Untreated Research Articles

Exploring the thermal conductivity of green filamentous algae natural fibre: an experimental investigation

Abstract The use of non-renewable resources in thermal insulation has significant environmental impacts. Another major problem faced by the ecosystem is the invasive growth of water weeds. Making sustainable products from waterweeds helps to prevent its overgrowth that disrupts the balance of the ecosystem. This study explores the viability of Green Filamentous Algae (GFA) as an eco-friendly thermal insulation material. GFA was collected from water bodies, cleaned, and processed into two forms: untreated (UTD) and alkali-treated (TD). Experimental investigations were conducted to evaluate the physical properties of GFA, including density, self-ignition temperature, water absorption, moisture absorption, flammability, and thermal conductivity. Results show that the untreated GFA had a density of 402.52 kg/m³, while the treated GFA exhibited a slightly lower density of 392.32 kg/m³. The self-ignition temperature for both untreated and treated GFA was measured between 275°C and 280°C. The water absorption capacity was higher in treated GFA (654.7%) compared to untreated (493.83%). Moisture absorption capacity was 15.14% for untreated GFA and 17.47% for treated GFA. Flammability tests revealed a burning rate of 20.026 mm/min, placing GFA in the combustibility classification 1 (CC1). Thermal conductivity values were found to be 0.308 W/mK (UTD) and 0.273 W/mK (TD), making treated GFA a promising candidate for sustainable insulation applications. This study demonstrates the potential of GFA as a bio-based insulation material and highlights future improvements to enhance its moisture resistance and thermal performance.

Modulatory Effects of Isolated Lactobacillus paracasei from Malaysian Water Kefir Grains on the Intestinal Barrier and Gut Microbiota in Diabetic Mice.

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is one of the four major types of non-communicable diseases that have become a global health concern. Water kefir is a product of a brown sugar solution fermented with kefir grains which comprises around 30 microbial species in its grains. Water kefir possesses a wide range of health benefits, including anti-hyperlipidemic effects, and reduces hypertension and blood glucose levels in animal models. Reportedly, consuming water kefir containing probiotics may enhance the intestinal barrier and positively influence the composition of the intestinal microflora. The present study aimed to evaluate the regulatory effects of Lactobacillus paracasei isolated from Malaysian water kefir grains (MWKG) on the alterations of intestinal barrier and gut microbiota in diabetic mice via histopathological analysis of the distal colon and 16S rRNA gene sequencing on fecal microbiome. Results indicated that the administration of isolated Lactobacillus paracasei from MWKG to diabetic mice ameliorated the dominant probiotic phyla in the gut microbiota. Results showed that lower dose (LD) and high dose (HD) treatments of the isolated Lactobacillus paracasei could significantly reduce inflammatory cell infiltration in the distal colon of diabetic mice. The treatments revealed a significant decrease in the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the gut, 0.27 ± 0.06% for LD and 0.34 ± 0.04% for HD, compared to untreated (UN) diabetic mice, 0.40 ± 0.02%. These results suggest that L. paracasei isolated from MWKG could serve as a potential dietary supplement against intestinal inflammation and modify gut microbiota composition in patients with T2DM.

Study on the Effect of Al-10Sr Intermediate Alloy on the Modification of A356 Aluminum Alloy after Different Purification Treatments

Abstract For three different purification treatment methods of aluminum melt: untreated (UT), conventional purification treatment (CPT), impurity removal flux purification treatment (IRF), and Al-10Sr intermediate alloy was applied for modification treatment. The results showed that due to the highest purity of aluminum liquid treated with IRF, the secondary dendrite spacing decreased by 31.32% after modification, and the eutectic silicon phase was in a granular and dispersed distribution. The tensile fracture exhibited ductile fracture characteristics, effectively improving the mechanical properties of the alloy. At the same time, it was found that reducing the Sr content did not decrease the modifying effect, indicating good purity of aluminum liquid can provide superior melt conditions for subsequent modification treatment.

Influence of Elastic Properties and Nodes on the Flexural Behaviour of Bamboo Culms

This study investigates the influence of elastic properties and nodes on the flexural behaviour of bamboo culms by comparing different characterization techniques and theoretical approaches. The most representative parts of the bamboo culm were selected using microscopic images of bamboo cross-sections. These were sliced from the bottom, middle, and top parts of a single culm and were analyzed with Digital Image Processing. Four-point bending tests were conducted on twelve culms of Phyllostachys aurea, subdivided into groups of untreated (UN) and heat-treated (HT) samples. The axial modulus of elasticity (Eb) and the shear modulus (G) were determined experimentally using four different mathematical models: (i) a global deflection model using the Euler-Bernoulli beam theory according to the ISO Standard; (ii) a global deflection model using the Timoshenko beam theory; (iii) a global deflection model based on the Timoshenko beam theory but accounting for the presence of nodes; and finally, (iv) a local model using extensometry. The dominant failure modes for UN and HT samples are described and discussed, and were influenced by the moisture content (MC). Approaches (i) and (ii) showed good agreement, giving reliable parameters to assess Eb. The third approach (iii) indicated that the nodes significantly influence the flexural behaviour of the culms. Approach (iv) was appropriate for determining G, but resulted in higher values of Eb, typically not representative of the material.

Enhanced Physio‐Chemical Properties of PMMA/PS Polymer Blends by DC Glow Discharge Plasma Treated K2TI6O13 for Electronic Applications

AbstractCeramic filler modified polymer blends are more in demand due to their excellent compatibility, easy processing and cost‐effectiveness. In the present work, we modified Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)/Polystyrene (PS) blends using solution blending with untreated (UT) and DC glow discharge plasma‐treated (air plasma treated‐APT) potassium hexatitanate (K2Ti6O13). Chemical bonding of virgin and modified blends was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR). Decreased structural defects and imperfections of KTO were confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Modified surface morphology and elemental analysis were detected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX). The quantification of particle size distribution has been determined by Zetasizer. Increased degree of crystallinity and decreased average crystallite size after plasma treatment were determined by X‐ray diffraction. Increased dielectric constant from ~22–200 and decreased loss up to 0.7 were analyzed by impedance analyzer. Lee's disc probe was deployed to confirm the optimized thermal conductivity of the modified blend system. By Differential Scanning Calorimetry, glass transition temperature of modified polymer blends was investigated. The change in surface from hydrophobic to hydrophilic by plasma exposure was confirmed by surface goniometer. However, the enhanced dielectric performance of modified PMMA/PS/KTO polymer blends may be suitable for flexible energy storage devices and gadgets.

P-014 Extracellular vesicles (EVs) from female reproductive tracts positively affect sperm capacitation and progressive motility

Abstract Study question Do EVs from human follicular fluid (FF-EVs), cervicovaginal fluid (CVF-EVs), and endometrial stromal cells spent medium (ESCs-EVs) induce sperm capacitation and enhance sperm motility? Summary answer In humans, EVs from different female reproductive tracts actively contribute to sperm maturation by inducing capacitation and enhancing sperm progressive motility. What is known already In the human body, EVs represent crucial players in cell-to-cell communication. EVs presence has been detected also in the female and male reproductive systems, specifically in seminal, follicular, oviductal, endometrial and vaginal fluid, as well as in embryo secretions. Moreover, EVs have been shown to be of pivotal importance in the fertilization process, as they support the maturation of spermatozoa and oocytes, as well as embryos in their development and endometrial implantation. The majority of these studies, though, have been conducted in animal models, underscoring the necessity to replicate analogous investigations also in humans. Study design, size, duration Follicular fluid (FF, n = 8), cervicovaginal fluid (CVF, n = 20) and endometrial tissue (n = 8) samples were collected from women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles at San Raffaele Hospital Fertility Centre (Milan). CVF were collected 2 and 7 days after the LH peak (CVF LH + 2 and CVF LH + 7, respectively). ESCs-EVs were isolated from both decidualized (dESCs-EVs) and not decidualized (eESCs-EVs) endometrial cells. Semen samples (n = 15) were collected from normozoospermic men. Participants/materials, setting, methods EVs were isolated using differential centrifugations and characterized using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), and western blotting (WB). EVs capture by spermatozoa was assessed using flow cytometry. EVs impact on sperm progressive motility was evaluated following WHO guidelines. EVs potential to induce sperm capacitation was examined through sperm acrosome reaction (AR) induction using a Ca2+ ionophore, followed by Coomassie blue staining. All experiments were performed using EVs at 50 and 100 μg/mL. Main results and the role of chance Isolated EVs displayed comparable size, with mean diameters ranging from 147,9±11,6 nm to 168,1±6,2 nm (mean ± SEM) and average concentrations from 9,53E+10 ± 8,11E+09 to 2,70E+11 ± 3,49E+10 particles/ml (mean ± SEM). TEM analysis confirmed their round-shaped morphology and structural integrity, while WB confirmed their positivity for EVs markers (Alix, TSG101, CD63, CD9). Spermatozoa efficiency in capturing these fluorescently-labeled EVs, measured as the percentage of fluorescence-positive spermatozoa, reached up to 3,6±1,1% for FF-EVs, 12,1±3,7% for CVF-EVs and 9,4±1,9% for ESCs-EVs (mean ± SEM). Sperm cells co-incubated with any EVs group maintained unaffected vitality. Following a 4-hour incubation with EVs, a rise in the proportion of progressively motile spermatozoa was observed, with percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa ranging from a minimum of 45,4±3,8% for CVF-EVs LH + 7 to a maximum of 52,7±2,7% for dESCs-EVs (mean ± SEM). This increase resulted to be statistically significant (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) compared to the untreated (UT) condition, which exhibited 26,2±0,7% of progressively motile sperm cells. Spermatozoa that completed the AR, indicating capacitation, after 4-hour incubation with EVs resulted to be up to 25,8±3,2% for FF-EVs, 35,0±6,6% for CVF-EVs and 26,9±3,0% for ESCs-EVs, compared to an average of 13% in the UT control. Limitations, reasons for caution This study constitutes a pilot investigation characterized by a limited sample size, necessitating larger cohorts to validate results. Wider implications of the findings Studied EVs may exert beneficial effects on capacitation and progressive motility also on asthenozoospermic (AS) men’s spermatozoa. Therefore, they could be used in ART cycles to prime spermatozoa from AS men and increase the percentage of sperm cells displaying progressive motility, potentially favouring fertilization via classical IVF instead of ICSI. Trial registration number not applicable

In vivo KCNH2-suppression-replacement gene therapy attenuates the pathogenic phenotype in transgenic rabbits with short QT syndrome type 1

Abstract Background Short QT syndrome type 1 (SQT1) is a genetic channelopathy characterized by gain-of-function variants in the KCNH2-encoded potassium channel underlying the IKr current, leading to a pathologically shortened cardiac action potential duration (APD). Patients with SQT1 manifest shortening of the QT duration on 12-lead ECG and are prone to cardiac arrhythmias that can culminate in sudden cardiac death. Purpose To investigate the effect of a KCNH2-specific suppression-replacement (KCNH2-SupRep) gene therapy on the pathogenic phenotype in transgenic SQT1 rabbits. Methods A novel dual-component KCNH2-SupRep gene therapy was developed by combining a custom-designed KCNH2 shRNA (suppression) and an shRNA-immune (shIMM) KCNH2 cDNA (replacement) into AAV9. In vivo AAV9-mediated KCNH2-SupRep / sham treatment was performed by intra-aortic root injection of the KCNH2-SupRep AAV9 (1E10 vg/kg) / NaCl 0.9% during balloon occlusion using a Swan Ganz catheter. Three weeks after administration, 12-lead ECGs were assessed in adult transgenic SQT1 (KCNH2-N588K, gain of IKr due to impaired inactivation) and wild-type (WT) rabbits to determine the effect of KCNH2-SupRep / sham treatment on the rabbit’s QTc duration and QT index. Patch-clamp recordings were performed in isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes (CMs) to evaluate the effect of KCNH2-SupRep / sham treatment on the CM’s action potential duration at 90% repolarization (APD90). Results After in vivo AAV9-mediated KCNH2-SupRep gene therapy injection (1E10 vg/kg) in 7 SQT1 rabbits, QTc duration and QT index significantly increased in all SQT1 rabbits (QTc: untreated(UT)-SQT1: 153.2±3.8ms vs treated-SQT1: 166.5±4.6ms, p=0.0002, N=7 each; QTi: UT-SQT1: 92.5±1.9% vs treated-SQT1: 99.7±2.7%, p=0.0007, N=7 each), reaching a QT index of ~100% typically observed in WT rabbits. No such changes were observed in the sham-SQT1 rabbits. Furthermore, cardiomyocytes isolated from 7 SQT1 rabbits that received in vivo SupRep gene therapy demonstrated APD90 prolongation closer to WT rabbits compared to UT-SQT1 and sham-SQT1 rabbits (APD90: UT-SQT1: 314.2±11.9ms, WT: 404.5±13.8ms, treated-SQT1: 362.9±10.6ms; UT-SQT1 vs WT: p<0.0001; UT-SQT1 vs treated-SQT1: p=0.019; WT vs Treated-SQT1: p=0.031). In line with these observations, first IKr measurements demonstrate smaller IKr currents in SupRep-SQT1 than in sham-SQT1 CMs. Conclusion In vivo KCNH2-SupRep gene therapy normalizes the pathologically shortened QTc duration and QT index in transgenic SQT1 rabbits. Moreover, KCNH2-SupRep treatment prolongs APD90 in SQT1 compared to UT-SQT1 and sham-SQT1 reaching levels closer to WT.

Combining raloxifene and mechanical loading improves bone composition and mechanical properties in a murine model of chronic kidney disease (CKD)

IntroductionPatients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at an alarming risk of fracture compared to age and sex-matched non-CKD individuals. Clinical and preclinical data highlight two key factors in CKD-induced skeletal fragility: cortical porosity and reduced matrix-level properties including bone hydration. Thus, strategies are needed to address these concerns to improve mechanical properties and ultimately lower fracture risk in CKD. We sought to evaluate the singular and combined effects of mechanical and pharmacological interventions on modulating porosity, bone hydration, and mechanical properties in CKD. MethodsSixteen-week-old male C57BL/6J mice underwent a 10-week CKD induction period via a 0.2 % adenine-laced casein-based diet (n = 48) or remained as non-CKD littermate controls (Con, n = 48). Following disease induction (26 weeks of age), n = 7 CKD and n = 7 Con were sacrificed (baseline cohort) to confirm a steady-state CKD state was achieved prior to the initiation of treatment. At 27 weeks of age, all remaining mice underwent right tibial loading to a maximum tensile strain of 2050 μƐ 3× a week for five weeks with the contralateral limb as a non-loaded control. Half of the mice (equal number CKD and Con) received subcutaneous injections of 0.5 mg/kg raloxifene (RAL) 5× a week, and the other half remained untreated (UN). Mice were sacrificed at 31 weeks of age. Serum biochemistries were performed, and bi-lateral tibiae were assessed for microarchitecture, whole bone and tissue level mechanical properties, and composition including bone hydration. ResultsRegardless of intervention, BUN and PTH were higher in CKD animals throughout the study. In CKD, the combined effects of loading and RAL were quantified as lower cortical porosity and improved mechanical, material, and compositional properties, including higher matrix-bound water. Loading was generally responsible for positive impacts in cortical geometry and structural mechanical properties, while RAL treatment improved some trabecular outcomes and material-level mechanical properties and was responsible for improvements in several compositional parameters. While control animals responded positively to loading, their bones were less impacted by the RAL treatment, showing no deformation, toughness, or bound water improvements which were all evident in CKD. Serum PTH levels were negatively correlated with matrix-bound water. DiscussionAn effective treatment program to improve fracture risk in CKD ideally focuses on the cortical bone and considers both cortical porosity and matrix properties. Loading-induced bone formation and mechanical improvements were observed across groups, and in the CKD cohort, this included lower cortical porosity. This study highlights that RAL treatment superimposed on active bone formation may be ideal for reducing skeletal complications in CKD by forming new bone with enhanced matrix properties.

Donepezil attenuates progression of cardiovascular remodeling and improves prognosis in spontaneously hypertensive rats with chronic myocardial infarction.

The acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil restores autonomic balance, reduces inflammation, and improves long-term survival in rats with chronic heart failure (CHF) following myocardial infarction (MI). As arterial hypertension is associated with a significant risk of cardiovascular death, we investigated the effectiveness of donepezil in treating CHF in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). CHF was induced in SHR by inducing permanent MI. After 2 weeks, the surviving SHR were randomly assigned to sham-operated (SO), untreated (UT), or oral donepezil-treated (DT, 5 mg/kg/day) groups, and various vitals and parameters were monitored. After 7 weeks of treatment, heart rate and arterial hypertension reduced significantly in DT rats than in UT rats. Donepezil treatment improved 50-day survival (41% to 80%, P = 0.004); suppressed progression of cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac dysfunction (cardiac index: 133 ± 5 vs. 112 ± 5 ml/min/kg, P < 0.05; left ventricular end-diastolic pressure: 12 ± 3 vs. 22 ± 2 mmHg, P < 0.05; left ventricular +dp/dtmax: 5348 ± 338 vs. 4267 ± 114 mmHg/s, P < 0.05), systemic inflammation, and coronary artery remodeling (wall thickness: 26.3 ± 1.4 vs. 34.7 ± 0.7 μm, P < 0.01; media-to-lumen ratio: 3.70 ± 0.73 vs. 8.59 ± 0.84, P < 0.001); increased capillary density; and decreased plasma catecholamine, B-type natriuretic peptide, arginine vasopressin, and angiotensin II levels. Donepezil treatment attenuated cardiac and coronary artery remodeling, mitigated cardiac dysfunction, and significantly improved the prognosis of SHR with CHF.

Optimizing end milling parameters for custom 450 stainless steel using ant lion optimization and TOPSIS analysis

The current research examines the effectiveness of cryogenically treated (CT) tungsten carbide cutting inserts on Custom450 stainless steel using multi-objective soft computing approaches. The Taguchi-based L27 orthogonal array was employed in the experiments. During milling operations, cutting force, surface roughness, and cutting temperature were measured at different spindle speeds (rpm), feed rates (mm/min), and constant depths of cut (mm). The surface roughness and chip morphology of the Custom 450 stainless steel machined by cryo-treated (CT) and untreated (UT) cutting tool inserts were compared across various responses to cutting temperature and force. This paper also carried out multi-objective optimization, employing algorithm techniques such as Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (GHO), Grey Wolf Optimization(GWO), Harmony Search Algorithm(HAS), and Ant line Optimization (ALO). The Multi-objective Taguchi approach and TOPSIS were first used to optimize the machining process parameters (spindle speed, feed rate, and cryogenic treatment) with different performance characteristics. Second, to relate the machining process parameters with the performance characteristics (cutting force, cutting temperature, and surface roughness), a mathematical model was developed using response surface analysis. The created mathematical response model was validated using ANOVA. The results showed that in IGD values of GHO, GWO, HSA and ALO module had 2.5765, 2.4706, 2.3647 and 2.5882 respectively, ALO has the best performance indicator. A Friedman’s test was also conducted, revealing higher resolution with the ALO method than with the HSA, GWO, and GHO methods. The results of the scanning test show that the ALO approach is workable.

Effect of cryotreated post tempered electrodes on EDM performance of AISI 304

In the present investigation, a comparison study has been conducted to investigate the effect of process parameters and three different type of electrodes {untreated (UT), cryotreated single tempered (CT1) and cryotreated double tempered (CT2)} during electro discharge machining (EDM) operation. For this purpose, WC and AISI 304 stainless steel was used as electrode and work material. Peak current, pulse on time, duty cycle, gap voltage, and flushing pressure were considered as process parameters and performance characteristics were measured by means of tool wear rate (TWR), material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (Ra). Microstructural analysis was conducted on the EDMed surfaces machined by UT, CT1 and CT2 electrodes. It is found from the investigation that UT electrode provides higher tool wear rate (TWR), material removal rate (MRR), and surface roughness (Ra) compare to cryotreated post tempered electrodes. Better surface quality has been achieved for EDMed surface machined by CT2 electrode compare to UT and CT1 electrodes.

Investigation on the impact of sub-zero treated electrodes in EDM

ABSTRACT Owing to the challenges faced during conventional machining of Titanium (Ti) alloys due to their low thermal conductivity and high chemical reaction, non-conventional machining techniques are used. Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is a promising solution that can precisely machine hard materials into intricate geometries but faces lower material removal rate, higher tool wear rate, and poor surface quality. In this research work, the effect of sub-zero treatments on EDM electrodes was investigated, and experimental investigations were conducted to identify the impact of sub-zero treated electrodes during EDM of Ti-6Al-4V under different discharge energy regimes. Peak Current, Pulse-On-Time and Gap Voltage were varied in 3 levels to evaluate the effect on MRR and TWR. A comprehensive study on EDMed surfaces has been assessed using the morphological and metallurgical observations from SEM micrographs, EDAX and XRD patterns. Sub-zero treated electrodes outperformed the Untreated (UT) electrodes regarding erosion rates and surface quality.

Life cycle comprehensive performance assessment of the TiAlN coated tool based on surface treatment

The optimal surface treatment process can availably improve tool surface properties, and meet the requirements of low-carbon manufacturing. In this work, based on tool surface modification technology and tool life cycle carbon emission system, TiAlN coated tools are carried out micro-blasting treatment (MBT), cryogenic treatment (CT) and heat treatment (HT). The effects of surface treatment processes on the surface integrity (morphology, roughness, micro-hardness, residual stress) of the coated tool are studied. The high-speed dry finishing turning experiments of cobalt-based superalloy are carried out to investigate the tool wear morphology and wear mechanism. The carbon emissions of the tool life cycle are analyzed. Finally, the comprehensive performance of the coated tool within life cycle is evaluated. The results show that the highest level of surface integrity of coated tool is achieved by MBT, while the lowest carbon emission of environmental is impacted by HT. Compared with the untreated (UT) tool, the micro-blasted tool has the most significant improvement in surface roughness with a 28.6% reduction. The cryogenic treated tool has the greatest improvement on the surface hardness which is increased by 44.4%. The effect of HT on the surface residual stress is the most obvious. The surface stress of the heat-treated tool has increased by 59.4%. Moreover, the flank wear VB of the micro-blasted tool, cryogenic treated tool and heat-treated tool is reduced by 25.17%, 24.50% and 32.12%, respectively. The main wear mechanisms of the treated tool are adhesive wear, oxidation wear and abrasive wear. According to comprehensive performance assessment, the performance of surface treatment process during the coated tool life cycle is: HT > MBT > CT > UT.

Effect of minocycline, methyl prednisolone, or combination treatment on the colonic bacterial population in a state of colonic inflammation using the murine dextran sulfate sodium model

BackgroundSeveral reports demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties of minocycline in various inflammatory disorders including colitis. We have experimental evidence suggesting synergistic anti-inflammatory effect of minocycline with methyl prednisolone in reducing colitis severity in mice, but if this effect is in part related to modulating the composition of colonic microbiota is still unknown.Methodsthe effect of vehicle (V), minocycline (M), methyl prednisolone (MP), or combination (C) regimen on the composition of the microbiota of mice in a state of colon inflammation compared to untreated (UT) healthy mice was determined using 16s metagenomic sequencing, and the taxonomic and functional profiles were summarized.ResultsOverall, the bacterial flora from the phylum Firmicutes followed by Bacteroidota were found to be predominant in all the samples. However, the composition of Firmicutes was decreased relatively in all the treatment groups compared to UT group. A relatively higher percentage of Actinobacteriota was observed in the samples from the C group. At the genus level, Muribaculaceae, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillus were found to be predominant in the samples treated with both drugs (C). Whereas “Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group” and Helicobacter in the M group, and Helicobacter in the MP group were found to be predominant. But, in the UT group, Weissella and Staphylococcus were found to be predominant. Eubacterium siraeum group, Clostridia vadinBB60 group, Erysipelatoclostridium and Anaeroplasma genera were identified to have a significant (FDR p < 0.05) differential abundance in V compared to C and UT groups. While at the species level, the abundance of Helicobacter mastomyrinus, Massiliomicrobiota timonensis and uncultured Anaeroplasma were identified as significantly low in UT, C, and M compared to V group. Functional categories related to amino acid, carbohydrate, and energy metabolism, cell motility and cell cycle control were dominated overall across all the samples. Methane metabolism was identified as an enriched pathway. For the C group, “Colitis (decrease)” was among the significant (p = 1.81E-6) associations based on the host-intrinsic taxon set.ConclusionCombination regimen of minocycline plus methyl prednisolone produces a synergistic anti-inflammatory effect which is part related to alternation in the colonic microbiota composition.

In vitro antiproliferative potential of Cassia angustifolia extracts on HepG2 cells to combat liver cancer

Liver cancer is a terrifying disease with limited treatment options and is responsible for global health and economic burden. Most anticancer options have severe adverse effects, including non-specific modes of action that aggravate the challenges of exploring effective, safe, and economical therapeutic sources. The current study aimed to decipher the cytotoxicity of ethanol (ECA) and n-hexane (HCA) extracts of a potential medicinal plant Cassia angustifolia on human liver cancer (HepG2) and noncancer human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells. Cassia angustifolia extracts were investigated first to profile phytocompounds through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Varying concentrations of C. angustifolia extract (10, 50, 100, 200, and 400 µg/mL) were evaluated for cytotoxicity through the MTT assay, cell viability assay, and morphological examination using a Floid cellular imaging station. Results of GC-MS analysis identified 45 compounds in ECA and HCA extracts, from which 10 compounds were common in both extracts. Most of them are reported to have antiproliferative activity. The ECA and HCA extracts showed potent cytotoxicities (IC50= 62 and 67 µg/mL) in HepG2 cells, while minimal effects on noncancer HEK-293T cells (IC50= 245 and 482 µg/mL) were recorded. The viability of cancer (HepG2) cells was calculated to be 98%, 79%, 45%, 30%, and 25% for ECA and 95%, 68%, 55%, 40%, and 31% for HCA extract, respectively. Significant percent viabilities on noncancer (HEK293T) cells were observed to be 95%, 90%, 88%, 76%, and 61% with ECA extract, and 97%, 95%, 88%, 75%, and 62% with HCA extract compared to those of untreated (UT) (100%) and DMSO (100%) treated cells. Cisplatin (positive control) exhibited ˂40% and ˂38% viabilities of cancer and normal cells, respectively. Morphological examination revealed that proliferation was reduced at 100, 200, and 400 μg/mL of the ECA extract and 200 and 400 μg/mL of the HCA extract on HepG2 cells. The HEK-293T cells did not show a noticeable decrease in viability by both extracts. In conclusion, C. angustifolia extracts showed considerable anticancer activity due to bioactive phytocompounds and were comparable to cisplatin (an FDA-approved drug). After further isolation and validation, identified phytocompounds can be available as safer anticancer candidates against liver cancer.

Machining aerospace aluminium alloy with cryo-treated and untreated HSS cutting tools

ABSTRACT In this study, effects of drilling parameters and cryogenic treatment, which were applied to the cutting tool (M35 HSS drill bit), on the burr width, surface roughness (Ra), chip formation and tool wear were investigated in drilling of AA2024-T3 aluminium alloy under dry drilling conditions. In this context, the drilling parameters determined based on the Taguchi experimental design were employed, and also, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis were performed. The spindle speed (1500, 3000 and 4500 rev/min), feed rate (100, 150 and 200 mm/min) and cutting tool (cryo-treated and untreated M35 HSS tools) were selected as machining parameters. In terms of average burr width, the performance of the cryo-treated (DC&T) HSS drill bit was 28.91% (for the highest value) and 46.96% (for the lowest value) better than that of the untreated (UT) HSS drill bit. According to Ra values, the performance of DC&T HSS drill bit was 13.29% (for highest value) and 12.01% (for lowest value) better than that of UT HSS drill bit. The flank wear (VB) of UT HSS drill bit was found to be approximately four times greater than the flank wear of DC&T HSS drill bit.

Effect of ultrasound-assisted drying on drying kinetics, color, total phenols content and antioxidant activity of pomegranate peel

The study investigated the effect of ultrasound (US) pre-treatment on drying kinetics, color, total phenols content and antioxidant activity of pomegranate peel (PP). The US pre-treatment was carried out at a frequency of 24 kHz at room temperature for two time periods of 5 and 10 min. The pretreated PP were then dried in a convective tray dryer at two different temperatures (70 and 80 °C). The US pre-treatment had a significant influence on reducing the drying time (approx. 45 % reduction) of PP. Five thin-layer drying models were fit to study the drying kinetics in which Midilli's model gave the best-fit curve. The effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) of PP ranged from 5.44 × 10−09 to 1.49 × 10−08 m2/s. The PP activation energy (Ea) decreased with increased exposure time. The color values (ΔΕ*) increased with increasing treatment time and temperature, however, no significant difference among color values was observed. The total phenol content and antioxidant activity were higher in US-treated peel powder than in untreated (UT) PP. The US pre-treatment of 10 min and dried at 70 °C successfully reduced degradation of total phenolic content and antioxidants and is recommended for PP drying pretreated with US

Machining fiber-reinforced glass-epoxy composites with cryo-treated and untreated HSS cutting tools of varying geometries

Depending on the expanding application areas of glass fiber reinforced composite materials, quality machining of such materials also receives increasing interest. However, since the cutting tools used for machining such composites generally have standard geometric properties, both the life of the cutting tool and the quality of the machined composite workpiece are adversely affected by. In this study, the performance and the most optimum drilling geometries of untreated (UT) and cryo-treated&tempered (DCT&T) HSS cutting tools used for machining of fiber-reinforced glass-epoxy composites were investigated. Moreover, Taguchi experimental design was employed to reduce the number of experiments, and also the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and regression analysis were performed. Furthermore, XRD analysis and microhardness tests were applied to UT and DCT&T HSS cutting tools. From the highest and lowest delamination factor (Fd) values obtained using UT and DCT&T HSS drills, it was understood that DCT&T HSS drills achieved better results by 0.8% and 0.7%, respectively. According to average surface roughness (Ra) values obtained, the performances of DCT&T HSS drills were 14.76% (for the highest Ra value) and 2.69% (for the lowest Ra value), better than UT HSS drills. When the highest and lowest cutting force values were compared, it was seen that the cutting force values obtained using DCT&T HSS drills were 24.54% and 16.15% less than the cutting force values obtained using UT HSS drills, respectively. According to the S/N ratios for the cutting forces, the most optimum geometries of the cutting tool were found to be 128° point angle, 33° helix angle and 8° clearance angle, respectively. With respect to S/N ratios for Fd values, the most optimum geometries of the cutting tool were found to be 118° point angle, 26° helix angle and 8° clearance angle, respectively. Based on S/N ratios for Ra values, the most optimum geometries of the cutting tool were found to be 128° point angle, 26° helix angle and 8° clearance angle, respectively. On the other hand, as a result of the regression analysis, R2 values obtained over 90% show that the regression models are quite successful. Besides, it was observed (from SEM and thermal camera images) that the epoxy resins in the chips produced at high spindle speeds melted because of high temperature, which indicated that the integrity of the composite workpieces started to deteriorate.

Microwave‐assisted molding of sisal/HDPEcomposites: Water absorption, diffusion kinetics and tribological behavior

AbstractRecyclability and environmental safety have prompted research toward clean and energy‐efficient manufacturing technologies for natural fiber‐reinforced composites. In the current investigation sisal/HDPE composites were fabricated using a novel energy and time efficient microwave‐assisted molding (MAM) method. Sisal fibers were successfully treated with novel microwave‐assisted alkali treatment (MAAT) at 640 W microwave power. For the outdoor application the effect of treatment method on mechanical properties, water absorption, and tribological behavior of the developed composites were studied. The treated composites have been found to absorb less water by 45.28% as compared to untreated (UT). The developed composites recorded increase in tensile strength (36.5%), flexural strength (41.05%), and hardness (4.38%) as compared to UT composites, which could be attributed to effective partial removal of non‐cellulosic content after treatment from fiber surface. During the wear test, sisal/HDPE composite was employed as a pin, and the abrasive paper (P1000) served as a counter surface in the pin‐on‐disc (POD) arrangement for two‐body abrasive wear. The SWR, COF, and friction force values of the treated composites reduced by about 61.72%, 33.33%, and 34%, respectively, as compared to those for the UT composites at minimum normal load (10 N) and sliding speed (0.5 m/s) which was due to positive effect of MAAT. Scanning electron microscope was used to examine the worn surface of composites to understand the mode of wear mechanism.HighlightsNovel microwave‐assisted alkali treatment (MAAT) was used for treatment of fibers.MAAT increased the fiber roughness.Microwave‐assisted molding was used for fabrication of composites.The water absorption behavior followed the Pseudo Fickian diffusion mechanism.Polymeric composites with MAAT fiber had optimum performance.

Effect of Cryo-Treated Cutting Tool End Milling on Custom 450 Stainless Steel.

Custom 450 stainless steel is the most desirable material across industries due to its widespread application in the aerospace, defense and marine industries. Stainless-steel materials are challenging to deal with and fall into the list of hard-to-process materials due to their low heat conduction coefficient and high mechanical properties. In this research work, end milling was carried out on Custom 450 stainless steel machined using TiAlN coated with tungsten carbide inserts that have been cryo-treated (CT) for 24 h (24 h) and 36 h (36 h), as well as untreated (UT) inserts. The inserts were evaluated in terms of feed force, feed rate and consistent depth of cut (ap) at various spindle speeds (S). Also examined were the tool morphology, chip anatomy and surface morphology of cryo-treated material compared to untreated inserts at various responses to cutting force (Fx, Fy, Fz), cutting temperature (Tc), vibration and surface abrasion. For inserts that have been cryo-treated for 36 h, the feed force (Fx) value was 44% and 5% less compared to inserts treated for 24 h and in UT inserts, respectively. Furthermore, for 24-h and 36-h CT inserts, feed force (Fx) was 12% and 20% less compared to a UT insert. Using 24-h cryo-treated inserts as opposed to UT inserts significantly reduced the surface roughness by 20%. Cutting inserts that have undergone cryogenic treatment have been observed to exhibit longer cutting tool life due to less wear and friction on the cutting edges.