Low pH Levels Research Articles

Effect of Sorghum and Maize Malt Particle Size on Physicochemical, Stability, Microbiological, and Sensory Characteristics of Umqombothi

The consumption of Umqombothi alcoholic beverages in South Africa is widespread in townships and rural areas. This study aimed to investigate the effect of sorghum and maize malt particle size on the physicochemical, microbiological, stability, and sensory characteristics of Umqombothi. Three different particle sizes were compared, namely control, coarse, and fine powder particle sizes. Subsamples were taken at the following stages, during the production of Umqombothi: first, second, third, fourth, and fifth. Lactic acid bacteria were significantly dominant, with 8.16, 7.11, and 5.91 log cfu/mL in the final product for the control, coarse, and fine powder particle sizes. The yeast counts were 3.3, 4.64, and 5.63 log cfu/mL for the control, coarse, and fine powder particle sizes. Molds were significantly reduced to non-detectable levels after the second fermentation and the total coliforms in the final product were reduced for all particle sizes. The total soluble solids significantly decreased in the second fermentation samples. The coarse particle size exhibited significantly higher alcohol and significantly lower pH levels, which are encouraging signs for improved quality and shelf life. Different particle sizes of sorghum and maize malt affect the quality of the finished product and the production method of umqombothi.

The effect of rhizosphere pH on removal of naphthenic acid fraction compounds from oil sands process-affected water in a willow hydroponic system

The extraction and processing of bitumen from the oil sands in northern Alberta, Canada generates large volumes of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW). OSPW contains a complex mixture of inorganic and organic compounds, including naphthenic acid fraction compounds (NAFCs) that are of particular concern due to their toxicity to aquatic organisms. Phytoremediation is a cost-effective, scalable approach that has the potential to remove NAFCs from OSPW and reduce OSPW toxicity. Environmental pH influences the chemical form and bioavailability of NAFCs. However, little is known about the influence of pH on the uptake of NAFCs in plant systems. This study sought to elucidate the impact of rhizosphere pH on the uptake of NAFCs using a sandbar willow (Salix interior) hydroponic system. To mimic and maintain the naturally low pH conditions of the root, OSPW solutions in these systems were adjusted to a low pH level (pH 5.0) and their NAFC uptake from solution was compared to that of OSPW at native pH (pH 8.0). Our findings revealed that the lower pH hydroponic systems demonstrated enhanced NAFC removal from solution as determined by LC-MS analysis, where up to 26% of NAFCs were removed from OSPW over 72 h at pH 5.0 compared to 8% removed at pH 8.0. Similarly, analysis of spike-in 13C-labeled NAs demonstrated that the OSPW hydroponic system rapidly removed a relatively labile NA (13C-cyclohexane carboxylic acid) from solution at both pH levels, whereas near complete removal of a recalcitrant NA (13C-1-adamantane carboxylic acid) was observed in pH 5.0 solutions only. These results provide insight into the importance of rhizosphere pH on efficient NAFC uptake by plant root systems. Further research will determine whether OSPW phytoremediation efficiency can be enhanced using field treatment conditions that promote low rhizosphere pH levels.

Application of Platinum Nanoparticles Decorating Mesoporous Carbon Derived from Sustainable Source for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

The perpetually fluctuating economic and environmental climate significantly increases the demand for alternative fuel sources. The utilization of hydrogen gas is a viable option for such a fuel source. Hydrogen is one of the most energy-dense known substances; however, it is unfortunately also highly volatile, especially in the diatomic gaseous state most commonly used to store it. The utilization of a hydrogen feedstock material such as sodium borohydride (NaBH4) may prove to mitigate this danger. When NaBH4 reacts with water, hydrogen stored within its chemical structure is released. However, the rate of hydrogen release is slow and thus necessitates a catalyst. Platinum nanoparticles were chosen to act as a catalyst for the reaction, and to prevent them from conglomerating, they were embedded in a backbone of mesoporous carbon material (MCM) derived from a sustainable corn starch source. The nanocomposite (Pt-MCM) was characterized via transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Pt-MCM underwent catalytic testing, revealing that the catalytic activity of the Pt-MCM composite catalysts increased with increasing quantities of sodium borohydride, lower pH levels, and higher temperatures. The activation energy of the catalyzed reaction was found to be 37.7 kJ mol−1. Reusability experiments showed an initial drop off in hydrogen production after the first trial but subsequent stability. This Pt-MCM catalyst’s competitive activation energy and sustainable MCM backbone derived from readily available corn starch make it a promising option for optimizing the hydrogen generation reaction of NaBH4.

Biodegradable Cascade-Amplified Nanotheranostics for Photoacoustic-Guided Synergistic PTT/CDT/Starvation Antitumor in the NIR-II Window.

The development of nanoassemblies, activated by the tumor microenvironment, capable of generating photothermal therapy (PTT) and amplifying the "ROS (·OH) storm," is essential for precise and effective synergistic tumor treatment. Herein, an innovative cascade-amplified nanotheranostics based on biodegradable Pd-BSA-GOx nanocomposite for NIR-II photoacoustic imaging (PAI) guides self-enhanced NIR-II PTT/chemodynamic therapy (CDT)/starvation synergistic therapy. The Pd-BSA-GOx demonstrates the ability to selectively convert overexpressed H2O2 into strongly toxic ·OH by a Pd/Pd2+-mediated Fenton-like reaction at a lower pH level. Simultaneously, the GOx generates H2O2 and gluconic acid, effectively disrupting nutrient supply and instigating tumor starvation therapy. More importantly, the heightened levels of H2O2 and increased acidity greatly enhance the Fenton-like reactivity, generating a significant "·OH storm," thereby achieving Pd2+-mediated cascade-amplifying CDT. The specific PTT facilitated by undegraded Pd accelerates the Fenton-like reaction, establishing a positive feedback process for self-enhancing synergetic PTT/CDT/starvation therapy via the NIR-II guided-PAI. Therefore, the multifunctional nanotheranostics presents a simple and versatile strategy for the precision diagnosis and treatment of tumors.

Research on hydrogen sulfide removal from water using a hydroejector

The war in Ukraine has significantly impacted the country's water resources, leading to deteriorated water quality, threats to drinking water supplies, and long-term environmental issues. Intensive pollution of surface water sources has necessitated increased use of groundwater for drinking purposes. The quality of groundwater in Ukraine varies greatly, often containing concentrations of iron, manganese, hardness salts, and hydrogen sulfide that exceed acceptable limits. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations in different regions range from 1 to over 20 mg/dm³, far exceeding the permissible limit of 0.05 mg/dm³ for drinking water. In the southern regions of Ukraine, such as Kherson, Mykolaiv, and Odesa oblasts, hydrogen sulfide levels exceed the norm by more than 100 times. Existing water purification methods for hydrogen sulfide require the construction of expensive aeration facilities with various loadings, biological reactors, and oxidation filters, which entail significant capital and operational costs. Moreover, these facilities do not always ensure the desired water quality. Therefore, developing new methods and technologies aimed at intensifying hydrogen sulfide removal from water, along with various devices and structures for their implementation, is a pressing issue related to supplying the population with quality water. Among the developed approaches, the use of aeration as an independent method for purification is notable; however, it is used for low hydrogen sulfide concentrations and is most effective at low water pH levels. This article presents the results of experimental studies on the purification of groundwater from hydrogen sulfide by aeration using a hydroejector. Optimal parameters for the hydrogen sulfide removal process, depending on its concentration and water pH, were determined. The effectiveness of water purification using the hydroejector was substantiated and investigated. The key operational parameters of the hydroejector were established.

Binary Pea Protein-Psyllium Hydrogel: Insights into the Influence of pH and Ionic Strength on the Physical Stability and Mechanical Characteristics.

Food hydrogels, used as delivery systems for bioactive compounds, can be formulated with various food-grade biopolymers. Their industrial utility is largely determined by their physicochemical properties. However, comprehensive data on the properties of pea protein-psyllium binary hydrogels under different pH and ionic strength conditions are limited. The aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of pH (adjusted to 7, 4.5, and 3) and ionic strength (modified by NaCl addition to 0.15 and 0.3 M) on the physical stability, color, texture, microrheological, and viscoelastic properties of these hydrogels. Color differences were most noticeable at lower pH levels. Inducing hydrogels at pH 7 (with or without NaCl) and pH 4.5 and 3 (without NaCl) resulted in complete gel structures with low stability, low elastic and storage moduli, and low complex viscosity, making them easily spreadable. Lower pH inductions (4.5 and 3) in the absence of NaCl resulted in hydrogels with shorter linear viscoelastic regions. Hydrogels induced at pH 4.5 and 3 with NaCl had high structural stability, high G' and G" moduli, complex viscosity, and high spreadability. Among the tested induction conditions, pH 3 with 0.3 M NaCl allowed for obtaining a hydrogel with the highest elastic and storage moduli values. Adjusting pH and ionic strength during hydrogel induction allows for modifying and tailoring their properties for specific industrial applications.

Solubility, pH-Solubility Profile, pH-Rate Profile, and Kinetic Stability of the Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, Alectinib.

Alectinib HCl (ALBHCl) is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used for non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). The aim of this study is to unlock some of the physicochemical properties of ALBHCL that serve as a database for any future studies. A solubility study of ALBHCL was performed in different solvents. Also, photostability was tested in the solution and solid states, and the order of reaction and rate constant were calculated. In addition to the pH solubility relation, the pH-rate relation at different temperatures was also studied, and the profiles were constructed. A solubility study was also performed in different media for the purpose of optimizing suitable sink conditions for the in vitro dissolution testing of solid dosage forms. Solubility tests in multiple solvents and pH conditions revealed that the highest solubility was in DMSO, methanol, and chloroform, with acidic media yielding the maximum solubility but degrading at rather low pH levels. ALBHCL proved unstable at high temperatures and under light exposure, with varying stability across different pH levels. The optimal dissolution media for in vitro oral dosage form evaluation were determined, achieving sink conditions at pH levels of 6.8 and 4.5 with specific additives. This study enhances the existing database on ALBHCL's physicochemical properties, emphasizing the importance of pH optimization in pharmaceutical processes and providing valuable insights into its pharmaceutical application.

The Effect of Absorbent Level and Inoculants on Chemical Composition and Fermentation Characteristics of Fermented Poultry Manure as an Unconventional Feed Ingredient

Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of absorbent level and microbial inoculant on chemical compositions and fermentation characteristics of fermented poultry manure (FPM). In the first trial, the FPM was fermented using two levels of cassava solid waste as absorbent, consisted of 10% (AL10) and 30% (AL30). The best absorbent level to improve the quality of FPM was continued in the second trial. In the second trial, FPM was fermented using inoculant treatments following without inoculants (CON), Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) and multi-purpose microbes (MP). All fermentation was conducted for 14 d in 4 kg mini-silo with quadruplicate. In the first trial, AL30 had higher levels of dry matter and crude fiber but lower levels of crude protein, ether extract, and butyric acid content compared to AL10 (P<0.05). In the second trial, CON presented higher levels of dry matter, crude protein, and crude fiber, but lower levels of ether extract, nitrogen-free extract, pH, ammonia, and butyric acid compared to LP and MP (P<0.05). In conclusion, the present study found that FPM without inoculant at the 30% absorbent level resulted in higher nutrient composition and better fermentation characteristics compared to other treatments.

Simulated Transport of Silver Therapon (Leiopotherapon plumbeus) Fingerlings at Different Durations and Loading Densities: Effects on Survival and Water Quality

The silver therapon, Leiopotherapon plumbeus, is a new species for aquaculture. However, information on the optimal conditions for the transport of this species for grow-out culture needs to be established to avoid stress and unnecessary mortalities. This study examined the effects of duration of transport and loading density on survival and water quality during simulated transport of silver therapon. Hatchery-produced fingerlings [1.30 ± 0.34 g body weight (BW); 44.30 ± 3.77 mm total length (TL)] were held in double-layered oxygenated plastic bags at three transport durations (6 h, 9 h, and 12 h) and densities (40 fish bag-1, 80 fish bag-1, and 120 fish bag-1) in triplicates. Mean survival rates were not significantly affected by both duration of transport (P = 0.321) and loading density (P = 0.345). However, a highly significant effect of duration of transport on dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH (P = 0.000), and a significant effect on Total Ammonia Nitrogen (TAN; P = 0.039) and total bacterial count (TBC; P = 0.034) were evident. Similarly, water quality parameters were significantly influenced by loading density (P = 0.000), with lower DO and pH levels, and higher TAN and TBC recorded at 120 fish bag-1 density. Since a very high survival rate (> 99%) is achieved at the highest loading density of 120 fish bag-1 up to 12 h transport, this density can be recommended to transport silver therapon fingerlings. Chemical treatments using either salt, methylene blue, or tropical almond leaf extract in transport water may be used to reduce the high bacterial count during transport.

Actinobacteria diversity associated with marine sediments and a wetland system, Agulhas-South Africa

BackgroundSouth Africa is known for its great biodiversity. The Agulhas Plain represents one such unique environment where low-gradient topography has resulted in extensive wetland formation. It is fed by two major river systems, bringing in brackish, alkaline water. It has been exposed to major marine transgression and regression events, and harbours great Fynbos diversity as well as a Mediterranean-type climate, thereby creating unique ecosystems. It is therefore surprising that little is known about the bacterial diversity associated with the Agulhas Plain and associated marine ecosystems.MethodsIn this study, we focused on the actinobacterial diversity (Phylum Actinomycetota) associated with an emerging peatland on the Agulhas Plain (SF; Areas 1–3) and a marine site (ANP; Ocean, Rocky, Dry) located 10 km away from SF. A combined metataxanomics and isolation approach was taken to evaluate the actinobacterial diversity of the sampling sites and to determine the effect of environmental physicochemical parameters on these populations. Various genome analyses were performed on an Sva0096 marine bin to gain insight into its ecological role.ResultsMetataxanomics showed that the two sites shared defined major taxa, including Blastococcus, Geodermatophilus, Microbacterium, Mycobacterium, Nocardioides, Streptomyces, and the Sva0996 marine group. Analysis of the biosynthetic potential of an Sva0996 marine bin134 (obtained from GenBank) provided insights into the potential ecological role of this group of bacteria in both the marine and terrestrial environments. Higher actinobacterial diversity (Shannon index > 5) was observed for Areas 2 and 3 (SF), as well as the ANP Dry samples. The actinobacterial population composition was found to be driven by salinity, pH, Mn, and Ca, with certain areas of SF exhibiting similar (and even higher) salinity (SF: 70–100 Ω vs. ANP: 100–160 Ω) and lower pH levels (SF: 6.3-8.0 vs. ANP: 8.6–8.9) to that of the marine environment.ConclusionThis snapshot study has provided some insights into the actinobacterial diversity of the two sites studied. Analysis of an Sva0096 marine bin134 provided further insights into the potential ability of the Sva0096 marine group to survive in a unique terrestrial environment that is periodically exposed to environmental pressures that mimic the marine environment.

Synthesis and characterization of X (X = Ni or Fe) modified BaTiO3 for effective degradation of Reactive Red 120 dye under UV-A light and its biological activity

For the sustainable advancement of industrial expansion that is environmentally conscious, harmful dyes must be removed from wastewater. Untreated effluents containing colors have the potential to harm the ecosystem and pose major health risks to people, animals, and aquatic life. Here, we have fabricated Ni or Fe modified with BaTiO3 materials and effectively utilized them for Reactive Red 120 (RR 120) dye degradation under UV-A light. The synthesized materials were characterized, and their structural, and photo-physical properties were reported. Phase segregation was not present in the XRD pattern, as evidenced by the absence of secondary phase peaks linked to iron, nickel, or oxides. Low metal ion concentrations may be the cause of this, and the presence of those elements was confirmed by XPS measurements. The Raman spectra of the BaTiO3/Ni and BaTiO3/Fe samples show a widened peak at 500 cm−1, which suggests that Ni or Fe are efficiently loaded onto the BaTiO3. RR 120 dye photodegradation under UV light conditions was effectively catalyzed by BaTiO3/Fe, as evidenced by its superior performance in the UV irradiation technique over both BaTiO3 and BaTiO3/Ni. Compared to bare BaTiO3, both metal-modified materials efficiently degraded the RR 120 dye. Acidic pH facilitated the degradation process, which makes sense given that the heterogeneous photo-Fenton reaction was the mechanism of degradation along with BaTiO3 sensitization. High-acidity sewage can be dangerous and carcinogenic, and conventional biological treatment methods are not appropriate for managing it. In the current investigation, it may be used to treat color effluents with extremely low pH levels. Additionally, the ability of the produced nanocomposites to inhibit the growth of twenty pathogens was examined, along with two fungi, fifteen Gram-negative Bacilli (GNB), one Gram-positive Bacilli (GPB), and two Gram-positive Cocci (GBC).

Marine microalgae Schizochytrium demonstrates strong production of essential fatty acids in various cultivation conditions, advancing dietary self-sufficiency

IntroductionPolyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential nutrients that humans obtain from their diet, primarily through fish oil consumption. However, fish oil production is no longer sustainable. An alternative approach is to produce PUFAs through marine microalgae. Despite the potential of algae strains to accumulate high concentrations of PUFAs, including essential fatty acids (EFAs), many aspects of PUFA production by microalgae remain unexplored and their current production outputs are frequently suboptimal.MethodsIn this study, we optimized biomass and selected ω-3 PUFAs production in two strains of algae, Schizochytrium marinum AN-4 and Schizochytrium limacinum CO3H. We examined a broad range of cultivation conditions, including pH, temperature, stirring intensity, nutrient concentrations, and their combinations.ResultsWe found that both strains grew well at low pH levels (4.5), which could reduce bacterial contamination and facilitate the use of industrial waste products as substrate supplements. Intensive stirring was necessary for rapid biomass accumulation but caused cell disruption during lipid accumulation. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) yield was independent of cultivation temperature within a range of 28–34°C. We also achieved high cell densities (up to 9 g/L) and stable DHA production (average around 0.1 g/L/d) under diverse conditions and nutrient concentrations, with minimal nutrients required for stable production including standard sea salt, glucose or glycerol, and yeast extract.DiscussionOur findings demonstrate the potential of Schizochytrium strains to boost industrial-scale PUFA production and make it more economically viable. Additionally, these results may pave the way for smaller-scale production of essential fatty acids in a domestic setting. The development of a new minimal culturing medium with reduced ionic strength and antibacterial pH could further enhance the feasibility of this approach.

Early acute kidney injury in sepsis and septic shock

ABSTRACT Background: Acute kidney injury is one of the severe conditions in hospitalized patients. Acute kidney injury can develop early from admission, usually within the first 24 hours of ICU admission. In Vietnam, there have been limited studies monitoring the progression of acute kidney injury in the early stages. This study aims to investigate the incidence, severity, clinical, laboratory characteristics, and progression of acute kidney injury in patients with sepsis and septic shock within the first 48 hours. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional descriptive analysis of 101 patients who are 15 or older and have been diagnosed with severe infection and septic shock. These patients were treated in the Intensive Care Unit of Hue Central Hospital. The patient had treatment in accordance with a standardized protocol while being closely observed. Samples were collected for diagnostic testing, and the patient’s urine output and blood creatinine levels were diligently checked. Results: The prevalence of acute renal injury (AKI) was 60.40%, with stage 1 accounting for 50.82% of cases, stage 2 accounting for 22.95%, and stage 3 accounting for 26.23%. The cohort of individuals diagnosed with AKI exhibited an advanced age, with a mean age of 60.72 ± 17.41 years, and predominantly consisted of male subjects. Patients diagnosed with acute kidney injury showed a statistically significant decrease in urine output and an increased incidence of shock (p < 0.05). Additionally, these patients demonstrated lower levels of Hct, blood pH, and bicarbonate while exhibiting higher levels of blood urea, blood creatinine, AST, ALT, total bilirubin, PCT, and blood lactate (p < 0.05) compared to individuals without AKI. Patients with AKI had significantly elevated SOFA and APACHE II scores compared to individuals without AKI, as indicated by statistical analysis (p < 0.05). Upon admission, a significant proportion of patients, precisely 81.97%, experienced the development of AKI. Furthermore, a observation was made about the prompt recovery of these patients within the initial 24 and 48 hours following admission. Conclusion: The prevalence of AKI was accounted for 60.40%. Among the cases of AKI, stage 1 accounted for 50.82%, while stage 2 and stage 3 accounted for 22.95% and 26.23%, respectively. There were observed variations in urine output and rates of shock among individuals diagnosed with AKI. Additionally, SOFA and APACHE II scores were elevated. The percentage of AKI was 81.97% of patients upon their initial hospital admission, with a significant proportion seeing early recovery within the first 24 to 48 hours.

Augmented photocatalytic degradation of diclofenac by a novel TiO2-Chitosan-Bocalanine-Ni hybrid material under illumination of various light sources

TiO2-CBA-Ni composite (hydrothermally synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles loaded chitosan-bocalanine nickel complex) was successfully produced using solid and solution approaches, and the finished product was characterized using a variety of instrumentation techniques including UV–Visible, FT-IR, XRD, and SEM. Further, the efficient photocatalytic activity and recombination rates of the prepared TiO2-CBA-Ni composite were evaluated through photoluminescence (PL) spectra compared with pure TiO2. The photocatalytic degradation of diclofenac sodium (DCF) molecules was accomplished utilizing a TiO2-CBA-Ni composite with a pH range of 4.0 to 10.0 and varied light sources. Lower pH levels (pH = 4.0) reveal improved DCF degradation efficiency as compared to higher values (pH = 7.0 and 10.0) under any light source. More importantly, the TiO2-CBA-Ni composite degraded at a greater rate of 94.3 % in an identical reaction time (250 min) than other sources when exposed to visible light and at a lower pH (4.0). This effort has generated interest about the biopolymer grafted ligand metal complex functionalization over the photocatalyst and the effectiveness of the amalgamation, paving the way for a new path to eradicate the toxicity of pharmaceutical items from the ecosystem.

Iron coupled with hydroxylamine turns on the “switch” for free radical degradation of organic pollutants under high pH conditions

Reducing iron by hydroxylamine (HA) can promote the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the Fenton reaction and play a crucial role in the degradation of organic pollutants. However, the performance of this system at wider environmental thresholds is still not sufficiently understood, especially in the highly alkaline environments resulting from human activities. Here, we assessed the impact of solution pH on organic pollutant degradation by goethite with the addition of HA and H2O2. The solid phase variation and ROS generation were analyzed using Mössbauer spectroscopy, X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance analysis. This study found that under alkaline conditions, the system can continuously scavenge organic pollutants through oxygen-mediated generation of free radicals. At lower pH levels, organic pollutant decomposition, exemplified by the breakdown of bisphenol A (BPA), is primarily driven by the Fenton reaction facilitated by iron. As pH increases, hydroxyl radical (•OH) production decreases, accompanied by decreased BPA removal efficiency. However, the removal efficiency of BPA increased significantly at pH > 9. At pH 12, the removal of BPA exceeded that of the acidic condition after one hour, which is consistent with observations in soil system studies. Unlike the Fenton reaction, which is not sensitive to oxygen content, the removal of BPA under alkaline conditions occurs only under aerobic conditions. H2O2 is hardly involved in the reaction, and the depletion of HA becomes a critical factor in the decomposition of BPA. Importantly, in contrast to acidic conditions, where the dramatic decomposition of BPA occurs mainly in the first 10 min, the decomposition of BPA under alkaline conditions continued to occur over the 2 h of observation until complete removal. For natural systems, the remediation of pollutants depends more on the active time of ROS than on their reactivity. Therefore, this idea can reference pollution remediation strategies in anthropogenically disturbed environments.

Effects of high dietary inclusion of Arthrospira platensis, either extruded or supplemented with a super-dosing multi-enzyme mixture, on broiler growth performance and major meat quality parameters

BackgroundThis investigation assessed the effects of high dietary inclusion of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) on broiler chicken growth performance, meat quality and nutritional attributes. For this, 120 male broiler chicks were housed in 40 battery brooders (three birds per brooder). Initially, for 14 days, a standard corn and soybean meal diet was administered. Subsequently, from days 14 to 35, chicks were assigned to one of the four dietary treatments (n = 10 per treatment): (1) control diet (CTR); (2) diet with 15% Spirulina (SP); (3) diet with 15% extruded Spirulina (SPE); and (4) diet with 15% Spirulina plus a super-dosing enzymes supplement (0.20% pancreatin extract and 0.01% lysozyme) (SPM).ResultsThroughout the experimental period, both SP and SPM diets resulted in decreased final body weight and body weight gain compared to control (p < 0.001), with the SPE diet showing comparable results to CTR. The SPE diet prompted an increase in average daily feed intake (p = 0.026). However, all microalga treatments increased the feed conversion ratio compared to CTR. Dietary inclusion of Spirulina notably increased intestinal content viscosity (p < 0.010), which was mitigated by the SPM diet. Spirulina supplementation led to lower pH levels in breast meat 24 h post-mortem and heightened the b* colour value in both breast and thigh meats (p < 0.010). Furthermore, Spirulina contributed to an increased accumulation of total carotenoids, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and saturated fatty acids (SFA), while diminishing n-6 PUFA, thus altering the n-6/n-3 and PUFA/SFA ratios favourably (p < 0.001). However, it also reduced zinc concentration in breast meat (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe findings indicate that high Spirulina levels in broiler diets impair growth due to increased intestinal viscosity, and that extrusion pre-treatment mitigates this effect. Despite reducing digesta viscosity, a super-dosing enzyme mix did not improve growth. Data also indicates that Spirulina enriches meat with antioxidants and n-3 PUFA but reduces α-tocopherol and increases saturated fats. Reduced zinc content in meat suggests the need for Spirulina biofortification to maintain its nutritional value.

Lichen diversity and taxonomy in Bukit Barisan Grand Forest Park, North Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract. Atni OK, Munir E, Siregar ES, Saleh MN. 2024. Lichen diversity and taxonomy in Bukit Barisan Grand Forest Park, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 1623-1630. Located in Bandar Baru Village, Deli Serdang District, North Sumatra, Bukit Barisan Grand Forest Park stands out for its uniqueness and high biodiversity, including lichens. This study aims to identify and map lichen diversity in the research area. Surveys were conducted from January to February 2024 using an exploratory method along designated tracks. Therefore, 57 lichen species from 23 families and 38 genera were found. Based on their thallus types, 26 lichen species were identified as crustose, 17 as foliose, 6 as squamulose, 5 as fruticose, and 3 as filamentous. Reproductive structures varied, 13 species possessed apothecia, soredia, and lacked distinguishable reproductive structures, 10 had lirellae, 7 had perithecia, and 2 had isidia. Graphidaceae emerged as the most prevalent family with 8 species, predominantly growing on bark substrates. Although lichen distribution correlated with pH levels, its correlation with the preference for lower pH levels was low. Host trees from the Pinaceae and Lauraceae families were the most populated by lichens in this study. Research on lichen diversity in Bukit Barisan Grand Forest Park is crucial, considering the increasing development and deforestation in North Sumatra. A more comprehensive study of lichens is urgently required.

Self-Assembled Fe-Phenolic Acid Network Synergizes with Ferroptosis to Enhance Tumor Nanotherapy.

Natural polyphenolic compound rosmarinic acid (RA) has good antitumor activity. However, the distinctive tumor microenvironment, characterized by low pH and elevated levels of glutathione (GSH), enhances the tolerance of tumors to the singular anti-tumor treatment mode using RA, resulting in unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy. Targeting nonapoptotic programmed cell death processes may provide another impetus to inhibit tumor growth. RA possesses the capability to coordinate with metal elements. To solve the effect restriction of the above single treatment mode, it is proposed to construct a self-assembled nanocomposite, Fe-RA. Under tumor microenvironment, Fe-RA nanocomposite exerts the characteristics of POD-like enzyme activity and depletion of GSH, producing a large amount of hydroxyl radical (·OH) while disrupting the antioxidant defense system of tumor cells. Moreover, due to the enhanced permeability and retention effect (EPR), Fe-RA can transport Fe2+ to a greater extent to tumor cells and increase intracellular iron content. Causing an imbalance in iron metabolism in tumor cells and promoting cell ferroptosis. The results of the synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) prove the successful complexation of Fe-RA nanocomposite. Density functional theory (DFT) explains the efficient catalytic mechanism of its peroxide-like enzyme activity and the reaction principle with GSH.

Fabrication of hydrophobic drug-loaded Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) for enhanced anti-bacterial activity

Current study presents a novel approach for constructing small hydrophobic biomolecules embedded within zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) with exceptional antibacterial properties. In this method, ZIF-8 is synthesized from zinc acetate and 2-methylimidazole in the presence or absence of small hydrophobic bioactive molecules like rutin, rosmarinic acid, and morin. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis reveals that the synthesized ZIF-8 nanoparticles exhibit mostly hexagonal shape with size 200 nm which is further increased upon drug encapsulation. The synthesis of ZIF-8 and drug-loaded ZIF-8 is confirmed through FTIR, UV–vis spectroscopy, XRD, TGA, and EDX analyses. Zeta potential measurements show values ranging from -14.5 to -23.97 mV for both ZIF-8 and drug-loaded ZIF-8 nanoparticles. The drug loading content is determined to be 5 %, 9 %, and 16 % for morin, rutin, and rosmarinic acid, respectively. All the drug-loaded ZIF-8 formulations exhibit a pH-dependent drug release pattern, with maximal drug release observed at lower pH levels. Most importantly, these formulations demonstrate potent antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive (Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacterial strains. Specifically, ZIF-8/RUT exhibit maximum zone of inhibition (ZOI ∼ 51 mm) against all tested bacterial strains. ZIF-8/MOR and ZIF-8/RUT exhibit MIC values ranging from 2.0 to 3.0 mg/mL and MBC values from 6 to 9 mg/mL against all the tested bacteria. Among the formulations, ZIF-8/MOR and ZIF-8/RUT exhibit synergistic antibacterial effect, whereas ZIF-8/RMA possess less antibacterial potency against all the tested bacteria and mostly exhibit additive effect. Our findings suggest that these newly developed nano-formulations hold potential for the creation of highly effective antibacterial agents.

Identifying Preoperative Clinical Characteristics of Unexpected Gastrointestinal Perforation in Infants-A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Infants presenting with unexpected pneumoperitoneum upon abdominal X-ray, indicating a gastrointestinal perforation (GIP), have a surgical emergency with potential morbidity and mortality. Preoperative determination of the location of perforation is challenging but will aid the surgeon in optimizing the surgical strategy, as colon perforations are more challenging than small bowel perforations. Therefore, the aim of this study is to provide an overview of preoperative patient characteristics, determine the differences between the small bowel and colon, and determine underlying causes in a cohort of infants with unexpected GIP. All infants (age ≤ 6 months) who presented at our center with unexpected pneumoperitoneum (no signs of pneumatosis before) undergoing surgery between 1996 and 2024 were retrospectively included. The differences between the location of perforation were analyzed using chi-squared and t-tests. Bonferroni correction was used to adjust for multiple tests. In total, 51 infants presented with unexpected pneumoperitoneum at our center, predominantly male (N = 36/51) and premature (N = 40/51). Among them, twenty-six had small bowel, twenty-two colon, and three stomach perforations. Prematurity (p = 0.001), birthweight < 1000 g (p = 0.001), respiratory support (p = 0.001), and lower median arterial pH levels (p = 0.001) were more present in patients with small bowel perforation compared with colon perforations. Pneumatosis intestinalis was more present in patients with colon perforation (p = 0.004). All patients with Hirschsprung disease and cystic fibrosis had colon perforation. The final diagnoses were mainly focal intestinal perforations (N = 27/51) and necrotizing enterocolitis (N = 9/51). Infants with unexpected GIP, birthweight < 1000 g, and prematurity have more risk for small bowel perforation. In case of colon perforation, additional screening (for Hirschsprung and cystic fibrosis) should be considered.