This work proposes a methodology for the design, development, optimisation, and evaluation of amorphous rosuvastatin calcium tablets (BCS class II drug). The main goal was to ensure rapid disintegration and high dissolution rate of the active ingredient, thus enhancing its bioavailability. The design started from a careful selection of excipients, which due to their characteristics and proportions within the formulation allowed the use of their properties such as fluidity or granulometric distribution. The formulation was characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) methods. The galenic SeDeM methodology was used to establish the profile of the active ingredient-excipient mixture and guarantee its suitability for producing tablets by the direct compression method. The results demonstrate that the amorphous rosuvastatin calcium tablets formulation developed made it possible to obtain cost-effective tablets by direct compression with optimal pharmacotechnical characteristics that showed a remarkable disintegration and dissolution rate. The manufactured tablets complied with the pharmacopoeia guidelines regarding uniformity of weight, tablet hardness, thickness, friability, in vitro disintegration time and dissolution profile.

Detailed information about graft material characteristic is crucial to evaluate their clinical outcomes. The present study evaluates the physicochemical characteristics of two xenografts manufactured on an industrial scale deproteinized at different temperatures (non-sintered and sintered) in accordance with a protocol previously used in sinus lift procedures. It compares how the physico-chemical properties influence the material performance in vivo with a histomorphometric study in retrieved bone biopsies following maxillary sinus augmentation, in 10 clinical cases. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed typical structure of hydroxyapatite for both materials. Both xenografts are porous and exhibit intraparticle pores. Strong differences were observed in terms of porosity, cristallinity, and calcium/phosphate. Histomorphometric measurements on the bone biopsies showed statistically significant differences. The physicochemical assessment of both xenografts in accordance with the protocol developed at industrial scale confirmed that these products present excelent biocompatibilitity, with characteristics similar to natural bone. The sintered HAs xenograft exhibit higher osteoconductivity although were not complete resorbable (30.80±0.88% residual material). On the other hand, the non-sintered HAs xerograft induced about 25.92±1.61% of new bone and almost complete degradation after 6 months implantation. Differences in physico-chemical characteristics found between the two HAs xenograft determine different behavior of this material.

The active form of fingolimod (FTY720; FT) is a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor agonist with potential ocular applications. The goal of the present study was to develop an FT-loaded nanoemulsion (NE; FT-NE) formulation for the efficient and prolonged delivery of FT to the posterior segment of the eye through the topical route. FT-NE formulations were prepared with homogenization followed by probe sonication method. The lead FT-NE formulation (0.15% and 0.3% w/v loading), comprising soybean oil as lipid and Tween® 80 and Poloxamer 188 as surfactants, was further evaluated for in vitro release, surface morphology, filtration sterilization, and stability at refrigerated temperature. The formulation, at both dose levels, showed desirable physicochemical characteristics, a nearly spherical shape with homogenous nanometric size distribution, and was stable for 180 days (last time point checked) at refrigerated temperature post-filtration through polyethersulfone (0.22 µm) membrane. In vitro release studies showed prolonged release, compared with the control FT solution (FT-S), over 24 h. The results from these studies demonstrate that the FT-NE formulation can serve as a viable platform for the ocular delivery of FT through the topical route.

Cultivated adlay or Job’s tear (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) is an important food crop having numerous therapeutic and nutraceutical health benefits. Our study aimed to determine nutrients, minerals, fatty acid composition, and functional groups of seven wild Adlay accessions (brown, black, yellow, grey, green, off-white, and purple) to find out their scope as cereal crops using simple, rapid, and modern analytical techniques. Results revealed variations among bulk densities, specific densities, percent empty spaces, and corresponding grain counts per 10g of sample are valuable characteristics in distinguishing the accessions. Contents of fat, protein, ash, and fibre were found to be comparable to cultivated Adlay. Brown adlay was measured with the highest protein, fat, and fibre contents, 15.82%, 4.76% and 2.37%, respectively. Phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and sodium ranged 0.3% - 2.2%, whereas boron, iron, copper, zinc, and manganese were in the range 1.6mg/kg - 20.8mg/kg. Wild adlay triglyceride composition constituted of polyunsaturated fatty acids as primary fraction followed by olein and palmitic acid as prominent fatty acids. Distinguishing functional groups expressed infra-red frequencies in narrow bands and fingerprint region of proteins associated with out-of-plane region evident structural differences among adlay accessions. Frequency of functional groups in seven accessions indicated black genotype promising for varietal development.

Several chronic diseases derive from metabolic, genetic, or inflammatory causes and often these causes are interconnected. Pharmacological treatments, although effective, often lead to unpleasant side effects. In this context, preventive approaches are of growing interest. The literature data of recent years support that the dietary intake of bioactive compounds can positively influence the biological functions of an organism. Among the bioactive compounds in the diet, polyphenols are widely recognized for their beneficial effects on health, as useful compounds for preventing/combating a series of pathologies related to lifestyle, metabolism, and aging. The artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.), a member of the Asteraceae family, is widely used in the food and herbal medicine fields for its beneficial properties. Artichokes are rich in polyphenols (including cynarin), flavonoids and their derivatives, and, for this reason, they have aroused interest in their pharmacological properties. The best-known activity of polyphenols is antioxidant activity. Through it, they help to neutralize free radicals, preventing cellular damage and the subsequent risk of conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Related to the antioxidant action we find the anti-inflammatory activity. This is an important benefit since chronic inflammation is a cause or contributory cause of many chronic diseases. Although many scientific results are of great interest and potential, there are still gaps to be filled. In this review, we report and discuss new insights providing documented evidence regarding the benefits of the artichoke compounds and their possible use to support the pharmacological treatment of pathologies associated with inflammation.

The hard-shelled seed industry plays an important role in the global agricultural economy. As a result of nut industrialization, considerable amounts of by-products and residues are produced year by year, burnt as fuel or discarded as non-valued waste, by-passing a potential source of valuable compounds or features. Over the last decade nutshells have received great interest due to their lignin concentration and their antioxidant, physical and mechanical features. It was found that these properties vary among cultivars, latitude and localities of plantation. On the other hand, there is inconsistences regarding to mechanical and some biochemical properties of both nutshells, which aimed to explore the status of potential hazelnut and walnut shells appli-cations into sustainable circular bio-economy chains. Hence, this review deals with the recent scientific literature on their chemical composition as well as their functional applications as an approach to sustain the utilization of the main by-product derived from the nut-industry.

In this paper, the main physicochemical characteristics and evolutionary laws of microbial community structure during the fermentation of aged vinegar were discussed, and the correlation between Cuqu and microorganisms and physicochemical characteristics during fermentation was explored. The results showed that there are significant differences in genera at different stages of fermentation, the main dominant bacteria in R1 are Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Aspergillus and Issatchenkia. At R2 fermentation stage, Lactobacillus, Acetobacter and Saccharomyces showed an upward trend and finally became absolute advantage bacteria. The main genus of bacteria at the end of overall fermentation is Aspergillus. Correlation analysis shows that in Cuqu, the bacterial genera that are significantly positively and negatively correlated with reducing sugars and amino acid nitrogen are the same, while the bacterial genera that are significantly positively and negatively correlated with pH and saccharification power are the same. During the fermentation process, pH, reducing sugar and saccharification ability are mainly positively correlated with bacterial genera. And research has found that during the fermentation process, the overall correlation between fungal communities and physicochemical characteristics is weaker compared to bacteria.

Alum sludge, an inevitable by-product from the water purification process, which had been applied as substrates in some constructed wetlands with good performance, especially for phosphorus (P) adsorption. The raw alum sludge is like clay lump with irregular shape and has a leaching concern used in the water. For a better reuse, herein, sludge was fired to produce alum sludge ceramsite (ASC) with a uniform spherical shape via four-step process of kneading sludge ball, air drying, preheating at 400°C for 10 min and firing at 600℃ for 5 min. Thereafter the physicochemical properties and P adsorption ability of ceramsite were investigated. Through XRD and FT-IR tests, there was no obvious difference between ASC and air-dried alum sludge ball (adASB) on the phase structure, but a certain amount of Al-OH group loss on the surface of ASC. The structure of ASC was still amorphous as same as adASB, while ASC possessed more micropore structure and bigger specific surface area than those of adASB. Adsorption experiments showed the P adsorption behaviors of ASC and adASB were much similar, and their adsorption kinetics all accorded with the two-step adsorption kinetics rate equation and pseudo-second-order kinetics equation. The maximum adsorption capacities of ASC and adASB fitted by Langmuir model were 1.66 mg/g and 1.89 mg/g respectively. It should be pointed that, compared with other adsorbents, ASC produced in this study still had a higher ability to adsorb P. Therefore, ASC should have a great application potential for P removal in the wastewater treatment in China.

Abstract. Indonesia has developed several superior soybean varieties. Each soybean variety has different physical and chemical properties that can affect processed products and soybean quality. The purpose of this study was to determine the physical, chemical, and functional properties of three superior early-maturing soybean varieties. The research was conducted in Maros, Indonesia in 2022 by planting the Dega-1, Grobogan, and Gepak Kuning varieties and repeated them 6 times. The yields of the three soybean varieties Dega-1, Grobogan, and Gepak Kuning were taken at 1 kg each and 3 repeated, then further analysis of chemical compounds is carried out in the laboratory. The results showed that for physical characteristics, the largest seed size was in Dega-1 (18.57 g per 100 seeds) and the smallest in Gepak Kuning (8.29 g). The highest bulk density of soybean seeds was in the Grobogan and Dega-1 varieties (0.79 kg per m3) and the lowest was in Gepak Kuning (0.77 kg per m3 ), and the lowest number of damaged seeds was in Dega-1 (6.67%) and the highest in Grobogan (11.33). %). Chemical characteristics, highest protein content in Gepak Kuning (39.72%) and lowest in Dega-1 (36.62%), lowest fat content in Dega-1 (12.63%) and highest in Gepak Kuning (14.49%), highest phosphorus content in Gepak Kuning (0.59%) and the lowest was in Grobogan (0.53%), the highest calcium content was in Gepak Kuning (0.40%), and the highest FFA value was in Dega-1 (0.93) and the lowest in Gepak Kuning (0.81). Based on physical properties, Dega-1 is the best compared to the other two soybeans. Meanwhile, based on the size of starch granules, Gepak Kuning gave the best results. For chemical characteristics, in general, GepakKuning has the best quality compared to Grobogan and Dega-1. It can be concluded that Gepak Kuning has the most potential to be developed in supporting food and non-food products, especially in Indonesia.

A growing body of research aims at solving what is often referred to as the stimulus-percept problem in olfactory perception. Although computational efforts have made it possible to predict perceptual impressions from the physicochemical space of odors, studies with large psychophysical data sets from non-experts remain scarce. Following previous approaches, we developed a physicochemical odor space using 4,094 molecular descriptors of 1,389 odor molecules. For 20 of these odors, we examined associations with perceived pleasantness, intensity, odor quality and detection threshold, obtained from a dataset of 2,000 naïve participants. Our results show significant differences in perceptual ratings, and we were able to replicate previous findings on the association between perceptual ratings and the first dimensions of the physicochemical odor space. However, the present analyses also revealed striking interindividual variations in perceived pleasantness and intensity. Additionally, interactions between pleasantness, intensity, and olfactory and trigeminal qualitative dimensions were found. Our results support previous findings on the relation between structure and perception on the group level in our sample of non-expert raters. Nevertheless, human olfactory perception is no analytic process of molecule detection alone. Therefore, to gain an understanding of stimulus-percept relationship in the individual, future studies should shift towards a more holistic view that takes into account the influences of context, experience and other interpersonal characteristics.

The study sought to determine solar irradiation in Homa Bay County which can be tapped and utilized in improving lives of residents of the region by converting the solar thermal energy in Home Bay to other forms of energy such as electric form, mechanical form and light. The study was done by assessing the local atmospheric conditions which included sunshine duration data and air temperature records for the period of two years and the data obtained subjected to statistical analysis to determine the localized characteristics of the resource. The characteristics that were examined include; seasonal and annual power expectations as well as resource reliability. The solar irradiance of Home County was found to be 768.0 W/m².

3D printing is commonly used to create complex objects at a low cost. It has also been applied in the fabrication of metamaterials and metasurfaces, which alter the propagation path of electromagnetic waves. These structures have diverse applications, including enhancing beam direction, improving antenna gain and signal-to-noise ratio, and creating filters and reflectors. Metasurfaces are cheap to fabricate and their use is expected to boost antenna efficiency in 5G telecommunications and beyond. However, accurately characterizing their profile remains a significant challenge. This paper presents a low-cost fully automated 4-axis instrument for microwave metasurface charac-terization, overcoming limitations of manual methods and offering an efficient and accurate approach. This research represents a significant advancement in microwave metasurface characterization, enabling sophisticated techniques to advance wireless communication technolo-gies, as it is the case of the future 5G and millimeter-wave communication systems. The equipment has an approximate cost of $1550 USD and was able to characterize a metalens with a focal distance of 20 cm designed for signals at 30 GHz. It was possible to create 2D and 3D profiles of the intensity distribution focused by the metalens and extract parameters such as the gain (8.05 dB), 3dB depth of focus (11 cm) and full width at half maximum (2.17 cm). The comparison of the measurements with the diffraction calculations of the metalens showed a very good agreement between the in-tensity distributions and the parameters of the metalens.

Soil erosion is now almost universally recognized as a serious threat to man's well-being, if not his very existence. As a result, we assessed the soil physicochemical properties of two possible levels of soil bund and fanya juu. RCBD with three replications was used to collect soil samples from each soil conservation structure. Five composite soil samples were collected from each soil structure based on slop (0-30cm). Soil physicochemical properties such as erosion index, dispersion ratio, and erodibility proportionality ratio were investigated. The effect of different soil structure levels revealed that soil properties differed significantly (P≤0.05) for all parameters studied. The control plots had significantly higher (P≤0.05) dispersion ratio, erosion indexes, and erodibility proportionality than the soils treated by the level bund and level Fanya juu structures. On the control plot, this result showed lower clay content and higher sand content. The level of soil bund and fanya juu had a significant (P≤0.05) effect on soil OC, CEC, OM, and TN, as well as available phosphorous and potassium. As a result, all related soil properties show a positive relative change when the level of soil bund and fanya juu is compared to the control plot. Aside from this result, the dynamic natures of the sciences compel us to conduct additional research based on the agro-ecological zones of the study area.

The physicochemical parameters, mineral composition, and nutraceutical properties of commercial “mekmeko” teas powder were analyzed in the present study. The pH of samples was slightly acidic (3.74 to 4.15), titratable acidity was low (0.094 to 0.155%) and sensory attributes (over all acceptability) were wide variable (5.9 - 6.69). The optimized selected commercial “mekmeko” tea obtained pH(4.05), titrable acidity(0.069%) ,acceptable sensory results (6.69), acceptable highest content of zinc (0.069 mg•L−1), magnesium (2.12 mg•L−1), potassium (62.34 mg•L−1),iron (0.28 mg•L−1) and calcium (17.19 mg•L−1). The nutrceticual property of optimized commercial “mekmeko” tea obtained acceptable highest content in total phenols (211.38 mg•L−1), total flavonoids (62.98 mg•L−1), total catechins (409.67 mg•L−1), and total anthocyanins (581.97 mg•L−1). Optimized “Mekmeko” teas showed the highest antioxidant capacity levels in DPPH (718.41 μmolTE•L−1), ABTS (607.62μmolTE•L−1), and FRAP (953.81μmolTE•L−1) assays. The results obtained in the present work give information to consumers for choosing flavored-colored ready-to-drink “mekmeko” tea based on the physicochemical, nutritional and nutraceutical properties.

In order to study the hydrothermal behavior of cotton fiber, the carbonization process and structural evolution of discarded cotton fiber (WCF) under hydrothermal conditions were discussed use microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and glucose as model compounds. The results showed that high temperature was beneficial to the hydrolysis of discarded cotton fiber, and the yield of the sugar was 4.5% which was lower than that of MCC 6.51%. WFC and MCC are carbonized in 240~260 ℃ and 220~240 ℃ respectively, while the carbonation temperature of glucose is lower than 220 ℃. The quality ratio of C/O in WCF and glucose hydrothermal products is 5.79 and 5.85 respectively; three kinds of hydrothermal carbonization products have similar crystal structure and oxygen-containing functional groups, and the WCF carbonization products contain a lot of irregular particles while the main products of glucose carbonization are 0.5 μm carbon microspheres (CMCC). The results show that glucose is an important intermediate product of WCF hydrolysis carbonation, and there are two main paths of cotton fiber hydrothermal carbonization: some cotton fibers are completely hydrolyzed into glucose and the nucleation is formed, and then the carbon microspheres are grown; for the other part, the glucose ring of the polysaccharide oligosaccharide formed by the incomplete hydrolysis of cotton fiber in the hydrothermal environment of high temperature and pressure breaks, then forms the particulate matters.

Mixtures of methacrylic polymers are the most common materials for making composites to be used as resins for dental and cosmetic applications. Some of these mixtures are composed by poly (ethyl methacrylate) (PEMA) and poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), which constitute a solid component to be mixed with a liquid component made out of methacrylate monomers. The reaction between the thermal initiator benzoyl peroxyde (BPO) present in the solid component and the activator of the polymerization process, N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine (DMT) present in the liquid component, gives rise to thermoset materials. In the present study, different liquid formulations composed by a mixture of two methacrylic monomers, ethyl methacrylate (EMA) and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) for cosmetic applications, were prepared and characterized, using a commercial powder (POW) composed by PEMA and PMMA. With the aim of improving workability during final application of the material, it was necessary to slow down the polymerization rate of liquid formulations. Their thermal behaviour was investigated by DSC in order to check the polymerization rate. Thermal stability of final materials was determined by TGA. DMTA, microindentation hardness and impact tests were performed on final materials, to assess their performance with respect to standard formulation. The combination of thermal and mechanical properties allows choosing which formulations could be suitable for use in cosmetics.

Plums are widely distributed in Türkiye and around the world. Different wild grown plum spe-cies such as Prunus spinosa, Prunus cerasifera and Prunus domestica shows abundance of different climatic zones in Türkiye. Seed propagated diverse plum trees has been growing Anatolia for centuries and fruits of wild plants has economic value. In this study a total of 8 wild grown blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) sampled from Ispir district of Erzurum province and subjected to morphological, biochemical and antioxidant characterization. Taste, aroma, and juiciness were used as the criteria for sensory analysis, and a trained panel of five experts established and evaluated the sensory characteristics of the fruits of the blackthorn. Fruit weight, fruit skin and flesh color as L*, a* and b* values were the main morphological parameters. For biochemical analysis, organic acids, SSC (Soluble Solid Content), vitamin C, total anthocyanins, total phenol-ic content and total antioxidant capacity were determined. Antioxidant capacity was determined by FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assay. Results indicated significant differences among genotypes. Fruit weight were found between 2.78-3.67 g. Skin L∗, a∗ and b∗ values were 13.11-16.12, 2.56-3.85 and 2.01-3.44, respectively. Flesh L∗, a∗ and b∗ values were in range of 17.45-20.37, 4.88-6.73 and 4.12-5.66, respectively. SSC content was ranged from 18.66% to 21.07%. The total phenolic content (TPC), total anthocyanin content (TAC) and ferric reducing antioxi-dant power (FRAP) were between 372-504 mg GAE/100 g; 53-72 mg cy-3-g eq./100 g and 107-134 mmol Fe (II) eq./g, respectively. The dominant organic acid was malic acid for all genotypes and varied from 1.04 g/100 g to 1.52 g/100 g fresh weight base. Results indicated the importance wild blackthorn fruits for human health.

The gel prepared by Nemipterus virgatus (N. virgatus) surimi alone still has some defects in texture and taste. Complexing with polysaccharides is an efficient strategy to enhance the gel properties. The main objective of the study was to analyze the relationship between the gel quality and molecular interaction of N. virgatus surimi gel after complexing with tapioca starch. The results make clear that the gel strength, hardness, and chewiness of surimi gel were increased by molecular interaction with tapioca starch. At the appropriate addition amount (12%, w/w), the surimi gel had excellent gel strength (17.48 N), water holding capacity (WHC) (89.01%), lower cooking loss rate (CLR) (0.95%), and shorted T2 relaxation time. Microstructure analysis indicated that the addition of tapioca starch made the surimi gel evenly distributed in the gel network structure, resulting in a significant reduction in cavities diameter, and the minimum diameter could be reduced to 20.33 μm. In addition, tapioca starch enhanced the hydrogen bond and hydrophobic interaction in the gel system and promoted the transformation of α-helix to β-sheet (P<0.05). Correlation analysis showed that the increased physicochemical properties of surimi gel was closely related to the enhanced non-covalent interactions. In conclusion, the non-covalent complexation with tapioca starch is an efficient strategy to enhance the gel quality of surimi gel.

This paper focuses on the effect of malondialdehyde-induced oxidative modification (MiOM) on the gel properties of duck myofibrillar proteins (DMPs). DMPs were first prepared and treated with oxidative modification at different concentrations of malondialdehyde (0, 0.5, 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mmol/L). The physicochemical changes (carbonyl and free thiol group content) and gel properties (gel whiteness, gel strength, water holding capacity, rheological properties and mi-cro-structural properties) were then investigated. The results showed that the content of protein carbonyl groups increased with increasing MDA oxidation (P<0.05), while the content of free thiol groups decreased significantly (P<0.05). Meanwhile, there was a significant trend of decrease in gel whiteness; the hardness and water-holding capacity of protein gels increased significantly under the oxidation of low concentration of MDA (0-5 mmol/L), while the hardness of gels decreased under the oxidation of high concentration (10 mM). The storage modulus and loss modulus of oxidized DMPs also increased with increasing concentration; moreover, microstructural analysis confirmed that the gels oxidized at low concentrations were more compact and homogeneous in terms of pore size compared to the high concentration or blank group. In conclusion, moderate oxidation of malondialdehyde was beneficial to improve the gel properties of duck; however, excessive oxidation was detrimental to the formation of dense structured gels.

Human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) potassium channel is well-known contributor to drug-induced cardiotoxicity and therefore an extremely important target when performing safety assessments of drug candidates. Ligand-based approaches in connection with quantitative structure active relationships (QSAR) analyses have been developed to predict hERG toxicity. Availability of the recent published cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure for the hERG channel opened the prospect for using structure-based simulation and docking approaches for hERG drug liability predictions. In recent time, the idea of combining structure- and ligand-based approaches for modeling hERG drug liability has gained momentum offering improvements in predictability when compared to ligand-based QSAR practices alone. The present article demonstrates uniting the structure-based SILCS (site-identification by ligand competitive saturation) approach in conjunction with physicochemical properties to develop predictive models for hERG blockade. This combination leads to improved model predictability based on Pearson’s R and percent correct (represents rank-ordering of ligands) metric for different validation sets of hERG blockers involving diverse chemical scaffold and wide range of pIC50 values. The inclusion of the SILCS structure-based approach allows determination of the hERG region to which compounds bind and the contribution of different chemical moieties in the compounds to blockade, thereby facilitating the rational ligand design to minimize hERG liability.

Water resources are threatened nowadays by pollution that comes from domestic, industrial and agricultural discharges without prior treatment. This pollution causes the degradation of water quality. Surface pollutants can seep through the soil into water tables. The objective of our work is to assess and control the physicochemical quality of the Chari Baguirmi groundwater, to protect human health. The quality of 83 boreholes was assessed, while performing analysis for 12 physicochemical parameters at the National Water Laboratory and at the Center for Quality Control of Foodstuffs in Chad. These parameters are: pH, EC, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Cl-, SO42-, NH4+ and NO3- , Fe2+ and HCO3-. Also, the results obtained were compared with WHO standards. The geochemical statistical approach has made it possible to characterize the hydro geochemical properties and to understand the major processes of the mineralization of groundwater resources in Chari Baguirmi region in Chad. Some of its waters are acidic and weakly mineralized, rich in Fe2+ and NH4+. The origin of the mineralization is due to the alteration of the host rocks and to the hydrolysis of silicate and ferromagnesian minerals as well as anthropogenic pollution. The ammonium concentrations in N’Djamena boreholes are higher than WHO standards, indicating the presence of pollution which may come from organic waste. These results constitute a preliminary step in understanding hydro geochemical functioning and a basis for monitoring the physicochemical quality of the water in the study area.

Diseases caused by contaminated water consumption and poor hygiene are among the leading cause of death in children, the elderly and people with compromised immune system. The present study aims to assess the drinking water quality of some selected drinking water sources in the chosen study area using water quality index (WQI). Samples of drinking waters were collected from four different sources—river, sachet (packaged), borehole and well in Jabi, Abuja, Nigeria for physicochemical and bacteriological analyses using standard methods. With the exception of pH, river water had the highest content of all the physicochemical parameters examined. Some of the physicochemical parameters such as temperature and pH determined in this study were mostly within the World Health Organization (WHO) standard. The bacteriological analyses revealed that the highest total viable counts of 1.54 (0.12) × 10² (cfu/mL) were obtained in the river sample while the least values of 0.03 (0.00) × 10² (cfu/mL) were obtained in the sachet water. Three bacterial isolates of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas spp and Aeromonas spp were isolated from well water while Pseudomonas spp and Proteus spp were isolated from borehole water. All other bacteria were isolated from the river. The study demonstrates that the safest drinking water source in Idu district, Jabi, Abuja is the sachet/packaged water while the least safe is the river water due to the presence of significant opportunistic pathogens. The results of this study are beneficial for water quality management and could be used for low-cost effective water quality assessment in Jabi.

Ralstonia solanacearum is the causative agent of bacterial wilt, one of the most destructive plant diseases. While chemical control has an environmental impact, biological control strategies can allow sustainable agrosystems. Three lytic bacteriophages (phages) of R. solanacearum with biocontrol capacity in environmental water and plant were isolated from river water in Europe but not fully characterized, their genomic characterization being fundamental to understand their biology. In this work, the phage genomes were sequenced and subjected to bioinformatic analysis. The morphology was also observed by electron microscopy. Phylogenetic analyses were performed with a selection of phages able to infect R. solanacearum and the closely related phytopathogenic species R. pseudosolanacearum. The results indicated that the genomes of vRsoP-WF2, vRsoP-WM2 and vRsoP-WR2 range from 40,688 to 41,158 bp with almost 59% GC-contents, 52 ORFs in vRsoP-WF2 and vRsoP-WM2, and 53 in vRsoP-WR2 but, with only 22 or 23 predicted proteins with functional homologs in databases. Among them, two lysins and one exopolysaccharide (EPS) depolymerase, this type of depolymerase being identified in R. solanacearum phages for the first time. These three European phages belong to the same novel species within the Gyeongsanvirus, Autographiviridae family (formerly Podoviridae). These genomic data will contribute to a better understanding of the abilities of these phages to damage host cells and, consequently, to an improvement in the biological control of R. solanacearum.

Phosphorus (P) is a vital macronutrient crucial for crop productivity. Plants absorb P salts, mainly orthophosphate, from soil, yet the primary P source resides in organic materials. Soil phosphomonoesterases (APases) play a vital role in releasing P from organics via hydrolysis. Acid and alkaline phosphatases are crucial for alleviating P deficiency in plants. In this review focused on agricultural soils, we studied the relationship of biophysicochemical, agricultural management, and climate factors on APases also its connection with crop growth and yields. Our findings indicate a strong linkage between both APases and soil pH, positively influenced by clay content, organic matter, microbial biomass carbon, and nitrogen. Adopting healthy soil practices like balanced organic fertilizer usage, optimal soil water levels, reduced tillage, crop rotation, and using beneficial plant microbes help boost APase activity. However, the connection between APases and crop productivity remains uncertain due to insufficient research in this area. Our review emphasizes the vital need to evaluate the relationship between APases and meso-macrofauna, alongside essential plant nutrients such as potassium, nutrient ratios, and the synergistic effects of various factors. Understanding the rapid, efficient assimilation of P through APases in the plant-soil and/or plant-microbiota ecosystem it can be crucial for crop productivity and yields.

Groundwater use for domestic and agricultural purposes is every day in rural communities. However, groundwater quality in those communities is still being determined due to the lack of water quality monitoring programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate groundwater quality in rural communities using physiochemical parameters. Eight communities using communal boreholes were selected. Water samples were analysed for temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite as Nitrogen. The pH means ranged from 6.6 to 8.1, whereas high TDS levels of 1390 mg/L and 1470 mg/L were observed in two boreholes. Three boreholes had higher electrical conductivity. Two boreholes had elevated nitrate levels of 15 and 21.5 mg/L. The high nitrate level correlates with the pH, EC, and TDS values. Our results suggest that high nitrate levels measured in communities’ boreholes pose ill health to the community, especially children, infants, and elders. Prenatal exposure to high nitrate has been found to have acute health effects in infants. Therefore, there is a need for further longitudinal studies on health risks among vulnerable groups in these communities.

The multidrug-resistant fungal pathogens belonging to the Candida haemulonii complex and the phylogenetically related species Candida auris are well-known for causing infections that are difficult to treat due to their multidrug-resistance profile. C. auris is even more worrisome due to its ability to cause outbreaks in healthcare settings. These emerging yeasts produce a wide range of virulence factors that facilitate the development of the infectious process. In recent years, the aggregative phenotype has been receiving attention, as it is mainly associated with defects in cellular division and its possible involvement in helping the fungus to escape from host immune responses. In this study, we initially investigated the aggregation ability of 18 clinical isolates belonging to the C. haemulonii species complex and C. auris. Subsequently, we evaluated the effects of physicochemical factors on the fungal aggregation competence. The results demonstrated that cell aggregation was a typically time-dependent event, in which almost all studied fungal isolates exhibited high aggregation after 2 h of incubation at 37°C. The aggregation was not impacted by pH, temperature, -mercaptoethanol (a protein-denaturing agent) and EDTA (a chelator agent). Conversely, proteinase K, trypsin and sodium dodecyl sulfate significantly diminished the aggregation. Collectively, our results demonstrated that the aggregation ability in these opportunistic yeast pathogens is time-dependent, and surface proteins and hydrophobic interactions seem to mediate cell aggregation, since the presence of proteases and anionic detergent affected the aggregation ability. However, further studies are necessary to better elucidate this phenomenon.

Suitable soil structure and nutrient security are important for plant growth and development, characteristics of soil fractal dimension and distribution of physical and chemical properties and their interactions play an important role in studying the stability of soil structure and water and fertilizer cycles. As a sustainable management model, intercropping has positive benefits for erosion control, spatial optimization of resources, as well as improving system productivity. The effects of four intercropping methods on soil fractal dimension and physicochemical properties were investigated by intercropping Salvia miltiorrhiza with forage and S. miltiorrhiza with forest under typical karst rock desertification habitats in Guizhou. The results showed that soil nutrient content of intercropping was significantly higher than that of monoculture, the organic carbon content of soil grown under forest is higher than other treatments, and there was a non-significant change in soil water content of intercropping compared with monoculture. The soil fine-grained matter of intercropping was significantly higher than that of monoculture, while the soil fractal dimension showed a tendency to become larger with the increase of fine-grained matter. The intercropping planting, due to its component types and spatial and temporal configurations, leads to differences in soil water and fertilizer interactions, which can be combined with other ecological restoration measures to optimize the composite model and jointly promote the restoration and development of ecologically fragile areas.

Choice of the salts of therapeutic agents or active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) is based on the physicochemical properties of API and the dosage form considerations. The appropriate salt can have positive effect on overall therapeutic and pharmaceutical effects of API. However, the incorrect salt form can negatively affect the overall pharmaceutical outcomes of the API. This review addresses various criteria for choosing appropriate salt form along with the effect of salt forms on API’s pharmaceutical properties. In addition to comprehensive review of the criteria, this review also gives a brief historic perspective of the salt selection process.

Located between Asia and Europe, Türkiye is very rich in terms of wild edible fruit diversity. One of the most important wild edible fruits in Türkiye is red raspberries and they widely found in cold to warm temperate regions in the country. The wild raspberries in general have red fruit color but yellow fruited genotypes are evident. A total of 11 wild grown red raspberry genotypes sampled in Northern Anatolia region was used in this study and their sensory, biochemical and antioxidant characteristics were determined. For sensory analysis aroma, taste and juiciness were used as the main criteria to compare ecotypes each other. Biochemical and antioxidant characteristics of ecotypes included SSC (Soluble Solid Content), vitamin C, organic acids, total anthocyanins (TA), total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and total antioxidant capacity. FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assay was used to determine antioxidant capacity. There were significant differences among ecotypes for most of the searched parameters even they found similar growing condition. The ecotypes had fruit weight between 1.04 g and 1.33 g, and fruit Chroma value between 26.11 and 33.70. Vitamin C content of ecotypes were quite variable and ranged from 29.3 mg/100 g to 41.4 mg/100 g. The total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, total flavonoid content was between 164-362 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g; 17.3-33.3 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalent/100 g and 10.3-17.2 mg quercetin equivalent/100 g, respectively. Citric acid was the dominant organic acid for all genotypes and ranged from 10.3-14.6 g/100 g fresh weight base. According to the results V-4, V-8, V-3 and V-10 had attractive bigger fruits indicate their suitability for fresh consumption. V-3 and V-5 had sweeter fruits indicated their suitability for processing and V-6, V-7 and V-11 had richer for human health promoting compounds (higher total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity), making them suitable for future use as functional foods and as promising sources of natural antioxidants.

This comprehensive review addresses topics relevant to understanding of characterization of antimicrobial coatings used in surface modifications of yarns and materials intended for usage in medical and dental applications. These coatings are created using various physical and chemical methods to achieve efficient, homogeneous, and uniform layers on different surfaces and materials, with the goal of imparting antimicrobial and/or antiviral properties. Antimicrobial coatings must contain active compounds effective against various microorganisms, including those resistant to antibiotics. Examples of such compounds include metallic nanoparticles (such as silver, copper, and gold) and nanoparticles of metal oxides (such as zinc, titanium, and aluminum). Once materials intended for medical applications are coated, they undergo extensive testing and characterization, for which the methodologies will be presented in this chapter. Despite their wide efficiency in medical applications, concerns are raised regarding the potential toxicity of nanoparticles to living organisms. Therefore, the development of novel legal frameworks is anticipated, which will depend on proper characterization and testing procedures. This paper provides a summary of the current state-of-the-art methodologies for characterizing nanoparticles in antimicrobial coatings on materials with different roughness and structures and specifies the problems related with accumulation of antimicrobial nanoparticles in a human body.

Materials known as Nd:YAG are crystalline materials of the cubic system made from neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet, which among others, have excellent optical properties. Nd:YAG four-level laser devices are highly used in both the health and industrial sectors. In this study, a simple and inexpensive alternative to manufacturing Nd:YAG materials through solid state reactions following powder processing routes was proposed. For this, an intense mixture of the precursor materials (Al2O3 and Y2O3) was carried out, followed by the addition of neodymium atoms to improve the optical properties of the resulting material. High energy mechanical mixing of the precursor powders resulted in submicron particles, with good size distributions of the powders. The advance of YAG formation was monitored by intermediate phase formation during heat treatment through interrupted tests at different temperatures and analysis by X-ray diffraction. From this analysis, it was found that reaction for the formation of the desired YAG is completed at 1500°C. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analyses determined the presence of functional groups corresponding to the YAG. Finally, the study by optical emission spectroscopy showed wavelengths in agreement with the electronic structure of the elements of the synthesized Nd:YAG.

The flowability of a powder is a characteristic dependent on both the particle ensemble's physical properties as well as the testing equipment and conditions. In powder bed additive manufacturing processes (SLM, EBM), flowability can be used to predict the quality of the deposited powder layer. However, how representative flowability is for the powder bed layer quality is not always clear.In this work, we compared several steel powders, as well as different testing methods. Each powder had an individual combination of composition or particle size distribution. Furthermore, the flowability testing equipment and methods were selected according to standards (Tap density, Hall flow) or referring to the published literature (angle of repose, FT4 Powder Rheometer). After measuring the flowability of different samples for each testing method, we created a database to evaluate a first correlation between the different testing methods. Finally, with a Powder Rheometer, we investigated for one sample some flow properties as function of different particle size distributions.

Emollients are valued ingredients of many cosmetic products and medical devices used to support the treatment and prevention of many skin diseases. Despite the fact that they are one of the oldest cosmetic ingredients, raw materials as well as new recipe solutions are constantly being sought, the main goal of which is to obtain products with the most favorable physicochemical properties while improving the hydration of the stratum corneum and softening and smoothing the skin. This article presents the results of physicochemical tests of selected emollients: natural [Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Ricinus Communis Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil], semi-synthetic Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and synthetic (Octyldodecanol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Dibutyl Adipate). Then, recipes for cosmetic oils were developed, differing in the type and concentration of emollients used. The obtained formulations were subjected to physicochemical tests (dynamic viscosity, surface tension, wetting angle, color assessment) and selected parameters of the epidermal barrier function (skin hydration and lubrication) were assessed. By appropriately selecting the type and concentration of emollients in the cosmetic oil recipe, it is possible to obtain products with the appropriate ability to spread on the skin, form a uniform protective layer on the skin and remain on the skin for a sufficiently long time. The observed improvement in skin hydration and the level of lubrication after using formulations containing mixtures of natural and semi-synthetic/synthetic emollients confirms that both groups of these raw materials can be components of cosmetic body oil recipes with an emollient effect, and the products themselves constitute an important element of the care of skin affected by the disease process.

In the current study, the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of this fermented wheat Hamoun were described in detail, as well as the soil properties where this type of wheat was stored. The results showed that the Hamoum had concentrations of the lactic acid of 0.25 g ± 0.03 for the Simeto variety (nine years of storage), as well as 0.13 g ± 0.02 and 0.17 g±0.06 for the Ofanto variety following three and six months, respectively, of storage. The water content varied between 8.3 - 9.7 % for grain and between 10.8- 11.5 % for flour. The ash content of grain and flour of 1.43 ± 0.02 and 1.63 ± 0.26, respectively, was above the normal standards. According to these results, fermented wheat is appropriate for human consumption. The results also showed that the soil where the wheat was stored comprised mainly clay and had an alkaline pH of 8.2. The isolation and identification of fermentable germs showed the presence of lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genera Lactobacillus (59 %), Pediococcus (18 %), Leuconostoc (17 %), and Streptococcus (6 %). The antibacterial activities of isolated acid bacteria against pathogenic germs Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 9027), Bacillus cereus (ATCC 14579), and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 43300) reflected the presence of strong antibacterial activity, with 62.5 % positive interactions and 100 % pathogenic bacteria inhibited by Lactobacillus.

Water is an essential commodity to sustain life. The condition of water in Tiruchirappalli was measured using different Physicochemical parameters like Temperature, pH, TDS, Total Solids, Salinity, Total Hardness, and Electrical Conductivity. Water samples were collected from different places in Tiruchirappalli city, Tamil Nadu. Water samples were examined by different chemical methods. According to the results, Thiruvarambur-1 showed comparatively higher results in the case of every parameter compared to other sampling stations. Obtained results were further interpreted using statistical tools. Considering ECs as a principal component for the regression and correlation analysis with other parameters significant correlation was found. A strong correlation was observed between ECs and TDS, Total Hardness, Turbidity, and Salinity.

Biochar is a carbonaceous material derived from the thermochemical conversion of biomass under oxygen-lean conditions. Its properties render it many applications in agriculture, environmental remediation, and catalysis. Commonly produced by pyrolysis under a nitrogen atmosphere, the biochar composition is influenced mainly by residence time, heating rate, and process temperature. The existing literature primarily assesses biochar properties, such as ultimate, proximate, calorific, porosity, and combustibility, generated under various thermo-conversion conditions. However, there is a notable lack of sufficient investigation and attention given to the practical application of biochar. This article seeks to bridge that gap by enhancing the comprehension of the necessary experimental assessment for specific biochar applications and proposing process optimization methods using Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA). By delving into these aspects, the study offers a concise overview of biochar production and presents a comprehensive panorama based on articles and patents. Additionally, the research explores the physicochemical characterization techniques associated with biochar and its various applications in conjunction with MCDA. This comprehensive approach aims to uncover valuable insights that could further advance the practical and sustainable utilization of biochar in a wide range of fields.

Biodegradable and renewable plastic films have been regarded as promising alternative green materials to achieve the substitution polythene (PE)films to reduce plastic pollution. Poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) is a kind of biodegradable polyester, which is widely used in the production of biodegradable mulching films. However, the high cost of PBAT limited it applications. Thus, lignin, one of the most abundant biomass resources was incorporated into PBAT matrix in the present work. A series of Lignin/PBAT biodegradable plastics films with different Lignin/PBAT weight ratios (0.00 %-5.00 %) were successfully fabricated using twin screw and twin roll extruders. The chemical compositions, morphologies, thermal stabilities, mechanical properties, and barrier properties of samples were characterized by XRD, FTIR, TG/DSC, mechanical testing machine, and WVTR, respectively. Results show that the corporation of lignin into PBAT matrix could lead to improved thermal stabilities, mechanical properties and barrier properties of films even after Xenon lamp aging process, especially when Lignin/PBAT weight ratio is 1.00 % in the present work. This work provides a very promising approach for fabrication of biodegradable plastics films with low cost, enhanced mechanical properties and barrier properties, the as-prepared samples may have potential applications in agricultural or food packaging materials.

(1) Background: In Eugenia Stipitata Mac Vaugh (Arazá), there is an abundance of flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids, which are bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiulcer, and cardiovascular disease prevention benefits. Therefore, the aim of this review is to compile the compounds that have been identified in the fruit and gather information about secondary metabolites to establish their potential preventive and therapeutic effects; (2) Methods: a literature search was conducted in repositories and databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Agriculture Collection Gale, SAGE, OXFORD University, DOAJ, among others. Articles identifying and quantifying bioactive compounds present in Arazá were included; (3) Results: Five studies meeting the inclusion criteria were incorporated, resulting in the compilation of 82 compounds, of which 24 were identified and quantified, while 58 were solely identified. This review was able to identify and report the concentration, and in some cases, the quantity, of phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities present in Arazá; (4) Conclusions: With this scope, it was possible to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the fruit's potential to potentially enhance health aspects, thereby providing greater prominence and added value to this product, allowing for more frequent inclusion in the diets of consumers, and even enabling exportation.

Polyaniline or PANI is a conductive polymer (CPs) with flexibility in turning into conducting properties. The drawback is mainly in terms of limited mechanical properties improvement which attracted the interest in fabrication of PANI with other polymeric materials. PANI-PVL composites film was synthesized and fabricated in this work with chronological steps according to the objectives aligned in two different phases. The first phase determines the optimum parameters to synthesize nanosized PANI. The ideal initial molar ratio, r was 1, stirring speed of 600 rpm, purified by filtration, synthesis temperature of 25 oC, washed by dopant acid, acetone and distilled water. The usage of non-ionic surfactant, Triton X-100 (TX100) with 0.1 % concentration favours the formation of smaller particle size of PANI and good dispersibility compared to the usage of anionic sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS). The synthesis of PANI in nanosized dimension has the potential to be applied for antimicrobial applications such as gloves and antimicrobial coating of frequent contact points in the near future.

The present study aimed at utilizing technically hydrolyzed lignin (THL), industrial biomass residue, derived in high-temperature diluted sulphuric acid hydrolysis of softwood and hardwood chips to sugars. The THL was carbonized in horizontal tube furnace at atmospheric pressure, in inert atmosphere and at three different temperatures (500, 600 and 700 ºC). Biochar chemical composition was investigated along with its HHV, thermal stability (thermogravimetric analysis) and textural properties. Surface area and pore volume were measured with nitrogen physisorption analysis often named upon Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET). Increasing the carbonization temperature reduced volatile organic compounds (40 ÷ 96 wt. %), increased fixed carbon (2.11 to 3.68 times the wt. % of fixed carbon in THL), ash and C-content. Moreover, H and O were reduced, while N- and S-content were below the detection limit. This suggested biochar application as solid biofuel. The biochar Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra revealed that the functional groups were gradually lost thus, forming materials having merely polycyclic aromatic structures and high condensation rate. The biochar obtained at 600 and 700 ºC proved having properties typical for microporous adsorbents, suitable for selective adsorption purposes. Based on the latest observations another biochar application was proposed - as catalyst.

Controlling the concentration of free radicals in polymerization systems is advantageous for preparing cationic polyacrylamide (CPAM) with high molecular weight and acceptable dissolvability. In this study, a novel ultraviolet (UV)-initiated system characterized with adjustable light intensity and redox-azo complex initiator was used to synthesize a CPAM flocculant named NP. Comparatively, another CPAM flocculant named SP with stable UV light intensity and single initiator was prepared. The chemical structure, morphology, and thermal stability were analyzed through instrumental analysis. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance indicated that NP was successfully prepared, and a small fraction of cationic homopolymer was mixed in the product. Polymerization conditions were optimized, and polymerization mechanism was determined by investigating the effects of various parameters on intrinsic viscosity, conversion, and dissolvability. Results showed that the best performance was obtained at indexes of 0.45 wt‰ redox initiator concentration, 0.2 wt‰ azo initiator concentration, 40.0 wt% of cationic monomer, first- and second-stage light intensities of 8.5 and 13 mW/cm², respectively, and 3 wt% urea. Sludge conditioning performances of NP and SP were comparatively evaluated, and the mechanism was determined by investigating the sedimentation behavior and floc size distribution. High intrinsic viscosity, porous morphology structure, and the mixed cationic homopolymer of NP resulted in better sludge conditioning performance.

Membrane protein integrase (MPIase), an endogenous glycolipid in Escherichia coli (E. coli) membrane, is essential for membrane protein insertion in E. coli. We have examined Sec-independent membrane protein insertion mechanisms facilitated by MPIase using physicochemical analytical techniques such as solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, fluorescence measurements, and surface plasmon resonance. In this review, we outline the physicochemical characteristics of membranes that may affect membrane insertion of proteins. Subsequently, we introduce our results verifying the effects of membrane lipids on insertion and estimate the impact of MPIase. Although MPIase is a minor component of E. coli membranes, it regulates insertion by altering the physicochemical properties of the membrane. In addition, MPIase promotes insertion by interacting with substrate proteins. We propose comprehensive mechanisms of membrane insertion of proteins involving MPIase, which provide a physicochemical basis for understanding the roles of glycolipids in protein translocation.

Starch is widely applied in various industrial sectors, including the food industry. Starch is used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier. However, arrowroot starch generally has weaknesses, such as unstable under heating and acidic conditions, which are generally applied to processing in the food industry. Modifications were applied to improve the characteristics of native arrowroot starch. In this study, arrowroot starch was modified by heat-moisture treatment (HMT), octenylsuccinylation (OSA), and dual modification between OSA and HMT in a different sequence, namely HMT followed by OSA, and OSA followed by HMT. This study aims to determine the effect of different modification methods on the physicochemical and functional properties of native arrowroot starch. The result shows that both single HMT and dual modification caused damage to native starch granules, such as the formation of cracks and roughness. Especially for single OSA treatment, there is no significant change in granule morphology after modification. All modification treatments did not change the crystalline type of starch but reduced the RC of native starch. Both single HMT and dual modifications (HMT-OSA, OSA-HMT) increased pasting temperature and setback, conversely decreasing the peak and breakdown viscosity of native starch. Whereas, single OSA has the opposite trend compared with the other modifications. HMT played a greater role in increasing the thermal stability and retrogradation ability of arrowroot starch. Both single modifications (HMT and OSA) increase the hardness and gumminess of native starch, conversely for dual modifications. HMT has a greater effect on color characteristics, where decreased the lightness and whiteness index of native arrowroot starch. Single OSA modification increased swelling volume higher than dual modification. Both single HMT and dual modifications increase water absorption capacity and decrease the oil absorption capacity of native arrowroot starch.

As the global population grows, the demand for food increases and puts a strain on food production systems and agricultural productivity, causing soil degradation. Soil Quality Indexes (SQIs) have been developed to maintain and improve soil quality. However, due to the variety of soils and SQIs, analyzing and comparing results has been historically difficult. Therefore, in this study, we carried out a systematic review with meta-analysis focused on soil quality studies of agricultural soils under intensive agriculture using the unified weighted additive SQI methodology (SQIU). We analyzed 65 quality observations obtained from 22 studies. Chemical indicators were the most prevalent in the SQIUs, followed by physical and biological indicators. Conventional soil management had negative effects on soil quality (–7.55%). From the factors analyzed, the minimum database had a significant effect on the soil quality results, but not the number of indicators that made up the SQIU. The SQIU made up of chemical-biological indicators (CB) presented negatively overestimated measurements of soil quality (–32.53%), exaggerating the damage to the analyzed soils. The indicators that correlated most strongly with the size of the effect on agricultural soil quality were the cation exchange capacity (CEC), carbon to nitrogen ratio (C/N), and microbial biomass carbon (MBC). The SQIU is a feasible tool to interpret the quality of agricultural soils around the world, as it makes it possible to obtain a simple and generalized view of soil conditions.

This study investigated the effects of three oil production methods on the physicochemical properties of dietary fiber from rice bran flour, and the hypolipidemic effects of the dietary fibers were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The particle size results showed that the organic solvent-impregnated rice bran meal dietary fiber (N-RBDF) had the smallest average particle size and the aqueous enzymatic rice bran meal dietary fiber (E-RBDF) had the narrowest particle size distribution. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results demonstrated that all three kinds of rice bran meal dietary fibers (RBDF) were irregularly flaky. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) results revealed that the three RBDFs had similar reactive groups, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results indicated that all three RBDFs were cellulose type I crystals. The results of thermogravimetric analysis showed that the lignin content of N-RBDF was significantly lower than that of the other two. Among the three kinds of RBDFs, E-RBDF had higher water retention capacity, swelling capacity, oil holding capacity, and adsorption capacity for cholesterol and sodium bile salts. The results of experimental studies in hyperlipidemic rats showed that all three kinds of RBDFs significantly reduced triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in serum of hyperlipidemic rats; they also significantly lowered malondialdehyde (MDA) and elevated total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities in liver of rats. In addition, all three kinds of RBDFs decreased aminotransferase (ALT) and aminotransferase (AST) activity in serum and also improved liver steatosis and reduced atherosclerosis index (AI) in rats with hyperlipidemia. Our study provides a reference for the development and utilization of rice bran meal and the application of rice bran meal dietary fiber in food processing.

ABSTRACT Background Ubiquitination plays an important role in protein post-translational processes and has been found to be involved in a number of regulatory functions including proteasome degradation, DNA repair, transcription, signal transduction, endocytosis, and sorting. As the identification of ubiquitination site is critical to furthering our understanding of the mechanism of ubiquitination, various experimental and machine learning methods have been used to conduct this task. It has been an important but challenging task to improve the accuracy of ubiquitination site prediction. In this research, we explore the possibility of improving the prediction performance of machine learning by incorporating grid search in the training process. Method We developed grid search procedures for each of six widely used machine learning methods including NB, LR, DT, SVM, LASSO, and KNN, and applied them to ubiquitination site prediction using the six PCP datasets that were previously developed. For each of the ML methods, we developed a set of values for each of the tunable hyperparameters available to the method. These sets of values then can be combined to form a large grid of hyperparameter settings, and each of these settings is used in the grid search. We integrated 5-fold cross-validation in grid search to train and test ML models and applied an additional independent validation procedure by conducting a pre-training 80-20 sample split. We evaluated the performance of the six methods by comparing them side by side for each of the six datasets. We also compared the grid search results with the results that were previously published without doing grid search. To optimize the prediction performance, we trained 1.1 million ML models in total through grid search. Results We compared the overall prediction performance of these six methods, as well as their prediction performance when working with balanced vs. imbalanced data, and large-scale vs. small-scale data. From the perspective of dataset, we find that the overall performance of every PCP dataset has been significantly improved in this study compared to the previous study, with the percentage increase of the average AUC of all six datasets ranging from 7.9% (PCP-4) up to 17.0% (PCP-1). From the perspective of method, we find that three out of four methods significantly benefit from grid search comparing to their previously published non-grid search results, with the maximum AUC improvement as high as 47% (LASSO on PCP-5), 43.3% (NB on PCP-1), and 33.7% (SVM on PCP-6). SVM overall ranks number one, followed by KNN as the number two performer based on their average AUCs on all datasets. But these two also ranked the top two (KNN 76 days and SVM 15 days) in terms of the total running time that they need to do grid search. We also find that SVM, KNN, and DT tend to handle small-scale and imbalanced datasets better, while LR, and LASSO are doing well with large-scale and balanced datasets. NB is more sensitive to data imbalance while less sensitive to the size of a dataset. Conclusions Our results show that using grid search has improved the performance of ubiquitination prediction significantly. We find that the performance of a method is closely related to its hyperparameter setting and the type of data it handles. Even though SVM is on average an outperformer, none of the methods can provide the best performance for all datasets. When sufficient computing resources are well accessible, grid search is an effective way to identify both a top performing model for a machine learning method and a suitable machine learning method for a particular dataset.

The discovery of more bioactive compounds for non-invasive administration has been the goal of research groups focused on pharmacotherapy. Phytonutrients have always been attractive for researchers because they are a significant source of bioactive phytochemicals, but it is challenging to determine which components show high biomedical activity. However, based on the chemical structure of these active compounds, their physicochemical properties can be calculated to predict the probability of gastrointestinal (GI) absorption after oral administration. Indeed, different researchers have proposed several rules (e.g., Lipinski's, Veber's, Ghose's, and Muegge's rules) to attain these predictions for synthetic compounds. Most phytochemicals do not fully comply with these rules even though they show high bioactivity and high GI absorption experimentally. Here, we provide a detailed methodology using web-based platforms to determine the physicochemical properties of five phytochemicals in the phytonutrients ginger, echinacea, and tobacco. Furthermore, we analyzed the calculated data and established a protocol based on the combination and integration of these rules, plus other extended parameter ranges, to reliably predict the GI absorption of natural compounds. The presented data and methodology can be beneficial for evaluating bioactive natural compounds as potential drug candidates and predicting their oral bioavailability in patients.

This work evaluates the surface water quality in terms of physico-chemical parameters of the Brahmani River, Odisha using statistical analysis involving the calculation of correlation coefficient and regression equation. Besides this, the work also highlights and draws attention towards the “Water Quality Index” in a simplified format which may be used at large and could represent the reliable picture of water quality. Surface water quality data is taken from OSPCB of various location i.e. Panposh D/S, Rourkela D/S, Rengali, Talcher U/S, Kamalanga D/S, Bhuban, Pattamundai and was assessed for summer, monsoon, winter for the years 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Average of values, minimum of values and maximum of values of water quality parameters were obtained seasonally over the above mentioned years. Besides this, the standard deviation for the water quality parameters was also obtained for water quality parameters namely pH, Temperature, DO, TDS, Alkalinity, EC, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, F-, Cl-, NO3-, SO42- and PO42-. Seasonal changes in various physical and chemical parameters were analysed.The values obtained were compared with the guideline values for drinking water by Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS). A systematic correlation and regression study is carried out for three seasons, showed linear relationship among different water quality parameters. This provides an easy and rapid method of monitoring water quality. Highly significant (0.8< r <1.0), moderately significant (0.6< r <0.8) and significant (0.5< r <0.6) correlations between the parameters have been worked out. High correlation coefficient has been observed between TDS,EC-Na+, Ca2+, Cl-, SO42- ; Na+- Cl-. From the collected quantities, certain parameters were selected to derive WQI for the variations in water quality of each designated sampling site. WQI of Brahmani River ranged from 36.7 to 44.1 which falls in the range of good quality of water.Panposh D/S and Rourkela D/S showed poor water quality in summer and winter season. It is shown that WQI may be a useful tool for assessing water quality and predicting trend of variation in water quality at differentlocations in the Brahmani River.

The effects of acidic electrolyzed water (AEW) on the microbiological and physicochemical properties of fresh-cut red cabbages were studied. The fresh-cut red cabbages and artificially inoculated red cabbages with Salmonella Typhimurium DT104 were washed with distilled water (DW) and different available chlorine concentration (ACC) of AEW for different times. AEW treatments significantly reduced the populations of native aerobic bacteria, molds and yeasts, and artificially inoculated S. Typhimurium DT104 compared to the DW treated and untreated red cabbage samples. The effectiveness of AEW treatments was greatly enhanced with increasing ACC and treatment times. S. Typhimurium DT104 were not detected in the washing water after the red cabbages treated by AEW. The surface color, pH, and total phenolic contents were did not significantly change when the red cabbages were washed with DW and 100 ppm AEW for 3 min. The anthocyanin contents and antioxidant activities of red cabbage were significantly reduced by 18.5% for cyanidin, 22.1% for pelargonidin, and 11.2% for DPPH radical scavenging activity, the impacts on the nutritional benefits of red cabbage were considered as limited and acceptable. The optimal process condition of AEW for washing red cabbage was 100 ppm for 3 min. In these conditions, most of the native microflora were inactivated, and artificial inoculated S. Typhimurium DT104 on the red cabbage were reduced by 40.2% (3.67 log CFU/g) and with minimal losses of nutrients and antioxidant activity, as well as no requirement of discontinuation treatment on the washing water.

This study investigated the effects of soil crust development on the underlying soil properties. The field sampling work was conducted in June 2016 in the Hobq Desert in Inner Mongolia, North China. Soil crust samples and 0–6, 6–12, 12–18, 18–24, 24–30 cm deep underlying soil samples were taken from five representative areas of different soil crust development stages. All samples were analyzed for physicochemical properties including water content, bulk density, aggregate content, organic matter content, enzyme activities, and microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen. The results showed that the thickness, water content, macroaggregate (>250 μm) content, organic matter content, microbial biomass and enzyme activities of the soil crusts gradually increased along the soil crust development gradient, while the bulk density of the soil crusts decreased. Meanwhile, the physicochemical and biological properties of the soils below the algal and moss crusts were significantly ameliorated when compared with the physical crust. Moreover, the amelioration effects were significant in the upper horizons (approx. 0–12 cm deep) and diminished quickly in the deeper soil layers.

The as-received commercial Inconel 718 material was solid solution heat treated (ST), cold rolled (CR), and precipitation hardened (PH) to investigate the effects of deformation on tensile properties, hardness, and texture. Three sets of specimens (0%, 20% and 50% CR) were STed at 1100 C/1h, CR and aged (720 °C/8 h + 650 °C/8 h) for the analysis. Ultimate tensile strength (UTS), 0.2% yield strength (YS) and elongation of 50% deformed condition were 1645 MPa, 1512 MPa, and 3.8 %, respectively. The 20 % deformation resulted in a balanced UTS (1348 MPa), YS (1202 MPa) and elongation (11%). Contributions of precipitation hardening to the strength was decreasing, while contribution of CR increases with increasing percentage of deformation. Correspondingly, the size and quantities of  decreased with increasing deformation level. In CR specimens, a high density of nano/micro twins were generated with the twin planes oriented perpendicular to the RD-ND surface. The preferred rotation of the crystals generated the gradient of orientation and internal features of the large austenitic grains. The cross-slip of screw dislocations induced a complete β-fibre, consisting of {110}, {112}, and{123}, with doubled intensity at higher deformation. In addition, the specimens tended to be highly susceptible to the twinning-induced orientation emerged by a predominant ⫽ND. An incomplete but intense α-fibre clustered between {110} and {110} was characterized in the as-deformed condition. Besides achieving highest strength, the current work demonstrates the effects of CR on the material strength without the complex influences of  precipitate.

The Myb family of transcription factors (TFs) is a large and functionally diverse group found in all eukaryotes, but its role in fungi remains poorly understood. Here, we characterized a Myb family TF called MoMyb13 in the rice blast fungus, Magnaporthe oryzae. MoMyb13 has two Myb domains and has orthologues only in ascomycete fungi. Localization experiments confirmed that MoMyb13 is located in the nuclei, as expected for a TF. Phenotypic analysis showed that MoMyb13 mutants exhibited reduced growth, whitened colony appearance and no conidia formation. Importantly, these mutants completely lost pathogenicity, despite being able to form appressoria at their hyphae ends, suggesting that these appressoria were non-functional for causing infection. Furthermore, the mutant colonies lost hydrophobicity and had significantly reduced expression of the hydrophobin MPG1. However, overexpression of MPG1 in the mutants restored their hydrophobicity, but not pathogenicity. Stress assay showed that the mutants were more sensitive to SDS, CR and H2O2, but more tolerant to NaCl and SOR. In summary, our study revealed the essential role of the MoMyb13 in the growth, conidiation, hydrophobicity, stress response and pathogenicity of M. oryzae, and provides valuable insights into the working mechanism of Myb TFs in fungi.

The article presents a method for obtaining new composites using a well-known mineral, expanded perlite (EP), and an industrial polymer, butadiene rubber (BR). For the design of composites, a joint oxidative chlorophosphorylation reaction of BR and EP (as well as BR and modified EP) was carried out, and the modifications obtained from this reaction were further hydrolyzed. The structure and morphology of the obtained samples were characterized in detail using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, as well as scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. EP and BR were separately modified with a similar reaction and characterized for data interpretation.

Abrstract: Bacillus spp. it is a genus that is used to biocontrol post-harvest diseases in various vegetables and fruits during transportation and storage. It suppresses the development of pathogens such as gray mold (Botrytis cinerea) in strawberry cultivation. In this work, the molecular characterization of Bacillus spp. species was carried out. in three cities in Peru: Huaura, Chanchamayo and Cañete. The samples were collected from rhizospheric soil from crop areas, subsequently processed for microbiological isolation, molecular analysis using the 16S rRNA gene and bioinformatic analysis. In total, 14 strains were obtained where they were identified with a minimum of 92.05% and a maximum of 100% similarity: 8 strains of Bacillus subtilis, 4 strains of Bacillus licheniformis, 1 strain of Bacillus paralicheniformis and 1 strain of Bacillus cereus, all the strains were related by constructing a phylogenetic tree.

The purpose of this paper is to develop a phytosociological, ecological, cytogenetic, eco-protective and economic study of the vegetation of the wetland ecosystems in the Vlădeasa Massif built by the phytocoenoses of the association Carici echinatae-Sphagnetum (Balázs 1942) Soó 1955. In order to attain the aim and objectives put forward we carried out 10 phytocoenological surveys (surveys) in the phytocoenoses of the ecosystems during the optimal vegetation periods related to the summer-serotinal season in the timeframe 2020-2021. The taxonomically inventoried species were included in an association table by the criteria of their belonging to the basic coenotaxa of the association, alliance, order, vegetation class. The outcomes of the phytocoenosis research of the vegetation of the wetland ecosystems were processed, analysed, interpreted based on tables, histograms, diagrams, regarding the numerical and percentage weight of the species in the ecological categories of bioforms, phytogeographic elements (geoelements) and cytogenetic elements. The ecological behaviour of the species confined in ecosystems was also analysed by their relationship with ecological factors, edaphic soil moisture, air temperature and chemical reaction of the soil. The current state of ecosystems, potential threats, sustainable conservation of biodiversity, dynamics of phytocenoses, economic and scientific relevance were also subjected to research. The results obtained in the surveyed territory were analysed and compared numerically and as percentage with the data provided by two reference scientific works belonging to authors who independently carried out research with a similar topic in two different geographical regions of the Western Carpathians.

Comminution is the most power-demanding stage, and the lack of geometallurgical testing, often for financial reasons, may result in an inefficient operation. The Geopyörä Rock Breakage test was developed with the objective of making mineral variability data more accessible by providing both standard comminution parameters and rock mechanical properties at low cost, and with a modest sample size, allowing a larger number of samples to be tested to reduce uncertainties and assure productivity. The objective of this work is to present the results of an extensive validation of this new rock breakage method against two of the main tests currently in use, namely the SMC® and Bond ball mill work index tests. More than 100 samples have been tested and the results compared, showing that the new method can accurately estimate the parameters of the traditional tests. This confirms that the new test is a reliable tool for comminution and geometallurgical tests.

The gold nanoparticle (AuNP) was synthesized using the well-known Turkevich method. This article explains didactic step-by-step of the synthesis, showing pictures of the entire process, including a well-explained mechanism and characterization study. The synthesis includes the reduction of NaAuCl4 using sodium citrate in high temperature (around 90 ⁰C). The two main mechanisms used to explain the AuNP synthesis via Turkevich method were explained. The first mechanism considerate that a nanowire intermediary and the other proposed that aggregate intermediates are not formed at any time during the synthesis. The materials (NaAuCl4 and AuNP) were characterized by UV-Vis, SEM, AFM, XRD and DLS. The UV-Vis exhibit an absorption maximum in 521 nm because the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption band of AuNP. The SEM images of NaAuCl4 presents crystals with cubic shapes, while the AuNP presents average particle size of about 16-25 nm and particles that appear mainly spherical. To confirm the particles shapes, the AFM was conducted and it was possible to observe clearly the individual spherical nanoparticles. The XRD of AuNP showed the four main characteristic peaks for silver corresponding to (111), (200), (220) and (311) planes, confirming the cubic (FCC) silver. The DLS presented the average particle size of 3.3 ± 0.9 nm and the polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.574. In summary, the AuNP was synthesized using a simple and fast method. The result was a spherical and ultrasmall particle, that can be used is several applications.

The reinforcing effect of boehmite nanoparticles (BNP) in epoxy resins for fiber composite lightweight construction is related to the formation of a soft but bound interphase between filler and polymer. The interphase is able to dissipate crack propagation energy and consequently increases the fracture toughness of the epoxy resin. Usually, the nanoparticles are dispersed in the resin and then mixed with the hardener to form an applicable mixture to impregnate the fibers. If one wishes to locally increase the fracture toughness at particularly stressed positions of the fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPC), this could be done by spraying nanoparticles from a suspension. However, this would entail high costs for removing the nanoparticles from the ambient air. We propose that a fiber fleece containing bound nanoparticles be inserted at exposed locations. For the present proof-of-concept study, an electrospun polycarbonate nonwoven and taurine modified BNP are proposed. After fabrication of suitable PC/EP/BNP composites, the thermomechanical properties were tested by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMTA). Comparatively, the local nano-mechanical properties such as stiffness and elastic modulus were determined by atomic force microscopy (AFM). An additional investigation of the distribution of the nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix, which is a prerequisite for an effective nanocomposite, is carried out by scanning electron microscopy in transmission mode (TSEM). From the results it can be concluded that the concept of carrier fibers for nanoparticles is viable.

The present study was aimed to evaluate the suitability of agro-wastes and crude vegetable oils for the cost effective production of poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), to evaluate growth kinetics and PHB production in Alcaligenes faecalis RZS4 and Pseudomonas sp. RZS1 with these carbon substrates and to study the biodegradation of PHB accumulated by these cultures. Alcaligenes faecalis RZS4 and Pseudomonas sp. RZS1 accumulate higher amounts of PHB corn (79.90% of dry cell mass) and rice straw (66.22% of dry cell mass) medium respectively. The kinetic model suggests that the Pseudomonas sp. RZS1 follows the Monod model more closely than A. faecalis RZS4. Both the cultures degrade their own PHB extract under the influence of PHB depolymerase. Corn waste and rice straw appear as the best and cost-effective substrates for the sustainable production of PHB from Alcaligenes faecalis RZS4 and Pseudomonas sp. RZS1. The biopolymer accumulated by these organisms is biodegradable in nature. The agro-wastes and crude vegetable oils are good and low cost sources of nutrients for the growth and production of PHN and other metabolites. Their use would lower the production cost of PHN and the low cost production will reduce the sailing price of PHB based products. This would promote the large scale commercialization and popularization of PHB as ecofriendly bioplastic/biopolymer.

The objective of this study is to conduct a mineralogical and chemical characterization of the mortars Roman archaeological site of Volubilis to rebuild spare mortars for restoration. We take samples of mortar, broken tile palate garden, and pavement mosaic Falavius Germanus houses. The analysis by X-ray diffraction reveals the coarse mortar Flavius Germanus is made of quartz and calcite with feldspar and probably, mica and dolomite in small amounts. The binder end is formed calcite and quartz. However, the broken tile mortar is formed by coarse particles, clay base mixed with a binder phase dominated by calcite. These results allowed us to reformulate spare mortars for the restoration of damaged Roman mosaics. The mortars are made up by 63.6% of lime and 36.4% of sand(with 4.19% of large grain, 71, 04% of coarse sand, 24.22%, of fine sand and 0.55% fines parts).The performance of these mortars was tested by mechanical testing.

A novel virus with distinct genome features was discovered by high throughput sequencing in a symptomatic blackcurrant plant. The virus tentatively named as blackcurrant virus A (BCVA) has distinct genome organization and molecular features bridging genera in the order Tymovirales. The genome consists of 7106 nucleotides excluding the poly(A) tail. Five open reading frames were identified with the first encoding a putative viral replicase with methyl transferase (MTR), AlkB, helicase and RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) domains. The other four putative proteins exhibit no significant homology to other virus proteins. The genome organization downstream of the replicase resembles that of members of the order Tymovirales with an unconventional triple gene block (TGB) movement protein arrangement. Phylogenetic analysis using replicase conserved motifs loosely placed BCVA within the Betaflexiviridae whereas it was evolutionarily distant to existing members of the family when using the putative TGBp 1-like and coat protein sequences. Our analysis strongly suggests that BCVA is a novel virus that should be classified as a species in a new genus in the Betaflexiviridae or a new family in the order Tymovirales.

Metallic elements of higher economic value occurring in the mineralogy of Zimapán are Pb, Zn, Cu and Fe, said elements are sold as concentrates, which, even after processing, generally include significant concentrations of Mo, Cd, Sb, Ag and As that could recover through different leaching methods. In this work the influence of temperature was studied in the complexation of silver in the S₂O₃^2--O₂ system. Chemical and mineralogical characterization of concentrated Zn from the state of Hidalgo confirmed the presence of the silver contained in a sulfide of silver arsenic (AgAsS₂) through the techniques of Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The mineralogical species identified allowed the construction mineralogical species Pourbaix diagrams in the range of 298 K to 333 K, through which the Eh-pH conditions to obtain silver in solution were determined. The formation of Ag(S₂O₃)₂^3- complex was confirmed by characterizing liquors leached using the technique Infrared Spectroscopy Fourier Transform (FTIR).

The present review explores the critical role of oxime and oxime ether moieties in enhancing the physicochemical and anticancer properties of structurally diverse molecular frameworks. Specific examples are carefully selected to illustrate the distinct contributions of these functional groups to general strategies for molecular design, modulation of biological activities, computational modeling, and structure-activity relationship studies. An extensive literature search was conducted across three databases, including Pub-Med, Google Scholar, and Scifinder, enabling us to create one of the most comprehensive overviews of how oximes and oxime ethers impact antitumor activities within a wide range of structural frameworks. This search focused on various combinations of keywords or their synonyms, related to the anticancer activity of oximes and oxime ethers, structure-activity relationships, mechanism of action, as well as molecular dynamics and docking studies. Each article was evaluated based on its scientific merit and the depth of the study, resulting in 268 cited references and more than 336 illustrative chemical structures carefully selected to support this analysis. As many previous reviews focus on one subclass of this extensive family of compounds, this report represents one of the rare and fully comprehensive assessments of the anti-cancer potential of this group of molecules across diverse molecular scaffolds.

The objective of this research was to evaluate the physicochemical and sanitary parameters of raw cow's milk intended for consumption in the Amazonas region, Peru. We sampled 31 collection centers and dairy processors. We evaluated physicochemical parameters (fat, protein, solids not fat, lactose, ash, pH, and density), somatic cell count, and microbiology (mesophilic aerobic bacteria and total coliforms) of raw milk. We applied an analysis of variance (α=0.05) and the comparison of means between the collection centers and livestock basins (p&lt;0.05). In addition, we performed a cluster analysis, principal components and correlation. Depending on the collection center, we found differences in all the physicochemical parameters, somatic cell count and milk microbiology. In the livestock basin analysis, we found differences for somatic cells, fat, protein, solids, pH, coliforms and bacteria. The Jumbilla basin presented less somatic cells, less fat was found in the Levanto basin and higher protein in the Yambrasbamba basin. Lactose, ash, density, total coliforms and mesophilic aerobic bacteria did not vary according to basin. The cluster analysis yielded four groups, Group 1 is higher in ash and density, Group 2 and 3 are higher in fat, Group 3 with higher protein, but higher in total coliforms and mesophilic aerobic bacteria. Group 4 registered the highest pH and the lowest protein concentration. There was a positive correlation of fat with protein and solids not fat, lactose with solids not fat, ash with density. Negative correlations of somatic cells with fat and, protein and solids not fat with pH.

Spent mushroom compost (SMC) substrates are commonly used as growth media for greenhouse crops and horticulture production. This study aimed to investigate the responses of physiochemical soil properties, enzyme activities, and microbial community compositions to different cultivation durations and SMC soil treatments on tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) grown in plastic greenhouses on the Loess Plateau, China. The experiment included treatments: Two control treatments of non-planting SMC substrates (Sub CK) and continuous mono-cropping soil (Soil CK), and SMC substrate and the surrounding soil after planting at 1, 3, and 7 years. The results revealed that the SMC substrates had higher contents of major nutrients (e.g., total N and total P) than the surrounding soil treatments. The physicochemical soil properties and soil enzyme activities of the SMC substrates were significantly decreased with longer cultivation duration. Microbial alpha-diversity was higher in the SMC substrates regardless of cultivation duration than the control treatment (soil CK and substrate CK). Interestingly, following several years of tomato cultivation, the compositions of bacterial communities had more similarities with fungal communities in both the SMC substrates and surrounding soils. It was observed that many beneficial microbes, such as bacteria of the Deinococcus-Thermus, Halanaerobiaeota, and Nitrospirae phyla, and the fungi of the Basidiomycota, Mortierellomycota, and Chytridiomycota phyla were enriched in the SMC substrates. The pathogenic bacterial genus Sphingomonas and fungal genus Fusarium were abundant in the Soil CK treatment, while the potentially beneficial bacterial genera Saccharimonadales, Gaiella, Bacillus, and fungal genera Thermomyces, Kernia, and Mortierella were abundant in both the SMC substrate and surrounding soil. This study demonstrated that agro-based SMC substrates were a suitable growth media for a new grooved cultivation system.

Biodiesel is considered valuable to reduce dependency on petro-fuels. This work aimed to synthesize biodiesel from Silybum marianum using synthesized ZnO nanoparticles as a catalyst. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles were examined by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction for confirmation. The synthesized biodiesel was confirmed by ASTM D-6751, H and C-NMR, GC-MS, and FT-IR spectroscopy. The optimal biodiesel yield of 91% was obtained in the oil-to-methanol ratio of 1:24, 15 mg of catalyst concentration, 60 0C temperature, and 45 minutes of reaction time. Fuel properties were determined according to the ASTM defined methods and found within the defined limits of ASTM D-6751. 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR showed characteristic peaks at 3.667 ppm, 2.000 to 2.060 ppm, 0.858-0.918 ppm, 5.288-5.407 ppm, 24.93-34.22 ppm, 172.71, 173.12, 130.16 ppm, and 128.14 ppm, respectively, which confirm biodiesel synthesis. The FAMEs composition of biodiesel was determined by GC-MS which recognized 19 peaks for different types of FAMEs. FT-IR spectroscopy showed two main peaks, first in the range of 1725-1750 cm-1 and second in the range of 1000-1300 cm-1, which confirmed that the transesterification process was completed successfully. The physicochemical characteristics of Silybum marianum confirm that it is a suitable source to produce biodiesel on industrial scale.

In Cameroon, alcoholic beverages remain the main consumed drink. In the Northern regions, indigenous sorghum beers are popular and widely consumed in an actively fermenting state by the people. In this study, some physicochemical parameters of the alcoholic sorghum beverages and correlations between them were evaluated during fermentation for 10 days. The indigenous white and red beers were produced at the laboratory scale assisted by experimented producers and some parameters (pH, total acidity, alcohol, sugars, density, total solids, temperature, and conductivity) were measured on the wort and fermented beverages. The pH decreases from 3.2 to 2.4 and 3.11 to 2.41; total acidity increases from 1.07 to 5.1 g/l and 0.5 to 4.6 g/l; alcohol enhances from 0 to 9.5% and 0 to 6.8% (v/v); total solids drop from 13.6 to 5°P and 12.2 to 3.3°P were observed respectively in the white and red sorghum beers. The multivariate analysis showed a good correlation between consumption of sugar, the decrease of total solids and density with the decrease in pH. It was also shown that, a perfect link exist between the production of alcohol and organic acids. The hierarchical analysis showed that indigenous red beer samples fermented for 1 and 2 days and those fermented for 4 to 10 days are related and could be separate in two distinct groups, whereas white turbid beer samples are separated in three different groups, those fermented for 1 to 4 days, those 5 to 6 days and those 7 to 10 days. The results obtained could serve as a guide to better understand the fermentation process of the indigenous alcoholic sorghum-based beverages.

This study delves into the extraction and compositional analysis of soybean meal protein isolates (SMPI) compared to soy protein isolates (SPI), focusing on their functional and structural properties, digestibility, amino acid composition, and the impact of various proteases on antinutritional factors. By leveraging alkaline (0.25 % of NH4OH) extraction and isoelectric precipitation, SMPI was efficiently obtained. Compositional characteristics revealed that SMPI has high moisture, protein, and ash, but lower fat, and carbohydrate content compared to SPI. Alcalase, Neutrase and Pepsin hydrolysis indicated lower digestibility of SMPI than SPI. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis provided similar molecular structure and protein molecular weight distribution. This comprehensive analysis underscores the valorization of soybean meal, promoting its use beyond conventional animal feed towards nutritional supplements and bio-based products, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability and the enhancement of global food systems.

Chymotrypsin from the digestive organs of bigfin reef squid, a major commercial squid species in Thailand, was purified to 41.27-fold with 5.74% yield by a sequential purification process including ammonium sulfate precipitation, size exclusion and ion exchange chromatography. According to SDS-PAGE, the molecular weight of purified chymotrypsin was 43 kDa. Native-PAGE analysis revealed a single band for this purified enzyme. Optimum pH and temperature for chymotrypsin activity of the purified enzyme were pH of 7.0 with a temperatures of 55°C. The purified chymotrypsin remained stable throughout a wide range of pH levels (6–11) and at relatively high temperature (50°C). It was significantly inhibited by PMSF and TPCK. The values of the kinetic constants Km and Kcat were found to be 1.33 mM and 31.46 s‒1, respectively. The purified chymotrypsin has the N-terminal amino acid IVGGQEATPGEWPWQAALQV. This study provided new information about the biochemical properties of pure chymotrypsin from bigfin reef squid, which is useful in the future investigation, aquaculture and application of bigfin reef squid.

Avipoxvirus (APV), a linear dsDNA virus belonging to the subfamily Chordopoxvirinae of the family Poxviridae, infects more than 278 species of domestic and wild birds. It is responsible for causing the avian pox disease, which is characterized by its cutaneous and diphtheric forms. With a high transmission capacity, it can cause high economic losses and damage to the ecosys-tem. Several diagnostic methods are available and vaccination of birds can be an effective pre-ventive measure. To update the molecular characterization and phylogenetic analysis of viruses isolated in Portugal between 2017 and 2023, ten APV-positive samples were analyzed. A P4b gene fragment was amplified by PCR and the nucleotide sequence of the amplicons was deter-mined by Sanger sequencing. The sequences obtained were aligned using ClustalW, and a max-imum likelihood phylogenetic tree was constructed. With this study, it was possible to verify that the analyzed sequences are distributed in subclades A1, A2, B1, and B3. Since some of them are quite similar to others from different countries and obtained in different years, it is possible to conclude that there have been several viral introductions in Portugal. Finally, it was possible to successfully update the data on avipoxviruses in Portugal.

This work aimed to study the thermal and crystalline properties of poly (1,4-phenylene sulfide)@carbon char nanocomposites. Coagulation-processed nanocomposites of polyphenylene sulfide were prepared using synthesized mesoporous nanocarbon of coconut shell as reinforcement. The mesoporous reinforcement was synthesized using a facile carbonization method. The investigation of the properties of nanocarbon was done by SAP, XRD, and FESEM analysis. The research was further propagated via the synthesis of nanocomposite by the addition of characterized nanofiller into poly (1,4-phenylene sulfide) at five different combinations. The coagulation method was utilized for the nanocomposite formation. The obtained nanocomposite was analyzed using FTIR, TGA, DSC, and FESEM analysis. The BET surface area and average pore volume of bio-carbon prepared from coconut shell residue were calculated to be 1517 m2/g and 2.51 nm respectively. The addition of nanocarbon to poly (1,4-phenylene sulfide) has led to an increase in thermal stability and crystallinity up to 6% loading of filler. The minimum achievable glass transition temperature is for 6 % doping of filler into the polymer matrix. It was established that the thermal, morphological, and crystalline properties have been tailored by synthesizing their nanocomposites with mesoporous bio-nanocarbon obtained from coconut shells. So, the loading of filler into poly (1,4-phenylene sulfide) can be optimized to enhance its thermoplastic properties for surface applications.

Epizootic haemorrhagic disease (EHD) is a Culicoides-borne viral disease caused by epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) and associated with clinical manifestations in cervids and bovids. In late September 2021, EHDV was reported in cattle farms in central/western Tunisia. It rapidly spread throughout the country with more than 200 confirmed outbreaks. A combination of classical and molecular techniques was applied to characterize the causative virus as a member of EHDV-8 serotype. This is the first evidence of EHDV- 8 circulation since 1982 when the prototype EHDV-8 strain was isolated in Australia. This work highlights the urgent need for vaccines for a range of EHDV serotypes.

The paper presents a new procedure for assessing the polarity and hydrophobicity of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on the measurement of the DES contact angle on glass. DESs consisting of benzoic acid derivatives and quaternary ammonium chlorides – tetrabutylammonium chloride (TBAC) and benzyldimethylhexadecylammonium chloride (16-BAC) in selected mole ratios were chosen for the study. To investigate the DESs polarity, an optical goniometer and an ET(30) solvatochromic scale based on the Reichardt’s dye were used. The research demonstrated the high accuracy and precision of the developed procedure. The simplicity of the examination and the availability of basic equipment allow the implementation of the developed procedure in routine investigations of DESs.

Damage and fibre misalignment of woven fabrics during discontinuous polymer processing remain challenging. To overcome these, a promising switchable elastomeric adherence gripper is introduced here. The inherent surface tackiness is utilized for picking and placing large sheets. Due to the elastomer’s viscoelastic material behavior, the surface properties depend on loading speed and temperature. Different peeling speeds result in different adherence strength of an interface between the gripper and the substrate. This feature is mechanically characterized and the viscoelastic behavior of the stamp is examined. Based on this experimental characterization, an empirical model is proposed. Furthermore, a discussion of the applicability and limitation of the elastomeric gripper is given.

Cysteine cathepsins, a class of proteinaceous enzymes, regulate a wide variety of metabolic processes in human including protein breakdown and turnover and immune functions. Eleven cysteine cathepsins have been identified so far and a wide array of studies related to identifying their specific functions, regulation and distribution patterns in tissues have been conducted. However, in recent past, the association of cysteine cathepsins in occurrence and progression of cancers have been identified and this has caused unrest in scientists triggering them to investigate the physiology, biochemical pathways and interactions of these cathepsins in cancer metastasis and therefore has become a noteworthy topic of intensive research. This review focusses and collects together the published work on molecular functional and structural characterization studies that have been done so far on in vitro expression of genes encoding for cysteine cathepsins in the Escherichia coli bacterial expression system. Accordingly, it was found out that all cathepsins except for cathepsins K, C, H, X and W have been expressed this way and the majority of them were found to be expressed in E. coli BL21(DE3) pLysS expression host via pET3 expression vector. In addition, it was also noted that in most of the expression studies, the substrate that was used to validate the enzymatic activity of the recombinant enzyme that was produced was a cysteine residue along with a benzyloxy-carbonyl salt. Through this review, the authors suggest that there is a very high need that all cysteine cathepsins need to be characterized both structurally and functionally on a molecular platform to better understand their interactions including the biochemical pathways. It is also momentous that the mass production of the recombinant forms of these enzymes are facilitated via expression in such bacterial expression systems and in turn, would also provide a strong platform for the development and progression of studies related to human physiology including oncological studies such as cancer metastasis. Moreover, as per biochemical features of the enzymes that could be identified, the production of efficient inhibitors or inducers as per the necessity to improve health and promote wellbeing among the mankind could be facilitated.

This work is a natural extension of the author’s previous work: “Multiple scattering theory for heterogeneous elastic continua with strong property fluctuation: theoretical fundamentals and applications” (arXiv:1706.09137 [physics.geo-ph]), which established the foundation for developing multiple scattering model for heterogeneous elastic continua with either weak or strong fluctuations in mass density and elastic stiffness. Polycrystalline material is another type of heterogeneous materials that widely exists in nature and extensively used in industry. In this work, the corresponding multiple scattering theory for polycrystalline materials with randomly oriented anisotropic crystallites is developed. To validate the theory, the theoretical results for a series of materials such as OFHC copper, 304 stainless steel, and Inconel 600 are compared to experimental measurements and the numerical results obtained using finite element simulations. Detailed analysis shows that the new theory is capable of predicting the dispersion and attenuation of polycrystals with satisfactory accuracy. The results also show the new model can give an estimate on the average grain size with a relative error equal to or less than ten percent. As applications in ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation, we calculated the dispersion and attenuation coefficient of one of the most important polycrystalline materials in aeronautics engineering: high-temperature titanium alloys. The effects of grain symmetry, grain size, and alloying elements on the dispersion and attenuation behaviors are examined. Key information is obtained which has significant implications for quantitatively evaluating the average grain size, monitoring the phase transition, and even estimating gradual change in chemical composition of titanium components in gas turbine engines. For applications in seismology, the velocities and Q-factors for both hexagonal and cubic polycrystalline iron models for the Earth’s uppermost inner core are obtained in the whole frequency range. Using the realistic material parameters of iron under the high temperature and high-pressure conditions calculated from ab initio simulations, the numerical results show that the Q-factors range from 0.001 to 0.05, which shows good agreement with that inferred from real seismic data. The new model predicts the velocity of longitudinal waves varies between ± 1% to ± 5 % relative to the Voight average velocity, while the velocity of transverse waves varies from ± 10% to ± 20%, which gives promising explanation to the abnormally slow transverse velocity observed in practical measurements. The numerical results support the conjecture that the Earth’s uppermost inner core is a solid polycrystalline medium. The comprehensive numerical examples show the new model is capable of capturing the most important scattering features of both ultrasonic and seismic waves with satisfactory accuracy. This work provides a universal, quantitative model for characterization of a large variety of polycrystalline materials. It also can be extended to incorporate more complicated microstructures, including ellipsoidal grains with or without textures, and even multi-phase polycrystalline materials. The new model demonstrates great potential of applications in ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation and inspection of aerospace and aeronautic structures. It also provides a theoretical framework for quantitative seismic data explanation and inversion for the material composition and structural formations of the Earth’s inner core.

Semen Allii Fistulosi is the seed of Allium fistulosum L. of the Liliaceae family. The purpose of this study was to extract, characterize, and evaluate the antioxidant activity in vitro of proteins from Semen Allii Fistulosi (PSAF). Using single factor and orthogonal design, the optimum conditions of extraction were determined to be as follows: extraction time 150 min, pH 8.5, temperature 60℃, and ratio (v/w, mL/g) of extraction solvent to raw material 35. The isoelectric point of the pH was determined to be about 4.4 and 10.2, by measuring the protein content of PSAF solutions at different pH. The amino acid composition of PSAF was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and the results suggested that the species of amino acids contained in the PSAF was complete. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE) analysis showed the molecular weight was mainly between 40 and 55 kDa, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) characterized prevalent protein absorption peaks. PSAF exhibited potent scavenging activities against DPPH assays, via targeting of hydroxyl and superoxide radicals, while chelating Fe2+ activity, and demonstrating weak reducing power. This work revealed that PSAF possessed potential antioxidant activity in vitro, suggesting potential for use of PSAF as a natural antioxidant.

We discuss the influence played by different statistical models in the prediction of porosity and litho-fluid facies from logged and post-stack inverted acoustic impedance (Ip) values. We compare the inversion and classification results obtained under three different a-priori statistical assumptions: an analytical Gaussian distribution, an analytical Gaussian-mixture model and a non-parametric mixture distribution. The first model assumes Gaussian distributed porosity and Ip values, thus neglecting their facies-dependent behaviour caused by different lithologic and saturation conditions. Differently, the other two statistical models relate each component of the mixture to a specific litho-fluid facies, so that the facies-dependency of porosity and Ip values is taken into account. Blind well tests are used to validate the final predictions, whereas the analysis of the maximum-a-posteriori (MAP) solutions, the coverage ratio and the contingency analysis tools are used to quantitatively compare the inversion outcomes. This work points out that the correct choice of the statistical petrophysical model could be crucial in reservoir characterization studies. Indeed, for the investigated zone it turns out that the simple Gaussian model constitutes an oversimplified assumption, while the two mixture models provide more accurate results, although the non-parametric one yields slightly superior predictions with respect to the Gaussian-mixture assumption.

Thermal plasma technique is becoming prominent in the treatment of variety of waste ranging from municipal solid waste, incinerator residue, hospital waste, electronics waste and industrial sludge. Application of the new treatment technology to petroleum sludge requires information on the nature and characteristics of the sludge that will be use to optimize the treatment system. In this investigation, petroleum sludge obtained from Petronas Melaka was characterized for its physical and chemical features. Proximate and ultimate analysis as well as determination of elemental composition were carried out. The sludge was found to contain high moisture (78.91%), low ash (5.06%), low volatiles (5.52%) and high fixed carbon (10.51%). The sludge has a TOC of 54.48% and HHV of 23.599MJ/kg. Despite the high moisture content, the higher heating value (HHV) is high when compared to literature values. The high value of HHV may be associated with the high fixed carbon, low ash content and high value of TOC. The apparent density of the sludge is slightly lower. Fourteen heavy metals are detected in significant quantities. Proper waste management that will safely dispose the sludge is required. The waste disposal technique should take into cognizant the possibility of leaching of heavy metals into ground water on one hand and the gasification of lighter ones on the other.

Fourteen (14) rack-mounted polycrystalline modules installed on the concrete roof of the solar energy applications laboratory at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana, a hot humid environment were assessed after 19 years of continuous outdoor expodure. The physical state of the modules was documented using a visual inspection checklist. They were further assessed by current-voltage (I-V) characterization and thermal imaging. The modules were found to be in good physical state, except some bubbles on front side and minor discolouration/corrosion at edge of the cells. Compared with reference values, the performance decline of the modules observed over the exposure period was: nominal power (P_nom), 21% to 35%; short circuit current (I_sc), 5.8% to 11.7%; open circuit voltage (V_oc) 3.6% to 5.6% and 11.9% to 25.7% for fill factor (FF). It is hoped that this study will provide some helpful information to project developers, manufacturers and the research community on the long-term performance of PV modules in Ghana.

In the present work report, the MgAl₂O₄and the Ag/MgAl₂O₄ samples were successfully synthesized by the modified hydrothermal and the isovolumetric impregnation methods, respectively. The structural properties of the prepared samples were systematically characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, DRS, XPS and et al techniques. The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue by the Ag/MgAl₂O₄ and MgAl₂O₄ samples was comparatively studied under UV lamp irradiation. The results revealed that the prepared Ag/MgAl₂O₄ (pH=6) samples were the most active among the samples in photocatalytic of methylene blue. Under UV lamp irradiation, the Ag/MgAl₂O₄ (pH=6) photodegradation of methylene blue reached to 89.6% within 120 min. And the Ag/MgAl₂O₄ (pH=6) complex photocatalysts displayed a high photochemical stability under repeated irradiation. Repeated irradiate the Ag/MgAl₂O₄ (pH=6) compound, which indicated it had a high photochemical stability.

The structure of arylpiperazine moieties as an important pharmacophore could generate wide pharmacological activities．Arylpiperazine derivatives referred in this paper possessed antitumor activity. The title compounds were crystallized by slow evaporation. 2-(4-(2-(4-Phenylpiperazin-1-yl)ethyl)benzyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione(1), 2-(4-(2-(4-(4-Bromophenyl)piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)benzyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione (2) and 2-(4-(2-(4-(4-Chlorophenyl)piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)benzyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione (3) crystallizes in the triclinic space group P-1 with two molecules in the unit cell. The unit cell parameters for 1 are a = 6.9159(14) Å, b = 9.999(2) Å, c = 16.925(3) Å, α = 88.25(3)°, β = 85.14(3) °, γ = 79.22(3) °. The unit cell parameters for 2 are a = 6.9995(14) Å, b = 9.919(2) Å, c = 17.671(4) Å, α= 97.55(3)°, β = 92.19(3) °, γ = 102.23(3) °. The unit cell parameters for 1 are a = 6.9872(14) Å, b = 9.863(2) Å, c = 17.557(4) Å, α=96.81(3)°, β = 91.89(3) °, γ = 101.74(3) °. Pi-pi interactions were observed between molecules, and compound 2 and 3 showed halogen interactions between molecules nearby, which was different from compound 1.

Honey is a sweet substance extensively consumed in the world for its nutritional and healthy properties. However, residues of pesticides and environmental contaminants can compromise its quality. For this reason, the physicochemical parameters, and the organic contamination of monofloral and multifloral honeys from three regions of Algeria (Tiaret, Laghouat and Tindouf) were monitored to evaluate the quality of honey and the safety for consumers. In general, the results obtained from the physicochemical analyses were in line with the EU standards. In terms of contamination, pesticides authorised and used in Algerian agriculture (matalaxyl-M and cyromazine), as well as banned pesticide (carbaryl), were found in almost all the samples. However, only the concentration of cyromazine was higher than the relative EU maximum residue levels. PCB 180, PCB 189, anthracene, fluorene and phenanthrene were mainly detected. All the honeys show traces of DiBP, DBP, DEHP and DEHT, but no traces of bisphenols were found. Moreover, the dietary exposure assessment shows that a small amount of Algerian honey can be safely consumed. Overall, data from this study should motivate the Algerian government to enhance their monitoring activities in beekeeping and to find solutions for implementing more sustainable agricultural practices harmonizing with the international legislation.

Chilean jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi) is recognized as one of the most valuable pelagic resources across the southeast Pacific Ocean. Despite its nutritious properties it is an underused resource due to its rapid spoilage. The use of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) for the processing of aquatic products could be an efficient alternative to cold storage since HHP might inactivate microbial pathogens and slow down spoilage microorganisms, therefore extending the product’s shelf life. The aim of the study was to compare the effect of HHP at 450 and 550 MPa for 3 min on the physicochemical properties of jack mackerel muscle undergoing pre- and post-rigor mortis stage and further storage for 26 days at 4°C. pH, total volatile basic nitrogen, trimethylamine, color, water-holding capacity, and texture were assessed. The proximate composition, pH, total volatile basic nitrogen, trimethylamine, color, water holding capacity, and texture, showed significant changes between untreated and treated samples, while the water holding capacity was virtually unaffected. Overall results showed an acceptable and long-lasting edible quality of Trachurus murphyi stored at 4°C when preserved through HHP. These findings suggest that the HHP might be able to industrially scale the production of highly physicochemical superior and minimally processed fish products.

Pinus squamata is one of the most threatened conifer endemic to northeastern Yunnan Province, China, and it is prioritized as one of the Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations (PSESP) for urgent protection in China. However, we lack a comprehensive consideration of the protection effect and the endangered mechanism, especially based on the underground growth status of endangered plants. The integrated study of soil properties and rhizosphere bacteria can assist conservation to understand therequired conditions for the protection and survival of rare and endangered species. In our study, bacterial communities in wild, ex-situ, and reintroduced P. squamata rhizosphere were compared using Illumina sequencing of the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA genes. We determined the soil physicochemical properties, analyzed the relationships between the bacterial communities and soil physicochemical factors, and predicted the potential bacterial ecological functions. The reintroduced site Qiaojia (RQ) had the highest richness and diversity. Samples were scattered (R = 0.93, P = 0.001), indicating significant difference between the different conservation sites. Soil total potassium (TK) and available nitrogen (AN) were the main factors driving bacterial community (0.01 &lt; P ≤ 0.05). The low abundance of Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) may be a biotic factor contributing to the endangerment of P. squamata. This study provides a foundation to assess the effect of conservation based on bacterial diversity and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to guide future research into the conservation of P. squamata.

This review focuses on an extensive synopsis of the recent improvements in the field of CO2 hydrogenation over structured zeolites including their properties, synthesis methods, and characterization approaches. The role of bimodal mesoporous structures surface oxygen vacancies, and the Si/Al ratio in improving catalytic activity is highlighted. The porosity, thermal stability, and structural integrity are also discussed in the review along with how structured zeolites are affected by electrical and plasma interactions. The synthesis methods are analyzed in detail by comparing the benefits and drawbacks of the bottom-up techniques, such as hard templating, soft templating, and non-templating on the one side; and the top-down approaches, e.g. dealumination, desilication, and recrystallization on the other. This review also draws attention to the necessity of overcoming the difficulties arising from these synthesis techniques, for example, micropore-induced diffusion restrictions and morphological constraints, employing innovative approaches and optimization strategies. Conventional and advanced characterization techniques are pointed out in this respect as crucial for understanding the catalytic mechanism and the dynamic behavior, hence, beneficial in the advancements of research on structured zeolites with higher efficiency and activity. The review ends with a perspective that highlights the necessity of further research in the improvement of synthesis approaches and characterization procedures of the structured zeolites to increase their catalytic activity in CO2 hydrogenation, a critical process of paramount importance in the global effort to reduce excessive carbon emissions and combat climate change..

Recently, pharmaceutical research has been focused on the design of new antibacterial drugs with higher selectivity towards several strains. Major issues concern the possibility to obtain com-pounds with fewer side effects, at the same time effectively overcoming the problem of antimi-crobial resistance. Several solutions include the synthesis of new pharmacophores starting from piperazine or morpholine core units. Mass spectrometry-based techniques offer important sup-port for the structural characterization of newly synthesized compounds to design safer and more effective drugs for various medical conditions. Here, two new piperazine derivatives and four new morpholine derivatives were synthesized and structurally characterized through a combined approach of FT-ICR and LTQ mass spectrometry. The support of both high-resolution and low-resolution mass spectrometric data namely accurate mass measurements, isotopic distribu-tion and MSn spectra, was crucial to confirm the success of the synthesis. These compounds were further evaluated for inhibitory activity against a total of twenty-nine Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria to determine the action spectrum and the antimicrobial effectiveness. Results demonstrated compounds’ antimicrobial activity against many tested bacterial species, providing an inhibitory effect linked to different chemical structure and suggesting that the new-synthesized derivatives could be considered as promising antimicrobial agents.

PPR is a highly contagious viral disease and one of the deadliest affecting wild goats, sheep and small ruminants, however goats are generally more sensitive. The causative agent is the Peste des Petits Ruminants virus (PPRv) which is a single-stranded RNA virus of negative polarity belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family. In February 2020, an active outbreak of PPR was re-ported in a herd of a transhumant farmer in the village of Ngainth Pathé (department of Kounguel, Kaffrine region,Senegal). Of the ten (10) swabs collected from goats, eight (8) came back positive by real-time PCR. The most positive sample was amplified, purified and amplicon sent for sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the sequence of the PPR virus obtained belonged to lineage IV. These results confirm those found in the latter countries and reinforce the hypothesis of the importance of animal mobility between these neighboring countries. In perspective, following the discovery of this lineage IV in Senegal, a study on its dispersion is underway throughout the national territory. The results that will emerge from this study, asso-ciated with detailed data on animal movements and epidemiological data, will provide appro-priate and effective information to improve PPR surveillance and control strategies with a view to its eradication.

The structure characterization of two new polysaccharides from Agrocybe aegerita (AA-P) and Hygrophorus olivaceoalbus (HO-P) by HPGPC, GC-MS, NMR and FT-IR indicated that AA-P was composed of Galactose, Glucose and Arabinose, in the ratio of 3:2:1. Its skeleton structure was consisted of (1→4)-Arap, (1→4,6)-Glup and (1→6)-Galp with one branched chain. The HO-P was consisted of mannose, galactose and glucose in a ratio of 1:1:2. Its skeleton structure was consisted of (1→6)-Galactose residues, (→1)-glucose residues, (1→4)-glucose residues and (1→4,6)-D-mannose residues. There were two branched chains connected to the main chain. AA-P and HO-P had the best stimulation effect on B cells and RAW264.7 cells, respectively, and could both mainly by impacting and reducing G0/G1 phase which lead to a significant proliferation of B cells, T cells and RAW264.7 cells. In addition, AA-P and HO-P could significantly promote the secretion of TNF-α from T cells, the secretion of IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM from B cells, and the secretion of TNF-α from RAW264.7 cells, but neither of them could impact the secretion of IL-1β from RAW264.7 cells.

Electrocatalytic and photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) provides a promising approach to clean energy generation. Bimetallic single-atom catalysts raised and have been explored to be advanced catalysts for HER. It is urgent to review and summarize the recent advances in developing bimetallic single-atom HER catalysts. Firstly, the fundamentals of bimetallic single-atom catalysts are presented, highlighting their unique configuration of two isolated metal atoms on supports and resultant synergistic effects. Secondly, recent advances in bimetallic single-atom catalysts for electrocatalytic HER under acidic/alkaline conditions are then reviewed, including W-Mo, Ru-Bi, Ni-Fe, Co-Ag, and other dual-atom systems on graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) with enhanced HER activity versus monometallic analogs due to geometric and electronic synergies. Then, Photocatalytic bimetallic single-atom catalysts on semiconducting carbon nitrides for solar H2 production are also discussed. Finally, an outlook is provided on opportunities and challenges in precisely controlling bimetallic single-atom catalyst synthesis and gaining in-depth mechanistic insights into bimetallic interactions.

L-asparaginase from bacterial sources have been used in antineoplastic treatments and the food industry. A novel type II L-a sparaginase encoded by the N-truncated gene ansZP21 of halotolerant Bacillus subtilis CH11 isolated from Chilca salterns in Peru was expressed using a heterologous system in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3)pLysS. The recombinant protein was purified using one-step nickel affinity chromatography and exhibited activity of 234.38 U mg-1 and a maximum catalytic activity at pH 9.0 and 60 °C. The enzyme shows a homotetrameric form with an estimated molecular weight of 155 kDa by gel filtration chromatography. The enzyme half-life at 60 °C was 3 h 48 min, and L-asparaginase retained 50% of initial activity for 24 h at 37 °C. The activity was considerably enhanced by KCl, CaCl2, MgCl2, mercaptoethanol, and DL-dithiothreitol (p-value &lt; 0.01). Moreover, the Vmax and Km were 145.2 µmol mL-1 min-1 and 4.752 mM, respectively. These findings evidence a promising novel type II L-asparaginase for future industrial applications.

Rotavirus is a major cause of diarrhea globally in animals and young children under 5 years. Here, molecular detection and genetic characterization of porcine rotavirus in smallholder and commercial pig farms in the Lusaka Province of Zambia were con-ducted. Screening of 148 stool samples by RT-PCR targeting the VP6 gene revealed a prevalence of 22.9 % (34/148). Further testing of VP6-positive samples with VP7-specific primers produced 12 positives, which were then Sanger-sequenced. BLASTn of the VP7 positives showed sequence similarity to porcine and human rota-virus strains with identities ranging from 87.5% to 97.1%. By next-generation se-quencing, the full-length genetic constellation of the representative strains RVA/pig-wt/ZMB/LSK0137 and RVA/pig-wt/ZMB/LSK0147 were determined. Geno-typing of these strains revealed a known Wa-like genetic backbone and their genetic constellations were G4-P[6]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H1 and G9-P[13]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H1, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these two viruses might have their ancestral origin from pigs, though some of their gene segments were related to human strains. The study shows evidence of reas-sortment and possible interspecies transmission between pigs and humans in Zambia. Therefore, the “One Health” surveillance approach for rotavirus A in animals and humans is recommended to inform the design of effective control measures.

The study of phytotherapy in dentistry is relevant due to the low occurrence of research in the treatment of oral pathologies, such as caries and periodontal disease. Thus, the aim of this research was to characterize the chemical composition of extracts from the leaves of Couroupita guianensis Aubl, including toxicological evaluation and the antioxidant and antimicrobial potential against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. Three extracts were prepared using assisted ultrasound, originating the Crude Ultrasound Extract (CUE) and Soxhlet apparatus, originating the Crude Soxhlet Extract (CSE) and the Ethanol Soxhlet Extract (ESE). In the analysis of the chemical composition, the presence of flavonoids, tannins and saponins were detected. LC-DAD analysis revealed the presence of caffeic acid, sinapic acid, rutin, quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol and apigenin in all extracts. In the GC-MS analysis, stigmasterol and β-sitosterol were identified in CUE and CSE. The antioxidant potentials, determined by the DPPH• and ABTS•+ methods, the ESE showed higher antioxidant activity (2.98 ± 0.96 and 4.93 ± 0.90, respectively). In the evaluation of toxicity, the CUE 50µg/mL and the ESE 50 µg/mL presented growth stimulation of Allium cepa roots. At a concentration of 750µg/mL, all extracts inhibited root growth. None of the extracts showed toxicity against Artemia salina. Antibacterial action was detected in all extracts, mainly against the microorganisms S. aureus and S. mutans; however, the antifungal action against C. albicans was not detected. From the results, the extracts of C. guianensis have therapeutic potential for use in the control of microorganisms in the oral microbiota.

China is a large agricultural country that produces a large amount of crop straw every year. Thus, the development of cost-effective and economic application of invasive plants is warranted. Biochars derived from crop straw has been proven to be promising for adsorbent materials. However, less studies have focused on biochar derived from different types of crop straw as adsorbent under the same conditions to compare their adsorption performance. Here, we characterized the five biochars in the same system (600 ℃). In results, GBC has higher ash content, pH, CEC, specific surface area, mineral composition and oxygen-containing functional groups. The adsorption kinetics can be explained adequately by pseudo-second-order model and Langmuir model, indicating that the adsorption behavior of the biochar is both physical adsorption and chemical adsorption, the adsorption process includes complexation reaction, cationic π bond, ion precipitation and electrostatic adsorption. In conclusion, GBC exhibited higher metal equilibrium adsorption capacities (125 mg·g-1 for Pb2+, 29 mg·g-1 for Cd2+). The solution pH, biochar dosing, pyrolysis temperature and the properties of these heavy metals were responsible for adsorption capacity, thus showing stronger affinity and better adsorption effect. Our results are important for the selection and utilization of plant-based biochar for different heavy metals.

Laser therapy devices (LTDs) operating with near-infrared laser light are increasingly being used in sports medicine. For several reasons the users cannot evaluate whether or not such devices emit laser beams according to the specifications provided by the manufacturer and the settings of the device. In this study the laser beams from two different LTDs that can be used in sports medicine were thoroughly characterized by measuring the emitted power, pulse shapes and lengths, and spatial intensity distributions using professional, high-fidelity laser measurement technology. This was repeated for three units of each LDT independently to distinguish problems of individual units from potential intrinsic instrument design errors. The laser beams from the units of one LTD agreed with the settings at the device, with the measured average power for these units being within 3.3% of the set power. In contrast, the laser beams from the units of the other LTD showed large deviations between the settings and the actual emitted light. This device came with three laser diodes that could be used independently and simultaneously. The average power differed greatly between the units as well as between the laser diodes within each unit. Some laser diodes emitted essentially no light, which could lead to a lack of treatment of patients. Other laser diodes emitted much more power than set at the device (up to 230%) that could result in skin irritations or burnings of patients. These findings indicate a need for better standardization and consistency of therapeutic laser light sources.

The ever-growing field of materials with applications in the biomedical field holds great promise regarding the design and fabrication of devices with specific characteristics especially scaffolds with personalized geometry and architecture. The continuous technological development pushes the limits of innovation in obtaining adequate scaffolds and establishing their characteristics and performance. To this end, computed tomography (CT) proved to be a reliable, non-destructive, high-performance machine, enabling visualization and structure analysis at sub-micronic resolutions. CT allows both qualitative and quantitative data of the 3D model, offering an overall image of its specific architectural features as well as reliable numerical data for rigorous analyses. The precise engineering of scaffolds consists in the fabrication of objects with well-defined morphometric parameters (e.g.: shape, porosity, wall thickness), and in their performance validation through thorough control over their behavior (in situ visualization, degradation, new tissue formation, wear, etc.). This review is focused on the use of CT in biomaterial science with the aim of qualitatively and quantitatively assess the scaffolds’ features and in monitoring their behavior following in vivo or in vitro experiments. Furthermore, the paper presents the benefits and limitations regarding the employment of this technique when engineering materials with applications in the biomedical field.

Background:Boom in nanotechnology in current era has sketched unforeseen transformations in number of fields, such as medicine, health care, food, space, agriculture, etc. The synthesis of nanoparticles with different chemical compositions, sizes, shapes and controlled disparities is an important area of research in this field. Over the last decade, the biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles has received considerable attention due to their unusual and fascinating properties, with various applications, over their bulk counterparts.Hypothesis: The nanoparticle can have huge application in the field of food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries and thus become a major area of research. Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using plant extracts offers an eco-friendly and promising substitute to the conventional methods of chemical synthesis. Conclusion: In the arena of nanoparticle phytosynthesis, novel materials have been produced that are eco-friendly, cost-effective and stable. In the current situation, nanotechnology inspires progress in all spheres of life, and therefore the phytosynthetic path of nanoparticle synthesis has emerged as a safe and best alternative to conventional methods. This review summarizes the recent work in the field of zinc nanoparticle phytosynthesis and critically discusses the mechanism proposed behind it.

Over the last decade, there has been a growing interest in the use of a wide range of phytoadditives to counteract the harmful effects of heat stress in poultry. Willow (Salix spp.) is a tree with a long history. Among various forms, willow bark is an important natural source of salicin, β-O-glucoside of saligenin, but also of polyphenols (flavonoids and condensed tannins) with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity. In light of this, the current review presents some literature data aiming to: (1) describe the relationship between heat stress and oxidative stress in broilers, (2) present or summarize literature data on the chemical composition of Salix species, (3) summarize the mechanisms of action of willow bark in heat-stressed broilers, (4) present different biological effects of the extract of Salix species in different experimental models.

Fermented milk product "Laban" in Libya is one of the most a traditional fermented milk product consumed a refreshing drink, particularly in the warm season The average values of the physicochemical including titratable acidity, pH, total solids, and fat were 0.73%, 4.16, 8.12%, and 1.54% respectively. Coliform, yeast and mold counts were 21×10⁴, 39×10⁴, and 41 ×10³ cfu/ ml., respectively. Most strains of coliform bacteria were Serratia odorifera, Escherichia coli 1, E. coli 2. and Klebsiella oxytoca. The average Lactococcus, Streptococcus, Mesophilic Lactobacillus / Leuconostoc and Thermophilic Lactobacillus counts were 99 ×10⁷, 96 ×10⁷, 93 ×10⁷ and 15 ×10⁷ cfu / ml. respectively. A total of 142 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates were identified to the genus level as Lactobacillus (48.59%), Lactococcus (43.66%), Streptococcus (4.93%) and Leuconostoc (2.82%). Sugar fermentation tests revealed the most frequent Lactobacillus species found to be Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. lactis (62.32%), followed by Lactobacillus plantarum (31.88%). Furthermore, other selected LAB isolates were identified by API 50 CH test as Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactics, Lactobacillus pentosus, Lactobacillus brevis, and Leuconostoc mesenteroides ssp. cremoris. Thus, our research documented the lactic acid bacteria strains and will provides fundamental basic and useful information for further studies of strain selection starter culture, with regard to the industrial production of fermented dairy milk products.

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been extensively used for the nanoscale characterization of polymeric materials. The coupling of AFM with infrared spectroscope (AFM-IR) provides another advantage to the chemical analyses and thus helps to shed light upon the study of polymers. In this perspective paper, we review recent progress in the use of AFM-IR in polymer science. We describe first the principle of AFM-IR and the recent improvements to enhance its resolution. We discuss then the last progress in the use of AFM-IR as a super-resolution correlated scanned-probe IR spectroscopy for chemical characterization of polymer materials dealing with polymer composites, polymer blends, multilayers and biopolymers. To highlight the advantages of AFM-IR, we report here several results in studying crystallization of both miscible and immiscible blends as well as polymer aging. Then, we demonstrate how this novel technique can be used to determine phase separation, spherulitic structure and crystallization mechanisms at the nanoscale, which have never been achieved before. The review also discusses future trends in the use of AFM-IR in polymer materials, especially in polymer thin film investigation.