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UNLABELLED: The bacterial chemotaxis system is a well-understood signaling pathway that promotes bacterial success. Chemotaxis systems comprise chemoreceptors and the CheA kinase, linked by CheW or CheV scaffold proteins. Scaffold proteins provide connections between chemoreceptors and CheA and also between chemoreceptors to create macromolecular arrays. Chemotaxis is required for host colonization by many microbes, including the stomach pathogen Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium builds chemoreceptor-CheA contacts with two distinct scaffold proteins, CheW and CheV1. H. pylori cheW or cheV1 deletion mutants both lose chemoreceptor array formation, but show differing semisolid agar chemotaxis assay behaviors: ∆cheW mutants exhibit total migration failure, whereas ∆cheV1::cat mutants display a 50% reduction. On investigating these varied responses, we found that both mutants initially struggle with migration. However, over time, ∆cheV1::cat mutants develop a stable, enhanced migration capability, termed migration-able (Mig+). Whole-genome sequencing analysis of four distinct ∆cheV1::cat Mig+ strains identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in hpg27_252 (hp0273) that were predicted to truncate the encoded protein. Computational analysis of the hpg27_252-encoded protein revealed it encoded a hypothetical protein that was a remote homolog of the PilO Type IV filament membrane alignment complex protein. Although H. pylori lacks Type IV filaments, our analysis showed it retains an operon of genes for homologs of PilO, PilN, and PilM. Deleting hpg27_252 in the ∆cheV1::cat or wild type strain resulted in enhanced migration in semisolid agar. Our study thus reveals that while cheV1 mutants initially have significant migration defects, they can recover the migration ability through genetic suppressors, highlighting a complex regulatory mechanism in bacterial migration. IMPORTANCE: Chemotactic motility, present in over half of bacteria, depends on chemotaxis signaling systems comprising receptors, kinases, and scaffold proteins. In Helicobacter pylori, a stomach pathogen, chemotaxis is crucial for colonization, with CheV1 and CheW as key scaffold proteins. While both scaffolds are essential for building chemoreceptor complexes, their roles vary in other assays. Our research reexamines cheV1 mutants behavior in semisolid agar, a standard chemotaxis test. Initially, cheV1 mutants exhibited defects similar to those of cheW mutants, but they evolved genetic suppressors that enhanced migration. These suppressors involve mutations in a previously uncharacterized gene, unknown in motility behavior. Our findings highlight the significant chemotaxis defects in cheV1 mutants and identify new elements influencing bacterial motility.

Colistin resistance is a global concern warning for a one health approach to combat the challenge. Colistin resistant E. coli and their resistance determinants are widely distributed in the environment, and rats could be a potential source of these isolates and resistant determinants to a diverse environmental setting. This study was aimed to determine the presence of colistin resistant E. coli (CREC) in wild rats, their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) phenotypes, and genotypic analysis of mcr-1 CREC through whole genome sequencing (WGS). A total of 39 rats were examined and CREC was isolated from their fecal pellets onto MacConkey agar containing colistin sulfate (1 μg/ mL). AMR of the CREC was determined by disc diffusion and broth microdilution was employed to determine MIC to colistin sulfate. CREC were screened for mcr genes (mcr-1 to mcr-8) and phylogenetic grouping by PCR. Finally, WGS of one mcr-1 CREC was performed to explore its genetic characteristics especially resistomes and virulence determinants. 43.59% of the rats carried CREC with one (2.56%) of them carrying CREC with mcr-1 gene among the mcr genes examined. Examination of seventeen (17) isolates from the CREC positive rats (n = 17) revealed that majority of them belonging to the pathogenic phylogroup D (52.94%) and B2 (11.76%). 58.82% of the CREC were MDR on disc diffusion test. Shockingly, the mcr-1 CREC showed phenotypic resistance to 16 antimicrobials of 8 different classes and carried the ARGs in its genome. The mcr-1 gene was located on a 60 kb IncI2 plasmid. On the other hand, ARGs related to aminoglycosides, phenicols, sulfonamides, tetracyclines and trimethoprims were located on a 288 kb mega-plasmid separately. The mcr-1 CREC carried 58 virulence genes including genes related to adhesion, colonization, biofilm formation, hemolysis and immune-evasion. The isolate belonged to ST224 and closely related to E. coli from different sources including UPEC clinical isolates from human based on cgMLST analysis. The current research indicates that rats might be a possible source of CREC, and the presence of mcr-1 and other ARGs on plasmid increases the risk of ARGs spreading and endangering human health and other environmental components through this infamous pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although recent years have seen considerable interest in stimuli‐responsive hydrogels, their strict preparation conditions and narrow applicability limit their use as diverse sensors and soft robots. Herein, a versatile Agar‐Zwirrions hybrid hydrogel actuator (Agar/PSBMA) integrated with simultaneous temperature self‐sensing and wide‐range electrical response is developed. To prepare the Agar/PSBMA hydrogel, a simple and controllable preforming post‐enhancing and mechanical pressing method is used by introducing zwitterions materials into a temperature‐sensitive Agar matrix. Owing to the design, the compact multiplex complementary structure generated by this method and the materials can facilitate the improvement of flexibility, stretchability, and toughness while providing mechanical dissipation and adhesion properties. Importantly, the visible detected temperature self‐sensing ability during 10–40 °C, and quick and wide‐range bending responses of both high‐voltage and low‐voltage electric fields make it unique over other actuators. Furthermore, the electrical response behavior of the hydrogel is found to be impacted by mechanical characteristics and charge polarization based on the finite element Abaqus simulations analysis. The prepared versatile hydrogels show the potential for applications as soft robotics and controlled transportation of adhered substances while simultaneously monitoring their working temperature, which expands the response range of hydrogel actuators and broadens the scope of application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the zinc ferrite decorated reduced graphene oxide (ZnFe 2 O 4 -rGO) was synthesised by using a simplified one-pot solvothermal technique. The synthesised nanomaterials were examined for structural, morphological and optical characteristics is greatly aided by the XRD, HRTEM, SAED, EDX spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The crystallite size calculated from XRD and HRTEM of the ZnFe 2 O 4 -rGO nanocomposite was around 10 nm. The presence of desired elements in the synthesised nanomaterials was confirmed using EDX spectroscopy. The Raman spectroscopy aided in identifying the active functional modes. The absorption maximum (λ max) was found to be approximately ∼310 nm and the optical bandgap of ZF was reduced from 2.1 eV to 1.97 eV in ZF-rG. The antibacterial activity of ZnFe 2 O 4 -rGO nanocomposite was discussed against Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli bacteria at different concentrations by agar gel diffusion method among which the highest bacterial growth inhibition was seen in Klebsiella pneumonia in all different concentrations in which 86% at 100 μg/ml was the most effective. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agar, as a seaweed polysaccharide mainly extracted from Gracilariopsis lemaneiformis, has been commercially applied in multiple fields. To investigate factors indicating the agar accumulation in G. lemaneiformis, the agar content, soluble polysaccharides content, and expression level of 11 genes involved in the agar biosynthesis were analysed under 4 treatments, namely salinity, temperature, and nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations. The salinity exerted the greatest impact on the agar content. Both high (40‰) and low (10‰, 20‰) salinity promoted agar accumulation in G. lemaneiformis by 4.06%, 2.59%, and 3.00%, respectively. The content of agar as a colloidal polysaccharide was more stable than the soluble polysaccharide content under the treatments. No significant correlation was noted between the two polysaccharides, and between the change in the agar content and the relative growth rate of the algae. The expression of all 11 genes was affected by the 4 treatments. Furthermore, in the cultivar 981 with high agar content (21.30 ± 0.95%) compared to that (16.23 ± 1.59%) of the wild diploid, the transcriptional level of 9 genes related to agar biosynthesis was upregulated. Comprehensive analysis of the correlation between agar accumulation and transcriptional level of genes related to agar biosynthesis in different cultivation conditions and different species of G. lemaneiformis, the change in the relative expression level of glucose-6-phosphate isomerase II (gpiII), mannose-6-phosphate isomerase (mpi), mannose-1-phosphate guanylyltransferase (mpg), and galactosyltransferase II (gatII) genes was highly correlated with the relative agar accumulation. This study lays a basis for selecting high-yield agar strains, as well as for targeted breeding, by using gene editing tools in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A good organic single crystal of 2‐Amino‐1‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐4, 5‐di‐hydro‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium 4‐methyl‐benzene‐sulfonate (2ADPTS) is grown by slow evaporation technique, and the orthorhombic system with noncentrosymmetric space group (P212121) is corroborated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The structural parameters of the 2ADPTS crystal are investigated and weighted up with the theoretical interpretation. The Hydrogen–Hydrogen interaction with (43.6%) in 2ADPTS promotes crystal structure packing stabilization. The presence of various functional groups and chemical composition of the 2ADPTS compound is identified by FTIR and FT‐Raman spectroscopy. The natural bond orbital evaluation interprets all the possible hydrogen bonding interactions and charge delocalizations in the crystal structure. Thermal analysis confirmed the thermal stability of the 2ADPTS crystal. The absorption spectrum of the 2ADPTS crystal is recorded using UV–Vis spectroscopy. The third‐order nonlinear property of the 2ADPTS crystal is confirmed by using the Z‐scan technique. The higher significant antibacterial activity of 2ADPTS is carried out by the standard Kirby‐Bauer test against four pathogenic bacteria commonly called the agar well diffusion process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Patients infected with difficult-to-treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa are likely to receive meropenem (MEM) empirically before escalation to ceftolozane/tazobactam (C/T). We assessed whether pre-exposure to MEM affected C/T resistance development on C/T exposure. Materials and methods Nine clinical P. aeruginosa isolates were exposed to MEM 16 mg/L for 72 h. Then, isolates were serially passaged in the presence of C/T (concentration of 10 mg/L) for 72 h as two groups: an MEM-exposed group inoculated with MEM pre-exposed isolates and a non-MEM control group. At 24 h intervals, samples were plated on drug-free and drug-containing agar (C/T concentration 16/8 mg/L) and incubated to quantify bacterial densities (log10 cfu/mL). Growth on C/T agar indicated resistance development, and resistant population was calculated by dividing the cfu/mL on C/T plates by the cfu/mL on drug-free agar. Results At 72 h, resistant populations were detected in 6/9 isolates. In five isolates, MEM exposure significantly increased the prevalence of ceftolozane/tazobactam-resistance development; the percentages of resistance population were 100%, 100%, 53.5%, 31% and 3% for the MEM-exposed versus 0%, 0%, 2%, 0.35% and ≤0.0003% in the unexposed groups. One isolate had a similar resistant population at 72 h between the two groups. The remaining isolates showed no development of resistance, regardless of previous MEM exposure. Conclusions MEM exposure may pre-dispose to C/T resistance development and thus limit the therapeutic utility of this β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor. Resistance may be a result of stress exposure or molecular-level mutations conferring cross-resistance. Further in vivo studies are needed to assess clinical implications of these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palm kernel oil (PKO) is a vegetable oil containing active substances beneficial for medicine and health. The applications of PKO can be extended by synthesizing ozonated PKO (OPKO). In this study, the PKO was ozonated at different intervals (0, 1, 3, 7, and 24 h). The physicochemical properties of OPKO were studied, including iodine value (IV), peroxide value (PV), acid value (AV), anisidine value (p-AV), viscosity and fatty acid composition (FAC). Meanwhile, the spectroscopic characteristics, melting and crystallization properties of OPKO were also investigated. Besides, the present study also examined the antimicrobial properties of OPKO against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as fungi using agar disk-diffusion method. The results showed that PV, AV, and viscosity of the OPKO increased in parallel with increasing ozonation time, reaching 963.6 ± 25.0 meq O2/kg fat, 45.30 ± 1.45 mg KOH/g oil, and 196.3 ± 1.6 mPa.s, respectively, after 24 h of ozonation. On the other hand, prolonged ozonation time reduced oleic acid and led to lower IV of 1.6 ± 0.7 g I2/100 g oil. The p-AV exhibited an increasing-decreasing trend, reaching a peak at 3 h ozonation period. Spectroscopic analysis showed that the absorption band at 1712 cm−1, 1400 cm−1, and 1112 cm−1, attributed to C=O, O-H, and -C-O, respectively, were altered with the ozonation time, indicating the change in the chemical composition of PKO. Moreover, the change in the FAC also affected the crystallization and melting profiles of PKO. This work also demonstrated the excellent antimicrobial properties of OPKO with significant inhibition effects against several types of microorganisms tested. Therefore, OPKO can be an essential component with great potential for cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper devised a novel Christmas‐tree structure for flexible neural probes, which features recording sites on side‐branches that can be folded along the shank of the probe by temporary encapsulation before implantation. This design reduces the size of the implant and minimizes the surgical footprint. Upon implantation, the temporary encapsulation dissolves in vivo, leading to self‐stretching of the branches, and an expansion of the lateral detecting range of the probe. We conducted in vitro experiment with our probe in 0.6% agar that mimics the brain tissue environment. The results demonstrate that the neural probe we have developed exhibits self‐stretching ability and provides an increased lateral recording range without causing additional damage to the brain tissue. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article in the Journal of Fish Diseases examines the effects of the fungicide dimethomorph on various species of oomycetes, which are harmful to plants and animals, including humans. The study specifically focuses on three oomycete species that cause significant economic losses in agriculture and aquaculture. Through in vitro tests and scanning electron microscopy, the researchers found that dimethomorph inhibited the growth of the oomycetes and caused morphological changes in one species. The study suggests that more research is needed to fully understand these pathogens and develop effective treatments. [Extracted from the article]

Pyocyanin is an extracellular diffusible pigment conferring virulence to Pseudomonas strains for their survival. Surge in antimicrobial resistance demands alternate potential candidates of biological origin. Combining the virulence and antagonistic potential, pyocyanin pigment shall be developed as a biocontrol agent with experimental studies. Media optimization and cross streak method were employed to screen the competent strain and identified using 16 S rRNA sequencing. Agar diffusion, broth dilution and MTT assay were adopted to determine the antimicrobial potential and biocompatibility of pyocyanin. Further, UV–vis spectrophotometry, GC-MS and 1H NMR analyses were used to validate the structural identity of pyocyanin. Results revealed that Potato glycerol broth supported maximum pyocyanin production from competent Pseudomonas aeruginosa WS1. Significant antimicrobial activity in a dose dependent fashion was observed with MIC 64 – 32 μg / mL. Cytotoxicity with IC 50 @ 108.5 mg L−1 was found to be associated with clumping and cell rounding with consistent lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay result. The mass spectrum (m/z) at 210 and N–CH 3 proton resonating at 1.4229 ppm and 7.4 – 7.5 ppm confirmed the condensed nitrogen aromatic ring of pyocyanin. These findings suggest that the combined virulence and antagonistic potential of pyocyanin interfering with the ETC may serve as a promising bio-control agent. [Display omitted] • Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of potential Pseudomonas strains. • Biochemical, molecular and structural elucidation of pyocyanin pigment. • Evaluation of clinical efficacy against toward bacteria and fungi. • Cytotoxicity study of pyocyanin for biomedical and clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing evidence suggests that biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) results from quorum sensing, reducing bacterial sensitivity to antibiotics and fostering the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. Addressing the need for a compound that can inhibit quorum sensing signals to mitigate biofilm formation in PA, this study screened 40 essential oils for their potential as quorum sensing inhibitors against PA ATCC9027. Utilizing the agar well diffusion assay, the antibacterial activity of these essential oils was compared with levofloxacin, revealing that 25 out of 40 essential oils exhibited antibacterial activity against PA ATCC9027. The highest antibacterial activity was exhibited by essential oils from Cinnamomum burmannii (Cinnamon Bark Oil), Cananga odorata (Ylangylang Oil), and Eucalyptus globulus (Eucalyptus Oil), confirmed by respective MIC values of 0.09765% (v/v), 0.390625% (v/v), and 1.5625% (v/v), and MBC values of 0.09765% (v/v), > 1.5625% (v/v), and > 1.5625% (v/v). Growth curve inhibition assay followed by crystal violet biofilm formation assay revealed that only Ylang-ylang Oil exhibited biofilm formation inhibition at 1/4 MIC concentration. Docking analysis of compounds from these essential oils against quorum sensing enzymes (LasR, PqsR, and QscR) revealed that Ylang-ylang Oil compounds exhibited the highest binding affinity. In conclusion, among the 40 essential oils tested, 25 show potential as antibacterials against PA ATCC9027, with Ylang-ylang Oil standing out as a promising candidate for quorum sensing inhibitor development. The use and development of quorum sensing inhibitors from Ylang-ylang Oil compounds are expected to reduce the burden of antibiotic resistance, especially in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The postbiotic derived from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum bacteria was produced in three culture media: milk, MRS, and whey, and its antibacterial and antifungal properties were evaluated. To investigate the production efficiency of postbiotics, three methods, heating, sonication and centrifugation, were utilized to prepare postbiotics in MRS broth culture medium. The antibacterial potency of the postbiotic was evaluated using the agar well-diffusion method, and MIC and MBC tests were conducted for different treatments. The results of the study showed that the postbiotic prepared in food environments such as milk and cheese whey can have antibacterial and antifungal properties similar to the postbiotic prepared in the MRS culture medium. However, it is possible to enrich food matrices such as milk and cheese whey and make further adjustments in terms of pH settings. Additionally, the thermal process was able to create a nanoscale postbiotic, which is a significant achievement for the application of postbiotics in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The future outlook of postbiotics clearly indicates that the emergence of this generation of probiotics can have an attractive and functional position in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, future research focusing on this subject will contribute to the development of this generation of postbiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recent studies have shown that epithelial-stromal interactions could play a role in the development of colorectal cancer. Here, we investigated the role of fibroblasts in the transformation of normal colonocytes induced by 4-HNE. Methods: Normal Co colonocytes and nF fibroblasts from the same mouse colon were exposed, in monoculture (m) or coculture (c), to 4-HNE (5 μM) twice weekly for 3 weeks. Gene expression was then analysed and the ability of Co colonocytes to grow in anchorage-independent conditions was tested in soft agar. Fibroblasts previously treated or not with 4-HNE were also seeded in culture inserts positioned above the agar layers to allow paracrine exchanges with colonocytes. Results: First, 60% of the genes studied were modulated by coculture in Co colonocytes, with notably increased expression of BMP receptors. Furthermore, while 4-HNE increased the ability of monoculture-treated Co colonocytes to form colonies, this effect was not observed in coculture-treated Co colonocytes. Adding a selective BMPR1 inhibitor during the treatment phase abolished the protective effect of coculture. Conversely, addition of a BMP4 agonist to the medium of monoculture-treated Co colonocytes prevented phenotypic transformation by 4-HNE. Second, the presence of nF(m)-HNE fibroblasts during the soft agar assay increased the number and size of Co(m) colonocyte colonies, regardless of whether these cells had been previously treated with 4-HNE in monoculture. For soft agar assays performed with nF(c) and Co(c) cells initially treated in coculture, only the reassociation between Co(c)-HNE and nF(c)-HNE resulted in a small increase in the number of colonies. Conclusions: During the exposure phase, the epithelial-mesenchymal interaction protected colonocytes from 4-HNE-induced phenotypic transformation via activation of the BMP pathway. This intercellular dialogue also limited the ability of fibroblasts to subsequently promote colonocyte-anchorage-independent growth. In contrast, fibroblasts pre-exposed to 4-HNE in monoculture strongly increased the ability of Co(m) colonocytes to form colonies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gummies belong to a confectionery category characterized by a hydrocolloid, acting as a stabilizer, forming a network to retain a high-moisture sugar syrup, and hydrocolloids play a key role in shaping the visual appeal, flavour release, and texture of the gel network. This study investigates the potential substitution of gelatin in gummies with plant-based hydrocolloids like agar-agar and guar gum. It is also aimed at optimizing the level of functional ingredients like curcumin and piperine in standardized gummies through incorporation of turmeric and black pepper, respectively. These plant-based gelling agents mimic gelatin's chewable, firm, and elastic texture, catering to broader consumption and suitability for versatile use. Consumer interest in healthier diets has spurred the transition towards plant-based functional foods, leading to the replacement of gelatin gummies with plant-based alternatives. Agar-agar significantly influences gummy texture by contributing to firmness, elasticity, and stable gel formation, imparting essential strength and consistency. Guar gum, recognized as a plant-based hydrocolloid, enhances gummy texture, consistency, and moisture retention through thickening and stabilization. While agar-agar and guar gum individually fell short in achieving the desired textural attributes in the gummies, their combined use (1% agar-agar and 5.5% guar gum) yielded optimal chewiness (1,455.12 ± 1.75 N), gumminess (2251.11 ± 2.14 N), and high overall acceptability (8.96), resembling gelatin-based gummies. The optimized formulation included 40% sugar, 2% citric acid, 2% turmeric, and 0.6% black pepper. The developed vegan gummies contained 56.9 ± 0.09 mg/100 g total phenols, 37.27 ± 1.4 % antioxidant capacity, 0.054 ± 0.0012 % curcumin, and 0.02 ± 0.008 % piperine. Consequently, the combined use of agar-agar and guar gum emerged as stable and effective gelling agents, offering an alternative to gelatin for creating turmeric and black pepper-infused gummies with desirable texture and functional attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Hantzsch synthesis has been an established multicomponent reaction method for more than a decade, its derivative, whereby an aniline replaces ammonium acetate as the nitrogen source, has not been explored at great length. Recent studies have shown that the products of such a reaction, N-aryl-4-aryldihydropyridines (DHPs), have significant anticancer activity. In this study, we successfully managed to synthesize a wide range of DHPs (18 examples, 8 of which were novel) using a metal-free, mild, inexpensive, recoverable, and biopolymer-based heterogeneous catalyst, known as piperazine, which was supported in agar–agar gel. In addition, 8 further examples (3 novel) of such dihydropyridines were synthesized using isatin instead of aldehyde as a reactant, producing spiro-linked structures. Lastly, this catalyst managed to afford an unprecedented product that was derived using an innovative technique—a combination of multicomponent reactions. Essentially, the product of our previously reported aza-Friedel–Crafts multicomponent reaction could itself be used as a reactant instead of aniline in the synthesis of more complex dihydropyridines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-degradable plastics of petrochemical origin are a contemporary problem of society. Due to the large amount of plastic waste, there are problems with their disposal or storage, where the most common types of plastic waste are disposable tableware, bags, packaging, bottles, and containers, and not all of them can be recycled. Due to growing ecological awareness, interest in the topics of biodegradable materials suitable for disposable items has begun to reduce the consumption of non-degradable plastics. An example of such materials are biodegradable biopolymers and their derivatives, which can be used to create the so-called bioplastics and biopolymer blends. In this article, gelatine blends modified with polysaccharides (e.g., agarose or carrageenan) were created and tested in order to obtain a stable biopolymer coating. Various techniques were used to characterize the resulting bioplastics, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)/differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), contact angle measurements, and surface energy characterization. The influence of thermal and microbiological degradation on the properties of the blends was also investigated. From the analysis, it can be observed that the addition of agarose increased the hardness of the mixture by 27% compared to the control sample without the addition of polysaccharides. In addition, there was an increase in the surface energy (24%), softening point (15%), and glass transition temperature (14%) compared to the control sample. The addition of starch to the gelatine matrix increased the softening point by 15% and the glass transition temperature by 6%. After aging, both compounds showed an increase in hardness of 26% and a decrease in tensile strength of 60%. This offers an opportunity as application materials in the form of biopolymer coatings, dietary supplements, skin care products, short-term and single-contact decorative elements, food, medical, floriculture, and decorative industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The root cause of global pollution is the reflection of usage of non-degradable plastics. The solutions and methods to mitigate the plastic pollution are in high demand. The application of green technology in polymer science from the marine resource gives stability to the ecosystem. The bio-composite films were fabricated using gelatin of fish scale, agar of seaweed and chitosan of shrimp shell waste by a solvent casting technique. The plasticity and bioactivity enhanced using glycerol and clove essential oil. The physic-chemical and mechanical properties of the film were evaluated against the range of test of thickness, tensile strength, elongation at break, puncture resistance, water vapor permeability, Attenuated Total Reflection—Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy. The characteristics of active packaging mechanism assessed based on antimicrobial and antioxidative properties. A level of 1.5% clove essential oil ration was given desirable properties of active packaging material. The biodegradability was calculated in terms of percentage weight loss under the soil burial and water immersion test. The biodegradation process of composite film took 21 days in soil and 158 in water. Hence, the bio-composite film prepared from green technology is a promising alternative to the conventional plastic to mitigate plastic pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiO2 nanoparticles are effective alternative to the antibiotics. The quick recombination of the photogenerated charges and the inefficient exploitation of visible light remain the major problems limiting their large‐scale applications. Modifying the TiO2 with Silver that acting as an electron trap, plays an important role in reducing the recombination of TiO2 charges and shift its photo‐response to the visible light region. The present work aims to synthesize AgTiO2 nanoparticles using sol‐gel and coprecipitation methods and evaluating the antimicrobial behavior of them. Also, to find the optimal conditions based on the anatase phase of TiO2 due to its higher antimicrobial activity than the rutile form. Among Ag‐TiO2 nanoparticles obtained, the one prepared by sol‐gel method at 450 °C and PH=8–8.5 exhibits the best antimicrobial property. AgTiO2 nanoparticles have been characterized by means X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR),scanning electron microscope (SEM), ζ‐potential, dynamic light scattering (DLS) that showing promising results. Zeta potential values −103 mV has been reported that is considered as a stable colloidal suspension system that prevents nanoparticles aggregation. Antimicrobial behavior of them were evaluated using Diffusion (Agar disk‐diffusion), Dilution (MIC) and Bacterial colony counting methods and diameter of the inhibitory zone 15 mm and minimum inhibitory concentration 5 mg/ml was observed.Colony count results indicated that AgTiO2 able to kill bacteria at the lowest concentration of 5 mg/ml. Outcomes of MTT assay (measure cell cytoxicity) suggesting the absence of toxicity in living Hfff cells (as a normal human fibroblast) while surviving L929 cells (as a cancer cell line originated from mouse fibroblast cells). After 24 and 48 h incubation from 100 % to 77.3 % and 57.2 % was reduced respectively. This indicates that Ag/TiO2 nanoparticles act as a anticancer drug and have inherent selective toxicity nature towards cancer cells while posing no effect to normal cells. AgTiO2 nanoparticles are synthesized using sol‐gel and coprecipitation methods. The sample prepared by the sol‐gel method at a temperature of 450 °C and pH=8.5, which corresponds to the anatase phase of TiO2 synthesis, shows the best antimicrobial properties and acts as an anticancer drug with inherent selective toxicity nature towards cancer cells while posing no effect on normal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Neuropilin-2 (NRP2) is a multifunctional single-pass transmembrane receptor that binds to two disparate ligands, namely, vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and semaphorins (SEMAs). It is reportedly involved in neuronal and vascular development. In this study, we uncovered the exact functional role of NRP2 and its molecular mechanism during aggressive behaviors and lymph node (LN) metastasis in human head and neck cancer (HNC) and identified algal methanol extract as a potential novel NRP2 inhibitor. Methods: In silico analyses and immunohistochemistry were used to investigate the relationship between NRP2 expression and the prognosis of HNC patients. The functional role of NRP2 on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and cancer stem cell (CSC) properties of HNC cells was examined by MTS, soft agar, clonogenic, transwell migration and invasion assays, and sphere formation assays. Signaling explorer antibody array, western blot, and qPCR were performed toward the investigation of a molecular mechanism that is related to NRP2. Results: NRP2 was highly expressed in HNC and positively correlated with LN metastasis and advanced tumor stage and size in patients. Using loss- or gain-of-function approaches, we found that NRP2 promoted the proliferative, migratory, and invasive capacities of human HNC cells. Furthermore, NRP2 regulated Sox2 expression to exhibit aggressiveness and CSC properties of human HNC cells. We demonstrated that p90 ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (RSK1) elevates the aggressiveness and CSC properties of human HNC cells, possibly by mediating NRP2 and Sox2. Zeb1 was necessary for executing the NRP2/RSK1/Sox2 signaling pathway during the induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and aggressive behaviors of human HNC cells. Moreover, the methanol extract of Codium fragile (MECF) repressed NRP2 expression, inhibiting the RSK1/Sox2/Zeb1 axis, which contributed to the reduction of aggressive behaviors of human HNC cells. Conclusions: These findings suggest that NRP2 is a critical determinant in provoking EMT and aggressive behaviors in human HNC through the RSK1/Sox2/Zeb1 axis, and MECF may have the potential to be a novel NRP2 inhibitor for treating metastasis in HNC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli has been categorized as a pathogen of critical priority by the World Health Organization as it is highly infectious with high mortality and morbidity rates and widespread transmission potential. Carbapenem resistance is primarily mediated by carbapenemase-encoding genes and, additionally, through intrinsic factors. In India, over the years, carbapenemase-encoding genes have been reported from diverse clinically significant pathogens. The present study identifies E. coli of clinical origin that harbours bla OXA-144. Methods and results The study isolate was obtained from a tertiary referral hospital in northeast India. Carbapenemase production was investigated through culture on chromogenic agar and Rapidec Carba NP test as per manufacturer's instructions. Susceptibility of the isolate was performed by the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method and agar dilution method following CLSI guidelines. PCR targeting carbapenemase-encoding genes was performed, followed by transformation and conjugation experiments. Whole-genome sequencing of the isolate was done through the Illumina sequencing platform and the data were analysed using the Centre for Genomic Epidemiology database. BJD_EC180 is 6 919 180 bp in length and consists of six rRNA operons, 111 tRNA, and 6849 predicted protein-coding sequences. BJD_EC180 belonged to ST2437 and harboured the carbapenemase-encoding gene bla OXA-144 with ISAba1 upstream, along with multiple antibiotic resistance genes conferring clinical resistance towards beta-lactams, aminoglycosides, amphenicols, sulphonamides, tetracyclines, trimethoprim, and rifampin. Conclusions Carbapenem-resistant E. coli harbouring bla OXA-144 associated with insertion sequence pose a serious health threat as their mobilization into carbapenem non-susceptible strains that will contribute to the resistance burden and therefore, needs urgent monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyrcanian forests comprise a long strip along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea in northern Iran. Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis) is one of the most valuable forest tree species in the Hyrcanian forests. Bark necrosis and bleeding spots of oriental beech were observed in Savadkuh forests in Mazandaran province during summer 2021. Ten samples were collected from symptomatic oriental beech trees. The bark canker symptoms included stem tissue necrosis, dark brown to black spots on the trunk, bleeding with dark exudates and dark lesions in the inner bark. Twenty‐six strains of culturable bacteria were isolated from the samples which in culture were predominantly round, convex, smooth with entire margins on nutrient agar and a metallic green sheen pigment on eosin‐methylene blue (EMB) agar. Fourteen strains induced necrosis and browning of the tissues around the inoculation sites on acorns after 2 weeks. Five representative strains also caused dieback in twigs of oriental beech 3 weeks after inoculation. These bacteria were Gram‐negative, catalase positive and oxidase negative. All strains produced colonies with a green metallic sheen on EMB agar. Strains were negative in tests for starch and gelatine hydrolysis or production of levan. A phylogenetic tree based on concatenated sequences of gyrB and infB genes, of representative strains well as in each of the single gene‐based phylogenetic trees, indicated that these strains clustered with Brenneria alni NCPPB 3934T with high bootstrap values. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of B. alni associated with bark necrosis and bleeding spots on oriental beech. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fig‐milk dessert, a traditional and nutritionally rich treat infused with bioactive compounds, was subjected to a comprehensive analysis in this study. The novelty of this research lies in the investigation of the in vitro antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial potential of the fig‐milk dessert. This was accomplished through the utilization of the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, Annexin/propidium iodide staining, microtiter plate‐based assay and agar well diffusion, respectively, for the first time. Additionally, the study assessed the total phenols and flavonoid content of the extract using the Folin–Ciocalteu assay and the aluminum chloride method, respectively. The findings revealed that the cooking method exerted a significant influence on the bioactive properties and nutritional composition of the dessert. Among the samples analyzed, CM1, consisting of figs steamed for 2 min and milk heated to 70°C, exhibited remarkable characteristics. This sample demonstrated the highest peptide concentration (1290 mg/L), superior antioxidant and anticancer activities, and favorable sensory attributes. Specifically, CM1 induced apoptosis in 84% of AGS cells and inhibited 68% of free radicals in the DPPH assay. It is noteworthy that the fig‐milk dessert did not exhibit any antibacterial properties. These discerning results carry substantial implications for the development of functional dairy products endowed with both nutritional and potential therapeutic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to maintain the quality and shelf life of Capsicum chinense Jacq. var habanero by developing and applying an innocuous, environmentally friendly, and economical edible coating based on agar and mango peel extract as a potential postharvest treatment alternative for habanero chili as it is a perishable fruit susceptible to physiological deterioration. The study was carried out during 2021, in the city of Mérida, Yucatan. The coating was tested for solubility, moisture, opacity, antioxidant capacity, and biodegradability, while the habanero chilies with coating were evaluated for texture, acidity, moisture, total polyphenol content, vitamin C, capsaicin, and antioxidant capacity. The results showed that coated chilies stored at 4 °C had a longer shelf life and a significant effect of coating was observed on the parameters of texture, capsaicin content and the percentage of free radical inhibition, which makes it an appropriate technology for the preservation of habanero chilies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The survival and reproduction of endangered terrestrial orchids is becoming more difficult with climate change, as the disruption of their delicate ecosystems by elevated temperatures and modified precipitation patterns poses a growing threat to their survival. Additionally, the growth and survival of terrestrial orchids becomes imperative due to their reliance on symbiotic seed germination, forming intricate alliances with mycorrhizal fungi. We collected M. rheedei capsules from their natural habitat. Capsules were surface sterilized and checked for viability using the TTC method. Viable seeds were grown on oatmeal agar media in the presence of six symbiotic fungal species. Seeds were visually inspected and assessed for germination and protocorm formation for 60 days. We noted 60.5% viability of seeds. We obtained a maximum of 75.40 ±4.4% symbiotic germination and protocorm formation by cultivating M. rheedei seeds on oatmeal agar media alongside the symbiotic fungi Tulasnella calospora. Consequently, to ensure the ongoing proliferation of these threatened plants in their natural habitats, conservationists ought to prioritize employing artificial symbiotic seed germination as the preferred approach for orchid multiplication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new, facile and eco-friendly spectrophotometric method for estimating erythromycin (ERY) in its dosage form has been proposed and validated. It depends on the formation of a complex between the drug and nickel at pH 7, using distilled water as a diluent, where the absorbance of the generated complex was measured at 228.5 nm. The formed complex followed a linear response over the concentration range of 80.0 to 300.0 µg/mL of ERY. The proposed method was fully validated according to international conference of harmonization (ICH) and was used to estimate the relevant concentration of the drug in its oral suspension formulation providing mean percentage recovery of 100.0±1.08 with a limit of detection and limit of quantification of 60 µg/mL and 80 µg/mL, respectively. the reaction stoichiometry was investigated and a reaction mechanism proposal was offered. Eventually, the antimicrobial effect of ERY and its metal complex with Ni2+ were compared using agar diffusion method, where no significant difference in their activities was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to isolate biosurfactant‐producing and hydrocarbon‐degrading actinomycetes from different soils using glycerol–asparagine and starch–casein media with an antifungal agent. The glycerol–asparagine agar exhibited the highest number of actinomycetes, with a white, low‐opacity medium supporting pigment production and high growth. Biosurfactant analyses, such as drop collapse, oil displacement, emulsification, tributyrin agar test, and surface tension measurement, were conducted. Out of 25 positive isolates, seven could utilize both olive oil and black oil for biosurfactant production, and only isolate RP1 could produce biosurfactant when grown in constrained conditions with black oil as the sole carbon source and inducer, demonstrating in situ bioremediation potential. Isolate RP1 from oil‐spilled garden soil is Gram‐staining‐positive with a distinct earthy odor, melanin formation, and white filamentous colonies. It has a molecular size of ~621 bp and 100% sequence similarity to many Streptomyces spp. Morphological, biochemical, and 16 S rRNA analysis confirmed it as Streptomyces sp. RP1, showing positive results in all screenings, including high emulsification activity against kerosene (27.2%) and engine oil (95.8%), oil displacement efficiency against crude oil (7.45 cm), and a significant reduction in surface tension (56.7 dynes/cm). Streptomyces sp. RP1 can utilize citrate as a carbon source, tolerate sodium chloride, resist lysozyme, degrade petroleum hydrocarbons, and produce biosurfactant at 37°C in a 15 mL medium culture, indicating great potential for bioremediation and various downstream industrial applications with optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein phosphatase 6 is a Ser/Thr protein phosphatase and its catalytic subunit is Ppp6c. Ppp6c is thought to be indispensable for proper growth of normal cells. On the other hand, loss of Ppp6c accelerates growth of oncogenic Ras‐expressing cells. Although it has been studied in multiple contexts, the role(s) of Ppp6c in cell proliferation remains controversial. It is unclear how oncogenic K‐Ras overcomes cell proliferation failure induced by Ppp6c deficiency; therefore, in this study, we attempted to shed light on how oncogenic K‐Ras modulates tumor cell growth. Contrary to our expectations, loss of Ppp6c decreased proliferation, anchorage‐independent growth in soft agar, and tumor formation of oncogenic Ras‐expressing mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). These findings show that oncogenic K‐RasG12V cannot overcome proliferation failure caused by loss of Ppp6c in MEFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important emerging health problems is the increasing role of animals in the rapid global rise in resistance to last-resort antibiotics, such as carbapenems. However, there is limited information on the role of pet animals in harboring and spreading pandrug-resistant (PDR) carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE), especially in Egypt. This cross-sectional study was conducted to screen for CPE in healthy and diseased pets using phenotypic and molecular methods and the NG-Test CARBA 5 immunochromatographic assay. Rectal swabs were collected from 62 dogs and 48 cats, incubated overnight in tryptic soy broth containing 10 μg of meropenem disc and subsequently cultured on MacConkey agar supplemented with meropenem (1 mg/L). Sixty-six isolates (60.6%), including 56 Klebsiella pneumoniae, seven Escherichia coli, and three K. oxytoca isolates, were confirmed to be carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) by the disc diffusion method, broth microdilution test, CNPt-direct, and PCR assay targeting carbapenemase genes. Forty-three (65.2%) dogs and 23 (34.8%) cats carried CPE. Of these, 35 (70.0%) were healthy (including 27 dogs and 8 cats) and 31 (52.5%) were diseased (including 16 dogs and 15 cats). blaOXA-181 was the most common gene detected (42/66, 63.6%), followed by blaIMP (40/66, 60.6%), blaOXA−48−like (29/66, 43.9%), blaKPC and blaVIM (20/66, 30.3% each), and blaNDM (17/66, 25.8%). The identified genotypes were blaKPC-2, blaIMP-1, blaVIM-1, blaNDM-1, and blaNDM-5. The CARBA 5 assay showed higher sensitivity and specificity for the detection of NDM, OXA and KPC than that for VIM and IMP genes. Antimicrobial resistance profiles of CRE isolates revealed 20 PDR, 30 extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and 16 multidrug-resistant (MDR) phenotypes. This study provides evidence of colonization with PDR CPE in dogs and cats. To manage the infection or colonization of pets in veterinary clinical settings, extended surveillance systems should be considered, and the use of critical antibiotics should be strictly controlled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To validate single reference variable flip angle (SR‐VFA) dynamic T1 mapping with and without T2* correction against inversion recovery (IR) T1 measurements. Methods: A custom cylindrical phantom with three concentric compartments was filled with variably doped agar to produce a smooth spatial gradient of the T1 relaxation rate as a function of angle across each compartment. IR T1, VFA T1, and B1+ measurements were made on the phantom before rotation, and multi‐echo stack‐of‐radial dynamic images were acquired during rotation via an MRI‐compatible motor. B1+‐corrected SR‐VFA and SR‐VFA‐T2* T1 maps were computed from the sliding window reconstructed images and compared against rotationally registered IR and VFA T1 maps to determine the percentage error. Results: Both VFA and SR‐VFA‐T2* T1 maps fell within 10% of IR T1 measurements for a low rotational speed, with a mean accuracy of 2.3% ± 2.6% and 2.8% ± 2.6%, respectively. Increasing rotational speed was found to decrease the accuracy due to increasing temporal smoothing over ranges where the T1 change had a nonconstant slope. SR‐VFA T1 mapping was found to have similar accuracy as the SR‐VFA‐T2* and VFA methods at low TEs (˜<2 ms), whereas accuracy degraded strongly with later TEs. T2* correction of the SR‐VFA T1 maps was found to consistently improve accuracy and precision, especially at later TEs. Conclusion: SR‐VFA‐T2* dynamic T1 mapping was found to be accurate against reference IR T1 measurements within 10% in an agar phantom. Further validation is needed in mixed fat–water phantoms and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel halotolerant actinobacterium, designated as RG38T, capable of producing black extracellular melanin pigment on SP2 agar, was isolated from the roots of Tagetes patula. Comparative analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed the highest similarity to Streptomyces collinus NBRC 12759T (99.3%). Phylogenetic analysis showed that strain RG38T clustered within the genus Streptomyces forming a monophyletic cluster with its close relatives. The average nucleotide identity (ANI), digital DNA-- DNA hybridization (dDDH), and amino-acid identity (AAI) values between strain RG38T and related species within the genus Streptomyces were below the standard threshold for prokaryotic species delineation. The DNA G + C content of the strain RG38T was determined to be 73.3%. The genome size measured 7,150,598 bp comprising 17 contigs and encompassed 6,053 protein coding genes. AntiSMASH analysis of the whole genome revealed 35 putative biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) responsible for various secondary metabolites. Among these clusters, two gene clusters exhibited 100% similarity to the chromomycin A3, albaflavenone, and anthracimycin, respectively. These compounds were reported to possess significant anticancer and antibacterial activities. LC--MS-based analysis, coupled with further isolation studies, confirmed the production of chromomycins A2 (1), A3 (2), and their derivatives, along with their antibiotic activities. These findings underscore the potential of this novel strain as a novel resource for the discovery of diverse antimicrobial compounds. This study is the first to report an antimicrobial compound producing Streptomyces species isolated from medicinal plant T. patula. Based on a polyphasic study, the strain RG38T isolated from an unexplored habitat with a high potential for new natural products represents a novel species within the genus Streptomyces. Accordingly, we propose the name Streptomyces tagetis sp. nov. for this novel species, with the type strain is RG38T (=KCTC 49624T = BRC 15113T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is currently increased interest in the use of alternatives to autoclaved culture media, in order to maintain the properties of the media, while saving energy and time. In this study, we assess a new system for culture media preparation, using a conventional microwave with a water bath and a glass bottle with a rubber cap that allows depressurization. Sterilization, using the proposed system (1000 W, 3 to 20 min), was compared with autoclaving for the preparation of tryptone soy agar (TSA), tryptone soy broth (TSB), Sabouraud 4% dextrose agar (SDA), and violet red bile glucose agar (VRBG). Microwave exposure for 7 min yielded sterile TSA plates. The productivity of both sterilization methods was assessed using the pour plate method, and significant increases in the growth of certain micro-organisms after using a microwave were observed for every culture medium, especially those that were sterilized by boiling (VRBG). The kinetics of microbial destruction showed that Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis spores were destroyed after 3 and 7 min in a microwave, respectively, while three decimal reductions were obtained for Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores after 15 min in an autoclave. This new sterilization method could be a feasible, rapid, and economical method to prepare microbiological media, with a quality similar to that obtained through autoclaving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a commensal bacterium and an opportunistic pathogen causing a wide variety of infections ranging from localized skin and soft tissue infections to life-threatening severe bacteremia, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, atopic dermatitis, prosthetic joint infection, staphylococcal food poisoning, medical device-related infections, and pneumonia. It is attributed to an acquired resistant gene, mecA, encoding penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a). PBP2a is an essential protein responsible for the resistivity of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) to various beta-lactam antibiotics. The antimicrobial treatment alternatives for MRSA are increasingly limited. Therefore, developing alternative therapeutic options for its treatment is the need of the day. Phthalimides and their N-substituted derivatives are of biological importance as they possess extensive biological and pharmaceutical properties and can serve as an excellent therapeutic option for MRSA. This study uses three chiral phthalimides (FIA, FIB, and FIC) to check their in silico and in vitro inhibitory effects. Molecular docking of these chiral phthalimides against PBP2a of MRSA was performed initially. After promising results, these novel compounds were screened through the agar-well diffusion method and micro-broth dilution assay to investigate their in vitro inhibitory activities with FIB being the strongest anti-staphylococcal agent yielding a 21mm zone of inhibition and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.022 ug, respectively. The zones of inhibition obtained through the in vitro activity showed that these chiral phthalimides possess substantial anti-MRSA activities and have the potential to be considered as alternative chemotherapeutics to treat the infections caused by MRSA after the confirmation of their cytotoxic and pharmacokinetic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyphostemma adenocaule is a therapeutic plant traditionally used to treat rabies, snake bite, diarrhea, and wound healing. To address the bioactive compounds exhibiting these activities, we performed a comprehensive study on the roots of the plant. Thus, the present study aims to inspect the in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial efficacies of compounds isolated from the combined dichloromethane : methanol (1 : 1) and methanol extracts of C. adenocaule along with the in silico study of their interaction with selected protein targets. The silica gel column chromatography technique was used for the isolation of compounds, and the antibacterial and antioxidant activities were evaluated using agar disc diffusion and DPPH radical scavenging assays, respectively. Furthermore, in silico molecular docking screening, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity protocols of the compound isolates were performed to offer the potential applications of the compounds in developing novel medications. A BIOVIA Discovery Studio in combination with AutoDock Vina 4.2 software, SwissADME, and ProTox-II prediction web tools were used to generate the molecular docking, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity profiles, respectively. Notably, the chromatographic separation of the combined extracts yielded six known compounds, namely, β-sitosterol (1), 3-hydroxyisoagatholactone (2), ε-viniferin (3), myricetin (4), tricuspidatol A (5), and parthenocissin A (6). The in vitro antibacterial activities revealed the highest inhibition zone by tricuspidatol A (5) (16.67 ± 0.47), showcasing its potent activity against S. aureus at 2 mg/mL, compared to ciprofloxacin (21.50 ± 0.41). ε-Viniferin (3) (IC50: 0.32 μg/mL) exhibited greater antioxidant activity than the others and displayed promising results compared to ascorbic acid (0.075 μg/mL). The molecular docking study revealed the highest binding affinity by ε-viniferin (3) (−9.9 kcal/mol) against topoisomerase II α. 3-Hydroxyisoagatholactone (2) and ε-viniferin (3) fulfilled Lipinski's rule with no violation, and the organ toxicity predictions revealed that all the compounds showed no cytotoxicity and hepatotoxicity effects. Thus, this study's combined in vitro and in silico outcomes suggest the potential use of the isolated compounds in drug discovery and support the traditional relevance of C. adenocaule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work explores the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of a newly synthesized calix[4] arene acetanilide derivative (3), which was synthesized through Mannich reaction by the treatment of calix[4] arene with acetanilide, formaldehyde and acetic acid in tetrahydrofuran, The antioxidant activity was determined by using DPPH method. Results show that the new synthesized compound 3 has good antioxidant activity. The antimicrobial activity of 3 was staunched against different types of microorganisms, i.e. gram-negative and gram-positive bacterial strains (Escherichia Coli ATCC 8739 and Staphylococcus Aureus ATCC 10231) along with a fungus (Aspergillus Niger ATCC 16405). A suitable agar medium (Mueller Hinton agar) was applied for the growth of microorganisms. Kirby-Bauer well agar diffusion method was used to check the antimicrobial activity. The bacterial strains zone has been observed in between 250–4000 µg/ml. It is noticed that compound 3 has very good effect against fungus A niger as compared to bacterial strains. Its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against A. niger, S. aureus and E. coli is found to be 250, 500 and 1000 µg/mL, respectively. Consequently, the study has been compared with the reported calix[4] arene derivatives and it has been revealed that the compound 3 is a good antimicrobial agent. Hence, it could be inferred that compound 3 is considerably effective against selected microorganisms and may be used as a medicine in near future and beneficial for the human. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteriocins, which have narrow-spectrum activity and limited adverse effects, are promising alternatives to antibiotics. In this study, we identified klebicin E (KlebE), a small bacteriocin derived from Klebsiella pneumoniae. KlebE exhibited strong efficacy against multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates and conferred a significant growth advantage to the producing strain during intraspecies competition. A giant unilamellar vesicle leakage assay demonstrated the unique membrane permeabilization effect of KlebE, suggesting that it is a pore-forming toxin. In addition to a C-terminal toxic domain, KlebE also has a disordered N-terminal domain and a globular central domain. Pulldown assays and soft agar overlay experiments revealed the essential role of the outer membrane porin OmpC and the Ton system in KlebE recognition and cytotoxicity. Strong binding between KlebE and both OmpC and TonB was observed. The TonB-box, a crucial component of the toxin-TonB interaction, was identified as the 7-amino acid sequence (E3ETLTVV9) located in the N-terminal region. Further studies showed that a region near the bottom of the central domain of KlebE plays a primary role in recognizing OmpC, with eight residues surrounding this region identified as essential for KlebE toxicity. Finally, based on the discrepancies in OmpC sequences between the KlebE-resistant and sensitive strains, it was found that the 91st residue of OmpC, an aspartic acid residue, is a key determinant of KlebE toxicity. The identification and characterization of this toxin will facilitate the development of bacteriocin-based therapies targeting multidrugresistant K. pneumoniae infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst population growth and challenges with existing fertilizers, the development of smart and environmentally friendly agrochemicals is imperative. While 3D printing is widespread, its potential in slow-release agrochemicals remains unexplored. This proof-of-concept study employed solvent casting and 3D printing to develop agar–urea structures. These structures, comprising 2.5% (w/w) agar, incorporated either 7% (w/w) or 13% (w/w) urea as nitrogen nutrients. Rheological, mechanical, and morphological properties and sorption capabilities were explored. Rheological analysis revealed a substantial impact of urea, enhancing material resistance to deformation. In mechanical tests, inclusion of urea showed no significant impact on compressive strength. SEM analysis confirmed the successful entrapment of urea within the agar matrix. The inclusion of urea resulted in a diminished water sorption capacity, attributed to the urea–water interactions disrupting the hydrogen bonding ability of agar. Agar–urea inks were employed in 3D printing utilizing the direct-ink writing technique, and the nitrogen release behavior was investigated. Results revealed nearly complete urea release in the positive control within 48 h. In contrast, agar–urea formulations with 7% (w/w) and 13% (w/w) achieved nitrogen release rates of 88.8% and 94.4%, respectively, suggesting potential for 3D-printed agar formulations to modify the immediate release behavior seen in conventional urea fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) physical cryogels that contained the additives of o-, m-, and p-bis-phenols or phenol were prepared, and their physico-chemical characteristics and macroporous morphology and the solute release dynamics were evaluated. These phenolic additives caused changes in the viscosity of initial PVA solutions before their freeze–thaw processing and facilitated the growth in the rigidity of the resultant cryogels, while their heat endurance decreased. The magnitude of the effects depended on the interposition of phenolic hydroxyls in the molecules of the used additives and was stipulated by their H-bonding with PVA OH-groups. Subsequent rinsing of such "primary" cryogels with pure water led to the lowering of their rigidity. The average size of macropores inside these heterophase gels also depended on the additive type. It was found also that the release of phenolic substances from the additive-containing cryogels occurred via virtually a free diffusion mechanism; therefore, drug delivery systems such as PVA cryogels loaded with either pyrocatechol, resorcinol, hydroquinone, or phenol, upon the in vitro agar diffusion tests, exhibited antibacterial activity typical of these phenols. The promising biomedical potential of the studied nanocomposite gel materials is supposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The macroalgae residue from the industrial agar extraction process contains a significant amount of carbon and has potential as a renewable feedstock. Unfortunately, it is often overlooked and is poorly utilized. This study aims to valorize this macroalgae residue through pyrolysis to produce silica‐rich biochar and other value‐added products in the form of biocrude oil (BCO) and biopyrolysis gas. The macroalgae residue was pyrolyzed at 300–700 °C with a heating rate of 20–40 °C/min. Yields of biochar, BCO, and gas of 62%, 25%, and 13% were obtained at a temperature of 700 °C and a heating rate of 20 °C/min. Biochar has a porous structure, a surface area exceeding 15 m2/g, and is dominated by amorphous silica of up to 13%. This silica‐rich biochar also contains Na and K, which hold potential benefits in agriculture, serving as soil ameliorants and playing a crucial role in enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth. In the meantime, BCO contains 29.3% carboxylic acid group as the most important chemical component. Other than that, the biopyrolysis gas contains mainly CH4 and H2 (up to 24–32%), which can act as chemical building blocks. Finally, a simple business scenario of silica‐rich biochar production reveals that it has a specific cost of 0.37 US$/kg. It could be economically viable as a soil ameliorant or fertilizer. However, challenges persist in scaling up production to an industrial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus , is the cause of pine wilt disease and reproduces by copulation within host pine trees. Female mate selection in B. xylophilus mating behaviour has been reported but definitive evidence is lacking. Furthermore, while the mating behaviour of the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans on agar has been well understood, the mating behaviour of B. xylophilus on agar has not been studied in detail, and the differences in their characteristics remain unclear. Here, we addressed these knowledge gaps by observing B. xylophilus mating behaviour on agar. We identified six primary mating sub-behaviours in B. xylophilus males. Comparative analysis with C. elegans revealed distinct differences in the sequence of mating stages. Notably, B. xylophilus males actively searched for the female's vulva during the wrapping stage, whereas females exhibited back-and-forth locomotion to align the male spicule with the vulva location. Additionally, we conducted mating assays using anaesthetised female nematodes to evaluate the female's role in the mating behaviours of B. xylophilus. The mating duration increased significantly when females were anaesthetised, and the probabilities of reaching the wrapping and vulva location stages were reduced. Therefore, B. xylophilus females actively cooperate in mating behaviours. Our findings highlight unique aspects of mating behaviours in B. xylophilus and provide insights concerning differences in mating behaviours between B. xylophilus and C. elegans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agar oligosaccharides are thought to be valuable biomolecules with high bioactivity potential, along with a wide range of applications and advantages. The current study aimed to optimize the culture parameters required to produce agarase enzyme and agar oligosaccharides from industrial waste agar. Microbacterium spp. strain SS5 was isolated from a non-marine source and could synthesize oligo derivatives for use in a variety of industries ranging from food to pharmaceuticals. In addition, the strain and culture conditions were optimized to maximize extracellular agarase production. The bacterium grew best at pH 5.0 − 9.0, with an optimal pH of 7.5 − 8.0; temperatures ranging from 25 to 45 °C, with an optimal of 35 °C; and carbon and nitrogen concentrations of 0.5% each. Plackett-Burman experimental design and response surface methods were used to optimize various process parameters for agarase production by Microbacterium spp. strain SS5. Using the Plackett-Burman experimental design, eleven process factors were screened, and agar, beef extract, CaCl2, and beginning pH were found as the most significant independent variables affecting agarase production with confidence levels above 90%. To determine the optimal concentrations of the identified process factors on agarase production, the Box- Behnken design was used. Agarase production by Microbacterium spp. strain SS5 after optimization was 0.272 U/mL, which was determined to be greater than the result obtained from the basal medium (0.132 U/mL) before screening using Plackett-Burman and BBD with a fold increase of 2.06. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel approach for the ultrasound-assisted synthesis of 3,4‑dihydropyrimidin‑2(1H)‑ones was developed by using biodegradable supported nanoparticles in a hydrotropic aqueous medium. Agar-supported NiO nanoparticles (NiO@AG NPs) were synthesized by in-situ co-precipitation method and characterization by means of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques indicates that spherical NiO NPs successfully supported on the surface of agar with particle size 31.22 nm containing Carbon, Nickel and Oxygen as major elements. NiO@AG NPs exhibit higher activity for the synthesis of 3,4‑dihydropyrimidin‑2(1H)‑ones in an aqueous medium by using hydrotropes with high (463.51 h−1) turn over frequency. Short reaction time, high efficiency, centrifugation-free method of separation of the catalyst, and column chromatography-free isolation of the product are the key factor of this protocol. The easy synthetic method and stable form of NiO nanoparticles supported on agar suggest that it could be an efficient material for water-based organic transformation on a large scale with high turnover frequency in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Determining oxacillin susceptibility using reference methods and automated systems is crucial for treating invasive infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus. This study compares the oxacillin susceptibility results from the two automated systems with agar dilution and correlates them with genotypes of invasive S. aureus. Methods: Non-duplicate S. aureus invasive isolates were collected over an 11-year period. The oxacillin susceptibility was determined with Phoenix 100 (Jan 2011 to Aug 2018) or Vitek 2 (Sep 2018 to Dec 2021), and susceptibility for oxacillin and cefoxitin was determined with agar dilution. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was confirmed with mecA existence, and the genotype was determined using SCCmec. The association between genotype and antibiotic susceptibility using two automated systems and agar dilution was evaluated. Results: A total of 842 invasive S. aureus, including 443 mecA+ MRSA and 399 mecA- MSSA, were collected. The susceptibility rates of oxacillin determined by two automated systems and agar dilution were 68.8% (76.8% for Phoenix 100 and 57.6% for Vitek 2) and 54.0%, respectively. When compared with the oxacillin susceptibility using agar dilution, the categorical agreement for Phoenix 100 and Vitek 2 were 0.46% and 0.88%, respectively (p < 0.001). One hundred and forty-three isolates were misinterpreted as oxacillin-susceptible S. aureus (OSSA) using automated systems while comparing with agar dilution, among which molecularly community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) outnumbered healthcare-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) (99 vs 34, p < 0.001). There were 70 mecA+ OSSA (OS-MRSA) using agar dilution, among which 42 harbored SCCmec types were predominantly categorized as CA-MRSA (38, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The categorical agreement of Vitek 2 in determining oxacillin susceptibility and predicting mecA existence is comparable with agar dilution, whereas Phoenix 100 is not. Most of those ORSA determined by agar dilution but misinterpreted as OSSA by automated systems and OS-MRSA are categorized as CA-MRSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To isolate and characterize cellulolytic rumen bacteria from the rumen of Sahiwal cattle using rumen bacterial inoculum to increase the nutritional value of rice bran used as broiler feed. Materials and Methods: The ruminal liquid was kept at an optimal pH of 6.9 and a redox potential of less than -300 mV while being incubated anaerobically at 39°C in a medium containing rumen fluid glucose cellobiose agar. By using the Hungate technique, the organisms were detected based on their morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular testing. Results: The findings revealed that the isolated Ruminococcus albus, and Ruminococcus flavifaciens were obligate anaerobic, generally Gram-positive, nonmotile cocci or rod, single or pair, occasionally short chain, producing yellow pigment when grown on cellulose, and having a clear zone around the colonies. Both isolate fermented sugars such as cellobiose, glucose, and lactose, as well as decomposed xylan. The results also showed that the isolates recognized as Ruminococcus spp., a cellulolytic rumen bacterium, were catalase-negative, indole-negative, and gelatin liquefaction-positive. Conclusion: Isolation and characterization of Ruminococcus spp. may be helpful for Bangladesh in reducing the cost of producing poultry feed and circumventing restrictions on rice bran use. We can also develop more efficient and long-lasting plans to enhance poultry performance and feed efficiency, as well as increase the nutritional value of rice bran used as broiler feed, by understanding how various Ruminococcus spp. function in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]