Maximum Levels Of Activity Research Articles

Effects of altered contractile environment on muscle shape change in the triceps surae.

Skeletal muscles change shape when they contract. Current insights into the effects of shape change on muscle function have primarily come from experiments on isolated muscles operating at maximal activation levels. However, when muscles contract and change shape, the forces they apply onto surrounding muscles will also change. The impact of an altered contractile environment (i.e., mechanical behaviour of surrounding muscle) on muscle shape change, remains unknown. To address this, we altered the mechanical contributions of the gastrocnemii during isometric plantarflexion contractions [via changing knee angle] and determined if there were associated changes in how the muscles of the triceps surae bulged in thickness during a ramped contraction. We combined B-mode ultrasound imaging with surface electromyography to quantify the neuromechanical contributions of the medial (MG) and lateral gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus (SOL) muscles during isometric plantarflexion contractions. Our results demonstrated that at the same SOL activity levels, altering knee angle had no influence on the magnitude of muscle shape change (thickness) in the triceps surae muscles. We observed high levels of inter-individual variability in muscle bulging patterns, particularly in the knee flexed position, suggesting a complex relationship between muscle bulging and activation strategies in the triceps surae, which may be related to differences in muscle mechanical properties between participants or across muscles. Our findings highlight the dynamics of in vivo bulging interactions among muscles within the triceps surae and provide insights for future investigations into the impact of altered contractile environments on three-dimensional muscle deformations and force production.

Подбор параметров экстракции биоактивных веществ из лекарственных растений с применением молочной сыворотки

Due to its natural chemical composition, whey can have both a positive effect on the human body and cause significant harm to the environment. It is rich in organic substances, which creates an additional organic burden on nature. However, whey has good prospects for the food industry as an extractant for the production of plant extracts and biologically active substances. The present research objective was to select optimal parameters for obtaining flavonoids from plant extracts using an unconventional type of extractant, i.e., whey. The study featured whey as an extractant and mixes of medicinal herbs. The resulting extracts were tested for the content of flavonoid compounds by thin-layer chromatography. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the spectrophotometric method. The extraction variables included temperature, extraction time, material-to-extractant ratio, and composition of herbal mixes. The extraction time ranged from 1 to 5 h at 90 ± 1℃. The maximal antioxidant activity belonged to the samples containing 7.5–12.5 g herbal mix and 450 ml whey. The optimal extraction time was 3 h. The content of flavonoids in the plant extracts was comparable and did not depend on the extraction time. Extraction time proved to be the key parameter to intensify the process of flavonoid extraction from plant raw materials. Therefore, the choice was made according to the shortest time with comparable values of flavonoids and the maximal level of antioxidant activity.

Human anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL proteins protect yeast cells from aging induced oxidative stress

Aging is a degenerative, biological, and time-dependent process that affects all organisms. Yeast aging is a physiological phenomenon characterized by the progressive transformation of yeast cells, resulting in modifications to their viability and vitality. Aging in yeast cells is comparable to that in higher organisms in some respects; however, due to their straightforward and well-characterized genetic makeup, these cells present unique advantages when it comes to researching the aging process. Here, we assessed the impact of human anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL proteins on aging using a yeast model. The findings clearly showed that these proteins exhibited remarkable anti-aging properties in yeast cells. Our data indicate that the presence of both proteins enhanced the reproductive survival of aging cells, likely by effecting the components functioning as both pro- and anti-oxidants, depending on the stage of yeast cell lifespan. Both proteins partially protected yeast cells from aging-related morphological deformations and cellular damage during the aging period. In particular, Bcl-xL expressing yeast cells reached the maximum activity levels for almost all of the major antioxidant enzymes and the total antioxidant status on the 8th day of lifespan and could provide effective protection at the latest stage of the investigated aging period. The chemometric data analysis of IR spectra confirmed the findings of the morphological and biochemical analyses. In this regard, specifically, understanding the mechanism of action on the cellular redox state of Bcl-xL in yeast may facilitate comprehension of its indirect antioxidant function in higher eukaryotes.

Impacts of Selenium Supplementation on Soil Mercury Speciation, Soil Properties and Mercury-Resistant Microorganisms and Resistant Genes

Soil mercury (Hg) contamination is a serious threat to local ecology and public health. Exogenous selenium (Se) supplementation can effectively reduce the toxicity of Hg. However, the mechanisms affecting the changes in soil Hg speciation, soil properties and the microbial Hg-resistant system during the Se–Hg interaction after exogenous Se supplementation are not clear. Therefore, in this study, soil culture experiments were conducted to analyze the effects of different Se additions on the transformation of Hg speciation, soil properties and Hg-resistant microorganisms and resistant genes (mer operon). The results indicated that Se supplementation facilitated the transformation of soil Hg from bioavailable (exchangeable and carbonate-bound) to stable forms (organic material-bound and residual), significantly reducing Hg bioavailability. Se supplementation notably decreased the electrical conductivity of Hg-contaminated soil, but had no significant effect on the soil pH, organic matter content, cation exchange capacity or alkaline phosphatase and catalase activities. The maximum activity levels of soil sucrase and urease were observed when 1 mg kg−1 Se was added. Se significantly inhibited soil peroxidase and ascorbate oxidase activities, thereby alleviating the oxidative stress in the soil system caused by Hg. Additionally, Se significantly activated the Hg-resistant system in soil microorganisms by either decreasing or increasing the regulatory genes merD and merR, and it significantly upregulated the cytoplasmic protein gene merP and the membrane protein genes merC, merF and merT. This further increased the abundance of the organomercury lyase gene merB and the mercuric reductase gene merA, promoting the conversion of Hg species to Hg⁰. Furthermore, the abundance of mer operon-containing microorganisms, such as Thiobacillus ferrooxidants, Pseudomonas, Streptomyces and Cryptococcus, significantly increased with Se addition, explaining the role of soil microorganisms in mitigating soil Hg stress via Se supplementation.

Biomechanics‐based study of muscle activation under different driving conditions for Chinese percentiles

AbstractIn this paper, we determined the adjustment levels of the human–machine layout under the preferred driving posture for individuals with different body sizes. We also comparatively analyzed the maximum activation levels of various muscles under straight‐line driving and steering conditions. To increase the accuracy of the results, AnyBody biomechanics software was used to establish a human skeletal muscle mechanics model, which we analyzed for consistency with rig test results. The results showed that people with larger body sizes preferred a driving position with the seat reclined back. Steered driving was associated with a significant (p < .05) increase in the maximum activation of the wrist extensors, serratus anterior, deltoid, and triceps brachii, which are the main force‐generating muscle groups for steered driving, compared with straight driving. Moreover, the measured and simulated results of maximum muscle activation were relatively consistent, with the error between them within a 15% margin. In summary, this study explored the relationship between different driving conditions and preferred driving postures from a biomechanical perspective. A combined experimental and simulation approach was adopted to ensure the reliability of the findings. The insights from this study can inform ergonomic considerations for the comfort and health of Chinese drivers with varying physical characteristics.

Exploring Human-Exoskeleton Interaction Dynamics: An In-Depth Analysis of Knee Flexion-Extension Performance across Varied Robot Assistance-Resistance Configurations.

Knee rehabilitation therapy after trauma or neuromotor diseases is fundamental to restore the joint functions as best as possible, exoskeleton robots being an important resource in this context, since they optimize therapy by applying tailored forces to assist or resist movements, contributing to improved patient outcomes and treatment efficiency. One of the points that must be taken into account when using robots in rehabilitation is their interaction with the patient, which must be safe for both and guarantee the effectiveness of the treatment. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the interaction between humans and an exoskeleton during the execution of knee flexion-extension movements under various configurations of robot assistance and resistance. The evaluation encompassed considerations of myoelectric activity, muscle recruitment, robot torque, and performed movement. To achieve this, an experimental protocol was implemented, involving an individual wearing the exoskeleton and executing knee flexion-extension motions while seated, with the robot configured in five distinct modes: passive (P), assistance on flexion (FA), assistance on extension (EA), assistance on flexion and extension (CA), and resistance on flexion and extension (CR). Results revealed distinctive patterns of movement and muscle recruitment for each mode, highlighting the complex interplay between human and robot; for example, the largest RMS tracking errors were for the EA mode (13.72 degrees) while the smallest for the CR mode (4.47 degrees), a non-obvious result; in addition, myoelectric activity was demonstrated to be greater for the completely assisted mode than without the robot (the maximum activation levels for the vastus medialis and vastus lateralis muscles were more than double those when the user had assistance from the robot). Tracking errors, muscle activations, and torque values varied across modes, emphasizing the need for careful consideration in configuring exoskeleton assistance and resistance to ensure effective and safe rehabilitation. Understanding these human-robot interactions is essential for developing precise rehabilitation programs, optimizing treatment effectiveness, and enhancing patient safety.

Optimization of assay conditions to quantify ECOD activity in vivo in individual Daphnia magna. Assay performance evaluation with model CYP 450 inducers/inhibitors

Screening the activity of the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) mixed function oxidase system in aquatic invertebrates received seldom applications in ecotoxicology due to low baseline enzymatic activities characteristic for these organisms. In this study, an existing in vivo spectrofluorometric assay method based on quantifying the cytochrome P450 mediated conversion of 7-ethocycoumarin (EtC) used as substrate to the product 7-hydroxycoumarin (HCm) called: ethoxycoumarin-O-deethylase (ECOD) activity, initially applicable on pooled samples of Daphnia magna, was optimized for use on individual organisms. Optimal assay conditions have been established for as small as 3- and 6 days old individuals, and the limits of spectrofluorometric detection of HCm excreted by daphnids in the incubation media were defined. The modified assay was tested by screening the modulation of ECOD activity in daphnids following 24 h exposure to β-naphthoflavone (β-NF, reference CYP450 inducer) and to prochloraz (PCZ), a potent CYP450 inhibitor. Maximal ECOD activity levels in daphnids were recorded following 2 hours of incubation to 200 nM EtC. The limit of spectrofluorometric detection of HCm in the incubation media was 6.25 nM, achieved by more than 80% of three days old daphnids and all six days old individuals. Exposure of daphnids to β-NF demonstrated a bell-shaped ECOD activity induction potential, while PCZ elicited partial (60%) inhibition of ECOD activity. This optimized in vivo ECOD activity assay may serve as a cost-effective tool to study the responsiveness of Phase-I metabolism in D. magna to toxic pressure and its applicability to other aquatic invertebrates is also worth for consideration.

Circadian variations of neurotransmitters and cognitive dysfunction

To anticipate and adapt to recurring daily events driven by the earth’s rotation, organisms exhibit regulatory mechanisms designed to control homeostasis under different lighting conditions, called circadian rhythm (CR). The CR represents an endogenous biological network that coordinates 24-hour cycles at the genetic, biochemical, physiological, and behavioral levels. CR control systems transmit timing signals throughout the organism, with all internal processes exhibiting a daily maximum and minimum activity level managed through modulation of neurotransmission in critical neural structures. Knowing the daily variations of neurotransmitter activity in the central nervous system is essential in establishing effective neuroprotection mechanisms. This study summarizes current knowledge on the interplay between circadian rhythm, neurotransmitter fluctuations, and their impact on neuroprotection and mental health.

Biomechanical analysis of lower limbs during stand-to-sit tasks in patients with early-stage knee osteoarthritis.

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative disease among the older people that severely affects their daily life. Previous studies have confirmed that movement biomechanics are altered in patients with KOA during task performance. However, changes that occur in lower limb joints and muscles in the three planes during stand-to-sit (STS) tasks in patients with early-stage KOA are unclear. Method: Of the 36 participants recruited in this study, 24 (8 males and 16 females) and 12 (4 males and 8 females) were added to the KOA and control groups, respectively. The Nexus Vicon motion capture system along with Delsys wireless surface electromyography devices and plantar pressure measurement mat was used to record test data. A Visual 3D software was used to process the data and calculate the biomechanical and electromyographic parameters during STS tasks. Results: There was no significant difference in task duration between the two groups. Patients with KOA could perform a greater range of pelvic motion and smaller range of hip and knee joint motion with a lower maximum hip joint angular acceleration in the sagittal plane and greater knee and ankle joint motion in the coronal plane. There was no significant difference in the motion range in the horizontal plane. During the STS task, patients in the KOA group had a lower vertical ground reaction force (GRF) amplitude on the injured side but a higher integrated GRF on both sides than those in the control group. Moreover, patients with KOA demonstrated higher PERM and PABM of the lower limb joints and smaller knee PADM and ankle PEM. Additionally, maximum activation levels of GMed muscle, affected-side gluteus medius (GM), ST, rectus femoris (RF), and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles were lower in patients with KOA than in controls. Conversely, the activation level of biceps femoris (BF) was higher. Furthermore, the integral EMG values of GMed, GM, ST, VL, RF, vastus medialis VM, and TA muscles on the affected side were lower, except for the BF muscle, in patients with KOA. Conclusion: Compared with the participants in the control group, patients with early-stage KOA exhibited consistent changes in sEMG parameters and biomechanical alterations in the sagittal plane, as observed in previous studies. However, differences in parameters were observed in the coronal and transverse planes of these patients. The noninvasive analysis of the 3D parameters of the involved motion patterns may lead to the early detection of KOA.

Lipase and esterase activity in soils from ancient burial vessels

The activity of lipolytic enzymes was assessed using the microplate method using heteromolecular exchange in soils from the bottom of burial vessels, followed by cluster analysis. Groups with a contrasting ratio of lipases C12 - C18 and esterases C4 - C8 were identified in a sample that included 57 burial pots aged two to three thousand years. The total lipolytic activity of soil samples from dishes with the presumptive initial presence of fat-containing food products was above 6% of the maximum value within the sample. Inhibition of esterases in the presence of high concentrations of fatty acids is reflected in the extremely low relative values of esterase activity of the soil microbial community against the background of maximum activity levels of C18 and C12 lipases in two groups of pots. In three groups, esterase activity was observed against the background of high relative activity of C16 lipases, average relative activity of C18 lipases and extremely low activity of true lipases. In the group of pots with high total lipolytic activity (with the exception of certain extreme values of this indicator), the proportion of true lipase activity was 1.7-1.8 times higher compared to the proportion of esterase activity. The grouping of burial vessels by the ratio of lipase and esterase activity reflects the characteristics of the funeral food, while the absolute values of enzyme activity among selected vessels with the highest total lipolytic activity are grouped according to the type of burial.

Optimization and Characterization of Phenolic Extraction Conditions and Antioxidant Activity Evaluation of Adenanthera pavonina L. Bark.

The presence of high levels of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants can significantly influence the progress of drug development. Here, we aimed to maximize phenolic extraction from Adenanthera pavonina L. stem bark using various solvents such as ethyl acetate, methanol, petroleum ether, and chloroform. A response surface method (RSM) with a central composite design (CCD) statistical technique was applied to optimize the extraction process, employing three important extracting parameters such as extraction time (h), temperature (°C), and solvent composition (% v/v of methanol/water) to obtain the highest phenolic content. Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (IC50 of extract's DPPH radical scavenging activity) were used as response variables to find the influence of these extracting parameters. Among the various solvents used, methanol extract showed the highest contents of phenolics and the maximum level of antioxidant activity with a lower IC50 value. The notable TPC and IC50 value of the extract's DPPH radical scavenging capacity were found to be 181.69 ± 0.20 mg GAE/g dry tissue and 60.13 ± 0.11 mg/mL, respectively, under the optimal conditions with a solvent composition of 71.61% (v/v) of methanol/water, extraction temperature of 42.52 °C, and extraction time of 24 h. The optimized extract of A. pavonina stem bark was further subjected to HPLC analysis, where six phenolic compounds, including coumarin, p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, sinapic acid, gallic acid, and caffeic acid, were identified along with their respective quantities. Overall, the findings of this study uncover a low-cost analytical model for maximizing phenolic extraction from A. pavonina bark with enhanced antioxidant activity.

Quantitative System Pharmacology Modeling of the Effect of Recombinant ADAMTS13 on Platelets in Patients with Congenital Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Background: Congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (cTTP) is an ultra-rare, thrombotic microangiopathy due to an inherited deficiency of the von Willebrand factor (VWF)-cleaving protease, ADAMTS13.Accumulation of ultra-large VWF multimers increases blood clot formation in small blood vessels, leading to a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia). Treatment of cTTP consists of ADAMTS13 replacement with infusions of plasma-based therapies (PBT). Recombinant ADAMTS13 (rADAMTS13; Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc., Lexington, MA, USA) is in development for patients with cTTP.The ultra-rare nature of cTTP limits the sample size for a formally powered study to assess the impact of ADAMTS13 supplementation on efficacy outcome. This study was a proof-of-principle that model-based clinical trial simulations can be used to supplement clinical trial data in ultra-rare indications. Aims: To calibrate and validate a quantitative system pharmacology (QSP) model describing a mechanistic relationship between ADAMTS13, VWF and platelet numbers in patients with cTTP who received long-term prophylaxis with rADAMTS13 or PBT (fresh frozen or solvent/detergent treated plasma). In addition, to evaluate the treatment benefits of rADAMTS13 versus PBT using clinical trial simulations in virtual patients with cTTP as a supplement to the cTTP phase 3 study (NCT03393975) data. Methods: A QSP model was built using i) in vitro enzyme kinetic data and preclinical experimental data following administration of recombinant VWF and rADAMTS13 in ADAMTS13 knockout (KO) mice, and ii) data from the literature including platelet count and VWF activity from healthy human and untreated patients with cTTP. These data were used to calibrate the parameters corresponding to interactions between ADAMTS13 activity, VWF activity, and platelets. The model was validated against literature data from patients with cTTP treated with PBT and with data from a phase 2 study of patients with immune-mediated TTP treated with rADAMTS13 (NCT03922308). The model was then calibrated to longitudinal platelet data from the cTTP phase 3 study, in which patients with cTTP received prophylaxis for 6 months with PBT (exposure equivalent to ~10 IU/kg ADAMTS13 in the form of 10-20 mL/kg doses) and rADAMTS13 (40 IU/kg) either once every week (Q1W) or once every 2 weeks (Q2W) dosing intervals . The model was used to provide 1-year clinical trial simulations of isolated thrombocytopenia occurrences in a population of 1,000 virtual patients, phenotype-matched to patients in the cTTP phase 3 study. Results:Virtual clinical trial simulations using the QSP model suggested that rADAMTS13 administered over 1 year with a Q1W or Q2W schedule results in significantly fewer patients experiencing occurrences of thrombocytopenia (platelet count threshold of <150 x 10 9/L) compared to patients treated with PBT (hazard ratio [HR] relative to Q2W PBT: Q1W PBT, HR = 0.62; Q2W rADAMTS13, HR = 0.47; Q1W rADAMTS13, HR = 0.18). The treatment difference between rADAMTS13 and PBT was even more pronounced when a thrombocytopenia threshold of <100 x 10 9/L was used (Figure and Table). Simulations also predicted a prophylactic carry-over effect on platelets, with approximately 20 days taken to reach 90% of the long-term average platelet count when switching from rADAMTS13 to PBT or from PBT to rADAMTS13. A correlation analysis for a Q2W dosing of rADAMTS13 demonstrated that ADAMTS13 trough activity (C trough, Spearman ρ = 0.96) and time with ADAMTS13 activity above 10% (Spearman ρ = 0.93) showed stronger correlations with increased platelet count than the maximum plasma ADAMTS13 activity level (C max, Spearman ρ = 0.68). A correlation analysis for a Q1W dosing frequency produced similar results.Mean time above 10% ADAMTS13 activity was higher following rADAMTS13 versus PBT administration (5.2 vs 1.7 days). Conclusions: This model-based virtual clinical trial simulation predicts that dosing with rADAMTS13 would provide >50% reduction in the HR of thrombocytopenia occurrences over PBT. Patients may also have a higher level of protection for 2-3 weeks when switching from rADAMTS13 to PBT. These findings supplement the assessment of clinical benefit of rADAMTS13 in the cTTP phase 3 study and show that increased ADAMTS13 activity following rADAMTS13 administration is likely to reduce occurrences of thrombocytopenia in cTTP.

Return to Alpine Sport and Physical Activity After First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Sports Introduction/Purpose: First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthrodesis is an effective procedure to alleviate pain and correct deformity. The unique location of our academic center allows us to study an extremely active patient population with high rates of participation in impact sports and particularly alpine specific sports, including Nordic and alpine skiing, snowboarding, hiking, trail running and biking. There is limited literature regarding these specific activities with regards to a 1st MTP arthrodesis. The goal of the study is to better define the ability to return to physical activity, with a focus on alpine and mountain sports. This will help physicians counsel patients appropriately when discussing surgical options. Methods: Patients over 18 years old who underwent MTP arthrodesis with minimum 1 year follow up were identified using CPT code 27850. Patients undergoing concomitant forefoot and hindfoot procedures were excluded. Demographic data and complications were recorded by retrospective chart review. A custom sports questionnaire, PROMIS Physical Function (PF), PROMIS Pain Interference (PI), and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores were administered to patients. Postoperative radiographs were analyzed for time to union and fusion position. Results: 96 patients were eligible for analysis. Preliminarily, 34 have completed the follow-up survey. Most common activities were walking, hiking, alpine skiing, biking and running. Compared to preoperatively, patients rated 70.5% of activities as less difficult, 20.5% as the same, and 9.0% as more difficult. 74% of patients returned to their activities by 6 months and 62% of patients reached their maximum level of activity by 9 months postoperatively. Patients who participated in skiing/snowboarding were all able to ski the same level of terrain compared to before surgery, but nearly half (46%) of patients required boot modifications. 43% of patients were able to increase incline when hiking/trail running, and 48% of patients were able to increase their running/walking mileage. Average PROMIS PF was 51.9 (±6.20). Conclusion: Patients are able to participate in a variety of high impact and alpine related sports after 1st MTP arthrodesis. The majority of patients are able to function at similar or increased levels when returning to hiking, walking, skiing and snowboarding. Up to 25% of patients may not reach maximum level of activity until 1 year postoperatively. Additional investigation is required to identify potential risk factors for patients that may experience difficulty returning to activity. Continued survey participation is underway to strengthen these results. Patient counseling on activity participation following hallux MTP arthrodesis is important to optimize outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Construction of hybrid sulfur-doped MOF-235@g-C3N4 photocatalyst for the efficient removal of nicotine

Nicotine has inevitably been discharged into the environment either directly or as industrial effluent due to the widespread use of nicotine-based products worldwide. Its potential toxicity and irreversible impact on human health have made it a massive global issue. Presently, magnetic sulfur doped metal–organic framework-235 has been synthesized with iron terephthalate using the solvothermal approach and successfully applied as a photocatalyst for the elimination of nicotine. An array of techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed to evaluate the photocatalyst Ni-Mo.S2/MOF-235@g-C3N4, Mo.S2/MOF-235@g-C3N4, Ni.S2/MOF-235@g-C3N4, Ni-Mo.S2/MOF-235 nanocomposites. Studies also showed that Ni.S2 and Mo.S2 overlaid on the main precursor MOF-235@g-C3N4 produced a greater number of active sites and an appreciable rise in photocatalytic activity when exposed to visible light. A noticeable increase in absorbance was seen at the heterojunction of MOF-235@g-C3N4 and bimetallic sulfides (Ni.S2, Mo.S2) as compared to simple MOF-235. The experimental results proved that Ni-Mo.S2/MOF-235@g-C3N4 had the maximum level of catalytic activity while eliminating 98 % of the sample in 60 min. It was significantly greater than the corresponding value of pure Ni-Mo.S2@MOF-235 bimetallic sulfide photocatalyst. Additionally, first-order kinetics is evident according to kinetic studies, where R2 = 0.920. The enhancement of photocatalytic activity by Ni-Mo.S2/MOF-235@g-C3N4 was attributed to an increased surface area and porosity, enhanced absorption of light and a narrowing of band gap from 2.26 to 2.16 eV. A significant amount of stability and recyclability were also displayed by the composite during the course of three consecutive cycles of photocatalytic nicotine degradation. Only a minor change occurred during the fourth and fifth cycles, with a negligible weight loss. The experimental findings demonstrated that a sustainable rise in the quantity of photo generated electron/hole pairs (e−/h+) was likewise associated with enrichment in light absorption intensity. A photo-catalytic mechanism for accelerated nicotine photodegradation has actually been linked to the active species (O2•−) and (OH•). This study expands the application of MOF-235@g-C3N4, which exhibits tremendous capacity for environmental purification and serves as a reference when creating composites of g-C3N4 photocatalyst.

Immobilization of microbial multienzyme preparation on calcium alginate beads as well as lyophilization with mosambi peel matrix improved its shelf-life and stability.

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the functional activity and storage viability (at 4°C and 35°C) of an immobilized as well as lyophilized multienzyme, viz., pectinase, cellulase, and amylase (PCA) that was produced by Bacillus subtilis NG105 under solid state fermentation (SSF) at 35 ℃ for 10days using mosambi peel as a substrate. After SSF, the culture media was divided into two aliquots. From the first aliquot, the produced ME was extracted, precipitated, and further immobilized on calcium alginate beads (MEICA). In order to immobilize on mosambi peel matrix, the second aliquot was mixed with acetone and subsequently lyophilized (MELMP). Thus, ready MEICA and MELMP extracted 87.5 and 91.5% juice from mango pulp, respectively. In the reusability study, after 5 cycles, MEICA exhibited 23.8%, 24.4%, and 36.5% PCA activity, respectively. The PCA activity of MEICA and MELMP was examined after 60days of storage at 4 ℃. The result revealed that the PCA for MEICA declined from 100 to 66%, 58.2%, and 64.5%, respectively, while for MELMP, it dropped from 100 to 84.2%, 82.1%, and 69.7%, respectively. Further, after 60days of storage, the reduction of total protein content (TPC) in free multienzyme (FME), MEICA, and MELMP was 92.2%, 91.5%, and 36.3% observed, respectively. In the localization study, the maximum levels of multienzyme activity were found in cell exudates. This study demonstrated that immobilizing of multienzyme through lyophilization on waste substrates like mosambi peel boosted its stability and shelf-life along with greatly reducing the cost of products.

Amyloid Beta Peptides Lead to Mast Cell Activation in a Novel 3D Hydrogel Model.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease and the world's primary cause of dementia among the elderly population. The aggregation of toxic amyloid-beta (Aβ) is one of the main pathological hallmarks of the AD brain. Recently, neuroinflammation has been recognized as one of the major features of AD, which involves a network of interactions between immune cells. The mast cell (MC) is an innate immune cell type known to serve as a first responder to pathological changes and crosstalk with microglia and neurons. Although an increased number of mast cells were found near the sites of Aβ deposition, how mast cells are activated in AD is not clear. We developed a 3D culture system to culture MCs and investigated the activation of MCs by Aβ peptides. Because collagen I is the major component of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the brain, we encapsulated human LADR MCs in gels formed by collagen I. We found that 3D-cultured MCs survived and proliferated at the same level as MCs in suspension. Additionally, they can be induced to secrete inflammatory cytokines as well as MC proteases tryptase and chymase by typical MC activators interleukin 33 (IL-33) and IgE/anti-IgE. Culturing with peptides Aβ1-42, Aβ1-40, and Aβ25-35 caused MCs to secrete inflammatory mediators, with Aβ1-42 inducing the maximum level of activation. These data indicate that MCs respond to amyloid deposition to elicit inflammatory responses and demonstrate the validity of collagen gel as a model system to investigate MCs in a 3D environment to understand neuroinflammation in AD.

Research on the Influence of Exoskeletons on Human Characteristics by Modeling and Simulation Using the AnyBody Modeling System

Lower limb-powered exoskeletons can help rehabilitate patients with lower limb disabilities. However, the changes in the biomechanical load on the human body when exoskeletons are used are still poorly understood. The goal of this study was to investigate the changes in kinematic and biomechanical parameters of the lower extremity exoskeleton when worn by normal subjects and patients with unilateral motor impairment using a virtual prototype. The effect of wearing the exoskeleton on gait was derived, and the basis for exoskeleton optimization was given. Virtual prototyping is a cost-effective method to validate the performance of exoskeleton robots. Therefore, two models, a human-exoskeleton model and an asymmetric movement disorder (SSP) subject-exoskeleton model, were developed in AnyBody software for this study. The human-exoskeleton model was driven by the kinematic data of 20 healthy participants walking in an exoskeleton at normal speed (3.6 km/h). As a comparison, the SSP subject-exoskeleton model was driven by data from five SSP subjects walking in an exoskeleton. The experimental results show that after wearing the lower limb exoskeleton, the walking gait satisfies the normal human gait characteristics, but some of the muscle forces suddenly increase. The maximum activation level does not exceed 1, which means that the exoskeleton does not cause muscle damage or fatigue in a short period of time. In both models, the vertical ground reaction force (GRF) Z correlation was the strongest (R > 0.90). The center of pressure (COP) X trajectory correlation was the weakest (R < 0.35). These findings will support the study of the effects of exoskeletal optimization. Also, some gait characteristics of exoskeletons worn by patients with unilateral dyskinesia can be initially explored.

HEART RATE VARIABILITY AS A MARKER OF MAXIMUM PHYSICAL LOAD IN PEOPLE WITH OBESITY

Introduction. Heart rate variability (HRV) and the autonomic nervous system are essential indicators of assessing the body's functional state. Physical activity and obesity, which are current problems of modern society, affect these indicators, but research on the relationship between them is limited.
 Purpose: to determine the maximum level of physical activity in obese people in the preoperative period.
 Materials and methods. A group of obese individuals who were scheduled for weight loss surgery were involved. The participants performed special tests and physical exercises that allowed them to determine their maximum level of physical exertion. Using a step test, which included walk-up stairs to complete exhaustion, indicators of heart rate variability, heart rate, and recovery time after exercise were recorded.
 Results. Based on the analysis of the obtained data, it was established that overweight patients can tolerate a high level of physical exertion without significant changes in heart rate variability and blood pressure. At the same time, in obese patients, there is a decrease in exercise tolerance and heart rate variability, which requires introducing a safe level of physical activity into preoperative preparation with monitoring of the patient's general well-being.
 Conclusion. Obese people are characterized by a low level of physical activity, which complicates preoperative preparation and prolongs its duration

Performance of the IRI-2016 and IRI-Plas 2020 considering Mg II as EUV solar proxy

To assess upper atmosphere parameters, current models use different variables to account for solar activity levels. Studies that evaluate the most recent solar cycles have shown that when dealing with the ionospheric F2 layer, and in particular with foF2, the Mg II index is a better choice than other solar activity proxies to account for solar EUV variation. The International Reference Ionosphere, version 2016 (IRI-2016), a model widely used by the scientific community, uses the Ionosonde Global (IG) index to assess foF2. A most recent and expanded version, IRI-Plas, allows selecting a solar activity proxy among 7 options including IG and Mg II. In the present work, the performance of IRI considering Mg II to assess foF2 is analyzed, comparing three modeling cases: IRI-2016 with its default solar activity index (IG), IRI-2016 with Mg II instead of IG, and IRI-Plas choosing Mg II as the solar proxy option. This model comparison was evaluated in terms of their agreement with measured foF2 data from four stations located in Japan (Northern Hemisphere), and four in Australia (Southern Hemisphere). Monthly medians for the 24 h, along two periods of three years were considered: 2000–2002 and 2008–2010, which correspond to epochs of maximum and minimum solar activity levels, respectively. Based on goodness-of-fit statistics, our results show that in the case of IRI-2016, the Mg II implementation does not reveal a significant improvement for foF2 assessment, and the IRI-Plas performance with the Mg II option is only slightly better than the other two options. Dispersion diagrams between measured and modeled foF2 also evince a similar performance between the three models. All models show the same over- and underestimation patterns, except in the nighttime case during the minimum activity level period for both Australian and Japanese stations where IRI-Plas outperforms the other two model options. The comparable performances of the three options might be attributed to a stronger variation in the evaluated periods which could be related to seasonal changes rather than to solar EUV proxies. Future studies considering time series over several years, covering at least a complete solar activity cycle, are required to determine stronger model performance differences.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICE METHODOLOGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF INNOVATIVE HROMADAS: GENERAL IDEA AND EXAMPLE OF SMART CITY INFRASTRUCTURE

The purpose of the study is the development of analytical tools and organizational and economic mechanisms for the post-war restoration of sustainable development of territories based on the infrastructural and service methodology of the development of innovative hromadas as a basis for ensuring the well-being of local hromadas to avoid the social, environmental and economic problems of war and their approval within the framework of pilot infrastructural and service projects. Methodology. The research is based on the approach of R. Jochimsen, who, in one of the first system descriptions, defined infrastructure as a set of material (production), institutional and individual conditions available to economic agents, which condition integration and the maximum level of economic activity. It is also worth considering the idea that the main differences of the neo-industrial paradigm of local hromada development lie in competent participation based on self-organization, multisubjectivity and decentralization of social relations based on cooperation and communicative equality, and the orientation of society towards the realization of human potential. Innovative hromadas correspond to these trends and provide an effective solution to the primary task of the service-oriented system, which consists in the development of a service policy capable of ensuring the inclusion of existing resources and functional potential of territories to ensure dynamic, balanced, complex socio-economic development. The infrastructure-service approach includes the maximum satisfaction of human needs and desires, as well as the creation of working and living conditions, and aims to meet the needs of the hromada by attracting and retaining human resources through the development of services and infrastructure. Practical implications. The results of the research have applied socio-economic significance and are aimed at solving the important problem of post-war restoration of sustainable development of territories through the design of service provision and use of resource potential of local innovative hromadas. The main result of the application of the developed methodology is the scientific substantiation of the organizational and economic support for the post-war restoration of the sustainable development of territories based on the infrastructure-service methodology of the development of innovative hromadas and the development of the corresponding analytical toolkit, which will allow its adaptive use within the framework of intelligent specialization. Scientific and methodological approaches will be developed to determine the role of infrastructure and service clusters for the well-being of hromadas, based on a consideration of their impact on human capital and its components. Value/originality. Compared to existing analogues, the proposed approach is systemic, takes into account the specifics of innovative activity and covers the entire range of tasks for managing infrastructure and service factors of sustainable development.