Tanacetum vulgare L is a widely distributed plant in Romania, that grows from July to October on the side of roads, railways or on the banks of mountain rivers, both in mountainous and lowland areas. The flowers have an intense yellow color, having the appearance of a pile of tansy, hence its popular name. The medicinal properties, especially the antibacterial and antitumor activities, are the result of the bioactive compounds recovered in the hydroethanolic extracts or volatile oils. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition of hydroethanolic extracts of T. vulgare obtained from different vegetative organs. Thus, a considerable variety of bioactive compounds with pharmacological importance were identified, such as emodin, anthraquinones, velutin, jaceosidin, diosmetin, tetrahydroxyflavone, casticin, medroxyprogesterone. The large variety of bioactive compounds recognized as important pharmacological products represents an important argument for the classification of T. vulgare as a medicinal plant with multiple therapeutic properties.
Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) remain a pressing global health issue, contributing significantly to patient morbidity and mortality while imposing severe economic and logistical pressures on healthcare systems. These infections are often caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, complicating both prevention and treatment. Surface disinfectants are critical in mitigating pathogen transmission and curbing antimicrobial resistance within healthcare environments. However, the increasing prevalence of biocide resistance among pathogens necessitates a deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms that counteract the effects of disinfectants. This review explores the various responses of microorganisms to disinfectants and delves into current known bacterial strategies that overcome disinfectants activity. Understanting these microbial responses is essential for the development of more effective disinfection protocols in order to ensure an efficient control of hospital-acquired infections.
Aging is defined as a progressive loss of function, leading to reduced fertility, increased mortality, and disability [1]. Lifespan and healthspan are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, and recent studies have shown that aging can be modulated in model organisms through genetic interventions [3]. In C. elegans, mutations in the daf-2 insulin/IGF-1 receptor and odr-3 G-protein-coupled receptor significantly extend lifespan, with the daf-2; odr-3 double mutant showing synergistic effects beyond single mutants [2][3]. To expand this, we investigated the orthologous genes in Drosophila melanogaster: InR (insulin receptor) and GαO (G-protein alpha O subunit), using both single and double mutants. We found that both InR and G𝛼O mutants extended lifespan compared to wildtype, however, the GαO;InR double mutant showed only a slight increase in lifespan compared to the InR mutant, less pronounced than the synergy observed in C. elegans. These findings suggest that while these genes may have conserved roles in lifespan regulation, their interactions differ between species, indicating species-specific modulation of aging.
Algae biotechnology is an emerging discipline that explores the potential of these marine plants in industrial, environmental, and food applications. Thanks to their rapid growth, high productivity, and richness in bioactive compounds, algae have become a sustainable source for obtaining materials of scientific interest. Algal biomaterials are used in various thanks to their natural, renewable, and biodegradable properties. The first part of this state-of-the-art review addressed marine polysaccharides, which have a complex molecular architecture whose composition defines their physicochemical and biological properties. The second part addressed sulfated polysaccharides, their types, extraction, and main applications. Finally, biosilica was discussed as an algal mineral with unique nanopores and morphologies, useful as an adsorbent and catalytic support. The application of these algal biomaterials encompasses tissue engineering, controlled drug delivery, food, cosmetics, water treatment, and environmental remediation.
Influenza A virus (IAV) is mainly transmitted from one to another host through excretions and secretions in the form of droplets and aerosols. It is also possible that the virus is transmitted indirectly through a contaminated environment. The likelihood of transmission through the environment depends on several factors, including the survival time of the virus in secretions/excretions on contaminated surfaces, including feed. However, the transmission of IAV through feed has not been sufficiently investigated. In this study, the half-life of the IAV virus at the level of nucleic acid in feed was compared under certain conditions. Different concentrations of IAV subtype H3N2 (100 to 106 EID50) were applied to feed samples from a broiler breeding farm, which were then heat treated at -20, 4, 25 and 37°C, for 24, 48 and 72h. The IAV concentration in all samples was measured by determining RNA for the matrix protein by RT-qPCR and the half-life of the virus was calculated. The half-life of the virus in the feed samples was compared with that of the Brain Hart Infusion (BHI) protective medium, used as a control. The half-lives identified for feed and BHI environment were 19 h and 41 h respectively for 37°C, and 56 h for BHI at 25°C. The half-lives for the other temperatures were insignificant for the two matrices. The half-life was longer for the feed compared to the BHI medium at temperatures above 25°C. The viral titre had a sharp drop at temperature of 37°C with a steeper slope in the case of the BHI environment compared to the feed. The evaluation of the infectivity of the virus remaining in the two matrices by inoculating suspensions on embryonated eggs highlighted the fact that the feed does not allow the viability of the virus to be preserved even in the case of testing immediately after inoculation. Therefore, the transmission of IAV subtype H3N2 may not play a significant role in the spread of the virus.
The biological effects produced by low-frequency of the electromagnetic fields on the seed germination of the wheat were studied on Triticum aestivum L. Electromagnetic fields with frequencies between 10 and 200 Hz and an increasing of the intensity up to 5 Hz have been used. The density value applied to the electromagnetic fields was 2mT. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) seeds were used as biological material. The biological response was established by determining seed germination and it was performed by measuring the length of the germinated seed seedlings hypocotyls. The peroxidase level has been used as biological marker for both seedling hypocotyls and rootlets. The biological response was very complex; depending on the frequency of the fields, the effect can be stimulating or inhibitory.
Indoor air quality has become a major concern in recent decades, given its strong influence on public health and well-being, as people spend the majority of their time indoors. Among the biological components of indoor air, aeromicroflora represents a critical indicator, reflecting both environmental conditions and human activity. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding aeromicroflora in educational and administrative buildings, with a focus on microbial diversity, sources of contamination, health risks, and methods of monitoring and control. Special attention is given to bacteria and fungi as the predominant groups of airborne microorganisms, their potential pathogenicity, and their role as indicators of hygiene and ventilation efficiency. Moreover, the article focuses on highlighting the population categories most affected, such as children, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing conditions or weakened immune systems. Exposure to microbiological air pollutants has been associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes, from allergic reactions and respiratory problems to chronic inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, integrating recent findings, the review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the implications of aeromicroflora for environmental health, while also outlining future directions for research and practical interventions in indoor spaces. Addressing these challenges is essential for reducing health risks and ensuring safer indoor environments.
Turbidity reduction in water and wastewater treatment typically involves chemical coagulants like alum, iron salts, and acrylamide. While natural coagulants offer benefits, their main drawback is the organic load in treated water, which can be addressed through purification. In this work, proteins from a crude extract obtained with 0.5 mol L-1 NaCl from Phaseolus vulgaris seeds were first precipitated by ammonium sulfate and then redissolved and purified on the anion exchange resin AmberliteTM IRA 900 Cl in batch mode. Prior to their purification, optimization of adsorption conditions and elution was performed. The purification on AmberliteTM IRA 900 Cl������������������������������������������ purification � AmberliteTM IRA 958 Cl. AmberliteTM IRA 900 Cl showed twice the adsorption capacity of AmberliteTM IRA 958 Cl. The organic load in treated water was over five times lower when the fraction purified on AmberliteTM IRA 900 Cl was used as a coagulant compared to when the crude extract was used.
Monkeypox virus, a zoonotic orthopoxvirus, has emerged as a significant global health concern following recent outbreaks in non-endemic regions. While previously confined to Central and West Africa, monkeypox virus has been recently detected worldwide, underscoring the need for enhanced surveillance and effective countermeasures. Moreover, no currently approved treatment for specific use in monkeypox infections exists. In this context, there is an urgent need to develop novel treatment options and strengthen global preparedness against monkeypox virus with innovative antiviral agents. Therefore, this paper provides an overview of the most recent therapeutic approaches aiming to deal with monkeypox virus infections. Notably, emerging synthetic-, natural-, and nanotechnological-based treatment strategies have been reviewed, creating an updated framework of use for future research studies.
The efficient control of essential oils (EOs) active compounds release is essential, especially in pharmaceutical formulations, where the stability and bioavailability of active compounds are critical. The use of an encapsulation matrix with specific properties allows for the adjustment of solubility differences, diffusion, and controlled degradation, ensuring optimal and prolonged release of active substances. On the other side, the biocompatibility and safety of materials used for medical applications, the delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients, the preservation of food and their use in the cosmetics industry are essential factors. The functionalized materials should neither be toxic, nor cause inflammatory or other pathogenic processes. Therefore, a thorough control of the mechanism of release of the active principle, as well as the factors influencing biocompatibility, possible side effects that might occur as a result of biodegradation of the material, must be carried out, and all this is possible by performing biocompatibility tests.
During history, wooden buildings exposed to various agents, either biotic or abiotic, have suffered damage under the influence of living organisms like fungi. The main strategy for degrading wood polymers- cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin is by secreting enzymes that break down the main constituents through lysis. This study investigates the enzymatic activity of various Aspergillus sp. strains identified on the walls of Boz wooden Church in Hunedoara County, Romania, by analysing the influence of different parameters on the production of the cellulolytic enzymes and confirming the presence of a cellulase coding gene fragment. The research primarily examines the total cellulase activity of three Aspergillus species—Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus nidulans and Aspergillus sclerotiorum—isolated from medieval wooden churches in Transylvania, Romania. Variations of several parameters was analysed, such as the incubation time, the influence of incubation temperature on enzymatic digestion, influence of citrate buffer pH, influence of substrate concentration. Additionally, a phylogenetic analysis has been performed based on similarities between the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions for the investigated strains.
Camelina sativa is an annual plant, belonging to the family Brassicaceae, native to S-E Europe and South-West Asia, from whose seeds an oil of superior quality in composition is obtained. It has a saponifiable fraction represented by fatty acids, of which polyunsaturated ones are found in a proportion greater than 55%, and a non-saponifiable fraction represented by sterols and tocopherols. Camelina oil currently has multiple uses, from uses in the field of biofuels, it can be purified through specific technological processes and used to obtain products with different destinations: food supplements, ingredients for animal feed, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Previous studies have shown that camelina oil also has an appreciable photoprotective capacity, which led to the desire to continue studies in this direction. This paper aims to analyze the photoprotective capacity of the mixture of camelina oil and grape seed oil, in different proportions, to obtain formulations of cosmetic products. Two samples were prepared – sample A (camelina oil 25g, grape oil 75g) and sample B (camelina oil 75g, grape oil 25g). Spectrophotometric analysis of 10 hexane solutions, with a concentration of 1%-10%, from each sample, at wavelengths between 290 and 320 nm. The sun protection factor determined by the equation Mansur et al (1986) has values between 3,097 and 21,156 for sample A, respectively between 3,153 and 24,089 for sample B, which indicates the possibility of using the mixture of camelina oil and grape oil in dermatologic formulations for solar protection.
Artificial reefs are commonly created with the goal of enhancing fish populations. Currently, the degradation of natural reefs is also causing a decrease in fish productivity. As a result, the marine department is prioritizing the creation of artificial reefs to boost the fisheries. In Palk Bay, artificial reefs that were subject to research were placed in 2019 at Adaikkathevan Seashore (Bay of Bengal), which is located in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India. Because of a wide range of possible alternative materials and their parameters, research activities involve detailed analysis of all aspects of their influence on the new material’s parameters. Durability can be considered one of the most significant parameters of building materials, having a direct impact on the lifetime of the material itself as well as the lifetime of the whole reef. Natural recycled materials used in this research work include fly ash, seashells, rice-husked ash, silica fumes, granite powder, paper pulp, and coconut fiber. The compressive strength of artificial reef concrete was evaluated on various days (7, 14, 28, 56, and 90), and the findings indicated that it surpasses the strength of conventional concrete. It was found that the compressive strength of AR2 and AR3 for 90 days of curing is 0.91% and 3.83% was almost equal to conventional concrete. The purpose of the AR initiative is to enhance the fish population through the establishment of a viable marine ecosystem, thereby ensuring a dependable means of subsistence for indigenous fisher communities. This study demonstrates that the designed artificial reef mimics natural reef properties, fostering algae growth that supports fish breeding. The numerous holes provided in the artificial reef also offer protection for fish against predators.
Here we examine the efficacy of pretreatment with glutathione (GSH) plus silymarin (SM) on kidney and lung injury as a distant organ after hepatic ischemia reperfusion (IR). Rats were randomly separated into five groups: Sham, IR, GSH-IR, SM-IR, and SM plus GSH-IR. The treatment groups took 100 mg/kg of GSH, SM, or a combination of GSH plus SM 60 minutes prior to IR. The groups excluding sham were exposed to 30 minutes of ischemia and 24 hours of reperfusion. The rats were euthanized after 24 hours; blood, kidney, and lung specimens were gathered to perform analyses and pathology studies. As a result, serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were significantly elevated in the IR group compared to sham. GSH administration prior to hepatic IR statistically declined IR-induced elevations of creatinine and BUN; likewise, creatinine and BUN were lower by an average of 19.8% and 54% in the SM plus GSH-IR group compared to the IR group, respectively. GSH, SM, and SM plus GSH pretreatments significantly reduced the kidney histopathological damage. Lung histopathologic damage scores on hepatic IR-induced lung injury were higher in the IR group than in the sham group, but lung pathological damage scores in the SM plus GSH-IR group were statistically low according to the IR group. Application of GSH plus SM before liver IR may be a potential therapy to mitigate remote injury of the kidney and lung resulting from hepatic IR.
Human population is dependent on agricultural production, but these activities pose multiple threats to soil health and indirectly to ecological sustainability. Synthesis of fertilizers proved to be a miraculous solution to enhance soil productivity, but this advancement came with many unseen risks. Long-term research stations that have decades long experiments with fertilizers additions are paramount in better understanding long-term impact of fertilizer use. Our study focused on ammonium and nitrate levels found in soils in an experiment of inorganic nitrogen addition than began in 1975. We further directed our attention to soil mineralization potential, nitrate reductase activities and densities of two major microbial functional groups: ammonifiers and denitrifiers. Our data suggests that ammonium has a stronger tendency of soil buildup than nitrate and that increased levels of inorganic nitrogen species also impacted molecular compartments and processes such as mineralization potential, soil microbiota and enzymatic activities. Another result indicates that analysed soils reached a storage limit for phosphorus which threatens to overburden other ecosystems.
In recent years the growing demand for food led to intensification of agricultural practices, especially by the excessive use of fertilizers, which increased the environmental pollution. Therefore, pollution control by improving the efficiency of fertilizers and reducing their application is of great interest. Urease is one of the most active hydrolases in soil, having an important role in soil N cycle and being used as an indicator of soil quality. The objective of this study was to assess the urease activity in soils with different fertilization treatment, as well as its kinetic and thermodynamic parameters to better understand its driving factors. The results show a better enzymatic activity in soils treated with combined manure and mineral fertilizers. Soil urease has two optimal pH values, in the neutral and basic domains. Enzymatic activity has a steep increase with the temperature in the interval 45–65°C. The KM values increase with temperature from 11 to 23.5 mM, indicating a lower substrate affinity. The activation enthalpies for enzyme-substrate formation as well as for the rate limiting step are 7.59 and 14.18 kcal/mol respectively. The relationship between urease activity and microbial biomass will be further investigated.
The Neptune grass (NG) is an endemic plant of the Mediterranean Sea. Successive studies carried out show a significant decrease in their presence in this sea. Concern for the conservation of NG implies being able to monitor its evolution and thus be able to determine if its presence is increasing or decreasing in seabeds. Nowadays, expensive and limited methods are used to carry out this follow-up, which often also involves manual intervention. The work carried out aims to automatically determine the type of seabed from underwater images, performing semantic segmentation using deep neural networks. In this work, a deep neural network has been implemented to carry out a semantic segmentation of images of the seabed, offering improvements with respect to the techniques currently used to obtain this information. The developed neural network allows for distinguishing in the images of the seabed the areas of NG, rock, and sand. The possibility of identifying other elements present, such as dead NG, both the plant itself and its loose leaves scattered on the bottom, has also been explored in this work.
Blood loss has been a concern especially in surgery and bleeding control and a number of haemostatic agents and tissue sealants have been developed and applied in various surgical disciplines. The first steps to stop bleeding due to a vascular lesion, limit blood loss and allow healing are ensured by platelets that play an essential role in forming the primary haemostatic plug. After this, the clot is consolidated by the formation of a fibrin network organized around platelet aggregates. In this study we tested for the treatment of external haemorrhagic lesions a new biomaterial based on expired platelets from blood banks immobilized on a collagen support. These platelets are no longer used for transfusions, are safe (tested for viral and bacterial contamination) and still have local haemostatic activity. Collagen is non-toxic, non-antigenic and promotes cell adhesion. Platelets bind to the collagen support and subsequently form clots through the intrinsic coagulation pathway.
Banku is a food made of fermented maize flour and fermented cassava dough. It is produced and consumed by the Togolese, Nigerian and Ghanaian peoples living in Côte d’Ivoire. Not only is this food less known by the original inhabitants of the Côte d’Ivoire but the nutritional and sanitary quality of this food is not defined. However, its preparation remains empirical and is done in unhygienic conditions. Thus, objective of this study is to promote banku through its nutritional and sanitary characteristics in order to ensure consumer safety. Two localities (Grand-Bassam and Gonzagueville) of Côte d’Ivoire where there is a strong foreign community were chosen to take the various samples. The analyses were carried out by biochemical and microbial properties during the production of banku. The results showed that the fermented maize flour had the highest titratable acidity with a value of 0.31 ± 0.01%. The phytate content was lower in the mixture of fermented maize flour and cassava dough with a value of 8.81 ± 0.57 mg/100 g DM. After cooking, the mesophilic aerobic germs load in the banku indicated (5.6 ± 0.4) × 103 CFU/g which is below the standard prescribed by CODINORM. The promotion of banku in Côte d’Ivoire would contribute to food self-sufficiency and growth of the country’s economy. The nutritional and microbiological properties are in accordance with the CODINORM (2001) standard. Banku can be safely consumed in Côte d’Ivoire and worldwide.
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are tumors developed in the upper aerodigestive tracts, more than 90% originating in the squamous cells lining the mucosa of the upper airways. There are between 650,000 and 900,000 new cases each year, most of them advanced, resulting in high mortality (five-year survival about 50%). HNCs do not metastasize to distant sites, but often affect local lymph nodes. Their etiology is multifactorial, with smoking, alcohol consumption and HPV infection being the most common. HNCs rapidly enter hypoxia and synthesize angiogenic factors, which contribute to further tumor development and recurrence. Although there is a relatively wide variety of therapeutic strategies, their effectiveness is reduced because of resistance development. Cell adhesion mediated by integrins and the extracellular matrix is an important mechanism of tumor progression. In this study, expression levels of genes involved in cell adhesion were determined in two patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma and three patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. The obtained data showed that there is a differentiation in the expression of genes for collagens (COL15A1, COL18A1, COL4A1, COL4A2 and COL4A3), integrins (ITGA4, ITGAV, ITGB3) and two molecules involved in their interactions (CD44 and MMP2) for the two tumor types, the results obtained need validation on a statistically significant sample.
