bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio-Piezoelectric Ceramic Composites for Electroactive Implants—Biological Performance
Authors: Fernandes Beatriz Ferreira , Silva Neusa , Marques Joana Faria , Da Cruz Mariana Brito , Tiainen Laura , Gasik Michael , Carvalho Óscar , Silva Filipe Samuel , Caramês João , Mata António
Published: August 2023

Barium titanate (BaTiO3) piezoelectric ceramic may be a potential alternative for promoting osseointegration due to its piezoelectric properties similar to bone electric potentials generated in loading function. In this sense, the aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the cellular response of human osteoblasts and gingival fibroblasts as well as the impact on S. oralis when in contact with BaTiO3 functionalized zirconia implant surfaces with piezoelectric properties. Zirconia discs with BaTiO3 were produced and contact poling (piezo activation) was performed. Osteoblasts (hFOB 1.19), fibroblasts (HGF hTERT) and S. oralis were culture on discs. Cell viability and morphology, cell differentiation markers, bacterial adhesion and growth were evaluated. The present study suggests that zirconia composite surfaces with the addition of piezoelectric BaTiO3 are not cytotoxic to peri-implant cells. Also, they seem to promote a faster initial osteoblast differentiation. Moreover, these surfaces may inhibit the growth of S. oralis by acting as a bacteriostatic agent over time. Although the piezoelectric properties do not affect the cellular inflammatory profile, they appear to enable the initial adhesion of bacteria, however this is not significant over the entire testing period. Furthermore, the addition of non-poled BaTiO3 to zirconia may have a potential reduction effect on IL-6 mediated-inflammatory activity in fibroblasts.
Design, Control, and Validation of a Symmetrical Hip and Straight-Legged Vertically-Compliant Bipedal Robot
Authors: Tang Jun , Zhu Yudi , Gan Wencong , Mou Haiming , Leng Jie , Li Qingdu , Yu Zhiqiang , Zhang Jianwei
Published: August 2023

This paper presents the development, modeling, and control of L03, an underactuated 3D bipedal robot with symmetrical hips and straight legs. This innovative design requires only five actuators, two for the legs and three for the hips. This paper is divided into three parts: (1) mechanism design and kinematic analysis; (2) trajectory planning for the center of mass and foot landing points based on the Divergent Component of Motion (DCM), enabling lateral and forward walking capabilities for the robot; and (3) gait stability analysis through prototype experiments. The primary focus of this study is to explore the application of underactuated symmetrical designs and determine the number of motors required to achieve omnidirectional movement of a bipedal robot. Our simulation and experimental results demonstrate that L03 achieves simple walking with a stable and consistent gait. Due to its lightweight construction, low leg inertia, and straight-legged design, L03 can achieve ground perception and gentle ground contact without the need for force sensors. Compared to existing bipedal robots, L03 closely adheres to the characteristics of the linear inverted pendulum model, making it an invaluable platform for future algorithm research.
A Chamber-Based Digital PCR Based on a Microfluidic Chip for the Absolute Quantification and Analysis of KRAS Mutation
Authors: Ren Jie , Xu Gangwei , Liu Hongna , He Nongyue , Zhao Zhehao , Wang Meiling , Gu Peipei , Chen Zhu , Deng Yan , Wu Dongping , Li Song
Published: August 2023

The Kirsten rat sarcoma virus gene (KRAS) is the most common tumor in human cancer, and KRAS plays an important role in the growth of tumor cells. Normal KRAS inhibits tumor cell growth. When mutated, it will continuously stimulate cell growth, resulting in tumor development. There are currently few drugs that target the KRAS gene. Here, we developed a microfluidic chip. The chip design uses parallel fluid channels combined with cylindrical chamber arrays to generate 20,000 cylindrical microchambers. The microfluidic chip designed by us can be used for the microsegmentation of KRAS gene samples. The thermal cycling required for the PCR stage is performed on a flat-panel instrument and detected using a four-color fluorescence system. “Glass-PDMS-glass” sandwich structure effectively reduces reagent volatilization; in addition, a valve is installed at the sample inlet and outlet on the upper layer of the chip to facilitate automatic control. The liquid separation performance of the chip was verified by an automated platform. Finally, using the constructed KRAS gene mutation detection system, it is verified that the chip has good application potential for digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR). The experimental results show that the chip has a stable performance and can achieve a dynamic detection range of four orders of magnitude and a gene mutation detection of 0.2%. In addition, the four-color fluorescence detection system developed based on the chip can distinguish three different KRAS gene mutation types simultaneously on a single chip.
Green-Mediated Synthesis of NiCo2O4 Nanostructures Using Radish White Peel Extract for the Sensitive and Selective Enzyme-Free Detection of Uric Acid
Authors: Solangi Abdul Ghaffar , Tahira Aneela , Waryani Baradi , Chang Abdul Sattar , Pirzada Tajnees , Nafady Ayman , Dawi Elmuez A. , Saleem Lama M. A. , Padervand Mohsen , Haj Ismail Abd Al Karim , Lv Kangle , Vigolo Brigitte , Ibupoto Zafar Hussain
Published: August 2023

The ability to measure uric acid (UA) non-enzymatically in human blood has been demonstrated through the use of a simple and efficient electrochemical method. A phytochemical extract from radish white peel extract improved the electrocatalytic performance of nickel–cobalt bimetallic oxide (NiCo2O4) during a hydrothermal process through abundant surface holes of oxides, an alteration of morphology, an excellent crystal quality, and increased Co(III) and Ni(II) chemical states. The surface structure, morphology, crystalline quality, and chemical composition were determined using a variety of analytical techniques, including powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electrochemical characterization by CV revealed a linear range of UA from 0.1 mM to 8 mM, with a detection limit of 0.005 mM and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.008 mM. A study of the sensitivity of NiCo2O4 nanostructures modified on the surface to UA detection with amperometry has revealed a linear range from 0.1 mM to 4 mM for detection. High stability, repeatability, and selectivity were associated with the enhanced electrochemical performance of non-enzymatic UA sensing. A significant contribution to the full outperforming sensing characterization can be attributed to the tailoring of surface properties of NiCo2O4 nanostructures. EIS analysis revealed a low charge-transfer resistance of 114,970 Ohms that offered NiCo2O4 nanostructures prepared with 5 mL of radish white peel extract, confirming an enhanced performance of the presented non-enzymatic UA sensor. As well as testing the practicality of the UA sensor, blood samples from human beings were also tested for UA. Due to its high sensitivity, stability, selectivity, repeatability, and simplicity, the developed non-enzymatic UA sensor is ideal for monitoring UA for a wide range of concentrations in biological matrixes.
Electrochemical Sensing Platform Based on Metal Nanoparticles for Epinephrine and Serotonin
Authors: Leau Sorina Alexandra , Lete Cecilia , Matei Cristian , Lupu Stelian
Published: August 2023

A sensing platform based on nanocomposite materials composed of gold metal nanoparticles (AuNPs) and conducting polymer (CP) matrix has been developed for serotonin and epinephrine detection. The CP-AuNPs nanocomposite materials have been synthesized onto glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) by using novel electrochemical procedures based on sinusoidal currents (SC). The SC procedures ensured good control of the metal nanoparticles distribution, increased electrochemical surface area, and enhanced analytical performance. The proposed sensing platform displayed good analytical performance toward serotonin and epinephrine detection. A wide linear analytical response toward epinephrine in the range from 10 to 640 μM and a low detection limit of 1.4 μM epinephrine has been obtained. The sensing platform has also displayed a linear response toward serotonin in the range from 10 to 320 μM, with a detection limit of 5.7 μM serotonin. The sensing platform has been successfully applied in the analysis of epinephrine and serotonin in real samples of tap water and urine with good accuracy.
The Influences of Supportive Leadership and Family Social Support on Female Managers’ Organizational Effectiveness: The Mediating Effect of Positive Spillover between Work and Family
Authors: Park Yoonhee , Kim Jiyoung , Lee Harin
Published: August 2023

This study aims to examine the influence of supportive leadership and family social support for female managers on organizational effectiveness and test the mediating effect of positive spillover between work and family (PSWF). This study utilized data of 974 married female managers from the 6th Korean Female Manager Panel (KWMP) survey to analyze the relationship between the latent variables. Hypotheses of this study were tested using Structural Equation Model Analysis (SEM). This study found that supportive leadership and PSWF have a positive influence on female managers’ organizational effectiveness. However, family support had no significant effect on the organizational effectiveness of female managers. The analysis showed that supportive leadership and family social support positively influenced female manager’s PSWF. Also, PSWF mediated the relationship between family social support and organizational effectiveness as well as between supportive leadership and organizational effectiveness. This study provides a better understanding of PSWF as a mediator between family social support and organizational effectiveness. Contrary to previous studies that focused on the negative effects of work-family conflicts, this study highlighted the role of PSWF, justifying the need for governmental or organizational programs to increase PSWF.
Consideration of Future Consequences Affects the Perception and Interpretation of Self-Conscious Emotions
Authors: Choi Hyeman
Published: August 2023

Differentiating guilt from shame expressed by others is important because self-conscious emotions have disparate behavioral consequences. The present study examined whether a future-relevant nature of an event (i.e., future opportunity) and an observer (i.e., consideration of future consequences) can impact the perception and interpretation of shame and guilt experiences. Participants (N = 109) read a scenario that described a target person who neglected his duty on a team project, then rated their perceived intensity of the target’s shame and guilt and their estimation of future behavior change by the target. The results showed that the participants who cared about distant future consequences (i.e., high in consideration of future consequences) thought the target person would change in the future when they believed that the target person would have an opportunity (vs. no future opportunity) to change the outcome of the event. This effect was fully mediated by the guilt intensity ratings, indicating that guilt signals future behavior change. The implications for the value of communicating self-conscious emotions are discussed.
Effects of Neuroticism on Differences in Symptom Structure of Life Satisfaction and Depression-Anxiety among College Students: A Network Analysis
Authors: Tang Qihui , He Xiaoyan , Zhang Liang , Liu Xiangping , Tao Yanqiang , Liu Gang
Published: August 2023

Object: Numerous studies show that depression and anxiety have an adverse effect on life satisfaction among college students. Moreover, neuroticism affects depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction. Comparing the low-neuroticism and high-neuroticism groups, the current study used network analysis to examine the relationship between depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction among college students. Methods: A sample consisted of 1233 college students from China who completed the Big Five Inventory-2 (BFI-2), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS).All students were divided into two groups according to levels of neuroticism. Depression-anxiety symptom networks and flow networks were formed. Results: “Insomnia” (SAS19) and “Sleep disturbance” (SDS4) are bridge symptoms of groups with varying neuroticism. In addition, compared to the group with low levels of neuroticism, the group with high levels of neuroticism showed more depression symptoms in bridge symptoms and greater global strength. Many depression-anxiety symptoms are negatively associated with life satisfaction, and “Emptiness” (SDS18) is an important symptom in the high-neuroticism group’s flow network. Conclusion: This study contributes to our understanding of the connection between depression, anxiety, neuroticism, and life satisfaction. In addition, the current study identified the essential symptoms to target in depression and anxiety intervention and life satisfaction enhancement among college students.
Exploration of Psychiatry Residents’ Attitudes toward Patients with Substance Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alarifi Abdullah M. , Alshahrani Najim Z. , Albali Nawaf H. , Aljalajel Khalid M. , Alotaibi Nourh M. , Fallatah Anan A. , Zeitounie Majd Rachid , Alghamdi Khalid A. , Alsaaid Maan A. , Alshehri Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Stigmatizing attitudes of psychiatry professionals toward patients with various mental disorders may negatively impact treatment-seeking behaviors. However, in Saudi Arabia, little is known about psychiatry residents’ attitudes toward individuals with a specific disease/disorder. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess psychiatry residents’ attitudes toward patients with substance use disorder (SUD), bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in Saudi Arabia. Data for this cross-sectional study were collected from psychiatry residents (N = 79) in Saudi Arabia with a structured questionnaire containing sociodemographic and attitude-related variables. The 11-item Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS) for individuals with three conditions was used to assess participants’ attitudes. A linear regression model was fitted to investigate the association. Based on the MCRS (on a scale of 11 to 66), participants′ mean attitude scores were 41.59 (SD: 8.09), 54.53 (SD: 5.90) and 54.20 (SD: 6.60) for SUD, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, respectively. Adjusted regression analysis demonstrated that senior residents, an age ≥ 27 years and a high confidence level were significantly associated with psychiatry residents’ positive attitudes toward patients with the three conditions. Psychiatry residents’ attitude scores were relatively lower (i.e., negative attitudes) for patients with SUD than for those with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Future longitudinal studies are recommended to explore the factors behind psychiatry residents’ negative attitudes toward patients with addictive behaviors and mental illnesses.
Adolescent Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Interplay of Age, Gender, and Mental Health Outcomes in Two Consecutive Cross-Sectional Surveys in Northern Italy
Authors: Barbieri Verena , Piccoliori Giuliano , Mahlknecht Angelika , Plagg Barbara , Ausserhofer Dietmar , Engl Adolf , Wiedermann Christian J.
Published: August 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health and well-being of adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the development of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental health among adolescents in Northern Italy by comparing cross-sectional surveys conducted in 2021 and 2022, with a particular focus on the influence of age and gender. The sample included adolescents aged 11–19 years from public schools in South Tyrol. Validated psychometric instruments were used to assess HRQoL, anxiety and depression symptoms, and psychosomatic complaints. Sociodemographic variables, COVID-19 burden, and pandemic-related factors were measured. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, correlation coefficients, and logistic regression analyses. The results indicated that while the self-reported burden of adolescents decreased significantly in 2022 (n = 1885) compared to 2021 (n = 1760), there were no significant differences in symptoms of anxiety, depressive symptoms, low HRQoL, and increased psychosomatic complaints between the two surveys for both early and late adolescents. Females consistently had higher percentages for all outcome variables, and symptoms of anxiety increased with age in females, but not in males. Both genders experienced an increase in depressive symptoms and low HRQoL with age. The co-occurrence of mental health outcomes was observed, suggesting overlapping patterns among anxiety, depression, low HRQoL, and psychosomatic complaints. These findings underscore the intricate relationship between age, gender, and mental health outcomes among adolescents during the pandemic. It is important to recognize that late adolescents may exhibit distinct vulnerabilities and may require tailored support approaches to address their specific mental health challenges, differing from those needed for early adolescents.
Design for Disassembly of Concrete Slabs with Mortar Joints
Authors: Halding Philip Skov
Published: August 2023

A sustainable future is required for precast concrete structures, and the reuse of concrete elements will be an essential part of the solution. Design for disassembly is currently conducted with costly and time-consuming mechanical joints. Now, mortar joints with much weaker mortar types are proposed for new buildings, enabling easier disassembly by new methods: removal by direct pulling and removal by use of a system of flat jacks. Different weak mortar types were tested in the lab to achieve the properties required to check the transfer of wind loads and the level of resistance to separation during disassembly. Using a modelled case study building, the results showed that weak lime cement-based mortars had the required properties to substitute regular cement-based mortar in joints between slabs and a stabilising wall during a critical wind load. Regarding disassembly, pulling concrete slabs out with a mobile crane would be possible if hydro demolition systems could be implemented to remove parts of the mortar joint beforehand. Using a system of flat jacks to push the slab apart showed that the method’s weakness was the punching failure of the thin wall to the hollow cores. Solutions were proposed to overcome the challenge.
Experimental Investigation on Ternary Blended Recycled Aggregate Concrete Using Glass Fibers
Authors: Govardhan Cheetirala , Gayathri Venkataraman
Published: August 2023

The demand for sustainable construction materials has driven the exploration of various innovative approaches to enhance the properties of concrete for reducing its environmental impact. The present study examines the effects of incorporating recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), slag cement, alccofine, and glass fibers into concrete mixtures. In the present study, it has been observed that recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) exhibits inferior properties, including higher water absorption and poorer performance, when compared to natural coarse aggregate. Various replacement levels of RCA were utilized in this study to assess its impact on concrete performance. Alccofine, a supplementary cementitious material, is used to partially replace the binding material. Additionally, glass fibers were added to enhance the flexural and tensile behavior of the concrete. The concrete mixtures were designed to meet the required strength and durability specifications. A comprehensive testing program was conducted to evaluate the fresh and hardened properties of the concrete. A slump cone test was performed for assessing the workability of fresh concrete. For hardened concrete, compressive strength, flexural strength, and split tensile strength are evaluated. The results demonstrated that incorporating RCA, slag cement, alccofine, and glass fibers into the concrete mixtures improved mechanical properties. The use of RCA led to a reduction in natural resource consumption, namely natural coarse aggregate in concrete. On the other hand, the generated construction and demolition (C&D) waste is used effectively. Portland slag cement (PSC) and alccofine (A) improved the long-term strength of concrete. The addition of glass fibers significantly enhanced the tensile and flexural performance of the concrete, resulting in improved crack resistance and overall performance. This study introduces a novel concept by exploring the potential utilization of recycled concrete aggregate, slag cement, alccofine, and glass fibers in combination as sustainable and high-performance components in concrete mixtures. Previous research has not extensively studied this combination of materials, making it a unique and innovative approach. These findings contribute to the development of eco-friendly construction practices and provide insights for engineers, researchers, and practitioners aiming to incorporate recycled materials and supplementary cementitious materials into concrete construction.
Innovative Equivalent Elastic Modulus Based Stress Calculation Methodology for Reinforced Concrete Columns
Authors: Şen Zekâi , Mangir Atakan
Published: August 2023

The combination of linearity and elasticity assumptions provides classical calculation procedures for the reinforced concrete (RC) columns and beams against internal and external seismic loads. In these calculation procedures, the elasticity modulus of the concrete is taken into account by ignoring the steel reinforcement due to its small area percentage in the total cross-section area. This paper presents an innovative column stress calculation procedure considering the concrete–steel composition as the equivalent elastic modulus based on the classical Hooke’s Law. This methodology takes into consideration also the elastic modulus of the steel, providing a reduction in the factor of safety. The application of the proposed method is presented for a series of RC column cross-section areas. It is observed that the proposed methodology leads to elastic modulus improvement of 6% to 27% compared to conventional calculations. The necessary flow chart for the execution of the proposed process steps and accordingly developed MATLAB program are provided for the application.
Strategies for LEED-NC-Certified Projects in Germany and Results of Their Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Pushkar Svetlana
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate strategies for the certification of environmentally friendly office buildings in Germany. A total of 39 LEED-NC gold-certified office space projects were ranked according to their “optimize energy performance” credit (EAc1) achievements from the energy and atmosphere (EA) category and divided into two groups: 13 projects (group 1) with the highest and 13 projects (group 2) with the lowest EAc1 achievements. Nonparametric statistics were used to evaluate the differences between groups 1 and 2. A two-stage nested analysis of variance test was used to evaluate the differences between the two groups in terms of their life cycle assessment (LCA). A comparison of the two groups showed that group 1 outperformed group 2 in the EA category (p < 0.0001). However, in the other LEED categories, the differences between the two groups were not significant (p ≥ 0.0761). As a result, group 1 outperformed group 2 in terms of overall LEED points (p = 0.0048). The LCA of EAc1 showed that group 1 enacted the lowest environmental damage when compared to group 2 (p = 0.0040). The environmental assessment of LEED-certified projects can help green building managers choose the most sustainable certification strategy.
New Insights into Metabolic Alterations and Mitochondria Re-Arrangements in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Dando Ilaria , Dalla Pozza Elisa
Published: August 2023

Among the most aggressive cancer types, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents one with the highest lethality due to its resistance to therapies and to the frequent metastatic spread [...]
PIWI-RNAs Small Noncoding RNAs with Smart Functions: Potential Theranostic Applications in Cancer
Authors: Taverna Simona , Masucci Anna , Cammarata Giuseppe
Published: August 2023

P-element-induced wimpy testis (PIWI)-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a new class of small noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that bind components of the PIWI protein family. piRNAs are specifically expressed in different human tissues and regulate important signaling pathways. Aberrant expressions of piRNAs and PIWI proteins have been associated with tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Recent studies reported that piRNAs are contained in extracellular vesicles (EVs), nanosized lipid particles, with key roles in cell–cell communication. EVs contain several bioactive molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, including emerging ncRNAs. EVs are one of the components of liquid biopsy (LB) a non-invasive method for detecting specific molecular biomarkers in liquid samples. LB could become a crucial tool for cancer diagnosis with piRNAs as biomarkers in a precision oncology approach. This review summarizes the current findings on the roles of piRNAs in different cancer types, focusing on potential theranostic applications of piRNAs contained in EVs (EV-piRNAs). Their roles as non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and as new therapeutic options have been also discussed.
MRI-Guided Targeted and Systematic Prostate Biopsies as Prognostic Indicators for Prostate Cancer Treatment Decisions
Authors: Abd Ali Furat , Sievert Karl-Dietrich , Eisenblaetter Michel , Titze Barbara , Hansen Torsten , Barth Peter J. , Titze Ulf
Published: August 2023

The standard procedure for the diagnosis of prostate carcinoma involves the collection of 10–12 systematic biopsies (SBx) from both lobes. MRI-guided targeted biopsies (TBx) from suspicious foci increase the detection rates of clinically significant (cs) PCa. We investigated the extent to which the results of the TBx predicted the tumor board treatment decisions. SBx and TBx were acquired from 150 patients. Risk stratifications and recommendations for interventional therapy (prostatectomy and radiotherapy) or active surveillance were established by interdisciplinary tumor boards. We analyzed how often TBx alone were enough to correctly classify the tumors as well as to indicate interventional therapy and how often the findings of SBx were crucial for therapy decisions. A total of 28/39 (72%) favorable risk tumors were detected in TBx, of which 11/26 (42%) very-low-risk tumors were not detected and 8/13 (62%) low-risk tumors were undergraded. A total of 36/44 (82%) intermediate-risk PCa were present in TBx, of which 4 (9%) were underdiagnosed as a favorable risk tumor. A total of 12/13 (92%) high-risk carcinomas were detected and correctly grouped in TBx. The majority of csPCa were identified by the sampling of TBx alone. The tumor size was underestimated in a proportion of ISUP grade 1 tumors. Systematic biopsy sampling is therefore indicated for the next AS follow-up in these cases.
Systematic Review of Photodynamic Therapy in Gliomas
Authors: Hsia Tiffaney , Small Julia L. , Yekula Anudeep , Batool Syeda M. , Escobedo Ana K. , Ekanayake Emil , You Dong Gil , Lee Hakho , Carter Bob S. , Balaj Leonora
Published: August 2023

Over the last 20 years, gliomas have made up over 89% of malignant CNS tumor cases in the American population (NIH SEER). Within this, glioblastoma is the most common subtype, comprising 57% of all glioma cases. Being highly aggressive, this deadly disease is known for its high genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity, rendering a complicated disease course. The current standard of care consists of maximally safe tumor resection concurrent with chemoradiotherapy. However, despite advances in technology and therapeutic modalities, rates of disease recurrence are still high and survivability remains low. Given the delicate nature of the tumor location, remaining margins following resection often initiate disease recurrence. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a therapeutic modality that, following the administration of a non-toxic photosensitizer, induces tumor-specific anti-cancer effects after localized, wavelength-specific illumination. Its effect against malignant glioma has been studied extensively over the last 30 years, in pre-clinical and clinical trials. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the three generations of photosensitizers alongside their mechanisms of action, limitations, and future directions.
Optimizing Citrate Combustion Synthesis of A-Site-Deficient La,Mn-Based Perovskites: Application for Catalytic CH4 Combustion in Stoichiometric Conditions
Authors: Osti Andrea , Rizzato Lorenzo , Cavazzani Jonathan , Glisenti Antonella
Published: August 2023

LaMnO3-based perovskites are widely recognized as promising catalysts for several oxidation reactions, but the final physicochemical and catalytic properties can be greatly influenced by the adopted synthesis procedure. In this work, a series of A-site-deficient perovskites of composition La0.8MnO3 and La0.8Mn0.9B0.1O3 (B = Ni, Cu) were prepared through the citrate combustion route with variations in two synthesis parameters: a citric acid/metal cations molar ratio (CA/M) of either 1.1 or 1.5 and either acidic (given by HNO3 + citric acid) or neutral (after NH3 addition) pH of the precursor solution. The obtained samples were characterized by XRD, H2-TPR, O2-TPD, N2 physisorption, SEM-EDX and XPS. Acidic pH coupled with a CA/M ratio of 1.1 clearly emerged superior among all the other combinations of the two parameters, resulting in smaller crystallite size, higher surface area and porosity, enhanced Mn4+ reducibility and the ability to release oxygen species; these features were even further improved by B-site substitution with 10 mol% Ni and Cu cations. The synthesized catalysts were tested in CH4 oxidation to CO2 under stoichiometric O2, confirming the great superiority of samples prepared in acidic pH with a CA/M ratio of 1.1. Ni and Cu doping had a beneficial effect on catalytic activity, which, however, was more evident for less optimized perovskites (acidic pH and CA/M ratio of 1.5), without significance differences among the two dopants.
Identifying the Active Phase of RuO2 in the Catalytic CO Oxidation Reaction, Employing Operando CO Infrared Spectroscopy and Online Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Timmer Phillip , Glatthaar Lorena , Weber Tim , Over Herbert
Published: August 2023

Operando diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) is combined with online mass spectrometry (MS) to help to resolve a long-standing debate concerning the active phase of RuO2 supported on rutile TiO2 (RuO2@TiO2) during the CO oxidation reaction. DRIFTS has been demonstrated to serve as a versatile probe molecule to elucidate the active phase of RuO2@TiO2 under various reaction conditions. Fully oxidized and fully reduced catalysts serve to provide reference DRIFT spectra, based on which the operando CO spectra acquired during CO oxidation under various reaction conditions are interpreted. Partially reduced RuO2@TiO2 was identified as the most active catalyst in the CO oxidation reaction. This is independent of the reaction conditions being reducing or oxidizing and whether the starting catalyst is the fully oxidized RuO2@TiO2 or the partially reduced RuO2@TiO2.
CD40L Activates Platelet Integrin αIIbβ3 by Binding to the Allosteric Site (Site 2) in a KGD-Independent Manner and HIGM1 Mutations Are Clustered in the Integrin-Binding Sites of CD40L
Authors: Takada Yoko K. , Shimoda Michiko , Takada Yoshikazu
Published: August 2023

CD40L is expressed in activated T cells, and it plays a major role in immune response and is a major therapeutic target for inflammation. High IgM syndrome type 1 (HIGM1) is a congenital functional defect in CD40L/CD40 signaling due to defective CD40L. CD40L is also stored in platelet granules and transported to the surface upon platelet activation. Platelet integrin αIIbβ3 is known to bind to fibrinogen and activation of αIIbβ3 is a key event that triggers platelet aggregation. Also, the KGD motif is critical for αIIbβ3 binding and the interaction stabilizes thrombus. Previous studies showed that CD40L binds to and activates integrins αvβ3 and α5β1 and that HIGM1 mutations are clustered in the integrin-binding sites. However, the specifics of CD40L binding to αIIbβ3 were unclear. Here, we show that CD40L binds to αIIbβ3 in a KGD-independent manner using CD40L that lacks the KGD motif. Two HIGM1 mutants, S128E/E129G and L155P, reduced the binding of CD40L to the classical ligand-binding site (site 1) of αIIbβ3, indicating that αIIbβ3 binds to the outer surface of CD40L trimer. Also, CD40L bound to the allosteric site (site 2) of αIIbβ3 and allosterically activated αIIbβ3 without inside-out signaling. Two HIMG1 mutants, K143T and G144E, on the surface of trimeric CD40L suppressed CD40L-induced αIIbβ3 activation. These findings suggest that CD40L binds to αIIbβ3 in a manner different from that of αvβ3 and α5β1 and induces αIIbβ3 activation. HIGM1 mutations are clustered in αIIbβ3 binding sites in CD40L and are predicted to suppress thrombus formation and immune responses through αIIbβ3.
TGFβ Inhibitor A83-01 Enhances Murine HSPC Expansion for Gene Therapy
Authors: Fleischauer Jenni , Bastone Antonella Lucia , Selich Anton , John-Neek Philipp , Weisskoeppel Luisa , Schaudien Dirk , Schambach Axel , Rothe Michael
Published: August 2023

Murine hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are commonly used as model systems during gene therapeutic retroviral vector development and preclinical biosafety assessment. Here, we developed cell culture conditions to maintain stemness and prevent differentiation during HSPC culture. We used the small compounds A83-01, pomalidomide, and UM171 (APU). Highly purified LSK SLAM cells expanded in medium containing SCF, IL-3, FLT3-L, and IL-11 but rapidly differentiated to myeloid progenitors and mast cells. The supplementation of APU attenuated the differentiation and preserved the stemness of HSPCs. The TGFβ inhibitor A83-01 was identified as the major effector. It significantly inhibited the mast-cell-associated expression of FcεR1α and the transcription of genes regulating the formation of granules and promoted a 3800-fold expansion of LSK cells. As a functional readout, we used expanded HSPCs in state-of-the-art genotoxicity assays. Like fresh cells, APU-expanded HSPCs transduced with a mutagenic retroviral vector developed a myeloid differentiation block with clonal restriction and dysregulated oncogenic transcriptomic signatures due to vector integration near the high-risk locus Mecom. Thus, expanded HSPCs might serve as a novel cell source for retroviral vector testing and genotoxicity studies.
The Comet Assay in Drosophila: A Tool to Study Interactions between DNA Repair Systems in DNA Damage Responses In Vivo and Ex Vivo
Authors: Rodríguez Rubén , Gaivão Isabel , Aguado Leticia , Espina Marta , García Jorge , Martínez-Camblor Pablo , Sierra L. María
Published: August 2023

The comet assay in Drosophila has been used in the last few years to study DNA damage responses (DDR) in different repair-mutant strains and to compare them to analyze DNA repair. We have used this approach to study interactions between DNA repair pathways in vivo. Additionally, we have implemented an ex vivo comet assay, in which nucleoids from treated and untreated cells were incubated ex vivo with cell-free protein extracts from individuals with distinct repair capacities. Four strains were used: wild-type OregonK (OK), nucleotide excision repair mutant mus201, dmPolQ protein mutant mus308, and the double mutant mus201;mus308. Methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) was used as a genotoxic agent. Both approaches were performed with neuroblasts from third-instar larvae; they detected the effects of the NER and dmPolQ pathways on the DDR to MMS and that they act additively in this response. Additionally, the ex vivo approach quantified that mus201, mus308, and the double mutant mus201;mus308 strains presented, respectively, 21.5%, 52.9%, and 14.8% of OK strain activity over MMS-induced damage. Considering the homology between mammals and Drosophila in repair pathways, the detected additive effect might be extrapolated even to humans, demonstrating that Drosophila might be an excellent model to study interactions between repair pathways.
A Novel NCI-H69AR Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer Mini-Tumor Model for Anti-Cancer Treatment Screening
Authors: van Niekerk Alandi , Wrzesinski Krzysztof , Steyn Dewald , Gouws Chrisna
Published: August 2023

Small-cell lung cancer is a fast-growing carcinoma with a poor prognosis and a high level of relapse due to multi-drug resistance (MDR). Genetic mutations that lead to the overexpression of efflux transporter proteins can contribute to MDR. In vitro cancer models play a tremendous role in chemotherapy development and the screening of possible anti-cancer molecules. Low-cost and simple in vitro models are normally used. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) models have numerous shortcomings when considering the physiological resemblance of an in vivo setting. Three-dimensional (3D) models aim to bridge the gap between conventional 2D models and the in vivo setting. Some of the advantages of functional 3D spheroids include better representation of the in vivo physiology and tumor characteristics when compared to traditional 2D cultures. During this study, an NCI-H69AR drug-resistant mini-tumor model (MRP1 hyperexpressive) was developed by making use of a rotating clinostat bioreactor system (ClinoStar®; CelVivo ApS, Odense, Denmark). Spheroid growth and viability were assessed over a 25-day period to determine the ideal experimental period with mature and metabolically stable constructs. The applicability of this model for anti-cancer research was evaluated through treatment with irinotecan, paclitaxel and cisplatin for 96 h, followed by a 96 h recovery period. Parameters measured included planar surface area measurements, estimated glucose consumption, soluble protein content, intracellular adenosine triphosphate levels, extracellular adenylate kinase levels, histology and efflux transporter gene expression. The established functional spheroid model proved viable and stable during the treatment period, with retained relative hyperexpression of the MRP1 efflux transporter gene but increased expression of the P-gp transporter gene compared to the cells cultured in 2D. As expected, treatment with the abovementioned anti-cancer drugs at clinical doses (100 mg/m2 irinotecan, 80 mg/m2 paclitaxel and 75 mg/m2 cisplatin) had minimal impact on the drug-resistant mini-tumors, and the functional spheroid models were able to recover following the removal of treatment.
The Role of Cytokines in Neutrophil Development, Tissue Homing, Function and Plasticity in Health and Disease
Authors: Tsioumpekou Maria , Krijgsman Daniëlle , Leusen Jeanette H. W. , Olofsen Patricia A.
Published: August 2023

Neutrophils are crucial innate immune cells and comprise 50–70% of the white blood cell population under homeostatic conditions. Upon infection and in cancer, blood neutrophil numbers significantly increase because of the secretion of various chemo- and cytokines by, e.g., leukocytes, pericytes, fibroblasts and endothelial cells present in the inflamed tissue or in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The function of neutrophils in cancer has recently gained considerable attention, as they can exert both pro- and anti-tumorigenic functions, dependent on the cytokine milieu present in the TME. Here, we review the effect of cytokines on neutrophil development, tissue homing, function and plasticity in cancer and autoimmune diseases as well as under physiological conditions in the bone marrow, bloodstream and various organs like the spleen, kidney, liver, lung and lymph nodes. In addition, we address several promising therapeutic options, such as cytokine therapy, immunocytokines and immunotherapy, which aim to exploit the anti-tumorigenic potential of neutrophils in cancer treatment or block excessive neutrophil-mediated inflammation in autoimmune diseases.
Viral Infections of the Oral Cavity in Children
Authors: Amato Alessandra
Published: August 2023

Various viral infections can affect the oral cavities of pediatric patients [...]
Magnetic Compression Anastomosis–Past Experience and Current Proposals for Further Development in Pediatric Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Kotlovsky Anatole M. , Muensterer Oliver J. , Nikolaev Vasily V. , Razumovskiy Alexander Y.
Published: August 2023

Originating in the 1970s, magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) has lately been revisited with a focus on minimal invasive surgery (MIS). The aim of this report is to reappraise our earlier experience with MCA with the intention of facilitating future MCA advancement. A retrospective review was conducted regarding preclinical experiments and clinical trials at a single institution from 1980 to 1995. The reviewed information was compiled and appraised to generate proposals for future MCA use. The experimental studies, including 250 MCA cases in gastrointestinal and urinary tract animal models, demonstrated the technical versatility of MCA as well as the superior biomechanical characteristics in comparison to hand-sewn anastomoses. Clinical trials encompassed 87 MCA procedures in 86 children, 2 to 10 years of age, involving the following techniques: non-operative esophageal recanalization (n = 15), non-operative ileostomy undiversion (n = 46), Swenson pull-through (n = 10), non-operative urethral recanalization (n = 5), and extravesical ureterocystoneostomy (n = 11). Clinical MCA was found to be successful in over 87% of cases. MCA limitations concerning anastomotic failure and scarring were thought to be mostly due to inadequate magnetic compression. Based on our historic experience, we propose further research on the technical aspects of MCA, along with the biological aspects of anastomotic tissue remodeling. Magnets should be designed and manufactured for a wide spectrum of pediatric surgical indications, particularly in combination with novel MIS techniques.
Sono-Elastography: An Ultrasound Quantitative Non-Invasive Measurement to Guide Bacterial Pneumonia Diagnosis in Children
Authors: Huerta-Calpe Sergi , Salas Bárbara , Inarejos Clemente Emilio J. , Guitart Carmina , Balaguer Mònica , Jordan Iolanda
Published: August 2023

Lung ultrasound (LUS) is, at present, a standard technique for the diagnosis of acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRTI) and other lung pathologies. Its protocolised use has replaced chest radiography and has led to a drastic reduction in radiation exposure in children. Despite its undeniable usefulness, there are situations in which certain quantitative measurements could provide additional data to differentiate the etiology of some pulmonary processes and thus adapt the treatment. Our research group hypothesises that several lung processes such pneumonia may lead to altered lung tissue stiffness, which could be quantified with new diagnostic tests such as lung sono-elastography (SE). An exhaustive review of the literature has been carried out, concluding that the role of SE for the study of pulmonary processes is currently scarce and poorly studied, particularly in pediatrics. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the technical aspects of SE and to explore its potential usefulness as a non-invasive diagnostic technique for ALRTI in children by implementing an institutional image acquisition protocol.
The Weights Reset Technique for Deep Neural Networks Implicit Regularization
Authors: Plusch Grigoriy , Arsenyev-Obraztsov Sergey , Kochueva Olga
Published: August 2023

We present a new regularization method called Weights Reset, which includes periodically resetting a random portion of layer weights during the training process using predefined probability distributions. This technique was applied and tested on several popular classification datasets, Caltech-101, CIFAR-100 and Imagenette. We compare these results with other traditional regularization methods. The subsequent test results demonstrate that the Weights Reset method is competitive, achieving the best performance on Imagenette dataset and the challenging and unbalanced Caltech-101 dataset. This method also has sufficient potential to prevent vanishing and exploding gradients. However, this analysis is of a brief nature. Further comprehensive studies are needed in order to gain a deep understanding of the computing potential and limitations of the Weights Reset method. The observed results show that the Weights Reset method can be estimated as an effective extension of the traditional regularization methods and can help to improve model performance and generalization.
The Problem of Effective Evacuation of the Population from Floodplains under Threat of Flooding: Algorithmic and Software Support with Shortage of Resources
Authors: Vatyukova Oksana Yu. , Klikunova Anna Yu. , Vasilchenko Anna A. , Voronin Alexander A. , Khoperskov Alexander V. , Kharitonov Mikhail A.
Published: August 2023

Extreme flooding of the floodplains of large lowland rivers poses a danger to the population due to the vastness of the flooded areas. This requires the organization of safe evacuation in conditions of a shortage of temporary and transport resources due to significant differences in the moments of flooding of different spatial parts. We consider the case of a shortage of evacuation vehicles, in which the safe evacuation of the entire population to permanent evacuation points is impossible. Therefore, the evacuation is divided into two stages with the organization of temporary evacuation points on evacuation routes. Our goal is to develop a method for analyzing the minimum resource requirement for the safe evacuation of the population of floodplain territories based on a mathematical model of flood dynamics and minimizing the number of vehicles on a set of safe evacuation schedules. The core of the approach is a numerical hydrodynamic model in shallow water approximation. Modeling the hydrological regime of a real water body requires a multi-layer geoinformation model of the territory with layers of relief, channel structure, and social infrastructure. High-performance computing is performed on GPUs using CUDA. The optimization problem is a variant of the resource investment problem of scheduling theory with deadlines for completing work and is solved on the basis of a heuristic algorithm. We use the results of numerical simulation of floods for the Northern part of the Volga-Akhtuba floodplain to plot the dependence of the minimum number of vehicles that ensure the safe evacuation of the population. The minimum transport resources depend on the water discharge in the Volga river, the start of the evacuation, and the localization of temporary evacuation points. The developed algorithm constructs a set of safe evacuation schedules for the minimum allowable number of vehicles in various flood scenarios. The population evacuation schedules constructed for the Volga-Akhtuba floodplain can be used in practice for various vast river valleys.