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Short shelf-life and poor microbial quality of minimally processed foods of plant origin pose a serious problem for the food industry. Novel techniques of minimal treatment combined with disinfection are being researched, and, for fresh juice, the addition of antimicrobial agents appears to be a promising route. In this research, fresh, nonfiltered, unpasteurized carrot juice was mixed with four potential antimicrobials (bourbon vanilla extract, peppermint extract, cannabidiol oil, and grapefruit extract). All four variants and the reference pure carrot juice were analyzed for metapopulational changes, microbial changes, and physicochemical changes. The potential antimicrobials used in the research have improved the overall microbial quality of carrot juice across 4 days of storage. However, it is important to notice that each of the four agents had a different spectrum of effectiveness towards the groups identified in the microflora of carrot juice. Additionally, the antimicrobials have increased the diversity of the carrot juice microbiome but did not prevent the occurrence of pathogenic bacteria. In conclusion, the use of antimicrobial agents such as essential oils or their derivatives may be a promising way of improving the microbial quality and prolonging the shelf-life of minimally processed foods, such as fresh juices, but the technique requires further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventilation systems are mainly responsible for maintaining the quality of indoor air. Together with thermal comfort maintenance systems, they create appropriate conditions for living, working, learning, sleeping, etc., depending on the type of building. This explains the high popularity of research in this area. This paper presents a review of articles published in the years 2020–2023, which are indexed in the Scopus database and found with keywords "ventilation" and "thermal comfort" in conjunction with the type of building or predominant activity. Finally, 88 selected works for five types of buildings were discussed, namely offices, schools, hospitals, bedrooms, and atriums. Data on publications are summarized in the tables, taking into account the publishing year, country of origin of the authors, and keywords. In this way, the latest directions in research were presented, and research groups dealing with this subject were highlighted. For each type of building, synthetic conclusions were presented, summarizing the results of the analyzed research. This review paper would be helpful for scientists and practitioners in the field of ventilation in order to organize knowledge and in a short time be up to date with the latest research showing how ventilation affects the quality of use of buildings by their users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a diverse group of disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration and death of neurons, leading to a range of neurological symptoms. Despite the heterogeneity of these conditions, a common denominator is the implication of mitochondrial dysfunction in their pathogenesis. Mitochondria play a crucial role in creating biomolecules, providing energy through adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generated by oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and producing reactive oxygen species (ROS). When they're not functioning correctly, becoming fragmented and losing their membrane potential, they contribute to these diseases. In this review, we explore how mitochondria fuse and undergo fission, especially in the context of NDs. We discuss the genetic and protein mutations linked to these diseases and how they impact mitochondrial dynamics. We also look at the key regulatory proteins in fusion (MFN1, MFN2, and OPA1) and fission (DRP1 and FIS1), including their post-translational modifications. Furthermore, we highlight potential drugs that can influence mitochondrial dynamics. By unpacking these complex processes, we aim to direct research towards treatments that can improve life quality for people with these challenging conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swimming is a good form of physical activity that keeps swimmers fit and healthy. In countries with cold climates, swimming is allowed only indoors. Since adequate water and air parameters must be ensured in these buildings, they are very energy-consuming. In new buildings, modern solutions can be used, thanks to which technologically advanced energy-saving systems can be used. Unfortunately, in existing buildings, it is not always possible to make technical changes, or they are associated with high financial expenses. In this article, a method of in situ measurement of selected air parameters is proposed, on the basis of which it is possible to suggest scenarios for changes in the control of air technology and parameters in order to achieve energy savings. The easy measurement method was applied in a typical swimming pool building, and energy-saving measurements were taken on the first day to obtain a baseline. Seven scenarios were analyzed that would lead to a reduction in energy consumption without the introduction of new elements into the facility. The main task was to find a solution that ensured adequate thermal comfort in the building. Significant energy savings were achieved in each scenario: 6–47% compared to measured energy consumption. To improve the energy efficiency of swimming pools, especially in the current energy crisis related to the economic and political situation, all methods for reducing the energy demand are desirable. The proposed assessment method will allow for energy-consuming elements and allow for changes in the use of equipment in the swimming pool building. However, the main objective is to maintain the thermal comfort of swimming pool users, as no savings can be achieved at the expense of worsening the feeling of building users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based traditional fermented products are attracting a lot of interest in global markets. An example of them is beetroot leaven, which is valued for its high bioactive compound content. The variety of production recipes and the spontaneous nature of red beet fermentation favor its high diversity. This study aimed to analyze the impact of external factors—temperature, brine salinity, and garlic dose—on the beetroot fermentation and bacterial metapopulation responsible for this process. The research results confirmed the significant influence of the selected and analyzed factors in shaping the leaven physicochemical profile including organic acid profile and betalain content. Analysis of bacterial populations proved the crucial importance of the first 48 h of the fermentation process in establishing a stable metapopulation structure and confirmed that this is a targeted process driven by the effect of the analyzed factors. Lactobacillaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, and Leuconostocaceae were observed to be the core microbiome families of the fermented red beet. Regardless of the impact of the tested factors, the leaven maintained the status of a promising source of probiotic bacteria. The results of this research may be helpful in the development of the regional food sector and in improving the quality and safety of traditionally fermented products such as beetroot leaven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early cancer screening enables timely detection of carcinogenesis, and aids in prompt clinical intervention. Herein, we report on the development of a simple, sensitive, and rapid fluorometric assay based on the aptamer probe (aptamer beacon probe, ABP) for monitoring the energy-demand biomarker adenosine triphosphate (ATP), an essential energy source that is released into the tumor microenvironment. Its level plays a significant role in risk assessment of malignancies. The operation of the ABP for ATP was examined using solutions of ATP and other nucleotides (UTP, GTP, CTP), followed by monitoring of ATP production in SW480 cancer cells. Then, the effect of a glycolysis inhibitor, 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG), on SW480 cells was investigated. The stability of predominant ABP conformations in the temperature range of 23–91 °C and the effects of temperature on ABP interactions with ATP, UTP, GTP, and CTP were evaluated based on quenching efficiencies (QE) and Stern-Volmer constants (KSV). The optimized temperature for best selectivity of ABP toward ATP was 40 °C (KSV = 1093 M−1, QE = 42%). We have found that the inhibition of glycolysis in SW480 cancer cells by 2-deoxyglucose resulted in lowering of ATP production by 31.7%. Therefore, monitoring and modulation of ATP concentration may aid in future cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for healthy indoor conditions, the energy crisis, and environmental concerns make building ventilation systems very important today. The elements of ventilation systems to reduce energy intensity are constantly the subject of much scientific research. The most recent articles published in the last three years are analyzed in this paper. Publications focused on the topic of reducing energy consumption in ventilation systems were selected and divided into five key research areas: (1) the aspect of the airtightness of buildings and its importance for the energy consumption, (2) the methods and effects of implementing the concept of demand-controlled ventilation in buildings with different functions, (3) the possibilities of the technical application of decentralized ventilation systems, (4) the use of earth-to-air heat exchangers, (5) the efficiency of exchangers in exhaust air heat-recovery systems. The multitude of innovative technologies and rapid technological advances are reflected in articles that appear constantly and prompt a constant updating of knowledge. This review constitutes a relevant contribution to recognizing current advancements in ventilation systems and may be helpful to many scientists in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the building designing process special attention should be paid to energy calculations - with analysis of different input data low energy or passive house can be obtained and decision of which parameters can or cannot be changed may be made. The following input data was analysed: shape factor A/V, glazed area, internal heat gains, air tightness, efficiency of heat recovery. The results show that the input data for the energy calculations are crucial for the obtained result.

This paper presents an energy performance of residential building (two – family building) located in Poznan. Both apartments were analysed separately. By using a method of energy performance calculations valid in Poland, a theoretical energy performance had been prepared. The calculations were conducted assuming real changeability of climatic data in years: 2010–2017. The real energy performance was prepared based on actual gas consumption for the purpose of heating and domestic hot water preparation (DHW) within the years of measurements taken, being a subject of analysis. The findings from this study revealed that a theoretical energy performance significantly deviates from the results obtained by means of energy consumption measurements, which resulted from variability of basic climatic data over time and also from theoretical usage profile of the apartments.

Novel high-performance biosensing devices, based on a microporous cellulose matrix, have been of great interest due to their high sensitivity, low cost, and simple operation. Herein, we report on the design and testing of portable paper-based immunostrips (IMS) for in-field blood typing in emergencies requiring blood transfusion. Cellulose fibrils of a paper membrane were functionalized with antibodies via supramolecular interactions. The formation of hydrogen bonds between IgM pentamer and cellulose fibers was corroborated using quantum mechanical calculations with a model cellulose chain and a representative amino acid sequence. In the proposed immunostrips, paper with a pore size of 3 µm dia. was used to enable functionalization of its channels with antibody molecules while blocking the red blood cells (RBC) from channel entering. Under the optimized test conditions, all blood types of AB0 and Rh system could be determined by naked eye examination, requiring only a small blood sample (3.5 µL). The durability of IgM immunostrips against storing has been tested. A new method of statistical evaluation of digitized blood agglutination images, compatible with a clinical five-level system, has been proposed. Critical parameters of the agglutination process have been established to enable future development of automatic blood typing with machine vision and digital data processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to analyze the microbiome of carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus) subjected to minimal pre-treatment (rinsing in organic acid solution) and packaging in a high-oxygen modified atmosphere, and then stored for 17 days under refrigeration conditions (4 °C). The highest levels of bacteria in the carrot microbiome were characterized, at almost 78%, by bacteria belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonadaceae families. Rinsing in a solution of ascorbic and citric acids resulted in the improvement of microbiological quality in the first day of storage. However, the use of a high-oxygen modified atmosphere extended the shelf life of the minimally processed product. Compared to carrots stored in air, those stored in high oxygen concentration were characterized by a greater ratio of bacteria belonging to the Serratia and Enterobacter genera, and a lower ratio belonging to the Pseudomonas and Pantoea genera. Moreover, the β-biodiversity analysis confirmed that the oxygen concentration was the main factor influencing the differentiation of the metabiomes of the stored carrots. The bacterial strains isolated from carrots identified by molecular methods were mostly pathogenic or potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Neither the minimal pre-treatment nor packaging in high-oxygen atmosphere was able to eliminate the threat of pathogenic bacteria emerging in the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the main energy source in cells and an important biomolecule participating in cellular reactions in living organisms. Since the ATP level changes dynamically reflecting the development of a debilitating disease or carcinogenesis, we have focused in this work on monitoring of the oligomycin (OMC)-modulated ATP synthase inhibition using a fluorescent-switching DNA aptamer designed for the detection of ATP (Apt(ATP)), as the model for studies of dynamic ATP level variation. The behavior of the ATP aptamer has been characterized using fluorescence spectroscopy. The Intramolecular fluorescence resonance energy transfer (iFRET) operates in the proposed aptamer from the FAM dye moiety to guanines of the aptamer G-quadruplex when the target ATP is present and binds to the aptamer changing its conformation. The iFRET process enables the detection of ATP down to the limit of detection, LOD = 17 μM, without resorting to any extra chemi-amplification schemes. The selectivity coefficients for relevant interferent triphosphates (UTP, GTP, and CTP) are low for the same concentration as that of ATP. We have demonstrated an efficient transfection of intact cells and OMC-treated SW480 colon cancer cells with Apt(ATP), using microscopic imaging, iFRET measurements, and cell viability testing with MTT method. The applicability of the switching DNA aptamer for the analysis of real samples, obtained by lysis of SW480 cells, was also tested. The proposed Apt(ATP) may be considered as a viable candidate for utilization in measurements of dynamic ATP level modulation in cells in different stages of cancer development and testing of new drugs in pharmacological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of biosensors for cancer biomarkers has recently been expanding rapidly, offering promising biomedical applications of these sensors as highly sensitive, selective, and inexpensive bioanalytical tools that can provide alternative methodology to that afforded by the advanced hyphenated-instrumental techniques. In this review, we focus particularly on the detection of a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) family, protein survivin (Sur), a ubiquitous re-organizer of the cell life cycle with the ability to inhibit the apoptosis and induce an enhanced proliferation leading to the unimpeded cancer growth and metastasis. Herein, we critically evaluate the progress in the development of novel biosensing systems and biosensors for the detection of two survivin (Sur) biomarkers: the Sur protein and its messenger RNA (Sur mRNA), including immunosensors, electrochemical piezo- and impedance-sensors, electrochemi-luminescence biosensors, genosensors based on oligonucleotide molecular beacons (MBs) with fluorescent or electrochemical transduction, as well as the microfluidic and related analytical platforms based on solution chemistry. The in-situ applications of survivin biomarkers' detection technologies to equip nanocarriers of the controlled drug delivery systems with MB-based fluorescence imaging capability, apoptosis control, and mitigation of the acquired drug resistance are also presented and critically evaluated. Finally, we turn the attention to the application of biosensors for the analysis of Sur biomarkers in exosomes and circulating tumor cells for a non-invasive liquid biopsy. The prospect of a widespread screening for early cancers, based on inexpensive point-of-care testing using biosensors and multiplex biosensor arrays, as a means of reducing the high cancer fatality rate, is discussed. • Progress in the development of biosensors for cancer biomarker survivin (Sur) is reviewed. • The utility of biosensing platforms for the detection of Sur protein and Sur mRNA in early cancer screening is discussed. • Immunosensor and genosensor designs in microfluidic, electrochemical, luminescence and piezometric arrangements are reviewed. • Due to strong expression of Sur in all cancer types, biosensors for Sur markers can serve in cancer diagnostics and grading. • Biosensors for Sur detection in exosomes and circulating tumor cells is a promising alternative for cancer screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anti-apoptotic protein survivin is one of the most promising cancer biomarkers owing to its high expression in human cancers and rare occurrence in normal adult tissues. In this work, we have investigated the role of supramolecular interactions between a graphene oxide (GO) nanosheet nanocarrier and a survivin molecular beacon (SurMB), functionalized by attaching fluorophore Joe and quencher Dabcyl (SurMB-Joe). Molecular dynamics simulations revealed hydrogen bonding of Joe moiety and Dabcyl to GO carriers that considerably increase the SurMB-GO bonding strength. This was confirmed in experimental work by the reduced fluorescence background in the OFF state, thereby increasing the useful analytical signal range for mRNA detection. A new mechanism of hairpin-hairpin interaction of GO@SurMB with target oligonucleotides has been proposed. A low limit of detection, LOD = 16 nM (S/N = 3), has been achieved for complementary tDNA using GO@SurMB-Joe nanocarriers. We have demonstrated an efficient internalization of SurMB-Joe-loaded GO nanocarriers in malignant SW480 cells. The proposed tunability of the bonding strength in the attached motifs for MBs immobilized on nanocarriers, via structural modifications, should be useful in gene delivery systems to enhance the efficacy of gene retention, cell transfection and genomic material survivability in the cellular environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interactions of fluorescent probes and biomolecules with nanocarriers are of key importance to the emerging targeted drug delivery systems. Graphene oxide nanosheets (GONs) as the nanocarriers offer biocompatibility and robust drug binding capacity. The interactions of GONs with fluorophores lead to strong fluorescence quenching, which may interfere with fluorescence bioimaging and biodetection. Herein, we report on the interactions and energy transfers in a model ternary system: GONs-FITC-ATP, where FITC is a model fluorophore (fluorescein isothiocyanate) and ATP is a common biomolecule (adenosine-5'-triphosphate). We have found that FITC fluorescence is considerably quenched by ATP (the quenching constant KSV = 113 ± 22 M-1). The temperature coefficient of KSV is positive (αT = 4.15 M-1deg-1). The detailed analysis of a model for internal self-quenching of FITC indicates that the temperature dependence of the net quenching efficiency η for the FITC-ATP pair is dominated by FITC internal self-quenching modes with their contribution estimated at 79%. The quenching of FITC by GONs is much stronger (KSV = 598 ± 29 M-1) than that of FITC-ATP and is associated with the formation of supramolecular assemblies bound with hydrogen bonding and π-π stacking interactions. For the analysis of the complex behavior of the ternary system GONs-FITC-ATP, a model of chemisorption of ATP on GONs, with partial blocking of FITC quenching, has been developed. Our results indicate that ATP acts as a moderator for FITC quenching by GONs. The interactions between ATP, FITC, and GONs have been corroborated using molecular dynamics and quantum mechanical calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Knowledge regarding microaerophilic and anaerobic specific spoilage organisms (SSOs) is crucial for an appropriate evaluation of vacuum-packed ham. The objective of this study was to characterize the SSO community in vacuum-packed ham by a culture-dependent technique and MiSeq next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform. The relation between changes among the SSO group in the ham and changes in sensory characteristics of the product was also assessed. RESULTS In the study, conventional microbiological analyses were employed in order to establish the participation of several groups of microorganisms in the deterioration of vacuum-packed ham. The diversity of the SSO group in the product was further assessed with the use of MiSeq NGS technology. The bacteria identified in sliced cooked ham belonged mostly to four phyla, namely Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. A temperature of 4 °C favoured the development of mesophilic and psychrophilic/psychrotrophic flora, mainly Lactobacillaceae, Enterobacteriaceae and Micrococcaceae families. A high ratio of Brochothrix thermosphacta species and new, cold-tolerant Clostridium spp. was also observed. The growth of these microorganisms facilitated changes in the pH value and organoleptic characteristics of the product. CONCLUSION This study confirms that the combination of culturing and MiSeq NGS technology improves the microbial evaluation of food. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissatisfaction with indoor air quality is common even in relatively new or renovated Polish school buildings. To improve air quality in educational buildings, portable devices have seen increased use, for which manufacturers guarantee a high level of indoor air purification. However, their optimized operation largely depends on their correct use. The aim of this article was to determine the effectiveness of air purification in a primary school using an air purification device with an analysis of the classroom indoor air quality (IAQ). Two criteria were used, microbiological and particulate matter concentration. Measurements were made before device installation and during its continuous operation, and before and after lessons on chosen days. Measurements related to IAQ did not detect clear differences in the analyzed measurement periods. For microbiological contamination, in the morning before lessons, the total count for all bacteria and microscopic fungi was definitely lower than after lessons. Comparing the periods before and after device installation, no clear tendency for reducing the bacteria count or microscopic fungi occurred during air purifier operation, nor was there any noticeable trend in the reduction of particulate matter. There was no improvement in air quality in the classrooms during the operation of the purification devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pancreatic cancers are among of the most lethal types of neoplasms, and are mostly detected at an advanced stage. Conventional treatment methods such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy often do not bring the desired therapeutic effects. For this reason, natural compounds are increasingly being used as adjuvants in cancer therapy. Polyphenolic compounds, including resveratrol, are of particular interest. The aim of this study is to analyze the antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic mechanisms of resveratrol on human pancreatic cells. The study was carried out on three human pancreatic cancer cell lines: EPP85-181P, EPP85-181RNOV (mitoxantrone-resistant cells) and AsPC-1, as well as the normal pancreatic cell line H6c7. The cytotoxicity of resveratrol in the tested cell lines was assessed by the colorimetric method (MTT) and the flow cytometry method. Three selected concentrations of the compound (25, 50 and 100 µM) were tested in the experiments during a 48-h incubation. TUNEL and Comet assays, flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy, real-time PCR and Western Blot analyses were used to evaluate the pleiotropic effect of resveratrol. The results indicate that resveratrol is likely to be anticarcinogenic by inhibiting human pancreatic cancer cell proliferation. In addition, it affects the levels of Bcl-2 pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins. However, it should be emphasized that the activity of resveratrol was specific for each of the tested cell lines, and the most statistically significant changes were observed in the mitoxantrone-resistant cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flax is a valuable source of fibers, linseed and oil. The compounds of the latter two products have already been widely examined and have been proven to possess many health-beneficial properties. In the course of analysis of fibers extract from previously generated transgenic plants overproducing phenylpropanoids a new terpenoid compound was discovered. The UV spectra and the retention time in UPLC analysis of this new compound reveal similarity to a cannabinoid-like compound, probably cannabidiol (CBD). This was confirmed by finding two ions at m/z 174.1 and 231.2 in mass spectra analysis. Further confirmation of the nature of the compound was based on a biological activity assay. It was found that the compound affects the expression of genes involved in inflammatory processes in mouse and human fibroblasts and likely the CBD from Cannabis sativa activates the specific peripheral cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) gene expression. Besides fibers, the compound was also found in all other flax tissues. It should be pointed out that the industrial process of fabric production does not affect CBD activity. The presented data suggest for the first time that flax products can be a source of biologically active cannabinoid-like compounds that are able to influence the cell immunological response. These findings might open up many new applications for medical flax products, especially for the fabric as a material for wound dressing with anti-inflammatory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new flax dressing product was developed based on three components (fibers, oil emulsion, and seedcake extract) from genetically engineered flax plants that were obtained by plant transformation using three genes controlling the synthesis of antioxidative compounds from the phenylpropanoid pathway. Simultaneous flax explant transformation with three genes coding for chalcone synthase, chalcone isomerase, and dihydroflavonol reductase resulted in an accumulation of phenolic acids in the fibers, polyunsaturated fatty acids in the oil, and lignans in the seedcake. The fibers, oil, and seedcake from transgenic flax contained a broad spectrum of antioxidative compounds. They were tested for cytotoxicity, and none were found to have a negative effect on the growth and morphology of Balb/3T3 cells. In this preliminary report, we present pilot data on the effects of using linen dressing treatment on its own or in combination with oil emulsion and/or seedcake extract on chronic wound healing. After a 12-week study, we concluded that an application of a modified flax-dressing (linen) bandage might yield a more rapid rate of healing and reduce the wound exudes and wound size. In several cases, wound healing was completed during the period of investigation. Interestingly and importantly, the patients reported that the new bandage made from modified flax diminished the pain accompanying chronic venous ulceration. Further study is required to determine any definitive effects of flax bandage on wound healing. This is the first pilot study report suggesting the benefits of a flax-based dressing on wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A building's energy consumption is assessed considering the energy required for heating, cooling, lighting, and domestic hot water (DHW). Methodologies used to calculate energy certificates in European Union countries consider hot water consumption rates per person or per heated (floor) area, giving wide-ranging values (35–88 dm3/person/day). Using extreme parameters, it is possible to obtain a primary energy index that meets the legal requirements, although unrealistically large proportions of domestic hot water use relative to the total energy balance of the building may marginalize the influence of other components, such as fluctuations in heating, ventilation, or lighting. In the current work, the DHW consumption of three residential buildings was measured to verify the energy consumption for hot water preparation. Investigations were conducted based on the consumption of natural gas for DHW preparation. Experimentally obtained water consumption rates were determined per m2 of a dwelling and per person living in the building. The calculated indicators (0.85 ± 0.005 dm3/m2/day and 27.4 ± 1.4 dm3/person/day) were lower than those used for energy certifications of buildings. The experimentally obtained indicators were used in further theoretical energy assessments of six residential buildings. By adopting the designated indicators, the analyzed buildings met the legally required primary energy value (<70 kWh/m2/year) when using natural gas as a heat source. Applying more realistic DHW consumption values resulted in more accurate energy certifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer diseases are currently one of the greatest health challenges in clinical medicine worldwide. Classic methods of treatment often lead to numerous side effects, including the development of multidrug resistance. For this reason, increasing hope is being placed on compounds of natural origin, mainly due to their pleiotropic effect on different types of cells, protective effect on normal cells and toxic effect on cancerous ones. The most studied group are the polyphenolic compounds, which include resveratrol. The effectiveness of polyphenols in the treatment and prevention of many diseases, including cancer of various origins, has become the basis of many scientific studies. The anticancer effect of resveratrol has been demonstrated at all stages of the carcinogenesis process. Additionally, whether administered by itself or in combination with cytostatics, it may play a significant role in the process of reversing multidrug resistance. A review of the effects of resveratrol in in vitro conditions proves that it has a stronger or weaker antiproliferative and proapoptotic effect on the cells of certain neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite the differences in the effect of this compound on different types of cancer, a similar tendency can be observed especially regarding the correlation between the concentration of the compound and the incubation time on the one hand and the antitumour effect on the other hand. The information included in this review may prove helpful in planning in vivo and clinical studies in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are different standards and regulations outlining the requirements regarding building air quality as well as in nurseries. These requirements specify air stream supplies and carbon dioxide concentration levels, both of which ensure proper indoor air quality. Mechanical ventilation should be used to maintain acceptable carbon dioxide levels. This article analyses the use of ventilation equipped with decentralized units, which helps secure the well-being of children. This paper proposes and evaluates economically affordable ventilation units. An algorithm for selecting the size of the devices is described by the supplied air stream depending on the number of children present at the nursery. A method of transferring the investment costs related to the assembly of the given units to the parents is proposed. Air quality in terms of CO2 concentrations was based on the following levels: 750 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1500 ppm. This assessment also includes the investment costs resulting from device usage and the costs of electricity consumed by the fans. These results showed the additional costs that assure the air quality improvement do not have to be high (45 PLN/month, ~10 EUR/month) per child attending the nursery. A 3% tuition increase returns the investment costs on mechanical ventilation within four years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the most frequent cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Tesmin (MTL5) is a 60 kDa protein which has cysteine rich motifs, characteristic of metallothioneins. Tesmin expression was first observed in germ cells during spermatogenesis. Increased tesmin expression in NSCLC has been described previously. Minichromosome maintenance proteins (MCMs) serve a critical role in replication and cell cycle progression, i.e. in NSCLC. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the localization and intensity of tesmin, MCM5 and MCM7 protein expression in NSCLC and their association with the clinicopathological data of patients. Archival paraffin blocks of 243 cases of NSCLC and 104 non-cancerous tissue samples from the surgical margin (control) were obtained from patients treated at the Clinic of Thoracic Surgery of Wroclaw Medical University (Wroclaw, Poland) between 2010 and 2016, and were used for tissue microarrays and immunohistochemical (IHC) experiments. Laser capture microdissection was used for the isolation of cancer cells from 36 frozen samples of NSCLC and 8 control samples, and subsequently, MTL5, MCM5 and MCM7 mRNA expression was detected separately by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Positive cytoplasmic and nuclear tesmin, as well as nuclear MCM5 and MCM7 IHC expression were observed in 95.1, 83.67, 95.51 and 100% of the NSCLC cases, respectively. MTL5, MCM5 and MCM7 mRNA expression was observed in 91.66% of the cancer cases for all genes. The statistical analysis revealed increased tesmin IHC expression in cancer cells compared with the control. A positive correlation was observed between the IHC expression of nuclear tesmin and MCM5 proteins (r=0.33; P<0.0001) and nuclear tesmin and MCM7 proteins (r=0.315; P<0.0001). In addition, a positive correlation between the mRNA expression levels of MTL5 and MCM5 (r=0.421; P<0.05), MTL5 and MCM7 (r=0.557; P<0.01) was demonstrated. The survival analysis revealed that the presence of IHC cytoplasmic tesmin expression was a positive prognostic marker in NSCLC (P=0.0524). Furthermore, in vitro experiments performed on the NCI-H1703 cell line revealed that silencing of MTL5 mRNA and tesmin caused the downregulation of the expression levels of MCM5 and MCM7 and decreased the number of cells in the G2 phase. A positive association among tesmin, MCM5 and MCM7 could indicate a possible role of tesmin in the proliferation of NSCLC cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air handling units are usually used to maintain the thermal and humidity parameters in indoor swimming pools that are used for lap swimming and recreation. Their use throughout the year consumes much more energy than, for example, air conditioning in residential or office buildings. Their considerable energy consumption is due to the need for their continuous operation to remove moisture gains from the evaporation of water and to heat the air and cover the heat losses of the pool. It is possible to design ventilation devices in such a way that the operating costs will be reduced, and the environmental impact will be significantly reduced. In this article, six different ventilation units in which different heat sources are used to heat the ventilation air have been evaluated; the selection of which was based on the most commonly used solutions. The results of the analysis are aimed to show which of the available heat sources is the most advantageous in terms of global and operating costs, and in terms of low CO2 emissions. Indicators of both the final and primary energy consumption, as well as the operating and global costs, were determined. The recommended solution that was chosen was the one that had both the lowest cost index (18–20% lower than most ecological sources) and the low primary energy index (8–13% higher than most ecological sources). The results showed that a heat pump in the ventilation unit proved to be the most beneficial solution. Unfortunately, this solution is rarely used due to its high investment costs (20% higher). However, the results have shown that the investment cost of using an advanced air handling unit will be recouped in only two to three years. Also, the global cost for units with a heat pump proved to be the lowest, despite high investment cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Wall-type heat recovery units are solution for improving ventilation in refurbishment. • Assessment of air stream mixing by visualization and CO 2 measurements was conducted. • The risk of air mixing when using wall-type heat recovery units is low. • The analysis of the annual energy demand for residential buildings was conducted. • Wall-type heat recovery units are helpful in achieving low energy buildings. In the cold and moderate climates the energy demand for heating of fresh ventilation air is crucial. The mechanical ventilation systems with heat recovery are used to decrease the peak power of the heating system and to save the energy. In a case of wall-type heat recovery units there is a doubt about the possibility of mixing fresh and exhausted air in the combined intake-outtake device. In this paper experimental investigations were conducted to assess their hygienic safety. The original set-up containing test chamber and the equipment for CO 2 concentration measuring has been used. Visualization of airflows mixing with the usage of smoke is presented. The results show that the risk of the exhausted air return to the building is low. At the same time the ventilating efficiency of such systems is high. The analysis of the annual energy demand for the sample single-family and multi-family buildings has been conducted to present the possible energy benefits of usage such devices. Concluding, the wall-type heat recovery units should be considered as hygienic safe and helpful devices in achieving the standard of low energy buildings in a case of existing and refurbished ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resonance energy transfer (RET) between an excited fluorescent probe molecule and a plasmonic nanoparticle (AuNP) has been investigated to evaluate the effect of protein molecules on the RET efficiency. We have found that the energy transfer to a functionalized AuNP can be modulated by a sub-monolayer film of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) protein. The interactions of PD-L1 with AuNP@Cit involve incorporation of the protein in AuNP shell and formation of a submonolayer adsorption film with voids enabling gated surface plasmon resonance energy transfer (SPRET). A model of the gated-RET system based on the protein size, estimated using Fisher–Polikarpov–Craievich density approximation, has been developed and can be utilized for other proteins, with minimum data requirement, as well. The value of the equilibrium constant KL determined for the Langmuir isotherm is high: KL = 1.27 × 108 M−1, enabling highly sensitive control of the gated-RET by PD-L1. Thus, with the gated-RET technique, one can determine PD-L1 within the dynamic range, extending from 1.2 to 50 nM. Moreover, we have found that the Gibbs free energy for PD-L1 binding to AuNP@Cit is −46.26 kJ/mol (−11.05 kcal/mol), indicating a strong adsorption with supramolecular interactions. The proposed gated-RET system, with the fluorescence intensity of the fluorophore probe molecule modulated by plasmonic quenching with AuNP and shielding of energy transfer by the adsorbed PD-L1 can be further developed for determination of PD-L1 in pharmaceutical formulations for immune checkpoint control in cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new approach to designing a ventilation system for an indoor pool was proposed. • A heat pump with double condenser was found to be the best solution. • Decentralization results in a decrease in the energy consumption of fans by 36%. • Decentralization causes a decrease in heat required for heating the air by 17%. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the evaluation of air quality in the residential and office rooms has been significantly developed in recent decades, the issues associated with securing the air quality requirements in nurseries are still not well recognised. This study presents the results of tests regarding the physical and microbiological properties of air in selected rooms of a nursery, including the alternatively variable way of rooms ventilation. The experiment was conducted in four different rooms from the 20th of November 2017 to the 16th of April 2018. The constant measurements of basic parameters of physical air quality in rooms and outside as well as the measurements of microbiological and particulate matter contaminations were conducted in the chosen days of the analysis. The results have confirmed the unsatisfactory air quality in the rooms dedicated to small children. Modernisation of the ventilation system, from a natural one to the supply-exhaust ventilation, has lead to an improvement of physical property of the air, but it did not significantly improve its microbiological quality. Our research indicates that the controlled air flow, method of cleaning the premise and health condition of the children may have a great influence on the physical and microbiological quality of the air. • Building's indoor air is the habitat of numerous bacteria and microscopic fungi. • Source of microorganisms may be people and the external environment. • A quality of indoor air depends on the type of ventilation system. • Contamination can be reduced by the use of supply-exhaust ventilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer biomarkers offer unique prospects for the development of cancer diagnostics and therapy. One of such biomarkers, protein survivin (Sur), exhibits strong antiapoptotic and proliferation-enhancing properties and is heavily expressed in multiple cancers. Thus, it can be utilized to provide new modalities for modulating the cell-growth rate, essential for effective cancer treatment. Herein, we have focused on the development of a new survivin-based cancer detection platform for colorectal cancer cells SW480 using a turn-on fluorescence oligonucleotide molecular beacon (MB) probe, encoded to recognize Sur messenger RNA (mRNA). Contrary to the expectations, we have found that both the complementary target oligonucleotide strands as well as the single- and double-mismatch targets, instead of exhibiting the anticipated simple random conformations, preferentially formed secondary structure motifs by folding into small-loop hairpin structures. Such a conformation may interfere with, or even undermine, the biorecognition process. To gain better understanding of the interactions involved, we have replaced the classical Tyagi-Kramer model of interactions between a straight target oligonucleotide strand and a hairpin MB with a new model to account for the hairpin-hairpin interactions as the biorecognition principle. A detailed mechanism of these interactions has been proposed. Furthermore, in experimental work, we have demonstrated an efficient transfection of malignant SW480 cells with SurMB probes containing a fluorophore Joe (SurMB-Joe) using liposomal nanocarriers. The green emission from SurMB-Joe in transfected cancer cells, due to the hybridization of the SurMB-Joe loop with Sur mRNA hairpin target, corroborates Sur overexpression. On the other hand, healthy human-colon epithelial cells CCD 841 CoN show only negligible expression of survivin mRNA. These experiments provide the proof-of-concept for distinguishing between the cancer and normal cells by the proposed hairpin-hairpin interaction method. The single nucleotide polymorphism sensitivity and a low detection limit of 26 nM (S/N = 3σ) for complementary targets have been achieved.

Background: Recent studies showed that a small leucine-rich proteoglycan, decorin, may suppress tumor progression as a natural anticancer agent negatively controlling cellular growth. It was hypothesized that physiological expression of decorin may be associated with cellular senescence of the colorectal mucosa and that its down-regulation, promoting an increase in cellular proliferation, could participate in the progression of adenoma to adenocarcinoma. Therefore the expression of decorin in hyperplastic and neoplastic polyps of the colorectum was examined and compared with normal colonic mucosa and colon cancer tissues., Material/methods: Tissue samples were obtained from 41 patients with different types of colonic polyps (6 hyperplastic adenomas, 34 neoplastic adenomas, and 1 adenomatous polyp with focal carcinoma) and 12 patients with colon cancer. Seven samples of normal colon tissue were used as controls. Paraffin-embedded samples were used for immunohistochemical study., Results: Normal and hyperplastic tissues and the majority of tubular adenomas showed strong expression of decorin in the stroma. Adenomas with a villous component showed moderate and very low decorin immunoreactivity. The decrease in decorin reactivity in tubulo-villous adenomas was significant as compared with other polyps and controls. Weak decorin immunoreactivity in stroma adjacent to clusters of cancerous cells was also found in most cases of common types of adenocarcinoma, but not in adenocarcinoma mucinosum., Conclusions: The expression of decorin may be involved in the differentiation of colonic polyps and reduced expression of decorin may abrogate the defensive potential of stromal tissue and promote the development of common types of colon carcinoma.