Microscopy Research and Technique最新文献

Ovarian cancer belongs to the category of gynecological malignancies and unfortunately holds the distinction of being the most aggressive among them. It is ranked as the fifth highest cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. The utilization of metal nanoparticles (NPs) linked with natural herbal molecules in biomedical applications has been on the rise. Thymol carbon nanodot functionalized silver nanoparticles (ThCND-AgNPs) were synthesized in an original manner and subjected to thorough characterization, including analysis of their size, morphology, and elemental composition. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the ThCND-AgNPs on cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptotic gene expressions in OVCAR-3 ovarian cancer cells. The effect of ThCND-AgNPs on cell viability in OVCAR cells was determined in a dose- and time-dependent manner using the XTT method. The effect on the expression changes of apoptotic-related genes was assessed through the Real-time PCR method, while the anti-invasive activity was measured using the matrigel invasion chamber assay. The ThCND-AgNP molecule exhibited a dose- and time-dependent reduction in cell proliferation in OVCAR-3 cells. The IC50 values were determined to be 388.53 μg/mL at 24 h and 145.683 μg/mL at 48 h. Furthermore, the molecule was found to reduce cell invasion by 51.12% compared with the control group in OVCAR-3 cells. In terms of apoptotic-related genes, Bcl-2 expression was downregulated, while BAX, CASPASE-3, -8, and -9 expressions were unregulated. In conclusion, the obtained data reveal the potential antiproliferative, apoptotic, and anti-invasive effects of our original ThCND-AgNP molecule in ovarian cancer. While these results need further confirmation through more detailed experiments, they will provide insights for future studies.

The red-eared slider turtle, a species facing environmental challenges and habitat loss, exhibits a complex skin architecture that is crucial for its adaptation and survival. Our study aims to provide a comprehensive characterization of the turtle's skin structure and to elucidate the distribution and localization of its various cellular components, with a focus on understanding the skin's role in adaptation and ecological interactions. To achieve these goals, we employed light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and comprehensive immunofluorescence using 10 specific antibodies. The forelimb skin displays large- and moderate-sized scales with variations in color, including dark, yellow, and gray hues, likely contributing to camouflage and protection. The skin consists of corneous material, the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. The stratum basalis, stratum spinosum, and peri-corneous layer constitute the three distinct layers of the epidermis. There are four distinct types of chromatophores, including melanocytes located in the epidermis, while melanophores, xanthophores, and iridophores are found within the dermal layer. The skin also exhibits well-developed peripheral nerves, blood vessels, and subcutaneous muscles. Immunofluorescence staining further elucidates the distribution and localization of various skin cells. E-cadherin and CK14 are strongly expressed in the epidermal layers, excluding the corneous material. E-cadherin surrounds keratinocyte cells in the epidermis, facilitating cell-cell adhesion, while CK14 is present inside the keratinocyte cells, contributing to their internal structural integrity. Sox10 and CD117 identify the four chromatophore types, with Melan-A specifically detecting only melanocytes and melanophores and not labeling xanthophores and iridophores. Tom20 is used to detect mitochondrial distribution and intensity in the skin, revealing a high density of mitochondria in all epidermal layers, especially in melanocytes and melanophores, compared to xanthophores and iridophores. Numerous telocytes, spindle-shaped with extensions called telopods, are detected in the dermis using CD34, PDGFRα, and vimentin. The skin of the red-eared slider also shows abundant myofibroblasts and well-developed vascularization, with numerous blood vessels detected using α-SMA. This novel study offers an in-depth examination of the limb skin of the red-eared slider through the use of 10 distinct antibodies, uncovering the intricate interactions among its cellular components and providing valuable insights into its anatomical structure and physiological adaptations. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the turtle's skin, which may aid in its conservation and management.

The aim of this work was to develop an ultrasonic-assisted synthesis method for the fabrication of CeO₂-doped Zr nanoparticles that would improve the performance of supercapacitor electrodes. This method, which eliminates the need for high-temperature calcination, involves embedding CeO₂ into Zr nanoparticles through 1 hr (CeO₂-Zr-1) and 2 hrs (CeO₂-Zr-2) of ultrasonic irradiation, resulting in the formation of nanostructures with significant improvements in their electrochemical properties. Through physicochemical analysis, we observed that the CeO₂-doped Zr nanoparticles, particularly those treated for 2 hrs (CeO₂-Zr-2), exhibit superior crystalline phase purity, optimal chemical surface composition, minimal agglomeration with particle sizes below 50 nm, and an impressive average surface area of 178 m²/g. Compared to the 1 hr irradiation samples (CeO₂-Zr-1) and undoped CeO₂ nanoparticles, the (CeO₂-Zr-2) electrodes demonstrated a remarkable capacitance of 198 Fg^-1 at a current density of 1 A/g while maintaining ~94.9% of their capacity after 3750 cycles. This indicates not only good reversibility but also exceptional stability. In (CeO₂-Zr-2) samples, the nanospherical structure achieved through ultrasonic synthesis is responsible for the enhanced capacitive behavior and stability, along with the synergistic effects caused by Zr doping, which improves the CeO₂ nanoparticle conductivity to a significant extent. Surface areas of the electrodes are larger due to the combination of these two materials, which contribute to their superior performance.

Ligustrum foliosum Nakai, a species endemic to South Korea, is a member of the Oleaceae family. This study provides a comprehensive taxonomic identification of L. foliosum based on its macro- and micromorphological characteristics, particularly focusing on the leaf foliar epidermal taxonomy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the leaf structures of L. foliosum collected from various populations on Ulleungdo Island, its primary habitat. Macromorphological assessment revealed that L. foliosum exhibits ovate to elliptical leaves with pointed apices, rounded bases, and entire, smooth margins. The leaves measured 3-10 cm in length and 1.5-4 cm in width, with a pinnate venation pattern and prominent secondary veins. The adaxial surface was dark green and glabrous, while the adaxial surface was lighter green and slightly pubescent. Micromorphological analysis using SEM provided detailed insights into the leaf epidermal characteristics. The epidermal cells were polygonal in shape with straight to slightly curved anticlinal walls. Anomocytic stomata that were not surrounded by specialized cells are the predominant type, with a density ranging from 100 to 150/mm². Epidermal cells measured approximately 10-20 μm in length and 5-10 μm in width, while the stomata typically measured approximately 20-30 μm in length and 10-15 μm in width. Thick-walled bundle sheath cells were evident around the vascular bundles, with a density of 1-3 bundles/mm. The cuticle was moderately thick, providing protection against desiccation, and trichomes were elongated single cell on the leaf both surface. This study contributes to the understanding of L. foliosum's taxonomic position within the Oleaceae family by providing a detailed description of its macro- and micromorphological characteristics. These findings can aid in the identification and conservation of this endemic species, which is crucial for preserving the unique biodiversity of Ulleungdo Island and South Korea.

Cucumis anguria L. and Cucumis dipsaceus Ehrenb. ex Spach belong to the Cucurbitaceae family and are popularly known as "maxixe." In folk medicine, they are used to treat pneumonia, hyperglycemia, wounds, and malaria. This study aims to characterize the anatomy, histochemistry, and phytochemistry of C. anguria and C. dipsaceus. Conventional methods in plant anatomy and microscopy were used to prepare and analyze semi-permanent slides containing cross-sections of the stem, petiole, leaves, and paradermal sections of the leaf blade. For the histochemical analysis, different reagents were used according to the target metabolite. Phytochemical tests of methanolic extracts of leaves were performed by thin-layer chromatography. The microscopic analysis allowed obtaining the differentiation of plant cells, the presence of tector and glandular trichomes, in addition to showing anatomical traits such as stem shape, petiole shape, and organization of the mesophyll. Histochemistry showed the presence of alkaloids, starch, phenolic compounds, lipophilic compounds, lignin, and tannins. Phytochemical prospection identified monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, steroids, alkaloids, and reducing sugars. The obtained results provide important information for quality control and species differentiation since there are few studies in the literature on these species.

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and durability of bioactive glass-based dental resin infiltrants. Resin infiltrants were formulated by combining photoinitiated dimethacrylate monomers with three variations of bioactive glass: 45S5 Bioglass (RIS), boron-substituted (RIB), fluoride-substituted (RIF), and pure resins (PR), whereby TOOTH group (TH) and ICON (CN) served as commercial control groups. Teeth samples were prepared, and experimental and control infiltrants were applied on demineralized human-extracted teeth. All the samples were subjected to immersion in artificial saliva and pH cycling for 30 days. The samples from another group underwent tooth brushing simulation for 9600 cycles. Following artificial saliva immersion, the samples' hardness values showed that RIB had the highest values (318.44 ± 3.83) while PR (212.52 ± 9.02) had the lowest values. After immersing into the pH cycling solution, the RIF showed the highest hardness (286.86 ± 5.11), while the lowest values for the CN (143.76 ± 3.50). After the tooth brushing simulation, the teeth samples with RIB showed maximum microhardness values (312.06 ± 16.30) and the weakest for the TH (189.60 ± 6.43). The commercial and experimental enamel resin infiltrants showed almost similar results overall, with RIB demonstrating better microhardness and comparable surface roughness. In contrast, RIF proved more resistant to pH cycling, exhibited higher microhardness, and performed better in surface roughness analysis. These findings suggest that resin infiltrant materials, especially RIF, have promising potential for effectively and esthetically managing white spot lesions.

This study investigates the micromorphological characteristics of pollen grains and leaf epidermal cells from 20 accessions across four species of spiny almonds using scanning electron microscopy. Thirteen quantitative traits of pollen grains, including exine sculpturing, were analyzed alongside qualitative features such as shape, exine sculpture type, and aperture type. Additionally, four quantitative and five qualitative features of the leaf epidermis were examined, focusing on cuticular ornamentation patterns, types of epicuticular wax, and stomatal measurements. The pollen grains were found to be isopolar monads, radially symmetric, medium-sized, varying from prolate spheroidal to prolate, and exhibiting 3-colporate to 3-colpate structures. The exine sculpturing was generally striate with short and long ridges, with or without perforations, and could be classified into three types. Notably, in the Isfahan population of Prunus lycioides and the North Khorasan population of Prunus spinosissima, the exine sculpture types were distinctly different, being rugulate and reticulate, respectively. Multivariate statistical analysis identified equatorial diameter, colpus length and width, and ridge width as key diagnostic markers for species identification within spiny almonds. Principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering further highlighted the significance of stomatal length, cuticular ornamentation patterns, and epicuticular wax types in differentiating among taxa. We conclude that groupings recognized in recent classifications of the subgenus Amygdalus (spiny almonds) remain challenging to delineate solely based on palynological data, as diverse pollen types are present across different clades and subclades. Furthermore, micromorphological leaf traits proved valuable in distinguishing certain spiny almond taxa, and the traits of epidermal cells may reflect the ecological adaptations of spiny almond species.

Herein, bacterial-assisted synthesis of AgCoO₂ is carried out. In the first step, E. coli was separated from soil samples via the "serial dilution method." Ten milliliters of bacterial supernatant was mixed with cobalt chloride and silver nitrate hatched at 38°C for 24 h to get AgCoO₂ nanoparticles (NPs). XRD results confirm the synthesis of AgCoO₂ NPs while EDX results confirm the absence of any other elements than Ag, Co, and O. An average NP size of 12-26 nm was determined by TEM examination, and the surface of the particles was seen rough, irregularly shaped borders. The antibacterial activity of the constructed NPs was checked against S. aureus, E. coli, Bacillus subtilus, and Pseudomanas areguinosa using agar well diffusion method. The maximum zone of inhibition was 27 mm at 40 mg/mL against Bacillus subtilus. The performance of the synthesized NPs as photocatalysts was also assessed, and several operational parameters that control the photodegradation of the harmful dyes were tried to tune as well, and 85% degrading efficiency was obtained at 60^oC for 240 min for 30 mg of catalyst dose These NPs were also used to produce hydrogen by methanolysis.

In the worldwide working-age population, visual disability and blindness are common conditions caused by diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME). Nowadays, due to diabetes, many people are affected by eye-related issues. Among these, DR and DME are the two foremost eye diseases, the severity of which may lead to some eye-related problems and blindness. Early detection of DR and DME is essential to preventing vision loss. Therefore, an enhanced capsule generation adversarial network (ECGAN) optimized with the rat swarm optimization (RSO) approach is proposed in this article to coincide with DR and DME grading (DR-DME-ECGAN-RSO-ISBI 2018 IDRiD). The input images are obtained from the ISBI 2018 unbalanced DR grading data set. Then, the input fundus images are preprocessed using the Savitzky-Golay (SG) filter filtering technique, which reduces noise from the input image. The preprocessed image is fed to the discrete shearlet transform (DST) for feature extraction. The extracting features of DR-DME are given to the ECGAN-RSO algorithm to categorize the grading of DR and DME disorders. The proposed approach is implemented in Python and achieves better accuracy by 7.94%, 36.66%, and 4.88% compared to the existing models, such as the combined DR with DME grading for the cross-disease attention network (DR-DME-CANet-ISBI 2018 IDRiD), category attention block for unbalanced grading of DR (DR-DME-HDLCNN-MGMO-ISBI 2018 IDRiD), combined DR-DME classification with a deep learning-convolutional neural network-based modified gray-wolf optimizer with variable weights (DR-DME-ANN-ISBI 2018 IDRiD).

Plants are a rich source of bioactive compounds with significant pharmaceutical and health applications. This study explores the phytochemical, therapeutic, and phytotoxic properties of Melia azedarach by analyzing extracts from its bark, flowers, leaves, and fruits using six solvents: ethanol, methanol, acetone, hexane, chloroform, and distilled water. Twenty-one phytochemical tests were conducted, revealing significantly positive results for various tests. However, the ethanolic and methanolic flower extracts yielded no significant results in other tests. The highest total phenolic content was found in the chloroform extract of the leaves (96 ± 0.01 mg/100 g), and the highest antioxidant activity was observed in the ethanolic and hexane leaf extracts, with a 98% DPPH scavenging rate. Antibacterial testing showed significant efficacy against Serratia marcescens, Bacillus subtilis, Kluyvera spp., and Pseudomonas spp., with p values < 0.0001. The fruit chloroform extract demonstrated the highest alpha-amylase inhibition (93 ± 0.05), while the ethanolic leaf extract had the greatest tumor inhibition (85.6 ± 0.5). Insecticidal assays revealed that the acetone bark extract had the highest control values (56% and 57%). Due to their higher reducing potential, the leaves were used to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, EDX, and SEM, revealing an average particle size of 20-30 nm and spherical morphology. The AgNPs exhibited excellent antibacterial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and insecticidal activities. These findings highlight the potential of M. azedarach and its AgNPs for developing novel therapeutic agents.