Enhancement of ε-poly-L-lysine (ε-PL) production by a novel producer Bacillus cereus using metabolic precursors and glucose feeding

Epsilon poly-L-lysine (ε-PL) is a homo-biopolymer with approximately 25-30 L-lysine residues. It is a promising natural biopolymer widely used in food and pharmaceutical industry. The present work reports enhanced production of ε-PL with a novel producer Bacillus cereus using amino acids and TCA cycle intermediates in the fermentation medium. Among the various amino acids and TCA cycle intermediates tested 2 mM L-aspartic acid and 5 mM citric acid gave ε-PL yield of 145.5 and 230 mg/L, respectively. A combination of citric acid after 24 h and L-aspartic acid after 36 h improved ε-PL yield from 85 mg/L (control) to 335 mg/L. Glucose feeding strategy along with metabolic precursors was employed which further enhanced ε-PL yield to 565 mg/L. Thus, more than sixfold increase in ε-PL yield was achieved suggesting the potential of Bacillus cereus as a novel ε-PL producer.

Effects of heterologous expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase on organic acid production in Aspergillus carbonarius

Aspergillus carbonarius has a potential as a cell factory for production of various organic acids. In this study, the organic acid profile of A. carbonarius was investigated under different cultivation conditions. Moreover, two heterologous genes, pepck and ppc, which encode phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase in Actinobacillus succinogenes and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase in Escherichia coli, were inserted individually and in combination in A. carbonarius to enhance the carbon flux toward the reductive TCA branch. Results of transcription analysis and measurement of enzyme activities of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase in the corresponding single and double transformants demonstrated that the two heterologous genes were successfully expressed in A. carbonarius. The production of citric acid increased in all the transformants in both glucose- and xylose-based media at pH higher than 3 but did not increase in the pH non-buffered cultivation compared with the wild type.

Properties of baked foams from citric acid modified cassava starch and native cassava starch blends

Starch foams from native cassava starch (NS) and citric acid modified cassava starch (CNS) were prepared using baking processes with blend ratios of 80/20, 60/40, 50/50, 40/60 and 20/80. The density, thickness, morphology, thermal stability and water absorption of the NS, CNS and blended starch foams were determined. The ratio of the two starch components had a significant influence on the density and thickness of the blended starch foams. All blended starch foams showed good water resistance. Moreover, the morphology of the blended starch foam with the NS/CNS ratio of 50/50 showed a more ordered distribution of cell sizes with thicker cell walls than for the NS and CNS foams. The thermal stability of the blended starch foams was somewhat lower than the stability of the NS foam but not to the extent that it affected any potential practical applications.

Identification and physicochemical characterization of caffeine-citric acid co-crystal polymorphs

The purpose of the present study was to identify a new caffeine-citric acid co-crystal (CA-CI) polymorph and characterize three CA-CI polymorphs. The stability order among the three CA-CI polymorphs was also determined. One new and two known CA-CI polymorphs were prepared by the liquid-assisted grinding method or the slurry methods. The three CA-CIs were then identified and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermal analysis, IR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and dynamic vapor sorption (DVS). The stability order of the CA-CIs was determined by the slurry conversion method. Each CA-CI showed distinct PXRD, IR, Raman, and DVS data. The melting points of CA-CIs were 131°C (a new form, Form III), 141°C (Form I), and 160°C (Form II). The order of thermodynamic stability was CA-CI Form II>CA-CI Form I>CA-CI Form III. CA-CI Forms I and II were relatively stable against humidity compared to CA, CI and CA-CI Form III.

Implementation of continuous renal replacement therapy with regional citrate anticoagulation on a surgical and trauma intensive care unit: impact on clinical and economic aspects-an observational study

BACKGROUND

Regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) is being increasingly used during continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in intensive care units as an alternative to systemic heparin anticoagulation. However, due to its availability in a variety of solutions and dialysis systems, RCA is still considered a complex intervention, possibly leading to confusion and pitfalls in everyday practice. We therefore tested retrospectively if the introduction of RCA as a new anticoagulation strategy for CRRT was feasible and had not negatively impacted efficacy, safety, metabolic stability, filter lifetime, and cost-effectiveness compared to well-established systemic heparin.

METHODS

This observational, retrospective study was performed on a non-cardiac surgical and trauma intensive care unit (ICU) in a university hospital. All charts of patients receiving one of the CRRT techniques from May 2006 to April 2010 were reviewed. The first 60 consecutive patients receiving CRRT with regional citrate anticoagulation after its implementation in February 2008 (continuous veno-venous haemodialysis, Multifiltrate® with integrated CiCa® system, AV 1000 S® filter, n = 60) were included in the study. The last 50 consecutive patients with systemic heparin anticoagulation therapy (continuous veno-venous haemodiafiltration, PRISMAFLEX®, AN69® filter, n = 50), treated immediately before the introduction of RCA, were used as a historic control group.

RESULTS

Both treatment modalities were effective in terms of uraemia control. Patients in the citrate group presented with significantly higher pH levels, lower ionized calcium levels, and higher sodium levels compared with the heparin treated group, however, without notable adverse clinical events. Interestingly, mean circuit lifetime was significantly longer in the citrate group (48.6 ± 24.2 h vs. 18.8 ± 13.5 h; p < 0.0001). Both treatment modalities were cost-effective.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the implementation of regional citrate anticoagulation was safe and effective. Due to the retrospective design of the study and inherent limitations therein concerning several baseline parameters, i.e. different filters, modes of dialysis, and flow parameters not having been standardized, we were unable to draw a causative effect relationship. Nonetheless, our results warrant further study.

One-pot fabrication of hollow cross-linked fluorescent carbon nitride nanoparticles and their application in the detection of mercuric ions

Hollow cross-linked fluorescent carbon nitride nanoparticles (CNNPs) were fabricated via a facile one-pot solvothermal process. The obtained CNNPs were characterized by multiple analytical techniques including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The excitation-dependent fluorescence emission spectra showed significant differences for the CNNPs derived from various proportions of citric acid monohydrate and urea. The fluorescence quantum yield of the obtained CNNPs could reach 31%. The CNNPs exhibited good fluorescence quenching selectivity to mercuric ions. Concentration experiments showed that there existed two parts of linear relationship between fluorescence intensity and concentration of Hg(2+) ions in the range of 0.1-8 and 8-32 μM. The limit of detection (LOD) was estimated to be 0.094 μM. This method can be applied to the detection of Hg(2+) ions in tap water samples.

Slow release anti-fungal skin formulations based on citric acid intercalated layered double hydroxides nanohybrids

BACKGROUND

During the past few decades, the occurrence of superficial fungal infections has rapidly increased. As the fungal infections take longer time to get cured, concepts such as designing drugs with extended persistence and controlled release have gained attention. In this context, nanotechnology has been identified as the latest technological revolution which has opened up new pathways for designing new therapeutic materials. Out of the many available nano-structures layered double hydroxides have gained increased scientific attention in applications as slow and controlled release drug formulations. This study focuses on the encapsulation of citric acid which has anti-fungal properties into a Mg-Al- layered double hydroxide (LDH) in order to be used as slow release topical skin formulations.

RESULTS

Citrate ions were encapsulated into Mg-Al LDH using one step co-precipitation reaction. The successful intercalation of citrate ions into the layered structure has been proved referring to the expansion in the interlayer spacing as observed by the shift in the basal peak of the powder X-ray diffraction pattern. Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy data suggests the change in the electron density around the carboxylate groups of the citrate ion thus providing evidences for formation of encapsulated hybrid composite. The resulting nanohybrid has been then, introduced into a general body cream formulation containing cocoa-butter. Both citrate LDH and the resulting body cream formulations demonstrated prolonged slow release characteristics up to 8 h in aqueous medium under different pH values (3, 4, and 5) compared to quick and fast release of pure citric acid. It was observed that the slow reelase was most efficient at low pH values. The encapsulation between the nano-layers and citrate ions are the key to the slow release characteristics. The body cream has been tested for the anti-fungal activity against three common Candida species (C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis). The novel nanohybrid has shown an improved activity and slow release characteristics up to 48 h against the C. albicans and C. glabrata but not for C. tropicalis.

CONCLUSION

The study confirms that the citrate ion intercalated LDHs have the potential for use in future slow release antifungal drug formulation. Graphical AbstractSlow release nanohybrids based on citrate intercalated layered double hydroxides.

Catalytic role of Cu(II) in the reduction of Cr(VI) by citric acid under an irradiation of simulated solar light

The catalytic role of Cu(II) in the reduction of Cr(VI) by citric acid with simulated solar light was investigated. The results demonstrated that Cu(II) could significantly accelerate Cr(VI) reduction and the reaction obeyed to pseudo zero-order kinetics with respect to Cr(VI). The removal of Cr(VI) was related to the initial concentrations of Cu(II), citric acid, and the types of organic acids. The optimal removal of Cr(VI) was achieved at pH 4, and the rates of Cu(II) photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) by organic acids were in the order: tartaric acid (two α-OH groups, two -COOH groups)>citric acid (one α-OH group, three -COOH groups)>malic acid (one α-OH group, two -COOH groups)>lactic acid (one α-OH group, one -COOH group)≫succinic acid (two -COOH groups), suggesting that the number of α-OH was the key factor for the reaction, followed by the number of -COOH. The formation of Cu(II)-citric acid complex could generate Cu(I) and radicals through a pathway of metal-ligand-electron transfer, promoting the reduction of Cr(VI). This study is helpful to fully understanding the conversion of Cr(VI) in the existence of both organic acids and Cu(II) with solar light in aquatic environments.

Harvest date affects aronia juice polyphenols, sugars, and antioxidant activity, but not anthocyanin stability

The goal of this work was to characterize how the date of harvest of 'Viking' aronia berry impacts juice pigmentation, sugars, and antioxidant activity. Aronia juice anthocyanins doubled at the fifth week of the harvest, and then decreased. Juice hydroxycinnamic acids decreased 33% from the first week, while proanthocyanidins increased 64%. Juice fructose and glucose plateaued at the fourth week, but sorbitol increased 40% to the seventh harvest week. Aronia juice pigment density increased due to anthocyanin concentration, and polyphenol copigmentation did not significantly affect juice pigmentation. Anthocyanin stability at pH 4.5 was similar between weeks. However, addition of quercetin, sorbitol, and chlorogenic acid to aronia anthocyanins inhibited pH-induced loss of color. Sorbitol and citric acid may be partially responsible for weekly variation in antioxidant activity, as addition of these agents inhibited DPPH scavenging 13-30%. Thus, aronia polyphenol and non-polyphenol components contribute to its colorant and antioxidant functionality.

Cleaner production of citric acid by recycling its extraction wastewater treated with anaerobic digestion and electrodialysis in an integrated citric acid-methane production process

To solve the pollution problem of extraction wastewater in citric acid production, an integrated citric acid-methane production process was proposed. Extraction wastewater was treated through anaerobic digestion and the anaerobic digestion effluent (ADE) was recycled for the next batch of citric acid fermentation, thus eliminating wastewater discharge and reducing water consumption. Excessive Na(+) contained in ADE could significantly inhibit citric acid fermentation in recycling and was removed by electrodialysis in this paper. Electrodialysis performance was improved after pretreatment of ADE with air stripping and activated carbon adsorption to remove precipitable metal ions and pigments. Moreover, the concentrate water was recycled and mixed with feed to improve the water recovery rate above 95% in electrodialysis treatment, while the dilute water was collected for citric acid fermentation. The removal rate of Na(+) in ADE was above 95% and the citric acid production was even higher than that with tap water.

Removal of PAHs and pesticides from polluted soils by enhanced electrokinetic-Fenton treatment

In this study, electrokinetic-Fenton treatment was used to remediate a soil polluted with PAHs and the pesticide pyrimethanil. Recently, this treatment has emerged as an interesting alternative to conventional soil treatments due to its peculiar advantages, namely the capability of treating fine and low-permeability materials, as well as that of achieving a high yield in the removals of salt content and inorganic and organic pollutants. In a standard electrokinetic-Fenton treatment, the maximum degradation of the pollutant load achieved was 67%, due to the precipitation of the metals near the cathode chamber that reduces the electro-osmotic flow of the system and thus the efficiency of the treatment. To overcome this problem, different complexing agents and pH control in the cathode chamber were evaluated to increase the electro-osmotic flux as well as to render easier the solubilization of the metal species present in the soil. Four complexing agents (ascorbic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) in the Fenton-like treatment were evaluated. Results revealed the citric acid as the most suitable complexing agent. Thereby its efficiency was tested as pH controller by flushing it in the cathode chamber (pH 2 and 5). For the latter treatments, near total degradation was achieved after 27 d. Finally, phytotoxicity tests for polluted and treated samples were carried out. The high germination levels of the soil treated under enhanced conditions concluded that nearly complete restoration was achieved.

Effects of citric Acid and desensitizing agent application on nonfluorosed and fluorosed dentin: an in vitro sem study

Fluorosis is one of the factors which bring about mineralisation changes in a dentinal structure leading to dentin. The purpose of the present study was to compare and evaluate the dentinal tubular changes in fluorosed and nonfluorosed teeth subsequent to the application of citric acid,strontium acetate based sodium fluoride (SAF) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Dentin specimens from healthy fluorosed and nonfluorosed teeth were included in the study. Each of them was grouped into acid treated and SAF treatment groups. Using SEM, the photomicrographs (3500x) of dentin specimens were evaluated. Results showed while there was a significant difference in tubular width of partial occlusion ≤ 25%, being more in fluorosed group compared to nonfluorosed group after application SAF. Application of desensitising agents demonstrated higher number of dentinal tubular occlusion and diameter reduction in nonfluorosed dentin compared to fluorosed dentin.

SUMMARY

Root biomodification and desensitising agent procedure brings in definite difference between fluorosed and non-fluorosed dentin specimens.

Metabolomic and proteomic responses of Staphylococcus aureus to prolonged cold stress

The high pathogenicity of Staphylococcus aureus is thought to be due to its extraordinary capacity to rapidly adapt to changes in environmental conditions. This study was carried out to investigate whether the cytoplasmic profiles of metabolites and proteins of S. aureus were altered in response to prolonged exposure to cold stress. Metabolic profiling and proteomics were used to characterise alterations in cytoplasmic proteins and metabolites in cells from the mid-exponential phase of growth under ideal conditions at 37°C and compared with equivalent cells exposed to prolonged cold stress for 2 weeks at 4°C. Principle component analysis (PCA) of the metabolomic and proteomic data indicated that, at the mid-exponential phase of growth, prolonged cold stress conditions generated cells with different metabolite and protein profiles compared with those grown at 37°C. Nine ribosomal proteins and citric acid were substantially elevated in the cytoplasmic fractions from the cells adapted to cold-stress but most amino acids showed a reduction in their concentration in cold-stressed samples. The data provided strong evidence supporting the hypothesis that specific changes in metabolic homeostasis and protein composition were critical to the adaptive processes required for survival under cold stress.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Work in our laboratory has shown that prolonged exposure of S. aureus to cold stress can result in the formation of small colony variants (SCVs) associated with significant alterations in the cell wall composition. Further studies revealed that S. aureus altered cell size and cell wall thickness in response to exposure to cold temperatures, alterations in pH and exposure to antibiotics. The current study has utilised the prolonged exposure to cold stress as a model system to explore changes in the proteome and associated metabolic homeostasis following environmental challenges. The study provides an improved understanding of how S. aureus adapts to the changing environment whilst in transition between human hosts. The results indicated an unexpected production of 9 ribosomal proteins and citric acid in response to cold stress suggesting specific survival roles for these proteins and citric acid as an adaptation mechanism for empowering survival under these conditions.

Bioavailability of cobalt and iron from citric-acid-adsorbed CoFe2O4 nanoparticles in the terrestrial isopod Porcellio scaber

The aim of this study was to determine whether citric acid adsorbed onto cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanoparticles (NPs) influences the bioavailability of their constituents Co and Fe. Dissolution of Co and Fe was assessed by two measures: (i) in aqueous suspension using chemical analysis, prior to application onto the food of test organisms; and (ii) in vivo, measuring the bioavailability in the model terrestrial invertebrate (Porcellio scaber, Isopoda, Crustacea). The isopods were exposed to citric-acid-adsorbed CoFe2O4 NPs for 2 weeks, and tissue accumulation of Co and Fe was assessed. This was compared to pristine CoFe2O4 NPs, and CoCl2 and Fe(III) salts as positive controls. The combined data shows that citric acid enhances free metal ion concentration from CoFe2O4 NPs in aqueous suspension, although in vivo, very similar amounts of assimilated Co were found in isopods exposed to both types of NPs. Therefore, evaluation of the dissolution in suspension by chemical means is not a good predictor of metal assimilation of this model organism; body assimilation of Co and Fe is rather governed by the physiological capacity of P. scaber for the uptake of these metals. Moreover, we propose that citric acid, due to its chelating properties, may hinder the uptake of Co that dissolves from citric-acid-adsorbed CoFe2O4 NPs, if citric acid is present in sufficient quantity.

Effects of citric acid, cucumis powder and pressure cooking on quality attributes of goat meat curry

In the present study, comparative effects of marination in citric acid (1 %), spray of cucumis powder (2 %) and pressure cooking (at 15 psi) were observed on quality attributes of goat meat curry. Significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in pH of citric acid treated samples compared to other samples. Significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in protein and soluble collagen content of meat curry treated with pressure as compared to other treated samples including control. Cooking yield was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in control samples. The significant difference was observed in chewiness and gumminess at (p < 0.05) level and hardness at (p < 0.01) level within and between the various treatment groups. However, overall values were higher in control samples. Similarly, shear force value was significantly (p < 0.05) higher for control compared to treated samples. The significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in various sensory attributes of goat meat curry and pressure treated cooked meat curry was highly preferred followed by cucumis powder, citric acid and control samples.

Effect of citric acid and bacteria on metal uptake in reeds grown in a synthetic acid mine drainage solution

The effect of citric acid (CA), rhizosphere acidophilic heterotrophs and/or Fe(II) oxidizing bacteria (Fe(II)OB) on plaque formation and metal accumulation in Phragmites australis L. (common reed) from acid mine drainage (AMD) solution were investigated. Reeds were grown in different hydroponic solutions that contained AMD, CA and/or rhizosphere bacteria for three months. Triplicate experiments were conducted for each experimental condition. Fe(II)OB enhanced the formation of Fe plaque which decreased Fe and Mn uptake in reeds, while it had no significant influence on Al accumulation. CA inhibited the growth of Fe(II)OB, decreased the formation of metal plaque and increased Fe and Mn accumulation in reeds. Acidophilic heterotrophs consumed CA and made the environment more suitable for the growth of Fe(II)OB. Reeds are a good candidate for phytoextraction while CA is a useful chelator to enhance metal uptake in plants. More research may be needed to investigate the influence of CA on microbial community. Further investigations are required to study the effect of CA on phytoremediation of AMD contaminated fields.

Synergistic antimicrobial activity of caprylic acid in combination with citric acid against both Escherichia coli O157:H7 and indigenous microflora in carrot juice

The identification of novel, effective, and non-thermal decontamination methods is imperative for the preservation of unpasteurized and fresh vegetable juices. The aim of this study was to examine the bactericidal effects of caprylic acid + citric acid against the virulent pathogen Escherichia coli O157:H7 and the endogenous microflora in unpasteurized fresh carrot juice. Carrot juice was treated with either caprylic acid, citric acid, or a combination of caprylic acid + citric acid at mild heating temperature (45 °C or 50 °C). The color of the treated carrot juice as well as microbial survival was examined over time. Combined treatment was more effective than individual treatment in terms of both color and microbial survival. Caprylic acid + citric acid treatment (each at 5.0 mM) at 50 °C for 5 min resulted in 7.46 and 3.07 log CFU/ml reductions in the E. coli O157:H7 and endogenous microflora populations, respectively. By contrast, there was no apparent reduction in either population following individual treatment. A validation assay using a low-density E. coli O157:H7 inoculum (3.31 log CFU/ml) showed that combined treatment with caprylic acid (5.0 mM) + citric acid (2.5 mM) at 50 °C for >5 min or with caprylic acid + citric acid (both at 5.0 mM) at either 45 °C or 50 °C for >5 min completely destroyed the bacteria. Combined treatment also increased the redness of the juice, which is a perceived indication of quality. Taken together, these results indicate that combined treatment with low concentrations of caprylic acid and citric acid, which are of biotic origin, can eliminate microorganisms from unpasteurized carrot juice.

Establishment and assessment of an integrated citric acid-methane production process

To solve the problem of extraction wastewater in citric acid industrial production, an improved integrated citric acid-methane production process was established in this study. Extraction wastewater was treated by anaerobic digestion and then the anaerobic digestion effluent (ADE) was stripped by air to remove ammonia. Followed by solid-liquid separation to remove metal ion precipitation, the supernatant was recycled for the next batch of citric acid fermentation, thus eliminating wastewater discharge and reducing water consumption. 130U/g glucoamylase was added to medium after inoculation and the recycling process performed for 10 batches. Fermentation time decreased by 20% in recycling and the average citric acid production (2nd-10th) was 145.9±3.4g/L, only 2.5% lower than that with tap water (149.6g/L). The average methane production was 292.3±25.1mL/g CODremoved and stable in operation. Excessive Na(+) concentration in ADE was confirmed to be the major challenge for the proposed process.

Awakening the endogenous Leloir pathway for efficient galactose utilization by Yarrowia lipolytica

BACKGROUND

Production of valuable metabolites by Yarrowia lipolytica using renewable raw materials is of major interest for sustainable food and energy. Galactose is a monosaccharide found in galactomannans, hemicelluloses, gums, and pectins.

RESULTS

Yarrowia lipolytica was found to express all the Leloir pathway genes for galactose utilization, which encode fully functional proteins. Gene organization and regulation in Y. lipolytica resembles filamentous fungi rather than Saccharomyces cerevisiae. After Y. lipolytica was grown on mixture of glucose and galactose, it was then able to metabolize galactose, including when glucose concentrations were higher than 4 g/L. However, glucose was still the preferred carbon source. Nonetheless, a strain overexpressing the four ylGAL genes of the Leloir pathway was able to efficiently use galactose as its sole carbon source. This mutant was used to produce citric acid and lipids from galactose; the yields were comparable to or greater than that obtained for the parental strain (W29) on glucose.

CONCLUSIONS

The construction of a Y. lipolytica strain able to produce citric acid and lipids from galactose is a very important step in bypassing issues related to the use of food-based substrates in industrial applications.

Reaction of aqueous Cu-Citrate with MnO2 birnessite: characterization of Mn dissolution, oxidation products and surface interactions

Citric acid, a widespread soil rhizosphere plant/microbe carboxylic acid exudate can easily form chelates with heavy metals, increasing their availability in the environment. When Cu(II) from algal control in water bodies or reservoirs and fungicides, such as the Bordeaux mixture, and citrate interact, solubilization through chelation is a possible outcome. Manganese (hydr)oxides represent a significant portion of the subsurface environment and can affect the fate and transport of chemical species through adsorption and oxidation. This study explores the possible interaction between MnO2 and Cu-Citrate under ambient oxic conditions. The calculated Mn(II) dissolution rates during the initial 1h of reaction followed the series Cu(II)>Cu-Citrate 1:0.5>Cu-Citrate 1:1(oxic)>Citrate>Cu-Citrate 1:1(Anoxic), reinforcing the central role of (complexed or un-complexed) Cu(II) during the initial surface-coordination instead of following the s-shaped auto-catalytic curves of Mn(II) dissolution in citrate solution. The use of capillary electrophoresis allowed the detection of an intermediate Cu(II)Acetonedicarboxylate complex and the oxidation products acetonedicarboxylate, acetoacetate, acetone and acetic acid. The mass balance analysis of Cu-Citrate 1:1 suggests the partial adsorption of Cu-Citrate(ads) and catalytic degradation of acetonedicarboxylate through a MnO2-Cu surface sorbed complex. Lastly, XPS analysis confirmed the MnO2 surface Cu(II) reduction along with an outer-hydration layer at the MnO2 interface, where electron transfer and aquo ligand exchange may lead to the oxidation of Cu-Citrate.

Quantitative analysis of citric acid/sodium hypophosphite modified cotton by HPLC and conductometric titration

Isocratic HPLC was used in conjunction with conductometric titration to quantitatively examine the modification of cotton cellulose by citric acid (CA)/sodium hypophosphite (SHP). CA/SHP had been extensively used as a green crosslinking agent for enhancement of cellulose and other carbohydrate polymers without in-depth understanding of the mechanisms. The current study investigated all identifiable secondary polycarboxylic acids from CA decomposition in the CA/SHP-cellulose system under various curing conditions. It was found that CA decomposition was more sensitive to temperature compared with the desirable esterification reaction. Two crosslinking mechanisms, namely ester crosslinking and SHP crosslinking were responsible for the observed improvement in crease resistance of CA/SHP treated cotton fabrics. An oligomer of citraconic acid (CCA) and/or itaconic acid (IA) was identified as a possible contributor to fabric yellowing. Finally, the crease resistance of fabrics correlated strongly with CA preservation in polyol-added CA/SHP crosslinking systems. The dosage of polyol should be held below an inflexion point to keep the undesirable competition against cellulose minimum. The combination of HPLC and conductometric titration was demonstrated to be useful in studying the CA/SHP-cellulose crosslinking system. The findings have implications for better application of CA/SHP in polysaccharide modifications in general.

Survival and growth of Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus in eggplant dip during storage

Eggplant dip is an internationally popular appetizer, prepared in some instances under uncertain hygienic conditions with inconsistent refrigeration. This study examined the effects of citric acid on the survival of pathogenic microorganisms (Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus) and naturally present organisms (lactic acid bacteria, LAB, aerobic bacteria, APC and yeast and mold, YM) in eggplant dip during storage. Eggplant dip with 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 or 0.8% citric acid was inoculated with S. Typhimurium, E. coli O157:H7 or S. aureus and stored at 4, 10 and 21 °C for ≤15 d. Throughout the study, the survival of the inoculated microorganisms was monitored, and LAB, APC, YM numbers and pH were determined. There was no significant (p>0.05) effect of citric acid on inoculated S. Typhimurium and E. coli O157:H7. Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 survived >7d with little reduction in viability. Reduction of S. aureus viability increased with citric acid concentration and reached>3.0 log10 CFU/g by 15 d at 4 °C. Citric acid had no effect (p>0.05) on the background YM during storage at 4, 10 and 21 °C or LAB stored at 4 and 10 °C, while at 21 °C, 0.6 and 0.8% citric acid significantly reduced LAB. Citric acid had no effect (p>0.05) on the APC in samples stored at 4 °C but it had significant effects on samples stored at 10 and 21 °C. Work reported showed that the use of citric acid at 0.4-0.8% can inhibit the growth of S. aureus in eggplant dip, but adequate refrigeration is essential to minimize risk from this and other pathogens in this product.

Risks and benefits of citrate anticoagulation for continuous renal replacement therapy

Heparin, despite its significant side-effects, is the most commonly used anticoagulant for continuous renal replacement therapy in critical care setting. In recent years, citrate has gained much popularity by improving continuous renal replacement therapy circuit survival and decreasing blood transfusion requirements. However, its complex metabolic consequences warrant modification in the design of the citrate-based continuous renal replacement therapy protocol. With thorough understanding of the therapeutic mechanism of citrate, a simple and practicable protocol can be devised. Citrate-based continuous renal replacement therapy can be safely and widely used in the clinical setting with appropriate clinical staff training.

Pulsed electric field (PEF)-induced aggregation between lysozyme, ovalbumin and ovotransferrin in multi-protein system

The aggregation of multi-proteins is of great interest in food processing and a good understanding of the formation of aggregates during PEF processing is needed for the application of the process to pasteurize protein-based foods. The aggregates formation of a multi-protein system (containing ovalbumin, ovotransferrin and lysozyme) was studied through turbidity, size exclusion chromatography and SDS-PAGE patterns for interaction studies and binding forces. Results from size exclusion chromatography indicated that there was no soluble aggregates formed during PEF processing. The existence of lysozyme was important to form insoluble aggregates in the chosen ovalbumin solution. The results of SDS-PAGE patterns indicated that lysozyme was prone to precipitate, and was relatively the higher component of aggregates. Citric acid could be effective in inhibiting lysozyme from interacting with other proteins during PEF processing. Blocking the free sulphydryl by N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) did not affect aggregation inhibition.

Chemical and structural properties of sweet potato starch treated with organic and inorganic acid

In the present study sweet potato starch was treated with hydrochloric acid or citric acid at 1 or 5 % concentration and its properties were investigated. Citric acid treatment resulted higher starch yield. Water holding capacity and water absorption index was increased with increased acid concentration. Emulsion properties improved at 5 % acid concentration. The DE value of acid-thinned sweet potato starches was ranged between 1.93 and 3.76 %. Hydrochloric acid treated starches displayed a higher fraction of amylose. X-ray diffraction (XRD) study revealed that all the starches displayed C-type crystalline pattern with varied crystallinity. FT-IR spectra perceived a slight change in percentage intensity of C-H stretch of citric acid modified starches. Starch granules tended to appear less smooth than the native starch granules after acid treatment in Scanning Electron Micrographs (SEM) with granule size ranging between 8.00 and 8.90 μm. A drastic decrease in the pasting profile was noticed in hydrochloric acid (5 %) treated starch. While 5 % citric acid treated starch exhibited higher pasting profile. Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) showed that peak and conclusion gelatinisation temperatures increased with increase in hydrochloric acid or citric acid concentration. Hence citric acid was found to mimic the hydrochloric acid with some variation which suggests that it may have promising scope in acid modification.

A novel potential biocompatible hyperbranched polyspermine for efficient lung cancer gene therapy

The clinical successful application of gene therapy critically depends upon the development of non-toxic and efficient delivery system. Although polycationic non-viral vectors hold great promise in nanomedicine, the exploring of application in clinics still remains a big challenge. To develop a non-toxic and efficient non-viral gene delivery system, two kinds of endogenous substance, citric acid (CA) and spermine (SPE), were used to prepare a new low charge density hyperbranched polyspermine (HPSPE) by one-pot polymerization. The biocompatibility evaluated by hemolytic activity and red blood cell (RBC) aggregation indicated that HPSPE was highly biocompatible without causing hemolysis and RBC aggregation compared with PEI as well as SPE. The MTS assay also demonstrated that the cell viability of HPSPE was above 90% even at 200 μg/mL at different time (24 and 72 h), which much higher than PEI 25K. Besides, HPSPE showed high transfection efficiency without any toxic effect after aerosol delivery to the mice. Moreover, aerosol delivery of HPSPE/Akt1 shRNA significantly reduced tumor size and numbers and efficiently suppressed lung tumorigenesis ultimately in K-ras(LA1) lung cancer model mice. These results suggest that low charge density as well as endogenous substance skeleton endow HPSPE with great potential for toxicity-free and efficient gene therapy.

Citric acid improves lead (pb) phytoextraction in brassica napus L. by mitigating pb-induced morphological and biochemical damages

Phytoextraction is an environmentally friendly and a cost-effective strategy for remediation of heavy metal contaminated soils. However, lower bioavailability of some of the metals in polluted environments e.g. lead (Pb) is a major constraint of phytoextraction process that could be overcome by applying organic chelators. We conducted a glasshouse experiment to evaluate the role of citric acid (CA) in enhancing Pb phytoextraction. Brassica napus L. seedlings were grown in hydroponic media and exposed to various treatments of Pb (50 and 100 μM) as alone or in combination with CA (2.5mM) for six weeks. Pb-induced damage in B. napus toxicity was evident from elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2 that significantly inhibited plant growth, biomass accumulation, leaf chlorophyll contents and gas exchange parameters. Alternatively, CA application to Pb-stressed B. napus plants arrested lipid membrane damage by limiting MDA and H2O2 production and by improving antioxidant enzyme activities. In addition, CA significantly increased the Pb accumulation in B. napus plants. The study concludes that CA has a potential to improve Pb phytoextraction without damaging plant growth.

Improving the amenability of municipal waste activated sludge for biological pretreatment by phase-separated sludge disintegration method

The significance of citric acid, a cation binding agent, was investigated for the exclusion of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) from waste activated sludge (WAS) and anaerobic biodegradability following enzymatic bacterial pretreatment. EPS was removed with 0.05 g/g SS of citric acid. The results of pretreatment found that the suspended solids reduction and chemical oxygen demand solubilisation were 21.4% and 16.2% for deflocculated-bacterially pretreated sludge, 14.28% and 10.0% for flocculated sludge (without EPS removal and bacterially pretreated) and 8.5% and 6.5% for control sludge (raw sludge), respectively. Further assessing anaerobic biodegradability, the biogas yield potential of deflocculated and bacterially pretreated, flocculated, and control sludges were found to be 0.455 L/(g VS), 0.343 L/(g VS), and 0.209 L/(g VS), respectively. Thus, phase-separated disintegration enhanced anaerobic biodegradability efficiently.

Effects of phase transfer ligands on monodisperse iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles

Oleic acid coated iron oxide nanoparticles synthesized by thermal decomposition in organic medium are highly monodisperse but at the same time are unsuitable for biological applications. Ligand-exchange reactions are useful to make their surface hydrophilic. However, these could alter some structural and magnetic properties of the modified particles. Here we present a comprehensive study and comparison of the effects of employing either citric acid (CA) or meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) ligand-exchange protocols for phase transfer of monodisperse hydrophobic iron oxide nanoparticles produced by thermal decomposition of Fe(acac)3 in benzyl ether. We show the excellent hydrodynamic size distribution and colloidal stability of the hydrophilic particles obtained by the two protocols and confirm that there is a certain degree of oxidation caused by the ligand-exchange. CA revealed to be more aggressive towards the iron oxide surface than DMSA and greatly reduced the saturation magnetization values and initial susceptibility of the resulting particles compared to the native ones. Besides being milder and more straightforward to perform, the DMSA ligand exchange protocol produces MNP chemically more versatile for further functionalization possibilities. This versatility is shown through the covalent linkage of gum Arabic onto MNP-DMSA using carboxyl and thiol based chemical routes and yielding particles with comparable properties.

Influence of citric acid on the surface texture of glass ionomer restorative materials

AIM

This study determined the effectiveness of G-coat plus surface protective agent over petroleum jelly on the surface texture of conventional Glass ionomer restorative materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three chemically cured conventional glass ionomer restorative materials type II, type IX and ketac molar were evaluated in this study. Sixty specimens were made for each restorative material. They were divided into two groups of thirty specimens each. Of the sixty specimens, thirty were coated with G-coat plus (a nano-filler coating) and the rest with petroleum jelly. Thirty samples of both protective coating agents were randomly divided into six groups of five specimens and conditioned in citric acid solutions of differing pH (pH 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7). Each specimen was kept in citric acid for three hours a day, and the rest of time stored in salivary substitute. This procedure was repeated for 8 days. After conditioning, the surface roughness (Ra, μm) of each specimen was measured using a surface profilometer (Taylor & Habson, UK). Data was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's HSD test at a significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS

The surface textures of all the tested glass ionomer restorative materials protected with G-coat plus were not significantly affected by acids at low pH. The surface textures of all the tested glass ionomer restorative materials protected with petroleum jelly coating were significantly affected by acids at low pH.

CONCLUSION

The effects of pH on the surface texture of glass ionomer restoratives are material dependent. Among all the materials tested the surface texture of Type II GIC (Group I) revealed marked deterioration when conditioned in solutions of low pH and was statistically significant. Hence, a protective coating either with G-coat plus or with light polymerized low viscosity unfilled resin adhesives is mandatory for all the glass ionomer restorations to increase the wear resistance of the restorative materials.

Usefulness of the simplified cough test in evaluating cough reflex sensitivity as a screening test for silent aspiration

Objective

To assess cough reflex sensitivity using the simplified cough test (SCT) and to evaluate the usefulness of SCT to screen for silent aspiration.

Methods

The healthy control group was divided into two subgroups: the young (n=29, 33.44±9.99 years) and the elderly (n=30, 63.66±4.37 years). The dysphagic elderly group (n=101, 72.95±9.19 years) consisted of patients with dysphagia, who suffered from a disease involving central nervous system (ischemic stroke 47, intracerebral hemorrhage 27, traumatic brain injury 11, encephalitis 5, hypoxic brain damage 3, and Parkinson disease 8). The SCT was performed using the mist of a 1% citric acid from a portable nebulizer. The time from the start of the inhalation to the first cough was measured as the cough latency. All the dysphagic patients underwent the videofluoroscopic swallowing study.

Results

The cough latency was more significantly prolonged in the healthy elderly group than in the healthy young group (p<0.001), and in the dysphagic elderly group than in the healthy elderly group (p<0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of SCT were 73.8% and 72.5% for detecting aspiration in the dysphagic patients, and 87.1% and 66.7% for detecting silent aspiration in the aspirated patients.

Conclusion

Cough latency measured with the SCT reflects the impairment of cough reflex in healthy elderly and dysphasic subjects. The results of this study show that the SCT test can be a valuable method of screening aspiration with or without cough in dysphasic patients.

Evaluation of smear layer removal from ultrasonically prepared retrocavities by three agents

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of 35% orthophosphoric acid, 24% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and 10% citric acid in the removal of smear layer from retrocavities prepared with ultrasonic retro-tips using scanning electron microscopy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Root canals of fifty single-rooted teeth were cleaned, shaped, and obturated with gutta-percha and AH plus sealer. The apical 3 mm of each root was sectioned with a diamond disc and retrograde cavities were prepared with Kis # 1 ultrasonic retro-tips to a depth of 3 mm. Retro cavities in Group I were treated with a gel of 35% orthophosphoric acid for 15 seconds, Group II were treated with a gel of 24% EDTA at neutral pH for 2 minutes, and Group III were treated with a gel of 10% citric acid for 2 minutes, followed by 1 minute rinsing with distilled water for all groups. The samples were prepared for scanning electron microscopic observation. Scoring was performed for the presence of the smear layer on the walls of the retrocavity.

RESULTS

In the orthophosphoric acid group, it was observed that all dentinal tubules were open in 70% of the samples. The majority of analyzed samples in EDTA and citric acid group showed dentinal tubules covered with the smear layer.

CONCLUSIONS

Application of 35% orthophosphoric acid gel for 15 seconds on retrocavities prepared with ultrasonic retro-tips is the most effective means for removal of smear layer.

Deletion of glucose oxidase changes the pattern of organic acid production in Aspergillus carbonarius

Aspergillus carbonarius has potential as a cell factory for the production of different organic acids. At pH 5.5, A.carbonarius accumulates high amounts of gluconic acid when it grows on glucose based medium whereas at low pH, it produces citric acid. The conversion of glucose to gluconic acid is carried out by secretion of the enzyme, glucose oxidase. In this work, the gene encoding glucose oxidase was identified and deleted from A. carbonarius with the aim of changing the carbon flux towards other organic acids. The effect of genetic engineering was examined by testing glucose oxidase deficient (Δgox) mutants for the production of different organic acids in a defined production medium. The results obtained showed that the gluconic acid accumulation was completely inhibited and increased amounts of citric acid, oxalic acid and malic acid were observed in the Δgox mutants.

By-products from the biodiesel chain as a substrate to citric acid production by solid-state fermentation

In this study, we propose the use of tung cake for the production of organic acids, with an emphasis on citric acid by solid-state fermentation. We evaluated the conditions of production and the by-products from the biodiesel chain as raw materials involved in this bioprocess. First, we standardized the conditions of solid-state fermentation in tung cake with and without residual fat and with different concentrations of glycerine using the fungus Aspergillus niger The solid-state fermentation process was monitored for 7 days considering the biomass growth and pH level. Citric acid production was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Fungal development was better in the crude tung cake, consisting of 20% glycerine. The highest citric acid yield was 350 g kg(-1) of biomass. Therefore, the solid-state fermentation of the tung cake with glycerine led to citric acid production using the Aspergillus niger fungus.

Engineering biodegradable polyester elastomers with antioxidant properties to attenuate oxidative stress in tissues

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the limited biological compatibility of many biomaterials due to inflammation, as well as in various pathologies including atherosclerosis and restenosis as a result of vascular interventions. Engineering antioxidant properties into a material is therefore a potential avenue to improve the biocompatibility of materials, as well as to locally attenuate oxidative stress-related pathologies. Moreover, biodegradable polymers that have antioxidant properties built into their backbone structure have high relative antioxidant content and may provide prolonged, continuous attenuation of oxidative stress while the polymer or its degradation products are present. In this report, we describe the synthesis of poly(1,8-octanediol-co-citrate-co-ascorbate) (POCA), a citric-acid based biodegradable elastomer with native, intrinsic antioxidant properties. The in vitro antioxidant activity of POCA as well as its effects on vascular cells in vitro and in vivo were studied. Antioxidant properties investigated included scavenging of free radicals, iron chelation and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation. POCA reduced reactive oxygen species generation in cells after an oxidative challenge and protected cells from oxidative stress-induced cell death. Importantly, POCA antioxidant properties remained present upon degradation. Vascular cells cultured on POCA showed high viability, and POCA selectively inhibited smooth muscle cell proliferation, while supporting endothelial cell proliferation. Finally, preliminary data on POCA-coated ePTFE grafts showed reduced intimal hyperplasia when compared to standard ePTFE grafts. This biodegradable, intrinsically antioxidant polymer may be useful for tissue engineering application where oxidative stress is a concern.

Effect of citric acid irrigation on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated roots

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of citric acid irrigation on root fracture in different concentrations and at various time exposures on root fracture.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-eight human mandibular incisors with similar dimensions were selected. The specimens were decoronated, then divided into 6 groups as follows: A group without instrumentation and filling (G1) and the 5 other groups with canal preparation and irrigation of distilled water (G2), 10% citric acid for 1 min (G3), 50% citric acid for 1 min (G4), 10% citric acid for 10 min (G5), and 50% citric acid for 10 min (G6). In the experimental groups, the canals were obturated and subjected to the strength test. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis test (P = 0.05).

Results:

G6 showed the highest fracture resistance (629.97 N), and G3 showed the lowest fracture resistance (507.76 N). However, there was no statistically significant difference among the groups.

Conclusions:

The results of this study suggest that use of citric acid is safe in terms of fracture resistance.

Browning inhibition mechanisms by cysteine, ascorbic acid and citric acid, and identifying PPO-catechol-cysteine reaction products

The titled compounds were examined as PPO inhibitors and antibrowning agents; their various mechanisms were investigated and discussed. All compounds reduced significantly both the browning process and PPO activity. Browning index gave strong correlation with PPO activity (r(2) = 0.96, n = 19) indicating that the browning process is mainly enzymatic. Ascorbic acid could reduce the formed quinone instantly to the original substrate (catechol) at high concentration (>1.5 %) while at lower concentrations acted as competitive inhibitor (KI = 0.256 ± 0.067 mM). Cysteine, at higher concentrations (≥1.0 %), reacted with the resulted quinone to give a colorless products while at the low concentrations, cysteine worked as competitive inhibitor (KI = 1.113 ± 0.176 mM). Citric acid acted only as PPO non-competitive inhibitor with KI = 2.074 ± 0.363 mM. The products of PPO-catechole-cysteine reaction could be separation and identification by LC-ESI-MS. Results indicated that the product of the enzymatic oxidation of catechol, quinone, undergoes two successive nucleophilic attacks by cysteine thiol group. Cysteine was condensed with the resulted mono and dithiocatechols to form peptide side chains.

Effect of citric acid and rhizosphere bacteria on metal plaque formation and metal accumulation in reeds in synthetic acid mine drainage solution

Many of regions in the world have been affected by acid mine drainage (AMD). The study assessed the effect of rhizosphere bacteria and citric acid (CA) on the metal plaque formation and heavy metal uptake in Phragmites australis cultured in synthetic AMD solution. Mn and Al plaque were not formed, but Fe plaque which was mediated by rhizosphere iron oxidizing bacteria (Fe(II)OB) was observed on the root system of reeds. Fe plaque did not significantly influence the uptake of Fe, Al and Mn into tissues of reeds. CA significantly (p<0.01) inhibited the growth of Fe(II)OB and decreased the formation of Fe plaque. CA also significantly improved (p<0.05) the accumulation of Fe, Mn and Al in all the tissues of reeds. Roots and rhizomes were the main organs to store metals. The roots contained 0.08±0.01mg/g Mn, 2.39±0.26mg/g Fe and 0.19±0.02mg/g Al, while the shoots accumulated 0.04±0.00mg/g Mn, 0.20±0.01mg/g Fe, 0.11±0.00mg/g Al in reeds cultured in solution amended with 2.101g/l CA and without inoculation of rhizosphere bacteria.

Effects of low molecular weight organic acids on the immobilization of aqueous Pb(II) using phosphate rock and different crystallized hydroxyapatite

Understanding the effects of low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOAs) on the transformation of Pb(II) to geochemically stable pyromorphite (PY) by apatite materials (AMs), has considerable benefits for risk assessment and remediation strategies for contaminated water and soil. In this study, we systematically investigated the immobilization of Pb(II) from aqueous solution by natural phosphate rock (PR) and different crystallized hydroxyapatite (HAp) in the absence and presence of LMWOAs (oxalic, malic and citric acids). The results indicated that the effectiveness of PR and HAp in immobilizing Pb(II) followed in descending order by HAp2 (the poorly crystallized HAp), HAp1 (the well crystallized HAp) and PR, regardlessof the presence of LMWOAs. The presence of malic and citric acids significantly decreased the immobilizationefficiency of Pb(II) by HAp1 and PR, clarifying the lower adsorption affinities of Pb(II)-organic acid complexes on HAp1 and PR rather than Pb(II) ion. On thecontrary, oxalic acid could markedly enhance the removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solution by HAp1 and PR through the formation of lead oxalate, which was confirmed by FT-IR and XRDanalysis. Results also showed that LMWOAs had little promoting or inhibiting effect on the immobilization of Pb(II) by HAp2. This study suggested that the ubiquity of LMWOAs in natural environments could retard the transformation efficiency of Pb(II) to PY by AMs, especiallyin thepresenceof oxalic acid, and the poorly crystallized HAp2 had great potential to remediate Pb(II)-contaminated water and soil due to its insusceptibility to LMWOAs.

Effect of citric acid, tetracycline, and doxycycline on instrumented periodontally involved root surfaces: A SEM study

BACKGROUND

A surface smear layer consisting of organic and inorganic material is formed on the root surface following mechanical instrumentation and may inhibit the formation of new connective tissue attachment to the root surface. Modification of the tooth surface by root conditioning has resulted in improved connective tissue attachment and has advanced the goal of reconstructive periodontal treatment.

AIM

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of citric acid, tetracycline, and doxycycline on the instrumented periodontally involved root surfaces in vitro using a scanning electron microscope.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

A total of 45 dentin samples obtained from 15 extracted, scaled, and root planed teeth were divided into three groups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The root conditioning agents were applied with cotton pellets using the Passive burnishing technique for 5 minutes. The samples were then examined by the scanning electron microscope.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

The statistical analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, version 15.0 for Windows). For all quantitative variables means and standard deviations were calculated and compared. For more than two groups ANOVA was applied. For multiple comparisons post hoc tests with Bonferroni correction was used.

RESULTS

Upon statistical analysis the root conditioning agents used in this study were found to be effective in removing the smear layer, uncovering and widening the dentin tubules and unmasking the dentin collagen matrix.

CONCLUSION

Tetracycline HCl was found to be the best root conditioner among the three agents used.

Effect of different coagulants at varying strengths on the quality of paneer made from reconstituted milk

A study was conducted to determine the effect of different types of acids viz., citric acid, tartaric acid and malic acid each at 2, 3 and 5% concentrations on the quality of paneer made using reconstituted milk. The moisture, total solid recovery and yield and sensory scores for flavour, body and texture and overall acceptability of paneer decreased with the increasing strength of acid. However, these parameters for paneer made using coagulants at 2 and 3% levels were statistically comparable (P > 0.05). Fat and protein per cent increased with the increase in the concentration of the acid. No difference was observed in the levels of ash and fat on dry matter basis and pH and appearance scores at all the three concentrations of the coagulants. The type of coagulant also elicited variations in most of the constituents of paneer. The paneer samples made with citric acid and tartaric acid had significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) values for fat, protein, ash, total solids recovery, fat on dry matter basis, body and texture and overall acceptability scores than paneer made with malic acid at all concentrations. No significant difference was seen in appearance and flavour scores among all the samples. In order to produce paneer with the most desirable characteristics from reconstituted milk, it is suggested citric acid and tartaric acid at 2% concentration can be utilized as coagulants.

Preparation, characterization and antibacterial activity of biodegradable films prepared from carrageenan

Carrageenan films have been formulated as a packaging material. Films plasticized with glycerol were loaded with citric acid (1, 0.75, 0.5, 0.25 and 0.1 %) for enhanced antimicrobial effects. Blank and citric acid loaded films were characterized by mechanical properties, scanning electron microscopy and contact angle. In addition, swelling and antibacterial studies were conducted to further characterize the films. Both blank and citric acid loaded films showed different morphology, high elasticity and acceptable tensile (mechanical) properties. These citric acid loaded films produced higher zones of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Dickeya chrysanthemi strains compared to blank film.

An in vitro evaluation of passive ultrasonic agitation of different irrigants on smear layer removal after post space preparation: a scanning electron microscopic study

This study evaluated the removal of debris and smear layer after post space preparation using different irrigations and passive ultrasonic agitation. Sixty human premolars were decoronated and post space prepared after endodontic therapy. The samples were then randomly divided into three experimental groups (Groups A, B, C) and one control group (Group D) with fifteen samples in each group. Groups A and B samples were treated with 10 % citric acid and 17 % ethylenediamintetraacetic acid (EDTA), respectively and passive ultrasonic agitation was done, rinsed with sodium hypochlorite and finally flushed with saline. Group C samples were conditioned with 36 % phosphoric acid and then rinsed with saline. The control group was treated with 3 % sodium hypochlorite, passive ultrasonic agitation done and flushed with saline. The samples were sectioned and evaluated for debris and smear layer removal under scanning electron microscope. 10 % citric acid showed the best removal of smear layer when compared with 17 % EDTA and 36 % phosphoric acid, but was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The difference in scoring for debris and smear layer removal in the coronal, middle and apical third of post space of experimental groups in comparison with control group was statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Comparison of acidic and neutral PH root conditioners prior to a coronally positioned flap to treat gingival recession

BACKGROUND

Localized gingival recession can be treated successfully via coronally positioned flap (CPF) and additional use of root surface demineralization agents. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of additional use of ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and citric acid as a root conditioner in association with CPF to cover localized buccal gingival recessions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-seven patients with 66 Miller class I buccal gingival recession ≥ 2 mm on single-rooted teeth were studied. Patients were randomly assigned: CPF with EDTA gel (test 1) and CPF with saturated citric acid (test 2) or CPF alone (control). Clinical parameters were measured at baseline and 1, 2, 3 and 6 months after surgery; assessment included recession depth (RD), clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD) and height of keratinized gingiva (HKG). SPSS version-20 was used to perform all statistical analyses. Data was reported as Mean ± SD. Age, RD, CAL, PD, and HKG before treatment and after 6 months among study groups were compared by one-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey test. The level of significance was considered to be less than 0.05.

RESULTS

At 6 months, all treatment modalities showed significant root coverage and gain in CAL. RD was reduced from 2.86 ± 0.76 mm to 0.55±0.53 mm in the EDTA group and from 2.37±0.57 mm to 1.03±0.43 mm in the acid group and from 2.37±0.54 mm to 0.85±0.49 mm in the control group. The average percentage of root coverage for the EDTA, acid, and control groups were 80.73%, 52.16%, and 64.50%, respectively. At 6 months, there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in all parameters for the EDTA group (except HKG that did not vary among the groups).

CONCLUSION

Root preparation with EDTA was an effective procedure to cover localized gingival recessions and significantly improved the amount of root coverage obtained.

The role of citric acid in oral peptide and protein formulations: relationship between calcium chelation and proteolysis inhibition

The excipient citric acid (CA) has been reported to improve oral absorption of peptides by different mechanisms. The balance between its related properties of calcium chelation and permeation enhancement compared to a proteolysis inhibition was examined. A predictive model of CA's calcium chelation activity was developed and verified experimentally using an ion-selective electrode. The effects of CA, its salt (citrate, Cit) and the established permeation enhancer, lauroyl carnitine chloride (LCC) were compared by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and permeability of insulin and FD4 across Caco-2 monolayers and rat small intestinal mucosae mounted in Ussing chambers. Proteolytic degradation of insulin was determined in rat luminal extracts across a range of pH values in the presence of CA. CA's capacity to chelate calcium decreased ~10-fold for each pH unit moving from pH 6 to pH 3. CA was an inferior weak permeation enhancer compared to LCC in both in vitro models using physiological buffers. At pH 4.5 however, degradation of insulin in rat luminal extracts was significantly inhibited in the presence of 10mM CA. The capacity of CA to chelate luminal calcium does not occur significantly at the acidic pH values where it effectively inhibits proteolysis, which is its dominant action in oral peptide formulations. On account of insulin's low basal permeability, inclusion of alternative permeation enhancers is likely to be necessary to achieve sufficient oral bioavailability since this is a weak property of CA.

Adsorption of citrate ions on hydroxyapatite synthetized by various methods

The specific adsorption of citric acid ions at hydroxyapatite interface was investigated by the means of radioisotope method (¹⁴C) as a function of citric acid ions concentration, NaCl concentration and pH. Application of the hydroxyapatite has become wide in the biomaterial field as the Ca₁₀(OH)₂(PO₄)₆ possess biocompatibility with human hard tissue. Hydroxyapatite was synthesized using three different methods. The physical properties of the resulting powder were characterized by DTA/TG, XRD, AFM and SEM microscopy. Physicochemical qualities characterizing the electrical double layer of the hydroxyapatite/NaCl solution interface were determined. The zeta potential and the adsorption of citric acid molecule were studied as a function of pH. The point of zero charge and the isoelectric point of samples were determined. Electrical double layer parameters of hydroxyapatite/NaCl interface are influenced by a synthesis method. The points pH_pzc and pH_IEP for sample 1 are pH_pzc 7.5 and pH_IEP 3; for sample 2 pH_pzc 7.05 and pH_IEP 3, for smaple 3 pH_pzc 6.7 and pH_IEP 3. Temperature has weak influence both on pure substance and with citric acid adsorbed, as derivatographic analysis has shown, and characterization of hydroxyapatite structure may be carried out by this thermal analysis. Two phenomena are responsible for citric acid adsorption: phosphate group's replacement at hydroxyapatite surface by citric ions parallel to intraspherical complexes formation.

Application of natural citric acid sources and their role on arsenic removal from drinking water: a green chemistry approach

Solar Oxidation and Removal of Arsenic (SORAS) is a low-cost non-hazardous technique for the removal of arsenic (As) from groundwater. In this study, we tested the efficiency of natural citric acid sources extracted from tomato, lemon and lime to promote SORAS for As removal at the household level. The experiment was conducted in the laboratory using both synthetic solutions and natural groundwater samples collected from As-polluted areas in West Bengal. The role of As/Fe molar ratios and citrate doses on As removal efficiency were checked in synthetic samples. The results demonstrate that tomato juice (as citric acid) was more efficient to remove As from both synthetic (percentage of removal: 78-98%) and natural groundwater (90-97%) samples compared to lemon (61-83% and 79-85%, respectively) and lime (39-69% and 63-70%, respectively) juices. The As/Fe molar ratio and the citrate dose showed an 'optimized central tendency' on As removal. Anti-oxidants, e.g. 'hydroxycinnamates', found in tomato, were shown to have a higher capacity to catalyze SORAS photochemical reactions compared to 'flavanones' found in lemon or lime. The application of this method has several advantages, such as eco- and user- friendliness and affordability at the household level compared to other low-cost techniques.

Temporal dissolution of potentially toxic elements from silver smelting slag by synthetic environmental solutions

Waste slag which is created during precious metal smelting contains high levels of potentially toxic elements (PTE) which can be mobilised from unconfined deposits into the local environment. This paper examines the extractability of selected PTE (Pb, Zn, Cd, Mn) from slag samples by synthetic solutions designed to replicate those in the environment. Extracting agents were used to replicate potential leaching scenarios which are analogous to natural chemical weathering. Slag was submersed in a rainwater simulation solution (RSS), weak citric acid solution (representing rhizosphere secretions) and control solutions (deionised water) for a one month period with solution analyses made at intervals of 1, 24, 168 and 720 h. In 1 mM citric acid, dissolution of Cd and Zn showed little change with time, although for Zn the initial dissolution was considerable. Lead in citric acid was characterized by overall poor extractability. Mn solubility increased until an equilibrium state occurred within 24 h. The solubility of studied metals in citric acid can be characterized by a short time to equilibrium. RSS proved to be an effective solvent that, unlike citric acid solution, extracted increasing concentrations of Cd, Mn and Zn with time. Solubility of Pb in RSS was again very low. When taken as a proportion of a single 2 M HNO3 extraction which was applied to slag samples, Cd was the element most readily leached into RSS and control samples. In both studied solvents, slag heterogeneity is prominent in the case of Cd and Zn solubility. Contact time with solvent appears to be an important variable for the release of PTE from slag into solution. The purpose of this study was to provide insight into the environmental chemical dissolution of PTE from slag, which causes their enrichment in surrounding soils and surface waters.

Citric acid crosslinking of paper products for improved high-humidity performance

Fibre crosslinking with polycarboxylic acids can be used to improve certain properties of paper products, including wet tensile and compressive strength. In the present work it was proposed that citric acid (CA) crosslinks the cellulosic fibres of linerboard by self-catalysed esterification of cellulosic hydroxyl groups, which makes an additional catalyst unnecessary. An increase in CA dose or curing temperature increased linerboard compressive strength. In CA-treated corrugated board most of the applied CA was esterified with fibres while some CA thermolysis products were also present. A significant portion of the applied CA was unaccounted for. The deficit was attributed to thermolysis to give volatile anhydrides of unsaturated acids. Under cyclic humidity and static compressive loading, CA-treated corrugated boxes showed a greater than three-fold increase in resistance to compressive creep, showing that CA treatment can be used to extend the lifetime of corrugated boxes used for horticultural produce storage.

The effect of EDDS and citrate on the uptake of lead in hydroponically grown Matthiola flavida

Root and shoot lead concentrations and the impact of chelating agents on these were investigated in two populations of the novel metallophyte Matthiola flavida. Plants were exposed in hydroponics to Pb(NO3)2, supplied alone, or in combination with citric acid, or EDDS. When supplied at concentrations expected to bind about 95% of the Pb in a solution containing 1-μM Pb (1000 μM citrate or 3.1 μM EDDS, respectively), the root and shoot Pb concentrations were dramatically lowered, in comparison with a 1-μM free ionic Pb control exposure. A 1-mM EDDS+1-μM Pb treatment decreased the plants' Pb concentrations further, even to undetectable levels in one population. At 100 μM Pb in a 1-mM EDDS-amended solution the Pb concentration increased strongly in shoots, but barely in roots, in comparison with the 1-μM Pb+1-mM EDDS treatment, without causing toxicity symptoms. Further increments of the Pb concentration in the 1-mM EDDS-amended solution, i.e. to 800 and 990 μM, caused Pb hyperaccumulation, both in roots and in shoots, associated with a complete arrest of root growth and foliar necrosis. M. flavida seemed to be devoid of constitutive mechanisms for uptake of Pb-citrate or Pb-EDDS complexes. Hyperaccumulation of Pb-EDDS occurred only at high exposure levels. Pb-EDDS was toxic, but is much less so than free Pb. Free EDDS did not seem to be toxic at the concentrations tested.