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Aqueous solutions of doxorubicin (DOX), doxorubicin with bovine serum albumin (DOX-BSA), and DOX-BSA in solutions containing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with different concentrations of each system component are studied for the first time. The study of the concentration and time-resolved dependences of optical density spectra indicates that the interaction of protonated molecules of the antibiotic with the citrate-covered surface of the nanoparticles of high concentration promotes the aggregation and precipitation of AuNPs. On the other hand, protein macromolecules effectively form conjugates with nanoparticles, preventing their aggregation. Competition of these processes significantly complicates the behavior of optical density spectra at the absorption band of doxorubicin. The simultaneous processes of AuNP aggregation and BSA-AuNP association allow reasonable result of calculation of equilibrium-binding constants for the DOX-BSA complexation process to be obtained only at low nanoparticle concentrations (up to 1.3 × 10−10 M). It was found that these constants decrease to K = 1.18 × 106 M−1 compared with K = 4.74 × 106 M−1 for the DOX-BSA complex, indicating lower stability of these complexes after citrate-stabilized nanoparticles addition. The number of binding sites in DOX-BSA complexes, as shown by the analysis of the isomolar series curves, stays the same for the indicated AuNPs concentrations and is equal to n = 2. The obtained results could be useful to clarify the appropriate concentration of such type of AuNPs upon the development of oncology prodrugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ketogenic diet, a high fat and low carbohydrate diet, has been used as a non-pharmacological treatment in refractory epilepsy since 1920. In recent years, it has demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of numerous neurological and non-neurological diseases. Some neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders are known to be caused by gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated neurotransmission dysfunction. The strength and polarity of GABA-mediated neurotransmission are determined by the intracellular chloride concentration, which in turn is regulated by cation-chloride cotransporters NKCC1 and KCC2. Currently, it is unknown if the effect of ketogenic diet is due to the modulation of these cotransporters. Thus, we analyzed the effect of a ketogenic diet on the cation-chloride cotransporters expression in the dentate gyrus. We estimated the total number of NKCC1 immunoreactive (NKCC1-IR) neuronal and glial cells by stereology and determined KCC2 labeling intensity by densitometry in the molecular and granule layers as well as in the hilus of dentate gyrus of rats fed with normal or ketogenic diet for 3 months. The results indicated that ketogenic diet provided during 3 months increased KCC2 expression, but not NKCC1 in the dentate gyrus of the rat. The significant increase of KCC2 expression could explain, at least in part, the beneficial effect of ketogenic diet in the diseases where the GABAergic system is altered by increasing its inhibitory efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has been conducted on farms in the Moscow region to identify the most common bacterial and fungal pathogens that can form biofilms. The following isolates were isolated from numerous members of the genus Candida: C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis and C. glabrata. The etiological structure of bacterial infections in farm animals is represented by 29 species. The use of Farnesol 200 µm caused a decrease in the optical density of YLF biofilms from 54 to 69 % and a violation of mycelial growth. Farnesol 200 µm inhibited biofilm formation in strong bacterial producers by 61-75 %. Phytopreparation Farnesol can be used as an antibacterial and antimycotic drug both by itself and in combination with other antimicrobial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional ground improvement techniques involve densification of soil either by mechanical compaction or chemical grouting while others involve inclusion of reinforcements, etc. Many conventional grout materials were found posing a threat to environment due to their toxic nature and release of greenhouse gases. In this regard, research is initiated in developing more environmentally sustainable additives for soil improvement in which biological based alternatives are gaining momentum. In the present study, a noble technique Microbial Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) using Sporosarcina pasteurii was adopted to modify the properties of sand and improve its efficiency by supplementing with Cellulomonas flavigena. The mineralogy of treated specimens was studied using X-Ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscope analyses. The leachability of precipitated calcite was studied under constant flowing conditions and the material was found to be stable. The Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and elastic modulii of the treated specimens were found to be in the range of 266–343 kPa and 14–35 MPa respectively. The angle of internal friction found from Direct Shear Test on treated specimens was observed to be a little lower compared to virgin specimens. The permeability of treated specimen showed a reduction in magnitude by one order approximately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Candida albicans is a dimorphic fungus that has both yeast and filamentous forms. It is part of the normal flora in the oral and genital areas of mammals. One factor for the pathogenicity of C. albicans is its ability to switch from yeast to hyphae. The hyphal form adheres and penetrates tissues more readily than the yeast form and produces biofilms that are associated with chronic infection. Biofilms are protective niches that enable microorganisms to be more resistant to antibiotic treatment, thus allowing for persistent infection. The first stage in the transition from yeast to hyphae involves the formation of a germ tube, and this transition is triggered by interactions with host cells. Germ tube formation is dependent on serum, pH, temperature, and quorum-sensing molecules (QSMs). Farnesol, which is a QSM in C. albicans, can prevent yeast to hyphae conversion and inhibits the growth of fungal biofilm. Lyticase is a synergistic enzyme complex that catalyzes yeast cell lysis by ß-1,3-glucanase and is a highly specific alkaline protease that produces protoplasts or spheroplasts. This study investigated the effect of farnesol and lyticase on the formation of C. albicans biofilms. Materials and Methods: C. albicans ATCC 2091 was cultivated on liquid and solid Sabouraud media. The presence of C. albicans was confirmed using HiCrome Candida Agar chromogenic medium. Enzyme activities were assayed using a HiCandida Identification Kit. The morphology and densitometry parameters of C. albicans biofilms were considered in the presence of farnesol (Sigma-Aldrich, Germany), lyticase (from Arthrobacter luteus; Sigma-Aldrich, Germany), and farnesol-lyticase. Results: This study shows that both farnesol and lyticase possess antifungal activity against C. albicans biofilms. A significant difference among treatment groups (p<0.05) was observed from strong biofilm production to medium and weak. Conclusion: Many studies have been devoted to the antimicrobial action of farnesol. Bacterial enzyme lyticase is also used to degrade fungal cell walls. Both molecules show substantial antifungal properties that are similar to the properties of modern antimycotics. The current study demonstrates that farnesol and lyticase can disrupt biofilm formation in C. albicans ATCC 2091, which is an effective biofilm producer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) is vital in oxidative stress. Keeping in view the importance of this enzyme, present study was conducted for partial characterization of GST from hepatocytes of Cyprinus carpio. The inferences showed higher (GST) activity in liver of C. carpio collected from Chashma Barrage (144.33±1.15) as compared to Trimmu Head works (128.66.3±0.577) and Rasul Barrage (111.66±0.577) sampling sites. The highest GST activity was 128±0.333 U mL-1 from the crude extract fraction of liver as compared to other fractions of appraisal fish liver. Whereas the lowest activity (109±0.666 U mL-1) was from desalted fraction. Optical density was recorded by spectrophotometer at 280 nm, the fractions that showed high optical density were subjected to enzyme assay. Highest specific activity was 183.63, 153.84 and 162.50 U mg-1 for purified liver GST of C. carpio captured from Trimmu Head works, Rasul Barrage and Chashma Barrage, respectively. Whereas, fold purification was 2.86, 2.69 and 2.10 while, percent recovery was 78.90, 72.07 and 63.19 %, respectively for purified liver GST. The optimum pH was 6.5, 6.0 and 6.8 whereas, temperature was 30.5 °C, 31 °C and 30 °C followed by substrate concentration 40.3 mM, 40 mM and 41 mM, for purified liver GST of C. carpio captured from Trimmu Head works, Rasul Barrage and Chashma Barrage, respectively. It should be noted that detailed studies can be beneficial in the fields of physiology, biochemistry and toxicology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles are widely used to separate and detect bacteria by immunoassay techniques. However, there is a great need to develop a new low cost, easy-handling, and fast bacteria quantification method in order to give fast response to patients, when there are limited time and instruments. This article describes a new nanoparticle-based quantification method by using only sucrose gradient centrifugation and an easy optical setup. First of all, spherical-shaped nanoparticles with different chemical components have been synthesized. Buoyancy tendencies of these nanoparticles and effects of different mediums were examined to obtain moving particle band which is necessary for rate-zonal centrifugation. Optimum gradient and process parameters were determined; then, moving bands of nanoparticle and bacteria-conjugated nanoparticle were analyzed by a software. Migration distance of bacteria-captured nanoparticle bands was found inversely proportional to bacterial concentration. Bacteria-nanoparticle conjugates were characterized by transmission electron microscopy images and zeta potential measurements. The developed method enables non-specific detection and quantification of E. coli K-12 within the range of 105–108 cfu/ml, by using chitosan-coated CdTe quantum dots. Chitosan-coated CdTe quantum dots were found advantageous for the easy and fast tracking of bacteria-particle conjugate bands in the developed gradient method with respect to their high bacterial capture, sedimentation rate, and light emission properties. According to our findings, the proposed gradient method was found to be an advantageous bacteria quantification method with limited instrument requirement and 50 min of total detection time in solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to overcome the shortage of galectin-1 (Gal-1) protein and to determine cell proliferation by adding recombinant protein that has a high protein content of the squamous cell OM-1. Materials and Methods: A presented study was Experimental laboratory study. The role of recombinant protein galectin-1 (r-Gal-1) in combating squamous cell carcinoma of the OM-1, as compared to HOC313 squamous cell carcinoma without exposure to r-Gal-1, through the promotion of cell proliferation. An in vitro experiment was conducted on the following three groups: a negative control group using OM-1 cells, an intervention group comprising OM-1 cells to which 8 µg/mL r-Gal-1 was added, and a positive control incorporating HOC313 cells that were highly invasive. The proliferation level of the cells was measured by means of the optical density on a microplate reader on days 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the three test groups, an increased proliferation rate was obtained on days 1, 2, 3, and 4 on OM-1, OM-1 + r-Gal-1, and HOC313. The statistical analysis was carried out using analysis of variance test, Kruskal-Wallis test, least significant difference test, and Mann-Whitney test. Results: The proliferation rate increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the treatment group (OM-1 + r-Gal-1) as compared to the negative control group (OM-1). The positive control group (HOC313) experienced the highest degree of proliferation among the three groups. Conclusion: Gal-1 is a protein that plays a key role in the processes of cancer metastasis and invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the risk factors associated with contamination of lens cases in a group of orthokeratology (ortho-k) lens wearers.Method: Ortho-k patients attending the Contact Lens Clinic of the Hospital were required to complete a checklist about their routine daily care and handling of lens cases. Their cases were then collected for analysis. Contamination was evaluated by determining the optical density (OD) of crystal violet stained biofilm present in the cases. OD values were divided into three groups, lower, middle, and upper tertiles, and associations between risk factors were determined by multivariate analysis.Results: A total of 194 subjects were recruited. Twenty-five subjects used cylindrical lens cases (CC), 98 flat cases with ridges (FCR), and 71 flat cases without ridges (FC). FCRs were the most heavily contaminated and CC showed least contamination (FCR > FC, OR 2.16, CI 1.11-4.18, p =  0.023; FCR > CC, OR 8.86, CI 2.97-26.44, p <0.001; FC > CC, OR 2.33, CI 1.35-12.45, p =  0.013). Replacing lens cases monthly significantly reduced the risk of high contamination (OR 0.013, CI 0.06-0.30, p <  0.001), compared to those used for three months. Cases that were not rinsed (OR 3.44, CI 1.50-7.86, p =  0.003) or rinsed by other methods (OR 4.07, CI 1.67-9.92, p =  0.002) had significantly more contamination, compared to those rinsed with multipurpose solution. Lens cases, which were not dried (OR 11.36, CI 2.06-62.93, p =  0.005) or air-dried (OR 8.71, CI 1.16-65.56, p =  0.036), showed more contamination compared to those wiped with tissue daily.Conclusion: Case design (cylindrical), monthly replacement, daily rinsing with MPS, and wiping with tissue daily can effectively reduce biofilm formation in contact lens cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For different microbiological and pathological studies, it is often required to monitor the growth of bacteria in a cultured medium in the laboratory environment. UV‐VIS spectrophotometer is commonly used to estimate the growth of bacterial cell population by measuring the absorbance at 600 nm over a period of time. Colony‐forming unit (CFU) is another approach, which has been routinely performed to estimate the live bacterial cells on semisolid agar plates. Herein, we demonstrate an alternative yet highly reliable sensing platform on a smartphone using which growth kinetics of different bacteria can be reliably monitored. The performance of the proposed smartphone sensor has been compared with the data obtained from OD600 and CFU analysis. A good correlation of bacterial growth rates enumerated based on the proposed smartphone sensor, bench‐top spectrophotometer and CFU analysis have been observed under the experimental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staining quality and reproducibility are essential factors to monitor laboratory quality assurance. In the last decade, there has been an increase in the use of digital pathology and image analysis. While the adoption of these tools provides a potential means to track staining precision by optical density (OD), it also presents challenges. Results from image analysis are more sensitive to variations in staining than microscopic evaluation by a pathologist. There are two goals with this study. The first was to track the precision of hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, in both nuclear and cytoplasmic components by OD. The second was to determine the impact of different pre-analytical and analytical variables on the OD results. Specifically, the endpoints investigated were quality parameters including impacts of section thickness, protocol manipulation, expired hematoxylin on staining precision and reproducibility of staining over time. Our results show that image analysis of H&E-stained tissue sections is a viable tool for assessing and verifying staining quality. We also show that OD analysis results for H&E-stained sections are affected by changing pre-analytical and/or reagent variables. These authors chose a graphical rather than fully statistical analysis of the results to highlight the utility of visual aids in demonstrating H&E staining reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In recent years algae has been receiving a lot of interest as an alternate source of biofuel. Fast growth and rich lipid content make algae a great candidate for producing eco-friendly and non-toxic biodiesel. The strain Chlorella vulgaris, has shown great potential as a source of oil. To optimize the mass culture of microalgae Chlorella vulgaris, it is necessary to develop growth kinetic model of Chlorella vulgaris. This work presents a comparative study on growth kinetics of Chlorella vulgaris in batch cultures in four different media, namely- CH, modified CH, Bold's Basal (BB), and modified Bold's Basal (BB). Spectroscopic analysis was supported by visual change of color in the algal biomass solution and the microscopic imaging, and was validated with dry cell mass measurement in this study. The data were analyzed to produce growth curves to find exponential phase for each medium. Exponential phases are the best period to harvest the culture. Hence the duration of exponential phase and the final biomass concentration at the end of exponential phase are two important parameters to determine the most suitable medium for mass culture. In this study the overall specific growth, doubling time and biomass productivity of Chlorella vulgaris for CH, modified CH, BB and modified BB media were measured. This study will help to find a suitable media to culture Chlorella vulgaris, a high lipid content algae in the local environment. The information can be used to design a system for mass culture of the strain for biodiesel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The DNA extraction process is the most crucial step for demonstrating various molecular techniques such as PCR, DNA barcoding, metagenomics etc. This paper describes a simple and efficient protocol of DNA extraction from insect's sample that included Honey bees, Carpenter bees and Flour beetle's tissues with slight modification in CTAB method. DNA concentration together with purity has been determined by spectrophotometer absorbance reading at O.D260nm and O.D260/280nm respectively. Additionally, lambda DNA marker (NEB3012S) has been employed to validate band intensity by agarose gel electrophoresis. The DNA band exposed less smearing and intense band in agarose gel. Band of DNA in HB and CB lane was greater than 95.4ng but less than 95.4ng in lane FB as compared to lambda DNA marker bands. Also, DNA extracted from the tissue of Honey bee (HB), Carpenter bee (CB) and Flour Beetle (FB) measured by spectrophotometer for analysing O.D at 260 nm was found to be 4.9, 5.1 and 3.7ug/ml and the purity by considering 260/280 O.D ratio was 2.33, 1.76, 1.92. Absorbance ratio of 2.33 in DNA of Honey bees (HB) sample indicated slight contamination of protein or carbohydrate. Therefore, an achievable approach has been made to extract high quality of DNA by CTAB method and applying spectrophotometer for Optical Density as well as marker lambda DNA by agarose gel electrophoresis for quantity and quality analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The study of biofilm-forming ability of Gram-negative microflora has great practical importance for assessing the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy and finding new ways to diagnose and inhibit the growth of biofilms. This is because poor penetration of antibacterial drugs into the biofilm can lead to the selection of resistant strains and has a consequence evident by the occurrence of relapse of infection in animals. This study aimed to evaluate morphological and densitometric indicators of biofilm formation as well as adhesive properties of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Materials and Methods: K. pneumoniae was cultured at 37°C for 2-144 h in vitro. The specimens for optical microscopy were prepared by fixation with a 1:1 alcohol-ether mixture for 10 min and stained with a 0.5% solution of gentian violet for 2 min, and the optical density index was evaluated at a wavelength of 490 nm. Further, the adhesive properties of the microorganisms were determined at a concentration of 1 billion/ml and a suspension of ram erythrocytes at a concentration of 100 million/ml when cultured at 37°C for 24 h. Blood smears were prepared and stained with 0.5% gentian violet. Results: K. pneumonia cultured at 37°C after 24 h on the meat peptone agar formed large, convex, mucous, and white colonies (d=3.0-6.0 mm). With the growth in the meat and peptone broth, uniform turbidity of the medium was observed. Analyzing the optical density indices (density, D), it was found that K. pneumoniae were good producers of biofilms (D=0.528±0.31). Data for indicators of adhesive properties of K. pneumoniae were as follows: Average adhesion index, 4.56±0.14; adhesion coefficient, 1.07±0.52; and adhesion index, 4.26±0.07. The studied bacteria had high adhesive activity. A direct correlation dependence (R=0.94) of the optical density of biofilms (D=0.514-0.551) and AAI (4.15±0.28-4.76±0.75) was established. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated that K. pneumoniae had high adhesive activity, was strong producer of biofilms, and the optical density of the sample exceeded the optical density of the control by more than 4 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bicarbonate is an alternative carbon source for production of photosynthetic microalgae, although sparging of CO2-enriched gas is commonly practised, its efficiency seems to be scarcely considered. This study evaluated the photosynthetic activities of microalgae (Tetradesmus wisconsinensis) using chlorophyll fluorescence under different concentrations of bicarbonate (HCO3 -) and CO2. Chlorophyll fluorescence analysis showed noticeable difference in photosynthetic activity between the bicarbonate (HCO3 -) and CO2 supplied cultures. The JIP-test parameters obtained for the cultures supplemented by HCO3 - or CO2 were distinct, but of similar values in quantum yield of PSII. The typical polyphasic rise, called the OJIP curves, showed a typical difference between the treatments at the J and I inflection of the fluorescence transient curve. Both HCO3 - (20 mM) and CO2 (5%, v/v) gave higher biomass yield than the other carbon regimes, i.e., 673 ± 12 and 658 ± 11 mg L-1, respectively. We concluded that bicarbonate resulted in similar photosynthetic yield as CO2 supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Processes of coating deposition often rely on printing techniques, with flexography being the most common one because of its ability to adjust the medium for the coating transfer (printing plate) to the specific type of coating and substrate by using photopolymer materials with different properties. Qualitative requirements for many types of coatings, especially in the printing industry, include uniformity, achieving desired thickness, definition of the edges of printed coating and optical density of colored coatings. This research was focused on the modification of the mechanical and surface properties of the common styrene–diene-based photopolymer materials in order to optimize the properties of the deposited coating—flexographic ink—by applying the UV post-treatment of the photopolymer. After the analyses of modified photopolymers, neural networks were built with the aim of finetuning of the photopolymer's surface properties by the UV post-treatment. The results of the research enabled the analysis of the influence of changes that occur in the modified photopolymer material's mechanical and surface properties on the coating thickness, optical density and printed element edge definition. Once the neural network was built, it enabled fast adjustment of the UV post-treatment of the photopolymer with the aim of optimizing the properties of the specific coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The importance of the subject is evidenced by the steadily increasing number of patients with primary-open angle glaucoma (POAG) and absence of a unified theory for the development of POAG. Purpose: To compare the absorption spectra of the aqueous humor (AH) samples from patients with combined cataract and POAG, and those from patients with cataract only, and to identify differences, if any, in parameters of these spectra between the two groups. Materials and Methods: AH samples were obtained from 96 patients (96 eyes including 36 eyes with combined cataract and POAG, and 60 eyes with cataract only), and their absorption spectra were investigated. Results: In the AH samples obtained from patients with combined cataract and POAG or those with cataract only, two absorption peaks were found at 202 nm and 267 nm. The mean optical density at 202 nm of the AH samples obtained from the former patients was higher than that of the samples obtained from the latter patients. The intergroup difference in the optical density at 202 nm (but not at 267 nm) of the AH samples was statistically significant. Conclusion: A statistically significant difference in the optical density of AH samples was found between patients with POAG and those without POAG based on the results of spectroscopy that can be regarded as a valuable adjunct in the diagnosis of patients with this disorder.

The interaction of components in sulphate-glycine solutions for the electroplating of zinc was studied with the content of ZnSO40.05–0.25 mol/l, NH2CH2COOH 0.6–0.95 mol/l and at the temperature range of 22–55 °С. The dependence of electrical conductivity, optical density, kinematic viscosity and the enthalpy of a viscous fl ow on the solutions composition and the concentration of components was analysed. The physical and chemical properties of sulphate-glycine solutions used for electroplating of zinc are defi ned by the structural changes in these solutions. The changes occur due to the formation of zinc with glycine complexes. It was determined that with the zinc sulphate concentration range from 0.10 to 0.21 mol/l and the glycine content of 0.7 mol/l, a complex is formed with a coordination number of 1 – ZnGly+. The stability of the complex formed depends on the temperature. The effect of the temperature on the structural transformations in the electrolyte is also indicated by a decrease in the enthalpy of a viscous fl ow from ~7.3 kJ/mol (temperature range 22–35 °С) to ~ 6.4 kJ/mol (temperature range 40–55 °С). The formation of ZnGly+ type of complexes in the solutions used for electroplating zinc should facilitate the formation of uniform, fi negrained coatings. Considering the formation of glycinate zinc complexes in the concentration range of ZnSO4 from 0.10 to 0.21 mol/l, as well as the value of the electrical conductivity and viscosity of the solutions studied, the following composition of the electrolyte is recommended: ZnSO4 0.21 mol/l, Na2SO40.5 mol/l, NH2CH2COOH 0.7 mol/l.

The kinetics of plasticization and the supramolecular structure of the cellulose nitrates obtained from wood, flax, and cotton celluloses were studied. These studies are essential for finding alternative sources of cellulose-containing raw materials for cellulose nitrate production with a view to overcoming the acute cotton scarcity problem. A precondition to the processing of cellulose nitrates is their plasticizability by semi-volatile low-molecular-weight compounds, and the quality of the resulting products is directly affected by the plasticization rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to suggest the optimum number of rinsing by researching changes in optical density and pH in accordance with the number of rinsing after toothbrushing, and then verifying the amount of residual toothpaste in mouth. Total 14 university students who had healthy body with no difficulties in daily life were selected from the students of K university in Daegu as the research subjects. The research subjects rinsed their mouths with 40ml of water from zero time to 12 times after toothbrushing. After collecting each rinsing water, the optical density and pH were measured. In the results of measuring the optical density value of each rinsing water, the rinsing water of six-seven times or more after toothbrushing showed the constant value of optical density, which was statistically significant(p<0.05). There were no differences in accordance with the amount of toothpaste such as 1g, 1.5g, and 2g. Based on such results of this study, it would be necessary to provide the education of the use of dentifrice, and also to have diverse researches on the effects of residual dentifrice in mouth on the oral cavity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have investigated CsPbX 3 (X = Cl/Br, Br, Br/I, I) quantum dots (QDs) co-doped with various metal ions in boro-germanate glass matrix for long wavelength pass filters. Transmittance, optical density (OD), photoluminescence (PL), PL excitation and PL decay have been evaluated. The working wavelength of filters has been extended to wide range from blue 475 nm to dark red 680 nm. Among these metal ions, only Cu2+ ions have obvious quenching or enhancement effect on the PL intensity and lifetime. Small amount Cu2+ of 0.005–0.3 mol% is used for PL quenching and maintaining excellent transmittance and optical density. Trace amounts of Cu2+ ions (≤0.01 mol.%) have obvious effect. The ratios of I 0 /I and τ 0 /τ are used to evaluate the quenching type and mechanism. The quenching/enhancement effect is different for different CsPbX 3 (X = Cl/Br, Br, Br/I, I) QDs glasses (QDGs), showing strong correlation with the anionic composition (i.e. the bandgap) of CsPbX 3 QDs. As Cu2+ concentration increases, the PL intensity is quenched for CsPb(Cl/Br) 3 (Cl/Br=4:1, 2:1, 1:1), CsPbBr 3 and CsPb(Br/I) 3 (Br/I=1:1, 1:2, 1:4) QDGs, whereas it is enhanced for CsPbI 3 QDG. The PL lifetime is decreased for CsPb(Cl/Br) 3 (Cl/Br=4:1, 2:1, 1:1), CsPbBr 3 and CsPb(Br/I) 3 (Br/I=1:1) QDGs, whereas it is increased for CsPb(Br/I) 3 (Br/I=1:2, 1:4) and CsPbI 3 QDGs. An energy-dependent electron transfer (ET) mechanism is proposed to explain the quenching/enhancement. The ET and backward ET result in the quenching/enhancement in PL intensity and lifetime. The optical density (OD), absorption edge, transmittance, and transition wavelength have been evaluated for filter performance. The fabricated CsPbX 3 (X = Cl/Br, Br, Br/I, I) QDGs can largely meet requirements for the long wavelength pass filters. • CsPbX 3 and Cu2+ doped glasses are studied to extend working wavelength of filters. • Transmittance, optical density, PL, PLE and PL decay are evaluated for filters. • Trance amounts of Cu2+ are used for PL quenching and maintaining filter property. • PL quenching/enhancement of Cu2+ shows strong correlation with CsPbX 3 bandgap. • Energy-dependent electron transfer is proposed to explain PL quenching/enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of studying the soils at the archeological site of the Tyater-Araslanovo-II settlement located in the Republic of Bashkortostan, eastern European Russia. The settlement functioned in the 15th–12th centuries BCE (the Late Bronze Age). We compared the soil properties at four sites in the study area: archeological (1), buried (2), affected by long pyrogenic exposure (3), and background site (4). In soil samples, the total carbon content, the fractional composition of humus and organic matter characteristics, alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen, total phosphorus, mobile phosphorus, potassium, absorbed calcium and magnesium, pH, particle size distribution, basal soil respiration, and optical density were estimated. The study results showed the anthropogenic impact on the archeological site’s soils. The newly formed AU horizon at the archeological site (1), affected by the cattle summer camp, was richer in soil nutrients and agrochemical properties, namely, the content of exchangeable and gross forms of phosphorus, alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen, and exchange cations of the soil absorbing complex compared to the reference soil (4). For the pyrogenic layer (AU[hh]pyr) from the ancient furnace (fireplace) (3), the mobile and total forms of phosphorus were several times higher than those in the reference soil (4) but inferior regarding other agrochemical parameters. Thus, the activities of ancient people (especially cattle breeding) greatly influenced the properties of the soil.

The aim of the research was to determine the possibility of using raw dairy wastewater as a medium for algae cultivating. The experiments were carried out under the laboratory conditions. The culture medium was raw dairy wastewater vaccinated with algae cells. At the beginning and the end of the culture, signs of biogenic substances of general nitrogen, total phosphorus and ammonium nitrogen were made. Microalgal biomass growth was assessed on a daily basis of optical density at 686 nm. The research results has confirmed the possibility of using dairy wastewater as a microalgal culture medium. From the beginning of cultivation until its completion, the total contents of nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen and total phosphorus were reduced by the 70%, 92% and 55% respectively.

Current blood glucose monitoring (BGM) techniques are invasive as they require a finger prick blood sample, a repetitively painful process that creates the risk of infection. BGM is essential to avoid complications arising due to abnormal blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Laser light-based sensors have demonstrated a superior potential for BGM. Existing near-infrared (NIR)-based BGM techniques have shortcomings, such as the absorption of light in human tissue, higher signal-to-noise ratio, and lower accuracy, and these disadvantages have prevented NIR techniques from being employed for commercial BGM applications. A simple, compact, and cost-effective non-invasive device using visible red laser light of wavelength 650 nm for BGM (RL-BGM) is implemented in this paper. The RL-BGM monitoring device has three major technical advantages over NIR. Unlike NIR, red laser light has ~30 times better transmittance through human tissue. Furthermore, when compared with NIR, the refractive index of laser light is more sensitive to the variations in glucose level concentration resulting in faster response times ~7-10 s. Red laser light also demonstrates both higher linearity and accuracy for BGM. The designed RL-BGM device has been tested for both in vitro and in vivo cases and several experimental results have been generated to ensure the accuracy and precision of the proposed BGM sensor.

This study examines the possibility of using paper based on lint cellulose with addition of licorice cellulose for printing. The physical, mechanical and printing characteristics of paper, were studied towards this end. The addition of licorice cellulose components into the lint cellulose composition changed the surface nature and paper structure, which are defining phenomena of humidification, adsorption, adhesion, ink penetration and swelling. A reduction of paper sponginess by 15% increases the resolution capability - smoothness. This stimulates the provision of image high legibility. According to the research of the results of paper whiteness and opacity which define paper printing properties, it is possible to conclude that the research paper is fit for printing of single-color outputs. The use of licorice cellulose in cellulose-paper industry will solve the problem concerning not only raw materials but the ecology at the same time due to utilization of licorice root waste and use of hydrogen peroxide instead of carcinogenic sodium hypochlorite.

Lignite is brown coal, which in its composition contains humic acids. Humic acids are produced by coal combustion, which leads to the enrichment of coal humic acids. Lignite, from the opet pit mine Šikulje, lignite ore „Kreka“, Bosnia and Herzegovina, was fragmented and sieved to the appropriate size and used as a base material. The isolation of humic acid was carried out from pre-oxidized and dried lignite after which it was refined. Identification thus obtained humic acids was carried out by FTIR spectroscopy and its characterization of UV analysis which is determined by optical density of isolated humic acid and its complexation with metal cations. Data obtained by FTIR spectroscopic analysis of isolated humic acids show no significant structural and chemical difference in relation to the spectrum obtained for standard humic acids (Sigma Aldrich). UV analysis showed that isolated and standard humic acid have E4/E6 ratio in an appropriate range of 3–5, which indicates the presence of a large number of aliphatic structure. Based on the degree of humification was found that the isolated humic acids belong to the type B standard while humic acids belong to type A. The most important property of the humic substances is the ability to interact with the metal ions forming soluble or insoluble complexes which possess different chemical and biological properties and stability. The nature of the complex between humic acid and metal cation derived from the heterogeneous, polyelectric and polydispersive character humic acids that occurs due to the presence of a large number of functional groups. Complexation of humic acid is carried out with different concentrations of metal nitrate solutions and at different pH values. Different amounts of humic acids were used for the complexation. The amount of the free metal ions was measured with the ICP-OES methode. The data were also statistically analyzed with ANOVA. The results showed that increasing the pH reduces the concentration of metal ions adsorbed on humic acid and by increasing the concentrations and amounts of metal humic acid that power increases. On the basis of the difference in absorbance between metals and humic acids can be said that there is an interaction between the metal and the ligand and is based on absorbance values obtained can be determine the next set of metal binding to humic acids Pb>Zn>Ni>Cu.

Based on the previous experimental results, the Box-Behnken design (BBD) was employed to study the individual and interactive effects of sucrose, malt extract, calf serum and sodium citrate on the growth of Saccharomyces boulardii, and the optimum medium compositions were obtained. Meanwhile, the optical density (OD) in the fermentation suspension was measured at 560 nm after 36 h of incubation. It is shown that the optimized medium compositions were 36.28 g·L-1 sucrose, 6.38 g·L-1 malt extract, 5.69 g·L-1 calf serum and 5.3 g·L-1 sodium citrate. The result indicated that the growth of S. boulardii could increase significantly in the optimized medium, and the OD560nm value reached 1.397 ± 0.013 after 36 h, which increased 18.59 % compared with that of pre-optimized medium. In addition, the OD560nm value 1.397 ± 0.013 in the optimized medium was very closely to the expected value 1.394. This result suggested that optimization of medium compositions for S. boulardii by BBD in this study was reliable and effective.

This article mainly presents the black matrix of the innovative technique. A‐Si and SiNx thin films were investigated for low‐reflectance materials. The new BM structure, by using SiN/a‐Si as reflex‐reduction layer and depositing Mo as shading layer, which replaces the traditional resin BM in VR display. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the potential of uterine lavage sample optical density (ULSOD) test at the time of insemination for diagnosis of subclinical endometritis (SCE). Buffaloes (86) at the time of estrus having >5% polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells in endometrial cytosmears were designated as positive (21) and buffaloes with ≤5% PMN cell as negative (65) for SCE. Presence of E. coli, A. pyogenes and F. necrophorum in the uterus was detected based upon PCR amplification of genes related to bacteria specific virulence factors (fimH, fimA and lktA genes, respectively). Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from 76.2% buffaloes with SCE as compared to 39.4% buffaloes without SCE. E. coli (fimH) and F. necrophorum (lktA) represented the major bacteriological risk factor for occurrence of SCE. The optical density of uterine lavage was measured at 352, 500, 620, 790 and 960 nm wavelengths. ULSOD620 was selected as reference wavelength because it presented the greatest area under curve (0.80). The recommended threshold for the receiver operator curve was 0.029 with a sensitivity and specificity of 85.7 and 73.8%, respectively. In the current study, the level of agreement (kappa) of ULSOD620 with cytobrush cytology was moderate (0.49) and the diagnostic accuracy was good (76.7%). Buffaloes with ≤0.029 ULSOD620 at the time of estrus had significantly lower conception rate at corresponding AI as compared to buffaloes with ≤0.029 ULSOD620. It is suggested that ULSOD620 measurement could be used as alternative to endometrial cytology and can be a tool to predict the outcome of artificial insemination in buffaloes.

Introduction: Acinetobacter species are a major cause of hospital acquired infections worldwide with remarkable level of resistance to various classes of antibiotics. Aim: To evaluate the MIC of colistin against biofilm forming, Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter species by E-test in a tertiary care hospital of Kathmandu. Materials and Methods: Isolation and identification of Acinetobacter species was done by standard methods. Biofilms were developed using 96-well microtiter plates in Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB). Optical Density (OD) was measured at 570 nm after washing, fixation and staining. Antibiotic susceptibility test was performed by KirbyBauer disk diffusion method. Carbapenem resistance and Metallo B-Lactamase (MBL) production were tested by Modified Hodge Test (MHT) and Imipenem-EDTA combined disk method respectively. MIC was determined by E-test against colistin. Results: Out of 573 bacterial isolates the number of Acinetobacter species was 73 (12.7%) and among them 72 (99%) were biofilm producers having significant relationship to multi drug resistance (p=0.01). All isolates were resistant to cephalosporins; 65 isolates (89%) were carbapenem resistant, 61 isolates (93.8%) gave positive MHT, 36 (56%) of total carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter isolates revealed positive for MBL, 72 (99%) of isolates were found sensitive to colistin by disc diffusion method whereas only 68 (93.1%) by MIC testing. Conclusion: Acinetobacter clinical isolates have a strong ability to produce biofilm. Carbapenemases and MBL were also observed in this study. Only colistin and polymyxin B were effective against higher numbers of isolates, however, 5 (6.9%) of the isolates were found resistant as detected by MIC testing and indicated reduced susceptibility to colistin.

The hyphal surface of cells of filamentous fungi is covered with cell wall, which is mainly composed of polysaccharides. Since the cell wall is the first structure to come in contact with the infection host, the environment, and the fungus itself, the elucidation of the cell wall structure and biogenesis is essential for understanding fungal ecology. Among filamentous fungi, the genus Aspergillus is an important group in the industrial, food, and medical fields. It is known that Aspergillus species form hyphal pellets in shake liquid culture. The authors previously found the role of α-1,3-glucan in hyphal aggregation in Aspergillus species. In addition, extracellular polysaccharide galactosaminogalactan contributed to hyphal aggregation as well, and dual disruption of biosynthesis genes of α-1,3-glucan and galactosaminogalactan resulted in complete hyphal dispersion in shake liquid culture. The characteristic of mycelia to form pellets under liquid culture conditions was the main reason why the growth measurement methods used for unicellular organisms could not be applied. We reported that hyphal growth of the dual disruption mutant could be measured by optical density. A real-time plate reader could be used to determine the growth curve of the mycelial growth of the dual disruption mutant. This measurement approach not only provides basic microbiological insights in filamentous fungi, but also has the potential to be applied to high-throughput screening of anti-Aspergillus drugs.

The Aim of the Study: Was to investigate the dynamics of mandibular density in cancer patients during therapy with zolendronic acid., Materials and Methods: The study comprised 14 patients who received zolendronic acid at a dosage of 4 mg once every 28 days for bone metastases. In all 14 patients, measurements of mandibular density values on CT scans were performed over time., Results: Using multiple linear regression analysis, a model was developed to predict the effect of the number of zolendronic acid injections «X 1 » on the dynamics of mandibular density «Y». The resulting formula for predicting mandibular density is Y = 5.9 X 1 + 49 HU., Conclusion: The model has limitations due to the study design but still can be used by oncologists and dentists to assess mandibular density in patients taking zolendronic acid.

The Aim the Study: To analyze the density of the mandible in cancer patients during treatment with zoledronic acid., Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study included 45 patients with cancer aged 26-81 years (average age 55±12.88 years), of whom 14 patients had bone metastases ( n =14) and took 4 mg of zolendronic acid once every 28 days. The patients underwent standard PET-CT examinations in the «whole body» mode, and the density of the mandible was examined on CT. Radiation therapy was performed by intracavitary administration of strontium 89 chloride; remote radiation therapy with cisplatin radiomodification. In the presence of bone metastases, patients received complex supportive therapy with zolendronic acid. The effect of zolendronic acid on the density of the mandible in the frontal and lateral sections was studied by multidimensional dispersion analysis., Results: Statistically significant differences ( p =0.002) were revealed for density indicators according to CT scans of the mandible in the frontal region against the background of zolendronic acid therapy. We attribute the absence of statistically significant differences for the density of the mandible in the lateral sections ( p =0.101 and p =0.082) against the background of zolendronic acid therapy to a measurement bias. We attribute the absence of statistically significant differences in density indices against the background of hormonal, radiation, targeted and chemotherapy to the design of the study., Conclusion: Density measurement based on CT examination data can be recommended for use as an additional tool in assessing the effect of zolendronic acid on the density of the mandible. However, the method of measuring the density of the mandible in the lateral sections requires improvement to prevent measurement bias.

In synthetic biology, Fluorescent reporters are frequently used to characterize the expression levels obtained from both genetic parts such as promoters and ribosome binding sites as well as from complex genetic circuits. To this end, plate readers offer an easy and high-throughput way of characterizing both the growth and fluorescence expression levels of cell cultures. However, despite the similar mode of action used in different devices, their output is not comparable due to intrinsic differences in their setup. Additionally, the generated output is expressed using arbitrary units, limiting reliable comparison of results to measurements taken within one single experiment using one specific plate reader, hampering the transferability of data across different plate readers and laboratories. This article presents an easy and accessible calibration method for transforming the device-specific output into a standardized output expressing the amount of fluorescence per well as a known equivalent fluorophore concentration per cell for fluorescent reporters spanning the visible light spectrum. This calibration method follows a 2-fold approach determining both the estimated number of cells and the equivalent chemical fluorophore concentration per well. It will contribute to the comparison of plate reader experiments between different laboratories across the world and will therefore greatly improve the reliability and exchange of both results and genetic parts between research groups.

Although optical hyperthermia could be a promising anticancer therapy, the need for high concentrations of light-absorbing metal nanoparticles and high-intensity lasers, or large exposure times, could discourage its use due to the toxicity that they could imply. In this article, we explore a possible role of silica microparticles that have high biocompatibility and that scatter light, when used in combination with conventional nanoparticles, to reduce those high concentrations of particles and/or those intense laser beams, in order to improve the biocompatibility of the overall procedure. Our underlying hypothesis is that the scattering of light caused by the microparticles would increase the optical density of the irradiated volume due to the production of multiple reflections of the incident light: the nanoparticles present in the same volume would absorb more energy from the laser than without the presence of silica particles, resulting either in higher heat production or in the need for less laser power or absorbing particles for the same required temperature rise. Testing this new optical hyperthermia procedure, based on the use of a mixture of silica and metallic particles, we have measured cell mortality in vitro experiments with murine glioma (CT-2A) and mouse osteoblastic (MC3T3-E1) cell lines. We have used gold nanorods (GNRs) that absorb light with a wavelength of 808 nm, which are conventional in optical hyperthermia, and silica microparticles spheres (hereinafter referred to as SMSs) with a diameter size to scatter the light of this wavelength. The obtained results confirm our initial hypothesis, because a high mortality rate is achieved with reduced concentrations of GNR. We found a difference in mortality between CT2A cancer cells and cells considered non-cancer MC3T3, maintaining the same conditions, which gives indications that this technique possibly improves the efficiency in the cell survival. This might be related with differences in the proliferation rate. Since the experiments were carried out in the 2D dimensions of the Petri dishes, due to sedimentation of the silica particles at the bottom, whilst light scattering is a 3D phenomenon, a large amount of the energy provided by the laser escapes outside the medium. Therefore, better results might be expected when applying this methodology in tissues, which are 3D structures, where the multiple reflections of light we believe will produce higher optical density in comparison to the conventional case of no using scattering particles. Accordingly, further studies deserve to be carried out in this line of work in order to improve the optical hyperthermia technique.

The spectra of the optical density and luminescence and dielectric spectra of crystalline nanoparticles (NPs), as well as micro- and nanodendrites of zinc and tin oxides in silicate nanoporous glass (NPG) with the average pore size of 25 nm, are presented. Oxide nanoparticles were synthesized in the bulk of nanoporous glass by the method of thermodissociation of zinc and tin salts. Oxide nanodendrites were synthesized by the oxidation of zinc and tin nanodendrites which were grown in glass pores via the method of electrolysis. It is demonstrated that the luminescence of nanoparticles and nanodendrites of Zn and Sn is caused by defects in the crystal structure. The optical and dielectric properties of the nanocomposites with nanoparticles and nanodendrites are compared. The obtained results can be used to create chemical and biological sensors, as well as in photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The knowledge of biogeochemical mechanisms involved in soil organic carbon (SOC) storage is crucial to control its release to the atmosphere. In particular, the chemical composition of soil organic matter (SOM) plays an important role in the performance of the C storage and resilience in soils. The structural information provided by infrared spectroscopy (IR) of soil humic acid (HA) was used in the assessment of the C storage potential of 35 Spanish soils. Partial least squares (PLS) regression using the intensities of the points of the IR spectra of the HAs (4000–400 cm−1) as descriptors shows that a relationship exists between IR spectral pattern and the SOC content. This was also the case for E4 (humification index based on HA optical density at 465 nm). In addition, the chemical characteristics of the HAs correlated with the SOC levels were identified from digital data treatments of the IR spectra. Additional application of principal component analysis (PCA) and multidimensional scaling (MDS) suggested that bands assigned to carboxyl and amide structures were characteristic in HAs from soils with low C content, whereas HA spectra from soils with high C levels showed a conspicuous band pattern suggesting structural units of lignin from slightly transformed plant residues. The spectral profiles were analyzed in detail by an approach based on digital subtraction of IR spectra obtained by averaging those from HAs extracted from soils in the upper and lower quartiles of the SOC distribution. The results showed that significant relationships exist between the molecular composition of HAs and SOC levels and E4 values in a way in which aromatic, carboxyl and amide groups were predominant in HAs from soils with low SOC content, whereas lignin-derived structures were more characteristic of HAs from soils with high SOC content. Unlabelled Image • Lignin structures are major constituents of humic acids from soils of high C levels. • Humic acids from C-depleted soils are rich in aromatic and carboxyl groups. • Humic acid structure preserves information on soil properties as its C content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chlorella cells shows spherical in shape after zinc oxide nanoparticles treatment. • 0.72 fold in biomass acquired in 50 mg/L of zinc oxide nanoparticles treated cells. • Increased O 2 evolution acquired in 50 mg/L of zinc oxide nanoparticles treated cells. • 8.21-fold triacylglycerol after 2 days incubation with zinc oxide nanoparticles. In this study, the effect of different concentrations (50, 100, and 200 mg L−1) of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NP) on the biochemical changes, oxygen evolution, and lipid production in Chlorella sp. were analyzed. The growth rate, oxygen evolution capacity, total carotenoids and protein, starch, and neutral lipid were determined using UV spectrophotometer, oxytherm electrode system, microplate, and fluorescence spectrometer, respectively. Triacylglycerol, polysaccharides, and oligosaccharides were quantified using FT-IR. The results of FT-IR, TGA, and XRD analysis revealed the existence of stretching mode of Zn-O bond (496 cm−1), thermal stability, and crystalline domain size (18.7 nm) of ZnO-NP. Among the three concentrations, increased specific growth rate (0.72-fold) and oxygen evolution capacity (0.96–0.90 nmol/min) without aggregation was obtained in 50 mg L−1 of ZnO-NP treated cells. Conversely, no complete inhibition was observed in the growth and oxygen evolution at higher concentrations. The optimal concentration (50 mg L−1) of ZnO-NP demonstrated that the highest level of total carotenoids (1.23-fold), total protein (1.68-fold), starch (2.26-fold), neutral lipid (6.08-fold), and triacylglycerol (8.21-fold) were recorded on day 2. We conclude that 50 mg L−1 of ZnO-NP treatment enhanced the production of neutral lipids and triacylglycerol without complete inhibition of growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]