Ml Of Solution Research Articles

Eco-friendly utilization of microwaves for extraction of dye from logwood and Its application onto silk

For minimizing the pollution associated with synthetic colorants, the world again is going to realize the benefits of natural colorants in applied fields such as textiles, food flavors, etc. As part of the ongoing research project, hematein is being investigated as a potential natural colorant derived from logwood chips, and its implementation on silk fabric is being investigated under the effect of microwave radiations. A number of dyeing variables, including pH, dyeing duration, temperature of the dye bath, volume of extraction, and salt concentration, have been investigated, and the effect of isolation medium has also been evaluated. For new shades with improved fastness ratings, extracts of various sustainable bio-mordants and chemical mordant such as salts of aluminum and copper, and tannic acid were also used. An experiment revealed that treating un-irradiated silk with 40 mL of methanolic extract with a pH of 2, irradiated for 6 min, produced outstanding outcomes when dyed at 90°C for 60 min. The dyeing process included the addition of 9 g of salt per 100 mL of solution as an exhausting agent. In these circumstances, the utilization of sustainable mordants has not only enhanced the ratings of color fastness but has also rendered the procedure more environmentally friendly and less polluting. Therefore, microwave radiation has great potential for extracting colorants from plants and effectively applying them to natural materials under decreased conditions.

Acute hemodynamic effect of oral ketones in patients with acutely decompensated heart failure and low cardiac output syndrome: a prospective randomized study.

Abstract Background Preliminary studies showed positive inotropic effect of mild ketosis in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Purpose To evaluate the acute hemodynamic effect of oral administration of beta-hydroxybutyrate (OHB) in patients with HFrEF and low cardiac output syndrome. Methods Patients with acutely decompensated HFrEF treated with inotropic therapy were randomized (1:1) to enteral bolus of OHB (25g of OHB monoester in 65 ml of solution; H.V.M.N Ketone Ester, H.V.M.N, USA) administered three times with 3-hour intervals or to euvolemic placebo. The serum concentration of OHB, biochemical markers, and invasive hemodynamics (Swan-Ganz catheter with continuous thermodilution) were repeatedly measured before and during 24 hours after administration of OHB. The primary endpoint was the maximum change in cardiac index (CI). Results The study included 20 patients with decompensated HFrEF (age: 57 ± 8 years; left ventricular ejection fraction: 21 ± 4%; non-ischemic cardiomyopathy: 16 [80%], median INTERMACS class: 3 [IQR 2 - 4]), who were treated with milrinone (0.5 ± 0.1 ug/kg/min, n=18) or levosimendan (0.1 ug/kg/min up to 25 mg, n=2). Patients in the OHB group (n = 10) did not differ from the placebo group (n = 10) in baseline clinical, biochemical, hemodynamic or echocardiographic characteristics. Baseline OHB concentration was normal (<0.6 mmol/L) in all patients. Administration of OHB increased serum concentration from 0.3 ± 0.2 mmol/L to a maximum of 2.4 ± 0.7 mmol/L (<0.001). Concentrations of OHB peaked at 1.5 ± 0.5 hours after administration of each OHB drink, and the maximum concentration was achieved at 4.1 ± 2.5 hours (Figure 1). No changes in OHB concentration were observed in the placebo group. In both study groups, there was a significant increase of CI at 3 hours compared to baseline, but the increase was significantly greater in the OHB group (OHB: 3.2 ± 0.6 vs. 2.1 ± 0.4 L/min/m2; placebo: 2.3 ± 0.4 vs. 2.0 ± 0.3 L/min/m2; both p<0.001 compared to baseline; p < 0.001 for OHB vs. placebo at 3 hours). The maximum relative increase of CI was 60 ± 24% in the OHB group (p <0.001) and 18 ± 8% in the placebo group (p< 0.01). The change of CI correlated with the change of OHB concentration in the OHB group (r = 0.58, p<0.001) but not in the placebo group (r = 0.1, p = 0.3). The changes in CI were not related to heart rate or concentration of norepinephrine, which did not change significantly throughout the study in both groups. Conclusion Oral administration of OHB leads to a significant temporary increase in myocardial contractility. This novel therapeutic concept might be a promising adjunction to inotropic support in patients with decompensated HFrEF.

EFFECT OF CHITOSAN WITH DIFFERENT MOLECULAR WEIGHT ON THE GROWTH AND BULB YIELD OF ORIENTAL LILY ‘MONA LISA’

The potential of biodegradable and environmentally friendly substances that exhibit biostimulatory effects on plant growth and yield is now being exploited in horticultural production. This study evaluated the effect of chitosan on the growth, flowering, and yield of bulb of oriental lily ‘Mona Lisa’. Three types of chitosan differing in molecular weight (MW) were used: commercial chitosan (CCh, MW = 50,000–190,000 g/mol) and two forms of depolymerised chitosan (DCh 48, with a MW of ~48,000 g/mol, and DCh 154, with a MW of ~154,500 g/mol). The plants were watered twice with an aqueous solution of chitosan at a concentration of 2 g/l, with 100 ml of solution per pot. The control was plants watered with distilled water. Chitosan had a biostimulatory effect on the growth of lily plants. CCh increased the relative chlorophyll content of leaves (+11.3%), the fresh bulb weight (+11.0%), the bulb diameter (+12.3%) and the number of bulblets (+44.9%) compared with the control plants. DCh 154 significantly increased the fresh aboveground weight of plants (+31.3%), the fresh weight of leaves (+29.0%) and their number (+16.8%), the fresh weight of bulb (+12.3%) and their diameter (+11.0%), and the fresh weight of bulblet (+21.9%). DCh 48 increased the bulb diameter (+12.1%) and the number of bulblets (+45.4%), but decreased the length (-8.6%) and width of tepals (-6.8%) of the lily flowers. Finally, DCh 154 was the most effective in lily production. Using depolymerised chitosan as a biostimulant may contribute to developing new methods to produce high-quality lily plants.

Microfluidic Laser-Induced Nucleation of Iron (II,III) Oxide Nanoparticle-Doped Supersaturated Aqueous KCl Solutions.

A capillary-based microfluidic system designed for nonphotochemical laser-induced nucleation (NPLIN) studies coupled with real-time microscopy was used to study NPLIN of iron (II,III) oxide doped aqueous KCl solutions. Supersaturation was achieved by lowering the solution temperature using thermoelectric cooling, and heating was used for the dissolution of crystals downstream to prevent clogging during the flow. The effect of nanoparticle concentration, supersaturation, laser intensity, and filtration was studied. We report laser-induced nucleation using laser intensities as low as 1 MW/cm2 with nanoparticle number densities of ∼109 particles per mL of solution at KCl supersaturations from 1.06 to 1.08. The number of crystals increased with increasing laser intensity, supersaturation, and nanoparticle concentration. We discuss our results with respect to the colloidal impurity-heating mechanism hypothesis and propose a semiempirical model based on the nanoparticle heating and bubble formation due to the absorption of laser energy.

Orange Peels as Activated Carbon Charcoal For Cu (II) Ions Elimination From Water Sources

Objectives: The goal of this work is to create inexpensive Orange Peel Activated Carbon (OPAC) for the environmentally friendly to eliminate of Cu (II) from its aqueous solution. Methods: activated carbon made by calcining orange peels at 500°C to cause them to burn. Methods: The samples were characterized using FTIR, transmission electron microscopy, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption. Cu (II) was adsorbed in a batch procedure utilizing 0.25 g of (OPAC) and 100 mL of solution with varying beginning concentrations ranging from 20–80 mg/L. The investigation focused on the effects of variables pH, temperatures, concentrations, dosages, and times on the adsorption capacity. Thermodynamic parameters were computed, adsorption kinetics were assessed using pseudo-first and pseudo-second-order were computed models, and the adsorption isotherms were fitted using the Langmuir and Freundlich models. Findings: The stretching of the hydroxyl groups is shown by peaks at 3100 and 4000 cm-1 as well as the 3300–3800 cm-1 region in the FTIR. Findings: the functionalized (OPAC). N2 adsorption isotherm revealed a hysteresis loop in the p/p0 region between 0.2 and 1. The surface area of obtained mesoporous OPAC was 0.99 nm. The maximum adsorption capacity (79.056 mg/g). Removal of Cu (II) was 99%. The adsorption process was spontaneous and less random, as indicated by the negative values of thermodynamic parameters (∆S° -14.0, ∆H°-54.76, and ∆G°-60.36 kJ.mol-1). According to the findings, orange peel has a high surface area and is highly porous, which allows it to effectively remove over 99% of harmful heavy metals from water sources. Novelty: The study proves that orange peel can be effectively used as one of the best-quality, reasonably priced, readily available, eco-friendly bio-sorbents that is also beneficial to the economy in the long run. Keywords: Orange peel, Cu (II), Adsorption, Kinetic, Thermodynamic, IFTR

Experimental study of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) behavior in brine/n-decane mixtures under HPHT conditions

This research investigates the dynamic behavior of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) under oil reservoir conditions, focusing on their interplay within both aqueous and organic phases. Surprising findings emerge, notably the heightened solubility of H2S at 250°C compared to 150°C, with values of 19.9 mg to 41.5 and 12.8 mg to 16.4 mg in 100ml of solution, respectively, diverging from conventional expectations, due to organosulfur compounds generated at the water/n-decane interface under high pressure and temperature conditions. Through an examination of Henry's Law and the calculation of Henry's constants across several temperatures, insights into these observations are gained. In the organic phase, temperature is observed to catalyze the formation of organosulfur compounds from n-decane and H2S. Notable compounds identified include aromatic hydrocarbons bearing sulfur substituents. highlighting the presence of 2-Propyldibenzothiophene (2 – 392 mg/mL), which represents between 57 and 95% of the total concentration of organosulfur compounds found in the organic fraction, being more abundant at 250°C. These findings underscore the intricate interplay between temperature, pressure, and phase composition, elucidating the nuanced solubility patterns and reaction dynamics of sulfur and organosulfur compounds.

The restraint stress-induced antinociceptive effects decreased by antagonism of both orexin receptors within the CA1 region of the hippocampus

Studies have indicated that stress-related symptoms can lead to hormonal and neural changes, affecting the pain threshold and nociceptive behaviors. The precise role of orexin receptors (OX1r and OX2r) in stress-induced analgesia (SIA) remains an inquiry yet to be comprehensively elucidated. The current investigation aimed to assess the impact of acute immobilization restraint stress on pain-related behavioral responses after administering antagonists targeting OX1r and OX2r in a rat model using the tail-flick test. After a period of five to seven days post-stereotaxic surgery in CA1, the baseline tail-flick latency (TFL) was recorded for each animal. Subsequently, rats were unilaterally administered varying doses of the OX1r antagonist (SB334867; 1, 3, 10, and 30 nmol), the OX2r antagonist (TCS OX2 29; 1, 3, 10, and 30 nmol), or a vehicle (0.5 μl solution containing 12% DMSO) through an implanted cannula. Following a 5-min interval, the animals were subjected to a restraint stress (RS) lasting for 3 h. The tail-flick test was conducted after the stress exposure, and the TFLs were assessed at 60-min intervals. The findings of this study revealed that RS elicits antinociceptive responses in the tail-flick test. Microinjection of OX1r and OX2r antagonists into the CA1 attenuated RS-induced analgesia during the tail-flick test. Furthermore, the results underscored the preeminent role of OX2 receptors in modulating SIA. In conclusion, the orexin system localized within the hippocampal CA1 region may, in part, contribute to the manifestation of SIA in the context of acute pain.

Acaricidal potential of Bidens pilosa in the control of the red palm mite

Raoiella indica Hirst, 1924 (Prostigmata: Tenuipalpidae), is one of the leading pest mites on plants of the Arecaceae family, especially palm and banana trees. This species has a high reproductive capacity and rapid dissemination, but the control methods available for this species are still limited. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the acaricidal effect of blackjack (Bidens pilosa) on adult individuals of R. indica. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, using the plant structures of blackjack to prepare the extracts. The experimental units consisted of coconut leaf discs (4 cm), with moistened cotton at the bottom of the Petri dish (10.0 × 1.2 cm), and around the disc to maintain turgidity and prevent mites from escaping. Spraying was carried out on 12 adult females of R. indica per sample unit, with seven repetitions for each concentration, using an airbrush with a constant pressure of 1.3 psi and 1 mL of solution per repetition plate. The acaricidal effect was evaluated 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 hours after spraying. The mortality of R. indica was proportional to the increase in the concentration of the blackjack plant extract, and the lethal concentrations obtained, CL50 and CL 90, were estimated between 1.49% and 4.19%, indicating the acaricidal potential of B. pilosa. Phenolic compounds were the majority of compounds found in this study.

Efficient photocatalytic degradation of malachite green dye from wastewater using facilely synthesized ternary ZIF-8/Ag/Ag2S nanocomposite: Optimization by RSM (CCD)

The current study compares the photocatalytic potential of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) with ZIF-8 nanocomposites doped with two forms of silver (referred to as AgNPs/ZIF-8 and AgNPs/Ag2S/ZIF-8). Their physicochemical characteristics were evaluated using Fourier-transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray, Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence (PL), photocurrent density, Mott-Schottky, and Brunauer Emmett Teller techniques. The photocatalytic activity of the composites was assessed for degradation of malachite green (MG) under visible light irradiation in a solar-based staircase photoreactor for the first time. The optimization of the photodegradation process was achieved by employing central composite design, 0.020 g of AgNPs/ZIF-8 and ZIF-8photocatalyst (in 20 ml of solution), MG Concentration of 7 mg/l, pH of 8, and the irradiation time of 50 min. The predicted model had R2 and R2adj correlation coefficients of 0.987 and 0.975 respectively, which showed experimental results were very close to the predicted values. The results indicated remarkable efficiency in both degradation and mineralization, achieving the degradation rate of up to 98.6 %, a high-rate constant value of 0.0701 min-¹, and an 80 % mineralization efficiency. AgNPs/Ag2S/ZIF-8 exhibited superior photocatalytic performance in comparison to both AgNPs/ZIF-8 and ZIF-8. Different scavengers were used in the experiment and demonstrated that O2− played a crucial role in the photodegradation of MG. Moreover, the nanocomposite AgNPs/Ag2S/ZIF-8 exhibited robust stability and could be repeatedly utilized up to five cycles without notable decline in efficacy, rendering it an environmentally sustainable photocatalyst with promising prospects for industrial utilization.

Enhancing Electrochemical Sensor Performance: Studies of Electrodes Tailored with ZnO/ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles

Spinel metal oxides possess excellent magnetic, electrical, and optical properties. They take AB2O4 (face centered cubic) form with oxygen anions providing tetrahedral (Td) and octahedral (Oh) sites for A+2 and B+3 cations. Spinel can have a normal, inverse, or mixed form based on the occupancy of different cations in Td and Oh sites. The peculiarity of the spinel crystal structure is that its composition can be easily modified without affecting the crystal structure based on the type of cation. The type of cation in the composition defines if the spinel has a normal or inverse form [1]. Based on these premises, we have already synthesized ZnxNi1-xFe2O4 (x =0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1) nanomaterials achieving a clear gradual transition from inverse (x=0) to normal (x=1) spinel. Synthesized nanomaterials were employed as mediators in electron transfer between the screen-printed carbon working electrode and paracetamol to understand the effect of chemical composition and crystal structure on the electron transfer at the electrochemical interface [1]. Normal spinel ZnFe2O4 was found to be the best nanomaterial in terms of sensitivity and kinetic rate constant. In further works, with the aim to understand the effect of ionic radii on sensitivity and electron transfer rate constant in electrochemical sensing of paracetamol, we have focused on the normal spinel structure and modified the composition by varying the concentration of Fe3+ with Cr3+ and Bi3+ [2,3]. This study also proved that the normal spinel ZnFe2O4 has the highest sensitivity and electron transfer rate constant towards paracetamol sensing.In this work, we will present the synergic effect that can be obtained by interfacing ZnFe2O4 with ZnO nanomaterials by tuning the band gap of the heterogeneous structure. The aim is to understand the effect of band gap on sensitivity and electron transfer rate constant in electrochemical sensing. ZnFe2O4, ZnO, and ZnO/ZnFe2O4 nanomaterials are synthesized by a simple, single step auto combustion technique using the respective metal nitrates as precursors. Nanomaterial morphology and particles size are investigated by scanning electron microscopy. X-ray diffraction technique is employed to analyze the crystal structure and identify different phases in the newly synthesized materials. Then, commercially available screen-printed carbon electrodes with carbon working electrode and carbon counter electrodes are used for the electrochemical measurements in combination with an external double junction Ag/AgCl as a reference electrode. The synthesized nanomaterials are mixed with 1-butanol and a 5 μL solution is used to modify the surface of the carbon working electrode to mediate the redox reactions between the carbon surface and the molecule of interest. Primarily the sensors are characterized using cyclic voltammetry with ferri/ferrocyanide redox couple as a probe molecule. Improvement in sensitivity is observed for ZnFe2O4 (8.85 ± 0.50 μA/mM), ZnO (8.50 ± 0.30 μA/mM), and ZnO/ZnFe2O4 (8.22 ± 0.16 μA/mM) sensors compared to the bare carbon one (6.30 ± 0.40 μA/mM). By performing cyclic voltammetry at different scan rates (ν) from 25 to 125 mV/s, a good linearity of redox currents with respect to v0.5 is observed and redox peak positions are varying linearly with ln(ν). Peak-to-peak separation (ΔEp) is reduced for ZnO/ZnFe2O4 sensors compared to the carbon one. All these results suggest a faster electron transfer at the interface when the modified electrodes are used. Laviron model is employed to calculate the electron transfer rate coefficient and constant. The rate constant for ZnFe2O4 (41.8 ± 2.6 ms-1), ZnO (46.0 ± 4.0 ms-1), and ZnO/ZnFe2O4 (33.1 ± 4.5 ms-1) sensors is 3 to 5 times higher as compared to the bare carbon one (9.97 ± 0.78 ms-1). We are currently studying the potential application of ZnO/ZnFe2O4 nanomaterials in electrochemical sensing of small molecules relevant in biomedical field (dissolved oxygen, pH) and pharmaceutical drugs (paracetamol) to assess the potential for their use in different clinical settings.

Randomized placebo controlled trial of phytoterpenes in DMSO for the treatment of plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain in adults with an overall prevalence of 0.85% in the adult population of the US, affecting over 2 million adults annually. Most current treatment modalities are not supported by sufficient evidence to recommend one particular strategy over another. Topical application of analgesics for soft tissue pain is well established, however the plantar fascia presents challenges in this regard due to thick skin, fibrotic tissue, and an often thickened fat pad. Sixty-two patients with plantar fasciitis were randomized to a placebo controlled trial testing the efficacy of a topical solution of plant terpenes containing camphor, menthol, eugenol, eucalyptol, and vanillin. Skin permeation of the mixture was enhanced with 15% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), 1% limonene, and rosemary oil. One ml of solution was applied topically twice daily, and pain scores evaluated on Day 0, Day 1, Day 3, and Day 10. Using the validated foot function index 78.1% of patients reported an 85% or greater decrease in their total pain score by day 10 while placebo treatment was without effect (One Way ANOVA, P < 0.01). This study adapts the treatment modality of topical analgesia for soft tissue pain to a problematic area of the body and shows therapeutic promise.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05467631

Utilizing Date Palm Leaf Biochar for Simultaneous Adsorption of Pb(II) and Iodine from Aqueous Solutions

This study addresses the environmental and health hazards posed by Pb(II) and iodine, two significant contaminants. The objective was to explore the adsorption of these substances from aqueous solutions using biochar derived from the leaf midribs of the date palm through a slow pyrolysis process. The pyrolysis was conducted in two stages within a vacuum furnace: initially at 300 °C for 1 h followed by overnight cooling, and then at 600 °C with a similar cooling process. The resulting biochar was characterized for its microstructural features and functional groups using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. It exhibited a porous structure with large numbers of pores (20 to 50 μm in size) and functional groups including O-H, C-H, and C=C, which are integral to its adsorption capabilities. For the adsorption studies, a 100 ppm Pb(II) ion solution was treated with varying amounts of biochar (20, 40, 60, and 80 mg) for 24 h. In parallel, iodine adsorption was tested, with biochar quantities ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 g/50 mL. Both treatments were followed by filtration and analysis using atomic absorption spectroscopy to determine the remaining concentrations of Pb(II) and iodine. The study also explored the effect of varying incubation periods (up to 30 h) on iodine adsorption. The results were significant; 100% adsorption of Pb(II) was achieved with the addition of 60 mg of biochar per 10 mL of solution. In contrast, for iodine, a maximum adsorption of 39.7% was observed with 30 mg or 40 mg of biochar per 50 mL. These findings demonstrate the potential of date palm-derived biochar as an effective and sustainable material for the removal of Pb(II) and iodine from contaminated water, offering valuable insights for environmental remediation strategies.

THE IMPACT OF SOIL HEAVY METAL ACCUMULATION ON THE GROWTH OF SUNN HEMP (Crotalaria juncea L.)

Sunn Hemp plants, specifically Crotalaria juncea, are effective in absorbing and reducing the accumulation of heavy metals like cadmium, zinc, lead, and copper in soil. This plant species belongs to the Fabaceae family and is not only important for its phytoremediation capabilities but also for its agricultural value as a fiber and manure crop. Overall, Sunn hemp plants are crucial in mitigating the harmful effects of heavy metal contamination. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using a Completed Randomized Design (CRD) with 5 treatments and 6 replications to assess the impact of varying concentrations of heavy metals on Sunn hemp growth. The heavy metals were created by combining Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), and Nickel (Ni). Each treatment of heavy metal contamination using 200ml of solution: T0 is the negative control. T1 containing 0.9 (Cd) + 4.0 (Cu) + 0.18 (Pb) + 0.7 (Ni). T2 containing 11.90 (Cd) + 19.80 (Cu) + 36.00 (Pb) + 28.90 (Ni). T3 containing 23.80 (Cd) + 39.60 (Cu) + 72.00 (Pb) + 57.80 (Ni). T4 containing 35.70 (Cd) + 59.40 (Cu) + 108.0 (Pb) + 115.60 (Ni). The study analyzed the impact of heavy metal concentrations on the growth of sunn hemp. Data included soil pH, plant height, flower count, pod count, root and shoot length, fresh and dry weight. Results showed that T4 showed excellent growth performance in terms of height, number of flowers, and dry weight. Sunn hemp has the ability to store heavy metals to a greater extent in its roots and has a remarkable capacity for long-term survival.

Identification of Lutzomyia longipalpis' using MALDI-TOF peptide/protein profiles

Sand flies are vectors of great public health importance, since they constitute a group of hematophagous insects responsible for etiological agents transmission of zoonotic diseases such a visceral leishmaniasis. In face of the expansion of these diseases, efficient control strategies are needed which depend on comprehending the sand fly eco-epidemiology. In this regard, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry has been used for bacteria, fungi and yeast detection studies through peptide/protein profiles. However, little is known about interference of biological factors associated with vector ecology, such as blood meal preferences and even sand fly age on the peptide/protein profiles. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the differences in peptide/protein profiles of the sand fly Lutzomyia longipalpis, by means of MALDI-TOF, due to the sand fly's age, sex, blood meal source and Leishmania infantum infection. Sample preparation was made removing both head and last abdomen segments keeping the thorax, its appendices and the rest of the abdomen. Five specimens per pool were used to obtain peptide/protein extract of which 1 μL solution was deposited over 1 μL MALDI matrix dried. Characteristic spectra were analyzed using principal coordinate analysis as well as indicator species analysis to discriminate differences in sand flies's peptide/protein profile by sex, age, blood meal source and L. infantum infection. The results show that the evaluated variables produced distinct peptide/protein profiles, demonstrated by the identification of specific diagnostic ions. It was found that the interference of biological factors should be taken into account when using the MALDI-TOF analysis of sand fly species identification and eco-epidemiological applications in field studies. Based on our results, we believe that it is possible to identify infected specimens and the source of blood meal in a collection of wild sand flies, serving to measure infectivity and understand the dynamics of the vector's transmission chain. Our results may be useful for epidemiological studies that look at the ecology of sand flies and leishmaniasis, as well as for raising awareness of biological characteristics’ impact on peptide/protein profiles in sand fly species identification.

Cellular Therapy in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis as an Adjuvant Treatment to Translate for Multiple Sclerosis.

This study aims to evaluate and compare cellular therapy with human Wharton's jelly (WJ) mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and neural precursors (NPs) in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a preclinical model of Multiple Sclerosis. MSCs were isolated from WJ by an explant technique, differentiated to NPs, and characterized by cytometry and immunocytochemistry analysis after ethical approval. Forty-eight rats were EAE-induced by myelin basic protein and Freund's complete adjuvant. Forty-eight hours later, the animals received intraperitoneal injections of 250 ng/dose of Bordetella pertussis toxin. Fourteen days later, the animals were divided into the following groups: a. non-induced, induced: b. Sham, c. WJ-MSCs, d. NPs, and e. WJ-MSCs plus NPs. 1 × 105. Moreover, the cells were placed in a 10 µL solution and injected via a stereotaxic intracerebral ventricular injection. After ten days, the histopathological analysis for H&E, Luxol, interleukins, and CD4/CD8 was carried out. Statistical analyses demonstrated a higher frequency of clinical manifestation in the Sham group (15.66%) than in the other groups; less demyelination was seen in the treated groups than the Sham group (WJ-MSCs, p = 0.016; NPs, p = 0.010; WJ-MSCs + NPs, p = 0.000), and a lower cellular death rate was seen in the treated groups compared with the Sham group. A CD4/CD8 ratio of <1 showed no association with microglial activation (p = 0.366), astrocytes (p = 0.247), and cell death (p = 0.577) in WJ-MSCs. WJ-MSCs and NPs were immunomodulatory and neuroprotective in cellular therapy, which would be translated as an adjunct in demyelinating diseases.

Determination of parameters and kinetic evaluation for chromium (VI) removal using four resins

This research aimed to identify optimal studied variables for chromium (VI) removal using four resins (IRA 96, IRA 400, DOWEX 1x8, and LEWATIT). A 1,5-diphenylcarbazide method was used for the quantification of chromium (VI). A factorial design with triple replication at the center point was used to evaluate pH, resin dose (g/100 mL), and initial chromium (VI) concentration. The optimal values for the four resins were a pH of 3, a resin concentration of 0.15 g/100 mL of solution, and an initial concentration of 10 mg/L of chromium. Then, an ANOVA study was done to compare the resins results using a p-value &lt;0.05. The DOWEX resin presented the highest removal percentage (98.39%) for a reaction period of 45 minutes, with an exponential model that fits a pseudo-first-order kinetics with a coefficient of determination equal to 0.967.

Формирование монослоев Ленгмюра из нативных фосфолипидов бактерий различных систематических групп

Phospholipids are the most important structural elements of the bacterial cell wall, participate in the adaptation of microorganisms to the environment and can act as biomarkers for environmental changes and one of the components of environmental monitoring. Native phospholipids are used to form models of cell membranes, the biophysical properties of which can be studied by the Langmuir-Blodgett method. The aim of this work was to isolate and characterize the phospholipids of the cell membranes of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus and the formation of Langmuir monolayers based on them. The composition and ratio of fatty acids were determined by gas-liquid chromatography of fatty acid methyl esters. Fatty acids, found in the extract of the bacteria S. aureus 209-P and B. cereus 8035, are: hexadecanoic, trans-9-octadecenoic, octadecanoic, tetradecanoic, 13-methyltetradecanoic, 14-methylpentadecanoic, 15-methylhexadecanoic, cis-9-octadecanoic. To form a monolayer, a working solution of native phospholipids in chloroform with a concentration of C = 10-3 М was used. The monolayer formed when a 50 μl solution of a phospholipid mixture is applied to the surface has a more perfect structure, which is manifested in the constancy of its mechanical properties. The analysis of the obtained data has not yet revealed a clear dependence of the monolayer parameters on temperature. The changes in the compression modulus and compressibility were very minor. With an increase in the salt concentration, both an increase and a decrease in the compression modulus, and, consequently, the rigidity of the monolayer, is observed.

Evaluation of the Quality of Recovery from General Anesthesia in Dogs with Two Different Low Doses of Dexmedetomidine.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of recovery from general anesthesia with the administration of two low doses of dexmedetomidine in canine patients. For this blind randomized clinical trial study, 30 dogs undergoing general anesthesia for diagnostic procedures or elective surgery (ovariectomy/castration) were included. The patients were randomly divided into three groups, and at the end of anesthesia, they received a bolus of dexmedetomidine at 1 mcg/kg IV (D1), or a bolus of dexmedetomidine at 0.5 mcg/kg (D0.5), or a bolus of NaCl, in a total of 0.5 mL of solution for all three groups. After administration of the bolus, the anesthetist monitored the patients every 5 min by measuring heart rate, systolic and mean blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. The quality of recovery was also assessed using 4 different scales. The extubation time, time of headlift, and standing position were also recorded. Both groups receiving dexmedetomidine had better awakening and a lower incidence of delirium when compared to saline administration. The heart rate was lower, while the systolic pressure was higher in the two groups D1 and D0.5 compared to the NaCl with a low presence of atrioventricular blocks. The extubation time resulted significantly higher in the D1 (17 ± 6 min) compared to the D0.5 (10 ± 4 min) and NaCl (8 ± 3 min) (p < 0.0001); the headlift time D1 (25 ± 10 min) resulted significantly longer than the NaCl group (11 ± 5 min) (p = 0.0023) but not than the D0.5 (18 ± 9 min). No significant differences were found among the three groups for standing positioning (D1 50 ± 18 min, D0.5 39 ± 22 min, NaCl 28 ± 17 min). The preventive administration of a bolus of dexmedetomidine at a dosage of 0.5 mcg/kg or 1 mcg/kg IV during the recovery phase improves the quality of recovery in patients undergoing general anesthesia.

Effects of the Marek's Disease Vaccine on the Performance, Meat Yield, and Incidence of Woody Breast Myopathy in Ross 708 Broilers When Administered Alone or in Conjunction with In ovo and Dietary Supplemental 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol.

The effects of the Marek's disease vaccine (MDV) on the live performance, breast meat yield, and incidence of woody breast myopathy (WBM) of Ross 708 broilers were investigated when administered alone or in conjunction with in ovo and dietary supplemental 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3). At 18 d of incubation (doi), four in ovo injection treatments were randomly assigned to live embryonated Ross 708 broiler hatching eggs: (1) non-injected; (2) commercial MDV alone; or MDV containing either (3) 1.2 or (4) 2.4 μg of 25OHD3. An Inovoject multi-egg injector was used to inject a 50 μL solution volume into each egg. The birds were provided a commercial diet that contained 250 IU of cholecalciferol/kg of feed (control) or a commercial diet that was supplemented with an additional 2760 IU of 25OHD3/kg of feed (HyD-diet). In the growout period, 14 male broilers were placed in each of 48 floor pens resulting 6 replicated pens per in ovo x dietary treatment combination. Live performance variable were measured at each dietary phases from 0 to 14, 15 to 28, and 29 to 40 d of age (doa). At 14 and 40 doa, pectoralis major (P. major) and pectoralis minor (P. minor) muscles were determined for one bird within each of the six replicate pens. At 41 doa, WBM incidence was determined. No significant main or interaction effects occurred for WBM among the dietary or in ovo injection treatments. However, in response to in ovo 25OHD3 supplementation, BW and BWG in the 29 to 40 doa period and BWG and FCR in the 0 to 40 doa period improved. In addition, at 40 and 41 doa, breast meat yield increased in response to in ovo and dietary 25OHD3 supplementation. Future research is needed to determine the possible reasons that may have been involved in the aforementioned improvements.

Effect of Mammea americana Aqueous Extract on the Control of the Coffee Red Spider Mite

The coffee red spider mite, Oligonychus ilicis, stands out as one of the main pests of Conilon coffee. The use of synthetic chemical control has led to an increase in the population of this mite and a reduction in its natural enemies. Aiming to find viable alternatives, this study aimed to evaluate the acaricidal potential of “abricó” peel extract, Mammea americana, in the management of O. ilicis. Each treatment consisted of 7 repetitions, with 10 individuals per repetition. They were placed in Petri dishes (10.0 x 1.2 cm), containing coffee leaf disks (4 cm diameter) inside, and moistened cotton at the bottom of the dish and around the disks. The peels of M. americana were dried, crushed, and diluted in aqueous solution to obtain extracts at concentrations of 2; 2.57; 3.30; 4.24; 5.45; and 7 %. The application was done by spraying, using an Alfa 2 model airbrush connected to a compressor calibrated with a constant pressure of 1.3 psi. 1 mL of solution of each concentration was applied for each repetition. Distilled water and the surfactant Tween® 80 (0.05 % v/v) were used as control treatments. The acaricidal effect was evaluated 24, 48, and 72 hours after spraying, and the lethal concentrations LC50 and LC90 were calculated. The results of the toxicity tests indicated an increase in the mortality of O. ilicis with the increase in the concentrations of aqueous extracts of M. americana, resulting in 100 % mortality. The LC90 was estimated at 3.83 %. In the chemical analysis of the M. americana extract, the presence of phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids was observed at concentrations of 39.150, 40.783, and 0.0349 mg-1, respectively. We conclude that the aqueous extract of M. americana peels demonstrated acaricidal potential in a controlled environment for the coffee red spider mite.