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Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex... Aug 2024The impact of leachates from micronized beached plastics of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean on coastal marine ecosystems was investigated by using a...
The impact of leachates from micronized beached plastics of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean on coastal marine ecosystems was investigated by using a multidisciplinary approach. Chemical analysis and ecotoxicological tests on phylogenetically distant species were performed on leachates from the following plastic categories: bottles, pellets, hard plastic (HP) containers, fishing nets (FN) and rapido trawling rubber (RTR). The bacteria Alivibrio fischeri, the nauplii of the crustaceans Amphibalanus amphitrite and Acartia tonsa, the rotifer Brachionus plicatilis, the embryos of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus, the ephyrae of the jellyfish Aurelia sp. and the larvae of the medaka Oryzias latipes were exposed to different concentrations of leachates to evaluate lethal and sub-lethal effects. Thirty-one additives were identified in the plastic leachates; benzophenone, benzyl butyl phthalate and ethylparaben were present in all leachates. Ecotoxicity of leachates varied among plastic categories and areas, being RTR, HP and FN more toxic than plastic bottles and pellets to several marine invertebrates. The ecotoxicological results based on 13 endpoints were elaborated within a quantitative weight of evidence (WOE) model, providing a synthetic hazard index for each data typology, before their integrations in an environmental risk index. The WOE assigned a moderate and slight hazard to organisms exposed to leachates of FN and HP collected in the Mediterranean Sea respectively, and a moderate hazard to leachates of HP from the Atlantic Ocean. No hazard was found for pellet, bottles and RTR. These findings suggest that an integrated approach based on WOE on a large set of bioassays is recommended to get a more reliable assessment of the ecotoxicity of beached-plastic leachates. In addition, the additives leached from FN and HP should be further investigated to reduce high concentrations and additive types that could impact marine ecosystem health.
Topics: Animals; Plastics; Water Pollutants, Chemical; Mediterranean Sea; Aquatic Organisms; Invertebrates; Aliivibrio fischeri; Environmental Monitoring; Atlantic Ocean; Ecotoxicology; Vertebrates; Oryzias; Paracentrotus
PubMed: 38801877
DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124233 -
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic... 2024Non-cultured epidermal suspension technique is currently the surgical treatment of choice for vitiligo. Storage of trypsin ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution has a...
Non-cultured epidermal suspension technique is currently the surgical treatment of choice for vitiligo. Storage of trypsin ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution has a stringent requirement. We propose usage of freeze-dried trypsin for the procedure which can be kept in usual refrigerator at 2-8°C. This can help us to perform the procedure at resource poor settings.
PubMed: 38800812
DOI: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_61_22 -
Animal Nutrition (Zhongguo Xu Mu Shou... Jun 2024Thirty-two primiparous and 31 multiparous Alpine goats were used to determine influences of diets varying in level and source of forage on performance in early to...
Effects of the level and source of dietary physically effective fiber on feed intake, nutrient utilization, heat energy, ruminal fermentation, and milk production by Alpine goats.
Thirty-two primiparous and 31 multiparous Alpine goats were used to determine influences of diets varying in level and source of forage on performance in early to mid-lactation for 16 wk. Diets consisted of 40%, 50%, 60%, and 70% forage (designated as 40F, 50F, 60F, and 70F, respectively) with 60F and 70F containing coarsely ground grass hay (primarily orchardgrass) and 40F and 50F containing cottonseed hulls, alfalfa pellets, and coarsely ground wheat hay. Diets contained 15.9% to 16.3% crude protein and 37.8%, 42.1%, 53.5%, and 55.4% neutral detergent fiber (NDF) with 10.0%, 15.8%, 50.1%, and 55.5% particle retention on a 19-mm sieve, and 26.1%, 29.6%, 38.3%, and 40.0% physically effective NDF (peNDF) for 40F, 50F, 60F, and 70F, respectively. Dry matter intake (2.71, 2.75, 1.96, and 1.95 kg/d) and milk yield (2.82, 2.71, 2.23, and 2.10 kg/d for 40F, 50F, 60F, and 70F, respectively) were lower ( < 0.05) for the two diets highest in forage. Digestion of organic matter was similar among diets ( 0.05), but digestibility of NDF was greater ( < 0.05) for 60F and 70F (57.5%, 58.4%, 68.9%, and 72.2% for 40F, 50F, 60F, and 70F, respectively). Diet affected ( < 0.05) milk fat (3.16%, 3.37%, 2.93%, and 2.97%) and protein concentrations (2.62%, 2.69%, 2.58%, and 2.52% for 40F, 50F, 60F, and 70F, respectively). Milk energy yield was greater ( < 0.05) for the two diets lowest in forage (7.51, 7.45, 5.68, and 5.34 MJ/d), although yield relative to dry matter intake was not affected ( > 0.05) by diet and was lower ( < 0.05) for primiparous vs. multiparous goats (2.71 and 3.09 MJ/kg). Ruminal pH and acetate proportion were greater for 60F and 70F than for the other diets and the proportion of butyrate was lower for the two diets highest in fiber. The mean lengths of time spent ruminating, eating, standing, and lying were not affected ( > 0.05) by diet or parity, but many interactions involving diet, period, hour, and parity were significant ( < 0.05). In conclusion, lactational performance of Alpine goats in early to mid-lactation will be constrained with diets high in forage of moderate quality, peNDF content, and large particle size, which appeared related to limited feed intake.
PubMed: 38800737
DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2024.02.002 -
Polymers May 2024Coordination compounds, like iron(II) triazole complexes, exhibit spin crossover (SCO) behavior at around room temperature. Therefore, they are interesting for a variety...
Coordination compounds, like iron(II) triazole complexes, exhibit spin crossover (SCO) behavior at around room temperature. Therefore, they are interesting for a variety of possible applications, and it is convenient to integrate them into polymers. Due to a reduction of the iron content and thus also Fe content in the sample through integration in polymers, Mössbauer measurements are only possible with greater difficulty or very long measurement times without expensive enrichment of the samples with Fe. So, other ways of improving the Mössbauer signal for these composite materials are necessary. Therefore, we pressed these composite materials to improve the Mössbauer spectra. In this study, we synthesized an iron(II) triazole spin crossover complex and an electrospun polymer complex composite nanofiber material including the same complex. For both products, Mössbauer measurements were performed at room temperature before and after using a press to show that the complex composite is not harmed through pressing. We investigate the influence of the pressing impact on the Mössbauer measurements in the context of measurement statistics and the measured signals. We show that pressing is not connected to any changes in the sample regarding the spin and oxidation state. We present that pressing improves the statistics of the Mössbauer measurements significantly. Furthermore, we use SEM measurements and PXRD to investigate whether or not the obtained fiber mats are destroyed in the pressing process.
PubMed: 38794504
DOI: 10.3390/polym16101311 -
Plants (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024Lindl. is a native Australian forb responsible for livestock poisoning and reducing the productivity and sustainability of grazing enterprises. This study was conducted...
Lindl. is a native Australian forb responsible for livestock poisoning and reducing the productivity and sustainability of grazing enterprises. This study was conducted as a pot trial under controlled conditions to investigate an effective chemical management strategy for , a method that did not leave standing dead plant material, as such material can also be toxic to grazing cattle. Three herbicides, including one pre-emergence (tebuthiuron) and two post-emergence herbicides (2,4-D and metsulfuron-methyl), were tested in pot trials for their efficacy on . Results showed that tebuthiuron applied as either a granular (10% active ingredient, a.i.) or pelleted (20% a.i.) form efficiently reduced the emergence of seedlings. Although some seedlings emerged, they perished within 7 days post treatment, leaving no residual plant matter. Testing now needs to be undertaken under field conditions to validate the findings within vegetation communities where potential non-target impacts need to be accounted for as well. The post-emergence application of 2,4-D and metsulfuron-methyl demonstrated that the highest efficacy and reduced application rates were achieved by treating earlier growth stages (i.e., seedlings) of plants. In addition, the amount of toxic dead plant material was minimized due to the faster degradation of these small plants. These findings offer practical, cost-effective solutions for sustaining grazing lands from challenges.
PubMed: 38794412
DOI: 10.3390/plants13101342 -
Pharmaceutics Apr 2024The bitter drug, warfarin, has a narrow therapeutic index (NTI) and is used in paediatrics and geriatrics. The aim of this feasibility study was to formulate the...
The bitter drug, warfarin, has a narrow therapeutic index (NTI) and is used in paediatrics and geriatrics. The aim of this feasibility study was to formulate the taste-masked warfarin-containing pellets to be applicable for dose personalisation and to improve patient compliance, as well as to investigate the effect of the core type (PharSQ Spheres M, CELPHERE™ CP-507, and NaCl) on the warfarin release from the Kollicoat Smartseal taste-masking-coated pellets. The cores were successfully drug-loaded and coated in a fluid-bed coater with a Wurster insert. An increase in particle size and particle size distribution was observed by optical microscopy. In saliva-simulated pH, at the Kollicoat Smartseal level of 2 mg/cm, none of the pellets demonstrated drug release, confirming their efficient taste-masking. However, in a stomach-simulated pH, a faster drug release was observed from PharSQ Spheres M- and CELPHERE™ CP-507-coated pellets in comparison with NaCl cores. Additional experiments allowed us to explain the slower drug release from NaCl-containing pellets because of the salting-out effect. Despite the successful taste masking, the drug release from pellets was relatively slow (not more than 91% per 60 min), allowing for further formulation improvements.
PubMed: 38794249
DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16050586 -
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) Apr 2024Bimatoprost has emerged as a significant medication in the field of medicine over the past several decades, with diverse applications in ophthalmology, dermatology, and... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Bimatoprost has emerged as a significant medication in the field of medicine over the past several decades, with diverse applications in ophthalmology, dermatology, and beyond. Originally developed as an ocular hypotensive agent, it has proven highly effective in treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Its ability to reduce intraocular pressure has established it as a first-line treatment option, improving management and preventing vision loss. In dermatology, bimatoprost has shown promising results in the promotion of hair growth, particularly in the treatment of alopecia and hypotrichosis. Its mechanism of action, stimulating the hair cycle and prolonging the growth phase, has led to the development of bimatoprost-containing solutions for enhancing eyelash growth.
AIM
The aim of our review is to provide a brief description, overview, and studies in the current literature regarding the versatile clinical use of bimatoprost in recent years. This can help clinicians determine the most suitable individualized therapy to meet the needs of each patient.
METHODS
Our methods involve a comprehensive review of the latest advancements reported in the literature in bimatoprost formulations, which range from traditional eye drops to sustained-release implants. These innovations offer extended drug delivery, enhance patient compliance, and minimize side effects.
RESULTS
The vast literature published on PubMed has confirmed the clinical usefulness of bimatoprost in lowering intraocular pressure and in managing patients with glaucoma. Numerous studies have shown promising results in dermatology and esthetics in promoting hair growth, particularly in treating alopecia and hypotrichosis. Its mechanism of action involves stimulating the hair cycle and prolonging the growth phase, leading to the development of solutions that enhance eyelash growth. The global use of bimatoprost has expanded significantly, with applications growing beyond its initial indications. Ongoing research is exploring its potential in glaucoma surgery, neuroprotection, and cosmetic procedures.
CONCLUSIONS
Bimatoprost has shown immense potential for addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs through various formulations and advancements. Promising future perspectives include the exploration of novel delivery systems such as contact lenses and microneedles to further enhance drug efficacy and patient comfort. Ongoing research and future perspectives continue to shape its role in medicine, promising further advancements and improved patient outcomes.
PubMed: 38794131
DOI: 10.3390/ph17050561 -
Microorganisms May 2024Metagenomic sequencing analysis is central to investigating microbial communities in clinical and environmental studies. Short-read sequencing remains the primary...
Metagenomic sequencing analysis is central to investigating microbial communities in clinical and environmental studies. Short-read sequencing remains the primary approach for metagenomic research; however, long-read sequencing may offer advantages of improved metagenomic assembly and resolved taxonomic identification. To compare the relative performance for metagenomic studies, we simulated short- and long-read datasets using increasingly complex metagenomes comprising 10, 20, and 50 microbial taxa. Additionally, we used an empirical dataset of paired short- and long-read data generated from mouse fecal pellets to assess real-world performance. We compared metagenomic assembly quality, taxonomic classification, and metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) recovery rates. We show that long-read sequencing data significantly improve taxonomic classification and assembly quality. Metagenomic assemblies using simulated long reads were more complete and more contiguous with higher rates of MAG recovery. This resulted in more precise taxonomic classifications. Principal component analysis of empirical data demonstrated that sequencing technology affects compositional results as samples clustered by sequence type, not sample type. Overall, we highlight strengths of long-read metagenomic sequencing for microbiome studies, including improving the accuracy of classification and relative abundance estimates. These results will aid researchers when considering which sequencing approaches to use for metagenomic projects.
PubMed: 38792764
DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12050935 -
Analytical Chemistry Jun 2024The health hazards of micro- and nanoplastic contaminants in drinking water has recently emerged as an area of concern to policy makers and industry. Plastic...
The health hazards of micro- and nanoplastic contaminants in drinking water has recently emerged as an area of concern to policy makers and industry. Plastic contaminants range in size from micro- (5 mm to 1 μm) to nanoplastics (<1 μm). Microfluidics provides many tools for particle manipulation at the microscale, particularly in diagnostics and biomedicine, but has in general a limited capacity to process large volumes. Drinking water and environmental samples with low-level contamination of microplastics require processing of deciliter to liter sample volumes to achieve statistically relevant particle counts. Here, we introduce the EchoGrid, an acoustofluidics device for high throughput continuous flow particle enrichment into a robust array of particle clusters. The EchoGrid takes advantage of highly efficient particle capture through the integration of a micropatterned transducer for surface displacement-based acoustic trapping in a glass and polymer microchannel. Silica seed particles were used as anchor particles to improve capture performance at low particle concentrations and high flow rates. The device was able to maintain the silica grids at a flow rate of 50 mL/min. In terms of enrichment, the device is able to double the final pellet's microplastic concentration every 78 s for 23 μm particles and every 51 s for 10 μm particles at a flow rate of 5 mL/min. In conclusion, we demonstrate the usefulness of the EchoGrid by capturing microplastics in challenging conditions, such as large sample volumes with low microparticle concentrations, without sacrificing the potential of integration with downstream analysis for environmental monitoring.
PubMed: 38790145
DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00933 -
Biosensors May 2024Whole-cell biosensors could serve as eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives for detecting potentially toxic bioavailable heavy metals in aquatic environments....
Whole-cell biosensors could serve as eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives for detecting potentially toxic bioavailable heavy metals in aquatic environments. However, they often fail to meet practical requirements due to an insufficient limit of detection (LOD) and high background noise. In this study, we designed a synthetic genetic circuit specifically tailored for detecting ionic mercury, which we applied to environmental samples collected from artisanal gold mining sites in Peru. We developed two distinct versions of the biosensor, each utilizing a different reporter protein: a fluorescent biosensor (Mer-RFP) and a colorimetric biosensor (Mer-Blue). Mer-RFP enabled real-time monitoring of the culture's response to mercury samples using a plate reader, whereas Mer-Blue was analysed for colour accumulation at the endpoint using a specially designed, low-cost camera setup for harvested cell pellets. Both biosensors exhibited negligible baseline expression of their respective reporter proteins and responded specifically to HgBr in pure water. Mer-RFP demonstrated a linear detection range from 1 nM to 1 μM, whereas Mer-Blue showed a linear range from 2 nM to 125 nM. Our biosensors successfully detected a high concentration of ionic mercury in the reaction bucket where artisanal miners produce a mercury-gold amalgam. However, they did not detect ionic mercury in the water from active mining ponds, indicating a concentration lower than 3.2 nM Hg-a result consistent with chemical analysis quantitation. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of Mer-Blue as a practical and affordable monitoring tool, highlighting its stability, reliance on simple visual colorimetry, and the possibility of sensitivity expansion to organic mercury.
Topics: Biosensing Techniques; Mercury; Environmental Monitoring; Colorimetry; Water Pollutants, Chemical; Limit of Detection; Gold
PubMed: 38785720
DOI: 10.3390/bios14050246