Chemical Agents Research Articles

Panax notoginseng saponins and acetylsalicylic acid co-delivered liposomes for targeted treatment of ischemic stroke

In this study, we aimed to develop brain-targeted co-delivery liposomes for the concurrent delivery of Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for the treatment of ischemic stroke. Within this system, PNS served as a cholesterol substitute, integrating into the phospholipid bilayer of the liposomes, while ASA was encapsulated internally. A poly-2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (PMPC) polymer was synthesized and incorporated into the liposome surface. This formulation demonstrated an enhanced PNS-loading capacity and facilitated the synchronized delivery of key saponin components. Following PMPC modification, the liposomes exhibited prolonged circulation and improved transport across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) through acetylcholine receptor-mediated pathways. Furthermore, the co-delivery system exhibited enhanced therapeutic efficacy in a rat model of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury via the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase C pathway. Additional analyses revealed significant effects on the metabolism of neurotransmitters, amino acids, folate, and various other pathways, indicating a multi-faceted therapeutic effect. Overall, this study presents an innovative research strategy for the comprehensive delivery of diverse components in traditional Chinese medicine formulations, highlighting the potential for synergistic treatments that combine traditional Chinese medicine with chemical agents.

In-silico, in-vitro and in-vivo Biological Activities of Flavonoids for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes.

In spite of the fact that many medicinal plants have been truly utilized for the management of diabetes all through the world, very few of them have been reported scientifically. Recently, a diverse variety of animal models have been established to better understand the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus, and new medications to treat the condition have been introduced in the market. Flavonoids are naturally occurring substances that can be found in plants and various foods and may have health benefits in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Flavonoids have also been shown to have an anti-inflammatory impact that is significant to neuropathic pain, as indicated by a decrease in several pro-inflammatory mediators such TNF-, NF-B IL-6, and IL-1. Flavonoids appear to be a viable novel therapy option for macrovasular complications in preclinical models; however, human clinical data is still inadequate. Recently, several in silico, in-vitro and in-vivo aproaches were made to evaluate mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of diabetes in a better way. Screening of natural antidiabetic agents from plant sources can be analysed by utilizing advanced in-vitro techniques and animal models. Natural compounds, mostly derived from plants, have been studied in diabetes models generated by chemical agents in the majority of research. The aim of this work was to review the available in silico, in-vitro and animal models of diabetes for screening of natural antidiabetic agents. This review contributes to the scientist's design of new methodologies for the development of novel therapeutic agents having potential antihyperglycemic activity.

Release of ATP in the lung evoked by inhalation of irritant gases in rats.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) can be released into the extracellular milieu from various types of cells in response to a wide range of physical or chemical stresses. In the respiratory tract, extracellular ATP is recognized as an important signal molecule and trigger of airway inflammation. Chlorine (Cl2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ammonia (NH3) are potent irritant gases and common industrial air pollutants due to their widespread uses as chemical agents. This study was carried out to determine if acute inhalation challenges of these irritant gases, at the concentration and duration simulating the accidental exposures to these chemical gases in industrial operations, triggered the release of ATP in the rat respiratory tract; and if so, whether the level of ATP in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) evoked by inhalation challenge of a given irritant gas was elevated by chronic allergic airway inflammation. Our results showed: 1) inhalation of these irritant gases caused significant increases in the ATP level in BALF, and the magnitude of evoked ATP release was in the order of Cl2 > SO2 > NH3. 2) Chronic airway inflammation induced by ovalbumin-sensitization markedly elevated the ATP level in BALF during baseline (breathing room air) but did not potentiate the release of ATP in the lung triggered by inhalation challenges of these irritant gases. These findings suggested a possible involvement of the ATP release in the lung in the regulation of overall airway responses to acute inhalation of irritant gases and the pathogenesis of chronic allergic airway inflammation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a contributing factor and signaling molecule of airway inflammation. This study demonstrated for the first time that the ATP release in the lung was markedly elevated after acute inhalation challenges of three common industrial air pollutants; the order of the response magnitude was chlorine > sulfur dioxide > ammonia. These findings provided new information and improved our understanding of the adverse pulmonary effects caused by accidental inhalation exposures to these irritant gases.

Regulation of Chemical, Biological and nuclear weapons under International Law.

Regulation of Chemical, Biological and nuclear weapons under International Law.

Transient thermal convective and radiative diffusion–reaction of magneto‐metallic Brinkman‐type nanofluid flow with isothermal and ramped temperature impacts

AbstractFluid‐containing nanoparticle research is well‐known for its heat transmission properties due to real‐world applications in various thermal systems. This demonstration shows how time‐dependent magneto‐hydrodynamic (MHD) Brinkman‐type nanofluid can flow through a vertical oscillating absorbent plate immersed in a porous environment. The governing dimensional partial differential system of equations is translated into a non‐dimensional partial differential system with applicable scaling variables. The transient equations governing nanofluid flow's momentum, thermal and mass are solved using the finite semi‐discretization difference line method. The obtained outcomes are validated by comparing them with previous works. Graphical resolutions for momentum, heat, and mass distribution fields are presented to examine essential physical terms with the isothermal and ramped temperature impacts. It was found that magnifying the Brinkman parameter and magnetic parameter brings in a decrement in fluid velocity. In contrast, reversal deportment is exposed with an enlargement of permeability parameters and thermal and solute buoyancy effects. Reynold's number has shown a declining impact in the fluid velocity, but time progress unveiled a contrary tendency. The sprouting radiation parameter deepens the fluid temperature, whereas the rising heat absorption parameter curtails the fluid temperature. The fluid concentration deflates for growing Schmidt number and chemical reactive agent. The wall friction increased with the porosity parameter but has shown a reverse trend with magnetic and Brinkman parameters. Increasing the Prandtl number and heat‐consumption parameter helps to raise the temperature gradient. The concentration gradient lessened on augmentation of chemical reaction and Schmidt number.

Seminar: Functional Exposomics and Mechanisms of Toxicity-Insights from Model Systems and NAMs.

Significant progress has been made over the past decade in measuring the chemical components of the exposome, providing transformative population-scale frameworks in probing the etiologic link between environmental factors and disease phenotypes. While the analytical technologies continue to evolve with reams of data being generated, there is an opportunity to complement exposome-wide association studies (ExWAS) with functional analyses to advance etiologic search at organismal, cellular, and molecular levels. Exposomics is a transdisciplinary field aimed at enabling discovery-based analysis of the nongenetic factors that contribute to disease, including numerous environmental chemical stressors. While advances in exposure assessment are enhancing population-based discovery of exposome-wide effects and chemical exposure agents, functional screening and elucidation of biological effects of exposures represent the next logical step toward precision environmental health and medicine. In this work, we focus on the use, strategies, and prospects of alternative approaches and model systems to enhance the current human exposomics framework in biomarker search and causal understanding, spanning from bench-based nonmammalian organisms and cell culture to computational new approach methods (NAMs). We visit the definition of the functional exposome and exposomics and discuss a need to leverage alternative models as opposed to mammalian animals for delineating exposome-wide health effects. Under the "three Rs" principle of reduction, replacement, and refinement, model systems such as roundworms, fruit flies, zebrafish, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are advantageous over mammals (e.g., rodents or higher vertebrates). These models are cost-effective, and cell-specific genetic manipulations in these models are easier and faster, compared to mammalian models. Meanwhile, in silico NAMs enhance hazard identification and risk assessment in humans by bridging the translational gaps between toxicology data and etiologic inference, as represented by in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) and integrated approaches to testing and assessment (IATA) under the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework. Together, these alternatives offer a strong toolbox to support functional exposomics to study toxicity and causal mediators underpinning exposure-disease links. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13120.

Progress towards the identification and improvement of dispersive soils: A review

AbstractDispersive soils, characterized by their poor resistance to water erosion and high sodium ion concentrations, pose a significant threat to both engineering and agricultural activities. Thus, the identification and improvement of dispersive soils are of paramount importance. There are several theories regarding the causes of soil dispersion, with the prevailing view attributing it to the expansion of the electrical double layer induced by sodium ions, which subsequently reduces the cohesion between soil particles. As a result, sodium indicators such as exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), percentage sodium (PS), and sodium adsorption rate (SAR) are commonly employed in the identification of dispersive soils. Currently, in efforts to improve dispersive soils for both engineering and agricultural purposes, chemical and biological agents are being added to enhance the soil's erosion resistance and regulate the concentration of sodium ions. Although numerous reviews have been conducted on the identification and improvement of dispersive soils, they tend to focus on the identification methods and the types of improvers, often overlooking the applicability of identification methods, the economic costs and environmental impacts of improvers. In practical improvement, the accuracy of soil identification must be ensured first and foremost. The selection of improvers should not only prioritise efficacy but also undergo thorough analysis and evaluation from multiple perspectives. This paper, therefore, reviews the advantages and disadvantages of various identification methods and assesses the differences among improvers from economic and environmental standpoints, providing a comprehensive theoretical basis for the improvement of dispersive soils.

A Rare Case Of Inhalational Organophosphorus Toxicity

Organophosphorus poisoning is commonly encountered in agricultural settings where the usage of pesticides is more. These compounds are also known for their potential as chemical warfare agents due to their toxic effects on the nervous system. This case report highlights a rare incident of acute inhalation organophosphorus poisoning in a 38-year-old male, who presented to the emergency department with symptoms of giddiness, nausea, vomiting and generalized fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment are important in managing this potential life-threatening condition. The patient's clinical presentation, diagnostic findings and treatment are discussed here

Comparison of Dracocephalum Moldavica Essential Oil with Chlorhexidine on Cariogenic Bacteria.

Dental caries and periodontal disease are the most common oral problems. Chemical antibacterial agents often have side effects; thus, researchers have long been in search for organic and herbal products to prevent dental caries and periodontal disease. The present study has aimed to assess the effects of Dracocephalum moldavica essential oil on Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus sobrinus, and Lactobacillus acidophilus compared to Chlorhexidine (CHX). In this in vitro study, the plants were collected from Zanjan Province, Iran. Analysis of the essential oil was carried out by gas chromatography/mass chromatography. Micro-broth dilution and disc diffusion methods were used for assessment of the antimicrobial activity, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated. The mean diameter of the growth inhibition zones in the well plate method for Dracocephalum moldavica showed that it had greater antimicrobial activity against Lactobacillus acidophilusthan others (p Value= 0.01). Furthermore, Dracocephalum moldavica had higher antimicrobial activity than CHX. The results of MIC and MBC showed that Dracocephalum moldavica had lower antibacterial activity than CHX. Dracocephalum moldavica essential oil demonstrated antibacterial properties against cariogenic bacteria. Given that other favorable properties of these essential oils are confirmed, they may be suitable for use as antibacterial agents in the formulation of oral healthcare products.

Novel Aspects and Directions in Pest Control and Management - Proteins with Insecticidal Properties

Abstract: In addition to the economic losses because of insect pests, a significant part of insect pests can instantly lead to the deterioration and mildew of agricultural products, which all have great hidden hazards to human health. In view of insect pests, the principle means of control and prevention in China is spraying chemical agents. Nevertheless, spraying a large number of chemical factors to control insect pests for a long time will not only have a consequential impact on the ecological environment, but also make insect pests boost resistance, and because a large number of chemical residues on the surface of crops will also have an unfavourable impact on the human body. The detection and application of insecticidal proteins are of great significance for the progress of modern insecticidal science. This article studies the research progress of insecticidal proteins and considering their target pests, lists their common insecticidal utilization scenarios, and anticipates the development direction of insecticidal proteins in the future.

The blistering warfare agent O-mustard (agent T) generates protein-adducts with human serum albumin useful for biomedical verification of exposure and forms intramolecular cross-links.

The highly blistering sulfur mustard analogue agent T (bis(2-chloroethylthioethyl) ether), also known as O-mustard or oxy-mustard, is a common impurity in military grade sulfur mustard (SM) and a component of mixtures such as "HT" that are still found in old munitions. Together with sesquimustard (Q), it is the most important SM analogue and tightly regulated as a Schedule 1 chemical under the Chemical Weapons Convention. We report the adducts of T with nucleophilic Cys34 and other residues in human serum albumin (HSA) formed in vitro. A micro liquid chromatography electrospray ionization high-resolution tandem-mass spectrometry method (µLC-ESI MS/HRMS) was developed for the detection and identification of biomarker peptides alkylated by a T-derived hydroxyethylthioethyloxyethylthioethyl (HETEOETE)-moiety (as indicated by an asterisk below). Following proteolysis of T-exposed human plasma with pronase, the dipeptide Cys34*Pro and the single amino acid residue His* were produced. The use of proteinaseK yielded Cys34*ProPhe and theuse of pepsin generated ValThrGlu48*Phe, AlaGlu230*ValSerLysLeu, and LeuGlyMet329*Phe. Corresponding peptide-adducts of SM and Q were detected in a common workflow that in principle allowed the estimation of the mustard or mustard composition encountered during exposure. Novel adducts of Q at the Glu230 and Met239 residues were detected and are reported accordingly. Based on molecular dynamics simulations, we identified regular interactions of the Cys34(-HETEOETE)-moiety with several glutamic acid residues in HSA including Glu86, which is not an obvious interaction partner by visual inspection of the HSA crystal structure. The existence of this and other intramolecular cross-links was experimentally proven for the first time.

Antimicrobial Resistance in Nigeria and the One-Health Approach to Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Review

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to survive, thrive and even proliferate in the presence of chemical agents meant to destroy or slow down their rate of growth. According to a study conducted in 2022, approximately 5 million deaths occurred globally that are related to AMR. This is an astronomical increase from 1.27 million AMR related deaths reported by a study conducted in 2019. By 2050, this number has been projected to rise to 10,000,000 deaths annually. Since AMR has been seen to be an ecological problem it calls for a cooperative, interdisciplinary strategy including experts in environmental, animal, and human health called the One Health strategy. The misuse of antibiotics is clearly linked as a causal factor for the evolution of resistance. Modern medicine has even inadvertently accelerated this change even further by eradicating competitor organisms which were drug-susceptible, thus allowing resistant microorganisms to multiply and spread via natural selection. AMR is also significantly aided by the improper prescription of antibiotics. AMR is a serious public health issue globally an in Nigeria. Current statistics suggest that without taking measured steps the spectrum of antibiotics which will be available for treatment of infections will continue to reduce. Antimicrobial stewardship along with the one health approach are strategies which will help to ensure that AMR can be brought under control.

Endosulfan as Potentiometric Sensor in a Kinetic Model of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer (MIP)

Indonesia is an agrarian country with abundant agricultural and plantation land, where farmers often face severe challenge of pests damaging crop yields. To address this challenge, chemical agents such as pesticides and herbicides are used for plant management and care. However, the inappropriate use of these chemical agents poses significant risks to the environment when the prevalence surpasses environmental and human tolerance limits. Pesticides and herbicides containing endosulfan components require proper management to prevent adverse effects on humans and the environment. Therefore, this research aimed to develop Molecularly Imprinted Polymer (MIP) endosulfan pollutant sensors to assess the kinetics of MIP adsorption to endosulfan analyte. Among the various models used for assessment, the Freundlich Isotherm showed optimal results, with an AT value of 1.79 × 107 L/mg, B (Constant related to heat of sorption) of 6 x 10-8 J/mol, and b (Freundlich Isotherm constant) of 4.13×1010. Furthermore, the obtained distribution coefficient (R2) at 0.9768 was more effective compared to other models.

Dental damage: Creating 3D anatomical models to illustrate destructive effects on human teeth

Forensic odontologists often must identify human remains with damaged teeth. This damage is due to high-impact accidents, violence, or disasters. This 2-part study aimed to create two 3D digital models. They should show the destructive effects of physical and chemical agents on human teeth and popular dental materials. Researchers created an e-survey to investigate how digital models are perceived as an educational tool for Forensic Odontology. Also, a systematic review assessed experimental studies on the effects of high temperature on various prosthodontic materials. According to the results of the survey, most participants (n=69; 79%) agreed that they would find a 3D model useful for training. Participants misidentify images of burned and broken teeth under Ellis and Davey system (1970). The systematic review identified dental implant and dental crown as the most studied prosthodontic materials exposed to heat. The researchers designed dental damage model 1 to represent restored and unrestored burnt teeth, postmortem pink teeth, and traumatic injuries. The dental damage model 2 was created to demonstrate the effects of various types of damage to different prosthetic and restorative dental materials, as well as the impact of acid, water, and burial on restorative materials as additional information. Both models were edited, sculpted and painted using 3D modelling software ZBrush (2020. 1.4) and Blender (version 3.6.2). The dental damage models were uploaded and labelled on Sketchfab (Cédric Pinson, Paris, France). The study's materials could transform the teaching of complex tooth changes.

Enzymatic depolymerization of polyester: Foaming as a pretreatment to increase specific surface area

AbstractPoly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is widely used for its high strength‐to‐weight ratio, gas barrier properties, and chemical resistance. The growing PET use highlights the demand for a better recycling system. Enzymatic recycling, alongside mechanical and chemical methods, is eco‐friendly and yields properties similar to virgin PET. Substrate properties (Tg, crystallinity, and specific surface area [SSA]) and enzyme stability significantly impact conversion efficiency. Higher SSA and lower crystallinity tend to yield improved depolymerization when employing leaf compost‐cutinase (LCC‐ICCG) enzymes. This study explored melt extrusion and foaming as pretreatment techniques to modify PET structural properties, using a low‐cost chemical foaming agent (CFA). The monomer conversion rate and efficiency during depolymerization were measured and related to the processing, extrudate micro‐ and meso‐structure, and polyester type. Pretreated PET substrates showed reduced Tg, crystallinity, density, and enhanced SSA, resulting in a 90% mass loss for foamed RPET and VPET substrates within 2 days. In contrast, PET with ~30% of cyclohexanedimethanol comonomer exhibited a nearly 50% lower depolymerization rate, with zero BHET production. It indicates that the combination of low crystallinity, low Tg, and high SSA leads to improved monomer conversion. These findings emphasize the significance of amorphization and foaming in enhancing PET enzymatic depolymerization.

Determination of Major Heavy Metal Levels in Pepper Gas Used as Chemical Agents in CBRN Field

Introduction: The pepper gases used in the study are in the group of riot control agents. In this study; It was aimed to determine the main heavy metal levels of pepper gases obtained from capsaicin, the active ingredient of peppers grown in soil that we think may contain heavy metals. Material and Method: The presence of a total of 7 heavy metals, including iron, chromium, cobalt, copper, cadmium, lead and nickel, was investigated. The pepper gas sprays were subjected to sample preparation with a microwave combustion device. Then, heavy metal analyzes of the prepared samples were carried out with the ICP OES device. Results: According to this; As a result of the measurements, Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Cadmium (Cd) and Cobalt (Co) elements were not found in any of the samples. The amount of Lead (Pb) was determined as 0.653±0.064 mg/kg, and the amount of Iron (Fe) was 5.246±0.000 mg/kg. Finally, the Copper (Cu) element detected in a single sample was measured as 0.815 mg/kg. Discussion and Conclusion: We also think that the necessary sensitivity should be shown in laboratory and clinical studies to examine the content of pepper spray and to determine the optimum ratios of its active ingredients. We foresee that preparing promotional brochures, informative public service ads on topics such as what pepper gas is in what situations pepper gas should be used, and informing the public about the health problems it may cause will increase the conscious use of pepper gas.

Adhesion Evolution: Designing Smart Polymeric Adhesive Systems with On-Demand Reversible Switchability.

Smart polymeric switchable adhesives represent a rapidly emerging class of advanced materials, exhibiting the ability to undergo on-demand transitioning between "On" and "Off" adhesion states. By selectively tuning external stimuli triggers (including temperature, light, electricity, magnetism, and chemical agents), we can engineer these materials to undergo reversible changes in their bonding capabilities. The strategic design selection of stimuli is a pivotal factor in the design of switchable adhesive systems. This review outlines recent advancements in the field of smart switchable polymeric adhesives over the past decade with a focus on the selection of stimulus triggers. These systems are further categorized into one of four adhesion switching mechanisms upon initiation by a specific stimuli-trigger: (i) interfacial adhesion, (ii) stiffness, (iii) contact area, or (iv) suction-based switching. Evaluation of adhesion switching performance across systems is primarily made based on three key metrics: (i) maximum adhesion strength, (ii) switch ratio, and (iii) switch time. Different stimuli and mechanisms offer distinct advantages and limitations, influencing the performance characteristics and applicability of these materials across domains such as detachable biomedical devices, robotic grippers, and climbing robots. This review thus offers a perspective on the present advancements and challenges in this emerging field, along with insights into future directions.

Data Analytics in Agriculture: Enhancing Decision-Making for Crop Yield Optimization and Sustainable Practices

Collaboration across the agriculture supply chain is essential to address the high-yield demand and sustainable practices amid global overpopulation. Limited resources, such as soil and water, are compromised by excessive chemical agents and nutrient use. The Internet of Things (IoT) and smart farming offer solutions by optimizing agent applications, data analysis, and farm monitoring. Evidence from numerous studies indicates that collaboration in the supply chain, including farmers, can improve efficiency and productivity, reduce costs, and enhance crop quality. This paper investigates the transformation of traditional agriculture into smart farming through the integration of IoT technology and community partnerships. It presents a case study focused on educating farm owners about advanced technologies to enhance decision-making, improve crop yields, and promote sustainability. Additionally, the paper highlights the role of data analytics in agriculture. Farmers in the southern region of Zagreb, Croatia, were trained on the use of sensors and yield monitoring. Small farms in that region face challenges in improving yields due to limited capacity and lack of entrepreneurial experience. The DMAIC methodology was employed to address these issues and measure relevant parameters. The paper also discusses consistent patterns between electrical conductivity (EC) measurements and potassium levels in soil. It explains the potential of estimating potassium concentrations based on EC readings, or vice versa. Leveraging EC as a proxy for potassium levels could offer a cost-effective means of assessing soil fertility and nutrient dynamics. Additionally, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) biplot analysis is presented, showing that pH values behaved independently. Understanding these dynamics enhances knowledge of soil variability and informs sustainable soil management practices.

Enhanced oil recovery in tight reservoirs by ultrasonic-assisted CO2 flooding: Experimental study and molecular dynamics simulation

CO2-enhanced oil recovery (CO2-EOR) has attracted great attention due to its dual effects of geological carbon storage and economic benefits, but the clay swelling, asphaltene deposition and gas channeling induced by CO2 still restrict its field application. The employment of chemical agents for the purpose of improving CO2-EOR performance is often limited by the heterogeneity of reservoirs and the potential for formation damage. Physical methods, such as ultrasonic-assisted CO2 flooding, appear to offer a promising alternative for CO2-EOR and geological sequestration. This study has conducted oil displacement experiments to investigate the EOR potential of ultrasonic-assisted CO2 flooding in tight reservoirs and clarify the effects of different ultrasound parameters. The ultrasonic waves with 20 kHz of acoustic frequency, 30 W/cm2 of sound intensity, 30 min of sonication time and moderate intermittent working mode can yield violent cavitation effects and avoid undesirable energy dissipation. Nearly a quarter of the saturated crude oil can be recovered from the tight core through ultrasonic-assisted CO2 flooding. It can be attributed to the composition alterations of crude oil and property changes of core matrix. Coupling with ultrasonic waves, CO2 would extract and vaporize crude oil more easily, which promotes oil swelling, lowers oil density and viscosity, decreases oil–gas interfacial tension and thus improves oil recovery. Besides, the ultrasound can help to mitigate the impact of CO2 adsorption-induced clay swelling on pore sizes through fluctuating pressure. And the strong hydrodynamic shear forces generated by mechanical vibration of ultrasound may also help to connect individual small pores and extend micro-fractures. These synergistic effects result in the transformation of micropores into mesopores and macropores. Furthermore, the wettability alteration of core samples implies that the ultrasonic-assisted CO2 flooding can induce the detachment of oil films from the rock surface. Finally, the results of molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the improvement in pressure inside the core sample resulting from ultrasonic cavitation facilitates the mixing of CO2 and oil, thereby weakening gas channeling and improving the displacement efficiency.

Evaluation of the Antifungal and Biochemical Activities of Fungicides and Biological Agents against Ginseng Sclerotinia Root Rot Caused by Sclerotinia nivalis.

The objective of this study was to identify effective agents for the prevention and control of ginseng Sclerotinia root rot disease caused by Sclerotinia nivalis. The inhibitory effects of 16 chemical fungicides and 10 biocontrol agents (strains) on mycelial growth and sclerotium formation in S. nivalis were determined using a plate confrontation essay. The results showed that the best chemical agents for inhibiting the mycelial growth and sclerotium formation of S. nivalis were fluconazole and fludioxonil, while Bacillus amyloliquefaciens FS6 and B. subtilis (Kono) were the best biocontrol agents (strains). The results of field trials in 2022 and 2023 showed that the control effects of fluconazole and fludioxonil on ginseng Sclerotinia root rot disease were 90.60-98.16%, and those of the biocontrol agents B. amyloliquefaciens FS6 and B. subtilis (Kono) were 94.80-97.24%, respectively. Chemical agents produced abnormal and twisted mycelia, while the biocontrol agents increased mycelial branching, dilated the mycelium tip, and revealed an abnormal balloon. All of the fungicides decreased the ergosterol content, changed the cell membrane permeability, and increased the protein and nucleic acid permeability. These results suggest that these are potential agents for controlling ginseng Sclerotinia root rot disease, and their biochemical mechanisms of chemical and biocontrol of this disease were demonstrated.