Search Results (324)

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), a successful human pathogen, resides in host sentinel cells and combats the stressful intracellular environment induced by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species during infection. Mtb employs several evasion mechanisms in the face of the host as a survival strategy, including detoxifying enzymes as short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDRs) to withstand host-generated insults. In this study, using specialized transduction, we have generated a Rv0687 deletion mutant and its complemented strain and investigated the functional role of Rv0687, a member of SDRs family genes in Mtb pathogenesis. A wildtype (WT) and a mutant Mtb strain lacking Rv0687 (RvΔ0687) were tested for the in vitro stress response and in vivo survival in macrophages and mice models of infection. The study demonstrates that the deletion of Rv0687 elevated the sensitivity of Mtb to oxidative and nitrosative stress-inducing agents. Furthermore, the lack of Rv0687 compromised the survival of Mtb in primary bone marrow macrophages and led to an increase in the levels of the secreted proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and MIP-1α. Interestingly, the growth of WT and RvΔ0687 was similar in the lungs of infected immunocompromised mice; however, a significant reduction in RvΔ0687 growth was observed in the spleen of immunocompromised Rag^−/− mice at 4 weeks post-infection. Moreover, Rag^−/− mice infected with RvΔ0687 survived longer compared to those infected with the WT Mtb strain. Additionally, we observed a significant reduction in the bacterial burden in the spleens and lungs of immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice infected with RvΔ0687 compared to those infected with complemented and WT Mtb strains. Collectively, this study reveals that Rv0687 plays a role in Mtb pathogenesis. Full article

Supramolecular solvent-based extraction (SUPRAS) stands out as a promising approach, particularly due to its environmentally friendly and efficient characteristics. This research explores the optimization of SUPRAS extraction for sango radish and kale microgreens, focusing on enhancing the extraction efficiency. The Taguchi experimental design and artificial neural network (ANN) modeling were utilized to systematically optimize extraction parameters (ethanol content, SUPRAS: equilibrium ratio, centrifugation rate, centrifugation time, and solid-liquid ratio). The extraction efficiency was evaluated by measuring the antioxidant activity (DPPH assay) and contents of chlorophylls, carotenoids, phenolics, and anthocyanidins. The obtained results demonstrated variability in phytochemical contents and antioxidant activities across microgreen samples, with the possibility of achieving high extraction yields using the prediction of optimized parameters. The optimal result for sango radish can be achieved at an ethanol content of 35.7%; SUPRAS: equilibrium ratio of 1 v/v, centrifugation rate of 4020 rpm, centrifugation time of 19.84 min, and solid-liquid ratio of 30.2 mg/mL. The following parameters are predicted for maximal extraction efficiency for kale: ethanol content of 35.64%; SUPRAS: equilibrium ratio of 1 v/v; centrifugation rate of 3927 rpm; centrifugation time of 19.83 min; and solid-liquid ratio of 30.4 mg/mL. Additionally, laboratory verification of predicted SUPRAS parameters showed very low divergency degrees for both microgreens (–3.09 to 2.36% for sango radish, and −2.57 to 3.58% for kale). This potential of SUPRAS extraction, coupled with statistical and computational optimization techniques, can enhance the recovery of valuable bioactive compounds from microgreens and contribute to green extraction applications. Full article

In the present research, the open-source WRF-SFIRE model has been used to carry out surface forest fire spread forecasting in the North Sikkim region of the Indian Himalayas. Global forecast system (GFS)-based hourly forecasted weather model data obtained through the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) at 0.25 degree resolution were used to provide the initial conditions for running WRF-SFIRE. A landuse–landcover map at 1:10,000 scale was used to define fuel parameters for different vegetation types. The fuel parameters, i.e., fuel depth and fuel load, were collected from 23 sample plots (0.1 ha each) laid down in the study area. Samples of different categories of forest fuels were measured for their wet and dry weights to obtain the fuel load. The vegetation specific surface area-to-volume ratio was referenced from the literature. The atmospheric data were downscaled using nested domains in the WRF model to capture fire–atmosphere interactions at a finer resolution (40 m). VIIRS satellite sensor-based fire alert (375 m spatial resolution) was used as ignition initiation point for the fire spread forecasting, whereas the forecasted hourly weather data (time synchronized with the fire alert) were used for dynamic forest-fire spread forecasting. The forecasted burnt area (1.72 km²) was validated against the satellite-based burnt area (1.07 km²) obtained through Sentinel 2 satellite data. The shapes of the original and forecasted burnt areas matched well. Based on the various simulation studies conducted, an operational fire spread forecasting system, i.e., Sikkim Wildfire Forecasting and Monitoring System (SWFMS), has been developed to facilitate firefighting agencies to issue early warnings and carry out strategic firefighting. Full article

UV-A (315–400 nm) is a component of solar radiation, which impacts plant physiology. Consequently, the impact was investigated of UV-A supplementation on various aspects of kale cultivation in a plant factory with artificial lighting. Three UV-A intensity treatments (5, 10, or 15 W/m²) were applied to kale plants for 5 days before harvesting. The results revealed that 5 or 10 W/m² UV-A supplementation provided significant advantages for kale growth. The fresh weight of the kale shoots increased by over 35–50% after UV-A exposure. In particular, the 10 W/m² UV-A exposure significantly improved the photosynthetic rate, water-use efficiency, and quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Y(II)). In addition, the treatment with UV-A positively impacted changes in leaf spectral indices, resulting in decreases in the simple ratio index (SR), the normalized phaeophytinization index (NPQI), and the normalized difference red edge index (NDRE). Furthermore, the phytonutrients in kale (Vitamin C, soluble protein, and total phenolics) were enhanced using the 10 W/m² UV-A treatment. One notable outcome was the consistent reduction in nitrate contents across all UV-A treatment intensities. Therefore, supplementing kale cultivation with UV-A radiation was a valuable strategy for enhancing kale yield and quality in plant factory production. Full article

Over the years, research regarding the Zika virus has been steadily increasing. Early immunization for ZIKV is a priority for preventing complications such as microencephaly and Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). Unlike traditional vaccination approaches, oral dissolving films (ODFs) or mucoadhesive film technology is an emerging, exciting concept that can be used in the field of pharmaceuticals for vaccine design and formulation development. This attractive and novel method can help patients who suffer from dysphagia as a complication of a disease or syndrome. In this study, we investigated a microparticulate Zika vaccine administered via the buccal route with the help of thin films or oral dissolving films (ODFs) with a prime dose and two booster doses two weeks apart. In vitro, the ODFs displayed excellent physiochemical properties, indicating that the films were good carriers for vaccine microparticles and biocompatible with the buccal mucosa. In vivo results revealed robust humoral (IgG, subtypes IgG1 and IgG2a) and T-cell responses (CD4+/CD8+) for ZIKV-specific immunity. Both the Zika MP vaccine and the adjuvanted Zika MP vaccine affected memory (CD45R/CD27) and intracellular cytokine (TNF-α and IL-6) expression. In this study, ZIKV vaccination via the buccal route with the aid of ODFs demonstrated great promise for the development of pain-free vaccines for infectious diseases. Full article

Frass generated during the production of black soldier fly larvae is attracting the interest of scientists and horticultural producers because it is a material made from the biotransformation of organic waste, it contains several nutrients that can be used by plants, and it has a biostimulant capacity that has become a recent focus. Thermal composting is a stabilization process that improves the physical and chemical properties of treated wastes, allowing better performance in plants compared to the waste in its fresh state. In this research, thermocomposted frass was evaluated as a germination substrate for kale seeds (Brassica oleracea). To achieve this, the phytotoxicity of increasing concentrations of frass was evaluated by examining the germination of kale seeds, and seedlings were grown for 30 days in germination substrates mixed with 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% frass under greenhouse conditions. The treatment with 20% frass showed the highest values of seedling height, stem diameter, number of leaves, length and width of the first true leaf and length and width of cotyledons, and reduced the contents of phenols, tannins and antioxidants. However, the content of flavonoids increased compared to the control and the rest of the mixtures. Full article

Incorporating Internet of Things (IoT) technology into indoor kale cultivation holds significant promise for revolutionizing organic farming methodologies. While numerous studies have investigated the impact of environmental factors on kale growth in IoT-based smart agricultural systems, such as temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels, indoor ultraviolet (UV) LED light’s operational efficiencies and advantages in organic farming still need to be explored. This study assessed the efficacy of 15 UV light-controlling indoor experiments in three distinct lighting groups: kale cultivated using conventional household LED lights, kale cultivated using specialized indoor UV lights designed for plant cultivation, and kale cultivated using hybrid household and LED grow lights. The real-time IoT-based monitoring of light, soil, humidity, and air conditions, as well as automated irrigation using a water droplet system, was employed throughout the experiment. The experimental setup for air conditioning maintained temperatures at a constant 26 degrees Celsius over the 45-day study period. The results revealed that a combination of daylight household lights and indoor 4000 K grow lights scored the highest, indicating optimal growth conditions. The second group exposed to warm white household and indoor grow red light exhibited slightly lower scores but larger leaf size than the third group grown under indoor grow red light, likely attributable to reduced light intensity or suboptimal nutrient levels. This study highlights the potential of indoor UV LED light farming to address challenges posed by urbanization and climate change, thereby contributing to efforts to mitigate agricultural carbon emissions and enhance food security in urban environments. This research contributes to positioning kale as a sustainable organic superfood by optimizing kale cultivation. Full article

This study investigates the influence of religiosity on environmental concern and intentions to reduce food waste in Islam and Christianity. The study involves 575 adult participants, predominantly Muslims and Christians, utilizing the Duke University Religion Index (DUREL) religiosity scale, environmental concern scale, and food waste reduction intention scale. The investigation was conducted in Romania, Italy, and Turkey. Utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM) via AMOS software, the research reveals that religiosity significantly affects environmental concern in both religious groups. Furthermore, environmental concern acts as a mediator between religiosity and both Muslim and Christian participants. Notably, the impact of religiosity on the intention to reduce food waste is significant among Muslims, but is not observed among Christians. The study underscores the importance of integrating religiosity into consumer behavior research, especially concerning food waste reduction. It suggests that religiosity and environmental concern are crucial for successful campaigns targeting food waste reduction among Muslim and Christian consumers. Full article

Humans continue to be at risk from the Zika virus. Although there have been significant research advancements regarding Zika, the absence of a vaccine or approved treatment poses further challenges for healthcare providers. In this study, we developed a microparticulate Zika vaccine using an inactivated whole Zika virus as the antigen that can be administered pain-free via intranasal (IN) immunization. These microparticles (MP) were formulated using a double emulsion method developed by our lab. We explored a prime dose and two-booster-dose vaccination strategy using MPL-A^® and Alhydrogel^® as adjuvants to further stimulate the immune response. MPL-A^® induces a Th1-mediated immune response and Alhydrogel^® (alum) induces a Th2-mediated immune response. There was a high recovery yield of MPs, less than 5 µm in size, and particle charge of −19.42 ± 0.66 mV. IN immunization of Zika MP vaccine and the adjuvanted Zika MP vaccine showed a robust humoral response as indicated by several antibodies (IgA, IgM, and IgG) and several IgG subtypes (IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG3). Vaccine MP elicited a balance Th1- and Th2-mediated immune response. Immune organs, such as the spleen and lymph nodes, exhibited a significant increase in CD4⁺ helper and CD8⁺ cytotoxic T-cell cellular response in both vaccine groups. Zika MP vaccine and adjuvanted Zika MP vaccine displayed a robust memory response (CD27 and CD45R) in the spleen and lymph nodes. Adjuvanted vaccine-induced higher Zika-specific intracellular cytokines than the unadjuvanted vaccine. Our results suggest that more than one dose or multiple doses may be necessary to achieve necessary immunological responses. Compared to unvaccinated mice, the Zika vaccine MP and adjuvanted MP vaccine when administered via intranasal route demonstrated robust humoral, cellular, and memory responses. In this pre-clinical study, we established a pain-free microparticulate Zika vaccine that produced a significant immune response when administered intranasally. Full article

Natural amendments from agricultural waste to improve soil physicochemical properties continuously attract research interest in promoting eco-friendly plant production. The present study evaluated the proper use of sawdust, biochar, and compost made from farm waste for kale production from seedling propagation to field conditions. From the seedling propagation process, the results demonstrate that the most suitable growing medium for kale seedings was 0.5:1:1 v/v of sawdust + biochar + compost, which gave the fastest mean germination times (2.71 days) and the highest seed germination percentage (78.33%). In addition to investigating the selected growing media as the soil amendments at five different rates (0, 6.25, 12.50, 18.75, 25.00, and 31.25 t ha⁻¹), the result reveals that the fresh weight of marketable leaves was significantly highest under the 31.25 t ha⁻¹ treatment. The application rate that yielded the highest gross profit margins was eight times higher than the control. Moreover, in some harvesting periods, the kale leaf yields under the treatment of 31.25 t ha⁻¹ showed higher total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents. Full article

The kale crop is an important bulk vegetable, and automatic segmentation to recognize kale is fundamental for effective field management. However, complex backgrounds and texture-rich edge details make fine segmentation of kale difficult. To this end, we constructed a kale dataset in a real field scenario and proposed an UperNet semantic segmentation model with a Swin transformer as the backbone network and improved the model according to the growth characteristics of kale. Firstly, a channel attention module (CAM) is introduced into the Swin transformer module to improve the representation ability of the network and enhance the extraction of kale outer leaf and leaf bulb information; secondly, the extraction accuracy of kale target edges is improved in the decoding part by designing an attention refinement module (ARM); lastly, the uneven distribution of classes is solved by modifying the optimizer and loss function to solve the class distribution problem. The experimental results show that the improved model in this paper has excellent performance in feature extraction, and the average intersection and merger ratio (mIOU) of the improved kale segmentation can be up to 91.2%, and the average pixel accuracy (mPA) can be up to 95.2%, which is 2.1 percentage points and 4.7 percentage points higher than the original UperNet model, respectively, and it effectively improves the segmentation recognition of kale. Full article

Microgreens are innovative vegetable products whose production and consumption are gaining popularity globally thanks to their recognized nutraceutical properties. To date, the effects of lighting conditions and growing substrate on the performances of Brassica carinata microgreens (indigenous to Africa) remain underexplored. The present study aimed at providing insights into the influence of different lighting treatments provided by LEDs, namely monochromatic blue (B), red (R), cool white (W) and a combination of three color diodes (B + R + W), and substrates (cocopeat, sand and cocopeat–sand mix (v/v) (1:1)) on the growth, yield and bioactive compounds of B. carinata microgreens. Seeds were germinated in dark chambers and cultivated in growth chambers equipped with LED lighting systems for 14 days under a fixed light intensity of 160 ± 2.5 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹ and photoperiod of 12 h d⁻¹. The best performances were associated with the spectrum that combined B + R + W LEDs and with substrate resulting from the cocopeat–sand mix, including the highest yield (19.19 g plant⁻¹), plant height (9.94 cm), leaf area (68.11 mm²) and canopy cover (55.9%). Enhanced carotenoid and flavonoid contents were obtained with B + R + W LEDs, while the B LED increased the total amount of chlorophyll (11,880 mg kg⁻¹). For plants grown under B + R + W LEDs in cocopeat, high nitrate levels were observed. Our results demonstrate that substrate and light environment interact to influence the growth, yield and concentration of bioactive compounds of B. carinata microgreens. Full article

Fermentation is used not only to preserve food but also to enhance its beneficial effects on human health and achieve functional foods. This study aimed to investigate how different treatments (spontaneous fermentation or fermentation with the use of starter culture) affect phenolic content, antioxidant potential, and cholinesterase inhibitory activity in different kale cultivars: ‘Halbhoner Grüner Krauser’, ‘Scarlet’, and ‘Nero di Toscana’. Chosen samples were further tested for their protective potential against the Caco-2 cell line. HPLC-MS analysis revealed that the fermentation affected the composition of polyphenolic compounds, leading to an increase in the content of rutin, kaempferol, sinapinic, and protocatechuic acids. In general, kale cultivars demonstrated various antioxidant activities, and fermentation led to an increase in total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Fermentation boosted anti-cholinesterase activity most profoundly in ‘Nero di Toscana’. Extracts of spontaneously fermented ‘Scarlet’ (SS) and ‘Nero di Toscana’ (NTS) showed cytoprotective properties, as revealed by the malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) assays. Additionally, strong anti-inflammatory activity of NTS was shown by decreased release of cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α. Collectively, the conducted studies suggest fermented kale cultivars as a potential source for functional foods. Full article

Up to 70–80% of women of reproductive age may be affected with the most common uterine tumors, known as fibroids or myomas. These benign tumors are the second most prevalent cause of surgery among premenopausal women. Predictions show that the occurrence of myomas in pregnancy will increase, and that the risk of having myomas during pregnancy increases with advanced maternal age. Although most women with fibroids do not experience any symptoms during pregnancy, up to 30% of women experience problems during pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium. The viability of myoma excision during cesarean surgery (CS) is a contentious issue raised by the rising incidence of myomas in pregnancy and CS rates. A new surgical procedure for removing fibroids using a trans-endometrial approach, which involves making an incision through the decidua itself, has put into doubt the long-standing practice of cesarean myomectomy (CM) with a trans-serosal approach. Some authors have recently advocated for this last approach, highlighting its advantages and potential uses in real-world situations. The purpose of this paper is to critique the present approach to cesarean myomectomy by analyzing the clinical and surgical distinctions between the two approaches and providing illustrations of the CM methods. Full article

The aim of this study was to obtain a series of activated carbon samples by the chemical activation of low-rank coal. The precursor was impregnated with a NaOH solution. Activated carbons were characterized by determining their textural parameters and content of surface oxygen functional groups and by using an elemental analysis. The carbons were tested as potential adsorbents for the removal of liquid pollutants represented by rhodamine B. The effectiveness of rhodamine B removal from water solutions depended on the initial concentration of the dye, the mass of rhodamine B, and the pH and temperature of the reaction. The isotherm examination followed the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacity of the rhodamine B was 119 mg/g. The kinetic investigation favored the pseudo-second-order model, indicating a chemisorption mechanism. The thermodynamic assessment indicated spontaneous and endothermic adsorption, with decreased randomness at the solid–liquid interface. The experiment revealed that a 0.1 M HCl solution was the most effective regenerative agent. Full article