Potential Health Research Articles

Bioactive peptides released by lactic acid bacteria fermented pistachio beverages

Fruit and vegetable are the raw materials for many popular fermented beverages with potential health benefits. In the present study, a novel pistachio beverage fermented with selected strains of lactic acid bacteria belonging to the species Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides and Companilactobacillus paralimentarius was produced, and the extent of proteolysis was evaluated. Physico-chemical and microbiological analyses, together with peptidomics and proteomics, were carried out on the beverage after 24 h of fermentation, using both the non-inoculated and chemically acidified beverage as controls. Amino acid sequence of hundreds of peptides mainly released from 2S albumin, 11S and 7S globulin were characterized. The number and frequency of identified peptides were higher in beverage started with Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides, followed by Companilactobacillus paralimentarius and acidic beverage. These results suggest that, in addition to endogenous proteases active at acidic pH, the proteolytic system of LAB directly participated to peptide degradation to some extent. According to the BIOPEP database, a group of 31 peptides were potentially bioactive, and primarily associated with antioxidative properties, ACE and DPP-IV inhibition. The beverage started with Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides showed the highest amount and number of bioactive peptides. This study lays the foundations for the design of novel pistachio-fermented beverage with potential health properties.

Study on the estradiol degradation gene expression and resistance mechanism of Rhodococcus R-001 under low-temperature stress

Estradiol (E2), an endocrine disruptor, acts by mimicking or interfering with the normal physiological functions of natural hormones within organisms, leading to issues such as endocrine system disruption. Notably, seasonal fluctuations in environmental temperature may influence the degradation speed of estradiol (E2) in the natural environment , intensifying its potential health and ecological risks. Therefore, this study aims to explore how bacteria can degrade E2 under low-temperature conditions, unveiling their resistance mechanisms, with the goal of developing new strategies to mitigate the threat of E2 to health and ecological safety. In this paper, we found that Rhodococcus equi DSSKP-R-001 (R-001) can efficiently degrade E2 at 30°C and 10°C. Six genes in R-001 were shown to be involved in E2 degradation by heterologous expression at 30°C. Among them, 17β-HSD, KstD2, and KstD3, were also involved in E2 degradation at 10°C; KstD was not previously known to degrade E2. RNA-seq was used to characterize differentially expressed genes (DEGs) to explore the stress response of R-001 to low-temperature environments to elucidate the strain’s adaptation mechanism. At the low temperature, R-001 cells changed from a round spherical shape to a long rod or irregular shape with elevated unsaturated fatty acids and were consistent with the corresponding genetic changes. Many differentially expressed genes linked to the cold stress response were observed. R-001 was found to upregulate genes encoding cold shock proteins, fatty acid metabolism proteins, the ABC transport system, DNA damage repair, energy metabolism and transcriptional regulators. In this study, we demonstrated six E2 degradation genes in R-001 and found for the first time that E2 degradation genes have different expression characteristics at 30°C and 10°C. Linking R-001 to cold acclimation provides new insights and a mechanistic basis for the simultaneous degradation of E2 under cold stress in Rhodococcus adaptation.

Physical activity, problematic gaming behavior, and quality of life prior and during the first 9 months of the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from a longitudinal study among university students.

Generally, there is limited information on longitudinal trends and the interrelations between physical activity (PA), problematic gaming behavior (PGB), described as a dysfunctional pattern of videogame activities, and quality of life (QoL) based on data that include measurements from both pre- and postpandemic onset. This is also the case for university students. As society faced unprecedented restrictions during this period, these aspects may have developed unfavorably. To examine PA, PGB, and QoL among Norwegian University students prior to and during the initial stages of the pandemic and assess their temporal interrelations. The data are derived from the "Students' Psychological Health Over Time" study (SPOT). Linear mixed models were used to examine the development from January 2020 to November 2020 over three time points for the total sample and across gender. A traditional cross-lagged panel model analysis was used to estimate temporal associations. Age, gender, socioeconomic status, and partner status were included as covariates. PA and QoL decreased linearly over time (Cohen's d = 0.12 and 0.35, respectively), while only male students reported a small reduction in PGB (Cohen's d = 0.03). PA levels decreased considerably more for male students than female students (Cohen's d = 0.17 and 0.09, respectively). There was a small reciprocal negative temporal association between PA and PGB (standardized β = -0.04 and -0.05, respectively). All other temporal associations were not statistically significant in the adjusted analysis. The findings highlight gender-variant negative developments in PA and QoL and suggest a negative reciprocal interrelation between PA and PGB. The findings point to potential adverse health effects that should be taken into account when restrictive pandemic measures are considered.

Exploring novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying Bisphenol A-induced toxicity: A persistent threat to human health

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a ubiquitous industrial chemical used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, found in numerous consumer products. Despite its widespread use, its potential adverse health effects have raised significant concerns. This review explores the molecular mechanisms and evidence-based literature underlying BPA-induced toxicities and its implications for human health. BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) which exhibits carcinogenic properties by influencing various receptors, such as ER, AhR, PPARs, LXRs, and RARs. It induces oxidative stress and contributes to cellular dysfunction, inflammation, and DNA damage, ultimately leading to various toxicities including but not limited to reproductive, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and endocrine toxicity. Moreover, BPA can modify DNA methylation patterns, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA expression, leading to epigenetic changes and contribute to carcinogenesis. Overall, understanding molecular mechanisms of BPA-induced toxicity is crucial for developing effective strategies and policies to mitigate its adverse effects on human health.

Discovery of bitter masking compounds from Allspice (Pimenta dioica) using sensory guided isolation

Bitter substances in functional foods and beverages can act as nutraceuticals, offering potential health benefits. However, their unpleasant sensory impact reduces the consumption of these foods. Consequently, the discovery of bitter masking compounds is crucial for enhancing the intake of bioactive compounds in functional foods and beverages. Bitter taste is mediated by TAS2Rs, a sub-family of G-protein-coupled receptors. TAS2R14 is especially pivotal in the perception of bitterness, as it is one of the most broadly tuned bitter receptors. In this study, allspice was extracted and purified to yield five single compounds based on sensory guided fractionation. The structures of each compound were determined based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS). In a sensory evaluation, compound 1 exhibited bitter masking activity against quinine. Molecular docking analysis revealed that compound 1 could act as an antagonist of the TAS2R14 bitter receptor.

Characteristics and health impacts of bioaerosols in animal barns: A comprehensive study

Bioaerosols produced during animal production have potential adverse effects on the health of workers and animals. Our objective was to investigate characteristics, antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs), and health risks of bioaerosols in various animal barns. Poultry and swine barns had high concentrations of airborne bacteria (11156 and 10917 CFU/m3, respectively). Acinetobacter, Clostridium sensu stricto, Corynebacterium, Pseudomonas, Psychrobacter, Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus were dominant pathogenic bacteria in animal barns, with Firmicutes being the most abundant bacterial phylum. Based on linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe), there were more discriminative biomarkers in cattle barns than in poultry or swine barns, although the latter had the highest abundance of bacterial pathogens and high abundances of ARGs (including tetM, tetO, tetQ, tetW sul1, sul2, ermA, ermB) and intI1). Based on network analyses, there were higher co-occurrence patterns between bacteria and ARGs in bioaerosol from swine barns. Furthermore, in these barns, relative abundance of bacteria in bioaerosol samples was greatly affected by environmental factors, mainly temperature, relative humidity, and concentrations of CO2, NH3, and PM2.5. This study provided novel data regarding airborne bio-contaminants in animal enclosures and an impetus to improve management to reduce potential health impacts on humans and animals.

Non-nutritive Sweeteners: Weight Loss or Weight Gain?

The consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) is on the rise among different populations. In parallel, the debate about their potential health benefits and risks remains inconclusive. Numerous published studies elucidate the impact of NNS on general health, weight control, and the risk of certain diseases. However, no definitive conclusions regarding the effect of chronic NNS use on weight have been reached in humans. This review summarizes current evidence related to the biological role of NNS and their subsequent effects on weight. The mechanisms of action through which NNS impact weight are discussed, including their effect on sweet taste receptors, cognition, metabolic and endocrine functions, intestinal microbiota, and adiposity. Conflicting evidence is hindering the formulation of precise recommendations, but the evidence opposing the use of NNS remains weak, and the ultimate impact on weight largely relies on several other behavioral patterns.

Revolutionizing Disease Prediction with Deep Learning and Predictive Analysis

Abstract: The integration of deep learning and predictive analysis has emerged as a powerful tool in the healthcare improvement effort, revolutionizing the process of illness prediction. The purpose of this project is to develop a comprehensive framework that can precisely predict and identify a range of diseases at an early stage using these technologies. Deep learning algorithms are used to uncover complicated patterns and connections that may point to the onset of a disease by evaluating massive datasets that include patient demographics, medical history, genetic data, and environmental factors. The predictive capabilities of these algorithms enable healthcare practitioners to more precisely identify potential health issues, enabling preventive intervention and customized treatment regimens. Moreover, putting this idea into reality promises to improve patient outcomes, substantially reduce healthcare costs, and ultimately alter the landscape of preventative medicine.

The thin fat paradox: Understanding normal weight obesity and its clinical relevance

Obesity, defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an excess accumulation of body fat or body fat percentage (BFP) associated with clear health risks, presents a significant global challenge. While Body Mass Index (BMI) serves as a conventional metric for identifying obesity, it fails to account for body composition variations, such as distinguishing between fat-free mass and adipose tissue. Consequently, individuals with normal BMI may exhibit excessive body fat (BFP≥30%), termed Normal Weight Obesity (NWO). In contrast, others with normal BMI and normal body fat are termed Normal Weight Lean (NWL). NWO significantly elevates the risks of various metabolic disorders, including hyperglycemia, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and reduced HDL levels. Moreover, NWO is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), hypertension, low HDL, central obesity, and muscle weakness. Individuals with NWO face a heightened risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases, including atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure, due to the adverse effects of excess body fat on cardiovascular health. Furthermore, NWO is associated with insulin resistance, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, further exacerbating the risk of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular complications. Early identification of NWO is crucial for implementing preventive measures and lifestyle interventions to mitigate these health risks. Integrating body fat percentage measurements into nutritional screening protocols in healthcare facilities is essential for identifying individuals at risk of NWO and initiating appropriate interventions to prevent the onset of cardiometabolic diseases. This study aims to provide comprehensive insights into Normal-Weight Obesity (NWO) and its potential health implications.

Solar-powered detection of organic dyes using nitrogen-doped N-TiO2/Ag2O nanorod arrays.

Organic pollutant detection has caused widespread concern regarding due to their potential environmental and human health risks. In this work, a nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide/silver oxide (N-TiO2/Ag2O) composite has been designed asa sensitive photoelectrochemical (PEC) monitoring platform of organic dyes. Sensitive determination relies on the outstanding PEC performance of N-TiO2/Ag2O. The improved PEC performance stems from the effective separation of photocarriers and the extended light response range provided by the narrowing bandgap and a p-n junction with N-TiO2/Ag2O. The N-TiO2/Ag2O electrode exhibits a photocurrent density of up to 2.2mA/cm2, demonstrating three times increase compared withthe photocurrent density observed with the pure TiO2 film. The linear detection range for rhodamine B (RhB), methylene blue (MB), and methyl orange (MO) is 0.2ng/mL to 10 μg/mL with an ultrasensitive detection limit of 0.2ng/mL without bias voltage. Due to the outstanding photocurrent density and sensitive response to organic pollutants, the N-TiO2/Ag2O PEC sensor provided a promising analytical method to detect environmental organic dyes.

UK-based digital forensic investigators and the impact of exposure to traumatic material

Purpose Digital forensic investigators (DFIs) encounter traumatic material, and this is associated with the development of secondary traumatic stress (STS). Limited research has been conducted with UK DFIs, a significant concern given their role. This study aims to explore levels of self-reported STS by DFIs, the relationship to gender, years as a DFI, frequency of exposure to traumatic material and difficulty coping with such material. This study also aims to provide insight into the psychological impact, identify potential risk groups and explore coping strategies within this specific group of professionals. Design/methodology/approach A correlational cross-sectional design was conducted at a fixed point in time, with a sample of 114 currently employed DFIs, recruited through the Forensic Capability Network. Findings Mean STS scores fell within the moderate range, although 29.9% of participants reported high to severe levels. Significant correlations were found between STS total and subscales with difficulty viewing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). While females reported higher mean STS scores, the difference was not statistically significant, however, females did score significantly higher on the arousal sub-scale of the STS. Regression analysis included the variables (COPE scale and subscales, frequency of viewing child abuse material, years spent working as a DFI, age, gender) that identified mental disengagement, difficulty viewing CSAM and younger age as predictors of increased STS. Research limitations/implications Primarily, the reliance on self-report instruments lacks external validation of STS. Furthermore, possible response or selection basis could have stemmed from participants experiencing high stress. Hosting the study online hindered exploring this further, suggesting the potential for future research. Although the regression model explained 28% of STS variance, unaccounted factors remain, constituting 72% unexplained variance. A mixed method approach might unveil additional variables, addressing potential limitations. Additionally, this study was cross-sectional meaning that the authors cannot infer causation. Practical implications These findings underscore the need for educational efforts targeting DFI’s to raise awareness about potential mental health risks associated with CSAM-related work. Equally crucial is emphasising the hazards associated with adopting negative coping strategies. Equipping DFI’s with this knowledge may enable them to make informed decisions aimed at minimising the impact of job-related stressors. Moreover, it highlights the necessity of recognising DFIs as a group deserving access to professional and mental health support. It is pertinent to consider recent research highlighting the stigma of therapy and a prevailing perception of a “critical or judgemental workplace culture” among UK investigators. Social implications To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study represents the first known exploration of STS in UK-based DFI’s, encompassing an investigation into potential risk and protective factors. A proportion of the sample reported experiencing mild to severe levels of STS, with the mean STS score falling within the moderate range. Notably, 29.9% of participants reported high to severe levels of STS. Originality/value The findings provide an inaugural exploration of STS among UK-based DFI’s, offering crucial insight into the psychological impact, vulnerable demographics and coping strategies within this unique professional context. Practical implications based on the findings are considered.

Distribution, source identification, water quality, and risk assessment of trace elements in the surface-groundwater-sediments multifunctional system in Guohe River Basin

Within the Huaihe River Basin, Guohe River, as its second-largest tributary, serves as a critical water supply source. Recent industrial and agricultural advancements have led to increased trace element contamination, adversely impacting the water quality within Guohe River Basin. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the distribution characteristics, sources, water quality and risk assessment of trace elements in the surface water, groundwater, and sediments across the basin. The results showed that the spatial distribution of trace elements in the surface water and groundwater of Guohe River Basin was that most of the high concentrations appeared in Qiaocheng District of Bozhou City, the mean concentration of Fe in Guohe River sediments was the highest, the mean concentration of Sb was the lowest. The PMF source analysis results showed that the main source of trace elements in Guohe River Basin was natural geological processes, followed by human activities. The sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) indicated that the surface water samples of Guohe River in two seasons had high sodium and salinity hazards. The water quality index (WQI) showed that surface water and groundwater samples in the northwestern of Guohe River Basin had poor water quality. The results of the risk assessment showed that As and Mn posed great ecological risks to surface water and groundwater, respectively, and that F− was the pollutant with the most potential health risk hazard in the basin. The Geo-accumulation index (Igeo) results showed that Cd, Se and As should be taken seriously as the main contaminants of the sediments in Guohe River Basin. KeywardsTrace elements; Source analysis; Sodium adsorption ratio; Water quality index; Risk assessment; Geo-accumulation index.

A field trial for remediation of multi-metal contaminated soils using the combination of fly ash stabilization and Zanthoxylumbungeanum- Lolium perenne intercropping system

Insitu stabilization and phytoextraction are considered as two convenient and effective technologies for the remediation of toxic elements (TEs) in soils. However, the effectiveness of these two remediation technologies together on the bioavailability and phytoextraction of TEs in field trials has not been explored yet. Specifically, the remediation potential of fly ash (FA; as stabilizing agent) and ryegrass (as a TE accumulator) intercropped with a target crop for soil polluted with multiple TEs has not been investigated yet, particularly in long-term field trials. Therefore, in this study, a six-month combined remediation field experiment of FA stabilization and/or ryegrass intercropping (IR) was carried out on the farmland soils contaminated with As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn where Zanthoxylumbungeanum (ZB) trees as native crops were grown for years. The treatments include soil cultivated alone with ZB untreated- (control) and treated-with FA (FA), produced by burning lignite in Shaanxi Datong power plant, China, soil cultivated with ZB and ryegrass untreated- (IR) and treated-with FA (FA + IR). This was underpinned by a large-scale survey in Daiziying (China), which showed that the topsoils were polluted by Cd, Cu, Hg and Pb, and that Hg and Pb contents in the Zanthoxylumbungeanum fruits exceeded their allowable limits. The TEs contents in the studied FA were lower than their total element contents in the soil. The DTPA-extractable TEs contents of the remediation modes were as follows: FA < FA + IR < IR < control. Notably, TEs contents in the ZB fruits were lowest under the FA + IR treatment, which were decreased by 27.6% for As, 42.3% for Cd, 16.7% for Cr, 30.5% for Cu, 23.1% for Hg, 15.5% for Ni, 33.2% for Pb and 38.1% for Zn compared with the control treatment. Whereas the FA + IR treatment enhanced TEs contents in ryegrass shoots and roots, and the TEs contents in ryegrass shoots were below their regulatory limits for fodder crops. The findings confirmed that the combined remediation strategy, i.e., FA (with low content of TEs) stabilization effect and intercropping of ZB (target crop) and ryegrass (accumulating plant) could provide a prospective approach to produce target plants within safe TEs thresholds with greater economic benefits, while remediating soils polluted with multiple TEs and mitigating the potential ecological and human health risk. Those results are of great applicable concern.

CRISPR and CRISPR-MVLST reveal conserved spacer distribution and high similarity among Salmonella enterica serovar Infantis genomes from Brazil and other countries.

Salmonella enterica serovar Infantis (S. Infantis) is a globally distributed non-typhoid serovar infecting humans and food-producing animals. Considering the zoonotic potential and public health importance of this serovar, strategies to characterizing, monitor and control this pathogen are of great importance. This study aimed to determine the genetic relatedness of 80 Brazilian S. Infantis genomes in comparison to 40 non-Brazilian genomes from 14 countries using Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-Multi-Locus Virulence Sequence Typing (CRISPR-MVLST). CRISPR spacers were searched using CRISPR-Cas++ and fimH and sseL alleles using BLAST and MEGA X. Results were analyzed using BioNumerics 7.6 in order to obtain similarity dendrograms. A total of 23 CRISPR1 and 11 CRISPR2 alleles formed by 37 and 26 types of spacers, respectively, were detected. MVLST revealed the presence of five fimH and three sseL alleles. CRISPR's similarity dendrogram showed 32 strain subtypes, with an overall similarity ≥ 78.6. The CRISPR-MVLST similarity dendrogram showed 37 subtypes, with an overall similarity ≥ 79.2. In conclusion, S. Infantis strains isolated from diverse sources in Brazil and other countries presented a high genetic similarity according to CRISPR and CRISPR-MVLST, regardless of their source, year, and/or place of isolation. These results suggest that both methods might be useful for molecular typing S. Infantis strains using WGS data.

Dietary risk assessment of drinking water and fish from cultivated wetlands of Ndop

ABSTRACT This study evaluated pesticide exposure practices, and the potential health risks of consuming drinking water and fish from the cultivated wetlands of Ndop, Cameroon. Six hundred and twenty-six questionnaires were conveniently administered to farmers (≥26 years old) in a cross-sectional study to assess exposure practices and dietary risks. The Chi-square and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to establish relationships between variables. The PRIMET model was used to predict a worst-case dietary risk. The exposure practices of 90% of farmers were inadequate. Chlorpyriphos, lambda-cyhalothrin, fipronil, and paraquat dichloride posed a possible dietary risk at recommended and applied doses, with chlorpyrifos having the highest exposure toxicity ratio (ETRdiet = 36.72). Paraquat dichloride, fipronil, and lambda-cyhalothrin posed a possible dietary risk at 26.3, 58.3, and 62.2% of their recommended concentrations, respectively. Remarkably, the dietary risk for cypermethrin was acceptable at 5.8 times its recommended dose (ETRdietR = 0.29). The significant positive correlation (p = 0.000) between PECfish and ETRdiet suggests a possible health risk of consuming fish and drinking water harvested from the wetlands, thus the urgent need of replacing pesticides posing possible risks at lower or recommended concentrations with less toxic alternatives and to train farmers on pesticide application practices.

Structure classification of the proteins from Salmonella enterica pangenome revealed novel potential pathogenicity islands

Salmonella enterica is a pathogenic bacterium known for causing severe typhoid fever in humans, making it important to study due to its potential health risks and significant impact on public health. This study provides evolutionary classification of proteins from Salmonella enterica pangenome. We classified 17,238 domains from 13,147 proteins from 79,758 Salmonella enterica strains and studied in detail domains of 272 proteins from 14 characterized Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPIs). Among SPIs-related proteins, 90 proteins function in the secretion machinery. 41% domains of SPI proteins have no previous sequence annotation. By comparing clinical and environmental isolates, we identified 3682 proteins that are overrepresented in clinical group that we consider as potentially pathogenic. Among domains of potentially pathogenic proteins only 50% domains were annotated by sequence methods previously. Moreover, 36% (1330 out of 3682) of potentially pathogenic proteins cannot be classified into Evolutionary Classification of Protein Domains database (ECOD). Among classified domains of potentially pathogenic proteins the most populated homology groups include helix-turn-helix (HTH), Immunoglobulin-related, and P-loop domains-related. Functional analysis revealed overrepresentation of these protein in biological processes related to viral entry into host cell, antibiotic biosynthesis, DNA metabolism and conformation change, and underrepresentation in translational processes. Analysis of the potentially pathogenic proteins indicates that they form 119 clusters or novel potential pathogenicity islands (NPPIs) within the Salmonella genome, suggesting their potential contribution to the bacterium’s virulence. One of the NPPIs revealed significant overrepresentation of potentially pathogenic proteins. Overall, our analysis revealed that identified potentially pathogenic proteins are poorly studied.

The Environmental Impact of Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) on Health

We have methodically scrutinized the pervasive electromagnetic fields (EMF) prevalent in modern society for their potential health hazards. The aim of this study was to investigate the levels of exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF), resulting biological effects, present recommendations, population characteristics, and public opinion. The main aim of this research is to give a comprehensive explanation of the subject. The data collection process encompassed gathering EMF exposure levels in different settings, analyzing experimental studies on biological impacts, consolidating existing standards, investigating demographic discrepancies, and evaluating public perception through surveys. We analyzed the data using descriptive statistics to summarize the findings and inferential statistics to evaluate the relationships between variables. EMF exposure levels differed among various locations, with metropolitan areas and industrial facilities demonstrating elevated amounts. Studies in real life have shown that electromagnetic fields (EMF) can have many effects on living things, including increased oxidative stress, changed gene expression, and messed up biological cycles. Different organizations had varying guidelines, which were based on different risk assessment approaches. There were differences in the demographic groups regarding their exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) and their levels of awareness. Children and teenagers had more exposure to EMF, whereas younger individuals showed higher levels of awareness but variable degrees of concern. Public opinion differed among age groups, with younger people relying more on online sources for information. This study offers significant insights into the complex correlation between electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and human health. The results emphasize the necessity of focused evaluation of risks and implementation of measures to reduce them, standardization of standards, and customized communication campaigns to tackle demographic differences in awareness and apprehension. This research contributes new findings to the existing body of knowledge, facilitating public discussions, influencing governmental decisions, and fostering a healthier and more informed society.

Bovine papillomavirus vertical transmission: BPV diversity and expression in maternal and fetal tissues.

Bovine Papillomaviruses (BPVs) constitute a diverse group within the Papillomaviridae family, playing a crucial role in bovine health and economic considerations. This study investigates the dynamics of vertical transmission of BPV in cattle, focusing on five cows and their reproductive tissues, as well as three gravid cows and their fetuses. DNA and RNA samples were extracted from the warts, fetal skin, placenta, uterus, ovary, and blood of cows, as well as the skin and blood of fetuses. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) targeted BPV types 1-6 and 8-14, was assessed in both cows and fetuses. Additionally, Reverse Transcription PCR (RT-PCR) examined BPV-2 E5 oncogene expression in the skin and reproductive sites of mother cows and fetuses. Our findings unveil a rich diversity of BPV types, including BPV-2, 3, 9, 10, 12, and 14, present in both maternal and fetal tissues. Intriguingly, certain types, namely BPV-4, 6, 8, and 11, were exclusively identified in maternal tissues A higher diversity of BPVs was observed in cow warts, followed by cow blood, fetal blood, and fetal skin. Strikingly similar BPV types in gravid cow blood and fetuses suggest primary dissemination through the bloodstream and transmission via the placenta, though detected in lower numbers in cow uterus and ovary. Histopathological analysis revealed no abnormalities in the reproductive tissues despite the presence of BPV. However, in one bladder sample from a cow that did not consume bracken fern, urothelial neoplasia in situ was observed. The study extends beyond detection, exploring the expression of the BPV-2 E5 oncogene in fetal tissues, providing insights into potential cell implications. Comparative analyses with previous studies highlight the uniqueness of our investigation, encompassing a broader array of BPV types in the gravid cows and their fetuses. The findings not only establish a foundation for further investigations into the mechanisms of vertical transmission but also highlight the need for targeted interventions and surveillance strategies to mitigate potential health risks associated with specific BPV types.

Potential antivirulence activity of sub-inhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin against Proteus mirabilis isolates: an in-vitro and in-vivo study.

Proteus mirabilis is a significant nosocomial pathogen that is frequently associated with a wide range ofinfections, necessitating heightened attention to mitigate potential health risks. Hence, this study was performed to investigate the impact of sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ciprofloxacin (CIP) on Proteus mirabilis clinical isolates. The sub-MICs of CIP were selected using the growth curve approach. The untreated and treated isolates with sub-MICs of CIP were assessed for their biofilm development, motilities on agar, and other virulence factors. The cell morphology of untreated and treated isolates with sub-MIC of CIP was explored using electron microscope. Moreover, the expression levels of the virulence genes in isolates were measured using quantitative real-time PCR. Data revealed that sub-MICs of CIP significantly (p < 0.05), in a concentration-dependent manner, inhibited biofilm formation and other virulence factors in the selected isolates. Electron microscope analysis showed cell enlargement and various abnormalities in the cell wall and membrane integrity. Sub-MICs of CIP exhibited inhibition of virulence and alterations in morphological integrity against P. mirabilis isolates.

Temporal and Spatial Variation of Toxic Metal Concentrations in Cultivated Soil in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China: Characteristics and Mechanisms

The toxic metal (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) pollution in 250 agricultural soil samples representing the urban area of Jiaxing was studied to investigate the temporal and spatial variations. Compared to the early 1990s, the pollution level has increased. Industry and urbanization were the main factors causing toxic metal pollution on temporal variation, especially the use of feed containing toxic metals. The soil types and crop cultivation methods are the main factors causing toxic metal pollution on spatial variation. Although the single-factor pollution indices of all the toxic metals were within the safe limits, as per the National Soil Environmental Quality Standard (risk screening value), if the background values of soil elements in Jiaxing City are used as the standard, the pollution index of all the elements surveyed exceeds 1.0, reaching a level of mild pollution. The soil samples investigated were heavily contaminated with toxic metal compounds, and their levels increased over time. This situation poses potential ecological and health risks.