Combined effect of zinc and cadmium ions on nitrification performance during the biological nitrogen removal of simulated livestock breeding wastewater.

Zinc and cadmium ions are usually found in livestock breeding wastewater, and the mixed ions will have an impact on the biological nitrogen removal. Nitrification performance plays an important role in biological nitrogen removal. In order to investigate the combined effect of zinc and cadmium ions on nitrification performance and to reveal the interactions between zinc and cadmium ions, three concentration ratios of zinc and cadmium ions, as well as 18 different concentration gradients were designed with the direct equipartition ray and the dilution factor method. The effect of pollutants on the nitrification performance of biological nitrogen removal was analyzed by the nonlinear regression equation, and the concentration-addition model was conducted to probe into the relationship between the mixed pollutants and the nitrification performance. The results showed that the effect on nitrification performance increased significantly with the increase of reaction duration and pollutant concentration, which indicated that the effects are concentration-dependent and time-dependent. The concentration-addition model suggested that the interactions between zinc and cadmium ions with different concentration ratios were mainly antagonistic, and as the percentage of cadmium ions in the mixtures increased, the antagonism between the mixtures became stronger. This study will provide a relevant theoretical basis for the regulation of the ratios and concentrations of heavy metal ions during the biological treatment of livestock breeding wastewater.

Differential effectiveness of dietary zinc supplementation with autism-related behaviours in Shank2 knockout mice.

The family of SHANK proteins have been shown to be critical in regulating glutamatergic synaptic structure, function and plasticity. SHANK variants are also prevalent in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), where glutamatergic synaptopathology has been shown to occur in multiple ASD mouse models. Our previous work has shown that dietary zinc in Shank3-/- and Tbr1+/- ASD mouse models can reverse or prevent ASD behavioural and synaptic deficits. Here, we have examined whether dietary zinc can influence behavioural and synaptic function in Shank2-/- mice. Our data show that dietary zinc supplementation can reverse hyperactivity and social preference behaviour in Shank2-/- mice, but it does not alter deficits in working memory. Consistent with this, at the synaptic level, deficits in NMDA/AMPA receptor-mediated transmission are also not rescued by dietary zinc. In contrast to other ASD models examined, we observed that SHANK3 protein was highly expressed at the synapses of Shank2-/- mice and that dietary zinc returned these to wild-type levels. Overall, our data show that dietary zinc has differential effectiveness in altering ASD behaviours and synaptic function across ASD mouse models even within the Shank family. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Long-term potentiation: 50 years on'.

Accelerated and Guided Zn2+ Diffusion via Polarized Interface Engineering Toward High Performance Wearable Zinc-Ion Batteries.

Rechargeable aqueous Zn-ion batteries (ZIBs) are considered as a new energy storage device for wearable electronic equipment. Nowadays, dendrite growth and uneven deposition of zinc have been the principal problems to suppress the development of high-performance wearable zinc-ion batteries. Herein, a perovskite material of LaAlO3 nanoparticle has been applied for interface engineering and zinc anode protection. By adjusting transport channels and accelerating the Zn2+ diffusion, the hydrogen evolution reaction potential is improved, and electric field distribution on the Zn electrode surface is regulated to navigate the fast and uniform deposition of Zn2+. As a proof of demonstration, the assembled LAO@Zn||MnO2 batteries can display the highest capacity of up to 140 mAh g-1 without noticeable decay even after 1000 cycles. Moreover, a motor-driven fan and electronic wristwatch powered by wearable ZIBs can demonstrate the practical feasibility of LAO@Zn||MnO2 in wearable electronic equipment.

Deciphering the role of zinc homeostasis in the tumor microenvironment and prognosis of prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND: Dysregulation of zinc homeostasis is widely recognized as a hallmark feature of prostate cancer (PCa) based on the compelling clinical and experimental evidence. Nevertheless, the implications of zinc dyshomeostasis in PCa remains largely unexplored. METHODS: In this research, the zinc homeostasis pattern subtype (ZHPS) was constructed according to the profile of zinc homeostasis genes. The identified subtypes were assessed for their immune functions, mutational landscapes, biological peculiarities and drug susceptibility. Subsequently, we developed the optimal signature, known as the zinc homeostasis-related risk score (ZHRRS), using the approach won out in multifariously machine learning algorithms. Eventually, clinical specimens, Bayesian network inference and single-cell sequencing were used to excavate the underlying mechanisms of MT1A in PCa. RESULTS: The zinc dyshomeostasis subgroup, ZHPS2, possessed a markedly worse prognosis than ZHPS1. Moreover, ZHPS2 demonstrated a more conspicuous genomic instability and better therapeutic responses to docetaxel and olaparib than ZHPS1. Compared with traditional clinicopathological characteristics and 35 published signatures, ZHRRS displayed a significantly improved accuracy in prognosis prediction. The diagnostic value of MT1A in PCa was substantiated through analysis of clinical samples. Additionally, we inferred and established the regulatory network of MT1A to elucidate its biological mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS: The ZHPS classifier and ZHRRS model hold great potential as clinical applications for improving outcomes of PCa patients.

Mice learn to identify and discriminate sugar solutions based on odor cues.

This study examined how olfaction impacts ingestive responses of mice to sugar solutions. Experiment 1 asked whether naïve C57BL/6 (B6) mice could identify 1M glucose, fructose or sucrose solutions based on odor cues, during a 30-min two-bottle acceptability test. We tested mice both before and after they were rendered anosmic with ZnSO4 treatment. We used two indirect measures of odor-mediated response: number of trials initiated and latency to initiate licking. Before ZnSO4 treatment, the mice learned how to identify 1M glucose and fructose (but not sucrose) solutions based on odor cues. ZnSO4 treatment eliminated their ability to identify the glucose and fructose solutions. Experiment 2 asked whether two days of exposure to a 1M glucose, fructose or sucrose solution improved identification of the same sugar solution. Following exposure, the B6 mice identified all three sugar solutions based on odor cues. Experiment 3 asked whether T1R3 knockout mice (i.e., mice lacking the T1R3 subunit of the T1R2+R3 sweet taste receptor) could learn to discriminate 0.44M glucose and fructose solutions based on odor cues. All mice were subjected to a 1-hr preference test, both before and after exposure to the 0.44M glucose and fructose solutions. During exposure, the experimental mice received ZnSO4 treatment, while the control mice received saline treatment. Before exposure, neither type of mouse preferred the glucose solution. After exposure, the control mice preferred the glucose solution, while the experimental mice did not. Our results reveal that mice can learn to use odor cues to identify and discriminate sugar solutions.

Low-Intensity Light Detection with a High Detectivity Using 2D-Sb2Se3 Nanoflakes on 1D-ZnO Nanorods as Heterojunction Photodetectors.

Multifunctional photodetectors (PDs) with broadband responsivity (R) and specific detectivity (D*) at low light intensities are gaining significant attention. Thus, we report a bilayer PD creatively fabricated by layering two-dimensional (2D) Sb2Se3 nanoflakes (NFs) on one-dimensional (1D) ZnO nanorods (NRs) using simple thermal transfer and hydrothermal processes. The unique coupling of these two layers of materials in a nanostructured form, such as 2D-Sb2Se3 NFs/1D-ZnO NRs, provides an effective large surface area, robust charge transport paths, and light-trapping effects that enhance light harvesting. Furthermore, the combination of both layers can effectively facilitate photoactivity owing to proper band alignment. The as-fabricated device demonstrated superior overall performance in terms of a suitable bandwidth, good R, and high D* under low-intensity light, unlike the single-layered 1D-ZnO NRs and 2D-Sb2Se3 NF structures alone, which had poor detectivity or response in the measured spectral range. The PD demonstrated a spectral photoresponse ranging from ultraviolet (UV) to visible (220-628 nm) light at intensities as low as 0.15 mW·cm-2. The PD yielded a D* value of 3.15 × 1013 Jones (220 nm), which reached up to 5.95 × 1013 Jones in the visible light region (628 nm) at a 3 V bias. This study demonstrated that the 2D-Sb2Se3 NFs/1D-ZnO NRs PD has excellent potential for low-intensity light detection with a broad bandwidth, which is useful for signal communications and optoelectronic systems.

Spin Symmetry Breaking-induced Hubbard Gap Near-Closure in N-coordinated MnO2 for Enhanced Aqueous Zinc-Ion Battery Performance.

Transition metal oxides (TMOs) are promising cathode materials for aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs), however, their performance is hindered by a substantial Hubbard gap, which limits electron transfer and battery cyclability. Addressing this, we introduce a heteroatom coordination approach, using triethanolamine to induce axial N coordination on Mn centers in MnO2, yielding N-coordinated MnO2 (TEAMO). This approach leverages the change of electronegativity disparity between Mn and ligands (O and N) to disrupt spin symmetry and augment spin polarization. This enhancement leads to the closure of the Hubbard gap, primarily driven by the intensified occupancy of the Mn eg orbitals. The resultant TEAMO exhibit a significant increase in storage capacity, reaching 351 mAh g-1 at 0.1 A g-1. Our findings suggest a viable strategy for optimizing the electronic structure of TMO cathodes, enhancing the potential of ZIBs in energy storage technology.

Molecular modeling of multi-target analogs of huperzine A and applications in Alzheimer's disease.

CONTEXT: Given the diverse pathophysiological mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease, it is improbable that a single targeted drug will prove successful as a therapeutic strategy. Therefore, exploring various hypotheses in drug design is imperative. The sequestration of Fe(II) and Zn(II) cations stands out as a crucial mechanism based on the mitigation of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, inhibiting acetylcholinesterase represents a pivotal strategy to enhance acetylcholine levels in the synaptic cleft. This research aims to investigate the analogs of Huperzine A, documented in scientific literature, considering of these two hypotheses. Consequently, the speciation chemistry of these structures with Fe(II) and Zn(II) was scrutinized using quantum chemistry calculations, molecular docking simulations, and theoretical predictions of pharmacokinetics properties. From the pharmacokinetic properties, only two analogs, HupA-A1 and HupA-A2, exhibited a theoretical permeability across the blood-brain barrier; on the other hand, from a thermodynamic standpoint, the enantiomers of HupA-A2 showed negligible chelation values. The enantiomers with the most favorable interaction parameters were S'R'HupA-A1 (ΔGBIND = -40.0 kcal mol-1, fitness score = 35.5) and R'R'HupA-A1 (ΔGBIND = -35.5 kcal mol-1, fitness score = 22.61), being compared with HupA (ΔGBIND = -41.75 kcal mol-1, fitness score = 39.95). From this study, some prime candidates for promising drug were S'R'HupA-A1 and R'R'HupA-A1, primarily owing to their favorable thermodynamic chelating capability and potential anticholinesterase mechanism. METHODS: Quantum chemistry calculations were carried out at B3LYP/6-31G(d) level, considering the IEF-PCM(UFF) implicit solvent model for water. The coordination compounds were assessed using the Gibbs free energy variation and hard and soft acid theory. Molecular docking calculations were conducted using the GOLD program, based on the crystal structure of the acetylcholinesterase protein (PDB code = 4EY5), where the ChemScore function was employed with the active site defined as the region within a 15-Å radius around the centroid coordinates (X = -9.557583, Y = -43.910473, Z = 31.466687). Pharmacokinetic properties were predicted using SwissADME, focusing on Lipinski's rule of five.

Zinc-alkaline phosphatase at sites of aortic calcification.

Zinc (Zn) is a normal trace element in mineralizing tissues, but it is unclear whether it is primarily bound to the mineral phase or to organic molecules involved in the mineralization process, or both. Tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) is a Zn metalloenzyme with two Zn ions bound to the M1 and M2 catalytic sites that functions to control the phosphate/pyrophosphate ratio during biomineralization. Here, we studied aortas from Tagln-Cre +/-; HprtALP/Y TNAP overexpressor (TNAP-OE) mice that develop severe calcification. Zn histochemistry was performed using the sulfide-silver staining method in combination with a Zn partial extraction procedure to localize mineral-bound (mineral Zn) and TNAP-bound Zn (tenacious Zn), since soluble Zn (loose Zn) is extracted during fixation of the specimens. Two synthetic bone mineral composites with different Zn content, bone ash, and rat epiphyseal growth plate cartilage were used as controls for Zn staining. In order to correlate the distribution of mineral and tenacious Zn with the presence of mineral deposits, the aortas were examined histologically in unstained and stained thin sections using various light microscopy techniques. Our results show that 14 and 30 dpn, TNAP is concentrated in the calcifying matrix and loses Zn as Ca2+ progressively displaces Zn2+ at the M1 and M2 metal sites. Thus, in addition to its catalytic role TNAP has an additional function at calcifying sites as a Ca-binding protein.

Constructing surface protective film of V-Se-O to promote zinc ion storage by surface oxygen implantation strategy.

Interfacial chemical modification is an effective strategy to adjust the strong Coulombic ion-lattice interactions with high valence cations experienced by electrode materials, facilitating the reaction kinetic. In this paper, a simple and fast surface oxygen implantation strategy was designed to adjust the electronic structure of stainless steel (SS) supported vanadium diselenide (VSe2) nanosheets and form a surface protective film, which effectively accelerates the reaction kinetics of Zn2+ and extends the cycle life of the battery. It is demonstrated that the conductivity, pseudocapacitance and specific capacity can be tuned by selectively introducing oxygen species to the surface, which provides an important reference for the design of electrodes with controlled surface chemistry. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations also confirm that the electronic structure can be adjusted by surface oxygen injection strategy, which not only improves the conductivity, but also adjusts the adsorption energy, thus providing favorable conditions for zinc ion storage. Benefiting from the selenium vacancies and pores generated by the removal of part of selenium, and the oxide film formed on the surfaces, the VSe2-xOx-SS-30 electrode showed higher specific capacity (188.4 mAh/g at 0.5 A g-1 after 50 cycles), better rate performance (107.1 mAh/g at 4 A g-1) and more satisfactory cycling stability (83.1 mAh/g at 5 A g-1 after 1800 cycles) than VSe2-SS electrode. Importantly, the flexible quasi-solid-state VSe2-xOx-SS-30//Zn battery also exhibits high specific capacity and excellent environmental adaptability. Furthermore, the zinc (de)intercalation and transformation reactions mechanism was revealed by some ex-situ/in-situ techniques.

Characterization of high Zn content Cd0.87Zn0.13Te0.98Se0.02 grown using Bridgman technique.

CdZnTe (CZT) is a promising commercial material used as a room-temperature operating semiconductor detector for gamma-ray detection. Recently, CdZnTeSe (CZTS) detectors improved upon the properties of CZT by improving homogeneity and reducing defect properties, thereby enabling higher production yield of high-quality crystals. However, addition of selenium to CZT will reduce the bandgap and increase the amount of thermally stimulated electrons, resulting in low resistivity of the crystal. In this study, the enhancement of zinc content was introduced to compensate the bandgap reduction owing to selenium addition, while maintaining the improved properties of selenium addition. The morphology and stoichiometry of CZTS were determined using scanning electron microscopy and electron probe micro-analyzer. Furthermore, the calculated bandgap with stoichiometry was compared with the measured bandgap using UV-Vis measurement and Tauc plot. The electrical, chemical, and other spectroscopic properties were characterized using an I-V curve, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and gamma-spectroscopic techniques, respectively. Moreover, it was proven that the high zinc CZTS can exhibit superior properties owing to selenium addition without affecting the bandgap reduction.

Zinc-Containing Over-The-Counter Product Causing Sideroblastic Anemia and Neutropenia.

Sideroblastic anemia is characterized by anemia, granulocytopenia, and bone marrow findings of vacuolated precursors and ringed sideroblasts. Zinc-induced copper deficiency can present as sideroblastic anemia and neutropenia. We report the case of a previously healthy 74-year-old female who presented with newly discovered sideroblastic anemia as a result of an over-the-counter oral vitamin and mineral supplement. Serum analysis revealed increased zinc levels, decreased copper levels, and a decrease in ceruloplasmin. Bone marrow evaluation revealed ringed sideroblasts and cytoplasmic vacuolization in myeloid precursors. She demonstrated improvement in her hematologic profile with discontinuation of the over-the-counter product and administration of oral copper supplementation. This case highlights the importance of sideroblastic anemia recognition and careful medication review, including over-the-counter supplements.

(5-Fluoro-2,6-dioxo-1,2,3,6-tetra-hydro-pyrimidin-1-ido-κN 1)(1,4,8,11-tetra-aza-cyclo-tetra-decane-κ4 N)zinc(II) perchlorate.

In the structure of the title complex, [Zn(C4H2FN2O2)(C10H24N4)]ClO4, the zinc(II) ion forms coordination bonds with the four nitro-gen atoms of cyclam (1,4,8,11-tetra-aza-cyclo-tetra-decane or [14]aneN4) as well as with the nitro-gen atom of a deprotonated 5-fluoro-uracil ion (FU-). Cyclam adopts a trans-I type conformation within this structure. The coordination structure of the zinc(II) ion is a square pyramid with a distorted base plane formed by the four nitro-gen atoms of the cyclam. FU- engages in inter-molecular hydrogen bonding with neighboring FU- mol-ecules and with the cyclam mol-ecule.

Prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies across diverse environments in rural Madagascar.

It is estimated that billions of people around the world are affected by micronutrient deficiencies. Madagascar is considered to be particularly nutritionally vulnerable, with nearly half of the population stunted, and parts of the country facing emergency, near famine-like conditions (IPC4). Although Madagascar is generally considered among the most undernourished of countries, empirical data in the form of biological samples to validate these claims are extremely limited. Our research drew data from three studies conducted between 2013-2020 and provided comprehensive biomarker profile information for 4,710 individuals from 30 communities in five different ecological regions during at least one time-point. Estimated prevalences of nutrient deficiencies and inflammation across various regions of rural Madagascar were of concern for both sexes and across all ages, with 66.5% of the population estimated to be deficient in zinc, 15.6% depleted in vitamin B12 (3.6% deficient), 11.6% deficient in retinol, and lower levels of iron deficiency (as indicated by 11.7% deficient in ferritin and 2.3% deficient assessed by soluble transferrin receptors). Beyond nutrient status biomarkers, nearly one quarter of the population (24.0%) exhibited chronic inflammation based on high values of α-1-acid glycoprotein, and 12.3% exhibited acute inflammation based on high values of C-reactive protein. There is an 8-fold difference between the lowest and highest regional observed prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency, a 10-fold difference in vitamin A deficiency (based on retinol), and a 2-fold difference in acute inflammation (CRP) and deficiencies of zinc and iron (based on ferritin), highlighting strong geographical variations in micronutrient deficiencies across Madagascar.

An In Vitro Study to Evaluate the Antimicrobial Activity of a Zinc Citrate, Sodium Fluoride, Alum and Xylitol-Based Toothpaste Formulation.

INTRODUCTION: Periodontitis is a prevalent condition significantly affecting oral health. Comorbid conditions, such as diabetes, can heighten the severity of periodontal disease and overall oral health. Therefore, to enhance oral health and manage comorbid conditions, comprehensive periodontal care is essential. This approach could involve using toothpaste containing antimicrobial ingredients in routine oral care. This paper presents the results of an in vitro study analysing the antimicrobial properties of the test formulation containing zinc citrate, alum, sodium fluoride, and xylitol-based toothpaste (Stolin-R). These ingredients work together to help in providing comprehensive oral care by controlling growth of bacteria majorly responsible for periodontal disease and thus maintaining optimal oral hygiene. AIM: To determine the antimicrobial properties of zinc citrate, alum, sodium fluoride, and xylitol-based toothpaste formulation against key periodontal pathogens through in vitro analyses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The antimicrobial efficacy of test formulation is evaluated through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and time-dependent antibacterial assessment against key periodontal pathogens, including Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia, Streptococcus mutans, and Bacteroides fragilis. RESULTS: The test formulation demonstrated potent antimicrobial effectiveness against Bacteroides fragilis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Streptococcus mutans, and Tannerella forsythia, by exhibiting low MIC and MBC. Additionally, significant bacterial reduction, exceeding 99.99%, was observed within five minutes, emphasising its potential as an effective adjunct in combating periodontal infection. CONCLUSION: Zinc citrate, alum, sodium fluoride, and xylitol-based toothpaste formulation demonstrates significant antimicrobial activity against key periodontal pathogens, suggesting its potential as an effective agent for maintaining oral health and combating gingival infection.

Ampicillin detection using absorbance biosensors utilizing Mn-doped ZnS capped with chitosan micromaterials.

The detection of ampicillin plays a crucial role in managing and monitoring its usage and resistance. This study introduces a simple and effective biosensor for ampicillin detection, utilizing the unique absorbance features of Mn-doped ZnS capped by chitosan micromaterials in conjunction with ß-lactamase activity. The biosensors can detect ampicillin concentrations from 13.1 to 72.2 µM, with a minimum detection limit of 2.93 µM for sensors based on 300 mg/L of the sensing material. In addition, these sensors show high specificity for ampicillin over other antibiotics such as penicillin, tetracycline, amoxicillin, cephalexin, and a non-antibiotic-glucose. This specificity is demonstrated by an enhancing effect when beta-lactamase is used, as opposed to a quenching effect observed at 340 nm in the absorbance spectrum when no beta-lactamase is present. This research highlights the potential of affordable chitosan-capped Mn-doped ZnS micromaterials for detecting ampicillin through simple absorbance measurements, which could improve the monitoring of antibiotics in both clinical and environmental settings.

SlZIP11 mediates zinc accumulation and sugar storage in tomato fruits.

Background: Zinc (Zn) is a vital micronutrient essential for plant growth and development. Transporter proteins of the ZRT/IRT-like protein (ZIP) family play crucial roles in maintaining Zn homeostasis. Although the acquisition, translocation, and intracellular transport of Zn are well understood in plant roots and leaves, the genes that regulate these pathways in fruits remain largely unexplored. In this study, we aimed to investigate the function of SlZIP11 in regulating tomato fruit development. Methods: We used Solanum lycopersicum L. 'Micro-Tom' SlZIP11 (Solanum lycopersicum) is highly expressed in tomato fruit, particularly in mature green (MG) stages. For obtaining results, we employed reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), yeast two-hybrid assay, bimolecular fluorescent complementation, subcellular localization assay, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), SlZIP11 overexpression, determination of Zn content, sugar extraction and content determination, and statistical analysis. Results: RT-qPCR analysis showed elevated SlZIP11 expression in MG tomato fruits. SlZIP11 expression was inhibited and induced by Zn deficiency and toxicity treatments, respectively. Silencing SlZIP11 via the VIGS technology resulted in a significant increase in the Zn content of tomato fruits. In contrast, overexpression of SlZIP11 led to reduced Zn content in MG fruits. Moreover, both silencing and overexpression of SlZIP11 caused alterations in the fructose and glucose contents of tomato fruits. Additionally, SlSWEEET7a interacted with SlZIP11. The heterodimerization between SlSWEET7a and SlZIP11 affected subcellular targeting, thereby increasing the amount of intracellularly localized oligomeric complexes. Overall, this study elucidates the role of SlZIP11 in mediating Zn accumulation and sugar transport during tomato fruit ripening. These findings underscore the significance of SlZIP11 in regulating Zn levels and sugar content, providing insights into its potential implications for plant physiology and agricultural practices.

Nanofabrication of chitosan-based dressing to treat the infected wounds: in vitro and in vivo evaluations.

Aim: Here, an innovative kind of antibacterial nanocomposite film is developed by incorporating graphene oxide and zinc oxide into chitosan matrix. Materials & methods: Our dressing was fabricated using the solution casting method. Fourier transform infrared spectra and TGA-DTG clearly confirmed the structure of film dressing. Results & conclusion: Our results showed the tensile strength and elongation at the break of the films were 20.1 ± 0.7 MPa and 36 ± 10%, respectively. Our fabricated film could absorb at least three-times the fluid of its dry weight while being biocompatible, antibacterial, non-irritant and non-allergic. In addition, it accelerated the healing process of infected wounds by regulating epithelium thickness and the number of inflammatory cells, thus it may be useful for direct application to damaged infected wounds.

In this study, an innovative kind of antibacterial nanocomposite film is developed by incorporating graphene oxide and zinc oxide into chitosan matrix. Our antibacterial wound dressing was fabricated using the solution casting method. Our fabricated film could absorb at least three-times the fluid of its dry weight while being biocompatible, antibacterial, non-irritant and non-allergic. In addition, our film accelerated the healing process of infected wounds by regulating epithelium thickness and the number of inflammatory cells. thus it may be useful for direct application to damaged infected wounds.

3D-printed porous zinc scaffold combined with bioactive serum exosomes promotes bone defect repair in rabbit radius.

Currently, the repair of large bone defects still faces numerous challenges, with the most crucial being the lack of large bone grafts with good osteogenic properties. In this study, a novel bone repair implant (degradable porous zinc scaffold/BF Exo composite implant) was developed by utilizing laser melting rapid prototyping 3D printing technology to fabricate a porous zinc scaffold, combining it under vacuum conditions with highly bioactive serum exosomes (BF EXO) and Poloxamer 407 thermosensitive hydrogel. The electron microscope revealed the presence of tea saucer-shaped exosomes with a double-layered membrane structure, ranging in diameter from 30-150 nm, with an average size of 86.3 nm and a concentration of 3.28E+09 particles/mL. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the zinc scaffold displayed no significant cytotoxicity, and loading exosomes enhanced the zinc scaffold's ability to promote osteogenic cell activity while inhibiting osteoclast activity. In vivo experiments on rabbits indicated that the hepatic and renal toxicity of the zinc scaffold decreased over time, and the loading of exosomes alleviated the hepatic and renal toxic effects of the zinc scaffold. Throughout various stages of repairing radial bone defects in rabbits, loading exosomes reinforced the zinc scaffold's capacity to enhance osteogenic cell activity, suppress osteoclast activity, and promote angiogenesis. This effect may be attributed to BF Exo's regulation of p38/STAT1 signaling. This study signifies that the combined treatment of degradable porous zinc scaffolds and BF Exo is an effective and biocompatible strategy for bone defect repair therapy.

Combined effect of gallic acid and zinc ferrite nanoparticles on wheat growth and yield under salinity stress.

Salinity stress significantly impacts crops, disrupting their water balance and nutrient uptake, reducing growth, yield, and overall plant health. High salinity in soil can adversely affect plants by disrupting their water balance. Excessive salt levels can lead to dehydration, hinder nutrient absorption, and damage plant cells, ultimately impairing growth and reducing crop yields. Gallic acid (GA) and zinc ferrite (ZnFNP) can effectively overcome this problem. GA can promote root growth, boost photosynthesis, and help plants absorb nutrients efficiently. However, their combined application as an amendment against drought still needs scientific justification. Zinc ferrite nanoparticles possess many beneficial properties for soil remediation and medical applications. That's why the current study used a combination of GA and ZnFNP as amendments to wheat. There were 4 treatments, i.e., 0, 10 µM GA, 15 µM GA, and 20 µM GA, without and with 5 µM ZnFNP applied in 4 replications following a completely randomized design. Results exhibited that 20 µM GA + 5 µM ZnFNP caused significant improvement in wheat shoot length (28.62%), shoot fresh weight (16.52%), shoot dry weight (11.38%), root length (3.64%), root fresh weight (14.72%), and root dry weight (9.71%) in contrast to the control. Significant enrichment in wheat chlorophyll a (19.76%), chlorophyll b (25.16%), total chlorophyll (21.35%), photosynthetic rate (12.72%), transpiration rate (10.09%), and stomatal conductance (15.25%) over the control validate the potential of 20 µM GA + 5 µM ZnFNP. Furthermore, improvement in N, P, and K concentration in grain and shoot verified the effective functioning of 20 µM GA + 5 µM ZnFNP compared to control. In conclusion, 20 µM GA + 5 µM ZnFNP can potentially improve the growth, chlorophyll contents and gas exchange attributes of wheat cultivated in salinity stress. More investigations are suggested to declare 20 µM GA + 5 µM ZnFNP as the best amendment for alleviating salinity stress in different cereal crops.