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In the present work, manganese–copper co-infused nickel oxide nanoparticles (MnCu co-doped NiO NPs) were formulated via a green process using Carica papaya extract. The MnCu co-doped NiO NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis, Fourier transform infrared, field emission scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and photoluminescence (PL) spectrum. The XRD pattern demonstrated that synthesized MnCu co-doped NiO NPs exhibit cubic structure. On the PL spectrum, various surface defects were identified. MnCu co-doped NiO NPs exhibited ferromagnetic properties at 37°C. The antimicrobial activity of green synthesis MnCu co-doped NiO NPs against human pathogens (Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus subtilis, Shigella dysenteriae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and Candida albicans as fungal strains were demonstrated. The MnCu co-doped NiO NPs treatment considerably reduced MDA-MB-231 cell viability while not disturbing HBL-100 cell viability. Different fluorescent staining analyses revealed that MnCu co-doped NiO NPs induced nuclear and mitochondrial damage to improve free radical production, altering mitochondrial membrane protein potential, which led to apoptotic cell death in MDA-MB-231 cells. The MnCu co-doped NiO NP treatment enhanced pro-apoptotic protein expression and inhibited the cell cycle at the S phase in MDA-MB-231 cells. This makes it easy, cheap, and environmentally friendly to make MnCu co-doped NiO NPs using C. papaya extract, which has excellent antimicrobial properties.

In this study, we evaluated the antiproliferative and apoptotic properties of Pluronic-F127-containing manganese oxide nanoparticles (PF-127-coated Mn2O3 NPs) derived from the leaf extract of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (GU) on breast adenocarcinoma, MCF7, and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. The leaf extract of GU contains bioactive molecules that act as a reducing or capping agent to form Mn2O3 NPs. Various analytical techniques were used to characterize the physiochemical properties of PF-127-coated Mn2O3 NPs, including spectroscopy (ultralight-Vis, Fourier transform infrared, photoluminescence), electron microscopy (field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy), X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron diffracted X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), and dynamic light scattering. The average crystallite size of Mn2O3 NPs was estimated to be 80 nm, and the NPs had a cubic crystalline structure. PF127-encapsulated Mn2O3 NPs significantly reduce MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell proliferation, while increasing endogenous ROS and lowering mitochondrial matrix protein levels. DAPI, EtBr/AO dual staining, and Annexin-V-FITC-based flow cytometry analysis revealed that PF127-coated Mn2O3 NP-treated breast cancer cells exhibit nuclear damage and apoptotic cell death, resulting in cell cycle arrest in the S phase. Furthermore, PF127-encapsulated Mn2O3 NPs show strong antimicrobial efficacy against various strains. As a result, we can conclude that PF127-coated Mn2O3 NPs may be effective as future anticancer agents and treatment options for breast cancer.

In response to the increasing deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) across various sectors, the demand for efficient microwave power transmission (MPT) systems for UAVs has become paramount. This study introduces series-fed circularly polarized (CP) and passively beam-tilted patch array antennas designed to enhance MPT in UAV applications, with the intention of addressing the needs related to extending flight times and improving operational efficiency. The radiating element of the proposed antennas employs the conventional model of the patch with truncated corners for CP operation, with transmission line lengths optimized for beam tilt to ensure precise energy transfer. Additionally, an open stub is integrated into the broadside series-fed antenna to improve impedance matching, which is crucial for maintaining signal integrity. The proposed design achieves right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) with an axial ratio (AR) below 3 dB across the operating band, indicative of its effectiveness in diverse UAV operational contexts. Prototypes of each proposed antenna were fabricated and measured according to the beam tilting angle. The measured RHCP realized gains of the proposed antennas are 14.59, 13.09, 13.07, and 10.71 dBic at the tilted angles of 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°, respectively, at 5.84 GHz.

In this work is investigated the effect of nonthermal plasma reactor configurations on the synthesis of silver nanoparticle (AgNP) comparing three reactor configurations: (i) coaxial dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), (ii) like-free ground DBD, and (iii) corona plasma discharge. To make the AgNP synthesis cost-effective and eco-friendly, no reducing agent was used and to get stable particles, instead inexpensive sucrose was used as capping agent. The formation and stability of AgNP were verified using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The concentration and stability of AgNP were found to be dependent on various process parameters, with the optimal conditions of applied voltage, gas flow rate, treatment time, nozzle distance, silver nitrate concentration and sucrose concentration determined at 12 kV, 1.5 L/min, 180 s, 1.0 cm, 0.5 mM, and 20 mM, respectively. The surface morphology and particle size distribution (PSD) obtained with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the nanoparticle (NP) synthesized by coaxial DBD and corona plasma were spherical in shape with a wide PSD, and their average size was 6.2 nm and 9.6 nm, respectively. On the other hand, those NP synthesized by like-free ground DBD were mostly spherical, along with a few hexagon and triangular shapes. With like-free ground DBD, the PSD was found to be significantly narrower, and the average particle size was 20 nm which is bigger compared to NP synthesized by coaxial DBD and corona plasma. Better performance of AgNP synthesis by the like-free ground DBD is most likely due to higher energy delivery capacity.

Bone differentiation is crucial for skeletal development and maintenance. Its dysfunction can cause various pathological conditions such as rickets, osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, or Paget’s disease. Although traditional two-dimensional cell culture systems have contributed significantly to our understanding of bone biology, they fail to replicate the intricate biotic environment of bone tissue. Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid cell cultures have gained widespread popularity for addressing bone defects. This review highlights the advantages of employing 3D culture systems to investigate bone differentiation. It highlights their capacity to mimic the complex in vivo environment and crucial cellular interactions pivotal to bone homeostasis. The exploration of 3D culture models in bone research offers enhanced physiological relevance, improved predictive capabilities, and reduced reliance on animal models, which have contributed to the advancement of safer and more effective strategies for drug development. Studies have highlighted the transformative potential of 3D culture systems for expanding our understanding of bone biology and developing targeted therapeutic interventions for bone-related disorders. This review explores how 3D culture systems have demonstrated promise in unraveling the intricate mechanisms governing bone homeostasis and responses to pharmacological agents.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent inflammatory skin disease characterized by epidermal barrier dysfunction and Th2-skewed inflammation. Campanula takesimana (C. takesimana), a Korean endemic plant grown on Ulleng Island, has long been associated with a traditional alternative medicine for asthma, tonsillitis, and sore throat. In this study, we reported the effect of C. takesimana callus extract on upregulating epidermal barrier-related proteins dysregulated by Th2 cytokines. C. takesimana callus extract induced the expression of skin barrier proteins, such as filaggrin, claudin-1, and zonula occludens-1, in both human primary keratinocytes and Th2-induced AD-like skin-equivalent models. Additionally, RNA sequencing analysis demonstrated that C. takesimana callus extract partially restored Th2 cytokine-induced dysregulation of the epidermal development and lipid metabolic pathways. Considering the advantages of callus as a sustainable eco-friendly source of bioactive substances, and its effect on skin barrier proteins and lipid metabolic pathways, C. takesimana callus extracts can possibly be utilized to improve the integrity of the skin barrier.

In the quest for efficient and cost-effective photovoltaic absorber materials beyond silicon, considerable attention has been directed toward exploring alternatives. One such material, zincblende-derived Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS), has shown promise due to its ideal band gap size and high absorption coefficient. However, challenges such as structural defects and secondary phase formation have hindered its development. In this study, we examine the potential of another compound, Cu2ZnSnO4 (CZTO), with a similar composition to CZTS as a promising alternative. Employing ab initio density function theory (DFT) calculations in combination with an evolutionary structure prediction algorithm, we identify that the crystalline phase of delafossite structure is the most stable among the 900 (meta)stable CZTO. Its thermodynamic stability at room temperature is also confirmed by the molecular dynamics study. Excitingly, this new phase of CZTO displays a direct band gap where the dipole-allowed transition occurs, making it a strong candidate for efficient light absorptions. Furthermore, the estimation of spectroscopic limited maximum efficiency (SLME) directly demonstrates the high potential of delafossite-CZTO as a photovoltaic absorber. Our numerical results suggest that delafossite-CZTO holds promise for future photovoltaic applications.

Background and Objectives: The current study aimed to compare the extent of bone growth achieved after guided tissue regeneration (GTR) based on the location and nature of the initial periodontal lesion. Materials and Methods: The study sample included 80 patients who underwent GTR at Kyungpook National University Dental Hospital since 2012 and were radiologically followed up for at least 2 years after treatment. The patients were divided into four groups based on the location (maxilla and mandible) and nature (furcation involvement and intrabony defects) of the lesion. Differences in bone levels before and after treatment were analyzed. Additionally, a comparison of outcomes based on the type of bone graft material used was conducted. Statistical analysis included a comparison of groups using a t-test, assuming equal variance. Results: The proportion of bone growth observed in the maxillary furcation, mandibular furcation, maxillary intrabony, and mandibular intrabony lesions was 26%, 22%, 31%, and 34%, respectively. No statistically significant differences in the amount of bone fill were observed between the groups. However, a significant positive correlation was found between the initial depth of the bone defect and the amount of bone fill observed after treatment. Conclusions: Contrary to previous evidence, the current study observed no significant differences in the amount of bone fill after GTR based on the location and nature of the lesion. Furthermore, the amount of bone regenerated was directly proportional to the initial depth of the alveolar bone defect.

This study uses a flow visualization method to analyze the flow field of a shed-type coal storage shed, comparing and verifying the findings through numerical calculation. Initially, a coal warehouse-scale model is created for flow visualization. Laser-based cross-sectional analysis yields essential flow data, from which red–green–blue values are extracted, and the flow object with the highest G value is selected. Subsequently, as the video frame changes, the moving object is tracked, and the direction is derived. The velocity vector of the moving object within the designated area is derived. Finally, we compare the results of the flow visualization experiment with the simulation outcome. Notably, the error rate in regions characterized by high flow velocity is found to be low, and a high implementation rate is observed in areas with many floating objects to track. Conversely, implementation accuracy is lower in low-velocity fields. Both methods result in a recirculation zone at the top of the inlet, and a flow stagnation region occurs on the upper part of the central wall.

The release of 1,4-dioxane probably contributes to the deterioration of marine habitats, animal health, and human liver and kidneys. The formulation of 1,4-dioxane in glycols, which has been applied for dehumidifying agents in refineries, may need to be replaced to ensure public health. Further, it is necessary to identify and precisely determine the levels of 1,4-dioxane in glycols for food quality control and environmental safety regulation. The objectives of this study were to validate a liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) method for 1,4-dioxane analysis and to optimize the LLE conditions using a response surface methodology (RSM). With consideration of the food matrix and its applications, polyethylene glycol 200 was used as the model system and analyzed by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. In the experiments for the optimum extraction temperature and time of 1,4-dioxane in ultrasonic treatment, they were 20 °C and 10 min, respectively. The experimental conditions and results were analyzed by RSM with the Box–Behnken design, and the optimal extraction conditions for the LLE were determined to be coded with three independent variables (sample weight, solvent volume, and centrifugation speed). The amount of 1,4-dioxane increased as the amount of sample increased, whereas the amount of 1,4-dioxane decreased as the amount of solvent increased. This information can help to find the analytical methods for regulating the 1,4-dioxane content and its precise quantification in food products.

Metal oxide nanoparticles have been found to selectively target the tumor cells while non-toxic to the normal cells. Leukemia is one of the widespread and deadly cancers in adults, as well as the most common cancer in children. Recently, the nanoparticles have evolved as a simple, economic, effective, and ecologically sound strategy among the known nanoparticle synthesis techniques. In the present study, the structural, optical, and antibacterial effects of nickel cobalt-codoped Tin oxide nanoparticles (SnNiCoO2 NPs) formulated by the green process and the anticancer potential of SnNiCoO2 NPs in Molt-4 cells have been studied. The cytotoxic potential of the NPs against Molt-4 cells was estimated by MTT assay. The ROS and MMP levels were measured using fluorescent dyes and the changes in morphology and nuclei were noted using AO/EB staining. CAT, SOD, MDA, and GSH), and Proinflammatory Cytokines (TNF-α and IL1β) were also studied. The activity of caspase-3, −9, and −8 levels was examined to analyze the apoptotic mechanism. The XRD patterns of SnNiCoO2 NPs revealed a tetragonal structure. The SnNiCoO2 NPs was revealed a diameter of 126 nm by the DLS study. The morphology and elemental composition were studied using FESEM and EDAX spectra. In the FT-IR study, the O-sn-O stretching band was found to be 615 and 542 cm-1. The antimicrobial potential of the SnNiCoO2 NPs was examined against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. Albicans strains. A tremendous reduction in the viability of MOLT-4 cells at concentration-dependent mode witnessed the cytotoxic potential of the formulated NPs. The augmented ROS accumulation, depletion of MMP status, depleted antioxidants, and increased proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL1β) were noted on the NPs exposed cells. Furthermore, the increased expressions of caspase-3, −9, and −8 was also noted in the NPs treated MOLT-4 cells. Hence, the outcomes suggest that the formulated SnNiCoO2 NPs had remarkably potent antimicrobial and anticancer properties and could potentially prove beneficial in cancer treatment. Induces mitochondrial oxidative stress with nickel–cobalt-codoped tin oxide nanoparticles from Psidium guajava, which is a potential drug candidate for the antibiotic, antifungal, and anticancer activities of plant-based nanoparticles.

Glycation is a spontaneous post-translational modification of lysine, arginine, and the N-terminus of proteins. Protein glycation is closely related to the pathogenesis of human diseases, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, renal disease, and cancer. The levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are positively correlated with the progression of many diseases. However, it remains challenging to analyze glycation-related products, such as reactive carbonyl species, Schiff bases, Amadori compounds, and AGEs, because of their high heterogeneity. Many analysis methods, such as fluorescence detection, immunoassays, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, have attempted to correlate glycation products with diseases. Some enrichment methods have been used to increase the probability of detection of glycated proteins due to their low abundance in blood plasma. This review summarizes the enrichment and analysis methods that are currently used to identify glycation as a disease biomarker in exploratory studies.

The present study aims to study the cytotoxicity of ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin nanocomposites (ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin) on T lymphoblast cancer cells (MOLT-4). In a study, nanocomposites containing 2.5 to 15 µg/ml MTT were screened for their anticancer activity. Its anticancer properties were significantly higher than those of other nanocomposites with an IC50 value of 10.34 µg/ml. We studied the mechanism of action for cytotoxic cell death by fluorescence microscopy using Acridine Orange/EtBr (AO/EtBr) and Rhodamine 123 staining procedures. Using DCFH-DA, ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin nanocomposites were analyzed to determine ROS production. The change in apoptotic protein expression for the 24 h following treatment with MOLT-4 cells for Caspase-3, 8, and 9. Nanocomposites containing ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin increased the number of early and late apoptotic cells in MOLT-4 cells. ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin nanocomposites also enhanced mitochondrial apoptosis through Caspase cascade signaling. MOLT-4 cells phosphorylated Caspase cascade in response to ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin nanocomposites. Compared to the control group, the cancer cells treated with ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin nanocomposites significantly arrest the proliferation and induces cleavage of pro-apoptotic proteins which leads to apoptotic cell death. Accordingly, ZnO-TiO2-Chitosan-Amygdalin nanocomposites might be effective against T lymphoblast cancer.

In this study, we synthesized, characterized, and explored the anti-microbial and anti-cancer effects of albumin–chlorogenic acid nanoparticles (NPs). Characterization studies with a UV-vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, PL spectrum, TEM, FESEM, XRD, and DLA analysis showed patterns confirming the physio–chemical nature of biogenic nanocomposites. Further, anti-microbial studies using bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholera, and fungal strain Candida albicans showed significant (p < 0.05) anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities. Next, we used MDA-MB-435s, a human cell line, to evaluate the anti-cancer effects of albumin–chlorogenic acid NPs. Cytotoxic studies revealed its IC50 concentration at 24 μg/mL after a 24 h treatment of MDA-MB-435s cells. We chose this IC50 dose to analyze albumin–chlorogenic acid NPs anti-cancer effects in vitro. MDA-MB-435s cells exposed to our NPs were studied via AO/EtBr staining, cell cycle analyses via PI staining, the status of whole genomic damage via comet assay, levels of apoptotic cells via annexin V/PI staining, ROS generation via DCFH-DA staining, an assay of antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, and antioxidant GSH, via ELISA analyses of apoptotic markers caspase-3, 8, 9, Bax, Bcl-2, CytC, and p53, PI3/AKT/mTOR pathway. Our results collectively showed albumin–chlorogenic acid NPs induced apoptosis via p53-dependent and PI3/AKT/mTOR inhibition in MDA-MB-435s cells. Our results denote albumin–chlorogenic acid NPs can be used as an effective candidate for anti-microbial and anti-cancer applications; however, further in vivo confirmatory studies are warranted.

Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) is a target enzyme for the treatment of inflammation and cardiovascular disease. A Glycyrrhiza uralensis extract exhibited ~50% inhibition of sEH at 100 μg/mL, and column chromatography yielded compounds 1–11. Inhibitors 1, 4–6, 9, and 11 were non-competitive; inhibitors 3, 7, 8, and 10 were competitive. The IC50 value of inhibitor 10 was below 2 μM. Molecular simulation was used to identify the sEH binding site. Glycycoumarin (10) requires further evaluation in cells and animals.

This study aimed to evaluate the needs of dentists, dental technicians, dental hygienists, and dental-related workers in terms of dental computer-aided design (CAD) software and artificial intelligence (AI). Based on a factor analysis, 57 survey items were assigned to six categories: (a) considerations when purchasing dental CAD software; (b) prosthesis design process; (c) dental CAD function; (d) use of AI dental CAD crown and denture design; (e) impact of AI; and (f) improvements in AI features. Overall, 93 participants were included in the study, and the reliability of the resultant survey data was estimated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Statistically significant factors in each category were identified using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s honestly significant difference test (α = 0.05). The results revealed that design quality, design convenience and reproducibility, margin line setting, and automatic margin setting were considered most important in their respective categories (p < 0.05). There were also significant differences in the importance of certain items, such as branding importance and functional diversity, among different dental personnel groups (p < 0.05). Design speed and convenience were also found to be more important to dentists and dental hygienists compared to other dental personnel (p < 0.05). The importance of specific survey items varied significantly based on age, dental personnel, and work experience groups. Dental personnel, such as dentists and dental technicians, assigned greater importance to certain factors, such as branding, functional diversity, design speed, and compatibility with CAM equipment, compared to other occupational groups.

Several theories have been proposed to explain the mechanisms of substance use in schizophrenia. Brain neurons pose a potential to provide novel insights into the association between opioid addiction, withdrawal, and schizophrenia. Thus, we exposed zebrafish larvae at 2 days post-fertilization (dpf) to domperidone (DPM) and morphine, followed by morphine withdrawal. Drug-induced locomotion and social preference were assessed, while the level of dopamine and the number of dopaminergic neurons were quantified. In the brain tissue, the expression levels of genes associated with schizophrenia were measured. The effects of DMP and morphine were compared to vehicle control and MK-801, a positive control to mimic schizophrenia. Gene expression analysis revealed that α1C, α1Sa, α1Aa, drd2a, and th1 were up-regulated after 10 days of exposure to DMP and morphine, while th2 was down-regulated. These two drugs also increased the number of positive dopaminergic neurons and the total dopamine level but reduced the locomotion and social preference. The termination of morphine exposure led to the up-regulation of th2, drd2a, and c-fos during the withdrawal phase. Our integrated data implicate that the dopamine system plays a key role in the deficits in social behavior and locomotion that are common in the schizophrenia-like symptoms and opioid dependence.

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized pathologically by the loss of A9-specific dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) of the midbrain. Despite intensive research, the etiology of PD is currently unresolved, and the disease remains incurable. This, in part, is due to the lack of an experimental disease model that could faithfully recapitulate the features of human PD. However, the recent advent of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology has allowed PD models to be created from patient-derived cells. Indeed, DA neurons from PD patients are now routinely established in many laboratories as monolayers as well as 3D organoid cultures that serve as useful toolboxes for understanding the mechanism underlying PD and also for drug discovery. At the same time, the iPSC technology also provides unprecedented opportunity for autologous cell-based therapy for the PD patient to be performed using the patient’s own cells as starting materials. In this review, we provide an update on the molecular processes underpinning the development and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) into midbrain DA neurons in both 2D and 3D cultures, as well as the latest advancements in using these cells for drug discovery and regenerative medicine. For the novice entering the field, the cornucopia of differentiation protocols reported for the generation of midbrain DA neurons may seem daunting. Here, we have distilled the essence of the different approaches and summarized the main factors driving DA neuronal differentiation, with the view to provide a useful guide to newcomers who are interested in developing iPSC-based models of PD.

The host interactome of influenza viral proteins is ever-expanding. In this work, we report the identification of host heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (hnRNP-C) as an interacting partner of influenza A virus nucleoprotein (NP). We confirmed that this interaction exists across different influenza A subtypes and strains. Using biochemical methods, we determined that hnRNP-C interacts with NP via its C-terminal auxiliary domain. Further, we determined that the hnRNP-C is a negative regulator of influenza viral growth. Its interaction with NP is implicated in the promotion of host cell apoptosis during viral infection. It is the first time that the interaction between influenza nucleoprotein and host heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C is characterized in detail. Overall, these findings not only characterize the interaction between NP and its host interacting partner hnRNP-C but also clarify the functional significance of this interaction. This work may lead to a new therapeutic target for the development of anti-influenza drugs.

Nanocomposites comprised of CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin, which has adjustable physicochemical properties, provide a solution for therapeutic selectivity in cancer treatment. By controlling the intrinsic signaling primarily through the mitochondrial signaling pathway, we desired nanocomposites with enhanced anticancer activity by containing CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin. The metal oxides CuO and TiO2, the natural polymer chitosan, and a phytochemical compound escin were combined to form CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites. The synthesized nanocomposites were confirmed and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, TEM, and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. A human leukemia cell line (MOLT-4) was used to assess the efficacy and selectivity of nanocomposites. Based on a cytotoxicity study, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites had inhibition concentrations (IC50) of 13.68, 8.9, and 7.14 µg/mL against human T lymphoblast cells after 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation, respectively. Compared with untreated MOLT-4 cells, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-treated cells significantly increased (p < 0.05) caspase-3, -8, and -9 and decreased the levels of antioxidant enzymes GR, SOD, and GSH. Furthermore, MDA for lipid peroxidase and ROS levels significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the treated cells than in the untreated cells. Remarkably, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-mediated control of cell cycles were mainly achieved through the activation of caspase-3, -8, and -9.

ATP8B1 is a phospholipid flippase that is deficient in patients with progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 1 (PFIC1). PFIC1 patients suffer from severe liver disease but also present with dyslipidemia, including low plasma cholesterol, of yet unknown etiology. Here we show that ATP8B1 knockdown in HepG2 cells leads to a strong increase in the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) without a change in glycolysis. The enhanced OXPHOS coincides with elevated low-density lipoprotein receptor protein and increased mitochondrial fragmentation and phosphatidylethanolamine levels. Furthermore, expression of phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase, an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of mitochondrial-derived phosphatidylethanolamine to phosphatidylcholine, was reduced in ATP8B1 knockdown cells. We conclude that ATP8B1 deficiency results in elevated mitochondrial PE levels that stimulate mitochondrial OXPHOS. The increased OXPHOS leads to elevated LDLR levels, which provides a possible explanation for the reduced plasma cholesterol levels in PFIC1 disease.

Glycogen storage disease type IX (GSD-IX) constitutes nearly a quarter of all GSDs. This ketotic form of GSD is caused by mutations in phosphorylase kinase (PhK), which is composed of four subunits (α, β, γ, δ). PhK is required for the activation of the liver isoform of glycogen phosphorylase (PYGL), which generates free glucose-1-phosphate monomers to be used as energy via cleavage of the α -(1,4) glycosidic linkages in glycogen chains. Mutations in any of the PhK subunits can negatively affect the regulatory and catalytic activity of PhK during glycogenolysis. To understand the pathogenesis of GSD-IX-beta, we characterized a newly created PHKB knockout (Phkb−/−) mouse model. In this study, we assessed fasting blood glucose and ketone levels, serum metabolite concentrations, glycogen phosphorylase activity, and gene expression of gluconeogenic genes and fibrotic genes. Phkb−/− mice displayed hepatomegaly with lower fasting blood glucose concentrations. Phkb−/− mice showed partial liver glycogen phosphorylase activity and increased sensitivity to pyruvate, indicative of partial glycogenolytic activity and upregulation of gluconeogenesis. Additionally, gene expression analysis demonstrated increased lipid metabolism in Phkb−/− mice. Gene expression analysis and liver histology in the livers of old Phkb−/− mice (>40 weeks) showed minimal profibrogenic features when analyzed with age-matched wild-type (WT) mice. Collectively, the Phkb−/− mouse recapitulates mild clinical features in patients with GSD-IX-beta. Metabolic and molecular analysis confirmed that Phkb−/− mice were capable of sustaining energy homeostasis during prolonged fasting by using partial glycogenolysis, increased gluconeogenesis, and potentially fatty acid oxidation in the liver.

Rapid diagnosis is essential for the control and prevention of H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs). However, highly sensitive and rapid diagnostic systems have shown limited performance due to specific antibody scarcity. In this study, two novel specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for clade 2.3.4.4 H5Nx viruses were developed by using an immunogen from a reversed genetic influenza virus (RGV). These mAbs were combined with fluorescence europium nanoparticles and an optimized lysis buffer, which were further used for developing a fluorescent immunochromatographic rapid strip test (FICT) for early detection of H5Nx influenza viruses on chicken stool samples. The result indicates that the limit of detection (LoD) of the developed FICT was 40 HAU/mL for detection of HPAIV H5 clade 2.3.4.4b in spiked chicken stool samples, which corresponded to 4.78 × 104 RNA copies as obtained from real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). An experimental challenge of chicken with H5N6 HPAIV is lethal for chicken three days post-infection (DPI). Interestingly, our FICT could detect H5N6 in stool samples at 2 DPI earlier, with 100% relative sensitivity in comparison with RT-PCR, and it showed 50% higher sensitivity than the traditional colloidal gold-based rapid diagnostic test using the same mAbs pair. In conclusion, our rapid diagnostic method can be utilized for the early detection of H5Nx 2.3.4.4 HPAIVs in avian fecal samples from poultry farms or for influenza surveillance in wild migratory birds.

The purpose to conduct this research work is to study the effect of photocatalytic degradation by developing cost-effective and eco-friendly nitrogen and tungsten (metal/non-metal) co-doped titania (TiO2). The inherent characteristics of synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) were analyzed by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FT-IR), ultra-violet visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrometry, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Co-doping of metal and non-metal has intensified the photocatalysis trait of TiO2 nanoparticles in an aqueous medium. This co-doping of transition metal ions and modification of nitrogen extended the absorption into the visible region subsequently restraining the recombination of electrons/holes pair. The stronger light absorption in the visible region was required for the higher activity of photodegradation of dye under visible light illumination to confine bandgap energy which results in accelerating the rate of photodegradation. After efficient doping, the bandgap of titania reduced to 2.38 eV and caused the photodegradation of malachite green in visible light. The results of photocatalytic degradation were confirmed by using UV/Vis. spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a mass spectrophotometer (HPLC-ESI-MS) was used for the analysis of intermediates formed during photocatalytic utility of the work.

Potholes, a kind of road defect, can damage vehicles and negatively affect drivers’ safe driving, and in severe cases can lead to traffic accidents. Efficient and preventive management of potholes in a complex road environment plays an important role in securing driver safety. It is also expected to contribute to the prevention of traffic accidents and the smooth flow of traffic. In the past, pothole detection was mainly performed via visual inspection by human experts. Recently, automated pothole-detection methods apply various technologies that converge basic technologies such as sensors and signal processing. The automated pothole-detection methods can be classified into three types according to the technology used in the pothole-recognition process: a vision-based method, a vibration-based method, and a 3D reconstruction-based method. In this paper, three methods are compared, and the strengths and weaknesses of each method are summarized. The detection process and technology proposed in the latest research related to automated pothole detection are described for each method. The development plans of future technology that is connected with those studies are also presented in this paper.

The link between substance abuse and the development of schizophrenia remains elusive. In this study, we assessed the molecular and behavioural alterations associated with schizophrenia, opioid addiction, and opioid withdrawal using zebrafish as a biological model. Larvae of 2 days post fertilization (dpf) were exposed to domperidone (DMP), a dopamine-D2 dopamine D2 receptor antagonist, and morphine for 3 days and 10 days, respectively. MK801, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, served as a positive control to mimic schizophrenia-like behaviour. The withdrawal syndrome was assessed 5 days after the termination of morphine treatment. The expressions of schizophrenia susceptibility genes, i.e., pi3k, akt1, slc6a4, creb1 and adamts2, in brains were quantified, and the levels of whole-body cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), serotonin and cortisol were measured. The aggressiveness of larvae was observed using the mirror biting test. After the short-term treatment with DMP and morphine, all studied genes were not differentially expressed. As for the long-term exposure, akt1 was downregulated by DMP and morphine. Downregulation of pi3k and slc6a4 was observed in the morphine-treated larvae, whereas creb1 and adamts2 were upregulated by DMP. The levels of cAMP and cortisol were elevated after 3 days, whereas significant increases were observed in all of the biochemical tests after 10 days. Compared to controls, increased aggression was observed in the DMP-, but not morphine-, treated group. These two groups showed reduction in aggressiveness when drug exposure was prolonged. Both the short- and long-term morphine withdrawal groups showed downregulation in all genes examined except creb1, suggesting dysregulated reward circuitry function. These results suggest that biochemical and behavioural alterations in schizophrenia-like symptoms and opioid dependence could be controlled by common mechanisms.

A rogue wave is a huge wave that is generated by wave energy focusing. Rogue waves can cause critical damage to ships and offshore platforms due to their great wave energy and unpredictability. In this paper, to generate a rogue wave, a bull’s-eye wave, which is a focusing of multi-directional waves, was simulated in a numerical wave tank. A multi-directional wave generating boundary was developed using OpenFOAM, which is an open-source computational fluid dynamics (CFD) library. The wave height and profile of the generated rogue wave were compared to those of the regular wave. In addition, the pressure and velocity contours of water particles and velocity vectors at the free surface of the rogue wave were studied, along with the kinematic and dynamic effects of the rogue wave on a floating body.

The carbon nanotube (CNT) field emitter is suitable for the high frequency pulsing of X-ray. Pulsing reduces 49% of the dose in grid-controlled fluoroscopy and improves the image of moving objects. Various structures and manufacturing processes are being studied. However, more studies on the dynamic characteristic of a pulsing CNT and its application are needed. In this study, the combined dynamics including the field emission, MOSFET, and modified gate driver for MOSFET have been analyzed. In this configuration, between the cathode of the tube and ground, there is a MOSFET switch that turns the tube current on/off and a shunt resistor that measures the tube current. Due to the high impedance of the vacuum between the gate and cathode of the tube, about 85% of the gate voltage is still exerted between the Gate and cathode of the tube during the off-state of the MOSFET. Therefore, space charges are built during the off-state and then released at the beginning of the on-state of the MOSFET. The modified gate driver structure for MOSFET that we propose in this paper can limit the amount of current flow through the cathode. Tube current (boosted current) can be accurately controlled through a modified gate driver structure. Combining the boosted current and pulse control of MOSFET, the dynamic current performance of a CNT tube can be enhanced and the average tube current or dose can be accurately controlled. Experiments, simulation, and analysis have been conducted to study the combined dynamics and its applications.

This study has comprehensively analyzed the ventilation system of an indoor coal storage shed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In addition, the effects of the plan to improve the ventilation system were investigated by synthesizing the results. First, the velocity of inlet wind entering through the natural ventilation system was measured. Then, the concentration of carbon monoxide inside the coal storage shed was measured at the spontaneous combustion of coal. The boundary conditions were set using the measurement results. The characteristics of carbon monoxide concentration, ventilation volume, and behavior of scattering dust were analyzed. According to the CFD analysis results, the upper recirculation strength increased as the flow rate of external air increased. The flow-stagnation area occurred on the center wall. In particular, the concentration of carbon monoxide was high in the flow-stagnation area. When the inflow velocity was 2.0 m/s, a risk of 30 ppm or more occurred in the area near the second-floor workspace and central retaining wall. When ventilation dropped sharply, coal dust emissions decreased to 14.5%. Thus, ventilation must be secured by installing a natural ventilation system, in case spontaneous ignition occurs in many cells or the ventilation sharply decreases. Finally, in order to improve the ventilation system, the effect on the additional installation of natural ventilation and the use of mobile blowers was analyzed. Finally, in order to improve the ventilation system, the effect on the additional installation of natural ventilation and the use of mobile blowers was analyzed. As a result of the analysis, we concluded that using a mobile blower is more effective than a method of additionally installing a natural ventilation device. Carbon monoxide may be locally diluted, and ventilation volume additionally secured.

As the need for efficient warehouse logistics has increased in manufacturing systems, the use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) has also increased to reduce travel time. The AGVs are controlled by a system using laser sensors or floor-embedded wires to transport pallets and their loads. Because such control systems have only predefined palletizing strategies, AGVs may fail to engage incorrectly positioned pallets. In this study, we consider a vision sensor-based method to address this shortcoming by recognizing a pallet’s position. We propose a multi-task deep learning architecture that simultaneously predicts distances and rotation based on images obtained from a visionary sensor. These predictions complement each other in learning, allowing a multi-task model to learn and execute tasks impossible with single-task models. The proposed model can accurately predict the rotation and displacement of the pallets to derive information necessary for the control system. This information can be used to optimize a palletizing strategy. The superiority of the proposed model was verified by an experiment on images of stored pallets that were collected from a visionary sensor attached to an AGV.

Glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSDIa) is an inherited metabolic disorder caused by mutations in the enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase-α (G6Pase-α). Affected individuals develop renal and liver complications, including the development of hepatocellular adenoma/carcinoma and kidney failure. The purpose of this study was to identify potential biomarkers of the evolution of the disease in GSDIa patients. To this end, we analyzed the expression of exosomal microRNAs (Exo-miRs) in the plasma exosomes of 45 patients aged 6 to 63 years. Plasma from age-matched normal individuals were used as controls. We found that the altered expression of several Exo-miRs correlates with the pathologic state of the patients and might help to monitor the progression of the disease and the development of late GSDIa-associated complications.

This study examines the role played by aerosol in torrential rain that occurred in the Seoul area, which is a conurbation area where urbanization has been rapid in the last few decades, using cloud-system-resolving model (CSRM) simulations. The model results show that the spatial variability in aerosol concentrations causes the inhomogeneity of the spatial distribution of evaporative cooling and the intensity of associated outflow around the surface. This inhomogeneity generates a strong convergence field in which torrential rain forms. With the increases in the variability in aerosol concentrations, the occurrence of torrential rain increases. This study finds that the effects of the increases in the variability play a much more important role in the increases in torrential rain than the much-studied effects of the increases in aerosol loading. Results in this study demonstrate that for a better understanding of extreme weather events such as torrential rain in urban areas, not only changing aerosol loading but also changing aerosol spatial distribution since industrialization should be considered in aerosol–precipitation interactions.

This study investigates the roles played by model resolution and microphysics parameterizations in the well-known uncertainties or errors in simulations of clouds, precipitation, and their interactions with aerosols by the numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. For this investigation, we used cloud-system-resolving model (CSRM) simulations as benchmark simulations that adopt high-resolution and full-fledged microphysical processes. These simulations were evaluated against observations, and this evaluation demonstrated that the CSRM simulations can function as benchmark simulations. Comparisons between the CSRM simulations and the simulations at the coarse resolutions that are generally adopted by current NWP models indicate that the use of coarse resolutions as in the NWP models can lower not only updrafts and other cloud variables (e.g., cloud mass, condensation, deposition, and evaporation) but also their sensitivity to increasing aerosol concentration. The parameterization of the saturation process plays an important role in the sensitivity of cloud variables to aerosol concentrations. while the parameterization of the sedimentation process has a substantial impact on how cloud variables are distributed vertically. The variation in cloud variables with resolution is much greater than what happens with varying microphysics parameterizations, which suggests that the uncertainties in the NWP simulations are associated with resolution much more than microphysics parameterizations.

The recent increase in ailments has increased the demand for diagnosis and surgery based on X-rays. An X-ray system using a filament-type tube heats the filament for operation, and the electrons emitted by the thermal energy during this process produce X-rays. Conventionally, current control-based methods are used to regulate heating. However, these methods do not control the temperature of the filament, resulting in lower or higher output than the desired dose rate. Therefore, we propose a filament temperature control method that enables constant temperature control, which cannot be achieved using the existing heating method for X-ray systems with filament tubes. Additionally, we developed an indirect temperature estimation algorithm for the tungsten filament to incorporate the proposed method. To validate the tube current control through temperature control, we performed experiments to compare the existing current-controlled heating and temperature control methods in terms of the filament temperature. As the tube current is proportional to the dose rate, it was measured through a comparative analysis of the change in the output of dose rate over time. The obtained results validate that the proposed method can maintain both the filament temperature and tube current at the desired level.

Based on multiple linear regression (MLR) models, we estimated the PM2.5 at Seoul using a number of aerosol optical depth (AOD) values obtained from ground-based and satellite remote sensing observations. To construct the MLR model, we consider various parameters related to the ambient meteorology and air quality. In general, all AOD values resulted in the high quality of PM2.5 estimation through the MLR method: mostly correlation coefficients >~0.8. Among various polar-orbit satellite AODs, AOD values from the MODIS measurement contribute to better PM2.5 estimation. We also found that the quality of estimated PM2.5 shows some seasonal variation; the estimated PM2.5 values consistently have the highest correlation with in situ PM2.5 in autumn, but are not well established in winter, probably due to the difficulty of AOD retrieval in the winter condition. MLR modeling using spectral AOD values from the ground-based measurements revealed that the accuracy of PM2.5 estimation does not depend on the selected wavelength. Although all AOD values used in this study resulted in a reasonable accuracy range of PM2.5 estimation, our analyses of the difference in estimated PM2.5 reveal the importance of utilizing the proper AOD for the best quality of PM2.5 estimation.

Cancer cells are able to proliferate in an unregulated manner. There are several mechanisms involved that propel such neoplastic transformations. One of these processes involves bypassing cell death through changes in gene expression and, consequently, cell growth. This involves a complex epigenetic interaction within the cell, which drives it towards oncogenic transformations. These epigenetic events augment cellular growth by potentially altering chromatin structures and influencing key gene expressions. Therapeutic mechanisms have been developed to combat this by taking advantage of the underlying oncogenic mechanisms through chemical modulation. Camptothecin (CPT) is an example of this type of drug. It is a selective topoisomerase I inhibitor that is effective against many cancers, such as colorectal cancer. Previously, we successfully formulated a magnetic nanocarrier-conjugated CPT with β-cyclodextrin and iron NPs (Fe3O4) cross-linked using EDTA (CPT-CEF). Compared to CPT alone, it boasts higher efficacy due to its selective targeting and increased solubility. In this study, we treated HT29 colon cancer cells with CPT-CEF and attempted to investigate the cytotoxic effects of the formulation through an epigenetic perspective. By using RNA-Seq, several differentially expressed genes were obtained (p < 0.05). Enrichr was then used for the over-representation analysis, and the genes were compared to the epigenetic roadmap and histone modification database. The results showed that the DEGs had a high correlation with epigenetic modifications involving histone H3 acetylation. Furthermore, a subset of these genes was shown to be associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which is highly upregulated in a large number of cancer cells. These genes could be investigated as downstream therapeutic targets against the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells. Further interaction analysis of the identified genes with the key genes of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in colorectal cancer identified the direct interactors and a few transcription regulators. Further analysis in cBioPortal confirmed their genetic alterations and their distribution across patient samples. Thus, the findings of this study reveal that colorectal cancer could be reversed by treatment with the CPT-CEF nanoparticle-conjugated nanocarrier through an epigenetic mechanism.

Cancer progresses through a distinctive reprogramming of metabolic pathways directed by genetic and epigenetic modifications. The hardwired changes induced by genetic mutations are resilient, while epigenetic modifications are softwired and more vulnerable to therapeutic intervention. Colon cancer is no different. This gives us the need to explore the mechanism as an attractive therapeutic target to combat colon cancer cells. We have previously established the enhanced therapeutic efficacy of a newly formulated camptothecin encapsulated in β-cyclodextrin-EDTA-Fe3O4 nanoparticles (CPT-CEF) in colon cancer cells. We furthered this study by carrying out RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to underscore specific regulatory signatures in the CPT-CEF treated versus untreated HT29 cells. In the study, we identified 95 upregulated and 146 downregulated genes spanning cellular components and molecular and metabolic functions. We carried out extensive bioinformatics analysis to harness genes potentially involved in epigenetic modulation as either the cause or effect of metabolic rewiring exerted by CPT-CEF. Significant downregulation of 13 genes involved in the epigenetic modulation and 40 genes from core metabolism was identified. Three genes, namely, DNMT-1, POLE3, and PKM-2, were identified as the regulatory overlap between epigenetic drivers and metabolic reprogramming in HT29 cells. Based on our results, we propose a possible mechanism that intercepts the two functional axes, namely epigenetic control, and metabolic modulation via CPT-CEF in colon cancer cells, which could skew cancer-induced metabolic deregulation towards metabolic repair. Thus, the study provides avenues for further validation of transcriptomic changes affected by these deregulated genes at epigenetic level, and ultimately may be harnessed as targets for regenerating normal metabolism in colon cancer with better treatment potential, thereby providing new avenues for colon cancer therapy.

The cornea is a transparent and avascular tissue that plays a central role in light refraction and provides a physical barrier to the external environment. Corneal avascularity is a unique histological feature that distinguishes it from the other parts of the body. Functionally, corneal immune privilege critically relies on corneal avascularity. Corneal lymphangiogenesis is now recognized as a general pathological feature in many pathologies, including dry eye disease (DED), corneal allograft rejection, ocular allergy, bacterial and viral keratitis, and transient corneal edema. Currently, sizable data from clinical and basic research have accumulated on the pathogenesis and functional role of ocular lymphangiogenesis. However, because of the invisibility of lymphatic vessels, ocular lymphangiogenesis has not been studied as much as hemangiogenesis. We reviewed the basic mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis and summarized recent advances in the pathogenesis of ocular lymphangiogenesis, focusing on corneal allograft rejection and DED. In addition, we discuss future directions for lymphangiogenesis research.

Post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation is a critical task in forensic science. In this study, we used maggots collected from pig carcasses and applied an integrated proteomics and metabolomics approach to determine potential candidate substances for the estimation of PMI. After methanol precipitation, the supernatant containing metabolites and the protein pellet were separated and subjected to metabolomic and proteomic analyses using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). MS/MS data were analyzed for identification and quantification using Proteome Discoverer and Compound Discoverer software. A total of 573 metabolites and more than 800 porcine proteins were identified in maggots. This is the first dataset of proteins and metabolites in maggots collected from porcine carcasses. In this study, guanosine monophosphate, xanthine, inosine, adenosine, and guanine were detected with a similar tendency to increase during early days of maggot development and then decreased gradually. We broadly profiled various biomolecules through analysis in the spot of incident. Especially, we confirmed that proteome and metabolome profiling could be performed directly and indirectly.

In spite of excellent performance of deep learning-based computer vision algorithms, they are not suitable for real-time surveillance to detect abnormal behavior because of very high computational complexity. In this paper, we propose a real-time surveillance system for abnormal behavior analysis in a closed-circuit television (CCTV) environment by constructing an algorithm and system optimized for a CCTV environment. The proposed method combines pedestrian detection and tracking to extract pedestrian information in real-time, and detects abnormal behaviors such as intrusion, loitering, fall-down, and violence. To analyze an abnormal behavior, it first determines intrusion/loitering through the coordinates of an object and then determines fall-down/violence based on the behavior pattern of the object. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated using an intelligent CCTV data set distributed by Korea Internet and Security Agency (KISA).

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) plays an important role in many cellular processes. Thus, visualizing and quantifying the molecular dynamics of RNA directly in living cells is essential to uncovering their role in RNA metabolism. Among the wide variety of fluorescent probes available for RNA visualization, exciton-controlled hybridization-sensitive fluorescent oligonucleotide (ECHO) probes are useful because of their low fluorescence background. In this study, we apply fluorescence correlation methods to ECHO probes targeting the poly(A) tail of mRNA. In this way, we demonstrate not only the visualization but also the quantification of the interaction between the probe and the target, as well as of the change in the fluorescence brightness and the diffusion coefficient caused by the binding. In particular, the uptake of ECHO probes to detect mRNA is demonstrated in HeLa cells. These results are expected to provide new insights that help us better understand the metabolism of intracellular mRNA.

8-Hydroxyguanine (8-oxoG) is the most common oxidative DNA lesion and unrepaired 8-oxoG is associated with DNA fragmentation in sperm. However, the molecular effects of 8-oxoG on spermatogenesis are not entirely understood. Here, we identified one infertile bull (C14) due to asthenoteratozoospermia. We compared the global concentration of 8-oxoG by reverse-phase liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (RP-LC/MS), the genomic distribution of 8-oxoG by next-generation sequencing (OG-seq), and the expression of sperm proteins by 2-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by peptide mass fingerprinting (2D-PAGE/PMF) in the sperm of C14 with those of a fertile bull (C13). We found that the average levels of 8-oxoG in C13 and C14 sperm were 0.027% and 0.044% of the total dG and it was significantly greater in infertile sperm DNA (p = 0.0028). Over 81% of the 8-oxoG loci were distributed around the transcription start site (TSS) and 165 genes harboring 8-oxoG were exclusive to infertile sperm. Functional enrichment and network analysis revealed that the Golgi apparatus was significantly enriched with the products from 8-oxoG genes of infertile sperm (q = 2.2 × 10−7). Proteomic analysis verified that acrosome-related proteins, including acrosin-binding protein (ACRBP), were downregulated in infertile sperm. These preliminary results suggest that 8-oxoG formation during spermatogenesis dysregulated the acrosome-related gene network, causing structural and functional defects of sperm and leading to infertility.

Conventional human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) cultures require high concentrations of expensive human fibroblast growth factor 2 (hFGF-2) for hPSC self-renewal and pluripotency in defined media for long-term culture. The thermal instability of the hFGF-2 mandates media change every day, which makes hPSC culture costly and cumbersome. Human DJ-1 (hDJ-1) can bind to and stimulate FGF receptor-1. In this study, for the first time, we have replaced hFGF-2 with hDJ-1 in the essential eight media and maintained the human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), H9, in the defined media at feeder-free condition. After more than ten passages, H9 in both groups still successfully maintained the typical hESC morphology and high protein levels of pluripotency markers, SSEA4, Tra1-60, Oct4, Nanog, and ALP. DNA microarray revealed that more than 97% of the 21,448 tested genes, including the pluripotency markers, Sox2, Nanog, Klf4, Lin28A, Lin28B, and Myc, have similar mRNA levels between the two groups. Karyotyping revealed no chromosome abnormalities in both groups. They also differentiated sufficiently into three germ layers by forming in vitro EBs and in vivo teratomas. There were some variations in the RT-qPCR assay of several pluripotency markers. The proliferation rates and the mitochondria of both groups were also different. Taken together, we conclude that hDJ-1 can replace hFGF-2 in maintaining the self-renewal and the pluripotency of hESCs in feeder-free conditions.

In recent years, a major rise in the demand for biotherapeutic drugs has centered on enhancing the quality and efficacy of cell culture and developing new cell culture techniques. Here, we report fibronectin (FN) derived, novel peptides fibronectin-based intergrin binding peptide (FNIN)2 (18-mer) and FNIN3 (20-mer) which promote cell adhesion proliferation, and the differentiation of primary cells and stem cells. FNIN2 and 3 were designed based on the in silico interaction studies between FN and its receptors (integrin α5β1, αvβ3, and αIIbβ3). Analysis of the proliferation of seventeen-cell types showed that the effects of FNINs depend on their concentration and the existence of expressed integrins. Significant rhodamine-labeled FNIN2 fluorescence on the membranes of HeLa, HepG2, A498, and Du145 cells confirmed physical binding. Double coating with FNIN2 or 3 after polymerized dopamine (pDa) or polymerized tannic acid (pTA) precoating increased HBEpIC cell proliferation by 30–40 percent, suggesting FNINs potently affect primary cells. Furthermore, the proliferation of C2C12 myoblasts and human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) treated with FNINs was significantly increased in 2D/3D culture. FNINs also promoted MSC differentiation into osteoblasts. The results of this study offer a new approach to the production of core materials (e.g., cell culture medium components, scaffolds) for cell culture.

Here, we introduce an environmentally friendly way of fabricating carbon nanoparticles which can be utilized as conductive agent for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Polyethylene (PE), which comprises the largest portion of plastic waste, was used as a source for carbon nanoparticle synthesis. Sulfonation allowed chemical structural transformation of innately non-carbonizable PE into a carbonizable conformation, and carbon nanoparticles could be successfully derived from sulfonated PE. Then, PE-derived carbon nanoparticles were used as conductive agents for LIBs, and assembled cells exhibited stable performance. Even though the performance is not as good as Super-P, utilization of PE as a source of conductive agent for LIBs might provide an economical advantage to upcycle PE.