Remarkable Recovery Research Articles

Parathyroid Hormone-Mediated Hypercalcemia With Remarkable Bone Mineral Density Recovery After Multiple Zoledronic Acid Infusions

Parathyroid Hormone-Mediated Hypercalcemia With Remarkable Bone Mineral Density Recovery After Multiple Zoledronic Acid Infusions

Outdoor Performance Monitoring Method for Degradation Studies of Perovskite Modules

ABSTRACTThis paper presents an outdoor performance monitoring method for degradation studies of perovskite modules, focusing on a large‐area perovskite module (81.9 cm2) over a long‐term monitoring campaign. The module underwent an industrial lamination process to prevent long‐term degradation from environmental factors. The characterization procedure involved degradation correction and determining the temperature coefficients and electrical parameters of the module using initial days of measurements. The results demonstrated temperature coefficients for Isc, Voc, and Pm (α′, β′, and γ) of −0.071%·K−1, −0.119%·K−1, and −0.113%·K−1, respectively, indicating a minimal temperature influence on this technology compared with conventional ones. Using this coefficient, the STC electrical parameters were retrieved from 1‐min power output data, resolving the uncertainty of the indoor/outdoor IV curve measurements caused by the curve scan direction (JV hysteresis effect). We also highlight the initial remarkable capacity recovery effect of almost 16% during the first 2 days of operation. Additionally, a procedure that includes the IV curves analysis taken every 10 min and their translation to standard conditions has been implemented to evaluate the degradation of the module over the long‐term outdoor campaign. The results show three different trends over the period.

AIE-derived fluorescent silsesquioxane-based hybrid aerogel for light-enhanced gold recovery

In this work, two aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-active organic fluorescent monomers (TPV, TPC) were synthesized by Knoevenagel reaction of 2,2′-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)diacetonitrile with benzaldehyde and 4-bromobenzaldehyde, respectively. Subsequently, two fluorescent hybrid porous polymers with semiconductor performance (PCS-TPV, PCS-TPC) were prepared successfully by connecting octavinyl silsesquioxane (OVS) with TPV and TPC through Friedel-Crafts reaction and Heck coupling, respectively. Among them, PCS-TPV with a hyper-crosslinked structure offered a specific surface area of up to 1165 m2 g−1; PCS-TPC was the first AIE-derived fluorescent hybrid silsesquioxane-based semiconductor polymer with 3-D conjugated structure. Compared with PCS-TPV, PCS-TPC exhibited stronger visible light absorption, higher fluorescent performance and quantum yield due to its high AIE-active unit content. Besides, PCS-TPC exhibited a remarkable gold recovery capacity (Qm = 2728 mg g−1) when exposed to visible light irradiation. Adsorption mechanism revealed that the photoelectrons produced by PCS-TPC under visible light irradiation reduced all adsorbed Au(III) to Au(I) and Au(0). Furthermore, a hybrid aerogel was prepared through physical blending of PCS-TPC with chitosan, overcoming the limitation that insoluble powder was difficult to process and recycle. This work provided a very efficient, sustainable, and industrially feasible way for gold recovery in e-waste.

BCR, not TCR, repertoire diversity is associated with favorable COVID-19 prognosis.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has had a widespread and severe impact on society, yet there have also been instances of remarkable recovery, even in critically ill patients. In this study, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze the immune responses in recovered and deceased COVID-19 patients during moderate and critical stages. Expanded T cell receptor (TCR) clones were predominantly SARS-CoV-2-specific, but represented only a small fraction of the total repertoire in all patients. In contrast, while deceased patients exhibited monoclonal B cell receptor (BCR) expansions without COVID-19 specificity, survivors demonstrated diverse and specific BCR clones. These findings suggest that neither TCR diversity nor BCR monoclonal expansions are sufficient for viral clearance and subsequent recovery. Differential gene expression analysis revealed that protein biosynthetic processes were enriched in survivors, but that potentially damaging mitochondrial ATP metabolism was activated in the deceased. This study underscores that BCR repertoire diversity, but not TCR diversity, correlates with favorable outcomes in COVID-19.

Miniaturized Electrochemical Gas Sensor with a Functional Nanocomposite and Thin Ionic Liquid Interface for Highly Sensitive and Rapid Detection of Hydrogen.

Hydrogen has been widely used in industrial and commercial applications as a carbon-free, efficient energy source. Due to the high flammability and explosion risk of hydrogen-air mixtures, it is vital to develop sensors featuring fast-responding and high sensitivity for hydrogen leakage detection. This paper presents a miniaturized electrochemical gas sensor by elaborately establishing a nanocomposite and thin ionic liquid interface for highly sensitive and rapid electrochemical detection of hydrogen, in which a remarkable response time and recovery time of approximately 6 s was achieved at room temperature. A screen-printed carbon electrode was modified with a reduced graphene oxide-carbon nanotube (rGO-CNT) hybrid and platinum-palladium (Pt-Pd) bimetallic nanoparticles to realize high sensitivity. To achieve miniaturization and high stability of the sensor, a thin-film room-temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) was employed as the electrolyte with a significantly decreased response time. The fast-responding hydrogen sensor demonstrates excellent performance with high sensitivity, linearity, and repeatability at concentrations below the lower explosive limit of 4 vol %. The engineered high-performance interface and gas sensor provide a promising and effective strategy for gas sensor design and rapid hazardous gas monitoring.

Simultaneous treatment and enrichment of total phosphorus from livestock sewage using hydrate technology

The presence of phosphorus in livestock sewage is a key factor that causes eutrophication and the degradation of ecological water quality. Cyclopentane (CP) hydrate-based water treatment technique was utilized for the efficient total removal of phosphorus in effluents. This study assesses the treatment effectiveness and enrichment potential of hydrate technology when applied to real-world samples, specifically livestock wastewater. The treatment process was applied under atmospheric pressure and optimized appropriate conditions comprising the CP-to-sample volume ratio of 1:4, reaction duration of 3 h, and temperature of 2 °C because of the high subcooling and ability to enhance the number of hydrate crystals formed along with water. In addition, various methods, such as vacuum filtration, cold centrifugation, and washing, were employed for the effective and comprehensive removal of phosphorus from water samples with the efficiency exhibited from approximately 30 % to 80 %. The structure and composition of the CPHs formed in wastewater were analyzed via Raman spectroscopy and the phosphorus content was determined according to ISO 6878:2004. After a single-stage hydrate process without pretreatment and posttreatment, the water recovered from the extracted hydrates showed that the phosphorus removal efficiency in livestock sewage was approximately 85 % with a remarkable water recovery above 25 %. The study findings provide insights into the development of hydrate-based treatment technology for the removal of phosphorus and explore opportunities for resource enrichment and recovery from sewage.

Gullian Barre syndrome secondary to heat stroke: a case report.

Heat waves are increasingly common in subcontinent countries, including Pakistan. Heat stroke (HS) is a critical condition resulting from extreme temperatures, often culminating in multiorgan dysfunction. Clinical manifestations of heat-related emergencies can include altered mentation, fever, and profound weakness. We present a compelling case of a previously healthy 49-year-old male who developed altered mentation, fever, and acute kidney injury following intense physical exertion amidst a severe heat wave. Although initially managed as heat stroke, the patient soon exhibited dysarthria, palatal weakness, and bilateral lower limb weakness with areflexia, prompting a detailed neurological assessment. Electromyography and nerve conduction studies revealed the acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN) variant of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), an uncommon but severe sequel of heat stroke. GBS, an autoimmune disorder, typically presents with ascending bilateral lower limb flaccid paralysis, often following an acute infectious trigger. Treatment with plasmapheresis led to remarkable neurological recovery. This case represents the first documented instance of heat stroke-induced GBS in Pakistan, highlighting both the distinctive clinical features and the therapeutic complexities of this rare condition.

From Phenotype to Genotype: A Collodion Baby Case Linked to CERS3 Mutation

The term “Collodion baby” is used to describe a newborn appearing with a tight, shiny, and parchment like film covering the entire body. The collodion baby is not a distinct condition but a presentation shared by various disorders. This phenotype may evolve into a range of abnormalities, such as lamellar ichthyosis, Harlequin ichthyosis, non-bullous congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma, and intermediate phenotypes. We report a case of a collodion baby who was found to have a rare mutation in CERS3 gene. Despite the potential for numerous complications arising from impaired skin barrier function, the patient experienced a remarkable recovery following meticulous management and was subsequently discharged home.

Voltametric detection of methylene blue dye in water at green and chemically synthesized Ag/MWCNT modified electrode

Abstract A well-known textile dye, methylene blue (MB) was electrochemically detected by using glassy carbon electrode (GCE), modified with green and chemically synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) decorating the surface of functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (fMWCNT). The green and chemical methods were used to synthesize AgNPs, which decorated MWCNT forming MWCNT/Agchm and MWCNT/Aggrn nanocomposite. Comprehensive characterization of the nanomaterials was carried out using energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) detector-equipped scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–visible spectroscopy (UV), and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Using XRD, particle sizes were found to be 26.81, 10.05, 5.36, 19.26, and 17.48 nm for Agchm, Aggrn, MWCNT, Agchm/MWCNT, and Aggrn/MWCNT, respectively. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and square wave voltammetry (SWV) were employed for the investigation of the electrochemical properties and behaviour of MWCNT, Agchm, Aggrn, Agchm/MWCNT, and Aggrn/MWCNT electrodes, and higher electron transport capabilities and improved electrochemical activity towards MB on Agchm/MWCNT electrode were demonstrated by the results. Electroanalysis of methylene blue at the modified electrodes with square wave technique SWV was successful. At Agchm/MWCNT modified electrode, a low limit of detection (LOD) of 4.684 and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 14.194 pM, for MB, while at Aggrn/MWCNT modified electrode , an LOD and LOQ of 2.935 and 8.895 pM, were recorded respectively. In real sample analysis, the recovery percentage for Agchm/MWCNT ranged from 90 to 98% (n =3), and Aggrn/MWCNT showed a recovery percentage ranging from 97 to 103% (n = 3). Both electrodes’ remarkable recovery rate attest to their dependability and sensitivity in MB detection.

Metal clusters modified hexagonal boron nitride for adsorption and sensing of lithium batteries thermal runaway gases

Developing efficient gas sensing materials for monitoring lithium batteries thermal runaway gases is essential for human safety. In this study, a detailed examination of the CH4, CO2, CO, and H2 adsorption property for the h-BN with metal clusters modification was conducted utilizing density functional theory. The incorporation of metal clusters (Pd4, Rh4, and Ru4) significantly improved the adsorption energy and charge transfer of h-BN towards gases compared to the unmodified h-BN. The Ru4/h-BN system demonstrated the highest adsorption capacity across all four gases, while the Pd4/h-BN system displayed remarkable recovery ability at room temperature (298 K). Furthermore, studying the adsorption mechanism via DOS revealed enhanced gas adsorption due to orbital hybridization. The work offers reliable theoretical foundation for the detection and prevention of thermal runaway gases in lithium batteries through the use of h-BN modified with metal clusters.

The Systemic Effect of Ischemia Training and Its Impact on Bone Marrow-Derived Monocytes.

Monocytes are innate immune cells that play a central role in inflammation, an essential component during neovascularization. Our recent publication demonstrated that ischemia training by 24 h unilateral occlusion of the femoral artery (FA) can modify bone marrow-derived monocytes (BM-Mono), allowing them to improve collateral remodeling in a mouse model of hindlimb ischemia. Here, we expand on our previous findings, investigating a potential systemic effect of ischemia training and how this training can impact BM-Mono. BM-Mono from mice exposed to ischemia training (24 h) or Sham (same surgical procedure without femoral artery occlusion-ischemia training) procedures were used as donors in adoptive transfer experiments where recipients were subjected to hindlimb ischemia. Donor cells were divided corresponding to the limb from which they were isolated (left-limb previously subjected to 24 h ischemia and right-contralateral limb). Recipients who received 24 h ischemic-trained monocytes isolated from either limb had remarkable blood flow recovery compared to recipients with Sham monocytes (monocytes isolated from Sham group-no ischemia training). Since these data suggested a systemic effect of ischemic training, circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) were investigated as potential players. EVs were isolated from both groups, 24 h-trained and Sham, and the former showed increased expression of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), which is known to downregulate 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (Dhcr24) gene expression. Since we previously revealed that ischemia training downregulates Dhcr24 in BM-Mono, we incubated EVs from 24 h-trained and Sham groups with wild-type (WT) BM-Mono and demonstrated that WT BM-Mono incubated with 24 h-trained EVs had lower gene expression of Dhcr24 and an HDAC1 inhibitor blunted this effect. Next, we repeated the adoptive transfer experiment using Dhcr24 KO mice as donors of BM-Mono for WT mice subjected to hindlimb ischemia. Recipients who received Dhcr24 KO BM-Mono had greater limb perfusion than those who received WT BM-Mono. Further, we focused on the 24 h-trained monocytes (which previously showed downregulation of Dhcr24 gene expression and higher desmosterol) to test the expression of a few genes downstream of the desmosterol pathway, confirm the Dhcr24 protein level and assess its differentiation in M2-like macrophage phenotype. We found that 24 h-trained BM-Mono had greater expression of key genes in the desmosterol pathway, such as liver X receptors (LXRs) and ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABCA1), and we confirmed low protein expression of Dhcr24. Further, we demonstrated that ischemic-trained BM-Mono polarized towards an anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage phenotype. Finally, we demonstrated that 24 h-trained monocytes adhere less to endothelial cells, and the same pattern was shown by WT BM-Mono treated with Dhcr24 inhibitor. Ischemia training leads to a systemic effect that, at least in part, involves circulating EVs and potential epigenetic modification in BM-Mono. These ischemic-trained BM-Mono demonstrated an anti-inflammatory phenotype towards M2 macrophage differentiation and less ability to adhere to endothelial cells, which is associated with the downregulation of Dhcr24 in those cells. These data together suggest that Dhcr24 might be an important target within monocytes to improve the outcomes of hindlimb ischemia.

Cognitive and Histopathological Alterations in Rat Models of Early- and Late-Phase Memory Dysfunction: Effects of Sigma-1 Receptor Activation.

Sigma-1 receptors are highly expressed in brain areas related to cognitive function and are a promising target for anti-amnesic treatments. We previously showed that activation of sigma-1 receptors by the selective agonist compound methyl(1 R,2 S/1 S,2 R)-2-[4-hydroxy-4-phenylpiperidin-1-yl)methyl]-1-(4-methylphenyl) cyclopropane carboxylate [(±)-PPCC] promotes a remarkable recovery in rat models of memory loss associated to cholinergic dysfunction. In this study, we sought to assess the role of (±)-PPCC on working memory deficits caused by noradrenergic depletion. Animals with a mild or severe working memory deficits associated to varying degrees of noradrenergic neuronal depletion were treated with the sigma-1 agonist just prior to the beginning of each behavioral testing session. While (±)-PPCC alone at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day failed to affect working memory in lesioned animals, its association with the α2 adrenergic receptor agonist clonidine, completely blocked noradrenaline release, significantly improving rat performance. This effect, distinct from noradrenaline activity, is likely to result from a direct action of the (±)-PPCC compound onto sigma-1 receptors, as pre-treatment with the selective sigma-1 receptor antagonist BD-1047 reversed the improved working memory performance. Despite such clear functional effects, the treatment did not affect noradrenergic neuron survival or terminal fiber proliferation. Future studies are thus necessary to address the effects of long-lasting (±)-PPCC treatment, with or without clonidine, on cognitive abilities and Alzheimer's disease-like histopathology. Considering the already established involvement of sigma-1 receptors in endogenous cell plasticity mechanisms, their activation by selective agonist compounds holds promises as possibly positive contributor to disease-modifying events in neurodegenerative diseases.

Biopsychosocial Model Analysis of a Recurrent Guillain–Barré Syndrome Patient’s Recovery

Abstract Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disease that generally follows a monophasic course and typically does not recur. This case report explores the application of the biopsychosocial model in the context of a 46-year-old patient who experienced GBS for the second time in 2 years. It highlights the predisposing, precipitating, perpetuating, and protective factors affecting the patient’s biological, psychological, and social aspects during their recovery journey. The patient’s excellent socioeconomic status, social activity, and strong family support along with vigorous physical therapy played a crucial role in their remarkable recovery.

Stochastic processes driving cyanobacterial temporal succession in response to typhoons in a coastal reservoir

Typhoons associated with heavy rainfall events, potentially triggering harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs) dominated by cyanobacteria in coastal reservoirs. These blooms deteriorate water quality and produce toxins, posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems. However, the ecological mechanisms driving cyanobacteria communities in response to typhoons remain unclear. To address this gap, we investigated a coastal reservoir with high-frequency sampling during two typhoon seasons. We employed comprehensive statistical methods under neutral and evolutionary theories to analyze environmental dynamics and cyanobacterial genus succession. Our findings revealed a significant increase in nutrient loads following typhoons, with concentrations of total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and ammonia-nitrogen (NH4+-N) rising from 0.4 mg/L to 1.0 mg/L, 0.02 mg/L to 0.63 mg/L, and 0.03 mg/L to 0.26 mg/L, respectively. These changes coincided with fluctuations in other physicochemical parameters under changing hydrometeorological conditions. Despite significant environmental disturbances, the cyanobacterial community exhibited a remarkable recovery within 15–25 days following the typhoons. This recovery progressed through four distinct successional phases, with a notable shift in community composition from Raphidiopsis and Pseudoanabaena to Aphanocapsa, subsequently replaced by Raphidiopsis and Microcystis, before reverting to the pre-typhoon community structure. During the entire successional phase, the availability of TN and the TN/TP ratio played a dominant role, as indicated by PLS-PM analysis (total effects = -0.6; p < 0.05). Pre-typhoon, environmental factors primarily influenced community structure (54 %) based on modified stochasticity ratio. However, following the typhoons, stochastic fluctuations took precedence (71 %-91 %). The rapid recovery of cyanobacterial communities and the shift in driving mechanisms from deterministic to stochastic processes underscore the complex ecological responses to typhoon events. This study provides essential insights for biodiversity preservation and ecosystem restoration, emphasizing the need to consider both stochastic and deterministic processes in ecological management strategies.

Biomass based nanofiber membrane composite with xylan derived carbon dots for fluorescence detection nitrite in food real samples

In our latest research endeavor, we are proud to present an innovative approach to the synthesis of carbon dots (CDs) derived from the biomass xylan, which we have termed P-CDs. These P-CDs are meticulously integrated with a state-of-the-art biomass nanofiber membrane composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactic acid (PLA), resulting in the creation of a novel solid-state fluorescent sensor, designated as NFP-CDs. This cutting-edge sensor has been meticulously engineered for the highly sensitive and specific detection of nitrite ions (NO2−), a critical parameter in various fields. The NFP-CDs sensor stands out for its user-friendly design, cost-effective production, and portable nature, making it an ideal choice for rapid and visible nitrite ion detection. It exhibits an extraordinary response time of less than 1 s, which is a testament to its high sensitivity. Furthermore, the sensor demonstrates exceptional selectivity and specificity, with a remarkably low detection threshold of 0.36 μM. This is achieved through a sophisticated dual detection mechanism that synergistically combines colorimetric and spectral analyses, ensuring accurate and reliable results. In addition to its impressive technical specifications, the NFP-CDs sensor has been rigorously tested and validated for its efficacy in detecting nitrite ions in real-world samples. These samples include a diverse range of food products such as rock sugar, preserved mustard, kimchi, and canned fish. The sensor has demonstrated a remarkable recovery rate, which varies from 99 % to 106 %, highlighting its potential for practical application in nitrite ion detection. This research not only offers a robust and effective strategy for the detection of nitrite ions but also carries profound implications for enhancing food safety and bolstering environmental monitoring efforts. The development of the NFP-CDs sensor represents a significant step forward in the field of sensor technology, providing a powerful tool for the detection of nitrite ions and contributing to the broader goals of public health and environmental stewardship.

Selective extraction of Li and Mn from spent lithium-ion battery smelting slag: Insights from isomorphous replacement in minerals

Recycling the high content of valuable metal elements contained in spent lithium-ion batteries (SLIBs) has attracted significant interest. By leveraging the concept of substitution of isomorphous replacement in earth minerals, this study proposes a novel approach for the selective extraction of Li and Mn from the artificial spodumene-type lithium-rich slag comprising LiAlSi2O6 and Mn2SiO4 through two-step selective roasting process with Na2SO4 and CaCl2, respectively. The thermodynamic calculations confirmed the feasibility of selective Li extraction by Na2SO4 roasting, with the experimental results showing that over 99 % Li was preferentially extracted as LiNaSO4. In the subsequent CaCl2 roasting step for Mn recovery, the Mn2SiO4 was effectively transformed into soluble Na2MnCl4, achieving a maximum Mn extraction efficiency of 86.5 %. The leaching kinetics of the Na2SO4 roasting products were investigated, revealing that the leaching of Li was governed by diffusion and chemical reactions in line with the shrinking core model. Characterization methods such as XRD, SEM, XPS, and TG-DSC were employed to reveal the phase transformation mechanisms of Li and Mn during Na2SO4 and CaCl2 roasting, respectively. The proposed process introduces a novel paradigm for its remarkable selective recovery of Li and Mn from SLIBs smelting slag.

Synthesis, characterization, and optimization of dual‐responsive PAMAM nanodendrimers for improved dispersive solid‐phase extraction of cancer agents from complex biological samples

AbstractLevels of anticancer agents in cancer patients' body fluids are typically measured to adjust drug dosages or improve treatment results. The goal of this research is to present a new method for extracting bicalutamide (BCT) from biological samples using a responsive polymeric nanoadsorbent that reacts to temperature and near‐infrared radiation (NIR). To achieve this, the surface layers of tungsten disulfide nanosheets are modified using poly (N‐vinylcaprolactam) and three generations of polymeric dendrimers. The adsorbent product is then characterized using thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction techniques. The drug loading operation on the proposed adsorbent is studied through central composite design and response surface strategy, with optimization for temperature (25–45°C), pH (5–9), and contact time (2–18 min). Nonlinear kinetic and adsorption isotherm analysis results show the best fit with Langmuir and pseudo‐second‐order models. The drug release process from the BCT‐loaded adsorbent is investigated via an HPLC‐UV system under both NIR‐irradiated and non‐irradiated conditions. The suggested method demonstrates remarkable recovery rates for BCT spikes from urine (95.23%) and plasma (93.33%), respectively. Overall, the recommended strategy can be regarded as a potent analytical tool for evaluating BCT in complex biosamples.

A lantern-shaped fluorescent probe based on viologen/polyoxometalate for the detection of Ag+ in beverages and daily necessities

A lantern-shaped viologen/polyoxometalate (POM)-based compound [NiII(MSBP)2(H2O)2]·(β-Mo8O26)·H2O (Ni-POM) (MSBP = 1-(4-Methanesulfonyl-benzyl)-[4,4']bipyridinyl-1-ium) was successfully synthesized by a hydrothermal method for the efficient detection of Ag+. A strong affinity between Ag+ and SO in the viologen component of the Ni-POM structure made them interact, which led to blue fluorescence quenching. In the concentration range of 0.1–4 μM, a strong linear relationship was observed between the Ag+concentration and the fluorescence intensity ratio of Ni-POM, and the limit of detection (LOD) was 20.4 nM. Considering the widespread presence of Ag+ in various water sources, daily necessities and food preservatives, the utilization of Ni-POM for detecting the concentration of Ag+ in real samples (water, daily necessities and beverages) was proved to be highly effective. Moreover, a remarkable recovery rate ranging from 95.70 % to 103.60 % was achieved, indicating that the monitoring results of practical samples were satisfactory. A fluorescent ink based on Ni-POM was designed for the purpose of information confidentiality. More importantly, the hydrogel intelligent device for visual detection of Ag+ was developed, which could realize visual real-time on-site quantitative detection of Ag+ concentration in beverages and daily necessities. Therefore, Ni-POM provides an effective platform for the development of visually quantitative detection of Ag+ in food and daily necessities.

Investigation on the Synergy between Membrane Permeabilizing Amphiphilic α-Hydrazido Acids and Commonly Used Antibiotics against Drug-Resistant Bacteria.

The growth of (multi)drug resistance in bacteria is among the most urgent global health issues. Monocationic amphiphilic α-hydrazido acid derivatives are structurally simple mimics of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with fewer drawbacks. Their mechanism of membrane permeabilization at subtoxic concentrations was found to begin with an initial electrostatic attraction of isolated amphiphile molecules to the phospholipid heads, followed by a rapid insertion of the apolar portions. As the accumulation into the bilayer proceeded, the membrane increased its fluidity and permeability without being subjected to major structural damage. After having ascertained that α-hydrazido acid amphiphiles do not interact with bacterial DNA, they were subjected to synergy evaluation for combinations with conventional antibiotics. Synergy was observed for combinations with tetracycline against sensitive S. aureus and E. coli, as well as with ciprofloxacin and colistin against resistant strains. Additivity with a remarkable recovery in activity of conventional antibiotics (from 2-fold to ≥32-fold) together with largely subtoxic concentrations of α-hydrazido acid derivatives was found for combinations with ciprofloxacin toward susceptible S. aureus and methicillin toward MRSa. However, no potentiation of conventional antibiotics was observed for combinations with linezolid and gentamicin against the corresponding resistant S. aureus and E. coli strains.

Silver recovery from silicon solar cells waste by hydrometallurgical and electrochemical technique

In this study, hydrometallurgical and electrochemical methods were combined to achieve an innovative strategy for the effective recovery of the finest silver metal from silicon solar waste. The waste was thoroughly characterized by X-Ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy, and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy. A chemometric approach based on experimental design was used to find the best conditions for the leaching process based on a combined base-activated persulfate and ammonia system while a novel method known as electrodeposition-redox replacement was used to recover it. A remarkable pure silver recovery of 98.7±1.4 % was achieved. Additionally, Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis confirmed the enrichment of Ag particles on the electrode. Overall, these promising results showed how flexible the electrodeposition-redox replacement approach is in producing a range of valuable functional materials from intricate hydrometallurgical solutions including multiple metal impurities.