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One of the primary hurdles in microdevice fabrication lies in ascertaining the most impactful tactics for adapting metal surfaces. Through a one-pot tackle and distinct mechanochemical reactions evoked by 15 min aqueous wet sand-milling (SM-15), we successfully grafted Mo-based metal–organic frameworks (Mo-MOFs) onto graphene oxides (GOs). Following this, a convenient and readily scalable methodology of electrophoretic deposition was implemented to create controllable thickness of SM-15 GOs@Mo-MOFs lubricating films, achieving considerable enhancements of 143% and 91% in hardness and Young's modulus, respectively, when compared to those of SM-15 Mo-MOFs. The successful synthesis of SM-15 GOs@Mo-MOFs was corroborated using strategies such as x-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Analyses using the micro-tribotester indicated that the new film exhibited a lowest friction coefficient of roughly 0.5 when imposed with a load of 5 N and sliding speed of 8 mm/s. In addition, the optical profiler nano-indentation in situ scanning probe microscope revealed that SM-15 GOs@Mo-MOFs films had smaller and shallower scratches and grooves compared to SM-15 Mo-MOFs ones. The calculated results of key descriptors (EHOMO, ELUMO, ΔE, etc.) in density functional theory quantitatively disclosed the interaction mechanisms between GOs@Mo-MOFs molecules and microdevices. We first scrutinized the innate properties of molecule adsorption energy and frictional mechanical behaviors using synergetic cross-scale simulations, such as Monte Carlo and finite element methods. The expectation was that this process would motivate a valuable technique for shielding in the thriving micromanufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When electrolyte solutions are confined in micro- and nanochannels their conductivity is significantly different from those in a bulk phase. Here we revisit the theory of this phenomenon by focusing attention on the reduction in the ion mobility with the concentration of salt and a consequent impact to the conductivity of a monovalent solution, from bulk to confined in a narrow slit. We first give a systematic treatment of electrophoresis of ions and obtain equations for their zeta potentials and mobilities. The latter are then used to obtain a simple expression for a bulk conductivity, which is valid in a concentration range up to a few molars and more accurate than prior analytic theories. By extending the formalism to the electrolyte solution in the charged channel the equations describing the conductivity in different modes are presented. They can be regarded as a generalization of prior work on the channel conductivity to a more realistic case of a nonzero reduction of the electrophoretic mobility of ions with salt concentration. Our analysis provides a framework for interpreting measurements on the conductivity of electrolyte solutions in the bulk and in narrow channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Electrotransfection is based on application of high-voltage pulses that transiently increase membrane permeability, which enables delivery of DNA and RNA in vitro and in vivo. Its advantage in applications such as gene therapy and vaccination is that it does not use viral vectors. Skeletal muscles are among the most commonly used target tissues. While siRNA delivery into undifferentiated myoblasts is very efficient, electrotransfection of siRNA into differentiated myotubes presents a challenge. Our aim was to develop efficient protocol for electroporation-based siRNA delivery in cultured primary human myotubes and to identify crucial mechanisms and parameters that would enable faster optimization of electrotransfection in various cell lines. Results We established optimal electroporation parameters for efficient siRNA delivery in cultured myotubes and achieved efficient knock-down of HIF-1α while preserving cells viability. The results show that electropermeabilization is a crucial step for siRNA electrotransfection in myotubes. Decrease in viability was observed for higher electric energy of the pulses, conversely lower pulse energy enabled higher electrotransfection silencing yield. Experimental data together with the theoretical analysis demonstrate that siRNA electrotransfer is a complex process where electropermeabilization, electrophoresis, siRNA translocation, and viability are all functions of pulsing parameters. However, despite this complexity, we demonstrated that pulse parameters for efficient delivery of small molecule such as PI, can be used as a starting point for optimization of electroporation parameters for siRNA delivery into cells in vitro if viability is preserved. Conclusions The optimized experimental protocol provides the basis for application of electrotransfer for silencing of various target genes in cultured human myotubes and more broadly for electrotransfection of various primary cell and cell lines. Together with the theoretical analysis our data offer new insights into mechanisms that underlie electroporation-based delivery of short RNA molecules, which can aid to faster optimisation of the pulse parameters in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract Copper-doped ZnO nanoparticles with the formula Zn1−x(Cu)O, where x = 0.0, 0.03, 0.05, and 0.07 were produced using the co-precipitation process. Physical, chemical, and structural properties were properly examined. Powdered X-ray diffraction (P-XRD) patterns revealed the formation of hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure in all samples, through atomic substitutional incorporation in the Cu-doped ZnO lattice. The presence of Cu ions and their dissolution in the host ZnO crystal structure was supported by FT-IR spectra. HR-TEM images were used to assess the average size, morphology, and shape regularity of the synthesized samples. The form and homogeneity of the ZnO changed when Cu ions were substituted, as evidenced by FE-SEM/EDX analysis. The presence of copper signals in the Cu-doped samples indicates that the doping was successful. The decrease in zeta potential with an increased copper doping percentage designates that the nanoparticles (NPs) are more stable, which could be attributed to an increase in the ionic strength of the aqueous solution. The synthesized NPs were evaluated for their substantial in vitro antioxidant properties. In addition, the antimicrobial efficacy of the materials was tested against pathogenic microorganisms. Regarding the anti-diabetic activity, the 7Cu ZnO sample showed the highest inhibitory effect on the α-amylase enzyme. No variations were observed in the activities of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE) and proteinase enzymes with ZnO and samples doped with different concentrations of Cu. Therefore, further studies are recommended to reveal the in-vitro anti-diabetic activity of the studied doped samples. Finally, molecular docking provided valuable insights into the potential binding interactions of Cu-doped ZnO with α-amylase, FabH of E. coli, and Penicillin-binding proteins of S. aureus. These outcomes suggest that the prepared materials may have an inhibitory effect on enzymes and hold promise in the battle against microbial infections and diabetes.

Karin Kaymagi is a type of Tulum cheese traditionally produced from sheep milk and ripened in tripe following the addition of cream to the curd. In this study, it was traditionally produced by mixing certain proportions of raw sheep and cow milk (100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100). The samples were allowed to ripen, and analyses were made for chemical, biochemical, electrophoretic, sensory, and textural properties at the 3rd, 30th, 60th, and 90th days of ripening. According to the results obtained, both cheese type and ripening time had significant effects on dry matter, fat, protein, salt, salt in dry matter, % lactic acid, pH, ripening rate, NPN ratio, and PPN ratio (P < 0.05). Only cheese type had a remarkable effect on salt in dry matter and fat in dry matter (P < 0.05). The highest lipolysis value was determined in the samples made of sheep milk only (KK2) (P < 0.05). Electrophoretic analysis showed that αS1-casein and β-casein concentrations decreased until the end of ripening. Sensory analysis denoted that the KK2 sample was appreciated the most based on colour, appearance, structure, taste, and odor scores (P < 0.05).

Purpose: To develop a surface coating of sol-gel 70S30C bioactive glass (BAG) nanoparticles on titanium disks and dental implants and characterize the BAG coating from the standpoint of average surface roughness, adhesion strength, and coating stability upon implant insertion under clinical settings. Materials and Methods: BAG was prepared using a modified sol-gel technique, then milled into nanoparticles. The resultant powder was characterized in terms of phase structure, composition, and particle size. Titanium disks and dental implants were coated with BAG nanoparticles via electrophoretic deposition. Surface characterization of coated implants was conducted. Uncoated and BAGcoated implants were examined for average surface roughness using a confocal laser scanning microscope. Pull-off tests were conducted to measure the adhesion strength of the BAG coating to the underlying disks. To measure the amount of coating loss and evaluate the effect of insertion on coating thickness, coated implants were inserted under clinical settings into artificial and natural bones. Results: BAG nanoparticles had an amorphous structure with particle sizes < 20 nm in diameter. Electrophoresis resulted in a continuous coating that covered the whole implant surface. Microscopic analysis confirmed the porous nanostructure of the BAG coating, which formed a homogenous surface with microcracks. The BAG coating had a uniform thickness of 35.38 ± 4.67 μm. The average surface roughness was significantly lower for BAG-coated implants, with less surface irregularities (3.34 ± 0.45 μm for uncoated implants, 1.45 ± 0.23 μm for BAG-coated implants). An adhesion strength of 18.51 ± 3.37 MPa was recorded for the BAG coating. After insertion into artificial bone, 66.23 ± 10.23% of the coating weight remained on the implant surface. A reduction in the thickness of the BAG coating only occurred in sites of high friction with bone after implant insertion into bovine bone. Conclusions: Coating titanium implants with 70S30C BAG nanoparticles is attainable through electrophoretic deposition and results in a homogenous coating layer with a moderately rough surface, considerable adhesion strength, and high coating stability during implant insertion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptavidin is a tetrameric protein with high specificity and affinity for biotin. The interaction between avidin and biotin has become a valuable tool in nanotechnology. In recent years, the site‐specific biotin modification of proteins using biotin ligases, such as BirA, has attracted attention. This study established an in vivo method for achieving the complete biotinylation of target proteins using a single plasmid co‐expressing BirA and its target proteins. Specifically, a biotin‐modified protein was produced in Escherichia coli strain BL21(DE3) using a single plasmid containing genes encoding both BirA and a protein fused to BirA's substrate sequence, Avitag. This approach simplifies the production of biotinylated proteins in E. coli and allows the creation of various biotinylated protein types through gene replacement. Furthermore, the biotin modification rate of the obtained target protein could be evaluated using Native‐PAGE without performing complicated isolation operations of biotinylated proteins. In Native‐PAGE, biotin‐modified proteins and unmodified proteins were confirmed as clearly different bands, and it was possible to easily derive the modification rate from the respective band intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Electrotransfection is based on application of high-voltage pulses that transiently increase membrane permeability, which enables delivery of DNA and RNA in vitro and in vivo. Its advantage in applications such as gene therapy and vaccination is that it does not use viral vectors. Skeletal muscles are among the most commonly used target tissues. While siRNA delivery into undifferentiated myoblasts is very efficient, electrotransfection of siRNA into differentiated myotubes presents a challenge. Our aim was to develop efficient protocol for electroporation-based siRNA delivery in cultured primary human myotubes and to identify crucial mechanisms and parameters that would enable faster optimization of electrotransfection in various cell lines. Results: We established optimal electroporation parameters for efficient siRNA delivery in cultured myotubes and achieved efficient knock-down of HIF-1α while preserving cells viability. The results show that electropermeabilization is a crucial step for siRNA electrotransfection in myotubes. Decrease in viability was observed for higher electric energy of the pulses, conversely lower pulse energy enabled higher electrotransfection silencing yield. Experimental data together with the theoretical analysis demonstrate that siRNA electrotransfer is a complex process where electropermeabilization, electrophoresis, siRNA translocation, and viability are all functions of pulsing parameters. However, despite this complexity, we demonstrated that pulse parameters for efficient delivery of small molecule such as PI, can be used as a starting point for optimization of electroporation parameters for siRNA delivery into cells in vitro if viability is preserved. Conclusions: The optimized experimental protocol provides the basis for application of electrotransfer for silencing of various target genes in cultured human myotubes and more broadly for electrotransfection of various primary cell and cell lines. Together with the theoretical analysis our data offer new insights into mechanisms that underlie electroporation-based delivery of short RNA molecules, which can aid to faster optimisation of the pulse parameters in vitro and in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharide-based systems have very good emulsifying and stabilizing properties, and starch plays a leading role. Their modifications should add new quality features to the product to such an extent that preserves the structure-forming properties of native starch. The aim of this manuscript was to examine the physicochemical characteristics of the combinations of starch with phospholipids or lysozymes and determine the effect of starch modification (surface hydrophobization or biological additives) and preparation temperature (before and after gelatinization). Changes in electrokinetic potential (zeta), effective diameter, and size distribution as a function of time were analyzed using the dynamic light scattering and microelectrophoresis techniques. The wettability of starch-coated glass plates before and after modification was checked by the advancing and receding contact angle measurements, as well as the angle hysteresis, using the settle drop method as a complement to profilometry and FTIR. It can be generalized that starch dispersions are more stable than analogous n-alkane/starch emulsions at room and physiological temperatures. On the other hand, the contact angle hysteresis values usually decrease with temperature increase, pointing to a more homogeneous surface, and the hydrophobization effect decreases vs. the thickness of the substrate. Surface hydrophobization of starch carried out using an n-alkane film does not change its bulk properties and leads to improvement of its mechanical and functional properties. The obtained specific starch-based hybrid systems, characterized in detail by switchable wettability, give the possibility to determine the energetic state of the starch surface and understand the strength and specificity of interactions with substances of different polarities in biological processes and their applicability for multidirectional use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the tannase purification produced by a tannery effluent-originated fungal isolate i.e., Aspergillus fumigatus MA under solid state fermentation (SSF) condition. Purification of tannase from culture filtrate was attained using ammonium sulfate precipitation with subsequent diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-cellulose mediated ion exchange chromatographic technique. Fractional precipitation of the culture filtrate with 60–80% ammonium sulfate yielded 80.9% recovery of tannase with 6.16-fold purification. The enzyme fractions were collected and eluted as a single peak using 0.5 M NaCl-gradient concentration. DEAE-cellulose column chromatography results in overall 23-fold purification with 27.6% recovery of the enzyme. SDS-PAGE analysis of purified tannase confirmed the presence of a single band of protein with a molecular mass equivalent to 66.2 kDa. The highest activity of tannase was observed at optimum pH ranged between 5.0–6.0 whereas, the tannase stability (>80%) was observed at 4.0 to 7.0 pH ranges. The purified tannase activity was found to be optimally active at 30 °C whereas stability (>90%) was accomplished between 30–50 °C temperature. The Km and Vmax were found to be 1.61 × 10−3 M and 1.04 mM respectively. These properties suggest the potential of the enzyme to be utilized in various food, feed, and pharmaceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a simple, paper‐based device that enables sensitive detection by mass spectrometry (MS) without solid phase extraction or other sample preparation. Using glass fiber filter papers within a 3D printed holder, the device employs electrokinetic manipulations to stack, separate, and desalt charged molecules on paper prior to spray into the MS. Due to counter‐balanced electroosmotic flow and electrophoresis, charged analytes stack on the paper and desalting occurs in minutes. One end of the paper strip was cut into a sharp point and positioned near the inlet of a MS. The stacked analyte bands move toward the paper tip with the EOF where they are ionized by paper spray. The device was applied to analysis of PFAS in tap water with sub part‐per‐trillion detection limits in less than ten minutes with no sample pretreatment. Analysis of opioids in urine also occurs in minutes. The crucial parameters to enable stacking, separation, and MS ionization of both positively and negatively charged analytes were determined and optimized. Experimental and computational modeling studies confirm the electrokinetic stacking and analyte transport mechanisms. On‐paper separations were carried out by stacking analyte bands at different locations depending on their electrophoretic mobility, achieving baseline separation in some cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper-doped ZnO nanoparticles with the formula Zn1−x(Cu)O, where x = 0.0, 0.03, 0.05, and 0.07 were produced using the co-precipitation process. Physical, chemical, and structural properties were properly examined. Powdered X-ray diffraction (P-XRD) patterns revealed the formation of hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure in all samples, through atomic substitutional incorporation in the Cu-doped ZnO lattice. The presence of Cu ions and their dissolution in the host ZnO crystal structure was supported by FT-IR spectra. HR-TEM images were used to assess the average size, morphology, and shape regularity of the synthesized samples. The form and homogeneity of the ZnO changed when Cu ions were substituted, as evidenced by FE-SEM/EDX analysis. The presence of copper signals in the Cu-doped samples indicates that the doping was successful. The decrease in zeta potential with an increased copper doping percentage designates that the nanoparticles (NPs) are more stable, which could be attributed to an increase in the ionic strength of the aqueous solution. The synthesized NPs were evaluated for their substantial in vitro antioxidant properties. In addition, the antimicrobial efficacy of the materials was tested against pathogenic microorganisms. Regarding the anti-diabetic activity, the 7Cu ZnO sample showed the highest inhibitory effect on the α-amylase enzyme. No variations were observed in the activities of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE) and proteinase enzymes with ZnO and samples doped with different concentrations of Cu. Therefore, further studies are recommended to reveal the in-vitro anti-diabetic activity of the studied doped samples. Finally, molecular docking provided valuable insights into the potential binding interactions of Cu-doped ZnO with α-amylase, FabH of E. coli, and Penicillin-binding proteins of S. aureus. These outcomes suggest that the prepared materials may have an inhibitory effect on enzymes and hold promise in the battle against microbial infections and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS) is a rare monogenic form of severe hypertriglyceridemia, caused by mutations in genes involved in triglyceride metabolism. Herein, we report the case of a Korean family with familial chylomicronemia syndrome caused by compound heterozygous deletions of glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored high-density lipoprotein-binding protein 1 (GPIHBP1). Case presentation: A 4-year-old boy was referred for the evaluation of severe hypertriglyceridemia (3734 mg/dL) that was incidentally detected 4 months prior. His elder brother also demonstrated an elevated triglyceride level of 2133 mg/dL at the age of 9. Lipoprotein electrophoresis revealed the presence of chylomicrons, an increase in the proportion of pre-beta lipoproteins, and low serum lipoprotein lipase levels. The patient's parents and first elder brother had stable lipid profiles. For suspected FCS, genetic testing was performed using the next-generation sequencing-based analysis of 31 lipid metabolism-associated genes, which revealed no pathogenic variants. However, copy number variant screening using sequencing depth information suggested large heterozygous deletion encompassing all the coding exons of GPIHBP1. A real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to validate the deletion site. The results showed that the siblings had two heterozygous copy number variants consisting of the whole gene and an exon 4 deletion, each inherited from their parents. During the follow-up period of 17 months, the patient did not develop pancreatitis, following dietary intervention. Conclusion: These siblings' case of familial chylomicronemia syndrome caused by rare GPIHBP1 deletions highlight the implementation of copy number variants—beyond next-generation sequencing—as an important consideration in diagnosis. Accurate genetic diagnosis is necessary to establish the etiology of severe hypertriglyceridemia, which increases the risk of pancreatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacteria present in the dental biofilm. However, the presence of two oral protozoans, Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax, in patients with the periodontal disease remains largely unknown in Taiwan. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence of oral microbial infections between the sites with mild gingivitis and chronic periodontitis in patients. Materials and Methods: We collected 60 dental biofilm samples from sites with mild gingivitis (probing depth <5 mm) and chronic periodontitis (probing depth ≥5 mm) from 30 patients at the National Cheng Kung University Hospital. The samples were analyzed via polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis. Results: Among oral protozoans, E. gingivalis and T. tenax were detected in 44 (74.07%) and 14 (23.33%) of all samples, respectively. Among oral bacteria, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia were detected in 50 (83.33%), 47 (78.33%), and 48 (80.0%) samples, respectively. Conclusions: This study, which is the first to analyze E. gingivalis and T. tenax presence among patients with periodontitis in Taiwan, revealed an association between periodontitis and oral microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The specific interaction between cell surface receptors and corresponding antibodies has driven opportunities for developing targeted cancer therapies using nanoparticle systems. It is challenging to design and develop such targeted nanomedicines using antibody ligands, as the final nanoconjugate's specificity hinges on the cohesive functioning of its components. The multicomponent nature of antibody-conjugated nanoparticles also complicates the characterization process. Regardless of the type of nanoparticle, it is essential to perform physicochemical characterization to establish a solid foundation of knowledge and develop suitable preclinical studies. A meaningful physicochemical evaluation of antibody-conjugated nanoparticles should include determining the quantity and orientation of the antibodies, confirming the antibodies' integrity following attachment, and assessing the immunoreactivity of the obtained nanoconjugates. In this review, the authors describe the various techniques (electrophoresis, spectroscopy, colorimetric assays, immunoassays, etc.) used to analyze the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles functionalized with antibodies and discuss the main results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The general expression for the time‐independent electrophoretic velocity of a spherical colloidal particle with a slippage surface in a microstructure electrolyte solution is derived. The two extreme cases of nonconducting and perfect conducting particles are investigated. The derived expression is valid for arbitrary Debye length and low particle zeta potentials. The concept of velocity spin slip is incorporated with the usual velocity slip at the particle's surface. The effect of the microstructure of fluid particles on the electrophoresis phenomena is discussed based on a micropolar fluid model. The influences of velocity slip and velocity spin slip are shown through various plots of electrophoretic velocity. The limiting case of electrolyte viscous solution is recovered. The principal findings of this research can be summarized as follows: As the micropolarity parameter increases, the normalized electrophoretic velocity decreases and reaches its peak in the case of Newtonian fluids. Additionally, the velocity slip acts as a counteracting factor that promotes an increase in the electrophoretic velocity. In the context of nonconducting particles, the normalized electrophoretic velocity rises as the spin slip parameter and Debye length decrease. Conversely, for perfectly conducting particles, it increases as the spin slip parameter and Debye length increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The time-dependent electrophoresis of an infinitely cylindrical particle in an electrolyte solution, saturated in a charged porous medium after the sudden application of a transverse or tangential step electric field, is investigated semi-theoretically with an arbitrary double-layer thickness in an arbitrary direction relative to the cylinder. The time-dependent modified Brinkman equation with an electric force term, which governs the fluid flow field, is used to model the porous medium and is solved by using the Laplace transform technique. Explicit formulas, for the time-dependent electrophoretic velocity of the cylindrical particle in Laplace's transform domain, have been derived for both axially and transversely when the uniform electric fields are imposed. They can also be linearly superimposed for an arbitrarily oriented relative to the electric field. Semi-analytical results for the electrophoretic velocities are presented as functions of the dimensionless elapsed time, the ratio of the particle radius to the Debye length, the particle-to-medium density ratio, and the permeability parameter of the porous medium. The results demonstrate, in general, that the growth of the electrophoretic velocities with the time scale are more slower for high permeability, and the effect of the relaxation time for unsteady electrophoresis is found to be negligible, regardless of the thickness of the double layer, the relative mass density or the permeability of the medium. The normalized transient electrophoretic velocities exhibit a consistent upward trend as the ratio of the particle radius to the Debye screening length increases. Conversely, they display a consistent downward trend as the particle-to-fluid density ratio increases, while all other parameters remain constant. The effect of the relaxation time for the transient electrophoresis is much more important for a cylindrical particle than for a spherical particle due to its smaller specific surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of serum monoclonal components has been associated with poor outcomes in various hematological malignancies. The current study focused on exploring its prognostic role in B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Our study represented 314 patients with information on serum immunofixation electrophoresis at diagnosis that were available with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. IFE was positive in 61 patients (19%). Baseline features were comparable between pairs of groups, poor ECOG PS, B symptoms, advanced stage, and high-risk IPI score were significantly more frequent in the + IFE group. Shorter PFS and OS of B-NHL patients were observed in patients who presented at diagnosis with a + IFE, and IFE was the independent predictor of PFS and OS in multivariate analysis. Moreover, integrating IFE into the IPI-M1, IPI-M2, and IPI-M3 models improved the area under the curve for more accurate survival prediction and prognosis. Serum monoclonal proteins are significant prognostic indicators for newly diagnosed B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that can early identify patients with poor prognosis and guide clinical treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a powerful and sensitive tool for speciation analysis when combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS); however, the performance of this technique can be limited by the nature of pneumatic nebulizers. This study compares two commercially available pneumatic nebulizers to a newly introduced vibrating capillary nebulizer (VCN) for on-line coupling of CE with ICP-MS. The VCN is a low-cost, non-pneumatic nebulizer that is based on the design of capillary vibrating sharp-edge spray ionization. As a piezoelectrically driven nebulization source, the VCN creates an aerosol independent of gas flows and does not produce a low-pressure region at the nebulizer orifice. To compare the systems, we performed replicate analyses of sulfate in river water with each nebulizer and the same CE and ICP-MS instruments and determined the figures of merit of each setup. With the CE-VCN-ICP-MS setup, we achieved around 2–4 times lower sensitivity compared to the commercial setups. However, the VCN-based setup provided lower noise levels and better linear correlation from the analysis of calibration standards, which resulted in indistinguishable LOD and LOQ values from the in-house-built VCN-based and commercial setups for CE-ICP-MS analysis. The VCN is found to have the highest baseline stability with a standard deviation of 3500 cts s−1, corresponding to an RSD of 2.7%. High reproducibility is found with the VCN with a peak area RSD of 4.1% between 3 replicate measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional computation techniques face challenges of deviations in Moore's law and the high‐power consumption of data‐centric computation tasks. Neuromorphic engineering attempts to overcome these issues by taking inspiration from neuron assemblies, ranging from distributed synaptic plasticity through orchestration of oscillator‐like action potential toward avalanche dynamics. Although solid networks of nanoparticles (NPs) are proven to replicate fingerprints of criticality and brain‐like dynamics, the aspect of dynamic spatial reconfigurations in the connectivity of networks remains unexplored. In this work, Ag/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) nanofluids are demonstrated as potential systems to mimic the spatio‐temporal reconfiguration of network connections. The nanofluids are prepared by directly loading Ag NPs from the gas aggregation cluster source into liquid PEG. The NPs exhibit a negative zeta potential in PEG; if the potential difference is applied between two electrodes submerged in this nanofluid, the NPs migrate toward the anode, accumulate in its vicinity, and form a conductive path. Spikes of electric current passing through the path are detected, accompanied by resistive switching phenomena, similar to the random switching dynamics in solid NPs networks. The unique behavior of Ag/PEG nanofluids makes them promising for the realization of spatio‐temporal reconfigurations in network topologies with the potential to transition to 3D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artemisinin is primarily synthesized and stored in the subepidermal space of the glandular trichomes of Artemisia annua. The augmentation of trichome density has been demonstrated to enhance artemisinin yield. However, existing literature lacks insights into the correlation between the stratum corneum and trichomes. This study aims to unravel the involvement of TrichomeLess Regulator 3 (TLR3), which encodes the transcription factor, in artemisinin biosynthesis and its potential association with the stratum corneum. TLR3 was identified as a candidate gene through transcriptome analysis. The role of TLR3 in trichome development and morphology was investigated using yeast two-hybrid, pull-down analysis, and RNA electrophoresis mobility assay. Our research revealed that TLR3 negatively regulates trichome development. It modulates the morphology of Arabidopsis thaliana trichomes by inhibiting branching and inducing the formation of abnormal trichomes in Artemisia annua. Overexpression of the TLR3 gene disrupts the arrangement of the stratum corneum and reduces artemisinin content. Simultaneously, TLR3 possesses the capacity to regulate stratum corneum development and trichome follicle morphology by interacting with TRICHOME AND ARTEMISININ REGULATOR 1, and CycTL. Consequently, our findings underscore the pivotal role of TLR3 in the development of glandular trichomes and stratum corneum biosynthesis, thereby influencing the morphology of Artemisia annua trichomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusiophoresis is the isothermal migration of a colloidal particle through a liquid caused by a cosolute concentration gradient. Although diffusiophoresis was originally introduced using hydrodynamics, it can also be described by employing the framework of multicomponent diffusion. This not only enables the extraction of diffusiophoresis coefficients from measured multicomponent-diffusion coefficients but also their theoretical interpretation using fundamental thermodynamic and transport parameters. This review discusses the connection of diffusiophoresis with the 2 × 2 diffusion-coefficient matrix of ternary liquid mixtures. Specifically, diffusiophoresis is linked to the cross-term diffusion coefficient characterizing diffusion of colloidal particles due to cosolute concentration gradient. The other cross-term, which describes cosolute diffusion due to the concentration gradient of colloidal particles, is denoted as osmotic diffusion. Representative experimental results on diffusiophoresis and osmotic diffusion for polyethylene glycol and lysozyme in the presence of aqueous salts and osmolytes are described. These data were extracted from ternary diffusion coefficients measured using precision Rayleigh interferometry at 25 °C. The preferential-hydration and electrophoretic mechanisms responsible for diffusiophoresis are examined. The connection of diffusiophoresis and osmotic diffusion to preferential-interaction coefficients, Onsager reciprocal relations, Donnan equilibrium and Nernst–Planck equations are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advancement of highly secure and inexpensive aqueous zinc ion energy storage devices is impeded by issues, including dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution and corrosion of zinc anodes. It is essential to modify the interface of zinc anodes that homogenizes ion flux and facilitates highly reversible zinc planarized deposition and stripping. Herein, by coupling zinc ion coordination with acid‐base neutralization under the driving of electrophoresis, manageable mesoscopic phase separation for constructing chitosan frameworks was achieved, thereby fabricating interconnected mesoporous chitosan membranes based heterogeneous quasi‐solid‐state electrolytes integrated with anodes. The framework is constructed by twisted chitosan nanofiber bundles, forming a three‐dimensional continuous spindle‐shaped pore structure. With this framework, the electrolyte provides exceptional ion conductivity of 25.1 mS cm−1, with a puncture resistance strength of 2.3 GPa. In addition, the amino groups of chitosan molecule can make the surface of the framework positively charged. Thus, reversible zinc planarized deposition is successfully induced by the synergistic effect of stress constraint and electrostatic modulation. As a result, as‐assembled zinc ion capacitor has an excellent cycle life and sustains the capacity by over 95 % after 20000 cycles at a current density of 5 A g−1. This research presents a constructive strategy for stable electrolytes‐integrated zinc anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims Cress seeds release allelochemicals that over-stimulate the elongation of hypocotyls of neighbouring (potentially competing) seedlings and inhibit their root growth. The hypocotyl promoter is potassium, but the root inhibitor was unidentified; its nature is investigated here. Methods Low-molecular-weight cress-seed exudate (LCSE) from imbibed Lepidium sativum seeds was fractionated by phase partitioning, paper chromatography, high-voltage electrophoresis and gel-permeation chromatography (on Bio-Gel P-2). Fractions, compared with pure potassium salts, were bioassayed for effects on Amaranthus caudatus seedling growth in the dark for 4 days. Key Results The LCSE robustly promoted amaranth hypocotyl elongation and inhibited root growth. The hypocotyl inhibitor was non-volatile, hot acid stable, hydrophilic and resistant to incineration, as expected for K+. The root inhibitor(s) had similar properties but were organic (activity lost on incineration). The root inhibitor(s) remained in the aqueous phase (at pH 2.0, 6.5 and 9.0) when partitioned against butan-1-ol or toluene, and were thus hydrophilic. Activity was diminished after electrophoresis, but the remaining root inhibitors were neutral. They became undetectable after paper chromatography; therefore, they probably comprised multiple compounds, which separated from each other, in part, during fractionation. On gel-permeation chromatography, the root inhibitor co-eluted with hexoses. Conclusions Cress-seed allelochemicals inhibiting root growth are different from the agent (K+) that over-stimulates hypocotyl elongation and the former probably comprise a mixture of small, non-volatile, hydrophilic, organic substances. Abundant components identified chromatographically and by electrophoresis in cress-seed exudate fitting this description include glucose, fructose, sucrose and galacturonic acid. However, none of these sugars co-chromatographed and co-electrophoresed with the root-inhibitory principle of LCSE, and none of them (in pure form at naturally occurring concentrations) inhibited root growth. We conclude that the root-inhibiting allelochemicals of cress-seed exudate remain unidentified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents the results of research on submicro- and nanocomposites with gradient properties, produced in a planned electrophoretic process. Epoxy-resin-based samples were filled with TiO2 particles of three different sizes (13 nm, 38 nm, and <1 µm) at four different values of average electric field Eav (0.0 Vmm−1, 125 Vmm−1, 250 Vmm−1, and 500 Vmm−1) for 1 h each. Changes in selected dielectric parameters (dielectric constant εr and dielectric loss factor tanδ) of the composites were analyzed using broadband dielectric spectroscopy (10−1 Hz to 105 Hz). The influence of the Eav and the current i(t) flowing through the sample material and the Joule heat generated in it on the resin curing process and the final gradient of dielectric parameters were investigated. The results show that the degree of modification of the εr gradient increases with increasing Eav and is more pronounced in the case of TiO2 nanoparticles. The largest modifications in the εr and tanδ were obtained for nanoparticles with a diameter of 13 nm at Eav = 500 Vmm−1, while the lowest for particles < 1 µm at Eav = 125 Vmm−1. The effect of electrophoresis on the dielectric parameters is significant, especially near the anode region. Increasing the concentration of TiO2 particles at the anode occurs at the expense of reducing their concentration in the remaining volume of the sample. The test results clearly demonstrate the importance of particle dimension and electric field strength for the gradient modification of the properties of the epoxy composite using electrophoresis. Numerical simulations of electric field stresses in the epoxy resin during the electrophoresis process, performed in the COMSOL program, revealed a significant increase in the E field strength in the areas close to the anode and cathode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Sialylation of the crystallizable fragment (Fc) of ACPAs, which is catalysed by β-galactoside α-2,6-sialyltransferase 1 (ST6GAL1) could attenuate inflammation of RA. In this study, we screened the transcription factor of ST6GAL1 and elucidated the mechanism of transcriptionally upregulating sialylation of ACPAs in B cells to explore its role in the progression of RA. Methods Transcription factors interacting with the P2 promoter of ST6GAL1 were screened by DNA pull-down and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and verified by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), dual luciferase reporter assay and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). The function of the CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) on the expression of ST6GAL1 and the inflammatory effect of ACPAs were verified by knocking down and overexpressing CTCF in B cells. The CIA model was constructed from B cell–specific CTCF knockout mice to explore the effect of CTCF on arthritis progression. Results We observed that the levels of ST6GAL1 and ACPAs sialylation decreased in the serum of RA patients and were negatively correlated with DAS28 scores. Subsequently, CTCF was screened and verified as the transcription factor interacting with the P2 promoter of ST6GAL1, which enhances the sialylation of ACPAs, thus weakening the inflammatory activity of ACPAs. Furthermore, the above results were also verified in the CIA model constructed from B cell–specific CTCF knockout mice. Conclusion CCCTC-binding factor is the specific transcription factor of β-galactoside α-2,6-sialyltransferase 1 in B cells that upregulates the sialylation of ACPAs in RA and attenuates the disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical desalination is an effective method for recovering salts from reverse osmosis (RO) brine. However, traditional technologies like bipolar membrane technology often face challenges related to membrane blockage. To overcome this issue, a preparative vertical-flow electrophoresis (PVFE) system was used for the first time to treat RO brine of petrochemical wastewater. In order to optimize the PVFE operation and maximize acids and bases production while minimizing energy consumption, the response surface method was employed. The independent variables selected were the electric field intensity (E) and flow rate (v), while the dependent variables were the acid–base concentration and energy consumption (EC) for acid–base production. Using the central composite design methodology, the operation parameters were optimized to be E = 154.311 V/m and v = 0.83 mL/min. Under these conditions, the base concentrations of the produced bases and acids reached 3183.06 and 2231.63 mg/L, respectively. The corresponding base EC and acid EC were calculated to be 12.57 and 11.62 kW·h/kg. In terms of the acid–base concentration and energy consumption during the PVFE process, the electric field intensity was found to have a greater influence than the flow rate. These findings provide a practical and targeted solution for recycling waste salt resources from RO brine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) is an important method for studying urinary proteomics, playing an important role in assessing changes in protein concentrations under different physiological conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the different proteins expressed in the urine of normal cycling, healthy cows. We attained the images from 2-DE of urinary proteins in cow urine. Then, we implemented and evaluated an image analysis protocol with 2D ImageMaster software. Using ImageMaster, different spots were identified. On two-dimensional electrophoresis gels, 40 protein spots from anionic fractions and 15 spots from the cationic fractions of urine were identified. These spots corresponded to a molecular weight (MW) of 10-113 kDa for anionic fractions, and a MW of 15-51 kDa in cationic fractions. There were 12 master spot features across both the gels. This dataset can serve as a foundation for further investigations into the functional roles of specific proteins and their implications in the biological system under study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detecting nuclear radiation presents a distinctive challenge, particularly with neutrons, which are neutral particles. The method of direct detection involves the utilization of a converter material, acting as an intermediary. Boron plays a pivotal role in this process, reacting with thermal neutrons to generate alpha particles and lithium, with a notable energy release of 2.314 MeV during the 10B (n,α) 7Li reaction. This facilitates effective identification and measurement of neutrons in radiation detection systems. The paths of the particles α (for E = 1.474 MeV) and Li (for ELi = 0.842 MeV). The active medium of the nuclear detector, typically a gas, undergoes ionization by these highly charged particles, or they form ion pairs that are subsequently collected by electrodes to produce the signal at the detector's output. Various deposit methods can be used for this purpose, electrophoresis offers a distinct advantage in terms of both simplicity and precision. This study details the utilization of the electrophoresis technique for the deposition of boron on the tube walls of prototype detectors developed within our laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analytical method for studying DNA degradation by electrophoresis after cell lysis and visualization of DNA fragments with fluorescent dye, comet assay, was used to evaluate the viability of the endothelial layer of human arterial grafts with the aim of identifying the procedure that will least damage the tissue before cryopreservation. Four groups of samples were studied: cryopreserved arterial grafts that were thawed in two different ways, slowly lasting 2 hours or rapidly for approx. 7 minutes. Arterial grafts that were collected as part of multiorgan procurement with minimal warm ischemia time. Cadaveric grafts were taken as part of the autopsy, so they have a more extended period of warm ischemia. The HeadDNA (%) parameter and others commonly used parameters like TailDNA (%). TailMoment, TailLength, OliveMoment, TailMoment to characterize the comet were used to assess viability in this study. The ratio of nondecayed to decayed nuclei was determined from the values found. This ratio for cadaveric grafts was 0.63, for slowly thawed cryopreserved grafts 2.9, for rapidly thawed cryopreserved grafts 1.9, and for multi-organ procurement grafts 0.68. The results of the study confirmed the assumption that the allografts obtained from cadaveric donors are the least suitable. On the other hand, grafts obtained from multiorgan donors are better in terms of viability monitored by comet assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-lactoglobulin (β-LG) is an important natural active nutrient and one of the main allergens in bovine milk. β-lactoglobulin is about 50% of the total whey protein, is the major whey protein in bovine milk, has strong heat sensitivity and allergenicity, and plays a key role in the high-quality dairy industry, not only as an evaluation index of heat treatment intensity of milk, but also as the marker protein of milk allergens in food. Therefore, it is very important to effectively identify and detect bovine β-lactoglobulin. Thirteen variants of bovine β-lactoglobulin have been reported, of which A and B are the common variants whose content are the highest. According to different detection principles, the article briefly describes three kinds of detection methods of milk β-lactoglobulin variants in recent years, and summarizes the principles, advantages, disadvantages and some application examples of electrophoresis, chromatography and immunoassay. The two quantitative methods of liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis were introduced emphatically, and the future development direction of bovine β-lactoglobulin was prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Examination of urine by immunofixation electrophoresis (UIFE) is one of the tests recommended for screening and monitoring of monoclonal gammopathies, especially multiple myeloma. Unlike the serum free light chain measurement, a positive result on urine immunofixation is diagnostic for monoclonal immunoglobulin light chains. Urine is usually concentrated, generally by membrane filtration, prior to electrophoresis. Methods: Alternative methods to membrane filtration for urine concentration were examined. Residual urine specimens submitted for urine protein electrophoresis were concentrated by precipitation of the proteins by ammonium sulfate salt precipitation, precipitation with ethanol and acetonitrile, and by desiccation. The concentrated specimens were subjected to immunofixation electrophoresis using antisera to free light chains (FLC). The results were compared with those from conventional immunofixation electrophoresis using specimens concentrated by membrane filtration. Results: Ammonium sulfate, ethanol, and acetonitrile precipitation results were less than satisfactory. Concentration by desiccation provided results comparable, if not better than, those by membrane filtration and conventional UIFE. The cost of desiccation is minimal compared to more than $5.00/specimen cost of concentration by membrane filtration. The differences in the results with conventional UIFE and the method described here are likely due to (a) variability in the reactivity of different antisera to free monoclonal light chains, and (b) obscuration of monoclonal free light chains by co-migration with intact immunoglobulin monoclonal proteins. Conclusions: Concentrating urine by desiccation for immunofixation electrophoresis is technically simple, inexpensive, and provides results comparable to concentrating by membrane filtration. Using FLC provides a more sensitive assay than using conventional antisera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Miniature Schnauzer dogs (MSs) are predisposed to both idiopathic hypertriglyceridemia (iHTG) and hypercortisolism (HCort). To our knowledge, the lipoprotein profiles of MSs with iHTG have not been compared to those with HCort. We analyzed cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations and lipoprotein fractions in 4 groups of MSs: normotriglyceridemia (NTG) without concurrent disease (Healthy-NTG), HCort and NTG (HCort-NTG), HCort and HTG (HCort-HTG), and iHTG. Lipoprotein fractions were assessed by lipoprotein electrophoresis and compared between groups. Fifty-one plasma samples were analyzed. Twenty-five dogs had NTG (16 Healthy-NTG, 9 HCort-NTG) and 26 dogs had HTG (7 iHTG, 19 HCort-HTG). Dogs with iHTG or HCort-HTG had significantly higher cholesterol concentrations than Healthy-NTG dogs. Dogs with HCort-HTG had higher cholesterol than HCort-NTG dogs. There was a significantly higher low-density lipoprotein (LDL) percentage in iHTG and HCort-HTG dogs than HCort-NTG dogs. HCort-HTG dogs also had lower high-density lipoproteins (HDL) than HCort-NTG dogs. It was not possible to readily distinguish MSs with iHTG from MSs with HCort-HTG or Healthy-NTG using lipoprotein electrophoresis fractions. The diagnosis of iHTG remains a diagnosis by exclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted in the laboratories of Thi-Qar University's Research and marshes center in collaboration with (Bint Al Huda Hospital) from February 2023 to August 2023. The aim of the current study was to investigating the allelic association of a single nucleotide polymorphism in VEGF and TGFβ1genes with Recurrent miscarriage incidence by using PCR and gel electrophoresis. The study included 100 human blood samples with recurrent miscarriage women and 50 human blood samples as control group their ages ranged were between 17-45 years. The patients and control were divided into three groups according to their age stages. The first group aged 17-26 years, the second group aged 27-36 years, and the third group aged37- 46 years. The VEGF and TGFβ1 promoter genes polymorphism (182 G/C) (488 C/T) promoter gene polymorphism was identified, and genotyping was verified by direct sequencing. The results of the statistical analysis showed no correlation between the occurrence of recurrent miscarriage and the emergence of mutation VEGF and TGFβ1 genes at p. value < 0.05. when it was compared with the control in some population of Thi-Qar province. Conclusions This research confirms that polymorphisms in the VEGF and TGFB1 genes have no impact on the prevalence of RM in Thi-Qar communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyte migration order is a major aspect in all migration-based analytical separations methods. Presented here is the manipulation of the migration order of microparticles in an insulator-based electrokinetic separation. Three distinct particle mixtures were studied: a binary mixture of particles with similar electrical charge and different sizes, and two tertiary mixtures of particles of distinct sizes. Each one of the particle mixtures was separated twice, the first separation was performed under low voltage (linear electrokinetic regime) and the second separation was performed under high voltage (nonlinear electrokinetic regime). Linear electrophoresis, which discriminates particles by charge, is the dominant electrokinetic effect in the linear regime; while nonlinear electrophoresis, which discriminates particles by size and shape, is the dominant electrokinetic effect in the nonlinear regime. The separation results obtained with the three particle mixtures illustrated that particle elution order can be changed by switching from the linear electrokinetic regime to the nonlinear electrokinetic regime. Also, in all cases, better separation performances in terms of separation resolution (Rs) were obtained by employing the nonlinear electrokinetic regime allowing nonlinear electrophoresis to be the discriminatory electrokinetic mechanism. These findings could be applied to analyze complex samples containing bioparticles of interest within the micron size range. This is the first report where particle elution order is altered in an iEK system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statement of the Problem: Endodontic efforts are focused on eliminating intracanal pathogens. Applying intracanal medicament for infected teeth is beneficial for achieving better antibacterial effects in endodontic treatments. Different intracanal medicaments should be assessed and compared for this purpose. Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the antibacterial efficacy of Citrullus colocynthis seed extract comparing to Ca(OH)2 on teeth contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis. Materials and Method: In this in vitro study, a novel strain of Enterococcus faecalis (Enterococcus spp. ATCC 19433) yielded from the root canal treated tooth with persistent apical periodontitis. The canals of 78 human single-rooted extracted teeth were contaminated with mentioned strain and treated with Citrullus colocynthis essential oil and Ca(OH)2 for 1, 7, and 14 days. To determine the chemical composition of the oils, gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC–MS) was applied. The percentage reduction from baseline c.f.u./mL values was estimated. Results: Oleic acid, benzoic acid, and gallic acid were the major contents of Citrullus colocynthis essential oil. The c.f.u./mL count decreased considerably as contact duration rose for both medicaments. After 7 days, a statistically significant difference was identified between the medicaments. Citrullus colocynthis showed higher antimicrobial efficacy. However, after 14 days, no substantial difference was found. Conclusion: Citrullus colocynthis essential oil, displayed great antimicrobial efficacy against Enterococcus faecalis higher than Ca(OH)2 over the first week contact period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relevance. In Belarus, no full-fledged studies have previously been carried out to identify species diversity, to identify forms of vegetable beans that have similar genetic diversity. The purpose of the research is to determine the number and ratio of biotypes, to identify the level of genetic polymorphism in vegetable bean varieties by electrophoresis of storage proteins.Materials and Methods. The research was carried out at the BSAA in 2021–2022 on soddy-podzolic medium loamy soil. The experience was based on generally accepted methods and guidelines. The objects of research were 42 varieties of vegetable beans (34 - bush form) and (8 - climbing) of Belarusian and Russian selection. Analysis of seed storage proteins in vegetable bean varieties and identification of spectra were carried out according to the methods. To assess the differentiating positions (zones) of the spectrum, identify protein components, and estimate the molecular masses of proteins, standard marker solutions of proteins “Thermo Scientific” – Unstained Protein Ladder (range 5–112 kDa, number of identified proteins – 11) were used.Results. Differences between genotypes were revealed in internal genetic diversity and elements of the protein spectrum of globulins. It has been established that vegetable bean varieties are characterized by hidden genetic variability and a certain level of polymorphism with a different number of biotypes in the structure of the varietal population. In 60% of the analyzed forms, there is a direct relationship between the manifestation of rare, selection-significant components and the degree of complexity of the total component composition of the protein spectrum. This criterion has practical significance and can be used in breeding work with the vegetable bean crop.

Calves during the suckling period have serious attention and induce immense bearing on early maturity and production. This work aimed to scrutinize the affections of garlic oil supplements on antioxidants, oxidative stress, and immune response in suckling buffalo calves. To achieve this aim we used twenty suckling buffalo calves, and divided them into two groups. The first group (n=10) did not receive any supplement, and the second group (n=10) received garlic oil as a supplement 5 mL/calf/day orally for 7 days. Whole blood and serum samples were collected on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th day of supplement from all calves. Our data showed that the supplemented garlic oil significantly increase lysated blood and serum SOD, CAT, GSH, and TAC levels, while a gradual decrease in MDA and non-significant changes in NO as indicators of oxidative stress, associated with a significant increase in serum vitamins A and E, selenium, iron, and zinc. Total protein, albumin, globulin, γ1, γ2, α1, α2 were gradually and significantly increased in comparison with the non-supplemented control group. In conclusion, garlic oil supplement have promotives effects on enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant system, immunity, nutrient utilization required for immunity modulation and regulation in calves.

Production of various traditional dairy products, particularly cheese, has a long history in Montenegro. White-brined cheeses are the most well-known. One of them is Kučki cheese, with distinct flavor and higher level of proteolysis. The aim of this research was to analyze the proteolysis process during ripening of Kučki cheese. The cheese is produced using traditional technology. FTIR Spectrophotometry was used to calculate the amount of total protein in cheese (IDF141C: 2000). The degree of proteolysis was determined by SDS PAGE (Laemmli, 1970). The cheese was examined for their water-soluble nitrogen (WSN) content using Kuchroo and Fox’s method from 1982, as well as their 5% phosphotungstic acid soluble nitrogen (PTAN) content using Stadhouser’s method from 1960. The results were expressed as percentages of WSN and PTAN of the total nitrogen matter (WSN/TN and PTAN/TN), as well as PTAN as a percentage of WSN (PTAN/WSN). All analyses were done on 10th, 20th and 30th day of cheese ripening. Four samples of cheese were analyzed for each ripening period. The content of proteins increased during the ripening period. The parameters that determine the process of proteolysis increased during the first 30 days of ripening. The WSN/TN ranged from 13.33 to 44.32%. Also, PTAN/WSN varied from 3.79 to 21.57%. The initial results show that uneven ripening conditions have a direct impact on how proteolytic changes develop throughout ripening. Due to the absence of established cheese-making procedures, Kučki cheese has a considerable degree of heterogeneity in their protein content and proteolysis parameters. However, it is not possible to strictly define the optimal values of the degree of ripening for Kučki cheese. In order to reach certain conclusions, it is necessary to carry out further studies focusing on analyzing a larger number of samples.

Alterations in the serum protein pattern may be associated with many diseases, including neoplastic processes. In veterinary medicine, these changes are poorly understood. Therefore, this study was aimed at the analysis of the distribution of blood serum protein fractions separated by agarose gel electrophoresis, and at the determination of the concentrations of main acute phase proteins in bitches with mammary gland neoplasia. The evaluation was conducted on twelve female dogs with palpable single or multiple nodules in the parenchyma of the mammary gland and on ten tumor-free clinically healthy bitches to compare the possible differences in the obtained results. Blood serum was used to perform agarose gel electrophoresis of the main blood serum protein fractions and to analyze the concentrations of total serum proteins and the following canine acute phase proteins: serum amyloid A, haptoglobin, C-reactive protein and α1-acid glycoprotein. The concentrations of total serum proteins were slightly higher in bitches with mammary gland tumors. Serum protein electrophoresis showed lower mean concentrations of albumin and α1-globulins in the affected dogs, while the concentrations of α2-and β1-globulins were significantly higher (P=0.0032 and P=0.0021, respectively) compared to dogs without mammary gland tumors. In the concentrations of acute phase proteins, significantly higher mean concentrations of C-reactive protein and haptoglobin were obtained in dogs with mammary tumors (P=0.0025 and P=0.0002, respectively). The values of α1-acid glycoprotein did not vary markedly between the bitches with and without mammary tumors. Presented data suggest that neoplastic processes in the mammary gland may also alter the electrophoretic pattern of blood serum proteins and induce changes in the production of some inflammatory proteins.

Electronic paper displays rely on electrokinetic effects in nonpolar solvents to drive the displacement of colloidal particles within a fluidic cell. While Electrophoresis (EP) is a well-established and frequently employed phenomenon, electro-osmosis (EO), which drives fluid flow along charged solid surfaces, has not been studied as extensively. We hypothesize that by exploiting the interplay between these effects, an enhanced particle transport can be achieved. In this study, we experimentally investigate the combined effects of EP and EO for colloidal particles in non-polar solvents, driven by an electric field. We use astigmatism micro-particle tracking velocimetry (A- μ PTV) to measure the motion of charged particles within model fluidic cells. Using a simple approach that relies on basic fluid flow properties we extract the contributions due to EP and EO, finding that EO contributes significantly to particle transport. The validity of our approach is confirmed by measurements on particles with different magnitudes of charge, and by comparison to numerical simulations. We find that EO flows can play a dominant role in the transport of particles in electrokinetic display devices. This can be exploited to speed up particle transport, potentially yielding displays with significantly faster switching times. Interplay of electrokinetic effects : Driven by the applied electric field, both electro-osmosis (EO, top left), which drives a flow along the surfaces of the fluidic cell, and electrophoresis (EP, top right), which drives a migration of particles relative to the background liquid, occur in our system. A typical example of the resultant particle velocity field (bottom) illustrates the important role of EO on particle transport in the fluidic cell. • Studied electrokinetics of particles in nonpolar solvent using astigmatism micro-PTV. • Both electrophoresis (EP) and electro-osmosis (EO) play important roles. • Combination of EO and EP could be exploited in faster switching e-paper displays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Foodomics is an emerging probing method of phenotype investigation of the different milk proteins and their subtypes. The polymorphic nature of the β‐casein (β‐Cn) protein has shown fourteen different protein variants to date in bovines. The analysis of the β‐Cn genetic polymorphism from the milk of the crossbred dairy animals is crucial for the quality assurance of the consumers from the various health concerns, especially those linked with the A1 phenotype which yields β‐casomorphin‐7 on in vivo digestion. Jersey‐crossed Indian cattle have been widely utilised in dairy because of their better milk production and survival performance trait. In this investigation, an SDS‐PAGE coupled with a high‐resolution accurate mass spectrometry‐based proteomics approach has been applied to identify the presence of specific phenotype of the β‐Cn protein in the milk of the 24 Indian crossbred (Jersey crossed) animals. Amino acid sequential analysis has been done using different search modules, as MS Amanda and Sequest HT showed 17 cows are producing A2 β‐Cn (Pro~67) while only seven animals yielded the A1 variant (His~67). The maximum number of Indian Jersey‐crossed animals are lactating milk having A2 β‐Cn. The A2 milk from the crossbred animals is free from the negative impact on health caused by β‐casomorphin‐7 (BCM‐7) released during digestion of the A1 phenotype. Among the molecular biology techniques, top‐down proteomics has been an intriguing technique for the identification of protein genetic polymorphic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Upon infection activated plasma cells produce large quantities of antibodies which can lead to the emergence of a monoclonal component (MC), detectable by serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP). This study aims to investigate any correlation between SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and MC development and, if identified, whether it persists during follow‐up. Methods: SPEPs of 786 patients admitted to hospitals between March 01 2020 and March 31 2022 were evaluated. Positive (SARS‐CoV‐2+) and negative (SARS‐CoV‐2−) patients to nasopharyngeal swab for SARS‐CoV‐2 by RT‐PCR were included. The persistence/new occurrence of MC was investigated for all patients during follow‐up. Patient groups were compared by chi‐square analysis. Results: MC was identified in 12% of all patients admitted to hospital, of which 28.7% were SARS‐CoV‐2+. The most common immunoglobulin isotype in both groups was IgG‐k. There was no correlation between MC development and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (p = 0.173). Furthermore, the risk of MC persistence in SARS‐CoV‐2‐negative patients was revealed to be higher than in the SARS‐CoV‐2+ at follow‐up (HR = 0.591, p = 0.05). Conclusions: Our study suggests that the detection of MC during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is most likely due to the hyperstimulation of the humoral immune system, as also occurs in other viral infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for innovative and cost-effective in-situ consolidation technologies in soft clay stimulated the effort to employ electrokinetic phenomena in soils under an electric field. This work explains the principles of electrophoresis and electroosmosis in soft clay under an electric field and discusses the implacations of these results for field implementation of the technique. The experimental work reported here was carried out to shed light on the principles by considering various influencing factors. The results show that there is a threshold current (about 15 mA) for electroosmosis and electrophoresis in soft clay. Below the threshold current, electrophoresis plays a major role and is accompanied by weak electroosmosis. The particle size, dry density, and boundary rise height of electrophoretic soil in anode chamber are mainly affected by soil moisture content, electrode in electrolyte length, and bottom of electrode to soil surface distance. The closer the soil moisture content is to the average value of the liquid limit and plastic limit, the denser the electrophoretic soil will be. Above the threshold current, almost only electroosmosis occurs. The greater the current, the greater the electroosmosis. In practical engineering application, electrodes are usually directly inserted into the soft clay. This results in the current usually being much greater than the threshold current, meaning the electrophoretic phenomenon in the soil can be negligible.

This document presents a case study of a 69-year-old woman diagnosed with a rare form of multiple myeloma called IgE kappa with free kappa light chain multiple myeloma. The patient experienced symptoms such as bone pain, nausea, vomiting, and foamy urine. Through various tests, including genetic analysis, the diagnosis was confirmed, and the patient was treated with a specific regimen that showed positive results. The document emphasizes the significance of accurate diagnosis and the importance of collaboration between laboratories and clinicians in managing unique types of multiple myeloma. [Extracted from the article]

The incidence of DNA damage from exposure to specific types of metalworking fluids has been reported. In this research, size-selective permissible limits to prevent genotoxic damage in A549 cell lines exposed to two types of mineral oil were estimated for the first time using a benchmark dose approach and extrapolated to workers. The comet assay was performed based on Olive and Banath protocol to determine DNA damage. Then, the Benchmark Dose, the 95% lower bound confidence limit BMD, and the 95% upper-bound confidence limit BMD were determined using continuous response data. Finally, the four Benchmark Dose levels reported in the A549 cell line were extrapolated to the human population in occupational settings in two phases. This study showed when determining the permissible limits, the type used or unused, the type of injury, the organ affected in the body and the size of the particles should also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]