bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Heat Treatment and High-Pressure Torsion on Phase Transformations in TiZrHfMoCr High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Gornakova Alena , Straumal Boris , Kuzmin Alexei , Tyurin Alexander , Chernyaeva Elena , Druzhinin Alexander , Afonikova Natalia , Davdian Gregory
Published: May 2023

The study focused on a 21.99 at.%Ti–22.49 at.%Zr–20.35 at.%Hf–17.45 at.%Mo–17.73 at.%Cr). Analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy as well as X-ray absorption spectroscopy were employed to investigate the alloy’s structure, phase transformations, and properties. The alloy in the as-cast state contained three phases, namely the body-centred cubic (A2) phase, hexagonal Laves phase (C14), and cubic Laves phase (C15). The alloy has been annealed for a long time at different temperatures. It led to the disappearance of the hexagonal Laves phase, leaving behind two primary phases, namely the cubic Laves phase (C15) and the body-centered cubic phase (A2). At 1200 °C, the A2 phase almost disappeared, resulting in a practically single-phase sample. After a high-pressure torsion (HPT) treatment, the hexagonal Laves phase disappeared entirely, while the A2 and C15 phases remained. The grain size of the A2 and C15 phases was refined after HPT and grains were elongated, and their configuration resembled a layered structure. The high hardness of the A2 and C15 + C14 phases accounted for this behavior. The lattice parameters in the A2 and C15 phases after HPT treatment approached those observed after prolonged annealing at 1000 °C, indicating that the composition of these phases after short-term high-pressure torsion at ambient temperature is equivalent to the composition of these phases after long tempering at 1000 °C. The rate of diffusion-like mass transfer during severe plastic deformation was estimated to be many orders of magnitude higher than that for conventional bulk diffusion at the HPT treatment temperature and similar to that at elevated temperatures above 1000 °C. X-ray absorption spectroscopy results obtained at K-edges of Ti, Cr, Zr, and Mo as well as at the L3-edge of Hf indicated that the local environment around metal atoms before HPT was similar to that after HPT. However, the static disorder increased after HPT, which could be attributed to an increased specific amount of metal atoms in the disordered grain boundary layers after HPT-driven grain refinement.
Exercise Metabolome: Insights for Health and Performance
Authors: Jaguri Aayami , Al Thani Asmaa A. , Elrayess Mohamed A.
Published: May 2023

Exercise has many benefits for physical and mental well-being. Metabolomics research has allowed scientists to study the impact of exercise on the body by analyzing metabolites released by tissues such as skeletal muscle, bone, and the liver. Endurance training increases mitochondrial content and oxidative enzymes, while resistance training increases muscle fiber and glycolytic enzymes. Acute endurance exercise affects amino acid metabolism, fat metabolism, cellular energy metabolism, and cofactor and vitamin metabolism. Subacute endurance exercise alters amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and nucleotide metabolism. Chronic endurance exercise improves lipid metabolism and changes amino acid metabolism. Acute resistance exercise changes several metabolic pathways, including anaerobic processes and muscular strength. Chronic resistance exercise affects metabolic pathways, resulting in skeletal muscle adaptations. Combined endurance–resistance exercise alters lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and amino acid metabolism, increasing anaerobic metabolic capacity and fatigue resistance. Studying exercise-induced metabolites is a growing field, and further research can uncover the underlying metabolic mechanisms and help tailor exercise programs for optimal health and performance.
Metabolic Role of GABA in the Secretory Function of Pancreatic β-Cells: Its Hypothetical Implication in β-Cell Degradation in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tamarit-Rodriguez Jorge
Published: May 2023

The stimulus-secretion coupling of a glucose-induced release is generally attributed to the metabolism of the hexose in the β-cells in the glycolytic pathway and the citric acid cycle. Glucose metabolism generates an increased cytosolic concentration of ATP and of the ATP/ADP ratio that closes the ATP-dependent K+-channel at the plasma membrane. The resultant depolarization of the β-cells opens voltage-dependent Ca2+-channels at the plasma membrane that triggers the exocytosis of insulin secretory granules. The secretory response is biphasic with a first and transient peak followed by a sustained phase. The first phase is reproduced by a depolarization of the β-cells with high extracellular KCl maintaining the KATP-channels open with diazoxide (triggering phase); the sustained phase (amplifying phase) depends on the participation of metabolic signals that remain to be determined. Our group has been investigating for several years the participation of the β-cell GABA metabolism in the stimulation of insulin secretion by three different secretagogues (glucose, a mixture of L-leucine plus L-glutamine, and some branched chain alpha-ketoacids, BCKAs). They stimulate a biphasic secretion of insulin accompanied by a strong suppression of the intracellular islet content of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). As the islet GABA release simultaneously decreased, it was concluded that this resulted from an increased GABA shunt metabolism. The entrance of GABA into the shunt is catalyzed by GABA transaminase (GABAT) that transfers an amino group between GABA and alpha-ketoglutarate, resulting in succinic acid semialdehyde (SSA) and L-glutamate. SSA is oxidized to succinic acid that is further oxidized in the citric acid cycle. Inhibitors of GABAT (gamma-vinyl GABA, gabaculine) or glutamic acid decarboxylating activity (GAD), allylglycine, partially suppress the secretory response as well as GABA metabolism and islet ATP content and the ATP/ADP ratio. It is concluded that the GABA shunt metabolism contributes together with the own metabolism of metabolic secretagogues to increase islet mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. These experimental findings emphasize that the GABA shunt metabolism is a previously unrecognized anaplerotic mitochondrial pathway feeding the citric acid cycle with a β-cell endogenous substrate. It is therefore a postulated alternative to the proposed mitochondrial cataplerotic pathway(s) responsible for the amplification phase of insulin secretion. It is concluded the new postulated alternative suggests a possible new mechanism of β-cell degradation in type 2 (perhaps also in type 1) diabetes.
Metabolic Profile Analysis of Designer Benzodiazepine Etizolam in Zebrafish and Human Liver Microsomes
Authors: Jie Zhaowei , Qin Shiyang , Zhang Wenfang , Wang Jifen , Lu Jianghai , Qin Ge , Hou Xiaolong , Xu Peng
Published: May 2023

As one of the most widely abused designer benzodiazepines worldwide, Etizolam is characterized by its high addiction potential, low production cost, and difficulty in detection. Due to the rapid metabolism of Etizolam in the human body, the probability of detecting the Etizolam parent drug in actual case samples by forensic personnel is low. Therefore, without detecting the parent drug, analysis of Etizolam metabolites can help forensic personnel provide references and suggestions on whether the suspect has taken Etizolam. This study simulates the objective metabolic process of the human body. It establishes a zebrafish in vivo metabolism model and a human liver microsome in vitro metabolism model to analyze the metabolic characteristics of Etizolam. A total of 28 metabolites were detected in the experiment, including 13 produced in zebrafish, 28 produced in zebrafish urine and feces, and 17 produced in human liver microsomes. The UPLC-Q-Exactive-MS technology was used to analyze the structures and related metabolic pathways of Etizolam metabolites in zebrafish and human liver microsomes, and a total of 9 metabolic pathways were identified, including monohydroxylation, dihydroxylation, hydration, desaturation, methylation, oxidative deamination to alcohol, oxidation, reduction acetylation, and glucuronidation. Among them, metabolites involving hydroxylation reactions (including monohydroxylation and dihydroxylation) accounted for 57.1% of the total number of potential metabolites, indicating that hydroxylation may be the major metabolic pathway of Etizolam. Based on the response values of each metabolite, monohydroxylation (M1), desaturation (M19), and hydration (M16) were recommended as potential biomarkers for Etizolam metabolism. The experimental results provide reference and guidance for forensic personnel in identifying Etizolam use in suspects.
Heuristic and Bayesian Tornado Prediction in Complex Terrain of Southern Wyoming
Authors: Andretta Thomas A.
Published: May 2023

A heuristic technique for tornado forecasting in the complex terrain of southern Wyoming is proposed for the weather sciences community. This novel approach is based on seasonal tornado climatology and observed mesoscale conditions obtained from in-situ surface and Doppler weather radar sources. The methodology is applied to four severe thunderstorm events which formed tornadoes during the spring and summer months of 2018 and 2019 in Albany County of Wyoming. Tornadic evolution is associated with supercell thunderstorms forming along moisture convergence axes of a dryline and updraft interactions with air mass stretching and shearing over the complex terrain. Applying Bayes’ theorem to each case, there is a low to high (30 to 80%) posterior probability associated with vortex detection.
Propidium Monoazide (PMAxx)-Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Exo (RPA Exo) Assay for Rapid Detection of Burkholderia cepacia Complex in Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHX) and Benzalkonium Chloride (BZK) Solutions
Authors: Daddy Gaoh Soumana , Kweon Ohgew , Ahn Youngbeom
Published: May 2023

Both sterile and non-sterile pharmaceutical products, which include antiseptics, have been recalled due to Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) contamination. Therefore, minimizing the frequency of outbreaks may be conducive to the development of a quick and sensitive approach that can distinguish between live and dead loads of BCC. We have assessed an exo probe-based recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) with 10 µM propidium monoazide (PMAxx) for selective detection of live/dead BCC cells in various concentrations of antiseptics (i.e., chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) and benzalkonium chloride (BZK) solutions) after 24 h. The optimized assay conducted using a set of primer–probes targeting gbpT was performed at 40 °C for 20 min and shows a detection limit of 10 pg/µL of genomic DNA from B. cenocepacia J2315, equivalent to 104 colony-forming units (CFU/mL). The specificity of a newly designed primer and probe was 80% (20 negatives out of 25). The readings for total cells (i.e., without PMAxx) from 200 µg/mL CHX using PMAxx-RPA exo assay was 310 relative fluorescence units (RFU), compared to 129 RFU with PMAxx (i.e., live cells). Furthermore, in 50–500 µg/mL BZK-treated cells, a difference in the detection rate was observed between the PMAxx-RPA exo assay in live cells (130.4–459.3 RFU) and total cells (207.82–684.5 RFU). This study shows that the PMAxx-RPA exo assay appears to be a valid tool for the simple, rapid and presumptive detection of live BCC cells in antiseptics, thereby ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical products.
Epigenetic Induction of Secondary Metabolites Production in Endophytic Fungi Penicillium chrysogenum and GC-MS Analysis of Crude Metabolites with Anti-HIV-1 Activity
Authors: Makhwitine John P. , Kumalo Hezekiel M. , Ndlovu Sizwe I. , Mkhwanazi Nompumelelo P.
Published: May 2023

The continuous burden of human immunodeficiency virus-1 in Sub-Saharan Africa, coupled with the inability of antiretroviral agents to eradicate HIV-1 from viral reservoirs, the potential risks of drug resistance development, and the development of adverse effects, emphasizes the need to develop a new class of HIV-1 inhibitors. Here, we cultivated four endophytic fungal isolates from a medicinal plant, Albizia adianthifolia with the addition of small epigenetic modifiers, sodium butyrate, and valproic acid, to induce the expression of biosynthetic gene clusters encoding active secondary metabolites with probable anti-HIV activities. We identified a non-toxic crude extract of the endophytic fungus Penicillium chrysogenum treated with sodium butyrate to possess significantly greater anti-HIV activity than the untreated extracts. Penicillium chrysogenum P03MB2 showed anti-HIV activity with an IC50 of 0.6024 µg/mL compared to untreated fungal crude extract (IC50 5.053 µg/mL) when treated with sodium butyrate. The profile of secondary metabolite compounds from the bioactive, partially purified extracts were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and more bioactive compounds were detected in treated P. chrysogenum P03MB2 fractions than in untreated fractions. Pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro (13.64%), cyclotrisiloxane, hexamethyl (8.18%), cyclotetrasiloxane, octamethyl (7.23%), cyclopentasiloxane, decamethyl (6.36%), quinoline, 1,2-dihydro-2,24-trimethyl (5.45%), propanenitrile (4.55%), deca-6,9-diene (4.55%), dibutyl phthalate (4.55%), and silane[1,1-dimethyl-2-propenyl)oxy]dimethyl (2.73%) were the most abundant compounds. These results indicate that treatment of endophytic fungi with small epigenetic modifiers enhances the secretion of secondary metabolites with stronger anti-HIV-1 properties, acknowledging the feasibility of epigenetic modification as an innovative approach for the discovery of cryptic fungal metabolites which can be developed into therapeutic compounds.
Genetic Factors That Contribute to Antibiotic Resistance through Intrinsic and Acquired Bacterial Genes in Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Harris Mohammed , Fasolino Tracy , Ivankovic Diana , Davis Nicole J. , Brownlee Noel
Published: May 2023

The overprescribing and misuse of antibiotics have led to the rapid development of multidrug-resistant bacteria, such as those that cause UTIs. UTIs are the most common outpatient infections and are mainly caused by Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp., although some Gram-positive bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, have been isolated in many cases. The rise of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria is a major public health concern, as it is predicted to lead to increased healthcare costs and poor patient outcomes and is expected to be the leading cause of global mortality by 2050. Antibiotic resistance among bacterial species can arise from a myriad of factors, including intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms, as well as mobile genetic elements, such as transposons, integrons, and plasmids. Plasmid-mediated resistance is of major concern as drug-resistance genes can quickly and efficiently spread across bacterial species via horizontal gene transfer. The emergence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) such as NDM-1, OXA, KPC, and CTX-M family members has conferred resistance to many commonly used antibiotics in the treatment of UTIs, including penicillins, carbapenems, cephalosporins, and sulfamethoxazole. This review will focus on plasmid-mediated bacterial genes, especially those that encode ESBLs, and how they contribute to antibiotic resistance. Early clinical detection of these genes in patient samples will provide better treatment options and reduce the threat of antibiotic resistance.
Exploring Synergistic Combinations in Extended and Pan-Drug Resistant (XDR and PDR) Whole Genome Sequenced Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Quraini Munawr AL , Jabri Zaaema AL , Sami Hiba , Mahindroo Jaspreet , Taneja Neelam , Muharrmi Zakariya AL , Busaidi Ibrahim AL , Rizvi Meher
Published: May 2023

Background: The diminishing antimicrobial options for the treatment of XDR and PDR Acinetobacter baumannii is an increasing concern. In this study, we assessed the in vitro synergy of the fosfomycin (FOS) with meropenem (MEM), amikacin (AK), tigecycline (TGC), and colistin (CL) in whole genome sequenced isolates. Methods: Non-replicate whole genome sequenced (illumina next-generation sequencing platform, Clevergene, India), A. baumanii (7 XDR, 1PDR) were subjected to in vitro synergy testing by checkerboard (CB) and time kill assay (TKA) after MIC determination, with glucose-6-phosphate being incorporated in all runs. FOS was used as a cornerstone drug in four combinations and colistin in one. ResFinder, MLST, PlasmidFinder, and CSIPhylogeny tools were used. Results: Mortality occurred in three patients. Diverse MLST were observed, ST-1962 (3 isolates) and one each of ST2062, ST2063, ST1816, ST1806, ST234. FOS MICs ranged from 32 to 128 mg/L, MEM MIC: 16–64 mg/L, TGC MIC: ≤2–≤4 mg/L and AK MIC: >512 mg/L. CL: MIC range, 0.25–≤2 mg/L, PDR MIC > 16 mg/L. Synergy results by CB: FOS-MEM: synergy in ⅞ (90%) isolates. Synergy lowered MEM MICs to susceptibility breakpoints in 6/8 cases. CL-MEM: Excellent synergy (3/3) isolates. FOS-AK: Indifference in ⅞, antagonism ⅛ (AK-susceptible isolate). FOS-TGC: Partial synergy (PS) in 8/8 (TGC MIC dropped to ≤0.25 mg/L in 3/8). In the PDR isolate, synergy was seen in FOS-MEM, CL-MEM, PS in FOS-CL, FOS-TGC, indifference in FOS-AK. TKA: Excellent synergy was observed with FOS-MEM from 4 h, while FOS-AK and FOS-TGC demonstrated synergy at 24 h. Synergy was achieved despite presence of widespread resistance markers against aminoglycosides (AacAad, AadA, AadB, Aph3″Ia, ArmA, Arr, StrA, StrB), beta-lactams (ADC, BlaA1, BlaA2, Zn-dependent_hydrolase, OXA-23, OXA-51, PER-1,TEM-1D, CARB-5, Mbl), sulphonamides (SulII, SulI), phenicols (CatBx, CmlA), macrolides (MphE, MsrE) and tetracycline (TetB) were widespread. Carbapenemase, CARB-5 was present in one isolate. Beta-lactamase genes OXA-23, OXA-51, BlaA2, Zn-dependent_hydrolase, ADC, Mbl and macrolide resistance genes MphE, MsrE were present in all 8 isolates. Conclusions: FOS-MEM and CL-MEM are promising combinations against A. baumannii. Synergy of FOS-MEM in intrinsically resistant A. baumannii shows that this antibiotic combination might be useful in treating such XDR and PDR pathogens.
Characterization of a Novel Bacillus glycinifermentans Strain MGMM1 Based on Full Genome Analysis and Phenotypic Properties for Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Afordoanyi Daniel Mawuena , Diabankana Roderic Gilles Claret , Komissarov Ernest Nailevich , Kuchaev Evgenii Sergeyevich , Validov Shamil Zavdatovich
Published: May 2023

Bacillus species have gained much attention based on their phenotypic characteristics and their genetic architecture as biological control agents and plant growth-promotor with bioremediation potential. In this study, we analyzed the whole genome of a novel strain, Bacillus glycinifermentans MGMM1, isolated from the rhizosphere of a weed plant (Senna occidentalis) and assayed its phenotypic characteristics, as well as antifungal and biocontrol ability. The whole genome analysis of MGMM1 identified 4259 putative coding sequences, with an encoding density of 95.75% attributed to biological functions, including genes involved in stimulating plant growth, such as acetolactate synthase, alsS, and genes involved in the resistance to heavy metal antimony (arsB and arsC). AntiSMASH revealed the presence of biosynthetic gene clusters plipastatin, fengycin, laterocidine, geobacillin II, lichenysin, butirosin A and schizokinen. Tests in vitro confirmed that MGMM1 exhibited antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. radicis-lycopersici (Forl) ZUM2407, Alternaria alternata, F. graminearum and F. spp. and produce protease, lipase amylase and cellulase. Bacillus glycinifermentans MGMM1 demonstrated proteolytic (4.82 ± 1.04 U/mL), amylolytic (0.84 ± 0.05 U/mL) and cellulosic (0.35 ± 0.02 U/mL) enzymatic activities, as well as indole-3-acetic acid production (48.96 ± 1.43 μg/mL). Moreover, the probiotic strain MGMM1 demonstrated a high biocontrol potential of inhibiting (up to 51.45 ± 8.08%) the development of tomato disease caused by Forl ZUM2407. These results suggest that B. glycinifermentans MGMM1 has significant potential as a biocontrol, plant growth-promoting agent in agriculture.
HLA-Haplotypes Influence Microbiota Structure in Northwestern Mexican Schoolchildren Predisposed for Celiac Disease or Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Aguayo-Patrón Sandra V. , Trujillo-Rivera Omar A. , Cornejo-Granados Fernanda , Ochoa-Leyva Adrian , Calderón de la Barca Ana M.
Published: May 2023

To contribute to and elucidate the participation of microbiota in celiac disease (CD) and type 1 diabetes (T1D) development, we evaluated the influence of HLA haplotypes, familial risk, and diet on the microbiota of schoolchildren. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 821 apparently healthy schoolchildren, genotyping HLA DQ2/DQ8, and registering familial risk. We analyzed the fecal microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and autoantibodies for CD or T1D by ELISA. After analyses, we created three groups: at-high-risk children (Group 1), at-high-risk children plus autoantibodies (Group 2), and nonrisk children (Group 3). HLA influenced the microbiota of Groups 1 and 2, decreasing phylogenetic diversity in comparison to Group 3. The relative abundance of Oscillospiraceae UCG_002, Parabacteroides, Akkermansia, and Alistipes was higher in Group 3 compared to Groups 1 and 2. Moreover, Oscillospiraceae UCG_002 and Parabacteroides were protectors of the autoantibodies’ positivity (RRR = 0.441 and RRR = 0.034, respectively). Conversely, Agathobacter was higher in Group 2, and Lachnospiraceae was in both Groups 1 and 2. Lachnospiraceae correlated positively with the sucrose degradation pathway, while the principal genera in Group 3 were associated with amino acid biosynthesis pathways. In summary, HLA and familial risk influence microbiota composition and functionality in children predisposed to CD or T1D, increasing their autoimmunity risk.
Multi-Approach Characterization of Novel Pyrene-Degrading Mycolicibacterium austroafricanum Isolates Lacking nid Genes
Authors: Silva Natalia Maria , Romagnoli Camila Lopes , Santiago Caio Rafael do Nascimento , de Lacerda João Paulo Amorim de , Leão Sylvia Cardoso , Digiampietri Luciano Antonio , Viana-Niero Cristina
Published: May 2023

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are chemical compounds that are widespread in the environment, arising from the incomplete combustion of organic material, as well as from human activities involving petrol exploitation, petrochemical industrial waste, gas stations, and environmental disasters. PAHs of high molecular weight, such as pyrene, have carcinogenic and mutagenic effects and are considered pollutants. The microbial degradation of PAHs occurs through the action of multiple dioxygenase genes (nid), which are localized in genomic island denominate region A, and cytochrome P450 monooxygenases genes (cyp) dispersed in the bacterial genome. This study evaluated pyrene degradation by five isolates of Mycolicibacterium austroafricanum using 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol (DCPIP assay), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (CG/MS), and genomic analyses. Two isolates (MYC038 and MYC040) exhibited pyrene degradation indexes of 96% and 88%, respectively, over a seven-day incubation period. Interestingly, the genomic analyses showed that the isolates do not have nid genes, which are involved in PAH biodegradation, despite their ability to degrade pyrene, suggesting that degradation may occur due to the presence of cyp150 genes, or even genes that have not yet been described. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of isolates without nid genes demonstrating the ability to degrade pyrene.
Relationship between Human Papillomavirus Status and the Cervicovaginal Microbiome in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Nguyen Hong Duc Thi , Le Tan Minh , Lee Eunmi , Lee Donghyeon , Choi Yeseul , Cho Junghwan , Park Nora Jee-Young , Chong Gun Oh , Seo Incheol , Han Hyung Soo
Published: May 2023

Uterine cervical cancer (CC) is a complex, multistep disease primarily linked to persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV). However, it is widely acknowledged that HR-HPV infection alone cannot account for the formation and progression of CC. Emerging evidence suggests that the cervicovaginal microbiome (CVM) also plays a significant role in HPV-related CC. Certain bacteria, such as Fusobacterium spp., Porphyromonas, Prevotella, and Campylobacter, are currently being considered as potential microbiomarkers for HPV-positive CC. However, the composition of the CVM in CC is inconsistent; thus, further studies are needed. This review comprehensively discusses the complex interplay between HPV and the CVM in cervical carcinogenesis. It is postulated that the dynamic interaction between HPV and the CVM creates an imbalanced cervicovaginal microenvironment that triggers dysbiosis, enhances HPV persistence, and promotes cervical carcinogenesis. Moreover, this review aims to provide updated evidence on the potential role of bacteriotherapy, particularly probiotics, in the treatment of CC.
Human-Biting Ixodes scapularis Submissions to a Crowd-Funded Tick Testing Program Correlate with the Incidence of Rare Tick-Borne Disease: A Seven-Year Retrospective Study of Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis in Massachusetts
Authors: Siegel Eric L. , Lavoie Nathalie , Xu Guang , Brown Catherine M. , Ledizet Michel , Rich Stephen M.
Published: May 2023

Tick-borne zoonoses pose a serious burden to global public health. To understand the distribution and determinants of these diseases, the many entangled environment–vector–host interactions which influence risk must be considered. Previous studies have evaluated how passive tick testing surveillance measures connect with the incidence of human Lyme disease. The present study sought to extend this to babesiosis and anaplasmosis, two rare tick-borne diseases. Human cases reported to the Massachusetts Department of Health and submissions to TickReport tick testing services between 2015 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Moderate-to-strong town-level correlations using Spearman’s Rho (ρ) were established between Ixodes scapularis submissions (total, infected, adult, and nymphal) and human disease. Aggregated ρ values ranged from 0.708 to 0.830 for anaplasmosis and 0.552 to 0.684 for babesiosis. Point observations maintained similar patterns but were slightly weaker, with mild year-to-year variation. The seasonality of tick submissions and demographics of bite victims also correlated well with reported disease. Future studies should assess how this information may best complement human disease reporting and entomological surveys as proxies for Lyme disease incidence in intervention studies, and how it may be used to better understand the dynamics of human–tick encounters.
An In Vitro Small Intestine Model Incorporating a Food Matrix and Bacterial Mock Community for Intestinal Function Testing
Authors: Malik Mridu , Tanzman Jacob V. , Dash Sanat Kumar , Marques Cláudia N. H. , Mahler Gretchen J.
Published: May 2023

Consumed food travels through the gastrointestinal tract to reach the small intestine, where it interacts with the microbiota, forming a complex relationship with the dietary components. Here we present a complex in vitro cell culture model of the small intestine that includes human cells, digestion, a simulated meal, and a microbiota represented by a bacterial community consisting of E. coli, L. rhamnosus, S. salivarius, B. bifidum, and E. faecalis. This model was used to determine the effects of food-grade titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs), a common food additive, on epithelial permeability, intestinal alkaline phosphatase activity, and nutrient transport across the epithelium. Physiologically relevant concentrations of TiO2 had no effect on intestinal permeability but caused an increase in triglyceride transport as part of the food model, which was reversed in the presence of bacteria. Individual bacterial species had no effect on glucose transport, but the bacterial community increased glucose transport, suggesting a change in bacterial behavior when in a community. Bacterial entrapment within the mucus layer was reduced with TiO2 exposure, which may be due to decreased mucus layer thickness. The combination of human cells, a synthetic meal, and a bacterial mock community provides an opportunity to understand the implications of nutritional changes on small intestinal function, including the microbiota.
Oral and Topical Probiotics and Postbiotics in Skincare and Dermatological Therapy: A Concise Review
Authors: De Almeida Carolina Vieira , Antiga Emiliano , Lulli Matteo
Published: May 2023

The skin microbiota is a pivotal contributor to the maintenance of skin homeostasis by protecting it from harmful pathogens and regulating the immune system. An imbalance in the skin microbiota can lead to pathological conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. The balance of the skin microbiota components can be disrupted by different elements and dynamics such as changes in pH levels, exposure to environmental toxins, and the use of certain skincare products. Some research suggests that certain probiotic strains and their metabolites (postbiotics) may provide benefits such as improving the skin barrier function, reducing inflammation, and improving the appearance of acne-prone or eczema-prone skin. Consequently, in recent years probiotics and postbiotics have become a popular ingredient in skincare products. Moreover, it was demonstrated that skin health can be influenced by the skin–gut axis, and imbalances in the gut microbiome caused by poor diet, stress, or the use of antibiotics can lead to skin conditions. In this way, products that improve gut microbiota balance have been gaining attention from cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies. The present review will focus on the crosstalk between the SM and the host, and its effects on health and diseases.
Assessment of Dietary Supplementation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus Probiotic on Growth Performance and Disease Resistance in Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Noshair Iqra , Kanwal Zakia , Jabeen Ghazala , Arshad Mateen , Yunus Fakhar-Un-Nisa , Hafeez Ramsha , Mairaj Rida , Haider Imran , Ahmad Naushad , Alomar Suliman Yousef
Published: May 2023

Probiotics play a significant role in aquaculture by improving the growth, health, and survival rate of fish against pathogenic organisms. In the present study, we have evaluated the effects of a Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) probiotic on growth performance and disease resistance in Oreochromis niloticus (O. niloticus) fingerlings. Four different concentrations of L. rhamnosus (T1: 0.5 × 1010, T2: 1 × 1010, T3: 1.5 × 1010, and T4: 2 × 1010 CFU/kg feed) were administered to fish over a period of three months. L. rhamnosus treated fish revealed a high growth increment as compared to the control, and the values of macromolecules (amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates) varied significantly among the treated and control groups. Levels of thyroid hormones were noted to be high in the probiotic-treated groups. A challenge assay was performed with Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila). The optimum calculated concentration of probiotics from the growth assay (1.5 × 1010 CFU/kg feed) was used for the challenge assay. Fish were divided into four groups as follows: control (Con), probiotic-treated (PL), infected (I), and infected + probiotic-treated (I + PL) groups. Significant variations in hematological parameters were observed among control and treated groups. Histopathological changes were recorded in infected fish, while the infected + probiotic-treated group showed less deformations indicating the positive effect of the probiotic supplementation. The survival rate of fish was also better in the probiotic-treated group. Based on these findings, we conclude that probiotic supplementation enhances the growth and improves immunity of O. niloticus. Therefore, we propose that probiotics can be used as promising feed supplements for promoting fish production and disease resistance in aquaculture.
An Invitation on Characterization of H2-Reduced Bauxite Residue and Recovering Iron through Wet Magnetic Separation Processes
Authors: Hassanzadeh Ahmad , Pilla Ganesh , Kar Manish K. , Kowalczuk Przemyslaw B.
Published: May 2023

Recovering iron from the bauxite residue (BR) is one of the long-standing challenges in the mining industry. However, there is a substantial lack of information in the literature regarding sample properties and iron extraction by reducing hydrogen. The present study aims at reducing a Greek BR using hydrogen, its characterization, and separating iron by magnetic separation processes. To this end, the reduced sample was characterized using X-ray diffractometry analysis (XRD), X-ray fluorescence spectrometer analysis (XRF), thermomagnetic analysis (TMA), automated mineralogy (AM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The effect of particle size (−200 + 100 µm, −100 + 75 µm, and <75 µm) was investigated through a medium-intensity magnetic separation (MIMS, Davis Tube) at 1000–2500 Gauss and a Slon® magnetic separator (1000 G). The effects of solid content (3% and 10% w/w) in a wet low-intensity magnetic separation (WLIMS, 350 G) and a two-stage MIMS followed by WLIMS were investigated. It was revealed that through reduction at 500 °C and 2 h with 20 wt% NaOH under 5 vol.% H2 + 95 vol.% N2, iron oxides and ferric oxyhydroxide (Fe2O3 and FeOOH) were converted into magnetite (Fe3O4), whereas aluminum (oxy)hydroxides (Al(OOH), Al(OH)3) were reacted with Na+ towards sodium aluminates (NaAlO2). The AM observations indicated that only 3% of iron was in the phase of liberated magnetite, and the remaining was associated with Na, Al, and Ti phases with different intensities. The dissemination of iron throughout the matrix of the sample was recognized as the principal challenge in the physical separation processes. It was found that increasing magnetic intensity from 1000 G to 2500 G resulted in improved recovery for all studied particle size fractions in Davis Tube tests. The particle range of −106 + 74 µm was chosen as the most appropriate size to achieve the maximum Fe content of 41%. The results of WLIMS (350 G) showed the maximum Fe grade but revealed less recovery of 52% and 27% at 10% and 3% solid contents, respectively, compared to the Davis Tube trials.
Impact of Fermentation Conditions on Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and Sensory Properties of Apple–Tomato Pulp
Authors: Yuan Jing , Zhang Haiyan , Zeng Chaozhen , Song Juan , Mu Yuwen , Kang Sanjiang
Published: May 2023

The aim of the study was to optimize the conditions [inoculum size (4, 6, and 8%), fermentation temperature (31, 34, and 37 °C), and apple: tomato ratio (2:1, 1:1, and 1:2)] on the viable cell count and sensory evaluation in apple–tomato pulp by response surface methodology (RSM), and determine the physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory properties during fermentation. The optimal treatment parameters obtained were an inoculum size of 6.5%, a temperature of 34.5 °C, and an apple: tomato ratio of 1:1. After fermentation, the viable cell count reached 9.02 lg(CFU/mL), and the sensory evaluation score was 32.50. During the fermentation period, the pH value, total sugar, and reducing sugar decreased by 16.67%, 17.15%, and 36.05%, respectively. However, the total titratable acid (TTA), viable cell count, total phenol content (TPC), and total flavone content (TFC) increased significantly by 13.64%, 9.04%, 21.28%, and 22.22%, respectively. The antioxidant activity [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical scavenging ability, 2,2′-azino-di(2-ethyl-benzthiazoline-sulfonic acid-6) ammonium salt (ABTS) free-radical scavenging ability, and ferric-reducing antioxidant capacity power (FRAP)] also increased by 40.91%, 22.60%, and 3.65%, respectively, during fermentation. A total of 55 volatile flavour compounds were detected using HS-SPME-GC–MS among the uninoculated samples and fermented samples before and after fermentation. The results showed that fermentation increased the types and total amount of volatile components in apple–tomato pulp, and eight new alcohols and seven new esters were formed. Alcohols, esters, and acids were the main volatile components in apple–tomato pulp, accounting for 57.39%, 10.27%, and 7.40% of the total volatile substances, respectively.
Microscopic Droplet Size Analysis (MDSA) of “Five Thieves’ Oil” (Olejek Pięciu Złodziei) Essential Oil after the Nebulization Process
Authors: Smułek Wojciech , Jarzębski Maciej , Ochowiak Marek , Matuszak Magdalena , Kaczorek Jan , Stangierski Jerzy , Pawlicz Jarosław , Drobnik Paweł , Nowakowski Piotr T. , Dyrda-Muskus Joanna , Fiutak Grzegorz , Gorzelak Mieczysław , Ray Sirsendu S. , Pal Kunal
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, due to a higher resistance to drugs, antibiotics, and antiviral medicaments, new ways of fighting pathogens are intensively studied. The alternatives for synthesized compositions are natural products, most of which have been known in natural medicine for a long time. One of the best-known and intensively investigated groups are essential oils (EOs) and their compositions. However, it is worth noting that the method of application can play a second crucial part in the effectiveness of the antimicrobial activity. EOs possess various natural compounds which exhibit antimicrobial activity. One of the compositions which is based on the five main ingredients of eucalyptus, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, and lemon is named “five thieves’ oil” (Polish name: olejek pięciu złodziei) (5TO) and is used in natural medicine. In this study, we focused on the droplet size distribution of 5TO during the nebulization process, evaluated by the microscopic droplet size analysis (MDSA) method. Furthermore, viscosity studies, as well as UV-Vis of the 5TO suspensions in medical solvents such as physiological salt and hyaluronic acid, were presented, along with measurements of refractive index, turbidity, pH, contact angle, and surface tension. Additional studies on the biological activity of 5TO solutions were made on the P. aeruginosa strain NFT3. This study opens a way for the possible use of 5TO solutions or emulsion systems for active antimicrobial applications, i.e., for surface spraying.
Substituents Regulate the Cyclization of Conjugated Alkynes to Accurately Construct Cyclo-(E)-[3]dendralenes
Authors: Xia Yun-Tao , Li Ya-Xin , Bi Tong-Tong , Lian Wei , Wang Xia , Yan Meng , Guo Tao
Published: May 2023

Substituent-regulated cyclization of conjugated alkynes with acid catalysis was developed in this paper, and it provides a straightforward synthesis of cyclic-(E)-[3]dendralenes. Depending on the electronic effect of the aromatic ring pairing, a variety of phosphinyl quintuplet/hexa cyclo-[3]dendralenes with diverse substitution patterns are accessible, with good efficiency and high stereoselectivity. This self-cyclization process achieves the first precise construction of a phosphinylcyclo-(E)-[3]dendralene from conjugated alkynes to aromatization.
Interface Optimization and Performance Enhancement of Er2O3-Based MOS Devices by ALD-Derived Al2O3 Passivation Layers and Annealing Treatment
Authors: Wu Qiuju , Yu Qing , He Gang , Wang Wenhao , Lu Jinyu , Yao Bo , Liu Shiyan , Fang Zebo
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the effect of atomic layer deposition (ALD)-derived Al2O3 passivation layers and annealing temperatures on the interfacial chemistry and transport properties of sputtering-deposited Er2O3 high-k gate dielectrics on Si substrate has been investigated. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses have showed that the ALD-derived Al2O3 passivation layer remarkably prevents the formation of the low-k hydroxides generated by moisture absorption of the gate oxide and greatly optimizes the gate dielectric properties. Electrical performance measurements of metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) capacitors with different gate stack order have revealed that the lowest leakage current density of 4.57 × 10−9 A/cm2 and the smallest interfacial density of states (Dit) of 2.38 × 1012 cm−2 eV−1 have been achieved in the Al2O3/Er2O3/Si MOS capacitor, which can be attributed to the optimized interface chemistry. Further electrical measurements of annealed Al2O3/Er2O3/Si gate stacks at 450 °C have demonstrated superior dielectric properties with a leakage current density of 1.38 × 10−9 A/cm2. At the same, the leakage current conduction mechanism of MOS devices under various stack structures is systematically investigated.
Mechanochemical Pretreated Mn+1AXn (MAX) Phase to Synthesize 2D-Ti3C2Tx MXene Sheets for High-Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Cho Inho , Selvaraj Aravindha Raja , Bak Jinsoo , Kim Heeje , Prabakar Kandasamy
Published: May 2023

Two-dimensional (2D) MXenes sheet-like micro-structures have attracted attention as an effective electrochemical energy storage material due to their efficient electrolyte/cation interfacial charge transports inside the 2D sheets which results in ultrahigh rate capability and high volumetric capacitance. In this article, Ti3C2Tx MXene is prepared by a combination of ball milling and chemical etching from Ti3AlC2 powder. The effects of ball milling and etching duration on the physiochemical properties are also explored, as well as the electrochemical performance of as-prepared Ti3C2 MXene. The electrochemical performances of 6 h mechanochemically treated and 12 h chemically etched MXene (BM-12H) exhibit an electric double layer capacitance behavior with an enhanced specific capacitance of 146.3 F g−1 compared to 24 and 48 h treated samples. Moreover, 5000-cycle stability tested sample’s (BM-12H) charge/discharge show increased specific capacitance due to the termination of the -OH group, intercalation of K+ ion and transformation to TiO2/Ti3C2 hybrid structure in a 3 M KOH electrolyte. Interestingly, a symmetric supercapacitor (SSC) device fabricated in a 1 M LiPF6 electrolyte in order to extend the voltage window up to 3 V shows a pseudocapacitance behavior due to Li on interaction/de-intercalation. In addition, the SSC shows an excellent energy and power density of 138.33 W h kg−1 and 1500 W kg−1, respectively. The ball milling pre-treated MXene exhibited an excellent performance and stability due to the increased interlayer distance between the MXene sheets and intercalation and deintercalation of Li+ ions.
Role of Dibenzo Crown Additive for Improving the Stability of Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: He Miao , Xu Xinyu , Zhang Le , Lu Fei , Xing Chuwu , Wang Duofa , Zhang Tianjin
Published: May 2023

Photovoltaics are being transformed by perovskite solar cells. The power conversion efficiency of these solar cells has increased significantly, and even higher efficiencies are possible. The scientific community has gained much attention due to perovskites’ potential. Herein, the electron-only devices were prepared by spin-coating and introducing the organic molecule dibenzo-18-crown-6 (DC) to CsPbI2Br perovskite precursor solution. The current-voltage (I-V) and J-V curves were measured. The morphologies and elemental composition information of the samples were obtained by SEM, XRD, XPS, Raman, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies. The distinct impact of organic DC molecules on the phase, morphology, and optical properties of perovskite films are examined and interpreted with experimental results. The efficiency of the photovoltaic device in the control group is 9.76%, and the device efficiency gradually increases with the increase of DC concentration. When the concentration is 0.3%, the device efficiency is the best, reaching 11.57%, short-circuit current is 14.01 mA/cm2, the open circuit voltage is 1.19 V, and the fill factor is 0.7. The presence of DC molecules effectively controlled the perovskite crystallization process by inhibiting the in-situ generations of impurity phases and minimizing the defect density of the film.
Repeated Inhalation of Peppermint Essential Oil Improves Exercise Performance in Endurance-Trained Rats
Authors: Zhang Wei , Shi Rongpei , Gao Tian , Hu Yang , Zhou Jiaheng , Li Chenhan , Wang Panpan , Yang Hongyan , Xing Wenjuan , Dong Ling , Gao Feng
Published: May 2023

Peppermint essential oil, being natural and safe, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has long been a research interest in relieving fatigue and improving exercise performance. However, the related studies report controversial results, and the mechanisms remain unclear. Here we found that inhalation of peppermint essential oil significantly extended the exhaustion time in rats subjected to 2-week weight-bearing swimming training. Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a 2-week weight-loaded forced swimming regimen. Prior to each swimming session, the rats were administered peppermint essential oil via inhalation. An exhaustive swimming test was performed at the end of the protocol. Rats treated with essential oil had significantly extended time to exhaustion compared with exercised rats without essential oil treatment. In addition, treated rats also showed reduced oxidative damage induced by endurance exercise. Notably, the rats receiving two-week essential oil inhalation while not subjected to swimming training did not show improved exercise performance. The findings demonstrate that repeated inhalation of peppermint essential oil enhances the effects of endurance training and improves exercise performance partially by preventing oxidative damage.
Dietary Patterns and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Asia
Authors: Iso Hiroyasu
Published: May 2023

The most renowned dietary pattern associated with cardiovascular health is the Mediterranean diet, which is well accepted by Europeans and Americans [...]
Associations of Hormonal and Metabolic Parameters with Bone Mineralization in Young Adult Females
Authors: Patalong-Wójcik Martyna , Golara Anna , Sokołowska Alicja , Zając Katarzyna , Kozłowski Mateusz , Krzyścin Mariola , Brodowska Agnieszka , Syrenicz Igor , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta , Sowińska-Przepiera Elżbieta
Published: May 2023

Osteoporosis is characterized by impaired bone mineralization and microarchitecture. An important protective factor is a high peak bone mass (PBM), attained in the second and third decade of life. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of hormonal and metabolic parameters on bone mineralization in young adult female patients. A total of 111 participants qualified for the study. Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine (L1–L4) and whole skeleton was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Hormonal parameters were determined: the concentrations of androstendione, dihydroepiandrosterone sulphate, testosterone, sex hormone binding protein, 17-OH-progesterone, folliculotropic hormone, estradiol, thyrotropic hormone, free thyroxine and cortisol. Metabolic parameters were also examined. The study showed a statistically significant correlation between bone mineral density and estradiol concentration and a negative relationship between cortisol concentration and the bone mineral density (BMD) Z-score of the lumbar spine. Sclerostin measurements taken during this study were not related to bone mineral density. It has been shown that the concentration of the hormones tested, even within the reference range, may affect bone mineralization. We suggest observing the follow-up of the menstrual cycles, as well as analyzing the results of test patients in an annual examination system. However, each clinical case should be considered individually. The sclerostin test is currently not useful in the clinical evaluation of bone mineralization in young adult women.