Search

Environmental protection is close related with environmental education. Environmental education is as necessary in the educational system as outside it. The present study, starting from the perception of the representatives of the local rural public administration and the citizens of the rural communities on environmental protection issues: (i) highlights the need for information and education in the field of environmental protection, especially with regard to environmental legislation and waste management; (ii) demonstrates the usefulness of environmental educational projects and the use of open educational resources, as resources that can be easily adapted to the real needs of education and information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is a concise form of some present days researches within the Interdisciplinary Centre for Advanced Researches on Territorial Dynamics within the University of Bucharest, which had as main major objective to identify and to underline the instability from the natural environment, determined by coal exploitation, as well as to identify the efficient management systems in some areas located in the south-western part of Romania, Oltenia. Researches identified the major effects these economic activities have upon air pollution, slopes' dynamic, air and soil pollution. A special importance is given to the human component within territorial systems, as population is often dislodged to other localities and this phenomenon implies many social and economic consequences. One of the most important aggressions upon natural and built environment is that related to the landscape damage, following exploiting and processing rough material in order to obtain the final product, the coal. The direct impact of mining activities upon environment may be translated by a local biodiversity decrease, even if these coal mines are rehabilitated after they're closed. Therefore, an integrated approach is necessary and it must refer to the way of administering mines for long term, by common actions of all the implied factors (government, mining companies and the local communities). The scientific demarche of building the model of environment management in the areas affected by mining took into account the new European context, which represents a supra system imposing the strategic coordinates where the process of managing territorial instability takes place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at analyzing the changes that the functional restructuring of economic activities developed in the communist period brought upon the quality of the natural environment. It has been done an individualization of the main areas affected by the marked dynamics of economic activities in Bucharest due to numberless sources of emission distributed all over the city. The striking lack of balance in the condition of the environment is determined by the profound alterations inside the urban structure. Once the location of performing economic activities has been shifted towards the outskirts of the city, other economic activities have been developed inside the urban structure causing tides to compress, thus exceeding the capacity for support of the road structure. As a consequence the polluting emissions are greater than the admitted maximum limits in many areas of Bucharest. Besides road traffic, numerous construction sites inside the city which are not suitably organized, add to the increase of polluting emissions. The local authorities have initiated great projects which aim at easing the traffic flow inside the city and developing systems of redirecting the road traffic at city entrances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper is aiming to give an example of environmental management implementation at academic level, in German universities. The study was part the European Union Socrates Program, Erasmus Curricula Development Dissemination Project that gathered European universities with environmental related curricula. The experience exchange among the partner institutions made possible lessons learned from each institution expertise in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetrahydroacridines arouse particular interest due to the potential possibilities of application in the medical field and protection against corrosion. Bis-tetrahydroacridines were newly synthesized by Pfitzinger condensation of 5,5′-(ethane-1,2-diyl) diindoline-2,3-dione with several cyclanones. NMR, MS, and FT-IR were used to prove their molecular structure. In addition, a computer-aided study was performed for the lowest energy conformers of each structure, in vacuum conditions, at ground state using DFT models to assess their electronic properties. UV–Vis and voltammetric methods (cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, and rotating disk electrode voltammetry) were used to investigate their optical and electrochemical properties. The results obtained for these π-conjugated heteroaromatic compounds lead to the conclusion that they have real potential in applications in different fields such as pharmaceuticals and especially as corrosion inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of the increased frequency of multi-hazards, the dynamics of vulnerability across time, space, and different hazards emerges as an intriguing but challenging research topic. Within multi-hazard contexts, both the impacts of hazards and mitigation strategies can augment vulnerabilities, adding layers to the complexity of multi-risk assessments. Delving into these interactions, this study aims to analyse new connections in rising vulnerability that result from impacts and adaptation options, as well as their implications, putting co-occurrent powerful river flood events and the COVID-19 pandemic in Romania under the magnifying glass, taking 2020 and 2021 as references. The proposed framework relies on an impact chain that was enhanced to include new elements (i.e. augmented vulnerabilities and derived impacts) and links (i.e. connections that describe the augmentation of vulnerability), which were also used to rank the vulnerabilities based on their augmentation. The impact chain draws on various data and information sources, including the scientific literature, the feedback of first responders, reports, legislative documents, official press releases, and news reports. This research work makes a significant contribution to the field of disaster risk reduction (DRR) by broadening the purpose of the impact chain, transforming it into a first-hand, semi-qualitative tool for analysing vulnerability dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance poses a major threat to global health as the number of efficient antimicrobials decreases and the number of resistant pathogens rises. Our research group has been actively involved in the design of novel antimicrobial drugs. The blueprints of these compounds were azolic heterocycles, particularly thiazole. Starting with oxadiazolines, our research group explored, one by one, the other five-membered heterocycles, developing more or less potent compounds. An overview of this research activity conducted by our research group allowed us to observe an evolution in the methodology used (from inhibition zone diameters to minimal inhibitory concentrations and antibiofilm potential determination) correlated with the design of azole compounds based on results obtained from molecular modeling. The purpose of this review is to present the development of in-house azole compounds with antimicrobial activity, designed over the years by this research group from the departments of Pharmaceutical and Therapeutical Chemistry in Cluj-Napoca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Logging causes the fragmentation of areas with direct implications for hydrological processes, landslides, or habitats. The assessment of this fragmentation process plays an important role in the planning of future logging, reconstruction, and protection measures for the whole ecosystem. The methodology used includes imaging techniques applying two fractal indices: the Fractal Fragmentation Index (FFI) and the Fractal Fragmentation and Disorder Index (FFDI). The results showed the annual evolution and disposition of deforested areas. Only 3% of deforestation resulted in the fragmentation and splitting of forest plots. The remaining 97% resulted in the reduction of existing compact stands without fragmentation. The method has many advantages in quantifying the spatial evolution of forests, estimating the capture of carbon emissions and establishing sustainability of bird and animal habitats. The analysis took place in the Eastern Carpathians, in Romania, in the time period of 2001-2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chemical Problems / Kimya Problemləri is the property of Institute of Catalysis & Inorganic Chemistry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of natural hazard susceptibility in the Makedonska Kamenica municipality of North Macedonia, encompassing erosion assessment, landslides, flash floods, and forest fire vulnerability. Employing advanced GIS and remote sensing (RS) methodologies, hazard models were meticulously developed and integrated to discern areas facing concurrent vulnerabilities. Findings unveil substantial vulnerabilities prevalent across the area, notably along steep terrain gradients, river valleys, and deforested landscapes. Erosion assessment reveals elevated rates, with a mean erosion coefficient (Z) of 0.61 and an annual erosion production of 182,712.9 m3, equivalent to a specific erosion rate of 961.6 m3/km2/year. Landslide susceptibility analysis identifies 31.8% of the municipality exhibiting a very high probability of landslides, while flash flood susceptibility models depict 3.3% of the area prone to very high flash flood potential. Forest fire susceptibility mapping emphasizes slightly less than one-third of the municipality's forested area is highly or very highly susceptible to fires. Integration of these hazard models elucidates multi-hazard zones, revealing that 11.0% of the municipality's territory faces concurrent vulnerabilities from excessive erosion, landslides, flash floods, and forest fires. These zones are predominantly located in upstream areas, valleys of river tributaries, and the estuary region. The identification of multi-hazard zones underscores the critical need for targeted preventive measures and robust land management strategies to mitigate potential disasters and safeguard both human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Recommendations include the implementation of enhanced monitoring systems, validation methodologies, and community engagement initiatives to bolster hazard preparedness and response capabilities effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the design, characterization, and optimization of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with docetaxel for the treatment of skin cancer. Employing a systematic formulation development process guided by Design of Experiments (DoE) principles, key parameters such as particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency were optimized to ensure the stability and drug-loading efficacy of the NLCs. Combined XRD and cryo-TEM analysis were employed for NLC nanostructure evaluation, confirming the formation of well-defined nanostructures. In vitro kinetics studies demonstrated controlled and sustained docetaxel release over 48 h, emphasizing the potential for prolonged therapeutic effects. Cytotoxicity assays on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and SK-MEL-24 melanoma cell line revealed enhanced efficacy against cancer cells, with significant selective cytotoxicity and minimal impact on normal cells. This multidimensional approach, encompassing formulation optimization and comprehensive characterization, positions the docetaxel-loaded NLCs as promising candidates for advanced skin cancer therapy. The findings underscore the potential translational impact of these nanocarriers, paving the way for future preclinical investigations and clinical applications in skin cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid metabolism dysregulation can lead to dyslipidemia and obesity, which are major causes of cardiovascular disease and associated mortality worldwide. The purpose of the study was to obtain and characterize six plant extracts (ACE—Allii cepae extractum; RSE—Rosmarini extractum; CHE—Cichorii extractum; CE—Cynarae extractum; AGE—Apii graveolentis extractum; CGE—Crataegi extractum) as promising adjuvant therapies for the prevention and treatment of dyslipidemia and its related metabolic diseases. Phytochemical screening revealed that RSE was the richest extract in total polyphenols (39.62 ± 13.16 g tannic acid/100 g dry extract) and phenolcarboxylic acids (22.05 ± 1.31 g chlorogenic acid/100 g dry extract). Moreover, the spectrophotometric chemical profile highlighted a significant concentration of flavones for CGE (5.32 ± 0.26 g rutoside/100 g dry extract), in contrast to the other extracts. UHPLC-MS quantification detected considerable amounts of phenolic constituents, especially chlorogenic acid in CGE (187.435 ± 1.96 mg/g extract) and rosmarinic acid in RSE (317.100 ± 2.70 mg/g extract). Rosemary and hawthorn extracts showed significantly stronger free radical scavenging activity compared to the other plant extracts (p < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis and the heatmap correlation matrix indicated significant correlations between phytochemical contents and in vitro antioxidant activities. Computational studies were performed to investigate the potential anti-obesity mechanism of the studied extracts using target prediction, homology modeling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics approaches. Our study revealed that rosmarinic acid (RA) and chlorogenic acid (CGA) can form stable complexes with the active site of carbonic anhydrase 5A by either interacting with the zinc-bound catalytic water molecule or by directly binding Zn2+. Further studies are warranted to experimentally validate the predicted CA5A inhibitory activities of RA and CGA and to investigate the hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of the proposed plant extracts in animal models of dyslipidemia and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced techniques can accelerate the pace of natural product discovery from microbes, which has been lagging behind the drug discovery era. Therefore, the present review article discusses the various interdisciplinary and cutting-edge techniques to present a concrete strategy that enables the high-throughput screening of novel natural compounds (NCs) from known microbes. Recent bioinformatics methods revealed that the microbial genome contains a huge untapped reservoir of silent biosynthetic gene clusters (BGC). This article describes several methods to identify the microbial strains with hidden mines of silent BGCs. Moreover, antiSMASH 5.0 is a free, accurate, and highly reliable bioinformatics tool discussed in detail to identify silent BGCs in the microbial genome. Further, the latest microbial culture technique, HiTES (high-throughput elicitor screening), has been detailed for the expression of silent BGCs using 500–1000 different growth conditions at a time. Following the expression of silent BGCs, the latest mass spectrometry methods are highlighted to identify the NCs. The recently emerged LAESI-IMS (laser ablation electrospray ionization-imaging mass spectrometry) technique, which enables the rapid identification of novel NCs directly from microtiter plates, is presented in detail. Finally, various trending 'dereplication' strategies are emphasized to increase the effectiveness of NC screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is an important condition affecting the quality of life of numerous patients and increasing their associated risk for multiple diseases, including tumors and immune-mediated disorders. Inflammation appears to play a major role in the development of obesity and represents a central point for the activity of cellular and humoral components in the adipose tissue. Macrophages play a key role as the main cellular component of the adipose tissue regulating the chronic inflammation and modulating the secretion and differentiation of various pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation also involves a series of signaling pathways that might represent the focus for new therapies and interventions. Weight loss is essential in decreasing cardiometabolic risks and the degree of associated inflammation; however, the latter can persist for long after the excess weight is lost, and can involve changes in macrophage phenotypes that can ensure the metabolic adjustment. A clear understanding of the pathophysiological processes in the adipose tissue and the interplay between obesity and chronic inflammation can lead to a better understanding of the development of comorbidities and may ensure future targets for the treatment of obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New 9-cyano-pyrrolo[1,2-a][1,10]phenanthrolines 5a–d, obtained by a 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction between the corresponding N-ylides of 1,10-phenanthrolinium bromides 2a–d, generated in situ and acrylonitrile as a dipolarophile, were investigated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and computational studies to assess their druglikeness and evaluate their structure-activity properties. The non-covalent interactions present within the supramolecular landscape of the new 9-cyano-pyrrolo[1,2-a][1,10]phenanthrolines were correlated with the SAR investigations with the aim of estimating the propensity for bioactivity in these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Despite recent advances in diagnosis and therapy, malignant melanoma poses a significant problem both to clinicians and cancer researchers due to its resistance to therapy and unpredictable behavior. In this review, we discuss etiology, risk factors, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of melanoma, with a focus on new developments in these areas including bioinformatics. These are analyzed in the context of its unique metabolic characteristics and of recent advances in vitamin D biology with implications for melanoma. Active forms of vitamin D can prevent or inhibit melanoma development and progression, and can be used in therapy of this disease. Knowledge of patient vitamin D status and vitamin D signaling in the tumoral tissue can help in predicting the progression of the disease and in primary or adjuvant therapy. Therefore, vitamin D signaling represents a realistic target for the prevention or therapy of malignant melanoma. Melanoma, originating through malignant transformation of melanin-producing melanocytes, is a formidable malignancy, characterized by local invasiveness, recurrence, early metastasis, resistance to therapy, and a high mortality rate. This review discusses etiologic and risk factors for melanoma, diagnostic and prognostic tools, including recent advances in molecular biology, omics, and bioinformatics, and provides an overview of its therapy. Since the incidence of melanoma is rising and mortality remains unacceptably high, we discuss its inherent properties, including melanogenesis, that make this disease resilient to treatment and propose to use AI to solve the above complex and multidimensional problems. We provide an overview on vitamin D and its anticancerogenic properties, and report recent advances in this field that can provide solutions for the prevention and/or therapy of melanoma. Experimental papers and clinicopathological studies on the role of vitamin D status and signaling pathways initiated by its active metabolites in melanoma prognosis and therapy are reviewed. We conclude that vitamin D signaling, defined by specific nuclear receptors and selective activation by specific vitamin D hydroxyderivatives, can provide a benefit for new or existing therapeutic approaches. We propose to target vitamin D signaling with the use of computational biology and AI tools to provide a solution to the melanoma problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a limited number of studies focusing on ethnomedical practices in children, particularly in Eastern Europe. Romania has a rich history of using medicinal plants in ethnopediatric care, and our objective was to identify the medicinal plants currently employed in treating childhood illnesses in the southern region of the country. Material and methods Our investigation used structured interviews, focusing on respondent demographics, local names of therapeutically employed herbs, the specific plant part(s) utilized, methods of preparation and administration, and local folk indications of taxa. A total of 326 mothers with children aged 0 to 18, hospitalized in the "Grigore Alexandrescu" Children Emergency Hospital Bucharest and residing in Southern Romania, were enrolled in the study. Use Value Citation Index (UVc), Informant Consensus Factor (Fic), and Fidelity Level (FL) were calculated. Results Twenty-five plants were identified for treating children's diseases in Southern Romania. The majority of informants resided in urban areas, and mothers primarily acquired knowledge from family members and healthcare professionals. The herbs most frequently employed were Mentha spp. (UV = 0.509) for diarrhea, Matricaria spp. (UV = 0.301) for skin infections (Fic = 0.99) and digestive diseases (Fic = 0.98), and Calendula officinalis L. (UV = 0.365) for skin diseases (Fic = 0.99). Less utilized were Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus (L.) Domin in respiratory diseases, Prunus avium (L.) L. stalks in urinary tract ailments, Helianthus annuus L. in ear infections, Allium sativum L. in intestinal parasitosis, Viola tricolor L. in hives, Triticum aestivum L. in dermatitis and Allium ursinum L. as a tonic. In 184 cases herbal treatment was used in conjunction with conventional medications. Education level correlated with the number of employed plants and the variety of treated ailments, while residency (rural vs. urban) did not. Both residency and education influenced plant procurement methods: rural background and, surprisingly, higher education were linked to a preference for harvesting rather than purchasing plants. Conclusion Botanical remedies are still commonly used in the treatment of pediatric diseases in Southern Romania, although the variety of taxa seems reduced compared to the past. Further exploration is essential to unlock the maximum benefits of ethnopediatric practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is shown that a more than significant amount of experimental data obtained in the field of studying systems based on thermosensitive hydrophilic polymers and reflected in the literature over the past decades makes the issue of their systematization and classification relevant. This, in turn, makes relevant the question of choosing the appropriate classification criteria. It is shown that the basic classification feature can be the number of phase transition stages, which can vary from one to four or more depending on the nature of the temperature-sensitive system. In this work, the method of inverse phase portraits is proposed for the first time. It was intended, among other things, to identify the number of phase transition stages. Moreover, the accuracy of this method significantly exceeds the accuracy of the previously used method of direct phase portraits since, for the first time, the operation of numerical differentiation is replaced by the operation of numerical integration. A specific example of the application of the proposed method for the analysis of a previously studied temperature-sensitive system is presented. It is shown that this method also allows for a quantitative comparison between the results obtained by the differential calorimetry method and the turbidimetry method. Issues related to increasing the resolution of the method of direct phase portraits are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A new series of pyrazole-3-carbaldehyde derivatives from new hydrazones by using the Vilsmeier–Haack reaction were synthesized. Pyrazoles have the characteristic qualities of the aromatic system, which are generally quite evident in their structures having insecticide, herbicide, and healthful significance as anti-inflammatory properties and antipyretic medication actions. Pyrazole compounds have a wide spectrum of bioactivity as reported in the literature, which encourages synthesis and testing of the antimicrobial activity for synthesis compounds. Methods: P-acetamido-phenol, and 2-mercaptobenzoimidazole, which used as a starting materials for synthesis pyrazole-3-carbaldehyde derivatives. The biological activity of some prepared compounds was also tested against two G-positive bacteria and two G-negative bacteria, in addition to C. albinos fungi. A molecular modeling study of some prepared compounds showed good binding strength with the target protein. Results and Discussion: Compound N-(4-((5-(4′-(4-formyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carbonyl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]4-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)methoxy) phenyl)acetamide passes a good activity against Staphylococcus aurous; the compound 3-(4′-(5-(((1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)thio)methyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-carbonyl)1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde passes good active with C. albinos. Molecular modeling was studied for the compounds prepared with human corona virus NL63, compound N-(4-((5-(4′-(4-formyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-3carbonyl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)methoxy)phenyl)acetamide has best docking score –181.9 kcal/mol, while compound 3-(4′-(5-(((1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)thio)methyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-carbonyl)-1-(4-nitroph enyl)-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde has best hydrogen-bonding with –10 kcal/mol. In general, the binding by hydrogen bonding and steric interference was high, which leads to the conclusion that the prepared compounds have an effect on the Corona virus. Conclusions: The prepared compounds have biological activity and have good binding force with the Corona virus protein NL63, thus disrupting its work, and ccording to the toxicity assessment, the synthesized compounds belong to the third class (III). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Choosing appropriate locations for built-up growth while maintaining natural balance has become necessary for sustainable urban planning. To this end, two multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approaches--the multi-influencing factor (MIF) and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP)--have been applied in this work. The MIF model results show that 23.546% of the study region was very highly suitable for newly built-up areas, and 18.786% was restricted for urban settlement, whereas, in the AHP model, 28.907% of the area was highly suitable, 17.619% was restricted for urban settlement. Finally, the dependability and efficiency of the two models used for the study area were assessed through the receiver operating curve (ROC) and area under curve (AUC) analysis. The comparative analysis demonstrates that the MIF approach (AUC 0.817) is more suitable and reliable than the AHP (AUC 0.783). The present work provides new insights to integrate GIS tools with MCDM for practical urban land suitability assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress, often considered a silent yet pervasive force in our daily lives, has increasingly been recognized for its significant impact on human health. In the realm of oncology, the connection between stress and cancer development, particularly tumor metastasis, has become a subject of intense research and clinical interest. This review discusses the intricate relationship between stress and tumor metastasis, exploring the biological mechanisms, clinical implications, and potential therapeutic approaches at the intersection of these two complex phenomena. By understanding the role of stress in shaping cancer progression, we may uncover new avenues for improving patient outcomes and advancing cancer care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-containing heterocycles are an inseparable part of many biologically active compounds. Therefore, the synthesis of these structures is of great importance in the field of synthetic chemistry. Due to the presence of two nitrogen atoms in the amidine structure, this molecule can be considered as a dual nucleophile in the synthesis of various heterocycles. The current review highlights recent advances in the application of amidines, in particular, N-arylamidines, as versatile precursors in transition metal-catalyzed, and metal-free reactions for the construction of N-heterocyclic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berberis vulgaris (L.) has remarkable ethnopharmacological properties and is widely used in traditional medicine. The present study investigated B. vulgaris stem bark (Berberidis cortex) by extraction with 50% ethanol. The main secondary metabolites were quantified, resulting in a polyphenols content of 17.6780 ± 3.9320 mg Eq tannic acid/100 g extract, phenolic acids amount of 3.3886 ± 0.3481 mg Eq chlorogenic acid/100 g extract and 78.95 µg/g berberine. The dried hydro-ethanolic extract (BVE) was thoroughly analyzed using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC–HRMS/MS) and HPLC, and 40 bioactive phenolic constituents were identified. Then, the antioxidant potential of BVE was evaluated using three methods. Our results could explain the protective effects of Berberidis cortex EC50FRAP = 0.1398 mg/mL, IC50ABTS = 0.0442 mg/mL, IC50DPPH = 0.2610 mg/mL compared to ascorbic acid (IC50 = 0.0165 mg/mL). Next, the acute toxicity and teratogenicity of BVE and berberine—berberine sulfate hydrate (BS)—investigated on Daphnia sp. revealed significant BS toxicity after 24 h, while BVE revealed considerable toxicity after 48 h and induced embryonic developmental delays. Finally, the anticancer effects of BVE and BS were evaluated in different tumor cell lines after 24 and 48 h of treatments. The MTS assay evidenced dose- and time-dependent antiproliferative activity, which was higher for BS than BVE. The strongest diminution of tumor cell viability was recorded in the breast (MDA-MB-231), colon (LoVo) cancer, and OSCC (PE/CA-PJ49) cell lines after 48 h of exposure (IC50 < 100 µg/mL). However, no cytotoxicity was reported in the normal epithelial cells (HUVEC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HT-29) cell lines. Extensive data analysis supports our results, showing a significant correlation between the BVE concentration, phenolic compounds content, antioxidant activity, exposure time, and the viability rate of various normal cells and cancer cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the association between the use of oral isotretinoin and menstrual irregularities in acne patients with previously regular menstrual cycles. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 58,599 female patients aged 14 to 36 at King Abdullah University Hospital in Irbid, Jordan. The patients were followed for a period of 4.5 to 8 months during treatment and for 2 months post-treatment. Menstrual cycle changes were documented, and statistical analysis was performed to identify any significant associations. Results: A total of 111 (37.1%) patients, who were previously known to have regular menstrual cycles, complained of menstrual changes while using oral isotretinoin. Ninety-nine of those patients who complained of menstrual changes had their cycles back to normal post-treatment. There is a significant difference in the total accumulative dose between those with changes in menses and those without; p-value [0.008]. The most common change that occurred was amenorrhea (p < 0.001), followed by oligomenorrhea and menorrhagia (p < 0.001 and p = 0.050, respectively). The duration of treatment was a significant predictor of menstrual irregularities, with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.106 (95% CI: 1.371–19.020, p = 0.015), indicating a higher likelihood of menstrual changes with increased treatment duration. The total accumulative dose was also significantly associated with menstrual irregularities (OR = 0.964; 95% CI: 0.939–0.990; p = 0.006). Additionally, a family history of PCOS significantly increased the odds of menstrual irregularities (OR = 3.783; 95% CI: 1.314–10.892; p = 0.014). Conclusions: The study identified that 37.1% of the participants experienced changes in their menstrual cycles while undergoing isotretinoin therapy, with the vast majority (89.2%) returning to normal within two months post-treatment. Our logistic regression analysis pinpointed the duration of isotretinoin treatment, the total accumulative dose, and a family history of PCOS as significant predictors of menstrual irregularities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Betulonic acid (B(O)A) is a pentacyclic lupane-type triterpenoid that widely exists in plants. There are scientific reports indicating anticancer activity of B(O)A, as well as the amides and esters of this triterpenoid. In the first step of the study, the synthesis of novel amide derivatives of B(O)A containing an acetylenic moiety was developed. Subsequently, the medium-soluble compounds (EB171 and EB173) and the parent compound, i.e., B(O)A, were investigated for potential cytotoxic activity against breast cancer (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and melanoma (C32, COLO 829 and A375) cell lines, as well as normal human fibroblasts. Screening analysis using the WST-1 test was applied. Moreover, the lipophilicity and ADME parameters of the obtained derivatives were determined using experimental and in silico methods. The toxicity assay using zebrafish embryos and larvae was also performed. The study showed that the compound EB171 exhibited a significant cytotoxic effect on cancer cell lines: MCF-7, A-375 and COLO 829, while it did not affect the survival of normal cells. Moreover, studies on embryos and larvae showed no toxicity of EB171 in an animal model. Compared to EB171, the compound EB173 had a weaker effect on all tested cancer cell lines and produced less desirable effects against normal cells. The results of the WST-1 assay obtained for B(O)A revealed its strong cytotoxic activity on the examined cancer cell lines, but also on normal cells. In conclusion, this article describes new derivatives of betulonic acid—from synthesis to biological properties. The results allowed to indicate a promising direction for the functionalization of B(O)A to obtain derivatives with selective anticancer activity and low toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulosic fibers obtained from Barley straw were utilized to reinforce PHB. Four different processed fibers were employed as reinforcing material: sawdust (SW), defibered (DFBF), delignified (DBF), and bleached (BBF) fibers. The composite was processed from two different perspectives: a discontinuous (bach) and an intensification process (extrusion). Once processed and transformed into final shape specimens, the materials were characterized by mechanical testing (tensile mode), scanning electron microscopy, and theoretical simulations by finite elements analysis (FEA). In terms of mechanical properties, only the elastic moduli (Et) exhibited results ranging from 37% to 170%, depending on the reinforcement composition. Conversely, strengths at break, under both tensile and bending tests, tended to decrease, indicating poor affinity between the components. Due to the mechanical treatment applied on the fiber, DFBF emerged as the most promising filler, with mechanical properties closest to those of neat PHB. DFBF-based composites were subsequently produced through process intensification using a twin-screw extruder, and molded into flowerpots. Mechanical results showed almost identical properties between the discontinuous and intensification processes. The suitability of the material for agriculture flowerpots was demonstrated through finite analysis simulation (FEA), which revealed that the maximum von Mises stresses (5.38 × 105 N/m2) and deformations (0.048 mm) were well below the limits of the composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic pressure on water resources is affecting aquatic systems, requiring ecological analysis and restoration. This study proposes a new approach to assessing public perceptions of these activities. The methodology used is based on a structured questionnaire that looks at the general perception of the research topic, the economic readiness for community involvement and the identification of institutional mechanisms to implement river restoration measures. We used random sampling, guaranteeing results with a margin of error of 4.33%. The results show that the public and practitioners have different perspectives, and this can influence river restoration solutions, as they will contribute to a change in the way that longitudinally connected river restoration solutions are designed and implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chemical Problems / Kimya Problemləri is the property of Institute of Catalysis & Inorganic Chemistry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The current research focused on the Schiff base ligand (S,E)-2-((2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene) amino)-3-(1H-imidazol-4-yl)propanoic acid which synthesis by reacting L-histidine and 2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzaldehyde. Its complexes with Ce(III) and Fe(III) both in bulk and nano size were also synthesized. The ligand and its metal complexes were characterized by various physicochemical methods such as FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, electronic spectra, XRD, TGA, and SEM. The synthesized ligand and its metal complexes were screened against different fungi. It was found from the results that the cerium nano complex shows a potent antifungal activity for indoor uses as wallpapers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To synthesize new dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine derivatives and screen for the antibacterial and antifungal screening. Methods: We have synthesized a new series of 7-(1,3-diphenyl-1-H-pyrazol4-yl)-2-(methylthio)-5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3,6-dicarbonitrile compounds and screened compounds for antibacterial and antifungal activity. Gram-positive (Bacillus megaterium, Micrococcus spp.) and Gram-negative bacteria were tested for antibacterial activity (E.coli, S. typhi). Antifungal activity was tested on Ganoderma spp., A. niger, A. flavus, and Penicillium spp.Results: Some compounds have shown significant antimicrobial activity. Discussion: As per the results the compound possesses good biological activity due to presence of core pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine moiety. Conclusions: The synthesis of new 7-(1,3-diphenyl-1-Hpyrazol-4-yl)-2-(methylthio)-5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3,6-dicarbonitrile compounds was successfully completed and characterized by relevant techniques. Compounds are screened for the biological activities with moderate to good results. The MIC of the synthesized compound is compared to marketed available standard drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nervous and immune systems are the primary sensory interfaces of the body, allowing it to recognize, process, and respond to various stimuli from both the external and internal environment. These systems work in concert through various mechanisms of neuro-immune crosstalk to detect threats, provide defense against pathogens, and maintain or restore homeostasis, but can also contribute to the development of diseases. Among peripheral sensory neurons (PSNs), nociceptive PSNs are of particular interest. They possess a remarkable capability to detect noxious stimuli in the periphery and transmit this information to the brain, resulting in the perception of pain and the activation of adaptive responses. Pain is an early symptom of cancer, often leading to its diagnosis, but it is also a major source of distress for patients as the disease progresses. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the mechanisms within tumors that are likely to induce cancer pain, exploring a range of factors from etiological elements to cellular and molecular mediators. In addition to transmitting sensory information to the central nervous system, PSNs are also capable, when activated, to produce and release neuropeptides (e.g., CGRP and SP) from their peripheral terminals. These neuropeptides have been shown to modulate immunity in cases of inflammation, infection, and cancer. PSNs, often found within solid tumors, are likely to play a significant role in the tumor microenvironment, potentially influencing both tumor growth and anti-tumor immune responses. In this review, we discuss the current state of knowledge about the degree of sensory innervation in tumors. We also seek to understand whether and how PSNs may influence the tumor growth and associated antitumor immunity in different mouse models of cancer. Finally, we discuss the extent to which the tumor is able to influence the development and functions of the PSNs that innervate it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the use of functionalized deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as a medium for CO2 capture integrated with CO2 desorption and biofixation in microalgal culture, as an approach for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). The newly devised DES formulation—comprising choline chloride, ethylene glycol, and monoethanolamine—demonstrated a significant advancement in CO2 absorption capacity compared with conventional solvents. Effective CO2 desorption from the solvent was also achieved, recovering nearly 90% of the captured CO2. We then examined the application of the functionalized DESs to promote microalgal cultivation using a Chlorella sp. strain. The experimental results indicated that microalgae exposed to DES-desorbed CO2 exhibited heightened growth rates and enhanced biomass production, signifying the potential of DES-driven CO2 capture for sustainable microalgal biomass cultivation. This research contributes to the growing field of CCUS strategies, offering an avenue for efficient CO2 capture and conversion into valuable biomasses, thereby contributing to both environmental sustainability and bioresource use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beta-aminocarbonyl compounds are important intermediates produced from Mannich condensation. In this research, benzaldehyde, para-hydroxy acetophenone or para-nitro acetophenone were reacted with a various of primary aromatic amines to give compounds (1-7) and (8-14), respectively. The chemical formulas of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by conducting some physical and spectroscopic measurements, such as, melting points, IR and H1-NMR spectrum. After testing the biological activity of some of the synthesized compounds (8,10,11,13) using Gram-positive (Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus aureus), Gram-negative (Klebsiella spp., and Escherichia coli) bacteria, as well as yeast strains, were chosen for this investigation (candidan albicans). Isolated bacteria were identified using standard methods of isolation and identification, including direct assays and culture on various media. Some theoretical tests have also been carried out such as SwissADME and cardioToxCSM prediction on all prepared compounds to predict their activity in terms of pharmacokinetic properties (ADME) and also predict their cardiotoxicity on some heart functions such as arrhythmia, cardiac failure, heart block, hERG toxicity, Hypertension (HT), and Myocardial Infarction (MI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Farmacia is the property of Societatea de Stiinte Farmaceutice Romania and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in language, communication, and social function with an estimated prevalence rate of between 1 in 30 and 44 U.S. births. Gene/environment (G × E) interactions are widely regarded as the most probable explanation for idiopathic ASD, especially because some genes are selectively targeted by various environmental xenobiotics. Because deciduous teeth are a likely biomarker of in utero exposure, the present study investigated if the quantity of chemicals found in deciduous teeth differs between children with and without ASD. Twenty-two deciduous teeth from children with ASD and 20 teeth from typically developed children were prepared and analyzed using THE Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer (GC × GC-TOF MS) with ChromaTOF version 23H2 software and Agilent 7890 gas chromatograph. The autism sample had significantly more chemicals in their teeth than the typical developing sample (99.4 vs. 80.7, respectively) (p < 0.0001). The majority of chemicals were identified as phthalates, plasticizers, pesticides, preservatives, or intermediary solvents used in the production of fragranced personal care or cleaning products or flavoring agents in foods. The known toxic analytes reported in this study are likely biomarkers of developmental exposure. Why there were greater concentrations of toxic chemicals in the teeth that came from children with ASD is unclear. A further understanding of the cavalcade of multiple biological system interactions (Interactome) could help with future efforts to reduce risks. Notwithstanding, the avoidance of pesticides, plastics, and scented personal care products may be warranted under the precautionary principle rule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines target selection by non-state actors who engage in international kidnapping. Existing literature addresses violence against specific victims, such as aid workers and journalists, and explores the attractiveness of these targets to kidnappers. However, studies fail to explore whether the political predictors of violence against aid workers or journalists are the same or different compared to other victim types. This study introduces a conceptual framework that assesses the political context of victimization, including the level of liberty in a state, foreign influence, extent of U.S. military and economic aid, degree of private sector development, region, and frequency of terrorism. Logistic regression is performed on a dataset of 579 victims, revealing a different combination of significant political predictors. This framework shows that the political environment varies across five categories of victims: aid workers, journalists, diplomats, business workers, and tourists. However, it remains unclear whether the political environment renders specific targets easier to abduct, whether those same conditions enhance the attractiveness of specific targets to non-state actors, or a combination of both. Nevertheless, knowledge of target selection preferences by non-state actors can inform policy that seeks to reduce the frequency of international kidnapping by recognizing the vulnerability of specific targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[(Z)-2′-{2-C6H5-(4H)-oxazol-5-one}CHC6H4]2Se (5, L1) and [(Z)-4′-{2-C6H5-(4H)-oxazol-5-one}CHC6H4]2Se (6, L2) were prepared, structurally characterized and used as ligands to obtain new metal complexes of types [MX(Ln)] [L1: M = Ag, X = OTf (7); M = Au, X = Cl (13); L2: M = Ag, X = OTf (8); M = Au, X = Cl (14)], [(MX)2(Ln)] [M = Ag, X = OTf, L1 (9); L2 (10)], [ZnCl2(Ln)] [L1 (15); L2 (16)] and [Ag(Ln)][PF6] [L1 (11); L2 (12)]. The silver complexes 7 and 8 were ionic species (1:1 electrolytes) in a MeCN solution, while in the solid state, the triflate fragments were bonded to the silver cations. Similarly, the 2:1 complexes 9 and 10 were found to behave as 1:2 electrolytes in a MeCN solution, but single-crystal X-ray diffraction demonstrated that compound 9 showed the formation of a dimer in the solid state: a tetranuclear [Ag(OTf)]4 built through bridging triflate ligands was coordinated by two bridging organoselenium ligands through the nitrogen from the oxazolone ring and the selenium atoms in a 1κN:2κSe fashion. Supramolecular architectures supported by intermolecular C−H∙∙∙π, C−H∙∙∙O, Cl∙∙∙H and F∙∙∙H interactions were observed in compounds 4, 5 and 9. The compounds exhibited similar photophysical properties, with a bathochromic shift in the UV-Vis spectra caused by the position of the oxazolone ring on the phenyl ring attached to the selenium atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the evolution of Jingdang and Famen towns near the Zhouyuan site, the capital city site of the Western Zhou Dynasty in China, to elucidate the relationship between township development and the essential ancient relics conservation areas. Based on the remote sensing satellite images from 1982 to 2022, combining with historical demographic data, this study used four methods, including land use classification, land use transfer matrix, landscape pattern center of gravity changes, and population count statistics, to study the spatial–temporal evolution of land, population, and ecology in the region over the past 40 years. The results showed that under the strict relic conservation regimen, these two towns are in a declining stage. To improve their decaying status, some potential strategies valuable for township development are proposed to balance the relationship between relic conservation and township development for their mutual benefit and coexistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forests around the world, vital for ecological, economic, and social functions, are facing increasing threats such as deforestation and habitat fragmentation. This study introduces "succolarity" to analyse forest connectivity and fragmentation directionally in the Romanian Carpathians from 2000 to 2021. Besides traditional indices such as the fractal fragmentation index (FFI), the fractal fragmentation and disorder index (FFDI), the local connected fractal dimension (LCFD), and succolarity, two novel indices are proposed: potential succolarity and delta (Δ) succolarity, which provide nuanced insights into environmental changes and human interventions in forests worldwide. The succolarity tests showed invariance at the image scale and sensitivity to the obstacles in different image scenarios. The combined analysis of succolarity and fractal indices reveals dynamic patterns of connectivity, fragmentation, and spatial disturbance. The directional insights of succolarity highlight and enhance understanding of deforestation patterns. The FFI and FFDI show different levels of fragmentation across mountain groups, while the LCFD details local connectivity. The adaptability of the method makes it globally applicable, supporting biodiversity conservation and landscape management. In conclusion, the integration of succolarity and traditional fractal indices provides a robust methodology for the comprehensive analysis of forest fragmentation. This advancement not only supports the sustainable management of the Romanian Carpathians but also represents a versatile approach applicable to ecosystems worldwide, ensuring the long-term resilience of forested regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol is a chemical substance widely used in plastic products and food containers. In this study, we observed a relationship between DNA methylation and atopic dermatitis (AD) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of pregnant women exposed to bisphenol A (BPA) and its alternatives, bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF). DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene expression, which can be altered by environmental factors, and affects the onset and progression of diseases. We found that genes belonging to the JAK-STAT and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways were hypomethylated in the blood of pregnant women exposed to bisphenols. These genes play important roles in skin barrier function and immune responses, and may influence AD. Therefore, we suggest that not only BPA, but also BPS and BPF, which are used as alternatives, can have a negative impact on AD through epigenetic mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capsicum annuum (L.) is one of the essential spices most frequently used in our daily routine and has remarkable ethnobotanical and pharmacological properties. Its fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and numerous other phenolic metabolites with a well-known antioxidant activity. Regular consumption of chili fruits may have a positive influence on human health. Therefore, we investigated a commercially available chili fruit powder in the present study, extracting it with 50% ethanol. The dried hydro-ethanolic extract (CAE) was thoroughly analyzed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC–HRMS/MS), and 79 bioactive phenolic constituents were identified. Then, we quantified the main phenolic compounds and found a polyphenol content of 4.725 ± 1.361 mg Eq tannic acid/100 g extract and a flavonoid amount of 1.154 ± 0.044 mg Eq rutin/100 g extract. Phenolic secondary metabolites are known for their dual redox behavior as antioxidants/pro-oxidants, underlying their numerous benefits in health and disease. Thus, the antioxidant potential of CAE was evaluated using three methods; our results could explain the protective effects of chili fruits: IC50DPPH = 1.669 mg/mL, IC50ABTS = 0.200 mg/mL, and EC50FRAP = 0.561 mg/mL. The pro-oxidant potential of phenolic compounds could be a basis for CAE cytotoxicity, investigated in vitro on tumor cell lines and in vivo on Daphnia sp. Results demonstrated the dose- and time-dependent CAE's cytotoxic activity; the highest antiproliferative activity was recorded on colon (LoVo) and breast (MDA-MB-231) cancer cell lines after 48 h of exposure (IC50 values < 200 µg/mL). In vivo testing on Daphnia sp. reported a potent CAE cytotoxicity after 48 h and embryonic developmental delays. Extensive data analyses support our results, showing a significant correlation between the CAE's concentration, phenolic compound content, antioxidant activity, exposure time, and the viability rate of different tested cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Actinic keratoses are lesions with a variable potential for malignant transformation, but with a difficult predictability of evolution towards this type of lesions. Non-invasive skin imaging methods represent diagnostic tools that allow a better evaluation of actinic keratoses lesions, as well as the establishment of a diagnosis with greater specificity and sensitivity. This review aims to identify all skin imaging methods that are useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of the treatment of actinic keratoses, as well as to identify those lesions at risk of transforming into squamous cell carcinoma. Non-melanocytic skin cancers represent an important public health problem due to the increasing incidence and the important local destructive potential. Thus, the early diagnosis and treatment of precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses) is a priority for the dermatologist. In recent years, non-invasive skin imaging methods have seen an important development, moving from simple observational methods used in clinical research, to true diagnostic and treatment methods that make the dermatologist's life easier. Given the frequency of these precancerous lesions, their location on photo-exposed areas, as well as the long treatment periods, with variable, imprecise end-points, the need to use non-invasive imaging devices is increasingly evident to complete the clinical observations in the diagnosis and treatment of these lesions, with the aim of increasing accuracy and decreasing the adverse effects due to long treatment duration. This is the first review that brings together all skin imaging methods (dermoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy, ultrasonography, dermoscopy-guided high frequency ultrasonography, and optical coherence tomography) used in the evaluation of actinic keratoses and their response to different treatment regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel chemically modified electrodes (CMEs) based on azulene were prepared by electrooxidation of guaiazulene derivative 4-((5-isopropyl-3,8-dimethylazulen-1-yl)methylene)-2-phenyloxazol-5(4H)-one (G). G is based on guaiazulene non-alternating aromatic hydrocarbon exhibiting a less symmetrical structure compared to naphthalene skeletal derivative. Therefore, it can be used as a building block for the preparation of novel materials. To evaluate the chemical structure and surface images, the CMEs based on G (G-CMEs) were characterized by ferrocene redox probe, X-ray photon spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). They were also tested for the analysis of synthetic samples of heavy metal (HM) ions. The influence of preparation conditions (electric charge and potential) on the properties of these CMEs was examined. This paper highlights the importance of electropolymerization conditions on electrodeposited film surfaces, especially on their analytical properties vs. Cd(II), Pb(II), Cu(II), and Hg(II) investigated ions. This study is relevant for further design and development of advanced materials based on azulenyl-phenyloxazolone for the HM analysis in water. A linear dependence of the peak currents for Pb(II) ion on the concentration in test aqueous solutions was obtained between 10−7 M and 5·10−5 M. The detection limits of 5·10−6 M; 10−7 M; 5·10−6 M; and 10−5 M were estimated for Cd(II), Pb(II), Cu(II), and Hg(II), respectively, for G-CMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]