Either stereo reactants or stereo catalysis from achiral or chiral molecules are prerequisite to obtain pure enantiomeric lipid derivatives. We reviewed a few plausible organic syntheses of phospholipids under prebiotic conditions with a special attention to the starting materials as pro-chiral dihydroxyacetone and dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP), which are the key molecules to break symmetry in phospholipids. The advantages of homochiral membranes compared to those of heterochiral membranes were analysed in term of specific recognition, optimal functions of enzymes, membrane fluidity and topological packing. All biological membranes contain enantiomeric lipids in modern bacteria, eukarya and archaea. The contemporary archaea, comprising of methanogens, halobacteria and thermoacidophiles are living under extreme conditions reminiscent of primitive environment and may indicate the origin of one ancient evolution path of lipid biosynthesis. The analysis of lipid metabolism reveals that all modern cells including archaea synthetize enantiomeric lipid precursors from prochiral DHAP. sn-glycerol-1-phosphate dehydrogenase (G1PDH), usually found in archaea, catalyses the formation of sn-glycerol-1-phosphate (G1P), while sn-glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH) catalyses the formation of sn-glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) in bacteria and eukarya. The selective enzymatic activity seems to be the main strategy that evolution retained to obtain enantiomeric pure lipids. The occurrence of two genes encoding for G1PDH and G3PDH, served to build up an evolution tree and the basis of our review focusing on the evolution of these two genes. Gene encoding for G3PDH in Eukarya may originate from G3PDH gene found in rare archaea indicating that archaea appeared earlier in the evolution tree than eukarya. Archaea and bacteria evolved probably separately, due to their distinct respective genes coding for G1PDH and G3PDH. The suggested hypothesis is that catalysis of homochiral G1P or G3P from DHAP are more efficient than those leading to racemic G1P and G3P, since there are no enzymes able to synthesize racemic G1P and G3P from DHAP. We propose that G1PDH or G3DPH, which are not “image mirror enzymes” but belonging to distinct family of proteins, emerged separately during evolution. They were probably selected for their efficient catalytic activities during evolution from large libraries of vesicles containing various biopolymers, including amino acids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, lipids, and meteorite components to induce chemical imbalance.

Core chlorophytes possess glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenases (GPDs) with an unusual bidomain structure, consisting of a glycerol-3-phosphate phosphatase (GPP) domain fused to canonical GPD domains. These plastid-localized enzymes have been implicated in stress responses, being required for the synthesis of glycerol under high salinity and triacylglycerols under nutrient deprivation. However, their regulation under varying environmental conditions is poorly understood. C. reinhardtii transgenic strains expressing constitutively bidomain GPD2 did not accumulate glycerol or triacylglycerols in the absence of any environmental stress. Although, the glycerol contents of both wild type and transgenic strains increased significantly upon exposure to high salinity. Cycloheximide, an inhibitor of cytoplasmic protein synthesis, abolished this response in the wild type. In contrast, GPD2 transgenic strains were still capable of glycerol accumulation when cultured in medium containing cycloheximide and NaCl. Thus, pre-existing GPD2 protein appears to become activated for glycerol synthesis upon salt stress. Interestingly, staurosporine, a non-specific inhibitor of protein kinases, prevented this post-translational GPD2 protein activation. Structural modeling analyses suggested that substantial conformational rearrangements, possibly triggered by high salinity, may characterize an active GPD2 GPP domain. Understanding this mechanism(s) may provide insights into the rapid acclimation responses of microalgae to osmotic/salinity stress.

Imbalance in the oxidative status in neurons, along with mitochondrial damage, are common characteristics in some neurodegenerative diseases. The maintenance in energy production is crucial to face and recover from the oxidative damage and the coexistence of different sources of energy production, such as mitochondrial and glycolytic ATP, allows faster adaptative mechanisms to situations of high energy demand and may help in the maintenance of neuronal function in stress situations. Fingolimod phosphate is a drug with neuroprotective and antioxidant actions, used in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. This work has been performed in a model of oxidative damage on neuronal cell cultures exposed to menadione, in presence or absence of fingolimod phosphate. We have studied the mitochondrial function and several pathways related with glucose metabolism, including oxidative, glycolytic and pentose phosphate in neuronal cells cultures. Our results showed a beneficial effect on neuronal survival probably based in the recovery of all, oxidative balance, glycolysis and pentose phosphate, promoted by fingolimod phosphate. These effects are mediated, at least in part by the interaction with its specific receptor. These actions would make this drug a potential tool to the treatment of neurodegenerative processes, either to slow progression or alleviate symptoms.

Waste glycerol can be subjected to various processing operations, including purification and re-fining, to obtain glycerol of appropriate purity. In addition, alternative methods of utilising waste glycerol are also being sought, e.g. by converting it into other valuable chemical products or biofuels. Therefore, various technologies are being developed to utilise this type of waste effectively and sustainably. The production of value-added products from waste glycerol is an important issue that determines the improvement of the economic viability of biofuel production and corresponds to the model of a waste-free and emission-free circular economy. This paper characterised the mechanisms and evaluated the efficiency of existing methods of microbiological utilisation of waste glycerol into liquid biofuels, including biodiesel, bioethanol and biobutanol, and identified further directions for the production of value-added products. In addition, a bibliographical analysis of publications re-lated to the production of liquid fuels and economically valuable products from glycerol was carried out, the progress of research and application work was assessed and directions for future research were identified.

Background: Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency increases the risk of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. The aim of the study is to evaluate the clinical findings of glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency, to prevent further examinations for prolonged jaundice, and to contribute by regulating its treatment. At the same time, it is to determine whether systemic-immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) can be used in addition to conventional complete blood count (CBC) parameters in the diagnosis of neonatal prolonged jaundice. Methods: In full term neonates with hyperbilirubinemia who were admitted to Medicine Hospital between January 2019 and January 2024 with the complaint of jaundice, 167 infants with a serum bilirubin level above 5 mg/dL, whose jaundice persisted after the 10th day, were included in the study. Results: 63.5% of the patients were male and the mean age was 31±6 days. G6PD was negatively perfectly correlated with NLR (r: -1; p

The cast defects strongly degrade the mechanical properties in cast alloys. The effect of Sn addition on Al-Si alloys was investigated by 3D computed tomography, SEM and TEM. Amorphous Sn oxides are found near the alumina film, cause more shrinkage pores, initiate cracks and deteriorate mechanical properties. This work suggests not adding Sn in various Al alloys used in cast state.

A series of supported CuO-based nanoparticle catalysts were prepared by impregnation method and used for the synthesis of glycerol carbonate from glycerol and CO2 in the presence of 2-cyanopyridine as a dehydrant and DMF as a solvent. The effects of supports (activated alumina, silicon dioxide, graphene oxide, graphene, and activated carbon), CuO loading amount, calcination temperature, and reaction parameters on the catalytic activity of catalyst were investigated in detail. XRD, FTIR, SEM, BET, and CO2-TPD were used for the characterization of the prepared catalysts. It is found that CuO/Al2O3 shows a higher catalytic activity, which depends on the CuO loading amount and calcination temperature. The surface area and amount of basic sites of the catalyst exhibit crucial effect on the catalytic activity of CuO/Al2O3. Furthermore, there is a synergistic effect between the catalyst and 2-cyanopyridine that the former has higher activation ability for glycerol and the latter acts not only as a dehydrant, but also as a promoter for CO2 activation. Recycling experiments reveal that this catalyst can be reused at least five cycles without any inactivation. Based on the experiment results and FTIR characterization, a possible reaction mechanism for the carbonylation of glycerol and CO2 is proposed.

Two important types of metal oxide nanoparticle catalysts Copper (II) oxide (CuO) and Cerium oxide (CeO₂) are prepared by a suitable method which was traditional precipitation (PT) method at calcination temperature of 400^oC for 5h and used for the synthesis of glycerol carbonate GC (C₄H₆O₄) from the direct reaction by the carbonylation of Glycerol GL (C₃H₈O₃) with Carbone Dioxide. The precipitation (PT) was an important route for the preparation of nanoparticles catalyst. The effects of performance of (CuO and CeO₂) nanoparticle catalysts on the conversion of glycerol GL, yield of glycerol carbonate GC, selectivity of glycerol carbonate are researched. XRD, XPS, BET, FT-IR, CO₂-TPD, H₂-TPR are used for the characterization of the prepared catalysts. Comparing the optimal performance between them under reaction conditions were 150 ^oC, 4MPa (40 bar.), 5h, and both CuO and CeO₂ catalyst amount 37.6 % (based on ratio of glycerol weight) by using 2-pyridinecarbonitrate (C₆H₄N₂) as dehydrating agent and dimethylformamide (DMF), (C₃H₇NO) as solvent. The glycerol conversion (X_GL), glycerol carbonate yield (Y_GC) and glycerol carbonate selectivity (S_GC) over 0.7g CuO are 57.151%, 47.524%, and 83.156%, respectively, and glycerol carbonate yield over 0.7 CeO₂ is 36.2185% or 35.076%, and the yield of GC could reach as high as 78.234% over 1.73g CeO₂, the both catalysts could be easily regenerated by washing with methanol and water after a reaction and then dried at 60 ^oC overnight after that calcination at 400 ^oC for 5h without loss of activity after five recycling times, In addition to, the (ICP- MS) results confirmed that the leaching of CuO and CeO₂ was below the detection limit.

Background: Amyloid beta peptides (Aβ) have been identified as the main pathogenic agents in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Soluble Aβ oligomers, rather than monomer or insoluble amyloid fibrils, show membrane-binding capacity to red blood cells (RBCs) and trigger several morphological and functional alterations in RBCs that can result in impaired oxygen transport and delivery. Since bioactive lipids have been recently proposed as potent protective agents against Aβ toxicity, we investigated the role of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in signaling pathways involved in the mechanism underlying ATP release in Aβ-treated RBCs. Methods: In RBCs following different treatments, ATP, 2,3 DPG, cAMP levels, and caspase 3 activity were determined by spectrophotometric and immunoassay. Results: S1P rescued the inhibition of ATP release from RBCs triggered by Aβ through a mechanism involving caspase-3 and restoring 2,3 DPG and cAMP levels within the cell. Conclusions: These findings reveal the molecular basis of S1P protection against Aβ in RBCs and suggest new therapeutic avenues in AD.

The production of biodiesel through transesterification routes generates large amounts of glycerol, approximately 10 m3 for every 90 m3 of the biodiesel produced. Taking into account this scenario, the valorization of glycerol using chemical routes that could be operated in biodiesel industry constitutes a promising approach to achieve added-value products. An interesting option is the production of ethers, which can be used as fuel additives in diesel engines to improve the combustion efficiency, reducing soot emission and increasing cetane index. In this study, a purification route was applied to crude glycerol and its valorization by etherification was evaluated. The glycerol contents of purified samples were above 98% wt. The purified and commercial glycerol was used to obtain ethers. Etherification reactions were carried out with different alcohols (ethanol, isopropanol and 3-methyl-1-butanol) into a batch reactor, using small amount of Amberlyst 15 as a catalyst, at autogenous pressure and solvent-free conditions. The glycerol conversion, selectivity and yield to ethers were evaluated. A glycerol conversion of 97% wt. with selectivity of 80% to monoether was obtained when using ethanol. For isopropanol, the glycerol conversion was up to 95% (76% of monoether and 22% of diether). However, the selectivity to ethers for 3-methyl-1-butanol was negligible (<3% wt.). A process simulation for purification and etherification steps integrated with a biodiesel production was assessed in terms of productivity and energy consumption, considering different scenarios of glycerol/alcohol molar ratios.

Fluorescein anisotropy, which is a widely used technique to study the folding state of proteins or affinity of ligands, is used in the present work to study the temperature sensing of fluid in a microchannel, by adding fluorophore in the fluid. Fluorescein was used as a temperature probe, while glycerol-aq. ammonia was used as a working fluid. Fluorescence anisotropy of fluorescein were measured by varying various parameters. Apart from this, a comparison of fluorescence anisotropy and fluorescence intensity is also performed.

The search for sustainable resources remains a subject of global interest and the conversion of the abundantly available bivalve shell wastes to advanced materials is an intriguing method. By grinding, each shell of bivalves (cockle, mussel, and oyster) was transformed to the same crystal type of calcite phase of CaCO3, revealed by FTIR and XRD results. Each individual shell powder was reacted with H3PO4 and H2O to prepare Ca(H2PO4)2•H2O giving an anorthic crystal structure. The mixture of each shell powder and its produced Ca(H2PO4)2•H2O was heated at 900 °C for 3 h, giving rhombohedral crystal -Ca3(PO4)2 powder. FTIR and XRD results of the CaCO3, Ca(H2PO4)2•H2O, and Ca3(PO4)2 prepared from each shell powder are quite similar showing no impurities. Thermal behaviors of CaCO3 and Ca(H2PO4)2•H2O produced from each shell are slightly different. Particle sizes and morphologies of all products are significantly different, affected by the kind of shells used. Overall, the bivalve shell wastes were successfully converted to CaCO3, Ca(H2PO4)2•H2O, and Ca3(PO4)2 by a simple, rapid, environmentally benign, and cost-effective approach, which can be a huge potential in many industries providing both economic and ecological benefits according to the Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG) model.

Strontium (Sr) is a trace element in human body that able to promote bone formation and inhibit bone absorption. The conversion coating of strontium phosphate (Sr-P) on the surface of titanium (Ti) can improve its biological properties, and has a wide application prospect in the fields of dentistry and orthopedics. In this present study, Sr-P coatings with SrHPO4 and Sr3(PO4)2 crystals on Ti are prepared by phosphate chemical conversion (PCC) treatment. And the effect of pH on the properties of Sr-P coatings is researched. The results prove that phase composition, morphology and corrosion resistance of coated Ti are different with the pH values in PCC solution. The morphologies of conversion deposition on Ti change from plat-like to cluster-like, and then homogeneous microcrystals, as pH value changed from 2.50 to 3.25. Only discrete SrHPO4 crystals are generating on substrate at lower pH value, while relative stable Sr3(PO4)2 and SrHPO4 crystals are growing and subsequently forming an integrated coating on Ti as pH is higher than 2.50. The corrosion resistance of coated Ti improves comparing with that of bare Ti because of forming Sr-P coatings with Sr3(PO4)2 phase. In addition, it is indicated that the Sr-P coatings can improve the adhesion and differentiation of BMSCs.

The valorization of the large amount of crude glycerol formed from biodiesel industry, is of primordial necessity. One possible direction with high interest to the biorefiniery sector is the production of fuel additives as solketal, though the acetalization of glycerol with acetone. This is a chemical process that conciliates high sustainability and economic interest, since solketal contributes to the fullfilment of a Circular Economy Model through its use in biodiesel blends. The key to guarantee high efficiency and high sustainability for solketal production is the use of a recovery and recyclable heterogeneous catalyst. Some examples are already reported in the literature (first example in 2012), and this review intends to conciliate the information spreaded in this topic and established the most important reacional parameters and the main catalytic characteristics strategies to achieve high solketal production in short reaction time.

Biodiesel is seen as a successor to diesel of petrochemical origin, as it can be used in cycle engines and stationary engines, and be obtained from renewable raw materials. Currently, the biodiesel production process on an industrial scale is mostly carried out through the transesterification reaction, also forming glycerol as a product. Pure glycerol is used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, cleaning, food and other industries. Even presenting numerous applications, studies indicate that there is a saturation of glycerol in the market which is directly related to the production of biodiesel. This increase causes a commercial devaluation of pure glycerol; making the separation and purification processes unfeasible from an economic point of view. Despite the economic unfeasibility of the aforementioned processes, they continue to be carried out due to environmental issues. Faced with the problem presented, this work aims at a bibliographical review of works that aimed to use glycerol as a raw material for the production process of biofuels, these processes being carried out mostly via fermentation.

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a signaling lipid molecule involved in various cellular processes. It is important to develop a quantitative method for S1P to determine endogenous levels and to investigate its functions. Especially since S1P is a tiny lipid component of most biological samples, highly sensitive analysis by LC-MS/MS is required. The main challenge in S1P analysis by chromatography is peak broadening due to the presence of a polar phosphate and zwitterion formation in S1P. In this study, we used hydrogen fluoride (HF) to efficiently remove a phosphate and then analyzed the surrogate, sphingosine, as a sharp peak by LC-ESI-MS/MS. We optimized the dephosphorylation reaction in terms of reaction time, temperature, and HF concentration. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) for dephosphorylated form of S1P and C17-S1P as internal standard at m/z transition 300.4>282.4 (quantification ion), 300.4>262.4 (qualification ion), 286.3>268.2 (internal standard). This method was validated by essential parameters such as specificity, linearity, range, LOQ, LOD, accuracy, precision, and repeatability. To confirm this new method, we quantified S1P levels in various serum products (100.02 ~ 284.38 nM). To apply the method in vivo, we analyzed S1P in plasma and kidney tissues obtained from a chronic kidney disease (CKD) mouse model. S1P levels were increased only in CKD kidney tissue but not in plasma. In conclusion, by applying the dephosphorylation step with HF, we established a new sensitive LC-MS/MS quantitative method for S1P that can be applied to biological samples.

The development of magnesium calcium phosphate bone cements (MCPCs) have garnered big attention. MCPCs are bioactive and biodegradable and have appropriate mechanical and antimicrobial properties for use in reconstructive surgery. In this study, the cement powders based on a (Ca + Mg)/P = 2 system doped with Zn2+ at 0.5 and 1.0 wt.% were obtained and investigated. After the mixing with a cement liquid, structural and phase composition, morphology, chemical structure, setting time, compressive strength, degradation behavior, solubility, antibacterial activities, and in vitro behaviour of the cement materials were examined. A high compressive strength of 48 ± 5 MPa (mean ± SD) was achieved for the cement made from Zn2+ 1.0-wt.%-substituted powders. The Zn2+ introduction led to antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli strains, with an inhibition zone diameter up to 8 mm. Biological assays confirmed that the developed cements are cytocompatible and promising as a potential bone substitute in reconstructive surgery.

Phosphorus is essential and non-substitutable chemical element required for the cellular processes of all living organisms. The main source of phosphorus in the biosphere is phosphate rock. With more than 700 Mt P2O5, Estonia holds the largest sedimentary phosphate rock deposits in European Union. Estonian phosphate rock is principally sandstone that holds abundant remains of phosphatic brachiopod shells and compared to other sedimentary rocks, is particularly outstanding by its remarkably low content of hazardous heavy metals such as Cd and saturated by valuable elements present in the rock such as rear earth elements (REEs).

Glycerol is the main residue in the biodiesel production industry; therefore, their valorisation is crucial. Acetalization of glycerol towards fuel additives as solketal (2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-methanol) is of high interest, promoting circular economy since it can be added to the biodiesel or even fossil-diesel to improve their quality and efficiency. Straightforward prepared metal-organic framework (MOF) materials of MOF-808 family were applied to the valorisation of glycerol for the first time. In particular, MOF-808(Hf) revealed to be an effective heterogeneous catalyst to produce solketal under moderate conditions: small amount of the MOF material (only 4wt% of glycerol), ratio 1:6 of glycerol/acetone and temperature of 60 ºC. The high efficiency of MOF-808(Hf) was associated with the high amount of acid centres present in its structure. Furthermore, its structural characteristics such as window opening cavities size and pore diameters showed to be ideal to reuse this material during at least ten consecutive reaction cycles without losing activity (conversion > 90% and selectivity > 98%). Remarkably, it was not necessary the washing or other activation treatment of the MOF-808(Hf) catalyst between cycles (no pore blockage occurred) and it maintained structural integrity after the ten cycles, confirming to be a sustainable heterogeneous catalyst to the glycerol valorisation.

The main goal of this study was to introduce glycerol as a plasticizer to Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) membranes in order to increase their flexibility. The qualities of PVA membranes produced with various glycerol concentrations were evaluated. With the modified PVA membranes containing 5% glycerol, encouraging results were obtained. These membranes had superb optical characteristics and a 90% transmittance rate. This shows that the membranes are suited for applications needing excellent optical clarity since they permit light to travel through with little distortion. Importantly, FTIR analysis demonstrated that the addition of glycerol had no effect on the PVA membranes' chemical composition or structural integrity. In comparison to pure PVA Membrane, the modified membranes' water barrier qualities showed a considerable drop of up to 50%. The membranes are useful for applications requiring moisture management or breathability because of the decline, which points to an increase in permeability to water vapour. The large increase in flexibility, which was achieved by the PVA membranes containing 5% glycerol and beyond the brittleness typically associated with pure PVA, was a noteworthy discovery. The possible applications are expanded due to the increased flexibility, especially in industries where adaptability and flexibility are essential. Additionally, the addition of glycerol improved the thermal stability of the membranes, as they showed increased resistance to breakdown or decomposition at high temperatures. Additionally, the modified membranes' mechanical qualities were better than those of pure PVA, indicating that the glycerol addition improved their overall mechanical performance and tensile strength. PVA membranes were effectively made more flexible by adding 5% glycerol as a plasticizer. This led to membranes with superior optical qualities, reduced water barrier properties, greater flexibility, improved thermal stability, and maybe improved mechanical capabilities. These discoveries open up new opportunities for the use of these flexible PVA membranes in a range of settings, such as flexible packaging, biomedical materials, and other industries that need adaptive and flexible materials.

Nanowater (NW-water declusterized in the cold plasma generator) can potentially ameliorate ram semen quality after freezing. Eighteen ejaculates from six Olkuska rams were divided into six equal portions each, and then diluted (800 × 106 spermatozoa/ml) and frozen in the fructose-skimmed milk-egg yolk Kareta extender containing 3% or 7% of glycerol (C3% and C7%) and diluted in deionized water (DW) or NW declusterized for 15 min (NW15)’ or 30 min (NW30’). All frozen-thawed semen samples were subjected to standard evaluation. In addition, ex situ survival time of spermatozoa was measured, and the proportions of apoptotic, necrotic and live sperm were determined by flow cytometry. The percentage of spermatozoa with mid-piece defects was lower (p < 0.05) in NW15’-3% compared with C3%. The mean survival time of spermatozoa was greater (p < 0.05) in NW30’ extenders compared with their respective controls. The proportion of necrotic spermatozoa 1 h after thawing was greater (p < 0.05) in C7% compared with NW30’-7%, whereas the proportion of live cells detected immediately and 1 h after thawing were greater (p < 0.05) in NW30’-7% than in C7%. NW enhanced cryoprotective effects of glycerol-containing extenders with an overall increase in sperm survivability being greater with 7% than 3% of glycerol.

Polyglycerols (PGs) are biocompatible and highly functional polyols with a wide range of applications, such as emulsifiers, stabilizers, antimicrobial agents, in many industries including cosmetics, food, plastic and biomedical. The demand increase for biobased PGs encourages researchers to develop new catalytic systems for glycerol polymerization. This review focuses on alkaline homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. The performances of the alkaline catalysts are compared in terms of conversion and selectivity, and their respective advantages and disadvantages are commented. While homogeneous catalysts exhibit a high catalytic activity, they cannot be recycled and reused, whereas solid catalysts can be partially recycled. The key issue for heterogenous catalytic systems, which is unsolved so far, is linked to their instability due to partial dissolution in the reaction medium. Further, this paper also reviews the proposed mechanisms of glycerol polymerization over alkaline-based catalysts and discuss the various operating conditions with an impact on the performances. More particularly, temperature and amount of catalyst proved to have a significant influence on glycerol conversion and on its polymerization extent.

In this study, we analyzed the optical observations of a subluminous Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) 2017fzw, which exhibited high photospheric velocity (HV) at B-band maximum light. The absolute B-band peak magnitude was determined to be M^B_max = -17.77  0.10 mag, similar to 91bg-like SNe Ia. The decline rate of the B-band light curve was estimated to be Dm15(B) = 1.60  0.06 mag. The spectra of SN 2017fzw were similar to those of 91bg-like SNe Ia, with prominent Ti II and Si II l5972 features at early phases, gradually transitioning to spectra resembling normal (mainly HV subclass) SNe Ia at later phases, with a stronger Ca II NIR feature. Notably, SN 2017fzw exhibited spectral evolution features similar to those of HV SNe Ia at all phases, with a maximum-light Si II l6355 velocity of 13, 786  414 km s

Rigid polyurethane foams were synthesized using a renewable polyol from the simple physical mixture of castor oil and crude glycerol. The effect of the catalyst and blowing agent in the foams properties was evaluated. The use of physical blowing agent (cyclopentane and n-pentane) allowed obtaining foams with smaller cells in comparison with the foams produced with a chemical blowing agent (water). The increase of water content caused a decrease of density, thermal conductivity, compressive strength and Young's modulus, which indicates that the increment of CO₂ production contributes to the formation of larger cells. Higher amount of catalyst in the foam formulations caused a slight density decrease and an increase small significance of thermal conductivity, compressive strength and Young's modulus values. These green foams presented properties that indicate a great potential to be used as thermal insulation, as density (23 - 41 kg m^-3), thermal conductivity (0.0128 – 0.0207 W m^-1 K^-1), compressive strength (45 - 188 kPa) and Young's modulus (3 - 28 kPa). These biofoams are also environmental friendly alternatives and can aggregate revenue to biodiesel industry, contributing for reduction of this fuel prices.

Microbial production is a promising method that can overcome major limitations in conventional methods of lycopene production, such as low yields and variations in product quality. Significant efforts have been made to improve lycopene production by engineering either the 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway or mevalonate (MVA) pathway in microorganisms. To further improve lycopene production, it is critical to utilize metabolic enzymes with high specific activities. Two enzymes, 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (Dxs) and farnesyl diphosphate synthase (IspA), are required in lycopene production using MEP pathway. Here, we evaluated the activities of Dxs and IspA of Vibrio sp. dhg, a newly isolated and fast-growing microorganism. Considering that the MEP pathway is closely related to the cell membrane and electron transport chain, the activities of the two enzymes of Vibrio sp. dhg were expected to be higher than the enzymes of E. coli. We found that Dxs and IspA in Vibrio sp. dhg exhibited 1.08-fold and 1.38-fold higher catalytic efficiencies, respectively. Consequently, the heterologous overexpression improved the specific lycopene production by 1.88-fold. Our findings could be widely utilized to enhance production of lycopene and other carotenoids.

Compared to tin lead alloys, lead-free tin alloys have lower toxicity, making them more widely used. In this study, Sn-20Bi-0.3Al-xY solders alloys were prepared. The effects of the addition of Y on its microstructure, micro-hardness, wettability and mechanical properties was investigated. The result showed that the addition of Y had significant effect on the refinement of Sn-20Bi-0.3Al-xY. From the spreading tests results, Y increased the wettability of the solders, however when the fraction of Y gradually increased, the wettability reduced. The ultimate tensile and hardness of Sn-20Bi-0.3Al-xY solders alloys were increased as the content of Y increasing.

Glycerol represents a useful functional component of heat-transfer fluids. Glycerol is known to be triboelectrically active. We report how the flow of glycerol, stopped in a cylindrical coiled pipe, influences horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme. Namely, glycerol flow was pumped through the coil and then stopped. After that, we incubated the 0.1 µM solution of HRP near the side of the coil, and then adsorbed HRP onto mica. This operation markedly increased the HRP aggregation on mica in comparison with the control sample. We explain this phenomenon by the influence of triboelectrically induced electromagnetic fields. Our results can be useful in the development of flow-based systems for biosensors and bioreactors.

Ceria, zirconia and mixed cerium-zirconium mesoporous oxides were synthesized and used as supports for sulfur and gold species. The materials were characterised using selected advanced techniques (ICP-OES, elemental analysis, XPS, XRD, N₂ adsorption and desorption isotherms, UV-vis, ATR-FTIR, TPR-H₂, TG-DTA) which allowed monitoring of the oxidation state of metals (cerium and gold) and the surface properties of the catalysts, in particular the concentration of the components on the surface and in the bulk of materials. The interactions between gold, sulfur and metals from oxides were considered. The goal of this work was studied the changes in the chemical composition of materials and the oxidation states of cerium species after the modification of oxides with sulfur and gold species and the estimation of the influence of these changes on the surface properties. The chemical composition of surface affects the mobility of surface oxygen and the oxidation state of cerium, which can play the role of redox sites (e.g. Ce³⁺/Ce⁴⁺ species), and therefore it strongly influences on the adsorption of hydrogen sulfide and then gold loading. Additionally, gold catalysts modified with sulfur species were tested in the reaction of glycerol oxidation in the liquid phase at basic conditions as the test reaction of the catalytic oxidation of organic pollutants from water.

Glycerol is a subproduct of biodiesel production and represents an important problem when generated in large scale. Alternatives that can utilize this unrefined byproduct is of potential interest. It is herein described the synthesis of a series of 1,2,3-triazoles using glycerol as starting material. The key step involved in the preparation of triazolic derivatives corresponded to the Copper(I)-catalyzed Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition (CuAAC), also known as click reaction, between 4-(azidomethyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane (3) and different terminal alkynes. The eight prepared derivatives were evaluated with regard to their fungicide, phytotoxic and cytotoxic activities. The fungicide activity was assessed in vitro against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, the causing agent of papaya anthracnose. It was found that the compounds 1-(1-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)cyclohexanol (4g) and 2-(1-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)propan-2-ol (4h) demonstrated high efficiency on controlling C. gloeosporioides when compared to the commercial fungicide tebuconazole. The triazoles did not present any phytotoxic effect when evaluated against Lactuca sativa. However, five derivatives were mitodepressive, inducing cell death detected by the presence of condensed nuclei and acted as aneugenic agents in the cell cycle of L. sativa. It is believed that glycerol derivatives bearing 1,2,3-triazole functionalities may represent a scaffold to be explored toward the development of new agents to control C. gloeosporioides.

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a viral disease of cattle and water buffalo characterized by cutaneous nodules, biphasic fever and lymphadenitis. LSD is endemic in Africa and Middle East but in recent years has spread in different Asian countries. Drop of animal productions, vaccination campaign, surveillance costs and trade restrictions have significant impact on the economy of affected countries. The disease is well characterized in cattle while little is known in buffaloes and no experimental studies have been conducted in this species. Six buffaloes and two cattle were inoculated with an Albanian LSD virus (LSDV) field strain. Over a period of 42 days animals were clinically monitored and sampled for serological and virological analysis. Only two buffaloes showed clinical sign, fever, skin nodules and lymphadenitis. All samples tested in real time PCR (blood, swabs, biopsies and organ) gave negative results. Three buffaloes seroconverted at day 39 and 42 post-inoculation, detected by ELISA, but all sera were negative in serum neutralization test. Cattle showed more severe clinical signs. Moreover, viraemia and virus shedding were proven by positive PCR results and antibodies were detected by both ELISA and serum neutralization test. These findings demonstrated the limited susceptibility of buffaloes compared to cattle once experimental infected with LSDV. Further studies are needed to investigate the epidemiological role of the buffaloes.

It is at the chemistry-biology interface that this work that we have carried out takes place. Indeed, the expected goal is to develop simple molecules, capable of activating the catalytic action of certain metalloenzymes such as tyrosinase. The official name of an enzyme includes the type of reaction catalyzed, the name of the substrates involved. In this work, we carried out the study of the catalytic activity of the complexes of organotin carboxylates synthesized vis-à-vis the oxidation of 3,5-di-tert-butylcatecchol. The results obtained show that the various complexes exhibit good catalytic activity for the oxidation of 3,5-di-tert-butylcatecchol under mild conditions. The complexes that showed good catalytic activity are the compounds C1 and C2.

Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) exhibits zero-strain behavior, exceptional cycle stability, low cost, and high safety. However, it is still low in electronic and ionic conductivity. Incorporating Sn into LTO materials can increase electronic conductivity and specific capacity. However, Sn still experiences volumetric expansion during the charging/discharging process. Adding activated carbon (AC) into the LTO/Sn composite can help improve the expansion resistance and electronic conductivity. In this work, the AC was first synthesized from charcoals through the carbon activation process and mixed with LTO precursors through the sol-hydrothermal method followed by mixing with Sn through the mechanochemical process to produce LTO@AC/Sn composites. The Sn content was fixed at 15 wt.%, while the AC contents were varied at 1 wt.%, 3 wt.%, and 5 wt.%. The AC specific surface area is increased by more than 100% compared to the non-activated one. The best effects of AC on grain morphology and distribution were found in the LTO/Sn contained 3 wt.% of AC, leading to transfer resistance, ohmic resistance, specific capacity, and coulombic efficiency were found to be 48.1 Ω, 8.5 Ω, 138 mAhg-1, and near 100%, respectively. The result suggests that the LTO@AC/Sn could be a favorable anode active material in lithium-ion batteries.

The paper presents results from investigation focused on toxicity content in the exhaust gases emitted by the internal combustion compression ignition engine fueled with glycerol-ethanol blends at ratio of 50/50% by volume. Innovative issue of this engine is application of 2 high pressure injectors for glycerol-ethanol blend and diesel fuel direct injection at high pressure over 200 MPa. As known, glycerol is considered is by-product from biodiesel production technologies, hence its cost is relatively low to other renewable alternative fuels, which can be applied as a fuel to the reciprocating piston engines. Tests on exhaust gases toxicity were performed. It was found that the toxic components UHC, NOx and CO were below the maximal allowed limits. Both NOx and smoke emissions were strongly reduced with increase in glycerol-ethanol fraction in the fuel. Summarizing, such a fueling strategy proposed in this paper made it possible to effectively and environmentally friendly combust crude glycerol in the compression ignition engine working in a heat and power cogeneration unit. Exhaust gas emission tests conducted in this case confirmed usability of this technology to be implemented into practice.

Plants attained cellular homeostasis of phosphate (Pi) through an integrated response pathway regulated by different families of transcription factors including MYB, WRKY, bHLH and ZFP. The systemic response to Pi limitation showed the critical role played by inositol pyrophosphate (PP-InsPs) as signaling molecule and SPX (SYG1/PHO81/XPR1) domain proteins as sensor of cellular Pi status. Binding of SPX to PP-InsPs regulates the transcriptional activity of the MYB-CC proteins, phosphate starvation response factors (PHR/PHL) as the central regulator of Pi-deficiency response in plants. Vacuolar phosphate transporter, VPT may sense the cellular Pi status by its SPX domain, and vacuolar sequestration is activated under Pi replete condition and the stored Pi is an important resource to be mobilized under Pi deficiency. Proteomic approaches led to new discoveries of proteins associated with Pi-deficient response pathways and post-translational events that may influence plants in achieving Pi homeostasis. This review provides current understanding on the molecular mechanisms at the transcriptional and translational levels for achieving Pi homeostasis in plants highlighting the importance of DNA-protein and protein-protein interactions. The potential strategies for employing the CRISPR technology to modify the gene sequences of key regulatory and response proteins for attaining plant Pi homeostasis are discussed.

Although Sn has been intensively studied as one of the most promising anode materials to replace commercialized graphite, its cycling performance and rate performance are still unsatisfactory owing to insufficient control of its large volume change during cycling and poor electrochemical kinetics. Herein, we propose a Sn-TiO2-C ternary composite as a promising anode material to overcome these limitations. The hybrid TiO2-C matrix synthesized via two-step high-energy ball milling effectively regulated the irreversible lithiation/delithiation of the active Sn electrode and facilitated Li-ion diffusion. At the appropriate C concentration, Sn-TiO2-C exhibited significantly enhanced cycling performance and rate capability compared to its counterparts (Sn-TiO2 and Sn-C). Sn-TiO2-C delivers good reversible specific capacities (669 mAh g-1 after 100 cycles at 200 mA g-1 and 651 mAh g-1 after 500 cycles at 500 mA g-1) and rate performance (446 mAh g-1 at 3000 mA g-1). The superiority of Sn-TiO2-C over Sn-TiO2 and Sn-C was corroborated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, which revealed faster Li-ion diffusion kinetics in the presence of the hybrid TiO2-C matrix than in the presence of TiO2 or C alone. Therefore, Sn-TiO2-C is a potential anode for next-generation Li-ion batteries.

Maize (Zea mays sp) is one of the most important basic grains in our diets, and requires high levels pf nitrogen and phosphorus for optimum growth. However, phosphorus is problematic due to its high reactivity in the soil matrix, meaning that it is fixed in a very short time and inaccesible to plants. The lupinus genus, and more specifically, Lupinus albus through its root clusters, or proteoid roots, have the ability to solubilize portions of phosphorus when it is found in a limited environment. The objetive of the current study was to evaluate the effect of lupinus montanus under phosphorus stress conditions intercropped with maize, utilizing sandy soils with calcium phosphate bands. Materials and Methods: Work was conducted in growth chambers using rhizotrons, which allowed the authors to observed the growth and root behavior of both species (Lupinus monatnus and maize), The SAS 9.0 program was used for the statistical Analysis and ANOVA and tukey test were perfomed. Results : The phosphorus analysis in the plant tissue indicated that is concentration in maize was slightly higher in intercropping conditions than in monoculture planting. Conclusion: From this, we calculated that lupinus montanus is capable of solubilizing portions of phosphorus making available for other crops.; likewise, we also observed that proteoid structures did not develop, leaving the study open for other wild species.

Microalgae are naturally adapted to fluctuating availability of phosphorus (P) being capable to opportunistically uptake large amounts of inorganic phosphate (Pi) and safely store it in the cell as polyphosphate. Hence, many microalgal species are remarkably resilient to high concentrations of external Pi. Here we report on an exception from this pattern comprised by a failure of the high Pi-resilience in a strain Micractinium simplicissimum IPPAS C-2056 normally coping with a very high Pi concentrations. This phenomenon occurred after abrupt re-supplementation of Pi to the M. simplicissimum culture pre-starved of P. This was the case even if Pi was re-supplemented in a concentration far below the level toxic to the P-sufficient culture. We hypothesize that this effect can be mediated by a rapid formation of the potentially toxic short-chain polyphosphate following the mass influx of Pi into the P-starved cell. A possible reason for this is that the preceding P starvation impairs the capacity of the cell of converting the newly absorbed Pi into a “safe” storage form of long-chain polyphosphate. We believe that findings of this study can help to avoid sudden culture crashes, they are also of potential significance for development of algae-based technologies for efficient bioremoval of P from P-rich waste streams.

A single paragraph Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) establish symbiotic relationships with many crops. These soil microbiotas improve the soil fertility through the soil physical, chemical and biological properties. extending the root absorbing area. In return, the symbiont receives plant carbohydrates for the completion of its life cycle. AMF also helps plants to cope with biotic and abiotic stresses such as extreme temperature, heavy metal, diseases, and pathogens. For soil physical properties, the mechanisms used by AMF are the production of a glycoprotein, glomalin, which creates a high quality of soil macro-aggregations. These macro-aggregations control soil erosion, nutrients and organic matter losses. For soil chemical properties, AMF produce acids and an enzyme called phosphatase. This enzyme hydrolyzes the inorganic phosphorus and the rock phosphate (RP) hence making P available in the soil for plant uptake. AMF also are involved in soil nitrogen, carbon and trace element cycling. Regarding the biological component of the soil, AMF influence the composition, diversity and activity of microbial communities in the hydrosphere. They also work in synergy with others soil microorganisms to improve soil fertility, plant growth and resistance against some diseases. In this review, we present the contribution of AMF on soil fertility and importance in polluted soils.

The majority of the phosphogypsum produced by a fertilizer plant in the Philippines is just stockpiled, which is considered a liability with no commercial prospects. It is important that we find use of this industrial waste by-product sooner than it becomes an environmental issue. Our study investigated the economic potential of the phosphogypsum by determining its rare earth elements (REE) composition. Phosphogypsum samples were collected from 2 m-depth trenches at 0.5 m intervals in 24 locations in the tailings ponds. ICPMS analysis of the phosphogypsum samples shows that the ponds have a mean Ʃ REE + Y concentrations of 266.15 mg kg^-1. The individual REE concentrations are within the world average concentrations in phosphogypsum, although there is relative depletion of Yb, Tb, and Tm. There are huge variations in REE concentrations between the ponds, likely because these are produced from the processing of more than ten types of exported phosphate rocks since the start of operation of the fertilizer plant in 1980s. The major REE abundance is in the order of Y (26 %) > Ce (25 %) > La (16 %) > Nd (15 %). There is an estimated 66 M USD worth of REE oxides in the phosphogypsum ponds with a potential added value of 3.3 to 6.6 M USD for 1 to 2 Mt phosphogypsum produced annually at 50 % recovery rate. This study provides a comprehensive REE concentration and economic analyses of Philippine phosphogypsum produced from different types of imported phosphate rocks for potential REE extraction.

Objective: Regeneration of bone defects remains a challenge for maxillofacial and reparative surgeons. The purpose of this histological study was to assess the osteogenic potential of octacalcium phosphate (OCP) and bone matrix gelatin (BMG) alone and in combination in artificially created mandibular bone defects in rats. The quality of the newly formed bone was also evaluated. Methods: Thirty-six male Sprague Dawley rats (6-8 weeks old with 120-150 g weight) were randomly divided into four groups. Defects (3 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth) were created in the mandible of rats and filled with 6 mg of OCP, BMG or a combination of both (1/4 ratio), respectively. Defects were left unfilled in the control group. To assess osteoinduction and bone regeneration and determine the quality of the newly formed bone, tissue specimens were harvested at seven, 14, and 21 days post-implantation. The specimens were processed, stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and histologically analyzed under light microscopy. Results: In the experimental groups, new bone formation was initiated at the margins of defects from seventh day after implantation. At the end of the study period, the amount of the newly formed bone increased and the bone was relatively mature. Osteoinduction and new bone formation were greater in OCP/BMG group. In the control group, slight amount of new bone had been formed at the defect margins (next to host bone) on day 21. Conclusion: Combination of OCP/BMG may serve as an optimal biomaterial for treatment of mandibular bone defects.

The increasing global concern over plastic waste and its environmental impact has led to a growing interest in the development of sustainable packaging alternatives. This study focuses on the innovative use of expired dairy products as a potential resource for producing edible packaging materials. Expired dairy products, which are typically discarded, contribute to food waste and environmental pollution. By modifying these products to packaging materials, a dual-purpose solution addressing both waste reduction and sustainable packaging is evaluated. Expired milk and yogurt were selected as the primary raw materials due to their protein and carbohydrate content. The extracted casein was combined with various concentrations of chitosan while in some cases glycerol was used. The materials were characterized with attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray analysis (XRD) to examine the interactions between the components of the formed binary blend. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate the surface morphology of the blends, while dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and tensile experiments were conducted to study the thermomechanical properties of the materials. Barrier properties, including water vapor transmission (WVTR) and oxygen permeability (OTR), were measured to assess the materials' potential to preserve food freshness. The findings reveal that expired dairy-based edible packaging materials exhibit promising mechanical properties, comparable to conventional plastic packaging. The barrier properties and especially the zero oxygen permeability of the membranes, indicate that these materials have the potential to effectively protect food products from external factors that could compromise quality and shelf life. The materials show encouraging signs of eco-friendliness, with a notable reduction in environmental persistence compared to conventional plastic packaging.

This manuscript presents the result of utilizing cellulose as a template to prepare na-nosized WO3-NiWO4 and its application as co-catalysts in Pt/WO3-C and Pt/WO3-NiWO4-C for ethanol and glycerol electro-oxidation. Microcrystalline cellulose was hydrolyzed with phosphotungstic acid (H3PW12O40) to prepare the nanosized template of crystalline cellulose. Next, the template was impregnated with Ni(NO3)2, rendering a precursor mate-rial that is subsequently air-calcinated, removing the carbon-template material to obtain the nanometric WO3 and NiWO4. Elemental analysis confirmed the coexistence of nickel and tungsten, whereas the thermal analysis evidenced the high thermal stability of these materials. The X-ray diffractograms displayed crystal facets of WO3 and, when added Ni, of NiWO4. The transmission electron micrographs corroborated the formation of na-nosized particles with average particle sizes close to 50 nm. Finally, to apply this material, Pt/WO3-C and Pt/WO3-NiWO4-C were prepared and used in ethanol and glycerol electro-oxidation in alkaline medium, observing a promotional effect of the oxide and tungstate by reducing the onset potential and increasing the current density. These materials show great potential to produce clean electricity or green hydrogen contributing to energetic transition.

The photocatalytic biohydrogen generation using ZnO with the aid of simultaneous deposition of copper from an aqueous biomass-derivative glycerol solution was investigated. The effects of concentration of glycerol solution, Cu ion concentration and reaction temperature on biohydrogen generation were investigated. The photocatalytic biohydrogen production rate increased with increasing the concentration of aqueous glycerol solution, and the observed data could be fitted to the Langmuire-Hinshelwood kinetic models. The photocatalytic H2 production efficiency with ZnO could be significantly improved by simultaneous Cu deposition. The photocatalytic biohydrogen production rate was dependent on temperature, and increased with the increasing temperature. The possible mechanisms for oxidation of glycerol solution and photocatalytic hydrogen generation were proposed.

Although most cases of COVID-19 are paucisymptomatic, severe disease is characterized by immune dysregulation, with a decreased type I interferon response, increased inflammatory indicators, surging IL-6, IL-10 and TNFα suggestive of cytokine storm, progressive lymphopenia, and abnormal blood clotting. Factors determining susceptibility to severe disease are poorly understood, although mortality correlates with increasing age and co-morbidities including diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP) tends to be insufficient in populations particularly vulnerable to COVID-19, including the elderly, the institutionalized, and people with diabetes and CVD, and PLP becomes further depleted during infection and inflammation. In turn, low PLP results in immune imbalance, as PLP is an essential cofactor in pathways regulating cytokine production, in particular type I interferons and IL-6, and in lymphocyte trafficking and endothelial integrity. Furthermore, normalizing PLP levels attenuates abnormalities in platelet aggregation and clot formation. Finally, PLP insufficiency induces excess secretion of renin and angiotensin, and hypertension. In inflammatory disease, pharmacological doses of PLP decrease circulating TNFα, IL-6 and D-dimer, and animal studies demonstrate that supplemental PLP shortens the duration and severity of viral pneumonia. Severe COVID-19 manifests as an imbalance in the immune response and the clotting system. Pharmacological PLP supplementation may therefore mitigate COVID-19 symptoms by alleviating both the immune suppression underlying viral spread and the pathological hypersecretion of inflammatory cytokines, as well as directly bolstering endothelial integrity and preventing hypercoagulability.

Functional osseoconductive coatings based on hydroxylapatite (HAp) and applied preferentially by atmospheric plasma spraying to medical implant surfaces are a mainstay of modern implantology. During contact with the hot plasma jet, HAp particles melt incongruently and undergo complex dehydration and decomposition reactions that alter their phase composition and crystallographic symmetry, and thus, the physical and biological properties of the coatings. Surface analytical methods such as laser-Raman and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies are useful tools to assess the structural changes of HAp imposed by heat treatment during their flight along the hot plasma jet. In this contribution, the controversial information on the existence or non-existence of oxyapatite, i.e. fully dehydrated HAp as a thermodynamically stable compound is highlighted.

In this study, the hot deformation of Cu-0.55Sn-0.08La (wt%) alloy was studied by gleeble-3180 testing machine at deformation temperatures of 400-700oC and various strain rates. The stress-strain curve showed that the hot deformation behavior of Cu-0.55Sn-0.08La (wt%) alloy was greatly affected by work hardening, dynamic recovery, and dynamic recrystallization. The activation energy Q was calculated as 287.141 kJ/mol , and hot compression constitutive equation was determined as ε ̇=[sinh(0.006388σ)]^12.123∙exp⁡(37.7505-287.141/RT). The microstructural evolution of the alloy during deformation at 400oC revealed the presence of both slip and shear bands in the grains. At 700oC, dynamic recrystallization grains were observed but recrystallization was incomplete. In sum, these results provided the theoretical basis for continuous extrusion process of alloys with promising future use.

The requirements for using noncyanide imitation gold plating as decorative electroplating are increasing; thus, continuously improving the quality of the coating of the imitation gold plating and optimizing the coating process have become the current priority. In this work, hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid (HEDP) was used as the main complexing agent, CuSO4·5H2O, ZnSO4·7H2O and NaSnO3·3H2O were the main salts, and NaOH and anhydrous sodium carbonate were used as the buffers to prepare the electroplating solution. Using sodium citrate (SC), sodium potassium tartrate (SS), sodium gluconate (SG), and glycerol (Gl) as four additives, the effects of the number of carboxyl groups on the properties of a Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating were compared. The electrochemical analysis showed that Cu-Zn-Sn alloy codeposition occurred at -0.50 V vs. Hg|HgO. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that the particle size of the coatings obtained with carboxyl-containing additives was more uniform than that obtained with the electroplating solution without additives. The X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) analysis revealed that the composition of the Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating obtained by using SC as an additive in the electroplating solution was 89.75 wt% Cu, 9.61 wt% Zn, and 0.64 wt% Sn, and the color of the coating was golden yellow. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the coating was a mixture of Cu, Cu5Zn8, CuSn, Cu6Sn5, and CuZn phases. The analysis of the electroplating solution by UV, IR and NMR spectroscopy methods indicates that the additives improve the coating by affecting the complexation reaction of metal ions. These results can provide technical and theoretical guidance for developing Cu-Zn-Sn ternary alloy electrodeposition technology with the new cyanide-free HEDP alkaline electroplating system.

A study is reported on the electrochemical alloying-dealloying properties of Mg₂Sn intermetallic compounds. ¹¹⁹Sn Mössbauer spectra of β-Sn powder, thermally alloyed cubic-Mg₂Sn and an intermediate MgSn nominal composition are used as references. The discharge of a Mg/micro-Sn half-cell led to significant changes in spectra line shape that are explained by a multiphase mechanism involving the coexistence of c-Mg₂Sn, distorted Mg_2-δSn and Mg-doped β-Sn. Capacities and capacity retention were improved by using nanoparticulate tin electrodes. This material reduces significantly the diffusion lengths for magnesium and contains surface SnO and SnO₂, which are partially electroactive. The half-cell potentials were suitable to be combined versus MgMn₂O₄ cathodes. Energy density and cycling properties of the resulting full Mg-ion cells are also scrutinized.

The aim of this study was to synthesize and characterize a novel Methacrylate- functionalized Calcium Phosphate (MCP) used as a bioactive compound for innovative dental composites. The characterization was accomplished by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction Analysis (XRDA), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and EnergyDispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The incorporation of MCP as a bioactive filler in esthetic dental composite formulations and the ability of MCP containing dental composites to promote precipitation of hydroxyapatite (HAp) on the surfaces of those dental composites was explored. The translucency parameter, depth of cure, degree of conversion, ion release profile, and other physical properties of composites were studied with respect to the amount of MCP added to the composites. Composites containing 3 Wt.%, 6 Wt.%, and 20 Wt.% MCP were evaluated at 7, 14, and 21 days. The progress of surface precipitation of hydroxyapatite on MCP-containing dental composites was studied by systematically increasing the MCP content in the composite and the time of specimen storage in Dulbecco’s phosphate-buffered solution with calcium and magnesium. It was found that there was a direct correlation between the percentage of MCP in a composite formulation, the amount of time the specimen was stored in PBS, and the deposition of hydroxyapatite on the composite’s surface

In this research, we isolated and characterized Streptomyces strains, endemic from sugar beet fields of the Beni-Mellal region, able to use natural rock phosphate (RP) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP), as sole phosphate source. Ten Streptomyces isolates yielded a comparable biomass in the presence of these two insoluble phosphate sources, indicating that they were able to extract similar amount of phosphorus (P) from the latter for their own growth. Interestingly, five strains released soluble P in large excess from TCP in their culture broth whereas only two strains, BP, related to Streptomyces bellus and BYC, related to Streptomyces enissocaesilis, released a higher or similar amount of soluble P from RP than from TCP, respectively. This indicated that the rate of P released from these insoluble phosphate sources exceeded its consumption rate for bacterial growth and that most strains solubilized TCP more efficiently than RP. Preliminary results suggested that the solubilization process of BYC, the most efficient RP and TCP solubilizing strain, involves both acidification of the medium and excretion of siderophores. Actinomycete strains possessing such interesting RP solubilizing abilities may constitute a novel kind of intrans beneficial for plant nutrition and more environmentally friendly than chemical fertilizers in current use.

Nowadays, we can observe a worldwide trend towards the development of synthetic biomaterials. Numerous researches have been carried out in order to better understand the cellular behavior involved in the inflammation and bone healing processes related to living tissues. The aim of this study is to evaluate the tissue behavior of two different types of biomaterials: synthetic nano-hydroxyapatite / beta-tricalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite in non-critical bone defects in rat calvaria. Twenty four rats underwent surgery in which two 3 mm defects in each cavity were performed. The rats were divided into 2 groups: Group 1, using xenogen hydroxyapatite (Bio oss ™); Group 2, using synthetic nano-hydroxyapatite / beta-tricalcium phosphate (Blue Bone ™). Sixty days after the surgery, the calvaria bone defect was filled with biomaterial, the animals were sacrificed and marked with Masson's trichrome and PAS staining, and immunohistochemistry (TNF-α, MMP-9) and electron microscopy analyzes were performed. Histomorphometric analysis indicates a greater presence in the protein matrix in Group 2, in addition to higher levels of TNF-α, MMP-9. The ultrastructural analysis shows an association of material with fibroblasts in the tissue regeneration stage. Paired statistical data indicates that Blue Bone ™ can improve bone formation / remodeling when compared to biomaterials of xenogenous origin.

The Doig Phosphate Zone (DPZ) is a phosphate-bearing marine unit located at the base of the Doig Formation, in the Triassic section of the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin. The DPZ has a maximum thickness of 90 m and extends across northeastern British Columbia and western central Alberta. In this study we characterize the significance and interpret the origin of apatite in the DPZ, through mineralogical and geochemical analyses, thin section study and field emission-scanning electron microscopy. The occurrence of apatite in the DPZ is not evenly distributed, but restricted to discrete 10 to 20 cm thick beds, located near the base of the DPZ. Phosphorites are of two types: grainstones composed primarily of unconformity-bounded coated grains, and intraclastic phosphorites composed of detrital silt-sized grains and apatite coated grains in a cryptocrystalline phosphatic matrix. The phosphorite beds are records of stratigraphic condensation due to low detrital input during transgression. The erosionally-truncated phosphatic coated grains and intraclasts are interpreted to be a result of various phases of phosphatization, exhumation, erosion reworking, winnowing and redeposition in alternating quiescence and storms or bottom currents. The abundance of pyrite and chalcophile trace elements, as well as the low concentration of proxy elements for organic matter productivity and preservation, are further evidences of stratigraphic condensation, with sulfidic pore water development and extensive organic recycling promoted by biological activity during the long exposure times. The phosphorites were formed under oxygenated water conditions, as suggested by the depletion in Ce and presence of a diverse benthic fauna.

This study aimed to evaluate the physico-chemical properties, biocompatibility and bioabsorption of 3 different new membranes for bone guided regeneration (PLGA associated with hydroxyapatite and beta-TCP) with three thicknesses (200, 500 and 700 µm) implanted in mice subcutaneously. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and the quantification of Carbon, Hidrogen and Nitrogen were used to characterize the physico-chemical properties. One hundred Balb-C mice were divided into 5 experimental groups: Group 1 - Sham (without implantation); Group 2 - 200 μm; Group 3 - 500 μm; Group 4 - 700 μm; and Group 5 - Pratix®. Each group was subdivided into four experimental periods (7, 30, 60 and 90 days). Samples were collected and processed for histological and histomorphometrical evaluation. The membranes showed no moderate or severe tissue reactions in the experimental periods studied. The 500 μm membrane did not show tissue reaction for any experimental periods studied. The 200 μm membrane membranes began to exhibit fragmentation after 30- day, while the 500 and 700 µm membranes started the fragmentation at 90-day. All membranes studied were biocompatible, and the 500µm membrane showed the best results being a promissory membrane for bone guided regeneration.

The present study aims at deposition of zinc phosphate coatings with the incorporation of nano Titanium dioxide particles by chemical phosphating method. Zinc phosphate coatings were developed on low carbon steel by using nano TiO2 in the standard phosphating bath. The Coated low carbon steel samples were assessed for corrosion studies using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarisation techniques in 3.5% NaCl solution. Chemical composition of the coatings was analysed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Significant variations in the coating weight, porosity and corrosion resistance were observed with the addition of nano TiO2 in the phosphating bath. Corrosion rate of nano TiO2 incorporated chemical phosphate coated samples was found to be 3.5 mpy which was 4 times less than the bare uncoated low carbon steel (~14 mpy). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies revels in the reduction of porosity in nano TiO2 phosphate coated samples. It was found that nano TiO2 particles in the phosphating solution yielded phosphate coatings of higher coating weight, greater surface coverage and enhanced corrosion resistance than the normal zinc phosphate coatings (developed using normal phosphating bath).

Owing to the growing concerns due to dwindling fossil fuel reserves, increasing energy demand and climate emergency, it is imperative to develop and deploy sustainable energy technologies to ensure future energy supply as well as transition to the net zero world. In this context, there is great potential in the biorefinery concept for supplying drop in biofuels in the form of biodiesel. Biodiesel as a fuel can certainly bridge the gap where electrification or the use of hydrogen is not feasible, for instance heavy vehicles, farm and marine transportation sector. However, biodiesel industry also leads to formation of large amount of crude glycerol as the byproduct. Crude glycerol due to presence of several impurities may not be a suitable feedstock for all high value products derived from glycerol but fits well with glycerol esterification for producing glycerol acetins, which have numerous applications. This review critically looks at the processes using nanostructured solid/liquid acid catalysts for glycerol esterification including the economic viability of the scale up.

Octacalcium phosphate (OCP) is a precursor of biological apatite crystals that has attracted attention as a possible bone substitute. On the other hand, few studies have examined this material at the experimental level due to the limitations of OCP mass production. Recently, mass production technology of OCP was developed, and the launch of OCP bone substitutes is occurring. In this study, the bone regeneration capacity of OCP products was compared with two of the most clinically used materials: heat-treated bovine bone (BHA) and sintered biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP). Twelve rabbits were used, and defects in each tibia were filled with OCP, BHA, BCP, and left unfilled as control (CON). The tibias were harvested at 4 and 12 weeks, and 15 μm slides were prepared using the diamond grinding method after being embedded in resin. Histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed to evaluate the bone regeneration ability and mechanism. The OCP showed significantly higher resorption and new bone formation in both periods analysed (p<0.05). Overall, OCP bone substitutes can enhance bone regeneration significantly by activating osteoblasts and a rapid phase transition of OCP crystals to biological apatite crystals (mineralisation), as well as providing additional space for new bone formation by rapid resorption.

HIV-1 transcribes only one kind of transcript – the full length genomic RNA. To make the mRNA transcripts for the accessory proteins Tat and Rev, the genomic RNA must completely splice. The mRNA transcripts for Vif, Vpr, and Env must splice but not completely. Genomic RNA (which also functions as mRNA for the Gag and Gag/Pro/Pol precursor polyproteins) must not splice at all. HIV-1 can tolerate a surprising range in the relative abundance of individual transcript types, and a surprising amount of aberrant and even odd splicing; however, it must not over-splice, which results in the loss of full length genomic RNA and has a dramatic fitness cost. Cells typically do not tolerate unspliced/incompletely spliced transcripts, so HIV-1 has to circumvent this cell policing mechanism to allow some splicing while suppressing most. Splicing is controlled by RNA secondary structure, cis-acting regulatory sequences which bind splicing factors, and the viral protein Rev. There is still much work to be done to clarify the combinatorial effects of these splicing regulators. These control mechanisms represent attractive targets to induce over-splicing as an antiviral strategy. Finally, splicing has been implicated in latency, but to date there is little supporting evidence for such a mechanism. In this review we apply what is known of cellular splicing to understand splicing in HIV-1, and also present data from our newer and more sensitive deep sequencing assays quantifying the different HIV-1 transcript types.

Komagataeibacter spp. have been used for the bioconversion of industrial wastes and lignocellulosic hydrolysates to bacterial cellulose (BC). Recently studies have demonstrated the capacity of Komagataeibacter spp. in the biotransformation of inhibitors found in lignocellulosic hydrolysates, aromatic lignin-derived monomers (LDMs) and acetate. In general, detoxification and BC synthesis from lignocellulosic inhibitors requires a carbon flow from acetyl-coA towards tricarboxylic acid and gluconeogenesis, respectively. However, the related molecular aspects have not yet been identified in Komagataeibacter spp. In this study, we isolated a cellulose producing bacteria capable of synthesizing BC in a minimal medium containing crude glycerol, a by-product from biodiesel production process. The isolate, affiliated to Komagataeibacter genus, synthesized cellulose in minimal medium containing glucose (3.3±0.3 g/L), pure glycerol (2.2±0.1 g/L) and crude glycerol (2.1±0.1 g/L). Genome assembly and annotation identified four copies of bacterial cellulose synthase operon and genes for redirecting the carbon from central metabolic pathway to gluconeogenesis. According to the genome annotations, a BC production route from acetyl-CoA, a central metabolic intermediate, was hypothesized and was validated using acetate. We identified that when K. rhaeticus ENS9b was grown in minimal medium supplemented with acetate, BC production was not observed. However, in presence of readily utilizable substrate, such as spent yeast hydrolysate, acetate supplementation improved BC synthesis.

Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a major health concern. There is a growing recognition of the causal interplay between arterial stiffness and HFpEF. We recently reported that phosphate retention is a trigger for arterial stiffness. This study focuses on whether arterial stiffness due to phosphate retention could be a predictor for HFpEF. Methods: The study subjects were 158 patients (68 males and 90 females, mean age 74.8±11.2). HFpEF was defined according to the guidelines of the ESC 2019. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) and central systolic blood pressure (CSBP) were used as markers for arterial stiffness and afterload, respectively. We measured serum levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) as a marker of phosphate retention. Results: The serum levels of FGF23 had significant relationship with PWV. PWV had significant relationships with LV mass index, plasma BNP levels, and relative wall thickness, e’ and E/e’ (p<0.001, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that PWV higher values and hypertension were significant predictors for the dependent factor (HFpEF). Conclusions: Arterial stiffness amplified LV afterload, leading to LV concentric hypertrophy and LV diastolic dysfunction. This study presents that arterial stiffness due to phosphate retention, and hypertension are important predictors of HFpEF.

The collapsible loess will rapidly soften and lose its bearing capacity when soaked in water. Under a mild condition (20°C), the biomimetic inorganic agent, Diammonium phosphate (DAP), reacts with calcite in the collapsible loess, producing a stronger bonding material, hydroxyapatite (HAP), to modify and stabilize the soil. Uniaxial compression, permeability tests and morphological analysis using XRD and SEM/EDX microscopy were carried out to assess the effectiveness of DAP stabilization on the collapsible loess. The results indicated that HAP improved the inter-particle bonding within loess, filled the pores within particles, reduced the permeability, and consequently mitigated collapsibility of loess. The compressive strength of DAP-treated loess increased as DAP concentration increased. Following 28-days curing, the compressive strength of the loess treated with a 3.0 mol/L DAP solution was six times greater than that of the untreated group. DAP's reinforcement effect on loess was superior to that of cement. The compressive strength of DAP-treated loess was about double that of cement-treated loess and the permeability coefficient was reduced by more than 50% at equivalent solid content. Furthermore, DAP generated 68% fewer carbon emissions compared to Portland cement. Considering eco-friendly and sustainable development, DAP offers a more competitive alternative for modification and stabilization of loess.

Candidatus Accumulibacter belongs to phosphate-accumulating organisms (PAO) which exhibit cyclic metabolism and are capable of intracellular polyphosphate accumulation and their hydrolysis under feast-famine anaerobic-aerobic cycling. In consortia of activated sludge microorganisms, these bacteria are responsible for enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR). The spectrum of the substrates used by Ca. Accumulibacter remains insufficiently studied. It was investigated by measuring the oxygen uptake rates (OUR) of Ca. Accumulibacter-enriched culture supplemented with 17 different organic substrates. The highest oxygen uptake rates values were observed in the presence of tryptone, volatile fatty acids (acetate, propionate, and butyrate), succinate, pyruvate, and amino acids (aspartate and glutamate). Phosphate dynamics in the medium under shifts from anaerobic to aerobic cultivation in batch experiments was studied for these compounds (except for tryptone). All tested substrates were shown to cause phosphate cycling (release in the anaerobic phase and uptake in the aerobic one), with OURs for the substrates correlating with the amount of phosphates consumed during the aerobic phase. It was concluded that OUR may be used as an indicator of the monosubstrates used by Ca. Accumulibacter in the anaerobic/aerobic cycle. The possible pathways for substrate transport and metabolism by Ca. Accumulibacter are discussed using the stoichiometric data and the results of metagenomic analysis.

Bone innate ability to repair without scaring is surpassed by major bone damage. Current gold-standard strategies do not achieve a full recovery of bone biomechanical properties. To bypass these limitations, tissue engineering techniques based on hybrid materials made up of osteoprogenitor cells, like mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and bioactive ceramic scaffolds, like calcium phosphate-based (CaPs), are promising. Biological properties of the MSCs, are influenced by the tissue source. The aim of this study is to define the MSC source and construct (MSC and scaffold combination) most interesting for its clinical application in bone regeneration. iTRAQ generated the hypothesis that anatomical proximity to bone has a direct effect on MSC phenotype. MSCs were isolated from adipose tissue, bone marrow and dental pulp. MSCs were cultured both on plastic surface and on CaPs (hydroxyapatite and β-tricalcium phosphate) to compare their biological features. On plastic, MSCs isolated from dental pulp (DPSCs) were the MSCs with the highest proliferation capacity and the greatest osteogenic potential. On both CaPs, DPSCs are the MSCs with the greatest capacity to colonize bioceramics. Furthermore, results show a trend for DPSCs are the MSCs with the most robust increase in the ALP activity. We propose DPSCs as a suitable MSCs for bone regeneration cell-based strategies.What do you want to do ?New mailCopy

3D plotting is an additive manufacturing technology enabling biofabrication, thus the integration of cells or biologically sensitive proteins or growth factors into the manufacturing process. However, most (bio-)inks developed for 3D plotting were not shown to be processed into clinical relevant geometries comprising critical overhangs and cavities, which would collapse without a sufficient support material. Herein, we have developed a support hydrogel ink based on methylcellulose (mc), which is able to act as support as long as the co-plotted main structure is not stable. Therefore, 6 w/v %, 8 w/v % and 10 w/v % mc were allowed to swell in water, resulting in viscous inks, which were characterized for their rheological and extrusion properties. The successful usage of 10 w/v % mc as support ink was proven by multichannel plotting of the support together with a plottable calcium phosphate cement (CPC) acting as main structure. CPC scaffolds displaying critical overhangs or a large central cavity could be plotted accurately with the newly developed mc support ink. The dissolution properties of mc allowed complete removal of the gel without residuals, once CPC setting was finished. Finally, we fabricated a scaphoid bone model by computed tomography data acquisition and co-extrusion of CPC and the mc support hydrogel.

Enzymes reliant on pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), the metabolically active form of vitamin B6, hold significant importance in both biology and medicine. They facilitate various biochemical reactions, particularly in amino acid and neurotransmitter metabolisms. Vitamin B6 is absorbed by organisms in its non-phosphorylated form and phosphorylated within cells by pyridoxal kinase (PLK) and pyridox-(am)-ine 5'-phosphate oxidase (PNPOx). The flavin mononucleotide dependent PNPOx enzyme converts pyridoxine 5'-phosphate and pyridoxamine 5'-phosphate into PLP. PNPOx is vital for both biosynthesis and salvage pathways in organisms producing B6 vitamers. However, for those depending on vitamin B6 as nutrient, PNPOx participates only in the salvage pathway. Transferring PLP produced by PNPOx to client apo-enzymes is indispensable for their catalytic function, proper folding and targeting to specific organelles. PNPOx activity deficiencies due to inborn errors lead to severe neurological pathologies, particularly neonatal epileptic encephalopathy. PNPOx enzymes from different organisms maintain PLP homeostasis through highly regulated mechanisms, including structural alterations throughout the catalytic cycle and allosteric PLP binding influencing substrate transformation at the active site. Despite shared features, species-specific regulations are evident among PNPOx enzymes.

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is one of three major pathways involved in glucose metabolism, regulated by glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), controlling NADPH formation. NADPH, in turn, regulates the balance of oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. G6PD dysfunction, affecting PPP, is implicated in neurological disorders, including epilepsy. However, PPP's role in epileptogenesis and ROS production during epileptic activity remains unclear. To clarify these points, we conducted electrophysiological and imaging analyses on mouse hippocampal brain slices. Using the specific G6PD inhibitor G6PDi-1, we assessed its effects on mouse hippocampal slices, examining intracellular ROS, glucose/oxygen consumption, and ROS production during synaptic stimulation and in the 4AP epilepsy model. G6PDi-1 increased basal intracellular ROS levels and reduced synaptically induced glucose consumption but had no impact on ROS production from synaptic stimulation. In the 4AP model, G6PDi-1 didn't significantly alter spontaneous seizure frequency or H2O2 release amplitude but increased the frequency and peak amplitude of interictal events. These findings suggest that short-term PPP inhibition has a minimal impact on synaptic circuit activity.

Despite significant research efforts, the question of whether rising atmospheric CO₂ concentrations (C_a) affect leaf respiration remains unanswered. Here, I reanalyse published hydrogen isotope abundances in starch glucose of sunflower leaves. I report that, as C_a increases from 450 to 1500 ppm, respiration by the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway in chloroplasts increases from 0 to ≈ 5% relative to net carbon assimilation. This is consistent with known regulatory properties of the pathway. Summarising recent reports of metabolic fluxes in plant leaves, a picture emerges in which mitochondrial processes are distinctly less important for overall respiration than the oxidative pentose phosphate pathways in chloroplasts and the cytosol. Regulatory properties of these pathways are consistent with observations of lower-than-expected stimulations of photosynthesis in response to increasing C_a. Reported advances in understanding leaf respiratory mechanisms may enable modelling and prediction of respiration effects (inter alia) on biosphere-atmosphere CO₂ exchange and plant performance under climate change.

The development of biofuels and biodiesel industry specifically, has resulted in the generation of large amounts of glycerol as a surplus. The conversion of glycerol, into chemicals with indus-trial interest, through anaerobic fermentation using E. coli as a biocatalyst is an attractive alter-native to improve economic performance in the biodiesel industry, for example through the bi-otransformation of residual glycerol into ethanol. For 2019, the size of the global ethanol market was valued at $ 89.1 billion US dollar. Biodiesel can be produced from several materials like rapeseed, palm, soya, corn, palm kernel, frying oil or olive-pomace oil (OPO). The last, can be extracted from alperujo, byproduct of olive oil process. However, olive-pomace oil converting into biodiesel is not enough established to achieve a global olive-oil/biodiesel derived process with minimized waste generation. Traditionally biodiesel production process produces an equivalent of 10% by mass of glycerol as a waste or by-product. This work explores the conver-sion of residual glycerol into chemicals like ethanol and hydrogen with a focus on projecting raw material potential availability from OPO, contributing to the promotion of the use of biofu-els and biodegradable compounds.

Abstract: An attractive application of crude glycerol is in the generation of biomethane by means of anaerobic co-digestion, involving the decomposition of the organic matter in two or more substrates by bacteria and archaea, in the absence of oxygen. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the potential of neural networks and fuzzy logic to predict the production of biomethane from the anaerobic co-digestion of glycerol and/or sugarcane molasses. Firstly, a reactor model was implemented using Scilab, with Monod kinetics involving two substrates and an intermediate (M2SI model), to generate a database for subsequent fitting and evaluation of neural and fuzzy models. The neural network package of Matlab was used. Fuzzy modeling was applied using the Takagi-Sugeno approach available in the ANFIS package of Matlab. The biomethane production results simulated by M2SI were used in neural network modeling, firstly employing a “generic” network applicable to all 8 scenarios. A very good fit was obtained (R²>0.99). Excellent performance was also observed for specific artificial neural networks (one for each condition). The parameters of the M2SI model for the 8 different conditions were also mapped using a neural network, as a function of the organic material composition. A fit with R²>0.99 was obtained using 25 neurons. In the case of the fuzzy logic, RMSE of 18.88 mL of methane was obtained with 216 rules, which was a value lower than 0.5% of the order of magnitude of the accumulated methane. It could be concluded from the results that fuzzy logic and artificial neural networks offer excellent ability to predict methane production, as well as to parameterize the M2SI kinetic model (using neural networks).

Synthetic bone made of calcium phosphate is widely used for the clinical treatment of bone defects caused by trauma and bone tumors. Although synthetic bone is easy to use, its effects are only partial depending on the size and location of the bone defect, and there are many treatment options other than the use of synthetic bone. Various biodegradable polymers that are being considered for use as scaffolds for regenerative medicine are also being considered for use as synthetic bones; however, commercial synthetic bone products with performance comparable to that of calcium phosphate bioceramics have not yet been clinically applied. This review introduces the practice of bone regeneration therapy with synthetic bone and recent research on bone regeneration therapy with biodegradable polymers.

Calcium sulfate (CS) materials containing terbium ions at 0, 1.0, or 2.0 mol.% were obtained by mechanochemical synthesis. According to X-ray diffraction data, the powder materials are characterized by the presence of a CaSO4×0.5H2O phase, while Tb3+ is incorporated into the lattice at ≤1.0 mol.%. Specific surface area enlarged from 2.1 to 22.5 m2/g as crystallite size decreased from 68 to 31 nm and the Tb3+ concentration increased up to 1.0 mol.%. Thermal analysis showed that terbium slightly raises the temperature of CaSO4×2H2O-to-CaSO4 transition. The presence of Tb3+ did not affect the solubility of the CS cements. Furthermore, after 7 days of soaking of the materials in a simulated body fluid, a calcium phosphate layer formed corresponding to a hydroxyapatite phase, in contrast to the pure cements. Luminescent properties were studied by excitation at 276 nm. The recorded emission peaks of the CS materials indicated that the luminescence of the samples is green and blue, with the most intense luminescence observed for samples containing 1.0 mol.% Tb3+. The developed materials can find applications in medicine as bioimplants for the regeneration and restoration of bone tissue with a possibility of noninvasive monitoring of the bone restoration process.

Water is essential for all living things however its pain has become serious. Many industrial activities cause its pollution by the release of polluting byproduct. Waste water treatment is hence necessary. In this context, the waste water of the textile industry containing Red Acid 52 was treated by the solid waste of the washed natural phosphate byproduct. Natural phosphate was also studied. The solid materials were first characterized by chemical analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The phosphate materials were after that, tested in the adsorption of the Red Acid 52. The experimental data indicated that the phosphate waste rock allowed the removal of Red Acid 52. Its maximum retention capacity attained 18.4 mg.g-1. Calcinations of materials inhibits the removal capacity found reduced by 60 to 70%. The adsorption kinetics of the Red Acid 52 on the material is well described by the pseudo second order model while the adsorption isotherms are identified by the Langmuir model. Hereafter, the thermodynamic study revealed that the adsorption process is spontaneous and exothermic. Keywords: Waste water, Phosphate co-product, Adsorption, Red Acid 52.

Adenine nucleotide (AN) 2^nd messengers such as 3’,5’-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) are central elements of intracellular signaling, but many details of underlying processes remain still elusive. Like all nucleotides, cyclic nucleotide monophosphates (cNMPs) are net-negatively charged at physiologic pH which limits their applicability in cell-based settings. Thus, many cellular assays rely on sophisticated techniques like microinjection or electroporation. This setup is not feasible for medium- to high-throughput formats, and the mechanic stress that cells are exposed to raises the probability of interfering artefacts or false-positives. Here, we present a short and flexible chemical route yielding membrane-permeable, bio-reversibly masked cNMPs for which we employed the octanoyloxybenzyl (OB) group. We further show hydrolysis studies on chemical stability and enzymatic activation, and present results of real-time assays, where we used cAMP and Ca²⁺ live cell imaging to demonstrate high permeability and prompt intracellular conversion of some selected masked cNMPs. Consequently, our novel OB-masked cNMPs constitute valuable precursor-tools for non-invasive studies on intracellular signaling.

The aim of the study was to determine the maximum safe concentration of calcium and phosphate in neonatal parenteral nutrition (PN) solutions when various combinations of inorganic and organic salts are applied. Twelve PN solutions for neonatal use were aseptically prepared. Increasing concentration of inorganic and organic calcium and phosphate were added to the standard formulas. Each admixture was separately tested according to following conditions; after mixing, 37°C for 24 h, and maximum safe combination of calcium and phosphate were stored at 4°C for 30 days and followed by 24 h at 37°C. Visual inspections against a black and white contrast background, microscopic observation of undiluted PN solutions as well as the membrane filter after filtration of the PN solution, pH evaluation, and spectrophotometry at 600 nm were examined in triplicate. Safe maximum concentration of organic and inorganic calcium and phosphate was proposed individually for each composition of parenteral nutrition solutions. Surprisingly organic calcium with organic phosphate showed precipitation but over the therapeutic range. The protective effect of amino acid was observed and higher concentrations of calcium and phosphate were free of precipitation.

The question of whether some neutrinos are tachyons remains unresolved although various evidence from cosmic ray and other data exists that the electron neutrino has an effective $m_\nu^2\approx -0.25 eV^2,$ which would require that one or more mass states is also tachyonic. In 2013 the $3+3$ model of the neutrino masses, which includes one tachyonic mass state, was proposed based on supernova SN 1987A neutrino data. Here we update evidence for tachyonic electron neutrinos and the $3+3$ model and discuss one test which could prove conclusive. The update of earlier evidence includes many new elements, including new data which makes the earlier cosmic ray evidence more robust, new results on cosmic ray composition, the ankle of the spectrum, leptonic cosmic ray data, and the statistical significance of finding the three large neutrino masses stipulated in the $3+3$ model. Barring a galactic supernova, which occur only around twice a century, a decisive test of the $3+3$ model could involve observing an extragalactic supernova neutrino burst, that is a cluster of neutrinos in a specific time window well beyond what chance would predict. Even though existing searches for such bursts have yielded only upper limits on the extragalactic supernova frequency within a certain distance, it is shown that the choice of a one-day window for possible neutrino clusters in time might be far more sensitive. A search using a one day time window could be done using existing data, and if a signal is found it would confirm the $3+3$ model. Of course, the absence of any day-long neutrino burst would not disprove the model, since it could mean only that the nearest supernova during the period when detectors were active was simply too far to be detected. Finally, apart from testing the 3 + 3 model, an alternative type of search is suggested using existing hadronic cosmic ray data (from the IceCube Collaboration) that might verify the tachyonic neutrino hypothesis.

Cu-Sn shape-memory microwires were fabricated by a glass-coated melt spinning method. Effects of Sn content on the microstructure and mechanical property of microwires were investigated. The phase transforms from martensite to austenite with Sn content increasing from 14.0 atomic percent (at.%) to 16.5 at.%, and highly ordered intermetallic phase, δ, formed with higher Sn content. The fracture stress, σf, and the critical stress for martensitic transformation, σMs, increases with Sn content increasing. The mechanical property as well as superelasticity were improved greatly by high cooling rate of the glass-coated melt spinning method.

In this study, an extensive data set was based on existing literature records in order to enable the suitability of several predictive models, from Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) to Neural Networks (NN). The main objective was to, through regression analyses, generate model computations to correlate tensile properties (UTS- Ultimate Tensile Strength, YTS – Yield Tensile Strength and EF – Elongation-to-Fracture) to a given alloy composition and microstructural spacing. This investigation led to positive results, as the highest accuracies of the trained modules (in 80% of the database) were found to be above ~82% (UTS and EF) and a maximum of ~98% (YTS), when analyzing the results to a test data set. Later, these models were used to define trends for possible next solder alloy commercial compositions. Overall, using the standard model’s setup, the Random Forest and Decision Tree models showed the highest accuracy results, with 0.958 for YTS as opposed to 0.907 for MLR. Moreover, Multilayer Perceptron (MLP)-optimized models yielded the best results for each variable, with the highest increases in accuracy associated with the YTS and EF. The present contribution might imply an important milestone towards alloy design research based on data science guidelines to unlock the full potential of former experiments and their extensive set of results.

Single valued neutrosophic set has king power to express uncertainty characterized by indeterminacy, inconsistency and incompleteness. Most of the existing single valued neutrosophic cross entropy bears an asymmetrical behavior and produce an undefined phenomenon in some situations. In order to deal with these disadvantages, we propose a new cross entropy measure under single valued neutrosophic set (SVNS) environment namely SN- cross entropy and prove its basic properties. Also we define weighted SN-cross entropy measure and investigate its basic properties. We develop a new multi attribute group decision making (MAGDM) strategy for ranking of the alternatives based on the proposed weighted SN-cross entropy measure between each alternative and the ideal alternative. Finally, a numerical example of MAGDM problem of investment potential is solved to show the validity and efficiency of proposed decision making strategy. We also present comparative anslysis of the obtained result with the results obtained form the existing solution strategies in the solution.

Sodium-phosphate-based glass-ceramics (GCs) are promising materials for a wide range of applications, including solid-state sodium-ion batteries, microelectronic packaging substrates, and humidity sensors. This study investigates the impact of 24-hour heat-treatments at varying temperatures on Na-Ge-P glass, with a focus on (micro)structural, electrical, and dielectric properties of prepared GCs. Various techniques such as powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), infrared spectroscopy-attenuated total reflection (IR-ATR), and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) are employed. With the elevation of heat-treatment temperature, crystallinity progressively rises; at 450 °C, the microstructure retains amorphous traits featuring nanometric grains, whereas at 550 °C, heat-treatment results in fully crystallized structures characterized by square-shaped micron-scale grains of NaPO3. The insight into the evaluation of electrical and dielectric properties is provided by Solid-State Impedance Spectroscopy (SS-IS), revealing a strong correlation with the conditions of controlled crystallization and observed (micro)structure. The glass-ceramic heat-treated at 450 °C achieves the highest DC conductivity of 2.30×10–8 Ω–1 cm–1 at 393 K. As the heat-treatment temperature rises, the crystallization of the NaPO3 phase depletes the glass matrix of mobile Na+ ions, resulting in a reduction in DC conductivity. Dielectric parameters also decrease with rising heat-treatment temperature, with the glass-ceramic heat-treated at 550 °C displaying the lowest permittivity of 19.37 and the dielectric loss of 0.008. This research uncovers the intricate relationship between heat-treatment conditions and material properties, emphasizing that controlled crystallization allows for precise modifications to microstructure and phase composition within remaining glassy phase, ultimately facilitating fine-tuning of material properties.

Diagnosis of kidney diseases has recently become more comprehensive and accurate by using new renal markers. Despite the fact that creatinine and cystatin c have been sufficient in determining kidney function, they did not indicate the exact site of the damage and they were often insufficient in predicting the course of the disease. Aim of the study was to evaluate the potential correlations and differences in levels of six factors related to kidney function and injury: kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), ncalbindin (CALB), glutathione S-transferase Pi (GST-Pi), calbindin and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), between renal patients with diabetic nephropathy (DM), congenital defects (CD) of the kidney and glomerulonephritis (GN). Study involved 75 patients: 49 with diabetic nephropathy, 12 with congenital defects and 14 with glomerulonephritis. Levels of renalase was measured using immunoenzymatic tests. Levels of other markers: calbindin, glutathione-S-transferase (GST-pi), interleukin-18 (IL-18), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), were analyzed using Kidney Toxicity-1 Panel and BioPlex system, designed for analyses in urine and optimized by us for serum.From all analyzed markers, only levels of KIM-1 differed significantly between any subgroups, and that was for CD and DM. Renalase correlated significantly negatively with creatinine and positively with all other markers, apart from MCP-1. Obtained results indicate, that serum renalase, KIM-1, calbindin and GST-pi are related to kidney function, with KIM-1 being the most exact, while MCP-1 levels are unrelated to creatinine and glucose levels, does not differ between patients with diabetic nephropathy and other subgroups, and therefore seem to be independent of diabetes. Also, serum-optimized Kidney Toxicity Panel 1 kit for determination of selected markers gave results similar to previous ones and therefore the method can be valuable in determination of analyzed factors.

Infectious diabetic wounds can result in severe injuries or even death. Biocompatible wound dressings offer one of the best ways to treat these wounds, but creating a dressing with suitable hydrophilicity and biodegradation rate can be challenging. To address this issue, we used the electrospinning method to create a wound dressing composed of poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) and gelatin (Gel). We dissolved the PGS and Gel in acetic acid (75 v/v%) and added EDC/NHS solution as a crosslinking agent. Our measurements revealed that the scaffolds' fiber diameter ranged from 180.2 to 370.6 nm, and all the scaffolds had porosity percentages above 70%, making them suitable for wound healing applications. Additionally, we observed a significant decrease (p &lt; 0.05) in the contact angle from 110.8° ± 4.3° for PGS to 54.9° ± 2.1° for PGS/Gel scaffolds, indicating an improvement in hydrophilicity of the blend scaffold. Furthermore, our cell viability evaluations demonstrated a significant increase (p &lt; 0.05) in cultured cell growth and proliferation on the scaffolds during the culture time. Our findings suggest that the PGS/Gel scaffold has potential for wound healing applications.

Oligo- and polyesters of polyglycerol and polyricinoleic acid are widely used as emulsifiers in various industries. Based on the condensation of glycerol and its oligomers with epoxidized derivatives of vegetable oils, new promising emulsifiers for oil-water systems were obtained. Complex structural and functional spectral analysis of synthesized substances showed that the main reactions leading to the formation of the desired products were the opening of epoxide cycles, the transesterification of esters and the condensation of fatty acid derivatives. The new combination of renewable raw materials is of undoubted interest for deeper vegetable oils chemical processing.

The variation of the cationic composition in I2-II-IV-VI4 semiconductor compounds is an effective tool for altering their properties in a controlled manner. In particular, a partial substitution of Cu for Ag in kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 was proposed to suppress Cu-Zn antisite defects and the improve photovoltaic performance. However, the efficiency of this approach may substantially depend on the fabrication route. Here, we report on the synthesis of (Cu,Ag)-Zn-Sn-S (CAZTS) and Ag-Zn-Sn-S (AZTS) nanocrystals (NCs) by means of "green" chemistry in aqueous solution and their detailed characterization by Raman spectroscopy and by several complementary techniques. Through a systematic variation of the nominal composition and quantification of the constituent elements in CAZTS and AZTS NCs by XPS, we identified the vibrational Raman and IR fingerprints of both the main AZTS phase and secondary phases of Ag-Zn-S and Ag-Sn-S compounds (for the first time). The formation of the secondary phases of Ag-S and Ag-Zn-S cannot be avoided entirely for this type of synthesis. The Ag-Zn-S phase, having its bandgap in near infrared range, is the reason of the non-monotonous dependence of the absorption edge of CAZTS NCs on the Ag content, with a trend to redshift even below the bandgaps of bulk AZTS and CZTS.

Numerous types of oligonucleotide modifications have been developed since automated synthesis of DNA/RNA became a common instrument in the creation of synthetic oligonucleotides. Despite the growing number of types of oligonucleotide modifications under development, only a few of them, and moreover, their combinations have been studied wide enough in terms of their in-fluence on the properties of corresponding NA constructions. In the present study, a number of oligonucleotides with combinations of 3′ end lipophilic (single cholesteryl or pair of dodecyl residues) and phosphate backbone modifications were synthesized. The influence of the combi-nation of used lipophilic groups with phosphate modifications of various nature and different position on the efficiency of cell penetration was evaluated. Obtained results indicate that even a couple of phosphate modifications are able to affect a set of oligonucleotide properties in a complex manner and can remarkably change cellular uptake. These data clearly show that the strategy of using different patterns of modification combinations has great potential for the ra-tional design of oligonucleotide structures with desired predefined properties.

Enamel erosion is a process which happens every time we eat and it may be accelerated by some particular acid foods, drinks or other agents. Dental enamel when damaged by low pH substances becomes chalky, rough, opaque, yellowed and it can be related to dentinal hypersensitivity. To the present day, several possible solutions are available, therefore the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a biocompatible minerals serum based on calcium silicate, sodium phosphate and fluoride (Regenerate™) on the damaged enamel by four different acid liquids. 135 ovine teeth were equally divided into 5 groups and submerged for one week into lemon juice, energy drink, coffee, tea and physiologic solution for the negative control. The first 4 groups were evaluated for their color with an analogical color scale (Vita® Scale) and for their surface assigning a qualitative aspect among opaque, rough, chalky or smooth. Then they were treated with hydroxyapatite gels and re-evaluated for the same parameters. Data were checked for the normal distribution with Shapiro-Wilk test and analyzed with dependent t-test or Wilcoxon Signed Rank test, every test with a p≤0.05. Both color and surface aspect showed a strongly significant improvement after the treatment. Biocompatible minerals serum based on hydroxyapatite is able to reverse teeth erosion, improve the color and restore the smoothness of the dental enamel.

The aim of this systematic review is to describe and to identify prospect of β-Tricalcium Phosphate (β-TCP) as Alveolar Bone Grafting (ABG) in Cleft Lip/Palate (CL/P) or alveolar bone cleft defect. A systematic review protocol based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses 2020 (PRISMA 2020) was drafted. The literature search was conducted with MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science/ ISI-Web of Knowledge, Scopus and Cochrane Library with English language and no publication year limits. The keywords yielded a total of 5824 publications. There are 3196 suitable articles to evaluate after removing duplicates and languages. Afterward, 1315 studies left after doing title and abstract reading. In addition, 85 full-articles were assessed for eligibility. The read the complete texts of those papers and eventually chose 20 that matched the inclusion requirements. Thirteen of the twenty studies included in this systematic review had a low risk of bias, one had a high risk of bias, and six had moderate bias which not report the randomization. β-TCP as ABG is biocompatible, visible and practical, offers a less invasive procedure, and does not interfere with orthodontic treatment. β-TCP as synthetic ABG can be the alternative to autologous bone grafts with several terms and conditions. Improvement of β-TCP efficacy for ABG in CL/P or alveolar bone cleft defects can be done by a tissue engineering approach combining β-TCP with growth factor, mesenchymal stem cells, or other graft materials and modification of β-TCP physical properties.

The sepiolite/ZrO2 composites were prepared by sepiolite (Sep) modification with zirconium propoxide in toluene, at room temperature for 24 h (Sep –ZrI) or 95 °C for 4h (sample Sep –ZrII). The efficiency of the obtained adsorbents for the removal of phosphate from aqueous solutions at initial pH = 4 and pH = 8, was investigated. Characterization of the samples showed that higher temperature of synthesis for shorter time provided slightly higher content of amorphous Zr-phase, which was deposited on sepiolite fibers as a thin layer and agglomerated nanoparticles. Compared to Sep, the composites had lower point of zero charge and higher specific surface area and pore volume. The adsorption kinetics follows the pseudo second-order model. The adsorption capacities of the composites were approximately the same at both initial pH and higher at initial pH = 4 than at pH = 8. The XPS and ATR-FTIR of Sep-ZrI before and after adsorption identified the formation of inner-sphere complexes as the mechanism of phosphate adsorption. The slow release during desorption with NaOH solution confirmed strong bonds of phosphates with the surface of the composites.

The anodic polarization response of magnesium alloy AZ31 was characterized during exposure to aerated 0.1M NaCl solutions with millimolar additions of NaVO₃, Na₃PO₄, Na₂HPO₄, NaF and various pairings to assess their ability to inhibit corrosion kinetics and retard localized corrosion. Each of the candidate inhibitors reduced the corrosion rate of the alloy to some degree. A Na₃PO₄ - NaVO₃ pair produced a powerful inhibiting response decreasing the corrosion rate to about 10^-7 A/cm², which was two orders of magnitude lower than the uninhibited control case. A Bliss Independence assessment indicated that this inhibitor pair acted synergistically. A Na₂HPO₄ - NaVO₃ pair reduced the corrosion rate to 10^-6 A/cm² but was not assessed to be acting synergistically. The NaVO₃ - NaF pair did not reduce the corrosion rate significantly compared to the control case and was an antagonistic pairing. SEM imaging showed film formation due to exposure, which appears to be the origins of the observed inhibition. The resistance to localized corrosion was assessed as the difference in the breakdown potential and the corrosion potential with larger values indicating a lower probability of localized corrosion during free corrosion exposures. Effects of the inhibitors on this characteristic were mixed, but each of the inhibitor pairs yielded potential differences in excess of 100mV. A conceptual conversion coating process based on a mixture of vanadate and phosphate compounds were demonstrated. A fluoride-bearing formulation produced coatings whose total impedance was increased by a factor or 2 compared to an uncoated control. A fluoride-free formulation produced coatings whose corrosion resistance was increased by more than a factor of 3.

To achieve efficient and durable consolidation of weathered sandstone, the selection of a suitable consolidant is essential. To reasonably assess the suitability of different formulations, it is fundamental to compare their performance as a consolidant within a substrate, which reliably models the properties of deteriorated material. As a test substrate, the sandstone from quarries in Mšené in central Bohemia was selected, for its developed porosity and relatively low mechanical strength. To obtain relevant comparison of their application potential, both commercial (Remmers KSE OH and Surfapore) and self-developed consolidants were included. To test the long-term stability of each consolidant, the stone was subjected to accelerated weathering. The characterization of texture properties was based on the physical sorption of nitrogen and krypton, mercury intrusion porosimetry and water uptake. While the mechanical properties in microscale were determined by nanoindentation, the mechanical strength in macroscale before and after consolidation was measured by drilling resistance. Both commercial exhibited good mechanical performance with reasonable durability. The performance of our developed samples was comparable or, in some cases, superior. Very interesting were the consolidants containing TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles, the former exhibiting comparable degree of consolidation and durability as commercial ones, with additional photocatalytic function, the latter unusually high increase in the mechanical strength, even after the weathering test. The diammonium hydrogen phosphate based consolidant showed exceptional durability in the weathering test, which makes it a promising product not only for carbonate but also sandstone materials.

Considering the safety issues of Li ion batteries, all-solid-state polymer electrolyte has been one of the promising solutions. In this point, achieving a Li ion conductivity in the solid state electrolytes comparable to liquid electrolytes (>1 mS/cm) is particularly challenging. Employment of polyethylene oxide (PEO) solid electrolyte has not been not enough in this point due to high crystallinity. In this study, hybrid solid electrolyte (HSE) systems are designed with Li_1.3Al_0.3Ti_0.7(PO₄)₃(LATP), PEO and Lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆) or Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI). Hybrid solid cathode (HSC) is also designed using LATP, PEO and lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO₂, LCO)—lithium manganese oxide (LiMn₂O₄, LMO). The designed HSE system displays 3.0 × 10⁻⁴ S/cm (55 ℃) and 1.8 × 10⁻³ S/cm (23 ℃) with an electrochemical stability as of 6.0 V without any separation layer introduction. Li metal (anode)/HSE/HSC cell in this study displays initial charge capacity as of 123.4/102.7 mAh/g (55 ℃) and 73/57 mAh/g (25 °C). To these systems, Succinonitrile (SN) has been incorporated as a plasticizer for practical secondary Li ion battery system development to enhance ionic conductivity. The incorporated SN effectively increases the ionic conductivity without any leakage and short-circuits even under broken cell condition. The developed system also overcomes the typical disadvantages of internal resistance induced by Ti ion reduction. In this study, optimized ionic conductivity and low internal resistance inside the Li ion battery cell have been obtained, which suggests a new possibility in the secondary Li ion battery development.

Abstract. Graphene family (GF)-Calcium phosphate (CaP) composites, holds great potential as components of bone regeneration materials. GF nanomaterials can be modified physically as well as chemically, which are to be biomimetic, mechanically to be hard due to their capability to support exceptional mechanical, thermal and electronic properties. These biocompatible GF composites coated on the calcium phosphate can enhance and tolerate stem cell growth and differentiation, proliferation into various lineages or interact with bioorganisms. The development in CF-CaP materials and their physicochemical/biointeractions and strategies towards osteoblasts is a great concern to promote faster healing and reconstructions of large bone imperfections or defects. In this review, we explain the influence of the CF-CaP and summarize recent developments on designing CF-CaP architectures as multifunctional bone regeneration platforms. We have also explored the typical biological applications concerning these CF-CaP based bioactive nanocomposites. Furthermore, the future viewpoints and evolving challenges will also be emphasized. Due to the shortage of full-length reviews in this emerging research field, this review would be caught great attention and encourage various new chances across a wider range of disciplines.

Phosphate (Pi) starvation is a critical factor limiting crop growth, development, and productivity. Rice (Oryza sativa) R2R3-MYB transcription factors function in the transcriptional regulation of plant responses to various abiotic stresses and micronutrient deprivation, but little is known about their roles in Pi starvation signaling and Pi homeostasis. Here we identified the R2R3-MYB transcription factor gene OsMYB58, which shares high sequence similarity with AtMYB58. OsMYB58 expression was induced more strongly by Pi starvation than by other micronutrient deficiencies. Overexpressing OsMYB58 in Arabidopsis thaliana and rice inhibited plant growth and development under Pi-deficiency conditions. In addition, overexpression of OsMYB58 in plants exposed to Pi deficiency strongly affected root development, including seminal root, lateral root, and root hair formation. Overexpressing OsMYB58 strongly decreased the expression of the rice microRNAs, OsmiR399a and OsmiR399j. By contrast, overexpressing OsMYB58 strongly increased the expression of rice PHOSPHATE 2 (OsPHO2), whose expression is repressed by miR399 during Pi starvation signaling. OsMYB58 functions as a transcriptional repressor of the expression of its target genes, as determined by a transcriptional activity assay. These results demonstrate that OsMYB58 negatively regulates OsmiR399-dependent Pi starvation signaling by enhancing OsmiR399s expression.

This research was specifically aimed at assessing the influence of sulfur in triple-super phosphate (TSP) on wheat yield. From the results, wheat showed response to sulfur (S) from gypsum (in 67%); and nitrogen (N) from urea in about 100% (of 24 sites). Based on this N was found to be the most limiting element to wheat production followed by sulfur, and then by phosphorus. TSP is tested to contain agronomically up to 2-6% by weight of S. However, wheat didn’t show response to S impurity supplied in the form of TSP. Though, not statistically significant, it is observed that there have always been yield increments by certain percent due to S from TSP in 8 out of 10 target sites, which is depicted in the increasing trends of yield response curves. From this it is learnt that, the benefits of the accidental/incidental application of such high analysis fertilizers can be many-folds in the quality attributes of wheat, if the soils of such investigation at the same time would contain significant amount of organic matter (OM). Indeed, such analysis would be vital in varietal specific nutrient requirement studies in precision-farming and/or in categorizing soils into fertility gradients and fertilizer recommendation domains.

Astronauts at are risk of losing 1.0 – 1.5% of their bone mass for every month they spend in space despite their adherence to high impact exercise training programs designed to preserve the musculoskeletal system. This article reviews the basics of bone formation and resorption and details how exposure to microgravity or simulated microgravity affects the structure and function of osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts, and their mesenchymal and hematologic stem cell precursors. It details the critical roles that insulin-like growth facor-1 and its receptor IGFR1 play in maintaining bone homeostasis and how exposure of bone cells to microgravity affects the function of these growth factors. Lastly, it discusses the potential of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand, syncytin-A, and sclerostin inhibitors and recombinant IGF-1 as a bone-saving treatment for astronauts in space and during their colonization of the Moon.

Expression of Krüppel–like factor 15 (KLF15), a stress induced transcription factor, is induced during bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) reactivation from latency, and KLF15 stimulates BoHV-1 replication. Transient transfection studies revealed KLF15 and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) cooperatively transactivate the BoHV-1 immediate early transcription unit 1 (IEtu1), herpes sim-plex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infected cell protein 0 (ICP0), and ICP4 promoter. The IEtu1 promoter drives expression of bICP0 and bICP4, two key BoHV-1 transcriptional regulatory proteins. Based on these studies, we hypothesized infection is a stressful stimulus that increases KLF15 ex-pression and enhances productive infection. New studies demonstrated that silencing KLF15 impaired HSV-1 productive infection and KLF15 steady state protein levels were increased at late stages of productive infection. KLF15 was primarily localized to the nucleus following in-fection of cultured cells with HSV-1, but not BoHV-1. When cells were transfected with a KLF15 promoter construct and then infected with HSV-1, promoter activity was significantly increased. The ICP0 gene and to a lesser extent bICP0 transactivated the KLF15 promoter in the absence of other viral proteins. In contrast, BoHV-1 or HSV-1 encoded VP16 had no effect on KLF15 pro-moter activity. Collectively, these studies revealed HSV-1 and BoHV-1 productive infection in-creased KLF15 steady state protein levels, which correlated with increased virus production.

The study aimed to explore the correlation among Angiopoietin-1, (Ang-1) and Angiopoietin-2, (Ang-2) concentrations and the Angiopoietin-2/Angiopoietin-1 ratio, (Ang-2/Ang-1) with clinical outcomes, potentially serving as disease severity and survival biomarkers. A study at AHEPA University Hospital involved 90 COVID-19 adult patients, with 30 hospitalized in intensive care and 30 in ward units and 30 asymptomatic non-hospitalized individuals as controls. Estimated endothelial dysfunction markers related to angiogenesis were measured, and statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software, version 29. There was a statistically significant difference only between outpatient and hospitalized patients (non-ICU -ICU groups) for the Ang-1 and Ang-2 indexes. The Ang-2/Ang-1 ratio has differed significantly among all individual patient groups. A ROC analysis was conducted to find an optimal threshold for distinguishing (outpatients – non-ICU) and (non-ICU –ICU) groups. It was based on Youden's Index and was 0.1122 and 0.3825, respectively. The Ang-1, Ang-2 levels, and Ang-2/Ang-1 ratio were analysed as indicators for severity in COVID-19 patients. The Ang-2/Ang-1 ratio demonstrated more excellent prognostic and diagnostic utility than individual biomarker levels. Monitoring the Ang-2/Ang-1 ratio can identify COVID-19 patients at risk and assist clinicians in tailoring treatment strategies for improved outcomes.

Incretin effect helps in regulating glucose homeostasis and maintaining glycaemic control within the human body. This effect is achieved by the two naturally occurring incretin hormones: glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Such hormones released by specialized entero-endocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract cause insulin augmentation after food consumption. However, incretin effects are impaired in type 2 diabetic, primarily attributed to the deterioration of GLP-1 function along with decreased GLP-1 receptor expression. Targeting this hormone has, therefore, become an important therapeutic approach to treat this diabetic condition. Native GLP-1’s brief half-life and rapid proteolytic degradation have generated significant enthusiasm in uncovering the long-acting GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists to manage type 2 diabetes. These synthetic peptides mimic the natural GLP-1 to activate GLP-1R and effectively exert various physiological benefits in terms of weight management, blood pressure, lipid profile, obesity and major adverse cardiovascular event. This review paper provides insights into the structure, function and expression of GLP-1 and its receptor. It also summarizes existing literature regarding different types of GLP-1 receptor agonists, their effects on blood pressure and how they exert their actions. While animal models have contributed significantly to this area of study, the scarcity of human studies is noted, indicating a need for more investigation in this domain. Expanding research in humans will help in comprehending the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on blood pressure regulation and their underlying mechanisms.

The development of potent antiviral agents is of utmost importance to combat the global burden of viral infections. Traditional antiviral drug development involves targeting specific viral proteins, which may lead to the emergence of resistant strains. To explore alternative strategies, we investigated the antiviral potential of antimicrobial peptidomimetic compounds. In this study, we evaluated the antiviral potential of short anthranilamide-based peptidomimetic compounds 1-17 against two viruses: Murine Hepatitis Virus 1 (MHV-1-single stranded RNA virus) which is a surrogate of human coronaviruses and Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1-double stranded DNA virus). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of these compounds were determined in vitro to assess their potency as antiviral agents. Compounds 11 and 14 displayed the most potent inhibitory effect with IC50 values of 2.38μM, and 6.3μM against MHV-1 while compounds 9 and 14 showed IC50 values of 14.8μM and 13μM, against HSV-1. Multiple antiviral assessments and microscopic images obtained through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) collectively demonstrated that these compounds exert a direct influence on the viral envelope. Based on this outcome, it can be concluded that peptidomimetic compounds could offer a new approach for the development of potent antiviral agents.

With the rapid development of tumor immunotherapy, nanoparticle vaccines have attracted much attention as a potential therapeutic strategy. The potential role of the mannose-modified lipid calcium phosphate nanoparticle vaccine in enhancing the anti-tumor immune response was investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of mannose modification on the immune response of nanoparticles in regulating the tumor microenvironment through systematic review and analysis and to explore its potential clinical application in tumor therapy. Currently, despite the potential advantages of nanoparticle vaccines in immunotherapy, achieving an effective immune response in the tumor microenvironment remains a challenge. Tumor immune escape and overexpression of immunosuppressive factors limit its clinical application. Therefore, this study will explore how to intervene in the immunosuppressive mechanism in the tumor microenvironment through mannose-modified lipid calcium phosphate nanoparticle vaccines so as to improve the immunotherapy effect of tumor patients and provide new ideas and strategies for the field of tumor therapy.

Use of probiotic lactobacilli has been proposed as a strategy to mitigate damage associated to exposure to toxic metals. Their protective effect against cationic metal ions, such as those of mercury or lead, is believed to stem from their chelating and accumulating potential. However, their retention of anionic toxic metalloids, such as inorganic arsenic, is generally lower. Through the construction of mutants in phosphate transporter genes (pst) in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strains, coupled with arsenate [As(V)] uptake and toxicity assays, we determined that the incorporation of As(V), which structurally resembles phosphate, is likely facilitated by phosphate transporters. Surprisingly, inactivation in Lc. paracasei of PhoP, the tran-scriptional regulator of the two-component system PhoPR, a signal transducer involved in phosphate sensing, led to an increased resistance to arsenite [As(III)]. In comparison to the wild type, the phoP strain exhibited no differences in the ability to retain As(III), and there were no observed changes in the oxidation of As(III) to the less toxic As(V). These results reinforce the idea that specific transport, and not unspecific cell retention plays a role in As(V) biosorption by lactobacilli, while they reveal an unexpected phenotype for the lack of the pleiotropic regulator PhoP.

Management of calcium and phosphate in biofluids is key to maintaining physiological mineral homeostasis (i.e., appropriate mineralization of hard tissues and an absence of mineral deposition in soft tissues). This review describes and contrasts the ways vertebrates manage calcium phosphate in two biological fluids (breast milk and serum) and illustrates the benefits of mineral sequestration by proteins. In milk, phosphoprotein-sequestered calcium magnesium phosphates provide nutritional support, whereas in serum, protein-sequestered calcium phosphates control transport and delivery of calcium and phosphate to tissues for biological function or excretion. In addition, subsets of sequestered phosphates in serum have been identified as culprits underlying ectopic deposition of calcium phosphates and toxicity.