bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Leakage Effect Factors of Two-Stroke Micro Free Piston Swing Engine
Authors: Miao Shujing , Liu Haiyang , Cen Haitang , Liu Jiang , Li Huaqiang , Xu Gang
Published: August 2022

The two-stroke micro free piston swing engine (MFPSE) is a portable power device. Its seal performance plays an important role in the dynamic properties and efficiency of microengines. The present work established the leakage model of the two-stroke micro free piston swing engine by utilizing the compressible flow Reynolds Navier–Stokes equation. The obtained nondimensional mass leakage was related to the seal gap height, seal inlet pressure, size factor and compression ratio. Simulation investigated how the different seal gap heights and size factors affected the pressure, temperature and mass leakage of micro engines. The results showed that when the seal gap height of the combustion chamber increased, the maximum pressure and cycle power declined, obviously. However, the maximum temperature was scarcely affected. The mass leakage was not greatly impacted when the compression ratio was less than 5. However, the mass leakage dramatically increased when the seal gap was more than 10 μm or the size factor was less than 0.4. The investigation revealed these mass leakage effect factors and provided a guide for the seal and structure design of the two-stroke micro free piston swing engine.
Spectra Stable Quantum Dots Enabled by Band Engineering for Boosting Electroluminescence in Devices
Authors: Lyu Bingbing , Hu Junxia , Chen Yani , Ma Zhiwei
Published: August 2022

The band level landscape in quantum dots is of great significance toward achieving stable and efficient electroluminescent devices. A series of quantum dots with specific emission and band structure of the intermediate layer is designed, including rich CdS (R-CdS), thick ZnSe (T-ZnSe), thin ZnSe (t-ZnSe) and ZnCdS (R-ZnCdS) intermediate alloy shell layers. These quantum dots in QLEDs show superior performance, including maximum current efficiency, external quantum efficiencies and a T50 lifetime (at 1000 cd/m2) of 47.2 cd/A, 11.2% and 504 h for R-CdS; 61.6 cd/A, 14.7% and 612 h for t-ZnSe; 70.5 cd/A, 16.8% and 924 h for T-ZnSe; and 82.0 cd/A, 19.6% and 1104 h for R-ZnCdS. Among them, the quantum dots with the ZnCdS interlayer exhibit deep electron confinement and shallow hole confinement capabilities, which facilitate the efficient injection and radiative recombination of carriers into the emitting layer. Furthermore, the optimal devices show a superior T50 lifetime of more than 1000 h. The proposed novel methodology of quantum dot band engineering is expected to start a new way for further enhancing QLED exploration.
Novel N-normetazocine Derivatives with Opioid Agonist/Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonist Profile as Potential Analgesics in Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Turnaturi Rita , Chiechio Santina , Pasquinucci Lorella , Spoto Salvatore , Costanzo Giuliana , Dichiara Maria , Piana Silvia , Grasso Margherita , Amata Emanuele , Marrazzo Agostino , Parenti Carmela
Published: August 2022

Although opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most common drugs used in persistent pain treatment; they have shown many side effects. The development of new analgesics endowed with mu opioid receptor/delta opioid receptor (MOR/DOR) activity represents a promising alternative to MOR-selective compounds. Moreover, new mechanisms, such as sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) antagonism, could be an opioid adjuvant strategy. The in vitro σ1R and σ2R profiles of previous synthesized MOR/DOR agonists (−)-2R/S-LP2 (1), (−)-2R-LP2 (2), and (−)-2S-LP2 (3) were assayed. To investigate the pivotal role of N-normetazocine stereochemistry, we also synthesized the (+)-2R/S-LP2 (7), (+)-2R-LP2 (8), and (+)-2S-LP2 (9) compounds. (−)-2R/S-LP2 (1), (−)-2R-LP2 (2), and (−)-2S-LP2 (3) compounds have Ki values for σ1R ranging between 112.72 and 182.81 nM, showing a multitarget opioid/σ1R profile. Instead, (+)-2R/S-LP2 (7), (+)-2R-LP2 (8), and (+)-2S-LP2 (9) isomers displayed a nanomolar affinity for σ1R, with significative selectivity vs. σ2R and opioid receptors. All isomers were evaluated using an in vivo formalin test. (−)-2S-LP2, at 0.7 mg/kg i.p., showed a significative and naloxone-reversed analgesic effect. The σ1R selective compound (+)-2R/S-LP2 (7), at 5.0 mg/kg i.p., decreased the second phase of the formalin test, showing an antagonist σ1R profile. The multitarget or single target profile of assayed N-normetazocine derivatives could represent a promising pharmacological strategy to enhance opioid potency and/or increase the safety margin.
Coacervation as a Novel Method of Microencapsulation of Essential Oils—A Review
Authors: Napiórkowska Alicja , Kurek Marcin
Published: August 2022

These days, consumers are increasingly “nutritionally aware”. The trend of “clean label” is gaining momentum. Synthetic additives and preservatives, as well as natural ones, bearing the E symbol are more often perceived negatively. For this reason, substances of natural origin are sought tfor replacing them. Essential oils can be such substances. However, the wider use of essential oils in the food industry is severely limited. This is because these substances are highly sensitive to light, oxygen, and temperature. This creates problems with their processing and storage. In addition, they have a strong smell and taste, which makes them unacceptable when added to the product. The solution to this situation seems to be microencapsulation through complex coacervation. To reduce the loss of essential oils and the undesirable chemical changes that may occur during their spray drying—the most commonly used method—complex coacervation seems to be an interesting alternative. This article collects information on the limitations of the use of essential oils in food and proposes a solution through complex coacervation with plant proteins and chia mucilage.
Activation of Nrf2 by Esculetin Mitigates Inflammatory Responses through Suppression of NF-κB Signaling Cascade in RAW 264.7 Cells
Authors: Jayakumar Thanasekaran , Huang Chun-Jen , Yen Ting-Lin , Hsia Chih-Wei , Sheu Joen-Rong , Bhavan Periyakali Saravana , Huang Wei-Chieh , Hsieh Cheng-Ying , Hsia Chih-Hsuan
Published: August 2022

Inflammation is a major root of several diseases such as allergy, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and several others, and the present state of existing drugs provoked researchers to search for new treatment strategies. Plants are regarded to be unique sources of active compounds holding pharmacological properties, and they offer novel designs in the development of therapeutic agents. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the anti-inflammatory mechanism of esculetin in lipoteichoic acid (LTA)-induced macrophage cells (RAW 264.7). The relative expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), nitric oxide (NO) production and COX-2 expression were intensified in LTA-induced RAW cells. The phosphorylation status of mitogen-activated protein kinases (extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, p38 MAPK, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65 were detected by using Western blot assay. The nuclear translocation of p65 was assessed by confocal microscopic image analysis. Esculetin significantly and concentration-dependently inhibited LTA-induced NO production and iNOS expression, but not COX-2 expression, in RAW cells. Esculetin was not effective in LTA-induced MAPK molecules (ERK, p38 and JNK). However, esculetin recovered LTA-induced IκBα degradation and NF-κB p65 phosphorylation. Moreover, esculetin at a higher concentration of 20 µM evidently inhibited the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. At the same high concentration, esculetin augmented Nrf2 expression and decreased DPPH radical generation in RAW 264.7 cells. This study exhibits the value of esculetin for the treatment of LTA-induced inflammation by targeting NF-κB signaling pathways via its antioxidant properties.
Chemical Analysis and Investigation of Biological Effects of Salvia officinalis Essential Oils at Three Phenological Stages
Authors: Assaggaf Hamza M. , Naceiri Mrabti Hanae , Rajab Bodour S. , Attar Ammar A. , Alyamani Reema A. , Hamed Munerah , El Omari Nasreddine , El Menyiy Naoual , Hazzoumi Zakaria , Benali Taoufiq , Al-Mijalli Samiah Hamad , Zengin Gokhan , AlDhaheri Yusra , Eid Ali H. , Bouyahya Abdelhakim
Published: August 2022

Salvia officinalis is a medicinal plant used to treat some diseases, including microbial infections and diabetes. Different studies showed the biological and pharmacological properties of this species. The aim of this study was the determination of the chemical compounds of S. officinalis essential oils and the investigation of their antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The chemical compounds of S. officinalis were determined by GC-MS analysis. The antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH, ABTS, H2O2, and FRAP assays. The in vitro antidiabetic effect was evaluated by the inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and lipase activities, and the anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated using the 5-lipoxygenase assay. Moreover, antibacterial activity was assessed against six bacterial strains using agar well diffusion assay and microdilution method. The main compounds in essential oils of S. officinalis at three phenological stages were naphthalenone, camphor, 1.8-cineole, and α-thujone. The full flowering stage essential oil showed the best antioxidant activity with different IC50 values according to the used tests. This oil also exhibited important inhibitory effects at the full flowering stage against α-amylase (IC50 = 69.23 ± 0.1 μg/mL), α-glucosidase (IC50 = 22.24 ± 0.07 μg/mL), and lipase (IC50 = 37.3 ± 0.03 μg/mL). The 5-lipoxygenase inhibitory effect was the best at the full flowering stage (IC50 = 9.24 ± 0.03 μg/mL). The results of the antibacterial evaluation revealed that, at three seasonal periods, S. officinalis essential oil demonstrated strong antibacterial activity. Although the full flowering stage had the best antibacterial activity, there were no significant differences between the three stages. Additionally, the essential oils showed bactericidal effects on Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium, respectively. The findings of this work showed remarkably that S. officinalis synthesizes essential oils according to different developmental stages. Moreover, it has exhibited interesting biological and pharmacological properties justifying its medicinal effects and suggesting it as a very important source of natural drugs.
Marker Substances in the Aroma of Truffles
Authors: Epping Ruben , Bliesener Lilly , Weiss Tilman , Koch Matthias
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to identify specific truffle marker substances within the truffle aroma. The aroma profile of different truffle species was analyzed using static headspace sampling with gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis (SHS/GC-MS). Possible marker substances were identified, taking the additional literature into account. The selected marker substances were tested in an experiment with 19 truffle dogs. The hypothesis “If trained truffle dogs recognize the substances as supposed truffles in the context of an experiment, they can be regarded as specific” was made. As it would be nearly impossible to investigate every other possible emitter of the same compounds to determine their specificity, this hypothesis was a reasonable approximation. We were interested in the question of what it is the dogs actually search for on a chemical level and whether we can link their ability to find truffles to one or more specific marker substances. The results of the dog experiment are not as unambiguous as could have been expected based on the SHS/GC-MS measurements. Presumably, the truffle aroma is mainly characterized and perceived by dogs by dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide. However, as dogs are living beings and not analytical instruments, it seems unavoidable that one must live with some degree of uncertainty regarding these results.
Relevance of Medullary Vein Sign in Neurosarcoidosis
Authors: Liberio Richard , Kramer Emily , Memon Anza B. , Reinbeau Ryan , Feizi Parissa , Joseph Joe , Wu Janet , Sriwastava Shitiz
Published: August 2022

Background: Central nervous system involvement is uncommon in patients with sarcoidosis. It remains a diagnostic challenge for clinicians, as there is a broad differential diagnosis that matches the presenting neurological signs. Often, the imaging findings also overlap with other disease entities. One understudied finding in patients with neurosarcoidosis is the presence of medullary vein engorgement on SWI imaging, termed the “medullary vein sign”, which has been postulated to be a specific sign for neurosarcoidosis. This study aims to provide an understanding of the diagnostic potential of the medullary vein sign. Methods: Thirty-two patients who presented with neurologic signs concerning for possible neurosarcoidosis were analyzed retrospectively for the presence of the medullary vein sign. Results: Out of these cases, 7 cases of definitive neurosarcoidosis cases were found based on other imaging signs, biopsy and CSF analysis; the remaining were classified into groups as possible (16), probable (5) and (4) cases of other infectious meningoencephalitis including 2 cases of autoimmune encephalitis. Seven patients among all of these cases were found to have the medullary vein sign on imaging, with five cases with confirmed and two cases from possible neurosarcoidosis. The sensitivity of the medullary vein sign in this study was 71.4%, and the specificity was 92.3%. Discussion: The benefits of improving diagnostic criteria for neurosarcoidosis include more rapid diagnosis leading to more prompt treatment, less exposure to potentially harmful antibiotics or antifungals, and less long-term neurological effects. Our results support that the medullary vein sign will potentially fill in the diagnostic gaps that have challenged the timely diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis. Conclusions: Our findings support that the medullary vein sign has a high specificity and should be included in the diagnostic criteria for neurosarcoidosis.
Epidemiological Studies of Children’s Gut Microbiota: Validation of Sample Collection and Storage Methods and Microbiota Analysis of Toddlers’ Feces Collected from Diapers
Authors: Tamada Hazuki , Ito Yuki , Ebara Takeshi , Kato Sayaka , Kaneko Kayo , Matsuki Taro , Sugiura-Ogasawara Mayumi , Saitoh Shinji , Kamijima Michihiro
Published: August 2022

The composition of human gut microbiota influences human health and disease over the long term. Since the flora in specimens can easily change at ambient temperature outside the body, epidemiological studies need feasible methods of stool specimen collection and storage to be established. We aimed to validate two methods: feces frozen-stored in tubes containing guanidine thiocyanate solution for two months after collection (Method B), and feces excreted in diapers and frozen-stored (Method C). Validation was by comparison with a gold standard Method A. Bacterial flora of five adults were sampled and stored by all three methods. Bacterial composition was examined by amplicon sequencing analysis. Bland–Altman analyses showed that Methods B and C might change relative abundances of certain bacterial flora. Thereafter, we analyzed the bacterial flora of 76 toddlers (two age groups) in stools sampled and processed by Method C. The diversity indices of toddlers’ flora were less than those of adults. The relative abundance of some bacteria differed significantly between children aged 1.5 and 3 years. The specimen collection and storage methods validated in this study are worth adopting in large-scale epidemiological studies, especially for small children, provided the limited accuracy for some specific bacteria is understood.
Saffron, Its Active Components, and Their Association with DNA and Histone Modification: A Narrative Review of Current Knowledge
Authors: Rashid Mudasir , Brim Hassan , Ashktorab Hassan
Published: August 2022

Intensive screening for better and safer medications to treat diseases such as cancer and inflammatory diseases continue, and some phytochemicals have been discovered to have anti-cancer and many therapeutical activities. Among the traditionally used spices, Crocus sativus (saffron) and its principal bioactive constituents have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chemopreventive properties against multiple malignancies. Early reports have shown that the epigenetic profiles of healthy and tumor cells vary significantly in the context of different epigenetic factors. Multiple components, such as carotenoids as bioactive dietary phytochemicals, can directly or indirectly regulate epigenetic factors and alter gene expression profiles. Previous reports have shown the interaction between active saffron compounds with linker histone H1. Other reports have shown that high concentrations of saffron bind to the minor groove of calf thymus DNA, resulting in specific structural changes from B- to C-form of DNA. Moreover, the interaction of crocin G-quadruplex was reported. A recent in silico study has shown that residues of SIRT1 interact with saffron bio-active compounds and might enhance SIRT1 activation. Other reports have shown that the treatment of Saffron bio-active compounds increases γH2AX, decreases HDAC1 and phosphorylated histone H3 (p-H3). However, the question that still remains to be addressed how saffron triggers various epigenetic changes? Therefore, this review discusses the literature published till 2022 regarding saffron as dietary components and its impact on epigenetic mechanisms. Novel bioactive compounds such as saffron components that lead to epigenetic alterations might be a valuable strategy as an adjuvant therapeutic drug.
Liposomal Mineral Absorption: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Tinsley Grant M. , Harty Patrick S. , Stratton Matthew T. , Siedler Madelin R. , Rodriguez Christian
Published: August 2022

Multivitamin/mineral (MVM) supplements are one of the most popular dietary supplement categories. The purpose of this analysis was to determine if a novel liposomal delivery mechanism improves mineral absorption from an MVM product. In a randomized crossover trial, 25 healthy participants (12 females, 13 males) completed two testing sessions in which blood samples were collected at baseline and 2, 4, and 6 h following the ingestion of either a liposomal MVM or a nutrient-matched standard MVM. Analysis of MVM products indicated an elemental iron content of 9.4 and 10.1 mg (~50% U.S. FDA Daily Value) and an elemental magnesium content of 22.0 and 23.3 mg (~5% U.S. FDA Daily Value) in the liposomal and standard MVM products, respectively. Blood samples were analyzed for concentrations of iron and magnesium using colorimetric assays. Changes in mineral concentrations were analyzed using linear mixed models, and pharmacokinetic parameters were compared between conditions. For iron, statistically significant condition × time interactions were observed for percent change from baseline (p = 0.002), rank of percent change from baseline (p = 0.01), and raw concentrations (p = 0.02). Follow-up testing indicated that the liposomal condition exhibited larger changes from baseline than the standard MVM condition at 4 (p = 0.0001; +14.3 ± 18.5% vs. −6.0 ± 13.1%) and 6 h (p = 0.0002; +1.0 ± 20.9% vs. −21.0 ± 15.3%) following MVM ingestion. These changes were further supported by a 50% greater mean incremental area under the curve in the liposomal condition (33.2 ± 30.9 vs. 19.8 ± 19.8 mcg/dL × 6 h; p = 0.02, Cohen’s d effect size = 0.52). In contrast, no differential effects for magnesium absorption were observed. In conclusion, iron absorption from an MVM product is enhanced by a liposomal delivery mechanism.
The Relationship of Physical Activity and Dietary Quality and Diabetes Prevalence in US Adults: Findings from NHANES 2011–2018
Authors: Xu Furong , Earp Jacob E. , Adami Alessandra , Weidauer Lee , Greene Geoffrey W.
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to examine the relationship of physical activity and/or dietary quality and diabetes prevalence in the general population and within specific age groups. It was a cross-sectional study using 2011–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the US Department of Agriculture’s Food Patterns Equivalents data (n = 15,674). Physical activity was measured by Global Physical Activity questionnaire; dietary quality was analyzed using the Healthy Eating Index 2015; diabetes prevalence was determined by reported diagnosis and glycohemoglobin or fasting glucose. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression adjusted for demographic variables and weight status. Results revealed that although no statistically significant or non-substantial relationships were observed between dietary quality or physical activity and diabetes prevalence, respondents who did not meet physical activity recommendations regardless of dietary quality had a higher odds of diabetes prevalence than those who met physical activity recommendations and had a higher dietary quality (p < 0.05). In conclusion, meeting physical activity recommendations is an important protective factor for diabetes especially in combination with a higher quality diet. A healthy lifestyle appears to have the greater impact on diabetes prevention in middle-aged men and women.
Portulaca oleracea L. Extract Regulates Hepatic Cholesterol Metabolism via the AMPK/MicroRNA-33/34a Pathway in Rats Fed a High-Cholesterol Diet
Authors: Jang Sojeong , Lee Mak-Soon , Kang Sun-A , Kim Chong-Tai , Kim Yangha
Published: August 2022

This study examined the effect of extruded Portulaca oleracea L. extract (PE) in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet through the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and microRNA (miR)-33/34a pathway. Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized into three groups and fed either a standard diet (SD), a high-cholesterol diet containing 1% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid (HC), or an HC diet containing 0.8% PE for 4 weeks. PE supplementation improved serum, liver, and fecal lipid profiles. PE upregulated the expression of genes involved in cholesterol efflux and bile acids’ synthesis such as liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), ATP-binding cassette subfamily G5/G8 (ABCG5/8), and cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase (CYP7A1), and downregulated farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in the liver. In addition, hepatic gene expression levels of apolipoprotein A-l (apoA-1), paraoxonase 1 (PON1), ATP-binding cassette subfamily A1/G1 (ABCA1/G1), lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT), and scavenger receptor class B type 1 (SR-B1), which are related to serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism, were upregulated by PE. Furthermore, hepatic AMPK activity in the PE group was higher than in the HC group, and miR-33/34a expression levels were suppressed. These results suggest that PE improves the cholesterol metabolism by modulating AMPK activation and miR-33/34a expression in the liver.
Pharmacological Comparative Characterization of REL-1017 (Esmethadone-HCl) and Other NMDAR Channel Blockers in Human Heterodimeric N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptors
Authors: Bettini Ezio , Stahl Stephen M. , De Martin Sara , Mattarei Andrea , Sgrignani Jacopo , Carignani Corrado , Nola Selena , Locatelli Patrizia , Pappagallo Marco , Inturrisi Charles E. , Bifari Francesco , Cavalli Andrea , Alimonti Andrea , Pani Luca , Fava Maurizio , Traversa Sergio , Folli Franco , Manfredi Paolo L.
Published: August 2022

Excessive Ca2+ currents via N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) have been implicated in many disorders. Uncompetitive NMDAR channel blockers are an emerging class of drugs in clinical use for major depressive disorder (MDD) and other neuropsychiatric diseases. The pharmacological characterization of uncompetitive NMDAR blockers in clinical use may improve our understanding of NMDAR function in physiology and pathology. REL-1017 (esmethadone-HCl), a novel uncompetitive NMDAR channel blocker in Phase 3 trials for the treatment of MDD, was characterized together with dextromethorphan, memantine, (±)-ketamine, and MK-801 in cell lines over-expressing NMDAR subtypes using fluorometric imaging plate reader (FLIPR), automated patch-clamp, and manual patch-clamp electrophysiology. In the absence of Mg2+, NMDAR subtypes NR1-2D were most sensitive to low, sub-μM glutamate concentrations in FLIPR experiments. FLIPR Ca2+ determination demonstrated low μM affinity of REL-1017 at NMDARs with minimal subtype preference. In automated and manual patch-clamp electrophysiological experiments, REL-1017 exhibited preference for the NR1-2D NMDAR subtype in the presence of 1 mM Mg2+ and 1 μM L-glutamate. Tau off and trapping characteristics were similar for (±)-ketamine and REL-1017. Results of radioligand binding assays in rat cortical neurons correlated with the estimated affinities obtained in FLIPR assays and in automated and manual patch-clamp assays. In silico studies of NMDARs in closed and open conformation indicate that REL-1017 has a higher preference for docking and undocking the open-channel conformation compared to ketamine. In conclusion, the pharmacological characteristics of REL-1017 at NMDARs, including relatively low affinity at the NMDAR, NR1-2D subtype preference in the presence of 1 mM Mg2+, tau off and degree of trapping similar to (±)-ketamine, and preferential docking and undocking of the open NMDAR, could all be important variables for understanding the rapid-onset antidepressant effects of REL-1017 without psychotomimetic side effects.
Functional Nanoparticles for Enhanced Cancer Therapy
Authors: Li Chenchen , Li Yuqing , Li Guangzhi , Wu Song
Published: August 2022

Cancer is the leading cause of death in people worldwide. The conventional therapeutic approach is mainly based on chemotherapy, which has a series of side effects. Compared with traditional chemotherapy drugs, nanoparticle-based delivery of anti-cancer drugs possesses a few attractive features. The application of nanotechnology in an interdisciplinary manner in the biomedical field has led to functional nanoparticles achieving much progress in cancer therapy. Nanoparticles have been involved in the diagnosis and targeted and personalized treatment of cancer. For example, different nano-drug strategies, including endogenous and exogenous stimuli-responsive, surface conjugation, and macromolecular encapsulation for nano-drug systems, have successfully prevented tumor procession. The future for functional nanoparticles is bright and promising due to the fast development of nanotechnology. However, there are still some challenges and limitations that need to be considered. Based on the above contents, the present article analyzes the progress in developing functional nanoparticles in cancer therapy. Research gaps and promising strategies for the clinical application are discussed.
Practical Considerations for Translating Mesenchymal Stromal Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles from Bench to Bed
Authors: Lui Pauline Po Yee , Leung Yung Tim
Published: August 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have shown potential for the treatment of tendon and ligament injuries. This approach can eliminate the need to transplant live cells to the human body, thereby reducing issues related to the maintenance of cell viability and stability and potential erroneous differentiation of transplanted cells to bone or tumor. Despite these advantages, there are practical issues that need to be considered for successful clinical application of MSC-EV-based products in the treatment of tendon and ligament injuries. This review aims to discuss the general and tissue-specific considerations for manufacturing MSC-EVs for clinical translation. Specifically, we will discuss Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant manufacturing and quality control (parent cell source, culture conditions, concentration method, quantity, identity, purity and impurities, sterility, potency, reproducibility, storage and formulation), as well as safety and efficacy issues. Special considerations for applying MSC-EVs, such as their compatibility with arthroscopy for the treatment of tendon and ligament injuries, are also highlighted.
Does Secondary Plant Metabolite Ursolic Acid Exhibit Antibacterial Activity against Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Living in Single- and Multispecies Biofilms?
Authors: Sycz Zuzanna , Wojnicz Dorota , Tichaczek-Goska Dorota
Published: August 2022

Multispecies bacterial biofilms are the often cause of chronic recurrent urinary tract infections within the human population. Eradicating such a complex bacterial consortium with standard pharmacotherapy is often unsuccessful. Therefore, plant-derived compounds are currently being researched as an alternative strategy to antibiotic therapy for preventing bacterial biofilm formation and facilitating its eradication. Therefore, our research aimed to determine the effect of secondary plant metabolite ursolic acid (UA) on the growth and survival, the quantity of exopolysaccharides formed, metabolic activity, and morphology of uropathogenic Gram-negative rods living in single- and mixed-species biofilms at various stages of their development. Spectrophotometric methods were used for biofilm mass formation and metabolic activity determination. The survival of bacteria was established using the serial dilution assay. The decrease in survival and inhibition of biofilm creation, both single- and multispecies, as well as changes in the morphology of bacterial cells were noticed. As UA exhibited better activity against young biofilms, the use of UA-containing formulations, especially during the initial steps of urinary tract infection, seems to be reasonable. However, the future direction should be a thorough understanding of the mechanisms of UA activity as a bioactive substance.
Taguchi Grey Relational Analysis for Multi-Response Optimization of Bacillus Bacteria Flocculation Recovery from Fermented Broth by Chitosan to Enhance Biocontrol Efficiency
Authors: Dmitrović Selena , Pajčin Ivana , Lukić Nataša , Vlajkov Vanja , Grahovac Mila , Grahovac Jovana , Jokić Aleksandar
Published: August 2022

Degradation of environment is a challenge to crop production around the world. Biological control of various plant diseases using antagonistic bacteria is an encouraging alternative to traditionally used chemical control strategies. Chitosan as a well-known natural flocculation agent also exhibits antimicrobial activity. The goal of this study was to investigate a dual nature of chitosan in flocculation of Bacillus sp. BioSol021 cultivation broth intended for biocontrol applications. Experiments were performed based on L18 standard Taguchi orthogonal array design with five input parameters (chitosan type and dosage, pH value, rapid and slow mixing rates). In this study, the grey relational analysis was used to perform multi-objective optimization of the chosen responses, i.e., flocculation efficiency and four inhibition zone diameters against the selected phytopathogens. The results have indicated a great potential of a highly efficient method for removal of the Bacillus bacteria from the cultivation broth using chitosan. The good flocculation efficiency and high precipitate antimicrobial activity against the selected phytopathogens were achieved. It has been shown that multiple flocculation performance parameters were improved, resulting in slightly improved response values.
Rheological Behavior of Pectin Gels Obtained from Araçá (Psidium cattleianum Sabine) Fruits: Influence of DM, Pectin and Calcium Concentrations
Authors: Amaral Sarah da Costa , Roux Denis Christophe D. , Caton François , Rinaudo Marguerite , Barbieri Shayla Fernanda , Silveira Joana Léa Meira
Published: August 2022

In this work, purified pectins from Araçá fruits (Psidium cattleianum Sabine) were obtained and characterized after partial demethylation. On each prepared sample, the carboxylic yield was obtained by titration, the degree of methylation (DM) by 1H-NMR, and the molecular weight distribution by steric exclusion chromatography (SEC). Then, the gelation ability in the presence of calcium counterions was investigated and related to DM (59–0%); the pectin concentration (2–10 g L−1); and the CaCl2 concentration (0.1–1 mol L−1) used for dialysis. The critical pectin concentration for homogeneous gelation was above 2 g L−1 when formed against 1 mol L−1 CaCl2. The elastic modulus (G′) increased with pectin concentration following the relationship G′~C2.8 in agreement with rigid physical gel network predictions. The purified samples APP and APP-A with DM ≥ 40% in the same conditions released heterogeneous systems formed of large aggregates. Gels formed against lower concentrations of CaCl2 down to 0.1 mol L−1 had a higher degree of swelling, indicating electrostatic repulsions between charged chains, thus, counterbalancing the Ca2+ cross-linkage. Compression/traction experiments demonstrated that an irreversible change in the gel structure occurred during small compression with an enhancement of the G′ modulus.
Electrochemical and Computational Approaches of Polymer Coating on Carbon Steel X52 in Different Soil Extracts
Authors: Ferkous Hana , Delimi Amel , Kahlouche Abdesalem , Boulechfar Chérifa , Djellali Souad , Belakhdar Amina , Yadav Krishna Kumar , Ali Ismat H. , Ahmad Akil , Ahn Hyun-Jo , Abdellattif Magda H. , Jeon Byong-Hun , Benguerba Yacine
Published: August 2022

Using stationary electrochemical, polarization resistance, cathodic charging, transient electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and theoretical and molecular mechanics studies, epoxy polymer-coated carbon steel specimens’ ability to protect metals from corrosion in various soil extracts was examined. According to the polarization resistance tests results, the polymer coating remained stable for 60 days in all three soil extracts, with a 90% efficiency for the steel coated in Soil Extract A, indicating that the sandy soil is less aggressive than the other two. The aggressiveness of clay soil was confirmed by the fact that a polymer-coated steel rod in the clay soil extract experienced a corrosion current density of 97 µA/cm2. In contrast, the same rod in sandy soil had a current density of 58 µA/cm2. The coating’s good adsorption contact with the metal surface was further guaranteed by molecular dynamics simulations, which provided atomic-level evidence of the epoxy molecule’s adsorption behavior (geometry) and adsorption energy on the carbon steel surface.
The Use of 3D Polylactic Acid Scaffolds with Hydroxyapatite/Alginate Composite Injection and Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Laminoplasty Spacers in Rabbits
Authors: Rahyussalim Ahmad Jabir , Aprilya Dina , Handidwiono Raden , Whulanza Yudan , Ramahdita Ghiska , Kurniawati Tri
Published: August 2022

Several types of laminoplasty spacer have been used to fill bone gaps and maintain a widened canal. A 3D scaffold can be used as an alternative spacer to minimize the risk observed in allografts or autografts. This study aims to evaluate the in vivo biocompatibility and tissue–scaffold integration of a polylactic acid (PLA) scaffold with the addition of alginate/hydroxyapatite (HA) and mesenchymal stem cell (MSc) injections. This is an experimental study with a pretest and post-test control group design. A total of 15 laminoplasty rabbit models were divided into five groups with variations in the autograft, PLA, HA/alginate, and MSc scaffold. In general, there were no signs of inflammation in most samples (47%), and there were no samples with areas of necrosis. There were no significant differences in the histopathological results and microstructural assessment between the five groups. This demonstrates that the synthetic scaffolds that we used had a similar tissue reaction and tissue integration profile as the autograft (p > 0.05). We recommend further translational studies in humans so that this biocompatible fabricated scaffold can be used to fill bone defects.
Biomimetic Rose Petal Structures Obtained Using UV-Nanoimprint Lithography
Authors: Oopath Sruthi Venugopal , Baji Avinash , Abtahi Mojtaba
Published: August 2022

This study aims to produce a hydrophobic polymer film by mimicking the hierarchical micro/nanostructures found on the surface of rose petals. A simple and two-step UV-based nanoimprint lithography was used to copy rose petal structures on the surface of a polyurethane acrylate (PUA) film. In the first step, the rose petal was used as a template, and its negative replica was fabricated on a commercial UV-curable polymer film. Following this, the negative replica was used as a stamp to produce rose petal mimetic structures on UV curable PUA film. The presence of these structures on PUA influenced the wettability behavior of PUA. Introducing the rose petal mimetic structures led the inherently hydrophilic material to display highly hydrophobic behavior. The neat PUA film showed a contact angle of 65°, while the PUA film with rose petal mimetic structures showed a contact angle of 138°. Similar to natural materials, PUA with rose petal mimetic structures also displayed the water pinning effect. The water droplet was shown to have adhered to the surface of PUA even when the surface was turned upside down.
Effects of Titanium–Silica Oxide on Degradation Behavior and Antimicrobial Activity of Poly (Lactic Acid) Composites
Authors: Teamsinsungvon Arpaporn , Ruksakulpiwat Chaiwat , Ruksakulpiwat Yupaporn
Published: August 2022

A mixed oxide of titania–silica oxides (TixSiy oxides) was successfully prepared via the sol–gel technique from our previous work. The use of TixSiy oxides to improve the mechanical properties, photocatalytic efficiency, antibacterial property, permeability tests, and biodegradability of polylactic acid (PLA) was demonstrated in this study. The influence of different types and contents of TixSiy oxides on crystallization behavior, mechanical properties, thermal properties, and morphological properties was presented. In addition, the effect of using TixSiy oxides as a filler in PLA composites on these properties was compared with the use of titanium dioxide (TiO2), silicon dioxide (SiO2), and TiO2SiO2. Among the prepared biocomposite films, the PLA/TixSiy films showed an improvement in the tensile strength and Young’s modulus (up to 5% and 31%, respectively) in comparison to neat PLA films. Photocatalytic efficiency to degrade methylene blue (MB), hydrolytic degradation, and in vitro degradation of PLA are significantly improved with the addition of TixSiy oxides. Furthermore, PLA with the addition of TixSiy oxides exhibited an excellent antibacterial effect on Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli or E. coli) and Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus or S. aureus), indicating the improved antimicrobial effectiveness of PLA composites. Importantly, up to 5% TixSiy loading could promote more PLA degradation via the water absorption ability of mixed oxides. According to the research results, the PLA composite films produced with TixSiy oxide were transparent, capable of screening UV radiation, and exhibited superior antibacterial efficacy, making them an excellent food packaging material.
Seleção de híbridos de sorgo biomassa no município de Confresa-MT
Authors: Matos Adilson , Anjos Danilo dos
Published: August 2022

O sorgo biomassa tem se mostrado uma cultura muito atrativa, por ser pouco exigente em fertilidade, possibilitar um cultivo totalmente mecanizável, e possuir um alto potencial produtivo de massa verde. Afim de verificar adaptabilidade ao município de Confresa-MT, este trabalho analisou 19 híbridos experimentais de sorgo biomassa, do Programa de Melhoramento da Embrapa Milho e Sorgo, e uma cultivar comercial (AGRI002E). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos casualizados, com 3 repetições. Os parâmetros analisados foram diâmetro de colmos na altura do peito (DAP), altura de planta (ALT), resistência de plantas ao acamamento (RA), produtividade de massa verde (PMV), número de colmos (NC), peso médio de panícula (PP), número de panículas (NP), e ciclo. Foi verificado que cultivares mais produtivas apresentaram em sua maioria altura e diâmetro maiores, além de maior resistência ao acamamento e ciclos mais tardios, como por exemplo a CMSXS7501, CMSXS7515 e AGRI002E, que se destacaram nestas variáveis em relação as demais cultivares, com produtividades acima de 140 t. ha-1. No entanto a CMSXS7509 se destaca das demais, por se caracterizar como uma cultivar com produtividade expressiva, mas apresentar ciclo curto (140 dias).
Calibração e Análise de tanques reduzidos para estimativa da Evapotranspiração de Referência em Confresa-MT
Authors: Vale SantAna José Antonio do
Published: August 2022

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência de tanques reduzidos para a estimativa da evapotranspiração de referência no município de Confresa. Os tanques foram confeccionados com tambores de plástico e metálicos de 200 litros, sendo cortados em três alturas diferentes (25, 35 e 45 cm). Para a leitura, foi colada fitas métricas na parte interna dos tanques. O experimento foi instalado em uma área gramada, ao lado de uma estação meteorológica automática. Os tanques foram colocados em pares de mesma altura sobre um estrado de madeira e distribuídos na área de forma espaçada. As leituras e coleta de dados meteorológicos foram realizadas às 09:00 horas da manhã. A evaporação do tanque foi calculada a partir da diferença entre duas leituras consecutivas e a ETo obtida por meio do método Tanque Classe A. Para calibração e validação dos modelos foi utilizado o coeficiente de determinação (R2), raiz quadrada da média dos quadrados dos erros (RMSE), eficiência do modelo (Ef), coeficiente de Person (r) e o coeficiente angular da equação linear simples do tipo Y = aX. O tanque metálico de 45 cm proporcionou melhores ajustes para calibração e validação dos dados para os meses de dezembro a maio.
Deep Learning Based Hand Wrist Segmentation using Mask R-CNN
Authors: Elumalai GokulaKrishnan , Ganesan Malathi
Published: August 2022

Deep learning is one of the trending technologies in computer vision to identify and classify objects. Deep learning is a subset of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Detecting and classifying the object was a challenging task in traditional computer vision techniques, and now there are numerous deep learning Techniques scaled up to achieve this. The primary purpose of the research is to detect and segment the human hand wrist region using deep learning methods. This research is widespread to deep learning enthusiasts who needs to segment custom objects using instance segmentation. We demonstrated a segmented hand wrist using the Mask Regional Convolutional Neural Network (R-CNN) technique with an average accuracy of 99.73%. This work also compares the performance evaluation of baseline and custom Hand Wrist Mask R-CNN. The achieved validation class loss is 0.00866 training and 0.02736 validation; both the values are comparatively deficient compared with baseline Mask R-CNN.
A Novel Binary Search Tree Method to Find an Item Using Scaling
Authors: Pappula Praveen
Published: August 2022

This Approach comprises of methods to produce novel and efficient methods to implement search of data objects in various applications. It is based on the best match search to implement proximity or best match search over complex or more than one data source. In particular with the availability of very large numeric data set in the present day scenario. The proposed approach which is based on the Arithmetic measures or distance measures called as the predominant Mean based algorithm. It is implemented on the longest common prefix of data object that shows how it can be used to generate various clusters through combining or grouping of data, as it takes O(log n) computational time. And further the approach is based on the process of measuring the distance which is suitable for a hierarchy tree property for proving the classification is needed one for storing or accessing or retrieving the information as required. The results obtained illustrates overall error detection rates in generating the clusters and searching the key value for Denial of Service (DOS) attack 5.15%, Probe attack 3.87%, U2R attack 8.11% and R2L attack 11.14%. as these error detection rates denotes that our proposed algorithm generates less error rates than existing linkage methods.
Ratio of some cytokines as marker variants of the course of juvenile arthritis
Authors: Melanchuk N.
Published: August 2022

The level of pro-inflammatory cytokines in juvenile arthritis (JA) correlates with the activity of the process, reflects the severity of the disease and prognosis. The aim of the study was to study the ratio of initiating and blocking cytokines (IL-1β and IFN-γ) in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). And also to conduct a literary analysis of current data on other JIA cytokines (IL-1β/IL-17R) and, using medical records, to analyze the clinical course of juvenile arthritis in children. The study examined 40 children aged 1–3 years old (6 children), 4–12 years (19 children), 13–17 years (15 children) who were hospitalized in the department for older children with pathology of the respiratory system, digestion, rheumatic and allergic diseases of the State Institution "IPAG named after academician O.M. Lukyanova NAMS of Ukraine" in 2018–2019. Among these children, there were 12 with oligoarthritis (oJIA), 17 – with polyarthritis (pJIA), 6 – with enthesitic arthritis (eJIA), 5 – with systemic arthritis (sJIA). Among all children, only one case of positive rheumatoid factor was recorded, in a child from the polyarthritis group (pJIA). As a result of the study, it was found that the content of IL-1β increased significantly only in sJIA (systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis) (30.15±17.09 pg/ml. IFN-γ increased above normal values (up to 50 pg/ml in healthy children) in all cases of JIA, which allows us to note its possible role in initiating the exacerbation. In addition, its maximum values were observed in patients with oJIA, especially in cases with uveitis (7029.2±4750 pg/ml) and were higher (p<0.1) in children aged 1–3 years (1239.143±533.87 pg/ml) compared with adolescents (656.5±295.4 pg/ml). As a result of the study, it was concluded that the balance of cytokines determines the direction of the inflammatory process in JIA.

Keywords: acute odontogenic periostitis, children, thyroid disease, Imupret, Calcemin advance.
The Degree of Compatibility between Higher Education Policies in Higher Education Institutions in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the needs of the labor market
Authors: Al-Azzam Norah
Published: August 2022

هدفت الدراسة للتعرف إلى درجة المواءمة بين سياسات التعليم في مؤسسات التعليم العالي في المملكة العربية السعودية واحتياج سوق العمل. تكون مجتمع الدراسة من جميع من إداري الجامعات ومساعديهم، ورؤساء مجالس الغرف التجارية الصناعية بالمملكة. ولتحقيق أهداف الدراسة تم استخدام المنهج الوصفي التحليلي. وتم تطوير أداة الدراسة (الاستبانة) والتي تكونت من (25) فقرة، وقد تم توزيع الأداة على عينة مكونة من (250) فرداً من إداريي الجامعات ومساعديهم، ورؤساء مجالس الغرف التجارية الصناعية بالمملكة،, بعد أن تم التأكد من صدقها وثباتها. أظهرت نتائج الدراسة أن تقدير أفراد عينة الدراسة لدرجة سياسات التعليم في مؤسسات التعليم العالي في المملكة العربية السعودية واحتياج سوق العمل كان بدرجة متوسطة، وتبين عدم وجود فروق دالة إحصائياً في درجة المواءمة بين سياسات التعليم في مؤسسات التعليم العالي في المملكة العربية السعودية واحتياج سوق العمل تُعزى لمتغير (الجنس، المستوى التعليمي، نوع الوظيفة) وفي ضوء هذه النتائج أوصت الدراسة إلى ضرورة الأخذ بعين الاعتبار الأسباب التي تؤدي إلى عدم مواءمة سياسات التعليم في مؤسسات التعليم العالي في المملكة العربية السعودية واحتياج سوق العمل كما تضمنتها أداة الدراسة الحالية والعمل على معالجة تلك الأسباب.