Rise Of pH Value Research Articles

Effect of stepwise cooking on the water-retention capacity and protein denaturation degree of chicken breast

This study investigated the impact of different center temperatures (60 °C, 65 °C, 70 °C) combined with low temperature long time cooking (cooking at 60 °C for 30 min or 60 min) on the water-retention capacity of chicken breasts. The effects of different heat treatment methods on microstructure, texture parameters, water content, cooking loss, color, pH value, protein denaturation degree and secondary structure content of chicken breast were analyzed. The results revealed that both center temperature and low temperature long times cooking (LTLT cooking) time significantly influenced the water-retention capacity of chicken breasts (P < 0.05). With increasing heat exposure levels, there was a corresponding rise in pH value as well as protein solubility and hydrophobicity in meat. This led to increased alignment of myofibrils along with gradual structural disruption and connective tissue efflux resulting in significant increases in meat hardness, chewiness and cooking loss (P < 0.05). However, when the center temperature reached 70 °C with an LTLT cooking time of 60 min, the muscle fiber structure is almost completely destroyed, causing the connective tissue between the muscle bundles or fibers to refill, resulting in a random coil content increase of about 2%, increased the water content by around 12% and decreased hardness by about 31%. These findings demonstrate that the group subjected to a combination treatment involving a center temperature of 70 °C and an LTLT cooking time of 60 min was effective in enhancing the water content while reducing the hardness of meat.

Effects of Four-Year Oilseed Flax Rotations on the Soil Bacterial Community in a Semi-Arid Agroecosystem

Crop rotation aims to improve the sustainability and production efficiency of agricultural ecosystems, especially as demands for food and energy continue to increase. However, the regulation of soil microbial communities using crop rotation with oilseed flax and its relationship with key soil physicochemical driving factors are still not clear. In order to investigate this matter, we carried out a field study lasting four years involving various crop rotation sequences including FWPF, FPFW, PFWF, FWFP, ContF, and ContF1. In addition to evaluating soil physicochemical parameters, we employed Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology to explore the structure and variety of soil microbial communities. The findings indicated a notable rise in pH value with the FPFW treatment in contrast to other treatments, along with significant increases in AP, MBC, MBN, and qSMBC compared to ContF. The number of OTUs in the FPFW, WFPF, FPFW, and PFWF treatments was significantly increased by 4.10–11.11% compared to ContF (p &lt; 0.05). The presence of Actinobacteria and Acidobacteria was greatly impacted by the FPFW treatment, whereas the presence of Actinobacteria and Chloroflexi was notably influenced by the ContF treatment. The soil bacterial community was primarily influenced by TC, pH, and NO3−-N according to correlation analysis. Specifically, the FPFW therapy notably raised the soil pH level while lowering the TC level. Furthermore, the FPFW therapy led to a notable rise in the proportion of Acidobacteria and a significant decline in the proportion of Actinobacteria. These findings provide important theoretical support for using FPFW rotation to regulate soil microbial communities and solve the problems of continuous cropping.

Genesis of the Nuri Cu‐W‐Mo Deposit, Tibet, China: Constraints from in situ Trace Elements and Sr Isotopic Analysis of Scheelite

AbstractThe Nuri deposit is the only Cu‐W‐Mo polymetallic deposit with large‐scale WO3 resources in the eastern section of the Gangdese metallogenic belt, Tibet, China. However, the genetic type of this deposit has been controversial since its discovery. Based on a study of the geological characteristics of the deposit, this study presents mineralization stages, focusing on the oxide stage and the quartz‐sulfide stage where scheelite is mainly formed, referred to as Sch‐A and Sch‐B, respectively. Through LA‐ICP‐MS trace element and Sr isotope analyses, the origin, evolutionary process of the ore‐forming fluid and genesis of the ore deposit are investigated. Scanning Electron Microscope‐Cathodoluminescence (SEM‐CL) observations reveal that Sch‐A consists of three generations, with dark gray homogenous Sch‐A1 being replaced by relatively lighter and homogeneous Sch‐A2 and Sch‐A3, with Sch‐A2 displaying a gray CL image color with vague and uneven growth bands and Sch‐A3 has a light gray CL image color with hardly any growth band. In contrast, Sch‐B exhibits a ‘core‐rim’ structure, with the core part (Sch‐B1) being dark gray and displaying a uniform growth band, while the rim part (Sch‐B2) is light gray and homogeneous. The normalized distribution pattern of rare earth elements in scheelite and Sr isotope data suggest that the early ore‐forming fluid in the Nuri deposit originated from granodiorite porphyry and, later on, some country rock material was mixed in, due to strong water‐rock interaction. Combining the O‐H isotope data further indicates that the ore‐forming fluid in the Nuri deposit originated from magmatic‐hydrothermal sources, with contributions from metamorphic water caused by water‐rock interaction during the mineralization process, as well as later meteoric water. The intense water‐rock interaction likely played a crucial role in the precipitation of scheelite, leading to varying Eu anomalies in different generations of scheelite from the oxide stage to the quartz‐sulfide stage, while also causing a gradual decrease in oxygen fugacity (fO2) and a slow rise in pH value. Additionally, the high Mo and low Sr contents in the scheelite are consistent with typical characteristics of magmatic‐hydrothermal scheelite. Therefore, considering the geological features of the deposit, the geochemical characteristics of scheelite and the O‐H isotope data published previously, it can be concluded that the genesis of the Nuri deposit belongs to porphyry‐skarn deposit.

Adsorption mechanism of Cr(VI) on woody-activated carbons

To provide guidance for the selection of woody-activated carbon in the treatment of wastewater containing hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), the adsorption tests on two varieties of commercial woody-activated carbon powder from different manufacturers were carried out. The physicochemical properties and structural characteristics of activated carbon were studied by using elemental, chemical, and instrumental analyses. The adsorption mechanism of Cr(VI) was discussed by investigating the factors affecting the removal of hexavalent chromium. The two kinds of woody-activated carbon have microporous and mesoporous structures. Commercial woody-activated carbon No.1 (ACI) has a more extensive specific surface area and a better-developed pore structure. While ACI exhibits a higher adsorption capability when the content of Cr(VI) is high, commercial woody-activated carbon No.2 (AC) can remove hexavalent chromium fast when the concentration is low. A rise in pH value is not helpful for the materials to remove Cr(VI) from solutions. For Cr(VI) removal, the optimum pH value is 2. The adsorption of Cr(VI) by AC and ACI followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isothermal adsorption equation. The maximum adsorption value of Cr(VI) is 154.56 mg/g for AC and 241.55 mg/g for ACI. There is chemical adsorption during the Cr(VI) removal. A lot of Cr (Ⅲ) was formed by Cr(VI). The abundance of pores and the reducing ability of the materials are essential for the removal of Cr(VI).

Synthesis of nano-sized lead sulfide thin films from Avocado (Glycosmis cochinchinensis) Leaf extracts to empower pollution remediation

The translucent and nano-crystalline PbS films were equipped with the CBD techniques on metal substrates by the temperature of 90 °C through aqueous solutions of Lead Nitrate and Thiourea. The XRD phases verify the crystalline property of synthesized thin films that the shape falls in the cubic structures with favourite orientations. It revealed that the prepared material is cubic crystal oriented as (111), (110), (100) and (101) crystal planes. The crystalline size varied between 0.4 and 0.7 nm. The band gap was assessed using UV–vis captivation spectra and Tau relations. The average energy band gap was found to be 2.43 eV which is greater than bulk materials of PbS; because of quantum confinements of Lead Sulfide Nano Crystalline thin films, and PL also confirms this result. The variation in band gap with Leaf extracts and particle sizes displayed blue shifts characteristic of electrons quantum confinements. SEM micrograph shows extremely uniform and adherent PbS films are found at higher PH values. It was evidently observed that the viscosity of the synthesized thin films reduced from 563 to 111 nm with a rise in pH value. The sample prepared at pH 4 shows good performance, and thin films deposited from Avocado (Glycosmis cochinchinensis) leaf extracts are a promising method to empower pollution remediation and future energy.

Biostimulation as a sustainable solution for acid neutralization and uranium immobilization post acidic in-situ recovery

Major uranium (U) deposits worldwide are exploited by acid leaching, known as ‘in-situ recovery’ (ISR). ISR involves the injection of an acid fluid into ore-bearing aquifers and the pumping of the resulting metal-containing solution through cation exchange columns for the recovery of dissolved U. Rehabilitation of ISR-impacted aquifers could be achieved through natural attenuation, or via biostimulation of autochthonous heterotrophic microorganisms due to the associated acid neutralization and trace metal immobilization.In this study, we analyzed the capacity of pristine aquifer sediments impacted by diluted ISR fluids to buffer pH and immobilize U. The experimental setup consisted of glass columns, filled with sediment from a U ore-bearing aquifer, through which diluted ISR fluids were flowed continuously. The ISR solution was obtained from ISR mining operations at the Muyunkum and Tortkuduk deposits in Kazakhstan. Following this initial phase, columns were biostimulated with a mix of molasses, yeast extract and glycerol to stimulate the growth of autochthonous heterotrophic communities. Experimental results showed that this amendment efficiently promoted the activity of acid-tolerant bacterial guilds, with pH values rising from 4.8 to 6.5–7.0 at the outlet of the stimulated columns. The reduction of sulfate, nitrate, and metals as well as dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia induced the rise in pH values, in agreement with geochemical modelling results. Biostimulation efficiently promoted the complete immobilization of U, with the accumulation of up to 3343 ppm in the first few centimeters of the columns. Synchrotron analysis and SEM-EDS revealed that up to 60% of the injected hexavalent U was immobilized as tetravalent non-crystalline U onto bacterial cell surfaces. 16S rDNA amplicon analysis and qPCR data suggested a predominant role played for members of the Phylum Firmicutes (from the genera Clostridium, Pelosinus and Desulfosporosinus) in biological U reduction and immobilization.

Degradation kinetics of color, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, and physicochemical investigation of blanched amaranthus leaves puree by FTIR

The aim of the analysis was to find the optimal blanching period for Amaranthus tricolor leaves purees (ATP), that would result in the highest retention of total antioxidant activity (TAA), total polyphenol content (TPC), and chlorophyll (Chl) to boost their functional activity. ATP was blanched for 1, 3, 5, and 7 minutes at 70, 80, and 900C for this analysis. The influence of blanching times on physicochemical, TAA, TPC, and Chl values was then studied. The unblanched and blanched puree was investigated using FTIR analysis (900C for 3 min). The variations in moisture content in ATP were not significant in the physicochemical analysis. There is a substantial decrease in ash content and a rise in pH value with increasing blanching time (p&lt;0.05). As the blanching time for ATP was raised, the percent of the water-soluble index improved significantly (p&lt;0.05). Content of TAA, TPC, and Chl in the ATP was steadily reduced as the blanching time was increased. The degradations of TAA, TPC, and Chl of ATP are well fit by first-order kinetic models, with coefficient determination (R2) ranging from 0.86-0.98. The presence of ketone and alcohol is confirmed by the functional group obtained during the FTIR analysis of the sample. The results can promote household blanching as well as the food industry to prescribe a certain blanching period for vegetables to preserve their TAA, TPC, and Chl values.

Evaluation of Nutritional Value and Acceptability of Chicken Nuggets Produced by Chicken Wings and Dehydrated Shellfish

Our study investigated the effect of utilizing chicken wings and dehydrated shellfish to produce chicken nuggets rich in protein, minerals and vitamins. The proximate composition, nutritional value, physical and sensorial properties were evaluated. The differently prepared chicken nuggets were supplemented with dehydrated shellfish CN 0%, CN 2%, CN 4% and CN 6%. There was a significantly reduction in moisture and an increasing in protein content (P 0% than CN 2%, CN 4% and CN 6%. Ash content was increasing with added dehydrated shellfish, while the reduction in carbohydrates and total calories of the different chicken nuggets were noticed with the significant gradual rise in pH values, TBA values showed no significant difference (P 0% had the lowest concentration of all minerals, and had lower values of vitamins A, E and D but CN 6% had higher values of vitamins A, E and D. Control Nuggets (CN 0%) had the lowest value of yellowness and highest value of lightness but CN 6% had the highest value of yellowness and, the lowest value of lightness. The redness had a slightly reduction. All samples showed slight changes in hardness, cohesiveness, springiness, gumminess and chewiness were noticed. An increase in WHC, pick-up, and cooking loss of chicken nuggets with dehydrated shellfish was noticed. Panelists accepted all prepared chicken nuggets and the chicken nuggets CN 4% had the highest score compared with other chicken nuggets prepared.

The corrosion behavior of Ti6Al4V fabricated by selective laser melting in the artificial saliva with different fluoride concentrations and pH values

The corrosion behavior of the SLM and wrought Ti6Al4V are comparatively investigated. The critical NaF concentrations of SLM Ti6Al4V in the three cases of pH = 2, 4 and 6 are 0.0020 M, 0.080 M and 0.10 M, respectively, which are similar to those of the wrought sample. The repassivation process occurs when NaF concentrations are much larger than the critical values. The crystallinity and the Al and F contents decrease when the NaF concentration and pH value rise. As compared to the wrought Ti6Al4V, the SLM sample exhibits significantly worse corrosion resistance in almost all the test solutions.

Auto-combustion Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (α-Fe2O3) for Removal of Lead Ions from Aqueous Solution

In this work, iron oxide nanoparticles (hematite; α-Fe2O3) were fabricated by using an auto-combustion technique with fuels: hexamine, urea and a mixture of them with the molar ratio as the following: (Fe:H:U = 1:2.5:0, 1:0:0.42 and 1:1.25:0.21) according to the rule of the combustion method. The as-fabricated iron oxide nanoparticles calcined at 500 °C for 30 min. the obtained iron oxide nanoparticles were characterized by using various tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The results of XRD confirmed that the formation of the rhombohedral crystal structure of the synthesized iron oxide in the form of hematite (α-Fe2O3) after calcination. The extracted data from XRD and TEM techniques showed that the average particles and crystallite sizes of the fabricated hematite nanoparticles (FHU5 sample) was estimated to be about 35.43 nm and 36 nm, respectively. According to the FTIR spectra of the calcined FU5, FH5 and FHU5 samples, the bands at 439 cm−1 and 545 cm−1 are related to the vibration modes of Fe-O inside Fe2O3 lattice. The adsorption capacity of the calcined iron oxide nano-adsorbent (α-Fe2O3; FH5 sample) was examined at different parameters for the removal Pb2+ from aqueous media and the optimum conditions were determined. The extracted data showed that the removal of lead ions increased with the rise of pH value (4–6). The optimum conditions were found: pH 5.5, 120 min and 50 mg of the fabricated α-Fe2O3 at 25 °C. The models of adsorption isotherm and adsorption kinetics are used for the description of the removal leads ions over the calcined α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles. The thermodynamics factors are investigated for the removal of the lead ions over the fabricated hematite nanoparticles (α-Fe2O3).

Antibacterial activities against Porphyromonas gingivalis and biological characteristics of copper-bearing PEO coatings on magnesium

Unlike other parts of the body, jaw defection often involves dental and periodontal tissues, which colonized a great many oral anaerobic bacteria. As a remarkable degradable material, magnesium has become an excellent candidate for orthopedic appliances recently. But the high degradation rate is still a big problem. Making a biodegradable coating with good biocompatibility to slow down the degeneration rate of magnesium is one of the best methods. However, protective coatings will impair the antibacterial effects of magnesium which is caused by the rise of pH value throughout its degradation. To solve this problem, a series of composite coatings with different amounts of CuO particles (3, 5 and 7 wt.%) were fabricated on pure magnesium through plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) to investigate in vitro biocompatibility and the antibacterial abilities against Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis). Surface characterization and degradation behavior of the copper-bearing PEO coatings were also systematically studied. Furthermore, the most optimum coating was also systematically studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electrochemical corrosion test. Results of the present research revealed that adding proper amount of CuO into PEO coatings could greatly improve the antibacterial abilities of the PEO coatings. The antibacterial activities of copper-bearing PEO coatings were excellent and revealed concentration-dependent and time-dependent. Biocompatibility of copper-bearing PEO coatings showed that proper amount of Cu could promote cell proliferation. Compared with other PEO coatings in this study, PEO-7Cu showed some inhibition effects on cell proliferation and adhesion for long-term use. Electrochemical corrosion tests and immersion tests showed that PEO-5Cu and PEO-7Cu copper-bearing PEO coatings would provide satisfying corrosion resistance effects, while PEO-3Cu was poorer than PEO coatings without Cu. However, compared with uncoated pure magnesium, the corrosion resistance of the PEO coating was much better. Based on the results of antibacterial ability, biocompatibility, and corrosion resistance of the above copper-bearing PEO coatings, PEO-5Cu in this research was recommended to be used in patients with jaw defects.

Mechanism for the Bio-Oxidation and Decomposition of Pentlandite: Implication for Nickel Bioleaching at Elevated pH

This work investigated the effects of Fe3+, H+ and adsorbed leaching bacteria on the bioleaching of pentlandite. Collectively, an integrated model for the oxidation and decomposition of pentlandite was built to describe the behaviors of different components in a bioleaching system. Proton ions and ferric ions could promote the break and oxidation of Ni-S and Fe-S bonds. The iron-oxidizing microorganisms could regenerate ferric ions and maintain a high Eh value. The sulfur-oxidizing microorganisms showed significant importance in the oxidation of polysulfide and elemental sulfur. The atoms in pentlandite show different modification pathways during the bioleaching process: iron transformed through a (Ni,Fe)9S8 → Fe2+ → Fe3+ → KFe3(SO4)2(OH)6 pathway; nickel experienced a transformation of (Ni,Fe)9S8 → NiS → Ni2+; sulfur modified through the pathway of S2−/S22− → Sn2− → S0 → SO32− → SO42−. During bioleaching, a sulfur-rich layer and jarosite layer formed on the mineral surface, and the rise of pH value accelerated the process. However, no evidence for the inhibition of the layers was shown in the bioleaching of pentlandite at pH 3.00. This study provides a novel method for the extraction of nickel from pentlandite by bioleaching at elevated pH values.

Adsorption properties of graphite oxide for Rhodamine B

In the present study, the adsorption properties of graphite oxide (GO) for Rhodamine B (RhB) under different conditions was investigated. The specific surface area of the GO adsorbent decreased from 71.5 m2 g−1 for before adsorption of RhB to 4.9 m2 g−1 for after adsorption of RhB. The maximum adsorption capacity was 578.0 mg g−1 at 303.15 K. Moreover, the pH value has a great influence on the adsorption properties of GO. The adsorption capacity of GO for RhB increased first and then decreased with the rise of pH value. Study on the adsorption kinetics verified that the adsorption process conformed to the pseudo-second-order model adsorption process. The isothermal model is consistent with the Langmuir isothermal model and belongs to the monolayer chemical adsorption.

(Invited) Enabling Aqueous Processing of High-Energy and High-Power Electrodes for Lithium Ion Batteries – Issues and Mitigation Strategies

Research and development in academia and industry are increasingly applying sophisticated material, process, and cell designs to further improve lithium ion technology. While on materials and cell level, high energy density, long cycle life, and enhanced safety properties are considered key for future lithium ion batteries (LIBs), at higher level the continuous reduction of costs and environmental impact is an ultimate goal. In this regard, replacing the toxic and costly N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) solvent in processing the state-of-the-art polyvinylidene difluoride (PVdF) binder by aqueous binder systems is highly desirable. Commercially, aqueous binder systems have already widely replaced NMP-processing in production of carbonaceous negative electrodes [1]. Aqueous processing of positive active materials, however, is facing challenges due to side reactions between solvent and active material, like lithium-proton exchange reactions [2] and the associated rise of pH value and current collector corrosion. Thus, to enable aqueous processing of high-energy and high-power electrodes on both the negative and the positive side, specifically tailored and optimized materials (e.g. binder compositions, selected additives, etc.), recipes, and processing are required. With regard to high-energy applications, it is necessary to enhance the volumetric and gravimetric energy density on materials, electrode, and cell level. For negative electrodes, silicon-based composites are getting enormous attention due to their high theoretical specific capacity. However, the huge volume changes during lithiation/delithiation need to be addressed on materials and electrode level. Thus, it could be shown that by using a suitable aqueous binder system, an optimized amount of active/inactive materials and potential processing additives, the properties of the electrode can be optimized to accommodate the mechanical stresses during cycling and significantly improve the cycle life. To fully take advantage of the high specific capacity of Si-based negative electrodes, the positive electrode needs to match the anode capacity even though the specific capacity of the active materials is significantly lower. A straight forward approach is an increase of the electrode thickness, i.e. the active mass loading. Despite the issues associated with aqueous processing of positive active materials, it could be shown that an active mass loading of up to 60 mg cm-2 can be achieved with LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 yielding a stable cycling performance at a C-rate of 0.2 C. Therein, numerous modifications were applied to mitigate lithium-proton exchange in the electrode paste, prevent crack formation during drying, and tailor the electrode microstructure for improved lithium ion mobility. Beyond that, the gained insights could be applied for aqueous processing of electrodes based on Ni-rich LiNi x Co y Mn z O2 (x+y+z=1). Compared to high-energy electrodes, slightly different requirements apply for high-power electrodes. Therein, aqueous binder systems can improve the rate capability by reducing the internal resistance and prolong cycle life due to an enhanced high-voltage stability. Moreover, tailoring the binder composition and aqueous electrode paste recipe can greatly influence processing and cycle life of submicron particles as positive and negative active material. In summary, aqueous processing and the associated binder systems are an environmentally benign and inexpensive alternative to the use of toxic organic solvent. Beyond that, aqueous processing offers various opportunities to specifically tune the electrode properties for each application leading to superior properties compared to NMP-based processing of PVdF. [1] J.-H. Lee, U. Paik, V.A. Hackely, Y.-M. Choi, J Electrochem Soc 152 (2005) A1763-A1769. [2] M. Ma, N.A. Chernova, B.H. Toby, P.Y. Zavalij, M.S. Whittingham, J. Power Sources 165 (2007) 517–534.

Novel Bacterial Cellulose-Poly (Acrylic Acid) Hybrid Hydrogels with Controllable Antimicrobial Ability as Dressings for Chronic Wounds.

This investigation examines the combination of poly (acrylic acid) (PAA) and bacterial cellulose (BC) nanofibers to synthesize hydrogel hybrid composites used for wound dressing application. Amoxicillin (AM) was also grafted onto the composites for drug release. Fourier transform infrared analysis and scanning electron microscopy conducted revealed the structure and porosity of the composite being developed, as well as the successful fabrication of BC-PAA composites. The results of mechanical testing and hygroscopicity revealed that the composite shows higher stability than hydrogels which are currently used worldwide, albeit with a slight reduction in swelling capabilities. However, the composite was revealed to be responsive to a rise in pH values with an increase in composite swelling and drug release. These results together with their morphological characteristics suggest that BC-PAA hydrogel hybrid composite is a promising candidate for wound dressing application.

Gastroprotective Effect of Borago Extracts against Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats

Gastric ulcer stays one of the perilous sicknesses in the world. In spite of the fact that there are numerous medications utilized for the treatment of gastric ulcer, the vast majority of these deliver a few adverse impacts. The aim of this investigation was to assess the antiulcer effects of Borago (Borago officinalis L) leaves extract (BL), flowers extract (BF) and the mixture of leaves and flowers extracts (Mix) against gastric ulcer induced by indomethacin in rats and compared with ranitidine as a reference drug. Gastric ulceration was stimulated by indomethacin at one dose (30 mg/kg b.w. Intraperitoneal (i.p)). BL and BF were administered orally at two doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w, Mix was given orally at a dose of 200 mg/kg b.w. and ranitidine at a dose of 20 mg/kg b.w. for three weeks before the injection of indomethacin. The results appeared that indomethacin significantly decreased pH value, mucin content, catalase activity (CAT) and nitric oxide (NO), while, increased ulcer index, total acidity, free acidity and malondialdehyde (MDA) comparing with control group.While, pretreatment with Borago extracts provided a significant decrease in ulcer index, total acidity,free acidity, MDA, and associated with a significant rise in pH value, mucin content, CAT and NO compared to indomethacin group. The protection provided by the extracts of Borago is similar to ranitidine. Histological studies of stomach mucosa affirmed these outcomes. Borago has protective against indomethacin which caused gastric ulcer because of it contains antioxidant properties. The results of the present suggest that Borago can be utilized against gastric ulcer impacts as well as to decrease antagonist drugs adverse effects.

Detection of aflatoxin B1 in food samples based on target-responsive aptamer-cross-linked hydrogel using a handheld pH meter as readout

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) can cause great threat to human health, so the development of convenient and portable device for sensitive detection of AFB1 is highly desired. The portable pH meter has the characters of facile operation, low cost, and easy availability. Therefore, in this study, we investigate the applicability of utilizing a pH meter as the readout to develop a portable sensor for AFB1. The specific detection of AFB1 is realized via the combination of AFB1-responsive aptamer-cross-linked hydrogel. Upon the addition of AFB1, AFB1 binds to its aptamer with high affinity in lieu of aptamer/DNA complex, causing the collapse of hydrogel network and results in the releasing of urease into the solution. The released urease can catalyse the hydrolysis of urea and result in the rise of pH value. The change of pH value has a direct relationship to the concentration of AFB1 in the range of 0.2–20µM with a detection limit of 0.1µM (S/N = 3). The proposed portable device is successfully applied to assay AFB1 in the food samples with satisfied results.

Characterization of Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate (β- TCP) Produced at Different Process Conditions

β- TCP was synthesized by changing the process parameters and all samples were characterized in terms of density, porosity, XRD and FTIR analysis. Density rose and porosity decreased with rising of pH value and density found maximum (2.31 g/cc) at pH 10. Sharp peaks in the XRD diffractograms ensured the crystallinity of samples which increased after calcination and sintering process. Average crystal size was found 28.21 nm. IR spectrum at 943.19 cm-1 and 972.12 cm-1 appeared in FTIR analysis proved the presence of pure β- TCP exists in resulting samples. Performance to stress increased with pH and maximum compressive strength was found at pH 10. Calcination was found maximum 3.485 Nmm-2 at 900°C minimum 1.352 Nmm-2 at 800°C.

The effect of calcium sulfate incorporation on physiochemical and biological properties of 3D-printed mesoporous calcium silicate cement scaffolds

Development of 3D porous scaffolds with proper mechanical strength is crucial in bone tissue engineering. In this study, calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CSH) cement was functionally incorporated into mesoporous calcium silicate (MCS) through a 3D printing technique in order to improve the scaffold strength. Compared to printed MCS scaffolds, the characterizations revealed that 20% CSH incorporation had enhanced their compressive strength by 2 times via 4 weeks' hydration. Furthermore, CSH incorporation prevented the fast pH value rise and achieved a balanced degradation rate. SEM observations showed a good apatite formation on the surfaces of both MCS and MCS/CSH scaffolds. Cellular experiments demonstrated no significant differences between MCS and MCS/CSH scaffolds in promoting osteoblast-like cell (OCT-1) adhesion, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, proliferation and bone-related gene expressions. Furthermore, MCS component in the composite scaffolds exhibited sustained release behavior of dexamethasone drugs to assist bone regeneration.

Electrochemiluminescence Based Enzymatic Urea Sensor Using Nanohybrid of Isoluminol‐gold Nanoparticle‐graphene Oxide Nanoribbons

AbstractThis study evaluates on the possibility of using gold nanoparticles functionalized with the luminol derivative N‐(aminobutyl)‐N‐(ethylisoluminol) (ABEI) and hybridized with graphene oxide nanoribbons on a carbon based screen‐printed electrode (ABEI‐AuNP‐GONR/SPE) as an enzymatic electrochemiluminescence (ECL) urea sensor. The electrocatalytic activity and ECL intensity of ABEI‐AuNP‐GONR/SPE were found to increase proportionally with the concentration of urea in the analyte sample, owing to the rise in pH value. These phenomena are attributed to increased formation of luminol monoanion precursors for further electrochemical oxidation, which in turn produce either luminol radicals or excited 3‐amino‐phthalate molecules. The luminescence is most likely caused by the interaction of luminol radicals with superoxide radicals formed from dissolved oxygen. The sensitivity of our sensor was determined to be 170.58 mM−1 and 16.23 mM−1 for urea concentrations from 2 to 5.82 mM and from 5.82 to 30 mM, respectively, covering the normal urea level in human blood.