Search Results (463)

Yellow rust (Puccinia striiformis) is a common wheat disease that significantly reduces yields, particularly in seasons with cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall. Early detection is essential for effective control, especially in key wheat-producing regions such as Southern Dobrudja, Bulgaria. This study presents a UAV-based approach for detecting yellow rust using only RGB imagery and deep learning for pixel-based classification. The methodology involves data acquisition, preprocessing through histogram equalization, model training, and evaluation. Among the tested models, a UnetClassifier with ResNet34 backbone achieved the highest accuracy and reliability, enabling clear differentiation between healthy and infected wheat zones. Field experiments confirmed the approach’s potential for identifying infection patterns suitable for precision fungicide application. The model also showed signs of detecting early-stage infections, although further validation is needed due to limited ground-truth data. The proposed solution offers a low-cost, accessible tool for small and medium-sized farms, reducing pesticide use while improving disease monitoring. Future work will aim to refine detection accuracy in low-infection areas and extend the model’s application to other cereal diseases. Full article

This work concerns the preparation of Pt/AC catalysts (Pt supported on activated carbon) and their application to the synthesis of hydrocarbon biofuels through the HEFA (hydroprocessing of esters and fatty acids) route. The key motivation for the work was that catalysts based on sulfided Mo supported on γ-Al₂O₃, traditionally employed in the hydroprocessing of petroleum derivatives, (i) are unstable in the HDO (hydrodeoxygenation) of biomass-derived feedstocks and (ii) can contaminate the resulting biofuels with sulfur. In this context, a systematic study on the effects of preparation conditions on the properties of the resulting Pt/AC catalysts and their performance in HEFA was carried out for the first time. Efficient catalysts were obtained, which led to the complete deoxygenation of lauric acid and coconut oil, yielding products composed primarily of n-alkanes. The highest HDO activity was verified for the catalyst prepared using as a support an AC previously subjected to thermal treatment up to 800 °C in a H₂ atmosphere (which removed most of the surface acidic oxygenated groups), depositing Pt over the surface of this support via wet impregnation using a H₂PtCl₆ solution acidified with HCl. The obtained results showed the great potential of the Pt/AC catalysts for the production of hydrocarbon biofuels through the HEFA route. Full article

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is one of the solutions for replacing fossil diesel with a clean and renewable fuel in compression ignition (CI) engines. This study focuses on the benefits of using HVO-fueled engines in Brazil concerning CO₂ emissions, compared with other alternatives in the Brazilian energy matrix. The analysis includes CO₂ emissions from the Brazilian diesel fleet over the last 10 years considering conventional diesel fuel, traditional biofuels, and the anticipated introduction of HVO into the Brazilian market. The proposal involves neat HVO as well as blends of fossil diesel, biodiesel, and HVO (up to 50% by vol.), these blends being more realistic for their practical deployment. Considering the Brazilian diesel fleet over the past 10 years (2015–2025), net CO₂ emissions would have been reduced by 77.4% if 100% HVO had been used, while a reduction of 54.4% would have occurred with the blend containing 50% of HVO. Moreover, the use of 100% HVO for this fleet from 2015 would lead to 366.5 and 652.4 Mton of CO₂ in 2030 and 2035, respectively, compared with 1621.5 and 2885.9 Mton if 100% fossil diesel is used. The economic analysis suggests that fuel cost savings of approximately 12 USD billion could be reached in 2035 under favorable HVO production scenarios. This is a favorable projection, with positive values for all blends and pure HVO, indicating economic feasibility. Full article

We examined heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) in young and middle-aged men after a period of detraining that immediately followed the completion of an exercise training program. Eight young (27.8 ± 3.8 years) and ten middle-aged (41.9 ± 3.8 years) men were randomly assigned to complete an 8-week exercise training program that included either aerobic (young: n = 3; middle-aged: n = 2), resistance (young: n = 3; middle-aged: n = 3), or combined (aerobic/resistance) (young: n = 2; middle-aged: n = 5) exercise. Thereafter, participants ceased all planned exercise training activities during an 8-week detraining period. Resting HR and HRV were assessed at baseline, after exercise training, and after detraining. An analysis of mean differences between age groups at each time-point revealed a significantly higher standard deviation of normal RR intervals (SDNN), square root of the mean of squared differences between successive RR intervals (RMSSD), high-frequency (HF) band (0.15–0.40 Hz), and cardiac vagal index (CVI) in young participants when compared to middle-aged participants at baseline (p ≤ 0.019) and after detraining (p ≤ 0.045), but not after the 8-week exercise training intervention (p ≥ 0.057). Additionally, in middle-aged participants, we observed a significant negative association between the percent change in HRV indices (RMSSD, HF, and CVI) and systolic blood pressure in response to detraining (p < 0.05). In conclusion, young participants had higher levels of HRV indices at baseline, reflecting greater cardiac vagal modulation when compared to middle-aged participants. We showed that these age-related differences in HRV are diminished following exercise training but are reestablished following 8 weeks of detraining. Given that age-related attenuations in HRV may reflect changes in cardiovascular health, it is important to further investigate the relationships between HRV, exercise training and detraining, aging, and the risk of poor health outcomes. Full article

This study explores the potential of freely available tools for collecting, processing, and applying information in the management of mechanized fieldwork. A hierarchical approach was developed, integrating operational, logistical, and strategic levels of decision-making based on crop type, land conditions, machinery, labor, and time constraints. Various technological and technical solutions were evaluated through simulations and manual data processing. The proposed methodology was applied to a real-world case in Kalipetrovo, Bulgaria. The results include a 3.5-fold reduction in required tractors and a 50% decrease in tractor driver needs, achieved through extended working hours and shift scheduling. Additional benefits were identified from replacing conventional tillage with deep tillage, resulting in higher fuel consumption but improved soil preparation. Detailed resource schedules were created for machinery, labor, and fuel, highlighting seasonal peaks and optimization opportunities. The approach relies on spreadsheets and free AI-assisted platforms, proving to be a low-cost, accessible solution for mid-sized farms lacking advanced digital infrastructure. The findings demonstrate that structured information integration can support the effective renewal and utilization of tractor and machinery fleets while offering a scalable basis for decision support systems in agricultural engineering. Full article

A series of new 3′-deoxyribosides of substituted benzimidazoles was obtained by the chemo-enzymatic method using genetically engineered E. coli purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP). In the case of asymmetrically substituted benzimidazole derivatives, a mixture of N1- and N3-regioisomers was formed (confirmed by NMR). The antiviral activity of the obtained compounds against herpes simplex virus 1 of reference strain L2 and a strain deeply resistant to acyclovir in Vero E6 cell culture was studied. 4,6-Difluoro-1-(β-D-3′-deoxyribofuranosyl)benzimidazole (IC₅₀ = 250.92 µM, SI = 12.00) and 4,5,6-trifluoro-1-(β-D-3′-deoxyribofuranosyl)benzimidazole (IC₅₀ = 249.96 µM, SI = 16.00) showed significant selective activity against both viral models in comparison to ribavirin (IC₅₀ = 511.88 µM, SI > 8.00). Full article

Background/Objectives: In this study, we present a green, scalable platform for the production of water-dispersible powders co-encapsulating the lipophilic bioactives curcumin (Cur) and eugenol (Eug) within the amphiphilic polymer Soluplus^® (SP) via low-temperature spray drying. Methods: The amount of Cur (1%, 5%, and 10%) and Eug (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) was varied to achieve single- and double-loaded water-soluble powders with the maximum amount of active substances. The powders containing a higher loading of Cur, 5% and 10% (and Eug), were obtained from water/ethanol mixtures (2:1 and 5:1 v/v ratio), while the formulation with 1% of Cur was spray-dried by using water as a solvent. Results: By leveraging aqueous or aqueous–ethanolic feed systems, we achieved high loading of the bioactive substances—up to 10% Cur and 20% Eug (w/w)—while minimizing organic solvent use. Myo-inositol was incorporated as a stabilizing excipient to modulate particle morphology, improve powder flowability, and enhance redispersibility. Physicochemical characterization revealed nanoscale micellization (53–127 nm), amorphization of both actives as confirmed by XRD and DSC, and the absence of crystalline residue. Encapsulation efficiencies exceeded 95% for Cur and 93% for Eug. Dissolution tests demonstrated a rapid release from the 5% Cur/5% Eug formulation (>85% in 5 min), while higher-loaded single-formulations showed progressively slower release (up to 45 min). Conclusions: This work demonstrates a robust and environmentally responsible encapsulation strategy, suitable for delivering poorly water-soluble phytochemicals with potential applications in oral nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical dosage forms. Full article

Sugarcane bagasse-derived biochars, produced at 350 °C (B350) and 600 °C (B600), were evaluated for their capacity to modify the sorption behavior of the herbicide sulfentrazone (SFZ) in Red–Yellow Latosol (RYL) and to serve as carriers for its controlled release. Batch sorption experiments indicated that SFZ exhibits low affinity for soil and undergoes sorption–desorption hysteresis. Adding B350 biochar (up to 0.30%) did not significantly affect the herbicide sorption, whereas B600 enhanced its retention. Sequential desorption assays were conducted by incorporating SFZ either directly into the soil or into the biochars, which were subsequently blended into the soil (at 0.15% w/w). The SFZ desorbed more rapidly from the soil than from the biochars, suggesting that the pyrogenic material has potential for modulating herbicide release. Phytotoxicity assessments using Sorghum bicolor confirmed that only SFZ incorporated into B350 (at 0.15% w/w) retained herbicidal efficacy comparable to its direct application in soil. These findings underscore the potential of B350 biochar as a controlled-release carrier for SFZ without compromising its weed control effectiveness. Full article

Background/Objectives: To summarize the relevant trials relating to novel strategies and therapeutic advances in the treatment of bladder cancer. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature and recent/ongoing clinical trials was conducted, focusing on novel treatments and strategies for bladder cancer. Trials started or published as of 2020 were included. Results: The standard of care for MIBC remains neoadjuvant chemotherapy with perioperative immunotherapy in the cisplatin-eligible population, while guidelines do not exist for cisplatin-ineligible patients. Strategies under investigation include combinations of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and/or novel therapies, such as ADCs, targeted agents, intravesical treatments, and personalized vaccines. Bladder-sparing approaches using these novel therapies are also being studied. In the advanced/metastatic setting, enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab has supplanted platinum-based chemotherapy as the first-line treatment option. For those with contraindications, or who progress, strategies under investigation include newer immunotherapies and ADCs, novel small molecule inhibitors, and cellular therapies. Conclusions: The treatment landscape for bladder cancer has changed drastically within the last few years. Ongoing trials hope to build on this success by investigating bladder-sparing strategies for MIBC and novel systemic therapies in advanced patients. Full article

One of the most interesting and poorly studied carriers of medicinal substances is the polymer clay composite material (PCCM). Bentonite clays are used in pharmacy for the manufacturing of various dosage forms, as well as in the adsorption of drugs to slow their release. Polymer–clay nanocomposites have demonstrated significantly improved properties compared to pure polymers. A review of recent scientific advances has shown promising results regarding the application of polymer–clay materials in medicine and bioengineering, particularly in the development of carrier sorbents with prolonged action for controlled drug release. As a result, interest in polymer–clay systems is steadily growing and gaining momentum. This paper focuses on the structure and properties of bentonite clays, including their sorption, ion exchange, binding, and rheological properties. The methods for preparing intercalated and exfoliated nanocomposites, such as radical intercalative polymerization in situ on clay surfaces, are reviewed. Furthermore, the improved efficacy and exposure times of PCCMs, combined with their enhanced bactericidal properties, are analyzed for the creation of universal and multifunctional preparations for medical use. Full article

This study aimed to develop and validate a dual murine model integrating a high-fat diet (HFD) and a single streptozotocin (STZ) dose to induce diabetes mellitus (DM), alongside periodontitis (Perio) induced by ligature placement and oral inoculation with Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis). The goal was to mimic human pathological conditions, creating a physiologically relevant environment to study the interplay between DM and Perio. A total of 128 six-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into four groups: Control, DM, Perio, and DM-P. DM was induced by HFD and STZ injection, and Perio by ligature placement and P. gingivalis infection. Evaluations occurred at baseline and days 7, 14, and 21. Alveolar bone loss was assessed by micro-computed tomography, and inflammation was examined histologically. DM mice showed elevated glucose levels and insulin resistance. Perio and DM-P groups experienced significant bone loss compared with Control and DM groups. The morphometric analysis revealed abundant inflammatory cells and reduced collagen fibers in Perio and DM-P groups, especially at day 7. This dual murine model successfully replicated the key features of DM and Perio, maintaining overall health of the animals, and good tolerability by those subjects to the stress of both interventional procedures. Full article

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is an irreversible disease characterized by vascular and systemic inflammation, ultimately leading to right ventricular failure. There is a great need for adjunctive therapies to extend survival for PAH patients. The gut microbiome influences the host immune system and is a potential novel target for PAH treatment. We review the emerging preclinical and clinical evidence which strongly suggests that there is gut dysbiosis in PAH and that alterations in the gut microbiome may either initiate or facilitate the progression of PAH by modifying systemic immune responses. We also outline approaches to modify the intestinal microbiome and delineate some practical challenges that may impact efforts to translate preclinical microbiome findings to PAH patients. Finally, we briefly describe studies that demonstrate contributions of infections to PAH pathogenesis. We hope that this review will propel further investigations into the mechanisms by which gut dysbiosis impacts PAH and/or right ventricular function, approaches to modify the gut microbiome, and the impact of infections on PAH development or progression. Full article

The stabilization and upgrading of biomass and waste-derived pyrolysis oils requires development of reliable, active and low-cost upgrading catalysts. Basic natural materials can act as such catalysts and convert reactive oxygenates present in biomass pyrolysis oils. The conversion of furfural as a model compound has been conducted in an autoclave reactor at 200 °C to 300 °C using different calcium-based materials. CaCO₃, Ca(OH)₂, CaO, cement raw meal (CRM) and calcined cement raw meal (cCRM) were screened for their catalytic activity and characterized using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), nitrogen physisorption, carbon dioxide temperature programmed desorption (CO₂-TPD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). CaCO₃ and CRM had low basicity and showed no catalytic activity at 200 to 300 °C. Notably, 90% conversion of furfural was achieved at 200 °C using Ca(OH)₂ with products being mostly furfural di- and trimers. For the basic CaO and cCRM, a temperature of 250 °C or above caused rapid polymerization of furfural. The proposed mechanism follows the Cannizzaro reaction of furfural, catalyzed by basic sites, polymerization of furfuryl alcohol, decarboxylation of furoic acid and decarbonylation of furfural, releasing CO, CO₂ and H₂O. Calcined cement raw meal showed the most promise for application as low-cost, sacrificial, basic catalyst. Full article

Pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH) encompasses a group of autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorders marked by cerebellar and pontine atrophy. Multiple subtypes of PCH have been identified, among which the rare subtype PCH type 16 is caused by MINPP1 genetic variants. MINPPI encodes an enzyme essential for inositol polyphosphate dephosphorylation, regulating calcium and iron homeostasis. We conducted genome sequencing on a proband from the consanguineous family, who presented with a severe neurodegenerative disorder, to identify the underlying cause of disease. A comprehensive clinical assessment in addition to neuroradiological findings are described. We performed the functional validation of the identified variant and conducted untargeted metabolomic analyses. The clinical and radiological assessment of the patient showed a congenital brain anomaly and neurodegenerative symptoms. Further genetic analysis identified a homozygous loss-of-function variant (c.1401del, p.Ser468Valfs10*) in MINPP1, providing molecular confirmation of a clinical PCH diagnosis. While real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) showed that MINPP1 gene expression was unaffected in the proband, Western blot analysis demonstrated reduced protein abundance, supporting a pathogenic role of the variant. Metabolomic profiling revealed elevated lipid levels and disrupted inositol metabolism, providing further insights into the disease mechanism. These findings establish the pathogenicity of the p.Ser468Valfs10* variant in MINPP1 and highlight inositol metabolism as a potential pathway involved in PCH16, advancing the understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Full article

Expanding genetic variability of cultivated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is essential for improving fiber quality and pest resistance. This study synthesized allotetraploids through interspecific hybridization between G. herbaceum (A₁) and G. nelsonii (G₃). Upon chromosome doubling using 0.2% colchicine, fertile F₁C allotetraploids (A₁A₁G₃G₃) were developed. Cytogenetic analysis confirmed chromosome stability of synthetic allotetraploids, and 74 polymorphic SSR markers verified hybridity and parental contributions. The F₁C hybrids exhibited enhanced resistance to cotton aphids (Aphis gossypii) and whiteflies (Aleyrodidae), with respective infestation rates of 5.2–5.6% and 5.4–5.8%, lower than those of G. hirsutum cv. Ravnak-1 (22.1% and 23.9%). Superior fiber length (25.0–26.0 mm) was observed in complex hybrids and backcross progeny, confirming the potential for trait introgression into elite cultivars. Phylogenetic analysis based on SSR data clearly differentiated G. herbaceum from Australian wild species, demonstrating successful bridging of divergent genomes. The F₁C hybrids consistently expressed dominant G. nelsonii-derived traits regardless of the hybridization direction and clustered phylogenetically closer to the wild parent. These synthetic allotetraploids could broaden the genetic base of G. hirsutum, addressing cultivation constraints through improved biotic stress resilience and fiber quality traits. The study establishes a robust framework for utilizing wild Gossypium species to overcome genetic bottlenecks in conventional cotton breeding programs. Full article