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Bio-oil derived from the pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass residues cannot be used directly as biofuel due to the high content of oxygenated compounds. As an alternative, bio-oil must undergo a deoxygenation process, such as catalytic hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). In this sense, this work studied the effect of different concentrations of Ce3+ and Ce4+ in layered double hydroxides (LDHs) in order to obtain mixed oxide catalysts containing NiAlCe (NiO-NiAl2O4-CeO2) with low cost and high performance for the hydrodeoxygenation of anisole as a model bio-oil compound. Mixed oxides were obtained from the thermal decomposition of layered double hydroxides (LDHs) by using terephthalic acid as compensation anion, with molar ratio: Ni2+/(Al3++ M) = 1.0, where M = Ce3+; Ce4+ or Ce3+-Ce4+; and Al/Ce ratios of 9 and 1. Characterization analyses confirmed the formation of LDHs for all materials, although at lower Al/Ce ratio it is observed a loss of crystallinity, due to a greater repulsion and distortion of the layer structure caused by the incorporation, in greater amount, of cations with a high ionic radius. The increase in the content of cerium in mixed oxides also led to an increase in the acidity of the catalysts, in addition to a reduction in the surface area, justified by the pore blockage by CeO2 on the catalyst surface. The greater structural and thermal stability was evidenced in the LDHs derived from Ce4+, as well as a greater dispersion of the NiO phase in the corresponding mixed oxides, and therefore presenting greater anisole conversion. The obtained data indicated that the presence of Ce4+ ions on the catalyst surface was decisive in the conversion of anisole to cyclohexane, the main deoxygenated product, obtained via the direct deoxygenation and hydrogenation mechanism.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Opuntia ficus-indica extract (OFI-E) and its glycoside isorhamnetin-3-O-glucosyl-rhamnoside (IGR) on the growth of human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells and in a xenografted-immunosuppressed mice model. The IC50 values of OFI-E and IGR on colon cancer cells (HT-29 RFP) were determinate, as well as their effects on the cell cycle and apoptosis induction. OFI-E and IGR produced an increased in apoptosis induction, ROS production and a G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. In xenografted-inmunosupressed mice, OFI-E and IGR reduced the tumor growth rate, myeloperoxidase activity and total cholesterol levels. OFI-E and IGR reduced the tumor growth through the overexpression of cleaved Caspase-9, Hdac11, and Bai1 proteins. OFI-E reduced the expression of bcl-2. Results demonstrated the chemopreventive effects of OFI-E, and its purified compound IGR, showing their potential as an alternative in the treatment of colorectal cancer.

Resumo Avaliou-se simulações do comportamento do fogo por dois programas computacionais BehavePlus e Eucalyptus Fire Safety System (EMSS) comparadas com observações experimentais (queimas controladas), em uma área com Eucalyptus urograndis (Clone H13) com 4,5 anos de idade, no município de Sorriso-MT, ao longo da estação seca (maio a setembro) de 2015. As queimas experimentais ocorreram em parcelas de 3,0 x 20,0 m (largura e comprimento), com topografia plana e considerando as interfaces EF (interface eucalipto-floresta nativa), EL (interface eucalipto-lavoura) e EE (centro do talhão). Foram avaliadas a velocidade de propagação do fogo, intensidade do fogo e comprimento da chama. O BehavePlus superestimou todas as variáveis do comportamento do fogo, independentemente da época do ano e da interface. As melhores simulações foram obtidas com EMSS. Com base nas simulações do comportamento do fogo e em função da segurança da operação, recomenda-se a realização de queimas no mês de julho, considerando a sequência de interfaces EM-EE-EL. Abstract Fire behavior simulations were carried out by two computer programs “BehavePlus” and “Eucalyptus Fire Safety System” (EMSS) and compared to experimental observations (prescribed burning) in an Eucalyptus urograndis (Clone H13) forest, with 4.5 years-old, in the Sorriso County, Mato Grosso State, during the dry season (May to September) of 2015. Experimental burnings occurred in plots of 3.0 x 20.0 m (width and length), with flat topography and considering the interfaces EF (eucalyptus- native forest), EL (eucalyptus-crops) and EE (center of the field). The fire propagation velocity, fire intensity and flame length were evaluated. BehavePlus overestimated all fire behavior variables, regardless of time of year and environmental interface. The best simulations were obtained with EMSS. Based on the simulations of the fire behavior and the safety of the operation, it is recommended to perform firing in July, considering the sequence of EM-EE-EL interfaces.

Introduction Influenza epidemics are of higher risk at the extremes of life and in people with comorbidities. Effective vaccination prevents the occurrence of serious cases and decreases mortality. Objective To describe deaths from influenza with a history of timely vaccination, from the 2010 to the 2018 season in Mexico. Method Cross-sectional, descriptive study where the Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance System database was used. Results From 2010 to 2018, 65 vaccinated individuals died from influenza, from which 55% of cases (n = 36) were due to type A (H1N1), 51% (n = 33) were females, median age was 57 years, 21 % (n = 14) did not meet the operational definition of influenza-like illness or severe acute respiratory infection, 83% (n = 54) had at least one comorbidity, with the most common being diabetes mellitus and hypertension (32% each); 55% (n = 36) of deaths received antiviral treatment and only 8% (n = 5) had no comorbidities and received treatment with oseltamivir. Conclusions Deaths from influenza with timely vaccination represent a very low percentage of the totality. Vaccination against influenza has been a specific prevention strategy that decreases disease burden.

Background: The major hurdles for successful cancer treatment are drug resistance and invasiveness developed by breast cancer stem cells (BCSC). Objective: As these two processes are highly energy-dependent, the identification of the main ATP supplier required for stem cell viability may result advantageous in the design of new therapeutic strategies to deter malignant carcinomas. Methods: The energy metabolism (glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, OxPhos) was systematically analyzed by assessing relevant protein contents, enzyme activities, and pathway fluxes in BCSC. Once identified as the main ATP supplier, selective energy inhibitors and canonical breast cancer drugs were used to block stem cell viability and metastatic properties. Results: OxPhos and glycolytic protein contents, as well as HK and LDH activities were several times higher in BCSC than in their parental line, MCF-7 cells. However, CS, GDH, COX activities, and both energy metabolism pathway fluxes were significantly lower (38-86%) in BCSC than in MCF-7 cells. OxPhos was the main ATP provider (>85%) in BCSC. Accordingly, oligomycin (a specific and potent canonical OxPhos inhibitor) and other non-canonical drugs with inhibitory effect on OxPhos (celecoxib, dimethylcelecoxib) significantly decreased BCSC viability, levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition proteins, invasiveness, and induced ROS over-production, with IC50 values ranging from 1 to 20 μM in 24 h treatment. In contrast, glycolytic inhibitors (gossypol, iodoacetic acid, 3-bromopyruvate, 2-deoxyglucose) and canonical chemotherapeutic drugs (paclitaxel, doxorubicin, cisplatin) were much less effective against BCSC viability (IC50> 100 μM). Conclusion: These results indicated that the use of some NSAIDs may be a promising alternative therapeutic strategy to target BCSC.

Uncovering the general principles that govern the structure of metabolic networks is key to understanding the emergence and evolution of living systems. Artificial chemistries can help illuminate this problem by enabling the exploration of chemical reaction universes that are constrained by general mathematical rules. Here, we focus on artificial chemistries in which strings of characters represent simplified molecules, and string concatenation and splitting represent possible chemical reactions. We developed a novel Python package, ARtificial CHemistry NEtwork Toolbox (ARCHNET), to study string chemistries using tools from the field of stoichiometric constraint-based modeling. In addition to exploring the topological characteristics of different string chemistry networks, we developed a network-pruning algorithm that can generate minimal metabolic networks capable of producing a specified set of biomass precursors from a given assortment of environmental nutrients. We found that the composition of these minimal metabolic networks was influenced more strongly by the metabolites in the biomass reaction than the identities of the environmental nutrients. This finding has important implications for the reconstruction of organismal metabolic networks and could help us better understand the rise and evolution of biochemical organization. More generally, our work provides a bridge between artificial chemistries and stoichiometric modeling, which can help address a broad range of open questions, from the spontaneous emergence of an organized metabolism to the structure of microbial communities. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00239-021-10018-0.

Niobium-based oxides can be used in several applications due to a diverse set of properties. In this work, Na2Nb2O6.H2O sodium niobate nanowires were obtained by hydrothermal synthesis at low temperature. Dehydrated sodium niobate (Na2Nb2O6) and sodium niobate with perovskite structure (NaNbO3) were obtained by submitting Na2Nb2O6.H2O to heat treatment (350 °C and 500 °C, respectively). To obtain protonic niobates, sodium niobates were immersed in nitric acid in order to promote ion exchange reactions. From this procedure, protonic niobates (H3O)2Nb2O6.H2O and (H3O)2Nb2O6 were obtained. The sample NaNbO3 did not undergo any transformation. Cyclic voltammetry tests carried out in a neutral aqueous solution 1 M Na2SO4 showed a wide potential window for both niobates (sodium and protonic). However, the protonic niobate samples (H3O)2Nb2O6.H2O and (H3O)2Nb2O6 presented much higher current density values than the sodium niobates. This result can be related to a structural rearrangement that allowed a significant increase in the intercalation of sodium Na + ions from the electrolyte into the structure of these protonic niobates, when polarized. Therefore, in this work, it was demonstrated that it is possible to obtain protonic niobates from sodium niobates, as well as, it was verified the distinct electrochemical behavior between these materials.

Silver nanoparticle (AgNP) synthesis using microalgae is a promising low-cost sustainable alternative. High CO2 tolerant microalgae have not yet been explored for this application. This study pretends to determine the potential of an environmental green algae Desmodesmus abundans acclimated to low and high CO2 (LCA and HCA strains, respectively) as a platform for AgNPs synthesis and evaluate the effect of pH (5, 7.5, 11) and biological component (cells, supernatant and both components) in comparison to a collection strain Spirulina platensis. Exponential grown cultures were centrifuged, the pellet resuspended in 10 mM AgNO3 prepared in water or supernatant at different pH and incubated for 40 h (24 °C, continuous light). After, the filtrated solution was characterized using UV–visible absorption spectra, Zetasizer and scanning electron microscopy coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Results showed drastic differences between strains. No nanoparticles were observed with strain LCA, except at pH 11 using the pellet, which generated large particles (127.8 ± 14.8 nm diameter, −26.7 ± 2.4 mV zeta potential). In contrast, the HCA strain in these conditions showed the smallest AgNPs with the lowest zeta potential (14.9 ± 6.4 nm, −32.7 ± 5.3 mV). When the supernatant was conserved, HCA exhibited AgNPs in all pH solutions, with smallest sizes at pH 11 (27.7 ± 14.0 nm, −20.0 ± 1.8 mV). In addition, the HCA supernatant alone showed reducing potential for AgNP synthesis (51.8 ± 20.7 nm, −17.4 ± 1.3 mV). S. platensis also generated AgNPs in all conditions, but nanoscale particles were observed only at pH 11 (18.3 ± 7.5 nm, −33.9 ± 2.4 mV). In conclusion, high CO2 atmospheres seem to potentiate AgNPs synthesis by microalgae with interesting properties accordingly to biological component employed, representing a potential byproduct in CO2 mitigation systems.

Castor bean (Ricinus communis) can be a high-demand crop for the production of biodiesel, an alternative biofuel similar to conventional diesel. The objective of the work has been to optimize the method of obtaining biodiesel from a “green technology” process, directly splitting the seeds of three macerated castor varieties, without prior extraction of the oil with n-hexane as is traditional. Also using low-cost heterogeneous basic catalysts, friendly to the environment. It has been shown that it is feasible to obtain biodiesel as an eco-fuel from castor beans directly, without prior oil extraction with the consequent saving of n-hexane solvent and the non-use of sodium hydroxide. It is feasible to substitute methanol for ethanol (less toxic and cheaper), and as a novel aspect, the use of BaCO3 as a heterogeneous catalyst, not reported in any reference of those consulted. Yield percentages ranging between 31% and 45% were obtained, comparable to those obtained from previous oil extractions. It was concluded that of the three varieties of castor bean evaluated, the variety HG-A-1 (collected in Atotonilco el Grande, Municipality of the State of Hidalgo) classified as IBEA type, is the one that presents the best results. Keywords: Barium carbonate, Castor oil, Eco-fuel, Ethanol, Seed.

The family of PIM serine/threonine kinases includes three highly conserved oncogenes, PIM1, PIM2, and PIM3, which regulate multiple prosurvival pathways and cooperate with other oncogenes such as MYC. Recent genomic CRISPR-Cas9 screens further highlighted oncogenic functions of PIMs in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cells, justifying the development of small-molecule PIM inhibitors and therapeutic targeting of PIM kinases in lymphomas. However, detailed consequences of PIM inhibition in DLBCL remain undefined. Using chemical and genetic PIM blockade, we comprehensively characterized PIM kinase–associated prosurvival functions in DLBCL and the mechanisms of PIM inhibition–induced toxicity. Treatment of DLBCL cells with SEL24/MEN1703, a pan-PIM inhibitor in clinical development, decreased BAD phosphorylation and cap-dependent protein translation, reduced MCL1 expression, and induced apoptosis. PIM kinases were tightly coexpressed with MYC in diagnostic DLBCL biopsies, and PIM inhibition in cell lines and patient-derived primary lymphoma cells decreased MYC levels as well as expression of multiple MYC-dependent genes, including PLK1. Chemical and genetic PIM inhibition upregulated surface CD20 levels in an MYC-dependent fashion. Consistently, MEN1703 and other clinically available pan-PIM inhibitors synergized with the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab in vitro, increasing complement-dependent cytotoxicity and antibody-mediated phagocytosis. Combined treatment with PIM inhibitor and rituximab suppressed tumor growth in lymphoma xenografts more efficiently than either drug alone. Taken together, these results show that targeting PIM in DLBCL exhibits pleiotropic effects that combine direct cytotoxicity with potentiated susceptibility to anti-CD20 antibodies, justifying further clinical development of such combinatorial strategies. Significance: These findings demonstrate that inhibition of PIM induces DLBCL cell death via MYC-dependent and -independent mechanisms and enhances the therapeutic response to anti-CD20 antibodies by increasing CD20 expression.

The presence of salt water from the Tagus Estuary has been identified in the influent at Barreiro/Moita Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), Portugal. The intrusion occurs throughout damaged sections and direct vectors in the wastewater collection system, during high tide levels, changing the wastewater characteristics and impacting the WWTP process. This study designed models to quantify this problem, enabling more effective countermeasures within the right timing. The proposed models estimate the average volume of salt water and sulfate () load for each high tide period. The laboratory results show strong correlations between the influent electrical conductivity (EC) and percentage of salt water in WWTP inflow (0.9909), and between EC and concentration in WWTP influent (0.9797). The forecast models also show good correlation between the high tide levels with volume of salt water (0.9145) and load (0.9162) entering the system. Considering the total monthly inflow, the highest percentage of salt water registered in WWTP inflow was 3.6%. During high tide periods, critical situations have been assessed with up to 53.9% of salt water in the WWTP inflow, increasing energy consumption and costs in pumping stations. HIGHLIGHTS Assessment methodology to quantify saltwater volume and sulfate load from saltwater intrusion in wastewater collection systems.; Saltwater intrusion impacts on WWTP process.; Forecast tools for WWTP management teams.

Background: Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), a common disease of the urinary system, can be induced by high doses of gentamicin (GM). The renin-angiotensin system exerts a key role in the progression of the AKI since elevated intrarenal levels of Ang II, and ACE activity is found in this condition. However, it is unknown whether oral administration of angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7), a heptapeptide that evokes opposite effects of Ang II, may attenuate the renal injuries induced by gentamicin. Objectives: To evaluate the effects of Ang-(1-7) on GM-induced renal dysfunction in rats. Methods: AKI was induced by subcutaneous administration of GM (80 mg/Kg) for 5 days. Simultaneously, Ang-(1-7) included in hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) was administered by gavage [46 μg/kg HPβCD + 30 μg/kg Ang-(1-7)]. At the end of the treatment period (sixth day), the rats were housed in metabolic cages for renal function evaluation. Thereafter, blood and kidney samples were collected. Results: Ang-(1-7) attenuated the increase of the plasmatic creatinine and proteinuria caused by GM but did not change the glomerular filtration rate nor tubular necrosis. Ang-(1-7) attenuated the increased urinary flow and the fractional excretion of H2O and potassium observed in GM rats but intensified the elevated excretion of sodium in these animals. Morphological analysis showed that Ang-(1-7) also reduced the tubular vacuolization in kidneys from GM rats. Conclusion: Ang-(1-7) promotes selective beneficial effects in renal injuries induced by GM.

The steady demand for fish in the aquaculture sector has led to the study and implementation of new compounds of natural origin which seek to standardize and maximize production by ensuring reproductive performance. Microalgae have emerged as a renewable source with specific nutritive qualities that allows the enhancement of captive breeding, and the use of local strain aims to facilitate cultivation and reduce production costs. Therefore, in this study, the effect of a diet supplemented with a diatom of the genus Grammatophora obtained from La Paz Bay, Mexico, was evaluated on the reproductive performance of 5-year-old Pacific Red snapper (Lutjanus peru). Two isoproteic and isolipidic diets were compared: the control semi-humid diet (R0) and the experimental enriched diet with 3% of Grammatophora sp. silage made by fermentation (R1). Fishes were fed ad libitum 3 months previous to the spawning season during 7 months. Hatching rate was significantly (P

Phenolic compounds of breads added with turmeric at different concentrations (A: 0, B: 1.25, C: 2.5, D: 5 and E:10%) and radiated by UV-C (I. 0, II. 15, III. 30 and IV. 60 s), have been evaluated by HPLC (High-performance liquid chromatography). It is shown that: (i) UV-C radiation modifies the content of phenolic compounds as a function of the percentage of addition of turmeric and the exposure time. There were significant differences (ρ ≤ 0.05) in the concentration of phenolic acids of the turmeric bread (TB): 0 s (sinapic, chlorogenic, protocatechuic), 15 s (chlorogenic, ferulic, protocatechuic, p-hydroxybenzoic, gallic), 30 s (chlorogenic and gallic) and 60 s (chlorogenic). (ii) In TB without radiation appeared, the sinapic, beta resorcylic, syringic and ferulic acids. In the radiation of bread at 15 s, the phenolic acids chlorogenic, ferulic, protocatechuic, p-hydroxybenzoic, gallic, had the highest concentration in the breads added with turmeric at 10% (0.02 μg mL−1), 10% (0.38 μg mL−1), 1.25, 2.5, 5% (0.39 μg mL−1), 10% (1.06 μg mL −1) and 0% (1.10 μg mL−1). (iii) There was a degradation of phenolic acids due to UV-C radiation at 30 and 60 s. At 15 s radiation, sinapic, beta resorcylic, syringic and ferulic acids were not detected in turmeric breads from breads added with turmeric at (1.25, 1.25, 0 and 0%). In radiation at 60 s, beta resorcylic, syringic and ferulic acids were not detected in any bread added with turmeric. In addition, measurements of proximate chemistry, color, sensory analysis, and number of fungal colonies were performed. It is important to mention that the sanitary quality is improved by both UV-C radiation and turmeric. However, the highest results in sanitary quality improvement were due to turmeric.

We investigated interfacial reactions of U(VI) in the presence of Suwannee River natural organic matter (NOM) at acidic and neutral pH. Laboratory batch experiments show that the adsorption and precipitation of U(VI) in the presence of NOM occur at pH 2 and pH 4, while the aqueous complexation of U by dissolved organic matter is favored at pH 7, preventing its precipitation. Spectroscopic analyses indicate that U(VI) is mainly adsorbed to the particulate organic matter at pH 4. However, U(VI)-bearing ultrafine to nanocrystalline solids were identified at pH 4 by electron microscopy. This study shows the promotion of U(VI) precipitation by NOM at low pH which may be relevant to the formation of mineralized deposits, radioactive waste repositories, wetlands, and other U- and organic-rich environmental systems.

Alpha-particle radiotherapy has already been shown to be impervious to most resistance mechanisms. However, in established (i.e. large, vascularized) soft-tissue lesions, the diffusion-limited penetration depths of radiolabeled antibodies and/or nanocarriers (up to 50-80µm) combined with the short range of α-particles (4-5 cell diameters) may result in only partial tumor irradiation potentially limiting treatment efficacy. To address this challenge, we combined carriers with complementary intratumoral microdistributions of the delivered α-particles. We use the α-particle generator Actinium-225 (225Ac), and we combine (1) a tumor-responsive liposome that upon tumor uptake releases in the interstitium a highly-diffusing form of its radioactive payload (225Ac-DOTA), which may penetrate the deeper parts of tumors where antibodies do not reach, with (2) a separately administered, less-penetrating radiolabeled-antibody irradiating the tumor perivascular regions from where liposome contents clear too fast. Methods: On a murine model with orthotopic HER2-positive BT474 breast cancer xenografts, the biodistributions of each carrier were evaluated, and the control of tumor growth was monitored after administration of the same total radioactivity of 225Ac delivered (1) by the 225Ac-DOTA-encapsulating liposomes, (2) by the 225Ac-DOTA-SCN-labeled-trastuzumab, and (3) by both carriers at equally split radioactivities. Results: Tumor growth inhibition was significantly more pronounced when the same total injected radioactivity was divided between the two separate carriers, as compared to the growth delay by the same total injected radioactivity when delivered by either of the carriers alone. The combined carriers enabled more uniform intratumoral microdistributions of α-particles, at a tumor delivered dose that was lower than the dose delivered by the antibody alone. Significance: This strategy demonstrates that more uniform microdistributions of the delivered α-particles within established solid tumors improve efficacy even at lower tumor delivered doses. Augmentation of antibody-targeted α-particle therapies with tumor-responsive liposomes may address partial tumor irradiation improving therapeutic effects.

Soil fertility is one of the crucial factors for agriculture, whose main objective is to increase production. Therefore it is extremely important to know the nutritional requirement of cultivars. Fertility-focused studies are essential for fertilization recommendations in all regions, especially in banana cultivation which is a very demanding plant in fertility. Thus, the present work aimed to evaluate soil fertility, emphasizing the quantification of nutrients necessary to ensure the agricultural productivity of musa sp. The research was developed at laudelino farm, municipality of Teotônio Vilela/Alagoas, between 2019 and 2020, where soil amotragens were performed, randomly collected in the 0-20 cm depth layer, removing 1 kg of soil and sent to the soil laboratory of the Campus of Engineering and Agrarian Sciences (CECA) of the Federal University of Alagoas (UFAL) located in the municipality of Rio Largo-AL, for chemical analysis. The hydrogenic potential (pH), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K+) accessible were analyzed; calcium (Ca+2) and tradable magnesium (Mg+2); saturation by exchangeable aluminum (m%), cation exchange capacity CTC at pH 7.0 (T); base saturation (V%) and; organic matter (OM). As a result of the analysis, the following results were obtained: pH content (5.6); OM (14.1 g/kg) P (5.0 mg/dm³) K (110 mg/dm³), Ca2+ (3.42 cmolc/dm³), Mg2+ (2.53 cmolc/dm³); Al3+ (0.00 cmolc/dm³), H (4.41 cmolc/dm³), and CTC (T) (10.73 cmolc/dm³); m (0.0 %) and V (59 %). Based on the above results, it is suggested the application of 1,103 kg of limestone in order to increase the base saturation to 70%, in addition to the addition of 50 kg/ha of N and 343.5 kg/ha of P2O5 and 96.7 kg/ha of K2O. It is worth mentioning that their applications in the soil must be carried out through sources of 837.8 kg/ha of triple superphosphate; 161.2 kg/ha of potassium chloride and 111 kg/ha of urea. It is also essential to add 30 to 50 t/ha of organic matter, such as bovine manure to the soil, aiming at better utilization of the material by crops.

Lycopene is well known as an efficient natural antioxidant; however, its hydrophobic structure limits intestinal absorption through the epithelium by conventional food. Oil-based edibles containing tomato increase the bioavailability of lycopene; therefore, the preparation of emulsions emerged as a solution to prepare lycopene supplements. This work reports the preparation of a composite with lycopene and layered double hydroxides (LDH) nanoparticles. Four LDH compositions were studied of which MgAl–Cl, MgAl–CO3, ZnAl–Cl and ZnAl–CO3, were their combinations. Hydrodynamic size and zeta potential were measured in aqueous suspensions for all the composites. Lycopene maintains its antioxidant capability within the magnesium-based composites and it is synergized in the zinc-containing LDHs. The improved hydrodispersability of the composites allowed us to assess the antioxidant capacity and the oxidative stress protection in conventional aqueous assays, which are limited for traditional oily lycopene formulations. The cation composition of the LDH influenced the antioxidant capacity; however, those containing magnesium presented a non-toxic performance in the oxidative stress assays. The obtained composites demonstrated to be an alternative to design lycopene aqueous formulations or increase its bioavailability.

Spirulina is a cyanobacterium rich in proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and bioactive compounds, such as C-phycocyanin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and possible lipid and glucose metabolism effects. This systematic review aimed to analyze the effects of spirulina on lipid profile, glucose metabolism, and anti-inflammatory markers (CRD42018097156). After systematically searching for randomized controlled trials evaluating spirulina supplementation in adults with obesity, diabetes, or dyslipidemia on Scopus, Embase, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases and assessing the risk of bias (Rob 2.0), a random-effects meta-analysis (Mean Difference, CI 95%) was conducted on seven selected articles (n = 338). We found that spirulina supplementation significantly reduced the triglycerides (TG) (mean difference (MD): −15.34 mg/dL; 95% CI: −29.76 to −0.91) and total cholesterol (TC) levels (MD: −11.83 mg/dL; 95% CI: −20.56 to −3.10). However, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (MD: −7.80 mg/dL; 95% CI: −16.94 to 1.33), fasting blood glucose (FBS) (MD: −3.38 mg/dL; 95% CI: −9.88 to 3.12), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (MD: −0.27%; 95% CI: −0.94 to 0.39) levels were not significantly reduced. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL C) (MD: 0.73 mg/dL; 95% CI: −2.49 to 3.94) was also increased but not significantly. Spirulina supplementation resulted in a decrease in TG and TC levels; it improved the lipid profile of patients with type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, overweight, or obesity, showing its significant role as an adjuvant treatment.

Passiflora species have high industrial and medicinal relevance, due to presence of specific metabolites and their recognized pharmacological activities. In vitro systems allow the modulation of secondary metabolites production according to culture conditions. In this work, we report the effect of different light emitting diodes (LED) on induction, metabolite production, and antioxidant properties of calluses derived from stem and leaf segments of P. setacea cv BRS Perola do Cerrado. Friable calluses were induced on MSM medium supplemented with picloram, under different light qualities (white fluorescent lamps or different types of LEDs) or in the dark. Light quality contributed more significantly for biomass accumulation than the other variables. Callus formation was observed in response to all treatments, although the highest biomass accumulation was induced by red LED. Chromatographic analyses indicated that blue LED induced the highest production of bioactive substances. All samples displayed low antioxidant potential by the DPPH assay, but showed a high capacity to chelate iron. The activity of antioxidant enzymes was also evaluated. The incubation under red LED caused an increase on the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase in calluses derived from internodal segments induced under red LED. This is the first study evaluating the effect of lighting conditions in in vitro systems of P. setacea cv BRS Perola do Cerrado, thus opening new possibilities of study and utilization. Callus induction was affected by light quality, whereas bioactive compounds were modulated by the dedifferentiation process since flavonoids were detected in leaf tissues and fatty acids in calluses extracts.

Successful protein-based enrichment of uranyl, the predominant form of uranium from seawater, relies not only on selective binding of uranyl with a high affinity but also on the reusability of protein binder and a supporting matrix that is abundantly available at low cost. In this work, we propose a silica-binding peptide-enabled approach that allows the non-covalent immobilization of super uranyl-binding protein (SUP) onto silica nanoparticles for their repeated use. We first thoroughly examined solution conditions that affect the stability of uranyl-binding proteins and identified suitable physical conditions that are beneficial for the non-covalent SUP immobilization and subsequent capture of uranyl. We found that the molecular linker between SUP and silica binding peptide plays an important role in improving interaction strength between the silica nanoparticles and the engineered proteins. Consequently, we have demonstrated repeatable recovery and enrichment of uranyl ions from synthetic seawater using the engineered protein on silica nanoparticles. Our approach does not require chemical modification of silica nanoparticles, yet offers strong attachment of SUP to the silica interface and thus attractive reusability of protein-silica nanomaterials.

Spike (S) protein has been recognized as a promising molecular target for diagnostic, vaccines and antiviral drugs development for COVID-19. In this study, we analyzed the most predominant mutations in the S protein of Brazilian isolates and predicted the effect of these amino acid alterations to protein conformation. A total of 25,924 sequences were obtained from GISAID for five regions of Brazilian territory (Midwest, North, Northeast, South, and Southeast), according to exclusion criteria. Most of the SARS-CoV-2 isolates belongs to the G clade and showed a large occurrence of D614G, N501Y and L18F substitutions. Prediction effects of these amino acid substitutions on the structure dynamics of the spike protein indicated a positive ΔΔG values and negative ΔΔSVib in most cases which is associated to structural stabilization and flexibility reduction of the S protein. Mutations E484K, N501Y and K417N belong to several SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern such as Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta, and showed high incidence among Brazilian isolates. These mutations have been described to increase RBD affinity to ACE-2 host and abolishment of RBD affinity to potent neutralizing ant-RBD. The increase in rates of infection and reinfection requires continuous genomic surveillance studies in order to characterize emerging mutations and monitor vaccine efficacy, and thus consideration structural data and dynamics in the observed phenotypes.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Brosimum alicastrum is a native tree widely distributed in the Yucatan peninsula where is called Ramon. Some studies have reported that Ramon seeds contain high starch content, recently used in developing novel and sustainable biomaterials. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of the extractive solution on the starch isolation Ramon seed flour; for that, distilled water (S1) and NaOH solution (S2) were used. The Ramon starch yield was 28.0 ± 1.4% and 31.9 ± 1.7% for S1 and S2. The morphology of starches was observed with scanning electronic microscopy, the functional groups were determined through Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy and crystallinity was calculated by X-ray diffraction analysis. The results indicate that both types of starch presented spherical morphology, similar functional groups and crystallinity values, suggesting that both extraction methods are suitable. The starches isolated exhibited similar thermal behavior assessed by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis.

BackgroundUrushiols are pro-electrophilic haptens that cause severe contact dermatitis mediated by CD8+effector T-cells and downregulated by CD4+T-cells. However, the molecular mechanism by which urushiols stimulate innate immunity in the initial stages of this allergic reaction is poorly understood. Here we explore the sub-cellular mechanisms by which urushiols initiate the allergic response.ResultsElectron microscopy observations of mouse ears exposed to litreol (3-n-pentadecyl-10-enyl-catechol]) showed keratinocytes containing swollen mitochondria with round electron-dense inclusion bodies in the matrix. Biochemical analyses of sub-mitochondrial fractions revealed an inhibitory effect of urushiols on electron flow through the mitochondrial respiratory chain, which requires both the aliphatic and catecholic moieties of these allergens. Moreover, urushiols extracted from poison ivy/oak (mixtures of 3-n-pentadecyl-8,11,13 enyl/3-n-heptadecyl-8,11 enyl catechol) exerted a higher inhibitory effect on mitochondrial respiration than did pentadecyl catechol or litreol, indicating that the higher number of unsaturations in the aliphatic chain, stronger the allergenicity of urushiols. Furthermore, the analysis of radioactive proteins isolated from mitochondria incubated with3H-litreol, indicated that this urushiol was bound to cytochrome c1. According to the proximity of cytochromes c1and b, functional evidence indicated the site of electron flow inhibition was within complex III, in between cytochromes bL(cyt b566) and bH(cyt b562).ConclusionOur data provide functional and molecular evidence indicating that the interruption of the mitochondrial electron transport chain constitutes an important mechanism by which urushiols initiates the allergic response. Thus, mitochondria may constitute a source of cellular targets for generating neoantigens involved in the T-cell mediated allergy induced by urushiols.

The use of biostimulants in fish diets is a promising strategy to reduce the use of antibiotics, enhance the biochemical and immune response, which contributes to improving productive yields and reducing economic losses. The biochemical and immune response was evaluated in juvenile red tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus × O. niloticus), with different levels: 0 (control), 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5% chitosan in diet. 270 animals (7.53 ± 0.50 g of initial weight), distributed in a completely randomized design of 6 treatments with 3 replicates and 45 tilapia.treatment-1, were sown in 18 tanks with 90 L of water in a closed system. The juveniles were fed for 55 days with the experimental diets and at the end of the bioassay the tissue and blood plasma samples were taken. Differences were found (p

BACKGROUND The globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) is a rich source of phenolic compounds which may be extracted by ultrasound technology and used as a medicinal alternative. The objective of this work was to determine the radiation amplitude (%), ethanol concentration (%), and time extraction (min) required to guarantee an elevated content of polyphenol compounds. METHODS The optimal extraction conditions were assessed through the Box-Wilson design and by applying Composite Face Centered (CCFC) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) as the response variables. RESULTS A quadratic model was adequate, with R2 = 0.993. The optimal conditions were a radiation amplitude of 97%, an ethanol concentration of 53%, and an extraction time of 9.7 min. The optimized extract of artichoke bracts (Cynara scolymus L.) showed a TPC of 25.13 (±0.030) mg GAE/g, an antioxidant activity DPPH of 39.79 (±0.014) mmol Trolox equivalents (TE), and an antioxidant capacity TEAC of 33.98 (±0.03) mmol Trolox equivalents. CONCLUSIONS The results showed values closely related to the expected values, indicating that the models were well-developed.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Peptidases participate in tumor development and growth. Mammalian neutral aminopeptidase (APN, EC 3.4.11.2, M1 family) catalyzes the cleavage of neutral and basic amino acids from the N-terminus of substrates. APN expression is dysregulated in several types of cancer, being a target for the development of new anticancer agents. Recently, we identified three new non-competitive inhibitors of soluble porcine APN (pAPN) by virtual screening (BTB11079, JFD00064, BTB07018, from Maybridge). In the present contribution we assayed their effect on the activity of APN in a microsomal preparation of porcine kidney cortex, a model of the physicochemical environment of the enzyme. These classical inhibitors had an IC50 value of 3–5 µM. Additionally, using a kinetic approach and a specific substrate, we quantified APN activity on the cell surface of human and murine lung, colon, prostate, and skin tumor cells. APN inhibitors reduced tumor cells viability, more efficiently in the higher APN activity tumor cell lines, but not in non-tumoral cells. BTB11079, JFD00064, BTB07018 effects on cell viability were stronger than that of bestatin, a positive control. Thus, these non-competitive APN inhibitors may be useful tools for cancer treatment.

Plant micropropagation comprises biotechnological tools used for the conservation and mass propagation of orchid species. However, there are few reports of its use for orchids of the subtribe Pleurothallidinae. The present study evaluated the effects of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) on shoots formation and development of Dryadella zebrina (Porsch) Luer. For this, seeds were in vitro germinated, and the plantlets were submitted to different concentrations of BAP (0, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 µM). The plantlets derived from the treatments 0, 6, and 15 µM of BAP were collected after 60 days in culture and subjected to light microscopy analysis. Our results indicated that BAP increased the formation of the new shoots of D. zebrina, especially in treatment with 6 µM, and its use is indicated for the in vitro multiplication phase. The anatomical analyses of the roots showed a deleterious effect of 15 µM BAP on the meristematic region, with the presence of more vacuolated cells in this zone. Our results represent the first successful report of in vitro propagation for the genus Dryadella and may serve as a basis for further studies of in vitro propagation of phylogenetically related species.

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the most used species for hydroponic green fodder. The chemical properties of fodders may be enhanced through use of various strategies during crop production, including stress applications. In this context, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is used as a stress factor in controlled elicitation, a technique used to increase secondary metabolites in food. The aim of this research was to evaluate the possibility of using controlled elicitation with H2O2 for enhancing the chemical properties of hydroponic barley fodder. H2O2 was applied to the seeds as a pre-germination treatment at three concentrations: 50, 100 and 150 mM. Morphological changes, enzymatic defence-related activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, chalcone isomerase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase), total phenolics content, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated. Significant increases in total phenolics content, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity and ABTS antioxidant capacity were obtained when seeds were treated with 50 mM H2O2. Plant growth was promoted with 100 mM and 150 mM H2O2 treatments, and germination of seeds with 100 mM H2O2. It was established that controlled elicitation using H2O2 increased some morphological and biochemical variables of hydroponic barley fodder related to food properties.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of water deficiency on the growth, and antioxidant metabolism of two sweetpotato cultivars [Ipomea batatas (L.) Lam. cvs. Canadense (CAN) and Arapey Uruguaia (URU)] during the initial tuberization stage. 20 and 100% soil field capacity water content was used to obtain drought-stressed and well-watered plants, respectively. Water deficiency decreased growth of both cultivars (as measured by their biomass and leaf area), but URU showed lower plant growth than CAN, indicating that URU has lower tolerance to drought. The leaves of drought-stressed plants of both cultivars showed increments in the concentration of carotenoids and anthocyanins, evidencing that these plant responses are common between both cultivars. However, only CAN exhibited an increased chlorophyll concentration in leaves of water-deficient plants when compared to the well-watered plants. While the concentration of phenolic compounds was decreased in URU grown in soil with water deficiency, it was maintained in CAN. Temporal evaluations of gas exchange-related variables showed that the low water supply to plants reduced photosynthesis, transpiration and stomatal conductance rates. We concluded that the short exposure to water deficiency reduces growth of sweetpotato plants, but the degree of drought-induced impacts depends on cultivar-specific protective responses that are mainly related with each genotype to maintain chlorophyll status and to modulate antioxidant compounds in their leaves.

The aim of this work was evaluate the in vitro bioaccessibility of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) in lactea cereal flour, infant cereal, milk powder, and chocolate powder and assessed the correlation between mineral absorption facilitators and inhibitors. The total mineral concentration and in vitro bioaccessibility were quantified by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. In vitro bioaccessibility assays were performed using three sequential steps to simulate salivary, gastric and intestinal digestion. The mineral absorption facilitators and inhibitors determined were total dietary fiber, phytic acid, ascorbic acid, and calcium contents. The total mineral content analysis showed that Fe was present in the highest concentration, whereas Zn had the highest bioaccessible content in the evaluated samples. Correlation data showed that phytates, Ca, and Fe can inhibit mineral absorption, whereas ascorbic acid may enhance absorption. Thus, the proper choice of the fortifying agent and study of the food matrix are key to increasing micronutrient bioaccessibility.

Aim To determine in the adult population the crude and the sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates of hypertriglyceridaemia (HTG) and to assess its association with cardiovascular risk factors, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases. Methods Cross-sectional observational study conducted in Primary Care, with 6,588 adult study subjects, randomly selected on base-population. Patients had HTG if the triglyceride level was ≥150 mg/dL (≥1.7 mmol/L), or were on lipid-lowering therapy to lower triglyceride. Associations were assessed by univariate and multivariate analysis, and crude and sex- and age-adjusted prevalence rates were determined. Results The arithmetic and geometric means of triglyceride levels were respectively 120.5 and 104.2 mg/dL in global population, 135.7 and 116.0 mg/dL in men, and 108.6 and 95.7 mg/dL in women. The crude HTG prevalence rates were 29.6% in global population, 36.9% in men and 23.8% in women. The sex- and age-adjusted HTG prevalence rates were 27.0% in global population, 34.6% in men and 21.4% in women. The independent variables that were most associated with HTG were hypercholesterolemia (OR: 4.6), low HDL-C (OR: 4.1), hepatic steatosis (OR: 2.8), diabetes (OR: 2.0), and obesity. (OR: 1.9). Conclusions The means of triglyceride levels and HTG prevalence rates are intermediate between those of other national and international studies. A fifth of the female adult population and more than a third of the male population had HTG. The independent factors associated with HTG were hypercholesterolemia and low HDL-C, and the cardiometabolic variables diabetes, hepatic steatosis and obesity.

Climate change increases the odds of worsening drought and generating extreme weather events, being the poorest nations the most vulnerable. The emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) from anthropogenic activities have a considerable impact on climate change; in particular, the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) has the weightiest and most aggressive impact on the Earth. An emergent solution is to convert those specific gases into syngas (CO + H2) by using plasma technology; which offers reduced specific energy, and it is capable to produce very energetic species with instantaneous sequential chemical reactions. This work aims to validate the production of syngas comprising acetylene (C2H2) from the treatment of Biogas samples and a mixture composed of CH4, CO2, and N2 using warm plasma reactors. Specific energy (SE) and Energy Conversion Efficiency (ECE) were obtained in the function of experimental settings, showing the potential of the warm plasma technology on GHG treatment. Additionally, a comparison between warm plasma and thermal cracking processes has shown that H2 is generated more than 200 times faster and in a bigger quantity (more than 8 times) in a warm plasma than for conventional heating process.

In this research, a composite material based on thermoplastic starch (TPS) obtained from pich seeds (Enterolobium cyclocarpum) filled with solid particles of their own shell (PP) was elaborated and fully characterized by different techniques such as DSC, TGA, FTIR, tensile test and SEM. All composites showed good dispersion of the shell particles within the matrix. Particles size and concentration effect over the mechanical, morphologic and thermic properties were studied. Calorimetric characterization by DSC exhibited an increment in ΔHf as PP concentration was increased, while TGA analysis shown thermal events associated to decomposition of hemicellulose followed by cellulose and finally lignin components. Pich TPS/PP composite material FTIR spectrum clearly displayed absorption bands corresponding to amylose and amylopectin, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin organic groups. SEM analysis identified average diameters in shell particles (PP) around 1180 μm, 600 μm and 425 μm. Higher mechanical properties corresponding to maximum stress (σmax) and elastic modulus (E) were obtained for composites manufactured with particle size of 600 µm and 5% concentration. These results are consistent with the static mechanical behaviour, which vary according to the filler content. It is shown that the addition of PP fillers improves the thermal resistance and mechanical properties of these biocomposites.

Quantitative analysis of sulfate anions in water still remains an important challenge for the society. Among all the methodologies, the most successful one is based on optical supramolecular receptors because the presence of small concentrations of sulfate anion modifies the photophysical properties of the receptor. In this case, fluorescence anion sensors have been designed by the incorporation of guanidine motifs into fluorenyl cores. The photophysical behaviors of the new mono- (M) and bis-guanidine (B) derivatives were studied through pH dependence, solvent effects, and ion sensing on steady-state spectra and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. In more detail, the results demonstrate that M is a highly selective and sensitive sulfate ion receptor in real water samples and, even more importantly, its function remains unchanged at different ranges of pH. The reason behind this resides on the fluorescence quenching produced by an internal charge-transfer process when the sulfate anion is complexed with M. It is worth noting that the global and partial affinity constants (1010 M-2 and 105 M-1, respectively) of complex formation are far above from the current sulfate sensors in water (104 M-1) which give an LOD of 0.10 μM in water with an analytical range of 2.5-10 μM. On the other hand, although it would seem, at first sight, that the B derivate will be the most promising one, the possibility of having two simultaneous protonation states reduces the complex formation and, therefore, its sensitivity to sulfate anions. The results presented here offer the possibility of using a new molecule in water environments, which opens the door to infinite applications such as the detection of trace amounts of sulfate ions in food or water.

The objective was to evaluate the effect of diets containing various levels of phytate and phytase on broilers from 1 to 42 days old. The treatments consisted of a combination of diets containing high (HP), medium (MP) and low (LP) phytate with positive control diet (PC) and a negative control diet (NC) that was similar to the PC in energy and protein but with less calcium and phosphorus. Three additional diets, based on the NC were supplemented with 500, 1000, or 1500 FTU kg-1 of phytase. Broilers that received the NC diet exhibited the lowest weight gain (WG), whereas those supplemented with 1000 FTU kg-1 obtained 2.84% higher WG compared with PC. Broilers that received NC had the lowest breaking strength and dry matter. Birds fed HP diets that received NC and NC + 500 FTU kg-1 had a higher concentration of serum Ca and P than birds fed LP diets. Broilers fed the NC and NC + 500 and 1000 FTU kg−1 had lower tibia Ca levels compared with birds fed the PC. Broilers fed HP diets had higher tibia Ca content than MP. Phytase supplementation had a positive response in diets with reduced Ca and P. Based on regression analysis the optimum inclusion of phytase to improve broiler performance parameters was calculated as 952 FTU kg-1.

[Image: see text] 5-Nitro-furan nitrones (1) and 5-nitro-thiophene nitrones (2) were synthesized in one step. Compounds 1a–c had the most potent leishmanicidal activity against intracellular amastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis and L. infantum (from 0.019 to 2.76 μM), with excellent selectivity (from 39 to 5673). The comparison of the leishmanicidal activity in promastigotes of wild type L. donovani with those overexpressing nitroreductases NRT1 or NRT2 shows that 1a,b are activated by both, which could slow the development of resistance. Their redox potential (E(redox)) obtained by cyclic voltammetry (−0.67 and −0.62 V) shows that the reduction of the nitro group is modulated by the nitrone group. Oral administration of 1b to mice infected by L. infantum reduced the parasite load on the spleen by 76.6 and 95.0% with doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg, respectively, administered twice a day, for 5 days. In the liver, the parasite load suppression was above 75% with either treatment.

O presente trabalho objetivou quantificar o crescimento de plantas jovens de pinhão-manso submetidas a variações de doses de fósforo (P) e de massas específicas de um solo Latossolo Vermelho Amarelo. Previamente, foi coletada uma amostra de solo na camada de 20 a 40 cm, certificando-se em laboratório, a baixa disponibilidade de P – 1,4 mg dm-3 – a fim de se aplicar os tratamentos de interesse. Foram aplicadas doses de 0, 106 e 318 mg dm-3 de P, utilizando a fonte superfosfato simples; e os solos foram compactados até atingirem massas específicas de solo iguais a 1,53; 1,72 e 1,91 kg dm-3, em esquema fatorial completo, totalizando nove tratamentos. O cultivo foi em vasos e foram determinadas a biomassa seca da parte aérea do pinhão-manso e das suas partes fracionadas em caule, folhas aderidas ao caule e folhas senescentes. Foram determinados os teores de P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn e Zn, e a partir dos dados de acúmulo de massa seca se quantificou os conteúdos desses minerais nas plantas. A análise estatística dos dados consistiu em análise de variância, teste de média Tukey e análise de regressão. De modo geral, as características de composição mineral das plantas apresentaram resposta mais pronunciada à adubação fosfatada comparada à compressão física testada. Os máximos conteúdos de minerais estimados nas plantas de pinhão-manso foram de 51,78 mg de P; 463,37 mg de K; 201,84 mg de Ca; 124,18 mg de Mg; 76,17 µg de Cu; 4.254,07 µg de Fe; 18.787,15 µg de Mn e 769,97 µg de Zn.

Amphotericin B (AmB) is used to treat cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. However, the mortality rate remains high. Higher doses of AmB in deoxycholate buffer (AmBd) are toxic to human red blood cells (hRBC) and have no effect on brain organism load in mice. Here we show that while AmBd lysed 96% of hRBC, AmB complexed with gold nanoparticles (AuNP-SA-AmB) lysed only 27% of hRBC. In vitro growth of C. neoformans was inhibited by 0.25 μg/ml AmBd and 0.04 μg/ml of AuNP-SA-AmB. In mice infected with C. neoformans, five daily treatments with AuNP-SA-AmB containing 0.25 mg/kg AmB significantly lowered the fungal burden in the brain tissue compared to either untreated or treatment with 0.25 mg/kg of AmBd. When a single dose of AmBd was injected intravenously into BALB/c mice, 81.61% of AmB cleared in the α-phase and 18.39% cleared in the β-phase at a rate of 0.34% per hour. In contrast, when AuNP-SA-AmB was injected, 49.19% of AmB cleared in the α-phase and 50.81% of AmB cleared in the β-phase at a rate of 0.27% per hour. These results suggest that AmB complexed with gold nanoparticles is less toxic to hRBC, is more effective against C. neoformans and persists longer in blood when injected into mice resulting in more effective clearing of C. neoformans from the brain tissue. Lay summary Amphotericin B (AmB) was complexed with gold nanoparticles (AuNP-SA-AmB) to improve brain delivery. AuNP-SA-AmB was more effective than AmB alone in clearing of Cryptococcus neoformans from the brain tissue of infected mice. This may be due to longer plasma half-life of AmB as AuNP-SA-AmB.

Water Hyacinth is an invasive aquatic plant with an excellent carbon source with heteroatoms. Activated carbon is a viable choice as an electrocatalyst for fuel cell applications. Based on the plant's leaves, stem, and root, we got activated carbons using KOH at 730 °C with N2. The samples, named WH_LA730, WH _SA730, and WH_RA730, were examined as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction in 0.5 M KOH. The high surface area and nitrogen content in the activated carbon provided a good electrochemical activity. The potential reaction for WH_SA730 was at 0.9 V and 0.85 V for WH_RA730. Both samples showed a promising activated carbon for the alkaline fuel cell compared to WH_LA730.

Hydrogen can be stored and distributed by injecting into existing natural grids, then, at the user site separated and used in different applications. The conventional technology for hydrogen separation is pressure swing adsorption (PSA). The recent NREL study showed the extraction cost for separating hydrogen from a 10% H2 stream with a recovery of 80% is around 3.3–8.3 US$/kg. In this document, new system configurations for low hydrogen concentration separation from the natural gas grid by combining novel membrane-based hybrid technologies will be described in detail. The focus of the manuscript will be on the description of different configurations for the direct hydrogen separation, which comprises a membrane module, a vacuum pump and an electrochemical hydrogen compressor. These technological combinations bring substantial synergy effect of one-another while improving the total hydrogen recovery, purity and total cost of hydrogen. Simulation has been carried out for 17 different configurations; according to the results, a configuration of two-stage membrane modules (in series) with a vacuum pump and an electrochemical hydrogen compressor (EHC) shows highest hydrogen purity (99.9997%) for 25 kg/day of hydrogen production for low-pressure grid. However, this configuration shows a higher electric consumption (configuration B) due to the additional mechanical compressor between the two-stage membrane modules and the EHC. Whereas, when the compressor is excluded, and a double skin Pd membrane (PdDS) module is used in a single-stage while connected to a vacuum pump (configuration A5), the hydrogen purity (99.92%) slightly decreases yet the power consumption considerably improves (1.53 times lower). Besides to these two complementary configurations, the combination of a single membrane module, a vacuum pump and the electrochemical compressor has been also carried out (configuration A) and results show that relatively higher purity can be achieved. Based on four master configurations, this document presents a different novel hybrid system by integrating two to three technologies for hydrogen purification combined in a way that enhances the strengths of each of them. This project has received funding from the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen 2 Joint Undertaking under grant agreement No 700355. This Joint Undertaking receives support from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation.

A new RuII–ReII complex salt, μ-cyanido-κ2 C:N-bis[(η5-cyclopentadienyl)bis(3,5,7-triazaphosphaadamantane-κP)ruthenium(II)] tetrabromido(ethanol/methanol-κO)nitrosylrhenate(II), [Ru(CN)(C5H5)2(C6H12N3P)4][ReBr4(NO)(CH4O)0.5(C2H6O)0.5] or [RuCp(PTA)2–μ-CN–1κC:2κ2 N-RuCp(PTA)2][Re(NO)Br4(EtOH)0.5(MeOH)0.5] (PTA = 3,5,7-triazaphosphaadamantane) was obtained and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis and infrared spectroscopy. The title salt was obtained by liquid–liquid diffusion of methanol/DMSO solutions of (NBu4)[Re(NO)Br4(EtOH)] and [(PTA)2CpRu–μ-CN–1κC:2κ2 N-RuCp(PTA)2](CF3SO3). The RuII and ReII independent moieties correspond to a binuclear and mononuclear complex ion, respectively. A deep geometrical parameter analysis was performed, and no significant differences were found with earlier reports containing similar molecules. The magnetic properties were investigated in the temperature range 2.0–300 K, and the complex behaves as a quasi-magnetically isolated spin doublet with weak antiferromagnetic interactions.