Adhesion Potential Research Articles

Development of a Limosilactobacillus reuteri therapeutic delivery platform with reduced colonization potential.

Bacterial biotherapeutic delivery vehicles have the potential to treat a variety of diseases. This approach obviates the need to purify the recombinant effector molecule, allows delivery of therapeutics in situ via oral or intranasal administration, and protects the effector molecule during gastrointestinal transit. Lactic acid bacteria have been broadly developed as therapeutic delivery vehicles though risks associated with the colonization of a genetically modified microorganism have so-far not been addressed. Here, we present an engineered Limosilactobacillus reuteri strain with reduced colonization potential. We applied a dual-recombineering scheme for efficient barcoding and generated mutants in genes encoding five previously characterized and four uncharacterized putative adhesins. Compared with the wild type, none of the mutants were reduced in their ability to survive gastrointestinal transit in mice. CmbA was identified as a key protein in L. reuteri adhesion to HT-29 and enteroid cells. The nonuple mutant, a single strain with all nine genes encoding adhesins inactivated, had reduced capacity to adhere to enteroid monolayers. The nonuple mutant producing murine IFN-β was equally effective as its wild-type counterpart in mitigating radiation toxicity in mice. Thus, this work established a novel therapeutic delivery platform that lays a foundation for its application in other microbial therapeutic delivery candidates and furthers the progress of the L. reuteri delivery system towards human use.IMPORTANCEOne major advantage to leverage gut microbes that have co-evolved with the vertebrate host is that evolution already has taken care of the difficult task to optimize survival within a complex ecosystem. The availability of the ecological niche will support colonization. However, long-term colonization of a recombinant microbe may not be desirable. Therefore, strategies need to be developed to overcome this potential safety concern. In this work, we developed a single strain in which we inactivated the encoding sortase, and eight genes encoding characterized/putative adhesins. Each individual mutant was characterized for growth and adhesion to epithelial cells. On enteroid cells, the nonuple mutant has a reduced adhesion potential compared with the wild-type strain. In a model of total-body irradiation, the nonuple strain engineered to release murine interferon-β performed comparable to a derivative of the wild-type strain that releases interferon-β. This work is an important step toward the application of recombinant L. reuteri in humans.

Impact of Biofilms on Surface Properties of Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Resins.

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) resins are widely used in medical and dental applications. Their susceptibility to bacterial biofilm formation poses significant challenges related to material degradation and infection risk. This study investigated the effects of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilms on PMMA resin surface properties over a 45-day period at 35°C. The study examined various parameters including biofilm adhesion, morphology, surface roughness, hydrophobicity, solid fraction, and zeta potential. PMMA resin specimens were inoculated with bacteria and incubated for 45 days. Biofilm adhesion was visually assessed, while surface characterization was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), roughness analysis, contact angle measurements, solid fraction determination, and zeta potential analysis. The P. aeruginosa and S. aureus isolates were selected based on their biofilm-positive characteristics, which were further confirmed using Congo red and biofilm formation assays through crystal violet staining and spectrophotometric analysis. The results demonstrated robust biofilm adhesion on PMMA surfaces. SEM and AFM imaging revealed textured surfaces with elevated structures and depressions within the biofilm matrix. Biofilm-exposed resins exhibited significantly increased roughness (Ra = 164.5 nm, Rq = 169.5 nm) and hydrophobicity (mean angle = 85.5°-90.5°) compared to control samples (Ra = 38-50 nm, angle = 55°). Solid fraction measurements indicated a denser biofilm matrix on exposed resins (0.908) compared to controls (0.65). Additionally, zeta potential values were more negative for biofilm-exposed resins (mean = -84.2 mV) than controls (-45.0 mV). These findings underscore the substantial alterations in PMMA resin surface properties induced by bacterial biofilms, emphasizing the critical need for strategies to prevent biofilm formation and mitigate associated risks in healthcare settings. Future research should focus on developing anti-biofilm coatings or treatments to preserve the integrity and functionality of PMMA materials.

Corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of magnesium alloy with bioactive glass-reinforced hydrogel composite coatings

Magnesium (Mg) alloy is a promising candidate for biodegradable implants; however, its rapid degradation can create an unstable physiological environment that hampers tissue regeneration. To address this challenge, a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel composite reinforced with bioactive glass (BG) particles was developed as a coating for Mg alloy pellets, which underwent laser surface texturing (LST) and salting-out processes. results demonstrate that these treatments significantly enhance both the adhesiveness and swelling of the hydrogel coating. Notably, electrochemical corrosion assessments reveal a marked improvement in corrosion resistance, with the Mg–B1-L-S specimen exhibiting the highest performance after salting-out treatment. Electrochemical corrosion assessments revealed a significant enhancement in corrosion resistance for Mg alloy with the hydrogel coating, with the Mg–B1-L-S specimen showing superior performance following salting-out treatment. Immersion tests in simulated body fluid (SBF) confirmed the protective effect of the coatings, indicating that the addition of BG particles and salting-out treatment reduced mass loss and maintained pH stability. Biocompatibility evaluations through in vitro viability tests and osteogenic differentiation assays indicate that the Mg–B1-L and Mg–B1-L-S specimens exhibit superior cell activity, surface adhesion, and osteogenic potential. These findings highlight the effectiveness of PVA-BG hydrogel composite coatings in enhancing the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of Mg alloy implants, positioning this approach as a significant advancement in the development of biodegradable materials for biomedical applications.

Recycling of collagen from solid tannery waste and prospective utilization as adhesives.

Abstract This study explores the innovative potential of recycled collagen derived from tannery waste for use in high-performance adhesive formulations. The leather industry generates significant amounts of solid waste, primarily from chromium-tanned leather, which poses substantial environmental challenges. Recent advancements in recycling techniques have opened new avenues for repurposing this waste, particularly through collagen extraction, which comprises about 30-35% of tannery residues. This research systematically reviews the methods and applications of collagen extraction, highlighting the material’s versatility and environmental benefits when used as a bio-adhesive. The review identifies key challenges such as low water resistance, shear strength, and adhesiveness in collagen-based adhesives compared to synthetic counterparts. However, innovative solutions are emerging, including the incorporation of silane coupling agents and cross-linking technologies that significantly improve the water resistance and mechanical properties of these adhesives. Economic analyses further support the viability of using tannery waste-derived collagen in adhesive production, aligning with global sustainability goals and reducing reliance on petrochemical-based adhesives. Despite these advancements, the transition from laboratory research to commercial applications remains a significant challenge. Current studies primarily focus on small-scale experiments, with limited pilot-scale studies available. Nonetheless, the potential for collagen-based adhesives to replace harmful chemicals in industrial applications is promising, especially in sectors requiring biodegradable and non-toxic materials. This review concludes that while significant progress has been made, further research is necessary to overcome existing limitations and fully realize the commercial potential of collagen-based adhesives derived from tannery waste.

Designing the regularity of biodegradable copolyester for sustainable hot-melt adhesives: Adhesion, removability, and biodegradability

Recent research has increased in eco-friendly hot-melt adhesives as alternatives to conventional commercial hot-melt adhesives. However, there have been limitations in terms of removability and biodegradability. This study addresses these issues by designing a novel molecular structure for a single polymer, resulting in a sustainable hot-melt adhesive that offers strong adhesion, clear removability, and high biodegradability without additional additives. By varying the ratio of alcohol monomers 1,4-butanediol (BD) and ethylene glycol (EG) during polymerization, we synthesized poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate-co-ethylene adipate-co-ethylene terephthalate) (PBEAT) with four block segments. We increased the open time by reducing the regularity of the molecular structure, controlling crystallization behavior, and inhibiting polymer chain packing. This improvement in wettability with the adherend allowed us to achieve a lap shear adhesion strength of 3.18 MPa. Additionally, we proposed a debonding mechanism based on the correlation between the crystallization temperature (Tc) block copolymer's and shear adhesion failure temperature (SAFT), demonstrating the removability of the prepared hot-melt adhesive. Finally, analyses of hydrolysis, enzymatic degradation, and biodegradation in compost confirmed that reduced crystallinity enhances biodegradability. PBE30AT, exhibiting the strongest adhesion strength, achieves complete degradation in compost within 20 days, faster than neat poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT). This research offers a novel and practical approach to enhancing the potential and expandability of sustainable adhesives by tailoring the molecular structure of the polymer.

Structural Properties of Globulin: A Critical Parameter for Sunflower Meal as Wood Panel Adhesives.

Alternative biobased adhesive formulations are currently being investigated to replace urea-formaldehyde (UF) as wood panel adhesives. In this regard, oilseed meals are valuable alternatives, as it is anticipated that the sticky potential of these meals is linked to their protein content. This work focuses on the protein parameters (primary and/or secondary structures) that could impact the adhesiveness of sunflower meals. The proteins contained in these meals were first separated from the other components and identified using electrophoresis. Oilseed meals contain several families of proteins: globulins, albumins, prolamins, and oleosins. Sunflower meal is mainly composed of globulin (53%) and albumin (45%). The protein structures have then been either oxidized with H2O2 (in the presence or not of NaOH) or physically treated by microwave (MW). The oxidation treatment cleaves the protein backbone and creates smaller peptides, while the MW process converts α-helices into random coils. The adhesive potential of these treated proteins was evaluated by using shear tests onto wood panels. The results demonstrate that the primary and secondary structures of globulins are key parameters toward the sunflower protein meal adhesivity.

Impact of hydrophobic and hydrophilic surface properties on Pseudomonas aeruginosa adhesion in materials used in mineral water wells

Microbiologically contaminated water is a significant source of infections in humans and animals, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PSA) being particularly concerning due to its ability to thrive in water environments and its resistance to many disinfectants. Therefore, this study investigates the adhesion potential of PSA strains on various materials used in mineral water extraction wells, focusing on hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties. Mineral water samples were collected from three wells (P-01, P-07, and P-08) within the Guarani Aquifer System and Fractured Aquifer System (SAF) in Brazil. The physicochemical properties of the water, including concentrations of Sr (strontium), Fe (iron), Si (silicon), SO4 2− (sulfate ions), Cl− (chloride ions), and ORP (oxidation-reduction potential), were analyzed. Results indicated higher PSA adhesion on hydrophobic materials, particularly high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and geomechanically plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Multiple correlation analyses revealed positive correlations between PSA adhesion on hydrophilic materials and Sr, Fe, Si, SO4 2−, and Cl− concentrations. Conversely, ORP negatively correlated with bacterial adhesion on PVC surfaces, suggesting higher ORP values reduced PSA attachment. These findings highlight the importance of water composition and material properties in influencing bacterial adhesion and potential biofilm formation in mineral water extraction systems.

Strain-Dependent Adhesion Variations of Shouchella clausii Isolated from Healthy Human Volunteers: A Study on Cell Surface Properties and Potential Probiotic Benefits.

The probiotic potential of Shouchella clausii is widely recognized, but little is known about its adhesive properties. Hence, this study aims to investigate the adhesion potential and cell surface properties of four human-origin S. clausii strains (B619/R, B603/Nb, B106, and B637/Nm). We evaluated epithelial adhesion, Extracellular Matrix (ECM) binding, aggregation ability, and cell surface hydrophobicity and used genome analysis for validation. Our results demonstrate that adhesion capability is a strain-specific attribute, with significant variations observed among the four strains. B619/R, B603/Nb, and B106 displayed stronger adhesion properties than B637/Nm. Supplementary adhesion assays showed that B637/Nm displayed high hydrophobicity, significant auto-aggregation, and significant mucin-binding abilities. Conversely, B619/R, B603/Nb, and B106 had mildly hydrophobic surfaces and low aggregation abilities. Genome annotation revealed the presence of various adhesion proteins in four strains. Notably, the reduced adhesion potential of B637/Nm was supported by the absence of the cell wall surface anchor family protein (LPxTG motif), which is crucial for interactions with intestinal epithelial cells or mucus components. Further, docking studies provided insights into the interaction of adhesion proteins with gut mucins. These findings contribute to a better understanding of how S. clausii strains interact with the gut environment, facilitating the development of probiotic formulations tailored for improved gut health and well-being.

Development of an in-situ forming collagen-based hydrogel as a regenerative bioadhesive for corneal perforations

Corneal injuries play a significant role in global visual impairment, underscoring the demand for innovative biomaterials with specific attributes such as adhesion, cohesion, and regenerative potential. In this study, we have developed a biocompatible bioadhesive for corneal reconstruction. Derived from Collagen type I, naturally present in human corneal stromal tissue, the bioadhesive was cross-linked with modified polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA-DOPA), rendering it curable through visible light exposure and exhibiting superior adhesion to biological tissues even in wet conditions. The physicochemical characteristics of the proposed bioadhesive were customized by manipulating the concentration of its precursor polymers and adjusting the duration of photocrosslinking. To identify the optimal sample with maximum adhesion, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility, characterization tests were conducted. The optimal specimen, consisting of 30 % (w/v) PEGDA-DOPA and cured with visible light for 5 min, exhibited commendable adhesive strength of 783.6 kPa and shear strength of 53.7 kPa, surpassing that of commercialized eye adhesives.Additionally, biocompatibility test results indicated a notably high survival rate (>100 %) of keratocytes seeded on the hydrogel adhesive after 7 days of incubation. Consequently, this designed bioadhesive, characterized by high adhesion strength, robust mechanical strength, and excellent biocompatibility, is anticipated to enhance the spontaneous repair process of damaged corneal stromal tissue.

Two Methods Based on Integral Equation Approaches in Analyzing Polyelectrolyte Solutions: Macrophase Separation.

To understand the phase behaviors of polyelectrolyte solutions, we provide two analytical methods to formulate a molecular equation of state for a system of fully charged polyanions (PAs) and polycations (PCs) in a monomeric neutral component, based on integral equation theories. The mixture is treated in a primitive and restricted manner. The first method utilizes Blum's approach to charged hard spheres, incorporating the chain connectivity contribution by charged spheres via Stell's cavity function method. The second method employs Wertheim's multi-density Ornstein-Zernike treatment of charged hard spheres with Baxter's adhesive potential. The pressures derived from these methods are compared to available molecular dynamics simulations data for a solution of PAs and monomeric counterions as a limiting case. Two-phase equilibrium for the system is calculated using both methods to evaluate the relative strength of phase segregation that leads to complex coacervation. Additionally, the scaling exponents for a selected solution near its critical point are examined.

Leveraging thiol-functionalized biomucoadhesive hybrid nanoliposome for local therapy of ulcerative colitis

Directly administering medication to inflamed intestinal sites for treating ulcerative colitis (UC), poses significant challenges like retention time, absorption variability, side effects, drug stability, and non-specific delivery. Recent advancements in therapy to treat colitis aim to improve local drug availability that is enema therapy at the site of inflammation, thereby reducing systemic adverse effects. Nevertheless, a key limitation lies in enemas' inability to sustain medication in the colon due to rapid peristaltic movement, diarrhea, and poor local adherence. Therefore, in this work, we have developed site-specific thiolated mucoadhesive anionic nanoliposomes to overcome the limitations of conventional enema therapy. The thiolated delivery system allows prolonged residence of the delivery system at the inflamed site in the colon, confirmed by the adhesion potential of thiolated nanoliposomes using in-vitro and in-vivo models. To further provide therapeutic efficacy thiolated nanoliposomes were loaded with gallic acid (GA), a natural compound known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and potent anti-inflammatory properties. Consequently, Gallic Acid-loaded Thiolated 2,6 DALP DMPG (GATh@APDL) demonstrates the potential for targeted adhesion to the inflamed colon, facilitated by their small size 100 nm and anionic nature. Therapeutic studies indicate that this formulation offers protective effects by mitigating colonic inflammation, downregulating the expression of NF-κB, HIF-1α, and MMP-9, and demonstrating superior efficacy compared to the free GA enema. The encapsulated GA inhibits the NF-κB expression, leading to enhanced expression of MUC2 protein, thereby promoting mucosal healing in the colon. Furthermore, GATh@APDL effectively reduces neutrophil infiltration and regulates immune cell quantification in colonic lamina propria. Our findings suggest that GATh@APDL holds promise for alleviating UC and addressing the limitations of conventional enema therapy.

Design Characteristics of a Neoteric, Superhydrophilic, Mechanically Robust Hydrogel Engineered To Limit Fouling in the Ocular Environment.

Current challenges with ocular drug delivery and the chronic nature of many ocular ailments render the use of traditional ocular devices for additional drug delivery purposes very attractive. To achieve this feat, there is the need to develop biomaterials that are biocompatible, mechanically robust for ocular applications, highly transparent (depending on the targeted ocular device), and with ultralow protein adhesion potential (the primary step in processes that lead to fouling and potential device failure). Herein is reported the facile synthesis of a novel, highly transparent, mechanically robust, nontoxic, bulk functionalized hydrogel with characteristics suited to scalable fabrication of ocular implantable and nonimplantable devices. Synergistic superhydrophilicity between methacrylated poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVAGMA) and zwitterionic sulfobetaine methacrylate was exploited to obtain a superhydrophilic polymer conjugate through facile photoinitiated cross-linking polymerization. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATF-FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to confirm the synthesis and establish the physicochemical parameters for both the starting materials, the conjugated polymer, and the hydrogels. Cytotoxicity and cell adhesion potential evaluated in primary human retinal epithelial cells showed no toxicity or adhesion of the ocular cells. Biofilm adhesion studies in Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus showed over 85% reduction in biofilm adhesion for the best-modified polymer compared to the unconjugated PVAGMA, highlighting its antifouling potential.

Unlocking the potential of supramolecular polymers with bimodal molecular weights for instant and strong underwater adhesion

Developing adhesives suitable for underwater environments remains a formidable challenge due to the barrier presented by water, hindering contact between the adhesive and adherend. In this work, supramolecular adhesives prepared by mixing low and high molecular weight poly(butyl acrylate)-based copolymers are manifested to function effectively for underwater adhesion regardless of substrates’ affinity to water. Optimization of adhesion performance is achieved by manipulating the copolymer composition, resulting in the remarkable adhesion strengths of 1290 N m-1 and 1047 N m-1 to hydrophobic PET and hydrophilic glass substrates, respectively. The observed high underwater adhesion is attributed to a synergistic effect: instant and efficient removal of the hydration layer facilitated by the low molecular weight polymer strands, and mechanical resilience conferred by the high molecular weight strands featured by chain entanglements. Adequate interfacial interactions are attained by the supramolecular interactions including cation-π and π-π bonding. Notably, owing to its inherent hydrophobicity, the adhesive can be stored underwater for over a week and still displays 842 N m-1 peel strength to glass substrate. This work unlocks the potential of supramolecular adhesives with bimodal molecular weight distribution for instant and strong underwater adhesion, providing a straightforward yet scalable strategy to produce high-performance underwater adhesives.

Probiotic characteristics and whole genome sequence analysis of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ZFM518 isolated from infant feces

AbstractEmerging research has shown that lactic acid bacteria in the intestines of newborns play a beneficial role in the growth, immune function, and metabolism of infants after birth. In this study, four strains of Lactobacillus were isolated from fecal samples of newborns, and a safe Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ZFM518 (ZFM518) strain was obtained after the screening, which showed excellent antibacterial activity and adhesion potential. The strain exhibited excellent ability to survive in acidic environments, simulated gastric juice, and simulated intestinal environments, respectively. ZFM518 had a bacteriostatic zone of 31.12 ± 0.33 mm against Staphylococcus aureus, a hydrophobic rate of 76.97% ± 3.35%, and a survival activity of 96.54% ± 0.14% under a simulated intestinal fluid environment. Moreover, ZFM518 can produce up to 161.11 ± 9.67 ng/mL of folate. A genome‐wide investigation of ZFM518 revealed that the majority of its genes were involved in the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, adhesion, immunological defense, and antibacterial activity. In addition, only one antibiotic resistance gene of the antimicrobial peptide was annotated. These results indicate that ZFM518 is a new strain with a strong comprehensive ability and probiotic potential. This study can provide practical support for screening potential probiotics from infant feces and provide a theoretical basis for developing probiotic resources.

Nanofibrous electroconductive scaffolds composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) and modified polyaniline for skin tissue engineering application

AbstractNanofibrous electroconductive scaffolds were designed and fabricated using electrospinning approach based on a poly(vinyl alcohol)‐grafted polyaniline (PVA‐g‐PANI) and neat PVA with various PVA‐g‐PANI content for skin tissue engineering (STE) application. At first, phenylamine‐functionalized PVA macromonomer was synthesized, and then aniline was grafted onto macromonomer by an oxidation polymerization technique. The resultant PVA‐g‐PANI with different ratios was co‐electrospun with PVA to afford PVA‐g‐PANI/PVA electrically conductive nanofibrous scaffolds. Physicochemical features of the scaffolds, including water uptake properties, surface wettabilities, and morphologies as well as biological properties such as biodegradabilities, cytocompatibilities, cells adhesion and proliferation potentials, hemolysis rates, and protein adsorption capacities were investigated. Surface wettabilities of the scaffolds were altered from 55.7° for pure PVA up to 105.1° for the scaffold with the highest PVA‐g‐PANI content (30 wt%). It was found that the biodegradation rates of the scaffolds were decreased by increasing PVA‐g‐PANI content owing to very low biodegradation nature of PANI. Hemolysis assay revealed that all scaffolds were nonhemolytic (hemolysis rate <2%), except the scaffold that fabricated with 30 wt% of PVA‐g‐PANI. As results, the constructed scaffolds with 15 and 20 wt% of PVA‐g‐PANI (S3 and S4, respectively) exhibited higher potentials in both physicochemical and biological properties for STE application.

A trans-acting sRNA SaaS targeting hilD, cheA and csgA to inhibit biofilm formation of S. Enteritidis

IntroductionSalmonella Enteritidis has brought great harm to public health, animal production and food safety worldwide. The biofilm formed by Salmonella Enteritidis plays a critical role in microbial cross-contamination. Small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) have been demonstrated to be responsible for regulating the formation of biofilm. The sRNA SaaS has been identified previously, that promotes pathogenicity by regulating invasion and virulence factors. However, whether the SaaS is implicated in regulating biofilm formation in abiotic surfaces remains unclear. ObjectivesThis study aimed to clarify the effect of SaaS in Salmonella Enteritidis and explore the modulatory mechanism on the biofilm formation. MethodsMotility characteristics and total biomass of biofilm of test strains were investigated by the phenotypes in three soft agar plates and crystal violet staining in polystyrene microplates. Studies of microscopic structure and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of biofilm on solid surfaces were carried out using confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and Raman spectra. Transcriptomics and proteomics were applied to analyze the changes of gene expression and EPS component. The RNA-protein pull-down and promoter–reporter β-galactosidase activity assays were employed to analyze RNA binding proteins and identify target mRNAs, respectively. ResultsSaaS inhibits biofilm formation by repressing the adhesion potential and the secretion of EPS components. Integration of transcriptomics and proteomics analysis revealed that SaaS strengthened the expression of the flagellar synthesis system and downregulated the expression of curli amyloid fibers. Furthermore, RNA-protein pull-down interactome datasets indicated that SaaS binds to Hfq (an RNA molecular chaperone protein, known as a host factor for phage Qbeta RNA replication) uniquely among 193 candidate proteins, and promoter–reporter β-galactosidase activity assay confirmed target mRNAs including hilD, cheA, and csgA. ConclusionSaaS inhibits the properties of bacterial mobility, perturbs the secretion of EPS, and contributes to the inhibition of biofilm formation by interacting with target mRNA (hilD, cheA, and csgA) through the Hfq-mediated pathway.

Denture Adhesives Associated with Silver Vanadate: Antimicrobial Approach Against Multi- Species Biofilms on Acrylic Resin Surfaces.

Alternatives have been sought to add an antimicrobial property to denture adhesives. This study evaluated the antimicrobial potential of adhesives associated with nanostructured silver vanadate decorated with silver nanoparticles (β-AgVO3). Specimens in acrylic resin were treated with the adhesives associated with β-AgVO3 (1%, 2.5%, 5% and 10%). As control, specimens treated only with Ultra Corega Cream (UCC) or Ultra Corega Powder (UCP) adhesive were used. Multispecies biofilm of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus was evaluated by counting colony forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL), colorimetric assay and fluorescence microscopy. The data were analyzed using the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni multiple comparisons test (α=0.05). For both adhesives, a small amount of β-AgVO3 (1%) completely inhibited S. mutans (P⟨0.05). For the other microorganisms, there was a reduction in metabolic activity and complete inhibition in the groups with intermediate or greater amounts of nanomaterial (P⟨0.05), except for C. albicans, which was reduced (P⟨0.05) but not completely inhibited in UCP. Microscopy that showed less biofilm in the groups with β-AgVO3 and in the UCC than UCP. Denture adhesives in powder and cream form with β-AgVO3 showed potential antimicrobial activity against multispecies biofilm. Powder adhesive showed higher biofilm formation.

The protective roles of integrin α4β7 and Amphiregulin-expressing innate lymphoid cells in lupus nephritis

Type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) have emerged as key regulators of the immune response in renal inflammatory diseases such as lupus nephritis. However, the mechanisms underlying ILC2 adhesion and migration in the kidney remain poorly understood. Here, we revealed the critical role of integrin α4β7 in mediating renal ILC2 adhesion and function. We found that integrin α4β7 enables the retention of ILC2s in the kidney by binding to VCAM-1, E-cadherin, or fibronectin on structural cells. Moreover, integrin α4β7 knockdown reduced the production of the reparative cytokine amphiregulin (Areg) by ILC2s. In lupus nephritis, TLR7/9 signaling within the kidney microenvironment downregulates integrin α4β7 expression, leading to decreased Areg production and promoting the egress of ILC2s. Notably, IL-33 treatment upregulated integrin α4β7 and Areg expression in ILC2s, thereby enhancing survival and reducing inflammation in lupus nephritis. Together, these findings highlight the potential of targeting ILC2 adhesion as a therapeutic strategy for autoimmune kidney diseases.

Effects of changing water content of clay-content rocks on field cutter consumption rate of roadheaders: a case study of porous ignimbrites

The changing formation characteristics during excavation can cause a higher cutter consumption rate (CCR) of mechanical excavators than theoretically estimated before the project begins. This study investigates the adhesive potential of clay-content porous ignimbrites in increasing water content and their effects on the CCR of roadheaders. For this purpose, the actual field CCR data of roadheaders were recorded for ten cold storage caverns (CSC) projects during the excavation in dry and wet conditions. Then, laboratory tests were carried out on the rock samples collected from project areas. CCRs of roadheaders were theoretically estimated based on the Cerchar abrasivity index of rocks using three different empirical models. The laboratory test results showed that increasing water content reduces the abrasivity and strength of the rocks. The theoretically estimated results also showed that CCR is to be less under saturated conditions. However, actual field data revealed higher CCRs for all CSC projects in wet conditions. Therefore, the adhesion potential of rocks in different water contents was analyzed, and positive relationships were obtained between the field CCR in wet conditions and the adhesion potentials of excavated rocks with 15%, 20%, and 25% water content. New equations were developed to estimate the CCR of roadheaders, especially in excavating rocks that have an adhesive potential to cutters, such as clay-content rocks. It has been concluded that for an accurate CCR estimation, more than theoretical calculations will be required, and changing formation conditions should also be analyzed in detail.

The impact of gold nanoparticles conjugated with albumin on prostate and breast cancer cell lines: insights into cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, migration, and adhesion potential

The impact of gold nanoparticles conjugated with albumin on prostate and breast cancer cell lines: insights into cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, migration, and adhesion potential