Combined Application Research Articles

Potential of co-application of microbial enriched winery solid waste compost and inorganic fertilizers to enhance maize growth and yield parameters

Abstract The present study was conducted to assess the effects of co-application of winery solid waste compost (WWC) and synthetic nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers (SF) on maize growth and yield parameters. The field experiment was conducted during the 2017/18 and 2018/19 summer cropping seasons. The WWCs (microbially inoculated and uninoculated) and SF were combined at ratios: 0:0, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, and 100:0 (wt/wt) to attain the amount of N and P supplied by the predicted rates of compost. The optimum SF rate (90 kg/ha P and 200 kg/ha N) for maize was used as a positive control. The non-significant (p ≤ 0.05) effect of compost type on growth and yield parameters indicated that the microbial inoculation during compost production has no effect on compost quality. Compared with control, WWC-SF combination (50:50) improved grain weight per cob by 18.6% in 2017/18. The increase in the measured yield parameters was quantitatively higher in treatment with the 50:50 WWC-SF mix ratio than in other treatments. Significant and positive correlations exist between growth and yield parameters. In conclusion, the study findings suggest that the combined application of WWC and SF has great potential to enhance the maize growth and yield attributes.

Digital planning of orthodontic dental treatment: A literature review

This paper presents data on the incidence of malocclusion. It discusses the advantages of digital impressions over analog impressions in dental practice. The literature on software, digital planning methods, and the features of modern orthodontic treatment devices used in dentistry is reviewed. Comparative characteristics of each proposed method are provided. Furthermore, the potential applications of combination planning approaches, such as cone beam computed tomography and intraoral scanning, are discussed. The review describes in detail the most common digital solutions used by dentists during orthodontic treatment planning, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Iron release characteristics in groundnut growing red and black calcareous soils of Cuddalore district

The current study was assessed the nutrient release pattern of iron using different sources of iron fertilizer at various levels in groundnut-growing red and black calcareous soils of the Cuddalore district at regular sampling intervals. The study design was completely randomized block design with different levels of iron sulphate (FeSO4) at 25 and 50 kg ha-1, iron-enriched farmyard manure (Fe-EFYM) at 37.5 and 50 kg ha-1 and iron-ethylene diamine dihydroxy phenylacetic acid (Fe-EDDHA) at 1 and 5 kg ha-1 three replicates at different sampling intervals of incubation. The release pattern of iron was analyzed. The study revealed that the releasing rate of iron increased with the advancement of the incubation period up to 42 days and thereafter declined in both type of calcareous soil. The maximum release of iron was found with the application of 50 kg FeSO4 ha-1 as Fe- EFYM, which recorded mean values of 26.92 and 26.13 mg kg-1 on 42nd day in red and black calcareous soils, respectively. Application of Fe-EDDHA at 5 kg ha-1 recorded a gradual increase in DTPA iron availability from 7th day (17.35 mg kg-1 and 12.03 mg kg-1 in red and black calcareous soil, respectively) to 42nd day (21.49 mg kg-1 and 18.87 mg kg-1 in red and black calcareous soil respectively). Then it showed a steady decline in both calcareous soils. The results of the current study showed that the efficient usage of iron in both calcareous soils was greatly increased by the combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers.

TGFβ signaling sensitizes MEKi-resistant human melanoma to targeted therapy-induced apoptosis

The TGFβ signaling pathway is known for its pleiotropic functions in a plethora of biological processes. In melanoma, TGFβ signaling promotes invasiveness and metastasis formation. However, its involvement in the response to therapy is controversial. While several studies have linked TGFβ signaling to elevated resistance to targeted therapy in melanoma, separate findings have indicated a favorable treatment response through TGFβ-mediated increase of cell death. We now found that the outcome of TGFβ signaling in the context of targeted therapy is dose dependent. Unlike low doses, high levels of TGFβ signal activation induce apoptosis upon simultaneous MAPK pathway inhibition, even in targeted therapy resistant melanoma cell lines. Using transcriptomic analyses, combined with genomic target identification of the critical TGFβ signaling effector SMAD4, we demonstrate that parallel activation of TGFβ signaling and MAPK pathway inhibition causes a complete switch of TGFβ target genes from promoting pro-invasive processes to fueling pro-apoptotic pathways. Investigations of underlying mechanisms identified a novel apoptosis-inducing gene signature. Functional validation of signature members highlighted a central role of the pro-apoptotic BCL2 family member BCL2L11 (BIM) in mediating apoptosis in this condition. Using a modified, synthetic version of the TGFB1 mRNA for intra-tumoral injections, we additionally showcase a potential therapeutic application of this treatment combination.

Nanoconfined Chlorine-Substituted Monomethine Cyanine Dye with a Propionamide Function Based on the Thiazole Orange Scaffold-Use of a Fluorogenic Probe for Cell Staining and Nucleic Acid Visualization.

The development of fluorescence-based methods for bioassays and medical diagnostics requires the design and synthesis of specific markers to target biological microobjects. However, biomolecular recognition in real cellular systems is not always as selective as desired. A new concept for creating fluorescent biomolecular probes, utilizing a fluorogenic dye and biodegradable, biocompatible nanomaterials, is demonstrated. The synthesis of a new dicationic asymmetric monomethine cyanine dye with benzo[d]thiazolium-N-propionamide and chloroquinoline end groups is presented. The photophysical properties of the newly synthesized dye were examined through the combined application of spectroscopic and theoretical methods. The applicability of the dye as a fluorogenic nucleic acid probe was proven by UV-VIS spectroscopy and fluorescence titration. The dye-nucleic acid interaction mode was investigated by UV-Vis and CD spectroscopy. The newly synthesized dicationic dye, like other similar fluorogenic structures, limited permeability, which restricts its use as a probe for RNA and DNA. To enhance cellular delivery, we utilized a patented technology that employs solid, insoluble lipid nanoparticles. This method ensures the complete introduction of the dye into cells while minimizing activity outside the cells. In our study involving two human cell lines, we observed improved penetration through the cell membrane and distinctive selectivity in visualizing nucleic acids within the cytoplasm and nucleus.

The Predictive Value of tPSA, fPSA, fPSA/tPSA Combined with Ultrasound Parameters in Postoperative Gleason Grading of Prostate Cancer.

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common malignant tumor in men. This study aimed to explore the predictive value of serum biomarkers combined with ultrasound parameters for postoperative Gleason grading in PCa. This study included 65 PCa patients who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate in our hospital from January 2021 to December 2023. Based on postoperative Gleason grading, the study subjects were divided into a Mild Group (n = 34) and a Severe Group (n = 31). Levels of serological biomarkers such as total prostate-specific antigen (tPSA), free prostate-specific antigen (fPSA), and fPSA/tPSA (the ratio of fPSA to tPSA), along with ultrasound (US) parameters, including prostate-specific antigen density (PSAD), intraglandular prostate-specific antigen density (IGPSAD), extraglandular prostate-specific antigen density (EGPSAD), and US score were compared between the two groups to evaluate their predictive values for postoperative Gleason grading. The fPSA, tPSA, fPSA/tPSA ratio, PSAD, IGPSAD, EGPSAD, and US scores in the Severe Group were significantly different from those in the Mild Group (p < 0.05). The combined evaluation of fPSA, tPSA, fPSA/tPSA, PSAD, IGPSAD, EGPSAD, and US score for predicting postoperative Gleason grading in PCa patients revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.947, indicating a better predictive performance. The AUC of multi-parameter union was significantly higher than that of individual parameters and serum indicators union (fPSA, tPSA and fPSA/tPSA) (p < 0.05). The combined use of multiple parameters (fPSA, tPSA, fPSA/tPSA, PSAD, IGPSAD, EGPSAD and US Score) shows better predictive performance than individual testing. The combined application has high predictive value in postoperative Gleason grading of PCa. These findings can effectively guide clinical decision-making and optimize diagnostic strategies for developing effective and targeted therapeutic interventions for PCa.

Synergistic Anti-Cancer Effects of Curcumin and Thymoquinone Against Melanoma.

Combining anti-cancer agents in cancer therapies is becoming increasingly common because of their improved efficacy, reduced toxicity, and decreased risk of resistance development. Melanoma, a highly aggressive form of skin cancer characterized by limited treatment options due to chemoresistance, poses a considerable challenge for effective management. Here, we test the hypothesis that dietary supplements such as thymoquinone (TQ) and curcumin (CU) cooperatively modulate cancer-associated cellular mechanisms to inhibit melanoma progression. Through a series of in vitro experiments utilizing the A375 melanoma cell line, including assessments of cell viability, apoptosis, multicellular tumor spheroid models, reactive oxygen species (ROS) quantification, metabolomics analysis, and RNA sequencing, we established that the combined application of TQ and CU exhibited superior anti-tumor effects compared to their individual use. Our results indicate that the combination treatment significantly inhibited cell viability and induced apoptosis more effectively than either agent alone, with optimal synergy observed at concentrations of 25 µM CU and 10 µM TQ against A375 cells. Additionally, the combination treatment markedly elevated ROS levels, selectively activating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway via caspase-9. Differential gene expression analysis further revealed a unique synergistic effect of the combination treatment, with enhanced regulation of genes related to oxidative stress and apoptosis. Notably, pathways such as mitochondrial apoptotic signaling and redox homeostasis were more effectively influenced by the combination, with genes such as GPX3, CYP4F11, and HSPB8 cooperatively regulated. Overall, the findings suggest that, in combination, TQ and CU acts synergistically against melanoma; however, further experimental and clinical studies are required to confirm its therapeutic potential.

Evaluation of Online Food Ordering Service Platforms Using MCDM Methods

With the widespread use of the internet, users save time and money thanks to many online transactions that have entered our lives. During the Covid-19 pandemic, online grocery shopping and food ordering have become extremely popular thanks to the solutions offered by the internet. Therefore, the aim of the study is to evaluate online food ordering service platforms according to EDAS, LOPCOW and WASPAS methods, which are among the MCDM methods. In the study, participants were first interviewed over the phone to determine online food ordering service platforms. The interview was applied to randomly selected people between the ages of 15-55 residing in different cities of Turkey. Participants were asked which online food ordering service platforms they preferred the most. In the interview with fifty participants, Getir Yemek, Trendyol Yemek and Yemek Sepeti were determined as alternatives. Again, ten criteria were determined based on the interview results and similar studies. Ten different decision makers evaluated these three platforms according to the determined criteria. Criteria weights were determined with LOPCOW, and the options were analyzed with EDAS and WASPAS. As a result of the analysis, it was seen that Getir Yemek was the most suitable company. The combined application of EDAS, LOPCOW and WASPAS methods offers a new perspective among existing methods. The study provides valuable information for practitioners by demonstrating the usability and effectiveness of different methods together.

PPZ1-TORC1 pathway mediates ferroptosis and antifungal resistance in Candida albicans.

Candida albicans (C. albicans), a common fungal pathogen, is responsible for infections such as oral candidiasis. Given the widespread misuse of antifungal medications and the increasing resistance, it is critical to explore new strategies to eradicate C. albicans. This study investigates ferroptosis, a form of cell death previously underexplored in fungi, focusing on the role of the fungus-specific protein phosphatase Z1 (PPZ1) in regulating the target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) pathway during tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BuOOH)-induced ferroptosis. We demonstrated that ferroptosis induced by t-BuOOH promoted the accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides, leading to the death of C. albicans. Furthermore, PPZ1 deletion impairs TORC1 signaling, activates autophagy, increases sensitivity to ferroptosis following t-BuOOH exposure, and reduces resistance to various antifungal drugs. These findings reveal the role of the PPZ1-TORC1 pathway in ferroptosis and provide a theoretical basis for developing ferroptosis as a novel antifungal strategy to eradicate C. albicans. The potential combined application of ferroptosis and antifungal drugs is expected to improve the efficacy of treating fungal infections.

Synergistic Effect of Iron and Zinc Nanoparticles with Recommended Nitrogen Dose on Production and Grain Quality of Maize (Zea mays L.) Cultivars Under Drought Stress

Abiotic factors, such as drought, can significantly impact the vegetative growth and productivity of maize. To investigate the effects of the combined foliar application of zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) nanoparticles with the recommended nitrogen dose (RND) on maize production and grain chemical composition under different water regimes, two field experiments were conducted in El-Ayyat city, Giza, Egypt, during the summer seasons of 2022 and 2023. This study utilized a split-split-plot experimental design with three replications. The main plots were designated to different water regimes (100, 80, 60, and 40% of estimated evapotranspiration), while the sub-plots were randomly distributed with Zn and Fe nanoparticle concentrations (0, 100, and 200 mg/L). The sub-sub-plots were randomly allocated to three maize cultivars (SC-P3062, SC-32D99, and SC-P3433). The results revealed that exposure to drought conditions resulted in a significant decline in the yield and yield-related attributes across all maize cultivars examined. Grain yield decreased by 10–50% under drought conditions. However, the foliar application of Zn and Fe nanoparticles was found to significantly improve grain yield, protein content, oil content, starch content, crude fiber, ash, and macro- and micronutrient concentrations in the maize cultivars under control and drought stress conditions. The foliar application of Zn and Fe nanoparticles at a concentration of 200 mg/L to the SC-P3433 maize cultivar led to the greatest grain yield per hectare, reaching 11,749 and 11,657 kg under the irrigation regimes with 100 and 80% total evapotranspiration, respectively. According to the assessment using the relative drought index, the SC-P3062 maize cultivar demonstrated tolerance (T) to water stress conditions. In conclusion, the foliar application of Zn and Fe nanoparticles (100–200 mg/L) effectively mitigated the negative effects of drought stress on maize plants. This approach can be recommended for farmers in arid and semi-arid regions to maintain and improve maize yield and grain quality under water-deficit conditions.

Pulse crops as effective living mulches: An eco-conscious weed management approach

The evolution of weed management strategies from basic cultural techniques to novel, integrated approaches reflects technological advancements that promise further improvements in weed management strategies, fostering more efficient and eco-friendly farming practices. Using legume crops as living mulches for weed suppression has gained considerable attention in agricultural systems. This method involves strategically planting leguminous cover crops as intercrops to inhibit weed growth and improve soil health, potentially boosting crop yields through reduced weed pressure and enhanced nutrient availability. The successful implementation of living mulches requires careful selection of crop species, optimal planting density, and appropriate management practices. Choosing compatible legumes, optimizing planting geometry and employing suitable termination methods are essential for maximizing the weed-suppressing and soil-enhancing benefits of living mulches. The efficacy of intercropping systems in controlling weeds largely depends on intercrop components' growth rate and duration. Weed management strategies rely on understanding plant interactions, including the competitive ability of main crops at various growth stages to inhibit weed expansion. While intercropping shows promise for enhancing crop dominance over weeds, weed control efficiency varies among different intercrops due to factors affecting the intercrop-weed relationship. Smallholder farmers find this practice appealing for improving labour productivity and land use through intensification and resource utilization for maximum yield. Research on developing genotypes suitable for weed suppression and studies on combined herbicide applications and optimal dosage determination for effective control of mixed weed flora is necessary. The shift towards integrating pulse crops as a cornerstone in weed management strategies presents a promising avenue for research and application. The comparative analysis underscored in this review showcases the capacity of legumes to offer a viable alternative to synthetic herbicides and mechanical controls, paving the way for their increased adoption in diverse farming systems.

The Application of Concept Map Thinking Combined with Kolcaba's Comfort Nursing in the Perioperative Care of Patients Undergoing Nasal Deformity Correction.

Aims/Background By addressing patients' physical, psychological, social, cultural, and environmental comfort needs holistically, Kolcaba's Comfort Theory raises the standard of care and increases patient satisfaction. This study explored the combined application of these nursing models during the perioperative period for patients undergoing nasal deformity correction surgery. Methods 92 patients undergoing nasal deformity correction at the Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University were randomly divided into two groups: the conventional group (46 patients), which received standard perioperative nursing care, and the experimental group (46 patients), which received concept map thinking nursing combined with Kolcaba's comfort nursing intervention during the perioperative period. Clinical indicators, including the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE) and General Comfort Questionnaire (GCQ), were compared between the two groups at multiple time points. Results The experimental group demonstrated significantly shorter operation times (p < 0.001), faster recovery of nasal breathing (p = 0.002), and shorter hospital stays (p < 0.001) compared to the conventional group. Additionally, the experimental group experienced less intraoperative blood loss (p < 0.001) and a lower incidence of complications (p = 0.013). At 2 days, 1 month, and 3 months post-surgery, both groups showed decreases in SAS, SDS, and PSQI scores, with the experimental group demonstrating significantly lower scores (p < 0.05). At these same time points, the ROE and GCQ scores increased in both groups, with the experimental group achieving significantly higher scores than the conventional group (p < 0.05). Conclusion The integration of concept map thinking with Kolcaba's comfort nursing significantly improves the postoperative recovery of patients undergoing nasal deformity correction. Reduced surgical trauma, enhanced psychological health, better sleep, increased comfort, and quicker nasal function recovery are all results of this method. Clinical Trial Registration China Clinical Trial Registration Center (https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=191278).

Water use efficiency and grain yield of water stressed-field grown triticale as affected by combined application of biochar and biological fertilizer

Water stress poses a significant constraint on crop productivity in arid regions. A 2-year field experiment was conducted using a split-factorial layout within a randomized complete block (RCB) design to determine whether the combination of Azospirillum brasilense and Pseudomonas fluorescens (plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria [PGPRs]) with organic matter (OM) can mitigate the negative impacts of water stress on the grain yield of triticale (×Triticosecale Wittmack), as well as on water use efficiency for grain (WUEg) and biomass (WUEb). Irrigation treatments, including full irrigation (IRN) and post-milking deficit irrigation (IRD), were assigned to the main plots. Subplots were allocated to different OM sources (no OM, wheat residue, and its biochar) and nitrogen-phosphorus (N-P) sources, viz: chemical N-P fertilizer and integrated N-P fertilizer (50% chemical N-P fertilizer combined with PGPRs). Results indicated that IRD led to a significant decrease in grain yield (60.1%) and, ultimately, WUEg (43.4%) without OM application. However, using biochar resulted in the lowest reductions in these traits (41.1% and 14.6%, respectively) compared to the other OM treatments. The application of integrated N-P fertilizer resulted in an increase in grain yield, WUEg, and WUEb, across all types of OM compared to chemical N-P fertilizer. Notably, the most substantial improvements were observed with the application of biochar, which enhanced grain yield, WUEg, and WUEb by 24.5%, 27.7%, and 18.6%, respectively. Additionally, the application of integrated N-P fertilizer mitigated the decline in average grain weight, a crucial factor influencing the grain yield of triticale, under post-milking water stress conditions. Finally, integrated N-P fertilizer in conjunction with biochar is recommended for arid regions facing irrigation water restrictions during the grain-filling stage of triticale.

Impact of a Complex Passivating Agent on Heavy Metal Immobilization in Pig Manure and Plant Development

In order to immobilize heavy metals in livestock and poultry manure and promote the safe utilization of pig manure resources, this experiment utilized three types of dried pig manure mixed with soil as raw materials. A combination of biochar and bentonite was established, including treatments with the addition of pig manure (CZ), 2.5% bentonite (F1), 7.5% bentonite (F2), 2.5% biochar (F3), 7.5% biochar (F4), 2.5% biochar + 2.5% bentonite (F5), 2.5% biochar + 7.5% bentonite (F6), 7.5% biochar + 2.5% bentonite (F7), 7.5% biochar + 7.5% bentonite (F8), and with zero addition (CK). After the passivation treatments had been applied, a soybean pot experiment was established to measure various physiological indicators at different soybean development stages. The results revealed that the passivated Cu was predominantly in the reduced and residual states. The passivation rates for F8 in LPS, F7 in MPS, and F8 in HPS were 34.10%, 29.90%, and 39.50%, respectively. Among the three concentrations of a pig manure–soil mixture, the impact of low copper concentration on soybean growth was relatively minimal, whereas medium and high copper concentrations significantly impaired soybean health, resulting in varying degrees of interveinal chlorosis and leaf yellowing from the tip to the base of young leaves, thereby affecting photosynthesis. The combined application of biochar and bentonite enhanced copper passivation and facilitated soybean growth and development.

A Binary siRNA-Loaded Tetrahedral DNA Nanobox for Synergetic Anti-Aging Therapy.

Extensive accumulation of senescent cells contributes to organismal aging, and slowing down the process of cellular senescence may ameliorate age-related pathologies. Targeted inhibition of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is found to suppress the conversion of cells to senescence. The regulatory-associated protein of mTOR (Raptor), a key component of mTORC1, has been implicated as important in the aging process, and its druggability deserves to be investigated. Due to high efficiency and high convenience in drug construction, siRNA shows great potential in silencing Raptor expression via RNA interfering therapy. Here,we developed a functionalized anti-aging nanoplatform based on tetrahedral DNA nanostructures (TDNs) encapsulating siRNA targeting Raptor for synergistic anti-aging therapy, named siR-TDNbox. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of TDN beneficially attenuate age-associated inflammation while serving as siRNA nanocarrier, and thus play a binary role. The results suggest that the siR-TDNbox binary therapeutic nanoplatform has demonstrated an excellent ability to delay aging, inhibit mTORC1 signaling, and extend lifespan. This anti-aging nanoplatform may provide a medium for the combined application of traditional senotherapeutic drugs and promote the upgrading of nanomaterials with anti-aging effects.

Response of Onion (Allium cepa L.) Bulb to the Combined Effect of Vermicompost and Mineral Fertilizer under Irrigated Soil Condition in Raya Azobo and Kilte-Awulaelo Districts South and Eastern Tigray, Ethiopia

Background: In Ethiopia, onion (Allium Cepa L.) is a major vegetable crop. However, due to erratic cultivation, rising mineral fertilizer prices and inadequate soil fertility management, its productivity is declining. Integrated nutrient management is a cost-effective approach to fertilizing soil. If used properly, the combination of vermicomposting with mineral fertilizers is one of the most promising options. Nonetheless, in the study areas, the appropriate application rate of vermicompost and NPSZn fertilizer on onion production has not been well examined. Methods: A field experiment was conducted in the irrigated soil conditions of Kilte-Awulaelo and Raya Azobo districts. The study used a randomized complete block design with three replications and twelve experimental treatments (4.5, 3 and 1.5 t ha-1 vermicompost rates combined with NPSZn 75, 50 and 25 kg ha-1). Full recommended 6 t ha-1 vermicompost, 100 kg ha-1 NPSZn fertilizer and absolute control were used. The collected agronomic data were subjected to ANOVA using SAS statistical software (SAS 9.0) and mean separation was done using LSD. Result: Most of the measured onion growth and yield parameters were significantly affected by the joint application of vermicompost and NPSZn. It varies among districts. Maximum bulb yields of 51.2 t ha-1 in Kilte-Awulaelo and 42.5 t ha-1 in Raya Azobo district were obtained from the application of 4.5 t ha-1 vermicompost with 50 kg ha-1 NPSZn and 4.5 t ha-1 vermicompost with 75 kg ha-1 NPSZn respectively. The combined application of vermicompost with NPSZn fertilizer enhanced onion growth and yield.

Efficient Removal of Lead, Cadmium, and Zinc from Water and Soil by MgFe Layered Double Hydroxide: Adsorption Properties and Mechanisms

Both biochar and layered double hydroxide (LDH) have drawbacks in regard to the removal of heavy metals. The combined application of biochar and LDH not only solved the problem of the easy agglomeration of LDH but also effectively improved the heavy metal adsorption capacity of biochar. In this work, a MgFe–LDH banana straw biochar composite (MgFe–LDH@BB), with a regular hydrotalcite structure, was synthesized by employing a simple hydrothermal method. The composite showed an ultra-high adsorption capacity for lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn) in water. A series of experiments were conducted to investigate the adsorption characteristics of MgFe–LDH@BB. At pH = 6.0, MgFe–LDH@BB demonstrated the effective adsorption of Pb, Cd, and Zn. In addition, the results showed that the adsorption of Pb, Cd, and Zn by MgFe–LDH@BB was rapid and conformed to pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir models, indicating single-layer chemical adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacity of MgFe–LDH@BB for Pb, Cd, and Zn was 1112.6, 869.6, and 414.9 mg·g−1, respectively. Moreover, the adsorption mechanisms of MgFe–LDH@BB mainly included metal hydroxide/carbonate precipitation, complex formation with hydroxyl groups, and ion exchange. Meanwhile, MgFe–LDH@BB had the ability to immobilize heavy metals in soil. The surface-rich functional groups and cation exchange promoted the transformation of active heavy metal ions into a more stable form.

Combined Effect of Rebamipide 2% and Hyaluronic Acid 0.15% on Dry Eye after Cataract Surgery

Purpose: To assess the combined therapeutic effects of topical rebamipide 2% and hyaluronic acid 0.15% in managing dry eye symptoms following cataract surgery.Methods: Patients who underwent cataract surgery (phacoemulsification with intraocular lens insertion) were assessed for dry eye one week following the procedure. Dry eye patients were randomly assigned to two groups: a treatment group receiving rebamipide 2% and hyaluronic acid 0.15% eye drops, and a control group who did not receive these treatments. Various dry eye tests, including Schirmer’s test, tear break up time (TBUT), ocular surface staining, tear film osmolarity, tear lipid layer thickness, and the ocular surface disease index, were conducted at one and two months after surgery.Results: Significant improvements in TBUT (1 month: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.001; 2 months: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.001) and ocular surface staining scores (1 month: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.001; 2 months: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.001) were observed in the treatment group at both one and two months after surgery compared to baseline. During the follow-up period, the treatment group consistently showed significantly longer TBUT (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.001 at both intervals) and lower ocular surface staining scores (1 month: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.007; 2 months: &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; &lt; 0.001) when compared to the control group.Conclusions: The combined application of rebamipide and hyaluronic acid eye drops following cataract surgery effectively improved TBUT and ocular surface staining scores.

EFFICIENT AND STABLE TIME INTEGRATION OF THE CAHN-HILLARD EQUATIONS: EXPLICIT, IMPLICIT, AND EXPLICIT-ITERATIVE SCHEMES

The article proposes a new algorithm for numerical integration over time of the Cahn-Hilliard equation, based on the combined application of the Eyre splitting method and the local iteration modified (LIM) scheme for solving a finite-dimensional problem at each time step. The proposed method is gradient-stable and allows calculations with large time steps and has an explicit nature of calculations. The results of numerical calculations are presented, demonstrating the capabilities of the proposed method and its comparison with common methods of time integration of the Cahn– Hilliard equation.

Effects of Distiller's Grains Biochar and Lactobacillus plantarum on the Remediation of Cd-Pb-Zn-Contaminated Soil and Growth of Sorghum-Sudangrass.

Soil contamination with heavy metals is a significant environmental issue that adversely affects plant growth and agricultural productivity. Biochar and microbial inoculants have emerged as a promising approach to solving this problem, and previous studies have focused more on the remediation effects of single types of materials on heavy metal soil pollution. This study examined the impact of both standalone and combined applications of distiller's grains biochar, Lactobacillus plantarum thallus, and the bacterial supernatant on the availability of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in soil, its physicochemical features, and its enzyme activities; this study also examined the growth, physiological and biochemical characteristics, and heavy metal accumulation of Sorghum-sudangrass. The findings suggest that the application of distiller's grains biochar, Lactobacillus plantarum thallus, and the bacterial supernatant can improve the soil's physical and chemical properties and enhance soil enzyme activity while reducing the availability of heavy metals in the soil. Furthermore, the addition of these materials promoted plant growth, increased stress resistance, and significantly decreased the accumulation of heavy metals in the plants. A thorough analysis of the results shows that applying 0.025% Lactobacillus plantarum thallus along with 4.4% distiller's grains biochar produced the best results.