Search Results (405)

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the intestinal permeation behaviors of andrographolide (AG) and 14-deoxy-11,12-didehydroandrographolide (DDAG), diterpene lactones from Andrographis paniculata extract (APE), pure AG, and three distinct source APEs. The effects of different solvents were also investigated. Methods: Solubility investigation was performed using APE. APEs and pure AG were prepared as liqui-masses, cohesive mixtures of APE, solvents, and solid carriers. PXRD, in vitro release, and ex vivo intestinal permeation using the non-everted gut sac method were investigated. Results: Solubility of AG and DDAG in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) > NMP/diethylene glycol monoethyl ether (DG) mixtures > DG. PXRD indicated that crystallinity loss of liqui-mass was affected by solvent’s solvency capacity. The release behaviors of AG and DDAG in phosphate buffer from pure AG and APEs varied depending on their solid state. The release efficiencies of AG and DDAG from liqui-mass systems increased significantly. The apparent permeability (P_app) of AG from pure AG was 0.11 ± 0.05 ×10⁻⁵ cm·s⁻¹, which was 11–25 times less than that of APEs. The P_app of DDAG from various APEs was comparable, ranging between 5.95 and 7.37 × 10⁻⁵ cm·s⁻¹. The presence of a solvent, specifically NMP, in liqui-mass significantly enhanced the release rate and permeation flux. The P_app of AG and DDAG from liqui-mass increased by factors of 1.0–2.3 and 1.1–2.7, respectively. Conclusions: This study is the first to emphasize the differences in the release and intestinal permeation characteristics of AG and DDAG from APEs. These findings offer essential insights into the intestinal permeation behavior of diterpene lactones, along with a straightforward mechanistic strategy for enhancement. Full article

Heart transplantation is still the definitive therapy for end-stage heart failure, yet the persistent shortage of suitable donor organs limits its application. Traditionally, static cold storage (SCS) has served as an effective standard preservation method, providing safe and adequate protection for preservation times under four hours. Yet, the need to extend this window and the specific metabolic requirements of donation after circulatory death (DCD) hearts have prompted interest in machine perfusion (MP) technologies. This literature review investigates the influence of temperature in ex situ heart perfusion, comparing normothermic (NMP), hypothermic (HMP), and subnormothermic (SNMP) strategies. Evidence from experimental models and emerging clinical studies suggests that MP can prolong preservation times, mitigate ischemic injury, and enable real-time metabolic and viability assessment of donor hearts prior to transplantation. These strategies represent a central trade-off: NMP enables real-time functional assessment of the beating heart, while HMP and SNMP approaches prioritize profound metabolic suppression to mitigate ischemic injury. Nonetheless, current data are limited by high costs, significant resource requirements, variability in perfusion protocols, and the scarcity of randomized controlled trials, particularly for HMP and SNMP. Standardization of methodologies, direct comparative studies, and the adoption of a risk-stratified preservation ecosystem are needed to clarify optimal temperature strategies. However, recent clinical successes with hypothermic strategies in traditionally normothermia-dependent donor types, such as DCD hearts, signal a potential paradigm shift, challenging established value propositions and prompting a critical re-evaluation of optimal preservation strategies. Full article

Superhydrophobic surfaces have gained considerable attention due to their ability to repel water and reduce surface adhesion, and they are now widely applied for self-cleaning, anti-fouling, anti-icing, and corrosion resistance purposes. In this study, either a computer numerical control (CNC) machine or photolithographic techniques were employed to fabricate molds with microwells, followed by soft lithography to obtain a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) micropillar array. An etching process was then carried out. It was found that, as etching time increased, the diameters of micropillars decreased, leading to a decrease in the solid fraction of the composite surface and increases in contact angles. When the ratios of spacing to diameter (W/D) and of height to diameter (H/D) both exceeded 1.5, the contact angle was found to exceed 150° and the original PDMS micropillar surface with a contact angle of around 135° became superhydrophobic. A drastic decrease in sliding angle was also observed at this threshold. Changes in contact angles with different W/D values were in good agreement with values calculated using the Cassie–Baxter equation, and the droplet state was verified by a pressure balance model. Meanwhile, the PDMS etching rate when using acetone as the solvent was approximately 6–8 times faster than that when using 1-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), a result which is comparable to data in the literature. Full article

Contemporary knee prostheses rely predominantly on a metal–polyethylene bearing couple, which—despite substantial advances in material engineering—continues to generate polymeric wear particles over time. While the local biological effects of polyethylene debris, such as inflammation and osteolysis, are well-characterised, their potential systemic implications remain insufficiently explored. In this review, we synthesise multidisciplinary evidence to evaluate the generation, biological behaviour, and systemic dissemination of polyethylene-derived nano- and microplastics (NMPs) released from knee prostheses. We also contextualise prosthetic wear within the broader toxicological framework of NMP exposure, highlighting translocation pathways, interactions with immune and metabolic systems, and potential multi-organ effects reported in recent experimental and clinical studies. Current findings suggest that prosthetic wear may represent an under-recognised internal source of NMP exposure, with possible implications for long-term patient health. A clearer understanding of the systemic behaviour of prosthetic-derived NMPs is essential to guide future biomonitoring studies, improve prosthetic materials, and support the development of safer, more biocompatible implant designs. Full article

This work investigated the effect of high CO₂/low O₂ conditions in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging on the quality of fresh-cut broccoli raab, focusing on volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Fresh broccoli raab was stored for 16 days at 5 °C in microperforated (MP) and in non-microperforated (NMP) PET packaging. During storage, the NMP atmosphere reached approximately 17% CO₂ and 0% O₂, while MP packaging maintained approximately 2% CO₂ and 19% O₂. NMP samples became unacceptable by day 7 due to loss of firmness and tissue deterioration, while MP samples remained acceptable until day 10, after which yellowing and shrivelling occurred. By day 10, MP VOCs were characterised by ß-caryophyllene, Z-3-hexen-1-ol acetate, and hexen-1-ol, likely generated by enzymatic reactions associated with tissue senescence. NMP packaging showed a high presence of sulphides, isothiocyanates, and nitriles, indicative of severe tissue damage in anaerobic conditions. These alterations in VOCs led to strong, unpleasant sensory notes in NMP samples. This study demonstrated that MP PET packaging can effectively extend the marketable shelf-life of fresh-cut broccoli raab to 10 days, preserving sensory quality and reducing off-odour formation. The findings highlight the potential of microperforated PET as a sustainable solution for enhancing the shelf-life and quality of perishable produce. Full article

Static cold storage (SCS) remains the most widely used method of liver graft preservation due to its simplicity, accessibility, and reduced cost in transplantation practice. Since the invention of the University of Wisconsin (UW) solution, several alternative preservation solutions—including histidine–tryptophan–ketoglutarate (HTK), Celsior, and more recently IGL-1 and IGL-2—have been formulated to optimize cellular and vascular protection during cold ischemia. More recently, the introduction of dynamic perfusion techniques, such as hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE) and normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), approximately fifteen years ago, has further enhanced transplantation protocols, being applied either alone or in combination with traditional SCS to ensure optimal graft preservation prior to implantation. Despite these technological advances, achieving fully effective dynamic perfusion remains a key challenge for improving outcomes in vulnerable grafts, particularly steatotic or marginal livers. This review details how Polyethylene Glycol 35 (PEG35)-based solutions activate multiple cytoprotective pathways during SCS, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), nitric oxide (NO) production, and the antioxidant transcription factor Nrf2. We propose that these molecular mechanisms serve as a form of preconditioning that is synergistically leveraged by HOPE to preserve mitochondrial function, endothelial glycocalyx integrity, and microvascular homeostasis. Furthermore, the oncotic and rheological properties of PEG35 reduce perfusate viscosity, mitigating shear stress and microcirculatory damage during dynamic perfusion—effects that are further enhanced by NO- and AMPK-mediated protection initiated during the SCS phase. This integrated approach provides a strong rationale for combining PEG35-mediated SCS with HOPE, particularly for grafts with high susceptibility to ischemia–reperfusion injury, such as fatty livers. Finally, we highlight emerging avenues in graft preservation, including the design of unified perfusion solutions that optimize endothelial, mitochondrial, and redox protection, with the potential to improve post-transplant outcomes and extend applicability to other solid organ grafts. Full article

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are vital for modern energy storage applications. Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) is a promising cathode material due to its safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness compared to the widely used nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), which contains hazardous nickel and cobalt compounds. However, challenges remain in enhancing the performance of LFP cathodes due to their low electronic and ionic conductivity. To improve both the safety and sustainability of the battery, this work presents a water-based LFP cathode utilizing the bio-based binder carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), eliminating the need for polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and the toxic solvent N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). This study investigates the impact of different dispersing methods—dissolver mixing and wet jet milling—on slurry properties, electrode morphology, and battery performance. Slurries were characterized by rheology, particle size distribution, and sedimentation behavior, while coated and calendered electrodes were examined via thickness measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Electrochemical performance of the electrodes was evaluated by means of C-Rate testing. The results reveal that dispersing methods significantly influence slurry characteristics but marginally affect electrochemical performance. Compared to dissolver mixing, wet jet milling reduced the median particle size by 39% (ΔD50 = 3.1 µm) and lowered viscosity by 96% at 1 s⁻¹, 80% at 105 s⁻¹, and 64% at 1000 s⁻¹. In contrast, the electrochemical performance of the resulting electrodes differed only slightly, with discharge capacity varying by approximately 12.8% at 1.0 C (Δcapacity = 10.7 mAh g⁻¹). This research highlights the importance of optimizing not only material selection but also processing techniques to advance safer and more sustainable energy storage solutions. Full article

This study investigates a severe high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB) failure observed in GaN HEMTs, with devices failing in under 24 h. We conducted an in-depth analysis of the electrical and physical failure mechanisms, revealing that unbiased-highly accelerated stress testing (uHAST) can effectively induce dielectric delamination. The electrical and physical characteristics of devices post-delamination demonstrated a strong correlation between delamination at the nitride–polyimide interface and an increase in off-state drain leakage current (I_DSS). Our findings led to the removal of a suspected process step involving the use of the reactive chemical, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), before and after polyimide deposition. This critical process change yielded a significant improvement in reliability; while the initial failure rate was 25% at 24 h, three lots of 260 parts subsequently survived 1000 h of HTRB stress with no failure. In conclusion, uHAST is a valuable reliability testing tool for assessing package and film adhesion, leveraging high pressure and moisture to quickly identify and troubleshoot delamination-related reliability issues. Full article

Nano- and microplastics (NMPs) in waterways reflect the impact of anthropogenic activities. This study examined spatial variations in the presence and types of NMPs in Galveston Bay (Texas, USA) surface waters and eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica). The results reveal most MPs carried by surface waters are fibers > films > fragments. Up to 200 MPs were present in individual oysters [=1.88 (± 0.22 SE) per g wet weight]. Oyster health, based on condition index, varied spatially, but was not correlated with MP load. Based on attenuated total reflectance—Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, polyamide and polypropylene were frequently found in waters in the upper bay while ethylene propylene and polyethylene terephthalate were more common in the lower parts of the bay. Pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry revealed a very large range in concentrations of NMPs, from 28 to 10,925 µg ∑NMP/g wet weight (or 172 to 67,783 µg ∑NMP/g dry weight) in oysters. This chemical analysis revealed four main types of plastics present in oysters regardless of location: polypropylene, nylon 66, polyethylene and styrene butadiene rubber. Based on this finding, the average daily intake of NMPs estimated for adult humans is 0.85 ± 0.45 mg NMPs/Kg of body weight/day or a yearly intake of 310 ± 164 mg NMPs/Kg of body weight/year. These findings reveal higher body burdens of plastics in oysters are revealed by the chemical analysis relative to the traditional approach; this is not unexpected given the higher sensitivity and selectivity of mass spectrometry and inclusion of the nanoplastic particle range (i.e., <1 mm) in the sample preparation and analysis. Full article

Bladder cancer is a prevalent malignancy with high morbidity and mortality, particularly when diagnosed at an advanced stage. Early detection is critical, as it significantly improves prognosis and the patient’s outcomes. Bladder cancer also has a high recurrence rate, necessitating long-term surveillance. While cystoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosis and monitoring, it is invasive and costly. Urine cytology, though widely used, has high specificity for detecting high-grade urothelial carcinoma but suffers from low sensitivity and limited effectiveness as a stand-alone diagnostic tool. Urinary biomarkers offer a promising, noninvasive alternative for early detection and disease surveillance. This review examines FDA-approved urinary biomarker tests, including NMP 22, UroVysion, and BTA, highlighting their clinical utility and limitations. Additionally, we explore emerging biomarkers such as DNA methylation assays, genomic alterations, and proteomic signatures as well as advanced technologies like next-generation sequencing and machine learning-based platforms. These innovations have the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, risk stratification, and recurrent monitoring, ultimately improving early detection and long-term disease management. By evaluating both established and emerging urinary biomarkers, this review aims to provide clinicians and researchers with insights into evolving tools for bladder cancer diagnosis and surveillance. Full article

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 10% of the global population, with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) necessitating renal replacement therapy. Kidney transplantation remains the optimal treatment for ESRD. However, the global donor kidney shortage crisis has led to increased reliance on deceased donor kidneys. Donors are classified as either donation after brain death (DBD) or donation after circulatory death (DCD), each associated with distinct ischemic injuries that impact graft function. Ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) plays a pivotal role in transplant outcomes, triggering oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. While static cold storage (SCS) remains the gold standard for organ preservation, alternative strategies such as hypothermic or normothermic machine perfusion (HMP and NMP), use of oxygen carriers during storage, and supplemental compounds to storage solutions have emerged, offering potential benefits in preserving graft viability. This review explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ischemic injury in deceased donor kidneys, preservation strategies tested in preclinical models, and emerging therapeutic interventions aimed at improving adverse post-transplant outcomes. Full article

The substitution of hazardous, environmentally persistent solvents (NMP and DMAc) with more sustainable alternatives (ETAc and GBL) in fabricating flat sheet polyactic acid (PLA) membranes via nonsolvent-induced phase separation for air filtration applications was the focus of this study. The polymer-solvent affinity was first evaluated using Hansen solubility parameters, confirming suitable Relative Energy Difference (RED) values (<1) for all solvent candidates. Dope solutions prepared with biodegradable solvents demonstrated higher viscosity compared to those prepared with environmentally persistent solvents. These biodegradable solvent systems also exhibited slower precipitation rates during membrane formation. This resulted in spongelike cross-sectional morphologies, contrasting with the combined fingerlike and spongelike structures observed in membranes fabricated with environmentally persistent NMP and DMAc. Thermal analysis revealed that membranes fabricated with biodegradable solvents exhibited superior thermal stability with higher glass transition temperatures (Tg = 54.39–55.34 °C) compared to those made with environmentally persistent solvents (Tg = 49.97–50.71 °C). Membranes fabricated with ethyl acetate (ETAc) showed the highest hydrophobicity (contact angle = 115.1 ± 9°), airflow rate (12.7 ± 0.28 LPM at 0.4 bar) and maintained filtration efficiency at values greater than 95% for 0.3 μm aerosols. Full article

Y₂O₃ nanoparticles were used in a polyethersulfone (PES) as additives to increase the permeation properties of the polymeric membranes. Membranes were manufactured by diffusion-induced phase inversion in N-methyl-pyrrolidone (NMP) using a different concentration of nanoparticles. Y₂O₃ is used in polymeric membranes to enhance their functional properties, especially in wastewater treatment processes. Incorporating Y₂O₃ nanoparticles into the polymer matrix improves the membrane’s hydrophilicity, permeability, and mechanical strength. Additionally, Y₂O₃ provides better properties and reduces fouling. Recent studies highlight its potential as a modifying agent for advanced composite membranes. This paper investigated challenges in the synthesis of Y₂O₃-enhanced membranes and links synthesis with performance. It was observed that the composite membranes have better permeation properties by adding a small amount of Y₂O₃. For membranes at 21 wt.% PES permeability increase from 107 to 112 L/m²·h/bar. Fouling performance increases by adding nanoparticles, relative flux decreases by 30% for membranes without nanoparticles and by 10% for membranes with nanoparticles, both at a concentration of 25% PES. Rejection increases for membranes at 21%Pes from 21% for membranes without nanoparticles to 39% for membranes with nanoparticles. The influence of Y₂O₃ nanoparticles on the membranes’ performance was determined by filtration experiments to establish the permeability, fouling, retention, and the water flux; by contact angle to establish the surface hydrophilicity; and by SEM to investigate the membranes’ structures. Full article

Background/Objectives: In the age of digitalization, nomophobia has emerged as a relevant issue, especially among university students who utilize smartphones heavily for academic and social purposes. The Stressor–Strain–Outcome (SSO) framework explains the relationship between stressors, strain, and outcomes. Stressors such as nomophobia induce psychological strain. This strain subsequently influences outcomes like mindfulness. Nomophobia has been linked to higher distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress, that can negatively impact students’ focus. However, the mechanisms by which nomophobia impacts mindfulness remain less explored. Hence, this study aims to analyze the mediating effect of distress on the relation between student’s nomophobia and mindfulness. Methods: In this quantitative study, the researcher employed a structured close-ended survey to collect data from 723 students at the University of Ha’il in Saudi Arabia. Nomophobia was measured using the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q). The level of distress was measured using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scale (DASS-21) Furthermore, the assessment of mindfulness was conducted using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS). Structural equation modeling was utilized to test the hypotheses of this study. Results: The results from PLS-SEM indicate that nomophobia did not directly reduce mindfulness, as its effect was statistically non-significant (β_1 = −0.052, p-value = 0.168). This suggests that nomophobia alone may not weaken focus. However, it significantly increased distress, particularly depression (β_2a = 0.327, p-value < 0.001), anxiety (β_2b = 0.294, p-value < 0.001) and stress (β_2c = 0.259, p-value < 0.001). In plain terms, students with higher nomophobia reported more depression and stress, which in turn reduced mindfulness. Anxiety, however, did not significantly affect mindfulness (β_3b = 0.006, p-value < 0.933), indicating its influence may be negligible or context-specific. Mediation analysis confirmed indirect effects of nomophobia on mindfulness through depression (β_4a = −0.096, p-value < 0.001) and stress (β_4c = −0.045, p-value < 0.020). Together, these mediators explained a substantial portion of the variance in mindfulness. Conclusions: The findings align with the SSO model, indicating that nomophobia acts as a stressor, exacerbating distress, which in turn reduces mindfulness. From a practical perspective, the results highlight the need for comprehensive student support. Universities should integrate digital wellness programs, stress-management resources, and mindfulness training into their services. Limitations and Future Research: The cross-sectional design and convenience sampling restrict causal inference and generalizability. Future studies should employ longitudinal research designs. They should also examine diverse cultural contexts. In addition, researchers should investigate potential mediators such as social support and sleep quality. Full article

Background/Objectives: APOL1 renal-risk variants (RRVs) are of increasing relevance to kidney disease and transplant outcomes. It is currently understood that the presence of RRVs in donors negatively impacts kidney allograft survival in an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. Less well known is the interplay between ischemia and alternative allograft preservation methods, such as normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), on APOL1 gene expression. To investigate this, we examined the effects of APOL1 RRVs on APOL1 gene expression in ischemic donor kidneys and compared the differences in cytokine and APOL1 expression patterns between the alternative preservation methods, static cold storage (CS) and NMP. Methods: Non-utilized deceased donor kidney pairs from donors of African ancestry were procured from Mid-America Transplant after being deemed unsuitable for kidney transplant. Samples were collected from each donor kidney pair and DNA was extracted for APOL1 genotyping. APOL1 RRVs G1 (rs73885319) (rs60910145) and G2 (rs71785313) were identified by Sanger sequencing. From each pair, one kidney underwent 6 h NMP (n = 3) and the contralateral kidney 6 h of CS (n = 3) following the initial CS. Renal perfusion and biochemical, and histologic parameters were recorded. NMP was directly compared with CS using paired donor kidneys using NMP with allogeneic red blood cells, followed by assessment of perfusion, biochemical, and histologic parameters, in addition to gene expression. Results: Donor genotyping identified kidney pairs as heterozygous for the G1 RRV (G1/G0), homozygous for the G0 allele (G0/G0), and homozygous for the G2 RRV (G2/G2), respectively. All kidneys were successfully reperfused, with mRNA transcript levels of APOL1-related genes subsequently measured. Significant differences in APOL1 gene expression were observed among all three groups of kidneys. In paired kidneys from baseline to hour 6 of NMP, mRNA expression varied significantly between G1/G0 and G2/G2 homozygous pairs (p = 0.002) as well as between the G0/G0 and G2/G2 pairs (p = 0.002). APOL1 expression shifted by a significantly higher-fold change of 2.4 under NMP conditions in the G2/G2 genotype (p < 0.001). The inflammatory cytokine marker IFN-γ was also significantly upregulated in the G2/G2 genotype kidney, in both CS and NMP groups (p = 0.001). Other related genes such as KIM-1 were upregulated by a change of 3.9-fold in the NMP group for the G2/G2 kidney. Conclusion: Donor kidney pairs with the high-risk APOL1 genotype, especially G2/G2, show increased APOL1 expression and inflammation, particularly under NMP conditions. NMP enables detection of genotype-specific molecular changes in an ischemic reperfusion injury model, supporting its potential to improve donor kidney assessment before transplantation. Full article