Colonization Of Microorganisms Research Articles

MYCOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF CYSTIC CONTENT IN PATIENTS WITH POLYMICROCYSTIC CHANGES OF THE MAXILLARY SINUS MUCOSA

The prevalence of mycotic infections of the paranasal sinuses is constantly increasing worldwide. Pathogens can enter the sinuses through the respiratory tract that leads to the colonization of microorganisms in both the lungs and paranasal sinuses as part of the normal microflora. The presence of filamentous fungi in the maxillary sinus may result from endodontic treatment of molars directly adjacent to the sinus, increasing the risk of fungal foci development. Fungal paranasal sinusitis manifests in invasive or non-invasive forms. While mycological culture remains the traditional gold standard for mycosis diagnosis, its sensitivity is reportedly low. Paranasal sinus cysts comprise 4-8% of general ENT pathologies and approximately 4-16% of chronic paranasal sinus diseases, with a predominant presence in the maxillary sinus. Factors that contribute to the development of sinusitis and create favorable conditions for fungal spore adhesion and growth include impaired ventilation and transport function of the sinus mucosa, inadequate use of broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs and steroid therapy, as well as household factors. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of cases of multiple small cysts in maxillary sinuses. Clinical manifestations range from asymptomatic incidental findings to varying degrees of discomfort and/or pain localized in the maxillary sinus area. The aim of this study is to identify the involvement of a fungal agent and to develop a set of therapeutic and prophylactic measures for polymicrocystic changes in the mucous membrane of the maxillary sinuses. The study enrolled 37 patients aged 18 to 65 years. Atypical cystic content was collected and cultured in Sabouraud's nutrient broth and Amies transport medium at 35-37°C for 5-7 days, with final measurements on day 21. Treatment involved a 14-day regimen of itraconazole (100 mg once daily) alongside topical miramistin (0.01% solution, 2 ml) sinus injections. The findings obtained demonstrate the following: positive fungal growth was observed in 26 cases (70.3%), predominantly Penicillium (48.6%) and Aspergillus (21.6%). Absence of growth was noted in 11 cases (29.7%). Follow-up examinations in 6 months and in a year revealed no crusts in the nasal cavity, moderate mucous discharge in the sinuses, and no polymicrocystic changes. Conclusion. The analysis has demonstrated the involvement of fungal flora in the development and recurrence of cystic changes in the maxillary sinus mucosa, advocating for mycological examination alongside bacteriological analysis. Itraconazole for systemic therapy and miramistin for topical therapy demonstrate efficacy in treatment and recurrence prevention.

An investigation into the effect of UV irradiation and biofilm colonization on adsorption and desorption behavior of polyurethane (PU) microplastics for bisphenol A (BPA)

Recent studies have demonstrated that microplastics (MPs) can act as a transport vector for pollutants in the environment. However, most studies have focused on carbon-carbon backbone polymers, with little known about heteroatom backbone polymers. In this study, polyurethane (PU) MPs were modified by UV irradiation and microorganism colonization to assess the different aging treatments on the interaction behavior (adsorption/desorption) between PU MPs and bisphenol A (BPA). The results of the adsorption kinetics experiment illustrated that the adsorption process of BPA could be described well by a pseudo-second order kinetic equation on both fresh and aged PU MPs. Although fresh PU MPs revealed the highest saturated adsorption capacity, at low BPA exposure concentrations (≤ 100 μg/L) the adsorption capacities for UV aged and biofilm colonized PU MPs were very similar to fresh MPs or even slightly higher than for fresh MPs, the main adsorption mechanisms including H-bonding interactions and π–π interactions. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations suggested obvious physicochemical property changes (e.g., generation of new functional groups, erosion, etc.) after UV irradiation and biofilm colonization. This study also showed that different exposure environments (ultrapure water, artificial seawater, simulated gastric fluid) could affect BPA adsorption/desorption via hydrophobic and electrostatic interaction on PU surfaces. These results further clarify the adsorption mechanisms of BPA on PU MPs that have undergone different aging treatments, and provides a theoretical basis for the assessment of environmental behavior and exposure risks when PU MPs and BPA coexist.

Exposure to resorcinol bis (diphenyl phosphate) induces colonization of alien microorganisms with potential impacts on the gut microbiota and metabolic disruption in male zebrafish

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) have been demonstrated to induce various forms of toxicity in aquatic organisms. However, a scarcity of evidence impedes the conclusive determination of whether OPEs manifest sex-dependent toxic effects. Here, we investigated the effects of tris (1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCPP) and resorcinol bis (diphenyl phosphate) (RDP) on the intestines of both female and male zebrafish. The results indicated that, in comparison to TCPP, RDP induced more pronounced intestinal microstructural damage and oxidative stress, particularly in male zebrafish. 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics revealed significant alterations in the species richness and oxidative stress-related metabolites in the intestinal microbiota of zebrafish under exposure to both TCPP and RDP, manifesting gender-specific effects. Based on differential species analysis, we defined invasive species and applied invasion theory to analyze the reasons for changes in the male fish intestinal community. Correlation analysis demonstrated that alien species may have potential effects on metabolism. Overall, this study reveals a pronounced gender-dependent impact on both the intestinal microbiota and metabolic disruptions of zebrafish due to OPEs exposure and offers a novel perspective on the influence of pollutants on intestinal microbial communities and metabolism.

Bisphenol A sorption on commercial polyvinyl chloride microplastics: Effects of UV-aging, biofilm colonization and additives on plastic behavior in the environment.

Chemical additives are important components in commercial microplastics and their leaching behaviour has been widely studied. However, little is known about the potential effect of additives on the adsorption/desorption behaviour of pollutants on microplastics and their subsequent role as vectors for pollutant transport in the environment. In this study, two types of commercial polyvinyl chloride (PVC1 and PVC2) microplastics were aged by UV irradiation and biotic modification via biofilm colonization to investigate the adsorption and desorption behaviour of bisphenol A (BPA). Surface cracks and new functional groups (e.g., O‒H) were found on PVC1 after UV irradiation, which increased available adsorption sites and enhanced H‒bonding interaction, resulting in an adsorption capacity increase from 1.28 μg/L to 1.85 μg/L. However, the adsorption and desorption capacity not showed significant changes for PVC2, which might be related to the few characteristic changes after UV aging with the protection of light stabilizers and antioxidants. The adsorption capacity ranged from 1.28 μg/L to 2.06 μg/L for PVC1 and PVC2 microplastics, and increased to 1.62 μg/L—2.95 μg/L after colonization by biofilms. The increased adsorption ability might be related to the N‒H functional group, amide groups generated by microorganisms enhancing the affinity for BPA. The opposite effect was observed for desorption. Plasticizers can be metabolized during biofilm formation processes and might play an important role in microorganism colonization. In addition, antioxidants and UV stabilizers might also indirectly influence the colonization of microorganisms’ on microplastics by controlling the degree to which PVC microplastics age under UV. The amount of biomass loading on the microplastics would further alter the adsorption/desorption behaviour of contaminants. This study provides important new insights into the evaluation of the fate of plastic particles in natural environments.

Nano molybdenum trioxide-mediated enhancement of soybean yield through improvement of rhizosphere soil molybdenum bioavailability for nitrogen-fixing microbial recruitment

Molybdenum (Mo) plays a pivotal role in the growth and nitrogen-fixing process of plants mediated by rhizobia. However, the influence of nano‑molybdenum trioxide (MoO3NPs) on soybean growth, rhizosphere bioavailable Mo, and nitrogen-fixing microorganisms remains underexplored. Here, we report that compared with that of ionic Mo and bulk MoO3, the utilization of MoO3NPs (specifically NPs0.05 and NPs0.15) significantly boosted the available Mo content in the rhizosphere soil throughout the seedling (by 21.64 %–101.38 %), podding (by 54.44 %–68.89 %), and mature stage (by 34.41 %–to 45.71 %) of soybean growth. Furthermore, both NPs0.05 and NPs0.15 treatments maintained consistently higher levels of acid-extractable Mo, reducible Mo, and oxidizable Mo across these stages, which facilitated stable conversion and supply of bioavailable Mo. Within the rhizosphere soil, NPs0.05 and NPs0.15 treatments resulted in the highest relative abundance of Rhizobiales and Bradyrhizobium genera, and significantly promoted the colonization of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, thereby increasing the content of nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N) by 8.69 % and 7.72 % and ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) by 44.75 % and 17.55 %, respectively. Ultimately, these effects together contributed to 107.17 % and 84.00 % increment in soybean yield by NPs0.05 and NPs0.15 treatments, respectively. In summary, our findings underscore the potential of employing MoO3NPs to promote plant growth and maintain soil nitrogen cycling, indicating distinct advantages of MoO3NPs over ionic Mo and bulk MoO3.

Microbial Adhesion to Different Thermoplastic Denture Base Materials in Kennedy Class I Partially Edentulous Patients.

Introduction Since the polished and fitting surface of the denture base may promote the colonization of microorganisms, it is essential to know how the different types of denture bases prevent or encourage the adhesion of microorganisms. This study aimed to compare the microbial adhesion to the polished and fitting surfaces of thermoplastic nylon, thermoplastic acetal, and thermoplastic acrylic denture bases in Kennedy Class Ⅰ, partially edentulous patients. Materials and methods Thirteen patients were included in the study. The group consisted of eight males (61.54%) and five females (38.46%), with an age range of 41-50 years (mean age 46.1 years). Three types (groups) of removable partial dentures will be made for each patient using different thermoplastic denture base materials: thermoplastic nylon; thermoplastic acetal; and thermoplastic acrylic. The polished and fitting surfaces of the denture bases were swabbed after a one-month follow-up period. Microbial adhesion was evaluated by counting the microorganisms' colony-forming units (CFU) in the collected specimens. The data were collected and statistically analyzed. Results The study revealed no statistically significant difference in microbial adhesion to both polished and fitting surfaces between all types of studied thermoplastic denture base materials. However, the results showed that for the polished surface, the microbial adhesion median of thermoplastic acrylic denture base (40.5 CC x 102/ml) was higher than that of thermoplastic acetal (29.0 CC x 102/ml) and thermoplastic nylon (16.0 CC x 102/ml). Regarding the fitting surface, the microbial adhesion median of thermoplastic acrylic (51.0 CC x 102/ml) is higher than that of thermoplastic acetal (41.0 CC x 102/ml) and thermoplastic nylon (23.0 CC x 102/ml). Conclusion The thermoplastic nylon denture base materials showed less microbial adhesion among the studied thermoplastic materials, so it may be recommended to be used as a denture base material for individuals at high risk of denture stomatitis.

Genome-scale model of Rothia mucilaginosa predicts gene essentialities and reveals metabolic capabilities.

Cystic fibrosis (CF), an inherited genetic disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene, results in sticky and thick mucosal fluids. This environment facilitates the colonization of various microorganisms, some of which can cause acute and chronic lung infections, while others may positively impact the disease. Rothia mucilaginosa, an oral commensal, is relatively abundant in the lungs of CF patients. Recent studies have unveiled its anti-inflammatory properties using in vitro three-dimensional lung epithelial cell cultures and in vivo mouse models relevant to chronic lung diseases. Apart from this, R. mucilaginosa has been associated with severe infections. However, its metabolic capabilities and genotype-phenotype relationships remain largely unknown. To gain insights into its cellular metabolism and genetic content, we developed the first manually curated genome-scale metabolic model, iRM23NL. Through growth kinetics and high-throughput phenotypic microarray testings, we defined its complete catabolic phenome. Subsequently, we assessed the model's effectiveness in accurately predicting growth behaviors and utilizing multiple substrates. We used constraint-based modeling techniques to formulate novel hypotheses that could expedite the development of antimicrobial strategies. More specifically, we detected putative essential genes and assessed their effect on metabolism under varying nutritional conditions. These predictions could offer novel potential antimicrobial targets without laborious large-scale screening of knockouts and mutant transposon libraries. Overall, iRM23NL demonstrates a solid capability to predict cellular phenotypes and holds immense potential as a valuable resource for accurate predictions in advancing antimicrobial therapies. Moreover, it can guide metabolic engineering to tailor R. mucilaginosa's metabolism for desired performance.IMPORTANCECystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder characterized by thick mucosal secretions, leading to chronic lung infections. Rothia mucilaginosa is a common bacterium found in various parts of the human body, acting as a normal part of the flora. In people with weakened immune systems, it can become an opportunistic pathogen, while it is prevalent and active in CF airways. Recent studies have highlighted its anti-inflammatory properties in the lower pulmonary system, indicating the intricate relationship between microbes and human health. Herein, we have developed the first manually curated metabolic model of R. mucilaginosa. Our study examined the previously unknown relationships between the bacterium's genotype and phenotype and identified essential genes that impact the metabolism under various conditions. With this, we opt for paving the way for developing new strategies in antimicrobial therapy and metabolic engineering, leading to enhanced therapeutic outcomes in cystic fibrosis and related conditions.

Bioreceptive Ceramic Surfaces: Material Experimentations for Responsible Research and Design Innovation in Circular Economy Transition and “Ecological Augmentation”

The world demands suitable design solutions to transition toward a sustainable production system. The concept of sustainability evolves with technology’s ability to understand and replicate nature’s logic. There is a growing need to move beyond punctual solutions towards more intricate and multi-stakeholder considerations, including preemptive assessments of impacts. This article discusses the outcomes of cross-disciplinary material experimentation at Saperi&Co Center, Sapienza University of Rome. This research focuses on enhancing ceramic surfaces through circular economy practices, making them receptive to microorganism colonization—known as bioreceptivity. Through an iterative and repetitive approach, inspired by Research Through Design and material experimentation, several experiments were carried out to study how the innovative use of organic waste in clay-based mixtures can promote bioreceptivity and the design of green surfaces for urban regeneration. The results advance our knowledge on the multiple parameters the designer must consider to transform inert surfaces such as ceramics into “ecological augmentation” devices. The article also aims to raise awareness of bioreceptivity as a practice to educate communities about a symbiotic relationship with nature, promote local economic development and circular production, and prompt reflection on cultural aspects arising from contemporary scientific and technological advancements in line with Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) principles.

The Associations between Snack Intake and Cariogenic Oral Microorganism Colonization in Young Children of a Low Socioeconomic Status.

Cariogenic microorganisms are crucial pathogens contributing to the development of early childhood caries. Snacks provide fermentable carbohydrates, altering oral pH levels and potentially affecting microorganism colonization. However, the relationship between snack intake and cariogenic microorganisms like Candida and Streptococcus mutans in young children is still unclear. This study aimed to assess this association in a prospective underserved birth cohort. Data from children aged 12 to 24 months, including oral microbial assays and snack intake information, were analyzed. Sweet and non-sweet indices based on the cariogenic potential of 15 snacks/drinks were created. Mixed-effects models were used to assess the associations between sweet and non-sweet indices and S. mutans and Candida carriage. Random forest identified predictive factors of microorganism carriage. Higher non-sweet index scores were linked to increased S. mutans carriage in plaques (OR = 1.67, p = 0.01), potentially strengthening with age. Higher sweet index scores at 12 months were associated with increased Candida carriage, reversing at 24 months. Both indices were top predictors of S. mutans and Candida carriage. These findings underscore the associations between snack intake and cariogenic microorganism carriage and highlight the importance of dietary factors in oral health management for underserved young children with limited access to dental care and healthy foods.

The potential of EGCG in modulating the oral-gut axis microbiota for treating inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a recurrent chronic intestinal disorder that includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Its pathogenesis involves intricate interactions between pathogenic microorganisms, native intestinal microorganisms, and the intestinal immune system via the oral-gut axis. The strong correlation observed between oral diseases and IBD indicates the potential involvement of oral pathogenic microorganisms in IBD development. Consequently, therapeutic strategies targeting the proliferation, translocation, intestinal colonization and exacerbated intestinal inflammation of oral microorganisms within the oral-gut axis may partially alleviate IBD. Tea consumption has been identified as a contributing factor in reducing IBD, with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) being the primary bioactive compound used for IBD treatment. However, the precise mechanism by which EGCG mediates microbial crosstalk within the oral-gut axis remains unclear. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse oral microorganisms implicated in the pathogenesis of IBD and elucidate their colonization pathways and mechanisms. Subsequently, we investigated the antibacterial properties of EGCG and its potential to attenuate microbial translocation and colonization in the gut, emphasizing its role in attenuating exacerbations of IBD. We also elucidated the toxic and side effects of EGCG. Finally, we discuss current strategies for enhancing EGCG bioavailability and propose novel multi-targeted nano-delivery systems for the more efficacious management of IBD. This review elucidates the role and feasibility of EGCG-mediated modulation of the oral-gut axis microbiota in the management of IBD, contributing to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of EGCG in the treatment of IBD and the development of prospective treatment strategies.

Does the Incorporation of Graphene Oxide into PMMA Influence its Antimicrobial Activity?

The increase in infectious diseases mediated by oral bacteria has been one of the most potent threats to human health, specifically to the elderly. Researchers seek to incorporate antimicrobial nanomaterials into PMMA to control the colonization of microorganisms and reduce deadly diseases. To conduct a systematic review to answer the question: "Does graphene oxide incorporated into polymethylmethacrylate influence its antimicrobial activity?" The electronic search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases, and articles published until October 2021 were selected. The search terms were: ("acrylic resin" OR PMMA) AND (graphene OR "oxide graphene") AND (antimicrobial OR antibacterial OR "anti-infective agent"). The risk of bias analysis of the articles was performed using the quasi-experimental study assessment tool adapted from the JBI. Two hundred and fifty-nine articles were found in the databases. After removing the duplicates, 245 were analyzed by title and abstract. Of these, 06 were selected for full reading, of which 03 met the eligibility criteria and were included in this systematic review. This systematic review's findings can infer that the incorporation of graphene in the form of graphene-based coatings to PMMA showed antimicrobial effectiveness.

Nanosilver-loaded and polysaccharide-based biomaterial for antibacterial activity - in combination with photobiomodulation for effective wound healing applications

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are gaining attention for their use in wound healing and tissue engineering. Silver nanoparticles have been proven to effectively accelerate wound healing by killing Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains and controlling microorganism colonization. Polysaccharides are non-toxic, safe, inexpensive, and have good biocompatibility and biodegradability. Polysaccharides, such as chitosan and gum tragacanth, have positively impacted wound healing processes. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been shown to enhance cell proliferation, activate lymphocytes, and increase phagocytosis in wound healing. A study synthesized and characterized Nanosilver (NS)-loaded chitosan and gum tragacanth-based biomaterial (CGT-NS) and evaluated its antimicrobial activity. The combined therapy of CGT-NS biomaterial and PBM irradiation at 830 nm in normal wounded cells showed no adverse effects on wound healing processes.

Genetic evidence strengthens the bidirectional connection between gut microbiota and Shigella infection: insights from a two-sample Mendelian randomization study.

In recent investigations, substantial strides have been made in the precise modulation of the gut microbiota to prevent and treat a myriad of diseases. Simultaneously, the pressing issue of widespread antibiotic resistance and multidrug resistance resulting from Shigella infections demands urgent attention. Several studies suggest that the antagonistic influence of the gut microbiota could serve as a novel avenue for impeding the colonization of pathogenic microorganisms or treating Shigella infections. However, conventional research methodologies encounter inherent challenges in identifying antagonistic microbial agents against Shigella, necessitating a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the causal relationship between Shigella infections and the gut microbiota. Utilizing the aggregated summary statistics from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS), we conducted Mendelian Randomization (MR) analyses encompassing 18,340 participants to explore the interplay between the gut microbiota and Shigella infections. This investigation also involved 83 cases of Shigella infection patients and 336,396 control subjects. In the positive strand of our findings, we initially performed a preliminary analysis using the Inverse Variance Weighting (IVW) method. Subsequently, we undertook sensitivity analyses to assess the robustness of the results, addressing confounding factors' influence. This involved employing the Leave-One-Out method and scrutinizing funnel plots to ensure the reliability of the MR analysis outcomes. Conclusively, a reverse MR analysis was carried out, employing the Wald ratio method due to the exposure of individual Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). This was undertaken to explore the plausible associations between Shigella infections and genetically predicted compositions of the gut microbiota. In this study, we employed 2,818 SNPs associated with 211 species of gut microbiota as instrumental variables (IVs). Through IVW analysis, our positive MR findings revealed a significant negative correlation between the occurrence of Shigella infections and the phylum Tenericutes (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.04-0.74, p = 0.02), class Mollicutes (OR: 0.18, 95% CI: 0.04-0.74, p = 0.02), genus Intestinimonas (OR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.04-0.63, p = 0.01), genus Gordonibacter (OR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.16-0.93, p = 0.03), and genus Butyrivibrio (OR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.23-0.87, p = 0.02). Conversely, a positive correlation was observed between the occurrence of Shigella infections and genus Sutterella (OR: 10.16, 95% CI: 1.87-55.13, p = 0.01) and genus Alistipes (OR: 12.24, 95% CI: 1.71-87.34, p = 0.01). In sensitivity analyses, utilizing MR-Egger regression analysis and MR Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO) detection, all outcomes demonstrated robust stability. Simultaneously, in the reverse MR analysis, Shigella infections resulted in an upregulation of four bacterial genera and a downregulation of three bacterial genera. In summation, the MR analysis outcomes corroborate the presence of bidirectional causal relationships between the gut microbiota and Shigella infections. This study not only unveils novel perspectives for the prevention and treatment of Shigella infections but also furnishes fresh insights into the mechanistic underpinnings of how the gut microbiota contributes to the pathogenesis of Shigella infections. Consequently, the established dual causal association holds promise for advancing our understanding and addressing the complexities inherent in the interplay between the gut microbiota and Shigella infections, thereby paving the way for innovative therapeutic interventions and preventive strategies in the realm of Shigella-related diseases.

The effect of tobacco leave pastes (Nicotiana tabacum L.) 50% concentration as a denture cleanser on the surface roughness of thermoplastic nylon

Microporosity of thermoplastic nylon can lead to increased surface roughness values. Surface roughness of thermoplastic nylon can facilitate colonization of microorganisms that can lead to denture stomatitis. The mechanical cleaning process of denture using an electric toothbrush and denture cleaning paste is considered effective for removing plaque and microorganisms attached. To reduce surface roughness, the use of natural materials such as tobacco leaves is considered beneficial because it can reduce the content of abrasive materials. This study aims to determine the effect of tobacco leaf paste as a denture cleanser on the surface roughness of thermoplastic nylon. This study using a laboratory experimental design with a post test only control group design involving 27 samples sized 60 x 10 x 2.5 mm which were divided into three groups including the brushing control group without paste, the brushing group with placebo paste, and the brushing group with 50% tobacco leaf paste (TLP). The results showed that tobacco leaf paste was considered effective as a thermoplastic nylon denture cleanser and had an effect on reducing surface roughness values with an average surface roughness value that was still acceptable to the oral cavity. In conclusion, 50% tobacco leaf paste is recommended as an effective denture cleanser and produces surface roughness values acceptable to the oral cavity.

Petroleum-contaminated soil bioremediation and microbial community succession induced by application of co-pyrolysis biochar amendment: An investigation of performances and mechanisms

This study aimed to remediate petroleum-contaminated soil using co-pyrolysis biochar derived from rice husk and cellulose. Rice husk and cellulose were mixed in various weight ratios (0:1, 1:0, 1:1, 1:3 and 3:1) and pyrolyzed under 500 °C. These biochar variants were labeled as R0C1, R1C0, R1C1, R1C3 and R3C1, respectively. Notably, the specific surface area and carbon content of the co- pyrolysis biochar increased, potentially promoting the growth and colonization of soil microorganisms. On the 60th day, the microbial control group achieved a 46.69% removal of pollutants, while the addition of R0C1, R1C0, R1C3, R1C1 and R3C1 resulted in removals of 70.56%, 67.01%, 67.62%, 68.74% and 67.30%, respectively. In contrast, the highest efficiency observed in the abiotic treatment group was only 24.12%. This suggested that the removal of petroleum pollutants was an outcome of the collaborative influence of co-pyrolysis biochar and soil microorganisms. Furthermore, the abundance of Proteobacteria, renowned for its petroleum degradation capability, obviously increased in the treatment group with the addition of co-pyrolysis biochar. This demonstrated that co-pyrolysis biochar could notably stimulate the growth of functionally associated microorganisms. This research confirmed the promising application of co-pyrolysis biochar in the remediation of petroleum-contaminated soil.

A main chain biodegradable polyurethane with anti-protein adsorption and anti-bacterial adhesion performances.

Biofilms are initially formed by substances such as proteins secreted by bacteria adhering to a surface. To achieve a durable antibacterial material, biodegradable dihydroxyl-terminated poly[(ethylene oxide)-co-(ethylene carbonate)] (PEOC(OH)2) with anti-protein adsorption properties was synthesized in this study. Further polycondensation of PEOC(OH)2 and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) led to biodegradable polyurethane (PEOC-PU) with PEOC as the soft segment. For comparison, polyurethanes with polyethylene glycol (PEG-PU) and polypropylene glycol (PPG-PU) as soft segments were also synthesized. The chemical structures of the polyurethanes were characterized by 1H NMR and FTIR. The biodegradation behavior of PEOC-PU promoted by lipase due to the presence of ethylene carbonate units was also studied. Their resistance to proteins was studied using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) and the results revealed that PEOC-PU exhibited excellent nonspecific resistance to proteins. The colonization of microorganisms on PU in the liquid culture medium was further examined and the results showed that PEOC-PU exhibited excellent antibacterial adhesion performance due to its protein resistance and biodegradation.

Bacterial profile of urinary tract infection among pregnant women: a systematic review

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the infection and colonization of microorganisms in the urinary tract. Women carry a higher risk of being affected by UTI compared to males, especially during pregnancy due to physiological and hormonal changes. Appropriate and adequate management of UTI reduces the incidence of further maternal and fetal complications. Nonetheless, there is a growing concern regarding resistance to antibiotics among the bacteria causing UTIs in pregnant women. To identify the bacterial profile of UTIs during gestation by exploring the previous research conducted on this subject. A systematic online search was performed on scientific databases to obtain articles related to the current subject using search terms, including bacteria, profile, causative agent, sensitivity, resistance, symptomatic, pregnancy, gestation, and pregnant women. The articles of relevance were considered if they were original articles, written in the English language, available for full-text, and reporting bacterial profile of UTI during pregnancy. A total of eight articles were eligible and met the inclusion criteria. The studies were published between 2020 and 2023 and included a total number of 3,702 pregnant females from five different countries. The bacterial profile of UTI among pregnant women including symptomatic UTI, and resistance and sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics varied between different regions. However, the causative agents of UTI displayed less variation as Escherichia coli and K.pneomniae were the major causative agents of UTI during pregnancy.

Fe/Fe3C nanoparticles in situ-doped with carbon nanofibers embedded in rGO as high-performance anode electrocatalysts of microbial fuel cells

The aerogel structure composed of NCNFs and rGO is conducive to the colonization and extracellular electron transport of microorganisms.

Occurrence of COVID-19 in cystic fibrosis patients: a review.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic ailment caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. This autosomal recessive disorder is characterized by diverse pathobiological abnormalities, such as the disorder of CFTR channels in mucosal surfaces, caused by inadequate clearance of mucus and sputum, in addition to the malfunctioning of mucous organs. However, the primary motive of mortality in CF patients is pulmonary failure, which is attributed to the colonization of opportunistic microorganisms, formation of resistant biofilms, and a subsequent decline in lung characteristics. In December 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of the radical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a worldwide public health crisis, which unexpectedly spread not only within China but also globally. Given that the respiration system is the primary target of the COVID-19 virus, it is crucial to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the pathogenesis and mortality of CF patients, mainly in the context of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Therefore, the goal of this review is to comprehensively review the present literature on the relationship between cystic fibrosis, COVID-19 contamination, and development of ARDS. Several investigations performed during the early stages of the virus outbreak have discovered unexpected findings regarding the occurrence and effectiveness of COVID-19 in individuals with CF. Contrary to initial expectancies, the rate of infection and the effectiveness of the virus in CF patients are lower than those in the overall population. This finding may be attributed to different factors, including the presence of thick mucus, social avoidance, using remedies that include azithromycin, the fairly younger age of CF patients, decreased presence of ACE-2 receptors, and the effect of CFTR channel disorder on the replication cycle and infectivity of the virus. However, it is important to notice that certain situations, which include undergoing a transplant, can also doubtlessly boost the susceptibility of CF patients to COVID-19. Furthermore, with an increase in age in CF patients, it is vital to take into account the prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in this population. Therefore, ordinary surveillance of CF patients is vital to evaluate and save the population from the capability of transmission of the virus given the various factors that contribute to the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in this precise organization.

Preventing microbe colonization on avocado (Persea nubigena var. guatemalensis) through metabiotic treatment, a promising postharvest safety improvement.

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) produce various metabolites (i.e. metabiotics) with inhibitory capacity towards harmful foodborne pathogens. This study aimed to design several antimicrobial formulations based on metabiotics obtained from different native LAB species (Lactobacillus pentosus UTNGt5, Lactococcus lactis UTNGt28, and Weissella cibaria UTNGt21O) and to detect the possible mode of action towards two multidrug resistant Staphylococcus spp. strains isolated from avocado (Persea nubigena var. guatemalensis) fruits. Additionally, the formulation with the highest inhibitory activity was tested ex vitro on avocados at the immature (firm) ripeness stage to evaluate their effect on microorganisms' growth and fruit quality attributes post-harvest. Out of the top five formulations showing the highest bactericidal effect in vitro at their minimum inhibitory concentration (1 x MIC) on both Staphylococcus spp. targets one candidate annotated P11 (consisting of UTNGt21O and UTNGt28; 1:3, v/v) was selected. Co-cultivation of Staphylococcus strains with P11 formulation results in cell viability reduction by 98%, by impairing the integrity of the cell membrane inducing cytoplasm molecule content leakage, protein profile changes, and finally bacterial death. Even though the total coliforms, Staphylococcus spp., Enterobacter spp., molds, and yeasts counts were not fully eliminated by day 13 of storage, a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in viable cell counts were observed by day 8 upon the P11 treatment compared with non-treated control (C) and treated with a commercial disinfectant (T1) samples, suggesting that P11 formulation inhibited microbial colonization during storage. Likewise, no visible dark spots were observed on the mesocarp (pulp) upon the treatment with P11, whereas T1 and C fruits showed greater dark spots on the pulp as indicative of damage. The quality attributes, such as pH, total soluble solids, total titratable acidity, antioxidant capacity, and total polyphenol content, were not affected by the treatment. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) conducted on these five variables showed a clear separation of samples according to the maturity stage regardless of the treatment. These results suggest that the active metabolites from LAB strains might create a barrier between the exocarp and mesocarp, inhibiting the microorganisms colonization, reducing fruit damage, and lengthening the fruit quality and safety after harvest.