Real-time reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy of GaAs homoepitaxy.

Reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy (RAS) is a highly sensitive optical probe for the real-time study of the epitaxial growth of zincblende semiconductors. Here we report on (1) non-equilibrium RAS spectra acquired in real time during the homoepitaxial growth of GaAs, and (2) RAS spectra for GaAs surfaces under equilibrium with several arsenic overpressures. We show that in both cases RAS spectra can be decomposed into two basic components, each with a characteristic line shape. We further show that both dynamic and equilibrium RAS spectra are described by the same pair of basic components. We conclude that the time evolution of non-equilibrium RAS spectra acquired during the epitaxial growth can be described in terms of RAS spectra for equilibrium surfaces. The results reported here should be useful for the interpretation of the physics underlying the rapid time evolution of dynamic RAS spectra during the first monolayer growth. Thus, we show that RAS constitutes a valuable tool for the study of epitaxial growth mechanisms.

Thermosonication parameter effects on physicochemical changes, microbial and enzymatic inactivation of fruit smoothie.

With the aim of developing a fruit-based beverage in products which are severely damaged by heat, a high-intensity ultrasound treatment combined with moderate heat treatment (called thermosonication) was applied. A fruit smoothie (mango, jackfruit and rice milk) was thermosonicated applying a Box-Benhken model with amplitude (70, 77.5 or 85%), time (15, 20 or 25 min) and temperature (40, 47.5 or 55 °C) as independent variables. From the obtained samples, microbiological (aerobic mesophilic and Enterobacteriaceae), physicochemical (pH, soluble solids and cloud index) and enzymatic analysis (polyphenol oxidase and pectin methylesterase) were carried out. Aerobic mesophiles and Enterobacteria inactivation in thermosonicated samples were 4.55 Log CFU/mL and 3.85 Log CFU/mL, respectively in most of the treatments applied, being influenced by linear terms of amplitude and temperature (p < 0.001). The cloud index was influenced by time term (p < 0.0001); meanwhile, interaction of amplitude * temperature (p < 0.01) and quadratic of time presented significant effect (p < 0.001) on polyphenol oxidase activity. Further, amplitude term had a significant effect (p < 0.001) on the decrease on pectin methylesterase enzymatic activity. The optimal process condition was 77.5% amplitude, 20 min and 47.5 °C. Thermosonication probed to be effective to control both enzymatic activities in treatments with high amplitudes combined with moderated temperature treatments. Based on this, the use of thermosonication is a viable alternative for fruit-based beverage preservation, that may employ perishable regional natural products offering them an added value.

HIV and Sexuality Stigma Reduction Through Engagement in Online Forums: Results from the HealthMPowerment Intervention.

HIV and sexuality stigma impede HIV prevention and care efforts. HealthMpowerment.org (HMP) is an interactive mobile phone- and web-based HIV prevention and care intervention for young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM; ages 18-30) in the United States. HMP included three forums where participants could share their experiences. In this study, we explored whether engaging in stigma-related discussions was associated with changes in YBMSM's stigma-related scores throughout the trial. YBMSM (ages 18-30; N = 238) participating in HMP completed surveys at baseline, and 3 and 6 month follow-ups that included a series of scales focused on HIV and sexuality (internalized homophobia; sexual prejudice) stigma. Sixty-two participants contributed to the forums (1497 posts). We coded instances where YBMSM's conversations were stigma related (915 posts, 61.1%), including discussions of anticipated (74/915, 8.1%), experienced (125/915, 13.7%), internalized (410/915, 44.8%), and/or challenged (639/915, 69.8%) stigma regarding sexuality and HIV. Using a mixed methods approach, we examined whether changes in YBMSM's stigma scores were associated with stigma-related discussions within the forum. We controlled for age, HIV status, income, and educational attainment in these multivariable models. YBMSM who discussed experiencing HIV stigma in the forums reported decreases in perceived HIV stigma over time (b = - 0.37, p ≤ 0.05). YBMSM whose forum posts indicated anticipated HIV stigma reported increases in HIV stigma over time (b = 0.46, p ≤ 0.01). Participants who challenged sexuality-related stigma in forums had lower internalized homophobia (b = - 0.68, p ≤ 0.01) at baseline. YBMSM whose discussions focused on experiencing sexuality-related stigma reported increases in internalized homophobia (b = 0.39, p ≤ 0.01) and sexual prejudice (b = 0.87, p ≤ 0.05) over time. Developing strategies to combat stigma remains a key priority. HMP created an online space where YBMSM could discuss HIV and sexuality stigma. Although a limited number of HMP participants authored the majority of these forum discussions, the discussions were associated with changes in the sample's stigma scores over time. Online interventions (e.g., social media, apps) should consider the inclusion of forums to address stigma and test the efficacy of forums to improve YBMSM's HIV prevention and care continuum outcomes.

On the Discoloration of Methylene Blue by Visible Light.

The discoloration of methylene blue in aqueous solution was studied under illumination by a fluorescent lamp, LEDs of red, green, and blue light, and a UV-A black light bulb. Overall results showed that methylene blue was discolored with and without the presence of any photoactive semiconductor. Outcomes depended on the combination substrate-light source employed. Photosensitization was assumed as the discoloration mechanism followed upon visible light irradiation. Fluorescence spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography were used to investigate the possible intermediates formed in the irradiated solutions. The detailed nature of formed species was not stablished, but it was proved that the dye molecule photo-bleached and partially defragmented in several intermediates including leuco dyes, demethylated phenothiazine dyes, and probably humic substances. Since the fluorescence intermediates found were similar for most of the irradiated solutions, it was assumed that comparable reactive species were responsible for the discoloration of the molecule in solution. Results proved the misconception of discoloration experiments found in the literature when employing visible light near the absorption region of the dye.

Cardiac and placental mitochondrial characterization in a rabbit model of intrauterine growth restriction.

BACKGROUND: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with cardiovascular remodeling persisting into adulthood. Mitochondrial bioenergetics, essential for embryonic development and cardiovascular function, are regulated by nuclear effectors as sirtuins. A rabbit model of IUGR and cardiovascular remodeling was generated, in which heart mitochondrial alterations were observed by microscopic and transcriptomic analysis. We aimed to evaluate if such alterations are translated at a functional mitochondrial level to establish the etiopathology and potential therapeutic targets for this obstetric complication. METHODS: Hearts and placentas from 16 IUGR-offspring and 14 controls were included to characterize mitochondrial function. RESULTS: Enzymatic activities of complexes II, IV and II + III in IUGR-hearts (-11.96 ±â€¯3.16%; -15.58 ±â€¯5.32%; -14.73 ±â€¯4.37%; p < 0.05) and II and II + III in IUGR-placentas (-17.22 ±â€¯3.46%; p < 0.005 and -29.64 ±â€¯4.43%; p < 0.001) significantly decreased. This was accompanied by a not significant reduction in CI-stimulated oxygen consumption and significantly decreased complex II SDHB subunit expression in placenta (-44.12 ±â€¯5.88%; p < 0.001). Levels of mitochondrial content, Coenzyme Q and cellular ATP were conserved. Lipid peroxidation significantly decreased in IUGR-hearts (-39.02 ±â€¯4.35%; p < 0.001), but not significantly increased in IUGR-placentas. Sirtuin3 protein expression significantly increased in IUGR-hearts (84.21 ±â€¯31.58%; p < 0.05) despite conserved anti-oxidant SOD2 protein expression and activity in both tissues. CONCLUSIONS: IUGR is associated with cardiac and placental mitochondrial CII dysfunction. Up-regulated expression of Sirtuin3 may explain attenuation of cardiac oxidative damage and preserved ATP levels under CII deficiency. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE: These findings may allow the design of dietary interventions to modulate Sirtuin3 expression and consequent regulation of mitochondrial imbalance associated with IUGR and derived cardiovascular remodeling.

Digital holographic interferometry applied to the investigation of ignition process.

We use the digital holographic interferometry (DHI) technique to display the early ignition process for a butane-air mixture flame. Because such an event occurs in a short time (few milliseconds), a fast CCD camera is used to study the event. As more detail is required for monitoring the temporal evolution of the process, less light coming from the combustion is captured by the CCD camera, resulting in a deficient and underexposed image. Therefore, the CCD's direct observation of the combustion process is limited (down to 1000 frames per second). To overcome this drawback, we propose the use of DHI along with a high power laser in order to supply enough light to increase the speed capture, thus improving the visualization of the phenomenon in the initial moments. An experimental optical setup based on DHI is used to obtain a large sequence of phase maps that allows us to observe two transitory stages in the ignition process: a first explosion which slightly emits visible light, and a second stage induced by variations in temperature when the flame is emerging. While the last stage can be directly monitored by the CCD camera, the first stage is hardly detected by direct observation, and DHI clearly evidences this process. Furthermore, our method can be easily adapted for visualizing other types of fast processes.

Holographic three-dimensional telepresence using large-area photorefractive polymer.

Holography is a technique that is used to display objects or scenes in three dimensions. Such three-dimensional (3D) images, or holograms, can be seen with the unassisted eye and are very similar to how humans see the actual environment surrounding them. The concept of 3D telepresence, a real-time dynamic hologram depicting a scene occurring in a different location, has attracted considerable public interest since it was depicted in the original Star Wars film in 1977. However, the lack of sufficient computational power to produce realistic computer-generated holograms and the absence of large-area and dynamically updatable holographic recording media have prevented realization of the concept. Here we use a holographic stereographic technique and a photorefractive polymer material as the recording medium to demonstrate a holographic display that can refresh images every two seconds. A 50 Hz nanosecond pulsed laser is used to write the holographic pixels. Multicoloured holographic 3D images are produced by using angular multiplexing, and the full parallax display employs spatial multiplexing. 3D telepresence is demonstrated by taking multiple images from one location and transmitting the information via Ethernet to another location where the hologram is printed with the quasi-real-time dynamic 3D display. Further improvements could bring applications in telemedicine, prototyping, advertising, updatable 3D maps and entertainment.

Monitoring the hospital management of acute asthma: the Italian Pediatric Network experience.

BACKGROUND: The Study Group on Accreditation and Quality Improvement of the Italian Society of Pediatrics has developed an observational study about the hospital management of pediatric patients affected by severe asthma, in order to evaluate how the Guidelines for severe asthma in childhood are applied in the daily practice. METHODS: This study included patients between 2 and 17 years, hospitalized or under short intensive observation for acute asthma. The data collection was carried out through the compilation of on-line forms. The statistical technique used was the Chi Square test. RESULTS: 409 forms were filled in by 32 Italian Centers. 17% of the patients showed severe asthma, 59% moderate and 24% mild. On arrival at the Emergency Room the oximetry was measured in 95% of the patients, the respiratory rate in 64% while the heart rate in 88% of them. 48% of the children were exposed to chest X-ray. More than half of the children received oxygen therapy, 98.5% received short-acting beta-2 agonists and systemic steroid therapy was given to 82% of children, mainly orally. At discharge only half of the children were provided with written instructions for the management of any subsequent asthmatic episode. The analysis of the collected data highlights that not all the children had their oxygen saturation measured, although this parameter is one of the main indicators of disease severity, as well as the respiratory rate, which was detected in a minimal percentage of cases. The frequency of chest X-ray was extremely high, even though it does not have any indication in the majority of asthma cases. The evaluation of the therapeutic treatment denotes an adequate use of the oxygen therapy according to the oximetry values found on arrival, but an abuse of steroid therapy. Critical issues emerge at discharge: children are not always educated about the home management of the disease and the self-evaluation of the illness seriousness. CONCLUSION: The pediatric network has become an excellent system of monitoring of the clinical management of asthmatic children, highlighting strengths and weaknesses on which to focus actions of improvement.

First Report of Beet necrotic yellow vein virus on Red Table Beet in Brazil.

Beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) is an economically important pathogen of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris var. saccharifera) in several European, and Asian countries and in the United States (3). The virus is transmitted by the soil-inhabiting plasmodiophorid Polymyxa betae and causes the rhizomania disease of sugar beet. In November 2012, plants of B. vulgaris subsp. vulgaris cv. Boro (red table beet) exhibiting mainly severe characteristic root symptom of rhizomania were found in a commercial field located in the municipality of São José do Rio Pardo, State of São Paulo, Brazil. No characteristic virus-inducing foliar symptom was observed on diseased plants. The incidence of diseased plants was around 70% in the two visited crops. As the hairy root symptom is indicative of infection by BNYVV, the present study aimed to detect and identify this virus associated with the diseased plants. Preliminary leaf dip analysis by transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of very few benyvirus-like particles. Total RNA was extracted from roots of three symptomatic plants and one asymptomatic plant according to Toth et al. (3). One-step reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed as described by Morris et al. (2) with primers that amplify part of the coat protein gene at RNA2. The initial assumption that the hairy root symptom was associated with BNYVV infection was confirmed by the amplification of a fragment of ~500 bp from all three symptomatic samples. No amplicon was obtained from the asymptomatic control plant. Amplicons were directly sequenced, and the consensus nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences showed 100% identity. The nucleotide sequence for one amplicon (Accession No. KM433683) was compared with other sequences deposited in GenBank. The nucleotide (468 nt) and deduced amino acid (156 aa) sequences shared 93 to 100 and 97 to 99% identity, respectively with the corresponding nucleotide and amino acid sequences for other isolates of type A of BNYVV. The virus was transmitted to three of 10 red table beet plants inoculated with contaminated soil, and infection was confirmed by nested RT-PCR, as described by Morris et al. (1), and nucleotide sequencing. This is the first report on the occurrence of BNYVV in Brazil, which certainly will affect the yield of red table beet in the producing region. Therefore, mapping of the occurrence of BNYVV in red table beet-producing areas in Brazil for containment of the spread of the virus is urgent. In the meantime, precautions should be taken to control the movement of contaminated soil and beet roots, carrots, or any vegetable grown on infested land that might introduce the virus to still virus-free regions. References: (1) J. Morris et al. J. Virol. Methods 95:163, 2001. (2) D. D. Sutic et al. Handbook of Plant Virus Diseases. CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida, 1999. (3) I. K. Toth et al. Methods for the Detection and Quantification of Erwinia carotovora subsp. atroseptica (Pectobacterium carotovorum subsb. atrosepticum) on Potatoes: A Laboratory Manual. Scottish Crop Research Institute, Dundee, Scotland, 2002.

TNFα-induced apoptosis in human myeloid cell lines HL-60 and K562 is dependent of intracellular ROS generation.

The present study determines the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and calcium signaling evoked by the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) on apoptosis in the human leukemia HL-60 and K562 cell lines. The results show that treatment of both cell lines cells with 10 ng/mL TNFα resulted in a rise in the percentage of apoptotic cells after 6 h of treatment. It was also observed that the administration of 10 ng/mL TNFα increased intracellular ROS production, as well as a time-dependent increase in caspase-8, -3, and -9 activities. The present results also show that the pretreatment with well-known antioxidants such as trolox and N-acetyl cysteine partially reduced the caspase activation caused by the administration of TNFα. The findings suggest that TNFα-induced apoptosis is dependent on alterations in intracellular ROS generation in human leukemia HL-60 and K562 cells.

An updatable holographic three-dimensional display.

Holographic three-dimensional (3D) displays provide realistic images without the need for special eyewear, making them valuable tools for applications that require situational awareness, such as medical, industrial and military imaging. Currently commercially available holographic 3D displays use photopolymers that lack image-updating capability, resulting in restricted use and high cost. Photorefractive polymers are dynamic holographic recording materials that allow updating of images and have a wide range of applications, including optical correlation, imaging through scattering media and optical communication. To be suitable for 3D displays, photorefractive polymers need to have nearly 100% diffraction efficiency, fast writing time, hours of image persistence, rapid erasure, and large area-a combination of properties that has not been shown before. Here, we report an updatable holographic 3D display based on photorefractive polymers with such properties, capable of recording and displaying new images every few minutes. This is the largest photorefractive 3D display to date (4 x 4 inches in size); it can be recorded within a few minutes, viewed for several hours without the need for refreshing, and can be completely erased and updated with new images when desired.

A multicentric study regarding the use of hormone therapy during female mid-age (REDLINC VI).

BACKGROUND: Menopausal hormone therapy (HT) has shown benefits for women; however, associated drawbacks (i.e. risks, costs, fears) have currently determined its low use. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of current HT use among mid-aged women and describe the characteristics of those who have never used, have abandoned or are currently using HT. In addition, reasons for not using HT were analyzed. METHOD: This was a cross-sectional study that analyzed a total of 6731 otherwise healthy women (45-59 years old) of 15 cities in 11 Latin American countries. Participants were requested to fill out the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and a questionnaire containing sociodemographic data and items regarding the menopause and HT use. RESULTS: The prevalence of current HT use was 12.5%. Oral HT (43.7%) was the most frequently used type of HT, followed by transdermal types (17.7%). The main factors related to the current use of HT included: positive perceptions regarding HT (odds ratio (OR) 11.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 9.41-14.13), being postmenopausal (OR 3.47, 95% CI 2.75-4.36) and having a better socioeconomic level. A total of 48.8% of surveyed women had used HT in the past, but abandoned it due to symptom improvement or being unconcerned; fear of cancer or any other secondary effects were also reported but in less than 10%. Among women who had never used HT, 28% reported the lack of medical prescription as the main reason, followed by the absence of symptoms (27.8%). Among those reporting lack of prescription as the main reason for not using HT, 30.6% currently had severe menopausal symptoms (total MRS score > 16); 19.5% of women were using alternative 'natural' therapies, with 35.1% of them displaying severe menopausal symptoms as compared to a 22.5% observed among current HT users. CONCLUSION: The use of HT has not regained the rates observed a decade ago. Positive perceptions regarding HT were related to a higher use. Lack of medical prescription was the main reason for not using HT among non-users, many of whom were currently displaying severe menopausal symptoms.

Coordination and Bioorganometallic Chemistry: Exploring the Potential Applications of Metal Coordination and Organometallic Complexes in Medical and Microbiological Advancements.

In the field of coordination and bioorganometallic chemistry, a notable shift is occurring. This mini-review explores a new generation of carefully 3D-crafted coordination and organometallic complexes that differ from conventional structures. Emphasizing disease intervention and microbial control, these compounds, incorporate noble and transition metals, and aim to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing potential health risks. The mini-review covers diverse applications, showcasing their effectiveness against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and as potential tools in cancer treatment. Additionally, it sheds light on the inventive aspects of these complexes within biological systems. By highlighting advancements in bioorganometallic chemistry, the review offers insights and guidance for future developments in safer and more effective therapeutics.

Antifungal chemicals promising function in disease prevention, method of action and mechanism.

The increasing use of antimicrobial drugs has been linked to the rise of drug-resistant fungus in recent years. Antimicrobial resistance is being studied from a variety of perspectives due to the important clinical implication of resistance. The processes underlying this resistance, enhanced methods for identifying resistance when it emerges, alternate treatment options for infections caused by resistant organisms, and so on are reviewed, along with strategies to prevent and regulate the formation and spread of resistance. This overview will focus on the action mechanism of antifungals and the resistance mechanisms against them. The link between antibacterial and antifungal resistance is also briefly discussed. Based on their mechanism action, antifungals are divided into three distinct categories: azoles, which target the ergosterol synthesis; 5-fluorocytosine, which targets macromolecular synthesis and polyenes, which interact physiochemically with fungal membrane sterols. Antifungal resistance can arise through a wide variety of ways. Overexpression of the target of the antifungal drug, changes to the drug target, changes to sterol biosynthesis, decreased intercellular concentration of the target enzyme, and other processes. A correlation exists between the mechanisms of resistance to antibacterial and antifungals, despite the fact that the comparison between the two is inevitably constrained by various parameters mentioned in the review. Drug extrusion via membrane pumps has been thoroughly documented in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and development of new antifungal compounds and strategies has also been well characterized.

Thyroid nodules in Hispanic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

A thyroid nodule (TN) is a discrete lesion in the thyroid gland radiologically distinct from the adjacent parenchyma, with a prevalence variable depending on the diagnostic method used and the study population. Thyroid disorders have been identified in more than 50% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); however, the prevalence of TN has not been frequently studied. We identified a prevalence of 27% TN in 55 SLE patients > 16 years of age. One-third of TN were >1 cm with radiological features of malignancy. The mean age of patients with TN was 39 ± 11 years, 93% women, and SLE duration 10 ± 6 years. Among patients, we reported family history of cancer in three cases (20%), thyroid disease in one (7%), and autoimmune disease in six (40%). Regarding treatment, 50% of patients with TN were treated with azathioprine vs. 23% of patients without TN (p = 0.02), with an OR of 3.94 (95% CI 1.12-13.84, p = 0.03). As a conclusion a high prevalence of TN in SLE patients was found. Prevalence of TN correlated only with history of azathioprine use. We don't know the long-term implications of our findings; however, a functional and morphological evaluation of the thyroid gland is warranted in all patients with SLE.

Bordetella holmesii in children suspected of pertussis in Argentina.

We describe nine patients (eight aged <1 year) clinically diagnosed with pertussis yet laboratory-confirmed with Bordetella holmesii infections, a human pathogen normally isolated from blood. Most patients reported cough and cold symptoms. No death was reported. We report B. holmesii isolation in infants with respiratory symptoms in Argentina.

Type II diabetes mellitus and menopause: a multinational study.

BACKGROUND: Type II diabetes mellitus causes metabolic changes that may lead to early menopause and worsen climacteric symptoms. OBJECTIVES: To determine the risk factors for type II diabetes mellitus and assess the impact of this disease on the age of menopause and on climacteric symptoms. METHODS: A total of 6079 women aged between 40 and 59 years from 11 Latin American countries were requested to answer the Menopause Rating Scale and Goldberg Anxiety-Depression Scale. RESULTS: The prevalence of diabetes was 6.7%. Diabetes mellitus was associated with arterial hypertension (odds ratio (OR) 4.49; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.47-5.31), the use of psychotropic drugs (OR 1.54; 95% CI 1.22-1.94), hormonal therapy (OR 1.46; 95% CI 1.11-1.92), ≥ 50 years of age (OR 1.48; 95% CI 1.17-1.86), overweight or obese (OR 1.47; 95% CI 1.15-1.89), and waist circumference ≥ 88 cm (OR 1.32; 95% CI 1.06-1.65). Factors associated with lower risk of diabetes were the use of hormonal contraceptives (OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.35-0.87), alcohol (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.54-0.98) and living in cities > 2500 meters above sea level (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.53-0.91) or with high temperatures (OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.51-0.88). In turn, diabetes tripled the risk of menopause in women under 45 years of age. Diabetes did not increase the risk of deterioration of quality of life due to climacteric symptoms. CONCLUSION: Menopause does not increase the risk of type II diabetes mellitus. Diabetes is associated with early menopause in women under 45 years of age.

First Report of a Group 16SrVII-C Phytoplasma Associated with Shoot Proliferation of Sunn Hemp (Crotalaria juncea) in Brazil.

Sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea) is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. In Brazil, this species is commonly used for green manure, since this legume is an efficient nitrogen fixer that produces organic residues for soil improvement. In July of 2012, C. juncea exhibiting intense shoot proliferation, leaf malformation, shortened internodes, and generalized yellowing were found in an experimental field located in Piracicaba, State of São Paulo, Brazil. The incidence was about 1 to 2% and the diseased plants were distributed at random. Since these symptoms are indicative of infection by phytoplasmas, the present study aimed to detect and identify the phytoplasma. Four symptomatic and two asymptomatic plants were sampled. Small segments of leaf veins were prepared for microscopy, as previously reported (1), and observations were made using a Jeol (Akishima/Japan) model Jem-1011 transmission electron microscope. Total DNA was extracted from leaves using a commercial kit (DNeasy Plant Mini, Qiagen Inc.), and nested PCR assays were performed with primers, P1/Tint followed by R16F2n/R16R2 (2). The initial assumption that disease symptoms were associated with phytoplasma was confirmed by PCR amplification of 1.2 kb DNA fragments from the 16S rDNA gene. In contrast, no amplicon was generated with PCR using template DNA from asymptomatic plants. The phytoplasma detected from each symptomatic sample was considered to be an isolate. PCR products were purified and cloned in Escherichia coli DH5α, using the pGEM-T Easy Vector System I (Promega). Three isolates were selected and the cloned 16S rDNA sequences from three colonies of each isolate were sequenced. Since no sequence polymorphisms were found, a majority consensus sequence was selected for each isolate. These sequences were identical and one of them, designated CrSP-Br01 (crotalaria shoot proliferation) with 1,249 bp (GenBank Accession KC756947), was used as representative of the sunn hemp phytoplasma. The 16S rDNA nucleotide sequence of this phytoplasma shared 100% sequence identity with the reference phytoplasma for subgroup VII-C (Argentinian Alfalfa witches'-broom phytoplasma, AY147038). According to the in silico RFLP analysis for delineation of subgroups (3), which is based on virtual RFLP patterns and similarity coefficient calculation, the C. juncea phytoplasma was classified as a member of group 16SrVII, subgroup C. Phylogenetic analysis supported that this phytoplasma is closely related to the representative of subgroup 16SrVII-C, since both phytoplasmas emerged from the same branch. Transmission electron microscopic examination revealed the presence of phytoplasmas by visualization of pleomorphic and round bodies 100 to 400 nm in diameter, in the phloem vessels of symptomatic plants. The present study reports the first occurrence of a 16SrVII-C phytoplasma in Brazil. In addition, C. juncea was identified as a new host for phytoplasmas belonging to this subgroup. References: (1) A. B. Maunsbach and B. A. Afzelius. Biomedical Electron Microscopy. Illustrated Methods and Interpretations. Page 381-426, San Diego, Academic Press, 1999. (2) M. C. C. Rappussi et al. Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 133:829, 2012. (3) W. Wei et al. Int. J. Syst. Evol. Microbiol. 57:1855, 2007.

Gamma irradiation of adenine and guanine adsorbed into hectorite and attapulgite.

This study focuses on the radiolysis (up to 36 kGy) of guanine and adenine (nitrogenous bases) adsorbed in hectorite and attapulgite to highlight the potential role of clays as protective agents against ionizing radiation in prebiotic processes. In this framework, the study investigated the nitrogenous bases' behavior in two types of systems: a) aqueous suspension of adenine-clay systems and b) guanine-clay systems in the solid state. This research utilized spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques for its analytical purposes. Regardless of the reaction medium conditions, the results reveal that nitrogenous bases are stable under ionizing irradiation when adsorbed on both clays.

Photosynthetic modification of plants through recent technologies: a valuable way to ensure crop fortification.

The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations include a strong emphasis on ending hunger worldwide. According to the 2019 Global Food Security Index, while 88% of countries claim there is sufficient food supply in their country, the sad reality is that 1 in 3 countries is facing insufficient availability of food supply, which means that in those countries, more than 10% of the population is malnourished. Since nutrition is crucial to leading a healthy life and satisfying food security needs, several governments have turned to national nutrition surveys to gauge the extent of malnutrition in their populations. Plants are able to grow, develop, and store nutrients by photosynthesis, which convert light into chemical energy through cell redox regulatory networks. A photosynthesis system's electron flow may be adjusted to accommodate varying light and environmental circumstances. Many techniques exist for controlling the flow of electrons emitted during light processes in order to save or waste energy. The two protein molecules TROL and flavoenzyme ferredoxin (oxidoreductase+NADP) (FNR) interact dynamically to form an excellent molecular switch capable of splitting electrons from the photosystem. The TROL-FNR bifurcation may be limited by either generating NADPH or preventing reactive oxygen species from propagating. TROL-based genome editing is an experimental method for enhancing plant stress and defensive responses, efficiency, and ultimately agricultural production.