Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (Switzerland)
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Comparative Genomic and Resistance Analysis of ST859-KL19 and ST11 Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae with Diverse Capsular Serotypes
No full textBackground: In China, Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is dominated by sequence type 11 (ST11) harbouring KPC-2, with KL64 displacing KL47 and KL25 emerging. ST859 (ST11 variant) has caused outbreaks, but its epidemiology is unclear. Materials and Methods: A total of 99 non-duplicate CRKP isolates were collected from June to December 2024. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by broth microdilution. The genomic sequences of the strains were obtained using next-generation sequencing technology. Resistance genes, virulence loci, and plasmid replicons were identified with Kleborate, Abricate, and MOB-suite, respectively. Results: ST11 accounted for 63.64% and ST859 for 15.15%. All ST859 were KL19, while ST11 were mainly KL25 (60.32%) and KL64 (26.98%). 76.8% co-harbored carbapenemase and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) genes, with KPC-2 and CTX-M-65 being the predominant types. Susceptibility rates were 100% to tigecycline, and 78.79% to ceftazidime/avibactam. ST859 CRKP isolates exhibited higher phenotypic resistance to tetracycline and colistin than ST11 CRKP isolates (p < 0.05), and carrying LAP-2, QnrS1, QnrS10, and tet(A) more frequently. ST11-KL25 showed higher resistance to amikacin, gentamicin, and chloramphenicol, with increased prevalence of CTX-M-65, TEM-1, rmtB, catA2, and dfrA14 compared to ST11-KL64 (p < 0.05). IncF was the most prevalent replicon and both ST859 and ST11 CRKP carry conjugative resistance plasmids, and the host range is predominantly Enterobacterales. Conclusions: ST859-KL19 ranks second to ST11 with higher resistance to tetracyclines and colistin. ST11-KL25 may have already displaced ST11-KL64 as the predominant capsular type in Shanghai, with distinct resistance profiles between KL variants. Long-term, multicenter surveillance is urgently needed to delineate the evolutionary trajectory and clinical impact of these emerging clones
A Narrative Review of Salivary Gland Extracellular Matrix and Sjögren’s Syndrome: Research Status and Future Prospects
No full textSjögren’s syndrome (SS) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the main clinical manifestation of oral and ocular dryness, predominantly affecting middle-aged and elderly women. As the most commonly affected target organs in SS, pathological changes in the salivary glands (SGs) and their underlying mechanisms are of great significance for understanding the disease progression. Recent studies have revealed that a dynamic imbalance of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the SGs plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of SS. Dysregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and the fibrotic processes they mediate constitute the core pathological changes. These alterations intertwine with local chronic inflammatory responses, cellular senescence, and hyperosmolarity, collectively leading to the destruction of the SG parenchymal structure and progressive loss of secretory function, significantly impairing the patients’ quality of life. However, research on the pathological mechanisms of the SG ECM remains insufficient, and there are currently no specific therapeutic interventions targeting ECM alterations in clinical practice. This review systematically elucidates the characteristics of pathological and physiological changes in the SG ECM in SS and thoroughly explores novel therapeutic strategies based on ECM regulation, as well as their clinical application prospects
Modularisation Analysis for Scaling Hydrogen Production: High-Power Single-Electrolyser vs. Multiple-Smaller-Electrolyser Plants
No full textThe deployment of electrolysis-based hydrogen technology requires identifying the advantages and disadvantages of scaling hydrogen production plants and determining the limits of the scaling-up process. Until now, experience has been demonstrated with electrolysers of tens and hundreds of kilowatts, but electrolysers in the tens of megawatts range are still closer to being prototypes than commercial products. Additionally, challenges such as maintenance, reliability, long-term operation, and investment recovery time arise in parallel as the scale increases. This raises the question of what is more suitable: installing a single high-power electrolyser or a modular plant composed of multiple smaller electrolysers? This paper addresses that question from both a technical and an economic perspective. Accordingly, it presents a study identifying the degree of modularisation that optimises the technical and economic performance of a large-scale hydrogen production plant. The results show that configurations with a higher degree of modularisation (based on multiple smaller electrolysers) exhibit a better technical performance and lower degradation. However, configurations with a lower degree of modularisation are more competitive in terms of costs. When combining technical and economic criteria, the results show that solutions based on a medium–low degree of modularisation are the most suitable. The advantages are lower replacement costs and uninterrupted hydrogen production. This study also recommends embracing modularisation to prevent a dependence on a single high-power electrolyser
Not Quite at Home: Afro-Caribbean Identity, Resistance, and Cultural Capital Across Generations
No full textThis study examines the mobilization of social and cultural capital among first and second-generation Afro-Caribbeans in Canada, focusing specifically on Jamaican and Haitian populations. Employing an analytical model grounded in resistance and identity multi-positionality, this research utilizes Yosso’s theory of cultural wealth as a theoretical framework. Qualitative data were collected through focus groups and an intake survey aimed at exploring the dual objectives of defining Blackness and constructing an in-group Black identity alongside the establishment and contestation of social capital within these groups. The findings reveal a dynamic interplay between resistance and identity, highlighting how marginalized groups leverage their resilience to build robust social networks that challenge hegemonic norms. Significant generational differences were identified in experiences of racism, discrimination, and cultural preservation among the participants. This study contributes to the broader discourse on immigrant integration, social cohesion, and the role of cultural capital in mitigating systemic inequalities. The results underscore the necessity for intersectional approaches to comprehend the complexities of identity formation and social integration in multicultural societies. Moreover, the research emphasizes the critical importance of cultural heritage, identity, and community support as sources of strength and resilience for Afro-Caribbean communities in Canada
Direct Use in Electrochemical Energy Devices of Electrospun Nanofibres with Functional Nanostructures
No full textElectrospinning has emerged as a powerful technique for fabricating customised nanofibrous materials with integrated functional nanostructures, offering significant advantages for electrochemical energy applications. This review highlights recent advances in using electrospun nanofibres directly as active components in devices such as batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. The emphasis is on the role of composite design, fibre morphology and surface chemistry in enhancing charge transport, catalytic activity and structural stability. Integrating carbon-based frameworks, conductive polymers, and inorganic nanostructures into electrospun matrices enables multifunctional behaviour and improves device performance. The resulting nanofibrous composite materials, often after heat treatment, can be used directly as electrodes or self-supporting layers, eliminating the need for additional processing steps such as size reduction or preparation of slurries and inks for creating functional nanofibre-based deposits. The importance of composite nanofibres as an emerging strategy for overcoming challenges related to scalability, long-term durability, and interface optimisation is also discussed. This review summarises the key results obtained to date and highlights the potential of electrospun nanofibres as scalable, high-performance materials for next-generation energy technologies, outlining future directions for their rational design and integration
Genome-Wide Identification and Phylogenetic Analysis of Cell Wall Remodeling Genes in Carica papaya L.
No full textFruit softening in Carica papaya L. is a significant postharvest limitation, primarily driven by the dynamic remodeling of cell wall polysaccharides. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide identification and in silico characterization of gene families involved in cell wall assembly and disassembly in papaya. A total of 181 genes were identified and classified into metabolic pathways: hemicellulose (58), pectin (69), extensin (24), expansin (13), and cellulose (17). These genes encode 176 predicted proteins, ranging in size from 100 to 1093 amino acids, featuring family-specific catalytic domains, including glycosyl hydrolases, transferases, and serine/threonine kinases. Phylogenetic analyses revealed strong conservation within the expansin-A and pectin polygalacturonase subfamilies, while hemicellulose-related XTH genes exhibited significant diversification. Experimental validation of nine XTH members confirmed this diversification, with amplicons ranging from 322 to 1370 bp, consistent with computational predictions. Notably, CpXTH1 and CpXTH32 produced bands of approximately 1200 and 1400 bp, respectively. These findings underscore the complexity of papaya cell wall gene families and provide a molecular framework for understanding fruit softening. Given that postharvest losses of papaya in Mexico exceed 34.7% of production (approximately 150,000 tons annually), our results offer valuable genomic resources for biotechnological strategies aimed at extending shelf life and reducing economic losses
Technical Evaluation of the Influence of Inlet Flow Rate and Bed Height on a Packed Column Containing Residual Biomass During Computer-Aided Industrial Scale-Up
No full textThis research seeks to model a packed bed with cocoa waste on an industrial scale using computer software and parametric evaluation to remove Pb(II) in solution. To achieve this, they developed multiple simulations of a packed bed using Aspen Adsorption software using different configurations of inlet flow rate and bed height through a parametric sensitivity study to evaluate the system performance using Langmuir as an isothermal model and the Linear Driving Force (LDF) model as a kinetic model. It was found that the efficiency of the adsorption process reached 99.7% for Pb(II) removal. On the other hand, the best simulation conditions considering efficiency, breakthrough time and saturation were a flow rate of 200 m3/day, a head of 5 m and an initial concentration of 1000 mg/L. This research exhibits a novel engineering perspective to anticipate the potential performance of packed bed with agro-industrial biomasses in the multiscale removal of Pb(II)
Deep-Sea Dilemmas: Evaluation of Public Perceptions of Deep-Sea Mineral Mining and Future of Sri Lanka’s Blue Economy
No full textSeabed mining has gained widespread attention under the blue economy concept, offering economic opportunities while posing significant environmental risks. In Sri Lanka, where mining of seabed resources is growing, understanding public perceptions and preferences for seabed conservation remain crucial to ensure sustainable resource management. This study, therefore, represents the first empirical assessment of public preference and Willingness to Pay (WTP) for seabed conservation in Sri Lanka. A Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE)-based approach was employed to assess public preferences for seabed conservation. Data were collected from 630 respondents across Sri Lanka using a pre-tested self-administered structured survey. The analysis employed Conditional Logit (CL) and Random Parameter Logit (RPL) models to estimate preference heterogeneity and attribute trade-offs. The findings of the study reported strong public support, with a WTP of Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) 3532 per household per year for seabed conservation. Younger, well-educated individuals demonstrated a significantly higher preference for seabed conservation. Biodiversity loss (66.9%), physical damage to seabed (40.7%) and exploitation of natural resources (17.8%) were recognized as major consequences of sea bed mining, highlighting the need for stringent regulatory frameworks (34%) and public engagement (44%) in sustainable seabed conservation. The RPL model revealed significant preference heterogeneity for key attributes. A significant positive preference for a 30% reduction in mineral extraction (coefficient = 0.894, p < 0.05) reinforces public preference for stricter extraction limits. A 25% reduction for biodiversity and habitat destruction (coefficient = 0.010, p < 0.05) reflects public concern for seabed conservation in the context of ongoing marine resource related economic development activities. These results underscore the importance of integrating economic valuation into seabed conservation policies, ensuring that seabed mining activities align with sustainability goals. The study suggests targeted awareness campaigns, financial incentives, and inclusive policymaking to bridge socio-economic disparities and foster long-term public support for seabed conservation. These insights provide a critical foundation for policymakers to develop balanced approaches that promote economic benefits, while safeguarding marine ecosystems within Sri Lanka’s blue economy framework
Antioxidant and Erythroprotective Effects of C-Phycocyanin from the Cyanobacterium Spirulina sp. in Attenuating Oxidative Stress Induced by Peroxyl Radicals
No full textDiseases caused by oxidative stress can present different susceptibilities depending on blood typing according to the ABO system and RhD factor, which turn out to be of great clinical importance. The use of antioxidants such as C-phycocyanin (a phycobiliprotein) could be an alternative to mitigate oxidative stress in the blood. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the antioxidant and erythroprotective activity of C-phycocyanin (C-PC) from Spirulina sp. against oxidative stress caused by peroxyl radicals, before and after in vitro digestion, comparing susceptibilities between blood groups. C-phycocyanin from Spirulina sp. was obtained commercially. The antioxidant capacity by ABTS+•, DPPH•, and FRAP assays of the bioaccessible fraction of C-PC increased compared to baseline in all assays. Samples appear to have high hydrogen atom transfer. C-PC is not cytotoxic in most blood groups. The AAPH hemolysis assays showed differences between blood groups, yielding results of 27.90, 22.60, 26.94, 27.66, 28.16, 28.34, and 24.91% hemolysis for O+, O−, A+, A−, B+, AB+, and AB−, respectively. Furthermore, in vitro digestion increased the erythroprotective effect in the bioavailable fraction in most blood groups, showing 37.12, 80.13, 5.48, 92.38, 67.93, 80.30, and 76.49% inhibition of hemolysis in O+, O−, A+, A−, B+, AB+, and AB−, respectively. These results demonstrate the biotechnological and biomedical potential of phycobiliproteins as safe candidates for the development of nutraceuticals and functional foods aimed at preventing oxidative damage
The Use of Benzoin as a Privileged Structure: Synthesis, Characterization, Crystalline Form and an In Vitro Biological Evaluation of 1,2-Diphenyl-2-[1,2,3]triazol-1-yl-ethanol Derivatives
No full textA collection of 40 derivatives of 1,2-diphenyl-2-[1,2,3]triazol-1-yl-ethanol was obtained through a sequence of reactions, starting with benzoin as the initial raw material and using the CuAAC reaction as the key step in this process. The structure of a pair of these compounds was ultimately corroborated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies, which also reveals important O-H···N interactions. The antimicrobial activity of synthesized 1,2,3-triazoles was assessed against strains that include Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. The antiproliferative properties of some of these novel compounds were also tested using a variety of tumor cell lines, including U251 (human glioblastoma), PC-3 (human prostate cancer cell line), K562 (human leukemia), HCT-15 (human colorectal adenocarcinoma), MCF-7 (human breast adenocarcinoma), and SKLU (human lung adenocarcinoma)