Isolation and characterization of cefotaxime resistant Escherichia coli from household floors in rural Bangladesh.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rising health concern worldwide. As an indicator organism, E. coli, specifically extended-spectrum ß-lactamase (ESBL) producing E. coli, can be used to detect AMR in the environment and estimate the risk of transmitting resistance among humans, animals and the environment. This study focused on detecting cefotaxime resistant E. coli in floor swab samples from 49 households in rural villages in Bangladesh. Following isolation of cefotaxime resistant E. coli, DNA extracted from isolates was subjected to molecular characterization for virulence and resistance genes, determination of resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics to define multidrug resistant (MDR) and extensively drug resistant (XDR) strains, and the biofilm forming capacity of the isolates. Among 49 households, floor swabs from 35 (71 %) households tested positive for cefotaxime resistant E. coli. Notably, all of the 91 representative isolates were ESBL producers, with the majority (84.6 %) containing the bla CTX-M gene, followed by the bla TEM and bla SHV genes detected in 22.0 % and 6.6 % of the isolates, respectively. All isolates were MDR, and one isolate was XDR. In terms of pathogenic strains, 8.8 % of the isolates were diarrheagenic and 5.5 % were extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC). At 25 °C, 45 % of the isolates formed strong biofilm, whereas 43 % and 12 % formed moderate and weak biofilm, respectively. On the other hand, at 37 °C, 1.1 %, 4.4 % and 93.4 % of the isolates were strong, moderate and weak biofilm formers, respectively, and 1.1 % showed no biofilm formation. The study emphasizes the importance of screening and characterizing cefotaxime resistant E. coli from household floors in a developing country setting to understand AMR exposure associated with floors.

Investigation on synthesized sulfonamide Schiff base with DFT approaches and in silico pharmacokinetic studies: Topological, NBO, and NLO analyses.

The sulfonamide Schiff base (C16H14N4O3S) was successfully synthesized and experimentally ascertained. The main purpose of this research is to investigate the geometry of the aforesaid molecule using both experimental and density functional theory (DFT) techniques and determine its drug likeness characteristics, docking ability as an insulysin inhibitor, and its NLO property. For the computational investigations the DFT approaches were utilized at the B3LYP level with the 6-311G+(d,p) basic set. The experimental results of the compound (such as FT-IR, UV-Vis, and 1H NMR) were compared with simulated data. The both results were well and consistent with previously related published data. The obtained spectral results confirm the formation of the Schiff base compound. Both π-π* and n-π* interactions were found in experimental and computational UV-Vis spectra, as well as in the natural bond orbital (NBO) study. The molecular, electronic, covalent, and non-covalent interactions were analyzed using DFT studies. Both experimental and simulation results revealed that the compound is successfully formed and relatively stable. The compound with a lower band gap showed high chemical reactivity. The medicinal characteristics of the compound were evaluated using in silico medicinal methods. The investigated compound was also followed Pfizer, Golden Triangle, GSK as well as Lipinski's rules. Therefore, the compound has more favorable absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profile and it can be used as non-toxic oral drug candidate. The compound was exhibited good insulysin inhibitory activity and it has almost eighteen times higher non-linear optical properties than urea and three times higher than potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP).

Enhancing prebiotic, antioxidant, and nutritional qualities of noodles: A collaborative strategy with foxtail millet and green banana flour.

Foxtail millet (FM) and green banana (GB) are rich in health-promoting nutrients and bioactive substances, like antioxidants, dietary fibers, and various essential macro and micronutrients. Utilizing GB and FM flour as prebiotics is attributed to their ability to support gut health and offer multiple health benefits. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of incorporating 10% GB flour (GBF) and different proportions (10-40%) of FM flour (FMF) on the prebiotic potential, antioxidant, nutrient, color, cooking quality, water activity and sensory attributes of noodles. The prebiotic potential, antioxidant, and nutrient of the produced noodles were significantly improved by increasing the levels of FMF. Sensorial evaluation revealed that noodles containing 30% FMF and 10% GBF attained comparable scores to the control sample. Furthermore, the formulated noodles exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of protein, essential minerals (such as iron, magnesium, and manganese), dietary fiber (9.37 to 12.71 g/100 g), total phenolic compounds (17.81 to 36.35 mg GA eq./100 g), and total antioxidants (172.57 to 274.94 mg AA eq./100 g) compared to the control. The enriched noodles also demonstrated substantially (p < 0.05) increased antioxidant capacity, as evidenced by enhanced DPPH and FRAP activities, when compared to the control noodles. Overall, the incorporation of 30% FMF and 10% GBF led to a noteworthy improvement in the nutritional and antioxidant qualities of the noodles, as well as the prebiotic potential of the noodles with regard to L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, and L. acidophilus. The implementation of this enrichment strategy has the potential to confer a multitude of health advantages.

Comprehensive analysis of phytochemical profiling, cytotoxic and antioxidant potentials, and identification of bioactive constituents in methanoic extracts of Sonneratia apetala fruit.

In the delta region of Bangladesh, Sonneratia apetala, also known as Keora and mangrove apple, is widely recognized for its dual role as a source of both food and medicine. Seasonal S. apetala fruits were gathered from Hatiya, Noakhali, in October 2021. The samples were segregated into pericarps and seeds, then fractionated into methanol segments. The anti-proliferative activities of these samples against lung A549 cells were evaluated using the Trypan blue exclusion method. Additionally, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was employed to quantify phenolic compounds, while standard protocols facilitated the identification of specific phytochemical constituents. Chemical profiling via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and the isolation and detection of bioactive compounds through column chromatography and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis were undertaken. The methanol fractions of the seeds and pericarp were found to contain carbohydrates, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids, glycosides, and terpenoids, with the absence of saponins and anthraquinones. Notably, the anti-proliferative effect demonstrated statistical significance at a concentration of 300 µg/mL for both extracts. Furthermore, HPLC analysis identified and quantified six polyphenols: catechin hydrate, (-)-epicatechin, rutin hydrate, trans-ferulic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, myricetin, and kaempferol, with the following concentrations: 46.65 and 12.72; 349.29 and 140.39; 5.26 and 33.06; 10.35 and 29.28; ND and 11.93; and 10.03 and 7.90 mg/100 g in the methanol fraction of the seed and pericarp, respectively. GC-MS analysis of S. apetala fruit revealed five notable compounds with significant peak areas (%): 2-methyltetracosane, tetratetracontane, heptacosane, 1-chloro-2-hexyl-1-octanol, and phenol, 3,5-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl), exhibiting peak areas of 43.96, 35.8, and 15.95, respectively. Meanwhile, the notable peak in S. apetala seeds was 1,3-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester, with a peak area (%) of 100. These compounds are known for their anticancer and antioxidant properties. Therefore, S. apetala, particularly its seeds and fruits, shows promising potential for development into dietary supplements and functional foods.

Synthesis, quantum chemical calculations, in silico and in vitro bioactivity of a sulfonamide-Schiff base derivative.

The sulfonamide Schiff base compound (E)-4-((4-(dimethylamino)benzylidene)amino)-N-(5-methylisoxazol-3-yl)benzenesulfonamide was successfully prepared and fully characterized. The foremost objective of this study was to explore the molecular geometry of the aforementioned compound and determine its drug likeness characteristics, docking ability as an insulysin inhibitor, anticancer and antioxidant activities. The molecular structure of this compound was optimized using the B3LYP/6-311G+(d,p) level of theory. The compound was completely characterized utilizing both experimental and DFT approaches. Molecular electrostatic potential, frontier molecular orbitals, Fukui function, drug likeness, and in silico molecular docking analyses of this compound were performed. Wave functional properties such as localized orbital locator, electron localization function and non-covalent interactions were also simulated. The compound was screened for anticancer and antioxidant activities using in vitro technique. The observed FT-IR, UV-Vis, and 1H NMR results compared with simulated data and both results were fairly consistent. The experimental and computational spectral findings confirm the formation of the Schiff base compound. Both π-π* and n-π* transitions were observed in both experimental and computational UV-Vis spectra. The examined compound followed to Pfizer, Golden Triangle, GSK, and Lipinski's rules. Consequently, it possesses a more favorable absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profile, making it a suitable candidate for non-toxic oral drug use. Moreover, the compound exhibited promising insulysin inhibition activity in an in silico molecular docking. The compound showed in vitro anticancer activity against A549 cancer cells with an IC50 value of 40.89 µg/mL and moderate antioxidant activity.

Antibiotic usage patterns in COVID-19 patients in five tertiary hospitals from Bangladesh: A countrywide picture.

Objectives: Irrational and injudicious use of antibiotics in COVID-19 patients could be detrimental in a tropical country with a weak antibiotic stewardship policy such as Bangladesh. This study aimed to focus on the antibiotic usage patterns in COVID-19 patients in Bangladesh. Methods: This prospective observational study was performed from July 2020 to June 2021 in five tertiary hospitals in Bangladesh. Data on demographic profile, disease severity, and antibiotic usage were collected directly from the patients' hospital documents. Results: A total of 3486 (94.4%) patients were treated with at least one antibiotic; 3261 (93.6%) patients received a single antibiotic, and 225 (6.5%) received multiple antibiotics. The most used antibiotics were ceftriaxone (37.3%), co-amoxiclav (26.3%), azithromycin (10.6%), and meropenem (10.3%). According to the World Health Organization AWaRe categorization, most (2260; 69.6%) of the antibiotics prescribed in this study belonged to the "Watch" group. Culture and sensitivity reports were available in 111 cases from one center. Only 18.9% of the patients were found to be co-infected with multi-drug-resistant bacteria (52.4% yield from sputum, 28.6% from urine, and 14.3% from blood). Conclusions: Strict antibiotic prescribing policy and antibiotic stewardship should be implemented immediately to limit the future threat of antimicrobial resistance in countries such as Bangladesh.

Multi-armed bandit algorithm for sequential experiments of molecular properties with dynamic feature selection.

Sequential optimization is one of the promising approaches in identifying the optimal candidate(s) (molecules, reactants, drugs, etc.) with desired properties (reaction yield, selectivity, efficacy, etc.) from a large set of potential candidates, while minimizing the number of experiments required. However, the high dimensionality of the feature space (e.g., molecular descriptors) makes it often difficult to utilize the relevant features during the process of updating the set of candidates to be examined. In this article, we developed a new sequential optimization algorithm for molecular problems based on reinforcement learning, multi-armed linear bandit framework, and online, dynamic feature selections in which relevant molecular descriptors are updated along with the experiments. We also designed a stopping condition aimed to guarantee the reliability of the chosen candidate from the dataset pool. The developed algorithm was examined by comparing with Bayesian optimization (BO), using two synthetic datasets and two real datasets in which one dataset includes hydration free energy of molecules and another one includes a free energy difference between enantiomer products in chemical reaction. We found that the dynamic feature selection in representing the desired properties along the experiments provides a better performance (e.g., time required to find the best candidate and stop the experiment) as the overall trend and that our multi-armed linear bandit approach with a dynamic feature selection scheme outperforms the standard BO with fixed feature variables. The comparison of our algorithm to BO with dynamic feature selection is also addressed.

Slow wave activity disruptions and memory impairments in a mouse model of aging.

The aging population suffers from memory impairments. Slow-wave activity (SWA) is composed of slow (0.5-1 Hz) and delta (1-4 Hz) oscillations, which play important roles in long-term memory and working memory function respectively. SWA disruptions might lead to memory disturbances often experienced by older adults. We conducted behavioral tests in young and older C57BL/6 J mice. SWA was monitored using wide-field imaging with voltage sensors. Cell-specific calcium imaging was used to monitor the activity of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in these mice. Older mice exhibited impairments in working memory but not memory consolidation. Voltage-sensor imaging revealed aberrant synchronization of neuronal activity in older mice. Notably, we found older mice exhibited no significant alterations in slow oscillations, whereas there was a significant increase in delta power compared to young mice. Calcium imaging revealed hypoactivity in inhibitory neurons of older mice. Combined, these results suggest that neural activity disruptions might correlate with aberrant memory performance in older mice.

Exploring peptidomes of by-products generated during chhurpi production using Lactobacillus delbrueckii WS4 for identification of novel bioactive peptides.

The considerable value of whey is evident from its significant potential applications and contributions to the functional food and nutraceutical market. The by-products were individually obtained during functional chhurpi and novel soy chhurpi cheese production using defined lactic acid bacterial strains of Sikkim Himalaya's traditional chhurpi. Hydrolysis of substrate proteins by starter proteinases resulted in a comparable peptide content in whey and soy whey which was associated with antioxidant and ACE inhibition potential. Peptidome analysis of Lactobacillus delbrueckii WS4 whey and soy whey revealed the presence of several bioactive peptides including the multifunctional peptides PVVVPPFLQPE and YQEPVLGPVRGPFPIIV. In silico analyses predicted the antihypertensive potential of whey and soy whey peptides with strong binding affinity for ACE active sites. QSAR models predicted the highest ACE inhibition potential (IC50) for the ß-casein-derived decapeptide PVRGPFPIIV (0.95 µM) and the Kunitz trypsin inhibitor protein-derived nonapeptide KNKPLVVQF (16.64 µM). Chhurpi whey and soy whey can be explored as a valuable source of diverse and novel bioactive peptides for applications in designer functional foods development.

Estimating the growth parameters, exploitation rate, biomass and maximum sustainable yield of long whisker catfish Mystus gulio (Hamilton, 1822) in the coastal waters from southwestern Bangladesh.

The research provides a comprehensive analysis of Mystus gulio including growth pattern, growth parameters, recruitment patterns, mortality rates, biomass, exploitation rate (E), and the estimation of maximum sustainable yield (MSY) within the southwestern coastal waters of Bangladesh. From January to December 2017, fishers provided around 1200 specimens. FAO-ICLARM Stock Assessment Tool and Excel-add-in-solver were used to assess stock status through length-frequency data. Indeed, the research findings indicated that the population of M. gulio displayed negative allometric for both individuals (b = 2.53 for male, b = 2.50 for female), as demonstrated by the calculated allometric coefficient value. Nonetheless, the population's dynamic characteristics revealed an asymptotic length (L∞) of 19.34 cm, 23.28 cm and growth coefficient (K) 0.94 year-1 and 0.81 year-1 for male and female M. gulio. The growth performance indexes (Ø') of 2.55 and 2.64 for male and female and maximum lifespan (tmax) 3.20 years and 3.70 years respectively. This study revealed that the slightly variations in the natural mortality rate (M) for both specimens at 1.55 year-1 and 1.59 year-1. The fishing mortality rate (F) 2.75 year-1 and 1.98 year-1and total mortality rate (Z) 4.30 year-1 and 3.57 year-1 for male and females, respectively. The maximum permissible exploitation rate (Emax = 0.421) was lower than the actual exploitation rate (E = 0.63). The MSY was calculated at 67.968 metric tons. Without a doubt, overfishing stands out as the most critical threat to the wild stock. Therefore, it is clear that the existing fishing approach was not efficiently managed the standing stock in a sustainable manner. The findings would be useful for established proper fishing regulations in coastal waters and the surrounding ecosystems.

Assessment of coastal river water quality in Bangladesh: Implications for drinking and irrigation purposes.

Saltwater intrusion in the coastal areas of Bangladesh is a prevalent phenomenon. However, it is not conducive to activities such as irrigation, navigation, fish spawning and shelter, and industrial usage. The present study analyzed 45 water samples collected from 15 locations in coastal areas during three seasons: monsoon, pre-monsoon, and post-monsoon. The aim was to comprehend the seasonal variation in physicochemical parameters, including water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness, and concentrations of Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe2+, HCO3-, PO43-, SO42-, and Cl-. Additionally, parameters essential for agriculture, such as soluble sodium percentage (SSP), sodium absorption ratio (SAR), magnesium absorption ratio (MAR), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), Kelly's ratio (KR), and permeability index (PI), were examined. Their respective values were found to be 63%, 16.83 mg/L, 34.92 mg/L, 145.44 mg/L, 1.28 mg/L, and 89.29%. The integrated water quality index was determined using entropy theory and principal component analysis (PCA). The resulting entropy water quality index (EWQI) and SAR of 49.56% and 63%, respectively, indicated that the samples are suitable for drinking but unsuitable for irrigation. These findings can assist policymakers in implementing the Bangladesh Deltaplan-2100, focusing on sustainable land management, fish cultivation, agricultural production, environmental preservation, water resource management, and environmental protection in the deltaic areas of Bangladesh. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of seasonal variations in the hydrochemistry and water quality of coastal rivers, aiding in the comprehension of salinity intrusion origins, mechanisms, and causes.

Prevalence and factors associated with digital addiction among students taking university entrance tests: a GIS-based study.

BACKGROUND: The surge in digital media consumption, coupled with the ensuing consequences of digital addiction, has witnessed a rapid increase, particularly after the initiation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite some studies exploring specific technological addictions, such as internet or social media addiction, in Bangladesh, there is a noticeable gap in research focusing on digital addiction in a broader context. Thus, this study aims to investigate digital addiction among students taking the university entrance test, examining its prevalence, contributing factors, and geographical distribution using GIS techniques. METHODS: Data from a cross-sectional survey were collected from a total of 2,157 students who were taking the university entrance test at Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh. A convenience sampling method was applied for data collection using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS 25 Version and AMOS 23 Version, whereas ArcGIS 10.8 Version was used for the geographical distribution of digital addiction. RESULTS: The prevalence of digital addiction was 33.1% (mean score: 16.05 ± 5.58). Those students who are attempting the test for a second time were more likely to be addicted (42.7% vs. 39.1%), but the difference was not statistically significant. Besides, the potential factors predicted for digital addiction were student status, satisfaction with previous mock tests, average monthly expenditure during the admission test preparation, and depression. No significant difference was found between digital addiction and districts. However, digital addiction was higher in the districts of Manikganj, Rajbari, Shariatpur, and Chittagong Hill Tract areas, including Rangamati, and Bandarban. CONCLUSIONS: The study emphasizes the pressing need for collaborative efforts involving educational policymakers, institutions, and parents to address the growing digital addiction among university-bound students. The recommendations focus on promoting alternative activities, enhancing digital literacy, and imposing restrictions on digital device use, which are crucial steps toward fostering a healthier digital environment and balanced relationship with technology for students.

Commonly consumed processed packaged foods in Bangladesh are unhealthy and their nutrient contents are not in conformity with the label declaration.

The present study was undertaken to identify the major nutrient content in processed foods commonly consumed in Bangladesh, their label conformity healthiness, and percent daily nutrient contribution. Twenty-four nationally representative composite samples were analyzed using AOAC and other standard methods. Results were compared with label information using a restrictive approach and EU tolerance guidelines. The healthiness of the products was evaluated in terms of the Health Star Rating (HSR) scheme and the UK traffic light labeling system. Among the analyzed samples, fried pulse, chanachur, lozenge, and fried peas had the highest amount of protein, fat, carbohydrates, and dietary fiber, respectively. Biscuits and milk chocolate had high levels of trans fatty acids (TFA) and saturated fatty acids (SFA). It was observed that around half of the products lacked information about saturated fatty acid (46%), followed by total dietary fiber and trans-fat (38% each). Other information was missing in one-fifth of the products, namely protein (17%), total fat (17%), available carbohydrate (17%), energy (17%), sugar (21%), and salt (21%). Label compliance analysis according to the restrictive approach revealed that none of the products accurately reported the salt, sugar, saturated fat, and trans fat content on the label. According to the EU tolerance guideline, approximately half of the products had protein (58%), fat (54%), and carbohydrate (42%) levels that fell within the EU tolerance limit. However, only around one-third of the samples had sugar (21%), salt (38%), and saturated fat (33%) levels that met the EU tolerance limit. In terms of healthiness analysis, according to the HSR, the range of stars was between 0.5 and 2.5 of the foods where fried peas got the highest rating (2.5 stars), while in terms of the UK traffic light system, none of the samples got all green signals. The lozenge got green lights for fat, SFA, and salt contents. It was also found that consumption of 100 g of fried peas or pulse would exceed the acceptable daily limit of salt, sugar, and SFA compared to the daily maximum allowable intake for the 2000 kcal diet recommended by the WHO. However, according to the serving size, biscuits were major contributors of TFA, sugar, and SFA, whereas fried pulse was a key contributor of sodium/salt. Proper regulatory actions should be introduced to promote healthy processed foods with user-friendly front-of-the-pack labeling and monitor their quality to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

First report on population dynamics and stock status of Badis badis in a wetland ecosystem (NW Bangladesh): Insights from new recorded maximum length.

Badis badis (Hamilton, 1822) is a popular ornamental fish species in the world. This study provides valuable insights into some biological indices of B. badis using a sample of 293 individuals. These individuals were captured from June 2021 to May 2022 using several traditional fish harvesting gears and traps in the Babu Mondoler beel, a wetland ecosystem in NW Bangladesh. Biometric data were collected for each individual, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of this species. The recorded results revealed a wide range of total length (TL), varying from 2.30 to 11.33 cm. Notably, we observed a maximum length of 11.33 cm TL and a maximum body weight (BW) of 18.18 g, ranging from 0.20 to 18.18 g, setting a new record and showcasing the diversity in size within the population. The estimated allometric coefficient (b) showed that combined sexes had negative allometric growth (b = 2.67). Growth parameters were assessed as L∞ = 11.93 cm, K = 0.95 year-1 and Ø' = 2.13. The tmax was 3.16 years. The Lm was measured at 7.02 cm TL and tm = 0.89 year. In this study, KF (1.4240 ± 0.3194) was best for the wellbeing of B. badis in the study area. The a3.0 was estimated at 0.0079 and the relative weight WR (100.90 ± 16.994). Physiological status showed that maximum fatty fish were observed at 10.00-12.00 cm TL; lowest at 4.0-6.00 cm TL. Moreover, the Z, Mw, F and E were estimated to be 3.29 year-1, 1.45 year-1, 1.84 year-1and 0.56, respectively. Additionally, the Lopt for this species was found to be 7.91 cm TL. The findings from this study hold great potential for enhancing the assessment and management of the specimen in the study area and its ecological community. These valuable insights into the population parameters, growth patterns, and exploitation rates of B. badis can inform future management strategies, ensuring the sustainable utilization of this fishery resource in Bangladesh and others neighboring countries.

A Frizzled4-LRP5 agonist promotes blood-retina barrier function by inducing a Norrin-like transcriptional response.

Norrin (NDP) and WNT7A/B induce and maintain the blood-brain and blood-retina barrier (BBB, BRB) by stimulating the Frizzled4-LDL receptor related protein 5/6 (FZD4-LRP5/6) complex to induce beta-catenin-dependent signaling in endothelial cells (ECs). Recently developed agonists for the FZD4-LRP5 complex have therapeutic potential in retinal and neurological diseases. Here, we use the tetravalent antibody modality F4L5.13 to identify agonist activities in Tspan12-/- mice, which display a complex retinal pathology due to impaired NDP-signaling. F4L5.13 administration during development alleviates BRB defects, retinal hypovascularization, and restores neural function. In mature Tspan12-/- mice F4L5.13 partially induces a BRB de novo without inducing angiogenesis. In a genetic model of impaired BRB maintenance, administration of F4L5.13 rapidly and substantially restores the BRB. scRNA-seq reveals perturbations of key mediators of barrier functions in juvenile Tspan12-/- mice, which are in large parts restored after F4L5.13 administration. This study identifies transcriptional and functional activities of FZD4-LRP5 agonists.

Customized Production of Holey Graphene Oxides via a Continuous Flow Process.

Continuous flow manufacturing is an innovative technology mainly applied in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries that is progressively being adapted to the manufacturing of nanomaterials to overcome the challenge of reproducing a product with consistent characteristics at a large scale. Here, a flow photochemical system is designed and prototyped for the synthesis of holey graphene oxides (hGOs). Compared to existing methods for the synthesis of hGO, the process is fast, highly scalable, and controllable. Through a combination of rigorous data analysis using machine learning algorithms on transmission electron microscope images and systematic studies of process parameters, it is demonstrated that characteristics of the produced hGO (i.e., porosity and pore size) are remarkably reproducible to the extent that it can be predicted by empirical models of processing-property correlations. Depending on the tailored nanopore structures, the synthesized hGOs out-performed GO in a range of applications that can benefit from the nanoporous two-dimensional (2D) sheets such as in supercapacitors, gas adsorption, and nanofiltration membranes. These results are significant in offering new perspectives on the low-cost industrialization of 2D nanomaterials.

New Class of High-Energy, High-Power Capacitive Devices Enabled by Stabilized Lithium Metal Anodes.

Lithium-ion capacitors (LIC) combine the energy storage mechanisms of lithium-ion batteries and electric double layer capacitors (EDLC) and are supposed to promise the best of both worlds: high energy and power density combined with a long life. However, the lack of lithium cation sources in the carbon cathode demands the cumbersome step of prelithiation of the graphite anode, mainly by using sacrificial lithium metal, hindering the mass adoption of LICs. Here, in a conceptually new class of devices termed lithium metal capacitors (LMC), we replace the graphite anode with a lithium metal anode stabilized by a complex yet stable solid-electrolyte interface (SEI). Via a specialized formation process, the well-explored synergetic reaction between the LiNO3 additive and controlled amounts of polysulfides in an ether-based electrolyte stabilizes the SEI on the lithium metal electrode. Optimized devices at the coin cell level deliver 55 mAh g-1 at a fast 30C discharge rate and maintain 95% capacity after 8000 cycles. At the pouch-cell level, energy densities of 13 Wh kg-1 are readily achieved, indicating the transferability of the technology to practical scales. The LMC, a new class of capacitive device, eliminates the prelithiation process of the conventional LIC, allowing practical production at scale and offering exciting avenues for exploring versatile cathode chemistries on account of using a lithium metal anode.

Combined Effect of Salicylic Acid and Proline Mitigates Drought Stress in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) through the Modulation of Physiological Attributes and Antioxidant Enzymes.

Salicylic acid (SA) and proline exhibit protective effects against a wide range of stresses. However, the combined impact of SA and proline on rice under drought stress is still unknown. Therefore, we investigated the protective roles of SA and/or proline in conferring drought tolerance in rice. There were eight treatments comprising the control (T1; 95-100% FC), 1.5 mM SA (T2), 2 mM proline (T3), 0.75 mM SA + 1 mM proline (T4), 45-50% FC (T5, drought stress), T5 + 1.5 mM SA (T6), T5 + 2 mM proline (T7), and T5 + 0.75 mM SA + 1 mM proline (T8), and two rice varieties: BRRI dhan66 and BRRI dhan75. Drought stress significantly decreased the plant growth, biomass, yield attributes, photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (Tr), photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoids content), relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI), soluble sugar and starch content, and uptake of N, P and K+ in roots and shoots. Drought-induced oxidative stress in the form of increased hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and lipid peroxidation (MDA) was observed. The combined application of SA (0.75 mM) + proline (1 mM) was found to be more effective than the single application of either for drought stress mitigation in rice. A combined dose of SA + proline alleviated oxidative stress through boosting antioxidant enzymatic activity in contrast to their separate application. The application of SA + proline also enhanced proline, soluble sugar and starch content, which resulted in the amelioration of osmotic stress. Consequently, the combined application of SA and proline significantly increased the gas exchange characteristics, photosynthetic pigments, RWC, MSI, nutrient uptake, plant growth, biomass and yield of rice. Therefore, the combined application of SA and proline alleviated the detrimental impacts of drought stress more pronouncedly than their separate application did by increasing osmoprotectants, improving nutrient transport, up-regulating antioxidant enzyme activity and inhibiting oxidative stress.

Lactic acid bacteria in the functional food industry: biotechnological properties and potential applications.

With the growing demand for functional foods having better nutraceutical properties, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) has become an important industrial microorganism. LAB play a significant role in the functional food industry by exhibiting probiotic properties and has the ability to produce various biologically active metabolites such as γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), exopolysaccharides (EPSs), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), bacteriocins, reuterin and reutericyclin, which provides enhanced nutraceutical properties to the final food products. LAB are also known to produce several specific enzymes essential for producing substrate-derived bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, bioactive peptides, inulin-type fructans and ß-glucans, fatty acids, and polyols. These compounds exhibit many health benefits, including better mineral absorption, oxidative stress protection, blood glucose and cholesterol-lowering properties, prevention of gastrointestinal tract infections and improved cardiovascular function. Further, metabolically engineered LAB have been widely used for the nutritive enhancement of different food products and the application of CRISPR-Cas9 holds tremendous potential for the engineering of food cultures. This review provides an overview of the use of LAB as probiotics, its application in producing fermented foods and nutraceutical products, and its health benefits on the host.

Physicochemical and structural impact of CMC-hydrocolloids on the development of gluten-free foxtail millet biscuits.

Patients with celiac disease and those who are gluten intolerant have a need for gluten-free bakery items but developing them is a challenge for technologists and dietitians. Foxtail millets are naturally gluten-free and nutrient-dense grains. Herein, CMC-modified foxtail millet biscuits (CFMBs) were prepared using 0.01%, 0.05%, and 0.1% of CMC hydrocolloids with foxtail millet flour. The effects of CFMBs on the physicochemical properties, sensory, and morphology were investigated and compared with wheat (WB-100) and foxtail millet (FMB-100) products. CFMBs were thicker, had a larger specific volume, and had a lower diameter and spread ratio than FMB-100. CFMB-0.1 exhibited higher moisture content, higher water activity, and lower fat content than FMB-100 and WB-100. The hardness of CFMB-0.1 (35.08 ± 0.26 N) was close to WB-100 (37.75 ± 0.104 N) but higher than FM-100 (21.61 ± 0.064 N). The scanning electron microscope (SEM) study indicated that incorporating CMC influenced the morphology and microstructure of CFMBs. Skilled panelists gave WB-100 and CFMB-0.1 the highest sensory ratings and FMB-100 the lowest due to their color, appearance, flavor, and overall acceptability. Finally, CMC may be easily included in FMB manufacturing and supported like gluten in the food sector to suit the nutritional demands of customers.