bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silvicultural efficiency of complex felling in drained pine forests of different ages
Authors: Смирнов А. П. , Смирнов А. А.
Published: July 2024

Опытные комплексные рубки проводились в разновозрастных сосняках на осушаемом верховом торфянике через 17 лет после устройства каналов. Полностью удалялась старовозрастная часть древостоя, в молодой части проводилось разреживание. На большинстве вариантов опыта прирост запаса за 40 лет наблюдений превышает соответствующий контрольный уровень. Наибольший прирост по запасу (11 м3/га в год) зафиксирован на участке, где весь древостой был удален одновременно с осушением. Для всех экспериментальных участков на объекте важнейшим преимуществом, по сравнению с контрольными вариантами, является существенная однородность деревьев по размерам и качеству стволов. На контрольных объектах для деревьев спелого и перестойного возраста характерны закомелистость, суковатость, наклон или изгиб ствола. К этим порокам добавилась резко выраженная неравномерность годичного прироста по радиусу ствола.

Experimental complex felling was carried out in pine forests of different ages on the drained upper peat bog 17 years after the construction of the canals. The oldgrowth part of the stand was completely removed, thinning was carried out in the young part. In most variants of the experiment, the increase in stock over 40 years of observation exceeds the corresponding control level. The largest increase in stock (11 m3/ha per year) was recorded in the area where the entire stand was removed simultaneously with drainage. For all experimental sites at the facility, the most important advantage, in comparison with the control variants, is the significant homogeneity of trees in terms of size and quality of trunks. At the control sites, trees of ripe and overmature age are characterized by stiffness, boughtness, inclination or bending of the trunk. To these defects was added a pronounced unevenness of the annual growth along the radius of the trunk.
Study of the movement of vibration drive elements of a gripping-cutting device
Authors: Ласточкин Д. М. , Сидыганов Ю. Н. , Кретинин В. И. , Багаутдинов И. Н.
Published: July 2024

В статье рассмотрены вопросы анализа движения элементов вибрационного механизма захватно-срезающего устройства, обеспечивающего динамическое удержание дерева в вертикальном положении. Исследование основано на применении принципа динамического удержания обратного маятника на осциллирующем подвесе. Реализована разработка нового захватно-срезающего устройства, отличающегося наличием вибрационного механизма, необходимого для создания вертикальных колебаний удерживаемого дерева. В статье дано описание конструкции навесного захватно-срезающего устройства с виброприводом и последовательность его работы при срезании, удержании и пакетировании дерева. На 3D-модели предложенной конструкции захватно-срезающего устройства были проведены динамические исследования механизма вибрации с учетом момента инерции движущихся элементов в программе SolidWorks Motion. В рамках анализа движения была построена траектория движения точки подвеса захватно-срезающего устройства, имеющая форму дуги с максимальным отклонением 5 см. Анализ линейного перемещения точки подвеса ЗСУ показал, что вертикальное перемещение составляет 500 мм, а горизонтальное отклонение составляет 50 мм. Исследования движения элементов предложенной конструкции вибропривода показали, что при частоте вращения движителя 150 об/мин на валу движителя возникает момент равный 435 Н·м, что укладывается в номинальный крутящий момент большинства высоко моментных гидродвигателей.

The article considers the issues of analyzing the movement of the elements of the vibration mechanism of the gripping and shearing device, which provides dynamic retention of the tree in an upright position. The study is based on the application of the principle of dynamic retention of the reverse pendulum on an oscillating suspension. The development of a new gripping and shearing device has been implemented, characterized by the presence of a vibration mechanism necessary to create vertical vibrations of the held tree. The article describes the design of a hinged gripping and shearing device with a vibration drive and the sequence of its operation when cutting, holding and packing wood. Dynamic studies of the vibration mechanism, taking into account the moment of inertia of moving elements in the SolidWorks Motion program, were carried out on a 3D model of the proposed design of the gripping and shearing device. As part of the motion analysis, the trajectory of the suspension point of the gripper-shearing device was constructed, having the shape of an arc with a maximum deviation of 5 cm. The analysis of the linear displacement of the suspension points of the ZSU showed that the vertical displacement is 500 mm, and the horizontal deviation is 50 mm. Studies of the movement of the elements of the proposed vibration drive design have shown that at a rotational speed of 150 rpm, a torque equal to 435 Nm occurs on the propeller shaft, which fits into the nominal torque of most high-torque hydraulic motors.
The competition factor in the practice of growing mixed stands with conifers
Authors: Баркан Д. В. , Раупова Д. Э. , Данилов Д. А.
Published: July 2024

В разных странах и в различных экологических условиях были проведены исследования по оценке продуктивности смешанных насаждений. Результаты этих сравнительных исследований показывают, что смешанные насаждения имеют тенденцию быть более продуктивными по сравнению с чистыми насаждениями, при этом оптимальные комбинации древесных пород дают наибольший эффект. Это достигается за счет усиления роста основного вида и повышения продуктивности нескольких видов в смешанном древостое. Исследования также показывают, что межвидовая конкуренция слабее внутривидовой, причем наибольший эффект наблюдается именно в этом случае.

Studies have been conducted in different countries and under different ecological conditions to assess the productivity of mixed stands. The results of these comparative studies show that mixed stands tend to be more productive than pure stands, with optimal combinations of tree species having the greatest effect. This is accomplished by enhancing the growth of the main species and increasing the productivity of several species in a mixed stand. Studies also show that interspecific competition is weaker than intraspecific competition, with the greatest effect.
Study of products derived from the microwave-assisted thermal degradation of high-moor peat
Authors: Krapivnitckaia T. O. , Ananicheva S. A. , Alyeva A. B. , Vikharev A. А. , Peskov N. Yu. , Denisenko A. N. , Glyavin M. Yu. , Zelentsov S. V. , Shulaev N. S.
Published: July 2024

Peat reserves are of great interest for various industries (energy, fuel, chemical, etc.). It is common practice to use pyrolysis to process such solid carbon-containing resources with the subsequent yield of fuel and valuable products. One of the environmentally and energetically favorable ways to degrade carbon-containing feedstock that is currently under development is microwave-assisted pyrolysis. Microwave radiation provides volumetric heating of the material, which significantly increases heating uniformity across the volume of the irradiated sample, providing greater efficiency of heat transfer and avoiding local overheating on the reactor surface. In the conducted study, a system was designed for the microwave processing of organic materials. The structural elements of the system are described, and a schematic showing pyrolysis product separation is presented. A prototype of the developed reactor was used to conduct experiments on degrading high-moor sphagnum peat of the Greko-Ushakovskoe deposit under mild pyrolysis conditions induced by microwave radiation. The component composition of reaction products was analyzed via chromatography-mass spectrometry and compared with the results of previous experiments using conventional thermal pyrolysis. More advanced processing of peat is performed under the conditions of microwave-assisted mild pyrolysis with a high yield of valuable products due to a more efficient heat transfer, uniform heating of the material, and the optimal reaction rate. The developed technology is shown to produce raw materials for a wide range of high-tech industrial productions. The prospects for the industrial use of the proposed microwave-assisted peat processing technology are discussed, specifically for the production of efficient hydrophobic sorbent.
Study on the ability of activated sludge bacteria to form biofilms in vitro
Authors: Khasanova A. A. , Sirotkin A. S. , Perushkina E. V.
Published: July 2024

The study aims to comparatively characterize in vitro biofilm formation in bacterial cultures isolated from activated sludge, as well as archival cultures capable of xenobiotics biodegradation: Alcaligenes faecalis 2, Acinetobacter guillouiae 11h, Rhodococcus erythropolis ILBIO, and Achromobacter pulmonis PNOS. An analysis of the 16S rRNA nucleotide sequence identified strains isolated from activated sludge: Paenibacillus odorifer, Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus yunnanensis, and Bacillus proteolyticus.

   The formation of biofilms by microorganisms was studied on LB medium and synthetic culture medium (with sodium acetate as a carbon source). With cell growth on LB medium, an increase in biofilm biomass was observed in Paenibacillus odorifer, Bacillus subtilis, Alcaligenes faecalis 2, and Achromobacter pulmonis PNOS. The cultivation stage duration (72 and 144 h), as well as the additional dosing of substrates, had an effect on the biofilm formation process: by 144 h of cultivation, the biomass values amounted to 0.6–1.3 optical units. An average 63–77% increase in biofilm biomass was noted for Bacillus subtilis and Paenibacillus odorifer cells as compared to the 72-hour process. At the final stage of cultivation (144 h), the values of exopolysaccharides in the matrix amounted to over 0.02 optical units for Bacillus subtilis and Paenibacillus odorifer. The metabolic activity of activated sludge bacteria forming the biofilm reached 628–3609 Fl./OD540. Thus, activated sludge microorganisms forming the biofilm were shown to retain viability and metabolic activity during growth under in vitro conditions.
Effect of cold plasma treatment on the quality and nutritional value of plant materials. Scoping review
Authors: Burak L. Ch. , Sapach A. N. , Zavaley A. P.
Published: July 2024

Cold plasma treatment is a new technology for non-thermal processing of food products, which helps to increase the expiration date of plant foods without adversely affecting their nutritional value and organoleptic parameters.

   The work was aimed at analyzing studies into the effect of cold plasma treatment of plant materials on their chemical composition and secondary plant metabolites, as well as organoleptic parameters.

   The review includes articles published in English in 2015–2023. The search for scientific literature on this topic was conducted across Scopus and Web of Science using keywords. The studies show that the effect of cold plasma treatment on proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and organoleptic parameters of plant materials depended primarily on the exposure time, intensity, power, frequency, gas flow rate, as well as the amount and type of processed plant materials. Due to the high oxidation potential and antimicrobial activity, cold plasma technology can provide an effective way to increase the shelf life and expiration date of plant materials without adversely affecting the organoleptic parameters, physicochemical parameters, and nutritional value of the product. However, limitations exist for its widespread industrial implementation. Further studies are required to determine specific treatment parameters for different types of materials and to confirm the safety and possible toxicity of cold plasma-treated food products.
Properties of cellulose nitrates produced by nitration of bacterial cellulose using mixed sulfuric-nitric acids
Authors: Gorbatova P. A. , Korchagina A. A. , Gismatulina Yu. A. , Shavyrkina N. A. , Budaeva V. V.
Published: July 2024

The study set out to investigate the chemical functionalization of bacterial cellulose as an alternative means of satisfying the high demand for nano-sized cellulose nitrates.

   Using a Medusomyces gisevii Sa-12 symbiotic culture as a microbial producer, bacterial cellulose having a polymerization degree of 3950 was obtained on a synthetic glucose medium. Nitration was carried out using mixed sulfuric-nitric acids differing in their water content, followed by stabilization of the synthesized bacterial cellulose nitrates. Subject to a varying water content (14, 16 and 20 %) in the nitrating mixture, the obtained bacterial cellulose nitrates exhibited a nitrogen mass content of 8.68–11.56 %, a solubility in alcohol-ether mixture of 16.5–91.0 % and a viscosity of 32–255 mPa×s. The bacterial cellulose nitrate fibers were shown to have a nanoscale nature. Coupled thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses revealed the bacterial cellulose nitrates to have a high chemical purity and energy content. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the high quality of the bacterial cellulose based on the presence of basic functional groups characteristic of conventional cellulose: 3371, 2943, 1633, 1428, 1371, 1163, and 1112 cm-1. According to their infrared spectra, the detected basic functional groups corroborate that the synthesized products are low-substituted cellulose nitrate esters: 1660–1643, 1282-1276, 847–837, 752–749, and 691–690 cm-1. The relationship between the properties of the synthesized bacterial cellulose nitrates and the water mass content in mixed sulfuric-nitric acids is shown to have a complex nature.
Antioxidant properties of supercritical extracts of brown algae
Authors: Tabakaeva O. V. , Tabakaev A. V. , Silant’ev V. E. , Kapusta S. V.
Published: July 2024

Macroalgae is a unique feedstock capable of producing significant biomass in a fairly short time and synthesizing various chemical compounds, including specific biologically active substances that exhibit different biological activity. The study of antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and other properties of the biologically active substances of brown algae constitutes a relevant problem.

   The present study aims to evaluate the antioxidant properties of supercritical extracts of the brown algae Saccharina japonica and Ascophyllum nodosum.

   The content of carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and mannitol was determined using a spectrophotometric method. The metal content was analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry. The antioxidant activity was evaluated according to antiradical activity using a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, hydroxyl ion binding activity, and Fe+2 chelating activity, as well as the superoxide radical scavenging activity. The studies on the supercritical extracts of brown algae revealed a rather high content of fatty acids and phenolic compounds, with fatty acids most abundantly present in the supercritical extract of Ascophyllum nodosum; phenols, mannitol, and pigments, in the extract of Saccharina japonica. The predominant macroelement in the supercritical extracts of brown algae is potassium, with the maximum content found in the extract of Saccharina japonica. The supercritical extracts of brown algae are safe in terms of the contents of nitrosamines, polychlorinated biphenyls, toxic elements, and radionuclides. The most pronounced antiradical properties were shown by the supercritical extract of Saccharina japonica. The highest hydroxyl ion binding activity was noted in the supercritical extract of Saccharina japonica. In terms of superoxide radical scavenging activity, the maximum activity was exhibited by the extract of Ascophyllum nodosum. The Fe+2 chelating activity was about the same for the supercritical extracts of brown algae, with the maximum activity (38.7 %) observed for the extract of Ascophyllum nodosum.
Characteristics of the severity of the early formation of the atherosclerotic process in certain pathological forms of coronary heart disease in marine specialists in the conditions of the Arctic region
Authors: Zakrevsky Yu. N. , Gertsev A. V.
Published: July 2024

The present work aims to study lipid balance, specifi markers of atherosclerosis, morphological changes in the main arteries, as well as paired indicators, in the formation of the atherosclerotic process in some non-comorbid pathological forms (painful/silent episodes of angina pectoris) of chronic coronary artery disease occurring with affective disorders in shipboard personnel serving in the Far North. The study revealed a higher incidence of structural changes in the medial sheath of both common carotid arteries in silent angina pectoris, which are manifested in vascular bed remodeling, formation of atherosclerotic plaques, and stenotic atherosclerosis. In addition, an increase in proatherogenic activity, suppression of antiatherogenic parameters, as well as more significant changes in the paired indicators of the atherosclerotic process were observed in such patients. The exacerbation of the main pathological process in chronic coronary artery disease can be attributed to the existing polymorbidity.
Effectiveness of climate resilient water safety plans in Nepal
Authors: Poudel Moti , Sharma Subodh , Ghimire Anish , Howard Guy , Flint Adrian , Baidya Manish , Nijhawan Anisha
Published: July 2024

Water supply schemes (WSSs) in Nepal are managed by water user committees with basic knowledge of climate change. The Government of Nepal has committed and prioritized improving the quality of water services by implementing climate-resilient water safety plans (CR-WSPs) in 10 WSSs as pilot projects. In this study, how tough is water sanitation and hygiene (HTIW) framework was adopted to assess the effectiveness of these CR-WSPs, which include four groundwater and six protected springs-based WSSs. Employing the HTIW framework, this study adopted the six key indicators environment, infrastructure, management, community governance and engagement, institutional support, and supply chains to evaluate CR-WSPs effectiveness. The indicators were then assessed using a Likert scale. Resilient schemes are needed to demonstrate a capacity to respond effectively to challenges such as unforeseen extreme events and potential hazards, together with an aptitude for financial management, laboratory maintenance, and social inclusion. Less resilient schemes tend to be those linked to social inclusion or financial issues. Institutional support and supply chain domain scored four and were relatively strong among them. The findings of this study suggest that CR-WSPs can be an important metric tool to assess climate resilience and guide policymakers in low- and middle-income countries.
Revealing New Prospects: Antipsychotic Drugs Induces Anti-tumor Effects against Gastric Cancer through Inducing Apoptosis
Authors: Amjadi Omolbanin , Hedayatizadeh-Omran Akbar , Zaboli Ehsan , Janbabaei Ghasem , Lira Sergio A , Ahangari Ghasem
Published: July 2024

Background and Objective:

Globally, Gastric Cancer (GC) ranks as the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. GC is a multifaceted malignancy with diverse etiologies; how-ever, understanding the shared molecular mechanisms can aid in discovering novel targeted therapies for GC. This study has employed a drug repositioning approach to explore new drug candidates for treating GC.

Methods:

The human GC cell lines AGS, MKN-45, and KATO-III were treated with different concentrations of dopamine, cabergoline, thioridazine, and entacapone to determine effective doses and IC50 values. In vitro, cytotoxic activity on cancer cell lines was screened based on dose/time using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) as-say. Quantitative Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to measure the mRNA expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) in each group. The percentage of apoptotic cells was evaluated using Annexin V/PI staining.

Results:

Dopamine, cabergoline, thioridazine, and entacapone elicited cytotoxic effects on AGS and KATO-III cells in a dose-dependent manner and elevated the percentage of Annexin V-positive cells, suggesting the occurrence of apoptosis. The expression of Bcl-2 and PCNA was significantly decreased, whereas the expression of Bax was considerably increased in the AGS and KATO-III cells compared to that in the blank group (p < 0.05); however, no similar effect was observed in MKN-45 cells.

Conclusion:

Through in vitro experiments, this study provides evidence that the antipsychotic drugs cabergoline, dopamine, thioridazine, and entacapone can inhibit gastric cancer growth in AGS and KATO-III cells. These findings suggest that these drugs could be repurposed as novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of gastric cancer.
The General Neurocognitive Decline in Patients with Methamphetamine Use and Transient Methamphetamine-induced Psychosis is Primarily Determined by Oxidative and AGE-RAGE Stress
Authors: Maes Michael , Altufaili Mazin Fadhil , Alhaideri Amer Fadhil , Moustafa Shatha Rouf , Stoyanova Kristina , Niu Mengqi , Zhou Bo , Li Jing , Al-Hakeim Hussein Kadhem
Published: July 2024

Background:

Chronic Methamphetamine (MA) usage is linked to oxidative and AGE
(advanced glycation end products) - RAGE (receptors for AGEs) stress, changes in magnesium,
calcium, and copper, increased psychotic symptoms, and neurocognitive deficits. Nevertheless, it
is still unclear whether these biological pathways mediate the latter impairments.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the relationships between neurocognition, the aforementioned
biomarkers, and psychotic symptoms.

Methods:

We recruited 67 participants, namely 40 patients diagnosed with MA-substance use and
27 healthy controls, and assessed the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS),
symptoms of psychosis, excitation, and formal thought disorders, oxidative toxicity (computed as
the sum of myeloperoxidase (MPO), oxidized high-density lipoprotein (HDL), oxidized low-DL,
and malondialdehyde), antioxidant defenses (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity,
zinc, and HDL), and increased AGEs and RAGEs.

Results:

We were able to extract one validated latent vector from the Mini-Mental State Examination
score and the BACS test results (including executive functions, verbal fluency, and attention),
labeled general cognitive decline (G-CoDe). We found that 76.1% of the variance in the G-CoDe
was explained by increased oxidative toxicity, lowered antioxidant defenses, number of psychotic
episodes, and MA dose. In patients with MA use, MPO was significantly associated with the GCoDe.

Conclusion:

The use of MA induced mild cognitive impairments through MA-induced activation
of detrimental outcome pathways, including oxidative and AGE-RAGE stress, and suppression of
protective antioxidant pathways. Increased MPO, oxidative, and AGE-RAGE stress are new drug
targets to prevent neurocognitive deficits and psychosis due to MA use.
In silico Investigation on the Structural Insights into the Binding of Squalamine Inhibitor with Membrane-bound Α-Synuclein
Authors: Das Dorothy , Bharadwaz Priyam , Mattaparthi Venkata Satish Kumar
Published: July 2024

Background:

Parkinson's disease (PD) and its associated symptoms are closely associated
with the self-assembly of α-Synuclein (α-Syn). Squalamine is a naturally occurring chemical
substance with established antiviral and anticancer properties, and its profound impact on the α-
Syn aggregation both in vivo and in vitro is well studied. Examining its interaction with lipid vesicles,
which are known to encourage nucleation, can signify the mechanism of action of
squalamine. The squalamine molecule is believed to displace α-Syn from the surfaces of the lipid
vesicles, therefore preventing the initial steps in the process of aggregation. Additionally, the
squalamine molecule reduces the harmful effects of α-Syn oligomers in human neuroblastoma
cells by preventing them from interacting with lipid membranes.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to perform computational investigation of the conformational
changes of membrane-bound α-Syn in the presence of squalamine inhibitor molecule

Method:

Molecular Dynamics (MD) trajectory analysis was carried out to study the structural
change of the α-Syn-squalamine conformers as a function of simulation time. The percentage of
the secondary structural components of the α-Syn-squalamine complex was determined. Optimization
of small molecule inhibitors was carried out using Density Functional Theory (DFT) analysis.
Additionally, the values of electrophilicity (ω), nucleophilicity (N), Electron affinity (EA), and
ionization potential (IP) were calculated.

Results:

The docking of the α-Syn-squalamine complex revealed the binding site and the best
structure was selected based on the highest docking vina score (-5.8), and the contact residues
were listed. From the conformational snapshots of the α-Syn-squalamine complex, it was evident
that the α-Syn remained stable, maintaining its integrity throughout the simulation. The α-helical
content was found to be retained from the secondary structural content analysis. The ω and N of
the squalamine molecule were calculated to be -0.84 and 3.25, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that in the presence of a squalamine inhibitor molecule, α-Syn
adopts a helical conformation that ensures stability and may indicate that the squalamine molecule
causes gradual displacement of α-Syn across different regions within the lipid membrane.
Volatilome: A Novel Tool for Risk Scoring in Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Marzoog Basheer Abdullah
Published: July 2024

:

Developing a novel risk score for accurate assessment of cardiovascular disease
(CVD) morbidity and mortality is an urgent need in terms of early prevention and diagnosis and,
thereafter, management, particularly of ischemic heart disease. The currently used scores for the
evaluation of cardiovascular disease based on the classical risk factors suffer from severe limitations,
including inaccurate predictive values. Therefore, we suggest adding a novel non-classical
risk factor, including the level of specific exhaled volatile organic compounds that are associated
with ischemic heart disease, to the SCORE2 and SCORE2-OP algorithms. Adding these nonclassical
risk factors can be used together with the classical risk factors (gender, smoking, total
cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, diabetes
mellitus, arterial hypertension, ethnicity, etc.) to develop a new algorithm and further program to
be used widely.
Quantitative Study on the Electrothermal Properties of Carbon Nanotube Film and its Out-of-Autoclave-Manufactured Glass Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy-Resin Composites
Authors: Wu Shaojun , Xu Xianglai
Published: July 2024

Background:

Carbon nanotube films are utilized in various fields, particularly electric
heating, owing to their exceptional thermal and electrical properties. However, quantitative
research on the electrothermal characteristics of carbon nanotube film is insufficient, and glass
fiber-reinforced epoxy-resin composites prepared through the electrothermal method of carbon
nanotube films (i.e., the out-of-autoclave technique) have not yet been reported.

Material and Methods:

Herein, according to a mathematical model and experimental demonstration,
a quantitative relationship, T = T0 + (t/L2)·(V2σ)·(1/αw), was proposed to explain the
electrothermal properties of carbon nanotube films. Glass fiber-reinforced composites with an
outstanding tensile strength of 535.6 MPa and an elongation-at-break of 1.6% were prepared
through the out-of-autoclave technique using the designed carbon nanotube film.

Results:

The composites outperformed previous mechanical composites in terms of energy consumption.
Experimental investigations and molecular simulations revealed the mechanical
mechanisms of the composites.

Conclusion:

These findings quantitatively revealed the electrothermal properties of carbon
nanotube films, advancing their application in the out-of-autoclave manufacturing of highperformance
resin-matrix composites.
Cyclamen libanoticum is a Novel Bioresource for Green Silver Nanoparticles with Antibacterial and Antioxidant Capabilities
Authors: Hachem Zeinab , Kashmar Rayan , Abdallah Alaa M. , Awad Ramadan , Khalil Mahmoud I.
Published: July 2024

Background:

It has become essential to look into alternatives that effectively stop
bacterial infections due to the exponential rise in antibiotic resistance. The field of nanotechnology
has made significant strides in development by surmounting obstacles that have impeded
success and advancement in other fields. Nanoparticles (NPs) are the key component in the burgeoning
field of nanotechnology.

Objective:

Cyclamen libanoticum leaf extract (CLE) was used as a reducing and capping agent,
with silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution as a precursor for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (CLEAgNPs).
This study aimed to generate green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and assess their antioxidant
and antibacterial capacities.

Methods:

CLE-AgNPs were characterized utilizing UV–vis spectrometry, X-ray diffraction
(XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS),
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and photoluminescence (PL). Using the radical
scavenging assay 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), the antioxidant activity of CLEAgNPs
was evaluated. Several assays were employed to examine the antibacterial effect of
CLE-AgNPs against various gram-positive and negative bacteria.

Results:

Upon analysis, the synthesis revealed 17 nm face-centered cubic CLE-AgNPs (λmax=
431 nm). CLE-AgNPs manifested noticeable antioxidant activity and prominent inhibitory effects
on the tested bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the CLE-AgNPs
was 31.25 μg/mL for the eight bacterial species. Besides, the results revealed that CLE-AgNPs
effectively suppressed the development of bacterial biofilms and could eradicate them.

Conclusion:

The present investigation introduced Cyclamen libanoticum as a novel bioresource
into green chemistry to produce AgNPs with antibacterial and antioxidant capabilities.
Silicon Carbide-based Materials from Rice Husk
Authors: Cong Qianmin , Zhu Xingxing , Ban Zhangjie , Li Junzhe , Cai Zhengyu , Pei Lizhai
Published: July 2024

Background:

Rice husk is an important agricultural waste that contains organic mass
and bio-silica. Although some rice husks have been used as fuel, animal food, filler for wine
fermentation, and fertilizer, the majority are discarded as agricultural waste, which does great
harm to the environment. The conversion of rice husk to silicon carbide (SiC)-based materials
satisfies the demand for the reutilization of solid wastes.

Methods:

The article reviews recent progress and patents on the SiC-based materials from rice
husk. The possible development directions of the SiC-based materials from rice husks are also
analyzed.

Results:

SiC materials with different morphologies, including microscale and nanoscale particles,
nanoscale whiskers, and nanowires, can be prepared by high-temperature carbothermal
reduction reaction from rice husk at the temperature of 1200-1800°C, reaction time of 0.5-8 h,
respectively. SiC-based composites, including SiC nanowires/C, Al/SiC, SiC/Si3N4, and
SiC/Al2O3, can be obtained using rice husk as main source materials at 800-1800°C. SiC-based
materials exhibit great application potential in the fields of absorbents, optical devices, mechanical
products, photocatalysts, semiconductors, and Li-ion batteries.

Conclusion:

The low cost of preparing SiC-based materials from rice husk, combining them
with different compositions, and exploring new applications are important research directions in
the future.
Rank Matrix Approach for Endometriosis: Integrating Data and Constructing Diagnostic Models
Authors: Xie Ranze , Hong Deqing , Yuan Jiaqi , Xu Peng , Liu Wenbin , Ye Zheng
Published: July 2024

Background:

Endometriosis is a debilitating gynecological disorder characterized by
chronic pain, infertility, and the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Accurate and early
detection of this condition is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Methods:

We developed a gene rank matrix-based model to integrate endometriosis cohorts across
multiple platforms. After removing batch effects, we identified 83 genes associated with endometriosis
and further refined a diagnostic model using 11 of these genes. The model was trained on
two platforms and validated on two others using SVM, Random Forest, Logistic Regression, and
gradient-boosting machine learning algorithms.

Results:

The integration via the gene rank matrix effectively mitigated batch effects. Utilizing a
gradient boosting classifier with a subset of 11 genes, the model demonstrated commendable diagnostic
efficacy, achieving an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.77, an accuracy of 0.72, and an F1
score of 0.72 for the training dataset. When subjected to validation, the model maintained its performance,
yielding an AUC of 0.769, an accuracy of 0.719, and an F1 score of 0.732. These 11
genes were found to be associated with immunosuppression.

Conclusion:

Our approach to integrating gene rank matrices effectively consolidates endometriosis
data across diverse platforms. The diagnostic model, harnessing the predictive power of 11 specific
genes, surpasses alternative models, thereby offering promising prospects for aiding clinical diagnosis
of endometriosis. Further validation is imperative to elucidate the functional significance of
these 11 genes. Our study underscores the potential of data integration coupled with machine learning
techniques in advancing the diagnosis of intricate diseases, such as endometriosis.
Potential of Natural Products as Therapeutic Agents for Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Aundhia Chintan , Parmar Ghanshyam , Talele Chitrali , Sadhu Piyushkumar , Sen Ashim Kumar , Rana Pramojeeta
Published: July 2024

:

Inflammation is a complex biological response that plays a pivotal role in various pathological
conditions, including inflammatory diseases. The search for effective therapeutic agents has
led researchers to explore natural products due to their diverse chemical composition and potential
therapeutic benefits. This review comprehensively examines the current state of research on natural
products as potential therapeutic agents for inflammatory diseases. The article discusses the antiinflammatory
properties of various natural compounds, their mechanisms of action, and their potential
applications in managing inflammatory disorders. Additionally, formulation and delivery
systems, challenges and future prospects in this field are also highlighted.
Critical Review on the Effect and Mechanism of Realgar Nanoparticles on
Lymphoma: State of the Art on In-Vitro Biomedical Studies
Authors: Ran Wenxia , Chen Xiuqin , Grant Joshua , Sharma Shubham , Mohammed Kahtan A. , Kumar Abhinav , Abbas Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Lymphoma is a malignant tumor caused by abnormal proliferation of lymphocytes in the
lymphatic system. Conventional treatments for lymphoma often have limitations, and new therapeutic
strategies need to be explored. Realgar is an ancient Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries
to treat a variety of ailments due to its therapeutic potential for various diseases, including
cancer. However, it is a time-consuming waste and has a low absorption rate in the gastrointestinal
tract, so it has the disadvantages of oral dose, potential toxicity, and low bioavailability. Recently,
the development of nanotechnology has promoted the nanization of realgar particles, which have
better physicochemical properties and higher bioavailability. The antitumor activity of Realgar nanoparticles
against lymphoma has been demonstrated in preclinical studies. Realgar nanoparticles
exhibit cytotoxic effects by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting the growth and proliferation of lymphoma
cells. Moreover, these nanoparticles exert immunomodulatory effects by enhancing the activity
of immune cells and promoting the cytotoxicity of T lymphocytes against lymphoma cells. Additionally,
realgar nanoparticles have been shown to inhibit tumor angiogenesis, thereby restricting the
blood supply and nutrient availability to lymphoma cells as exhibited in this patent comprehensive
review. Despite promising preclinical data, further research on the role and mechanism of realgar
nanoparticles in the treatment of lymphoma remains to be studied. Moreover, the translation of these
findings into clinical practice requires rigorous evaluation through well-designed clinical trials. Realgar
nanoparticles hold great potential as a novel therapeutic approach for lymphoma, and their development
may contribute to the advancement of precision medicine in the field of oncology.
Release Kinetics of Sulfentrazone from Chitosan Clay Sulfentrazone Nanocomposite
Authors: Mishra Praveen Kumar , Usmani Ghayas Ahmad , Goswami Ajaygiri , Mondal Achintya
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

With a rational objective to reduce groundwater contamination from pesticides
and thereby reducing ecotoxicological effect of pesticide, present research programme was
carried out. Sulfentrazone is a well-known effective pesticide that is used for soybean crops. But at
the same time, sulfentrazone is known for its high leaching potential through soil and could lead to
ground water contamination.

Methods:

So we have synthesized a novel chitosan clay nanocomposites of sulfentrazone at three
different concertations of sulfentrazone, 37.64%, 52.44% and 59.85% and its release pattern was
studied at three different buffer systems like pH 2, pH 4 and pH 6. Release pattern of Sulfentrazone
has been quantified by using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) technique. Various
mathematical tools have been applied to understand the release kinetics of chitosan clay sulfentrazone
nanocomposites.

Results:

Correlation coefficient (R2) of many models has been plotted and the Huguchi model was
found to be the most suitable for these nanocomposites. The salient finding of this study is that the
release rates of sulfentrazone at pH 4 is 68.39%, 42.62% and 37.75% after 8 hours at three different
loading. This release pattern is higher than the release pattern at pH 6 and pH 2.

Conclusion:

Based on these release data, it is very clear that chitosan clay sulfentrazone nanocomposite
can control the release of sulfentrazone at regular soil pH conditions, which is pH 6.
Evaluation of Anti-microbial Activity of Novel Polyherbal Lozenges for the Management of Infection
Authors: Nagpal Kajal , Handa Uditi , Sharma Anjali , Arora Deepshi , Jan Fatimah
Published: July 2024

Background:

The use of commercial tinctures for the design of a formulation with improved anti-microbial activity in a polyherbal lozenge dosage form has not been described.

Objective:

This study aimed to develop and evaluate the antimicrobial activity of a novel polyherbal
lozenge formulation containing Ashwagandha, Neem, and Tulsi tinctures in a single-dose
administration. According to previous studies, each of these herbs could be used in herbal medicine
to provide relief from infection owing to their antimicrobial activity, besides other properties,
such as anticancer, antidiabetic, etc.

Methods:

The lozenges were prepared using the molding method using three concentrations (1,
3, and 5 % w/w) of commercialized herbal tinctures. Then, they were studied using different
assays, including those designed to evaluate physical properties, stability, and antimicrobial activity.

Results:

B4, containing 5% w/w of each tincture, showed the highest antimicrobial activity compared
with the other batches. This batch exhibited the highest value of bacterial inhibition (17.1
± 0.07 mm), according to the agar well diffusion method, including Escherichia coli as a test
microorganism. Hence, B4 was chosen for additional analyses, including physical properties and
stability tests. The results followed Indian Pharmacopeia standards and ICH guidelines, respectively.
The formulation was stable after 2 weeks, and no significant changes were observed in
its physical properties or antimicrobial activity.

Conclusion:

This study shows that polyherbal lozenges have anti-microbial activity, with a disintegration
period of 3.86 ± 0.07 minutes in the B4 batch.
MicroRNA Biomarkers on Day of Injury Among Patients with Post Concussive Symptoms at 28-Days: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mitra Biswadev , Major Brendan , Reyes Jonathan , Surendran Nanda , Bain Jesse , Giesler Lauren P. , O'Brien William T. , Sorich Edmond , Willmott Catherine , Shultz Sandy R. , O'Brien Terence J. , Rosenfeld Jeffrey V. , McDonald Stuart J.
Published: July 2024

Background:

After mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), some patients experience symptoms that persist for weeks to months. Recovery from mTBI is primarily assessed using self-reported symptom questionnaires. Blood biomarkers, including microRNA species, have shown promise to assist diagnosis of mTBI, however, little is known about how blood microRNA measures might predict symptom recovery.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the variances in plasma microRNAs on the day of injury between individuals with mTBI who report post-concussive symptoms at the 28-day mark and those who do not.

Methods:

Patients who presented to an adult, tertiary referral hospital emergency department on the day of the injury and were diagnosed with isolated mTBI (n=35) were followed up for 28 days. Venous blood samples were collected and symptom severity was assessed using the River-mead Post-Concussion Symptom Questionnaire (RPQ) on the day of injury and at 28 days. Patients who reported ongoing symptoms of total RPQ score ≥10 or at least one symptom severity ≥2, were compared to those with lesser symptom severity or symptom resolution.

Results:

There were 9 (25.7%; 95%CI: 12.5-43.3) patients who reported persistent symptoms. Day of injury plasma miR-223-3p levels were significantly higher in individuals with ongoing symptoms compared to those without, however, no such differences were observed for miRs 142-3p, 423-3p, 32-5p, 144-3p, and let-7f-5p.

Conclusion:

Acute plasma miR-223-3p levels appear to detect patients who later have persistent symptoms after mTBI. The results demonstrate the potential utility for such biomarkers to assist in decisions towards early referral for therapy after mTBI.
Glioblastoma Multiforme miRNA based Comprehensive Study to Validate Phytochemicals for Effective Treatment against Deadly Tumour through In Silico Evaluation
Authors: Khan Roji Begam , Tiwari Shikha , Jarkharya Aryan , Tiwari Archana , Chowdhary Rashmi , Shrivastava Adesh
Published: July 2024

Background:

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is a prevalent and deadly type of pri-mary astrocytoma, constituting over 60% of adult brain tumors, and has a poor prognosis, with a high relapse rate within 7 months of diagnosis. Despite surgical, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy treatments, GBM remains challenging due to resistance. MicroRNA (miRNAs) control gene ex-pression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels by targeting their messenger RNA (mRNA), and also contribute to the development of various neoplasms, including GBM.

Methods:

The present study focuses on exploring the miRNAs-based pathogenesis of GBM and evaluating most potential plant-based therapeutic agents with in silico analysis. Gene chips were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, followed by the Robust- Rank-Aggereg algorithm to determine the Differentially Expressed miRNAs (DEMs). The predicted targets were intersected with the GBM-associated genes, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of the overlapping genes was performed. At the same time, five phytochemicals were selected for the Connectivity map (CMap), and the most efficient ones were those that had undergone molecular docking analysis to obtain the potential therapeutic agents.

Results:

The hsa-miR-10b, hsa-miR-21, and hsa-miR-15b were obtained, and eight genes were found to be associated with glioma pathways; VSIG4, PROCR, PLAT, and ITGB2 were upregulated while, CAMK2B, PDE1A, GABRA1, and KCNJ6 were downregulated. The drugs Resveratrol and Quercetin were identified as the most prominent drugs.

Conclusion:

These miRNAs-based drugs can be used as a curative agent for the treatment of GBM. However, in vivo, experimental data, and clinical trials are necessary to provide an alter-native to conventional GBM cancer chemotherapy.
Targeting to Overexpressed Receptor in Colon Cancer: A Review
Authors: Sharma Tarun , Islam Md. Moidul , Lunawat Akshay Kumar , Raikwar Sarjana
Published: July 2024

:

Colon cancer is a major global health concern characterized by complex interactions
of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The "hallmarks of cancer" encompass
various distinctions between cancerous and normal tissues, including vascular characteristics,
making it a possible target for medication administration with specificity. The tumor microenvironment
in colon cancer is a dynamic ecosystem comprising various cell types like cancer-
associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and endothelial cells, influencing tumor progression
and response to therapy. Various overexpressed receptors in colon cancer, like G-proteincoupled
receptors (GPCRs), integrins, folate receptors, transferrin receptors, epidermal
growth factor receptors (EGFRs), and CD-44 receptors, offer opportunities for targeted drug
delivery. These receptors play vital roles in cancer cell growth, proliferation, and metastasis,
making them important targets for therapeutic intervention.
Functionalised Ligand-Based Nanomaterial Drug Targeting Approaches for Colorectal Cancer Therapy
Authors: Dixit Amol A. , Mandlik Deepa S. , Mandlik Satish K.
Published: July 2024

:

Cancer refers to a condition in which abnormal cells uncontrollably divide, resulting in
the destruction of tissues. In colorectal cancer, uncontrolled cell proliferation takes place in the rectum
or colon. Most colorectal tumors start as adenomas, a form of polyp that can develop into cancer
within the rectum or colon. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include chronic diarrhea or constipation,
bleeding from the rectum, bloody stools, change in appetite, weight loss, etc. Risk factors associated
with colorectal cancer are smoking, obesity, and low physical activity. Colorectal cancer
can be treated depending on size, location, and the spread of the cancer. Treatment includes surgery
where the lymph node is dissected and a colectomy is performed. Chemotherapy and radiation therapies
are other treatment options, but the main disadvantage is that these treatments have nonspecific
avenues. Apart from killing cancerous cells, they damage healthy cells, too. Therefore, with the
help of nanotechnology, drug-containing nanoparticles can be created with the aid of nanocarriers,
which are stronger, more durable, and site-specific. The cancerous cells can be actively targeted by
formulating nanoparticles loaded with anticancer drugs and functionalising the surface by either attaching
ligands (peptides, antibodies, and small molecules) or targeting molecules towards receptors
that are present on the exterior surface of the cancerous cells. These surfaces functionalised nanoparticles,
loaded with anticancer drugs, are significantly upregulated in cancerous cells in contrast
to healthy surrounding cells and tissues. This review article is focused on ligand-based drugs targeting
colorectal tumours.