bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Insights into Adsorption and Diffusion Mechanism of N-Hexane in MFI Zeolites with Different Si-to-Al Ratios and Counterions
Authors: Zheng Jian , Huang Le , Wei Panpeng , Li Qiang , Fan Xiaolei , Qin Yucai , Song Lijuan
Published: January 2022

The effect of the silicon to aluminum ratio (SAR) and alkali metal cations on adsorption and diffusion properties of ZSM-5 and silicate-1 zeolites was investigated using n-hexane as the model probe via giant canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. A wide range of SAR was considered in this study to explore the possible adsorption sites in the zeolites. The findings show that, at 298 K and 423 K, adsorption and diffusion of n-hexane on/in low SAR (≤50) H-ZSM-5 models were promoted due to the preferable distribution of n-hexane in straight channels and enhanced interaction between protons and n-hexane molecules (about 24 kcal·mol−1). In alkali metal cation (i.e., Na+ and K+) exchanged ZSM-5, the alkali metal cations affected transport of molecules, which led to significant differences in their adsorption and diffusion properties compared to HZSM-5. In the Na+ and K+ systems, lower saturated adsorption capacities were predicted compared to that of silicate-1, which could be attributed to the decrease in effective void size posed by alkali–metal cations. In addition, simulation results also suggested that the T9 and T3 are the most likely sites for n-hexane adsorption, followed by T2, T5, and T10. Findings of the work can be beneficial to the rational design of high-performance zeolite catalysts for n-hexane conversion.
Halloysite Nanotubes: Smart Nanomaterials in Catalysis
Authors: Massaro Marina , Noto Renato , Riela Serena
Published: January 2022

The use of clay minerals as catalyst is renowned since ancient times. Among the different clays used for catalytic purposes, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) represent valuable resources for industrial applications. This special tubular clay possesses high stability and biocompatibility, resistance against organic solvents, and most importantly be available in large amounts at a low cost. Therefore, HNTs can be efficiently used as catalysts themselves or supports for metal nanoparticles in several catalytic processes. This review reports a comprehensive overview of the relevant advances in the use of halloysite in catalysis, focusing the attention on the last five years.
Highly Efficient and Sustainable ZnO/CuO/g-C3N4 Photocatalyst for Wastewater Treatment under Visible Light through Heterojunction Development
Authors: Hanif Md. Abu , Akter Jeasmin , Kim Young Soon , Kim Hong Gun , Hahn Jae Ryang , Kwac Lee Ku
Published: January 2022

Dye-containing pollutants are currently a threat to the environment, and it is highly challenging to eliminate these dyes photocatalytically under visible light. Herein, we designed and prepared a ZnO/CuO/g-C3N4 (ZCG) heterostructure nanocomposite by a co-crystallization procedure and applied it to eliminate pollutants from wastewater via a photocatalytic scheme. The structural and morphological features of the composite confirmed the formation of a ZCG nanocomposite. The photocatalytic capability of the ZCG photocatalyst was investigated via the decomposition of methylene blue dye. The outstanding activity level of 97.46% was reached within 50 min. In addition, the proficiency of the ZCG composite was 753%, 392%, 156%, and 130% higher than photolysis, g-C3N4, CuO, and ZnO, respectively. Furthermore, the photodeterioration activity on Congo red was also evaluated and found to be excellent. The enhanced catalytic achievement is attributed to the construction of heterojunctions among the constituent compounds. These properties boost the charge transfer and decrease the recombination rate. Moreover, the reusability of the ZCG product was explored and a negligible photoactivity decline was detected after six successful runs. The outcomes suggest the as-prepared nanocomposite can be applied to remove pollutants, which opens a new door to practical implementation.
Inosine Triphosphate Pyrophosphatase (ITPase): Functions, Mutations, Polymorphisms and Its Impact on Cancer Therapies
Authors: Zamzami Mazin A.
Published: January 2022

Inosine triphosphate pyrophosphatase (ITPase) is an enzyme encoded by the ITPA gene and functions to prevent the incorporation of noncanonical purine nucleotides into DNA and RNA. Specifically, the ITPase catalyzed the hydrolysis of (deoxy) nucleoside triphosphates ((d) NTPs) into the corresponding nucleoside monophosphate with the concomitant release of pyrophosphate. Recently, thiopurine drug metabolites such as azathioprine have been included in the lists of ITPase substrates. Interestingly, inosine or xanthosine triphosphate (ITP/XTP) and their deoxy analogs, deoxy inosine or xanthosine triphosphate (dITP/dXTP), are products of important biological reactions such as deamination that take place within the cellular compartments. However, the incorporation of ITP/XTP, dITP/dXTP, or the genetic deficiency or polymorphism of the ITPA gene have been implicated in many human diseases, including infantile epileptic encephalopathy, early onset of tuberculosis, and the responsiveness of patients to cancer therapy. This review provides an up-to-date report on the ITPase enzyme, including information regarding its discovery, analysis, and cellular localization, its implication in human diseases including cancer, and its therapeutic potential, amongst others.
Harnessing the Potential of NK Cell-Based Immunotherapies against Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Reina-Ortiz Chantal , Giraldos David , Azaceta Gemma , Palomera Luis , Marzo Isabel , Naval Javier , Villalba Martín , Anel Alberto
Published: January 2022

Natural killer (NK) cell-based therapies have emerged as promising anticancer treatments due to their potency as cytolytic effectors and synergy with concurrent treatments. Multiple myeloma (MM) is an aggressive B-cell malignancy that, despite development of novel therapeutic agents, remains incurable with a high rate of relapse. In MM, the inhospitable tumor microenvironment prevents host NK cells from exerting their cytolytic function. The development of NK cell immunotherapy works to overcome this altered immune landscape and can be classified in two major groups based on the origin of the cell: autologous or allogeneic. In this review, we compare the treatments in each group, such as autologous chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) NKs and allogeneic off-the-shelf NK cell infusions, and their combinatorial effect with existing MM therapies including monoclonal antibodies and proteasome inhibitors. We also discuss their placement in clinical treatment regimens based on the immune profile of each patient. Through this examination, we would like to discover precisely when each NK cell-based treatment will produce the maximum benefit to the MM patient.
Fine-Tuning of Piezo1 Expression and Activity Ensures Efficient Myoblast Fusion during Skeletal Myogenesis
Authors: Ortuste Quiroga Huascar Pedro , Ganassi Massimo , Yokoyama Shingo , Nakamura Kodai , Yamashita Tomohiro , Raimbach Daniel , Hagiwara Arisa , Harrington Oscar , Breach-Teji Jodie , Asakura Atsushi , Suzuki Yoshiro , Tominaga Makoto , Zammit Peter S. , Goto Katsumasa
Published: January 2022

Mechanical stimuli, such as stretch and resistance training, are essential in regulating the growth and functioning of skeletal muscles. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in sensing mechanical stress during muscle formation remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo1 during myogenic progression of both fast and slow muscle satellite cells. We found that Piezo1 level increases during myogenic differentiation and direct manipulation of Piezo1 in muscle stem cells alters the myogenic progression. Indeed, Piezo1 knockdown suppresses myoblast fusion, leading to smaller myotubes. Such an event is accompanied by significant downregulation of the fusogenic protein Myomaker. In parallel, while Piezo1 knockdown also lowers Ca2+ influx in response to stretch, Piezo1 activation increases Ca2+ influx in response to stretch and enhances myoblasts fusion. These findings may help understand molecular defects present in some muscle diseases. Our study shows that Piezo1 is essential for terminal muscle differentiation acting on myoblast fusion, suggesting that Piezo1 deregulation may have implications in muscle aging and degenerative diseases, including muscular dystrophies and neuromuscular disorders.
Causes of and Molecular Targets for the Treatment of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: A Review
Authors: Ohnishi Takashi , Iwasaki Norimasa , Sudo Hideki
Published: January 2022

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a pathological condition that can lead to intractable back pain or secondary neurological deficits. There is no fundamental cure for this condition, and current treatments focus on alleviating symptoms indirectly. Numerous studies have been performed to date, and the major strategy for all treatments of IVDD is to prevent cell loss due to programmed or regulated cell death. Accumulating evidence suggests that several types of cell death other than apoptosis, including necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, are also involved in IVDD. In this study, we discuss the molecular pathway of each type of cell death and review the literature that has identified their role in IVDD. We also summarize the recent advances in targeted therapy at the RNA level, including RNA modulations through RNA interference and regulation of non-coding RNAs, for preventing cell death and subsequent IVDD. Therefore, we review the causes and possible therapeutic targets for RNA intervention and discuss the future direction of this research field.
Reproductive Toxicity of Furfural Acetone in Meloidogyne incognita and Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Cheng Wanli , Yang Xue , Xue Hua , Huang Dian , Cai Minmin , Huang Feng , Zheng Longyu , Yu Ziniu , Zhang Jibin
Published: January 2022

Furfural acetone (FAc) is a promising alternative to currently available nematicides, and it exhibits equivalent control efficiency on root-knot nematodes with avermectin in fields. However, its effect on the reproduction of root-knot nematode is poorly understood. In this study, the natural metabolite FAc was found to exhibit reproductive toxicity on Meloidogyne incognita and Caenorhabditis elegans. The number of germ cells of C. elegans was observed to decrease after exposure to FAc, with a reduction of 59.9% at a dose of 200 mg/L. FAc in various concentrations induced the germ-cell apoptosis of C. elegans, with an increase over six-fold in the number of apoptotic germ cells at 200 mg/L. These findings suggested that FAc decreased the brood size of nematode by inducing germ-cell apoptosis. Moreover, FAc-induced germ-cell apoptosis was suppressed by the mutation of gene hus-1, clk-2, cep-1, egl-1, ced-3, ced-4, or ced-9. The expression of genes spo-11, cep-1, and egl-1 in C. elegans was increased significantly after FAc treatment. Taken together, these results indicate that nematode exposure to FAc might inflict DNA damage through protein SPO-11, activate CEP-1 and EGL-1, and induce the core apoptosis pathway to cause germ-cell apoptosis, resulting in decreased brood size of C. elegans.
Novel Techniques Targeting Fibroblasts after Ischemic Heart Injury
Authors: Cakir Sirin N. , Whitehead Kaitlin M. , Hendricks Hanifah K. L. , de Castro Brás Lisandra E.
Published: January 2022

The great plasticity of cardiac fibroblasts allows them to respond quickly to myocardial injury and to contribute to the subsequent cardiac remodeling. Being the most abundant cell type (in numbers) in the heart, and a key participant in the several phases of tissue healing, the cardiac fibroblast is an excellent target for treating cardiac diseases. The development of cardiac fibroblast-specific approaches have, however, been difficult due to the lack of cellular specific markers. The development of genetic lineage tracing tools and Cre-recombinant transgenics has led to a huge acceleration in cardiac fibroblast research. Additionally, the use of novel targeted delivery approaches like nanoparticles and modified adenoviruses, has allowed researchers to define the developmental origin of cardiac fibroblasts, elucidate their differentiation pathways, and functional mechanisms in cardiac injury and disease. In this review, we will first characterize the roles of fibroblasts in the different stages of cardiac repair and then examine novel techniques targeting fibroblasts post-ischemic heart injury.
Therapeutic Targets in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Focus on Ion Channels and Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Tarantino Nancy , Canfora Ileana , Camerino Giulia Maria , Pierno Sabata
Published: January 2022

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease caused by progressive loss of motor neurons, which severely compromises skeletal muscle function. Evidence shows that muscle may act as a molecular powerhouse, whose final signals generate in patients a progressive loss of voluntary muscle function and weakness leading to paralysis. This pathology is the result of a complex cascade of events that involves a crosstalk among motor neurons, glia, and muscles, and evolves through the action of converging toxic mechanisms. In fact, mitochondrial dysfunction, which leads to oxidative stress, is one of the mechanisms causing cell death. It is a common denominator for the two existing forms of the disease: sporadic and familial. Other factors include excitotoxicity, inflammation, and protein aggregation. Currently, there are limited cures. The only approved drug for therapy is riluzole, that modestly prolongs survival, with edaravone now waiting for new clinical trial aimed to clarify its efficacy. Thus, there is a need of effective treatments to reverse the damage in this devastating pathology. Many drugs have been already tested in clinical trials and are currently under investigation. This review summarizes the already tested drugs aimed at restoring muscle-nerve cross-talk and on new treatment options targeting this tissue.
Generation of an hiPSC-Derived Co-Culture System to Assess the Effects of Neuroinflammation on Blood–Brain Barrier Integrity
Authors: Bull Daniel , Schweitzer Christophe , Bichsel Colette , Britschgi Markus , Gutbier Simon
Published: January 2022

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) regulates the interaction between the highly vulnerable central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral parts of the body. Disruption of the BBB has been associated with multiple neurological disorders, in which immune pathways in microglia are suggested to play a key role. Currently, many in vitro BBB model systems lack a physiologically relevant microglia component in order to address questions related to the mechanism of BBB integrity or the transport of molecules between the periphery and the CNS. To bridge this gap, we redefined a serum-free medium in order to allow for the successful co-culturing of human inducible pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived microglia and hiPSC-derived brain microvascular endothelial-like cells (BMECs) without influencing barrier properties as assessed by electrical resistance. We demonstrate that hiPSC-derived microglia exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) weaken the barrier integrity, which is associated with the secretion of several cytokines relevant in neuroinflammation. Consequently, here we provide a simplistic humanised BBB model of neuroinflammation that can be further extended (e.g., by addition of other cell types in a more complex 3D architecture) and applied for mechanistic studies and therapeutic compound profiling.
Mechanical Regulation of Limb Bud Formation
Authors: Sermeus Yvenn , Vangheel Jef , Geris Liesbet , Smeets Bart , Tylzanowski Przemko
Published: January 2022

Early limb bud development has been of considerable interest for the study of embryological development and especially morphogenesis. The focus has long been on biochemical signalling and less on cell biomechanics and mechanobiology. However, their importance cannot be understated since tissue shape changes are ultimately controlled by active forces and bulk tissue rheological properties that in turn depend on cell–cell interactions as well as extracellular matrix composition. Moreover, the feedback between gene regulation and the biomechanical environment is still poorly understood. In recent years, novel experimental techniques and computational models have reinvigorated research on this biomechanical and mechanobiological side of embryological development. In this review, we consider three stages of early limb development, namely: outgrowth, elongation, and condensation. For each of these stages, we summarize basic biological regulation and examine the role of cellular and tissue mechanics in the morphogenetic process.
Functional Differences between Proteasome Subtypes
Authors: Abi Habib Joanna , Lesenfants Julie , Vigneron Nathalie , Van den Eynde Benoit J.
Published: January 2022

Four proteasome subtypes are commonly present in mammalian tissues: standard proteasomes, which contain the standard catalytic subunits β1, β2 and β5; immunoproteasomes containing the immuno-subunits β1i, β2i and β5i; and two intermediate proteasomes, containing a mix of standard and immuno-subunits. Recent studies revealed the expression of two tissue-specific proteasome subtypes in cortical thymic epithelial cells and in testes: thymoproteasomes and spermatoproteasomes. In this review, we describe the mechanisms that enable the ATP- and ubiquitin-dependent as well as the ATP- and ubiquitin-independent degradation of proteins by the proteasome. We focus on understanding the role of the different proteasome subtypes in maintaining protein homeostasis in normal physiological conditions through the ATP- and ubiquitin-dependent degradation of proteins. Additionally, we discuss the role of each proteasome subtype in the ATP- and ubiquitin-independent degradation of disordered proteins. We also discuss the role of the proteasome in the generation of peptides presented by MHC class I molecules and the implication of having different proteasome subtypes for the peptide repertoire presented at the cell surface. Finally, we discuss the role of the immunoproteasome in immune cells and its modulation as a potential therapy for autoimmune diseases.
The Underestimated Role of Platelets in Severe Infection a Narrative Review
Authors: Fogagnolo Alberto , Campo Gianluca Calogero , Mari Matilde , Pompei Graziella , Pavasini Rita , Volta Carlo Alberto , Spadaro Savino
Published: January 2022

Beyond their role in hemostasis, platelets have emerged as key contributors in the immune response; accordingly, the occurrence of thrombocytopenia during sepsis/septic shock is a well-known risk factor of mortality and a marker of disease severity. Recently, some studies elucidated that the response of platelets to infections goes beyond a simple fall in platelets count; indeed, sepsis-induced thrombocytopenia can be associated with—or even anticipated by—several changes, including an altered morphological pattern, receptor expression and aggregation. Of note, alterations in platelet function and morphology can occur even with a normal platelet count and can modify, depending on the nature of the pathogen, the pattern of host response and the severity of the infection. The purpose of this review is to give an overview on the pathophysiological interaction between platelets and pathogens, as well as the clinical consequences of platelet dysregulation. Furthermore, we try to clarify how understanding the nature of platelet dysregulation may help to optimize the therapeutic approach.
Epiregulin as an Alternative Ligand for Leptin Receptor Alleviates Glucose Intolerance without Change in Obesity
Authors: Song No-Joon , Lee Aejin , Yasmeen Rumana , Shen Qiwen , Yang Kefeng , Kumar Shashi Bhushan , Muhanna Danah , Arnipalli Shanvanth , Noria Sabrena F. , Needleman Bradley J. , Hazey Jeffrey W. , Mikami Dean J. , Ortega-Anaya Joana , Jiménez-Flores Rafael , Prokop Jeremy , Ziouzenkova Ouliana
Published: January 2022

The leptin receptor (LepR) acts as a signaling nexus for the regulation of glucose uptake and obesity, among other metabolic responses. The functional role of LepR under leptin-deficient conditions remains unclear. This study reports that epiregulin (EREG) governed glucose uptake in vitro and in vivo in Lepob mice by activating LepR under leptin-deficient conditions. Single and long-term treatment with EREG effectively rescued glucose intolerance in comparative insulin and EREG tolerance tests in Lepob mice. The immunoprecipitation study revealed binding between EREG and LepR in adipose tissue of Lepob mice. EREG/LepR regulated glucose uptake without changes in obesity in Lepob mice via mechanisms, including ERK activation and translocation of GLUT4 to the cell surface. EREG-dependent glucose uptake was abolished in Leprdb mice which supports a key role of LepR in this process. In contrast, inhibition of the canonical epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway implicated in other EREG responses, increased glucose uptake. Our data provide a basis for understanding glycemic responses of EREG that are dependent on LepR unlike functions mediated by EGFR, including leptin secretion, thermogenesis, pain, growth, and other responses. The computational analysis identified a conserved amino acid sequence, supporting an evolutionary role of EREG as an alternative LepR ligand.
The Emerging Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Development and Function of Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata) Fast Skeletal Muscle
Authors: García-Pérez Isabel , Molsosa-Solanas Anna , Perelló-Amorós Miquel , Sarropoulou Elena , Blasco Josefina , Gutiérrez Joaquim , Garcia de la serrana Daniel
Published: January 2022

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are an emerging group of ncRNAs that can modulate gene expression at the transcriptional or translational levels. In the present work, previously published transcriptomic data were used to identify lncRNAs expressed in gilthead sea bream skeletal muscle, and their transcription levels were studied under different physiological conditions. Two hundred and ninety lncRNAs were identified and, based on transcriptomic differences between juveniles and adults, a total of seven lncRNAs showed potential to be important for muscle development. Our data suggest that the downregulation of most of the studied lncRNAs might be linked to increased myoblast proliferation, while their upregulation might be necessary for differentiation. However, with these data, as it is not possible to propose a formal mechanism to explain their effect, bioinformatic analysis suggests two possible mechanisms. First, the lncRNAs may act as sponges of myoblast proliferation inducers microRNAs (miRNAs) such as miR-206, miR-208, and miR-133 (binding energy MEF < −25.0 kcal). Secondly, lncRNA20194 had a strong predicted interaction towards the myod1 mRNA (ndG = −0.17) that, based on the positive correlation between the two genes, might promote its function. Our study represents the first characterization of lncRNAs in gilthead sea bream fast skeletal muscle and provides evidence regarding their involvement in muscle development.
Number of Kawasaki Disease Admissions Is Associated with Number of Domestic COVID-19 and Severe Enterovirus Case Numbers in Taiwan
Authors: Guo Mindy Ming-Huey , Yang Kuender D. , Liu Shih-Feng , Kuo Ho-Chang
Published: January 2022

Background: Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including mask-wearing and social distancing, have changed the prevalence of circulating viruses in the community. Since viral infections represent a potential triggering factor for the development of Kawasaki disease (KD), we examined the relationship between KD admission rates and the number of COVID-19, severe influenza, and severe enterovirus infections both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study using data obtained from the Chang Gung Research Database (including seven Taiwanese hospitals and more than 10,000 beds) and the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan from January 2018 to December 2020. We recorded the number of KD admissions, as well as COVID-19, severe influenza, and severe enterovirus infections. Results: The numbers of KD admissions, severe enterovirus infections, and severe influenza infections were significantly lower from April to September 2020. The number of KD hospitalizations was positively correlated with the number of domestic COVID-19 cases (p = 0.001). A decrease in KD admission numbers was positively correlated with a decrease in severe enterovirus case numbers (p = 0.007). Conclusion: Our findings provide further evidence that viral infections may be an important trigger factor in the development of KD. Therefore, NPIs may not only prevent transmissible viral infections in children, but also decrease the risk of KD.
Pulmonary Exacerbations in Pediatric Patients: Retrospective Study in a Portuguese Cystic Fibrosis Center
Authors: Cardoso Rosa , Cardoso Ana Lúcia , Barbosa Telma
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystemic disease caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Lung disease, the leading cause of morbimortality, is marked by acute worsening of symptoms—such as pulmonary exacerbations (PEx). The objectives of this study were: Identifying the frequency of PEx in pediatric CF patients; Characterizing each PEx; Finding association between the frequency and characteristics of the PEx and patients’ features. (2) Methods: Retrospective analysis of all PEx from a period of January 2015 to December 2019 in a group of pediatric patients from a single CF center. Data were collected from medical records. Descriptive statistics and chi-square/Fisher’s test were used. (3) Results: Thirty-four pediatric patients contributed to the total sample used in this study and 198 PEx were identified, median of 1.0 PEx/patient/year. Most frequent PEx symptoms were increased cough (93.9%) and change in secretions (88.4%), most common pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus (54.9%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (24.9%). The majority were treated as outpatient (85.9%). Most common antibiotics included amoxicillin/clavulanate (35.9%) and ciprofloxacin (22.7%). Outcome was favorable in all PEx. (4) Conclusion: Results were consistent with what has been described in literature. More studies are necessary for a better characterization of CF PEx, in order to develop standardized protocols for their management.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Human Spinal Cord Injury: The Effect on Individual Values of pNF-H, GFAP, S100 Proteins and Selected Growth Factors, Cytokines and Chemokines
Authors: Slovinska Lucia , Harvanova Denisa , Janockova Jana , Matejova Jana , Cibur Peter , Moravek Marko , Spakova Timea , Rosocha Jan
Published: January 2022

At present, there is no effective way to treat the consequences of spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI leads to the death of neural and glial cells and widespread neuroinflammation with persisting for several weeks after the injury. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy is one of the most promising approaches in the treatment of this injury. The aim of this study was to characterize the expression profile of multiple cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and so-called neuromarkers in the serum of an SCI patient treated with autologous bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs). SCI resulted in a significant increase in the levels of neuromarkers and proteins involved in the inflammatory process. BM-MSCs administration resulted in significant changes in the levels of neuromarkers (S100, GFAP, and pNF-H) as well as changes in the expression of proteins and growth factors involved in the inflammatory response following SCI in the serum of a patient with traumatic SCI. Our preliminary results encouraged that BM-MSCs with their neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects could affect the repair process after injury.
The Androgen Hormone-Induced Increase in Androgen Receptor Protein Expression Is Caused by the Autoinduction of the Androgen Receptor Translational Activity
Authors: Siciliano Tiziana , Sommer Ulrich , Beier Alicia-Marie K. , Stope Matthias B. , Borkowetz Angelika , Thomas Christian , Erb Holger H. H.
Published: January 2022

The androgen receptor (AR) plays a central role in prostate, muscle, bone and adipose tissue. Moreover, dysregulated AR activity is a driving force in prostate cancer (PCa) initiation and progression. Consequently, antagonizing AR signalling cascades via antiandrogenic therapy is a crucial treatment option in PCa management. Besides, very high androgen levels also inhibit PCa cells’ growth, so this effect could also be applied in PCa therapy. However, on the molecular and cellular level, these mechanisms have hardly been investigated so far. Therefore, the present study describes the effects of varying androgen concentrations on the viability of PCa cells as well as localization, transactivation, and protein stability of the AR. For this purpose, cell viability was determined via WST1 assay. Alterations in AR transactivity were detected by qPCR analysis of AR target genes. A fluorescent AR fusion protein was used to analyse AR localization microscopically. Changes in AR protein expression were detected by Western blot. Our results showed that high androgen concentrations reduce the cell viability in LNCaP and C4-2 cell lines. In addition, androgens have been reported to increase AR transactivity, AR localization, and AR protein expression levels. However, high androgen levels did not reduce these parameters. Furthermore, this study revealed an androgen-induced increase in AR protein synthesis. In conclusion, inhibitory effects on cell viability by high androgen levels are due to AR downstream signalling or non-genomic AR activity. Moreover, hormonal activation of the AR leads to a self-induced stabilization of the receptor, resulting in increased AR activity. Therefore, in clinical use, a therapeutic reduction in androgen levels represents a clinical target and would lead to a decrease in AR activity and, thus, AR-driven PCa progression.
Design and Optimization of One-Dimensional TiO2/GO Photonic Crystal Structures for Enhanced Thermophotovoltaics
Authors: Belhadj Walid , Timoumi Abdelmajid , Dakhlaoui Hassen , Alhashmi Alamer Fahad
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we theoretically explore the spectroscopic features of various one-dimensional photonic crystal (1D-PC)-based spectrally selective filters. The 1D-PC structure is composed of alternating layers of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and graphene oxide (GO). Employing the transfer matrix method (TMM), the impacts of the incidence angle, the number, and thicknesses of TiO2/GO layers in various 1D-PC stacks on the spectroscopic features of the filters are explored in detail. The proposed 1D-PC structures are designed for practical use for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) applications to act as filters that selectively transmit light below 1.78 μm to a GaSb photovoltaic cell, while light with longer wavelengths is reflected back to the source. The optimal design presented here consists of two Bragg quarter-wave 1D-PC filters with different central frequencies stacked to form a single structure. We demonstrate that our optimized 1D-PC filter exhibits a large omnidirectional stop band as well as a broad pass band and weak absorption losses. These features meet the fundamental exigencies to realize high-efficiency TPV devices. Additionally, we show that when integrated in a TPV system, our optimized filter leads to a spectral efficiency of 64%, a device efficiency of 39%, and a power density of 8.2 W/cm2, at a source temperature of 1800 K.
Dielectric Coating Deposition Regimes during Electron-Beam Evaporation of Ceramics in the Fore-Vacuum Pressure Range
Authors: Yushkov Yury G. , Oks Efim M. , Tyunkov Andrey V. , Zolotukhin Denis B.
Published: January 2022

We present experimental results on the deposition of dielectric coatings on metal surfaces by electron-beam evaporation of alumina ceramics in nitrogen and oxygen gas medium at the pressures of 5–30 Pa. The feasibility of implementing this approach is associated with the use of unique fore-vacuum plasma electron sources. The effect of electron beam power on the rates of ceramic target evaporation and, consequently, on the coating deposition rate is investigated. The structure, electrical-insulating and mechanical (wear resistance, adhesion) properties of the deposited coatings is investigated. We also show the possibility of using coatings for electrical insulating of wires and monolithic integrated circuits.
Fatigue Property and Residual Stress Relaxation Behavior of High-Energy Shot Peened Pure Zr
Authors: Xiao Guizhi , Zhang Xin , Zhang Conghui , Liu Ying , Zhu Wenguang
Published: January 2022

High-energy shot peening (HESP) was conducted on commercial pure Zr to generate a surface gradient nanostructured layer and compressive residual stress (CRS). The microstructure, residual stress, and fracture morphology were investigated by electron back scattering diffraction (EBSD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. Tensile fatigue tests were conducted and the fatigue property was presented through S-N curve. By the XRD measurement, the residual stress relaxation and the microstructure evolution on the HESPed surface were studied under different stress amplitudes. The results indicated that the fatigue limit of the HESPed sample was 23% higher than that of the as-received. The relaxation of residual stress was observed during fatigue loading; the initial relaxation rate was fast and the later was slow, accompanied by a similar degree of nanocrystalline coarsening and dislocation density reduction. A linear relationship between the surface residual stress and the number of cycles for the HESPed sample was quantitatively described. The higher the applied stress amplitude was, the faster the residual stress relaxation (RSR) was. The stress amplitude had an important influence on the relaxation rate, the degree of nanocrystals coarsening, and dislocation density. Local plastic deformation caused grain coarsening and dislocation density reduction.
Research on the Vibration Characteristics of Aviation Hydraulic Clamp and Pipeline Based on Hard Coating
Authors: Cui Zhining , Liu Jiaqi , Yu Xiaoguang , Ran Ziqing , Zhang Jingbo , Zhang Xiaolong
Published: January 2022

Aviation hydraulic clamp-piping systems often experience damage due to vibration, which poses a great threat to the reliability and safety of the aircraft. In this paper, a hard coating is used as a new damping method to study the vibration characteristics of aviation hydraulic clamp-piping systems. Three kinds of coated clamp entities are obtained by optimization and preparation, and the combination of finite element simulation and experiment is used to analyze the vibration response of the high- and low-pressure rotor under fixed-frequency simple harmonic excitation, and the resonance response under sweep-frequency excitation of the aviation hydraulic clamp-piping system. Through orthogonal experiments, it is clear that 304 stainless steel clamps coated with 200-μm-thick YSZ-PTFE coating have the best vibration damping effect on the clamp-piping system; that is, the damping rate can reach 24.67% under fixed-frequency excitation, and swept frequency damping can reach 19.93%. The maximum error between the simulation and the experimental vibration response amplitude is 7.9%, which proves the correctness of the model and verifies that the YSZ-PTFE hard coating can significantly improve the vibration damping effect with very good application prospects.
Phytic Acid Doped Polyaniline as a Binding Coating Promoting Growth of Prussian Blue on Cotton Fibers for Adsorption of Copper Ions
Authors: Wang Xueyao , Li Qiang , Yang Dongmei , An Xianhui , Qian Xueren
Published: January 2022

In recent years, the elimination of heavy metals from wastewater has become an important topic due to rapid industrialization, and it is of considerable interest to develop renewable and degradable materials for this purpose. In this work, a novel Prussian blue/polyaniline@cotton fibers (PB/PANI@CFs) composite was fabricated by a two-step process. Phytic acid doped PANI as a binding coating greatly promoted both the growth of PB and the adsorption of Cu2+. The deposition ratio of PB was as high as 24.68%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) displayed that PB nanoparticles were grown more uniformly in the composite and formed a perfect nanocube structure compared with PB@CFs. The successful deposition of both PB and PANI on CFs was demonstrated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FITR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The effect of adsorption time, adsorbent dose, initial pH value, and initial copper sulphate concentration on the adsorption of PB/PANI@CFs composite for Cu2+ was studied by static adsorption and was compared with those of PANI@CFs and PB@CFs. The results showed that the maximum removal efficiency of Cu2+ by PB/PANI@CFs can reach 93.4% within 5 h, and the maximum adsorption capacity of Cu2+ can reach 31.93 mg·g−1. The adsorption of Cu2+ on PB/PANI@CFs followed the pseudo-second order kinetic model and conformed to the Freundlich adsorption isothermal model. The PB-functionalized CFs provided new insights into the design of efficient and low-cost absorbents for heavy metal remediation. The proposed process solves two problems simultaneously, i.e., the utilization of environmentally friendly and biodegradable biomass resources and the adsorption of heavy metal ions, and is a good approach to achieve high-quality and sustainable development.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation on the Deposition Characteristics between Pt Cluster and Ni Substrate in Cold Gas Dynamic Spraying
Authors: Zhang Xueqing , Li Xiaojing , Shi Tianzhe
Published: January 2022

During the process of cold spraying, the motion behavior and the arrangement of clusters, before impacting the substrate, have great influences on the coating/substrate bonding strength and the coating morphologies. In this work, the scattering and self-rotating movement of a single cluster and the different spatial positions of two clusters were taken into account to analyze the deposition characteristics between Pt clusters and Ni substrate by using the molecular dynamics method. We found that an excessively high normal velocity results in the failure of mechanical interlocking. Meanwhile, the increasing tangential velocity mainly enhances the mechanical interlocking. Moreover, the mechanical interlocking and the metallurgic bonding always are enhanced by increasing the impact torque around x-axis, but the metallurgic bonding increases only if the impact torque around z-axis is beyond a certain value. The results further show that, for the two neighboring clusters arranged horizontally, the thermal-softening effect of the first cluster impacting onto the substrate contributes more to its own metallurgic bonding and the mechanical interlocking of the latter one. In addition, for the two vertical clusters colliding with each other during their flying course, the smaller velocity difference can largely enhance the metal interlocking and the metallurgic bonding by shortening the cooling and solidifying times.
Addition of Organic Acids during PEO of Titanium in Alkaline Solution
Authors: Casanova Luca , Ceriani Federica , Pedeferri MariaPia , Ormellese Marco
Published: January 2022

This research study describes recent advances in understanding the effects of the addition of organic acids, such as acetic, lactic, citric and phytic acids, on the process of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) on Ti using an alkaline bath. As the plasma developed over the workpiece is central to determine the particular morphological and structural features of the growing oxide, the focus is then on the inter-relationships between the electrolyte and the resultant plasma regime established. In situ optical emission spectroscopy (OES) allowed us to verify a marked plasma suppression when adding low-molecular-weight anions such as acetates, resulting in short-lived and well-distributed discharges. Conversely, when more bulky anions, such as lactates, citrates and phytates, were considered, a less efficient shielding of the electrode caused the build-up of long-lasting and destructive sparks responsible for the formation of thicker coatings, even >30 µm, at the expense of a higher roughness and loss of compactness. Corrosion resistance was tested electrochemically, according to electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and weight losses evidenced the coatings produced in the solution containing acetates to be more suitable for service in H2SO4.
Urban Mid-Block Bicycle Crossings: The Effects of Red Colored Pavement and Portal Overhead Bicycle Crossing Sign
Authors: Ghasemi Navid , Acerra Ennia Mariapaola , Lantieri Claudio , Simone Andrea , Rupi Federico , Vignali Valeria
Published: January 2022

This paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of some mid-block bicycle crossing elements by analyzing the drivers’ behavior, when approaching the bicycle crossings in a real road experiments with 18 participants. The eye-tracking instrument has been used to monitor the driver’s visual behavior during the test in an instrumented vehicle with GPS (global positioning system) and an inertial measurement unit (IMU). In particular, the drivers’ gaze was investigated frame by frame while approaching the mid-block bicycle crossings. The results showed that the red colored pavement increased the visibility of the mid-block crossing zone to 65.3% with respect to zebra crossing 59.6%. The drivers’ visual field was also narrowed by the portal overhead bicycle crossing sign and, consequently, drivers reduced their velocity and looked more to the vertical signs by 28%. The drivers’ speed reduction helped drivers to see the mid-block crossing elements from a greater distance with a higher fixation duration.
Afro-Ethnic Hairstyling Trends, Risks, and Recommendations
Authors: Asbeck Sara , Riley-Prescott Chelsi , Glaser Ella , Tosti Antonella
Published: January 2022

Hairstyling trends among Black women fluctuate with social, cultural, and environmental pressures. Dermatologists should be aware of current trends and their associated risks in order to provide the best care to this population. In order to summarize the updated trends and associated health risks for the most common hairstyles worn by Black women, a literature review was performed. PubMed and EMBASE were used to identify articles related to hair styling practices, studies on the effects or risks of various styling practices, and magazine articles citing current styling trends among women of African descent. All hairstyles were found to have associated health risks; however, natural styles had the fewest adverse associations of all styles reviewed. Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA) is the most cited hair disorder in this population, possibly linked to both chemical relaxants and traction styles. Additional studies are needed to further establish causality between these styles and CCCA. Additionally, while acceptance of natural hairstyles is on the rise, there is more work to be done throughout society to help protect and encourage women who choose to wear Afrocentric styles. Dermatologists should be well versed in these hairstyles and ready to lend appropriate advice to patients when it is requested.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of β-HMX Crystal Morphology Induced by Polymer Additives
Authors: Zhai Lizhe , Zhao Xue , Rui Jiuhou , Qiu Siqi , Li Yongshen
Published: January 2022

To simulate the crystal morphology of β-HMX crystallized in the presence of different polymer additives in the solution, a modified attachment energy model was used to simulate the crystal morphology of β-HMX recrystallized in PVA-DMSO solution when the mass fractions of PVA were 0.5%, 1%, 3%, 5%, and 10%, respectively. When the mass fraction of additive was 10%, the simulation results were in good agreement with the experiment. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed on the solution systems of different types of polymer additives to predict the morphology of β-HMX crystals. In addition, the effect of water on the crystal morphology of β-HMX was studied, and the effect of additive PVA on the solute and solvent diffusion ability during crystal crystallization was studied. The simulation results have certain reference significance in the crystallization process of β-HMX under additive conditions.
Monochannel Demultiplexer Phononic Crystal Slab Based on Hollow Pillars
Authors: Faiz Mohd Syafiq , Abd Aziz Norazreen
Published: January 2022

A mono-channel waveguide with alternate hollow pillars of different radius to passively select and reject particular frequencies for filtering applications are numerically simulated based on the Finite Element Method (FEM). The waves are guided while the frequencies can be filtered according to pillar inner radius as its waveguiding mechanism. The computations of dispersion relation, transmission coefficient and stress displacement profile of the waveguides were carried out to understand the propagation behaviour of elastic waves on the waveguide structure. The proposed model shows a complete bandgap around 700 kHz, while its respective blocking phenomenon is demonstrated using square-ring shapes. The introduction of defect lines in linear and L-Shaped form enables a tailorable frequency shift within the bandgap region with optimized inner radius of hollow pillar. The proposed model eliminates the need for a multi-channel filtering system with conventional several separated lines thus reduces the dimension of filtering device.
Review on Y6-Based Semiconductor Materials and Their Future Development via Machine Learning
Authors: Zhong Sijing , Yap Boon Kar , Zhong Zhiming , Ying Lei
Published: January 2022

Non-fullerene acceptors are promising to achieve high efficiency in organic solar cells (OSCs). Y6-based acceptors, one group of new n-type semiconductors, have triggered tremendous attention when they reported a power-conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.7% in 2019. After that, scientists are trying to improve the efficiency in different aspects including choosing new donors, tuning Y6 structures, and device engineering. In this review, we first summarize the properties of Y6 materials and the seven critical methods modifying the Y6 structure to improve the PCEs developed in the latest three years as well as the basic principles and parameters of OSCs. Finally, the authors would share perspectives on possibilities, necessities, challenges, and potential applications for designing multifunctional organic device with desired performances via machine learning.
The Investigation of Carrier Leakage Mechanism Based on ABC-Models in InGaN/GaN MQW and Its Effect on Internal Quantum Efficiency under Optical Excitation
Authors: Ben Yuhao , Liang Feng , Zhao Degang , Yang Jing , Chen Ping , Liu Zongshun
Published: January 2022

In this work, a GaN-based multiple quantum well (MQW) sample has a much higher IQE although it has a stronger non-radiative recombination. Through experimental verification, the higher IQE is attributed to the suppressed carrier leakage mechanism, which is normally neglected under optical excitation. To achieve a more reasonable IQE expression in a GaN MQW structure, leakage factor m is introduced into the ABC-models. Meanwhile, by analyzing the Arrhenius fitting of the plot of IQE-temperature and leakage factor m, the key temperature and excitation power turning on the carrier leakage mechanism was roughly determined to be below 220 K and 10 mW, respectively. Such a low turn-on temperature and excitation power indicates a much easier carrier leakage mechanism in GaN-based MQW, which may be caused by the small effective electron mass of InGaN (0.11–0.22 m*) and the narrow thickness of quantum well via the model calculation of energy band structure via simulation software LASTIP. Moreover, higher IQE can be achieved by suppressing the carrier leakage mechanism via structural optimization (such as electron block layer) in GaN-based MQW.