Search

We developed a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-active plasmonic core-satellite nanostructure and incorporated it into a membrane filter-integrated microfluidic device for continuous monitoring of molecules in solution. The core-satellite nanostructures were fabricated by immobilizing a high number density of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on silica beads.to create many nanogaps among the AuNPs. The sizes of the nanogaps were fine-tuned by adding a silver (Ag) shell to optimize the SERS activity. In addition, citrate molecule, the capping agent of the nanoparticles, was displaced by alkali halides. The displacement not only reduced the SERS signals of citrate but also enhanced the adsorption of target molecules. The alkali halide-treated core-satellite nanostructures were accumulated onto a membrane filter integrated into a microfluidic device, serving as a uniform and sensitive SERS substrate. By increasing the volume of the sample solution flowing through the membrane filter, we increased the number of molecules adsorbed to the nanostructures, amplifying the intensities of their characteristic Raman peaks. Our microfluidic SERS device demonstrated continuous SERS detection of malachite green at a concentration as low as 500 fM. In summary, while various core-satellite nanostructures and microfluidic SERS devices have been reported, the integration of the membrane filter-containing microfluidic device with the core-satellite nanostructures facilitated sensitive and continuous molecule detection in our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper identifies physical properties of an interesterified palm‐based fat (EIEPO) that predict oil binding capacity (OBC). A 100% EIEPO sample, 50% EIEPO sample diluted with 50% soybean oil (SBO), and a 20% EIEPO sample diluted with 80% SBO were used to test how saturation level impacts OBC. All samples were crystallized using either a fast (6.4°C/min) or slow (0.1°C/min) cooling rate as well as with or without the application of high‐intensity ultrasound (HIU; 20 kHz) to generate a wide range of physical properties. Immediately after crystallization, the sample's physical properties, including crystal microstructure, solid fat content (SFC), viscoelasticity (G′, G″, and δ), melting behavior, hardness, and OBC (centrifuge method) were quantified. The samples were then stored for 48 h at 22 and 5°C and the aforementioned physical properties were measured again, with one additional measurement for the samples stored at 5°C—OBC using a filter paper method (OBCp). The results indicate that OBC can be optimized in a palm‐based fat by modifying the physical properties which was achieved via the processing conditions. Both measurements of OBC were significantly correlated with SFC, hardness, δ, and enthalpy. A model was developed to predict a sample's OBCc using the following dominant variables—SFC, hardness, peak temperature, enthalpy, and the number of crystals. These results suggest that OBC can be predicted using a sample's SFC, hardness, peak temperature, enthalpy, and number of crystals and that SFC, hardness, and enthalpy are main drivers of OBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

J‐aggregation and H‐aggregation are identified as two classical models of functionally oriented non‐covalent interactions, and significant attention has been drawn by researchers. However, due to the scarcity of single‐crystal examples of H‐aggregation, a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between its stacking mode and optical behaviour has been hindered. In recent studies, two polyaromatic Schiff base compounds, Cl‐Salmphen and H‐Salmphen, were successfully synthesized, and both were found to exhibit H‐aggregation. In the findings, H‐Salmphen was shown to display typical C─H···π interactions, characteristic of Aggregation‐Induced Emission (AIE) active molecules, whereas its halogenated counterpart was identified as behaving similar to Aggregation‐Caused Quenching (ACQ) active molecules. These types of results suggest that identical intermolecular interactions can produce differing optical behaviours. Light was shed, at least in part, on the formation mechanisms of H‐type aggregates and their luminescence properties from these observations. Additionally, the high optical signal‐to‐noise ratio inherent to H‐aggregates was utilized for the exploration of water content detection. As an outcome, a high‐performance fluorescent filter paper was developed, enabling easy real‐time detection using a smartphone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a significant biomarker during the apoptosis process, cytochrome c (Cyt c) is considered as a critical component in the inherent apoptotic pathway, but the simple and portable detection still remains challengeable. In this work, a portable and visual sensing platform for Cyt c was developed based upon the fluorescence quenching of graphene quantum dots (GQDs), which could be finished within a few seconds. Herein, the absorption spectrum of Cyt c matched the emission spectrum of GQDs well, which could cause the fluorescence quenching of GQDs via the inner filter effect (IFE) in the range of 1–50 μg/mL with the limit of detection as low as 0.1 μg/mL. Furthermore, the intracellular Cyt c was imaged to observe the apoptosis process of cancer cells induced by staurosporine. To achieve the portable and visual detection of Cyt c, GQDs were deposited on the filter paper to form the solid platform, which displayed a gradual fluorescence quenching when different concentrations of Cyt c were present. Compared to the conventional methods, the proposed assay is low-cost, fast, portable, and visual, which will be useful for the investigation of mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptotic cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this in vivo study was to compare total protein present in the salivary films (F) and acquired enamel pellicle (AEP) on eroded and non-eroded surfaces in patients suffering from GORD symptoms with and without GORD diagnosis (GORD, No-GORD). Thirty-nine patients suffering from GORD symptoms and erosive tooth wear on lower first molars and an unaffected posterior occlusal surface in the same quadrant were recruited from Guy's hospital, London. Salivary film and AEP were collected from the eroded and uneroded occlusal surfaces, using 0.5% sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS)-soaked filter papers. Total protein concentration was analysed using bicinchoninic acid assay (BCA). Statistical analysis was conducted using Shapiro–Wilk, ANOVA, and Tukey's tests (p < 0.05), comparing four GDS sample types and GORD vs. No-GORD groups. The level of significance was set as p < 0.05. Data were compared between eroded and uneroded surfaces in the same patient with GORD symptoms, as well as between those with or without a GORD diagnosis (GORD, No-GORD). The AEP total protein concentration from the eroded [2.17 (0.49) mg/mL] and uneroded surfaces [2.24 (0.66) mg/mL] of the GORD group were statistically significantly lower than those on eroded [3.27 (1.01) mg/mL] and uneroded [3.33 (1.57) mg/mL] surfaces in the No-GORD group (p = 0.007) (p = 0.008), respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed for film and AEP between eroded and uneroded surfaces (p > 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Waste" is "wealth": the transformation of biomass waste into high value-added substances holds significant environmental and economic importance. In our work, orange peel was effectively transformed into valuable fluorescent carbon quantum dots (CQDs) by solvothermal treatment. The resultant CQDs displayed favorable dispersion and a mean particle size of 3.14 ± 0.71 nm. Moreover, these CQDs exhibited a characteristic excitation-dependent fluorescence behavior, which can produce the maximum emission wavelength at 506 nm with excitation at 400 nm. Upon the introduction of permanganate (MnO4−), the fluorescence intensity of CQDs diminished gradually caused by the inner filter effect (IFE) as well as the static quenching effect (SQE). The results revealed that the CQDs can serve as a fluorescent probe, which possessed high performance in terms of sensitivity for quantitative analysis of MnO4−, boasting a low detection limit of 3.31 μM. Subsequently, the application of this fluorescent probe in actual water samples was further explored, resulting in a recovery rate between 98.18% and 101.69%, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) ranging from 1.85% to 2.68%, which was highly satisfactory. The portable paper-based sensor, fabricated by depositing CQDs onto filter paper, is capable of quantitatively and visually detecting MnO4− in combination with a smartphone, thus providing a rapid on-site detection tool for MnO4−. As far as we know, this study provides the inaugural account of a smartphone-based portable sensor for visual determination of MnO4− by using biomass waste based CQDs, suggesting its immense potential for real-time monitoring applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The state-of-the-art technology of fabricating printed copper electronics is focussed largely on thermal sintering restricting transition towards heat sensitive flexible substrates. Herein we report a pioneering technology which eliminates the need for conventional sintering. Biopolymer-stabilised copper particles are prepared such that they can be compressed at room temperature to generate air-stable films with very low resistivities (2.05 – 2.33 × 10−8 Ω m at 20 °C). A linear positive correlation of resistivity with temperature verifies excellent metallic character and electron microscopy confirms the formation of films with low porosity (< 4.6%). An aqueous ink formulation is used to fabricate conductive patterns on filter paper, first using a fountain/dip pen and then printing to deposit more defined patterns (R < 2 Ω). The remarkable conductivity and stability of the films, coupled with the sustainability of the approach could precipitate a paradigm-shift in the use of copper inks for printable electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil-fluid retention (SFR) is considered a fundamental unsaturated property with a wide application from transient flow analysis, and strength prediction to constitutive modeling. Previous research has led to a consensus that soil microstructure can significantly affect retention properties. Furthermore, the soil microstructure is subject to changes due to variations in the sampling method and pore fluid chemistry. Therefore, this study aims to explore the influence of multiple factors, including sample preparation technique, dissolved salt concentration and cation type, on soil-fluid retention and volumetric behavior in a systematic manner. The results of tests conducted by employing the axis translation and filter paper methods are interpreted in detail based on some complementary scanning electron microscopy and micro-CT scan experiments. Furthermore, the repeatability of the test results is validated through some control tests. The results reveal a higher retention capacity for reconstituted samples compared with the compacted ones independent of the solute concentration. In contrast, both the SFR and shrinkage are suppressed by the addition of sodium chloride to the pore fluid independent of the sample preparation method. It is also found that the SFR capability of potassium cation is less than that of sodium cation at the same concentration. The SFRs are quantified and compared in terms of air entry/air expulsion suction, hydraulic hysteresis and desorption/adsorption rates. The interpretation of the results in light of the diffuse double-layer theory is supported by microstructural observation and provides insights into the SFR of lean clays exposed to saline environments with different types of salt species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biostimulants can be used in sustainable agriculture as they are regarded as inputs with minimal environmental impact. When applied to the root systems of certain plant species, microbial inoculants confer physiological and morphological benefits to the entire plant. In the present study, we focused on some morphometric parameters of the root system of two Crithmum maritimum L. spontaneous populations (Mediterranean and Atlantic). We compared the effects of two different (for number of strains) biostimulants on the weight, length, diameter, and number of tips on the root system. The experiment was conducted in two controlled environments: i) an incubator in which seeds were placed in Petri dishes on Whatman filter paper and ii) a greenhouse where seeds were placed in pots containing seeding substrate. Under incubator conditions, the biostimulant application showed, on average, a stimulating effect on the analyzed root parameters. Specifically, it increased weight by approximately 85%, diameter by 25%, and length by about 128% compared to the control. Similarly, under greenhouse conditions, the biostimulant application showed favorable effects on the analyzed root variables, exhibiting an increase in root weight by approximately 66%, diameter by 25%, length by about 75%, and number of tips by 56% compared to the control. The present study suggests the potential use of biostimulants during the nursery phases of production to ease the establishment of alternative crops such as Crithmum maritimum in cropping systems for which it is necessary to implement the agronomic technique and encourage rapid colonization in contexts otherwise at risk of desertification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An inexpensive, easy-to-use, simple, and non-toxic freshness indicator was developed based on anthocyanins from saffron petal waste material and filter paper to show the quality and shelf life of trout fillets. Previous studies considered the color changes of freshness indicators based on anthocyanins during fish spoilage due to pH changes following the production of volatile nitrogen. However, in this study, we showed that not only volatile nitrogen but also hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas produced during fish spoilage caused structural and color changes in anthocyanins. The indicator showed a wide range of naked-eye color changes from purple to light blue over a pH of 2–11 and from purple to yellow over different concentrations of H2S gas compounds. The prepared indicator had good color stability and was not affected by various temperatures and times. pH, total volatile basic nitrogen, total viable count of trout fillets, and the color changes of the prepared indicators were simultaneously determined during 8 days of storage in the refrigerator. A significant correlation was observed between fish quality and visible color changes of the indicator. The sensitivity of saffron petal anthocyanins to volatile nitrogen and H2S compounds showed that it could be used as a raw material for producing low-cost and efficient colorimetric indicators for spoilage detection of protein-rich foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antifungal properties of clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum L.) extract on Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cepae and Alternaria porri were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Thirty grams of the clove basil sterilized leaves were mashed in a sterile mortar, soaked for 24 hr in 100 mL of 96% ethanol as an extractant. The extract was filtered through sterile Whatman No. 1 filter paper and stored at 4°C for subsequent use. Three different concentrations (5, 10, and 15%) were applied using the poisoned food technique. A 4-mm diameter mycelial disc of each tested fungus was inoculated on each amended agar plate. Daily radial growth was recorded for 7 days. For the in vivo test, two different concentrations (15% and 20%) were used. No spray and mancozeb spraying were used as controls. Seed bulbs of shallots were planted in a 25 cm x 25 cm polybag and allowed to be naturally infected by Alternaria porri. The clove basil leaf extract and mancozeb were sprayed onto the plants once a week, starting when the first symptom of the purple blotch disease appeared. The results showed that clove basil leaf extract had good efficacy in inhibiting F. Oxysporum f. sp. Cepae and A. Porri in vitro, with a growth inhibition up to 55%. The extract can also reduce the disease intensity of purple blotch with an infection rate of 0.029, indicating that it has the potential to be developed as a botanical fungicide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root foraging may allow hyperaccumulator plants to enhance element accumulation. This study compared root proliferation of two annual serpentine endemics: Streptanthus polygaloides (Ni hyperaccumulator) and Streptanthus insignis (nonhyperaccumulator). In a greenhouse experiment, pots were divided by a sealed partition, Ni‐amended soil (800 mg kg −1) in one half, unamended soil in the other. Seeds were germinated over the partition, allowing roots to explore both soils. After 5 months, roots from each side of each pot were harvested, washed, dried, and weighed. Streptanthus polygaloides root biomass was significantly (twofold) greater in Ni‐amended soil whereas S. insignis root biomass was similar in the two soils. In a lab experiment, seedlings were grown in vertical agar‐filled petri dishes to determine if Ni affected seedling root growth. Seedlings were placed on either side of a central filter paper strip soaked in either NiCl2 solution or deionized water. Growth direction of the primary root (toward, away, neutral) and lateral root numbers and lengths were recorded. For seedlings, primary root direction and lateral root numbers/lengths were significantly increased toward Ni‐soaked filter paper only for S. polygaloides. We conclude that S. polygaloides exhibited positive root foraging responses. These may enhance Ni uptake and we suggest the term "nickelophilic root foraging" be applied to this behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geotechnical designs and analyses of earth structures and foundations exclusively involve the assessment and consideration of unsaturated soil shear strength. The laboratory testing equipment and methods for predicting the unsaturated soil shear strength are complicated and more expensive. The experimental program attempted to involve undrained triaxial and filter paper for evaluating the unsaturated soil shear strength of identically compacted clayey soil. This study undertakes a comparison of shear strength in clayey soil under undrained loads, examining both saturated and unsaturated conditions. A 60 kPa air entry suction value is the key point at which linearity between the unsaturated shear strength parameter Øb and effective friction Ø′ with 15° linear slopes turns to non-linearity. Unsaturated shear strength increased by 22.76% in optimally wet conditions, 52.68% in optimum conditions, and 77.81% in optimally dry conditions as compared to saturated shear strength. This study utilizes an artificial neural network (ANN) to predict clayey soil's unsaturated shear strength, finding that the optimal ANN configuration (2-5-1 topology, Levenberg–Marquard optimization, and logsig transfer function) achieved high reliability with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.9289 and mean square error values of 2.22, 7.12, and 3.012 for training, testing, and validation, respectively. This experimental investigation improves our understanding of clayey soil shear strength and emphasizes the importance of saturation and moisture content in geotechnical assessments under undrained loading conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Application of numerous malaria control interventions has led to reduction in clinical malaria cases and deaths but also the realisation that asymptomatic parasite carriers play a key role in sustaining transmission. This study assessed the effectiveness of using the Ultra-sensitive NxTek eliminate RDT (uRDT) and conventional SD Bioline HRP2 RDT (cRDT) in diagnosing asymptomatic parasitaemia while measuring the impact of mass testing, treatment and tracking (MTTT) on the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria over a 1-year period in Ghana. Methods: A total of 4000 targeted participants from two towns, Obom and Kofi Kwei, with their surrounding villages, were tested for asymptomatic malaria four times over the study period using uRDT (intervention) and the cRDT (control) respectively. Participants carrying malaria parasites were followed by home visit and phone calls for compliance to treatment, and filter paper blood blots collected from participants were used to determine true parasite carriage by PET-PCR. A mathematical model of the study site was developed and used to test the impact of test sensitivity and mass migration on the effect of MTTT. Results: The start and end point sensitivities of the cRDT were 48.8% and 41.7% and those for the uRDT were 52.9% and 59.9% respectively. After a year of MTTTs, asymptomatic parasite prevalence, as determined by PCR, did not differ statistically in the control site (40.6% to 40.1%, P = 0.730) but decreased at the intervention site (55.9% to 46.4%, P < 0.0001). Parasite prevalence by RDT, however, indicated statistical reduction in the control site (25.3% to 22.3%, P = 0.017) and no change in the intervention site (35.1% to 36.0%, P = 0.614). The model predicted a mild effect of both diagnostic sensitivity and human movement in diminishing the impact of MTTT in the study sites. Conclusions: Asymptomatic parasite prevalence at the molecular level reduced significantly in the site where the uRDT was used but not where the cRDT was used. Overall, the uRDT exhibited higher sensitivity relative to the cRDT. Highly sensitive molecular techniques such as PET-PCR should be included in parasite prevalence estimation during MTTT exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenols are well-known noxious compounds, that are often found in various water sources. In this research, a new method was used to determine the total phenol by using microfluidic paper-based (µPAD), with a smartphone Sensor. It is portable, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly. The paper was prepared using filter paper by the cutting method. The reagent was dried on the paper. The color sensor of the smartphone device was used as the color intensity sensor of the samples through the images captured by the smartphone through software downloaded to the phone. The focus of the samples is measured from the RGB value of the images taken from the (iPhone 14) device, where each image represents a specific focus. The calibration curve for this method was in the range of M (0.00016–0.5), the correlation coefficient (R2) was equal to (0.9753), the limit of detection was in the amount of (0.000032) M, and the relative standard deviation (RSD%) for the concentration was (0.02) M, for which the examination was repeated (10) times and its value was (0 %), and the recovery value (Recovery%) was equal to (100 %). The method was successfully applied for the determination of total phenols in wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Pulp & Paper is the property of China Pulp & Paper Magazines Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The paper highlights how significant characteristics of liver can be modeled in tissue-engineered constructs using unconventional scaffolds. Hepatic lobular organization and metabolic zonation can be mimicked with decellularized plant structures with vasculature resembling a native-hepatic lobule vascular arrangement or silk blend scaffolds meticulously designed for guided cellular arrangement as hepatic patches or metabolic activities. The functionality of hepatocytes can be enhanced and maintained for long periods in naturally fibrous structures paving way for bioartificial liver development. The phase I enzymatic activity in hepatic models can be raised exploiting the microfibrillar structure of paper to allow cellular stacking creating hypoxic conditions to induce in vivo-like xenobiotic metabolism. Lastly, the paper introduces amalgamation of carbon-based nanomaterials into existing scaffolds in liver tissue engineering. Plain Language Summary Unconventional scaffolds have the potential to meet the current challenges in liver tissue engineering- loss of hepatic morphology and functions over long-term culture, absence of native-like cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, organization of hepatocytes into lobular structures exhibiting metabolic variations-which hinder pharmaceutical analysis, regenerative therapies and artificial organ development. Paper with cellulose microfibril network develops cellular aggregates with hypoxic conditions that influence enzymes of xenobiotic metabolism proving to be a better scaffold for hepatotoxicity testing compared with conventional monolayers in tissue culture plates. Decellularized plant stems provide already-built vasculature to be exploited for the development of intricate vessel networks that exist in hepatic lobules aiding in regenerative medicine for hepatic pathologies. Fibrous plant structures are excellent materials for the immobilization of hepatocytes and improve albumin secretion enabling their use in bioartificial liver development. Biomimicry of metabolic zonation in hepatic lobules can be achieved with perfusion culture using silk blend scaffolds with varying proportions of the liver matrix that orchestrate cellular function. The mechanical properties of silk allow the fabrication of structures that resemble liver anatomy to generate native-like hepatic lobules. Nanomaterials have immense potential as a component of composite material development for scaffolds to achieve improved predictive ability in pharmacokinetics. Most of these unconventional scaffolds have the added advantage of being readily available, accessible, affordable and sustainable for liver tissue engineering applications. Conclusively, the shift of attention away from conventional scaffolds poses a promising future in the field of tissue engineering. Graphical Abstract Article highlights Limitations of 2D culture: Current 2D culture practices cannot achieve the complexity of hepatic tissue including metabolic zonation, lobular organization, extensive vasculature, existence of multiple cell types. Splenic scaffold: Spleen proves to be the excellent choice of decellularized organ for liver tissue regeneration, however, this cross-organ recellularization procedure is not ideal for clinical translation. Plant-based scaffold: Selecting plant material that matches hepatic tissue mechanical properties and anatomical features including the channel arrangements (central vein and portal triad) help hepatic regeneration and pathological modeling. Naturally fibrous plant materials have the potential to be excellent platforms for bioartificial liver development based on high hepatocyte adherence and function. Paper-based scaffold: Hepatocyte culture on functionalized filter paper forms a physiologically more relevant model for hepatotoxicity assessment particularly because of higher activity of drug metabolizing enzymes. Silk-based scaffold: Hepatic lobular organization that supports metabolic zonation can be mimicked by varying ECM content in silk blend scaffolds to create native-like oxygen and nutrient gradient. CNT-based scaffold: Exceptional properties of carbon nanotubes make them ideal to mimic liver ECM allowing formation of hepatic spheroids with in vivo like characteristics- bile canaliculi, polarity and drug clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An array of filter paper based disposable sensors was developed for identification of orange juice adulteration. Small strips of Whatman filter papers (5 mm × 6 mm) were coated with conducting polymers i.e., polyaniline and polypyrrole (both in chloride doped and de-doped form) to develop the sensors. Silver electrodes were deposited on the polymer-coated sensor substrate using conducting silver paste. The sensors were exposed to various adulterations of orange juice with water dilution and sucrose addition. Impedance measurements from the sensor were monitored over a frequency range of 0.01–10 kHz using a Frequency Response Analyzer. The adulteration of fresh orange juice using water dilution could be detected in the range of 1–30% by volume (in steps of ~ 5–10%) with minimum detection of 1% whereas sucrose (30% w/w) addition was successfully identified from 10 to 60% by volume (in steps of ~ 10%) with minimum detection of 10%. Owing to the non-specific response of the sensors, statistical analysis using Principal Component Analysis, Linear Discriminant Analysis, t-Distributed Stochastic Neighbor Embedding, and k-Means clustering algorithm were utilized to identify the trend in the impedance response shift for various levels of adulterations in orange juice. Among the different classification methods, LDA provided the best results in differentiating between different levels of adulterations followed by k-Means clustering algorithm. The developed sensor is a proof-of-concept for development of disposable electronic tongue with potential applications in beverage quality monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two imidazole‐based color‐changing fluorescent probes 4‐(4,5‐bis(4‐chlorophenyl)‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl)‐N, N‐diphenylaniline (CIN) and 4‐(4,5‐di(furan‐2‐yl)‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl)‐N, N‐diphenylaniline (FIN) were synthesized and characterized. The new probes CIN and FIN exhibit excellent selectivity and sensitivity towards Fe3+ with relatively low detection limits (0.26 μM and 0.10 μM) and strong anti‐interference properties. Both the probes CIN and FIN complex 1 : 1 with Fe3+ ion, and the complexation constants were 1.165×105 M−1 (CIN) and 1.899×105 M−1 (FIN), respectively. Moreover, CIN and FIN could be recycled by EDTA and could effectively monitor Fe3+ ions at pH 4–10, which ensures the sensor's potential for detecting Fe3+ in actual aqueous solutions. The probes were further applied to the detection of Fe3+ in the actual reaction of Fe2+ oxidation, and the filter paper and the probe solution are combined to make an indicator to detect Fe3+ more conveniently and quickly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report on conductive ultrathin films (nanosheets) with the characteristics of stretchability and water vapor permeability for skin-conformable bioelectrodes. The films are fabricated by combining conductive fibrous networks of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) (SBS) nanosheets (i.e., SWCNT-SBS nanosheets). An increase in the number of SWCNT coatings increases both the thicknesses and densities of the SWCNT bundles. The SBS nanosheets coated with three layers of SWCNTs (i.e., SWCNT 3rd-SBS nanosheets) show comparable sheet resistance to the SBS nanosheets coated with poly(3,4-ethylenedioxithiophene) doped with poly(4-styrenesulfonate acid) (PEDOT:PSS) containing 5 wt.% butylene glycol (i.e., PEDOT:PSS/BG5-SBS nanosheets). In addition, the SWCNT 3rd-SBS nanosheets exhibit significantly reduced elastic moduli and increased elongations at break compared to the PEDOT:PSS/BG5-SBS nanosheets. Furthermore, the calculated water vapor transmission ratio of the 210-nm-thick SBS nanosheets (268,172 g m−2 (2 h)−1) is greater than that of the filter paper (6345 g m−2 (2 h)−1). The SWCNT 3rd-SBS nanosheets attached to model skin show high tolerances to bending and artificial sweat at different pH values (i.e., the electrical resistance changes ~1.1 times). Finally, the SWCNT 3rd-SBS nanosheet is applied to detect the surface electromyogram from the forearm of a subject. This nanosheet displays a signal-to-noise ratio similar to that of the PEDOT:PSS/BG5-SBS nanosheet. We report on conductive ultrathin films (referred to as "nanosheets") with stretchability and water vapor permeability for skin-conformable bioelectrodes. By combining conductive fibrous networks of single-wall carbon nanotubes and poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) continuous nanosheets (i.e., SWCNT-SBS nanosheets), the conductive nanosheet shows a high tolerance to bending on a model skin sheet and a high permeability to humidity. Finally, we demonstrate that the conductive nanosheet can detect the surface electromyogram signals from a subject's forearm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rich biological information in sweat provides great potential for health monitoring and management. However, due to the complexity of sweat, the development of environmentally friendly green electronic products is of great significance to the construction of ecological civilization. This study utilized a simple combination of polystyrene sulfonate sodium (PSS) and filter paper (FP) to prepare cellulose materials coated with conductive polymers, developing an electrochemical sensor based on the modified materials. The mechanical and electrochemical properties of the fabricated PSS/FP membrane were optimized by adjusting the feeding dosage of PSS. The realized PSS/FP composite containing 7% PSS displayed good conductivity (9.1 × 10−2 S/m), reducing electric resistance by 99.2% compared with the original FP membrane (6.7 × 10−4 S/m). The stable current of the membrane in simulated sweat under different pH environments is highly correlated with the pH values. Additionally, when the membrane is exposed to simulated sweat with varying ion concentrations, the current signal changes in real time with the concentration variations. The response time averages around 0.3 s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The achievable performance of conventional repetitive control (CRC) is constrained by the error amplification at the non-harmonic frequencies, the intrinsic sensitivity to the signal period shift and the limited tracking frequency range under fixed sampling rate. To remedy these undesirable behaviors, a notch-filter-based repetitive control (NF-RC) is proposed based on the spectrum-selection filtering scheme in this paper with application to fast tool servos (FTSs). The loop-shaping property of this NF-RC can be flexibly designed by the cascade of a series of parameterized IIR notch filters without the aforementioned limitations of the CRC, so as to provide a unified formula for various RCs and even resonant control schemes. A general realization along with several simplified versions of the IIR notch filter is derived for the digital implementation of the NF-RC. Comparative trajectory tracking experiments on a self-developed FTS have validated the superiorities of the proposed NF-RC in terms of the performance improvement for periodic reference tracking, the robustness against the signal period variations and the trackable frequency range under fixed sampling rate. Taking advantage of an excellent comprehensive performances of the NF-RC scheme, the radial sinusoidal surface and the water-drop surface were successfully produced with high form precision and excellent surface quality after the FTS-based diamond turning. • A novel notch-filter-based repetitive control (RC) scheme is proposed. • This RC scheme can suppress the nonperiodic errors amplification. • This RC scheme can maintain the robustness against the signal frequency fluctuation. • This RC scheme can track any harmonic references under a fixed sampling rate. • This RC scheme provides a unified design framework for various existing RCs. • Two high-accuracy micro-structured surfaces are fabricated with this RC scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinomycetes are a suitable microbial group for the synthesis of lignocellulose-degrading enzymes. Enzymes that may degrade organic material, including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, are released by actinomycetes. The aim of this research was to isolate actinomycetes from Rajkot, Gujarat, India’s soil and evaluate the activity of their cellulase and Xylanase enzymes. Starch Casein Agar (SCA) was used to identify a total of 30 isolates of actinomycetes. A qualitative plate assay (CMC-Na, Congo red) revealed that the highest zone of catalysis for MMD1 was 36 mm. Five strains were discovered to be effective for quantitative quantification of endoglucanase utilising filter paper and CMC as substrates: MMD1, MMD2, MMD3, MMD4, and MMD8. Following MMD 1 (endoglucanase 5.4 IU; FPase 4.4 IU), MMD 2 (endoglucanase 4.5 IU; FPase 3.4 IU) has demonstrated considerable endoglucanase and FPase activity. Beechwood xylan was used to treat sugarcane bagasse in order to test Xylanase, and 45% of the xylan (hemicellulose) fraction was obtained. MMD1 and MMD2 measured the xylanase enzyme activity (4.8IU and 4.2IU) in quantitative and qualitative assays (34 mm and 22 mm for BWX and 32 mm and 14 mm for agro-waste xylan). The strain MMD1 was identified as Streptomyces chartreusis through morphological, biochemical, and finally molecular characterization by 16S rRNA sequencing. It was then submitted to NCBI GenBank with the accession number MT254830. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The most reliable indicator for anaemia diagnosis at the population level is haemoglobin (Hb) estimation. The direct cyanmethaemoglobin method is considered the gold standard method for haemoglobin estimation. However, for resource constraint areas like primary health care (PHC) level, either blood samples are transported on filter paper for Hb testing (indirect cyanmethaemoglobin method) in laboratory or point of care testing is commonly used. Therefore, a comparative analysis of haemoglobin estimation of direct with indirect cyanmethaemoglobin method and also with TrueHb (Wrig Nanosystems Pvt. Ltd.) haemometer was done to strengthen anaemia diagnosis at the PHC level. Materials and Methods: This was a cross‑sectional study. A total of 90 participants above 9 years of age, who visited the outpatient department (OPD) of health centre, Kheri and gave consent were included. Comparative analysis was done between Hb concentration assessed by indirect cyanmethaemoglobin method and TrueHb haemometer device against the gold standard method. Results: The mean Hb value estimated by direct method, TrueHb haemometer and indirect methods (filter paper A, B and C) was 11.42 ± 1.59 g/dl, 11.52 ± 1.54 g/dl, 10.66 ± 1.52 g/dl, 9.84 ± 1.50 g/ dl and 10.19 ± 1.62 g/dl, respectively. There was no significant difference found between the mean Hb concentration estimated by the direct method and the TrueHb haemometer device. However, there was a significant difference in mean Hb values between the direct method and the indirect method. Therefore, regression analysis was done to estimate the correction factor for the indirect method. Conclusion: TrueHb metre device gave promising results in comparison to the gold standard method and can be used if resource permits in PHC centres. Indirect methods of haemoglobin estimation can be an alternative in resource‑constraint settings, specifically for surveys. However, further studies are required for the validation of the indirect method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental program is used to look at the impact of different parameters on the collapsibility of treated and untreated gypseous soil which is one of the most intricate soils. It is experiencing a high strength when it dry, but when subjected to wetting, it experiences a high collapse and volume change. A single odometer test was utilized to specify the collapsibility of soil. Lime and silica fume were utilized to detract the collapsibility of gypseous soil at a percent from 0 to 8%. The soil compacts at its field dry unit weight. Hence, while applying treatment material to stabilize the soil, it is crucial to specify the beginning ratio of saturation (So) that yields a satisfactory compaction result and optimal connection among soil particles. These factors were examined to determine the effects of varying starting suction amounts and starting saturation ratios on the collapsibility of both treated and untreated gypseous soil. Furthermore, a saturation-effective ratio that achieves the lowest collapse potential would be defined. The filter paper method was utilized to specify the initial matric suction to examine how it affects the soil's ability to collapse. The primary findings indicate that for both natural and treated soils, compacting the soil at a starting saturation ratio of 10, 20, and 30 percent results in a reasonably high collapsibility. Between 40 and 50 percent was the effective saturation ratio that yielded the lowest collapsibility. Soils' collapsibility was seriously affected by suction pressures. The disparity in the matric suction of the compressed specimens during the soaking had less of an influence on the collapsibility of the treated gypseous soil (particularly treated with silica fume) than untreated soil. To imitate the collapsibility of both natural and treated gypseous soil, an empirical equation is expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of iodide ions (I−), despite challenges due to low concentrations and potential masking, is crucial for studying physiological processes and diagnosing diseases. A colorimetric sensor was developed to improve I− ion monitoring and facilitate on-site detection based on filter paper, which is a cost-effective platform. The sensor observed color changes in response to the exposure of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB), from colorless to yellowish brown. The sensor demonstrated a detection limit of 0.125 × 10−6 M for I− ions in a relatively wide range of 0.01 to 15 × 10−6 M under optimized conditions including gel concentration, temperature, incubation time, TMB and H2O2 concentration, and pH. Furthermore, the proposed sensor was successfully employed in a variety of applications, such as biological (urine and blood serum), food (egg yolk and snacks), and environmental samples (tap water). The study established effective recoveries in complex media for visual on-site I− ion monitoring, indicating the developed assay as a potent, affordable, and practical platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are a high-quality interlamination reinforcement material, but the high viscosity of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) prevents good fusion between MWCNTs and PEEK. This study proposes a method to achieve the complete integration of MWCNTs and PEEK through the preparation of a composite film using the vacuum suction filtration (VSF) method and optimizes the process parameters. An orthogonal experiment with three factors (filter paper pore size, ultrasonic dispersion time, and PEEK content) at three levels is designed, and mechanical performance testing and microscopic morphology observation are conducted. The influence of the three factors of filter paper pore size, ultrasonic time, and PEEK content on the elastic modulus and tensile strength of the film is investigated. The results are a filter paper pore size of 0.45 μm, ultrasonic time of 8.3 h, and PEEK content of 336.524 mg. The mechanical performance obtained under the optimal process parameters are an elastic modulus of 2437.5723 MPa and a tensile strength of 46.5196 MPa. This optimal process increases the elastic modulus by 12.3152% while maintaining a high tensile strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A paper-based surface enhancement of a Raman scattering substrate consisting of silver-nanowires stacked on glass-fiber filter paper was prepared. At the same time, the DNA-embedding molecule Eva Green was introduced as a signaling molecule for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify target genes and the method was developed into a rapid molecular diagnostic system. The total detection time of the developed detection method was 40 min, including 30 min of PCR amplification and 10 min of SERS measurement. After 30 PCR cycles, bacterial DNA with an initial concentration of 20 fg/μL and a bacterial suspension with an initial concentration of 7.2 × 101 CFUs/mL could be detected. When the enrichment culture time was 4 h, target bacteria with an initial contamination inoculation volume of 1.5 CFUs/mL could be detected in artificially contaminated samples. The method is fast and highly sensitive, and has not been applied to the detection of V. parahaemolyticus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive emissions of heavy metals not only cause environmental pollution but also pose a direct threat to human health. Therefore, rapid and accurate detection of heavy metals in the environment is of great significance. Herein, we propose a method based on laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) combined with filter paper modified with bovine serum albumin-protected gold nanoclusters (LIBS-FP-AuNCs) for the rapid and sensitive detection of Cr3+ and Mn2+. The filter paper modified with AuNCs was used to selectively enrich Cr3+ and Mn2+. Combined with the multi-element detection capability of LIBS, this method achieved the simultaneous rapid detection of Cr3+ and Mn2+. Both elements showed linear ranges for concentrations of 10–1000 μg L−1, with limits of detection of 7.5 and 9.0 μg L−1 for Cr3+ and Mn2+, respectively. This method was successfully applied to the determination of Cr3+ and Mn2+ in real water samples, with satisfactory recoveries ranging from 94.6% to 105.1%. This method has potential application in the analysis of heavy metal pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water-soluble bromophenoxy-substituted naphthalimide derivative 1 and its copolymer P1 with acrylamide were synthesized and the photophysical properties of their host–guest complexes with cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) were studied. Notably, the host–guest complex CB[8]·1 showed long-lived RTP on filter paper and demonstrated a humidity response, making it suitable for use as an encryption ink. Furthermore, the solid powder of the host–guest complex between P1 and CB[8] exhibited a 4 s afterglow emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As air pollution escalates, the need for air filters increases. It is better that the filters used be based on natural fibers, such as non-wood fibers, which cause low damage to the environment. However, the short fiber lengths, low apparent densities, and high volumes of non-wood materials can make it challenging to prepare filter paper with the required mechanical and physical properties. In that context, this study focused on utilizing bamboo fibers to fabricate filter paper by employing the anthraquinone soda pulping method. The pulp underwent bleaching and oxidation processes, with the incorporation of cationic starch (CS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to enhance resistance properties, resulting in the creation of handmade filter papers. The findings revealed that the tear, burst, and tensile strength of filter paper increased with the oxidation and addition of CS and PVA. Air permeability increased with addition of PVA and combination of CS and PVA. FTIR demonstrated the conversion of hydroxyl groups in cellulose chains to carboxyl groups due to oxidation. SEM images illustrated alterations in the fiber structure post-oxidation treatment, with CS reducing pores while PVA and the CS-PVA combination enlarged pore size and enhanced porosity. The BET surface area surface area expanded with oxidation and the addition of the CS-PVA blend, indicating heightened filter paper porosity. Notably, the combined inclusion of CS and PVA not only augmented mechanical strength but also increased porosity while maintaining pore size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to determine the amount and type of microplastics in different milk samples. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sample collection was done from branded, dairy, and directly from the cow shed and was then transferred to a conical flask. Containers were wrapped with aluminum foil to avoid contamination of the samples. A total of 100 mL of 5% sodium chloride solution was added to 200 mL of milk sample, rotated for 2 min, and was kept to undergo density separation for 15 min in a water bath. Whatman filter paper Grade I of pore size 11 µm is used for filtration. The samples were filtered using a vacuum filtration setup with a vacuum pressure of 0.5 bar pressure and stored in clean Petri dishes. These were kept in a hot air oven for drying at 60°C for 3 h and at room temperature for 24 h for complete drying of the filter paper. RESULTS: Fourier transform infrared analyses determined that the polystyrene type of microplastics was higher, showing red, blue, violet, and green colors by microscopic analysis. CONCLUSION: Three categories of milk samples (branded, dairy, and cowshed) were taken and analyzed, the results showed more microplastics in branded milk packets than in dairy and fresh cowshed milk samples which are lower than other food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serum contains rich elemental information, and the elemental analysis of the serum using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) can help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. In this work, serum specimens from breast cancer patients were used as samples, and the elements Mg, Ca, and K were analyzed using LIBS. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were introduced to enhance spectral emission intensities, and this technique is known as nanoparticle-enhanced LIBS (NELIBS). An Ag NP-coated filter paper (Ag NP paper) substrate was prepared and was compared with silicon and aluminum substrates for NELIBS analysis. The Ag NP paper substrate showed lower spectral intensity variances and better elemental distribution uniformity due to the reduced coffee-ring effect compared with silicon and aluminum substrates. The enhanced effect of the Ag NP paper was optimized by adjusting serum volume and Ag NPs concentration. It was found that Mg, Ca, and K required different optimal conditions for spectral enhancement. The highest enhancement factors (EF) for Mg, Ca, and K were 1.85, 1.76, and 3.10, respectively. The electron temperature (Te) and electron number density (Ne) of NELIBS plasmas were measured using the Boltzmann plot and Stark broadening methods and compared with those of the normal LIBS plasmas. The Te and Ne of the NELIBS and normal LIBS samples were generally comparable with each other. Higher Ag NP concentrations led to lower Te values for NELIBS plasmas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition (EUS‐TA) is used for pathological diagnosis and obtaining samples for molecular testing, facilitating the initiation of targeted therapies in patients with pancreatic cancer. However, samples obtained via EUS‐TA are often insufficient, requiring more efforts to improve sampling adequacy for molecular testing. Therefore, this study investigated the use of oil blotting paper for formalin fixation of samples obtained via EUS‐TA. Methods: This prospective study enrolled 42 patients who underwent EUS‐TA for pancreatic cancer between September 2020 and February 2022 at the Osaka International Cancer Institute. After a portion of each sample obtained via EUS‐TA was separated for routine histological evaluation, the residual samples were divided into filter paper and oil blotting paper groups for analysis. Accordingly, filter paper and oil blotting paper were used for the formalin fixation process. The total tissue, nuclear, and cytoplasm areas of each sample were quantitatively evaluated using virtual slides, and the specimen volume and histological diagnosis of each sample were evaluated by an expert pathologist. Results: All cases were cytologically diagnosed as adenocarcinoma. The area ratios of the total tissue, nuclear, and cytoplasmic portions were significantly larger in the oil blotting paper group than in the filter paper group. The frequency of cases with large amount of tumor cells was significantly higher in the oil blotting paper group (33.3%) than in the filter paper group (11.9%) (p = 0.035). Conclusions: Oil blotting paper can increase the sample volume obtained via EUS‐TA on glass slides and improve sampling adequacy for molecular testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nachrichten aus der Chemie is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Accuracy of molecular tools for the identification of parasites that cause human cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) could largely depend on the sampling method. Non-invasive or less-invasive sampling methods such as filter paper imprints and cotton swabs are preferred over punch biopsies and lancet scrapings for detection methods of Leishmania based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) because they are painless, simple, and inexpensive, and of benefit to military and civilian patients to ensure timely treatment. However, different types of samples can generate false negatives and there is a clear need to demonstrate which sample is more proper for molecular assays. Methodology: Here, we compared the sensitivity of molecular identification of different Leishmania (Viannia) species from Peru, using three types of sampling: punch biopsy, filter paper imprint and lancet scraping. Different composite reference standards and latent class models allowed to evaluate the accuracy of the molecular tools. Additionally, a quantitative PCR assessed variations in the results and parasite load in each type of sample. Principal findings: Different composite reference standards and latent class models determined higher sensitivity when lancet scrapings were used for sampling in the identification and determination of Leishmania (Viannia) species through PCR-based assays. This was consistent for genus identification through kinetoplastid DNA-PCR and for the determination of species using FRET probes-based Nested Real-Time PCR. Lack of species identification in some samples correlated with the low intensity of the PCR electrophoretic band, which reflects the low parasite load in samples. Conclusions: The type of clinical sample can directly influence the detection and identification of Leishmania (Viannia) species. Here, we demonstrated that lancet scraping samples consistently allowed the identification of more leishmaniasis cases compared to filter paper imprints or biopsies. This procedure is inexpensive, painless, and easy to implement at the point of care and avoids the need for anesthesia, surgery, and hospitalization and therefore could be used in resource limited settings for both military and civilian populations. Author summary: Human cutaneous leishmaniasis affects low-income populations living in places far from health services. The early sampling and detection of the parasite are necessary for timely treatment, however there are no uniform sampling criteria, thus the sensitivity of molecular tests may vary due to various factors such as the type of sample, the time of the disease and the parasite load in the lesion. In this study, we compared the performance of three sampling methods for molecular identification of the genus and Leishmania (Viannia) species in Peru. Several analytical methods, including composite reference standards and latent class models, suggested that lancet scraping might be the best approach for parasite genus detection by kDNA-PCR and for parasite species determination by FRET probes-based Nested Real-Time PCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increasing need for accessible methods to monitor soil health. Our primary objective was to evaluate an accessible, do-it-yourself method for measuring the maximum water holding capacity – we call this the funnel, filter paper, and drainage (MWHCFFPD) method. First, we compared MWHCFFPD to the water desorption method via pressure cells (WHCPC), routinely used for generating soil water retention curves, using 10 soils from a wide range of textures (4–55% clay). Second, we tested the sensitivity of the MWHCFFPD to methodological variations likely encountered by citizen scientists. The two methods were quite comparable in precision, with mean coefficient of variances of 3.5% and 4.4% for the FFPD and water desorption method, respectively. The MWHCFFPD and WHCPC methods were comparable, with MWHCFFPD best correlating to WHCPC at −2.45 kPa (R2 = 0.98). The MWHCFFPD method is somewhat sensitive to some methodological modifications, most notably variation in water source, but with standardized protocols could be scientifically robust. Overall, MWHCFFPD can be used as a simple and affordable test of sieved soil structure and organic matter, and thus has potential to expand soil health monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, multi-band bandstop filters (BSFs) based on mixed electric and magnetic coupling resonators are proposed. These proposed structures include a multimode resonator based on symmetrical open-circuit branches, including upper- and lower-branch filter circuits. Through this design, the center frequencies of the stopbands can be flexibly and autonomously adjusted. In addition, the filters proposed in this paper have excellent characteristics, such as miniature dimensions and abrupt roll-off skirts. Finally, these tri-band to sext-band bandstop filters were fabricated and the measured results agreed well with the simulated ones. The proposed structures can be applied in the fields of communication, information, and coal automation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Due to the unstable drug release rate of uniaxial bone scaffolds, multi-structure composite printing methods have been sought in and outside China in recent years. Currently, coaxial drug-loaded bone scaffolds, which combine drug-loaded sustained release system with bone transplantation and repair technology, not only replace the defective bone after implantation, but also release drugs slowly, providing a microenvironment conducive to bone formation at the implant site. OBJECTIVE: To explore and assess the in vitro antibacterial properties of uniaxial and coaxial minocycline hydrochloride bone scaffolds. METHODS: Rapid prototyping technology was used to prepare uniaxial hydroxyapatite/silk fibroin-polyvinyl alcohol scaffold, uniaxial hydroxyapatite/silk fibroin-polyvinyl alcohol scaffold, coaxial hydroxyapatite/silk fibroin-polyvinyl alcohol scaffold, and coaxial hydroxyapatite/silk fibroin-polyvinyl alcohol scaffold, respectively, which were named S1, S2, T1 and T2. The morphology, porosity, degradation performance, in vitro sustained-release performance and cytotoxicity of scaffolds were characterized. Four kinds of bone scaffolds were immersed in PBS to prepare the extracts at different time points (1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days). The qualitative filter paper was placed into the extract for 24 hours. The filter paper was co-cultured with Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum for 72 hours. The bacteriostatic effect of four groups of scaffolds was detected by the agar diffusion method. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Scaffold characterization: Four groups of scaffolds were well formed. The surface of micro-wires in the S1 and S2 groups was dense and smooth, and the surface of micro-wires in the T1 and T2 groups was rough. Porosity was between 40%-47% and met the requirements of bone scaffolds. Compared with the S2 group, sustained release time was longer in the T2 group. The sustained release concentration of the drug was between 1- 10 μg/mL for a long time, which was more conducive to bacteriostasis and osteogenesis. After 10 weeks of immersion in PBS in vitro, the degradation rate of the coaxial printed bone scaffold was faster than that of the corresponding uniaxial printed bone scaffold, and the degradation rate of the coaxial loaded bone scaffold was lower than that of the coaxial non-loaded bone scaffold. The four groups of scaffold extracts were co-cultured with osteoblasts respectively. CCK-8 assay displayed that the cell proliferation rate was greater than 75%, which met the requirements of biocompatibility. (2) In vitro antibacterial effect: S1 and T1 did not have antibacterial activity. S2 and T2 had an obvious antibacterial effect. Under the extraction solution on day 28, the diameter of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum inhibition zone in the S2 group was smaller than that in the T2 group (P < 0.05). (3) These findings exhibit that hydroxyapatite/silk fibroin-polyvinyl alcohol scaffolds with coaxial minocycline have good physical properties and bacteriostatic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar (BC) was used in Trichoderma sp. culture to produce high-activity cellulase on a laboratory scale. The biochar was added into the flask before being applied to the fermenter to identify the enhancement effect and to determine the best amount of addition and the most suitable incubation period. Cellulase production was performed with a working volume of 4 L, and enzymatic hydrolysis was conducted to evaluate the saccharification ability of the enzyme. During incubation, the activities of three enzymes (Endoglucanase (EG), β-glucosidase (BGL), and cellobiohydrolase (CBH)) were measured for three days, and the cellulase activity was determined using a filter paper unit (FPU). In flask scale, EG, BGL, and CBH activities were increased by 1.4, 2.1, and 1.8 folds, respectively, and the incubation period was shortened by adding BC. In the fermenter scale, EG, BGL, and CBH activities were noticeably enhanced by 12.1, 5.8, and 7.2 folds, respectively, and FPU was 42.1 (9.8 folds). Additionally, the conversion rates of cellulose and steam exploded softwood and hardwood were 109.4%, 75.4%, and 87.3%, which were similar to a commercial enzyme (Cellic CTec II). This study demonstrated that biochar could be used to produce high-activity cellulase in a shorter period and suggests a novel method for effective cellulase production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The filter paper (FP) method, a cost-effective, versatile, and convenient approach, has found extensive application in analyzing fine-grained soils, enabling the successful measurement of a broad spectrum of total and matric suctions. However, using the FP method in sand with a limited range of suction profiles has been notably underrepresented in the existing literature. Therefore, this study investigated the applicability of the contact FP method in establishing soil water retention curves (SWRCs) using five distinct FP calibration curves for 10 poorly graded sands. Among these calibration curves, the one presented by Chandler yielded the highest suction values, which were followed by those of ASTM. Furthermore, the FP results were subjected to fitting with a mathmatical model, which led to the observation that the overall trends in the obtained SWRCs displayed smooth sigmoidal shapes, resulting in a complete and coherent SWRCs. The SWRC results of five sand samples were assessed through validation against the hanging column technique (HCT) results, indicating a high degree of concordance and affirming the suitability of the FP method for sands characterized by a limited suction profile. Notably, the entire range of suction values fell within the 0.01–20 kPa range based on the calibration curves presented by Chandler and ASTM for all the examined sand samples, except sands 9 and 10. Furthermore, the suction values were unobtainable using the two aforementioned calibration curves within the ranges of 0.01–1.47 kPa and 0.01–0.172 kPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the photothermal performance of lignin-based nanospheres was investigated. Subsequently, a photothermal actuator was prepared using lignin-based carbon nanospheres (LCNSs). The results demonstrated that LCNSs exhibited an impressive photothermal conversion efficiency of up to 83.8%. This extreme efficiency significantly surpasses that of lignin nanospheres (LNSs) and covalently stabilized LNSs (HT-LNSs). As a structural material, a hydrophobic coating was effectively engineered by LCNSs on the filter paper, achieving a water contact angle of 151.9° ± 4.6°, while maintaining excellent photothermal effects (with a temperature increment from room temperature to 138 °C in 2 s). When employing hydrophobic filter paper as the substrate for the photothermaldriven actuator, under the influence of a 1.0 W/cm2 power–density NIR laser, the material exhibited outstanding photothermal actuation, achieving speeds up to 16.4 mm/s. In addition, the direction of motion of the actuator can be adjusted in accordance with the location of the NIR light irradiation. This study offers valuable perspectives on the application of LNSs for highvalue applications and the development of innovative photothermal-driven actuators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of cryptococcal meningitis relies primarily on flucytosine (5FC), which is also used to treat candidiasis and infections caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. High dosages of this drug, despite its therapeutic properties, may cause hazardous side effects such as bone marrow suppression, hepatotoxicity, and gastrointestinal toxicity. The detection of trace amounts of 5FC medication may aid in tracking the treatment's efficacy and mitigating unwanted effects. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a rapid, reliable, and precise approach for detecting extremely low amounts of biological and chemical compounds. A filter paper-based SERS biosensor coated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were employed to detect the 5FC drug. The AgNPs fabricated via the chemical reduction method were characterized by FE-SEM, TEM, XRD, AFM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Plasmonic active sites were made by coating the filter paper substrate with AgNPs to detect the 5FC drug's molecular vibrations. As the 5FC drug was coated onto the filter paper substrate, the AgNPs interacted with it, allowing for the detection of very low concentrations of the drug. The SERS filter paper substrate could detect concentrations of 5FC as low as 10−10 M. The Raman spectra and peak signals obtained experimentally were also simulated and validated using the density functional theory (DFT) approach. Six sets of measurements were taken, and the average RSD was obtained to be 4.62%. The experimentally measured enhancement factor for recognizing molecular vibrations of the 5FC was 9.065 × 107, and it was numerically estimated as 10.044 × 107. Therefore, the fabricated SERS-based filter paper substrate is useful for drug monitoring since they can detect even trace amounts of the targeted drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper‐based materials are widely used in various fields due to their advantages, such as environmental friendliness and sustainability. However, the highly hydrophilic nature of the cellulose that makes up paper‐based materials limits their use. In this paper, micron/nano‐graphite/polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coatings with excellent superhydrophobic and conductive properties were prepared on the surface of filter paper by a simple spraying method. A mixture of micro‐graphite and nano‐graphite was used to form a multistage rough structure on the surface of the filter paper by spraying, and the low surface energy PDMS enhanced the adhesion of the micro‐graphite and nano‐graphite on the surface of the filter paper. The results showed that the samples possessed the best superhydrophobic properties when the ratio of micro‐graphite to nano‐graphite was 1:1, at which time the contact and rolling angles of the samples were 165.4° and 3.2°, respectively. The prepared superhydrophobic samples have good bounce and self‐cleaning properties, while the samples have good mechanical stability and chemical resistance. Additionally, due to the conductivity of micro–nano‐graphite, both particle sizes closely contact the sample surface, creating a conductive network. With a 1:1 ratio of micro‐ and nano‐graphite, the coating exhibits minimal resistance at 1.89 KΩ, and the sample maintains stable conductivity even underwater. The above properties greatly extend the application range of paper‐based superhydrophobic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Diversitas Journal is the property of Diversitas Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Malaria is a parasitic disease that affects many of the poorest economies, resulting in approximately 241 million clinical episodes and 627,000 deaths annually. Piperaquine, when administered with dihydroartemisinin, is an effective drug against the disease. Drug concentration measurements taken on day 7 after treatment initiation have been shown to be a good predictor of therapeutic success with piperaquine. A simple capillary blood collection technique, where blood is dried onto filter paper, is especially suitable for drug studies in remote areas or resource-limited settings or when taking samples from children, toddlers, and infants. Methods: Three 3.2 mm discs were punched out from a dried blood spot (DBS) and then extracted in a 96-well plate using solid phase extraction on a fully automated liquid handling system. The analysis was performed using LC-MS/MS with a calibration range of 3 – 1000 ng/mL. Results: The recovery rate was approximately 54–72 %, and the relative standard deviation was below 9 % for low, middle and high quality control levels. The LC-MS/MS quantification limit of 3 ng/mL is sensitive enough to detect piperaquine for up to 4–8 weeks after drug administration, which is crucial when evaluating recrudescence and drug resistance development. While different hematocrit levels can affect DBS drug measurements, the effect was minimal for piperaquine. Conclusion: A sensitive LC-MS/MS method, in combination with fully automated extraction in a 96-well plate format, was developed and validated for the quantification of piperaquine in DBS. The assay was implemented in a bioanalytical laboratory for processing large-scale clinical trial samples.