bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization of ultrasonically extracted β‐sitosterol from Berberis jaeschkeana using response surface methodology
Authors: Raza Awais , Akhtar Muhammad Nadeem , Maqbool Tahir , Khalil Anees Ahmed , Mohamed Mohamed Hassan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBerberis genus is recognized as a significant source of β‐sitosterol and polyphenols. The inclusion of β‐sitosterol into various health‐related formulations has widened its potential in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Process optimization ensures the maximum efficiency, consistency, and yield. In the current study, we employed mutual interaction effect to extract the β‐sitosterol from the root bark of Berberis jaeschkeana using ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE) technique. In order to identify the optimal extraction parameters, we conducted a series of 29 experiments, varying factors, such as amplitude level, solid‐to‐liquid ratio, extraction time, and temperature. The mutual interaction effect encompasses several key components, including the Box–Behnken design, assessment of model fitness, coefficient of determination, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the creation of three‐dimensional (3D) response curves of response surface methodology (RSM). The outcomes of the analysis revealed notable model fitness, highlighting the presence of linear, quadratic, and interactive effects among the various factors examined. The optimized UAE conditions (amplitude level of 30%, time of 10 min, solid‐to‐liquid ratio of 20, and temperature at 50°C) were applied. Under the most favorable extraction conditions, the β‐sitosterol was identified and quantified from Berberis jaeschkeana using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The β‐sitosterol yield was measured at 43.52 mg per gram of the sample. Conclusively, the optimization approach for UAE using the mutual interaction effect contributes to a more rapid extraction process, resulting in a higher yield of β‐sitosterol. Furthermore, this study design could be extended to other valuable species or compounds to efficiently extract nutraceutical compounds and enhance the sustainable utilization of natural products.
Updated aspects of alpha‐Solanine as a potential anticancer agent: Mechanistic insights and future directions
Authors: Nandi Sudeshna , Sikder Rimpa , Nag Anish , Khatua Somanjana , Sen Surjit , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Naskar Arghya , Zhakipbekov Kairat , Acharya Krishnendu , Habtemariam Solomon , Arslan Ateşşahin Dilek , Goloshvili Tamar , Ahmed Aldahish Afaf , Sharifi‐Rad Javad , Calina Daniela 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCancer remains a critical global health challenge, with limited progress in reducing mortality despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment. The growing resistance of tumors to existing chemotherapy exacerbates this burden. In response, the search for new anticancer compounds from plants has intensified, given their historical success in yielding effective treatments. This review focuses on α‐solanine, a glycoalkaloid primarily derived from potato tubers and nightshade family plants, recognized for its diverse biological activities, including anti‐allergic, antipyretic, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐diabetic, and antibiotic properties. Recently, α‐solanine has gained attention as a potential anticancer agent. Utilizing resources like PubMed/MedLine, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, the American Chemical Society, Google Scholar, Springer Link, Wiley, and various commercial websites, this review consolidates two decades of research on α‐solanine's anticancer effects and mechanisms against nine different cancers, highlighting its role in modulating various signaling pathways. It also discusses α‐solanine's potential as a lead compound in cancer therapy. The abundant availability of potato peel, often discarded as waste or sold cheaply, is suggested as a sustainable source for large‐scale α‐solanine extraction. The study concludes that α‐solanine holds promise as a standalone or adjunctive cancer treatment. However, further research is necessary to optimize this lead compound and mitigate its toxicity through various strategies.
Comparison effects of PEF and SC‐CO2 treatments on lycopene, β‐carotene, lutein, β‐cryptoxanthin, total polyphenols values, and antioxidant activity of tomato fruits
Authors: Belgheisi Saba , Motamedzadegan Ali , Rashidi Ladan , Milani Jafar M. , Rafe Ali 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSince the recycling of composites from plant tissues is difficult, extraction of bioactive compounds from plant sources requires pre‐treatment by new technology such as pulsed electric fields (PEF). Due to the reduced consumption of organic solvents, the extractive techniques such as using supercritical CO2 (SC‐CO2) are of interest to researchers. This work aimed to investigating the influences of different parameters of SC‐CO2 (pressure, modifier volume, temperature, and dynamic time) and PEF (frequency and field strength) treatments on the amount extraction of β‐carotene, lycopene, lutein, β‐cryptoxanthin, total phenol content (TPC), and also antioxidant activity percentage of tomato to obtain the optimum circumstances extraction via PEF and SC‐CO2 methods. PEF data showed that treatments with moderate intensity (1 Hz and 0. 25 kV/cm) enhanced the extractability of lycopene (88%), β‐carotene (69%), and β‐cryptoxanthin (24%). The maximum recovery in total polyphenols was achieved at a 1 Hz and 1.75 kV/cm, leading to a 41.68% growth. The SC‐CO2 results showed that extraction at 55°C and 35 MPa, and in a short time of 20 min (without any modifier: methanol) resulted in the highest levels of carotenoids (100% recovery), especially lycopene, and antioxidant activity. Largest value of total polyphenols was obtained at 35 MPa, 35°C, during 30 min, and 250 μL methanol as a modifier (58.79% recovery). Results showed that the extraction of polyphenols, unlike carotenoids, required a modifier. Organic solvents, often called modifiers, are sometimes added to the supercritical fluid to increase the polarity range of the extraction process and to help overcome analyte retention in the matrix. In this study, methanol was used as a modifier in different volumes. Therefore, the SC‐CO2 gentle processing conditions, compared with PEF, improved the recovery of tomato bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to optimize such treatments.
Combined targeting of Hedgehog/GLI1 and Wnt/β‐catenin pathways in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Han Yan , Li Chuntuan , Liu Shengquan , Gao Jingjing , He Yanjun , Xiao Huifang , Chen Qi , Zheng Yan , Chen Hongyuan , Zhu Xiongpeng 
Published: August 2024

AbstractMantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and aggressive form of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. Challenges in its treatment include relapse, drug resistance, and a short survival period. The Hedgehog/GLI1 (Hh/GLI1) and Wnt/β‐catenin pathways are crucial in cancer cell proliferation, survival, and drug resistance, making them significant targets for anticancer research. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of combining inhibitors for both pathways against MCL and investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. The co‐expression of key proteins from the Hh/GLI1 and Wnt/β‐catenin pathways was observed in MCL. Targeting the Hh/GLI1 pathway with the GLI1 inhibitor GANT61 and the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway with the CBP/β‐catenin transcription inhibitor ICG‐001, dual‐target therapy was demonstrated to synergistically suppressed the activity of MCL cells. This approach promoted MCL cell apoptosis, induced G0/G1 phase blockade, decreased the percentage of S‐phase cells, and enhanced the sensitivity of MCL cells to the drugs adriamycin and ibrutinib. Both GANT61 and ICG‐001 downregulated GLI1 and β‐catenin while upregulating GSK‐3β expression. The interaction between Hh/GLI1 and Wnt/β‐catenin pathways was mediated by GANT61‐dependent Hh/GLI1 inhibition. Moreover, GLI1 knockdown combined with ICG‐001 synergistically induced apoptosis and increased drug sensitivity of MCL cells to doxorubicin and ibrutinib. GANT61 attenuated the overexpression of β‐catenin and decreased the inhibition of GSK‐3β in MCL cells. Overall, the combined targeting of both the Hh/GLI1 and Wnt/β‐catenin pathways was more effective in suppressing proliferation, inducing G0/G1 cycle retardation, promoting apoptosis, and increasing drug sensitivity of MCL cells than mono treatments. These findings emphasize the potential of combinatorial therapy for treating MCL patients.
Investigating the causes and pattern of peritoneal involvement in CT scan and comparison with ultrasound findings in peritoneal conditions: A two‐center, cross‐sectional study
Authors: Khoroushi Farzaneh , Jarahi Lida , Hassannejad Ehsan , Kazemirad Nafise 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsUltrasound and computed tomography (CT) scans can be used as methods to help make a more accurate diagnosis in diseases involving the omentum and peritoneum. The present study was conducted to determine etiology and CT scan pattern of peritoneal involvement and compare it with ultrasound findings.MethodsPatients referred to Ghaem and Imam Reza hospitals who had undergone CT scans and had involvement of peritoneum in abdominal CT scans were included in the study. The findings identified in the CT scan were recorded. According to the underlying cause determined by laparotomy or laparoscopy sample, each disease's most common pattern of involvement and types of patterns were examined. An ultrasound was conducted for every patient and the obtained information was analyzed.ResultsA total of 101 patients were included in the study, of which 61 patients (59.8%) were female and the rest were male. The most common involvement patterns in CT scans included nodular (37.6%), mixed (21.8%), and omental cake (17.8%), respectively. In 80 patients (79.2%), CT scan findings were consistent with ultrasound, but in 21 patients (20.8%), CT scan findings were not visible in ultrasound. The most common diagnoses of the patients were colorectal adenocarcinoma and gastric adenocarcinoma (20 cases, 19.8% each), followed by ovarian and uterine adenocarcinoma (19 cases, 18.8%).ConclusionThe most common patterns of involvement of peritoneum in CT scans include nodular pattern, mix, and omental cake. The most common diseases that lead to the involvement of peritoneum are gastrointestinal cancers, uterine and ovarian cancers, and peritonitis.
3D‐printed silicate porous bioceramics promoted the polarization of M2‐macrophages that enhanced the angiogenesis in bone regeneration
Authors: Zang Chengwu , Che Min , Xian Hang , Xiao Xin , Li Tengfei , Chen Yongxiang , Liu Yaxiong , Cong Rui 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe failure of bone regeneration has been considered as a serious problem that troubling patients for decades, most of which was resulted by the poor angiogenesis and chronic inflammation after surgery. Among multiple materials applied in the repair of bone defect, silicate bioceramics attracted researchers because of its excellent bioactivity. The purpose of this study was to detect the effect of specific bioactive glass ceramic (AP40, based on crystalline phases of apatite and wollastonite) on angiogenesis and the subsequent bone growth through the modulation of macrophages. Two groups were included in this study: control group (macrophages without any stimulation, denominated as Control) and AP40 group (macrophages incubated on AP40). This study investigated the effect of AP40 on macrophages polarization (RAW264.7) and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, the changes of angiogenic ability regulated by macrophages were explored. AP40 showed excellent angiogenesis potential and the expression of CD31 was promoted through the modulation of macrophages toward M2 subtype. Additionally, the macrophages incubated on AP40 synthesized more PDGF‐BB comparing to macrophages without any stimulation, which contributed to the improved angiogenetic ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Results of in vivo studies indicated increased bone ingrowth along the implants, which indicated the potential of bioceramics for bone defect repair clinically.
Interleukin‐4‐Loaded Gelatin Methacryloyl Hydrogel Promotes Subcutaneous Chondrogenesis of Engineered Auricular Cartilage in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Li Jinqiao , Liu Xia , Jiang Haiyue , Yang Mingyong 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTTissue engineering technology offers a promising solution for ear reconstruction; however, it faces the challenge of foreign body reaction and neocartilage malformation. This study investigates the impact of interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), an anti‐inflammatory factor, on cartilage regeneration of hydrogel encapsulating autologous auricular chondrocytes in a rabbit subcutaneous environment. Initially, we assessed the influence of IL‐4 on chondrocyte proliferation and determined the appropriate concentration using the CCK‐8 test in vitro. Subsequently, we loaded IL‐4 into gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel containing chondrocytes and measured its release profile through ELISA. The constructs were then implanted autologously into rabbits' subcutis, and after 3, 7, 14, and 28 days, cartilage matrix formation was evaluated by histological examinations, and gene expression levels were detected by qRT‐PCR. Results demonstrated that IL‐4 promotes chondrocyte proliferation in vitro, and maximum release from constructs occurred during the first week. In the rabbit subcutaneous implantation model, IL‐4‐loaded constructs (20 ng/mL) maintained a superior chondrocytic phenotype compared to controls with increased expression of anti‐inflammatory factors. These findings highlight IL‐4 as a potential strategy for promoting chondrogenesis in a subcutaneous environment and improving ear reconstruction.
An algorithm for very high pressure molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Tesi Marina , Cammi Roberto , Granucci Giovanni , Persico Maurizio 
Published: August 2024

AbstractWe describe a method to run simulations of ground or excited state dynamics under extremely high pressures. The method is based on the introduction of a fictitious ideal gas that exerts the required pressure on a molecular sample and is therefore called XP‐GAS (eXtreme Pressure by Gas Atoms in a Sphere). The algorithm is most suitable for approximately spherical clusters of molecules described by quantum chemistry methods, Molecular Mechanics or mixed QM/MM approaches. We compare the results obtained by the algorithm here presented and by the XP‐PCM approach, based on a continuum description of the environment. As a test case, we study the conformational dynamics of 1,3‐butadiene either as an isolated molecule (“naked” butadiene) or embedded in a cluster of argon atoms, under pressures up to 15 GPa. Overall, our results show that the XP‐GAS QM/MM simulation method is in good agreement with the XP‐PCM QM/Continuum model (Cammi model) in describing the effect of the pressure on static properties as the equilibrium geometry of butadiene in the ground state. Furthermore, the comparison of XP‐GAS simulations with naked butadiene and butadiene in argon shows the importance, for XP‐GAS and related methods, of a realistic representation of the medium in modelling pressure effects.
Weakening of the interannual relationship between the winter Arctic Oscillation and eastern African precipitation in the late 1970s
Authors: Shi Yiwen , Gong Daoyi , Hua Wei , Chen Yi , Li Xinhua 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn this study, we investigate the changing relationship between the boreal winter Arctic Oscillation (AO) and eastern African precipitation. The results show that the negative correlation has significantly weakened since the late 1970s. And the Arabian anticyclonic circulation changed concurrently with the AO. In the mid‐high troposphere, the anomalous anticyclone centred over the Arabian Peninsula in 1980–2020 moved northeastward and weakened compared to 1950–1979. Correspondingly, the anomalous downward motion over eastern Africa significantly weakened compared with that in 1950–1979, corresponding to insignificant precipitation. A further analysis suggests that AO‐related Rossby wave trains in the upper troposphere may modulate the Arabian anticyclone. From 1950 to 1979, the wave activity preferred propagating eastward from the Mediterranean to Russia along a high‐latitude path. In contrast, during 1980–2020, it tended to emanate southeastward towards Saudi Arabia, with a notably stronger and more eastward extension than in the earlier period.
Novel embelin‐loaded transniosomes for topical delivery: comprehensive exploration of in vitro, ex vivo and dermatokinetic assessment for anti‐cancer activity
Authors: Alshetaili Abdullah S , Almohizea Salman , Anwer Md. Khalid , Riadi Yassine 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDThis study systematically designed and optimised a transniosomal formulation containing embelin for skin cancer management. The transniosomes were developed using a rotary evaporation method and then optimised using a Box–Behnken design.RESULTSThe optimized embelin‐loaded transniosomes (Opt‐EMB‐TNs) exhibited a vesicle size of 149.01 nm, polydispersity index of 0.184, a zeta potential of −21.14 mV, an entrapment efficiency of 75.6 ± 0.65%, drug loading of 3.36 ± 0.03% and drug release of 80.88 ± 2.55%. The antioxidant potential of Opt‐EMB‐TNs was found to be 88.54% when compared to standard ascorbic acid. Dermatokinetic studies showed a greater drug deposition in targeted skin areas with Opt‐EMB‐TN gel compared to the embelin conventional gel (EMB‐CF gel). In addition, the penetration depth study of the skin sample revealed that the transniosomal gel containing rhodamine B dye exhibited higher penetration than that of the rhodamine B dye containing hydroalcoholic solution. The efficacy of Opt‐EMB‐TNs for skin cancer was confirmed by cytotoxicity assay against the B16F10 melanoma cell line.CONCLUSIONThe study concluded that the Opt‐EMB‐TN gel formulation is a promising and effective topical treatment for skin cancer, demonstrating significant potential for further development and clinical application. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rapid detection of murine‐derived ingredients in meat products using real‐time enzymatic recombinase amplification
Authors: Xie Qingqing , Liu Zhifei , Liang Qianqian , Wang Xiaohui , Yang Qiquan , Cai Wenyu , Lei Jiawen , Cheng Guojun , Zhang Li 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDAccurate identification of meat species is critical to prevent economic fraud and safeguard public health. The use of inappropriate meat sources, such as murine, poses significant health risks because of potential contamination with pathogens and allergens, leading to foodborne illnesses. The present study aimed to develop a novel real‐time enzymatic recombinase amplification (ERA) method for the rapid and specific detection of murine DNA in meat products.RESULTSA novel ERA primer and probe set was designed, targeting a murine‐specific single‐copy nuclear gene identified through bioinformatics analysis. The assay demonstrates high specificity, showing no amplification in commonly consumed meats, other animals or major crops. Additionally, it exhibits remarkable sensitivity, detecting as few as five copies of murine genomic DNA. For practical application, the ERA method could effectively identify mouse DNA in laboratory‐prepared samples at concentrations as low as 0.5% and also quantify samples with mouse DNA content as low as 5%. It also accurately detects the presence of murine‐derived ingredients in commercially available meat products. The detection process is straightforward, utilizing a simple isothermal device for incubation, blue light excitation and a smartphone camera for result interpretation. This rapid analysis can be completed within 20 min.CONCLUSIONThe newly developed real‐time ERA method provides a valuable tool for standardizing meat trade practices, promoting food safety and enhancing consumer confidence in the authenticity of meat products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Fully Telemetric Robotic Microsurgery: Clinical Experience With 23 Cases
Authors: Gorji Shaghayegh , Wessel Kai , Dermietzel Alexander , Aitzetmueller Matthias , Wendenburg Isa , Varnava Charalampos , Klietz Marie‐Luise , Wiebringhaus Philipp , Hirsch Tobias , Kueckelhaus Maximilian 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundRecently, there is an ongoing trend in plastic surgery with robotic‐assisted microsurgery and supermicrosurgery devices being developed. Combining a telemetrically controlled robotic microscope with an also telemetrically controlled microsurgery robot unlocks synergistic effects with complete disconnection of the operating surgeon from the operating field. Here, we report the first clinical free flap reconstructions using this setup.MethodsTwenty‐three surgeries were performed with the combined remote approach using the Symani Surgical System and the RoboticScope in open microsurgery procedures. Anastomosis time and ischemia time were recorded. The surgical performance for anastomoses was assessed using the modified Structured Assessment of Microsurgical Skills (SAMS) score. Subjective satisfaction was evaluated by the surgeons in comparison with conventional microsurgery. To evaluate the learning curve, the senior authors first four (first group) and last four (last group) procedures were compared.ResultsOverall, flap survival was 95.7%. The average arterial anastomosis time was 36.7 ± 10.9 min. Total time of surgery was 277.7 ± 63.8 min, and ischemia time was 100.6 ± 24.9 min. Most SAMS score parameters were significantly higher in the last group of surgical procedures compared with the first operations. Subjective satisfaction was equal or better with the combined robotic‐assisted approach in most categories.ConclusionsOur data demonstrates safety and feasibility of the use of a combined remote approach. Robotic systems for microsurgical procedures may hold promising potential for improvement of surgical quality and open up new frontiers in microsurgery.
Phrenic neuropathy etiologies and recovery trajectories in outpatient rehabilitation and neuromuscular medicine clinics: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Demetriou Nicholas , Jensen Alexandra S. , Farr Ellen , Khanna Shreyaa , Coleman John M. , Ajroud‐Driss Senda , Adewuyi Adenike A. , Wolfe Lisa F. , Franz Colin K. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIntroduction/AimsPhrenic neuropathy (PhN) impairs diaphragm muscle function, causing a spectrum of breathing disability. PhN etiologies and their natural history are ill‐defined. This knowledge gap hinders informed prognosis and management decisions. This study aims to help fill this knowledge gap on PhN etiologies, outcomes, and recovery patterns, especially in the context of nonsurgical clinical practice.MethodsThis was a retrospective study from two interdisciplinary clinics, physiatry and neurology based. Patients were included if PhN was identified, and other causes of hemi‐diaphragm muscle dysfunction excluded. Patients were followed serially at the discretion of the neuromuscular‐trained neurologist or physiatrist. Recovery was assessed using pulmonary function tests (PFTs), diaphragm muscle ultrasound (US) thickening ratio, and patient‐reported outcomes in patients presenting within 2 years of PhN onset.ResultsWe identified 151 patients with PhN. The most common etiologies were idiopathic (27%), associated with cardiothoracic procedure (24%), and intensive care unit (17%). Of these patients, 117 (77%) were evaluated within 2 years of PhN onset. Of patients included in outcome analyses, 64% saw improvement on serial US, 50% on serial PFTs and 79% reported symptomatic improvement at an average of 15, 16, and 17 months, respectively.DiscussionA clear majority of PhN patients show improvement in diaphragm muscle function, but on average, improvements took 15–17 months depending on the assessment type. These insights are vital for developing tailored treatments and can guide physicians in prognosis and decision‐making, especially if more invasive interventions are being considered.