Production Potential Research Articles

Ru/GCN Nanocomposite as an Efficient Catalyst for Hydrogen Generation from Sodium Hypophosphite.

Sodium hypophosphite is a promising green source for generating clean elemental hydrogen without pollutants. This study presents the development of an efficient heterogeneous catalyst, Ru/g-C3N4 (Ru/GCN), for hydrogen generation from sodium hypophosphite. The Ru/GCN catalyst demonstrates excellent activity under mild reaction conditions and maintains its effectiveness over multiple cycles without significant loss of activity. This easily separable and recyclable heterogeneous catalyst is straightforward to operate, non-toxic, eco-friendly, and provides a cost-effective alternative to the extensive use of expensive noble metals, which have limited industrial applications. The Ru/GCN catalyst was characterized using various material characterization and spectral methods, including powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Hypophosphite, combined with the catalytically active and recyclable Ru/GCN catalyst, forms a system with high potential for industrial-scale hydrogen production, suggesting promising avenues for further research and application.

Mutualistic Synthesis from Orthogonal Dynamic Covalent Reactions.

Mutualisms are interactions that benefit all species involved. It has been widely investigated in neighbouring subjects, such as biology, ecology, sociology, and economics. However, such a reciprocal relationship in synthetic chemical systems has rarely been studied. Here, we demonstrate a mutualistic synthesis where byproducts from two orthogonal chemical reactions aid each other's production. Disulfide exchange and hydrazone exchange were chosen to generate two dynamic combinatorial libraries. A minor tetrameric macrocycle from the active disulfide library was quantitatively amplified in the presence of the hydrazone library. This incorporation also turned on the previously inert hydrazone reaction, producing a linear species that formed a "handcuffs" catenane with the disulfide tetramer. These findings not only lend robust support to the hypothesis of "RNA-peptide coevolution" for the origin of life but also broaden the scope of synthetic chemistry, highlighting the untapped potential of minor products from different reactions. Additionally, the co-self-assembly of these mutualistic entities to form supramolecular structures opens new avenues for future development of composite nanosystems with synergistic properties.

Development of a deep-learning phenotyping tool for analyzing image-based strawberry phenotypes.

In strawberry farming, phenotypic traits (such as crown diameter, petiole length, plant height, flower, leaf, and fruit size) measurement is essential as it serves as a decision-making tool for plant monitoring and management. To date, strawberry plant phenotyping has relied on traditional approaches. In this study, an image-based Strawberry Phenotyping Tool (SPT) was developed using two deep-learning (DL) architectures, namely "YOLOv4" and "U-net" integrated into a single system. We aimed to create the most suitable DL-based tool with enhanced robustness to facilitate digital strawberry plant phenotyping directly at the natural scene or indirectly using captured and stored images. Our SPT was developed primarily through two steps (subsequently called versions) using image data with different backgrounds captured with simple smartphone cameras. The two versions (V1 and V2) were developed using the same DL networks but differed by the amount of image data and annotation method used during their development. For V1, 7,116 images were annotated using the single-target non-labeling method, whereas for V2, 7,850 images were annotated using the multitarget labeling method. The results of the held-out dataset revealed that the developed SPT facilitates strawberry phenotype measurements. By increasing the dataset size combined with multitarget labeling annotation, the detection accuracy of our system changed from 60.24% in V1 to 82.28% in V2. During the validation process, the system was evaluated using 70 images per phenotype and their corresponding actual values. The correlation coefficients and detection frequencies were higher for V2 than for V1, confirming the superiority of V2. Furthermore, an image-based regression model was developed to predict the fresh weight of strawberries based on the fruit size (R2 = 0.92). The results demonstrate the efficiency of our system in recognizing the aforementioned six strawberry phenotypic traits regardless of the complex scenario of the environment of the strawberry plant. This tool could help farmers and researchers make accurate and efficient decisions related to strawberry plant management, possibly causing increased productivity and yield potential.

Analysis of China's Export Efficiency and Potential of Digital Products to RCEP Countries-based on the Stochastic Frontier Gravity Model

Analysis of China's Export Efficiency and Potential of Digital Products to RCEP Countries-based on the Stochastic Frontier Gravity Model

Antimicrobial Strategies Proposed for the Treatment of S. pseudintermedius and Other Dermato-Pathogenic Staphylococcus spp. in Companion Animals: A Narrative Review.

The treatment of dermato-pathogenic Staphylococcus spp., particularly Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, in companion animals presents significant challenges due to rising antimicrobial resistance. This review explores innovative strategies to combat these infections. We examined novel antimicrobials and the repurposing of existing drugs to enhance their efficacy against resistant strains. Additionally, we evaluate the potential of natural products, nanomaterials, and skin antiseptics as alternative treatments. The review also investigates the use of antimicrobial peptides and bacteriophages, highlighting their targeted action against staphylococcal pathogens. Furthermore, the role of adjuvants in antibiotic treatments, such as antimicrobial resistance breakers, is discussed, emphasizing their ability to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Our analysis underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach in developing effective antimicrobial strategies for companion animals, aiming to mitigate resistance and improve clinical management of staphylococcal skin infections.

The Future of Energy: Hydrogen Generators

Hydrogen generators represent a revolutionary development in the pursuit of sustainable and renewable energy sources. As the world seeks alternatives to fossil fuels, hydrogen stands out due to its abundance and potential for zero-emission energy production. This article explores the advancements in hydrogen generator technology, their applications, and the role they will play in the future energy landscape. By examining the benefits and challenges associated with hydrogen generators, this paper highlights their potential to transform the energy sector.

Tirzepatide shows neuroprotective effects via regulating brain glucose metabolism in APP/PS1 mice

Tirzepatide (LY3298176), a GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, is fatty-acid-modified and 39-amino acid linear peptide, which ameliorates learning and memory impairment in diabetic rats. However, the specific molecular mechanism remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the role of tirzepatide in the neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease (AD) model mice. Tirzepatide was administrated intraperitoneal (i.p.) APP/PS1 mice for 8 weeks with at 10 nmol/kg once-weekly, it significantly decreased the levels of GLP-1R, and GFAP protein expression and amyloid plaques in the cortex, it also lowered neuronal apoptosis induced by amyloid-β (Aβ), but did not affect the anxiety and cognitive function in APP/PS1 mice. Moreover, tirzepatide reduced the blood glucose levels and increased the mRNA expression of GLP-1R, SACF1, ATF4, Glu2A, and Glu2B in the hypothalamus of APP/PS1 mice. Tirzepatide increased the mRNA expression of glucose transporter 1, hexokinase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and phosphofructokinase in the cortex. Lastly, tirzepatide improved the energetic metabolism by regulated reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial membrane potential caused by Aβ, thereby decreasing mitochondrial function and ATP levels in astrocytes through GLP-1R. These results provide valuable insights into the mechanism of brain glucose metabolism and mitochondrial function of tirzepatide, presenting potential strategies for AD treatment.

Change in a terra firme dense ombrophilous forest after logging in the brazilian Amazon (2006-2016)

The effective management of disturbed forests requires adequate knowledge of forest dynamics. In this study, we assessed the changes in a managed forest using 18 permanent 1 ha plots located in a ‘terra firme’ tropical rainforest in the Eastern Amazon (Paragominas, Brazil). All individuals with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 20 cm were evaluated in two separate assessments conducted in 2006 and 2016. The results show that, ten years after logging, the managed forest exhibits an imbalance between recruitment (1.54% per year) and mortality (2.23% per year) rates, indicating that it is still in the process of recovering its structure. Nevertheless, biomass tended to increase after logging (28.49 tons per hectare). The characteristics of these changes suggest that the forest is undergoing a silvigenetic process driven by the effects of logging. Furthermore, our observations indicate that the forest remains active and has sufficient potential for new timber production at the end of the cutting cycle, considering the same species and tree sizes.

Impact of alternate partial root-zone irrigation on the rhizosphere microbiota of alfalfa plants inoculated with rhizobia.

Water is an important constraint on alfalfa (Medicago sativa) production in arid and semiarid areas, and alternate irrigation in root areas has water-saving potential for alfalfa production. To investigate the impact of alternate partial root-zone irrigation (APRI) on the rhizosphere soil microorganisms of alfalfa, this study subjected alfalfa plants to different irrigation methods and irrigation levels. The growth status and rhizosphere soil microbial community diversity of alfalfa plants under alternate root-zone watering treatment were analyzed through laboratory experiments and high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that at soil moisture levels of 80% field moisture capacity (FMC) and 60% FMC, APRI had no significant impact on the biomass or nodule number of alfalfa. However, 40% FMC significantly reduced the individual plant dry weight, chlorophyll content, and nodule number of the alfalfa plants. APRI increased the relative abundance of Actinomycetes in the alfalfa rhizosphere soil. Moreover, at 60% FMC, the MBC and MBN of rhizosphere, relative abundance of Actinobacteria and unclassified K fungi and Chao 1 index of bacteria significantly increased under APRI treatment. While relative abundance of Ascomycetes and Proteobacteria in the alfalfa rhizosphere significantly reduced under 60% FMC + APRI treatment. In summary, under the same irrigation conditions, APRI did not significantly affect the growth of alfalfa in the short term. And 60%FMC + APRI treatment did significantly affect the groups, structure and diversity of the rhizosphere soil microbial communities.

Identification of potential natural product derivatives as CK2 inhibitors based on GA-MLR QSAR modeling, synthesis and biological evaluation

Identification of potential natural product derivatives as CK2 inhibitors based on GA-MLR QSAR modeling, synthesis and biological evaluation

Protective effect of Cyclo(His-Pro) on peritoneal fibrosis through regulation of HDAC3 expression.

Peritoneal dialysis is a common treatment for end-stage renal disease, but complications often force its discontinuation. Preventive treatments for peritoneal inflammation and fibrosis are currently lacking. Cyclo(His-Pro) (CHP), a naturally occurring cyclic dipeptide, has demonstrated protective effects in various fibrotic diseases, yet its potential role in peritoneal fibrosis (PF) remains uncertain. In a mouse model of induced PF, CHP was administered, and quantitative proteomic analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was employed to identify PF-related protein signaling pathways. The results were further validated using human primary cultured mesothelial cells. This analysis revealed the involvement of histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) in the PF signaling pathway. CHP administration effectively mitigated PF in both peritoneal tissue and human primary cultured mesothelial cells, concurrently regulating fibrosis-related markers and HDAC3 expression. Moreover, CHP enhanced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) while suppressing forkhead box protein M1 (FOXM1), known to inhibit Nrf2 transcription through its interaction with HDAC3. CHP also displayed an impact on spleen myeloid-derived suppressor cells, suggesting an immunomodulatory effect. Notably, CHP improved mitochondrial function in peritoneal tissue, resulting in increased mitochondrial membrane potential and adenosine triphosphate production. This study suggests that CHP can significantly prevent PF in peritoneal dialysis patients by modulating HDAC3 expression and associated signaling pathways, reducing fibrosis and inflammation markers, and improving mitochondrial function.

Identification of potential natural product derivatives as CK2 inhibitors based on GA-MLR QSAR modeling, synthesis and biological evaluation

Identification of potential natural product derivatives as CK2 inhibitors based on GA-MLR QSAR modeling, synthesis and biological evaluation

Методический подход и методы развития угледобывающих предприятий

This article describes the methods of developing and increasing the operational efficiency, which are implemented at production units of the SUEK-Krasnoyarsk JSC. It is demonstrated that their rational combination and mutual complementation in modern conditions of rising competition among coal producing companies, emergence of new challenges and higher requirements for the development dynamics of coal producing companies allow to efficiently use the production potential of enterprises and the labour potential of their employees. As a methodological approach we use the process and project approach to facilitate the development of enterprises that are part of a regional production association. The practice of solving the task of increasing the operational efficiency at production units demonstrates the necessity to form an incentive environment for developing both employees and enterprises at the enterprises and in the association. The goal of this environment is to provide systematic activities related to increasing the involvement and business activities of the personnel in the processes of production activities, in the development and implementation of actions aimed at improving and optimizing the production processes.

Production potential of the brine shrimp artemia in hypersaline lakes of the plain of the Altai territory

Production potential of the brine shrimp artemia in hypersaline lakes of the plain of the Altai territory

Методический подход и методы развития угледобывающих предприятий

This article describes the methods of developing and increasing the operational efficiency, which are implemented at production units of the SUEK-Krasnoyarsk JSC. It is demonstrated that their rational combination and mutual complementation in modern conditions of rising competition among coal producing companies, emergence of new challenges and higher requirements for the development dynamics of coal producing companies allow to efficiently use the production potential of enterprises and the labour potential of their employees. As a methodological approach we use the process and project approach to facilitate the development of enterprises that are part of a regional production association. The practice of solving the task of increasing the operational efficiency at production units demonstrates the necessity to form an incentive environment for developing both employees and enterprises at the enterprises and in the association. The goal of this environment is to provide systematic activities related to increasing the involvement and business activities of the personnel in the processes of production activities, in the development and implementation of actions aimed at improving and optimizing the production processes.

Green hydrogen production in Uruguay: a techno-economic approach

Abstract In 2015, the participants of the Paris Agreement collectively acknowledged the urgent need for immediate actions to decarbonize their national economies, with the aim of mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change. There is a call for policymakers to step up efforts to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in all economic sectors, with a focus on prioritizing options that can deliver substantial emission cuts. Some industry and transport subsectors present significant challenges in terms of technical and economic feasibility. Viable solutions for these sectors, known as “hard-to-abate” sectors, are limited. Green hydrogen has emerged as a promising alternative that is gaining increasing attention. It is poised to play a crucial role in transitioning towards a more sustainable future. There is a growing interest in green hydrogen among researchers, institutions, and nations, all committed to advancing its development, improving efficiency, and reducing costs. This paper explores the concept of green hydrogen, particularly its production processes that rely on renewable energy sources in Uruguay. It demonstrates the significant potential for green hydrogen production, facilitating the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy and promoting environmental sustainability through the widely accepted electrolysis process. Uruguay currently boasts a high percentage of renewable electricity generation (reaching 97 % in 2020). To support this further, there is a need to increase renewable energy capacity, which would impact the energy prices. The cost of energy accounts for more than 40 % of the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) in all studied scenarios. Additionally, optimizing the costs associated with electrolysers, which can exceed 30 % of the LCOH in polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysis, is crucial. This optimization is essential for positioning the country as a net exporter of green hydrogen. The range of LCOH values calculated in the different scenarios is between 2.11 USD/kg H2 and 4.12 USD/kg H2. According to updated specialized literature, achieving LCOH values under USD 1.4/kg H2 is essential for this goal.

Improving Agar Degradation Activity of Vibrio natriegens WPAGA4 via Atmospheric and Room Temperature Plasma (ARTP)

Agar oligosaccharides from the degradation of agar harbor great potential in the food and pharmaceutical industries. An agar-degrading bacterium, Vibrio natriegens WPAGA4, was isolated from the deep sea in our previous work. However, the agar-degrading activity of WPAGA4 remains to be improved for more production benefits of this strain. The aim of this study was to enhance the agar-degrading activity of WPAGA4 by using atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) mutagenesis. Three mutant strains, including T1, T2, and T3, with good genetic stability were obtained, and the agar-degrading activities of these strains increased by 136%, 141%, and 135%, respectively. The optimal temperature and pH for agar degradation were slightly changed in the mutant strains. No sequence mutation was detected in all the agarase genes of WPAGA4, including agaW3418, agaW3419, agaW3420, and agaW3472. However, ARPT mutagenesis increased the relative expression levels of agaW3418, agaW3419, and agaW3420 in the mutant strains, which could be the reason for the improvement of degradation activities in the mutant strains. Furthermore, T3 had the lowest consumption rate of agar oligosaccharide, which was 21% less than the wild-type strain. Therefore, T3 possessed a preferable production value due to its higher degrading activity and lower consumption of agar oligosaccharides. The current work enhanced the agar-degrading activity of WPAGA4 and offered strains with greater potential for agar oligosaccharide production, thereby laying the foundation for industrial applications.

The Alcohol Reform as Described in «Ekonomicheskii Zhurnal» during the Second Half of the 19th Century

This article provides an overview of the alcohol reform in the Russian Empire during the second half of the 19th century based on the key publications in «Ekonomicheskii Zhurnal» (‘Economic Journal’). Crop distillation on preferential terms is considered in detail. The statistics resulting from the changes in the drinking business over the studied period are analyzed. The assessment of the reform’s success and effectiveness in fiscal and budgetary matters by A.P. Subbotin is discussed. The contradictory basis of the wine monopoly is shown: while reducing the rates of «public drunkenness», it also retained the revenue from alcohol sales to the state budget. The alcohol policies pursued by Western European countries and the USA in the 19th century are outlined. The findings reveal that the alcohol reform in the Russian Empire was influenced by these foreign models. A.P. Subbotin’s position that the government sought to maximize the fiscal potential of alcohol production and trade is justified. The legislative framework of the state policy on the sale of alcoholic beverages is summarized. It is concluded that A.P. Subbotin was the first to highlight the necessity of taking into account the regional diversity of the Russian Empire when developing and implementing alcohol-related policies.

Potential of Natural Products as Therapeutic Agents for Inflammatory Diseases.

Inflammation is a complex biological response that plays a pivotal role in various pathological conditions, including inflammatory diseases. The search for effective therapeutic agents has led researchers to explore natural products due to their diverse chemical composition and potential therapeutic benefits. This review comprehensively examines the current state of research on natural products as potential therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases. The article discusses the antiinflammatory properties of various natural compounds, their mechanisms of action, and their potential applications in managing inflammatory disorders. Additionally, formulation and delivery systems, challenges and future prospects in this field are also highlighted.

Potential of Natural Products as Therapeutic Agents for Inflammatory Diseases.

Inflammation is a complex biological response that plays a pivotal role in various pathological conditions, including inflammatory diseases. The search for effective therapeutic agents has led researchers to explore natural products due to their diverse chemical composition and potential therapeutic benefits. This review comprehensively examines the current state of research on natural products as potential therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases. The article discusses the antiinflammatory properties of various natural compounds, their mechanisms of action, and their potential applications in managing inflammatory disorders. Additionally, formulation and delivery systems, challenges and future prospects in this field are also highlighted.