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This work examines the influence of the degradation behaviors of biotic and abiotic conditions on three types of biodegradable products: cups from PLA and from cellulose, and plates from sugarcane. The main objective of this study was to evaluate if biodegradable products can be degraded in composts that were stabilized by backyard composting. Furthermore, the impact of crucial abiotic parameters (temperature and pH) for the degradation behaviors process was investigated. The changes in the biopolymers were analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy. This work confirmed that abiotic and biotic conditions are important for an effective disintegration of the investigated biodegradable products. Under abiotic conditions, the degradation behaviors of PLA were observable under both tested temperature (38 and 59 °C) conditions, but only at the higher temperature was complete disintegration observed after 6 weeks of incubation in mature compost. Moreover, our research shows that some biodegradable products made from cellulose also need additional attention, especially with respect to incorporated additives, as composting could be altered and optimal conditions in composting may not be achieved. This study shows that the disintegration of biodegradable products is a comprehensive process and requires detailed evaluation during composting. The results also showed that biodegradable products can also be degraded post composting and that microplastic pollution from biodegradable polymers in soil may be removed by simple physical treatments.
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This work aimed to investigate the effects of aging on the microstructures and rheological properties of modified asphalt with a GO/SBS composite, since the styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer is potentially compatible with graphene oxide (GO). The GO/SBS composites, which were used as a kind of modifier, were prepared via the solution-blending method. GO/SBS composites with varying GO contents were employed to prepare the GO/SBS-compound-modified asphalt (GO/SBS-MA). Then, the GO/SBS-MA underwent PAV (pressure aging vessel) or UV (ultraviolet) aging tests to simulate different aging circumstances. The microstructures of the asphalt binders were studied using FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) and AFM (atomic force microscope) tests. Moreover, DSR (dynamic shear rheometer) and BBR (bending beam rheometer) experiments were carried out to investigate the rheological properties of the GO/SBS-MA. The results showed that the addition of GO improved the high-temperature stability of the asphalt binder while slightly impairing its performance at low temperatures. GO restrained the formation of carbonyl and sulfoxide groups as well as the breakdown of C=C bonds in the polybutadiene (PB) segment, promoting the anti-aging performance of GO/SBS-MA. Furthermore, the interactions between the GO/SBS and the asphalt binder resulted in the formation of needle-like aggregates, enhancing the stability of the asphalt binder. The asphalt binders with a higher content of graphene oxide (GO) exhibited not only a better high-temperature performance, but also a better aging resistance. It was concluded that the macroscopic properties and microstructures were significantly affected by GO, and a moderate increase in the amount of GO could contribute to a better aging resistance for GO/SBS-MA.
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Despite the widespread use of silver nanoparticles (NPs), these NPs can accumulate and have toxic effects on various organs. However, the effects of silver nanostructures (Ag-NS) with alginate coating on the male reproductive system have not been studied. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impacts of this NS on sperm function and testicular structure. After the synthesis and characterization of Ag-NS, the animals were divided into five groups (n = 8), including one control group, two sham groups (received 1.5 mg/kg/day alginate solution for 14 and 35 days), and two treatment groups (received Ag-NS at the same dose and time). Following injections, sperm parameters, apoptosis, and autophagy were analyzed by the TUNEL assay and measurement of the mRNA expression of Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3, LC3, and Beclin-1. Fertilization rate was assessed by in vitro fertilization (IVF), and testicular structure was analyzed using the TUNEL assay and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The results showed that the NS was rod-shaped, had a size of about 60 nm, and could reduce sperm function and fertility. Gene expression results demonstrated an increase in the apoptotic markers and a decrease in autophagy markers, indicating apoptotic cell death. Moreover, Ag-NS invaded testicular tissues, especially in the chronic phase (35 days), resulting in tissue alteration and epithelium disintegration. The results suggest that sperm parameters and fertility were affected. In addition, NS has negative influences on testicular tissues, causing infertility in men exposed to these NS.
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Cellulose beads emerge as carriers for poorly water-soluble drugs due to their eco-friendly raw materials and favorable porous structure. However, drug dissolution may be limited by their poor swelling ability and the presence of closed pores caused by shrinkage of the pristine cellulose beads. In this study, novel cellulose beads that can swell in acidic environment were prepared by introducing ethylenediamine (EDA) on dialdehyde cellulose (DAC), thereby addressing the shrinkage and closed pore problem of cellulose beads. The effect of the ratio of EDA on the swelling behavior and amine content of beads was studied. Three model drugs with different physicochemical properties were selected to study the physical state of loaded drugs and their release behavior. According to the results of XRPD and DSC, indomethacin and itraconazole loaded in the beads were amorphous at a drug loading of 20%, but fenofibrate was partially crystalline. Both bead size and the ratio of amine groups influenced the release behavior of the model drugs. The in vitro dissolution results showed that the cationic beads greatly improved the solubility and dissolution rate of the drug compared with the crystalline drug. Beads with a small size and high ratio of EDA tend to achieve a better drug dissolution rate and cumulative release percentage. Physical stability studies of the itraconazole-loaded beads were also implemented under four different temperature/humidity conditions for up to two months. The results showed that crystallization only appeared after two months of storage at 40°/75% RH, and the drug maintained a non-crystalline state in the other three storage conditions (0 °C/0 %RH, 0 °C/32 %RH, 25 °C/32 %RH). In conclusion, the novel pH-responsive cationic cellulose beads show great potential as a carrier for improving the rate and extent of dissolution of poorly soluble drugs and maintaining supersaturation.
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Damnacanthal is an anthraquinone, extracted, and purified from the root of Morinda citrifolia in Thailand. This study aimed to measure acute oral toxicity and to investigate the anticancer activity of damnacanthal in colorectal tumorigenesis. We found that the growth of human colorectal cancer cells was inhibited by damnacanthal in a dose- and a time-dependent manner. The growth inhibitory effect of damnacanthal was better than that of 5-FU used as a positive control in colorectal cancer cells, along with the downregulation of cell cycle protein cyclin D1. Similarly, an oral treatment of damnacanthal effectively inhibited the growth of colorectal tumor xenografts in nude mice, which was approximately 2-3-fold higher as compared to 5-FU by tumor size as well as expression of bioluminescence. Furthermore, the study of acute oral toxicity in mice exhibited a relatively low toxicity of damnacanthal with a LD50 cut-off value of 2500 mg/kg according to OECD Guideline 423. These results reveal the potential therapeutic activity of a natural damnacanthal compound as an anti-colorectal cancer drug.
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Antimicrobial resistance is increasing in prevalence and there is a clear need for the development of rapid detection methods in clinical diagnostics. This review explores -omics studies utilising mass spectrometry to investigate the molecular phenotype associated with carbapenem resistance. Whilst the specific mechanisms of carbapenem resistance are well characterised, the resistant phenotype is poorly understood. Understanding how the acquisition of resistance affects cellular physiology and cell metabolism through molecular phenotyping is a necessary step towards detecting resistance by diagnostic means. In addition, this article examines the potential of mass spectrometry for the identification of resistance biomarkers through molecular profiling of bacteria. Developments in mass spectrometry platforms are expanding the biomarker-based diagnostic landscape. Targeted measures, such as high-resolution mass spectrometry coupled with chromatographic separation show considerable promise for the identification of molecular signatures and the development of a rapid diagnostic assay for the detection of carbapenem resistance.
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Colostrum samples of recently registered cow breed "Himachali Pahari" were assorted from high altitude zone (901-2200 m). Prepared bovine colostrum whey powder (BCWP) was analysed for chemical composition, amino acids, minerals, surface morphology (SEM-EDS), FTIR and dielectric properties. Results showed that freeze-dried BCWP contained a considerable amount of nutritional parameters viz IgG (18.55 g/100 g), protein (71.72 g/100 g) and total amino acids (69.64 g/100 g). Additionally, the concentration of essential minerals was found to be adequate, and there was no presence of heavy metals. The BCWP exhibits good dielectric properties (resistance â¼57 M-Ω). SEM-EDS showed the broken up-wards layer structure with the uniform distribution of minerals on the surface. The FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of a higher proportion of ß-sheets and ß-turn structures in BCWP. Thus, on account of good functional and nutritive properties, BCWP could be foreseen as the future of functional food.
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Moringa oleifera Lam. (M. oleifera Lam) is a perennial tropical deciduous tree that belongs to the Moringaceae family. Polysaccharides are one of the major bioactive compounds in M. oleifera Lam and show immunomodulatory, anticancer, antioxidant, intestinal health protection and antidiabetic activities. At present, the structure and functional activities of M. oleifera Lam polysaccharides (MOPs) have been widespread, but the research data are relatively scattered. Moreover, the relationship between the structure and biological activities of MOPs has not been summarized. In this review, the current research on the extraction, purification, structural characteristics and biological activities of polysaccharides from different sources of M. oleifera Lam were summarized, and the structural characteristics of purified polysaccharides were focused on this review. Meanwhile, the biological activities of MOPs were introduced, and some molecular mechanisms were listed. In addition, the relationship between the structure and biological activities of MOPs was discussed. Furthermore, new perspectives and some future research of M. oleifera Lam polysaccharides were proposed in this review.
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Orthopedic implants account for 99% of orthopedic surgeries, however, orthopedic implant-related infection is one of the most serious complications owing to the potential for limb-threatening sequelae and mortality. Current antibiotic treatments still lack the capacity to target bone infection sites, thereby resulting in unsatisfactory therapeutic effects. Here, the bone infection site targeting efficacy of D6 and UBI29-41 peptides was investigated, and bone-and-bacteria dual-targeted nanoparticles (NPs) with D6 and UBI29-41 peptides were first fabricated to target bone infection site and control the release of vancomycin in bone infection site. The results of this study demonstrated that the bone-and-bacteria dual-targeted mesoporous silica NPs exhibit excellent bone and bacteria targeting efficacy, excellent biocompatibility and effective antibacterial properties in vitro. Furthermore, in a rat model of orthopedic implant-related infection with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, the growth of bacteria was evidently inhibited without cytotoxicity, thus realizing the early treatment of implant-related infection. Hence, the bone-and-bacteria dual-targeted molecule-modified NPs may target bacteria-infected bone sites and act as ideal candidates for the therapy of orthopedic implant-related infections.
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The effect of abiotic factors, such as weather and climate can alter the properties of vegetable oils. In this work, the effects of the refining process and pre-drying of Moringa oleifera Lam. seeds collected in the dry and rainy seasons (seasonality) were evaluated on the characteristics of the extracted oils. The refined and crude dry season oils had lower acidity and moisture content than the dry and raw rainy season oils. Oleic acid (C18:1) showed the highest concentration in the different Moringa oils studied. The results suggest that dry season oils are more suitable for application as feedstocks in the cosmetic, food, medicinal and pharmaceutical industries. Furthermore, refining proved to be efficient in removing free fatty acids and in lightening the oil.
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Deep-located tumor specific imaging has broad clinical applications in improving the accuracy of tumor diagnosis. Microwave-induced thermoacoustic imaging (MTAI), combining the high-contrast of microwave imaging with the high-resolution of ultrasound imaging, is a potential candidate for noninvasive tumor detection. Herein, a deep-located tumor specific MTAI method by tumor microenvironment (TME) activated nanoprobe is reported. In principle, manganous-manganic oxide-based nanoprobe can be triggered by TME with overexpressed glutathione and weak acidity, causing to release manganese ions and increase conductivity. With pulsed microwaves, manganese ions move repeatedly in gigahertz alternating electric field, resulting in a transient heating and thermoelastic expansion through the Joule effect, which yields a strong thermoacoustic (TA) wave in tumor site. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that manganous-manganic oxide-based nanoprobe could high-selectively amplify the TA signal in deep-located tumor. Our proposed tumor-specific MTAI method based on TME activation provides a potential approach for deep-located tumor detection.
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BACKGROUND: The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic created an urgent need for rapid, infection screening applied to large numbers of asymptomatic individuals. To date, nasal/throat swab polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is considered the "gold standard". However, this is inconducive to mass, point-of-care (POC) testing due to person discomfort during sampling and a prolonged result turnaround. Breath testing for disease specific organic compounds potentially offers a practical, rapid, non-invasive, POC solution. The study compares the Breath of Health, Ltd. (BOH) breath analysis system to PCR's ability to screen asymptomatic individuals for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The BOH system is mobile and combines Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with artificial intelligence (AI) to generate results within 2 min and 15 s. In contrast to prior SARS-CoV-2 breath analysis research, this study focuses on diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 via disease specific spectrometric profiles rather than through identifying the disease specific molecules. METHODS: Asymptomatic emergency room patients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 exposure in two leading Israeli hospitals were selected between February through April 2021. All were tested via nasal/throat-swab PCR and BOH breath analysis. In total, 297 patients were sampled (mean age 57·08 ± SD 18·86, 156 males, 139 females, 2 unknowns). Of these, 96 were PCR-positive (44 males, 50 females, 2 unknowns), 201 were PCR-negative (112 males, 89 females). One hundred samples were used for AI identification of SARS-CoV-2 distinguishing spectroscopic wave-number patterns and diagnostic algorithm creation. Algorithm validation was tested in 100 proof-of-concept samples (34 PCR-positive, 66 PCR-negative) by comparing PCR with AI algorithm-based breath-test results determined by a blinded medical expert. One hundred additional samples (12 true PCR-positive, 85 true PCR-negative, 3 confounder false PCR-positive [not included in the 297 total samples]) were evaluated by two blinded medical experts for further algorithm validation and inter-expert correlation. FINDINGS: The BOH system identified three distinguishing wave numbers for SARS-CoV-2 infection. In the first phase, the single expert identified the first 100 samples correctly, yielding a 1:1 FTIR/AI:PCR correlation. The two-expert second-phase also yielded 1:1 FTIR/AI:PCR correlation for 97 non-confounders and null correlation for the 3 confounders. Inter-expert correlation was 1:1 for all results. In total, the FTIR/AI algorithm demonstrated 100% sensitivity and specificity for SARS-CoV-2 detection when compared with PCR. INTERPRETATION: The SARS-CoV-2 method of breath analysis via FTIR with AI-based algorithm demonstrated high PCR correlation in screening for asymptomatic individuals. This is the first practical, rapid, POC breath analysis solution with such high PCR correlation in asymptomatic individuals. Further validation is required with a larger sample size. FUNDING: Breath of Health Ltd, Rehovot, Israel provided study funding.
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Plant cryptochromes are central blue light receptors for the control of land plant and algal development including the circadian clock and the cell cycle. Cryptochromes share a photolyase homology region with about 500 amino acids and bind the chromophore flavin adenine dinucleotide. Characteristic for plant cryptochromes is a conserved aspartic acid close to flavin and an exceptionally long C-terminal extension. The mechanism of activation by excitation and reduction of the chromophore flavin adenine dinucleotide has been controversially discussed for many years. Various spectroscopic techniques have contributed to our understanding of plant cryptochromes by providing high time resolution, ambient conditions and even in-cell approaches. As a result, unifying and differing aspects of photoreaction and signal propagation have been revealed in comparison to members from other cryptochrome subfamilies. Here, we review the insight from spectroscopy on the flavin photoreaction in plant cryptochromes and present the current models on the signal propagation from flavin reduction to dissociation of the C-terminal extension.
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The proximal composition, amino acid, carbohydrate, and volatile profiles of caferana (Bunchosia glandulifera) seeds flour were here assessed. Seeds were also subjected to the following extraction processes: one with pressurized ethanol (PLE) and two with ethanol + supercritical CO2 mixture at different temperatures and pressures (SC1 and SC2). Extracts were characterized in terms of caffeine, total phenolic, and δ-lactam. The characterization of caferana seed and its extracts is unprecedented in terms of carbohydrate and volatiles profiles, besides the δ-lactam identification/isolation. SC2 extract exhibited a higher caffeine (9.3 mg/g) and δ-lactam (29.4 mg/g) content, whereas the PLE extract contained a higher total phenolic amount (3.0 mgGAE/g). Caferana is regionally associated to protective effects on mental health. Its byproduct (seed) revealed to be a promising source of bioactive compounds, and a potential raw material of nutritive extracts and flours that can be incorporated into pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and food products.
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OBJECTIVES: This study is aimed to synthesis and evaluate PEGylated Eu enabled spherical alumina submicron particles (s-Al2O3:Eu) for potential theranostic applications. METHODS: This study is bisected into two parts, a) synthesis of PEGylated Eu enabled spherical alumina submicron particles (s-Al2O3:Eu), and b) characterization of the synthesized particles to determine their efficacy for potential theranostic applications.The synthesis of the particles involved the following steps. In the first step, s-Al2O3:Eu is synthesized using solvothermal synthesis. In the next step, the particles undergo post synthesis water-ethanol treatment and calcination. The surface of the synthesized s-Al2O3:Eu particles is then coated by PEG to increase its biocompatibility.Once the particles are prepared, they are characterized using different techniques. The microstructure, composition and structure of the particles is characterized using SEM, EDX and XRD techniques. The detection of the functional groups is done using FTIR analysis. The photoluminescence emission spectrum of s-Al2O3:Eu is studied using Photoluminescence spectroscopy. And, finally, the biocompatibility is studied using MTT assay on RD cell lines. RESULTS: The microstructure analysis, from the micrographs obtained from SEM, shows that the spherical alumina particles have a submicron size with narrow size distribution. The compositional analysis, as per EDX, confirms the presence of Oxygen, Aluminum and Europium in the particles. While, XRD analysis of s-Al2O3:Eu confirms the formation of alpha alumina phase after calcination at 700 °C. Emission peaks, obtained by Photoluminescence emission spectroscopy, show that the optimum emission intensities correspond to the transition from 5D0 to 7Fj orbital of Eu+3. FTIR analysis confirms the successful coating of PEG. Finally, a cell viability of more than 86% is observed when the biocompatibility of the particles is studied, using MTT assay on RD cell lines. CONCLUSIONS: s-Al2O3:Eu with narrow distribution are successfully synthesized. Structural and functional characterizations support the suitability of s-Al2O3:Eu as potential theranostic agent.
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For the whole GFP family, a few cases, when a single mutation in the chromophore environment strongly inhibits maturation, were described. Here we study EYFP-F165G - a variant of the enhanced yellow fluorescent protein - obtained by a single F165G replacement, and demonstrated multiple fluorescent states represented by the minor emission peaks in blue and yellow ranges (~470 and ~530 nm), and the major peak at ~330 nm. The latter has been assigned to tryptophan fluorescence, quenched due to excitation energy transfer to the mature chromophore in the parental EYFP protein. EYFP-F165G crystal structure revealed two general independent routes of post-translational chemistry, resulting in two main states of the polypeptide chain with the intact chromophore forming triad (~85%) and mature chromophore (~15%). Our experiments thus highlighted important stereochemical role of the 165th position strongly affecting spectral characteristics of the protein. On the basis of the determined EYFP-F165G three-dimensional structure, new variants with ~ 2-fold improved brightness were engineered.
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Usage of nanoparticle in various products has increased tremendously in the recent past. Toxicity of these nanoparticles can have a huge impact on aquatic ecosystem. Algae are the ideal organism of the aquatic ecosystem to understand the toxicity impact of nanoparticles. The present study focuses on the toxicity evaluation of zinc oxide (ZnO) and iron oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles towards freshwater microalgae, Chlorella vulgaris. The dose dependent growth retardation in Chlorella vulgaris is observed under ZnO and Fe2O3 nanoparticles and nanoform attributed more toxicity than their bulk counterparts. The IC50 values of ZnO and Fe2O3 nanoparticles was reported at 0.258â¯mgâ¯L-1 and 12.99â¯mgâ¯L-1 whereas, for the bulk-form, it was 1.255â¯mgL-1 and 17.88â¯mgâ¯L-1, respectively. The significant decline in chlorophyll content and increase in proline content, activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase, indicated the stressful physiological state of microalgae. An increased lactate dehydrogenase level in treated samples suggested membrane disintegration by ZnO and Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Compound microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy confirm cell entrapment, deposition of nanoparticles on the cell surface and disintegration of algal cell wall. Higher toxicity of nanoform in comparison to bulk chemistry is a point of concern.
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The safety and bioactive potential of crude carotenoid extract from Cantaloupe melon nanoencapsulated in porcine gelatin (EPG) were evaluated in a chronic inflammatory experimental model. Animals were fed a high glycemic index and high glycemic load (HGLI) diet for 17 weeks and treated for ten days with 1) HGLI diet, 2) standard diet, 3) HGLI dietâ¯+â¯crude carotenoid extract (CE) (12.5â¯mg/kg), and 4) HGLI dietâ¯+â¯EPG (50â¯mg/kg). General toxicity signals were investigated, considering body weight, food intake, hematological, biochemical parameters, relative weight, morphology, and histopathology of organs. The biochemical parameters indicated the low toxicity of EPG. Acute hepatitis was observed in animals' livers, but CE and EPG groups presented improved tissue appearance. Chronic enteritis was observed in animals, with villi and intestinal glands preservation in the EPG group. The results suggest the safety and the bioactive effect of EPG, possibly related to its anti-inflammatory potential.
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BACKGROUND: The evaluation of 24 h urinary oxalate excretion is the gold standard for diagnosing hyperoxaluria in patients with recurrent urolithiasis. However, 24 h urine sample collection is cumbersome. Therefore we aim to see if oxalate to creatinine ratio in random urine sample can be used as an alternative. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Section of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Aga Khan University Karachi from 1st February to December 31, 2019. A total of 62 adult patients, 18-60 years of age with history of kidney stones presenting to the clinical laboratory for 24 h urine oxalate estimation were invited to participate in the study after informed consent. Clinical details were recorded on a structured questionnaire and patients were guided to submit 24 h urine and a random spot urine sample. Urinary oxalate was measured on Micro lab 300 using a kit based on oxalate oxidase principle by Trinity Biotech plc, Wicklow, Ireland following standard operating procedures. Urinary creatinine was measured on ADVIA 1800 by Siemens, US using kinetic Jaffe reaction according to the manufacturer's instructions. The data was analyzed on SPSS. RESULTS: In a period of ten months, a total of 62 subjects were recruited; mean age was 32.4 ± 2.6 years. Males were 49 (79.0%) and females were 13 (20.9%). Correlation was found to be (r = 0.289) by Spearman correlation (p value < 0.005). Taking 24 h urinary oxalate as gold standard the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of spot oxalate to creatinine ratio was 83.3%, 17.8%, 9.8% and 90.9% respectively. CONCLUSION: The random spot urine test cannot replace the 24 h urinary oxalate estimation in patients with urolithiasis.
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MRI is an excellent diagnostic technique for atherosclerosis in a non-invasive manner. Application of contrasting agents can improve its contrast through ionic properties. Macrophages and foam cells produce MCP-1 antibody, the sign of development of atherosclerosis. The work aims to develop novel curcumin incorporated titanium dioxide nanoparticles (CTNPs) conjugated with MCP-1 antibody with the specific targeting capability to macrophage-foam cells as contrasting agent for MRI. In vivo toxicity studies of Curcumin, TNPs and CTNPs were also done in Sprague dawley rats by GGT and ALP assays and found to be normal in comparison with control. Histopathology of aorta confirmed that the compound could not elicit a toxic effect in the target organ. Rats were fed with a high cholesterol diet to develop atherosclerotic foam cells and confirmed by Sudan IV staining and serum cholesterol level. CTNP-MCP-1 was injected into animals through tail vein and MRI scanning was done, gave contrasting images of atherosclerotic aorta in comparison with normal. Thus CTNPs can be used as a cost-effective contrasting tool for diagnosis of atherosclerosis at early stages in view of clinical imaging.