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Dusíková A, Baranová T, Krahulec J, Dakošová O, Híveš J, Naumowicz M, Gál M. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for the Sensing of the Kinetic Parameters of Engineered Enzymes. Sensors (Basel) 2024; 24:2643. [PMID: 38676260 PMCID: PMC11054234 DOI: 10.3390/s24082643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The study presents a promising approach to enzymatic kinetics using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) to assess fundamental parameters of modified enteropeptidases. Traditional methods for determining these parameters, while effective, often lack versatility and convenience, especially under varying environmental conditions. The use of EIS provides a novel approach that overcomes these limitations. The enteropeptidase underwent genetic modification through the introduction of single amino acid modifications to assess their effect on enzyme kinetics. However, according to the one-sample t-test results, the difference between the engineered enzymes and hEKL was not statistically significant by conventional criteria. The kinetic parameters were analyzed using fluorescence spectroscopy and EIS, which was found to be an effective tool for the real-time measurement of enzyme kinetics. The results obtained through EIS were not significantly different from those obtained through traditional fluorescence spectroscopy methods (p value >> 0.05). The study validates the use of EIS for measuring enzyme kinetics and provides insight into the effects of specific amino acid changes on enteropeptidase function. These findings have potential applications in biotechnology and biochemical research, suggesting a new method for rapidly assessing enzymatic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriána Dusíková
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Commenius University, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.D.); (J.K.)
| | - Timea Baranová
- Department of Inorganic Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology STU in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (T.B.); (O.D.); (J.H.)
| | - Ján Krahulec
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Commenius University, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.D.); (J.K.)
| | - Olívia Dakošová
- Department of Inorganic Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology STU in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (T.B.); (O.D.); (J.H.)
| | - Ján Híveš
- Department of Inorganic Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology STU in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (T.B.); (O.D.); (J.H.)
| | - Monika Naumowicz
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Białystok, ul. K. Ciołkowskiego 1K, 15-245 Białystok, Poland;
| | - Miroslav Gál
- Department of Inorganic Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology STU in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia; (T.B.); (O.D.); (J.H.)
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Ibrahim M, Petrík S. Brake Fluid Condition Monitoring by a Fiber Optic Sensor Using Silica Nanomaterials as Sensing Components. Sensors (Basel) 2024; 24:2524. [PMID: 38676141 PMCID: PMC11053408 DOI: 10.3390/s24082524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
In the automotive industry, there has been considerable focus on developing various sensors for engine oil monitoring. However, when it comes to monitoring the condition of brake fluid, which is crucial for ensuring safety, there has been a lack of a secure online method for this monitoring. This study addresses this gap by developing a hybrid silica nanofiber mat, or an aerogel integrated with an optical fiber sensor, to monitor brake fluid condition. The incorporation of silica nanofibers in this hybrid enhances the sensitivity of the optical fiber glass surface by at least 3.75 times. Furthermore, creating an air gap between the glass surface of the optical fiber and the nanofibers boosts sensitivity by at least 5 times, achieving a better correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.98). In the case of silica aerogel, the sensitivity is enhanced by 10 times, but this enhancement relies on the presence of the established air gap. The air gap was adjusted to range from 0.5 mm to 1 mm, without any significant change in the measurement within this range. The response time of the developed sensor is a minimum of 15 min. The sensing material is irreversible and has a diameter of 2.5 mm, making it easily replaceable. Overall, the sensor demonstrates strong repeatability, with approximately 90% consistency, and maintains uncertainty levels below 5% across specific ranges: from 3% to 6% for silica aerogel and from 5% to 6% for silica nanofibers in the presence of an air gap. These findings hold promise for integrating such an optical fiber sensor into a car's electronic system, enabling the direct online monitoring of brake fluid quality. Additionally, the study elucidates the effect of water absorption on the refractive index of brake fluid, as well as on the silica nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayza Ibrahim
- Department of Advanced Materials, Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 46001 Liberec, Czech Republic;
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Creța C, Horga C, Vlad M, Pănescu VA, Bocoș-Bințințan V, Coman MV, Herghelegiu MC, Berg V, Lyche JL, Beldean-Galea MS. Water Quality and Associated Human Health Risk Assessment Related to Some Ions and Trace Elements in a Series of Rural Roma Communities in Transylvania, Romania. Foods 2024; 13:496. [PMID: 38338631 PMCID: PMC10855629 DOI: 10.3390/foods13030496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This research aims to assess the content of some ions and trace elements in water sources in 24 rural Roma communities in Transylvania in order to assess the human health risk associated with exposure to such elements and ions. To this end, eight ions (F-, Cl-, Br-, NO2-, NO3-, SO42-, PO43-, NH4+) and ten trace elements (Cr, Ni, As, Pb, Cd, Mn, Cu, Zn, Fe, and Hg) were determined in 71 water samples by ion chromatography coupled with a conductivity detector for ions and atomic absorption spectrophotometry for all trace elements. General parameters were also determined. Non-conformity (as number of samples), according to the EU Drinking Water Directive, was observed as follows: pH (7), EC (7), hardness (1), oxidizability (15), Cl- (4), NO3- (30), SO42- (6), Fe (16), Mn (14), As (3), and Ni (1 sample). The incidence of ions was Cl- (71), SO42- (70), F- (67), NO3- (65), NH4+ (21), Br- (10), PO43-, and NO2- (1 sample) and for trace elements, Mn (59), Fe (50), As (38), Ni (32), Cu (29), Zn (28), Cd (12), Cr (11), and Pb (3 samples). Hg was not detected. Non-carcinogenic (HI) values exceeded one for As in 13 Roma communities, with higher values for children than for adults. For NO3-, the HI values were >1 in 12 for adults and 14 communities for children. The carcinogenic risk (CR) for As through ingestion ranged from 0.795 to 3.50 × 10-4 for adults and from 1.215 to 5.30 × 10-4 for children. CR by dermal contact was in the range of ×10-6 both for adults and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Călina Creța
- Cluj Public Health Regional Centre, National Institute of Public Health, 6 Pasteur Str., RO-400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristina Horga
- Cluj Public Health Regional Centre, National Institute of Public Health, 6 Pasteur Str., RO-400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mariana Vlad
- Cluj Public Health Regional Centre, National Institute of Public Health, 6 Pasteur Str., RO-400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vlad-Alexandru Pănescu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Str., RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- “Raluca Ripan” Institute for Research in Chemistry, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Str., RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Victor Bocoș-Bințințan
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Str., RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Maria-Virginia Coman
- “Raluca Ripan” Institute for Research in Chemistry, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Str., RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mihaela Cătălina Herghelegiu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Str., RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- “Raluca Ripan” Institute for Research in Chemistry, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Str., RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vidar Berg
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås-Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Ludvig Lyche
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås-Oslo, Norway
| | - Mihail Simion Beldean-Galea
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeş-Bolyai University, 30 Fântânele Str., RO-400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Herghelegiu MC, Pănescu VA, Bocoș-Bințințan V, Coman RT, Berg V, Lyche JL, Bruzzoniti MC, Beldean-Galea MS. Simultaneous Determination of Steroids and NSAIDs, Using DLLME-SFO Extraction and HPLC Analysis, in Milk and Eggs Collected from Rural Roma Communities in Transylvania, Romania. Molecules 2023; 29:96. [PMID: 38202679 PMCID: PMC10780084 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This research aims to determine five steroids and four non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in milk and egg samples collected from rural Roma communities in Transylvania, Romania. Target compounds were extracted from selected matrices by protein precipitation, followed by extract purification by dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction based on solidification of floating organic droplets. The extraction procedure was optimized using a 24 full factorial experimental design. Good enrichment factors (87.64-122.07 milk; 26.97-38.72 eggs), extraction recovery (74.49-103.76% milk; 75.64-108.60% eggs), and clean-up of the sample were obtained. The method detection limits were 0.74-1.77 µg/L for milk and 2.39-6.02 µg/kg for eggs, while the method quantification limits were 2.29-5.46 µg/L for milk and 7.38-18.65 µg/kg for eggs. The steroid concentration in milk samples was
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Cătălina Herghelegiu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeș-Bolyai University, 1 Kogălniceanu Str., 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vlad Alexandru Pănescu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeș-Bolyai University, 1 Kogălniceanu Str., 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Victor Bocoș-Bințințan
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeș-Bolyai University, 1 Kogălniceanu Str., 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Radu-Tudor Coman
- Faculty of Medicine, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Babeș Str., 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vidar Berg
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås-Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Ludvig Lyche
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås-Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Mihail Simion Beldean-Galea
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babeș-Bolyai University, 1 Kogălniceanu Str., 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Koniali L, Flouri C, Kostopoulou MI, Papaioannou NY, Papasavva PL, Naiisseh B, Stephanou C, Demetriadou A, Sitarou M, Christou S, Antoniou MN, Kleanthous M, Patsali P, Lederer CW. Evaluation of Mono- and Bi-Functional GLOBE-Based Vectors for Therapy of β-Thalassemia by HBBAS3 Gene Addition and Mutation-Specific RNA Interference. Cells 2023; 12:2848. [PMID: 38132168 PMCID: PMC10741507 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapy via the gene addition of the anti-sickling βAS3-globin transgene is potentially curative for all β-hemoglobinopathies and therefore of particular clinical and commercial interest. This study investigates GLOBE-based lentiviral vectors (LVs) for βAS3-globin addition and evaluates strategies for an increased β-like globin expression without vector dose escalation. First, we report the development of a GLOBE-derived LV, GLV2-βAS3, which, compared to its parental vector, adds anti-sickling action and a transcription-enhancing 848-bp transcription terminator element, retains high vector titers and allows for superior β-like globin expression in primary patient-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). Second, prompted by our previous correction of HBBIVSI-110(G>A) thalassemia based on RNApol(III)-driven shRNAs in mono- and combination therapy, we analyzed a series of novel LVs for the RNApol(II)-driven constitutive or late-erythroid expression of HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-specific miRNA30-embedded shRNAs (shRNAmiR). This included bifunctional LVs, allowing for concurrent βAS3-globin expression. LVs were initially compared for their ability to achieve high β-like globin expression in HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-transgenic cells, before the evaluation of shortlisted candidate LVs in HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-homozygous HSPCs. The latter revealed that β-globin promoter-driven designs for monotherapy with HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-specific shRNAmiRs only marginally increased β-globin levels compared to untransduced cells, whereas bifunctional LVs combining miR30-shRNA with βAS3-globin expression showed disease correction similar to that achieved by the parental GLV2-βAS3 vector. Our results establish the feasibility of high titers for LVs containing the full HBB transcription terminator, emphasize the importance of the HBB terminator for the high-level expression of HBB-like transgenes, qualify the therapeutic utility of late-erythroid HBBIVSI-110(G>A)-specific miR30-shRNA expression and highlight the exceptional potential of GLV2-βAS3 for the treatment of severe β-hemoglobinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lola Koniali
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Christina Flouri
- Gene Expression and Therapy Group, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK; (C.F.); (M.N.A.)
| | - Markela I. Kostopoulou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Nikoletta Y. Papaioannou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Panayiota L. Papasavva
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Basma Naiisseh
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Coralea Stephanou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Anthi Demetriadou
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Maria Sitarou
- Thalassemia Clinic Larnaca, Larnaca General Hospital, 6301 Larnaca, Cyprus;
| | - Soteroula Christou
- Thalassemia Clinic Nicosia, Archbishop Makarios III Hospital, 1474 Nicosia, Cyprus;
| | - Michael N. Antoniou
- Gene Expression and Therapy Group, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, London SE1 9RT, UK; (C.F.); (M.N.A.)
| | - Marina Kleanthous
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Petros Patsali
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Carsten W. Lederer
- Department of Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, 2371 Nicosia, Cyprus; (L.K.); (M.I.K.); (N.Y.P.); (P.L.P.); (B.N.); (C.S.); (A.D.); (M.K.)
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Balinisteanu T. Pilot Studies on Empathy and Closeness in Mutual Entrainment/Improvisation vs. Formalised Dance with Different Types of Rhythm (Regular, Irregular, and No Rhythm) and Coupling (Visual, Haptic, Full Coupling): Building a Case for the Origin of Dance in Mutual Entrainment Empathic Interactions in the Mother-Infant Dyad. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:859. [PMID: 37887509 PMCID: PMC10604627 DOI: 10.3390/bs13100859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper employs a novel research design to examine changes in empathy and closeness in partnered face-to-face dance, considering both different types of rhythm (regular, irregular, and no external rhythm, or 'mutual entrainment only') and different types of coupling (visual only, haptic only, and full visual and haptic coupling). Two studies were undertaken to pilot the design. In both studies, the Interpersonal Reactivity Index and Inclusion of Other in the Self were used to measure empathy and closeness, respectively. Study 1 employed 24 participants (12 pairs) distributed across two rhythm conditions, external regular rhythm, and no external rhythm, with full coupling in both conditions. Closeness increased similarly in both conditions. Empathic concern (EC) was significantly affected in the 'no rhythm' condition. Study 2 employed 54 participants assigned to form pairs and distributed across all combinations of rhythm and coupling types. Closeness decreased with irregular rhythm. EC increased in the 'no rhythm' conditions relative to regular rhythm. Fantasy (F) decreased with haptic coupling only (no visual coupling) while personal distress (PD) increased. In addition, the analyses suggest that perspective taking (PT) increases with irregular rhythm and in the condition without rhythm (mutual entrainment only). The discussion gauges the value of the designs and results for capturing changes in empathy and closeness with different rhythm and coupling types. Capturing such changes is important for research on the origins of dance in empathic mutual entrainment in the mother-infant dyad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tudor Balinisteanu
- Neuroaesthetics Lab, University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
- Psychology Department, Goldsmiths, University of London, London SE14 6NW, UK
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Kusiak-Nejman E, Ćmielewska K, Pełech I, Ekiert E, Staciwa P, Sibera D, Wanag A, Kapica-Kozar J, Gano M, Narkiewicz U, Morawski AW. On the Selectivity of Simultaneous CO 2 and N 2 Reduction Using TiO 2/Carbon Sphere Photocatalysts Prepared by Microwave Treatment and Mounted on Silica Cloth. Materials (Basel) 2023; 16:5810. [PMID: 37687503 PMCID: PMC10488338 DOI: 10.3390/ma16175810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents new photocatalysts obtained by treating carbon spheres (CS) and TiO2 in a microwave reactor at a pressure of 20 atm and a temperature of up to 300 °C for 15 min and then depositing TiO2/CS composites on glass fibre cloths. Such highly CO2-adsorbing photocatalysts showed photoactivity in the simultaneous water-splitting process, generating H2, reducing CO2 to CO and CH4, and reducing N2 to NH3. In addition, calculations of the hydrogen balance involved in all reactions were performed. Adding 1 g of carbon spheres per 1 g of TiO2 maintained the high selectivity of nitrogen fixation at 95.87-99.5%, which was continuously removed from the gas phase into the water as NH4+ ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Kusiak-Nejman
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Katarzyna Ćmielewska
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Iwona Pełech
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Ewa Ekiert
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Piotr Staciwa
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Daniel Sibera
- Department of General Civil Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Piastów Ave. 50a, 70-311 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Wanag
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Joanna Kapica-Kozar
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Marcin Gano
- Department of Chemical Organic Technology and Polymeric Materials, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Urszula Narkiewicz
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
| | - Antoni W. Morawski
- Department of Inorganic Chemical Technology and Environment Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Pułaskiego 10, 70-322 Szczecin, Poland; (I.P.); (E.E.); (P.S.); (A.W.); (J.K.-K.); (U.N.); (A.W.M.)
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Švarc T, Majerič P, Feizpour D, Jelen Ž, Zadravec M, Gomboc T, Rudolf R. Recovery Study of Gold Nanoparticle Markers from Lateral Flow Immunoassays. Materials (Basel) 2023; 16:5770. [PMID: 37687463 PMCID: PMC10488536 DOI: 10.3390/ma16175770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIAs) are a simple diagnostic device used to detect targeted analytes. Wasted and unused rapid antigen lateral flow immunoassays represent mass waste that needs to be broken down and recycled into new material components. The aim of this study was to recover gold nanoparticles that are used as markers in lateral flow immunoassays. For this purpose, a dissolution process with aqua regia was utilised, where gold nanoparticles were released from the lateral flow immunoassay conjugate pads. The obtained solution was then concentrated further with gold chloride salt (HAuCl4) so that it could be used for the synthesis of new gold nanoparticles in the process of ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP). Various characterisation methods including scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and optical emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma were used during this study. The results of this study showed that the recovery of gold nanoparticles from lateral flow immunoassays is possible, and the newly synthesised gold nanoparticles represent the possibility for incorporation into new products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilen Švarc
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (P.M.); (Ž.J.); (M.Z.); (T.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Peter Majerič
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (P.M.); (Ž.J.); (M.Z.); (T.G.); (R.R.)
- Zlatarna Celje d.o.o., 3000 Celje, Slovenia
| | - Darja Feizpour
- Institute of Metals and Technology (IMT), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Žiga Jelen
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (P.M.); (Ž.J.); (M.Z.); (T.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Matej Zadravec
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (P.M.); (Ž.J.); (M.Z.); (T.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Timi Gomboc
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (P.M.); (Ž.J.); (M.Z.); (T.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Rebeka Rudolf
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (P.M.); (Ž.J.); (M.Z.); (T.G.); (R.R.)
- Zlatarna Celje d.o.o., 3000 Celje, Slovenia
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9
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Civzele A, Stipniece-Jekimova AA, Mezule L. Fungal Ligninolytic Enzymes and Their Application in Biomass Lignin Pretreatment. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:780. [PMID: 37504768 PMCID: PMC10381709 DOI: 10.3390/jof9070780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Lignocellulosic biomass is a significant source of sustainable fuel and high-value chemical production. However, due to the complex cross-linked three-dimensional network structure, lignin is highly rigid to degradation. In natural environments, the degradation is performed by wood-rotting fungi. The process is slow, and thus, the use of lignin degradation by fungi has not been regarded as a feasible technology in the industrial lignocellulose treatment. Fungi produce a wide variety of ligninolytic enzymes that can be directly introduced in industrial processing of lignocellulose. Within this study, screening of ligninolytic enzyme production using decolorization of ABTS and Azure B dyes was performed for 10 fungal strains with potentially high enzyme production abilities. In addition to standard screening methods, media containing lignin and hay biomass as carbon sources were used to determine the change in enzyme production depending on the substrate. All selected fungi demonstrated the ability to adapt to a carbon source limitation; however, four strains indicated the ability to secrete ligninolytic enzymes in all experimental conditions-Irpex lacteus, Pleurotus dryinus, Bjerkandera adusta, and Trametes versicolor-respectively displayed a 100%, 82.7%, 82.7%, and 55% oxidation of ABTS on lignin-containing media and 100%, 87.9%, 78%, and 70% oxidation of ABTS on hay-containing media after 168 h of incubation. As a result, the most potent strains of fungi were selected to produce lignocellulose-degrading enzymes and to demonstrate their potential application in biological lignocellulose pretreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Civzele
- Water Research and Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory, Water Systems and Biotechnology Institute, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Riga Technical University, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia
| | - Alise Anna Stipniece-Jekimova
- Water Research and Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory, Water Systems and Biotechnology Institute, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Riga Technical University, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia
| | - Linda Mezule
- Water Research and Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory, Water Systems and Biotechnology Institute, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Riga Technical University, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia
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10
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Labaška M, Gál M, Mackuľak T. Degradation of Chemical Warfare Agent Nitrogen Mustard Using Ferrate (VI). Toxics 2023; 11:559. [PMID: 37505525 PMCID: PMC10384491 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11070559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) are one of the most toxic compounds. Degradation of CWAs using decontamination agents is one of the few ways to protect human health against the harmful effects of CWAs. A ferrate (VI)-based potential chemical warfare agent decontaminant was studied for the degradation of persistent nitrogen mustard (tris(2-chloroethyl)amine, HN3). By optimizing the reaction conditions, the complete degradation of HN3 was achieved in 4 min. The degradation products contained mostly reduced Fe species, which confirmed the environmental friendliness of the proposed decontamination solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miroslav Labaška
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Miroslav Gál
- Department of Inorganic Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Tomáš Mackuľak
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovakia
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11
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Stojković JR, Turudija R, Vitković N, Górski F, Păcurar A, Pleşa A, Ianoşi-Andreeva-Dimitrova A, Păcurar R. An Experimental Study on the Impact of Layer Height and Annealing Parameters on the Tensile Strength and Dimensional Accuracy of FDM 3D Printed Parts. Materials (Basel) 2023; 16:4574. [PMID: 37444886 DOI: 10.3390/ma16134574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of annealing time, temperature, and layer height on the tensile strength and dimensional change of three 3D printing materials (PLA, PETG, and carbon fiber-reinforced PETG). Samples with varying layer heights (0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, and 0.3 mm) were annealed at temperatures ranging from 60-100 °C for 30, 60, and 90 min. Tensile tests were conducted, and regression models were developed to analyze the effects of these parameters on tensile strength. The models exhibited high accuracy, with a maximum deviation of only 5% from measured validation values. The models showed that layer height has a significantly bigger influence on tensile strength than annealing time and temperature. Optimal combinations of parameters were identified for each material, with PLA performing best at 0.1 mm/60 min/90 °C and PETG and PETGCF achieving optimal tensile strength at 0.1 mm/90 min/60 °C. PETGCF demonstrated smallest dimensional change after annealing and had the best modulus of elasticity of all the materials. The study employed experimental testing and regression models to assess the results across multiple materials under consistent conditions, contributing valuable insights to the ongoing discussion on the influence of annealing in 3D-printed parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena R Stojković
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Niš, Aleksandra Medvedeva 14, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Rajko Turudija
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Niš, Aleksandra Medvedeva 14, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Nikola Vitković
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Niš, Aleksandra Medvedeva 14, 18000 Niš, Serbia
| | - Filip Górski
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3 STR, 61-138 Poznan, Poland
| | - Ancuţa Păcurar
- Department of Manufacturing Engineering, Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Robotics and Production Management, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Blv. Muncii, No. 103-105, 400641 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alin Pleşa
- Department of Mechatronics and Machine Dynamics, Faculty of Automotive, Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Blv. Muncii, No. 103-105, 400641 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Ianoşi-Andreeva-Dimitrova
- Department of Mechatronics and Machine Dynamics, Faculty of Automotive, Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Blv. Muncii, No. 103-105, 400641 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Răzvan Păcurar
- Department of Manufacturing Engineering, Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Robotics and Production Management, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Blv. Muncii, No. 103-105, 400641 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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12
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Jankauskas M, Serackis A, Šapurov M, Pomarnacki R, Baskys A, Hyunh VK, Vaimann T, Zakis J. Exploring the Limits of Early Predictive Maintenance in Wind Turbines Applying an Anomaly Detection Technique. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:5695. [PMID: 37420861 DOI: 10.3390/s23125695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the presented investigation is to explore the time gap between an anomaly appearance in continuously measured parameters of the device and a failure, related to the end of the remaining resource of the device-critical component. In this investigation, we propose a recurrent neural network to model the time series of the parameters of the healthy device to detect anomalies by comparing the predicted values with the ones actually measured. An experimental investigation was performed on SCADA estimates received from different wind turbines with failures. A recurrent neural network was used to predict the temperature of the gearbox. The comparison of the predicted temperature values and the actual measured ones showed that anomalies in the gearbox temperature could be detected up to 37 days before the failure of the device-critical component. The performed investigation compared different models that can be used for temperature time-series modeling and the influence of selected input features on the performance of temperature anomaly detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mindaugas Jankauskas
- Department of Computer Science and Communications Technologies, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Artūras Serackis
- Department of Computer Science and Communications Technologies, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Martynas Šapurov
- Department of Computer Science and Communications Technologies, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
- State Research Institute Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, Sauletekio Av. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Raimondas Pomarnacki
- Department of Computer Science and Communications Technologies, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Algirdas Baskys
- Department of Computer Science and Communications Technologies, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania
- State Research Institute Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, Sauletekio Av. 3, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Van Khang Hyunh
- Department of Engineering Sciences, University of Agder, Postboks 422, 4604 Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Toomas Vaimann
- Department of Electrical Power, Engineering and Mechatronics, Tallinn University of Technology, Ehitajate Tee 5, 12616 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Janis Zakis
- Institute of Industrial Electronics and Electrical Engineering, Riga Technical University, 12/1 Azenes Street, LV-1048 Riga, Latvia
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13
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Krzyżak J, Rusinowski S, Sitko K, Szada-Borzyszkowska A, Borgulat J, Stec R, Hanslin HM, Pogrzeba M. The Effect of Combined Drought and Temperature Stress on the Physiological Status of Calcareous Grassland Species as Potential Candidates for Urban Green Infrastructure. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:2003. [PMID: 37653919 PMCID: PMC10222070 DOI: 10.3390/plants12102003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Nature-based solutions are promising for climate adaptation and environmental management in urban areas, but urban conditions are stressful for vegetation. In particular, the interaction of drought and high temperatures may be detrimental. Guiding plant selection for urban greening with native species requires a far better knowledge of plant adaptations and stress acclimation. We tested the physiological responses of four candidate calcareous grassland species for green roofs and walls to the combined effects of drought and high temperatures under controlled conditions. The tested species proved relatively resistant to stress despite different strategies to protect the photosynthetic apparatus, maintain water balance, and repair damages. Based on the physiological responses, we rank the species in descending order of resistance to the stress factors tested: Trifolium medium > Festuca ovina > Carex flacca > Potentilla reptans, but all four can serve as potential candidates for green walls and roofs. Physiological stress screening of plant species for use on green roofs and walls supplements the habitat template approach to provide a stronger and wider base for prioritizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Krzyżak
- Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas, 6 Kossutha Street, 40-844 Katowice, Poland; (J.K.); (K.S.); (A.S.-B.); (J.B.); (R.S.)
| | - Szymon Rusinowski
- CommLED Solution Sp. z.o.o., 149 Tarnogórska Street, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Sitko
- Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas, 6 Kossutha Street, 40-844 Katowice, Poland; (J.K.); (K.S.); (A.S.-B.); (J.B.); (R.S.)
- Plant Ecophysiology Team, University of Silesia in Katowice, 28 Jagiellońska Street, 40-032 Katowice, Poland
| | - Alicja Szada-Borzyszkowska
- Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas, 6 Kossutha Street, 40-844 Katowice, Poland; (J.K.); (K.S.); (A.S.-B.); (J.B.); (R.S.)
| | - Jacek Borgulat
- Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas, 6 Kossutha Street, 40-844 Katowice, Poland; (J.K.); (K.S.); (A.S.-B.); (J.B.); (R.S.)
| | - Radosław Stec
- Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas, 6 Kossutha Street, 40-844 Katowice, Poland; (J.K.); (K.S.); (A.S.-B.); (J.B.); (R.S.)
| | - Hans Martin Hanslin
- Division of Environment and Natural Resources, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, P.O. Box 115, NO-1431 Ås, Norway;
| | - Marta Pogrzeba
- Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas, 6 Kossutha Street, 40-844 Katowice, Poland; (J.K.); (K.S.); (A.S.-B.); (J.B.); (R.S.)
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14
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Lemberg GM, Riso EM, Fjørtoft I, Kjønniksen L, Kull M, Mäestu E. School Children's Physical Activity and Preferred Activities during Outdoor Recess in Estonia: Using Accelerometers, Recess Observation, and Schoolyard Mapping. Children (Basel) 2023; 10:children10040702. [PMID: 37189951 DOI: 10.3390/children10040702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Studies about recess have found that children have higher physical activity (PA) during outdoor recess compared to indoor recess, and well-constructed schoolyards play an important role in stimulating PA in children. This study aimed at investigating the affordances of schoolyards and outdoor recess PA in two urban and two rural primary schools in Estonia. Schoolyards were described with the geographical mapping method, children's activities during outdoor recess were registered by using observations, and PA levels were measured with accelerometers. Students from grades two to six (8-13-year-olds) were included in the study. All observed schoolyards had different spaces including various ball game areas, climbing facilities, and slacklines. The natural environment dominated in the rural schools, and artificial surfaces dominated in the urban schools. Boys in the study tended to enjoy more sport-related activities, whereas girls preferred more social and less active activities. Students participating in outdoor recess spent about twice as much time (20.4%) on moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) compared to indoor recess (9.5%), although boys were more active than girls (22.9% vs. 17.3%). All schoolyards afforded more MVPA during outdoor recess compared to indoor recess, whereas schoolyards with more space per child and natural environment elements generated more varied PA and higher MVPA. These findings confirm the importance of schoolyard design and quality for the variety and intensity of students' PA during outdoor recess.
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Affiliation(s)
- Getter Marie Lemberg
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 51008 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eva-Maria Riso
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 51008 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ingunn Fjørtoft
- Department of Sports, Physical Education and Outdoor Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Science, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3679 Notodden, Norway
| | - Lise Kjønniksen
- Department of Sports, Physical Education and Outdoor Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Science, University of South-Eastern Norway, 3679 Notodden, Norway
| | - Merike Kull
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 51008 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Evelin Mäestu
- Institute of Sport Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 51008 Tartu, Estonia
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15
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Bumbac M, Nicolescu CM, Olteanu RL, Gherghinoiu SC, Bumbac C, Tiron O, Manea EE, Radulescu C, Gorghiu LM, Stanescu SG, Serban BC, Buiu O. Preparation and Characterization of Microalgae Styrene-Butadiene Composites Using Chlorella vulgaris and Arthrospira platensis Biomass. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:1357. [PMID: 36987138 PMCID: PMC10055758 DOI: 10.3390/polym15061357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The food industry is a high consumer of polymer packing materials, sealing materials, and engineering components used in production equipment. Biobased polymer composites used in the food industry are obtained by incorporating different biogenic materials into the structure of a base polymer matrix. Renewable resources such as microalgae, bacteria, and plants may be used as biogenic materials for this purpose. Photoautotrophic microalgae are valuable microorganisms that are able to harvest sunlight energy and capture CO2 into biomass. They are characterized by their metabolic adaptability to environmental conditions, higher photosynthetic efficiency than terrestrial plants, and natural macromolecules and pigments. The flexibility of microalgae to grow in either low-nutrient or nutrient-rich environments (including wastewater) has led to the attention for their use in various biotechnological applications. Carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids are the main three classes of macromolecular compounds contained in microalgal biomass. The content in each of these components depends on their growth conditions. In general, proteins represent 40-70% of microalgae dry biomass, followed by carbohydrates (10-30%) and lipids (5-20%). A distinctive feature of microalgae cells is the presence of light-harvesting compounds such as photosynthetic pigments carotenoids, chlorophylls, and phycobilins, which are also receiving growing interest for applications in various industrial fields. The study comparatively reports on polymer composites obtained with biomass made of two species of green microalgae: Chlorella vulgaris and filamentous, gram-negative cyanobacterium Arthrospira. Experiments were conducted to reach an incorporation ratio of the biogenic material into the matrix in the 5-30% range, and the resulting materials were characterized by their mechanical and physicochemical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Bumbac
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Cristina Mihaela Nicolescu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Radu Lucian Olteanu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Stefan Cosmin Gherghinoiu
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Costel Bumbac
- National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology-ECOIND, 57-73 Drumul Podu Dambovitei, District 6, 060652 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Olga Tiron
- National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology-ECOIND, 57-73 Drumul Podu Dambovitei, District 6, 060652 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elena Elisabeta Manea
- National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology-ECOIND, 57-73 Drumul Podu Dambovitei, District 6, 060652 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Cristiana Radulescu
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Laura Monica Gorghiu
- Faculty of Science and Arts, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Sorina Geanina Stanescu
- Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology, Valahia University of Targoviste, 13 Aleea Sinaia, 130004 Targoviste, Romania
| | - Bogdan Catalin Serban
- IMT Bucharest, National Institute for Research and Development in Microtechnologies, 126A Erou Iancu Nicolae, 077190 Voluntari, Romania
| | - Octavian Buiu
- IMT Bucharest, National Institute for Research and Development in Microtechnologies, 126A Erou Iancu Nicolae, 077190 Voluntari, Romania
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