Article
Environmental Sciences
Mehmet Burak Ates, Mustafa Ortatatli
Summary: The study revealed that aflatoxins can cause liver pathological damage and alterations in biochemical levels, while Nigella sativa seed and thymoquinone can significantly alleviate these negative effects.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Zhihui Li, Linhao Li, Scott Heyward, Shuaiqian Men, Meishu Xu, Tatsuya Sueyoshi, Hongbing Wang
Summary: The study reveals that phenobarbital significantly elevates the expression of SLC13A5 in human primary hepatocytes through the activation of PXR but not CAR.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Payam Arabkhani, Nahid Saeedi, Hossein Sadeghi, Sadegh Nouripour-Sisakht, Maral Gharaghani, Arash Asfaram
Summary: In this study, a novel biosynthesis method for the preparation of zinc oxide/carbon nanofiber nanocomposite (ZnO-CNFs) was proposed and their photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties were evaluated for wastewater treatment. The synthesized ZnO-CNFs showed high photodegradation efficiency of tetracycline antibiotic residues and superior antibacterial and antifungal activity compared to ZnO nanoparticles. These findings indicate that ZnO-CNFTD exhibits excellent photocatalytic and antimicrobial potential and can be a promising candidate for effective treatment of water contaminated with microorganisms and organic compounds.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Justin E. Silpe, Joel W. H. Wong, Sian Owen, Michael Baym, Emily P. Balskus
Summary: Colibactin is a chemically unstable small-molecule genotoxin produced by various bacteria, and it induces bacterial cell death by targeting bacteria containing prophages. Exogenous DNA or expression of Colibactin resistance protein can protect bacteria from the toxic effects of Colibactin. This study reveals the potential impact of Colibactin production on microbiomes and highlights the role of microbial natural products in influencing population-level events.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jing Ge, Kai Guo, Yan Huang, Palika Dias Morse, Cong Zhang, Mei-Wei Lv, Jin-Long Li
Summary: This study assessed the mitigation level of Cd-induced cardiotoxicity by different selenium sources. The results showed that selenium sources alleviated Cd toxicity by activating the AHR/CAR/PXR/Nrf2 pathway to promote the restoration of the antioxidant defense system and phase I metabolism enzymes system. Among the selenium sources, nanoparticles of Se exhibited superior effectiveness in relieving Cd-induced cardiotoxicity.
JOURNAL OF NUTRITIONAL BIOCHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Sylvia A. Sapula, Anteneh Amsalu, Jon J. Whittall, Bradley J. Hart, Naomi L. Siderius, Lynn Nguyen, Cobus Gerber, John Turnidge, Henrietta Venter
Summary: High and often inappropriate antibiotic use in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) contributes to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, limited surveillance of AMR prevalence and scope in RACFs has been conducted. In this study, wastewater-based epidemiology was used to analyze the prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli in two RACFs and one retirement facility. The findings revealed a higher prevalence of AMR and multidrug-resistant E. coli in one RACF, including the presence of the high-risk E. coli clone ST131 carrying CTX-M-like extended-spectrum beta-lactamases. The resistome analysis also identified a higher prevalence of mobile resistance genes in this facility. The study highlights the need for measures to limit AMR development in RACFs, potentially through antimicrobial stewardship.
MICROBIOLOGY SPECTRUM
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Gabhan Chalmers, Rebecca E. V. Anderson, Roger Murray, Edward Topp, Patrick Boerlin
Summary: The study reveals that P. mirabilis can harbor and transmit ESC resistance genes and plasmids, making it a potential reservoir of antimicrobial resistance.
Article
Ecology
David Kneis, Claudele Lemay-St-Denis, Stella Cellier-Goetghebeur, Alan X. Elena, Thomas U. Berendonk, Joelle N. Pelletier, Stefanie Hess
Summary: In this study, shotgun metagenomics was used to estimate the abundance of dfrB gene variants in aquatic environments. The results showed that dfrB1, dfrB2, dfrB3, dfrB4, dfrB5, and dfrB7 were more prevalent in wastewater microbiomes, while dfrB9, dfrB10, and dfrB13 were more prevalent in freshwater. This suggests that natural freshwater communities serve as a major reservoir for the recently discovered dfrB gene variants.
Article
Microbiology
Steven Dunn, Laura Carrilero, Michael Brockhurst, Alan McNally
Summary: The study found that different E. coli strains vary in their ability to acquire and maintain MDR plasmids, with highly strain-specific transcriptional responses observed following plasmid acquisition. However, the subtle transcriptional responses consistent across all strains suggest that fitness costs arising from transcriptional disruption are unlikely to act as a barrier to dissemination of this MDR plasmid in E. coli.
Article
Immunology
Patricia J. Simner, Heba H. Mostafa, Yehudit Bergman, Michael Ante, Tsigereda Tekle, Ayomikun Adebayo, Stephan Beisken, Kathryn Dzintars, Pranita D. Tamma
Summary: This study revealed the mechanisms by which New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli isolate developed relatively rapid resistance to cefiderocol through increased copy numbers of bla(NDM) genes. The findings highlight the importance of investigating increased bla(NDM-5) expression frequency in contributing to cefiderocol resistance.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Paul Laffont-Lozes, Florian Salipante, Geraldine Leguelinel-Blache, Catherine Dunyach-Remy, Jean-Philippe Lavigne, Albert Sotto, Romaric Larcher
Summary: This study aimed to determine the correlation between antimicrobial consumption (AMC) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli at a hospital level, and evaluate the use of dynamic regression (DR) models for predicting AMR and implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). The study was conducted in a French tertiary hospital between 2014 and 2019. The results showed that rates of fluoroquinolone and cephalosporin resistance decreased, while overall AMC increased but decreased for fluoroquinolone. DR models revealed that changes in antibiotic usage explained a significant portion of the decrease in resistance. However, caution should be exercised when using DR models for AMR forecasting and ASP implementation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Zhiwen Qi, Xingying Xue, Hao Zhou, Hua Yuan, Wenjun Li, Guliang Yang, Pujun Xie, Chengzhang Wang
Summary: The study demonstrated that OPs-AgNPs can serve as excellent antimicrobial agents, exhibiting significant antibacterial capabilities against E. coli, primarily through disrupting the cell wall and regulating Ca2+-ATPase activity.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Mutasim E. Ibrahim
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors for multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae infection among hospitalized patients in southern Saudi Arabia. The study found that 66.8% of patients were infected with multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae strains. Factors such as gender, age, intensive care unit admission, invasive medical devices, and chronic illness were significantly associated with the infection.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Nadghia F. Leite-Sampaio, Cicera Natalia F. L. Gondim, Celestina E. Sobral de Souza, Henrique D. M. Coutinho
Summary: This study investigated the antibacterial and antimicrobial modulating activity of alpha-pinene and borneol against Escherichia coli and enteropathogenic and enterotoxigenic serotypes. The results showed that alpha-pinene and borneol exhibited low antimicrobial action against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli, but no antimicrobial activity was observed against enteropathogenic and enterotoxigenic serotypes. A synergistic action of borneol with ciprofloxacin against enterotoxigenic serotypes was noted.
MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS
(2022)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Lorcan O'Neill, Edgar Garcia Manzanilla, Daniel Ekhlas, Finola C. Leonard
Summary: Antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli of animal origin poses a threat to human health. Pig farming is one of the largest livestock sectors and understanding the epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance in E. coli of porcine origin is crucial.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Vineet Kumar Pal, Kurunthachalam Kannan
Summary: This study is the first to report VOCM concentrations in urine of pet dogs and cats, highlighting the need to identify sources and health implications of VOCs exposure in these animals.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
D'Souza Nishitha, Athiyarath Krishnan Sudheer, Kumar Arun, Vadakkeveedu Narayan Amrish, Gaddam Mahesh, Harikripa Narayana Udayashankar, Keshava Balakrishna
Summary: This study investigates the distribution of trace metals in the dissolved phase of estuaries in southwestern India and their impact on human health and ecosystem. The behavior of these trace metals in estuarine environments is found to be non-conservative. Risk assessment studies show that while the studied metals are below risk thresholds for adults and children, children are more susceptible to health risks through dermal exposure.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yumeng Shi, Shucong Chen, Mengqi Yan, Zhipeng Cheng, Leicheng Zhao, Yarui Liu, Bo Zhang, Hongkai Zhu, Tao Zhang, Kurunthachalam Kannan
Summary: Nitrogenous flame retardants (NFRs) have raised global concern due to their nephrotoxic effect, but the mechanism of exposure-induced kidney injury remains unknown. This study measured eight NFRs, four oxidative stress biomarkers (OSBs), and one kidney injury biomarker (NGAL) in urine samples collected from residents in e-waste disassembly and reference areas. Higher concentrations of NFRs and biomarkers were found in the urine of e-waste site residents, indicating that chronic exposure to NFRs can induce oxidative stress and kidney damage. Structure equation modeling revealed that oxidative stress mediated a significant portion of the effect of NFRs on NGAL in e-waste related people. Overall, this study suggests the long-term chronic exposure to NFRs can lead to oxidative stress and renal injury in humans, but the pathogenesis may be scenario-specific.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Alison G. Paquette, Samantha Lapehn, Sophie Freije, James MacDonald, Theo Bammler, Drew B. Day, Christine T. Loftus, Kurunthachalam Kannan, W. Alex Mason, Nicole R. Bush, Kaja Z. LeWinn, Daniel A. Enquobahrie, Carmen Marsit, Sheela Sathyanarayana
Summary: This study provides the first human transcriptomic assessment of PAHs in the placenta and identifies associations between prenatal PAH exposure and placental gene expression, shedding light on the mechanisms by which PAHs may disrupt placental function.
ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Vignesh Akshitha, Keshava Balakrishna, Harikripa Narayana Udayashankar
Summary: Groundwater quality assessment is crucial for understanding land use impacts and implementing effective water management plans. This study assessed the influence of land use/land cover (LULC) on groundwater table and quality in tropical unconfined aquifers. Groundwater samples were collected during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, and laboratory analysis was conducted to estimate drinking water and irrigation quality indices. The study also evaluated the human health risks associated with nitrate contamination. The findings revealed the importance of informed LULC development and implementing proper sewage treatment measures to improve groundwater quality and reduce health risks.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Biochemical Research Methods
Zhong-Min Li, Mathusa Lakuleswaran, Kurunthachalam Kannan
Summary: In this study, a method using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed for the determination of various disinfectants, including BACs, ATMACs, DDACs, and QACs, in human serum and urine. The method involved the use of isotopically labelled internal standards and solid-phase extraction. Different LC columns were utilized for the separation of different compounds. The method showed good sensitivity and accuracy, and it was able to detect the presence of QACs and their metabolites in human serum and urine.
JOURNAL OF CHROMATOGRAPHY B-ANALYTICAL TECHNOLOGIES IN THE BIOMEDICAL AND LIFE SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Zorimar Rivera-Nunez, Carolyn W. Kinkade, Leena Khoury, Jessica Brunner, Hannah Murphy, Christina Wang, Kurunthachalam Kannan, Richard K. Miller, Thomas G. O'Connor, Emily S. Barrett
Summary: The study found that maternal serum levels of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are associated with sex steroid hormone levels during pregnancy. Specifically, PFHxS is associated with increased testosterone levels in male fetuses, while PFNA and PFDA are associated with increased free testosterone levels in male fetuses. For female fetuses, PFHxS is associated with increased levels of estradiol and estriol. No associations were found for PFOS and PFOA.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Keshava Balakrishna, Yerabham Praveenkumarreddy, D'Souza Nishitha, Chikmagalur Mallappa Gopal, Jayakrishna Kanhangad Shenoy, Krishnamurthy Bhat, Neloy Khare, Kiran Dhangar, Manish Kumar
Summary: This study provides an overview of the prevalence of organic micropollutants, including EDCs, therapeutic drugs, hormones, fragrances, and UV filters in Antarctic wastewaters and coastal oceans. Various treatment technologies used in research stations are reviewed, and the potential contamination and impacts of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) on the coastal waters and sea ice are discussed. The study highlights the need for remedial actions and future-oriented research to protect the pristine ecosystem of Antarctica.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Abigail Gaylord, Emily S. Barrett, Sheela Sathyanarayana, Shanna H. Swan, Ruby H. N. Nguyen, Nicole R. Bush, Kecia Carroll, Drew B. Day, Kurunthachalam Kannank, Leonardo Trasande
Summary: This study investigated the influence of prenatal exposure to the endocrine disrupting chemical bisphenol A on childhood atopic disease. The results showed that there were inverse associations between first trimester bisphenol A concentration and food allergy, while second trimester bisphenol A concentration was positively associated with food allergy. Additionally, prenatal exposure to bisphenol S was found to increase the risk of asthma among males.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Wei Wang, Kurunthachalam Kannan
Summary: This study collected 72 single-use medical products of four categories from a hospital in New York State in 2015 and analyzed their migration of 10 phthalates in an ethanol/water mixture. The results showed that the leached phthalate concentration ranged from 0.04 to 54,600 μg, with DEHP being the major phthalate found in 99% of the samples. DEHP was also found in notable concentrations in products labeled as DEHP-free. The study calculated the direct exposure to phthalates from medical devices and first aid supplies, as well as dermal intake from creams/lotions.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Henglin Zhang, You Wang, Huimin Zhu, Shaoyou Lu, Yu Wang, Jingchuan Xue, Tao Zhang, Kurunthachalam Kannan, Hongwen Sun
Summary: This study investigated the exposure of infants in South China to neonicotinoid insecticides (NEOs). The results showed that infants had detectable levels of NEOs in urine and blood samples, breast milk, infant formula, and tap water. The concentrations of specific NEOs varied in different samples, with dinotefuran and imidacloprid being the most abundant in urine, blood, breast milk, infant formula, and tap water. Older infants had higher NEO exposure than younger infants. Blood samples had higher concentrations of NEOs compared to urine samples, indicating that NEOs readily enter the bloodstream. Breast-fed infants had higher exposure levels than formula-fed infants. The study also found that external sources contributed to the majority of NEO exposure in infants.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Civil
Yovan Lino, Harikripa Narayana Udayashankar, Damodaran Sarojam Suresh Babu, Murugan Ramasamy, Keshava Balakrishna
Summary: Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) in a tropical, high-rainfall coastline in southwestern India was investigated for two years to quantify the seepage rates. The study found that the seepage rates were among the highest reported in the world, possibly due to the large coastal aquifer and high annual rainfall. The dominant form of SGD was recirculated seawater, accounting for up to 99% of the total discharge during certain seasons.
JOURNAL OF HYDROLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yovan Lino, Kumar Pranjal, Singh Priyansh, Chand Jagath, Harikripa Narayana Udayashankar, Damodaran Sarojam Suresh Babu, Keshava Balakrishna
Summary: This study reviews 1628 published literature on submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) in the last 21 years and provides an overview of the challenges and limitations in assessing SGD. The major challenges in quantifying discharge include inconsistent sampling strategies, uncertainties in modeling, spatio-temporal variations, and difficulties in measuring inaccessible areas. Additionally, limitations include insufficient data on coastal aquifers and geology, as well as a lack of historical hydrological data. Based on the analysis, the study recommends assessments of SGD in areas of significant discharge and the development of monitoring networks and strict policies for groundwater usage.
GROUNDWATER FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Vishal Midya, Cecilia Sara Alcala, Elza Rechtman, Jill K. Gregory, Kurunthachalam Kannan, Irva Hertz-Picciotto, Susan L. Teitelbaum, Chris Gennings, Maria J. Rosa, Damaskini Valvi
Summary: A study investigates the interactions between environmental chemicals (ECs) and their association with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By combining weighted quantile sum regression and machine learning methods, two potential interactions between specific ECs and ASD diagnosis are identified.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Mengqi Yan, Hongkai Zhu, Haining Luo, Tao Zhang, Hongwen Sun, Kurunthachalam Kannan
Summary: This study analyzed urine samples collected from 12 cities in mainland China to determine the concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and oxidative stress biomarkers. The results showed that VOC exposure primarily came from cooking, solvents, and vehicle emissions. Regional variations in VOC concentrations were observed, with higher levels found in North and South China. The study also revealed a positive correlation between most VOCs and oxidative stress markers, suggesting potential health risks associated with VOC exposure.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
