bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Guidelines Publication on Acute Bronchiolitis Management: 10-Year Experience from a Tertiary Care Center in Italy
Authors: Biagi Carlotta , Scarpini Sara , Paleari Camilla , Fabi Marianna , Dondi Arianna , Gabrielli Liliana , Gennari Monia , Lanari Marcello , Pierantoni Luca
Published: October 2021

Bronchiolitis is the most common lower respiratory tract infection in infants. According to evidence-based guidelines, diagnosis is clinical, there is no need for routine use of laboratory or instrumental tests and therapy is primarily supportive, based on oxygen and adequate fluid supplementation. Nevertheless, unnecessary diagnostic tests and pharmacological treatments are still very common. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate how the management of bronchiolitis has changed in the last ten years in a Tertiary Care Center in Italy, assessing adherence to national guidelines. Considering the publication of the Italian inter-society consensus document in 2014, we compared patients admitted in the prior four epidemic seasons with patients admitted in the latter six epidemic seasons. The comparison between the two groups showed a significant reduction in the prescription of systemic corticosteroids (58.9% vs. 41.8%, p < 0.001), nebulized epinephrine (73.8% vs. 38.3%, p < 0.001) and antibiotics (59.5% vs. 42.3%, p < 0.001), together with a drastic decrease in the use of chest X-ray (92.2% vs. 54.4%, p < 0.001). On the contrary, the use of inhaled salbutamol remained substantially stable over time (39.4% vs. 37.6%, p = 0.505). Despite the encouraging results, further efforts are needed to limit the prescription of ineffective therapies like antibiotics and inhaled salbutamol.
Enterococcus spp.: Is It a Bad Choice for a Good Use—A Conundrum to Solve?
Authors: Ferchichi Mounir , Sebei Khaled , Boukerb Amine Mohamed , Karray-Bouraoui Najoua , Chevalier Sylvie , Feuilloley Marc G. J. , Connil Nathalie , Zommiti Mohamed
Published: October 2021

Since antiquity, the ubiquitous lactic acid bacteria (LAB) Enterococci, which are just as predominant in both human and animal intestinal commensal flora, have been used (and still are) as probiotics in food and feed production. Their qualities encounter several hurdles, particularly in terms of the array of virulence determinants, reflecting a notorious reputation that nearly prevents their use as probiotics. Additionally, representatives of the Enterococcus spp. genus showed intrinsic resistance to several antimicrobial agents, and flexibility to acquire resistance determinants encoded on a broad array of conjugative plasmids, transposons, and bacteriophages. The presence of such pathogenic aspects among some species represents a critical barrier compromising their use as probiotics in food. Thus, the genus neither has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status nor has it been included in the Qualified Presumption of Safety (QPS) list implying drastic legislation towards these microorganisms. To date, the knowledge of the virulence factors and the genetic structure of foodborne enterococcal strains is rather limited. Although enterococcal infections originating from food have never been reported, the consumption of food carrying virulence enterococci seems to be a risky path of transfer, and hence, it renders them poor choices as probiotics. Auspiciously, enterococcal virulence factors seem to be strain specific suggesting that clinical isolates carry much more determinants that food isolates. The latter remain widely susceptible to clinically relevant antibiotics and subsequently, have a lower potential for pathogenicity. In terms of the ideal enterococcal candidate, selected strains deemed for use in foods should not possess any virulence genes and should be susceptible to clinically relevant antibiotics. Overall, implementation of an appropriate risk/benefit analysis, in addition to the case-by-case assessment, the establishment of a strain’s innocuity, and consideration for relevant guidelines, legislation, and regulatory aspects surrounding functional food development seem to be the crucial elements for industries, health-staff and consumers to accept enterococci, like other LAB, as important candidates for useful and beneficial applications in food industry and food biotechnology. The present review aims at shedding light on the world of hurdles and limitations that hampers the Enterococcus spp. genus and its representatives from being used or proposed for use as probiotics. The future of enterococci use as probiotics and legislation in this field are also discussed.
Wine Yeasts Selection: Laboratory Characterization and Protocol Review
Authors: Sidari Rossana , Ženišová Katarína , Tobolková Blanka , Belajová Elena , Cabicarová Tereza , Bučková Mária , Puškárová Andrea , Planý Matej , Kuchta Tomáš , Pangallo Domenico
Published: October 2021

Wine reflects the specificity of a terroir, including the native microbiota. In contrast to the use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae commercial starters, a way to maintain wines’ microbial terroir identities, guaranteeing at the same time the predictability and reproducibility of the wines, is the selection of autochthonous Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces strains towards optimal enological characteristics for the chosen area of isolation. This field has been explored but there is a lack of a compendium covering the main methods to use. Autochthonous wine yeasts from different areas of Slovakia were identified and tested, in the form of colonies grown either on nutrient agar plates or in grape must micro-fermentations, for technological and qualitative enological characteristics. Based on the combined results, Saccharomyces cerevisiae PDA W 10, Lachancea thermotolerans 5-1-1 and Metschnikowia pulcherrima 125/14 were selected as potential wine starters. This paper, as a mixture of experimental and review contributions, provides a compendium of methods used to select autochthonous wine yeasts. Thanks to the presence of images, this compendium could guide other researchers in screening their own yeast strains for wine production.
Detection of Bacillus cereus sensu lato Isolates Posing Potential Health Risks in Mexican Chili Powder
Authors: Hernández Andrea Guadalupe Celestino , Ortiz Vannessa Gómez , Gómez Jackeline Lizzeta Arvizu , López Miguel Ángel Ramos , Morales José Alberto Rodríguez , Macías Antonio Flores , Hidalgo Erika Álvarez , Ramírez Jorge Nuñez , Gallardo Francisco Javier Flores , Gutiérrez María Carlota García , Gómez Sergio Romero , Jones George H. , Flores José Luis Hernández , Guillén Juan Campos
Published: October 2021

The potential presence of spore-forming bacteria related to the Bacillus cereus group in Mexican chili powder elaborated from Capsicum annuum L. is of commercial and clinical interest, because chili powder is an essential spice in the Mexican diet and in diets around the globe. To facilitate detection and isolation of members of this group of spore-forming bacteria from Mexican chili powder samples, we identified colonies that grew on agar medium selective for Bacillus cereus sensu lato, supplemented with polymyxin B (10 µg/mL) and ampicillin (10 to 100 µg/mL). The presumptive B. cereus (s.l.) isolates were tested using a tRNACys-PCR-based approach and the results identified species related phylogenetically to B. cereus, B. thuringiensis, and B. toyonensis. Their toxigenic potential was assessed by serological tests to detect enterotoxins (Nhe and Hbl) and by PCR targeting the hemolysin BL (hbl) component C (hblC) and non-hemolytic enterotoxin component A (nheA). The antibiotic profiles of the isolates showed a high resistance to β-lactams (100% of the isolates), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (100%), tetracycline (90%), erythromycin (77%), clindamycin (74%), and chloramphenicol (42%). Our results indicate the presence of B. cereus s.l. with toxigenic characteristics in Mexican chili powder. Because of the potential for these organisms to cause disease through their production of various toxins, and resistance to antibiotics, we recommend that a microbiological risk assessment must be considered in the Mexican regulatory requirements.
Molecular Epidemiology of Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Strains Isolated at the German Military Field Laboratory in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan
Authors: Higgins Paul G. , Kniel Meret , Rojak Sandra , Balczun Carsten , Rohde Holger , Frickmann Hagen , Hagen Ralf Matthias
Published: October 2021

The study was performed to provide an overview of the molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in Afghanistan isolated by the German military medical service during the Afghanistan conflict. A total of 18 isolates were collected between 2012 and 2018 at the microbiological laboratory of the field hospital in Camp Marmal near Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, from Afghan patients. The isolates were subjected to phenotypic and genotypic differentiation and antimicrobial susceptibility testing as well as to a core genome multi-locus sequence typing (cgMLST) approach based on whole-genome next-generation sequence (wgNGS) data. Next to several sporadic isolates, four transmission clusters comprising strains from the international clonal lineages IC1, IC2, and IC9 were identified. Acquired carbapenem resistance was due to blaOXA-23 in 17/18 isolates, while genes mediating resistance against sulfonamides, macrolides, tetracyclines, and aminoglycosides were frequently identified as well. In conclusion, the assessment confirmed both the frequent occurrence of A. baumannii associated with outbreak events and a variety of different clones in Afghanistan. The fact that acquired carbapenem resistance was almost exclusively associated with blaOXA-23 may facilitate molecular resistance screening based on rapid molecular assays targeting this resistance determinant.
Characterization of Komagataeibacter Isolate Reveals New Prospects in Waste Stream Valorization for Bacterial Cellulose Production
Authors: Cannazza Pietro , Rissanen Antti J. , Guizelini Dieval , Losoi Pauli , Sarlin Essi , Romano Diego , Santala Ville , Mangayil Rahul
Published: October 2021

Komagataeibacter spp. has been used for the bioconversion of industrial wastes and lignocellulosic hydrolysates to bacterial cellulose (BC). Recently, studies have demonstrated the capacity of Komagataeibacter spp. in the biotransformation of inhibitors found in lignocellulosic hydrolysates, aromatic lignin-derived monomers (LDMs) and acetate. In general, detoxification and BC synthesis from lignocellulosic inhibitors requires a carbon flow from acetyl-coA towards tricarboxylic acid and gluconeogenesis, respectively. However, the related molecular aspects have not yet been identified in Komagataeibacter spp. In this study, we isolated a cellulose-producing bacterium capable of synthesizing BC in a minimal medium containing crude glycerol, a by-product from the biodiesel production process. The isolate, affiliated to Komagataeibacter genus, synthesized cellulose in a minimal medium containing glucose (3.3 ± 0.3 g/L), pure glycerol (2.2 ± 0.1 g/L) and crude glycerol (2.1 ± 0.1 g/L). Genome assembly and annotation identified four copies of bacterial cellulose synthase operon and genes for redirecting the carbon from the central metabolic pathway to gluconeogenesis. According to the genome annotations, a BC production route from acetyl-CoA, a central metabolic intermediate, was hypothesized and was validated using acetate. We identified that when K. rhaeticus ENS9b was grown in a minimal medium supplemented with acetate, BC production was not observed. However, in the presence of readily utilizable substrates, such as spent yeast hydrolysate, acetate supplementation improved BC synthesis.
Campylobacter jejuni in Different Canine Populations: Characteristics and Zoonotic Potential
Authors: Lemos Maria-Leonor , Nunes Alexandra , Ancora Massimo , Cammà Cesare , Costa Paulo Martins da , Oleastro Mónica
Published: October 2021

With most epidemiological studies focused on poultry, dogs are often overlooked as a reservoir of Campylobacter, even though these animals maintain close daily contact with humans. The present study aimed to obtain a first insight into the presence and characteristics of Campylobacter spp. in different canine populations in Portugal, and to evaluate its zoonotic potential through genomic analysis. From a total of 125 rectal swabs collected from companion (n = 71) and hunting dogs (n = 54) living in two different settings, rural (n = 75) and urban (n = 50), 32 Campylobacter spp. isolates were obtained. Four different Campylobacter species were identified by Multiplex PCR and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, of which Campylobacter jejuni (n = 14, 44%) was overall the most frequently found species. Relevant resistance phenotypes were detected in C. jejuni, with 93% of the isolates being resistant to ciprofloxacin, 64% to tetracycline, and 57% to ampicillin, and three isolates being multi-drug-resistant. Comparison of the phenotypic and genotypic traits with human isolates from Portuguese patients revealed great similarity between both groups. Particularly relevant, the wgMLST analysis allowed the identification of isolates from human and dogs without any apparent epidemiological relationship, sharing high genetic proximity. Notwithstanding the limited sample size, considering the high genomic diversity of C. jejuni, the genetic overlap between human and dog strains observed in this study confirmed that the occurrence of this species in dogs is of public health concern, reinforcing the call for a One Health approach.
Development and Validation of Two Diagnostic Real-Time PCR (TaqMan) Assays for the Detection of Bordetella avium from Clinical Samples and Comparison to the Currently Available Real-Time TaqMan PCR Assay
Authors: Hashish Amro , Sinha Avanti , Mekky Amr , Sato Yuko , Macedo Nubia , El-Gazzar Mohamed
Published: October 2021

Bordetella avium (BA) is one of many pathogens that cause respiratory diseases in turkeys. However, other bacterial species can easily overgrow it during isolation attempts. This makes confirming the diagnosis of BA as the causative agent of turkey coryza more difficult. Currently, there are two PCR assays for the molecular detection of BA. One is conventional gel-based PCR and the other is TaqMan real-time PCR (qPCR) assay. However, multiple pitfalls were detected in both assays regarding their specificity, sensitivity, and efficiency, which limits their utility as diagnostic tools. In this study, we developed and validated two TaqMan qPCR assays and compared their performance to the currently available TaqMan qPCR. The two assays were able to correctly identify all BA isolates and showed negative results against a wide range of different microorganisms. The two assays were found to have high efficiency with a detection limit of approximately 1 × 103 plasmid DNA Copies/mL with high repeatability and reproducibility. In comparison to the currently available TaqMan qPCR assay, the newly developed assays showed significantly higher PCR efficiencies due to superior primers and probes design. The new assays can serve as a reliable tool for the sensitive, specific, and efficient diagnosis of BA.
Ge-Hg-Rich Sphalerite and Pb, Sb, As, Hg, and Ag Sulfide Assemblages in Mud Volcanoes of Sakhalin Island, Russia: An Insight into Possible Origin
Authors: Sokol Ella V. , Kokh Svetlana N. , Nekipelova Anna V. , Abersteiner Adam , Seryotkin Yurii V. , Ershov Valeriy V. , Nikitenko Olga A. , Deviatiiarova Anna S.
Published: October 2021

We characterize the mineralogy and geochemistry of Fe, Zn, Pb, Sb, As, Hg, Ag sulfide assemblages from mud masses currently extruded by the onshore South Sakhalin and Pugachev mud volcanoes (Sakhalin Island, Russia). Abundant Tl-rich pyrite in sulfide concentrate samples from the mud volcanoes coexists with common Hg- and Ge-rich sphalerite, as well as with sporadic boulangerite, robinsonite, bournonite, galena, realgar, metacinnabar, cinnabar, acanthite, and chalcopyrite. Sphalerites are remarkably enriched in Hg (locally reaching 27 wt%) and coupled zwith permanent abnormal enrichment in Ge (3008–3408 ppm). According to single-crystal XRD analyses and Raman spectroscopy, both Hg-poor and Hg-rich sphalerites are single-phase (Zn,Hg)Scub compounds. Pyrite is of diagenetic origin, judging by its trace-element chemistry, particular morphology, and heavy S isotope composition. Another assemblage, composed of Pb-Sb-(Hg) sulfide minerals and lesser As, Cu, Ag, and Bi compounds, results from hydrothermal alteration and is genetically related to Neogene volcano-sedimentary rocks found among the ejecta of the mud volcanoes. The composition of impurities in sphalerite from mud masses indicates crystallization at temperatures lower than ~100 °C, under the leaching effect of mud volcano waters.
Development and Validation of a LC-MS/MS Technique for the Analysis of Short Chain Fatty Acids in Tissues and Biological Fluids without Derivatisation Using Isotope Labelled Internal Standards
Authors: Saha Shikha , Day-Walsh Priscilla , Shehata Emad , Kroon Paul Anthony
Published: October 2021

The gut microbiota is critical to the maintenance of physiological homeostasis and as such is implicated in a range of diseases such as colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are key metabolites produced by the gut microbiota from the fermentation of dietary fibre. Here we present a novel, sensitive, and direct LC-MS/MS technique using isotopically labelled internal standards without derivatisation for the analysis of SCFAs in different biological matrices. The technique has significant advantages over the current widely used techniques based on sample derivatization and GC-MS analysis, including fast and simple sample preparation and short LC runtime (10 min). The technique is specific and sensitive for the quantification of acetate, butyrate, isobutyrate, isovalerate, lactate, propionate and valerate. The limits of detection were all 0.001 mM except for acetate which was 0.003 mM. The calibration curves for all the analytes were linear with correlation coefficients r2 > 0.998. The intra- and inter-day precisions in three levels of known concentrations were <12% and <20%, respectively. The quantification accuracy ranged from 92% to 120%. The technique reported here offers a valuable analytical tool for use in studies of SCFA production in the gut and their distribution to host tissues.
Potential of Ramalin and Its Derivatives for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kim Tai Kyoung , Hong Ju-Mi , Kim Kyung Hee , Han Se Jong , Kim Il-Chan , Oh Hyuncheol , Yim Joung Han
Published: October 2021

The pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is still unclear, and presently there is no cure for the disease that can be used for its treatment or to stop its progression. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of ramalin (isolated from the Antarctic lichen, Ramalina terebrata), which exhibits various physiological activities, in AD. Specifically, derivatives were synthesized based on the structure of ramalin, which has a strong antioxidant effect, BACE-1 inhibition activity, and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, ramalin and its derivatives exhibit activity against multiple targets associated with AD and can serve as potential therapeutic agents for the disease.
A Review of the Recent Developments in the Bioproduction of Polylactic Acid and Its Precursors Optically Pure Lactic Acids
Authors: Huang Shiyong , Xue Yanfen , Yu Bo , Wang Limin , Zhou Cheng , Ma Yanhe
Published: October 2021

Lactic acid (LA) is an important organic acid with broad industrial applications. Considered as an environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastic with a wide range of applications, polylactic acid has generated a great deal of interest and therefore the demand for optically pure l- or d-lactic acid has increased accordingly. Microbial fermentation is the industrial route for LA production. LA bacteria and certain genetic engineering bacteria are widely used for LA production. Although some fungi, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, are not natural LA producers, they have recently received increased attention for LA production because of their acid tolerance. The main challenge for LA bioproduction is the high cost of substrates. The development of LA production from cost-effective biomasses is a potential solution to reduce the cost of LA production. This review examined and discussed recent progress in optically pure l-lactic acid and optically pure d-lactic acid fermentation. The utilization of inexpensive substrates is also focused on. Additionally, for PLA production, a complete biological process by one-step fermentation from renewable resources is also currently being developed by metabolically engineered bacteria. We also summarize the strategies and procedures for metabolically engineering microorganisms producing PLA. In addition, there exists some challenges to efficiently produce PLA, therefore strategies to overcome these challenges through metabolic engineering combined with enzyme engineering are also discussed.
Neuroprotective Potential of Chrysin: Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Potential for Neurological Disorders
Authors: Mishra Awanish , Mishra Pragya Shakti , Bandopadhyay Ritam , Khurana Navneet , Angelopoulou Efthalia , Paudel Yam Nath , Piperi Christina
Published: October 2021

Chrysin, a herbal bioactive molecule, exerts a plethora of pharmacological effects, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-cancer. A growing body of evidence has highlighted the emerging role of chrysin in a variety of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injury, and brain tumors. Based on the results of recent pre-clinical studies and evidence from studies in humans, this review is focused on the molecular mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective effects of chrysin in different neurological diseases. In addition, the potential challenges, and opportunities of chrysin’s inclusion in the neurotherapeutics repertoire are critically discussed.
Towards the Use of Adsorption Methods for the Removal of Purines from Beer
Authors: Almeida Catarina , Neves Márcia C. , Freire Mara G.
Published: October 2021

Beer corresponds to a fermented alcoholic beverage composed of several components, including purine compounds. These molecules, when ingested by humans, can be catabolized into uric acid, contributing to uric acid’s level increase in serum, which may lead to hyperuricemia and gout. To assure a proper management of this disease, physicians recommend restrictive dietary measures, particularly by avoiding the consumption of beer. Therefore, it is of relevance to develop efficient methods to remove purine compounds from alcoholic beverages such as beer. In this review, we provide an introduction on fermented alcoholic beverages, with emphasis on beer, as well as its purine compounds and their role in uric acid metabolism in the human body in relation to hyperuricemia and gout development. The several reported enzymatic, biological and adsorption methods envisaging purine compounds’ removal are then reviewed. Some enzymatic and biological methods present drawbacks, which can be overcome by adsorption methods. Within adsorption methods, adsorbent materials, such as activated carbon or charcoal, have been reported and applied to beer or wort samples, showing an excellent capacity for adsorbing and removing purine compounds. Although the main topic of this review is on the removal of purine compounds from beer, other studies involving other matrices rather than beer or wort that are rich in purines are included, since they provide relevant clues on designing efficient removal processes. By ensuring the selective removal of purine compounds from this beverage, beer can be taken by hyperuricemic and gouty patients, avoiding restrictive dietary measures, while decreasing the related healthcare economic burden.
Pharmacokinetics of Azalomycin F, a Natural Macrolide Produced by Streptomycete Strains, in Rats
Authors: He Su , Zhao Wenjia , Li Peibo , Tu Wenqing , Hong Kui , Zhang Duoduo , Zhang Tongke , Yuan Ganjun
Published: October 2021

As antimicrobial resistance has been increasing, new antimicrobial agents are desperately needed. Azalomycin F, a natural polyhydroxy macrolide, presents remarkable antimicrobial activities. To investigate its pharmacokinetic characteristics in rats, the concentrations of azalomycin F contained in biological samples, in vitro, were determined using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet (HPLC-UV) method, and, in vivo, samples were assayed by an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometric (UPLC–MS/MS) method. Based on these methods, the pharmacokinetics of azalomycin F were first investigated. Its plasma concentration-time courses and pharmacokinetic parameters in rats were obtained by a non-compartment model for oral (26.4 mg/kg) and intravenous (2.2 mg/kg) administrations. The results indicate that the oral absolute bioavailability of azalomycin F is very low (2.39 ± 1.28%). From combinational analyses of these pharmacokinetic parameters, and of the results of the in-vitro absorption and metabolism experiments, we conclude that azalomycin F is absorbed relatively slowly and with difficulty by the intestinal tract, and subsequently can be rapidly distributed into the tissues and/or intracellular f of rats. Azalomycin F is stable in plasma, whole blood, and the liver, and presents plasma protein binding ratios of more than 90%. Moreover, one of the major elimination routes of azalomycin F is its excretion through bile and feces. Together, the above indicate that azalomycin F is suitable for administration by intravenous injection when used for systemic diseases, while, by oral administration, it can be used in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Unsymmetrical Trifluoromethyl Methoxyphenyl β-Diketones: Effect of the Position of Methoxy Group and Coordination at Cu(II) on Biological Activity
Authors: Khamidullina Liliya A. , Puzyrev Igor S. , Burygin Gennady L. , Dorovatovskii Pavel V. , Zubavichus Yan V. , Mitrofanova Anna V. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Timofeeva Tatiana V. , Slepukhin Pavel A. , Tobysheva Polina D. , Pestov Alexander V. , Solari Euro , Tskhovrebov Alexander G. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: October 2021

Copper(II) complexes with 1,1,1-trifluoro-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)butan-2,4-dione (HL1) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The biological properties of HL1 and cis-[Cu(L1)2(DMSO)] (3) were examined against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and opportunistic unicellular fungi. The cytotoxicity was estimated towards the HeLa and Vero cell lines. Complex 3 demonstrated antibacterial activity towards S. aureus comparable to that of streptomycin, lower antifungal activity than the ligand HL1 and moderate cytotoxicity. The bioactivity was compared with the activity of compounds of similar structures. The effect of changing the position of the methoxy group at the aromatic ring in the ligand moiety of the complexes on their antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity was explored. We propose that complex 3 has lower bioavailability and reduced bioactivity than expected due to strong intermolecular contacts. In addition, molecular docking studies provided theoretical information on the interactions of tested compounds with ribonucleotide reductase subunit R2, as well as the chaperones Hsp70 and Hsp90, which are important biomolecular targets for antitumor and antimicrobial drug search and design. The obtained results revealed that the complexes displayed enhanced affinity over organic ligands. Taken together, the copper(II) complexes with the trifluoromethyl methoxyphenyl-substituted β-diketones could be considered as promising anticancer agents with antibacterial properties.
Core-Level Spectroscopy of 2-Thiouracil at the Sulfur L1- and L2,3-Edges Utilizing a SASE Free-Electron Laser
Authors: Lever Fabiano , Mayer Dennis , Metje Jan , Alisauskas Skirmantas , Calegari Francesca , Düsterer Stefan , Feifel Raimund , Niebuhr Mario , Manschwetus Bastian , Kuhlmann Marion , Mazza Tommaso , Robinson Matthew Scott , Squibb Richard J. , Trabattoni Andrea , Wallner Måns , Wolf Thomas J. A. , Gühr Markus
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we report X-ray absorption and core-level electron spectra of the nucleobase derivative 2-thiouracil at the sulfur L1- and L2,3-edges. We used soft X-rays from the free-electron laser FLASH2 for the excitation of isolated molecules and dispersed the outgoing electrons with a magnetic bottle spectrometer. We identified photoelectrons from the 2p core orbital, accompanied by an electron correlation satellite, as well as resonant and non-resonant Coster–Kronig and Auger–Meitner emission at the L1- and L2,3-edges, respectively. We used the electron yield to construct X-ray absorption spectra at the two edges. The experimental data obtained are put in the context of the literature currently available on sulfur core-level and 2-thiouracil spectroscopy.
Scanning Electron Microscopy Investigation for Monitoring the Emulsion Deteriorative Process and Its Applications in Site-Directed Reaction with Paper Fabric
Authors: Qiu Liewei , Zhang Yongkang , Long Xueli , Ye Zhi , Qu Zhangmingzu , Yang Xiaowu , Wang Chen
Published: October 2021

The O/W isocyanate emulsion can be used as a sizing agent to improve the waterproof performance of paper. However, the -NCO content in the emulsion diminishes with the prolongation of standing time. What is happening to this seemingly stable emulsion, especially concerning its microstructure evolution? We propose to monitor the emulsions deteriorative process by combining freeze-drying technique and SEM. Thus, the emulsion containing -NCO active group was obtained by the synthetic polymer emulsification of HDI trimers. The results of SEM demonstrate that the emulsion deteriorative process actually represents the collapsing and fusion of stable honeycomb structure with the prolongation of standing time and increasing temperature. This is possibly due to the fact that the inner aggregative HDI trimers are reacting with outside water to form urethane macromolecules, and this results in the collapsing and fusion of the honeycomb structure, as observed in SEM images. Moreover, the measurement results of -NCO content and FT-IR spectroscopy present the -NCO content as reducing with increasing standing time and temperature. This conclusion further proves our hypotheses. Additionally, the emulsions are used to treat the paper by site-directed reaction. The results show that the with the increase of the standing time and temperature, the contact angles and surface free energy show a decrease and an increase, respectively, whereas surface free energy appeared at a minimum of 29.19 mJ·m−2 when the standing time and temperature was 1 h and 25 °C.
Magnetophoretic Equilibrium of a Polydisperse Ferrofluid
Authors: Kuznetsov Andrey A. , Podlesnykh Ivan A.
Published: October 2021

The equilibrium concentration distribution of magnetic nanoparticles in a nonuniform magnetic field is studied theoretically. A linear current-carrying wire is used as a source of a nonuniform field. An exact solution for the concentration profile of a dilute monodisperse suspension is obtained within the framework of the continuous mass transfer theory. The applicability of this solution in a broad range of amperage values is tested using Langevin dynamics simulations. Obtained solution is also generalized for polydisperse suspensions. It is demonstrated that the particle size distribution in a polydisperse system strongly depends on the distance from the wire and in general does not coincide with the original distribution of a uniform suspension.
Facile Synthesis of Carbon- and Nitrogen-Doped Iron Borate as a Highly Efficient Single-Component Heterogeneous Photo-Fenton Catalyst under Simulated Solar Irradiation
Authors: Hsiao Shan-Yuan , Lin En-Xuan , Keng Pei-Yuin
Published: October 2021

The development of a heterogeneous catalyst for use in environmental remediation remains a challenging and attractive research endeavor. Specifically, for Fenton reactions, most research approaches have focused on the preparation of iron-containing heterostructures as photo-Fenton catalysts that utilize visible light for enhancing the degradation efficiency. Herein, the synthesis and novel application of C,N-doped iron borates are demonstrated as single-component heterogeneous photo-Fenton catalysts with high Fenton activity under visible light. Under the optimal conditions, 10 mg of the catalyst is shown to achieve effective degradation of 10 ppm methylene blue (MB) dye, Rhodamine B (RhB) dye, and tetracycline (TC) under simulated solar irradiation with a first-order rate constant of k = 0.218 min−1, 0.177 min−1, and 0.116 min−1, respectively. Using MB as a model system, the C,N-doped iron borate exhibits 10- and 26-fold increases in catalytic activity relative to that of the 50 nm hematite nanoparticles and that of the non-doped iron borate, respectively, in the presence of H2O2 under the simulated solar irradiation. Furthermore, the optimum reaction conditions used only 320 equivalents of H2O2 with respect to the concentration of dye, rather than the several thousand equivalents of H2O2 used in conventional heterogeneous Fenton catalysts. In addition, the as-prepared C,N-doped iron borate achieves 75% MB degradation after 20 min in the dark, thus enabling the continuous degradation of pollutants at night and in areas with poor light exposure. The stability and recyclability of C,N-doped iron borate for the oxidation of MB was demonstrated over three cycles with insignificant loss in photo-Fenton activity. The high Fenton activity of the C,N-doped iron borate is considered to be due to the synergistic action between the negatively-charged borate ligands and the metal center in promoting the Fenton reaction. Moreover, carbon and nitrogen doping are shown to be critical in modifying the electronic structure and increasing the conductivity of the catalyst. In view of its synthetic simplicity, high efficiency, low cost of reagents, and minimal cost of operation (driven by natural sunlight), the as-prepared heterogeneous single-component metal borate catalyst has potential application in the industrial treatment of wastewater.
Underwater Light Manipulation by the Benthic Diatom Ctenophora pulchella: From PAR Efficient Collection to UVR Screening
Authors: De Tommasi Edoardo , Rea Ilaria , Ferrara Maria Antonietta , De Stefano Luca , De Stefano Mario , Al-Handal Adil Y. , Stamenković Marija , Wulff Angela
Published: October 2021

Several species of diatoms, unicellular microalgae which constitute the main component of phytoplankton, are characterized by an impressive photosynthetic efficiency while presenting a noticeable tolerance versus exposure to detrimental UV radiation (UVR). In particular, the growth rate of the araphid diatom Ctenophora pulchella is not significantly affected by harsh treatments with UVR, even in absence of detectable, specific UV-absorbing pigments and even if it is not able to avoid high UV exposure by motility. In this work we applied a multi-disciplinary approach involving numerical computation, photonics, and biological parameters in order to investigate the possible role of the frustule, micro- and nano-patterned silica shell which encloses the cell, in the ability of C. pulchella to efficiently collect photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) and to simultaneously screen the protoplasm from UVR. The characterization of the photonic properties of the frustule has been accompanied by in vivo experiments conducted in water in order to investigate its function as optical coupler between light and plastids.
A Multifunctional Polymeric Micelle for Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel by the Inhibition of the P-Glycoprotein Transporters
Authors: Razzaq Sobia , Rauf Aisha , Raza Abida , Akhtar Sohail , Tabish Tanveer A. , Sandhu Mansur Abdullah , Zaman Muhammad , Ibrahim Ibrahim M. , Shahnaz Gul , Rahdar Abbas , Díez-Pascual Ana M.
Published: October 2021

P-glycoprotein (P-gP) efflux-mediated multidrug resistance is a fundamental aspect of chemotherapeutic failure in oncology. The current study aims to deliver paclitaxel (PTX) specifically at the target site with improved in vivo efficacy of poorly permeable PTX against solid tumors. Multifunctional polymeric micelles as targeted delivery have been devised for loading and release of PTX. Mucoadhesion, permeation enhancement, oral pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and toxicological studies were carried out to fully elucidate the therapeutic outcomes of the polymeric micelles. Ex vivo permeation studies indicated a 7.89-fold enhancement in the permeation of PTX with mucopermeating papain functionalized thiolated redox micelles (PT-R-Ms) compared to the pure PTX. Moreover, PT-R-Ms exhibited a higher percentage of apoptotic cells (42.9 ± 0.07%) compared to pure PTX. Biodistribution studies revealed that fluorotagged PT-RMs accumulated in excised tumors and organs. The higher fluorescence intensity indicated the mucopermeation of micelles across the intestine. The orally administered PT-R-Ms efficiently overcome intestinal barriers and inhibit the P-gP efflux pump, resulting in increased bioavailability of PTX (up to 8-fold) in comparison to pure PTX. The enhanced anti-tumor efficacy and reduced toxic effects are key aspects of efficient cancer therapy. This study demonstrates that the use of mucopermeating PT-R-Ms is an encouraging approach to overwhelm the permeation barrier in cancer treatment.
The Influence of Metastable Cellular Structure on Deformation Behavior in Laser Additively Manufactured 316L Stainless Steel
Authors: Li Na , Li Zhengyang , Wei Yujie
Published: October 2021

Metastable cellular structures (MCSs) play a crucial role for the mechanical performance in concentrated alloys during non-equilibrium solidification process. In this paper, typifying the heterogeneous 316L stainless steel by laser additive manufacturing (LAM) process, we examine the microstructures in cellular interiors and cellular boundaries in detail, and reveal the interactions of dislocations and twins with cellular boundaries. Highly ordered coherent precipitates present along the cellular boundary, resulting from spinodal decomposition by local chemical fluctuation. The co-existences of precipitates and high density of tangled dislocations at cellular boundaries serve as walls for extra hardening. Furthermore, local chemical fluctuation in MCSs inducing variation in stacking fault energy is another important factor for ductility enhancement. These findings shed light on possible routines to further alter nanostructures, including precipitates and dislocation structures, by tailoring local chemistry in MCSs during LAM.
Small but Mighty—The Emerging Role of snoRNAs in Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Calvo Sánchez Jaime , Köhn Marcel
Published: October 2021

Over recent years, the long known class of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) have gained interest among the scientific community, especially in the clinical context. The main molecular role of this interesting family of non-coding RNAs is to serve as scaffolding RNAs to mediate site-specific RNA modification of ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) and small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). With the development of new sequencing techniques and sophisticated analysis pipelines, new members of the snoRNA family were identified and global expression patterns in disease backgrounds could be determined. We will herein shed light on the current research progress in snoRNA biology and their clinical role by influencing disease outcome in hematological diseases. Astonishingly, in recent studies snoRNAs emerged as potent biomarkers in a variety of these clinical setups, which is also highlighted by the frequent deregulation of snoRNA levels in the hema-oncological context. However, research is only starting to reveal how snoRNAs might influence cellular functions and the connected disease hallmarks in hematological malignancies.
Osteosarcopenia, an Asymmetrical Overlap of Two Connected Syndromes: Data from the OsteoSys Study
Authors: Pourhassan Maryam , Buehring Bjoern , Stervbo Ulrik , Rahmann Sven , Mölder Felix , Rütten Sebastian , Trampisch Ulrike , Babel Nina , Westhoff Timm Henning , Wirth Rainer
Published: October 2021

Osteoporosis and sarcopenia are two chronic conditions, which widely affect older people and share common risk factors. We investigated the prevalence of low bone mineral density (BMD) and sarcopenia, including the overlap of both conditions (osteosarcopenia) in 572 older hospitalized patients (mean age 75.1 ± 10.8 years, 78% women) with known or suspected osteoporosis in this prospective observational multicenter study. Sarcopenia was assessed according to the revised definition of the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2). Low BMD was defined according to the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations as a T-score < −1.0. Osteosarcopenia was diagnosed when both low BMD and sarcopenia were present. Low BMD was prevalent in 76% and the prevalence of sarcopenia was 9%, with 90% of the sarcopenic patients showing the overlap of osteosarcopenia (8% of the entire population). Conversely, only few patients with low BMD demonstrated sarcopenia (11%). Osteosarcopenic patients were older and frailer and had lower BMI, fat, and muscle mass, handgrip strength, and T-score compared to nonosteosarcopenic patients. We conclude that osteosarcopenia is extremely common in sarcopenic subjects. Considering the increased risk of falls in patients with sarcopenia, they should always be evaluated for osteoporosis.
Nutrition as Prevention Factor of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review
Authors: Mierzyński Radzisław , Poniedziałek-Czajkowska Elżbieta , Sotowski Maciej , Szydełko-Gorzkowicz Magdalena
Published: October 2021

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as a glucose tolerance disorder with onset or first recognition during pregnancy. GDM is associated with several adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Management to reduce the incidence of GDM could decrease the incidence of these complications. Modification of nutrition in the prevention of GDM is postulated. The vital issue in GDM prevention is the implementation of proper dietary patterns, appropriate physical activity, and a combination of diet and lifestyle modifications. However, intervention studies examining the effects of diet and lifestyle on GDM prevention are contradictory. The aim of this study was to review the scientific evidence on nutritional prevention strategies, including diet and supplementation of some substances such as probiotics, micro/macroelements, fiber, myoinositol, and vitamins that may be effective in reducing the risk of GDM. The presented article is a narrative review. This article indicates that certain nutritional factors may have some benefit in preventing GDM. However, further studies in a variety of populations and large groups of patients are needed. At present, no definitive conclusions can be drawn as to the best intervention in the prevention of GDM.
Identification of Sarcopenic Obesity in German Nursing Home Residents—The Role of Body Composition and Malnutrition in the BaSAlt Cohort-Study
Authors: Haigis Daniel , Matting Leon , Wagner Silas , Sudeck Gorden , Frahsa Annika , Thiel Ansgar , Eschweiler Gerhard , Nieß Andreas Michael
Published: October 2021

Background: Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is a phenotype, which is defined by reduced muscle strength, muscle mass, and obesity. Limited mobility leads to increased sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity. Both sarcopenia and obesity are aggravated by these factors. In combination, SO is an additional challenge for the setting nursing home (NH). Previous studies have shown a low prevalence of residents with SO in comparable settings, such as community-dwelling. We hypothesize that the BaSAlt cohort also has a small proportion of residents with SO. Methods: For the analysis, 66 residents (women: 74.2%) aged ≥ 65 years from NH, were screened for SO based on EWGSOP2 specifications and cut-off values to classify obesity. Results: Severe sarcopenia was quantified in eleven residents (16.7%). The majority of sarcopenic residents were women (n = 10) compared to men (n = 1). However, no SO could be identified by assessment of body mass index, fat mass in percentage, and fat mass index. Conclusion: As expected, the setting-specific cohort showed a low number of SO. Furthermore, no case of SO was identified in our study. Sarcopenia was associated with an increased fat-free mass in NH residents. Nevertheless, sarcopenia and obesity play important roles in the preservation of residents’ health.
Diverse Immune Effects of Bovine Colostrum and Benefits in Human Health and Disease
Authors: Ghosh Subrata , Iacucci Marietta
Published: October 2021

The health benefits of bovine colostrum have extensively been studied, including immune effects mediated by immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, and casein, as well as by certain growth factors. Some of these effects are not directly related to the absorption of proteins from the intestinal tract. The ingestion of BC can modulate the function of subsets of lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells and increase regulatory cytokines such as interleukin 10. In this review, we predominantly focused on evidence from human studies on benefits in health and disease. This review highlights that clear evidence of the prevention of infectious diseases in pre-term infants such as necrotizing enterocolitis, neonatal sepsis or prevention of cancer metastasis is lacking. This is clearly an area where translational science has to be strengthened, taking the considerable evidence from numerous ex vivo studies on cells and tissues and from animal interventions. The review focuses predominantly on human data.
The Role of Socioeconomic Status in Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Body Mass Index Change: A Follow-Up Study in the General Population of Southern Croatia
Authors: Pribisalić Ajka , Popović Romana , Salvatore Fiorella Pia , Vatavuk Maja , Mašanović Marija , Hayward Caroline , Polašek Ozren , Kolčić Ivana
Published: October 2021

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is one of the most healthful dietary patterns, beneficial for humans and the environment. However, the MD has recently exhibited a declining trend, especially in younger and less affluent people. This study investigated the association between socioeconomic indicators and adherence to the MD in 4671 adult subjects from Dalmatia, Croatia (age range 18–98 years; 61.9% were women). Additionally, in the follow-up we examined the change in adherence to the MD and in BMI (subsample, N = 1342; 62.5% were women; mean follow-up time of 5.8 years). The adherence to the MD was based on the Mediterranean Diet Serving Score (range 0–24 points, cut-off value ≥ 14 points), with a prevalence in the overall sample of 28.5%. Higher odds of adherence to the MD were recorded in women, older subjects, and those with higher level of objective material status, while it was less likely in the period after economic crisis of 2007–2008. Additionally, we detected no change in adherence to the MD in the follow-up subsample (−8.5%, p = 0.056), but there was an increase in BMI (+6.5%, p < 0.001). We recorded an increase in adherence for nuts (+127.5%), sweets (+112.6%), red meat (+56.4%), and wine (+50.0%), unlike the reduction in adherence for vegetables (−35.1%), fish (−23.4%), white meat (−11.6%), cereals (−10.9%), and dairy products (−9.6%). Similar results were obtained across all quartiles of objective material status. Over time, the absolute change in the MD score was positively associated with female gender, age, higher education, and moderate physical activity, but it was negatively associated with adherence to the MD at baseline. BMI change was positively associated with female gender, and negatively with initial BMI, initial adherence to the MD, and MD change. Our findings point towards a less than ideal adherence to the MD in the general population of southern Croatia, and identify important characteristics associated with adherence change over time, informing necessary interventions aimed at increasing MD uptake.