the same species (ACW, BCW, and PCW respectively). The results showed that APW demonstrated superior performance compared to other species and fractions (p ≤ 0.05), with the highest total polyphenol content (203.51 mg GAE/g DW) and the highest antioxidant potential (IC50 = 13.51 µg/mL) against DPPH free radical. All extracts showed high anticancer activity against HeLa and HepG2 cancer cell lines, and low inhibition against HEK-293, a normal cell line (<15%), indicating that none of extracts have any toxicity effect. Furthermore, only APW exhibits a significant inhibition against α-glucosidase with 77.20% at 50 µg/mL. HPLC-DAD analysis was conducted to identify 14 compounds. GC-MS analysis was conducted to identify 28 compounds, of which 11 were detected for the first time in this species. This study offers valuable insights into phytochemistry and potential therapeutic applications of pinecones.
Highly Efficient Activation of Peroxymonosulphate by Co and Cu Co-Doped Sawdust Biochar for Ultra-Fast Removal of Bisphenol A
Authors: Liang Hui , Liu Tongjin , Li Ruijuan , Li Rumei , Zhu Yuxiao , Fang Feng
Published: November 2024

The rapid, efficient, and thorough degradation of Bisphenol A (BPA) is challenging. In this study, we prepared an effective peroxymonosulphate (PMS) activation catalyst derived from sawdust containing calcium carbonate. The Co and Cu co-doped sawdust biochar (CoO/CuO@CBC) catalyst could activate PMS quickly, and the degradation rate of BPA reached 99.3% in 5 min, while the rate constant was approximately 30 times higher than in the CBC/PMS and CoCuOx/PMS systems. Moreover, the interaction between CoO, CuO, and CBC endows the CoO/CuO@CBC catalyst with excellent catalytic performance under different conditions, such as initial pH, temperature, water matrix, inorganic anions, and humic acid, which maintained fast PMS activation via the cyclic transformation of Cu and Co for BPA degradation. The results demonstrated that both the radical (•O2− and •SO4−) and non-radical (1O2) pathways participate in the degradation of BPA in the CoO/CuO@CBC/PMS system. The efficient and stable degradation over a wide range of pH, temperature, and aqueous matrices indicates the potential application of the CoO/CuO@CBC catalyst.
Engineering Ion Affinity of Zr-MOF Hybrid PDMS Membranes for the Selective Separation of Na+/Ca2+
Authors: Abou-Elyazed Ahmed S. , Li Xiaolin , Meng Jing
Published: November 2024

Ion-selective separation, especially Na+/Ca2+ separation, is of significant importance in the realms of biomimetic research and the fabrication of biomimetic devices, underscoring the pivotal role that sodium and calcium ions play in cellular metabolism. However, the analogous ionic radii and charge densities shared by sodium and calcium ions significantly impede their effective discrimination, presenting formidable challenges for the precise engineering of ion separation materials, such as separation membranes. In this study, a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) separation membrane hybridized with zirconium-based metal–organic frameworks (UiO-66, UiO-66-NO2 and UiO-66-NH2) was constructed. Through the meticulous design of the MOF functional groups, the material’s affinity for specific ions was modulated, thereby achieving efficient Na+/Ca2+ separation. Notably, the PDMS integrated with amino-modified Zr-MOF exhibited an efficacious selective separation of Na+ and Ca2+ ions. The interaction between the amino group of UiO-66-NH2 and Ca2+ gave rise to the observed superior selectivity toward Ca2+ cations and enhanced separation efficiencies of up to 64% compared to pristine PDMS for UiO-66-NH2-embedded membranes.
Preparation and Properties of Fe-Based Double Perovskite Oxide as Cathode Material for Intermediate-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Xue Liangmei , Li Songbo , An Shengli , Li Ning , Ma Huipu , Li Mengxin
Published: November 2024

Double perovskite oxides with mixed ionic and electronic conductors (MIECs) have been widely investigated as cathode materials for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Classical Fe-based double perovskites, due to their inherent low electronic and oxygen ionic conductivity, usually exhibit poor electrocatalytic activity. The existence of various valence states of B-site ions modifies the material’s catalytic activity, indicating the possibility of the partial substitution of Fe by higher-valence ions. LaBaFe2−xMoxO5+δ (x = 0, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, 0.1, LBFMx) is used as intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cell (IT-SOFC) cathode materials. At a doping concentration above 0.1, the Mo substitution enhanced the cell volume, and the lattice expansion caused the formation of the impurity phase, BaMoO4. Compared with the parent material, Mo doping can regulate the oxygen vacancy concentration and accelerate the oxygen reduction reaction process to improve the electrochemical performance, as well as having a suitable coefficient of thermal expansion and excellent electrode stability. LaBaFe1.9Mo0.1O5+δ is a promising cathode material for IT-SOFC, which shows an excellent electrochemical performance, with this being demonstrated by having the lowest polarization resistance value of 0.017 Ω·cm2 at 800 °C, and the peak power density (PPD) of anode-supported single-cell LBFM0.1|CGO|NiO+CGO reaching 599 mW·cm−2.
Effect of Protein, Carbohydrate, and Oil on Phytochemical Bioaccessibility and Bioactivities of the Ginkgo biloba L. Leaf Formulations After In Vitro Digestion
Authors: Rusak Gordana , Vujčić Bok Valerija , Šola Ivana , Nikša Ema , Maleš Željan
Published: November 2024

The present work evaluates the effect of casein, glucose, and olive oil on phytochemical bioaccessibility, antioxidant potential (DPPH and FRAP), antidiabetic potential (inhibition of amylase, α-glucosidase, and BSA glycation), and antihyperlipidemic potential (inhibition of lipase) of gingko standardized leaf extract in the form of tablets after in vitro digestion. Gingko extract formulations with protein, carbohydrates, and oil had high (>70%) in vitro bioaccessibility of quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin after each phases of digestion in comparison to moderate (35–70%) in vitro bioaccessibility from gingko water extract. Formulation with the highest in vitro bioaccessibility of the majority of the tested polyphenolic groups and terpene lactones after oral and intestinal phases was ginkgo with olive oil. High (>70%) antioxidant (DPPH and FRAP), antidiabetic (α-glucosidase and BSA glycation), and antihyperlipidemic potential were detected in almost all ginkgo formulations. Based on the results, we conclude that the in vitro bioaccessibility of individual compounds or groups of compounds depends on whether the tablets are taken with water or with foods (protein, carbohydrates, and oil).
β2-Chimaerin, a GTPase-Activating Protein for Rac1, Is a Novel Regulator of Hepatic Insulin Signaling and Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Carmona-Carmona Cristian Andrés , Zini Pablo , Velasco-Sampedro Eladio A. , Cózar-Castellano Irene , Perdomo Germán , Caloca María J.
Published: November 2024

Glucose homeostasis is a complex process regulated by multiple organs and hormones, with insulin playing a central role. Recent evidence underscores the role of small GTP-binding proteins, particularly Rac1, in regulating insulin secretion and glucose uptake. However, the role of Rac1-regulatory proteins in these processes remains largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the role of β2-chimaerin, a Rac1-specific GTPase-activating protein (GAP), in glucose homeostasis using whole-body β2-chimaerin knockout mice. Our data revealed that β2-chimaerin deficiency results in improved glucose tolerance and enhanced insulin sensitivity in mice. These metabolic effects were associated with increased insulin-induced AKT phosphorylation in the liver and activation of downstream pathways that regulate gluconeogenesis and glycogen synthesis. We show that insulin activates Rac1 in the liver. However, β2-chimaerin deletion did not significantly alter Rac1 activation in this organ, suggesting that β2-chimaerin regulates insulin signaling via a Rac1-independent mechanism. These findings expand our understanding of Rac1 regulation in glucose metabolism, and identify β2-chimaerin as a novel modulator of hepatic insulin signaling, with potential implications for the development of insulin resistance and diabetes.
Chemical and Sensory Profile of Grape Distillates Aged in Quercus alba Casks Previously Used for Sherry Wine or Brandy
Authors: Butrón-Benítez Daniel , Valcárcel-Muñoz Manuel J. , García-Moreno M. Valme , Rodríguez-Dodero M. Carmen , Guillén-Sánchez Dominico A.
Published: November 2024

This work investigates the influence of oak-cask ageing on the chemical composition and sensory profile of a variety of grape distillates. Wine spirit, wine distillate, neutral alcohol, and grape marc distillate were investigated. It is known that the characteristics of the ageing casks may have a considerable impact on the ageing process, so casks that had previously contained some type of sherry wine, sherry cask®, and casks that had previously contained brandy were studied. The results showed that ageing in either type of cask resulted in significant changes regarding volatile compound composition and a noticeable increase in phenolic and furfural compound content. Furthermore, sherry casks® contributed with sherry wine characteristic compounds that enriched the aromatic profile of the distillates, such as a greater increase in ethyl esters of organic acids. A less noticeable evolution was exhibited by the distillates with higher levels of congeners (wine spirit and grape marc distillate) when compared to wine distillate or neutral alcohol, where changes due to ageing were more evident. The sensory analysis confirmed that ageing significantly modified the organoleptic characteristics of all the distillates, with an increasing perception of certain notes such as oak, vanilla, spicy, and vinous when aged in sherry cask®.
Low-Valent Tungsten Catalyzed Carbonylative Synthesis of Benzoates from Aryl Iodides and Alcohols
Authors: Ye Feihua , Lu Lin , Huang Zhaoyang , Huang Yunwei , Huang Lixuan , Li Chunsheng , Li Xiang
Published: November 2024

Non-noble metals catalyzed carbonylative reactions serve as straightforward and sustainable methods for the synthesis of functionalized carbonyl-containing compounds. Herein, a low-valent-tungsten-catalyzed reaction that enables the coupling of aryl iodides and alcohols or phenols was disclosed, employing the readily available W(CO)6 as the effective catalyst and PPh3 as ligand. Under the optimal reaction conditions, aryl iodides smoothly underwent carbonylative coupling reactions with alcohols or phenols, processing the feature of broad substrate scope and good functional groups tolerance. Furthermore, this conversion can be carried out on a gram scale, showcasing significant promise in the synthesis of pharmaceutical or biologically active compounds.
Study on Flame Retardancy of Cotton Fabric Modified by Sulfonic Groups Chelated with Ba2+
Authors: Guo Lingling , Lin Hongqin , Qi Zhenming , Pan Jiang , Mao Haiyan , Huang Chunmei , Li Guoqiang , Wang Chunxia
Published: November 2024

A simple and innovative method was introduced for the production of green and recoverable flame-retardant cotton fabrics, where sulfonated cotton fabric (COT-SC) was synthesized by oxidizing cotton fabric with sodium periodate, followed by a sulfonation step with sodium bisulfite to provide active sites, which further chelated barium ions (Ba2+) to achieve flame retardancy. The morphological and structural characterizations of the fabricated cotton fabrics (COT-SC-Ba) demonstrated that the cleavage of C2-C3 free hydroxy groups within the cellulose macromolecule was chemically modified for grafting a considerable number of sulfonic acid groups, and Ba2+ ions were effectively immobilized on the macromolecule of the cotton fabric through a chelation effect. Results from cone calorimeter tests (CCTs) revealed that COT-SC-Ba became nonflammable, displayed a delayed ignition time, and decreased the values of the heat release rate (HRR), total smoke release (TSR), effective heat of combustion (EHC), and CO/CO2 ratio. TG/DTG analysis demonstrated that COT-SC-Ba possessed greater thermal stability, fewer flammable volatiles, and more of a char layer during burning than that of the original cotton fabric. Its residual mass was increased from 0.02% to 26.9% in air and from 8.05% to 26.76% in N2, respectively. The COT-SC-Ba not only possessed a limiting oxygen index (LOI) of up to 34.4% but could also undergo vertical burning tests evidenced by results such as the non-afterflame, non-afterglow, and a mere 75 mm char length. Those results demonstrated that the combination of SO3− and Ba2+ promoted the formation of a char layer. Moreover, cotton fabric regained its superior flame retardancy after being washed and re-chelated with Ba2+. Additional characteristics of the cotton fabric, such as the rupture strength, white degree, and hygroscopicity, were maintained at an acceptable level. In conclusion, this research can offer a fresh perspective on the design and development of straightforward, efficient, eco-friendly, and recoverable fire-retardant fabrics.
Early Diagnosis of Tumorigenesis via Ratiometric Carbon Dots with Deep-Red Emissive Fluorescence Based on NAD+ Dependence
Authors: Cui Lan , Lou Weishuang , Sun Mengyao , Wei Xin , Yang Shuoye , Zhang Lu , Qu Lingbo
Published: November 2024

The early diagnosis of tumorigenesis is crucial for clinical treatment, but the resolution and sensitivity of conventional short-wavelength biomarkers are not ideal because of the complicated interference in living tissue. Herein, a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-responsive probe with deep-red emissive ratiometric fluorescence was synthetized as a promising target for energy metabolism patterns during tumorigenesis. Interestingly, the solvents H3PO4 and 2,2′-dithiodibenzoic acid enhanced the red emission (640 and 680 nm) of o-phenylenediamine-based carbon dots (CDs), leading to the formation of a nanoscale graphite-like skeleton covered with -P=O, -CONH-, -COOH and -NH2 on their surfaces. Meanwhile, this method exhibited high sensitivity to the discriminating target NAD+, with a detection limit of 63 μM due to the inner filter effect and fluorescence resonance energy transfer process between NAD+ and CDs, which is superior to the reported capillary electrophoresis and liquid chromatographic detection methods (the reported detection limit was about 0.2 mM) in complex biological samples and even cancer cells. Encouragingly, NAD+ significantly promoted nucleus-targeting fluorescence and cell migration compared to GSH and pH stimulation, which were gradually eliminated in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells after 2-deoxy-d-Glucose inhibited the glycolytic phenotype. The proposed method holds great potential for the temporal and spatial resolution of NAD+-dependent tumor diagnosis in complex living systems.
Green Processing of Ilex guayusa: Antioxidant Concentration and Caffeine Reduction Using Encapsulation by Supercritical Antisolvent Process
Authors: Meneses Miguel Ángel , Guzmán Jhulissa , Cabrera Jhulissa , Magallanes Jorge , Valarezo Eduardo , Guamán-Balcázar María del Cisne
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the valorization of Ilex guayusa leaves by producing a low-caffeine, antioxidant-rich product through the supercritical antisolvent extraction (SAE) process. The objective was to concentrate the antioxidants while selectively reducing the caffeine. The SAE treatments were conducted using an ethanolic extract of guayusa leaves under varying pressure (80 bar–150 bar) and temperature (35–45 °C) conditions to improve the recovery of chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeine fractionation. The co-precipitation of antioxidants with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (ratio 1:1–1:2 mass/mass) as an encapsulant was also studied. The SAE precipitates were analyzed for their recovery yield, CGA and caffeine contents, antioxidant activity, and total phenols. Based on the statistical analysis, the optimal conditions for the SAE were 120 bar and 45 °C. Under these conditions, the CGA concentration increased from 43.02 mg/g extract to 237 mg/g precipitate, while the caffeine was reduced to less than 1% mass. Co-precipitation with PVP improved the recovery yield by more than two times than the SAE alone while maintaining the caffeine content below 1% mass. Additionally, the co-precipitation with PVP facilitated the formation of spherical microparticles, indicating successful encapsulation of the bioactive compounds, with an IC50 of 0.51 ± 0.01 mg/mL for DPPH and 0.18 ± 0.01 mg/mL for ABTS. These results highlight the effectiveness of the SAE co-precipitation process in developing low-caffeine functional ingredients with potential food and pharmaceutical applications.
Calcium Alginate Fibers/Boron Nitride Composite Lithium-Ion Battery Separators with Excellent Thermal Stability and Cycling Performance
Authors: Tian Xing , Shi Hailing , Wang Linfeng , Shao Lupeng , Tan Liwen
Published: November 2024

As one of the most critical components in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), commercial polyolefin separators suffer from drawbacks such as poor thermal stability and the inability to inhibit the growth of dendrites, which seriously threaten the safety of LIBs. In this study, we prepared calcium alginate fiber/boron nitride-compliant separators (CA@BN) through paper-making technology and the surface coating method using calcium alginate fiber and boron nitride. The CA@BN had favorable electrolyte wettability, flame retardancy, and thermal dimensional stability of the biomass fiber separator. Meanwhile, the boron nitride coating provided excellent thermal conductivity and mechanical strength for the composite separator, which inhibited the growth of lithium dendrites and enabled lithium-ion symmetric batteries to achieve more than 1000 stable and long cycles at a current density of 0.5 mA cm−2. The interwoven fiber mesh formed by the boron nitride coating and the calcium alginate provided multiple pathways for ion migration, which enhanced the storage capacity of the electrolyte, improved the interfacial compatibility between the separator and the electrode, widened the window of electrochemical stability, and enhanced ionic migration. This eco-friendly bio-based separator paves a new insight for the design of heat-resistance separators as well as the safe running of LIBs.