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Search Results (7,005)

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18 pages, 1500 KiB  
Article
Complete Genome Assembly of Amycolatopsis bartoniae DSM 45807T Allows the Characterization of a Novel Glycopeptide Biosynthetic Gene Cluster
by Anastasia Stepanyshyn, Christian Rückert-Reed, Tobias Busche, Bohdan Yaruta, Andres Andreo-Vidal, Flavia Marinelli, Jörn Kalinowski and Oleksandr Yushchuk
Genes 2024, 15(12), 1651; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15121651 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
Background: Glycopeptide antibiotics (GPAs) are a very successful class of clinically relevant antibacterials, used to treat severe infections caused by Gram-positive pathogens, e.g., multidrug resistant and methicillin-resistant staphylococci. The biosynthesis of GPAs is coded within large biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). In recent years, [...] Read more.
Background: Glycopeptide antibiotics (GPAs) are a very successful class of clinically relevant antibacterials, used to treat severe infections caused by Gram-positive pathogens, e.g., multidrug resistant and methicillin-resistant staphylococci. The biosynthesis of GPAs is coded within large biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). In recent years, modern DNA sequencing technologies have allowed the identification and characterization of multiple novel GPA BGCs, leading to the discovery of novel compounds. Our previous research anticipated that the genome of Amycolatopsis bartoniae DSM 45807T carries a novel GPA BGC, although the genomic sequence quality available at that time did not allow us to characterize its organization properly. Objectives: To address this gap, in the current work we aimed to produce a complete genome assembly of A. bartoniae DSM 45807, and to identify and analyze the corresponding GPA BGC. Methods: Bioinformatic and microbiological methods were utilized in this research. Results: We de novo sequenced and completely assembled the genome of A. bartoniae DSM 45807, and fully characterized the BGC of interest, named aba. This BGC has an unusual gene organization and it contains four genes for sulfotransferases, which are considered to be rare in GPA BGCs. Our pathway prediction indicated that aba encodes the biosynthesis of a putatively novel GPA, although we were not able to detect any GPA production under different cultivation conditions, implying that aba pathway is inactive. Conclusions: Our results indicate aba as a promising source for new GPA tailoring enzymes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Genetics and Genomics)
33 pages, 7655 KiB  
Article
Silanization of Starch and Its Effect on Cross-Linking and Mechanical, Dynamic, Hydrophobic, and Aging Properties of Polymeric Compositions Containing Natural Rubber
by Konrad Mrozowski and Aleksandra Smejda-Krzewicka
Materials 2024, 17(24), 6273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17246273 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Abstract
In recent years, the search for more sustainable fillers for elastomeric composites than silica and carbon black has been underway. In this work, silanized starch was used as an innovative filler for elastomeric composites. Corn starch was chemically modified by silanization (with n-octadecyltrimethoxysilane) [...] Read more.
In recent years, the search for more sustainable fillers for elastomeric composites than silica and carbon black has been underway. In this work, silanized starch was used as an innovative filler for elastomeric composites. Corn starch was chemically modified by silanization (with n-octadecyltrimethoxysilane) via a condensation reaction to produce a hydrophobic starch. Starch/natural rubber composites were prepared by mixing the modified starch with elastomer. The morphology, hydrophobicity, and chemical structure of starch after and before modification were studied. The results showed that starch after silanization becomes hydrophobic (θw = 117.3°) with a smaller particle size. In addition, FT-IR spectrum analysis confirmed the attachment of silane groups to the starch. The modified starch dispersed better in the natural rubber matrix and obtained a more homogeneous morphology. The composite achieved the best dynamic (ΔG′ = 203.8 kPa) and mechanical properties (TSb = 11.4 MPa) for compositions with 15 phr of modified starch. In addition, the incorporation of silanized starch improved the hydrophobicity of the composite (θw = 117.8°). The higher starch content allowed the composites to achieve a higher degree of cross-linking, resulting in better resistance to swelling in organic solvents. This improvement is due to enhanced elastomer–filler interactions and reduced spaces that prevent solvent penetration into the material’s depths. The improved mechanical properties and good dynamic properties, as well as improved hydrophobicity, were mainly due to improved interfacial interactions between rubber and starch. This study highlights the potential and new approach of silane-modified starch as a sustainable filler, demonstrating its ability to enhance the mechanical, dynamic, and hydrophobic properties of elastomeric composites while supporting greener material solutions for the rubber industry. Full article
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Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Common hydrophobic chemical modifications of starch.</p>
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<p>Scheme of corn starch silanization process.</p>
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<p>Flowchart of the order of the testing procedure.</p>
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<p>FT-IR spectra of modified and unmodified starch.</p>
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<p>SEM images of native corn starch (<b>a</b>–<b>c</b>) and silanized starch (<b>d</b>–<b>f</b>) at different magnifications: (<b>a</b>,<b>d</b>) 100×, (<b>b</b>,<b>e</b>) 1000×, (<b>c</b>,<b>f</b>) 5000×.</p>
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<p>Profile of water droplet, diiodomethane, and glycol ethylene on NCS and CS/OTMS pellets (θ<sub>W</sub>—water contact angle; θ<sub>D</sub>—diiodomethane contact angle; θ<sub>G</sub>—glycol ethylene contact angle).</p>
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<p>Impact of modification on surface free energy and water contact angle.</p>
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<p>SEM images of natural rubber composites: (<b>a</b>,<b>b</b>) natural rubber without corn starch, (<b>c</b>,<b>d</b>) containing 15 phr of native corn starch, and (<b>e</b>,<b>f</b>) silanized corn starch ((<b>a</b>,<b>c</b>,<b>e</b>)—magnification 500×; (<b>b</b>,<b>d</b>,<b>f</b>)—magnification 5000×).</p>
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<p>Vulcanization curves for tested NR composites filled with corn starch at T = 160 °C.</p>
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<p>Comparison of mechanical properties before and after aging of the tested NR composites (cross-linked at T = 160 °C for t = 5 min): (<b>a</b>) stress at 100% elongation; (<b>b</b>) tensile strength; (<b>c</b>) aging factor; (<b>d</b>) stress–strain chart for NR0, NR15S, and NR15M.</p>
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<p>Effect of corn starch amount and modification on the hardness of NR composites (cross-linked at T = 160 °C for t = 5 min).</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Comparison of hysteresis loss values during first stretching cycle and Mullins effect values of tested NR samples, (<b>b</b>) NR0 stress–strain hysteresis chart, (<b>c</b>) NR15S stress–strain hysteresis chart, (<b>d</b>) NR15M stress–strain hysteresis chart (cross-linked at T = 160 °C for t = 5 min).</p>
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<p>Effect of modified corn starch on dynamic properties of NR composites (cross-linked at T = 160 °C for t = 5 min): (<b>a</b>) storage modulus, (<b>b</b>) magnifying storage modulus, (<b>c</b>) Payne effect.</p>
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<p>Effect of chemically and in situ silanized starch on tested NR composites loss tangent.</p>
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<p>Comparison of water contact angles of the tested NR compositions (cross-linked at T = 160 °C for t = 5 min). Letters above determination of samples indicate statistically homogeneous subsets (Tukey’s HSD test, α = 0.05); ANOVA F = 50.8, <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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<p>Influence of modified corn starch on the contact angle values of water, diiodomethane, and ethyl glycol (θ<sub>W</sub>—water contact angle; θ<sub>D</sub>—diiodomethane contact angle; θ<sub>G</sub>—glycol ethylene contact angle).</p>
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<p>Impact of modified corn starch on surface free energy parameters: (<b>a</b>) total, (<b>b</b>) dispersive, and (<b>c</b>) polar components.</p>
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12 pages, 1674 KiB  
Article
Comparative Genome Analysis of Canine Frederiksenia canicola Isolates
by Marianna Domán, Krisztina Pintér, Boglárka Dóra Pollák, Ágnes Pintér, Enikő Wehmann, Miklós Tenk and Tibor Magyar
Antibiotics 2024, 13(12), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13121235 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2024
Viewed by 88
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The One Health approach is crucial for managing and controlling the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Frederiksenia canicola is a recently identified bacterial species that seems to be a component of the oral microbiota of dogs; however, its pathogenic nature is questionable. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The One Health approach is crucial for managing and controlling the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Frederiksenia canicola is a recently identified bacterial species that seems to be a component of the oral microbiota of dogs; however, its pathogenic nature is questionable. Methods: In this study, the antibacterial susceptibility of F. canicola isolates was determined using the disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Genome-wide comparative analyses were performed to identify the genetic factors driving virulence and antimicrobial drug resistance (e.g., virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and prophage-related sequences). Results: Most of the F. canicola isolates lacked virulence-associated genes. F. canicola is likely resistant to clindamycin, lincomycin and neomycin, but susceptible to penicillin, erythromycin and enrofloxacin. Antimicrobial resistance genes were not found in the F. canicola genomes, but prophage-related sequences were identified, suggesting its potential in the transfer of genes associated with drug resistance between bacteria in the oral microbiome. Conclusions: F. canicola is presumably a commensal organism with low virulence potential, as evidenced by the absence of virulence-associated genes. As F. canicola can colonize a wide range of hosts, including humans, further investigation with a greater number of isolates is needed to better understand the role of F. canicola in disease development and the spread of drug resistance. Full article
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Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>A comparative chromosomal genome visualization of the <span class="html-italic">F. canicola</span> isolates FC1, FC2 and FC14, generated by Proksee and PHASTEST. On the left, circular genomes illustrate coding sequences (CDS), repeat regions, tRNAs, rRNAs, GC content and GC skew. On the right, genomes illustrate the location of phage-related genes (terminase, head protein, portal protein, phage-like protein, integrase, antirepressor, regulatory protein, tail protein and protease).</p>
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<p>The phylogenetic relationships of bacterial isolates representing the members of the <span class="html-italic">Pasteurellaceae</span> family. The tree was generated by the neighbor-joining algorithm with the p-distance method based on concatenated sequences of 16S rRNA, <span class="html-italic">rpoB</span>, <span class="html-italic">infB</span> and <span class="html-italic">recN</span> genes (9812 bp). The numbers along the branches indicate bootstrap values. The <span class="html-italic">F. canicola</span> isolates involved in the study are marked in blue.</p>
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24 pages, 1373 KiB  
Review
From Tradition to Innovation: Diverse Molecular Techniques in the Fight Against Infectious Diseases
by Ahmed Nouri Alsharksi, Serhat Sirekbasan, Tuğba Gürkök-Tan and Adam Mustapha
Diagnostics 2024, 14(24), 2876; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14242876 (registering DOI) - 21 Dec 2024
Viewed by 612
Abstract
Infectious diseases impose a significant burden on global health systems due to high morbidity and mortality rates. According to the World Health Organization, millions die from infectious diseases annually, often due to delays in accurate diagnosis. Traditional diagnostic methods in clinical microbiology, primarily [...] Read more.
Infectious diseases impose a significant burden on global health systems due to high morbidity and mortality rates. According to the World Health Organization, millions die from infectious diseases annually, often due to delays in accurate diagnosis. Traditional diagnostic methods in clinical microbiology, primarily culture-based techniques, are time-consuming and may fail with hard-to-culture pathogens. Molecular biology advancements, notably the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), have revolutionized infectious disease diagnostics by allowing rapid and sensitive detection of pathogens’ genetic material. PCR has become the gold standard for many infections, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following PCR, next-generation sequencing (NGS) has emerged, enabling comprehensive genomic analysis of pathogens, thus facilitating the detection of new strains and antibiotic resistance tracking. Innovative approaches like CRISPR technology are also enhancing diagnostic precision by identifying specific DNA/RNA sequences. However, the implementation of these methods faces challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries due to infrastructural and financial constraints. This review will explore the role of molecular diagnostic methods in infectious disease diagnosis, comparing their advantages and limitations, with a focus on PCR and NGS technologies and their future potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Diagnostic and Testing Strategies for Infectious Diseases)
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Figure 1
<p>Working principle of polymerase chain reaction.</p>
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<p>Workflow of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique.</p>
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<p>Generations of sequencing technologies.</p>
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15 pages, 626 KiB  
Article
The Crossregulation Triggered by Bacillus Strains Is Strain-Specific and Improves Adaptation to Biotic and Abiotic Stress in Arabidopsis
by Estrella Galicia-Campos, Ana García-Villaraco Velasco, Jose Antonio Lucas, F. Javier Gutiérrez-Mañero and Beatriz Ramos-Solano
Plants 2024, 13(24), 3565; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13243565 (registering DOI) - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 324
Abstract
Abstract: Plants are sessile organisms that overcome environmental stress by activating specific metabolic pathways, leading to adaptation and survival. In addition, they recruit beneficial bacterial strains to further improve their performance. As plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are able to trigger multiple targets to improve [...] Read more.
Abstract: Plants are sessile organisms that overcome environmental stress by activating specific metabolic pathways, leading to adaptation and survival. In addition, they recruit beneficial bacterial strains to further improve their performance. As plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are able to trigger multiple targets to improve plant fitness, finding effective isolates for this purpose is of paramount importance. This metabolic activation involves the following two stages: the priming pre-challenge with no evident changes, and the post-challenge, which is characterized by a faster and more intense response. Eight Bacillus strains, obtained in a previous study, were tested for their ability to improve plant growth, and to protect Arabidopsis thaliana plants against biotic and abiotic stress. After the 16S rRNA gene sequencing, three isolates were selected for their ability to improve growth (G7), and to protect against biotic and abiotic stress (H47, mild protection, with a similar intensity for biotic and abiotic stress; L44, the highest protection to both); moreover the expression of Non-Expresser of Protein Resistance Gene 1 (NPR1) and Protein resistance (PR1) as markers of the Salicylic Acid (SA) pathway, and lipooxygenase (LOX2) and plant defensin gene (PDF1) as markers of the Ethylene/Jasmonic Acid (Et/Ja) pathway, was determined 24 h after the stress challenge and compared to the expression in non-stressed plants. The results indicated that (i) the three strains prime Arabidopsis according to the more marked and faster increases in gene expression upon stress challenge, (ii) all three strains activate the SA-mediated and the Et/Ja-mediated pathways, therefore conferring a wide protection against stress, and (iii) PR1 and PDF1, traditionally associated to Systemic Acquired Resistance (SAR) and Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR) protection against pathogenic stress, are also overexpressed under abiotic stress conditions. Therefore, it appears that the priming of the plant adaptive metabolism is strain-dependent, although each stress factor determines the intensity in the response of the expression of each gene; hence, the response is determined by the following three factors: the PGPR, the plant, and the stress factor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Protection and Biotic Interactions)
25 pages, 1496 KiB  
Review
Cardio-Renal Syndrome: Latest Developments in Device-Based Therapy
by Vlad Meche, Nilima Rajpal Kundnani, Abhinav Sharma, Flavia-Maria Căpăstraru, Daciana Nistor, Cristian Andrei Sarau and Laura Gaita
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(24), 7814; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13247814 (registering DOI) - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 251
Abstract
Background: Cardio-renal syndrome (CRS) is a complex condition involving bidirectional dysfunction of the heart and kidneys, in which the failure of one organ exacerbates failure in the other. Traditional pharmacologic treatments are often insufficient to manage the hemodynamic and neurohormonal abnormalities underlying CRS, [...] Read more.
Background: Cardio-renal syndrome (CRS) is a complex condition involving bidirectional dysfunction of the heart and kidneys, in which the failure of one organ exacerbates failure in the other. Traditional pharmacologic treatments are often insufficient to manage the hemodynamic and neurohormonal abnormalities underlying CRS, especially in cases resistant to standard therapies. Device-based therapies have emerged as a promising adjunct or alternative approach, offering targeted intervention to relieve congestion, improve renal perfusion, and modulate hemodynamics. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of various device-based therapies in CRS management, utilizing DRI2P2S classification to categorize interventions as dilators, reducers, interstitial modulators, pullers, pushers, and shifters. Methods: A comprehensive analysis of clinical trial data and observational studies involving device-based therapies in patients with CRS was conducted, with a focus on hemodynamic endpoints, renal and cardiac function, symptom relief, and adverse events. Devices included in the analysis were splanchnic denervation systems (dilators), devices for central and pulmonary pressure reduction (reducers), and systems targeting interstitial fluid (fluid shifters), among others. A systematic literature review from 2004 to 2024 was performed using databases including PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov, following PRISMA guidelines for study selection. Data were extracted on patient demographics, device type, trial design, outcomes, and follow-up duration. Results: Device-based therapies demonstrated varying levels of efficacy in CRS, with significant improvements observed in specific parameters. Notable results were a reduction in central venous pressure and improved diuretic responsiveness in acute CRS cases, while also stabilizing or improving renal function. Other relevant endpoints were fewer heart failure hospitalizations and a reduction in renal adverse events, reduced tissue congestion and improved quality of life scores. However, some devices presented challenges, including procedure-related complications and a learning curve for optimal device implantation. Conclusions: Device-based therapies offer a valuable addition to the CRS treatment paradigm, particularly in cases unresponsive to conventional diuretics and other pharmacologic measures. Each of them addresses specific pathophysiological components of CRS and shows promise in improving clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, further large-scale, long-term trials with comprehensive endpoints are needed to establish these therapies’ roles in standard care and to optimize patient selection criteria. Enhanced understanding of device mechanisms and refinement of trial endpoints will be key to maximizing the impact of these therapies on quality of life and clinical outcomes for CRS patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
16 pages, 3807 KiB  
Article
An Ultra-Stable Polysaccharide Gel Plugging Agent for Water Shutoff in Mature Oil Reservoirs
by Yang Yang, Shuangxiang Ye, Ping Liu and Youqi Wang
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(24), 11957; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142411957 (registering DOI) - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 190
Abstract
Polyacrylamide-based gel plugging agents are extensively utilized in oilfields for water shutoff. However, their thermal stability, salt tolerance, and shear resistance are limited, making it difficult to achieve high-strength plugging and maintain stability under high-temperature and high-salinity reservoir conditions. This study proposes the [...] Read more.
Polyacrylamide-based gel plugging agents are extensively utilized in oilfields for water shutoff. However, their thermal stability, salt tolerance, and shear resistance are limited, making it difficult to achieve high-strength plugging and maintain stability under high-temperature and high-salinity reservoir conditions. This study proposes the use of chitosan (CTSs), a polysaccharide with a rigid cyclic structure, as the polymer. The organic cross-linker N,N’-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) is incorporated via the Michael addition reaction mechanism to develop an ultra-stable, organically cross-linked chitosan gel system. The CTS/MBA gel system was evaluated under various environmental conditions using rheological testing and thermal aging to assess gel strength and stability. The results demonstrate significant improvements in gel strength and stability at high temperatures (up to 120 °C) and under high-shear conditions, as the increased cross-linking density enhanced resistance to thermal and mechanical degradation. Rapid gelation was observed with increasing MBA concentration, while pH and salinity further modulated gel properties. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation of a three-dimensional microstructure after gelation, which contributed to the enhanced properties. This study provides novel insights into optimizing polymer gel performance for the petroleum industry, particularly in high-temperature and high-shear environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances and Emerging Technologies in Oil and Gas Production)
25 pages, 4800 KiB  
Article
Innovative Methodology for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Determination in Mycoplasma Biofilms
by B. Tegner Jacobson, Jessica DeWit-Dibbert, Eli T. Selong, McKenna Quirk, Michael Throolin, Chris Corona, Sobha Sonar, LaShae Zanca, Erika R. Schwarz and Diane Bimczok
Microorganisms 2024, 12(12), 2650; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12122650 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 387
Abstract
Mycoplasma spp. are facultative pathogens that contribute to the pathogenesis of multiple bovine diseases, including the bovine respiratory disease complex, and have been shown to form biofilms. Biofilm formation is associated with increased antibiotic resistance in many organisms, but accurate determination of antimicrobial [...] Read more.
Mycoplasma spp. are facultative pathogens that contribute to the pathogenesis of multiple bovine diseases, including the bovine respiratory disease complex, and have been shown to form biofilms. Biofilm formation is associated with increased antibiotic resistance in many organisms, but accurate determination of antimicrobial susceptibility in biofilms is challenging. In Mycoplasma spp., antimicrobial susceptibility is routinely determined using metabolic pH-dependent color change. However, biofilm formation can lead to reduced metabolism, making interpretation of metabolic readouts difficult. Therefore, we developed and optimized a new flow cytometry-based method for antimicrobial susceptibility testing in biofilm-forming Mycoplasma, termed the live/dead antimicrobial susceptibility test (LD-AST). The LD-AST measures the proportion of live bacteria upon exposure to antibiotics, works robustly with both planktonic and biofilm cultures, and enables the determination of the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) for a given antibiotic. We used two strains of Mycoplasma bovis (Donetta PG45 and Madison) and two clinical Mycoplasma bovoculi isolates (MVDL1 and MVDL2) to determine the impact of biofilm growth on antimicrobial susceptibility for gentamicin, enrofloxacin, or tetracycline. All Mycoplasma strains were susceptible to all antibiotics when cultured as planktonic cells, with MBCs in the expected range. However, three out of four strains (Donetta PG45, MVDL1, and MVDL2) were completely resistant to all three antibiotics when newly adhered biofilms were analyzed, whereas M. bovis Madison gave variable results. For mature biofilms that were cultured for 4–5 days before antibiotic exposure, results also were variable, with some strains showing an increased resistance with certain antibiotics and a decreased resistance with others. Overall, these results are consistent with earlier reports that biofilms can exhibit increased antimicrobial resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Detection, Diagnosis, and Host Interactions of Animal Mycoplasmas)
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Figure 1

Figure 1
<p><b>Representative FACS dot plots of live and dead <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> samples</b>. The live/dead stain was visualized as the log intensity of SYTO9 versus the log intensity of the PI (<b>A</b>) Live cells were gated as SYTO9-positive, PI-negative cells in gate R2. (<b>B</b>) TritonX-100 treatment was used to kill a proportion of the M. bovis to create a positive control. Dead cells are found as SYTO9-positive, PI-positive cells in gate R3. Representative data from one experiment.</p>
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<p>Brightfield images of Mycoplasma biofilm formation on glass-bottom plates over 6 d. Top rows: phase contrast images; bottom rows: thresholded images used to estimate the percent confluence of the biofilm in the field of view. Data are representative of one experiment with 18 technical replicates.</p>
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<p><b>Maturation of <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> PG45 biofilms over time</b>. Biofilm maturity was assessed based on the percent confluence of the cells and the largest structure diameter observed. (<b>A</b>) Biofilm confluence peaked at 4 d, which showed strong evidence of a difference (Wald’s Test, <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01) compared to all other days post-inoculation. (<b>B</b>) The diameter of the largest biofilm structure did not vary across the different days (Wald’s test, <span class="html-italic">p</span> &gt; 0.05). The boxplot displays the median and quartiles of the population, the grey point indicates the mean. Representative of two experiments, each with 16–18 technical replicates. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05, ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01, *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001.</p>
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<p><b>Standard color change assay is inappropriate for measuring <span class="html-italic">Mycoplasma</span> spp. biofilm growth</b>. (<b>A</b>) A color change due to acid production is visible for planktonic cells (top, grown for 2 d on a clear polystyrene plate), but not for mature biofilms (bottom, incubated with new media for 2 d after biofilm formation on a glass-bottom plate with black polystyrene wells). (<b>B</b>) Quantification of medium pH for M. bovis PG45 grown as a biofilm for 6 d. No significant difference in pH between the media control and PG45 (Student’s <span class="html-italic">t</span>-test, <span class="html-italic">p</span> &gt; 0.05). Representative of one experiment with 60 technical replicates.</p>
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<p><b>Impact of biofilm disruption treatment on <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> particle size</b>. Particle size of disrupted <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> biofilms was determined using SYTO9 stained cells with an imaging cytometer. (<b>A</b>) Two populations for the planktonic cells were noted, with a natural division observed at 1.75 × 105 RFU, which corresponds with a particle diameter of approximately 5 µm. (<b>B</b>) For the disrupted biofilms, the 10 min sonication had strong evidence (Wald’s test, <span class="html-italic">p</span> = 0.015) for an increase in small particles compared to the untreated biofilms The percentage of particles above and below 5 µm was calculated for each treatment and compared. Representative of one experiment with two replicate cultures, each with two technical replicates (represented by different colored lines). Each technical replicate had ~5 × 10<sup>4</sup>–8 × 10<sup>4</sup> particles/biofilm replicate and ~8 × 10<sup>3</sup>–16 × 10<sup>3</sup> particles/planktonic replicate.</p>
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<p><b>Impact of 10 min of sonication on the particle size of <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> PG45 biofilms.</b> The particle size of disrupted biofilms was further analyzed by observing the forward scatter from a 405 nm small particle laser and comparing it to size calibration beads. (<b>A</b>) Planktonic <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> PG45 culture. (<b>B</b>) Untreated <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> PG45 biofilm. (<b>C</b>) <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> PG45 biofilm after 10 min sonication. Representative graphs were generated by randomly selecting and concatenating 1 × 10<sup>6</sup> particles from each technical replicate. Representative of one experiment with 4 technical replicates.</p>
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<p><b>Impact of 10 min of sonication on the mean fluorescence of the <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> PG45 particles</b>. There was a 9.37 ± 0.57% decrease (Wald’s Test, <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001) in mean particle size between the untreated biofilm and the 10 min sonicated biofilm. The point is the estimated mean and the 95% confidence interval from the separate means model. Representative of one experiment with four technical replicates.</p>
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<p><b>Analysis of cell viability and density for the LD-AST.</b> (<b>A</b>) The survival of filtered cells exposed to 10 min of sonication and the rate of cell adherence was assessed. Filtered planktonic cells were sonicated for 10 min to determine if the treatment would lead to a decrease in live cells. The imaging and flow cytometry results were compared. Representative of one experiment with six technical replicates. (<b>B</b>) Cells inoculated at 2 × 10<sup>4</sup>/mL were imaged at 1, 2.5, and 4 h intervals to determine the rate of adhesion to the glass-bottom plate. The line represents the inoculum concentration while the shaded area represents the 103–105 cells/mL target range. Representative of one experiment with three technical replicates.</p>
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<p><b>The LD-AST reveals increased MBCs for <span class="html-italic">M. bovis</span> PG45 biofilms compared to planktonic bacteria.</b> Minimum bactericidal concentration of a decrease in live cells ≥ 5% (MBC ≥ 5%) data showing the percentage of live cells compared to (<b>A</b>) enrofloxacin, (<b>B</b>) gentamicin, and (<b>C</b>) tetracycline concentrations for each of the organism states. The colored boxes correspond to the lowest antibiotic concentration that resulted in a significant drop in the percentage of live cells. The mean and SEM are shown for each group. Representative of three independent experiments with 2 technical replicates.</p>
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23 pages, 7243 KiB  
Article
The Operational Performance of an Ultrafiltration Pilot Unit for the Treatment of Ultra-Concentrated Brines
by Giuseppe Scelfo, Paula Serrano-Tari, Ritamaria Raffaelli, Fabrizio Vicari, Isabel Oller, Andrea Cipollina, Alessandro Tamburini and Giorgio Micale
Membranes 2024, 14(12), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes14120276 (registering DOI) - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 219
Abstract
The valorization of ultra-concentrated seawater brines, named bitterns, requires preliminary purification processes, such as membrane filtration, before they can be fully exploited. This study investigates the performance of an ultrafiltration pilot plant aimed at separating organic matter and large particles from real bitterns. [...] Read more.
The valorization of ultra-concentrated seawater brines, named bitterns, requires preliminary purification processes, such as membrane filtration, before they can be fully exploited. This study investigates the performance of an ultrafiltration pilot plant aimed at separating organic matter and large particles from real bitterns. An empirical model for the bittern viscosity was developed to better characterize the membrane. Distinct variations in permeability, fouling resistance and rejection coefficient were observed under operational pressures ranging from 2 to 4 bar. Working at low pressure (2 bar), the pilot plant achieves permeability and rejection coefficient values of 17 L/m2hbar and 95%, respectively. Foulant behavior was characterized by determining a “fouling resistance”, obtaining an average value of 1013 m−1. Tests with three distinct bittern samples were conducted to assess the influence of chemical composition and organic matter content on membrane permeability and fouling characteristics. The collected data enabled a comprehensive characterization of the ultrafiltration pilot unit working with this particular saline feed solution, which has very high technical–economic potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications for Water Treatment)
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<p>High TRL SEArcularMINE treatment chain. Solid lines represent the continuous production process. The dotted lines represent the streams of acidic (yellow) and basic (green) solutions used for the cleaning and regeneration of pHSA units.</p>
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<p>Piping and instrumentation diagram of the UF pilot plant.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) A picture of the ultrafiltration pilot unit installed in the SEArcularMINE treatment chain; (<b>b</b>) bittern, (<b>c</b>) permeate and (<b>d</b>) retentate samples.</p>
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<p>Comparison of permeate, retentate and feed bittern composition (operating UF pilot at 3 bar) for the three case studies.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Conductivity and (<b>b</b>) density variation in permeate and retentate stream compared with the bittern feed for the CS-2.</p>
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<p>Comparison of CS-2 permeates (and original feed bittern) composition as a function of the inlet pressure (<math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msub> <mi>P</mi> <mrow> <mi>f</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>d</mi> </mrow> </msub> <mo stretchy="false">)</mo> </mrow> </semantics></math>.</p>
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<p>Bittern permeate density (<b>a</b>) and viscosity (<b>b</b>) as a function of temperature. Points represent the experimental data. Curves indicate linear (<b>a</b>) and logarithmic (<b>b</b>) interpolation laws.</p>
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<p>Comparison between experimental (symbols) and predicted (curves) viscosity as a function of the temperature.</p>
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<p>Prediction of May 2024 bittern (CS-4) viscosity.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Comparison between real (symbols) and predicted (curves) data of different bitterns at 20 °C; (<b>b</b>) comparison between real (symbols) and predicted (curves) data for the viscosity–temperature point present in the literature.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Membrane permeability and (<b>b</b>) temperature trends versus time at variable inlet pressures (<math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msub> <mi>P</mi> <mrow> <mi>f</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>d</mi> </mrow> </msub> <mo stretchy="false">)</mo> </mrow> </semantics></math> for the case of the CS-2 bittern.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Membrane permeability and (<b>b</b>) the temperature increasing trend versus time when varying the feed bitterns processed in the UF pilot at 3 bar inlet pressure (<math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msub> <mi>P</mi> <mrow> <mi>f</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>d</mi> </mrow> </msub> </mrow> </semantics></math>). The CS-1 test was conducted with a batch volume of 50 L.</p>
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<p>Fouling resistance versus time as a function of the inlet pressure (<math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msub> <mi>P</mi> <mrow> <mi>f</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>d</mi> </mrow> </msub> <mo stretchy="false">)</mo> </mrow> </semantics></math> for the CS-2 bittern.</p>
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<p><math display="inline"><semantics> <mi>R</mi> </semantics></math><sub>fouling</sub> versus time in the case of feeding the UF unit with the original CS-2 bittern; the permeate produced in a previous CS-2 test; and the retentate produced in a previous CS-2 test. The UF pilot was operated at 3 bar as a <math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msub> <mi>P</mi> <mrow> <mi>f</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>d</mi> </mrow> </msub> </mrow> </semantics></math>.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Bittern and permeate COD for the three different test cases while operating the UF unit at 3 bar as the inlet pressure (<math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msub> <mi>P</mi> <mrow> <mi>f</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>d</mi> </mrow> </msub> </mrow> </semantics></math>). (<b>b</b>) Organic rejection as a function of the inlet pressure (<math display="inline"><semantics> <mrow> <msub> <mi>P</mi> <mrow> <mi>f</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>e</mi> <mi>d</mi> </mrow> </msub> </mrow> </semantics></math>) for the case of the CS-2 bittern.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Membrane flux and (<b>b</b>) temperature trend over time in the long run test.</p>
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<p>Comparison of the initial membrane flux and the restored membrane flux after a cleaning procedure.</p>
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35 pages, 12805 KiB  
Review
Focused Review on Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g-C3N4) in Corrosion and Erosion Applications
by Eman M. Fayyad, Fatma Nabhan and Aboubakr M. Abdullah
Coatings 2024, 14(12), 1596; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14121596 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 434
Abstract
Inorganic, organic, and metallic coatings have received much attention due to their great protection applications in oil and gas industries and their development through finding eco-friendly materials for the coatings. Their unique structure, low cost, and facile synthesis are some of the few [...] Read more.
Inorganic, organic, and metallic coatings have received much attention due to their great protection applications in oil and gas industries and their development through finding eco-friendly materials for the coatings. Their unique structure, low cost, and facile synthesis are some of the few properties of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) materials that make them useful in a number of applications. Moreover, g-C3N4 offers exceptional chemical and thermal stability and a high specific surface area, and it is well known for its outstanding biocompatibility and biological activity. Numerous investigations have reported various types of C3N4-incorporated coatings that have enhanced corrosion, wear, and mechanical resistance properties. This review highlights the new applications of g-C3N4 (standalone, in an alloy, or composite) as a coating in the wear and corrosion protection fields. Furthermore, a strong focus on the structure, unique properties, and preparation technique of g-C3N4 are summarized, especially in metallic coatings, which is a highly novel trend. Lastly, various important issues based on current research are proposed for future prospective work that should be further studied in this attractive research topic. Full article
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<p>Triazine (<b>a</b>) and tri-s-triazine (<b>b</b>) crosslinked structures.</p>
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<p>Schematic diagram of classified carbon nitride materials. Materials often named graphitic carbon nitride (g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>) are indicated in the dashed box.</p>
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<p>Various shapes and morphologies of g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> materials.</p>
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<p>Schematic of the IBAD system.</p>
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<p>Corrosion principle of (<b>A</b>) the blank AZ31B sample and (<b>B</b>) the g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>-coated magnesium alloy sample: (<b>C</b>) Schematic illustration of the formation mechanism of g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> films on AZ31B substrate.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Average coefficient of friction (COF) and (<b>b</b>) <span class="html-italic">E</span><sub>corr</sub> and <span class="html-italic">i</span><sub>corr</sub> values of VCN coatings specimens at different voltage biases.</p>
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<p>Cross-section FESEM images of TiSiCN coatings deposited at various bias voltages: (<b>a</b>) −20 V, (<b>b</b>) −60 V, and (<b>c</b>) −100 V [<a href="#B94-coatings-14-01596" class="html-bibr">94</a>].</p>
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<p>Potentiodynamic polarization curves of TiSiCN coatings deposited at different bias voltages under different sliding conditions in artificial seawater: (<b>a</b>) ball motion with non-contact the coating; (<b>b</b>) sliding. (<b>c</b>) Friction coefficients and volume loss rate of TiSiCN coatings deposited at different bias voltages in the artificial seawater at OCP and CP conditions.</p>
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<p>Potentiodynamic polarization curves of TiSiCN coatings with various C concentrations under different sliding conditions in artificial seawater: (<b>a</b>) Ball motion with non-contact the coating; (<b>b</b>) sliding. (<b>c</b>,<b>d</b>) Friction coefficient of the coatings sliding against ZrO2 balls in artificial seawater at open circuit potential and cathodic protection, respectively.</p>
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<p>The surface morphologies and porosity contract the sprayed (<b>a</b>,<b>b</b>) and nitrided (<b>c</b>,<b>d</b>) TiCN coatings. (<b>e</b>) The potentiodynamic polarization curves of the sprayed and nitride TiCN coatings.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Wear mass loss and (<b>b</b>) potentiodynamic polarization curves of all samples.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) Wear–corrosion current density and (<b>b</b>) wear–corrosion loss versus the applied potential for all specimens following wear–corrosion testing in 1 M NaCl+1 M H<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub> at various applied potentials.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) TEM micrograph of the C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> powder, (<b>b</b>) SEM photos of the electroless Ni-P, and (<b>c</b>) SEM/EDX mapping of C and N elements on the surface of the NiP-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> composite coating.</p>
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<p>The microhardness of substrate, NiP coating, and NiP-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> composite coating before and after heat treatment at 400 °C for 1 h.</p>
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<p>(<b>a</b>) EIS-bode plots and (<b>b</b>) the polarization curves of the substrate, electroless NiP, and NiP-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> coatings with and without heat treatment, at 400 °C for 1 h, in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution at room temperature. The scan rate is 0.167 mVs<sup>−1</sup>.</p>
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<p>SEM micrographs of the NiP–C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> NCCs prepared with (<b>a</b>) 0, (<b>b</b>) 0.25, (<b>c</b>) 0.50, (<b>d</b>) 1.0, and (<b>e</b>) 2.0 g L<sup>−1</sup> C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> for 3 h of plating time, at a pH of 8, and in the presence of PVP as a surfactant.</p>
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<p>Tafel polarization curves for (<b>a</b>) the substrate and the electroless NiP–C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> NCCs with and without different concentrations of C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> and (<b>b</b>) the NiP–C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> NCC deposited from the bath with 0.5 g L<sup>−1</sup> of C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> after different times of immersion in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution at room temperature. The scan rate is 0.167 m V s<sup>−1</sup>.</p>
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<p>Potentiodynamic polarization curves of Q235 steel, pure epoxy, and g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>/epoxy nanocomposite samples at different concentrations of C3N4 nanosheets after 1 h immersion in (<b>a</b>) 3.5% NaCl and (<b>b</b>) 0.1 M H2SO4 solution.</p>
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<p>Photos of (<b>a</b>,<b>a’</b>) epoxy coating and (<b>b</b>,<b>b’</b>) g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>/epoxy nanocomposite coating containing 2 wt% g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub> nanosheets before and after the adhesion test, respectively.</p>
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<p>The visual images of the suspensions: (<b>a</b>,<b>d</b>) g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>@(PDA+KH560); (<b>b</b>,<b>e</b>) g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>@PDA; (<b>c</b>,<b>f</b>) g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>.</p>
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<p>SEM images obtained from the cross-section of (<b>a</b>) neat epoxy, (<b>b</b>) g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>/epoxy, (<b>c</b>) g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>@PDA/epoxy, and (<b>d</b>) g-C<sub>3</sub>N<sub>4</sub>@(PDA+KH560)/epoxy.</p>
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<p>The polarization curve of composite coatings after 15 days of immersion.</p>
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<p>Tensile test and bending test for carbon fibres fabric composite laminates.</p>
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<p>Change of ILSS before and after hydrothermal aging for 48 h.</p>
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<p>Adhesion test results for the coated AA 2024 Al alloy substrates.</p>
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<p>SEM Images of (<b>a</b>) GCN and (<b>b</b>) GCN-ZnO nanocomposite.</p>
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<p>Bode plots of uncoated and coated CS substrates after immersion in a 3.5% NaCl medium.</p>
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26 pages, 2686 KiB  
Article
Safety Culture in SMEs of the Food Industry: A Case Study and Best Practices
by Patrycja Kabiesz
Sustainability 2024, 16(24), 11185; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162411185 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 302
Abstract
This article highlights the importance of developing a sustainable safety culture as an important component of the long-term development of manufacturing companies, especially in SMEs. A sustainable safety culture combines principles in favor of protecting the health and lives of workers with sustainable [...] Read more.
This article highlights the importance of developing a sustainable safety culture as an important component of the long-term development of manufacturing companies, especially in SMEs. A sustainable safety culture combines principles in favor of protecting the health and lives of workers with sustainable development principles, while improving operational and environmental performance. The aim of this study was to identify best practices, challenges, and strategies for implementing this type of culture in manufacturing companies. A mixed-methods approach was used, including quantitative surveys, in-depth interviews, case study analysis, and field observations at selected companies. This research was conducted at two food companies from Poland. The findings indicate that the successful implementation of a sustainable safety culture relies on strong leadership, employee engagement, pro-active risk management, and continuous process improvement. Additionally, this article discusses major challenges, such as resistance to change, financial constraints, and regulatory complexity. Ultimately, this article provides practical recommendations for industry leaders developed from the research findings to support long-term efficiency and safety in manufacturing organizations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Safety Culture in Manufacturing Enterprises)
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<p>Components of a sustainable safety culture.</p>
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<p>Phases of the research process.</p>
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<p>Awareness of the safety policy.</p>
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<p>Frequency of training sessions.</p>
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<p>Frequency of management participation in safety training.</p>
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<p>Frequency of organizing safety meetings.</p>
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<p>Quality of communication regarding safety.</p>
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<p>Survey results on perceptions and opinions.</p>
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21 pages, 2370 KiB  
Article
Phenotypic and Genomic Characterization of ESBL- and AmpC-β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacterales Isolates from Imported Healthy Reptiles
by Franziska Unger, Tobias Eisenberg, Ellen Prenger-Berninghoff, Ursula Leidner, Torsten Semmler and Christa Ewers
Antibiotics 2024, 13(12), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13121230 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 385
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Reptiles are known reservoirs for members of the Enterobacterales. We investigated antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns, the diversity of extended-spectrum-/AmpC-β-lactamases (ESBL/AmpC) genes and the genomic organization of the ESBL/AmpC producers. Methods: A total of 92 shipments with 184 feces, skin, and urinate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Reptiles are known reservoirs for members of the Enterobacterales. We investigated antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns, the diversity of extended-spectrum-/AmpC-β-lactamases (ESBL/AmpC) genes and the genomic organization of the ESBL/AmpC producers. Methods: A total of 92 shipments with 184 feces, skin, and urinate samples of live healthy reptiles were obtained during border inspections at Europe’s most important airport for animal trade and screened for AMR bacteria by culture, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) of selected isolates. Results: In total, 668 Enterobacterales isolates with phenotypic evidence for extended-spectrum-/AmpC-β-lactamases (ESBL/AmpC) were obtained, from which Klebsiella (n = 181), Citrobacter (n = 131), Escherichia coli (n = 116), Salmonella (n = 69), and Enterobacter (n = 52) represented the most common groups (other genera (n = 119)). Seventy-nine isolates grew also on cefotaxime agar and were confirmed as ESBL (n = 39) or AmpC (n = 39) producers based on WGS data with respective genes localized on chromosomes or plasmids. Isolates of E. coli contained the most diverse set of ESBL genes (n = 29), followed by Klebsiella (n = 9), Citrobacter, and Enterobacter (each n = 1). Contrarily, AmpC genes were detected in E. coli and Citrobacter (n = 13 each), followed by Enterobacter (n = 12) and Klebsiella (n = 4). Isolates of Salmonella with ESBL/AmpC genes were not found, but all genera contained a variety of additional AMR phenotypes and/or genotypes. MLST revealed 36, 13, 10, and nine different STs in E. coli, Klebsiella, Citrobacter, and Enterobacter, respectively. Conclusions: A significant fraction of the studied Enterobacterales isolates possessed acquired AMR genes, including some high-risk clones. All isolates were obtained from selective media and also wild-caught animals carried many AMR genes. Assignment of AMR to harvesting modes was not possible. Full article
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<p>NJ tree of 42 <span class="html-italic">E. coli</span> based on pairwise distance calculation of 2513 cgMLST alleles. chr = chromosomal; nt = not typeable; pm = promoter mutation; CB = captive breed; FB = farm breed; WC = wild-caught.</p>
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<p>NJ tree for 11 <span class="html-italic">K. pneumoniae</span> based on pairwise distance calculation of 2358 cgMLST alleles. chr = chromosomal; nt = not typeable; pm = promoter mutation; CB = captive breed; FB = farm breed; WC = wild-caught.</p>
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<p>NJ tree for 12 <span class="html-italic">Enterobacter</span> species based on pairwise distance calculation of seven alleles used for MLST analysis. chr = chromosomal; nt = not typeable; pm = promoter mutation; CB = captive breed; FB = farm breed; WC = wild-caught.</p>
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15 pages, 517 KiB  
Article
Characterization and Classification of Berry (Aronia, Haskap, and Goji) Fruits with High Bioactive Value Grown in Spain
by María Concepción Ayuso-Yuste, Francisco Javier Cruz Calero, María Ramos García, Noelia Nicolás Barroso, María Belén Ramos Alguijo, María José Rodríguez Gómez and Patricia Calvo Magro
Foods 2024, 13(24), 4122; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13244122 - 20 Dec 2024
Viewed by 360
Abstract
Aronia, haskap, and goji berries are characterized by their high content of bioactive compounds and their beneficial health properties as well as their resistance to harsh agronomic conditions. In this work, cultivars of these species growing in a mountainous region of central-western Spain [...] Read more.
Aronia, haskap, and goji berries are characterized by their high content of bioactive compounds and their beneficial health properties as well as their resistance to harsh agronomic conditions. In this work, cultivars of these species growing in a mountainous region of central-western Spain were characterized by analyzing physicochemical parameters and bioactive compounds. Goji fruits showed the highest total soluble solid content and the lowest acidity values. The sugar profile suggested that goji cultivars will have a higher sweetness due to higher fructose and glucose content. However, aronia cultivars will be the least sweet due to their high sorbitol content. The total organic acid content was much higher in aronia and haskap than in goji fruits, and the profile varied according to species. The total phenolic content was significantly higher in aronia fruits. A total of 15 phenolic compounds were detected, with anthocyanins being predominant in aronia and haskap berries; however, they were not detected in goji fruits. Nevertheless, carotenoid compounds were found in goji berries and not detected in aronia and haskap fruits. Aronia fruits showed the highest antioxidant capacity compared to haskap and goji fruits. The PCA analysis classified the samples to determine which parameters have the greatest influence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Foods)
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<p>Principal component analysis (PCA) plotting components 1 and 2 for the different berry cultivars (A: ‘Nero’, B: ‘Viking’, C: ‘Galicjanka’, D: ‘Blue Velvet’, E: ‘Turgidus’, and F: ‘New Big’). (PC1: 60.03% of total variance; PC2: 27.76% of total variance).</p>
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21 pages, 1136 KiB  
Article
Disinfection of Activated Sludge by Combination of the Fenton Reagent and Physical Treatment
by Māra Blumfelde, Aija Dēliņa, Kristina Puzane, Vadims Bartkevičs and Olga Muter
Agronomy 2024, 14(12), 3037; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14123037 - 19 Dec 2024
Viewed by 252
Abstract
Biological wastewater treatment plants could serve as an important alternative to renewable biological nitrogen mines, which are locally available and have a low carbon footprint. Recent progress in Fenton processes has revealed their potential use for sludge treatment to decrease organic contamination and [...] Read more.
Biological wastewater treatment plants could serve as an important alternative to renewable biological nitrogen mines, which are locally available and have a low carbon footprint. Recent progress in Fenton processes has revealed their potential use for sludge treatment to decrease organic contamination and pathogens. The aim of this study was to determine the optimal concentrations of metal catalyst Fe(II) and hydrogen peroxide H2O2 for activated sludge (AS) disinfection using the Fenton process at near-neutral pH, alone and in combination with thermal treatment and UV radiation. The efficiency of the 48 h treatment was evaluated by log reduction, fluorescein diacetate (FDA) hydrolysis activity, concentration of pharmaceuticals, changes in antimicrobial resistance, and ecotoxicity. Using the desirability function approach, a combination of 239 mM H2O2 and 8.6 mM Fe(II) was found to be optimal in frames of the chosen concentrations of reagents. The FDA hydrolysis activity correlated with log reduction at 287 mM H2O2 and different Fe(II) concentrations. Sludge treatment resulted in the removal of ciprofloxacin by 65.5%. The sets with the highest log reduction, i.e., additionally treated by heating and UV, were accompanied by increasing ecotoxic effects on crustaceans, Thamnocephalus platyurus. The Fenton process shows prospective ways on sludge stabilization for its application as a fertilizer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Pollution and Remediation in Sustainable Agriculture)
20 pages, 8298 KiB  
Article
Defense-Related Enzyme Activities and Metabolomic Analysis Reveal Differentially Accumulated Metabolites and Response Pathways for Sheath Blight Resistance in Rice
by Xiurong Yang, Shuangyong Yan, Yuejiao Li, Guangsheng Li, Yujiao Zhao, Shuqin Sun, Jingping Su, Zhongqiu Cui, Jianfei Huo, Yue Sun, Heng Yi, Zhibin Li and Shengjun Wang
Plants 2024, 13(24), 3554; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13243554 - 19 Dec 2024
Viewed by 382
Abstract
Rice sheath blight (RSB), caused by the pathogenic fungus Rhizoctonia solani, poses a significant threat to global food security. The defense mechanisms employed by rice against RSB are not well understood. In our study, we analyzed the interactions between rice and R. [...] Read more.
Rice sheath blight (RSB), caused by the pathogenic fungus Rhizoctonia solani, poses a significant threat to global food security. The defense mechanisms employed by rice against RSB are not well understood. In our study, we analyzed the interactions between rice and R. solani by comparing the phenotypic changes, ROS content, and metabolite variations in both tolerant and susceptible rice varieties during the early stages of fungal infection. Notably, there were distinct phenotypic differences in the response to R. solani between the tolerant cultivar Zhengdao22 (ZD) and the susceptible cultivar Xinzhi No.1 (XZ). We observed that the activities of five defense-related enzymes in both tolerant and susceptible cultivars changed dynamically from 0 to 72 h post-infection with R. solani. In particular, the activities of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase were closely associated with resistance to RSB. Metabolomic analysis revealed 825 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) between the tolerant and susceptible varieties, with 493 DAMs responding to R. solani infection. Among these, lipids and lipid-like molecules, organic oxygen compounds, phenylpropanoids and polyketides, organoheterocyclic compounds, and organic acids and their derivatives were the most significantly enriched. One DAM, P-coumaraldehyde, which responded to R. solani infection, was found to effectively inhibit the growth of R. solani, Magnaporthe grisea, and Ustilaginoidea virens. Additionally, multiple metabolic pathways, including amino acid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, and metabolism of terpenoids and polyketides, are likely involved in RSB resistance. Our research provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between rice and R. solani. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)
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<p>Phenotypes of tolerant and susceptible cultivars against <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span>. Phenotype changes in susceptible cultivar Xinzhi No.1 (XZ) and resistant cultivar Zhengdao22 (ZD) from 0–72 hpi (<b>A</b>) and full heading stage (<b>B</b>) after inoculation are shown. The red triangle shows the length of the lesion.</p>
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<p>Difference of infection morphology in the surface of leaf sheath of susceptible cultivar Xinzhi No.1 (XZ) and resistant cultivar Zhengdao22 (ZD) inoculated after 72 h. Scale bar = 200 μm.</p>
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<p>Detection of H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> in rice leaf sheath using DAB (3,3′-diaminobenzidine) from 0 to 72 hpi by <span class="html-italic">R solani</span>. Scale bar = 200 μm.</p>
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<p>Dynamic changes in the activities of defense enzymes SOD (<b>A</b>), POD (<b>B</b>), PPO (<b>C</b>), PAL (<b>D</b>), CAT (<b>E</b>) in resistant cultivar Zhengdao22 and the susceptible cultivar Xinzhi No.1 from 0 to 72 hpi.</p>
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<p>Metabolite profiling data in tolerant and susceptible varieties. Venn diagram of metabolic profiling in tolerant and susceptible varieties in positive mode (<b>A</b>) and negative mode (<b>B</b>). ZD_WK1 is the metabolome of tolerant cultivar ZD infected with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> sampled at 48 hpi. ZD_WK2 is the metabolome of tolerant cultivar ZD without infection, sampled at 48 hpi XZ_WK1 is the metabolome of susceptible cultivar XZ infected with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> sampled at 48 hpi. XZ_WK2 is the metabolome of resistant cultivar XZ without infection sampled at 48 hpi. (<b>C</b>) PCA scores of metabolomes in rice leaves for infected and non-infected tolerant and susceptible cultivars. OPLS-DA scores plots (<b>D</b>) and permutation tests (<b>E</b>) for metabolite profiling of tolerant cultivar ZD and susceptible cultivar XZ with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> infection. OPLS-DA scores plots (<b>F</b>) and permutation tests (<b>G</b>) for metabolite profiling of tolerant cultivar ZD and susceptible cultivar XZ without <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> infection.</p>
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<p>Heatmap analysis of representative differential metabolites in two groups. XZ_1 and XZ_2, XZ_3 are the metabolome of susceptible cultivar XZ infected with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> sampled at 48 hpi with three repeats; XZ_4, XZ_5, and XZ_6 are the metabolome of susceptible cultivar XZ without infection sampled at the same time as XZ_1 to XZ_3; ZD_1 to ZD_3 are the metabolome of tolerant cultivar ZD infected with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> sampled at 11 hpi with three repeats. ZD_4, ZD_5, and ZD_6 are the metabolome of tolerant cultivar ZD without infection sampled at the same time as ZD_1 to ZD_3. group1, metabolites with low abundance in tolerant cultivar ZD and high abundance in susceptible cultivar XZ; group2, metabolites with high abundance in tolerant cultivar ZD and low abundance in susceptible cultivar XZ.</p>
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<p>Venn diagram of differential metabolites in four groups. XZ_WK1_vs_ZD_WK1 represents differential metabolites between susceptible cultivar XZ and tolerant cultivar ZD infected with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span>; XZ_WK1_vs_XZ_DW2 represents differential metabolites between infected and non-infected samples of susceptible cultivar XZ;ZD_WK1_vs_ZD_WK2 represents differential metabolites between infected and non-infected samples of tolerant cultivar ZD; XZ_WK2_vs_XZ_WK2 represents differential metabolites between susceptible cultivar XZ and tolerant cultivar ZD without infection.</p>
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<p>Expression profiling of the top 30 differential metabolites of tolerant and susceptible cultivars with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> infection. Relative abundances of the top 30 differential metabolites between tolerant and susceptible cultivars with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> infection. Data are normalized against unit variance. Comparisons were generated via hierarchical cluster analysis using an average linkage method based on Euclidian distance. Shades from blue to red represent increasing metabolite levels (<span class="html-italic">* p</span> &lt; 0.05, <span class="html-italic">** p</span> &lt; 0.01, <span class="html-italic">*** p</span> &lt; 0.001 for groups compared using one-way ANOVA).</p>
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<p>Stress tolerance assay of P-coumaraldehyde against pathogens. (<b>A</b>) Inhibitory effect of P-coumaraldehyde against <span class="html-italic">Rhizoctonia. solani</span>, <span class="html-italic">Magnaporthe grisea</span>, and <span class="html-italic">Ustilaginoidea virens</span>. Pathogens were incubated on PSA medium with 0, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μg/mL of P-coumaraldehyde. The colony diameter of <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> (<b>B</b>) was measured after culturing for 48 h and 5 days after inoculated for <span class="html-italic">M. grisea</span> (<b>C</b>) and <span class="html-italic">U. virens</span> (<b>D</b>).</p>
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<p>(<b>A</b>) Classification of differential metabolites of tolerant and susceptible cultivars with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> infection. (<b>B</b>) Pathway classification of differential metabolites between tolerant cultivar ZD and susceptible cultivar XZ with <span class="html-italic">R. solani</span> infection. (<b>C</b>) Pathway classification of differential metabolites between infected and non-infected samples for tolerant cultivar ZD.</p>
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