Search Results (814)

The calmodulin-binding protein 60 (CBP60) family comprises essential Ca²⁺-responsive transcription factors that orchestrate salicylic acid (SA)-mediated immunity and broader stress responses. Despite being extensively characterized in model species, the CBP60 family remains poorly understood in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), a globally significant cucurbit crop highly susceptible to aphid infestation and fusarium wilt. In this study, we performed a comprehensive genome-wide identification and characterization of the CBP60 gene family in watermelon, identifying 16 putative ClaCBP60 members, all of which harbor the conserved calmodulin-binding domain. These genes are non-randomly distributed across chromosomes, featuring a prominent cluster of 10 members on chromosome 3. Phylogenetic analysis across seven cucurbit species categorized the CBP60 proteins into four distinct subfamilies, revealing both evolutionary conservation and lineage-specific diversification. Gene structure and conserved motif analyses revealed shared core domains with subfamily-specific variations, indicative of functional divergence. Furthermore, synteny analysis showed strong collinearity with cucumber and melon, reflecting the evolutionary stability of key CBP60 loci. Transcriptional profiling under F. oxysporum infection and aphid infestation revealed dynamic expression patterns, with ClaCBP60_01 and ClaCBP60_16 exhibiting rapid and robust induction during the early stages of both stresses. These findings indicated that ClaCBP60 genes operate in a coordinated yet diversified manner to modulate defense signaling against F. oxysporum and aphid attack. This study provides a systematic insight into CBP60 family members in watermelon, establishing a foundation for validation and molecular breeding aimed at enhancing biotic tolerance. Full article

Background: Hospital-acquired influenza remains a persistent threat that amplifies morbidity, mortality, length of stay, and operational strain, particularly among older and immunocompromised inpatients. The COVID-19 era reshaped control norms—normalizing N95 use during surges, ventilation improvements, and routine multiplex PCR—creating an opportunity to strengthen hospital outbreak management. Methods: We conducted a targeted narrative review of WHO/CDC/Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guidance and peer-reviewed studies (January 2015–August 2025), emphasizing adult inpatient care. This narrative review synthesizes recent evidence and discusses theoretical implications for practice, rather than establishing formal guidelines. Evidence was synthesized into pragmatic practice statements on detection, diagnostics, isolation/cohorting, antivirals, chemoprophylaxis, vaccination, surveillance, and communication. Results: Early recognition and test-based confirmation are pivotal. For inpatients, nucleic-acid amplification tests are preferred; negative antigen tests warrant PCR confirmation, and lower-respiratory specimens improve yield in severe disease. A practical outbreak threshold is ≥2 epidemiologically linked, laboratory-confirmed cases within 72 h on the same ward. Effective control may require immediate isolation or cohorting with dedicated staff, strict droplet/respiratory protection, and daily active surveillance. Early oseltamivir (≤48 h from onset or on admission) reduces mortality and length of stay; short-course post-exposure prophylaxis for exposed patients or staff lowers secondary attack rates. Integrated vaccination efforts for healthcare personnel and high-risk patients reinforce workforce resilience and reduce transmission. Conclusions: A standardized, clinician-led bundle—early molecular testing, do-not-delay antivirals, decisive cohorting and Personal protective equipment (PPE), targeted chemoprophylaxis, vaccination, and disciplined communication— could help curb transmission, protect vulnerable patients and staff, and preserve capacity. Hospitals should codify COVID-era layered controls for seasonal influenza and rehearse unit-level outbreak playbooks to accelerate response and recovery. These recommendations target clinicians and infection-prevention leaders in acute-care hospitals. Full article

Induced resistance in plants is a promising strategy for pest management, helping to reduce dependence on synthetic pesticides. However, no study has yet examined the interaction between Tetranychus urticae and Aronia melanocarpa, including host acceptance, performance, and antioxidant defence mechanisms. In this study, host acceptance of T. urticae was evaluated using two A. melanocarpa ecotypes: a non-cultivar (AMe) and the cultivated variety ‘Galicjanka’ (AGe). Leaf morphological traits (trichome density and length) and key life-history parameters of the mite (fecundity, egg development time, and larval duration) were assessed. Mite feeding effects on oxidative stress markers (hydrogen peroxide—H₂O₂; thiobarbituric acid reactive substances—TBARS) and antioxidant enzyme activity (guaiacol peroxidase—GPX ascorbate peroxidase—APX) were analysed by ecotype and infestation duration. Results showed low fecundity and prolonged development, indicating that neither ecotype is a preferred host for T. urticae. Ecotype-dependent differences in acceptance and mite performance suggest that variation in trichome density and biochemical traits may influence susceptibility. Baseline differences in H₂O₂ and TBARS imply a role in constitutive resistance, while their induction, accompanied by increased GPX and APX activity, highlights oxidative stress and antioxidant defences as key components of A. melanocarpa responses to mite attack. Full article

Solid waste-based cementitious materials (SWCMs) represent an innovative class of binders derived mainly from construction and demolition waste as well as industrial byproducts. Their application in recycled mortar offers a promising pathway to partially replace conventional cement, thereby advancing resource recycling and facilitating a low-carbon transition in the cement industry. This review systematically examines the properties, activation techniques, strength development, and corrosion resistance of recycled mortar prepared with SWCMs. Recycled powder (RP) and industrial solid waste have gelation potential, but their low reactivity requires activation treatment to enhance utilization efficiency. Activation methods, including thermal activation, carbonation, and alkali activation, effectively enhance reactivity and promote the formation of dense gel structures (e.g., C-(A)-S-H, N-A-S-H). While low replacement ratios optimize pore structure via the microfiller effect, higher ratios introduce excessive inert components, impairing mechanical properties. SWCMs demonstrate superior resistance to sulfate and chloride attacks, but their acid resistance is relatively limited. They also have excellent freeze–thaw resistance. SWCMs represent a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional cement, exhibiting commendable mechanical and durability properties when properly activated and formulated, thereby contributing to resource recycling and environmental sustainability in the cement industry. Full article

This paper examined the effect of marble powder (MP) on air-cured cement-based materials when subjected to sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) attack. Four MP replacement levels were tested: 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight of cement. The prepared samples were cured for 90 days prior to being exposed to H₂SO₄. Macroscopic tests for apparent density and compressive strength along with microstructural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed to determine the effect of MP on the properties of the materials. The Rietveld method was used to analyze the amounts of different crystalline phases and amorphous calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H). The obtained results indicate that 5% MP in air-cured cement -based materials exhibited the best behavior with acceptable resistance to acid attacks. This level of MP replacement was found to optimize the filler effect, improve the hydration process, and enhance the matrix density, which in turn reduces the permeability of the material and increases acid resistance. This is attributed to the balanced contribution of MP to phase formation, particularly calcite, which helps to counteract acid-induced dissolution, while also preserving the stability of C-S-H phases. This study provides a new perspective of the role of MP in influencing phase content (crystalline and amorphous phases) and their possible impacts on macroscopic properties such as apparent density and compressive strength. MP behaved as a filler, to improve hydration and resistance to acid attacks. Additionally, using MP as a replacement for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) offers a sustainable alternative by reducing waste and promoting the recycling of marble industry by-products, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability. It is recommended that, 5% MP is the optimal replacement content to enhance durability and mechanical properties in air-cured cement-based materials in aggressive environments, as it is both practical and achievable for infrastructure to be subjected to the aggressive environment. Full article

Faces are central to human interaction, serving as primary sources of identity, emotional cues, and social judgments. Facial attractiveness is strongly linked to perceptions of trustworthiness and moral goodness, leading to preferential treatment across education, employment, and legal contexts. Deviations from facial norms—such as asymmetry or visible differences—are, by contrast, often associated with negative traits, social avoidance, and dehumanisation. Across cultures and centuries, deliberate facial disfiguration has been used as a form of punishment for perceived moral or legal transgressions. Evidence from ancient Egypt, Mediaeval Europe, and early modern legislation, as well as modern acid attacks, indicates that intentional facial disfiguration has long served as a means of ongoing punishment through humiliation and identity disruption. Motivations for targeting the face may be rooted in its central role in identity, beauty, symmetry, and symbolic purity. Despite contemporary legal efforts to curb acid attacks and related violence, legislation specifically addressing intentional facial disfiguration remains limited. Modern psychological research confirms that acquiring a facial difference can severely impact quality of life, social functioning, and identity. This paper synthesises historical, cultural, and psychological perspectives on punitive facial disfiguration, highlighting its enduring role as a mechanism of social control. Future research should examine perpetrators’ decision-making, possible differences between different types of facial disfiguration, and the perceptual and emotional consequences of different facial injuries to inform prevention strategies and improve support for victims. Full article

In this work, the regio- and stereochemistry as well as the molecular mechanism of the cycloaddition reaction of nitrones with (E)-3-(methylsulfonyl)-propenoic acid derivatives were analyzed based on ωb97xD/6-311G(d,p) quantum chemical calculations. In light of these data, it is possible to propose selectivity of the analyzed processes, which was not clearly determined in light of previous experimental studies. Furthermore, the mechanism of the process was diagnosed. CDFT descriptors indicate that the reaction is triggered by a nucleophilic attack of the nitrone oxygen atom on the electrophilic carbon atom of (E)-3-(methylsulfonyl)-propenoic acid derivatives. In turn, PES analysis shows that, despite the nucleophilic-electrophilic character of the reactants, the corresponding transition states are only weakly polar and highly synchronous. IRC calculations rule out zwitterionic or biradical intermediates, confirming a single-step mechanism. The in silico ADME and PASS predictions indicate that the resulting isoxazolidines possess promising biological profiles, showing potential modulation of the serotonin system through 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C antagonism and stimulation of serotonin release, with structural features compatible with P450-mediated metabolism. Considering this attractive application potential, a detailed mechanistic investigation of their formation becomes essential for understanding and ultimately controlling the reaction pathways leading to these heterocycles. Full article

This review focuses on the molecular pathogenesis of Type 1 diabetes (T1D), specifically on the key autoantigens targeted by the autoimmune response and the clinical implications of their epitope specificity. T1D is characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic β-cells. The autoimmune attack is directed against a defined set of autoantigens, primarily insulin, glutamic acid decarboxylase 65, tyrosine phosphatase-like protein, zinc transporter 8, as well as several minor autoantigens. A critical advancement in understanding the disease has been the analysis of epitope specificity, revealing that immunodominant epitopes are conformational and often localized to C-terminal protein regions, exposed during β-cell degradation. The introduction of sensitive multiplex assays for the simultaneous detection of T1D-associated autoantibodies represents a major diagnostic breakthrough. These platforms enable early diagnosis, risk stratification, and the identification of a “therapeutic window” for intervention. At this preclinical stage, antigen-specific immunotherapies aimed at restoring immune tolerance show significant promise. Ultimately, the combination of personalized diagnostic profiles, epitope mapping, and targeted therapies forms the basis for a new T1D management paradigm focused on halting the autoimmune process itself and preserving functional β-cell mass. Full article

In this study, an efficient and regioselective synthetic method was developed for the preparation of 3-hydroxy-3-((2-(naphthalen-2-yloxy)-2-oxoethoxy)carbonyl)pentanedioic acid, a multifunctional ether–ester compound of potential interest for pharmaceutical and material science applications. The target compound was synthesized via the nucleophilic substitution (SN2) and esterification reactions of 2-naphthyl chloroacetate with the monosodium salt of citric acid. Optimization of the reaction conditions was carried out by varying the molar ratio of the reagents, reaction temperature, and duration. The highest yield of 83% was achieved under the conditions of a 2:1 molar ratio of chloroacetate to citrate, a temperature of 70–80 °C, and a reaction time of 6 h. The enhanced product yield observed under these conditions is attributed to the dual reactivity of the citric acid monosodium salt, which contains a free hydroxyl group capable of undergoing SN2 etherification, and free carboxylic acid groups that participate in esterification with the electrophilic 2-naphthyl chloroacetate. The stoichiometric 2:1 ratio ensures that both reactive centers on the citrate anion are fully utilized, leading to efficient and selective transformation into the desired product. Mechanistically, the ether bond formation proceeds through the classical Williamson ether synthesis pathway, where the alkoxide formed from the hydroxyl group attacks the electrophilic carbon of the chloroacetate, displacing the chloride ion. Concurrently, esterification enhances molecular complexity and stability. The results underline the synthetic utility of citric acid derivatives in forming complex organic architectures via environmentally benign routes. This study not only contributes a practical approach to multifunctional molecule synthesis but also reinforces the applicability of green chemistry principles in ester–ether coupling strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: δ¹-Pyrroline-5-carboxylic acid (P5C) is a key intermediate in both the pathways leading in plants to proline synthesis, as well as in the proline catabolic route that takes place in the mitochondrion. Instead of being further oxidized, the P5C released in the latter process could be transferred to the cytosol and reduced back to proline in an apparently futile proline–P5C cycle, which seems to play a role in the plant response to pathogen attack. To date, studies on this cycle and the enzymes involved have been hampered by the lack of an efficient protocol to measure P5C in plant extracts. Methods: The experimental conditions allowing P5C to be extracted from plant tissues, stabilized, concentrated by cation-exchange chromatography, and quantified by reaction with o-aminobenzaldehyde were set up and validated. Results: The optimized protocol was shown to be capable of detecting P5C accumulation in tissues of a proline-treated Arabidopsis thaliana p5cdh knock-out mutant, as well as allowing the measurement of proline dehydrogenase activity in partially purified extracts from plant cultured cells. Conclusions: The method herein described overcomes current limitations in detecting and quantifying P5C and will facilitate the study of the related enzymes and the elucidation of its debated role in plant metabolism. Full article

In cultured skin cells, decreases in antioxidant function and increases in intracellular free Fe²⁺ due to replicative aging have been reported. The Fenton reaction between Fe²⁺ and hydrogen peroxide is a threat to the skin because it produces hydroxyl radicals that attack proteins, nucleic acids and lipids. The purpose of this study was to determine whether exogenous iron modulation alters intracellular hydroxyl radicals in senescent normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). As previously reported, reduced antioxidant function, the accumulation of Fe²⁺ and increased levels of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) were observed in senescent NHDFs. The novel catalase (CAT) activity assay demonstrated a decrease in CAT activity alone in aged NHDFs. However, sufficient CAT activity against hydrogen peroxide was still maintained. Young NHDFs showed an increase in intracellular Fe²⁺ and hydroxyl radical signals after exogenous iron supplementation, both of which were cancelled by an iron chelator. Under the same experimental conditions, aged NHDFs that already showed a higher concentration of intracellular Fe²⁺ and stronger hydroxyl radical signals than young NHDFs also elicited a reduction in these levels after the addition of an iron chelator. These results suggest that exogenous regulation of intracellular iron concentration by iron chelators can suppress hydroxyl radical production independently of senescence progression, offering promise for future developments in senescence prevention research. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is a complex autoimmune skin disease driven by genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and immune dysregulation. Environmental factors such as ultraviolet radiation, smoking, and certain drugs can initiate disease onset by inducing keratinocyte apoptosis. The subsequent release of nucleic acids and danger-associated molecular patterns activates pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) on keratinocytes and immune cells, leading to the production of type I and type III interferons (IFNs) and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The objective of this review is to summarize recent advances in understanding the immunopathogenesis of CLE, with particular attention to emerging cellular players and their therapeutic implications. Methods: A narrative review of the recent literature was performed, including experimental, translational, and clinical studies investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying CLE and novel targeted treatments derived from these findings. Results: Although plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have traditionally been considered the major producers of IFN-I, recent data indicate that pDCs in CLE are functionally impaired and are not the primary source. Other cells, such as keratinocytes have emerged as key producers of IFN-I, contributing to a prelesional, IFN-rich microenvironment. This promotes the recruitment and activation of dendritic cells and other inflammatory myeloid subsets, which are now recognized as central players in amplifying local inflammation. Concurrently, T cells infiltrate the skin, where cytotoxic CD8⁺ T cells attack keratinocytes and CD4⁺ T cells further propagate inflammation via cytokine production. B cells and plasma cells produce autoantibodies, forming immune complexes that perpetuate inflammation. Neutrophils release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), exposing autoantigens and further stimulating IFN pathways. Macrophages contribute by presenting autoantigens, producing pro-inflammatory mediators, and failing to effectively clear apoptotic cells and immune complexes. Conclusions: The dynamic interplay between the innate and adaptive immune systems sustains the chronic inflammatory state characteristic of CLE. Based on the pathogenetic novelties, new therapeutic agents targeting specific molecules have been developed, which may improve the treatment of this complex disease in the future. Full article

The accumulation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in the environment demands efficient microbial strategies for its degradation. This study evaluates the biodegradation potential of Schizophyllum commune BNT39 toward bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET), a major PET intermediate, and PET itself. Clear halos on BHET-agar plates indicated extracellular hydrolytic activity. In liquid culture, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses revealed a three-phase degradation profile characterized by rapid BHET hydrolysis, transient dimer accumulation, and subsequent conversion to terephthalic acid (TPA). BHET was reduced by approximately 96% within seven days, while TPA accumulation reached 0.8 mg/mL after 30 days of incubation. Although PET degradation was limited, TPA was consistently detected as the principal product, with no BHET or MHET intermediates. To explore strategies for enhancing enzymatic activity, apple-derived cutin, PET, BHET, and polycaprolactone (PCL) were tested as inducers. Cutin markedly stimulated extracellular enzyme production, suggesting activation of cutinase-like enzymes. Overall, S. commune BNT39 demonstrates the ability to transform PET-related substrates, with cutin emerging as a promising natural stimulant to enhance enzymatic depolymerization. Future studies should focus on enzyme purification, activity profiling, and reaction optimization near PET’s glass transition temperature, where the polymer becomes more accessible for enzymatic attack. Full article

Natural plant fibres have gained growing research interest as a construction material due to efforts to reduce the negative environmental impacts caused by construction activities. Many researchers have investigated the suitability of utilising plant fibres as reinforcement in self-compacting concrete (SCC) as a substitute for synthetic fibres, recognising that the production of synthetic fibres generates significant amounts of CO₂. In this study a bibliometric analysis was conducted to investigate the current research achievements and map the scientific studies where plant fibres were used in SCC. A detailed discussion on the effects of various plant fibres and their underlying mechanisms on the properties of SCC is also provided. The findings indicated that using plant fibres typically reduces the flowability, filling ability, and passing ability of SCC due to the high water absorption of plant fibres, fibre and aggregate interlocking, and the fibre agglomeration effect. Incorporating plant fibres increases the viscosity and enhances the segregation resistance of SCC due to the strong cohesion between plant fibres and the cement matrix. The inclusion of plant fibres usually improves the mechanical properties of SCC because of the synergetic effects of plant fibres on crack-bridging and strain redistribution across the cross-section of SCC. Adding plant fibres to SCC also reduces drying shrinkage and cracking due to the fibre bridging effect, while generally lowering the resistance to sulphate attack, acid attack, and freeze–thaw cycles and increasing the water absorption rate of SCC due to the increased porosity of the mix. A comprehensive overview of research gaps and future perspectives for further investigations is also provided in this study. Full article

In this work, the synergistic effects of mineral admixtures and advanced mixing processes are systematically accounted for steel fibre-reinforced recycled aggregate concrete (SFR-RAC). It studies the improvement of performance optimization in SFR-RAC, inherently weak ITZ by adding 0.5% hooked steel fibres and replacing cement with ground granulated blast furnace slag (25–50%), fly ash (20–40%) and silica fume (7–14%). The efficiency of double-mixing (DM) and triple-mixing (TM) procedures were comprehensively evaluated. Results showed that mineral admixtures could improve mortar-aggregate interface bond, and the triple-mix technique contributed to such improvement. The maximum performance was observed for the combination of 7%SF with triple mixing (7%SF-TM), which presented increased compressive, tensile and flexural strengths by 7–18%, 12–29%, and 16–31% respectively. The durability was significantly improved, and the water resistance could increase by 53% with addition of 7%SF-TM, chloride penetration depth reduced by 86% when incorporated with 25%GGBS-TM, acid attack decreased by 84% with addition of 14%SF-TM. Microstructural analysis (SEM, XRD) confirmed that these enhancements stem from a denser matrix and refined ITZ due to increased C–S–H formation. This study confirms that the strategic integration of fibre reinforcement, pozzolanic admixtures and optimized mixing protocols presents a viable pathway for producing sustainable concrete from construction waste. Full article