bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nanoplatelet orientation and Young’s modulus of graphene/phenoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Lin Han , Potluri Prasad , Sampson William W. , Wilkinson Arthur 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We report on the development of phenoxy-graphene nano-composite fibres for improving the toughness of thermoset composites. In this paper, a systematic experimental investigation into the underlying mechanisms of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) reinforcement of phenoxy nanocomposite fibres prepared via melt spinning. The analysis reveals a tangential orientation of GNP in the outer layer of the fibres, while such orientation is absent in the fibre core region. We show that the relative size of the fibre sheath depends on process variables and exhibits a linear relationship with the modulus of GNP (Ef) obtained via theoretical analysis using simple rule of mixtures (RoM). This is because the area ratio (AR) is proportional to the orientation degree (η0) of GNP. This indicates that the enhancement of the Young’s modulus of fibres is mainly originated from the increased AR of the fibre sheath layer where the orientation of GNP is more regular, resulting in variations in the stress transfer efficiency between GNP and phenoxy matrix in the fibre sheath and core regions.
Comparative transcriptomics uncovers apoptosis in brain impairment in newly pupated honeybee worker under cold stress
Authors: Zhu Xiangjie , Cao Mingjie , Xu Hongzhi , Tian Yuanmingyue , Zhu Chenyu , Zhou Bingfeng , Li Han , Yao Meihong , Zhang Zhining , Zhou Shujing , Xu Xinjian 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Honeybees have a much narrower developmental temperature range compared to other insects, making it an ideal model species for studying temperature effect on insect metamorphosis. Cold exposure during pupal stage resulted in impaired learning, memory, and foraging ability in adults. So far, the understanding of molecular mechanisms and physiological processes underlying the impaired brain development of honeybee pupae under cold exposure is unclear.
Result
The transcriptome data used in this study were collected from the heads of white-eyed honeybee pupae between control group and cold-treated groups. A total of 736 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found to be shared by the different durations of cold treatment, and three gene clusters with significant expression patterns were identified using gene expression trend analysis, and RT-qPCR verification was performed on six genes. Enrichment analyses of each cluster using GO and KEGG database showed that upregulated DEGs followed by a plateau were significantly enriched in apoptosis, axon regeneration and signalling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells genes, consistently upregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in MAPK signalling pathway, and the downregulated DEGs followed by a plateau were related to insect ecdysteroids synthesis (phm and spookiest), epigenetic regulation of genes associated with brain development (LSD1), endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation (RNF5 and SVIP) and regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated cell apoptosis (FBXO32, PET191 and UBL5).
Conclusion
Our study suggests that cold stress will inhibit the synthesis of ecdysteroids, disrupt gene epigenetic regulation, and intensify endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated brain cell apoptosis, thus hinder brain development in new pupal heads.
Role of P2X7 receptor during low-intensity focused ultrasound- induced blood-brain barrier modulation
Authors: Park Junwon , Na Young Cheol , Lee Jihyeon , Kim Hojin , Han Sangheon , Song Byeong-Wook , Chang Won Seok 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Although low-intensity focused ultrasound (LiFUS) with microbubbles is used to temporally open the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. This study aimed to analyze BBB-related alterations in the brain microenvironment after LiFUS, with a focus on the involvement of the purinergic P2X7 receptor.
Methods
Sprague-Dawley rats were sonicated with LiFUS at 0.3 MPa energy. The impact of LiFUS on the P2X7 receptor and inflammatory-related proteins, including NLRP3 and interleukin-1β, was analyzed through western blotting. The BBB-associated tight junction proteins, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin, were also analyzed. BBB permeability was assessed by quantifying the amount of Evans blue dye penetration using spectrophotometry. Furthermore, the safety of the sonication procedure was verified via terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and hematoxylin and eosin staining.
Results
Substantial increases in the P2X7 receptor and its downstream signaling were confirmed after sonicating the BBB with LiFUS for 1 h (p < 0.05). Conversely, for tight junction proteins, the lowest expression was observed at 1 h (p < 0.001). Both responses were normalized back to the original state over time. No evidence of brain damage was observed during the procedure. Furthermore, the P2X7 receptor antagonist-injected group showed reduced Evans blue dye penetration compared to that 1 h after FUS, indicating a mitigated impact of LiFUS on the BBB.
Conclusions
Herein, we elucidate the underlying mechanism by which LiFUS affects the BBB, with a focus on the involvement of the P2X7 receptor. Our findings demonstrate that the extent of BBB opening varies upon the regulation of the P2X7 receptor. This study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying BBB modulation through LiFUS, thereby laying the foundation for expanding its applications.
Morphological evidence for the potential protective effects of curcumin and Garcinia kola against diabetes in the rat hippocampus
Authors: Denizci Eda , Altun Gamze , Kaplan Süleyman 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This research investigated the effects of sciatic nerve transection and diabetes on the hippocampus, and the protective effects of Garcinia kola and curcumin. Thirty-five adult male Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups: a control group (Cont), a transected group (Sham group), a transected + diabetes mellitus group (DM), a transected + diabetes mellitus + Garcinia kola group (DM + GK), and a transected + DM + curcumin group (DM + Cur), each containing seven animals. The experimental diabetes model was created with the intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of streptozotocin. No procedure was applied to the Cont group, while sciatic nerve transection was performed on the other groups. Garcinia kola was administered to the rats in DM + GK, and curcumin to those in DM + Cur. Cardiac perfusion was performed at the end of the experimental period. Brain tissues were dissected for stereological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical evaluations. The volume ratios of hippocampal layers to the entire hippocampus volume were compared between the groups. Anti-S100, anti-caspase 3, and anti-SOX 2 antibodies were used for immunohistochemical analysis. No statistically significant difference was observed in the volume ratios of the four hippocampal layers. However, the volume ratio of the stratum lucidum was higher in the Sham, DM, and DM + Cur groups compared to the Cont group. While curcumin exhibited a protective effect on hippocampal tissue following diabetes induction, Garcinia kola had only a weak protective effect. Increased cell density and nuclear deterioration due to diabetes and nerve transection can be partially ameliorated by treatment with Garcinia kola and curcumin.
Nonlinear optimal and flatness-based control for the multivariable Lotka-Volterra dynamics
Authors: Rigatos Gerasimos , Wira Patrice , Siano Pierluigi , Abbaszadeh Masoud 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The multivariable Lokta-Volterra dynamic model has been widely used to describe interacting and competing populations and has found applications in biology, ecology, agricultural production management and in economics. In this article a nonlinear optimal (H-infinity) control method is developed for the Lotka-Volterra system. First, differential flatness properties are proven for the associated state-space model. Next, the state-space description undergoes approximate linearization with the use of first-order Taylor series expansion and through the computation of the associated Jacobian matrices. The linearization process takes place at each sampling instance around a time-varying operating point which is defined by the present value of the system's state vector and by the last sampled value of the control inputs vector. For the approximately linearized model of the system a stabilizing H-infinity feedback controller is designed. To compute the controller's gains an algebraic Riccati equation has to be repetitively solved at each time-step of the control algorithm. The global stability properties of the control scheme are proven through Lyapunov analysis. Finally, the performance of the nonlinear optimal control method is compared against a flatness-based control approach implemented in successive loops.
Watershed water policy based on a glacier water service perspective in the typical glacier basins, Western China
Authors: Sun Zhenqi , Wang Shijin , Wang Lixia 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Taking the Yangtze River Source Basin (YRSB) and Shule River Basin (SRB) as two typical cases, the sustainability of the water resources in these two basins was evaluated using the level of water stress (LWS) from sustainable development goal 6.4.2, and the regulating effect of the glacier runoff on the LWS was quantified. From 2000 to 2030, the level of socioeconomic development in the YRSB is low, and the total water consumption is only about 0.18 × 108 m3, whereas the SRB has a relatively high level of socioeconomic development and total water consumption is about 10 × 108 m3, i.e., 50 times higher than that in the YRSB. For the aforementioned reasons, the SRB's LWS is much higher than the YRSB's, resulting in a very low sustainability of water resources. As natural assets, glaciers flow downstream in the runoff mode, so compensation at the watershed scale should be considered. In the basin, the optimal allocation of water resources is needed. At the inter-basin scale, the compensation mechanism of glacier water resources needs to be improved.
Comparative study of wastewater treatment efficiency: ozone vs. atmospheric oxygen with a manganese dioxide catalyst
Authors: Umbetova Sholpan , Abylkassova Gulzhan , Spitsov Dmitriy 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

This study aims to validate the wastewater treatment technique and compare the effectiveness of applying an ozone mixture and atmospheric oxygen in the presence of a catalyst (manganese dioxide) with various dosages. A total of 540 replicates were performed, corresponding to different levels of manganese dioxide concentrations during oxygen and ozone delivery (270 repetitions for each of the experiments). The research was carried out using an experimental setup developed by the authors. The maximum efficiency of oxidation processes was observed within 15–30 min after the start of the treatment cycle. The decrease in the level of chemical oxygen demand within the first quarter-hour during ozone treatment was significantly greater compared to atmospheric oxygen treatment (p ≤ 0.05). The method's efficiency increased to 53% for ozone and 41% for oxygen after 30 min of purification (p ≤ 0.05). Lower catalyst consumption was observed when using an ozone mixture. The tested technology can be recommended for wastewater treatment with high hydrocarbon concentrations. The findings of the study indicated the potential application of ozone treatment with a manganese catalyst for treating wastewater with high hydrocarbon content, thereby fostering the development of more effective water purification methods in the industrial sector.
Evaluation of Efficacy of Curcumin and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester
in Breast Cancer by Preclinical Studies
Authors: Verma Sumit Singh , Avadhesh  , Srivastava Ankit , Shekher Anusmita , Dhasmana Anupam , Narula Acharan Singh , Gupta Subash Chandra 
Published: March 2024

Aims::
The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined and comparative efficacy of
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and curcumin in breast cancer.

background:
CAPE and curcumin are a class of phenolics. While curcumin is obtained from turmeric, CAPE is found in Baccharis sarothroides and Populus deltoides. Both agents are reported to produce activities in some cancer types. The combined and the comparative effects of two agents in breast cancer is not yet reported.

objective:
We evaluated the potential of CAPE and curcumin in both in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models.

method:
Human breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 were exposed to CAPE and curcumin followed by functional assays such as cell cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and colony formation, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis, and monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining for autophagy. Computational analyses and mice model were also used.

result:
Employing computational analyses, both agents were found to exhibit drug like properties. Both molecules interacted with the key molecules of the NF-B pathway. CAPE and curcumin inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and invasion, and triggered apoptosis and autophagy in breast cancer cells. CAPE was found to be more effective in comparison to curcumin. Two agents working together were more effective than each agent working alone. Both agents suppressed the expression of survivin, Bcl-xL and GLUT-1. Further, cleaved PARP was increased by both agents. An induction in ROS generation was observed by both phenolics. Further, both molecules triggered a dissipation in mitochondrial membrane potential. In mice model implanted with Ehrlich-Lettre ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells, both drugs inhibited the growth of the tumour. The phenolics also modulated the metabolic parameters in tumour bearing mice.

conclusion:
The observations suggest that the combination of curcumin plus CAPE may be better in comparison to individual molecule.

other:
The study opens a window for analysing the efficacy of combination of CAPE and curcumin by more animal studies. This will provide a basis for examining the combined efficacy of two agents by clinical trial.
The Metabolism of the New Benzodiazepine Remimazolam
Authors: Schmalix Wolfgang , Petersen Karl-Uwe , Pesic Marija , Stöhr Thomas 
Published: March 2024

Background::
Remimazolam (RMZ) is a novel ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine used for sedation
by intravenous administration. The pharmacophore of RMZ includes a carboxyl ester group sensitive to esterase-
mediated hydrolysis, which is the primary path of metabolic elimination. However, for the sake of drug
safety, a deeper and broader knowledge of the involved metabolic pathways and the evolving metabolites is required.
Information is needed on both humans and experimental animals to evaluate the possibility that humans
form harmful metabolites not encountered in animal toxicity studies.

Objective::
The current study aimed at identifying the mechanisms of remimazolam's metabolism and any potential
clinically significant metabolites.

Method::
Using tissue homogenates from various animals and humans, the liver was identified as the tissue
primarily responsible for the elimination of RMZ. CNS7054, the hydrolysis product of remimazolam, was
identified as the only clinically relevant metabolite. Using bacterial or eukaryotic over-expression systems, carboxylesterase
1 (CES1) was identified as the iso-enzyme predominantly involved in RMZ metabolism, with
no role for carboxylesterase 2. Using a variety of inhibitors of other esterases, the contribution to elimination
mediated by esterases other than CES1 was excluded.

Results::
Besides tissue carboxylesterases, rodents expressed an RMZ esterase in plasma, which was not present
in this compartment in other laboratory animals and humans, hampering direct comparisons. Other pathways
of metabolic elimination, such as oxidation and glucuronidation, also occurred, but their contribution to
overall elimination was minimal.

Conclusion::
Besides the pharmacologically non-active metabolite CNS7054, no other clinically significant
metabolite of remimazolam could be identified.
Preparation and Adsorption Properties of Polymer Particles based on N,
N, N', N'-Tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)-1,4-Benzenediamine
Authors: Huang Jian-Yu , Liu Yong , Huang Ting-Hong , Liu Sheng-Zhi , Wu Ai-Ling 
Published: March 2024

Abstract:
Two polymer particles have been prepared by the reaction of N, N, N', N'-tetrakis(4-
aminophenyl)-1,4-benzenediamine, 4, 4-biphenyldialdehyde and isophthalaldehyde, and characterized
by SEM, FTIR and XRD. Based on methylene blue as the model pollutant, the adsorption properties
of two polymer particles have been observed by using different adsorbent dosages, adsorption times
and adsorption temperatures. Experimental data show that the removal rates of methylene blue
wastewater are 74 % for polymer A and 68 % for polymer B, and the removal rates are up to 84% for
polymer A and 74 % for polymer B after photo-catalytic treatment. All these suggest that the adsorption
performance of polymer A is more excellent than that of polymer B. In addition, the methylene
blue adsorption of the two Schiff base products conforms to the Freundlich adsorption isothermal
model.
Development of a Novel Peptide with RGD Tumor Homing Motif: Evaluation of its Anticancer Potential in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Mohamed Reda Abdallah , Marie Ohoud Mohammed , Badran Dahlia Ibrahim , Hammam Olfat Ali , Ahmed Hend Okasha 
Published: March 2024

Background:
Peptide-based therapy has emerged as a promising avenue for
treating various disorders, and recent research has highlighted the potential of anti-cancer
peptides (ACPs) in cancer treatment. In this context, this study aimed to design a novel
peptide incorporating a tumor-homing peptide (RGD) and C-amidation to enhance its anticancer
activity, particularly against liver (HepG2) and colon (HCT-116) cancer cell lines.

Objectives:
The primary objective was to design a peptide with improved anticancer
properties by leveraging the tumor-homing capabilities of RGD and enhancing its activity
through C-amidation. The study sought to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the designed
peptide against red blood cells (RBCs) and normal Vero cells. Furthermore, the anticancer
efficacy of the peptide was assessed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and colon
cancer (HCT-116) cell lines. The specific objectives included examining the apoptotic
induction and morphological changes in treated cells compared to untreated cells.

Methods:
The peptide was designed using the ACPred-FL bioinformatics tool, and its
cytotoxicity was assessed through hemolysis assays against RBCs and normal Vero cells.
Anticancer activity was evaluated against HepG2 and HCT-116 cell lines. The analysis
of apoptotic induction involved measuring the relative gene expression of oncogenic
marker BCL2 and apoptotic markers (BAX, BID, CAS-8). Additionally, Cytopathological
examination and Western Blot analysis were employed to study morphological
changes and confirm the quantification of relevant markers.

Results:
The designed peptide, consisting of twelve amino acids with a molecular mass
of 1230.6233 Da and an isoelectric point of 9.81, exhibited low erythrocyte lysis and
minimal toxicity to normal cells. The IC50 values demonstrated significant anticancer activity
against both HepG2 (36.49±2.6 μg/mL) and HCT-116 (11.03±2.5 μg/mL) cell
lines. Treated cells exhibited a significant decrease in the oncogenic marker BCL2 and an
upregulation of apoptotic markers (BAX, BID, CAS-8). Western Blot analysis confirmed
these results in addition to cytopathological examination that scattered apoptotic and degenerative
changes.

Conclusion:
The designed peptide is considered a patent product that displayed remarkable
anticancer activity against hepatocellular carcinoma and colon cancer cell lines, effectively
modulating apoptotic and oncogenic markers. These findings highlight the potential of the
peptide as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment, emphasizing its clinical significance in
combating liver and colon cancers. Nonetheless, further research and development are warranted
to explore the translational potential of this peptide in clinical studies.
Post-discharge Follow-up Care: Nurses' Experience of Fostering Continuity of Care: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Handiyani Hanny , Kurniawan Moh Heri , Hariyati Rr Tutik Sri , Nuraini Tuti 
Published: March 2024

Background
In contemporary healthcare, ensuring continuity of care beyond hospitalization is imperative for optimizing patient outcomes. Post-discharge Follow-up Care (PFC) has emerged as a crucial component in this endeavor, especially with the integration of virtual platforms.

Objective
This study aims to thoroughly investigate nurses' experiences in providing Post-discharge Follow-up Care (PFC) to improve its implementation.

Methods
A descriptive qualitative study was conducted to explore nurses’ experiences of conducting nurse-led follow-up care. This study was conducted at University Hospital, involving nine nurses with experience in administering PFC. Data were collected through focus group interviews. Thematic analysis was performed to identify recurring patterns and themes within the data.

Results
The thematic analysis yielded four overarching themes: 1) “Caring nurse virtually,” emphasizing nurses' dedication to compassionate virtual care, 2) “Constraints and limitations of continuing care,” highlighting challenges in resource management and coordination, 3) “Continuous documentation and coordination,” underscoring their vital role in seamless patient care, and 4) “Nurses’ expectation of technology features,” showing nurses' hopes for advanced features to enhance PFC.

Conclusion
This study provides deep insights into the experiences of nurses in delivering PFC through virtual platforms. It underscores the significance of maintaining emotional connections with patients, even in a virtual environment. The challenges faced in resource management and coordination highlight areas for potential improvement. Additionally, the study highlights the crucial role of accurate documentation and inter-team coordination in ensuring the continuity and quality of care. The nurses' expectations for technological advancements emphasize the need for ongoing innovation in healthcare delivery. These findings collectively contribute to the ongoing evolution of virtual follow-up care practices, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and experiences beyond the hospital setting.