bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The CAMKK/AMPK Pathway Contributes to Besnoitia besnoiti-Induced NETosis in Bovine Polymorphonuclear Neutrophils
Authors: Conejeros Iván , Velásquez Zahady D. , Rojas-Barón Lisbeth , Espinosa Gabriel , Hermosilla Carlos , Taubert Anja
Published: August 2024

Besnoitia besnoiti is an obligate intracellular apicomplexan parasite and the causal agent of bovine besnoitiosis. Bovine besnoitiosis has a considerable economic impact in Africa and Asia due to reduced milk production, abortions, and bull infertility. In Europe, bovine besnoitiosis is classified as an emerging disease. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) are one of the most abundant leukocytes in cattle blood and amongst the first immunological responders toward invading pathogens. In the case of B. besnoiti, bovine PMN produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and show increased autophagic activities upon exposure to tachyzoite stages. In that context, the general processes of NETosis and autophagy were previously reported as associated with AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. Here, we study the role of AMPK in B. besnoiti tachyzoite-induced NET formation, thereby expanding the analysis to both upstream proteins, such as the calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase 2 (CAMKK), and downstream signaling and effector molecules, such as the autophagy-related proteins ULK-1 and Beclin-1. Current data revealed early AMPK activation (<30 min) in both B. besnoiti-exposed and AMPK activator (AICAR)-treated bovine PMN. This finding correlated with upstream responses on the level of CAMKK activation. Moreover, these reactions were accompanied by an augmented autophagic activity, as represented by enhanced expression of ULK-1 but not of Beclin-1. Referring to neutrophil effector functions, AICAR treatments induced both AMPK phosphorylation and NET formation, without affecting cell viability. In B. besnoiti tachyzoite-exposed PMN, AICAR treatments failed to affect oxidative responses, but led to enhanced NET formation, thereby indicating that AMPK and autophagic activation synergize with B. besnoiti-driven NETosis.
Interleukin Profiling in Atopic Dermatitis and Chronic Nodular Prurigo
Authors: Wiegmann Henning , Renkhold Lina , Zeidler Claudia , Agelopoulos Konstantin , Ständer Sonja
Published: August 2024

The clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis (AD) and chronic nodular prurigo (CNPG) include pruritus and eczema/lesions, posing significant challenges for patients. Th2 cells and ILC2, marked by cytokine production—particularly IL-4/13—are crucial therapeutic targets. Despite displaying a dose-dependent lack of pruritus induction post-injection, IL-13 acts through the IL-13Rα1 and IL-13Rα2 receptor system. Our study focused on investigating ex vivo skin biopsies in AD (n = 17), CNPG (n = 14) and healthy controls (HC; n = 10), examining the gene expression landscape of interleukins linked with pruritus (IL-13, IL-4, IL-31) and their corresponding receptors. Compared to HC, results revealed a significant upregulation of IL-4, IL-13, and IL-13RA1 in AD, whereas CNPG did not show increased IL13 expression. Notably, the decoy receptor IL-13RA2 displayed intriguing patterns, with AD showing a marked increase compared to both HC and CNPG. Positive correlations between receptor expression and itch intensity and hyperkinesis sensation underscore clinical relevance, potentially serving as biomarkers. The findings suggest a pivotal role of IL-4 and IL-13, along with IL-13RA1, in pruritus pathogenesis in both entities, while IL-13 upregulation in AD is countered by IL-13RA2. The comparable expression of IL-13RA2 to HC in CNPG suggests the absence of this regulatory mechanism, potentially worsening the disease and leading to prolonged scratching behavior. These insights illuminate the intricate interplay of interleukins and receptors in different pruritus phenotypes, laying the groundwork for understanding underlying mechanisms and offering avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Therapy-Induced Senescence: Novel Approaches for Markers Identification
Authors: Pacifico Francesco , Magni Fulvio , Leonardi Antonio , Crescenzi Elvira
Published: August 2024

Therapy-induced senescence (TIS) represents a major cellular response to anticancer treatments. Both malignant and non-malignant cells in the tumor microenvironment undergo TIS and may be harmful for cancer patients since TIS cells develop a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that can sustain tumor growth. The SASP also modulates anti-tumor immunity, although the immune populations involved and the final results appear to be context-dependent. In addition, senescent cancer cells are able to evade senescence growth arrest and to resume proliferation, likely contributing to relapse. So, research data suggest that TIS induction negatively affects therapy outcomes in cancer patients. In line with this, new interventions aimed at the removal of senescent cells or the reprogramming of their SASP, called senotherapy, have become attractive therapeutic options. To date, the lack of reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-use TIS biomarkers hinders the application of recent anti-senescence therapeutic approaches in the clinic. Hence, the identification of biomarkers for the detection of TIS tumor cells and TIS non-neoplastic cells is a high priority in cancer research. In this review article, we describe the current knowledge about TIS, outline critical gaps in our knowledge, and address recent advances and novel approaches for the discovery of TIS biomarkers.
Healing from Within: How Gut Microbiota Predicts IBD Treatment Success—A Systematic Review
Authors: Alexandrescu Luana , Nicoara Alina Doina , Tofolean Doina Ecaterina , Herlo Alexandra , Nelson Twakor Andreea , Tocia Cristina , Trandafir Anamaria , Dumitru Andrei , Dumitru Eugen , Aftenie Cristian Florentin , Preotesoiu Ionela , Dina Elena , Tofolean Ioan Tiberiu
Published: August 2024

Recent research indicates that the microbiome has a significant impact on the progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and that creating therapies that change its composition could positively impact the outcomes of IBD treatment. This review summarizes the results of extensive studies that examined IBD patients undergoing several therapies, including anti-TNF medication, vedolizumab, ustekinumab, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and the alterations in their gut microbiota’s composition and function. The objective was to investigate the variety and effectiveness of microbial species in order to discover new biomarkers or therapeutic targets that could improve the outcome of treatment for these patients. This research aimed to offer useful insights into personalized medicine techniques for managing IBD. Beneficial bacteria such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Roseburia have been consistently linked to favorable clinical outcomes, whereas pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Clostridioides difficile are associated with worsening disease conditions. Although many studies have examined the role of gut microbiota in IBD, there is still a need for more targeted research on the connection between specific microbial communities and treatment outcomes. This study sought to address this gap by exploring the intricate relationship between the gut microbiota composition and the effectiveness of IBD medications.
Dysembryogenetic Pathogenesis of Basal Cell Carcinoma: The Evidence to Date
Authors: Nicoletti Giovanni , Saler Marco , Moro Umberto , Faga Angela
Published: August 2024

The Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is a sort of unique tumour due to its combined peculiar histological features and clinical behaviour, such as the constant binary involvement of the epithelium and the stroma, the virtual absence of metastases and the predilection of specific anatomical sites for both onset and spread. A potential correlation between the onset of BCC and a dysembryogenetic process has long been hypothesised. A selective investigation of PubMed-indexed publications supporting this theory retrieved 64 selected articles published between 1901 and 2024. From our analysis of the literature review, five main research domains on the dysembryogenetic pathogenesis of BCC were identified: (1) The correlation between the topographic distribution of BCC and the macroscopic embryology, (2) the correlation between BCC and the microscopic embryology, (3) the genetic BCC, (4) the correlation between BCC and the hair follicle and (5) the correlation between BCC and the molecular embryology with a specific focus on the Hedgehog signalling pathway. A large amount of data from microscopic and molecular research consistently supports the hypothesis of a dysembryogenetic pathogenesis of BCC. Such evidence is promoting advances in the clinical management of this disease, with innovative targeted molecular therapies on an immune modulating basis being developed.
Streamlining Tax and Administrative Document Management with AI-Powered Intelligent Document Management System
Authors: Di Marzo Serugendo Giovanna , Cappelli Maria Assunta , Falquet Gilles , Métral Claudine , Wade Assane , Ghadfi Sami , Cutting-Decelle Anne-Françoise , Caselli Ashley , Cutting Graham
Published: August 2024

Organisations heavily dependent on paper documents still spend a significant amount of time managing a large volume of documents. An intelligent document management system (DMS) is presented to automate the processing of tax and administrative documents. The proposed system fills a gap in the landscape of practical tools in the field of DMS and advances the state of the art. This system represents a complex process of integrated AI-powered technologies that creates an ontology, extracts information from documents, defines profiles, maps the extracted data in RDF format, and applies inference through a reasoning engine. The DMS was designed to help all those companies that manage their clients’ tax and administrative documents daily. Automation speeds up the management process so that companies can focus more on value-added services. The system was tested in a case study that focused on the preparation of tax returns. The results demonstrated the efficacy of the system in providing document management service.
The Long-Term, Real-World Effects of Oxybutynin on Pressure Reservoir Function in the Neurogenic Bladder after Spinal Cord Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Boonjaraspinyo Sirintip , Saengsuwan Jittima , Sirasaporn Patpiya , Thinkhamrop Bandit
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Data on the long-term effects of oxybutynin in patients with neurogenic bladder (NGB) due to spinal cord injury (SCI) are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of oxybutynin and the combination of oxybutynin with trospium in these patients, under real-world medical conditions. Methods: A total of 107 patients with NGB due to SCI were included. The mean treatment duration was 2.8 years ± 0.8 years. The patients were categorized into three groups: (1) low-dose oxybutynin (5–15 mg/day), (2) high-dose oxybutynin (20–40 mg/day), and (3) oxybutynin combined with trospium. The main outcomes were maximal detrusor pressure (MDP) and cystometric bladder capacity (CBC). Both were assessed at baseline and at three subsequent follow-up visits. Generalized estimation equation models were used to estimate the overall mean reduction in MDP and CBC for each group. Results: The overall adjusted mean reduction from baseline of MDP in groups 1, 2, and 3 were 2.5 (95% CI: −5.4 to 10.4; p = 0.540), 16.9 (95% CI: 4.4 to 29.4; p = 0.008), and 21.9 (95% CI: 4.1 to 39.8; p = 0.016) cmH2O, respectively. For the CBC, the mean reduction was not significant in any group at any visit, nor were the overall mean reductions. Conclusions: These findings suggest that high-dose oxybutynin and oxybutynin–trospium combination achieve a significant long-term reduction in MDP in patients with NGB after SCI. The effects were sustained across all three follow-up periods.
Periodontitis and Depressive Disorders: The Effects of Antidepressant Drugs on the Periodontium in Clinical and Preclinical Models: A Narrative Review
Authors: Taccardi Damiano , Chiesa Alessandro , Maiorani Carolina , Pardo Alessia , Lombardo Giorgio , Scribante Andrea , Sabatini Silvia , Butera Andrea
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Several psychological conditions, including stress and depression, can adversely affect oral health; in fact, antidepressants, commonly used to treat depressive disorders, may have conflicting effects on the periodontal status of individuals. The aim of this review was to determine the effects of antidepressants on the periodontium. Methods: A literature search was conducted using electronic databases, Pubmed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, focusing on the use of antidepressants and their effects on periodontal health in animals or humans. Results: Seventeen articles have been included with the use of amitriptyline (two studies), desipramine (one study), imipramine (two studies), desvenlafaxine (one study), fluoxetine (six studies), venlafaxine (three studies) and tianeptine (two studies). One study evaluated several categories of antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), tricyclic, atypical and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO). Most trials showed improvements in periodontal health, especially with fluoxetine, but also with imipramine, desipramine, desvenlafaxine and tianeptine; on the contrary, worsening of clinical periodontal indices and increased loss of alveolar bone were reported with venlafaxine. Conclusions: This review suggests that in the presence of comorbidity between periodontitis and depression, pharmacological treatment with SNRIs, SSRIs and mixed antidepressants is associated with improvement in periodontal parameters, except for venlafaxine. Healthcare professionals (especially oral and mental health professionals) should investigate proper adherence to medication therapy in patients with a history of periodontitis and depression. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm these results.
Association between Ovarian Endometriomas and Stage of Endometriosis
Authors: Seraji Shadi , Ali Aliyah , Demirel Esra , Akerman Meredith , Nezhat Camran , Nezhat Farr R.
Published: August 2024

Objectives: To determine the association between ovarian endometriomas and stage of endometriosis. Methods: A total of 222 women aged 18–55 years old, who underwent minimally invasive surgery between January 2016 and December 2021 for treatment of endometriosis were included in the study. Patients underwent laparoscopic and/or robotic treatment of endometriosis by a single surgeon (FRN) and were staged using the ASRM revised classification of endometriosis. Pre-operative imaging studies, and operative and pathology reports were reviewed for the presence of endometriomas and the final stage of endometriosis. Using univariate analyses for categorical variables and the two-sample t-test or Mann–Whitney test for continuous data, association between endometriomas, stage of endometriosis, type of endometrioma, and other patient parameters such as age, gravidity, parity, laterality of endometriomas, prior medical treatment, and indication for surgery was analyzed. Results: Of the 222 patients included in the study, 86 patients had endometrioma(s) and were found to have stage III–IV disease. All 36 patients with bilateral endometriomas and 70% of patients with unilateral endometriomas had stage IV disease. Conclusions: The presence of ovarian endometrioma(s) indicates a higher stage of disease, correlating most often with stage IV endometriosis. Understanding the association between endometriomas and anticipated stage of disease can aid in appropriate pre-operative planning and patient counseling.
Toll-like Receptors: Key Players in Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Smok-Kalwat Jolanta , Mertowska Paulina , Mertowski Sebastian , Góźdź Stanisław , Grywalska Ewelina
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives Lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the major subtypes of lung cancer, characterized by diverse molecular pathways and variable clinical outcomes. This study focused on assessing the levels of TLR-2, TLR-3, TLR-4, TLR-7, TLR-8, and TLR-9 on peripheral blood lymphocytes in patients with newly diagnosed SCC compared to a group of healthy controls, in the context of disease development and patient survival, conducted over three years. The study aimed to investigate the differences in TLR expression between SCC patients and healthy people and to understand their role in the development of the disease and patient survival over three years. Methods: The study included the assessment of TLR-2, TLR-3, TLR-4, TLR-7, TLR-8, and TLR-9 levels on peripheral blood lymphocytes in patients with newly diagnosed SCC and in the control group. The expression of TLRs was measured using flow cytometry, and the soluble forms of the tested TLRs were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. All the analyses were conducted over a three-year period from the time patients were recruited to the study. The obtained test results were statistically analyzed. Results: Results showed statistically significant differences in TLR expression between the groups, with higher TLR levels correlating with an advanced stage of disease and poorer survival rates. This suggests that the deregulation of TLR levels may be involved in promoting tumor development and influencing its microenvironment. Conclusions: The research, conducted over three years, indicates the need for further research on the role of TLRs in SCC, including their potential use as therapeutic targets and biomarkers. This may help to increase the effectiveness of standard treatments and improve clinical outcomes in patients with SCC.
Frailty after Liver Transplantation: A Complex Unexplored Issue
Authors: Gabrielli Filippo , Biagi Filippo , Avossa Alessandra , Falcini Margherita , Nascimbeni Fabio , Andreone Pietro , Gitto Stefano
Published: August 2024

Frailty is a multidimensional syndrome predominantly studied in the elderly, characterized by reduced resistance to stressors due to diminished physiological reserve and resilience. Advances in surgical techniques and immunosuppressive drugs have improved long-term survival rates in solid organ transplant recipients, yet the 10-year survival is satisfying. However, liver transplant recipients have a noteworthy risk of developing frailty status. After liver transplant, frailty can be favored by socioeconomic, cultural, and health-related factors, leading to increased risks of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality. Various tools for frailty assessment exist, but none are universally validated for post-transplant patients. The integration of socioeconomic and psychological factors into frailty evaluation could improve quality of life and long-term outcomes for transplant recipients. Multidisciplinary approaches, including psychosocial support, are essential for managing frailty and enhancing the overall care of transplanted patients. This narrative review aims to comprehensively address the principal frailty risk factors associated with liver transplantation.
Extended Least Squares Making Evident Nonlinear Relationships between Variables: Portfolios of Financial Assets
Authors: Angelini Pierpaolo
Published: August 2024

This research work extends the least squares criterion. The regression models which have been treated so far in the literature do not study multilinear relationships between variables. Such relationships are of a nonlinear nature. They take place whenever two or more than two univariate variables are the components of a multiple variable of order 2 or an order greater than 2. A multiple variable of order 2 is not a bivariate variable, and a multiple variable of an order greater than 2 is not a multivariate variable. A multiple variable allows for the construction of a tensor. The α-norm of this tensor gives rise to an aggregate measure of a multilinear nature. In particular, given a multiple variable of order 2, four regression lines can be estimated in the same subset of a two-dimensional linear space over R. How these four regression lines give rise to an aggregate measure of a multilinear nature is shown by this paper. In this research work, such a measure is an estimate concerning the expected return on a portfolio of financial assets. The metric notion of α-product is used to summarize the sampling units which are observed.
Understanding How Streamer’s Self-Presentation in E-Commerce Live Streaming Affects Consumers: The Role of Persuasion Knowledge
Authors: Song Shuangshuang , Xu Ying , Ma Baolong , Zong Xin
Published: August 2024

In recent years, live streaming has become the mainstream way of online shopping in China. As the dominant player and performer in live streaming, streamers play a crucial role in consumers’ purchase decisions. Therefore, this study focuses on the self-presentation behavior of streamers in the context of e-commerce live streaming and explores the mechanism of its influence on consumers’ purchase intention from the perspective of persuasion knowledge. A total of 538 consumers from China participated in this anonymous survey. The results indicate that helpful and empathetic behaviors of streamers can significantly enhance consumers’ purchase intention, while derogatory, exaggerated, and flattering behaviors of streamers can significantly diminish consumers’ purchase intention. Persuasion knowledge played a mediating role and had a significant negative impact on purchase intention, while anticipated inaction regret weakened its effect on purchase intention.
A Conceptual Approach to Understanding the Customer Experience in E-Commerce: An Empirical Study
Authors: Pires Paulo Botelho , Prisco Mariana , Delgado Catarina , Santos José Duarte
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to identify the constructs related to customer experience that underpin e-commerce, as well as their interconnections, to develop a comprehensive conceptual model based on theories-in-use. A quantitative approach was employed through a survey of 441 respondents. Data analysis was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The research findings revealed that there are a total of 11 constructs: customer experience, customer satisfaction, customer loyalty, word-of-mouth, trust, perceived risk, security and privacy, web content, perceived price, perceived value, and service quality. Furthermore, twelve relationships were established between these constructs, which led to the development of a holistic conceptual model. The identified constructs and the relationships between them are hierarchized, which has practical implications for businesses. It allows them to concentrate on operational activities and formulate and implement strategies that are valued by consumers and supported by empirical evidence. The originality and value of this research lie in the conception and development of a comprehensive e-commerce model, which includes eleven constructs and twelve relationships. It also highlights the pivotal role of the customer experience.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Genomic Profiles of Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Nasopharynx of Asymptomatic Children in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Sufia , Nasrin Nishat , Tithi Nigar Sultana , Khatun Farjana , Asaduzzaman Muhammad , Topa Anika Fatema , Kabir Md Farhad , Haque Fahim Kabir Monjurul , Jubair Mohammad , Rahman Mustafizur , Lehmann Christian
Published: August 2024

Children carrying Staphylococcus aureus in their nasopharynx are at a higher risk of contracting systemic infection. Due to lack of sufficient information regarding such carriage, this study was conducted to explore the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility, and genomic profiles of S. aureus isolated from nasopharyngeal samples of 163 randomly selected asymptomatic Bangladeshi children aged from 5–<15 years. Antibiotic susceptibility pattern and genomic analysis of the samples were conducted using standard microbiological methods and genomic tools. The carriage was confirmed in 44 (27%) children who were mostly well nourished without respiratory symptoms in the last 3 months. Higher carriage was observed among the younger age group (5–<10 years) who completed vaccines for pneumonia (p = 0.002) and influenza (p = 0.004). Among the isolates, 84.1% were multidrug-resistant and 47.5% (n = 40) were methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). All the isolates (100%) were resistant to cefixime with higher resistance to ampicillin (95.5%) and penicillin (90.9%). Among the three investigated isolates, two were ST80 (ID-1 and ID-52) and one was a novel strain (ID-19) with the presence of aph-Stph, blaI, blaZ, dha1, fosB, lmrS, mepA, norA, and tet38 genes. The current research demonstrates a high incidence of multidrug-resistant S. aureus and reports the first instance of ST80 in asymptomatic children in Bangladesh.
Intravitreal Antiangiogenic Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy: A Mexican Real-Life Scenario Experience
Authors: López-Letayf Sonia , Vivanco-Rojas Oscar , Londoño-Angarita Valentina , Magaña-Guerrero Fátima Sofía , Buentello-Volante Beatriz , Garfias Yonathan
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of two intravitreal antiangiogenic drugs, ranibizumab and aflibercept, in a Mexican population over a period of 5 years, evaluating the improvement in visual acuity (VA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) in a real-world scenario. This is a retrospective study with subjects diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy (DR), proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and diabetic macular edema (DME) receiving intravitreal injections of ranibizumab and/or aflibercept. In this study, we analyzed 588 eyes of 294 patients who received intravitreal antiangiogenic injections. The results showed an improvement regardless of antiangiogenic treatment or diagnosis in both VA and CRT. We found that both aflibercept and ranibizumab improved VA, while subjects with DME responded less to antiangiogenic treatment (p < 0.05), and that this difference did not correspond to the CRT measured by OCT. These results support evidence that intravitreal antiangiogenic medications are effective for ophthalmic complications of diabetes in our population; however, damage to visual structures is not reversed in most patients. And that the perception by the patient (VA) and that of the ophthalmologist (CRT) do not completely correlate in our study.
Non-Destructive Testing for Documenting Properties of Structural Concrete for Reuse in New Buildings: A Review
Authors: Ottosen Lisbeth M. , Kunther Wolfgang , Ingeman-Nielsen Thomas , Karatosun Serkan
Published: August 2024

Reuse in new buildings of structural concrete components from demolitions holds the potential for avoiding the use of raw materials to produce new components, including cement for new castings. Reuse rates are high in the circular economy; however, reusing structural components requires documentation of the properties to equate the safety of using reused and new components. Yet, there is no structured or recognized way to perform the documentation. This paper discusses a framework for the documentation requirements for structural concrete, stating the need for documenting the mechanical properties, concrete heterogeneity, and corrosion status of the reinforcement. The possibility is explored for documenting the required properties while the components are in the donor building by use of non-destructive test (NDT) methods. Such use of NDT methods is new. A comprehensive literature survey on the indirect literature, where NDT methods are used to demonstrate similar concrete properties though related to other purposes, is conducted. The overall conclusion is that the use of NDT methods has the potential to document the requested properties before reuse. The next steps towards implementation of NDT for documenting the properties of structural concrete components for reuse involve research in combined NDT methods and the development of AI systems for data interpretation.
In Vitro Assessment of a New Block Design for Implant Crowns with Functional Gradient Fabricated with Resin Composite and Zirconia Insert
Authors: Gutiérrez Robledo Nicolás , Punset Fuste Miquel , Rodríguez-Contreras Alejandra , García Marro Fernando , Manero Planella José María , Figueras-Álvarez Oscar , Roig Cayón Miguel
Published: August 2024

This study aims to evaluate and compare the mechanical resistance, fatigue behavior and fracture behavior of different CAD/CAM materials for implant crowns. Eighty-eight implant crowns cemented-screwed with four sample groups: two monolithic G1 Zirconia (control) and G3 composite and two bi-layered G2 customized zirconia/composite and G4 prefabricated zirconia/composite. All static and dynamic mechanical tests were conducted at 37 °C under wet conditions. The fractographic evaluation of deformed and/or fractured samples was evaluated via electron microscopy. Statistical analysis was conducted using Wallis tests, which were performed depending on the variables, with a confidence interval of 95%, (p < 0.05). The Maximum Fracture Strength values displayed by the four groups of samples showed no statistically significant differences. The crown–abutment material combination influenced the failure mode of the restoration, transitioning from a fatigue fracture type located at the abutment–analog connection for monolithic materials (G1 and G3) to a brittle fracture located in the crown for bi-layered materials (G2 and G4). The use of layered crown materials with functional gradients appears to protect the crown/abutment connection area by partially absorbing the applied mechanical loads. This prevents catastrophic mechanical failures, avoiding long chairside time to solve these kinds of complications.
Evaluation of Shear Strength and Stiffness of a Loess–Sand Mixture in Triaxial and Unconfined Compression Tests
Authors: Tankiewicz Matylda , Kowalska Magdalena , Mońka Jakub
Published: August 2024

Mechanical soil parameters are not constants and can be defined in various ways. Therefore, determination of their values for engineering practice is difficult. This problem is discussed based on results of piezoceramic element tests and triaxial tests (unconfined and confined) on loess specimens improved by compaction and sand admixture (20% by weight). The study indicated also the effectiveness of this simple method of loess stabilization. The influence of specimen size, draining conditions, stress and strain state, and different calculation methods on the evaluation of basic mechanical parameters were analyzed. The initial shear and Young’s moduli, the degradation of secant moduli with strain, tangent moduli, and Poisson’ ratio were determined. The results showed that the shear strength parameters are much less sensitive to the test variables than the stiffness parameters are. In triaxial tests, the strength criterion adopted, the sample size, and the drainage conditions influenced the measured value of cohesion, with a much smaller impact on the angle of internal friction. On the other hand, the adopted definition of the parameter and the range of strains had the greatest influence on the value of the stiffness modulus. Moreover, larger specimens were usually found to be stiffer.
Sustainable Alkali Activation: The Role of Water- and Alkali-Treated Sisal Leaf Wastewaters in Solid- Waste-Based Composite Synthesis
Authors: Li Liang , Yang Hongqi , Zhao Xianhui , Wang Haoyu , Zhao Renlong
Published: August 2024

The intricate composition of wastewater impedes the recycling of agricultural and industrial effluents. This study aims to investigate the potential of sisal leaf wastewater (SLW), both water-treated (WTSLW) and alkali-treated (ATSLW), as a substitute for the alkali activator (NaOH solution) in the production of slag-powder- and fly-ash-based composites, with a focus on the effects of WTSLW substitution ratios and sisal leaf soaking durations. Initially, the fresh properties were assessed including electrical conductivity and fluidity. A further analysis was conducted on the influence of both WTSLW and ATSLW on drying shrinkage, density, and mechanical strength, including flexural and compressive measures. Microstructural features were characterized using SEM and CT imaging, while XRD patterns and FTIR spectra were employed to dissect the influence of WTSLW substitution on the composite’s products. The results show that incorporating 14 wt% WTSLW into the composite enhances 90-day flexural and compressive strengths by 34.8% and 13.2%, respectively, while WTSLW curtails drying shrinkage. Conversely, ATSLW increases porosity and decreases density. Organic constituents in both WTSLW and ATSLW encapsulated in the alkaline matrix fail to modify the composites’ chemical composition. These outcomes underscore the potential for sustainable construction materials through the integrated recycling of plant wastewater and solid by-products.
Efficient Preconditioning Based on Scaled Tridiagonal and Toeplitz-like Splitting Iteration Method for Conservative Space Fractional Diffusion Equations
Authors: Guo Xiaofeng
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this work is to study the efficient numerical solvers for time-dependent conservative space fractional diffusion equations. Specifically, for the discretized Toeplitz-like linear system, we aim to study efficient preconditioning based on a matrix-splitting iteration method. We propose a scaled tridiagonal and Toeplitz-like splitting iteration method. Its asymptotic convergence property is first established. Further, based on the induced preconditioner, a fast circulant-like preconditioner is developed to accelerate the convergence of the Krylov Subspace iteration methods. Theoretical results suggest that the fast preconditioner can inherit the effectiveness of the original induced preconditioner. Numerical results also demonstrate its efficiency.
The Normalized Direct Trigonometry Model for the Two-Dimensional Irregular Strip Packing Problem
Authors: Pantoja-Benavides Germán , Álvarez-Martínez David , Parreño Torres Francisco
Published: August 2024

Background: The Irregular Strip Packing Problem (ISPP) involves packing a set of irregularly shaped items within a strip while minimizing its length. Methods: This study introduces the Normalized Direct Trigonometry Model (NDTM), an innovative enhancement of the Direct Trigonometry Model (DTM). The NDTM incorporates a distance function that supports the integration of the separation constraint, which mandates a minimum separation distance between items. Additionally, the paper proposes a new set of constraints based on the bounding boxes of the pieces aimed at improving the non-overlapping condition. Results: Comparative computational experiments were performed using a comprehensive set of 90 instances. Results show that the NDTM finds more feasible and optimal solutions than the DTM. While the NDTM allows for the implementation of the separation constraint, the number of feasible and optimal solutions tends to decrease as more separation among the items is considered, despite not increasing the number of variables or constraints. Conclusions: The NDTM outperforms the DTM. Moreover, the results indicate that the new set of non-overlapping constraints facilitates the exploration of feasible solutions at the expense of optimality in some cases.
Impact of Corrosion on Tensile Properties of a Mg Alloy in a Finite Element Model of a Coronary Artery Stent Coupled with Geometry Optimization
Authors: Gomes Inês V. , Alves José L. , Puga Hélder
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the influence of corrosion-induced deterioration of the tensile properties of a Mg-1 wt.% Ca alloy on the performance of a coronary artery stent model fabricated using the alloy wire. Finite element analysis was used to determine the change in various characteristics of the model when immersed in a biosimulation aqueous solution (Earle’s Balanced Salt Solution). Results from tensile tests on wires fabricated from the alloy (non-treated versus ultrasound-assisted casting (US)) were used as input to a shape optimisation study of the stent, which aimed at reducing stent strut thickness and minimising corrosion-related parameters such as equivalent plastic strain and residual stress. For each of the characteristics, it was found that the US treatment produced a more desirable result compared to the stents modelled using non-treated material data; for example, the decrease in strut thickness, equivalent plastic strain, and residual stress were each markedly greater, while keeping the stent’s functionality. These results suggest that US-treated Mg-1 wt./wt.% Ca alloy may be promising for fabricating biodegradable coronary artery stents.
Study on Synthesis and Regulation of PPVI and PPVII in Paris polyphylla with UV
Authors: Geng Dongjie , Sun Yiqun , Liu Shouzan , Chen Wen , Gao Fei , Bai Yan , Zhang Shaobo
Published: August 2024

Paris polyphylla Smith var. Chinensis (Franch.) Hara is a medicinal plant that belongs to the Liliaceae family. Its main components are parissaponins, which have excellent medicinal effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, etc. Improving the quality of parissaponins through artificial directional regulation has emerged as a practice to meet medical demand and is a new research hotspot. In this paper, P. polyphylla plants were treated with UVA, UVB, and UVC, and the contents of PolyPhyllin VI (PPVI) and PolyPhyllin VII (PPVII), saponin synthase (squalene synthase, SS; cycloartenol synthase, CAS; cytochrome P450, CYP450; and glycosyl transferases, GT) activity, MDA, and the photosynthetic pigment indexes were measured and analyzed. The results showed that PPVII content increased by 32.43% with UVC treatment after 4 h (3.43 mg/g), but the PPVI and PPVII contents in the other groups decreased compared with CK (control group) and they did not return to the original level after 4 h. SS, CAS, CYP450, and GT synthases were activated in varying degrees via UV treatment and increased, respectively, by 22.93%, 10.83%, 20.15%, and 25.98%. Among them, GT, as the last of the synthetases, had a shorter response time to UVB (30 min) and UVC (15 min); the difference was sensible compared with CK. Moreover, UV had a stressing effect and promoted the rapid accumulation of MDA content (increased 17.66%, 34.53%, and 9.65%) and carotenoid (increased 7.58, 5.60, and 7.76 times) within 4 h compared to CK. UVB and UVC radiation visibly improved chlorophyll a content (42.56% and 35.45%), but UVA did not, and the change in chlorophyll b content showed no overt statistical difference. In addition, PPVI and PPVII were negatively correlated with SS, CAS, carotenoids, and MDA (p < 0.05) and positively correlated with CYP450, GT, and chlorophyll a (p < 0.05). This study provides a theoretical basis for using UV light to regulate secondary metabolism in P. polyphylla, which is of great value for production management.
Microfluidic Wound-Healing Assay for Comparative Study on Fluid Dynamic, Chemical and Mechanical Wounding on Microglia BV2 Migration
Authors: Yazdanpanah Moghadam Ehsan , Sonenberg Nahum , Packirisamy Muthukumaran
Published: August 2024

Microglial cells, or brain immune cells, are highly dynamic and continuously migrate in pathophysiological conditions. Their adhesion, as a physical characteristic, plays a key role in migration. In this study, we presented a microfluidic chip combination of two assays: a microglial BV2 adhesion assay and a wound-healing migration assay. The chip could create the cell-free area (wound) under chemical stimuli with trypsin (chemical assay) and also mechanical stimuli with the PBS flow (mechanical assay). The microfluidic chip functioned as the cell adhesion assay during wounding, when the cell adhesion of microglia BV2 cells was characterized by the cell removal time under various shear stress ranges. The cell detachment pattern on the glass substrate was found under physiological conditions. After wounding, the chip operated as a migration assay; it was shown that cell migration in the cell-free area generated chemically with trypsin was highly improved compared to mechanical cell-free area creations with PBS flow and the scratch assay. Our findings indicated that the increase in inlet flow rate in the mechanical assay led to a reduced experiment time and mechanical force on the cells, which could improve cell migration. Furthermore, the study on the effect of the device geometry showed that the increased channel width had an inhibitory effect on cell migration. The bi-functional chip offers an opportunity for the development of new models for a better understanding of cellular adhesion and migration in in vitro microenvironments.
A CMOS-Compatible Process for ≥3 kV GaN Power HEMTs on 6-inch Sapphire Using In Situ SiN as the Gate Dielectric
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Xiangdong , Ji Jian , You Shuzhen , Chen Long , Wang Lezhi , Li Zilan , Hao Yue , Zhang Jincheng
Published: August 2024

The application of GaN HEMTs on silicon substrates in high-voltage environments is significantly limited due to their complex buffer layer structure and the difficulty in controlling wafer warpage. In this work, we successfully fabricated GaN power HEMTs on 6-inch sapphire substrates using a CMOS-compatible process. A 1.5 µm thin GaN buffer layer with excellent uniformity and a 20 nm in situ SiN gate dielectric ensured uniformly distributed VTH and RON across the entire 6-inch wafer. The fabricated devices with an LGD of 30 µm and WG of 36 mm exhibited an RON of 18.06 Ω·mm and an off-state breakdown voltage of over 3 kV. The electrical mapping visualizes the high uniformity of RON and VTH distributed across the whole 6-inch wafer, which is of great significance in promoting the applications of GaN power HEMTs for medium-voltage power electronics in the future.
Niacinamide Antimicrobial Efficacy and Its Mode of Action via Microbial Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Ziklo Noa , Bibi Maayan , Sinai Lior , Salama Paul
Published: August 2024

Niacinamide is a versatile compound widely used in the personal care industry for its ample skin benefits. As a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), essential for ATP production and a substrate for poly-ADP-ribose polymerase-1 (PARP-1), studies have highlighted its roles in DNA repair, cellular stress mechanisms, and anti-aging benefits. Niacinamide was also studied for its antimicrobial activity, particularly in the context of host-infection via host immune response, yet its direct antimicrobial activity and the mechanisms of action remain unclear. Its multifunctionality makes it an appealing bioactive molecule for skincare products as well as a potential preservative solution. This study explores niacinamide’s antimicrobial mode of action against four common cosmetic pathogens. Our findings indicate that niacinamide is causing microbial cell cycle arrest; while cells were found to increase their volume and length under treatment to prepare for cell division, complete separation into two daughter cells was prevented. Fluorescence microscopy revealed expanded chromatin, alongside a decreased RNA expression of the DNA-binding protein gene, dps. Finally, niacinamide was found to directly interact with DNA, hindering successful amplification. These unprecedented findings allowed us to add a newly rationalized preservative facete to the wide range of niacinamide multi-functionality.
Influence of Pore Water Chemistry on Particle Association and Physical Properties of Lime-Treated Bentonite
Authors: Vitale Enza , Deneele Dimitri , Russo Giacomo
Published: August 2024

In the present work, an investigation on the influence of the chemical environment on the sedimentation behaviour of bentonite suspensions is performed with particular reference to the effect of lime addition on the clay particle arrangement. The role of lime content, cation valence and source of calcium ions is considered in the experimental work. At the microscale, particle interaction is analysed by means of zeta potential measurements. Soil fabric formation during sedimentation and its physical properties are inferred from dynamic light scattering measurements, sedimentation tests and Atterberg limits. The addition of cations to pore water promotes the flocculation of montmorillonite particles favouring the formation of particle aggregates, whose dimension depends on ion valence and concentration. The final height of sediments reflects the combined effect of the mutual interactions among particles and the development of secondary phases due to pozzolanic reactions. The influence of clay mineralogy and its effects on the physical properties of lime-treated bentonite is highlighted by comparison with experimental evidence on lime-treated kaolin.
The Role of Ascorbic Acid in the Process of Azo Dye Degradation in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Pach Adrianna , Zaryczny Aleksandra , Podborska Agnieszka , Luty-Błocho Magdalena
Published: August 2024

In this work, the role of ascorbic acid in the process of azo dye degradation was explained. For this purpose, the kinetics of azo dye degradation under different conditions was studied. Among them, the influence of daylight protection/exposition, different concentrations of ascorbic acid (0.567–0.014 mol/dm3), and temperature (20 °C and 50 °C) on the rate of the dyes’ degradation was considered. For this process, the kinetic equation was proposed, which indicates that the process of azo dye degradation using ascorbic acid is first order. Moreover, the observed rate constants were determined, and the mechanism of azo dye degradation was proposed. Spectrophotometry results, together with FTIR, fluorescence spectroscopy, and DFT calculations, explain the origin of the decolorization of the azo dyes and highlight the role of ascorbic acid in this process. Detailed analysis of the obtained products indicates that the process itself goes through several stages in which equally or more toxic compounds are formed. Obtained results from LCMS studies indicate that during tropaeolin OO degradation, 1,2-Diphenylhydrazine (m/z 185.1073) is formed. Thus, the process of azo dye degradation should be carried out in protective conditions. The proposed mechanism suggests that ascorbic acid at high content levels can be used for azo dye degradation from aqueous solution and can be an alternative method for their removal/neutralization from waste solution but with caution during the process.
An Innovative Aggregation-Induced Emission-Based NIR Fluorescent Probe for Visualizing Carboxylesterases in Living Cells, Zebrafish, and Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Gao Chao , Chen Dan-Dan , Liu Hu-Wei , Ma Ming-Lan , Zhang Lin , Cui Hai-Rong
Published: August 2024

In the human body, carboxylesterases (CEs) play crucial roles in xenobiotic metabolism and lipid homeostasis. But abnormal expression of CEs is highly associated with some diseases, such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and liver cancer. Therefore, it is of great importance to develop an efficient tool for the accurate detection of CEs in living organisms. Herein, an innovative near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe, TTAP−AB, was designed for CE detection based on the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) mechanism. This probe exhibits rapid response (2 min), excellent sensitivity (limit of detection = 8.14 × 10−6 U/mL), and high selectivity to CEs. Additionally, owing to its good biocompatibility, the TTAP−AB probe enables the monitoring of dynamic changes in CE levels under drug-induced modulation in living cells and zebrafish. More importantly, the TTAP−AB probe was successfully employed to image liver tumors and assist in tumor resection through the real-time monitoring of CEs, indicating that TTAP−AB is promising to guide liver cancer surgery. Therefore, the TTAP−AB probe can not only enrich the strategies for CE detection in biological systems but also has great potential for some clinical imaging applications, including medical diagnosis, preclinical research, and imaging-guided surgery.