Search

As mediators in soil formation, lichens play an essential role in the physical and biological formation of the natural environment. A recent study showed that they are capable of biodegrading stone substrates in a little amount of time, despite being excluded in a geological setting. Many species, mainly those able to produce an oxalate at the thallus-substratum interface, can alter the surface, affecting it chemically. The oxalate remains a noticeable increase even after the lichen has faded, and it makes a major contribution to the structure and composition of the thallus itself. These severe oxalate deposits on historical sites have been alternatively attributed to the earlier as the consequence of air pollutants, prior mechanical/chemical renovation treatments, as well as environmental deterioration. Lichen growth on building materials and biodegradation are frequently based on environmental variables. The biogeophysical and biogeochemical weathering of the substrate by the lichens is the mechanism underlying biodegradation. For stone surfaces, lichens can endeavor bio protection by acting as a barrier against weathering, holding humidity, improving permeability, reducing heat stress and erosion, and absorbing contaminants. Lichen's significance as a biodeteriorant, its colonization and impact on monuments, as well as bioprotection, are all discussed in the current review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UV-C irradiation critically effects the growth of micro-fungi and also deteriorate leather materials. In the present study vegetable tanned and chrome tanned leather were infected with pure cultures of Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus, which were isolated from stored leather materials. UV-C light (λ = 254 nm) was applied on infected leather for 15 and 60 min. The changes in leather qualities were examined through weight, tensile strength, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study after 15 and 30 days of fungal inoculation. Vegetable tanned leather was more vulnerable in case of fungal attack than chrome tanned leather while A. flavus showed more influence on leather deterioration than A. niger. The results showed that weight loss after 30 days for 15 and 60 min irradiation exposure was 1.3% compared to A. flavus infected leather (3.93%). The tensile strength of vegetable and chrome tanned UV irradiated leather was increased by 44% and 7% respectively. The scanning electron microscopic images exhibit the limited presence of conidiophores in UV-C exposed leather which confirmed the potentiality of irradiation for controlling fungal growth. The infrared spectral analysis of UV-C exposed infected leather samples showed neither shifting of wavenumber nor displacement of any functional groups. Altogether the efficacy of UV-C irradiation against biodeterioration of leather was concluded to be effective. This method can be used to control fungal growth without compromising the leather quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: This work expands the current knowledge of fungal agents and their role in the biodeterioration of limestone rocks, while providing tools for the development of better and more adequate strategies for the conservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of the heritage. Although the information presented here is related to a single monument in Portugal, the data can be extrapolated to other monuments of similar lithology. Fungal organisms are considered one of the most relevant stone colonizers, and biodeteriogens. They are ubiquitous heterotrophs, metabolically versatile, ranging from generalist to extremophiles. Limestone, a sedimentary rock characterized by high levels of calcium carbonate, has low compressive strength and hardness and high porosity. These features make it highly susceptible to fungal colonization and an exceptional target for biodeterioration. Understanding the mycobiome composition associated with different biodeterioration scenarios is key for the development of effective guidelines and strategies for preventive conservation and viable maintenance of our cultural heritage. In this work, a thorough analysis of the fungal community composition on the Lemos Pantheon, a limestone-built artwork located in Portugal, was performed using high-throughput sequencing complemented with culture-based methods. The combined results allowed a detailed characterization of the fungal communities of each analyzed spot, revealing highly diverse and dissimilar communities according to the type of biodeterioration observed. In addition, we verified that both cultivation and metagenomics methodologies should be employed synergistically to tackle inherent limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to assess the taxonomic diversity of fungi isolated from window seals and analyse their ecophysiological properties, understood as a description of morphological and biochemical features, creating a biofilm, growth rate on model mediums with different water activity. The study material was swabs collected from the lower window seals in 28 bedrooms and five kitchens in temperate climate zone, taken during heating season. A total of 26 fungal isolates were obtained: 20 isolates from eight species on the bedroom and six out of four species on the kitchen. The chance of fungus occurrence on kitchen seals is almost twice as high as in the bedroom, while the expected species diversity is nearly six times higher in the bedroom than on kitchen windows. The low‐carbohydrate environment with variable physical parameters promoted nonfermenting vitamin prototrophs with high adhesion abilities. The only species that can use nutrients derived from plasticizers of window seals were Aureobasidium pullulans. The presence of potentially pathogenic species on window seals is disturbing. All obtained fungi showed the ability to create a biofilm and produce dyes. Many isolates with dye on seals are related to the rooms' biota diversity. Their presence on windows should be constantly monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological colonization and later biodeterioration damage are well-known phenomena affecting cultural heritage. Glasses, as those from historical stained glass windows, are frequently biocolonized under certain conditions. There is still limited knowledge about biocolonization growth patterns on glass and safe removing procedures to act before irreversible biodegradation damage occurs. This paper presents the results of an experimental study in which biological colonization of three different model historical glasses, namely sodalime, lead crystal, and potash-lime silicate glasses, has been naturally induced. Glass samples were exposed for 13-15 months to natural conditions at the mountain region near Madrid (Spain) and monitored over time. After exposition, samples were first observed through fluorescence microscopy (FM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometry. Next, the Acticide® CF biocide was applied on glass samples exposed and were then again observed through the same techniques to evaluate its effect. Biocolonizers detected were algae, fungi, cyanobacteria and heterotrophic bacteria in different combinations and amounts and sometimes forming a biofilm. Soda-lime silicate glasses were the ones that showed the highest biocolonization growth, while lead crystal silicate glass appeared more biocolonized than the potash-lime one. The biofilm formed appeared intensely damaged and was practically no longer visible after the biocide treatment which proves its efficiency for removing glass biocolonization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the context of cultural heritage conservation, the biological study of tangible archeological sites is an important task to extend their existence and strengthen the transmission of their cultural value to future generations. In Egypt, a hyper-arid region, a microcolonial fungus with inky black growth was observed on a stone surface in the royal corridor of the Great Pyramid of Giza (King Khufu’s pyramid). The isolate was studied and characterized by microscopic morphometric measurements, evaluation of enzymatic activities, and genotyping techniques. The isolate was identified as Hortaea werneckii, a pleomorphic black yeast that naturally inhabits hypersaline environments and infects human skin. It has been reported from humid temperate, subtropical, and tropical zones, mainly from marine habitats and adjacent areas, and is associated with marine life. Since it was observed in an unusual habitat, it raises the question of its type and origin, whether environmental or clinical. The Egyptian Hortaea werneckii GPS5 isolate was profiled and characterized by adaptive extremophilic tolerance to arid salt stress, low portability to infect human skin, and the capability of solubilizing calcite; besides it was phylogenetically clustered with previous recorded environmental accessions. A profile that matches the biodeterioration fungal agents known as rockinhabiting fungi, a potential threat to cultural heritage sites that requires attention and prevention plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientific studies concerning the causes and consequences of the biodeterioration of stone monuments located at high altitudes in permanently cold, mountainous regions are scarce. For that reason, this study aimed to detect and identify the bacteria involved in the deterioration of this type of monument. To achieve this goal, we focused on the most important archeological Inca site in the Ecuadorian Andes: Ingapirca's Temple of the Sun, built approximately 500 years ago at 3.100 m.a.s.l. We first examined the stone surfaces of the temple by scanning electron microscopy and showed the detrimental impact on the mineral structure of the green andesite mineral used to build the temple, caused by crustose lichen thalli and heterotrophic bacteria. Then, we isolated, characterized, and identified several of these bacteria. Most of them multiplied at a wide range of temperatures, from 4 °C to 30 °C, and were thus considered eurypsychrophiles. Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria species dominated the culturable fraction of this community. Several isolates produced metabolites that solubilized mineral phosphates at low temperatures; others solubilized iron-containing mineral fractions in the green andesite rock when tested in vitro. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report related to the biodeterioration of an Inca monument at such an altitude in the Andes range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is part of a comprehensive investigation that was performed in regard to a case of alterations on a carbographic ribbon used in a typewriter that was found and seized by inner security operations of the Arma dei Carabinieri, Italy. Thirty‐six coded scripts possessing potentially and criminally liable content were present on the tape; however, only the 6th and 7th scripts exhibited alterations of an uncertain nature. The study included sampling that was performed under sterile conditions of a large surface area of carbographic ribbons. A protocol based on physico‐chemical, microbiological, and biomolecular tools was established. Preliminary results revealed the presence of fungal contamination that was primarily located on the inner surface of the 6th and 7th scripts on the black carbographic ribbon. One fungal strain was isolated and identified by universal ITS‐PCR primer and rDNA sequencing as Alternaria infectoria strain NIS4. Fungal growth was monitored for 3 weeks in the laboratory under different environmental conditions (temperature, open‐closed system, and substrate). The A. infectoria NIS4 strain exhibited the best growth at 28°C under a closed system with RH near saturation. We also noted that the fungal growth was abundant at 15°C. Moreover, this fungus (a potential human pathogen) possessed the ability to colonize the surface of the new carbographic ribbon even when using mineral medium; however, this only occurred in a closed system environment and not in open systems due to rapid desiccation. Under our experimental conditions, the A. infectoria NIS4 strain could degrade gelatin as an organic matter present in trace amounts that are often used as a binder in a carbographic ribbon emulsions. The results revealed that the isolated microorganism was the major biological candidate capable of altering the investigated carbographic ribbon; however, these alterations could only occur under favourable environmental conditions. Aims: Identify the cause of microbial alterations on a carbographic ribbon in a typewriter used in a hypogean Italian criminal house named "covo." Methods and Results: The isolation and identification of biodeteriogens (Alternaria infectoria NIS4) were performed using both culture‐dependent and‐independent methods, including ITS regions‐primed PCR and rDNA techniques. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) and optical observations were also performed. Growth tests and biodeterioration simulation tests on carbographic ribbons at the lab scale were performed under different environmental conditions. The A. infectoria NIS4 strain exhibited biodeterioration activity on carbographic ribbons under environmental conditions that were extremely favourable for growth. A high ability to colonize carbographic ribbon surfaces with fast and abundant growth at both 15°C and 28°C under lab‐scale conditions at RH near saturation was observed. Conclusions: In this forensic case study, the ability of the isolated micromycetes A. infectoria NIS4 strain to colonize and induce alterations and degradation in a carbographic ribbon stored under indoor environmental conditions was examined. When favourable conditions change over time, the risk of microbial colonization and the damage produced by the fungal biodeterioration processes on the synthetic material objects has been confirmed. Significance and Impact of Study: The current study contributes to the knowledge of biodeterioration processes in carbographic ribbon and the responsible agents, and our study provides an example of how environmental microbiology can also aid in forensic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Debate on whether biofilms on stone monuments are biodeteriorative or bioprotective is long-standing. We propose a criterion of 'relative bioprotective ratio' for assessing the ambivalent role of the biofilms by comparing biodeterioration with weathering. A boundary between biodeterioration and bioprotection exists and fluctuates with dynamic microflora influenced by environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The worldwide current practice of the structural design of sewers is based on procedures which usually include the effects caused by chemical and biological deterioration. However, in the last few decades, many sewer pipes have been designed using reinforced concrete which have succinctly considered such deterioration promoters. Indeed, knowledge related to reinforced concrete deterioration processes has become an important issue when forecasting the expected or remaining lifespan of sewers. Within these processes, thickness and strength losses and porosity augments have been found to be the result of the vital activity of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria and some types of fungus. This paper presents a rational methodology that uses biodeterioration measurements to describe how biodeterioration effects can affect the probability of failure during the lifetime of sewers. The probability of failure was obtained using Monte Carlo simulations based on numerical sampling from lognormal and uniform distributions. The concrete and reinforcement strength, geometric properties, H2S concentration in the headspace, and load values were considered as the main sources of uncertainty. The results indicate that the expected service lifespan can vary between 55 and 37 years for low and high H2S concentrations, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study demonstrates first time investigation on encapsulation of Aniba rosaeodora essential oil into chitosan nanoemulsion (AREO-CsNe) with the aim of improvement of its antifungal, and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) inhibitory performance in real food system. The GC-MS analysis of AREO revealed the presence of linalool (81.46%) as a major component. The successful encapsulation of EO into CsNe was confirmed through SEM, FTIR, and XRD analysis. The in-vitro release study showed the controlled release of AREO. AREO-CsNe caused complete inhibition of Aspergillus flavus (AFLHPSi-1) growth and AFB1 production at 0.8 and 0.6μl/ml, respectively, which was far better than AREO (1.4 and 1.2 μl/ml, respectively). Impairment of ergosterol biosynthesis coupled with enhancement of cellular materials leakage confirmed plasma membrane as the possible antifungal target of both AREO and AREO-CsNe. Significant inhibition of methylglyoxal (AFB1 inducer) synthesis in AFLHPSi-1 cells by AREO and AREO-CsNe confirmed their novel antiaflatoxigenic mode of action. In-silico molecular docking studies revealed effective interaction of linalool with Ver-1 and Omt-A proteins, leading to inhibition of AFB1 biosynthesis. Further, AREO-CsNe showed enhanced antioxidant activity with IC50 values 3.792 and 1.706 μl/ml against DPPH• and ABTS•+ radicals, respectively. In addition, AREO-CsNe caused 100% protection of stored millets (Setaria italica seeds) from AFB1 contamination and lipid peroxidation over a period of 1 year without compromising its sensory properties and exhibited high safety profile with LD50 value 9538.742 μl/kg body weight. Based on enhanced performance of AREO-CsNe over AREO, it can be recommended as a novel substitute of synthetic preservative for preservation of stored millets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stone monuments and relics are prone to biodeterioration processes prompted by microbial proliferation and activity. Among the distinct microbes capable of stone colonization, fungi are known to strongly contribute to stone biodeterioration. During the ongoing efforts aiming to study fungi thriving in dolomitic limestone walls of the Coimbra's hypogean Roman cryptoporticus (Portugal), two unknown Bionectriaceae isolates were retrieved. The aim of this work was to depict the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of these microorganisms. The phylogenetic analyses revealed that the studied strains could not be assigned to any of the currently known Bionectriaceae genera. Moreover, the isolates exhibited distinctive and peculiar characteristics, such as the packing of conidia by surrounding hyphal segments and the formation of rope-like microsclerotia with a textura globose. Taking into account all the data obtained, a novel genus and species, Circumfusicillium cavernae gen. et sp. nov. in Bionectriaceae (Hypocreales), is proposed here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioreceptivity, and the consequent biodeterioration of contemporary glass, used by artists worldwide, was studied. The two main objectives were: first, to verify if fungi with some culture media would produce more damages than the same fungi without a nutritional source, and to verify if the two genera of fungi produce the same damage on the same glass. Colourless glass samples with Spruce Pine 87 Batch (SPB-87) composition were inoculated with two distinct fungal species, Penicillium chrysogenum and Aspergillus niger, separately: (i) half with fungal spores (simulating primary bioreceptivity), and (ii) half with fungi in a small portion of culture media (simulating organic matter that can be deposited on exposed glassworks, i.e., secondary bioreceptivity). The alteration of glass surfaces were analysed by Optical Microscopy, SEM-EDS and µ-Raman. The mycelium of Penicillium chrysogenum generated a higher amount of fingerprints, stains and iridescence, whereas Aspergillus niger produced more biopitting and crystals on the glass surface. However, both species damaged the glass to different degrees in 4 and 6 months after the inoculation, producing physico-chemical damage (e.g., iridescence, biopitting), and chemical alterations (e.g., depletion and deposition of elements and crystals). The primary bioreceptivity experiment of glass samples inoculated with Aspergillus niger results in less damage than in the case of secondary bioreceptivity, being almost similar for Penicillium chrysogenum. The new and in-depth understanding of the bioreceptivity and deterioration of post-modern glass art and cultural heritage provided here is of paramount importance for the scientific, conservation and artistic communities—to protect glass cultural materials, or seen by artists as innovative and inspirational ways of creating glass art in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In recent years, there has been an exponential growth in the use of digital media for data storage and the creation of museums, libraries and digital archives. In particular, Compact Discs Recordable (CD-R) have become one of the most used tools for archiving documents related to cultural heritage. Many authors have investigated only the CD longevity, but very few studies have focused on their biological deterioration. The aim of this work was to examine the CD-R biodeterioration following two ways: (1) search badly preserved CD-R, showing clear degradation spots and verify that it is fungal deterioration; (2) fungal inoculation tests on blank CD-R to verify their bioreceptivity. The analysis of a badly preserved CD-R showed clear degradation spots, highlighting, after cultural and molecular analysis, the presence on the surface of three different fungi: Chaetomium globosum, Trichoderma atroviride e Coniochaeta sp. For the in vitro inoculation tests we used conidia suspensions of Cladosporium cladosporioides and Penicillium chrysogenum, and we observed the growth for 6 months. At the end of experiment, both fungi colonized the CD-R surface with hyphae and mycelia clearly visible, causing also loss of material and fractal structure presence. For the CD-R use as cultural heritage archiving, the correct storage is an essential phase and, in light of the results obtained, it will be necessary not only to consider the environmental factors (temperature, relative humidity) but also the biological deterioration caused by airborne fungi. Therefore, effort needs to be taken to regularly monitor temperature and relative humidity and it is essential to periodically conduct cleaning of optical media.

The biodeterioration of concrete elements in sewer systems and their repair is of significant economic and societal concern. However, the available test methods to assess the performance of cementitious materials under the relevant conditions are insufficiently validated. In the present study, two biological test methods and a standardised chemical test were applied to two sewer repair mortars and a reference mortar, and the performances of these materials were compared in a severely deteriorating sewer environment. In both biological tests, the induction period was considerably shorter than that of the field, and time-resolved recording of durability indicators enabled to determine deterioration rates in the steady-state regime, which compared reasonably well with each other and with the behaviour in the sewer environment. The chemical test does not allow to obtain a deterioration rate, and the observed relative performance differences of the mortars deviated from the results of the biological tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the context of cultural heritage conservation, the biological study of tangible archeological sites is an important task to extend their existence and strengthen the transmission of their cultural value to future generations. In Egypt, a hyper-arid region, a microcolonial fungus with inky black growth was observed on a stone surface in the royal corridor of the Great Pyramid of Giza (King Khufu’s pyramid). The isolate was studied and characterized by microscopic morphometric measurements, evaluation of enzymatic activities, and genotyping techniques. The isolate was identified as Hortaea werneckii, a pleomorphic black yeast that naturally inhabits hypersaline environments and infects human skin. It has been reported from humid temperate, subtropical, and tropical zones, mainly from marine habitats and adjacent areas, and is associated with marine life. Since it was observed in an unusual habitat, it raises the question of its type and origin, whether environmental or clinical. The Egyptian Hortaea werneckii GPS5 isolate was profiled and characterized by adaptive extremophilic tolerance to arid salt stress, low portability to infect human skin, and the capability of solubilizing calcite; besides it was phylogenetically clustered with previous recorded environmental accessions. A profile that matches the biodeterioration fungal agents known as rock-inhabiting fungi, a potential threat to cultural heritage sites that requires attention and prevention plans.

Microorganisms have evolved to inhabit virtually all environments on the planet, from oceanic hot-seeps to pipelines transporting crude and refined hydrocarbons. Often microbial colonization of man-made structures results in the reduction of their service life requiring preemptive or corrective human intervention. Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) is caused by a set of intricate bioelectrochemical interactions between a diverse group of microorganisms and metallic surfaces. The complexity of MIC microbiomes and their mechanisms as well as the logistics constraints of industrial facilities are factors to consider when choosing suitable analytical methods for MIC monitoring. These generally reflect only a partial view of the phenomenon and in consequence, might lead to ineffective mitigation measures. This paper acknowledges the discrepancies between the fieldwork for MIC monitoring and the currently available technological advancements. It also highlights the most pressing issues that operators have in the field in light of the diversity of the microbial key players present in corrosive microbiomes. Finally, it compiles and outlines a strategy for the integration of novel molecular approaches aiming for a practical and accurate assessment of the microbial threat.

The present study demonstrates first time investigation on encapsulation of Aniba rosaeodora essential oil into chitosan nanoemulsion (AREO-CsNe) with the aim of improvement of its antifungal, and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) inhibitory performance in real food system. The GC–MS analysis of AREO revealed the presence of linalool (81.46%) as a major component. The successful encapsulation of EO into CsNe was confirmed through SEM, FTIR, and XRD analysis. The in-vitro release study showed the controlled release of AREO. AREO-CsNe caused complete inhibition of Aspergillus flavus (AFLHPSi-1) growth and AFB1 production at 0.8 and 0.6 μl/ml, respectively, which was far better than AREO (1.4 and 1.2 μl/ml, respectively). Impairment of ergosterol biosynthesis coupled with enhancement of cellular materials leakage confirmed plasma membrane as the possible antifungal target of both AREO and AREO-CsNe. Significant inhibition of methylglyoxal (AFB1 inducer) synthesis in AFLHPSi-1 cells by AREO and AREO-CsNe confirmed their novel antiaflatoxigenic mode of action. In-silico molecular docking studies revealed effective interaction of linalool with Ver-1 and Omt-A proteins, leading to inhibition of AFB1 biosynthesis. Further, AREO-CsNe showed enhanced antioxidant activity with IC50 values 3.792 and 1.706 μl/ml against DPPH• and ABTS•+ radicals, respectively. In addition, AREO-CsNe caused 100% protection of stored millets (Setaria italica seeds) from AFB1 contamination and lipid peroxidation over a period of 1 year without compromising its sensory properties and exhibited high safety profile with LD50 value 9538.742 μl/kg body weight. Based on enhanced performance of AREO-CsNe over AREO, it can be recommended as a novel substitute of synthetic preservative for preservation of stored millets.

The main hypothesis of the present research is investigating the efficacy of titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) to prevent the growth of fungal strains when applied on leather under an experimental study. Therefore, fifteen fungal strains were isolated from a deteriorated historical manuscript (papers and leathers) and identified by traditional methods and ITS sequence analysis, including Aspergillus chevalieri (one isolate), A. nidulans (two strains), A. flavus (four strains), A. cristatus (one strain), A. niger (one strain), Paecilomyces fulvus (two strains), Penicillium expansum (two strains), and P. citrinum (two strains). The enzymes cellulase, amylase, pectinase, and gelatinase, which play a crucial role in biodegradation, were highly active in these fungal strains. TiO2-NPs were formed using the cell-free filtrate of the probiotic bacterial strain, Lactobacillus plantarum, and characterized. Data showed that the TiO2-NPs were successfully formed with a spherical shape and anatase phase with sizes of 2–8 nm. Moreover, the EDX analysis revealed that the Ti and O ions occupied the main component with weight percentages of 41.66 and 31.76%, respectively. The in vitro cytotoxicity of TiO2-NPs toward two normal cell lines, WI38 and HFB4, showed a low toxicity effect against normal cells (IC50 = 114.1 ± 8.1µg mL−1 for Wi38, and 237.5 ± 3.5µg mL−1 for HFB4). Therefore, concentrations of 100 μg mL−1 were used to load on prepared leather samples before inoculation with fungal strain P. expansum AL1. The experimental study revealed that the loaded TiO2-NPs have the efficacy to inhibit fungal growth with percentages of 73.2 ± 2.5%, 84.2 ± 1.8%, and 88.8 ± 0.6% after 7, 14, and 21 days, respectively. Also, the analyses including SEM, FTIR-ART, color change, and mechanical properties for leather inoculated with fungal strain AL1 in the absence of NPs showed high damage aspects compared to those inoculated with fungal strains in the presence of TiO2-NPs.

The durability of cementitious materials in harsh environments, like marine or sulfate-rich soils, is influenced by various factors, with bacteria playing a significant role alongside environmental chemistry. To address sustainability concerns, research focuses on developing cement mixes that reduce emissions and withstand aggressive conditions. New standards require testing these mixes. This study developed and tested low-carbon cement mixes (CEM III, CEM V, CAC, and CSS) under real sewer conditions enriched with H 2 S and bacteria for four years. The specimens underwent SEM-EDS, XRD, TGA-DTA, and µRaman analysis to enhance understanding of degradation processes by conducting detailed and localized characterization of both initial and newly formed phases. Through this analysis, the work offers a precise description of the effects of bio-alteration on various cement matrices, elucidating their reactions under such conditions. The analysis of mortar specimens has revealed the presence of expansive products such as gypsum besides various polymorphs of calcium carbonate. • Impact of severe H 2 S levels on low-carbon cementitious materials in sewer networks. • In-depth discussion on layer-by-layer alteration phenomena. • Greater resistance of CAC and CSS mortar specimens compared to PC-based specimens. • High-precision techniques are crucial for accurately assessing biodeterioration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides plants and animals, the Fungi kingdom describes several species characterized by various forms and applications. They can be found in all habitats and play an essential role in the excellent functioning of the ecosystem, for example, as decomposers of plant material for the cycling of carbon and nutrients or as symbionts of plants. Furthermore, fungi have been used in many sectors for centuries, from producing food, beverages, and medications. Recently, they have gained significant recognition for protecting the environment, agriculture, and several industrial applications. The current article intends to review the beneficial roles of fungi used for a vast range of applications, such as the production of several enzymes and pigments, applications regarding food and pharmaceutical industries, the environment, and research domains, as well as the negative impacts of fungi (secondary metabolites production, etiological agents of diseases in plants, animals, and humans, as well as deteriogenic agents).

Petroglyph sites exist all over the world. They are one of the earliest forms of mankind's expression and a precursor to art. Despite their outstanding value, comprehensive research on conservation and preservation of rock art is minimal, especially as related to biodeterioration. For this reason, the main objective of this study was to explore the factors involved in the degradation of petroglyph sites in the Negev desert of Israel, with a focus on biodegradation processes. Through the use of culture-independent microbiological methods (metagenomics), we characterized the microbiomes of the samples, finding they were dominated by bacterial communities, in particular taxa of Actinobacteria and Cyanobacteria, with resistance to radiation and desiccation. By means of XRF and Raman spectroscopies, we defined the composition of the stone (calcite and quartz) and the dark crust (clay minerals with Mn and Fe oxides), unveiling the presence of carotenoids, indicative of biological colonization. Optical microscopy and SEM–EDX analyses on thin sections highlighted patterns of weathering, possibly connected to the presence of biodeteriorative microorganisms that leach the calcareous matrix from the bedrock and mobilize metal cations from the black varnish for metabolic processes, slowly weathering it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fungal community of biodeteriorated 17th century mural paintings within the nave and altar portion of the old Church of the Holy Ascension (Veliki Krčimir, Nišava District, Serbia) has been studied via an array of microscopic analyses in order to detect actively growing fungi and assess their potential damage to the painted layer and mortar. In situ microscopy, performed with portable microscopes, together with optical and scanning electron microscopy, has revealed impairments of the painted layer in the form of cracks and biopitting, along with surface salt deposits and hidden, symptomless fungal growth. Various structures, such as fully developed fruiting bodies and melanized mycelia, clusters of microcolonial fungi and lichen soredia, as well as a conidial apparatus and numerous conidia in mass have been observed, all attesting to the presence of actively growing fungal community on the surface of the painted layer and in the interspaces between the painted layer and mortar. Based on the observed reproductive structures, the main agents of biodeterioration have been identified as fungi of Chaetomium and Cladosporium genera. The documented deterioration symptoms are most likely due to hyphal penetration and formation of fruiting bodies and other fungal structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodeterioration of cultural property is a major problem in almost all parts of the world. This paper focuses on the major biodeteriogens, the relative effects of the errant and uncontrollable environmental conditions, and the threat, vulnerability, and risk cause due to biodeterioration to the skin and skin-products most commonly found in the museum collections. The present paper was aimed to assess the investigation of three indigenous medicinal plants for their toxic and insecticidal activity against the Anthrenus verbasci, the stored product, and skin and skin-product pests. It also demonstrated a comparative study between the toxicities of three essential oils such as Ferula asafoetida, Syzygium aromaticum, and Mentha x piperita as fumigants against the larvae of Anthrenus verbasci after the 7 days of exposure under laboratory conditions (23°C ± 5 °C and 58% ± 6%RH). Probit analysis was done by SPSS software and then the transformed data were used to draw regression line graphs for determining LC90 values in each case of tests. The futuristic aspect of this study is to identify the active molecules from promising plant sources and evaluate them for application at the commercial level to develop environmentally friendly and human safe biopesticides with high efficiency and recyclability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood modifications are becoming popular as a way to enhance the performance of wood, either to make it more durable, improve the performance of wood, or give it new functionality as a multifunctional or smart material. While wood modifications have been examined since the early 1900s, the topic has become a dominant area of study in wood science over the past decade. This review summarizes recent advances and provides future perspective on a selection of wood modifications, i.e., the methods that are currently commercialized (acetylation, furfurylation, and thermal modification), a rediscovered ancient practice (charring), a family of polymerization modifications that have so far made it to the pilot scale, and examples of novel wood-based functional materials explored at laboratory scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water affects the susceptibility of stone to alteration by facilitating physical, chemical and biological weathering. Stone properties determine water transport and retention, but it is also expected that biofilms and extracellular polymeric substances could alter the water–stone relationship. A lot of research on this subject has been carried out on soils, but the effect on stones is understudied. For this reason, three sedimentary building stones, Ernzen, Euville and Savonnières, each with a different pore size distribution, were biofouled with cyanobacteria. Their relationship with the stone material was investigated by optical and electron microscopy, and the effect of cyanobacterial biofilms on water transport and retention was studied. The results showed that the cyanobacteria primarily colonize the building stones on the outer surface and have a limited effect on the water transport properties. They slightly reduced the capillary coefficient and drying rate of the stones, but enhanced the water content in the stone and increased water vapour sorption. They induced (near) hydrophobic conditions, but had no measurable effect on the gas permeability and water vapour diffusion. Moreover, swelling and shrinkage of the biofilms were observed, which could potentially induce physical weathering. It is expected that these changes could influence other forms of weathering, such as freeze–thaw weathering and salt weathering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodeterioration is an increasingly widespread process of degradation in the context of the conservation of cultural heritage, which involves a combination of physical and chemical damages together with an aesthetic alteration of materials. For biological damage on monuments caused by pathogens, macro- and microorganisms, chemical treatments are generally used, most of the time dangerous for the environment and for the operator. In this context, new eco-friendly products represent necessary tools for the treatment of biologically deteriorated stone surfaces and represent a new challenge in the field of restoration and conservation of materials of cultural interest. A relatively new class of unconventional green solvents are deep eutectic solvents (DESs), which have peculiar chemical-physical characteristics such as being non-toxic, ecological, biodegradable, non-flammable, and stable in the presence of water. Furthermore, many DESs known in the literature have also been shown to have a biocidal action. All these characteristics make DESs very advantageous and safe, and they could be used as biocidal agents for the treatment of biodegraded surfaces of cultural heritage, being non-toxic for the environment and for the operator. So far, they are used in various fields, but they still represent a novel frontier in the cultural heritage sector. The present research aims at testing five different DESs for the first time in cultural heritage. In particular, DESs are applied to a mosaic located in the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park (Rome), and their efficiency is compared with a biocide product currently used in the restoration field, namely, Preventol RI50, through luminescence, bio-luminometry, and spectrocolorimetry analysis. The preliminary results achieved show the different behaviors of each DESs, highlighting the possibility of employing them in the field of cultural heritage. Further studies have been planned, some of which are already underway, to investigate the properties of DESs and indicate any improvements to make them more effective, both as solvents and as biocides, and easy to apply to various types of materials. The results obtained from this first study are very promising for the use of DES as a new green strategy for cleaning and conservation treatments of materials in the field of cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research into the biodeteriorative potential of fungi can serve as an indicator of the condition of heritage items. Biodeterioration of canvas paintings as a result of fungal metabolic activity is understudied with respect to both the species diversity and mechanisms involved. This study brings new evidence for the physiology of fungi biodeteriorative capacity of canvas paintings. Twenty-one fungal isolates were recovered from four oil paintings (The Art Museum, Cluj-Napoca) and one gouache painting (private collection), dating from the 18th to 20th centuries. The species, identified based on the molecular markers Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS), beta-tubulin (tub2), or translation elongation factor 1 (TEF-1), are common colonisers of canvas paintings or indoor environments (e.g., Penicillium spp., Aspergillus spp., Alternaria spp.). Fungi enzymatic profiles were investigated by means of hydrolysable substrates, included in culture media or in test strips, containing components commonly used in canvas paintings. The pigment solubilisation capacity was assessed in culture media for the primary pigments and studied in relation to the organic acid secretion. Caseinases, amylases, gelatinases, acid phosphatase, N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase, naphthol-AS-BI-phosphohydrolase, and β-glucosidase were found to be the enzymes most likely involved in the processes of substrate colonisation and breakdown of its components. Aureobasidium genus was found to hold the strongest biodeteriorative potential, followed by Cladosporium, Penicillium, Trichoderma, and Aspergillus. Blue pigment solubilisation was detected, occurring as a result of organic acids secretion. Distinct clusters were delineated considering the metabolic activities detected, indicating that fungi specialise in utilisation of certain types of substrates. It was found that both aged and modern artworks are at risk of fungal biodeterioration, due to the enzymatic activities' diversity and intensity, pigment solubilisation capacity or pigment secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the microbial community (Bacteria, Archaea, and Fungi) of a historical manuscript was investigated by microscopic observation (field emission scanning electron microscopy), culture-dependent methods, and sequencing of amplicons on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Microbial isolates were also assayed for production of hydrolytic enzymes (cellulase, amylase, and protease). Observation of gold-coated paper samples in high-vacuum mode revealed bacterial cells, conidia, and fungal mycelium among the fibers. Eleven bacterial strains, including species of Bacillus, Streptomyces,Corynebacterium, and four fungal strains, including species of Aspergillus and Alternaria, were isolated by culture-dependent methods and identified by 16S rRNA and ITS sequencing, by comparison with the EzBioCloud and MycoBank databases, respectively. Illumina MiSeq sequencing revealed the presence of 20 bacterial genera, including Pseudomonas,Bacillus, Citrococcus, Promicromonospora, Carnobacterium, Arthrobacter, Salinibacterium, and Streptomyces. According to the number of reads, Pseudomonas (58%) was the most abundant genus and P. stutzeri (55.2%) was the most abundant bacterial species. Sequencing results of fungal amplicons indicated 62 genera, including Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Mucor, and Chaetomium. Penicillium (58.89%) and Aspergillus (33.02%) were the most abundant genera. P. polonicum (55.45%) and A. ruber (22.55%) were the most abundant species of the fungal community. The results of searching for archaea in the microbial community of the manuscript by culture-dependent and high-throughput amplicon sequencing were negative. The enzymatic activity of microbial isolates indicated a potential risk of biodeterioration. It seems that using a combination of culture-dependent and high-throughput sequencing methods has a significant advantage over using them individually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocides based on chemical synthetic compounds have been commonly used to counteract damages caused by microorganisms on stone cultural heritage. However, in the last few years, the use of commercial and traditional biocides has been banned and/or limited due to their dangerous profile for the environment, as well as human and animal health. Natural products could be used as suitable alternatives for cultural heritage purposes, as they have low toxicity and stability compared with synthetic pesticides. Even if most of the investigated solutions have already shown promising results, their efficiency, ecotoxicological, and chemical features are poorly investigated. In this manuscript, we aimed to evaluate the ecotoxicological profile of four fungal metabolites—namely, cavoxin, epi-epoformin, seiridin, and sphaeropsidone—with potential antimicrobial properties for monumental artworks. A battery of ecotoxicological tests using Aliivibrio fischeri (bacterium), Raphidocelis subcapitata (alga), Raphanus sativus L. (macrophyte), Daphnia magna (crustacean), and Caenorhabditis elegans (nematode) revealed a relative lower toxicity of these compounds, especially when compared with Preventol® and Rocima®, commercial biocides mainly used for the conservation of cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated how exposure to moisture influences the biodeterioration of facade finishes in the hot-humid tropics of Enugu metropolis, Southeast Nigeria. Physical observations and experimental research strategy were used to collect data from 383 buildings in the study area. The data were analysed using descriptive and logistic regression analyses. The results showed that 53.5% were residential buildings and 88.5% had cementitious façade finishes with 66.8% of them having their façade finishes exposed to moisture. Further, 64% of the facade finishes, mainly of cementitious materials and paints were colonized by microorganisms with the most common microbes being fungi. Façade finishes exposed to moisture we found to be four times more likely to experience biodeterioration. The study concludes that in order to curb microbial colonization of façade finishes and the attendant adverse effects, architects should engage in design strategies that can minimize the level of exposure of façade finishes to moisture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different types of biomineral layers have been identified and characterized on the monuments of rock art in Minusinsk Basin. On the surface of the sandstone (on which images were applied in ancient times), cyanobacterial biofilms and biofouling with the dominance of lichens, mosses, and primary soils have developed, and mineral crusts have formed that are to a greater or lesser extent inhabited by microorganisms. Monospecies cyanobacterial biofilms formed by Gloeocapsopsis magma are a dominant form of biofouling on open rock surfaces exposed to the intense insolation. The most noticeable development of microorganisms was noted on light-colored calcite-bearing crusts with a porous surface. On the contrary, gypsum crusts are poor in organic matter and are almost uninhabited by microorganisms. The formation of gypsum crusts leads to serious damage to the surface layer of the stone and can be one of the main processes leading to the loss of the rock art. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Identification of microorganisms is necessary for cultural heritage prevention. • Microorganisms can colonise and deteriorate any cultural heritage object. • A wide range of microbial identification studies have emerged since first NGS. • Culture-dependant techniques still dominate in the field of cultural heritage. Cultural heritage includes everything that mankind has created in the past and has impacted the development of culture. These objects can be subject to biodeterioration, including the activity of microorganisms, which can lead to the incalculable loss of records of our history. Therefore, it is essential to identify the microorganisms present on the surface of historical objects, monitor their metabolic activity, and based on this knowledge, find a possible way to protect the cultural heritage. This paper focuses on the most endangered cultural heritage objects (wooden objects, written documents, audio-visual materials, textiles, stone objects, paintings, and stained-glass windows), describes the materials that these objects are made of and the reasons for their biodeterioration. Furthermore, we provide an overview of all microbial identification methods used in the field of cultural heritage since 2005, when the first next-generation sequencing technique originated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial communities colonising outdoor sculptures form intricate and dynamic ecosystems, which can accelerate the deterioration processes of the artworks and pose challenges to their conservation. In this study, the bacterial and fungal communities colonising the surfaces of five contemporary outdoor sculptures were characterised by high-throughput sequencing. The sculptures, made of marble, granite, Ançã limestone and mortar, are in urban parks and squares in the district of Porto, Portugal. The analysis of the microbial populations revealed great taxonomic diversity and species richness, including in well-preserved sculptures showing few visible traces of contamination. Proteobacteria, namely the genera Pseudomonas and Sphingomonas, were the core taxa common to all the sculptures, while Massilia and Aureobasidium were dominant only in granite. An abundance of pigment-producing microorganisms, such as Deinococcus, Methylobacterium, Rhodotorula and Sporobolomyces, was also found in granite. These are relevant taxonomic groups that can negatively impact stone and mortar artworks. The study was complemented with colourimetric analyses and bioluminescence assays to measure the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content of samples collected from specific contaminated areas of the sculptures. The characterisation of the microbiomes of sculptures can provide further knowledge on the deterioration risks of this type of artwork in the region and help outline future targeted conservation strategies. Key points: • Rich and abundant microbiomes expose sculptures' vulnerability to deterioration. • Well-preserved sculptures are at risk of deterioration by pigment-producing taxa. • ATP and colourimetry quickly identified the most relevant contaminated areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nativa is the property of Revista Nativa and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract The Leizhou Peninsula in China is very famous for its unique folk art creation, especially for the stonework, like the basalt sculptures of the Leizhou Stone Dogs, which have a history of more than two thousand years. Since these sculptures are usually exposed outdoors, many of them are suffering from severe damage by lichen and fungi. To protect them from microbial attack, we determined fungal communities in the biofilms colonizing the stone dogs and explored an effective conservation measure. Specifically, the micromorphology analysis of the biofilms on the stone dogs was performed through both on-site and laboratory-based microscopies in order to provide an overview of the fungal community structure. High-throughput sequencing analysis revealed that the predominant fungi in the biofilms belong to the following genera Caloplaca, Chaetomium, Clitopilus, Acanthostigma, Tolypocladium, Aspergillus, and Toxicocladosporium. The energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS) showed that the basalt is mainly composed of silica (53% by weight), followed by Al2O3 (14.4%), Fe2O3 (10.1%), CaO (8.4%), and MgO (7.4%) that are oxides susceptible to corrosion of biogenic acids. The EDS analysis of the hyphae provided the direct evidence on the leaching of the minerals of the sculptures. To control microbial attack, three kinds of antimicrobial agents were tested for 2 years. As a result, the mixture of biocide and water repellent showed the best effectiveness. Our findings provide an overview of fungi diversity in the biofilms on the stone dogs and help the investigation of fungi-induced biodeterioration and the exploration of specific conservation measure.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the biodeterioration of the archaeological collections of the Tumbas Reales de Si-pán museum warehouses in Lambayeque. The surface of 24 textiles and 30 bones with physical alterations in four warehou-ses was sown and planted on agar, at 30° C in aerobiosis for up to 10 days. 100 % of textiles presented alterations in texture, coloration, and integrity and 45.8 % at the edges. Bacteria were quantified with an average of 4.9 x 104 CFUm-2 in textiles and 1.4x105 CFUm-2 in bones. Fungi were quantified with an average of 7.1x103 CFUm-2 in textiles and 5.2x103 CFUm-2 in bones. The genera Bacillus, Micrococcus, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and Streptomyces were identified in textiles and bones. In textiles, the genera Aspergillus, Alternaria, Cladosporium, Chrysosporium, Geotrichum, Gliocladium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, and Scopulariopsis were identified. In skeletons Aspergillus, Alternaria, Curvularia, Cercospora, Cladosporium, among others.