Article
Archaeology
Francesco Gabriele, Mariagrazia Tortora, Laura Bruno, Cinzia Casieri, Marco Chiarini, Raimondo Germani, Nicoletta Spreti
Summary: The study demonstrated the efficacy of a biocide hydrogel in removing microbial colonization from the surface of limestone and proved to be effective in heritage restoration.
JOURNAL OF CULTURAL HERITAGE
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Fernando Bolivar-Galiano, Oana Adriana Cuzman, Clara Abad-Ruiz, Pedro Sanchez-Castillo
Summary: This work introduces a helpful tool for dealing with the biodiversity of monumental fountains and other wet lithotype surfaces, emphasizing the importance of phototrophic microorganisms in fountains and their impact on stone materials. The paper summarizes research on phototrophic biodiversity and provides simplified identification methods for professionals in the field of stone conservation.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Humanities, Multidisciplinary
Yali Wang, Huan Zhang, Xiaobo Liu, Xiaoqing Liu, Wei Song
Summary: The study investigated the fungal communities in biofilms on the basalt sculptures of the Leizhou Stone Dogs in China, identifying predominant fungi genera and analyzing the chemical composition susceptible to microbial corrosion. Testing of antimicrobial agents over two years concluded that a mixture of biocide and water repellent showed the best effectiveness in protecting the sculptures. Overall, the findings provide insight into the fungal diversity, mineral leaching, and conservation measures for the unique folk art creations on the Leizhou Peninsula.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Valme Jurado, Jose Luis Gonzalez-Pimentel, Bernardo Hermosin, Cesareo Saiz-Jimenez
Summary: The Salon de Reinos, a remnant of the 17th century Palacio del Buen Retiro, was built as a recreational residence under the reign of Felipe IV between 1632 and 1640 and was the main room for the monarch's receptions. This Salon owes its name to the fact that the coats of arms (shields) of the 24 kingdoms that formed Spain in Felipe IV's time were painted on the vault, above the windows. The painted ceiling and window vaults showed deterioration evidenced by fissures, water filtration, detachments of the paint layer, and black stains denoting fungal colonization related to humidity.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Angelo Del Mondo, Bruno Hay Mele, Mariagioia Petraretti, Armando Zarrelli, Antonino Pollio, Antonino De Natale
Summary: In this study, we evaluated the fungal biodeterioration of artistic-historical heritage by integrating image analysis, spore counting, and biochemical analysis. Results showed that in vitro tests, coupled with microscopical observations and computer image analysis, are useful tools for quantifying fungal biomass in the early stages of colonization.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Flavia Bartoli, Martina Zuena, Armida Sodo, Giulia Caneva
Summary: In this study, the biocide effects of two different biocides encapsulated in two different silica nanosystems for a multifunctional coating were investigated through in vitro tests. The results showed that the commercial biocide exhibited higher activity compared to the green biocide, and silica nanoparticles were more efficient than silica nanocapsules.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Francesco Gabriele, Alice Vetrano, Laura Bruno, Cinzia Casieri, Raimondo Germani, Lorenza Rugnini, Nicoletta Spreti
Summary: By developing innovative methodologies using alginate hydrogels with titanium dioxide and sodium dichloroisocyanurate, the problem of biodeterioration on stone monuments has been effectively addressed with promising results in inhibiting cyanobacterial photosynthesis without side effects on the substrates tested.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2021)
Article
Mathematics, Applied
A. Tenore, M. R. Mattei, L. Frunzo
Summary: A mathematical model describing microbial interactions in phototrophic-heterotrophic biofilms is presented, covering biomass growth, substrates dynamics, biological invasion, and detachment, with a focus on syntrophic interactions and the impact of light. Numerical simulations confirm model accuracy in predicting symbiotic mechanisms between phototrophs and heterotrophs, highlighting the significant role of light in the ecology of these biofilms. The model can be a useful tool in industrial applications such as wastewater treatment and bioenergy production.
COMMUNICATIONS IN NONLINEAR SCIENCE AND NUMERICAL SIMULATION
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Paloma Reboah, Clarisse Balland Bolou-Bi, Sophie Nowak, Aurelie Verney-Carron
Summary: Buildings and monuments can be damaged by microorganisms, causing color change and aesthetical and physico-chemical damages. The colonization of these microorganisms depends on the material and environment. This study measured the concentration of green algae and cyanobacteria on the wall of a private residence in the Parisian region at different locations and during different seasons. The results showed that rainfall events had a rapid and intense effect on microorganism development, with a stronger response in winter. Cyanobacteria were less affected by seasonal changes compared to green algae. Dose-response functions were established to correlate environmental parameters with green algae concentration, and this approach could be useful in anticipating the impact of climate change.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Isabel Franco-Castillo, Archismita Misra, Sebastien Laratte, Maxime Gommeaux, Robin Perarnau, Nathalie Vaillant-Gaveau, Clement Plerot, Carsten Streb, Scott G. Mitchell, Stepanhie Eyassutier Chiune
Summary: Phototrophic microorganisms can easily grow in underground heritage sites, causing biofilm growth. This study aims to limit biofilm growth on chalk substrates using biocidal treatments based on POM-ILs. The experiments show that POM-IL coatings are more effective than commercial biocidal treatments and can sustain prevention of biofilm growth on wet chalk.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Yavuz Gunasdi, Ozkan Aksakal, Lokman Kemaloglu
Summary: This study aims to identify deteriorating vascular plants on historical cupolas in Erzurum and investigate their impact on the stonework. 47 plant species belonging to 19 families were identified, and it was found that Acer negundo, Scrophularia libanotica, Artemisia armeniaca, Medicago sativa, and Melilotus officinalis were the most damaging plants. Various methods to eradicate these plants were discussed. The results emphasize the importance of management strategies to remove vascular plants and the influence of building material and plant life form on degradation.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Basma T. Abd-Elhalim, Bahaa A. Hemdan, Salwa M. El-Sayed, Mahgoub A. Ahmed, Sodaf A. Maan, Samah H. Abu-Hussien
Summary: This study isolated and identified fungal and bacterial strains with deteriorative activities from stone monuments in the Temple of Hathor in Luxor, Egypt. The inhibitory activity of metabolites produced by Streptomyces exfoliatus SAMAH 2021 against these strains was determined. The metabolites showed inhibitory effects on the deteriorative pathogens, with a minimum inhibition concentration of 25%.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Zohreh Hosseini, Giulio Zangari, Marta Carboni, Giulia Caneva
Summary: This study aimed to identify the substrate preference of plants on different stone surfaces, revealing that stone typology and microsite conditions affect species composition, diversity, and richness. The data indicated that microsites as a junction of two stone blocks and big fractures covered by soil provided the most favorable conditions for plant colonization.
Article
Architecture
J. Becerra, A. P. Zaderenko, M. A. Gomez-Moron, P. Ortiz
Summary: Stone has been essential in construction throughout history, and its preservation is crucial for historical and contemporary buildings. Nanotechnology has led to the development of new products for stone conservation, such as biocides and consolidants, which address the limitations of traditional methods and meet the requirements of cultural heritage preservation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Nadia C. Silva, Ana R. Madureira, Manuela Pintado, Patricia R. Moreira
Summary: This study characterized the bacterial and fungal communities colonizing the surfaces of five outdoor sculptures using high-throughput sequencing. The analysis revealed diverse taxonomic groups, including core taxa that can negatively impact stone and mortar artworks. The study also measured ATP content using colorimetric analyses and bioluminescence assays. This research provides valuable knowledge for future targeted conservation strategies for outdoor sculptures.
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Marcia Vilarigues, Andreia Ruivo, Thijs Hagendijk, Mario Bandiera, Mathilda Coutinho, Luis C. Alves, Sven Dupre
Summary: This study investigates the effect of melting conditions and furnaces on the final colors of historical glasses by reproducing three recipes of red enamel glass. The results show that the melting conditions have no significant impact on color differences, but samples produced in electric furnaces at 1200 degrees C exhibit a high degree of crystallinity and fast crystallization at room temperature. The historically optimal temperature range to avoid crystal formation is between 1050 and 1100 degrees C.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF APPLIED GLASS SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Spectroscopy
Peter Vandenabeele, Catarina Pereira Miguel, Anastasia Rousaki, Silvia Bottura Scardina, Mathilda Larsson-Coutinho, Miriam Pressato, Antonio Candeias
Summary: Raman spectroscopy is widely used in the analysis of art objects due to its non-destructive nature and the availability of mobile instruments. However, the stable positioning required by Raman spectroscopy limits its accessibility to every spot of large artifacts. Therefore, exploring the use of zoom lenses for Raman investigation at different working distances is valuable.
JOURNAL OF RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Francesco Cardellicchio, Sabino Aurelio Bufo, Stefania Mirela Mang, Ippolito Camele, Anna Maria Salvi, Laura Scrano
Summary: The investigation focused on the deterioration of walls in the hypogeum of San Pietro Barisano rupestrian church in the Matera-Sassi region of Southern Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The study evaluated the biocide activity of a mixture of natural glycoalkaloids (GAs) derived from unripe Solanum nigrum fruit for cleaning bio-patinas on the church walls. The treatment showed changes in the chemical composition of the bio-patina, accompanied by discoloration and varying biological activity. The cleaning procedure needs to integrate fungicidal actions and surface consolidation for complete bioremediation and prevention of further colonization.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Arkadiusz Urbanski, Natalia Konopinska, Natalia Bylewska, Radoslaw Gmyrek, Marta Spochacz-Santoro, Sabino Aurelio Bufo, Zbigniew Adamski
Summary: In this study, researchers report the first evidence of insect immune system modulation after applying Solanum nigrum fruit extract (EXT). They investigated the cytotoxicity of EXT on Tenebrio molitor haemocytes and its effects on the basic immune mechanisms of T. molitor. The results showed cytotoxic action of different concentrations of EXT on beetle haemocytes and impairment of immune mechanisms in T. molitor, indicating the potential usage of EXT in pest control.
Review
Food Science & Technology
Amin Mahmood Thawabteh, Zain Swaileh, Marwa Ammar, Weam Jaghama, Mai Yousef, Rafik Karaman, Sabino A. Bufo, Laura Scrano
Summary: To combat the ineffectiveness of existing pharmaceutical medications, new antibacterial and antifungal medications are urgently needed due to the emergence of resistant strains. Exploring underexplored habitats like the oceans can yield novel natural compounds with antimicrobial properties. This review highlights numerous antimicrobial compounds isolated from marine organisms, providing potential for the development of new drugs.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Rosangela Addesso, Daniela Baldantoni, Beatriz Cubero, Jose Maria De La Rosa, Jose Antonio Gonzalez Perez, Igor Tiago, Ana Teresa Caldeira, Jo De Waele, Ana Z. Miller
Summary: Removing lampenflora, phototrophic organisms developing on rock surfaces in tourist cavities due to the artificial lighting, is a challenge for sustainable and appropriate long-term management of caves. The effects of commonly used lampenflora cleaning operations (NaClO, H2O2 and UVC) were investigated in Pertosa-Auletta Cave (Italy). NaClO showed good disinfection capability without causing any rock deterioration, while H2O2 was corrosive and did not remove biomass effectively. UVC treatments had no noticeable effect on the biofilms.
Article
Archaeology
Carolina Marques Sanchis, Pilar Bosch-Roig, Begona Carrascosa Moliner, Ana Z. Miller
Summary: The potential use of essential oils in Cultural Heritage has been increasingly studied in the last decade due to their antimicrobial potential and absence of toxicity. This research assessed the volatile antifungal activity of two essential oils (Origanum vulgare and Syzygium aromaticum) for the first time against fungi isolated from biodeteriorated archaeological mummified skin. The results showed that the tested essential oils exhibited antifungal activity, with oregano oil being the most effective for all three fungal strains.
JOURNAL OF CULTURAL HERITAGE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Maria Assunta Acquavia, Carmen Tesoro, Raffaella Pascale, Angela Ostuni, Ilenia Matera, Giuliana Bianco, Laura Scrano, Sabino A. A. Bufo, Rosanna Ciriello, Angela Di Capua, Filomena Lelario
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the total content and ratios of THC and CBD in 34 dried inflorescence sold legally in physical and online stores. The results showed that all investigated samples met legal requirements, with THC levels below 0.59% and CBD levels ranging from 2.62% to 20.27%. The THC:CBD ratios varied from 1:3 to 1:26, indicating their suitability for different pharmacological uses.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Maria Grazia Bonomo, Laura Scrano, Stefania Mirela Mang, Barbara Emanuela Scalese, Sabino Aurelio Bufo, Lee-Ann Modley, Euro Buongarzone, Giovanni Salzano
Summary: Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of pipeline installation on the bacterial composition in cultivated soil by analyzing the metagenomes before excavation and in the following three years. Differential abundance analysis using DESeq2 from the GAIA pipeline showed significant changes in bacterial diversity in soil samples collected after the reference year (2013). The taxonomic composition and structure of the soil microbial community were significantly altered, showing increased abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes, and decreased abundance of Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi, Planctomycetes, and absence of Verrucomicrobia.
Review
Food Science & Technology
Amin Mahmood Thawabteh, Hani A. Naseef, Donia Karaman, Sabino A. Bufo, Laura Scrano, Rafik Karaman
Summary: Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can be commonly found in rivers and tap water, and their toxins can harm human health. Various strategies, such as physical or chemical treatments, reducing fertilizer input, using algal lawn scrubbers, and biocontrol with antagonistic microorganisms, can help reduce and control cyanobacteria issues. Additionally, filtration techniques and other treatment methods can effectively remove cyanotoxins. Early detection and quick action are crucial for the effective management of cyanobacteria in water systems.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Shaofeng Zhou, Wenwen An, Cuifen Gan, Meiying Xu
Summary: Bacteria generate and release extracellular reactive oxygen species (eROS), which significantly contribute to the natural ROS pool and play a crucial role in metabolic interactions of bacteria with their environment. Understanding the behavior of eROS-generating bacteria and its environmental implications is of great importance in the cycling of biogeochemical elements, transformation of organic matter, and regulation of antibiotic resistance genes.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2024)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Ji-Dong Gu, Tim Ford, Bryce Mitton, Ralph Mitchell
Summary: Plastics and microplastics are widely present and accumulating in the environment, leading to increasing public attention. In addition to packaging plastics, materials from industries such as electronics, space and aviation are also accumulating, but receiving less attention. The production of degradable and biodegradable plastics is seen as a way to reduce environmental impacts, but enhancing the non-degradability of functional polymers is also a feasible option. Microbial colonization and deterioration pose significant challenges to these materials.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2024)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Justyna Bohacz, Michal Mozejko
Summary: This study evaluated the keratinolytic activity of 37 strains of Trichophyton ajelloi and found that pigmented strains isolated from loamy soil were more efficient in degrading native feather keratin, while non-pigmented strains isolated from chernozem showed better abilities. The keratinolytic activity increased over time, as evidenced by the increase in extracellular keratinase activity and release of soluble proteins and peptides. Protease activity peaked in the first 7 days and again on day 28 of culture. The release of ammonium and sulfate ions, associated with an increase in pH, reached its maximum on day 21. Three pigment-producing strains were among the most active in releasing large amounts of ammonium and sulfate ions. The biodegradation of feather waste by Trichophyton ajelloi strains can be used to produce fertilizers suitable for plants with high sulfur requirements.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2024)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Joseph M. Suflita, Brenda J. Little
Summary: This article reviews the major achievements of the International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation Society (IBBS) on its 50th anniversary and provides recommendations for addressing new challenges and developments based on personal experiences.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2024)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Zhenyan Lin, Tuo Jin, Xin Xu, Xiao Yin, Dan Zhang, Mengjiao Geng, Chunyu Pang, Gongwen Luo, Lizhi Xiong, Jianwei Peng, Jiangchi Fei
Summary: The incomplete recycle of residual mulch film (RMF) in recent years has led to an increase in plastic fragments in soil, posing a serious threat to the soil ecological environment. In this study, seven potential plastic-degrading microorganisms were screened and identified from film-mulched vegetable fields. The degradation ability experiments showed that both single strains and mixed strains demonstrated varying levels of degradation of RMF.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2024)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Tiina Belt, Michael Altgen, Muhammad Awais, Martin Nopens, Lauri Rautkari
Summary: This study investigated the degradation of heat-treated wood by brown rot fungi and found that the decay increased the hygroscopicity of wood in the decaying state. Furthermore, it was observed that heat-treated samples were more susceptible to fungal decay compared to untreated samples, which may be related to the increase in moisture content.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2024)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Marta Cicardi, Davide Bernasconi, Luca Martire, Linda Pastero, Giulia Caneva, Sergio E. Favero-Longo
Summary: This study investigated the phenomenon of Centimetric circular areas Uncolonized by Microbial Biofilms (CUMBs) on natural and heritage stone surfaces. The analysis revealed a compatibility in distribution and size between CUMBs and lichen thalli, suggesting a lichen origin for some CUMBs. Microscopic analysis also showed similar modifications in marble layers beneath CUMBs and lichens, indicating a possible alteration of stone properties by lichens.
INTERNATIONAL BIODETERIORATION & BIODEGRADATION
(2024)
