Search Results (18)

Three-dimensional (3D) cellular models, such as spheroids, serve as pivotal systems for understanding complex biological phenomena in histology, oncology, and tissue engineering. In response to the growing need for advanced imaging capabilities, we present a novel multi-modal Raman light sheet microscope designed to capture elastic (Rayleigh) and inelastic (Raman) scattering, along with fluorescence signals, in a single platform. By leveraging a shorter excitation wavelength (532 nm) to boost Raman scattering efficiency and incorporating robust fluorescence suppression, the system achieves label-free, high-resolution tomographic imaging without the drawbacks commonly associated with near-infrared modalities. An accompanying Deep Image Prior (DIP) seamlessly integrates with the microscope to provide unsupervised denoising and resolution enhancement, preserving critical molecular details and minimizing extraneous artifacts. Altogether, this synergy of optical and computational strategies underscores the potential for in-depth, 3D imaging of biomolecular and structural features in complex specimens and sets the stage for future advancements in biomedical research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Full article

Advancements in Raman light sheet microscopy have provided a powerful, non-invasive, marker-free method for imaging complex 3D biological structures, such as cell cultures and spheroids. By combining 3D tomograms made by Rayleigh scattering, Raman scattering, and fluorescence detection, this modality captures complementary spatial and molecular data, critical for biomedical research, histology, and drug discovery. Despite its capabilities, Raman light sheet microscopy faces inherent limitations, including low signal intensity, high noise levels, and restricted spatial resolution, which impede the visualization of fine subcellular structures. Traditional enhancement techniques like Fourier transform filtering and spectral unmixing require extensive preprocessing and often introduce artifacts. More recently, deep learning techniques, which have shown great promise in enhancing image quality, face their own limitations. Specifically, conventional deep learning models require large quantities of high-quality, manually labeled training data for effective denoising and super-resolution tasks, which is challenging to obtain in multi-modal microscopy. In this study, we address these limitations by exploring advanced zero-shot and self-supervised learning approaches, such as ZS-DeconvNet, Noise2Noise, Noise2Void, Deep Image Prior (DIP), and Self2Self, which enhance image quality without the need for labeled and large datasets. This study offers a comparative evaluation of zero-shot and self-supervised learning methods, evaluating their effectiveness in denoising, resolution enhancement, and preserving biological structures in multi-modal Raman light sheet microscopic images. Our results demonstrate significant improvements in image clarity, offering a reliable solution for visualizing complex biological systems. These methods establish the way for future advancements in high-resolution imaging, with broad potential for enhancing biomedical research and discovery. Full article

This study presents an advanced integration of Multi-modal Raman Light Sheet Microscopy with zero-shot learning-based computational methods to significantly enhance the resolution and analysis of complex three-dimensional biological structures, such as 3D cell cultures and spheroids. The Multi-modal Raman Light Sheet Microscopy system incorporates Rayleigh scattering, Raman scattering, and fluorescence detection, enabling comprehensive, marker-free imaging of cellular architecture. These diverse modalities offer detailed spatial and molecular insights into cellular organization and interactions, critical for applications in biomedical research, drug discovery, and histological studies. To improve image quality without altering or introducing new biological information, we apply Zero-Shot Deconvolution Networks (ZS-DeconvNet), a deep-learning-based method that enhances resolution in an unsupervised manner. ZS-DeconvNet significantly refines image clarity and sharpness across multiple microscopy modalities without requiring large, labeled datasets, or introducing artifacts. By combining the strengths of multi-modal light sheet microscopy and ZS-DeconvNet, we achieve improved visualization of subcellular structures, offering clearer and more detailed representations of existing data. This approach holds significant potential for advancing high-resolution imaging in biomedical research and other related fields. Full article

Ti6Al4V is a widely used alloy due to its excellent mechanical qualities and resistance to corrosion, which make it fit for automotive, aerospace, defense, and biomedical sectors. Due to its high strength and limited heat conductivity, it is difficult to machine. Both the workpiece’s and the electrode’s conductivity are important factors that impact the electro-discharge machining (EDM) process. In this case, the machining efficiency is also influenced by the electrode selection. As a result, choosing the right electrode and machining parameters is essential to improving EDM performance on the Ti6Al4V alloy. Research on EDM for Ti6Al4V is limited, with little focus on electrode material selection and shape. The impact of EDM settings on MRR, TWR, and surface roughness is complex, and a comprehensive optimization strategy is needed. Copper electrodes are widely used, but further investigation is needed on EDM’s effects on Ti6Al4V’s surface properties and surface integrity. Addressing these research gaps will improve the understanding and application of EDM for Ti6Al4V, focusing on parameter optimization, surface integrity, and thermal and mechanical effects. By employing copper tools to optimize four crucial EDM process parameters—peak current, duty cycle, discharge current, and pulse-on time—this research aims to increase surface integrity and machining performance. A comprehensive Taguchi experimental design is used to systematically alter the EDM settings. By optimizing parameters using tolerance intervals and response modelling, the recently developed RAMS-RATMI approach improves the dependability of the EDM process and increases machining efficiency. With the optimized EDM settings, there were notable gains in depth of cut enhancement, surface roughness minimization, tool wear rate (TWR) reduction, and material removal rate (MRR). The results of the surface integrity examination showed fewer heat-affected zones, fewer microcracks, and a thinner recast layer. Analysis of variance was used to verify the impact and resilience of the optimized parameters. Superior machining performance, higher surface quality, and increased operational dependability were attained with the Ti6Al4V-optimized EDM process, providing industry practitioners with insightful information and useful recommendations. Full article

Crop wild relatives (CWRs) belonging to the Brassicaceae family possess extensive genetic diversity and have frequently been utilized in the enhancement of cultivated Brassica species. However, their tolerance to glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, has remained unknown. Our study examined the glyphosate response of 20 genotypes from the Brassicaceae family, which included genotypes within the U triangle and their wild relatives. We evaluated their behaviour based on morpho-biochemical responses, specifically focusing on the traits of germination percentage, root length, and survival percentage. By calculating the mean membership function value (MFV) for each genotype’s response to these traits, we classified them into three distinct groups: susceptible, moderately tolerant, and tolerant. Among these genotypes, Brassica rapa (NRCPB rapa 8) demonstrated tolerance to glyphosate, as indicated by their mean MFV value of 0.68. Moderate tolerance to glyphosate was observed in Brassica juncea (Pusa Jaikisan) with a mean MFV of 0.52. Conversely, Diplotaxis catholica, Diplotaxis muralis, and Enarthrocarpus lyratus were susceptible, with mean MFV values of 0.37, 0.35, and 0.34, respectively. These findings revealed varying levels of response to glyphosate among these genotypes, with some displaying significant tolerance. The study provides valuable insights into the herbicide tolerance of Brassica CWRs and emphasizes the potential use of phenotypic and biochemical markers in evaluating herbicide tolerance. Full article

Herein, we have developed a one-pot methodology to synthesise three types of C-dots and their activated counterparts from three different types of waste plastic precursors such as poly-bags, cups and bottles. The optical studies have shown the significant change in the absorption edge in case of C-dots in comparison to their activated counterparts. The respective variation in the sizes is correlated with the change in electronic band gap values of formed particles. The changes in the luminescence behaviour are also correlated with transitions from the edge of the core of formed particles. The obtained variations in the Stokes shift values of C-dots, and their ACs were used to explore the types of surface states and their related transitions in particles. The mode of interaction between C-dots and their ACs was also determined using solvent-dependent fluorescence spectroscopy. This detailed investigation could provide significant insight on the emission behaviour and the potential usage of formed particles as an effective fluorescent probe in sensing applications. Full article

The process of wound healing is complex and involves the interaction of multiple cells, each with a distinct role in the inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling phases. Chronic, nonhealing wounds may result from reduced fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis, and cellular immunity, often associated with diabetes, hypertension, vascular deficits, immunological inadequacies, and chronic renal disease. Various strategies and methodologies have been explored to develop nanomaterials for wound-healing treatment. Several nanoparticles such as gold, silver, cerium oxide and zinc possess antibacterial properties, stability, and a high surface area that promotes efficient wound healing. In this review article, we investigate the effectiveness of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO₂NPs) in wound healing—particularly the effects of reducing inflammation, enhancing hemostasis and proliferation, and scavenging reactive oxygen species. The mechanism enables CeO₂NPs to reduce inflammation, modulate the immunological system, and promote angiogenesis and tissue regeneration. In addition, we investigate the efficacy of cerium oxide-based scaffolds in various wound-healing applications for creating a favorable wound-healing environment. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO₂NPs) exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative characteristics, enabling them to be ideal wound healing material. Investigations have shown that CeO₂NPs can stimulate wound closure, tissue regeneration, and scar reduction. CeO₂NPs may also reduce bacterial infections and boost wound-site immunity. However, additional study is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of CeO₂NPs in wound healing and their long-term impacts on human health and the environment. The review reveals that CeO₂NPs have promising wound-healing properties, but further study is needed to understand their mechanisms of action and ensure their safety and efficacy. Full article

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) has been used to treat hypogonadal males with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) for a long time, despite variable results. This meta-analysis examines TRT’s role in hypogonadal males with T2DM. The databases PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant RCTs and observational studies. Estimated pooled mean differences (MDs) and relative risks with 95% confidence intervals were used to measure the effects of TRT (CIs). When compared to the placebo, TRT improves glycemic management by significantly reducing glycated hemoglobin (HBA1c) levels (WMD = −0.29 [−0.57, −0.02] p = 0.04; I2 = 89.8%). Additionally, it reduces the homeostatic model assessment levels of insulin resistance (WMD = −1.47 [−3.14, 0.19]; p = 0.08; I2 = 56.3%), fasting glucose (WMD = −0.30 [−0.75, 0.15]; p = 0.19; I2 = 84.4%), and fasting insulin (WMD = −2.95 [−8.64, 2.74]; however, these results are non-significant. On the other hand, HBA1c levels are significantly reduced with TRT; in addition, total testosterone levels significantly increase with testosterone replacement therapy (WMD = 4.51 [2.40, 6.61] p = 0.0001; I2 = 96.3%). Based on our results, we hypothesize that TRT can improve glycemic control and hormone levels, as well as lower total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL cholesterol levels while raising HDL cholesterol in hypogonadal type 2 diabetes patients. To this end, we recommend TRT for these patients in addition to standard diabetes care. Full article

Wild species are weedy relatives and progenitors of cultivated crops, usually maintained in their centres of origin. They are rich sources of diversity as they possess many agriculturally important traits. In this study, we analysed 25 wild species and 5 U triangle species of Brassica for their potential tolerance against heat and drought stress during germination and in order to examine the early seedling stage. We identified the germplasms based on the mean membership function value (MFV), which was calculated from the tolerance index of shoot length, root length, and biochemical analysis. The study revealed that B. napus (GSC-6) could withstand high temperatures and drought. Other genotypes that were tolerant to the impact of heat stress were B. tournefortii (RBT 2002), D. gomez-campoi, B. tournefortii (Rawa), L. sativum, and B. carinata (PC-6). C. sativa resisted drought but did not perform well when subjected to high temperatures. Tolerance to drought was observed in B. fruticulosa (Spain), B. tournefortii (RBT 2003), C. bursa-pastoris (late), D. muralis, C. abyssinica (EC694145), C. abyssinica (EC400058) and B. juncea (Pusa Jaikisan). This investigation contributes to germplasm characterization and the identification of the potential source of abiotic stress tolerance in the Brassica breeding programme. These identified genotypes can be potential sources for transferring the gene(s)/genomic regions that determine tolerance to the elite cultivars. Full article

The use of TiO₂ nanoparticles for photocatalysis for the degradation of organic dyes under UV light for wastewater treatment has been widely studied. However, the photocatalytic characteristics of TiO₂ nanoparticles are inadequate due to their UV light response and higher band gap. In this work, three nanoparticles were synthesized: (i) TiO₂ nanoparticle was synthesized by a sol-gel process. (ii) ZrO₂ was prepared using a solution combustion process and (iii) mixed-phase TiO₂–ZrO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized by a sol-gel process to remove Eosin Yellow (EY) from aqueous solutions in the wastewater. XRD, FTIR, UV-VIS, TEM, and XPS analysis methods were used to examine the properties of the synthesized products. The XRD investigation supported the tetragonal and monoclinic crystal structures of the TiO₂ and ZrO₂ nanoparticles. TEM studies identified that mixed-phase TiO₂–ZrO₂ nanoparticles have the same tetragonal structure as pure mixed-phase. The degradation of Eosin Yellow (EY) was examined using TiO₂, ZrO₂, and mixed-phase TiO₂–ZrO₂ nanoparticles under visible light. The results confirmed that the mixed-phase TiO₂–ZrO₂nanoparticles show a higher level of photocatalytic activity, and the process is accomplished at a high degradation rate in lesser time and at a lower power intensity. Full article

Currently, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as potential risks for humans due to adopting a sedentary lifestyle and inaccurate diagnoses. The early detection of NCDs using point-of-care technologies significantly decreases the burden and will be poised to transform clinical intervention and healthcare provision. An imbalance in the levels of circulating cell-free microRNAs (ccf-miRNA) has manifested in NCDs, which are passively released into the bloodstream or actively produced from cells, improving the efficacy of disease screening and providing enormous sensing potential. The effective sensing of ccf-miRNA continues to be a significant technical challenge, even though sophisticated equipment is needed to analyze readouts and expression patterns. Nanomaterials have come to light as a potential solution as they provide significant advantages over other widely used diagnostic techniques to measure miRNAs. Particularly, CNDs-based fluorescence nano-biosensors are of great interest. Owing to the excellent fluorescence characteristics of CNDs, developing such sensors for ccf-microRNAs has been much more accessible. Here, we have critically examined recent advancements in fluorescence-based CNDs biosensors, including tools and techniques used for manufacturing these biosensors. Green synthesis methods for scaling up high-quality, fluorescent CNDs from a natural source are discussed. The various surface modifications that help attach biomolecules to CNDs utilizing covalent conjugation techniques for multiple applications, including self-assembly, sensing, and imaging, are analyzed. The current review will be of particular interest to researchers interested in fluorescence-based biosensors, materials chemistry, nanomedicine, and related fields, as we focus on CNDs-based nano-biosensors for ccf-miRNAs detection applications in the medical field. Full article

Biomaterial research has led to revolutionary healthcare advances. Natural biological macromolecules can impact high-performance, multipurpose materials. This has prompted the quest for affordable healthcare solutions, with a focus on renewable biomaterials with a wide variety of applications and ecologically friendly techniques. Imitating their chemical compositions and hierarchical structures, bioinspired based materials have elevated rapidly over the past few decades. Bio-inspired strategies entail extracting fundamental components and reassembling them into programmable biomaterials. This method may improve its processability and modifiability, allowing it to meet the biological application criteria. Silk is a desirable biosourced raw material due to its high mechanical properties, flexibility, bioactive component sequestration, controlled biodegradability, remarkable biocompatibility, and inexpensiveness. Silk regulates temporo-spatial, biochemical and biophysical reactions. Extracellular biophysical factors regulate cellular destiny dynamically. This review examines the bioinspired structural and functional properties of silk material based scaffolds. We explored silk types, chemical composition, architecture, mechanical properties, topography, and 3D geometry to unlock the body’s innate regenerative potential, keeping in mind the novel biophysical properties of silk in film, fiber, and other potential forms, coupled with facile chemical changes, and its ability to match functional requirements for specific tissues. Full article

Litchi chinensis is the “queen of fruits”, and pollination is an essential requirement for fruit set and production. The present study was conducted in litchi orchards to study the diversity/abundance of insect visitors, the impact of pollination on quantitative parameters, and different modes of pollination. The results showed that 75 insect species during flowering were reported including Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Coleoptera. In natural pollination, the abundance of insect visitors of Hymenoptera was more during morning and evening (50.25% and 44.89%, respectively) compared to Lepidoptera (21.83 and 26.67%) and Diptera (24.37 and 23.33%). Similarly, natural pollination with one Apis mellifera colony also showed higher abundance of insect visitors of Hymenoptera during morning and evening (50.15 and 57.31%, respectively) as compared to Lepidoptera and Diptera. The Dipteran insect visitors under natural pollination showed significant positive correlation with temperature, wind speed and UV. The fruit/seed size, peel weight, juice pH, pulp weight, moisture, and total soluble solids were higher in natural pollination with A. mellifera. The percentage of fruit set and fruit weight (g) was significantly higher in natural pollination with A. mellifera (23.24 ± 1.40% and 1.60 ± 0.11 g, respectively). There was no fruit set observed in bagged panicles with nylon mesh. Full article

Citrus is one of the main fruit crops cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Approximately half (40–47%) of the fruit mass is inedible and discarded as waste after processing, which causes pollution to the environment. Essential oils (EOs) are aromatic compounds found in significant quantities in oil sacs or oil glands present in the leaves, flowers, and fruit peels (mainly the flavedo part). Citrus EO is a complex mixture of ~400 compounds and has been found to be useful in aromatic infusions for personal health care, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, color enhancers in foods and beverages, and aromatherapy. The citrus EOs possess a pleasant scent, and impart relaxing, calming, mood-uplifting, and cheer-enhancing effects. In aromatherapy, it is applied either in message oils or in diffusion sprays for homes and vehicle sittings. The diffusion creates a fresh feeling and enhances relaxation from stress and anxiety and helps uplifting mood and boosting emotional and physical energy. This review presents a comprehensive outlook on the composition, properties, characterization, and mechanism of action of the citrus EOs in various health-related issues, with a focus on its antioxidant properties. Full article

A security protocol for wireless transmission is essential to defend sensitive information from malicious enemies by providing a variety of facilities such as privacy of the user’s information, secure session key, associated authentication, and user-repeal facility when a person’s authorizations are suddenly disclosed. Singh et al. proposed an improved user authentication and key agreement system for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Authors are sure that their protocol is secure from various attacks. Here, we find several security pitfalls in their scheme, such as an offline password-guessing attack, failure to protect the session key, and a man-in-the-middle attack. To remove the identified pitfalls found in Singh et al.’s scheme, we design an enhanced authentication scheme for WSNs tailored for IoT. We prove the reliability of our proposed protocol using the real or random (RoR) model. We also evaluate the proposed scheme with the associated schemes and show its superior efficacy as compared to its counterparts. Full article