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• We found for the first time that TRPM2 may be a key target for AZ to exert ameliorative VaD effects. • We verified that AZ attenuated oxidative stress and improved mitochondrial structure and function in VaD rats. • Smurf2 was identified as the E3 ligase of TRPM2 for the first time, whereas AZ plays a role in alleviating oxidative stress damage and improving cognitive dysfunction in VaD rats. Alizarin (AZ) is a natural anthraquinone with anti-inflammatory and moderate antioxidant properties. In this study, we characterized the role of AZ in a rat model of vascular dementia (VaD) and explored its underlying mechanisms. VaD was induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion. We found that AZ attenuated oxidative stress and improved mitochondrial structure and function in VaD rats, which led to the improvement of their learning and memory function. Mechanistically, AZ reduced transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) expression and activation of the Janus-kinase and signal transducer activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway in VaD rats. In particular, the reduction in the expression of TRPM2 channels was the key to the attenuation of the oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial damage, which may be achieved by increasing the expression of the E3 ubiquitin ligase, Smad-ubiquitination regulatory factor 2 (Smurf2); thereby increasing the ubiquitination and degradation levels of TRPM2. Our results suggest that AZ is an effective candidate drug for ameliorating VaD and provide new insights into the current clinical treatment of VaD. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective • The aim of this study was to explore the calcification process of aortic valve interstitial cells and its potential association with osteogenic differentiation and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Methods • The study patients were divided into 3 groups: the control group, the osteogenic induction medium (OM) group and the OM+ALP inhibitor group. Cell calcification was measured by alizarin red S staining and alizarin red S dye released by extracellular matrix (ECM) was quantified by spectrophotometry. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on valve tissues of patients harboring calcified and non-calcified aortic valve disease. Expression of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), runt related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osteocalcin and osteopontin (OPN), was evaluated using immunohistochemistry¸and expression of osteogenic specific markers (BMP, RUNX2 and OPN) was detected using Wesern blot analysis. RNA sequencing was analyzed to further study the exact mechanism of ALP inhibitors in terms of inhibiting the osteogenic differentiation of valvular interstitial cells (VIC). The mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3), were detected using reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). In addition, Western blot analysis was performed to evaluate the expression of phosphorylated extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK), nuclear factor κ B inhibitor α (IκBα) and protein kinase B (AKT) in protein. Results • Alizarin red staining was positive in the OM and OM+ALP inhibitor groups, and calcified nodules were formed in VIC, which showed a significant difference compared with the control group (P < .05). The semiquantitative level of calcification in the OM group was higher than in the control group (P < .05), and the semiquantitative level of calcification in the OM+ALP inhibitor group was lower than in the OM group (P < .05). ALP staining intensity, ALP activity and messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of BMP, RUNX2, osteocalcin, OPN, ERK, IκBα, AKT, TNF-α, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and NLRP3 inflammasome (NLRP3) in the OM group were higher than in the control group (P < .05). ALP staining intensity, ALP activity and mRNA expressions of BMP, RUNX2, osteocalcin, OPN, phosphorylated ERK, IκBα, AKT, TNF-α and NLRP3 in the OM+ALP inhibitor group were lower than in the OM group (P <.05). Compared with the control group, 723 genes were upregulated and 248 genes were downregulated in the OM group. Compared with the OM group, 352 genes were upregulated and 586 genes were downregulated in the OM+ALP inhibitor group. Conclusion • We suggest that ALP inhibitors have potential in terms of inhibiting the inflammatory response and osteoblast differentiation of human VIC (hVIC) via the TLR4, AKT, ERK and NLRP3 pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of its low critical temperature and pressure levels, supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) is the most widely used supercritical fluid in the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) technique. Alizarin was extracted from madder roots (Rubia tinctorum) using scCO2 under different conditions of co-solvent ratio (0–50%), temperature (45–95 °C), pressure (150–250 bar), extraction time (15–120 min), and flow rate (5–9 mL/min). Based on alizarin recovery and minimization of environmental risk, the optimum conditions were determined. SFE was optimum at 90% CO2:10% methanol (Me), 65 °C, 250 bar, 45 min, and 9 mL/min. The alizarin recovery, and its content in R. tinctorum extract (RE) under the optimum conditions were 1.34 g/kg roots, and 6.42%, respectively. Using conventional dyeing methods, wool fabrics were dyed with RE at different concentrations (2–6%). Various types of mordants were also used in the dyeing process, including chemical and bio-mordants. Color and fastness properties of dyed wool fabrics were evaluated based on RE concentration and mordant type. A higher RE concentration and the use of mordants, specifically Punica granatum (P. granatum) peels, increased the color characteristics. RE and dyed fabrics exhibited good antibacterial activity against the tested bacterial strains, especially Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was demonstrated that the mechanism of the inner filter effect (IFE) can emerge well in the resonance Rayleigh scattering (RRS) technique and be utilized as a new analytical method in the design of innovative IFE-based sensors. To prove this process, silver nanocubes (Ag NCs) with tunable extinction spectra were selected as RRS probes, and three analytes, doxorubicin (DOX), sunitinib (SUN), and Alizarin Red S (ARS), were considered as the typical absorbers. In addition, in the presence of SUN as a typical analyte, the quenching of the RRS signal of Ag NCs, with λmax of 419 nm, was linear in the range 0.01 to 2.5 µM of SUN. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.0025 µM. The introduced method was then used to develop a dual-signal assay for the ratiometric determination of Al3+ ions. The suggested dual-signal assay was based on the color changes of ARS caused by Al3+ and the IFE between ARS and Ag NCs. The obtained results showed that the two characteristics of response sensitivity and linear dynamic range are very satisfactory for sensing Al3+ ions. The findings of this study demonstrate that the newly developed IFE mechanism can be employed as an attractive and highly efficient analytical technique for measuring different analytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimuli-responsive copolymers are of great interest for targeted drug delivery. This study reports on a controllable post-polymerization quaternization with 2-bromomethyl-4-fluorophenylboronic acid of the poly(4-vinyl pyridine) (P4VP) block of a common poly(styrene)-b-poly(4-vinyl pyridine)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) (SVE) triblock terpolymer in order to achieve a selective responsivity to various diols. For this purpose, a reproducible method was established for P4VP block quaternization at a defined ratio, confirming the reaction yield by 11B, 1H NMR. Then, a reproducible self-assembly protocol is designed for preparing stable micelles from functionalized stimuli-responsive triblock terpolymers, which are characterized by light scattering and by cryogenic transmission electron microscopy. In addition, UV-Vis spectroscopy is used to monitor the boron-ester bonding and hydrolysis with alizarin as a model drug and to study encapsulation and release of this drug, induced by sensing with three geminal diols: fructose, galactose and ascorbic acid. The obtained results show that only the latter, with the vicinal diol group on sp2-hybridized carbons, was efficient for alizarin release. Therefore, the post-polymerization method for triblock terpolymer functionalization presented in this study allows for preparation of specific stimuli-responsive systems with a high potential for targeted drug delivery, especially for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alizarin red S assay is considered the gold standard for quantification of osteoblast mineralization and is thus widely used among scientists. However, there are several restrictions to this method, e.g., moderate sensitivity makes it difficult to uncover slight but significant effects of potentially clinically relevant substances. Therefore, an adaptation of the staining method is appropriate and might be obtained by increasing the mineralization ability of osteoblasts. In this study, cell culture experiments with human (SaOs-2) and murine (MC3T3-E1) osteoblasts were performed under the addition of increasing concentrations of calcium chloride (1, 2.5, 5, and 10 mM) or calcitonin (1, 2.5, 5, and 10 nM). After three or four weeks, the mineralization matrix was stained with alizarin red S and the concentration was quantified photometrically. Only calcium chloride was able to significantly increase mineralization, and therefore enhanced the sensitivity of the alizarin red S staining in a dose-dependent manner in both osteoblastic cell lines as well as independent of the cell culture well surface area. This cost- and time-efficient optimization enables a more sensitive analysis of potentially clinically relevant substances in future bone research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a series of C-3-aminomethyl derivatives based on alizarin (1) was obtained using Mannich reaction. The antioxidant properties of the compounds were evaluated using in vitro models. It was found that most of the synthesized derivatives were superior to alizarin (1) in radical scavenging activity and Fe2+-chelation ability. The antioxidant activity of alizarin derivatives was confirmed using biologically relevant test systems; all compounds strongly inhibited Fe2+/ascorbate-initiated oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids of animal lipids and most of them increased the survival of red blood cells under conditions of acute oxidative stress. In the cellular model system, the Mannich base containing a thiomorpholinomethyl moiety demonstrated the highest activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rubia genus includes major groups of medicinal plants such as Rubia cordifolia, Rubia tinctorum, and Rubia akane. They contain anthraquinones (AQs), particularly alizarin and purpurin, which have pharmacological effects that are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, hemostatic, antibacterial, and more. Alizarin and purpurin have been utilized as natural dyes for cotton, silk, and wool fabrics since the dawn of time. These substances have been used in the cosmetics and food industries to color products. The amount of AQs in different Rubia species is minimal. In order to produce these compounds, researchers have established cell and organ cultures. Investigations have been conducted into numerous chemical and physical parameters that affect the biomass and accumulation of secondary metabolites in a cell, callus, hairy root, and adventitious root suspension cultures. This article offers numerous techniques and approaches used to produce biomass and secondary metabolites from the Rubia species. Additionally, it has been emphasized that cells can be grown in bioreactor cultures to produce AQs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent progress has been made in the application of novel zirconium-loaded amine-grafted walnut shells as multifunctional adsorbents for the remediation of Alizarin red (AR) and bacteria in aqueous solutions. The morphology and functional groups of ACWNS@Zr were studied using Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) techniques, X-ray diffraction (XRD), pH point of zero charges (pHpzc), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Adsorption and regeneration tests were carried out in batch and column mode. The ACWNS@Zr had a Langmuir maximum capacity of 415.5 ± 6.1 mg g−1 at 303 K. The spread plate technique was used to evaluate the adsorbent's antimicrobial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. ACWNS@Zr exhibited inhibitory potential towards S. aureus and E. coli in the suspensions by 53.3% and 15.0%, respectively. Electrostatic interaction and complexation interaction could be the key mechanisms governing AR dye removal. Equilibrium isotherms fit Langmuir models better for both batch and column studies, while adsorption kinetics to pseudo-second-order and Thomas models for batch and column studies, respectively. Thermodynamic studies indicated that the adsorption process was endothermic and spontaneous. Furthermore, columns' mass transfer capacity (B) increased as the concentration increased due to the enhanced driving force for AR adsorption onto ACWNS@Zr. Regeneration with NaOH solution of AR-loaded ACWNS@Zr was remarkable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to clarify the biological functions of decorin (DCN) in the healing and regeneration of wounded periodontal tissue. We investigated the expression pattern of DCN during the healing of wounded periodontal tissue in rats by immunohistochemistry and the effects of DCN on the osteoblastic differentiation of human periodontal ligament (PDL) stem cells (HPDLSCs) and preosteoblasts by Alizarin red S staining, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions, and western blotting. The expression of DCN was increased around the wounded PDL tissue on day 5 after surgery compared with the nonwounded PDL tissue, whereas its expression was not changed in the osteoblastic layer around the wounded alveolar bone. Furthermore, DCN promoted the osteoblastic differentiation of HPDLSCs, but it did not affect the osteoblastic differentiation of preosteoblasts. ERK1/2 phosphorylation was upregulated during the DCN-induced osteoblastic differentiation of HPDLSCs. DCN did not affect proliferation, migration, or the PDL-related gene expression of HPDLSCs. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that DCN has a role in the healing of wounded periodontal tissue. Furthermore, DCN secreted from PDL cells may contribute to bone healing by upregulating osteoblastic differentiation through ERK1/2 signaling in HPDLSCs, indicating a therapeutic effect of DCN in periodontal tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work studied a low-cost water hyacinth biosorbent to remove alizarin yellow (AY) and rhodamine B (RB) from aqueous solutions. The physicochemical characterization of the water hyacinth leaf (WHL) was carried out by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Contact time, pH, initial dye concentration, and temperature on adsorption were investigated in batch mode. The maximum removal of AY and RB was detected at pH 2. The results showed that the adsorption of dyes was enhanced with increased contact time, initial dye concentration, and temperature. The contact time reached equilibrium within 120 min and 90 min for AY and RB, respectively. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were applied to the equilibrium data. The Langmuir isotherm model better described the equilibrium data, indicating the monolayer adsorption for all dyes. The maximum adsorption capacity values from the Langmuir model were 37.04 and 23.98 mg/g for AY and RB, respectively. The kinetic data of the adsorption were better described using the pseudosecond- order model. Thermodynamic studies showed that the adsorption of dyes was endothermic and spontaneous, and the adsorption was physisorption. The adsorption mechanisms involved H-bonding, Yoshida H-bonding, n [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alizarin, extracted from rubia cordifolia, is a green natural dye. However, its application has been limited by its poor water solubility and pH sensitivity. In this study, linear sulfonic anionic surfactant ( LAS) had been studied as a new dispersant, which promoted the dyeing of alizarin on fabrics under mild conditions. Ultraviolet visible ( UV-vis) spectra and Fourier transform infrared ( FTIR) spectra confirmed appropriate bonding between alizarin and LAS, and the nano particle size analysis showed that LAS could promote the dispersion of alizarin in aqueous solution. Under the optimized condition of alizarin 4. 8% on mass of fabric (omf) and LAS solution 2×10 -2 mol / L, the fabrics were dyed with alizarin at room temperature and pH neutral conditions. The dyed fabrics had good washing fastness and ironing fastness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to investigate the insights of Alizarin Yellow removal by hybrid materials precursor to natural bentonite. The hybrid materials employed are bentonite modified with hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA) (BnH) and aluminium pillared HDTMA bentonite (BnAH). Surface morphology of materials are obtained with scanning electron microscopy-Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX). The batch reactor operations conducted in the removal of Alizarin Yellow by these solids for various parametric studies which enabled to deduce the mechanism involved at solid/solution interface. Sorption capacity and selectivity was increased significantly using hybrid materials in the removal of AY. Hybrid materials showed very high removal capacity of AY and apparently unaffected at varied pH (4.0−10.0) and sorptive concentrations 1.0 to 25.0 mgL-1. Kinetic studies indicated that an apparent equilibrium occurred within 5–10 min of contact and the kinetic data was better fitted to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The percent removal of AY was not affected by increasing the background electrolyte (NaCl) concentration to 0.1 molL-1 and in presence of several co-existing ions. It is revealed that the hybrid materials are found more organophilic and AY molecule bound with strong forces at the surface of hybrid materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the influence of some novel scavengers on the physical, mechanical, and formaldehyde emission of particleboard produced with urea-formaldehyde resin. Three different scavengers, alizarin red sulfonate, alizarin yellow-GG, and chromotropic acid, were incorporated into the UF resin at 1, 3, 5, and 7% (by weight) loading levels based on the oven-dried weight of the resin. Other manufacturing parameters were kept constant in the production of particleboards. The results indicated that the formaldehyde emission of the particleboards significantly reduced with an increasing amount of scavengers. The lowest formaldehyde emission was found in the specimens containing alizarin red sulfonate (0.38 mg/l), followed by chromotropic acid (0.43 mg/l), and alizarin yellow-GG (0.49 mg/l), respectively, at 7 wt% loading level of the scavengers. Although the physical and mechanical properties of the particleboards decreased with the increasing content of the scavengers, they met the requirements of particleboards for interior fitments (including furniture) for use in dry conditions (P2 grade) of EN 312 standard. According to the results of technological properties and formaldehyde emission of the particleboards, it can be said that alizarin red sulfonate is the best scavenger among the investigated ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a first-of-its-kind electrochemical sensor that demonstrates direct real-time continuous soil pH measurement without any soil pre-treatment. The sensor functionality, performance, and in-soil dynamics have been reported. The sensor coating is a composite matrix of alizarin and Nafion applied by drop casting onto the working electrode. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and squarewave voltammetry (SWV) studies were conducted to demonstrate the functionality of each method in accurately detecting soil pH. The studies were conducted on three different soil textures (clay, sandy loam, and loamy clay) to cover the range of the soil texture triangle. Squarewave voltammetry showed pH-dependent responses regardless of soil texture (while electrochemical impedance spectroscopy’s pH detection range was limited and dependent on soil texture). The linear models showed a sensitivity range from −50 mV/pH up to −66 mV/pH with R2 > 0.97 for the various soil textures in the pH range 3–9. The validation of the sensor showed less than a 10% error rate between the measured pH and reference pH for multiple different soil textures including ones that were not used in the calibration of the sensor. A 7-day in situ soil study showed the capability of the sensor to measure soil pH in a temporally dynamic manner with an error rate of less than 10%. The test was conducted using acidic and alkaline soils with pH values of 5.05 and 8.36, respectively.

The present work evaluates the synthesis of a novel, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly chemically-treated avocado seed powder (CTASP) as an adsorbent in removing alizarin red S (ARS) from synthetic solution. By using a set of analytical techniques, including FTIR, XRD, EDX, RS, and SEM, the adsorbent was characterized for its physical and chemical properties. Batch study experiments were conducted to determine the effectiveness of the CTASP as an adsorbent. The maximum adsorption capacity of 67.08 mgg-1 was attained at optimum conditions of 3 gL-1 adsorbent dosage, pH 3, contact time of 30 min, and at temperature 303 K. After 30 minutes, the equilibrium was reached, and the experimental data was explained for isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic processes. The results indicated that pseudo-second-order kinetics and the Freundlich isotherm were the best fits for the data. The findings of the analysis of the thermodynamic parameters for the process showed that the system was an exothermic and spontaneous. According to the desorption studies, 0.1 M NaOH can be utilized as a separating reagent to desorb 90.53% of ARS that was adsorbed. Regeneration experiments were conducted to make the process more practical and affordable, and it was discovered that the CTASP adsorbent could be successfully regenerated up to four times. In comparison with other adsorbents, the current low-cost adsorbent had the exceptional regenerative capability and delivered multilayer adsorption capacity. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that the CTASP is an effective material for the detoxification of ARS dye from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the effective adsorption and the subsequent photodegradation activity, of TiO2 brookite nanoparticles, for the removal of anionic dyes, namely, Alizarin Red S (ARS) and Bromocresol Green (BCG) were studied. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of both dyes' concentration, contact time, and temperature. Photodegradation experiments for the adsorbed dyes were achieved using ultraviolet light illumination (6 W, λ = 365 nm). The single adsorption isotherms were fitted to the Sips model. The binary adsorption isotherms were fitted using the Extended-Sips model. The results of adsorption isotherms showed that the estimated maximum adsorption uptakes in the binary system were around 140 mg g−1 and 45.5 mg g−1 for ARS and BCG, respectively. In terms of adsorption kinetics, the uptake toward ARS was faster than BCG molecules in which the equilibrium was obtained in 7 min for ARS, while it took 180 min for BCG. Moreover, the thermodynamics results showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous for both anionic dyes. All these macroscopic competitive adsorption results indicate high selectivity toward ARS molecules in the presence of BCG molecules. Additionally, the TiO2 nanoparticles were successfully regenerated using UV irradiation. Moreover, molecular dynamics computational modeling was performed to understand the molecules' optimum coordination, TiO2 geometry, adsorption selectivity, and binary solution adsorption energies. The simulation energies distribution exhibits lower adsorption energies for ARS in the range from − 628 to − 1046 kJ mol - 1 for both single and binary systems. In addition to that, the water adsorption energy was found to be between − 42 and − 209 kJ mol - 1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease, previously known as pseudogout, is a type of chronic and painful joint arthropathy. Accurate identification of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) single crystals is crucial for determining the best course of treatment. In this study, a two-step method involving alizarin red S (ARS) and a xanthene dipicolylamine ZnII (XDZ) complex was employed for the identification of CPPD single crystals in both triclinic and monoclinic forms using a fluorescence microscope and a microplate reader. The accurate identification method proposed in this study has the potential to advance the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from painful gouty arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing water pollution day by day has increased the importance of developing new adsorbent materials. In this study, composite hydrogel containing gelatin, [2-(Acryloyloxy)ethyl] trimethylammonium chloride (AETAC) and Graphene Nanoplate (GNPt) was developed as an adsorbent for the removal of dyes from wastewater. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer, Scanning Electron Microscope, X-Ray Diffractometer results confirmed the crosslinked polymer structure of Gelatin/p(AETAC)/GNPt composite hydrogel (Gel 5). In addition, equilibrium swelling ratio, which is a parameter affecting the adsorption behavior, was 48.22 gwater /ggel. The adsorption behavior of Alizarin Red S anionic dyestuff on composite hydrogel from aqueous solutions was investigated under various experimental conditions such as initial dye concentration of solution, amount of adsorbent, contact time, pH of solution, temperature of solution. ARS dye adsorption on composite hydrogel is consistent with Pseudo-Second-Order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm with max adsorption capacity of 649.35 mg/g. The composite hydrogel with high mechanical strength has high dye removal ability in the ranging pH from 4 to 8. Therefore, it can be said that Gelatin/p(AETAC)/GNPt composite hydrogel has a substantial potential for the removal of anionic dyes from wastewater in a wide pH range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alizarin (1,2-dihydroxyanthraquinone) is a natural red dye extracted from the roots of Rubia cordifolia L. (family Rubiaceae). Alizarin has been used as a biological red stain for calcium. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has critical roles in multiple physiological pathways. This study aimed to determine whether alizarin is an unreported ligand of AhR. In the present study, we investigated the effects on cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 mRNA, protein expression, AhR nuclear translocation, aryl hydrocarbon response element (AHRE) reporter activity, and AhR-specific antagonist following alizarin treatment of cells of the human hepatoma cell line, HepG2, and murine hepatoma cell line, Hepa-1c1c7. Alizarin induced CYP1A1 mRNA and protein expression in HepG2 and Hep-1c1c7 cells. Such induction was not present in C4 (B13NBii1) cells, which are AhR signal deficient, C12 (B15ECiii2) cells, which reduce AhR protein levels. The alizarin-induced responses were blocked by CH-223191, which is an AhR antagonist. Alizarin, the same as with the AhR ligand, induced the nuclear localization of AhR, as well as stimulated the transcriptional activity of AHRE. The results of this study suggest that alizarin is an AhR agonist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the potential of biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in the removal of alizarin yellow R (AY) from aqueous solutions by photocatalytic degradation, as well as adsorption, was investigated. The synthesized ZnO NPs were prepared by the simple wet-combustion method using the plant extract of Serratula coronata L. as a reducing and stabilizing agent and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Photocatalytic degradation of AY was monitored by UV–visible spectroscopy and the effects of parameters, such as light source type (UV-, visible- and sunlight), incubation time, pH, catalyst dosage and temperature on degradation were investigated. It was demonstrated that the source of light plays an important role in the efficiency of the reaction and the UV-assisted degradation of AY was the most effective, compared to the others. The degradation reaction of AY was found to follow the Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism and a pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The degradation kinetics of AY accelerated with increasing temperature, and the lowest activation energy (Ea) was calculated as 3.4 kJ/mol for the UV-light irradiation system, while the Ea values were 4.18 and 7.37 kJ/mol for visible light and sunlight, respectively. The dye removal by the adsorption process was also affected by several parameters, such as pH, sorbent amount and contact time. The data obtained in the kinetics study fit the pseudo-second-order equation best model and the rate constant was calculated as 0.001 g/mg·min. The isotherm analysis indicated that the equilibrium data fit well with the Freundlich isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacity of AY on biogenic ZnO NPs was 5.34 mg/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents an effective and highly sensitive electrochemical detection of Sunset Yellow (SSY) at poly(Alizarin Red‐S) and functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes composite modified glassy carbon electrode (f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE). The electrochemical response of the f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE towards SSY was examined by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square wave voltammetry (SWV). Both recorded cyclic voltammograms (CVs) and square wave voltammograms (SWVs) showed that the oxidation/reduction peaks of SSY at f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE were found to be much higher than the bare GCE, f‐MWCNTs/GCE, and poly(ALR‐S)/GCE. Calibration curves obtained from the SWVs indicated that the f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE offers a linear response in the range of 0.50 to 256 μM with a low detection limit (LOD) of 0.16 μM and the sensitivity was found to be 9686 μA mM−1 cm−2. The f‐MWCNTs/poly(ALR‐S)/GCE provides excellent performance for the detection of SSY in daily life samples with high accuracy and precision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the molecular interaction between the carbamazepine and alizarin in methanol has been represented in terms of limiting apparent molar volumes and viscosity coefficients. Before further proceeding, the validity and applicability of the calculation of apparent molar volumes have also been checked by considering the available five types of frequently used equations, where the required modifications have proposed by the addition of hypothetical mass and concentration of the solute. After that, the limiting apparent molar volume and viscosity coefficients have been calculated using Masson equation and Jones--Dole equation respectively to predict and cross-check the interactions occurring between the molecules in ternary system. The equation marked with (1) has been found the best-fit equation, and the carbamazepine and alizarin in methanol are strongly bound (φVo = 23104 m³ mol-1 and B = = 18.10 kg mol-1) to each other at the concentration 0.003 mol kg-1. The results have been interpreted in favour of the solute--cosolute interactions, which is dominant over the solute--solute and cosolute--cosolute interactions. The interpretations have been discussed with the help of intermolecular forces and non-covalent interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study depicts the plan, optimization, validation, and utilization of a novel polyvinylchloride (PVC) lattice-assisted membrane sensor to quantify fexofenadine hydrochloride (FFH) by utilizing Alizarin Red S (ARS), β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and nitrophenyl octyl ether (NPOE) as an ion-exchanger, ionophore, and plasticizer respectively. The PVC network-assisted FFH-ARS sensor answers in <15s with super Nernstian conduct for FFH over 2.5x10-6-1.25x10-3 mol L-1 in the pH of 2.0 to 5.5 range. The regression coefficient acquired for the alignment plot is 0.9921. The determined Nernstian slope of the line is 56.18±1.25 mV/decade. The detection limit (LOD) is viewed as 3.5x10-7 mol L-1. Validation results clarified its appropriateness to assay FFH precisely and definitively. The sensor is a decent one for robust and rugged capability with a mean RSD of 4.39%. The outcomes of the interference study confirmed the non-interference of foreign ions while measuring the potentials. Statistical comparison of the outcomes confirms the good agreement of results of the proposed analytical procedure with the reference one. The percentage of mean recovery of FFH utilizing the proposed FFH-ARS sensor was 98.56 and 95.61% for the tablets and spiked human urine respectively, and this affirmed the selectivity of the solid-state electrode for FFH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Modern Food Science & Technology is the property of Editorial Office of Modern Food Science & Technology 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.)

Two fluorescent dyes, alizarin red S (ARS) and calcein (CAL), were applied to evaluate the marking effects on the juveniles of Acanthopagrus schlegelii. The total mortality rates of the experimental groups were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of control groups, but no significant difference was detected between those of the two staining methods. The fluorescence microscopy observation results showed that the marking quality of ARS was better than that of CAL, with fin spines and fin rays being the best marking tissues. The optimal concentration for ARS and CAL was 200 mg/L and 350 mg/L, respectively. To ensure mark quality, the recommended dye grade was above 3, and the most suitable marking conditions were suggested to be fluorescence labeling with ARS dye at a concentration of 200 mg/L, with immersion for 24 h. The results will provide useful data information for future research on stock enhancement using the chemical marking method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Alizarin detection in fish fins is extensively employed because it is easy to use. However, in eels, the eelGFP fluorescent protein may impede the detection of the fluorescent markers in the eel tissues. The study tests the effectiveness of three of the most up-to-date alizarin-detecting technologies on the living body and fins of European glass eels (Anguilla anguilla L.). The findings demonstrated that the control group had a high autofluorescence at alizarin and eelGFP maxima bands. With fluorescence reflectance imaging (FRI), the eel living body autofluorescence impeded the detection of the marked eels. In contrast with experimental excitation-emission-matrix (EEM) fluorescence analyses, 99% of the marked eels were correctly assigned to their group from fluorescence analyses of their fin cellular contents. With epifluorometry (EPI), 100% of the marked eels were detected with the caudal fin tips when excited at 450–490 nm wavelengths due to a weaker autofluorescence signal. EEM and FRI assays unveiled an average fluorescence quenching 60% and 44% of the marked group respectively, in the alizarin and eelGFP maxima bands. The fluorescence quenching observed is discussed. Results will benefit experimental design by examining autofluorescence effects on mark detection and the development of non-invasive detection methods in this critically endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published solubility data for 4,5-dihydroxyanthraquinone-2-carboxylic acid dissolved in several organic solvents of varying polarity and hydrogen-bonding character are used to calculate the Abraham model solute descriptors. Calculated descriptor values suggest that 4,5-dihydroxyanthraquinone-2-carboxylic acid engages in intramolecular hydrogen formation between the two phenolic hydrogens and the proton acceptor sites (the lone electron pairs) on the neighboring quinone oxygen atom. Our study further shows that existing group contribution and machine learning methods provide rather poor estimates of the experimental-based solute descriptors of 4,5-dihydroxyanthraquinone-2-carboxylic acid, in part because the estimation methods to not account for the likely intramolecular hydrogen-bonds. The predictive aspect of the Abraham model is illustrated by predicting the solubility of 4,5-dihydroxyanthraquinone-2-carboxylic acid in 28 additional organic mono-solvents for which experimental data does not exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Redox flow battery technology has been known since the 1970s. Their low specific characteristics have been of interest for a long time. Practical interest has arisen in recent decades because of the intensive development of alternative energy (such as solar and wind) and the regulation of peak loads in industrial networks. It turned out that large-scale energy storage systems used for compensation of fluctuations in the generation of energy by the sun and the wind, while producing electric vehicles and power supply systems for large households, are more profitable when they work on flow redox batteries. Firstly, they are easily scalable, and secondly, the energy stored in such batteries is cheap. Since the expansion of the scope of practical use of flow batteries has taken place in recent years, researchers continue to work on increasing the economic efficiency of flow batteries and on the search for more efficient redox systems. One of these areas is the use of cheaper redox systems of organic nature, in particular, quinone, anthraquinone and their analogs. Their high water solubility, well-separated oxidation-reduction potentials, which practically eliminate water splitting, their stability, safety, and low cost on a scale of mass production are the most important characteristics for new aqueous organic electrolytes. So far, organic redox flow batteries are still inferior to vanadium and other inorganic redox batteries in terms of their operational parameters. This drawback hinders their development on industrial scale. However, the results shown in this review can help scientists to improve them and commercialize in the future.

In this study, a novel intelligent water-absorbent cellulose pad with a specified area was developed for the visual and non-destructive monitoring of fish freshness. The pad's substrate was composed of wood pulp cellulose (WPC), and the specified area contained a ratiometric mixture of brilliant blue (BRI) and alizarin (Alz)., fixed with Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). During the freshness monitoring process, the Alz/BRI-PVA WPC pad exhibited a color transition from green to brown, followed by a shift to purple-red, corresponding to the increasing levels of total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) and total viable count (TVC). After testing, a BRI/Alz ratio of 1:8 was selected as the optimal ratio. Compared to the volatile gas-based sensing tags, the pad developed in this study demonstrated a high sensitivity of 53.4% by interacting with the sample exudate to produce signal changes. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using the developed dual-functional pad for water absorption and freshness indications. [Display omitted] • A dual functional pad with indicating and water-absorbing properties is developed. • The indicating area shows color changes for visual detection of freshness. • The indicating area is more sensitive due to the Alz/BRI ratiometric indicator. • The indicating area can change color from green to brown, and then to purple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring of food quality, in particular, high-protein food quality, is an important component in ensuring food safety and human health. In this research, a feasible and easy solution casting and solvent evaporation strategy was adapted to fabricate alizarin red S (ARS)-loaded halochromic cationic guar gum (CGG) and κ-carrageenan (CAR) blend packaging labels to improve its good physical strength, multifunctional acid–base responsive characteristics, and water barrier properties. The findings indicated that incorporating CAR at 40% polymer solid mass achieved higher tensile strength (21.0 ± 1.77 MPa), water resistance (29.92 ± 6.61% solubility), and thermal stability, which can be attributed to good compatibility between CGG and CAR. The results obtained from FT-IR, XRD, and SEM analyses demonstrate that the incorporation of ARS exhibits non-covalent bonding with the polymer blend matrix through electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding, thus reducing its crystallinity and restructuring the CGG-CAR matrix disorderly. The prepared indicating label films presented visual recognition of ammonia and trimethylamine (TMA-N) at 0.008 mM in 6 min (the total color difference (ΔE) for TMA-N is＞11.89), and can be reused at least six times. Moreover, the color of ARS at different pH values remains persistent for at least 180 days. The practical applications show that the films, as indicator labels, can realize real-time, accurate, and visual dynamic monitoring of seafood (shrimp) and milk by engendering three chromatic stages discernible by the naked eye (fresh, spoiling, and spoiled). The ΔE for monitoring sub-fresh milk and shrimp reached as high as 14.91 and 13.32, respectively. Schematic illustration of obtaining and characterizing ARS-loaded halochromic CGG-CAR blend films. [Display omitted] • Binary films have higher mechanical strength, water resistance, thermal stability. •ARS has bestowed noticeably antioxidative and UV-barrier properties for binary film. •The color of ARS at different pH values can remain stable for at least 180 d. •Accurate monitoring of shrimp/milk was based on discernible three chromatic stages. •Indicating labels have outstandingly responded to sub-fresh milk/shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intermittent and continuous mechanical loads are known to influence osteogenic activity. The present study examines the effects of matched intermittent and continuous load in vitro on bone formation markers. MC3T3 (mouse pre-osteoblasts) were cultured and placed in a bioreactor to undergo continuous, intermittent, or unloading for 1, 3 and 12 days. Loading conditions were matched for magnitude, duration and frequency. Each time point was analysed for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, procollagen 1 N-terminal propeptide (PINP) and alizarin red staining (ARS). Intermittent load caused an increase in ALP activity across all time points compared to continuous loading (↑30%–59%) and unloaded conditions (↑70%–90%). PINP concentrations from intermittent load were lower than continuous load (↓112%) on day 3. However, no differences were observed in PINP concentrations between loading conditions at other time points. No differences were observed for ARS between loading conditions. Intermittent load caused an increase in bone formation marker ALP, but not PINP, when compared to continuous loading and unloaded conditions. These findings further our knowledge in bone formation response and provide additional tools for the analysis of osteogenesis in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing bifunctional innovative food packaging for maintaining and monitoring food freshness is crucial for food safety. Here, we prepared tannic acid cinnamaldehyde nanoemulsions through self-assembly and ionic cross-linking between the natural emulsifiers tannic acid and cinnamaldehyde, and were incorporated into chitosan as a protective outer layer. Sodium alginate anchored with alizarin was employed as the sensing inner layer. A pH-sensitive bilayer film integrating real-time monitoring and maintenance of food fresh food freshness was designed using layer-by-layer assembly (LBL) technology. The prepared bilayer film exhibited 100 % UV protection, >99 % antimicrobial effect, and 94.86 % and 97.91 % clearance rates for DPPH and ABTS free radicals, respectively. In addition, the bilayer film exhibited high biosafety and sensitive, reversible, and rapid response to pH/NH 3. Shrimp preservation experiments showed that the smart bilayer film could effectively slow down the growth of microorganisms on the surface of shrimp, extend the freshness period of shrimp, and could monitor the freshness of shrimp in real-time through color changes. In conclusion, the prepared SL-CCT bilayer film has excellent potential for food preservation and freshness monitoring, providing a new perspective for design and development of multifunctional smart food packaging films. • Ultrasonically triggered preparation of emulsions by self-assembly of tannins with cinnamaldehyde without emulsifiers. • pH-sensitive sodium alginate-anchored chymotrypsin for sensitive and rapid monitoring of shrimp freshness. • The bilayer film has excellent antimicrobial properties and stability, effectively extending the shelf life of the shrimp. • Outstanding biosafety with bilayer membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of novel pH-sensitive color materials based on alizarin, (1,2-dihydroxyanthraquinone), a natural pigment with versatile properties. The polymer-based indicators were prepared by grafting poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) from alizarin through an ester pH-liable bond, allowing for easy tunability of their physicochemical properties. The synthesis process involved the esterification of alizarin using 2-bromo-2-methylpropionyl bromide, facilitated by triethylamine as an acid scavenger. The resulting alizarin served as a difunctional initiator for atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of methyl methacrylate and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate. The molecular structures of the synthesized hybrids were confirmed using 1H NMR and GPC analyses. The color characteristic, surface energy, thermal stability, and pH sensing activity of the alizarin-based hybrids were studied according to the type of grafted polymer nature as well as their degree of polymerization. PHEMA-grafted alizarin showed more rapid and more visible color changes under the influence of NH 3 vapours compared to PMMA hybrids, due to their less hydrophobic nature. Furthermore, kinetic plots demonstrated various hydrolysis rates, with PMMA hydrolysis being slower than that of PHEMA due to its stronger hydrophobic character. UV–Vis spectra and GPC traces confirmed the occurrence of hydrolysis and successful cleavage of the ester bond links between the grafted polymers and alizarin with a decrease of the molar mass by a factor of two as expected. Such behavior offers opportunities for tailoring degradation profiles and achieving specific release profiles upon application of a wide range of polymers with varied character. The designed polymer-based pigments exhibited a high ability to monitor calorimetrically the pH changes, especially in alkaline conditions. Overall, this study contributes to the broadening of the application of alizarin-based materials, paving the way for further exploration and development in the field of functional materials. [Display omitted] • New pH-responsive alizarin-polymer systems with easily tunable properties were developed. • The as-synthesized polymer-based indicators showed high sensitivity to an alkaline environment. • PHEMA-based systems exhibited more rapid color response than PMMA due to their less hydrophobic nature. • Controlling hydrolysis and cleavage kinetics allows for the controlled release of pH-sensitive substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Thermally controlled ligand removal on the UiO-66 Metal-Organic framework (MOF) is done. • Unsaturated metal centers have been created and significantly enhancing the adsorption capacity for Alizarin Yellow GG dye. • Demonstrating a promising approach for tailoring MOF properties for specific applications. This study develops a defect-engineered quasi-UiO-66 MOF adsorbent with enhanced performance for removing the organic dye Alizarin Yellow GG. Introducing structural defects and controlled thermal treatment to generate exposed metal sites significantly improved adsorption capacity, providing insights for designing advanced MOF adsorbents. This research successfully developed a controlled thermal partial ligand elimination. This process introduced structural modifications, forming additional open zirconium sites and hierarchical pores within the framework. These unique features contributed to the superior adsorption performance of the Q-UiO-66 adsorbent towards the organic dye Alizarin Yellow GG, exhibiting an unprecedented uptake capacity of 398.2 mg.g−1. Comprehensive characterization techniques, including FT-IR, FE-SEM, BET, XRD, and elemental analyses, were employed to understand the adsorbent's properties. Furthermore, the optimization of the adsorption process was done using the Box-Behnken design approach, and the adsorption behavior was well-described by the Langmuier-Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The findings highlight the significant potential of this novel, defect-engineered Q-UiO-66 MOF adsorbent for effective dye removal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a high-quality porous sludge-activated carbon from a dairy-treatment effluent plant in México (ACSDM) was produced, characterized, and investigated in the adsorption of 8 different dyes. The main focus was establishing how the dyes' molecular characteristics affect adsorption. So, the intrinsic characteristics of the different dye molecules were correlated with the experimental adsorption data. ACSDM proved high quality, considering their textural properties and physical-chemical characteristics. Adsorption was efficient using the natural pH of each dye solution and 1 g L−1 of ACSDM. The highest adsorption capacities were obtained in the following order: Methylene Blue (MB) (998.44 mg g−1), Crystal Violet (CV) (795.65 mg g−1), Fuchsine (F) (342.52 mg g−1), Direct Blue 86 (DB-86) (306.36 mg g−1), Alizarin Green (AG) (303.25 mg g−1), Reactive Black 5 (RB-5) (259.82 mg g−1), Methanil Yellow (MY) (252.81 mg g−1) and Amaranth Red (AR) (251.12 mg g−1). These results were obtained at 55 °C (endothermic process), except for MY, where the adsorption was exothermic (25 °C). Freundlich was the model that best fitted the DB-86, MB, and CV equilibrium data. While the Langmuir and Tóth models best fit the RB-5, AR, and MY isotherms. Tóth also best represented the F and AG data. Kinetic curves demonstrated that adsorption occurred faster for dyes MB, F, CV, MY, AR, and RB-5, respectively, reaching 90 %-99 % of their saturations in the first 30 minutes. Meanwhile, the adsorption of AG and DB-86 only about 85 % of the saturation occurred. The study indicated that molecular volume is the major variable in the dye adsorption process, as well as some individual chemical characteristics of the molecule. • High-quality porous sludge-activated carbon from a dairy-treatment effluent. • Establishing how the dyes' molecular characteristics affect adsorption. • Adsorption was chemical or physical, depending on the dye molecule. • Molecular volume is the major variable in the dye adsorption process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation presents findings on the synthesis of nanocomposites consisting of CuTiO 3 and Zr/CuTiO 3. These materials were prepared using the hydrothermal technique, with zirconium metal being incorporated onto the CuTiO 3 matrix. A comprehensive investigation of the band gap was conducted. The observed band gaps for Zr/CuTiO 3 and CuTiO 3 was determined to be 2.7 eV and 3.3 eV respectively. This finding implies that Zr/CuTiO 3 exhibits enhanced electron mobility capabilities. The experiment involved subjecting the synthesized nanocomposite to a degradation analysis of Alizarin dye. Remarkably, the nanocomposite exhibited impressive degradation efficiency, with nearly 99 % of the dye being decomposed under the influence of light. The Zr/CuTiO 3 nanostructure exhibited remarkable antibacterial efficacy, as evidenced by its ability to inhibit the growth of B. subtilis and E. coli with a diameter of 19±0.4 mm and 16±0.3 mm respectively under light conditions and 14±0.2 mm and 10±0.4 mm under dark conditions respectively. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of cultural heritage, understanding the nature of pigments and dyes is of great importance for conservation issues. Among the many natural dyes used in paintings or textiles, madder was one of the most important sources of red color at the time and was present in a wide variety of objects. However, due to extraction challenges, impurities, and high costs, a lot of information are not easily available. In this publication we designed a computational protocol able to reproduce the spectroscopic properties of two dyes, alizarin and alizarin red S. This framework allows us to compute both Ultraviolet–Visible absorption spectra and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) with good accuracy as well as reproduce with precision the CIELAB color. We have also explored different types of interactions that impact these properties, notably the solvation effect. We found that microsolvation is sufficient to reproduce the experimental measurements made in water. The high accuracy of the computation method makes this technique particularly promising for a non-destructive study of dyes on works of art and the preservation of cultural heritage. • Alizarin is the main colored compound of natural Madder. • A computational protocol has been designed to reproduce photo-physical properties. • Solvation models and deprotonated forms can impact UV–Vis and NMR spectra. • The CIE color coordinates can also be predicted with accuracy. • We also tried a more water-soluble analog with success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline inorganic–organic hybrid nanoparticles (IOH-NPs) [La(OH)2]+[ARS]− (ARS: alizarin red S) are prepared in water as a new compound (particle size: 47 ± 7 nm, ARS load: 65 wt%). The IOH-NPs not only show a pH-dependent absorption colour but also a pH-dependent fluorescence with green emission at pH 5.0–9.0 and red emission at pH < 4.5. According to first in vitro studies, the pH-dependend fluorescence can be used to monitor nanoparticle internalization in cells as well as the respective intracellular pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and available method for on-line preparation of the adsorbent and solid phase extraction procedure for multi-element determination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has been proposed. The adsorbent (Al2O3-PB-AC) was synthesised by sequential impregnation of Al2O3 with Polybrene (PB) and Alizarin Complexone (AC). Cd(II), Cr(III), Ni(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II) were quantitatively recovered using Al2O3-PВ-AC from aqueous solutions at pH 6.5 and at a flow rate of 1.0 mL min−1. All the elements can easily be eluted by 3.0 mL 0.5 M HNO3. A mini-column packed with 0.100 g Al2O3-PB-AC retained all elements quantitatively from up to 50 mL multi-element solution with an enrichment factor of 16.7. The relative standard deviation for five replicate determinations was 3.5%, 7.3%, 6.2%, 7.4% and 4.7% for Cd(II), Cr(III), Ni(II), Pb(II) and Zn(II), respectively, for determination of 5 μg L−1 level. The developed method was applied for SPE-ICP-MS determination of Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, Zn in snow and river waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benefiting from its large specific surface area and hierarchical pore structure, biomass-derived porous carbon is widely used as an electrode material for energy storage devices. In this research, ginkgo leaves are used as a precursor and KOH as an activator to prepare porous carbon (KGL). The anthraquinone-type anionic dye molecule Alizarin red S (ARS) is anchored on porous carbon via two adsorption methods. ARS plays a crucial role in enhancing the electrochemical properties. KGL has larger adsorption capacity for ARS through electric field assisted adsorption compared with physical adsorption and more favorable electrochemical performance. KGL/ARS exhibits superior specific capacitance and rate performance because the redox reaction of ARS and porous carbon provides a stable conductive scaffold. The KGL/ARS-E5 electrode possesses a specific capacitance of 638.2 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and the capacitance retention reaches 77.9% at 10 A g−1. The assembled asymmetric supercapacitor exhibits an energy density of 24.8 W h kg−1 at a power density of 801.4 W kg−1, and the capacitance retention of the device is 93.5% after 10 000 cycles. The research provides a novel method to achieve a combination of porous carbon and redox-enhanced materials as the electrode for supercapacitors and realizes the recycling of carbonous adsorbents containing the redox species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous organic redox flow batteries (AORFBs) are a promising technology for large-scale electricity energy storage to realize efficient utilization of intermittent renewable energy. In particular, organic molecules are a class of metal-free compounds that consist of earth-abundant elements with good synthetic tunability, electrochemical reversibility and reaction rates. However, the short cycle lifetime and low capacity of AORFBs act as stumbling blocks for their practical deployment. To circumvent these issues, here, we report molecular engineered dihydroxyanthraquinone (DHAQ)-based alkaline electrolytes. Via computational studies and operando measurements, we initially demonstrate the presence of a hydrogen bond-mediated degradation mechanism of DHAQ molecules during electrochemical reactions. Afterwards, we apply a molecular engineering strategy based on redox-active polymers to develop capacity-boosting composite electrolytes. Indeed, by coupling a 1,5-DHAQ/poly(anthraquinonyl sulfide)/carbon black anolyte and a [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− alkaline catholyte, we report an AORFB capable of delivering a stable cell discharge capacity of about 573 mAh at 20 mA/cm2 after 1100 h of cycling and an average cell discharge voltage of about 0.89 V at the same current density. Aqueous organic redox flow batteries are affected by short cycle life and low capacity. Here, the authors develop composite dihydroxyanthraquinone/polymer anolytes capable of improving the cycling stability and discharge capacity of aqueous organic redox flow batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the androgenic hormone testosterone enanthate (TE) on human MG-63 cells. MG-63 were cultured for 24 h in the presence of TE at increasing concentrations to assess its lethal dose. Therefore, the suitable concentration for a prolonged use of TE in vitro was assessed by viability assay over 9 days. Finally, MG-63 were exposed to TE for 14 days and assayed for differentiation by qPCR and Alizarin Red S staining. TE in the amount of 100 µM resulted as the maximum dose tolerated by MG-63 cells after 24 h. However, a prolonged exposure in culture TE in the amount of 100 µM showed a cytostatic effect on cell proliferation. On the contrary, TE 10 µM was tolerated by the cells and did not boost cell proliferation, but did enhance new bone formation, as revealed by COL1A1, ALPL, BGLAP, and IBSP gene expression after 3, 7, and 14 days, and calcium deposition by Alizarin Red S staining after 14 days. Based on the current study, 10 µM is the critical dose of TE that should be used in vitro to support bone differentiation of MG-63 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical influencers have long been shown to affect mature bone. Bone mechanosensation is a key feature that allows the skeleton to adapt to environmental constraints. In this study, we describe the response of immature, developing bones to a mechanical stimulus. To do so, zebrafish larvae at different stages of development were exposed to whole-body vibration (WBV) at a low frequency of 20 Hz, for up to 4 days. Whole mount Alizarin red and Alcian blue staining revealed age-related and bone type-specific defects. Specifically, the parhypural and hypural 1 caudal fin endoskeletal elements were affected when the exposure to WBV started early during their development. We show that these WBV-induced parhypural and hypural 1 patterning defects are triggered by a Sox9-independent pathway, potentially by reducing the distance separating adjacent chondrogenic condensations in the developing tail skeleton. The remaining hypurals were unaffected by the WBV treatment. Altogether, our results indicate that, upon exposure to vibration, chondrogenic cell progenitors can react to mechanical stimuli early during their development, which ultimately affects the skeletal patterning of the growing zebrafish larvae. These findings open a new research avenue to better understand the cellular processes involved in developing, patterning, and maintaining skeletal tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibers with diameters in the lower micrometer range have unique properties suitable for applications in the textile and biomedical industries. Such fibers are usually produced by solution electrospinning, but this process is environmentally harmful because it requires the use of toxic solvents. Melt electrospinning is a sustainable alternative but the high viscosity and low electrical conductivity of molten polymers produce thicker fibers. Here, we used multifunctional biobased dyes as additives to improve the spinnability of polylactic acid (PLA), improving the spinnability by reducing the electrical resistance of the melt, and incorporating antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Spinning trials using our 600-nozzle pilot-scale melt-electrospinning device showed that the addition of dyes produced narrower fibers in the resulting fiber web, with a minimum diameter of ~9 µm for the fiber containing 3% (w/w) of curcumin. The reduction in diameter was low at lower throughputs but more significant at higher throughputs, where the diameter reduced from 46 µm to approximately 23 µm. Although all three dyes showed antibacterial activity, only the PLA melt containing 5% (w/w) curcumin retained this property in the fiber web. Our results provide the basis for the development of environmentally friendly melt-electrospinning processes for the pilot-scale manufacturing of microfibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]