Flavored Nanofiber Strips Loaded with Amoxicillin as an Alternative Method for Treating Bacterial Infections in Children
Semisynthetic penicillin, Amoxicillin, is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is widely used to treat bacterial infections in children suffering ear, nose, and throat infections, genitourinary tract infections, skin infections, and lower respiratory tract infections1. This antibiotic works against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, such as Listeria monocytogenes, Haemophilus influenza, Streptococcus pneumonia , Streptococcus pyogene and Escherichia coli1,2. It shows antibacterial activity by inhibiting dd-transpeptidase, which maintains the integrity of the bacterial cell wall which results in bacterial cell death due to a fragile cell wall3. Nonadherence to medication was associated with 50% of drug-related hospitalizations in children4. In order to improve adherence and influence clinical outcome, it is important to acknowledge the importance of drug palatability to children4–6. The currently available liquid suspension form of this antibiotic is administered to patients through oral/GI routes. It is also available in capsules or tablets for adults7–9. In the gastrointestinal tract, the drug has to withstand variable pH conditions and enzymatic degradation , mucus and mucosal barriers to survive resulting in limiting drug bioavailability10,11. In addition to conventional drug delivery formulations, nanofibers can be used to deliver drugs orally, topically, and through buccal or transdermal routes12. Drug-loaded nanofibers offer many advantages as a delivery system, including their porous structure and their efficient delivery of various drugs and bioactive molecules including hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs12–14. Considering that amoxicillin palatability can affect children patients’ compliance and due to the advantages of both nanofiber drug delivery system and drug delivery through buccal routes, hence, this project aims to prepare flavored electrospun nanofibers loaded with amoxicillin to mask the unpleasant taste of the drug for treating children with bacterial infection. Nanofibers loaded with amoxicillin can be applied between the child's gum and cheek, allowing the fibers to dissolve in mucus and penetrate directly into the bloodstream.
3D Arithmetic Billiards investigating edge points with a number theoretic approach
The billiard table is a cuboid with integer side lengths. A point-wise ball moves with constant speed along segments making a 45◦ angle with the sides and bounces on these. We allow the ball to start from any of the 8 corners, resulting in a periodic trajectory known as a corner path. The geometry of the path depends on the artihmetic properties of the side lengths (for example if these are pairwise coprime). Points of contact between the ball and edges, known as edge points, are inves- tigated and their characteristics like distribution explicitly described. This generalizes a previous work by Perucca, Reguengo da Sousa and Tronto of University of Luxembourg.
Exploiting the beneficial role of Biochar and Titanium (Ti) as a Sustainable and Green Strategy for Improving Agricultural Output in Saudi Arabia: Wheat as an Using Wheat as a Model
The present research work aimed to assess the impact of biochar (BC) amendment (5%) and foliar supplementation of titanium (Ti) at a concentration of 50 mg L-1 TiO2 on the growth, chlorophyll content, and biochemical parameters of wheat (Triticum aestivum L). The results demonstrated significant improvements in several aspects of wheat physiology due to these treatments, both individually and in combination. Plant height, as well as fresh and dry weight of wheat, exhibited substantial increases when subjected to Ti and BC treatments, with the highest enhancements observed in plants treated with both Ti and BC. Furthermore, chlorophyll content, including chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophylls, and carotenoids, showed marked increases in response to individual Ti and BC treatments, with even greater improvements when both treatments were combined. In terms of biochemical parameters, the content of proline, sugars, and free amino acids significantly increased in plants grown in soils amended with BC. Additionally, foliar Ti treatment led to elevated levels of these biochemical constituents. The combined treatment of Ti and BC resulted in the most pronounced effects. Moreover, oxidative damage parameters, such as hydrogen peroxide, lipid peroxide, and electrolyte leakage, were notably reduced in plants subjected to Ti and BC treatments, either individually or together. The activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase, exhibited significant increases in response to Ti and BC treatments, further emphasizing their beneficial effects on wheat plants. Overall, this investigation shows that biochar amendment and titanium foliar supplementation both have beneficial effects on wheat development and biochemical parameters; these findings may be relevant to efforts to increase crop productivity and stress tolerance.
SVMR: Smart Versatile Medication Robot
In 2565 B.E., 泰國's elderly, comprising 18.3% of the population at 12,116,199, faced health challenges, with diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, arthritis, and lung cancer prevalent. Caregiving hurdles arose as many family members worked outside, impacting the care of elderly individuals with these conditions. To address this, the "SVMR Medication Reminder and Care Robot for the Elderly" was developed. Known as the Smart Versatile Medication Robot (SVMR) or "New Robot," it serves as a user-friendly solution for home-based elderly care. Recognizing the adverse effects of missed medication on health, the SVMR system, combining hardware (New Robot) and software (Application), aimed to alleviate caregiving burdens. The New Robot's hardware includes a customizable medication reminder system, a video call system, closed-circuit camera system, doctor's recommendation display system, and an SOS system for emergency assistance. The Application complements this with features like medication schedule setting, video call communication, activity tracking, daily schedule management, and live camera monitoring. During the SVMR prototype trial, one unit was tested, with developers' relatives trying the medication dispensing system. Positive results emerged, showcasing improved medication adherence among the elderly and affording caregivers more time for other responsibilities. Satisfaction levels, as assessed through interviews, were notably high. Elderly feedback suggested the need for additional compartments for different medications and enhanced notification methods, particularly when they were not in proximity to the medication cabinet. In essence, the SVMR system provides a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by households with elderly members, ensuring better disease management, increased medication adherence, and support for caregivers, all within a concise and user-friendly framework.
DSUP: New Research On The Implementation Of Radioresistance In Cellular Systems
In radiation treatments and manned interplanetary space travel, radiation is one of the biggest problems. The radiotolerance of cancer cells makes it necessary to apply high doses to surrounding healthy tissues by subjecting the cells to heavy stress. With regard to space travel (which involves a minimum travel time of 6 months) (1,2) the danger concerns cosmic radiation which is capable of inducing genetic mutations that, in turn, can evolve into very serious pathologies, such as cancer, damage to dendrites consequently compromising synapses. The project is aimed at developing a technology that can address these issues and aims to make human DNA radioresistant. This study involves a nucleosome-binding protein called DSUP (Damage Suppressor Protein) unique to the tardigrade Ramazzottius Varieornatus and the subject of its radioresistance. It can theoretically safeguard genetic material damaged by radiation. *Internship theme at the Pino Torinese Astronomical Observatory and the DISIT-UPO Environmental Molecular Toxicology Laboratory. The study molecule: Numerous tests have been carried out through the "in silico" approach geared toward mathematical modeling of its protein structure and complex mechanisms of action simulated through artificial intelligence systems, followed by direct laboratory analysis involving biosynthesis of DSUP by genetically modified bacteria and related tests. Both approaches, applied synergistically, aim to make it accessible and useful for the protection of human health.
Revolutionizing Metabolic Health: The Therapeutic Potential of Next-Generation Probiotic Akkermansia Strains (Z62, IR119) for Metabolic Syndromes
The human gut microbiome is integral to digestion, overall health, and metabolic disorder imbalances. Recent advancements in fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) have highlighted the therapeutic promise of restoring healthy gut microbiota in populations with high incidences of diseases. Focusing on fecal DNA samples from healthy Asian individuals, this study examines the potential of novel Akkermansia strains, specifically Akkermansia muciniphila (Z62) and Akkermansia massiliensis (IR119), as next-generation probiotics for mitigating metabolic syndrome. A key aspect of the study is the investigation of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are produced and play a crucial role in regulating metabolic processes. SCFAs such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate are essential for energy provision to colon cells and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. The methodology involves selecting two Akkermansia strains, analyzing them through 16S rRNA and WGS, evaluating their growth and survival rates under acidic and bile-salt conditions, alongside their cell adhesion capabilities. The study focuses on the production of key short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and tryptophan derivatives by bacteria in regulating metabolic processes, as well as their anti-inflammatory effects on colon cells. Through in vitro assays, both strains exhibited survival in acidic/bile-rich conditions, though Z62 demonstrated superior adhesion to Caco-2 cells, suggesting a higher colonization potential. Metabolomic analysis revealed both strains produce SCFAs, including propionic and acetic acids, and indole metabolites, such as indole-3-propionic acid and indole-3-acetic acid, which are known to influence lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. In adipocyte cell models, IR119 significantly reduced lipid accumulation, while Z62 increased lipid presence. Furthermore, IR119 reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, including IL-6 and TNF-α, suggesting potential for inflammation mitigation. The future potential of IR119 as a therapeutic probiotic is extraordinary in addressing complex metabolic and inflammatory diseases, which open new avenues for managing chronic inflammatory conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Future clinical trials could refine IR119’s efficacy, positioning it as a leading probiotic in preventive and therapeutic contexts.
Straw manufacturing for epidemic prevention
Recently,thefeedpricesforlivestockfarmshavebeencontinuouslyincreasing, while the prices of calves have been declining, leading to many livestock and dairy farms facing financial losses. If livestock farms are affected by diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease, they suffer significant losses. This is because reducedproductivityinlivestocknotonlyaffectstheirproductionbutalsoentails substantial costs for vaccines and treatments. Therefore, there is a need to explore how to effectively prevent diseases, focusing on common diseases in cattle such as subclinical mastitis and mastitis, and alleviate the burden on farms economically and environmentally. This study aims to investigate the production of bacterial growth-inhibiting straw bedding using substances such as illite and charcoal to contribute to disease prevention.
Development of a nano-filtration membrane using different linear aliphatic amines and linear cross-linkers for purification of expensive and precious organic solvents
Theseparation, purification, and recovery of precious organic solvents is a huge challenge for many industriesincludingpetroleumandpharmaceuticalcompanies,sincethesecompaniesusehugequantities of organic solvents [1-2]. Natural dissolvable nanofiltration(ON)has atremendous potential for supplantingafewenergy-concentratedcrudepurgingtechniques,similartorefiningandextraction[3-4- 5]. The importance of OSN is obvious from the fact that one cubic meter of methanol requires 1750 MJ of energy for distillation since the process of distillation is comprised of heating, evaporation, and condensation while OSN can purify the same volume of methanol by consuming 3 MJ of energy [6-7]. Additionally, OSN is a useful technology since it is simpler to use than conventional purification and separationmethods.Themembrane'sporestructure,whichinfluencesbothitsselectivityandpermeance, hasasignificantimpactonhowwellthemembranesperform[8-9].Ingeneral,thetrade-offbetweenflux andselectivityaffectsthemembrane'sperformance.Asaresult,themembranes'fluxandpermeabilityare affectedbythetailoringandtuningoftheirporestructure.Therefore,designinganefficientnanofiltration membranes with ideal porosity is highly desirable. Interfacial polymerization (IP) is highly versatile as it provides a freedom of selection of various monomersfortargetingaspecificapplicationsuchasnanofiltrationandreverseosmosisThepotentialfor organicsolventnanofiltration(ON)toreplacevariousenergy-intensivetraditionalpurificationtechniques, suchasdistillationandextraction,isenormous.[8-9].Despitethefactthatmanydifferentmonomershave been successfully used by utilizing IP to create thin film composite nanofiltration TFC-NF membranes, one of the main limitations of such membranes continues to be the poor selection of closely related comparable nanometer sized solutes. Many efforts are still being made to develop potential monomers with the perfect properties for creating membranes that operate excellently [10-11]. Another strategy is also getting more popular in which different porous additives are added to the TFC membrane either at thesupportleveloractivelayerlevel.Theseadditivesincludecarbonorganicframeworks(COFs),metal organic frameworks (MOFs), hyper-cross-linked porous polymers (HCPs), and natural polymers such as chitosan[12-13-14-15]. However,maintainingthecrystallinity ofsuch additives,particularlyMOFsthat lead to crystalline membranes, is extremely difficult while other additions suffer from aggregation and agglomeration that results in membrane flaws that impair the performance of the membranes [16]. Therefore,changingthechemistryofthereacting monomerduringIPcansignificantlyalterthestructure of the resultant active layers of the membranes. The current study was carried out by using linear aliphatic amines 4A-3P and 4A on a crosslinked PAN support. The study was carried out through interfacial polymerization between either 4A-3P and TPC or 4A and TPC on crosslinked PAN. In comparison to the previous studies where cyclic amines such as piperazine or aromatic amines such as meta-phenylenediamine (MPD) are used, we have used linear aliphatic amines 4A and 4A-3P crosslinked with organic phase containing terephthaloyl chloride (TPC) asacross-linker.TheIPreactionwascarriedoutbetweenamineandTPConacrosslinkedPANsupport. The fabricated membrane was extensively characterized by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), ATR-FTIR, water contact angle (WCA), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and elemental mapping . The fabricated membrane was used for OSN applications by using dead-end filtration setup.