Weight Ratio Research Articles

Modulating the Self-Assembly of a Camptothecin Prodrug with Paclitaxel for Anticancer Combination Therapy: A Molecular Dynamics Approach.

Camptothecin (CPT) and paclitaxel (PTX), derived from natural products, are recognized for their significant efficacy in clinical cancer treatments. Despite its therapeutic advantages, CPT is challenged by issues of toxicity and solubility, necessitating its use in conjugation with other compounds for enhanced compatibility. This study delves into the coassembly mechanism of Evans blue-conjugated camptothecin (EB-CPT) with PTX, aiming to elucidate their synergistic potential in combination therapy applications, employing all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. The EB-CPT prodrug is reported to form a self-aggregated cluster. Our findings suggest that increasing the PTX concentration induces a dispersion of EB-CPT clusters, thereby disrupting their inherent self-assembly. This disruption is explained to be facilitated by the coassembly of EB-CPT and PTX. With increasing concentration of PTX, a lengthening of the coassembled structures is observed, supporting the experimental findings of tube-like coassembled structures at higher weight ratios of PTX. Hydrophobic interactions and π-π stacking are the primary forces responsible for the formation of both self- and coassembled structures. Interestingly, the structural analysis reveals that the CPT moiety of EB-CPT is less involved in assemblies due to steric hindrances. Instead, the interaction and coassembly processes are predominantly mediated by the EB derivative component of the prodrug. This research underscores the critical role of the solubilizing agent, EB derivative, in mediating the flexibility and interaction of CPT in combination therapy strategies, particularly with PTX, thus emphasizing the importance of conjugates for therapeutic developments. Furthermore, the molecular insights into the interaction sites and mechanisms facilitating coassembly between EB-CPT and PTX contribute valuable knowledge to the field, highlighting the potential of these nanomedicine combinations in advancing cancer treatment modalities.

Solid-State Fermentation of Grain-Derived By-Products by Aspergillus kawachii and Rhizopus oryzae: Preparation and Evaluation of Anti-Allergic Activity

Grain processing produces many by-products, including wheat bran, wheat germ and rice bran, which are rich in carbohydrates, proteins and trace elements. In this study, these grain-derived by-products were used as raw materials to conduct solid-state fermentation using mixed strains of Aspergillus kawachii and Rhizopus oryzae, and the potential immunomodulatory and anti-allergic properties of fermented product were evaluated. Solid-state fermentation of a grain by-product mixture, consisting of rice bran, wheat bran, and wheat germ in a 2:1:1 weight ratio, using both A. kawachii L1 and R. oryzae L1 at 26 °C for 5 days, significantly increased the total phenolic, flavonoid, and amino acid contents. The anti-allergic activity of aqueous extract of the fermented product was evaluated in murine models of food allergy and delayed-type hypersensitivity. Oral administration of the fermented product extract (100–200 mg/kg) notably alleviated allergic symptoms such as diarrhea and histopathological changes in the intestines. Moreover, the extract effectively reduced allergen-specific serum antibodies, suppressed splenic cytokine secretion, and mitigated tissue edema and inflammation induced by allergens. Importantly, the extract induced the production of IL-10 and TGF-β, which are well-known cytokines primarily secreted by regulatory T cells. These results underscore the promising immunomodulatory effects of A. kawachii and R. oryzae fermented grain product, suggesting their potential as functional foods or additives for managing allergic disorders, with implications for future therapeutic and dietary applications.

Upcycling of recycled polyethylene for rotomolding applications via dicumyl peroxide crosslinking

AbstractPolyethylene (PE), including high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) and low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), makes up a significant part of post‐consumer plastics in municipal solid waste, presenting challenges for traditional recycling methods due to a wide range of melt flow properties and poor interfacial adhesion between the different resin, which often leads to low quality products (downcycling). In this study, a method is proposed to modify the molecular structure of post‐consumer PE (rHDPE and rLDPE) and their blends by using a straightforward organic peroxide crosslinking technique with 1 phr of dicumyl peroxide (DCP). Different rHDPE/rLDPE blend weight ratios (0/100, 20/80, 40/60, 50/50, 60/40, 80/20, and 100/0) were prepared using a combination of co‐rotating twin‐screw extrusion and pulverization. The final parts were produced via rotomolding where both the forming and crosslinking processes occurred concurrently. Subsequently, the materials were characterized in terms of chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties. It was found that the tensile strength (228%), tensile modulus (345%), flexural strength (145%), and flexural modulus (251%) increased by crosslinking the 80% wt. rHDPE (x‐rHDPE). Conversely, the gel content increased by 17%, thermal resistance by 37.2%, and the impact strength by 93% with 80% wt. rLDPE (x‐rLDPE). It can be concluded that a balance between the properties occurs as the addition of DCP improved both the interfacial adhesion and melt properties of rHDPE/rLDPE blends. This innovative approach represents a simple and straightforward method to upcycle mixed plastics (PE) streams, especially for rotomolding applications. It also offers promising avenues for sustainable waste management and material reuse.

The effect of sea grapes (Caulerpa racemosa) powder drink on improvement of obesity biomarker in Wistar rats

Obesity has become a global public health issue due to its rapidly increasing prevalence. Sea grapes powder drink (SPD) as a functional food has the potential to become an important biomarker in the improvement of obesity. The biomarkers in obesity can be assessed by Lee’s index and lipid profile. Due to its high antioxidant content, SPD can improve both Lee’s index and lipid profile. The objective of this study was to analyse the effect of SPD on the obesity biomarkers of Wistar rats. In this research, a completely randomized design that involved 24 male rats weighing between 150–250 g was used. Rats were randomly put into six groups. Biomarkers were measured using Lee’s index, lipid profile and the weight ratio of both visceral fat and liver. Results after 21 days of intervention showed a reduction in Lee’s index in the group that was given HFD + SPD 1 g, 1.5 g and 2 g. The visceral fat weight ratio in HFD + SPD 1.5 g and 2 g group significantly decreased. However, it had no effect on the liver weight ratio. Levels of Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), and Cholesterol-Low Density Lipoprotein (CLDL) in the HFD + SPD 1 g, 1.5 g and 2 g group significantly decreased. The Cholesterol -High Density Lipoprotein (C-HDL) dramatically increased HFD + SPD 2 g group. SPD is effective in improving Lee's index, visceral fat weight ratio and lipid profile but not liver weight ratio. SPD can be used as an alternative therapeutic product in the management of obesity and consequent reduction of its prevalence.

Strengthening of RC Beam with GFRP Composites in Shear N. B. Bhopale

The rehabilitation, repair and strengthening of existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures is essential due to factors such as aging, steel reinforcement corrosion, construction/design defects, increased service loads demand, seismic events, and advancements in design guidelines. Fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) are now being recognized as a promising material for the rehabilitation of such structures, through strengthening or repairing. In buildings and bridges, RC sections are commonly found in the form of beams and girders. Shear failure of RC beams is particularly due to its sudden occurrence without warning. Therefore, the utilization of externally bonded (EB) FRP composites for shear strengthening of RC beams has gathered popularity as a structural enhancement technique, primarily due to advantages of FRP composites, such as high strength-to- weight ratio and exceptional corrosion resistance. In addition, FRP repair systems give a cost-saving choice to traditional repair methods and materials. A study was performed to analyse the shear characteristics of RC beams enhanced with continuous glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) sheets. Reinforced concrete beams externally bonded GFRP sheets subjected to failure using a symmetrical two-point concentrated static loading system. The experimental data obtained included load, deflection, and failure modes of each beam, along with the effect of the number of GFRP layers on the beams The failures observed in strengthened beams typically commence with the debonding of the FRP sheets, followed by brittle shear failure. The shear capacities of these beams were higher than that of the control beam.

Cytotoxicity of Doxorubicin-Curcumin Nanoparticles Conjugated with Two Different Peptides (CKR and EVQ) against FLT3 Protein in Leukemic Stem Cells

A targeted micellar formation of doxorubicin (Dox) and curcumin (Cur) was evaluated to enhance the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of these drugs in KG1a leukemic stem cells (LSCs) compared to EoL-1 leukemic cells. Dox-Cur-micelle (DCM) was developed to improve the cell uptake of both compounds in LSCs. Cur-micelle (CM) was produced to compare with DCM. DCM and CM were conjugated with two FLT3 (FMS-like tyrosine kinase)-specific peptides (CKR; C and EVQ; E) to increase drug delivery to KG1a via the FLT3 receptor (AML marker). They were formulated using a film-hydration technique together with a pH-induced self-assembly method. The optimal drug-to-polymer weight ratios for the DCM and CM formulations were 1:40. The weight ratio of Dox and Cur in DCM was 1:9. DCM and CM exhibited a particle size of 20–25 nm with neutral charge and a high %EE. Each micelle exhibited colloidal stability and prolonged drug release. Poloxamer 407 (P407) was modified with terminal azides and conjugated to FLT3-targeting peptides with terminal alkynes. DCM and CM coupled with peptides C, E, and C + E exhibited a higher particle size. Moreover, DCM-C + E and CM-C + E showed the highest toxicity in KG-1a and EoL-1 cells. Using two peptides likely improves the probability of micelles binding to the FLT3 receptor and induces cytotoxicity in leukemic stem cells.

The Influence of Alternative Diets and Whole Dry Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens) on the Production Performance, Blood Status, and Egg Quality of Laying Hens

Given the significant environmental consequences of current poultry feed practices and the heavy dependence of the European Union on imported soybeans, studying alternatives is crucial. This study evaluated the potential benefits of using locally sourced alternative plant-based ingredients and whole dry black soldier fly larvae in the diet of laying hens. The experiment involved 120 Isazul hens at 23 weeks old, which were divided into three groups with five replicates each (eight hens per replicate): a control diet (CON) based on soybean meal and cereals, an alternative diet (ALT) replacing the soybean meal with locally sourced plant-based resources (peas, distillers’ dried grains with solubles, and sunflower meal), and the ALT diet supplemented with 5% whole dry black soldier fly larvae (ALT+DBSFL). Over 15 weeks, the hens were fed ad libitum, and the production performance, egg quality, and plasma biochemical parameters were assessed across three experimental sub-periods. The results showed no significant differences in body weight, feed intake, egg production, egg weight, egg mass, or feed conversion ratio across the diets (p > 0.05). The egg quality remained consistent across all the groups; however, the hens fed the ALT+DBSFL diet exhibited higher Haugh units in the first experimental sub-period (p < 0.05) and lower plasma cholesterol and triglycerides at 32 weeks of age (p < 0.05). The findings of this study indicate that incorporating these alternative ingredients and whole DBSFL into layers’ diets does not compromise production performance, egg quality, or biochemical parameters related to health status, supporting their potential as sustainable feed alternatives.

Laser‐Induced Formation of Fine Porous Graphitic Carbon for Eco‐Friendly Supercapacitors

An electric double‐layer capacitor (EDLC), which is one of the pivotal energy storage devices, provides rapid charge–discharge capabilities and an extended cycle life. Areal capacitance, a key indicator of EDLC performance, increases with the specific surface area of its electrodes. This study demonstrates a method for significantly increasing the specific surface area in the laser‐induced graphitization of biodegradable polymers by incorporating NaHCO3 into the composite sheet, generating not only microscale pores but also a large number of nanoscale fine pores. Furthermore, it shows that using these structures as EDLC electrodes leads to a substantial increase in areal capacitance. An increase in the number of fine pores formed in the structure and a corresponding rise in the areal capacitance of the fabricated EDLC are observed with the increase in the NaHCO3 weight ratio. Notably, the composite sheets are composed of natural‐derived, biodegradable materials, while NaHCO3 is known for its low corrosivity and biotoxicity. The proposed method thus offers a pathway for fabricating energy storage devices with minimal environmental impact, ensuring their eco‐friendly disposal post‐use.

Application of Coffee Silverskin Cellulose/Polyacrylamide Gel Polymer Electrolytes for Rechargeable Zinc-Ion Batteries

Rechargeable zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) have grown in popularity due to their low cost and the abundance of resources. However, there has been little research into the development of gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) for high voltage and capacity ZIBs. The use of agricultural waste as a polymer electrolyte (PE) is gradually increasing in order to support a circular economy. This study focuses on the utilization of cellulose derived from coffee silverskin (CS); coffee silverskin is a by-product generated during coffee roasting. We employ a reasonable approach to create the coffee silverskin cellulose (CSC)/polyacrylamide (PAM) GPE, with the goal of achieving good properties and improved battery performance. An investigation was conducted to determine the effect of CSC content in GPEs on ZIB characteristics. The cellulose derived from CS had a crystallinity index (CrI) of 64.60%. The optimal amount of cellulose added to the acrylamide monomer (AM) for the GPE of ZIB was found to be 2.5 mg (CSC/AM/salt weight ratio of 0.01/6/23). This amount resulted in the highest electrochemical stability and a cycling time of approximately 226 h. Furthermore, the PAM/Cellulose 2.5-based GPE exhibited increased Young’s modulus and tensile strength compared to the pure PAM. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) test revealed a diffusion resistance of 27.47 Ω and an ionic conductivity of 9.10 mS/cm at a temperature of 25 °C. Additionally, the use of cellulose in GPEs does not affect the electrochemical window. When the pure PAM-based GPE was compared to the CSC/PAM-based GPE, the biocomposites demonstrated electrochemical stability for a cycle life of over 200 cycles in the ZIB application.

Effect of potassium salt type on physicochemical properties of carrageenan films and rehydrated hydrogels

This study focused on the effect of potassium salt type on the physicochemical properties of carrageenan (Car) films and rehydrated hydrogels, with the aim of developing a new method for the preparation of Car hydrogels. The addition of potassium salt decreased the tensile strength (TS) of Car films, especially those containing KI. After rehydration, the weight and thickness change ratios of the Car films decreased with salt addition, and the sequence was as follows: K2CO3 < KH2PO4 < CH3COOK < KCl < K2SO4 < KSCN < KI < C6H5K3O7. The effect of potassium salt type on the TS and thermal transition temperature of rehydrated hydrogels was opposite that on weight and thickness change ratios. The hydrogels with K2CO3, KH2PO4, CH3COOK, KCl, and K2SO4 exhibited lower transverse relaxation time (T2) and smaller pore size compared with the other hydrogels. On the other hand, the effect of potassium salt type on hydrogels prepared using Car films soaked in potassium salt solution (S-Car) was similar to that observed on hydrogels prepared using Car films with potassium salt soaked in ultrapure water (U-Car). Compared with U-Car hydrogels, the S-Car hydrogels had higher TS and thermal transition temperature and lower elongation at break, T2, pore size, and hydrogen bond intensity. In conclusion, the potassium salt type and soaking method can be used to regulate the properties of Car hydrogels and provide a theoretical basis for the design of Car hydrogels.

Ameliorative effects of Monascus-fermented hawthorn extract on a high-fat diet-induced rat model of alcoholic fatty liver disease

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to elucidate the effects of fermented hawthorn extract on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in rats, and explore the possible underlying mechanisms. MethodsA total of 42 male adult Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: normal control group (given a normal feed diet and distilled water by gavage), NAFLD model (given HFD and distilled water by gavage), low-, medium-, and high-dose fermented hawthorn extract treatment groups (given HFD and different doses of fermented hawthorn extract by gavage). After 12 weeks of gavage administration, changes in body weight, liver/body weight ratio, serum liver enzymes, as well as triglyceride (TG) content and oxidative stress levels in rat liver tissues was detected. Histological evaluation was performed to observe the degree of fat accumulation (steatosis). qRT-PCR and western blotting were performed to detect the mRNA and protein expression of cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP2E1, a key enzyme associated with lipid peroxidation), and lipogenic factors (sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) and fatty acid synthase (FAS)) in rat liver tissues. ResultsFermented hawthorn extract significantly reduced the body weight, decreased the levels of liver enzymes, improved hepatic steatosis, and exhibited obvious antioxidant effects. Fermented hawthorn extract also significantly down-regulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of CYP2E1, SREBP-1c and FAS. ConclusionOur findings suggested that fermented hawthorn extract can markedly reduce body weight, ameliorate HFD-induced NAFLD in rats, and exhibits significant antioxidant effects. Its underlying mechanism may depend on the inhibition of CYP2E1, SREBP-1c, and FAS expression.

Rapamycin mitigates organ damage by autophagy-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome inactivation in sepsis.

Autophagy activation can alleviate sepsis-induced organ injuries. Rapamycin (Rap) has emerged as an autophagy regulator in multiple forms of organ injuries. This study aimed to assess whether Rap protects rats from cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis through autophagy-mediated inactivation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Rats were allocated to the sham, CLP, Rap (10 mg/kg), or 3-Methyladenine (3-MA) (15 mg/kg) groups. A rat CLP model was established. The survival of rats and lung wet-to-dry weight ratio in each group was assessed. Blood biochemical indexes and oxidative stress-related factors were analyzed with an automatic biochemical analyzer. The bacterial counts of blood and organs were monitored. The degrees of myeloperoxidase of the ileum, inflammation-related indexes, and pathological changes in the tissues were detected by ELISA and hematoxylin-eosin staining. The levels of NLRP3 inflammasome and autophagy-related factors were analyzed by Western blot. Rap increased the survival and SOD activity, and repressed ALT, AST, BUN, SCr, MDA, and inflammation-related marker levels in CLP rats, it also restrained the bacterial counts of blood, lung, liver, and kidney in CLP rats; the effects of 3-MA on CLP rats on the above-mentioned indicators were opposite to those of Rap. Additionally, Rap alleviated the pathological injury of the lung, liver, and kidney, which was the opposite to the effect of 3-MA on CLP rats. Furthermore, Rap mitigated the ASC, Pro-caspase 1, and NLRP3 levels and increased the Beclin-1 levels and the LC3II/LC3I ratio in the organ tissues. Collectively, autophagy activation can mitigate organ damage by suppressing the NLRP3 inflammasome in sepsis rats.

AHR regulates liver enlargement and regeneration through the YAP signaling pathway

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a transcription factor activated by ligands that participates in many important physiological processes. Although AHR activation is associated with hepatomegaly, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study evaluated the effects of AHR activation on liver enlargement and regeneration in various transgenic mice and animal models. Activation of AHR by the non-toxic ligand YH439 significantly induced liver/body weight ratio in wild-type mice (1.37-fold) and AHRfl/fl.ALB-CreERT2 mice (1.54-fold). However, these effects not present in AHRΔHep mice. Additionally, the activation of AHR promotes hepatocyte enlargement (1.43-fold or 1.41-fold) around the central vein (CV) and increases number of Ki67+ cells (42.5-fold or 48.8-fold) around the portal vein (PV) in wild-type mice and AHRfl/fl.ALB-CreERT2 mice. In the 70% partial hepatectomy (PHx) model, YH439 significantly induced hepatocyte enlargement (1.40-fold) and increased number of Ki67+ cells (3.97-fold) in AHRfl/fl.ALB-CreERT2 mice. However, these effects were not observed in AHRΔHep mice. Co-immunoprecipitation results suggested a potential protein-protein interaction between AHR and Yes-associated protein (YAP). Disruption of the association between YAP and transcription enhancer domain family member (TEAD) significantly inhibited AHR-induced liver enlargement and regeneration. Furthermore, AHR failed to induce liver enlargement and regeneration in YAPΔHep mice. Blocking the YAP signaling pathway effectively eliminated AHR-induced liver enlargement and regeneration. This study revealed the molecular mechanism of AHR regulation of liver size and regeneration through the activation of AHR-TEAD signaling pathway, thereby offering novel insights into the physiological role of AHR. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for the prevention and treatment of disorders associated with liver regeneration.

Synthesis of a novel bio-based curing agent and the curing behavior of the corresponding epoxy asphalt system

Traditional epoxy asphalt is made from petroleum resources. However, petroleum-based materials may cause environmental pollution and are not renewable. In this study, a bio-based curing agent MYM was synthesized from Maleic anhydride and Myrcene. The cured epoxy EP/MYM with the weight ratio of 1:1 were prepared. When preparing the modified asphalt, carboxyl-terminated liquid nitrile butadiene rubber (CTBN) was incorporated into the EP/MYM system to obtain the EP/MYM/CTBN modified asphalt system (referred to EMC epoxy asphalt). Firstly, the chemical structure of MYM was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Secondly, the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the cured EP/MYM were investigated by tensile test and thermogravimetric analysis (TG). Thirdly, the novel EMC epoxy asphalt was prepared and its composition was optimized. The curing behavior of the EMC epoxy asphalt was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). And the time-temperature-transition diagrams (TTT diagrams) were plotted to determine the optimal curing process. Then the surface micro-morphology of EMC epoxy asphalt was investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Finally, the high-temperature viscoelastic properties of EMC epoxy asphalt were investigated using dynamic shear rheology (DSR) tests. The results showed that EP/MYM has better mechanical strength and more excellent flexibility than those of EP/MTHPA and EP/MHHPA. The weight ratio of EP:MYM:CTBN was 10:8:1.5, and the optimal amount of diluent was 8% of the total weight of the modifier. The semi-empirical kinetic modes of curing reaction were used to plot the TTT diagram of EMC epoxy asphalt, thus determining its curing technique as 120℃/2h+160℃/3h. The cured EMC epoxy asphalt showed uniform alternation of light and dark areas in the AFM images, indicating good compatibility and stability. The high-temperature deformation resistance of EMC epoxy asphalt was significantly improved compared to the base asphalt. The novel epoxy asphalt system prepared in this research provides a new route for the development of echo-friendly epoxy asphalt.

Effect of Defatted Rice Bran Content on Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Edible Cutlery Made from Rice Flour Green Composites using Compression Molding

The optical properties, moisture content, water activity, water absorption, mechanical properties, morphological observations, and sensory properties of edible spoons made from rice flour and rice flour green composites were investigated. The rice flour green composites were prepared with different weight ratios of rice flour and defatted rice bran as 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, and 25:75 by compression molding at 150°C at a fixed pressure of 9 bar for 7 min. Increasing the weight proportion of defatted rice bran in rice flour green composites resulted in higher lightness values, yellowness values, and water absorption, but redness values and moisture content decreased. Weight proportions of defatted rice bran in rice flour green composites up to 50 improved mechanical properties (both Izod impact and flexural strength). The cross-sectional surface after flexural testing of rice flour spoons was smooth, whereas rice flour green composite spoons were rough. Sensory properties of rice flour green composite spoons showed reduced appearance scores, color scores, texture scores, and overall preference scores but odor scores increased compared with rice flour spoons. Maximum compression force of rice flour green composite spoons increased with increasing weight proportion of defatted rice bran. An increase in maximum compression force measured by the mechanical testing equipment was related to a decrease in texture scores. Spoons made from rice flour and rice flour green composites showed promise as single-use edible cutlery and packaging.

Therapeutic Use of Carbon Monoxide in Ex-Vivo Lung Perfusion in Donor With Prolonged Cold Ischemia

IntroductionCarbon monoxide (CO) has been shown to exert protective effects in multiple organs following ischemic injury, including the lung. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of CO administration during ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) on lung grafts exposed to prolonged cold ischemia. MethodsTen porcine lungs were subjected to 18 h of cold ischemia followed by 6 h of EVLP. Lungs were randomized to EVLP alone (control, n = 5) or delivery of 500 ppm of CO during the 1st hour of EVLP (treatment, n = 5). Following EVLP, the left lungs were transplanted and reperfused for 4 h. ResultsAt the end of EVLP, pulmonary vascular resistance (P = 0.007) and wet to dry lung weight ratios (P = 0.027) were significantly reduced in CO treated lungs. Posttransplant, lung graft PaO2/FiO2 (P = 0.032) and compliance (P = 0.024) were significantly higher and peak airway pressure (P = 0.032) and wet to dry ratios (P = 0.003) were significantly lower in CO treated lungs. Interleukin-6 was significantly reduced in plasma during reperfusion in the CO treated group (P = 0.040). ConclusionsIn this preclinical porcine model, CO application during EVLP resulted in better graft performance and outcomes after reperfusion.

PMMA-induced biofilm promotes Schwann cells migration and proliferation mediated by EGF/Tnc/FN1 to improve sciatic nerve defect

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to investigate the role of PMMA-induced biofilm in nerve regeneration compared with silicone-induced biofilm involved in the mechanism. MethodsPMMA or silicon rods were placed next to the sciatic nerve to induce a biological membrane which was assayed by PCR, western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and proteomics. A 10 mm sciatic nerve gaps were repaired with the autologous nerve wrapped in an induced biological membrane. The repair effects were observed through general observation, functional evaluation of nerve regeneration, ultrasound examination, neural electrophysiology, the wet weight ratio of bilateral pretibial muscle and histological evaluation. Cell proliferation and migration of Schwann cells co-cultured with EGF-treated fibroblasts combined with siRNA were investigated. ResultsThe results indicated that expression of GDNF, NGF and VEGF along with neovascularization was similar in the silicone and PMMA group and as the highest at 6 weeks after operation. Nerve injury repair mediated by toluidine blue and S100β/NF200 expression, the sensory and motor function evaluation, ultrasound, target organ muscle wet-weight ratio, percentage of collagen fiber, electromyography and histochemical staining were not different between the two groups and better than blank group. EGF-treated fibroblasts promoted proliferation and migration may be Tnc expression dependently. ConclusionOur study suggested that PMMA similar to silicon induced biofilm may promote autogenous nerve transplantation to repair nerve defects through EGF/Tnc/FN1 to increase Schwann cells proliferation and migration.

The Effect of Adding the Mishraq Sulfur Ore on the Physical and Chemical Properties of Al-Angor and Al-Nahrawan Clays to Producing Lightweight Bricks

This paper aims to examine the possibility of producing lightweight laboratory clay Bricks by adding sulfur ore powder in different weight ratios ranging from 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, to 50% as supplementary materials to two types of clays taken from two different sites, which is the Al-Angor clay region near the city of Ramadi and the Al-Nahrawan clay region. The bricks burned at temperatures of 950 and 1050 C°٬ and the longitudinal Shrinkage tests, bulk density, water absorption, compression strength, and efflorescence were measured. The X-ray diffraction analysis was executed to determine the formed metal phases. The results of the tests showed a direct proportion between longitudinal contraction and water absorption ratio with the addition of sulfur ore and high burning temperature. While bulk density and compression strength are inversely proportional to the sulfur ratio and high burning temperature. Efflorescence tests showed a decrease in the efflorescence rate with an increase in the proportion of sulfur ore.

Placental Weight To Birth Weight Ratio and Its Outcome Among Neonates

Placental Weight To Birth Weight Ratio and Its Outcome Among Neonates

Characterization and catalytic performance of rGO-enhanced MnFe2O4 nanocomposites in CO oxidation

In this work, different weight ratio of reduce graphene oxide (rGO) incorporated manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4) is successfully prepared using reduction photolysis method. To have good spacing of layer, expanded graphite was employed for synthesis of graphene oxide by Hummer modified method. The synthesized rGO/MnFe2O4 nanocomposite was characterized by FTIR, EDX, Raman, XRD, BET, XPS, TGA, TPR and FESEM, while the magnetic properties are investigated employing VSM technique. The catalytic results demonstrated that the MnO2 and Fe2O3 have low catalytic activity and it is not active at temperature lower than 130 °C. The highest efficiency was noted for the MnFe2O4 nanocomposite. The demonstrated results appeared that the doped of rGO inter MnFe2O4 considerably improved the efficiency for oxidation of CO. On the other hand, the highest conversion was obtained for the 1 wt% rGO doped MnFe2O4 and it displayed a CO conversion of 100 % at 80 °C. 1 wt% rGO/MnFe2O4 with conversion 98% CO demonstrated higher activity compared with Fe2O3 and MnFe2O4. On the other hand, the results exhibited that the 1 wt% rGO/MnFe2O4 pretreated under oxidizing conditions appeared higher activity compared with synthesized catalyst dealt under reductive conditions, which assign to the higher adsorption capacity of O2, as well as, the results also appeared that the catalyst showed high stability under wet and dry conditions.