Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Bong Kyun Kim, Sang-A Lee, Minju Park, Eui Ju Jeon, Mi Jung Kim, Jung Min Kim, Heesuk Kim, Seungwon Jung, Sang Kyung Kim
Summary: This article introduces a photonic PCR platform using hydrogel microparticles, which utilizes photothermal nanomaterials as heating elements for rapid and portable POCT. The researchers successfully demonstrate the ability to perform multiplex assays by loading multiple encoded pPIN microparticles in a single reaction.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Walid Hossain, Mohabbat Hossain, Khalid Arafath, Subarna Sayed Ety, Mahade Hasan Shetu, Mazbahul Kabir, Farjana Akther Noor, Kalissar Mannoor
Summary: The study aimed to reduce the run time of multiplex RT-PCR for detecting SARS CoV-2 N1 and N2 sequences and human RNase P (RP) sequence. By optimizing the Fast PCR protocol and comparing it with conventional PCR, the researchers found that Fast PCR significantly shortened the run time while yielding comparable results to conventional PCR.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Yuwei Qiu, Kunlun Jiang, Jingrui Wu, Yung-Kang Peng, Jeong-Wook Oh, Jung- Hoon Lee
Summary: A plasmonic photothermal quantitative immuno-PCR (PPT-qiPCR) assay is developed for biomarker detection using multifunctional plasmonic immunomagnetic nanoparticles (PIMNs). This assay has real-time and end-point dual readout and is simple, time-saving, and inexpensive compared to conventional iPCR platforms. It can quickly discriminate target proteins and improve assay sensitivity with in-situ end-point fluorescence or colorimetric detection using only the human eye.
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS B-CHEMICAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jing Tu, Yi Qiao, Yuhan Luo, Naiyun Long, Zuhong Lu
Summary: DNA quantification is crucial in life sciences research, and real-time MDA technology can provide template amount information during whole-genome amplification with a very low detection limit, offering a promising tool to quantify entire DNA without sacrificing sample completeness or introducing redundant steps.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Byoung-Hoon Kang, Youngseop Lee, Eun-Sil Yu, Hamin Na, Minhee Kang, Hee Jae Huh, Ki-Hun Jeong
Summary: The rapid and accurate molecular diagnostics are crucial in the face of pandemic diseases, and the nanoplasmonic PCR provides a new solution for rapid and quantitative molecular diagnostics at point-of-care level.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Liang Gong, Siyue Yao, Yidong He, Chengliang Liu
Summary: A new qPCR data analysis method called AERKM is proposed to achieve more accurate results by introducing amplification efficiency (AE) for error correction. It has been verified to have higher precision and stability in 5-point 10-fold gradient qPCR tests of 63 genes.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Barbara A. Castleman, Elizabet M. van der Merwe, Frederic J. Doucet
Summary: This study investigates the thermochemical reactivity of talc with ammonium sulphate for purification, showing potential as a promising technology under the right market conditions. The method involves utilizing reactions with other minerals to separate talc, providing high-grade purified talc as the main mineral phase.
MINERALS ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Byoung-Hoon Kang, Kyung-Won Jang, Eun-Sil Yu, Hamin Na, Yun-Jae Lee, Woong-Yeol Ko, NamHo Bae, Donggee Rho, Ki -Hun Jeong
Summary: This study presents a rapid and compact real-time RT-PCR system for decentralized molecular diagnostics. It utilizes plasmonic nucleic acid amplification and quantification, and features an ultrafast plasmonic thermocycler, a disposable plastic-on-metal cartridge, and a compact fluorescence microscope. The system successfully enables 10-minute diagnosis of COVID-19 with high amplification efficiency, classification accuracy, and total percent agreement for clinical diagnostic tests.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Byoung-Hoon Kang, Kyung-Won Jang, Eun-Sil Yu, Hamin Na, Yun-Jae Lee, Woong-Yeol Ko, NamHo Bae, Donggee Rho, Ki-Hun Jeong
Summary: This study presents an ultrafast plasmonic nucleic acid amplification and real-time quantification system for decentralized molecular diagnostics. The system features ultrafast photothermal cycling, rapid heat transfer, and efficient PCR quantification, along with high-contrast fluorescence microscopic imaging. It enables decentralized point-of-care molecular diagnostic testing in primary care and developing countries.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Tengyue Fang, Guangyong Bo, Zijie Zhang, Jian Ma
Summary: High-frequency field nutrient analyzers offer a promising solution to the time-consuming and laborious sampling problems in dynamic and complex river-estuarine-coastal ecosystems. However, the analysis of five key nutrients simultaneously in seawaters using this technique is limited. In this study, a state-of-the-art autonomous portable analyzer was developed for shipboard analysis of nutrients in a wide range of salinities and concentrations. The analyzer demonstrated low limits of detection, a large linear range, and high accuracy. Compared to other techniques, this analyzer is more portable, requires less reagent, and has autonomous data processing capabilities. It was successfully applied for real-time analysis in a river estuary and bay, showing the benefit of using an underway automated analyzer for chemical mapping in a dynamic environment.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Kazuyuki Nobusawa, Huan-Wen Han, Fumie Takei, Ting-Chieh Chu, Noriyasu Hashida, Ichiro Yamashita
Summary: We developed a new electrochemical method for real-time detection of polymerase chain reactions, using a DNA intercalator to enhance charge transfer and monitoring the changes in charge transfer resistance. This simple method has the potential to be a cost-effective and portable PCR device.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Agronomy
Aleksandra Percin, Zeljka Zgorelec, Tomislav Karazija, Ivica Kisic, Nikolina Zupan, Ivana Sestak
Summary: According to the Scopus database, there have been 91 scientific papers published in indexed journals in the domain of environmental science and agricultural science over the last five years that discuss the use of pXRF (portable X-ray fluorescence) technique. This indicates an increasing application of this technique in scientific research. The aim of this research was to analyze the metal content in commercial mineral nitrogen fertilizers using the pXRF method. The results showed that complex fertilizers had higher amounts of certain metals compared to single-component fertilizers, and the pXRF method was more suitable for the detection and quantification of metals in complex fertilizers.
Article
Thermodynamics
Gage P. Ashton, Edward L. Charsley, Lindsay P. Harding, Gareth M. B. Parkes
Summary: The introduction of Certified Reference Material of purified cyclohexane by the National Metrology Institute of Japan has addressed the lack of materials for DSC equipment calibration in the sub-ambient range. This material, along with phenyl salicylate and mercury, has enabled accurate calibration of a DSC-thermomicroscopy system within 90°C to 50°C temperature range. Various solid-solid transitions and melting points have been measured for potential Certified Reference Materials, along with the investigation of temperature cycling effects on these materials.
THERMOCHIMICA ACTA
(2021)
Article
Food Science & Technology
D. Cristiano, M. F. Peruzy, M. Aponte, A. Mancusi, Y. T. R. Proroga, F. Capuano, N. Murru
Summary: The study investigated the detection methods for Yersinia enterocolitica in leafy greens, finding that only ddPCR technology could detect the pathogen in leafy greens contaminated at low levels. Additionally, the incubation time and temperature were shown to significantly impact the survival and concentration of Yersinia enterocolitica in vegetables.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Kazuyuki Nobusawa, Huan-Wen Han, Fumie Takei, Ting-Chieh Chu, Noriyasu Hashida, Ichiro Yamashita
Summary: We developed a new electrochemical impedimetric method for real-time detection of PCR. By adding a specific DNA intercalator and redox mediator, the progress of PCR reaction can be accurately monitored using impedance measurement. This simple method enables cost-effective and portable PCR devices.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Gavino Carboni, Ivana Marova, Giacomo Zara, Severino Zara, Marilena Budroni, Ilaria Mannazzu
Summary: The soil yeast Tetrapisispora phaffii secretes a killer toxin, named Kpkt, that is lethal to certain wine spoilage yeasts. Recombinant Kpkt shows wider activity but is harmless to human keratinocytes. These findings provide crucial information for assessing potential risks associated with human intake.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Severino Zara, Giacomo L. Petretto, Alberto Mannu, Giacomo Zara, Marilena Budroni, Ilaria Mannazzu, Chiara Multineddu, Giorgio Pintore, Francesco Fancello
Summary: The study revealed that stamen extracts from saffron plants are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and exhibit potential antimicrobial activities, especially against common foodborne pathogens. The by-products of saffron production have the potential to be utilized in high-value products such as food, cosmetics, and drugs. Synergistic effects were observed when pathogens were treated with saffron stamen extracts at low temperatures, indicating their potential for further research in antimicrobial applications.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Elisabetta Daga, Marilena Budroni, Chiara Multineddu, Sofia Cosentino, Maura Deplano, Paolo Romano, Roberta Comunian
Summary: The MBDS project, funded by the Italian Ministry, aimed to survey, catalogue, and manage microbial resources in three Sardinian collections. A federated database was designed to provide online access to over 21,000 isolates from different matrices, with around 2000 isolates currently available. The MBDS database is proposed as a model for other Italian collections to improve management and sustainability.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Jana Tkacova, Giacomo Zara, Giuseppe Ianiri, Raffaello Castoria, Milan Certik, Ilaria Mannazzu
Summary: Red yeasts, such as Rhodotorula, were used as biocatalysts for the production of commercial secondary metabolites, including lipids and carotenoids. Mutants with impaired carotenoid biosynthesis were isolated using T-DNA insertional mutagenesis, showing altered metabolic characteristics and increased production of specific compounds. This study demonstrates the potential for enhanced production of secondary metabolites through manipulation of carotenoid biosynthesis in red yeasts.
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Angela Bianco, Francesco Fancello, Matteo Garau, Mario Deroma, Alberto S. Atzori, Paola Castaldi, Giacomo Zara, Marilena Budroni
Summary: The study focused on utilizing brewers' spent grain (BSG), the main by-product of brewing, through a low-input pre-processing step for vermicomposting to produce organic soil conditioner. The pre-processing enriched the microbiota of BSG, leading to high-quality vermicompost suitable for enhancing soil fertility. The research demonstrated the potential of using BSG for sustainable industrial processes by optimizing organic waste management.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Francesco Fancello, Chiara Multineddu, Mario Santona, Maria Giovanna Molinu, Giacomo Zara, Sandro Dettori, Pierfrancesco Deiana, Severino Zara
Summary: This study evaluated the antibacterial activity of VOO from 13 different Italian olive varieties and found that VOO with specific polyphenol profiles could be used as antimicrobial ingredients in minimally processed foods.
Article
Microbiology
Patrizia Romano, Gabriella Siesto, Angela Capece, Rocchina Pietrafesa, Rosalba Lanciotti, Francesca Patrignani, Lisa Granchi, Viola Galli, Antonio Bevilacqua, Daniela Campaniello, Giuseppe Spano, Andrea Caridi, Marco Poiana, Roberto Foschino, Ileana Vigentini, Giuseppe Blaiotta, Viviana Corich, Alessio Giacomini, Gianluigi Cardinali, Laura Corte, Annita Toffanin, Monica Agnolucci, Francesca Comitini, Maurizio Ciani, Ilaria Mannazzu, Marilena Budroni, Vasileos Englezos, Kalliopi Rantsiou, Lucilla Iacumin, Giuseppe Comi, Vittorio Capozzi, Francesco Grieco, Maria Tufariello
Summary: This paper reports on an experiment conducted by the Italian Group of Microbiology of Vine and Wine to validate a protocol for characterizing wine strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The experiment involved inter-laboratory-scale comparative fermentations using synthetic medium and grape musts. The results showed that comparable outcomes could be obtained using the same strains in different laboratories.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Editorial Material
Anthropology
Nadine Feghali, Nicola Piras, Beatrice Serini, Andrea Borghini, Giacomo Zara, Angela Bianco, Marilena Budroni
Article
Food Science & Technology
Laura Quintieri, Francesco Fancello, Leonardo Caputo, Andrea Sorrentino, Severino Zara, Vincenzo Lippolis, Salvatore Cervellieri, Francesca Fanelli, Antonia Corvino, Bernardo Pace, Maria Cefola
Summary: A study on the application of citral as an antimicrobial agent against R. oryzae, a grape spoiler, showed that citral effectively counteracted the microbial decay of infected table grapes and extended their shelf life.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Antonio Valentoni, Riccardo Melis, Manuela Sanna, Maria Cristina Porcu, Margherita Rodolfi, Angela Braca, Angela Bianco, Giacomo Zara, Marilena Budroni, Roberto Anedda, Daniela Piras, Luca Pretti
Summary: The aim of this study was to test native microbial strains and fruits for brewing in a sustainable production linked to the territory. Two strains, Pediococcus acidilactici B5 and Hanseniaspora uvarum L2, were isolated from apricot Bisucciu fruits, and used in the fermentation process. The beers obtained from the fermentations were analyzed for quality parameters and subjected to sensory analysis.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Francesco Fancello, Angela Bianco, Marta Niccolai, Giacomo Zara, Roberta Coronas, Elisa Serra, Guy D'Hallewin, Antonio Valentoni, Antonio Santoru, Luca Pretti, Marilena Budroni
Summary: This study investigated the fungal and bacterial communities of an apricot cultivar called Bisucciu, which is used to produce local fruit beer. Several yeast isolates were identified as potential contributors to the taste and flavor of the beer when used in mixed fermentations with Saccharomyces.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2022)
