bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Biochar-Based Substrate Added with Nitrogen from a Mining Effluent for the Production of Picea mariana Seedlings
Authors: Robert Émilie , Braghiroli Flavia Lega
Published: August 2022

Ammoniacal nitrogen (N-NH3) is one of the pollutants that has adverse effects on the environment and is present in most effluents generated by mining operations. Therefore, mining companies must manage it to keep it below the regulated discharge criteria to avoid environmental contamination. In this context, the present study aims to valorize N-NH3 in the form of ammonium sulphate ((NH4)2SO4) for the manufacture of biochar pellets used as growth substrates for the production of forest seedlings. The biochar was first produced by fast pyrolysis, at 320 °C, and different recipes of pellets were then prepared to evaluate their hardness, binder type and content, humidity and durability. The optimal granule chosen was composed of biochar, corn starch and canola oil. Six combinations of different compositions were then prepared as substrates for black spruce growth: (1) Peat (P); (2) Peat and bulk biochar (PB); (3) Peat and bulk biochar impregnated with ammonium sulfate (PBAS); (4) Peat and biochar pellets impregnated with water (PBPeW); (5) Peat and biochar pellets impregnated with an ammonium sulfate solution (PBPeAS); (6) Peat, biochar pellets impregnated with ammonium sulfate and perlite (PBPeASPer). The effects of these substrates on the growth of black spruce seedlings, as well as fertilizer leaching, were measured. The results show that seedling biomass is equivalent to the control for the granular treatment, but higher biomass was obtained with bulk biochar (PB). This shows that a quarter of peat could be replaced by biochar to obtain similar or even better results of biomass yield and, consequently, solve part of the supply issue. As to plant nutrition, no tendency was observed for the experiments apart from the higher proportion of Ca in spruce needles. The prepared biochar-based pellet substrate appears to not only be advantageous for spruce production but also for other uses such as golf courses, forestry producers and horticultural nurseries using conventional fertilizers and peat as growing media. In addition, these approaches could help the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region in Québec, Canada to build a local circular economy.
The Effect of Light Therapy on Electroencephalographic Sleep in Sleep and Circadian Rhythm Disorders: A Scoping Review
Authors: Pun Teha B. , Phillips Craig L. , Marshall Nathaniel S. , Comas Maria , Hoyos Camilla M. , D’Rozario Angela L. , Bartlett Delwyn J. , Davis Wendy , Hu Wenye , Naismith Sharon L. , Cain Sean , Postnova Svetlana , Grunstein Ron R. , Gordon Christopher J.
Published: August 2022

Light therapy is used to treat sleep and circadian rhythm disorders, yet there are limited studies on whether light therapy impacts electroencephalographic (EEG) activity during sleep. Therefore, we aimed to provide an overview of research studies that examined the effects of light therapy on sleep macro- and micro-architecture in populations with sleep and circadian rhythm disorders. We searched for randomized controlled trials that used light therapy and included EEG sleep measures using MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Five articles met the inclusion criteria of patients with either insomnia or delayed sleep–wake phase disorder (DSWPD). These trials reported sleep macro-architecture outcomes using EEG or polysomnography. Three insomnia trials showed no effect of the timing or intensity of light therapy on total sleep time, wake after sleep onset, sleep efficiency and sleep stage duration compared to controls. Only one insomnia trial reported significantly higher sleep efficiency after evening light therapy (>4000 lx between 21:00–23:00 h) compared with afternoon light therapy (>4000 lx between 15:00–17:00 h). In the only DSWPD trial, six multiple sleep latency tests were conducted across the day (09:00 and 19:00 h) and bright light (2500 lx) significantly lengthened sleep latency in the morning (09:00 and 11:00 h) compared to control light (300 lx). None of the five trials reported any sleep micro-architecture measures. Overall, there was limited research about the effect of light therapy on EEG sleep measures, and studies were confined to patients with insomnia and DSWPD only. More research is needed to better understand whether lighting interventions in clinical populations affect sleep macro- and micro-architecture and objective sleep timing and quality.
Intra-Cavity Tm:YAG-Ho:GdVO4 Laser with near Diffraction Limited Beam Quality
Authors: Liu Tongyu , Ding Yu , Yan Mengmeng , Ji Qinggang
Published: August 2022

In this study, an Er:YAG laser pumped intra-cavity Tm:YAG-Ho:GdVO4 laser was built and debuted at room temperature. At an incident pump power of 9.2 W, this laser obtained a maximum output power of 1.6 W with a slope efficiency of 28.0%. Additionally, the M2 factors at the maximum output power were measured to be 1.06 and 1.03 in the x and y directions, respectively. The results showed that the intra-cavity pumping method of combining thulium and holmium crystals as the gain medium was an effective way to obtain a 2 μm laser with near diffraction limited beam quality.
Phase Convergence and Crest Enhancement of Modulated Wave Trains
Authors: Houtani Hidetaka , Sawada Hiroshi , Waseda Takuji
Published: August 2022

The Akhmediev breather (AB) solution of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) shows that the maximum crest height of modulated wave trains reaches triple the initial amplitude as a consequence of nonlinear long-term evolution. Several fully nonlinear numerical studies have indicated that the amplification can exceed 3, but its physical mechanism has not been clarified. This study shows that spectral broadening, bound-wave production, and phase convergence are essential to crest enhancement beyond the AB solution. The free-wave spectrum of modulated wave trains broadens owing to nonlinear quasi-resonant interaction. This enhances bound-wave production at high wavenumbers. The phases of all the wave components nearly coincide at peak modulation and enhance amplification. This study found that the phase convergence observed in linear-focusing waves can also occur due to nonlinear wave evolution. These findings are obtained by numerically investigating the modulated wave trains using the higher-order spectral method (HOSM) up to the fifth order, which allows investigations of nonlinearity and spectral bandwidth beyond the NLSE framework. Moreover, the crest enhancement is confirmed through a tank experiment wherein waves are generated in the transition region from non-breaking to breaking. Owing to strong nonlinearity, the maximum crest height observed in the tank begins to exceed the HOSM prediction at an initial wave steepness of 0.10.
In Vitro Digestion and Storage Stability of β-Carotene-Loaded Nanoemulsion Stabilized by Soy Protein Isolate (SPI)-Citrus Pectin (CP) Complex/Conjugate Prepared with Ultrasound
Authors: Ma Xiaobin , Yan Tianyi , Miao Song , Mao Like , Liu Donghong
Published: August 2022

In this study, we employed the ultrasound-prepared electrostatic complex and covalent conjugate of soy protein isolate (SPI) and citrus pectin (CP) to prepare β-carotene-loaded nanoemulsions. The in vitro digestion and storage stability of nanoemulsions stabilized by different types of emulsifiers were investigated and compared. Nanoemulsions stabilized by ultrasound-treated complex/conjugate showed the highest encapsulation efficiency; during gastric digestion, these nanoemulsions also demonstrated the smallest droplet sizes and the highest absolute values of zeta potential, indicating that both electrostatic complexation/covalent conjugation and ultrasound treatment could significantly improve the stability of the resulting nanoemulsions. In comparison, complexes were more beneficial for the controlled release of β-carotene; however, the conjugate-stabilized nanoemulsion showed an overall higher bioaccessibility. The results were also confirmed by optical micrographs. Furthermore, nanoemulsions stabilized by ultrasound-prepared complexes/conjugates exhibited the highest stability during 14-day storage at 25 °C. The results suggested that ultrasound-prepared SPI–CP complexes and conjugates had great application potential for the delivery of hydrophobic nutrients.
Study of a Fractional Creep Problem with Multiple Delays in Terms of Boltzmann’s Superposition Principle
Authors: Chidouh Amar , Atmania Rahima , Torres Delfim F. M.
Published: August 2022

We study a class of nonlinear fractional differential equations with multiple delays, which is represented by the Voigt creep fractional model of viscoelasticity. We discuss two Voigt models, the first being linear and the second being nonlinear. The linear Voigt model give us the physical interpretation and is associated with important results since the creep function characterizes the viscoelastic behavior of stress and strain. For the nonlinear model of Voigt, our theoretical study and analysis provides existence and stability, where time delays are expressed in terms of Boltzmann’s superposition principle. By means of the Banach contraction principle, we prove existence of a unique solution and investigate its continuous dependence upon the initial data as well as Ulam stability. The results are illustrated with an example.
Gel Properties and Formation Mechanism of Camellia Oil Body-Based Oleogel Improved by Camellia Saponin
Authors: Liu Jing , Hu Lili , Xiao Yaqing , Liu Yingnan , Li Songnan , Zheng Mingming , Yu Zhenyu , Liu Kang , Zhou Yibin
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of camellia saponin (CS) on the structural characteristics, texture properties, rheological properties, and thermal stability of camellia oil body-based oleogel (COBO). In addition, the formation mechanism of COBO was further studied in terms of the microstructure and texture of freeze-dried products, the mobility of hydrogen protons, and the conformation and structure changes of oleosin. The texture and rheological properties of the oleogels were found to be gradually improved with the incorporation of CS. This was attributed to the CS-induced enhancement of oil body interfacial film. CS was likely to bind to oleosin via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, thereby forming a thick CS-oleosin complex interface, which was revealed by the oleosin fluorescence quenching and an increase in the ordered structure (α-helix). The composite interface could resist the crystallization damage and air disturbance caused by solidification and sublimation of water during freeze-drying, resulting in a denser and more uniform three-dimensional gel structure to trap the liquid oil, which could be explained by the decreased mobility of hydrogen protons in oleogel. The work offers a new proposal and theoretical basis for the development of saponin-enhanced oleogels using non-thermal processing.
Substantial Impairment of Quality of Life during COVID-19 Pandemic in Patients with Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Dennison Irene , Schweizer Claudia , Fitz Tim , Blasko Daniel , Sörgel Christopher , Kallies Annett , Schmidt Linda , Fietkau Rainer , Distel Luitpold Valentin
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze the quality of life of patients with advanced rectal cancer before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and to determine whether the pandemic affected patients’ quality of life. The study included 389 patients and was performed from May 2010 to June 2021. The fifteen months from March 2020 to June 2021 were categorized as the COVID-19 period. Patients were surveyed using the QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CR38 questionnaires. The questionnaires were used at different phases of radiochemotherapy: prior to RCT (day 1), during RCT (day 14), at the end of RCT (day 35), and prior to mesorectal surgery (day 70). Scores were formed from the questions. In addition, scores were analyzed for different age groups (<64 and >64) and sexes (female and male). Overall, patients reported lower functional scores and higher symptom scores during the pandemic than before the pandemic. Although it had been expected that older and younger patients would differ clearly, there were only minor differences. The comparison between the two sexes showed very different scores, with female patients having lower functional scores and higher symptom scores than male patients before and especially during COVID-19. In conclusion, age does not play a major role in quality of life, but sex does play an important role in perception of functioning and symptoms. COVID-19 also had a major impact on patients’ lives, as it was a very isolating and stressful time for everyone, especially cancer patients, which was reflected in worsening scores.
Molecular Mechanisms of Acute Organophosphate Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Sobolev Vladislav E. , Sokolova Margarita O. , Jenkins Richard O. , Goncharov Nikolay V.
Published: August 2022

Organophosphates (OPs) are toxic chemicals produced by an esterification process and some other routes. They are the main components of herbicides, pesticides, and insecticides and are also widely used in the production of plastics and solvents. Acute or chronic exposure to OPs can manifest in various levels of toxicity to humans, animals, plants, and insects. OPs containing insecticides were widely used in many countries during the 20th century, and some of them continue to be used today. In particular, 36 OPs have been registered in the USA, and all of them have the potential to cause acute and sub-acute toxicity. Renal damage and impairment of kidney function after exposure to OPs, accompanied by the development of clinical manifestations of poisoning back in the early 1990s of the last century, was considered a rare manifestation of their toxicity. However, since the beginning of the 21st century, nephrotoxicity of OPs as a manifestation of delayed toxicity is the subject of greater attention of researchers. In this article, we present a modern view on the molecular pathophysiological mechanisms of acute nephrotoxicity of organophosphate compounds.
Possible Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Hepatotoxicity of Acetaminophen
Authors: Šrajer Gajdošik Martina , Kovač Peić Anamarija , Begić Marija , Grbčić Petra , Brilliant Kate E. , Hixson Douglas C. , Josić Djuro
Published: August 2022

We examined proteomic profiles of rat liver extracellular vesicles (EVs) shed following treatment with a sub-toxic dose (500 mg/kg) of the pain reliever drug, acetaminophen (APAP). EVs representing the entire complement of hepatic cells were isolated after perfusion of the intact liver and analyzed with LC-MS/MS. The investigation was focused on revealing the function and cellular origin of identified EVs proteins shed by different parenchymal and non-parenchymal liver cells and their possible role in an early response of this organ to a toxic environment. Comparison of EV proteomic profiles from control and APAP-treated animals revealed significant differences. Alpha-1-macroglobulin and members of the cytochrome P450 superfamily were highly abundant proteins in EVs shed by the normal liver. In contrast, proteins like aminopeptidase N, metalloreductase STEAP4, different surface antigens like CD14 and CD45, and most members of the annexin family were detected only in EVs that were shed by livers of APAP-treated animals. In EVs from treated livers, there was almost a complete disappearance of members of the cytochrome P450 superfamily and a major decrease in other enzymes involved in the detoxification of xenobiotics. Additionally, there were proteins that predominated in non-parenchymal liver cells and in the extracellular matrix, like fibronectin, receptor-type tyrosine-protein phosphatase C, and endothelial type gp91. These differences indicate that even treatment with a sub-toxic concentration of APAP initiates dramatic perturbation in the function of this vital organ.
Influence of Clones on Relationship between Natural Rubber and Size of Rubber Particles in Latex
Authors: He Simin , Zhang Fuquan , Gu Fengshou , Zhao Tianqi , Zhao Yanfang , Liao Lusheng , Liao Xiaoxue
Published: August 2022

IAN873, Dongfang93114 and Reyan73397, created through vegetative propagation for their high yield and excellent cold resistance, are major clones planted in China. In this work, latexes with rubber particles of the same size from these clones are separated from fresh natural rubber latex, and corresponding rubber films are prepared from each latex. The structure and components of each film are measured. This indicates that the characteristics of the rubbers obtained from latexes with similar particle sizes show some resembling trends among different clones, while for specific samples, those characteristics vary depending on the clone. The molecular weight is generally highest in IAN873 and lowest in Reyan73397. Rubber chains in small rubber particles are longer, and large rubber particles show a wider molecular weight distribution. The gel content of every sample from Reyan73397 is lower than the other two clones. The nitrogen content increases with the size of rubber particles in all clones. The ester content of small rubber particles in IAN873 and Reyan73397 is almost zero. Large rubber particles have more branching points formed via esters. This study provides a new perspective on the influence of clones on the relationship between characteristics of natural rubber and the size of rubber particles in natural rubber latex.
Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 1α Proinflammatory Effect Linked to the Overexpression of Liver Nuclear Factor–κB in Experimental Model of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Sucajtys-Szulc Elzbieta , Debska-Slizien Alicja , Rutkowski Boleslaw , Szolkiewicz Marek , Swierczynski Julian , Smolenski Ryszard Tomasz
Published: August 2022

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with low-grade inflammation that activates nuclear factor–κB (NF–κB), which upregulates the expression of numerous NF–κB responsive genes, including the genes encoding IL-6, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and MCP-1. Herein, we found the coordinated overexpression of genes encoding RelA/p65 (a subunit of NF–κB) and HNF1α in the livers of chronic renal failure (CRF) rats—an experimental model of CKD. The coordinated overexpression of RelA/p65 and HNF1α was associated with a significant increase in IL-6, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and MCP-1 gene expressions. A positive correlation between liver RelA/p65 mRNA levels and a serum concentration of creatinine and BUN suggest that RelA/p65 gene transcription is tightly related to the progression of renal failure. The knockdown of HNF1α in the HepG2 cell line by siRNA led to a decrease in Rel A/p65 mRNA levels. This was associated with a decrease in IL-6, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and MCP-1 gene expressions. The simultaneous repression of HNF-1α and RelA/p65 by clofibrate is tightly associated with the downregulation of IL-6, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and MCP-1 gene expression. In conclusion, our findings suggest that NF–κB could be a downstream component of the HNF1α-initiated signaling pathway in the livers of CRF rats.
Immunotoxicity of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials, Starring Phagocytes
Authors: Svadlakova Tereza , Holmannova Drahomira , Kolackova Martina , Malkova Andrea , Krejsek Jan , Fiala Zdenek
Published: August 2022

In the field of science, technology and medicine, carbon-based nanomaterials and nanoparticles (CNMs) are becoming attractive nanomaterials that are increasingly used. However, it is important to acknowledge the risk of nanotoxicity that comes with the widespread use of CNMs. CNMs can enter the body via inhalation, ingestion, intravenously or by any other route, spread through the bloodstream and penetrate tissues where (in both compartments) they interact with components of the immune system. Like invading pathogens, CNMs can be recognized by large numbers of receptors that are present on the surface of innate immune cells, notably monocytes and macrophages. Depending on the physicochemical properties of CNMs, i.e., shape, size, or adsorbed contamination, phagocytes try to engulf and process CNMs, which might induce pro/anti-inflammatory response or lead to modulation and disruption of basic immune activity. This review focuses on existing data on the immunotoxic potential of CNMs, particularly in professional phagocytes, as they play a central role in processing and eliminating foreign particles. The results of immunotoxic studies are also described in the context of the entry routes, impacts of contamination and means of possible elimination. Mechanisms of proinflammatory effect depending on endocytosis and intracellular distribution of CNMs are highlighted as well.
Cellular Regulation of Kynurenic Acid-Induced Cell Apoptosis Pathways in AGS Cells
Authors: Kim Hun Hwan , Jeong Se Hyo , Ha Sang Eun , Park Min Yeong , Bhosale Pritam Bhagwan , Abusaliya Abuyaseer , Won Chung Kil , Heo Jeong Doo , Kim Hyun Wook , Kim Gon Sup
Published: August 2022

Kynurenic acid was included in the three compounds (caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and kynurenic acid) that showed high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential among the phenolic compounds contained in Gynura procumbens. In this study, the mechanism of cancer cell death induced by kynurenic acid (KYNA), which has the highest molecular binding affinity, in the gastric cancer cell line AGS was confirmed in molecular docking analysis. KYNA showed the most cancer cell death effect on AGS cells among several gastric cancer cell lines (MKN, AGS, and SNU). AGS cells were used for later experiments, and KYNA concentrations of 0, 150, 200, and 250 µM were used. KYNA inhibited cell migration and proliferation in AGS cells in a concentration-dependent manner. G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and reduction of related proteins (Cdc25C, CDK1 and CyclinB1) were confirmed in KYNA-treated AGS cells. Apoptosis of KYNA-treated AGS cells was confirmed by Annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining flow cytometry analysis. As a result of morphological chromatin condensation through DAPI (4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole), intense blue fluorescence was confirmed. The mechanism of apoptosis induction of KYNA-treated AGS cells was confirmed by western blotting. In the extrinsic pathway, apoptosis induction markers FasL, Fas, and Caspase-3 and -8 were increased in a concentration-dependent manner upon KYNA treatment. In the intrinsic pathway, the expression of anti-apoptotic factors PI3K, AKT, and Bcl-xL was down-regulated, and the expression of apoptosis-inducing factors BAD, Bak, Bax, Cytochrom C, and Caspase-9 was up-regulated. Therefore, in the present study, we strongly imply that KYNA induces apoptosis in AGS gastric cancer cells. This suggests that KYNA, a natural compound, could be the basis for drug for the treatment of gastric cancer.
Transcriptional Comparison of Genes Associated with Photosynthesis, Photorespiration, and Photo-Assimilate Allocation and Metabolic Profiling of Rice Species
Authors: Joo Jae-Yeon , Kim Me-Sun , Cho Yong-Gu , Fernie Alisdair R. , Sung Jwakyung
Published: August 2022

The ever-increasing human population alongside environmental deterioration has presented a pressing demand for increased food production per unit area. As a consequence, considerable research effort is currently being expended in assessing approaches to enhance crop yields. One such approach is to harness the allelic variation lost in domestication. This is of particular importance since crop wild relatives often exhibit better tolerance to abiotic stresses. Here, we wanted to address the question as to why wild rice species have decreased grain production despite being characterized by enhanced rates of photosynthesis. In order to do so, we selected ten rice species on the basis of the presence of genome information, life span, the prominence of distribution, and habitat type and evaluated the expression of genes in photosynthesis, photorespiration, sucrose and starch synthesis, sucrose transport, and primary and secondary cell walls. We additionally measured the levels of a range of primary metabolites via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The results revealed that the wild rice species exhibited not only higher photosynthesis but also superior CO2 recovery by photorespiration; showed greater production of photosynthates such as soluble sugars and starch and quick transportation to the sink organs with a possibility of transporting forms such as RFOs, revealing the preferential consumption of soluble sugars to develop both primary and secondary cell walls; and, finally, displayed high glutamine/glutamic acid ratios, indicating that they likely exhibited high N-use efficiency. The findings from the current study thus identify directions for future rice improvement through breeding.
Osteoporosis Preclinical Research: A Systematic Review on Comparative Studies Using Ovariectomized Sheep
Authors: Salamanna Francesca , Contartese Deyanira , Veronesi Francesca , Martini Lucia , Fini Milena
Published: August 2022

Sheep ovariectomy (OVX) alone or associated to steroid therapy, deficient diet, or hypothalamic–pituitary disconnection has proven to be of critical importance for osteoporosis research in orthopedics. However, the impact of specific variables, such as breed, age, diet, time after OVX, and other variables, should be monitored. Thus, the design of comparative studies is mandatory to minimize the impact of these variables or to recognize the presence of unwanted variables as well as to better characterize bone remodeling in this model. Herein, we conducted a systematic review of the last 10 years on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge considering only studies on OVX sheep where a control group was present. Of the 123 records screened, 18 studies were included and analyzed. Results showed that (i) Merino sheep are the most exploited breed; (ii) 5–6 years of age is the most used time for inducing OVX; (iii) ventral midline laparotomy is the most common approach to induce OVX; (iv) OVX associated to steroid therapy is the most widely used osteoporosis model; and (v) success of OVX was mostly verified 12 months after surgery. In detail, starting from 12 months after OVX a significant decline in bone mineral density and in microarchitectural bone parameters as well as in biochemical markers were detected in all studies in comparison to control groups. Bone alteration was also site-specific on a pattern as follows: lumbar vertebra, femoral neck, and ribs. Before 12 months from OVX and starting from 3–5 months, microarchitectural bone changes and biochemical marker alterations were present when osteoporosis was induced by OVX associated to steroid therapy. In conclusion, OVX in sheep influence bone metabolism causing pronounced systemic bone loss and structural deterioration comparable to the situation found in osteoporosis patients. Data for treating osteoporosis patients are based not only on good planning and study design but also on a correct animal use that, as suggested by 3Rs principles and by ARRIVE guidelines, includes the use of control groups to be directly contrasted with the experimental group.
Mesenchymal (Stem) Stromal Cells Based as New Therapeutic Alternative in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Basic Mechanisms, Experimental and Clinical Evidence, and Challenges
Authors: Eiro Noemi , Fraile Maria , González-Jubete Alberto , González Luis O. , Vizoso Francisco J.
Published: August 2022

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are an example of chronic diseases affecting 40% of the population, which involved tissue damage and an inflammatory process not satisfactorily controlled with current therapies. Data suggest that mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) may be a therapeutic option for these processes, and especially for IBD, due to their multifactorial approaches such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, anti-apoptotic, anti-fibrotic, regenerative, angiogenic, anti-tumor, or anti-microbial. However, MSC therapy is associated with important limitations as safety issues, handling difficulties for therapeutic purposes, and high economic cost. MSC-derived secretome products (conditioned medium or extracellular vesicles) are therefore a therapeutic option in IBD as they exhibit similar effects to their parent cells and avoid the issues of cell therapy. In this review, we proposed further studies to choose the ideal tissue source of MSC to treat IBD, the implementation of new standardized production strategies, quality controls and the integration of other technologies, such as hydrogels, which may improve the therapeutic effects of derived-MSC secretome products in IBD.
Alpha Mangostin and Cisplatin as Modulators of Exosomal Interaction of Ovarian Cancer Cell with Fibroblasts
Authors: Borzdziłowska Paulina , Bednarek Ilona
Published: August 2022

The diversity of exosomes and their role in the microenvironment make them an important point of interest in the development of cancer. In our study, we evaluated the effect of exosomes derived from ovarian cancer cells on gene expression in fibroblasts, including genes involved in metastasis. We also attempted to evaluate the indirect effect of cisplatin and/or α-mangostin on metastasis. In this aspect, we verified the changes induced by the drugs we tested on vesicular transfer associated with the release of exosomes by cells. We isolated exosomes from ovarian cancer cells treated and untreated with drugs, and then normal human fibroblasts were treated with the isolated exosomes. Changes in the expression of genes involved in the metastasis process were then examined. In our study, we observed altered expression of genes involved in various steps of the metastasis process (including genes related to cell adhesion, genes related to the interaction with the extracellular matrix, the cell cycle, cell growth and proliferation, and apoptosis). We have shown that α-mangostin and/or cisplatin, as chemotherapeutic agents, not only directly affect tumor cells but may also indirectly (via exosomes) contribute to delaying metastasis development.
Epigenetic Regulation of Optic Nerve Development, Protection, and Repair
Authors: Ashok Ajay , Pooranawattanakul Sarita , Tai Wai Lydia , Cho Kin-Sang , Utheim Tor P. , Cestari Dean M. , Chen Dong Feng
Published: August 2022

Epigenetic factors are known to influence tissue development, functionality, and their response to pathophysiology. This review will focus on different types of epigenetic regulators and their associated molecular apparatus that affect the optic nerve. A comprehensive understanding of epigenetic regulation in optic nerve development and homeostasis will help us unravel novel molecular pathways and pave the way to design blueprints for effective therapeutics to address optic nerve protection, repair, and regeneration.
Kinematic Evaluation of the Sagittal Posture during Walking in Healthy Subjects by 3D Motion Analysis Using DB-Total Protocol
Authors: De Blasiis Paolo , Fullin Allegra , Sansone Mario , Perna Angelica , Caravelli Silvio , Mosca Massimiliano , De Luca Antonio , Lucariello Angela
Published: August 2022

Posture can be evaluated by clinical and instrumental methods. Three-dimensional motion analysis is the gold standard for the static and dynamic postural assessment. Conventional stereophotogrammetric protocols are used to assess the posture of pelvis, hip, knee, ankle, trunk (considered as a single segment) and rarely head and upper limbs during walking. A few studies also analyzed the multi-segmental trunk and whole-body kinematics. Aim of our study was to evaluate the sagittal spine and the whole-body during walking in healthy subjects by 3D motion analysis using a new marker set. Fourteen healthy subjects were assessed by 3D-Stereophotogrammetry using the DB-Total protocol. Excursion Range, Absolute Excursion Range, Average, intra-subject Coefficient of Variation (CV) and inter-subject Standard Deviation Average (SD Average) of eighteen new kinematic parameters related to sagittal spine and whole-body posture were calculated. The analysis of the DB-Total parameters showed a high intra-subject (CV < 50%) and a high inter-subject (SD Average < 1) repeatability for the most of them. Kinematic curves and new additional values were reported. The present study introduced new postural values characterizing the sagittal spinal and whole-body alignment of healthy subjects during walking. DB-Total parameters may be useful for understanding multi-segmental body biomechanics and as a benchmark for pathological patterns.
Change across Time in L2 Intonation vs. Segments: A Longitudinal Study of the English of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
Authors: Kelly Niamh
Published: August 2022

Research on L1 to L2 transfer has mainly focused on segments, while less work has examined transfer in intonation patterns. Particularly, little research has investigated transfer patterns when the L1 has a lexical pitch contrast, such as tone or lexical pitch accent, and the L2 does not. The current investigation is a longitudinal study of the L2 English of an L1 Norwegian speaker, comparing two timeframes. One suprasegmental feature and one segmental feature are examined: rise–fall pitch accents and /z/, because Norwegian and English have different patterns for these features. The results showed that the speaker actually produced more pitch movements in the later timeframe, contrary to the hypothesis, and suggesting that he was hypercorrecting in the earlier timeframe. In the early timeframe, virtually no /z/ was produced with voicing, while in the later timeframe, about 50% of /z/ segments were voiced. This suggests that the speaker had created a new category for this sound over time. Implications for theories of L2 learning are discussed.
Influence Mechanism of Foamed Concrete Coating Thickness on the Blast Resistance of RC Walls
Authors: Shang Wei , Huang Zhengxiang , Zu Xudong , Xiao Qiangqiang , Jia Xin
Published: August 2022

How to effectively reduce the damage of frequent accidental explosions and explosion attacks to existing walls is an important concern of the blast resistance field. In the present study, the influence of the foamed concrete (density 820 kg/m3, water-cement ratio 0.4) coating thickness on the blast resistance of a 120 mm RC (reinforced concrete) wall was studied through blast experiments, numerical simulations, and shock wave theory. Results show that the influences of foamed concrete on the blast resistance of RC walls are jointly decided by the stress drop caused by impedance effect and exponential attenuation and the stress rise caused by high-speed impact compression. The coating thickness mainly affects the foam concrete’s fragmentation degree and stress attenuation. A lower critical coating thickness exists in foamed concrete-coated RC walls. The blast resistance of the RC wall will decrease when the coating thickness is less than that value. The lower critical coating thickness is related to the intensity of blast load and the energy absorption capacity of foamed concrete, and it can be predicted by monitoring the explosive stress and energy incident to the RC wall.
Influence of Annealing Time on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Al-14.5Si Alloy Prepared by Super-Gravity Solidification and Cold-Rolling
Authors: Gan Zhanghua , Ni Qian , Huang Yuanyuan , Su Yin , Lu Yuehui , Wu Chuandong , Liu Jing
Published: August 2022

In this paper, super-gravity solidification and cold-rolling were utilized to obtain Al-14.5Si alloys. The influence of annealing time on microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-14.5Si alloys was investigated. Our results indicated that high elongation was achieved by super-gravity solidification due to the submicron eutectic Si, making it possible to undertake the conventional cold-rolling. The yield strength (~214 ± 11 MPa) was significantly enhanced (~68.5%) after cold-rolling mainly due to high dislocation density. The coarsening of eutectic Si could be observed during annealing, which resulted in a decrease in yield strength. The elimination of internal stress and lattice distortion during annealing led to a decrease in micro-cracks/voids beneath the fracture surface during tensile testing, which in turn enhanced the elongation.
Biological Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Amaryllis vittata (L.) Herit: From Antimicrobial to Biomedical Applications
Authors: Asad Sehrish , Anwar Natasha , Shah Mohib , Anwar Zeeshan , Arif Muhammad , Rauf Mamoona , Ali Kazim , Shah Muddaser , Murad Waheed , Albadrani Ghadeer M. , Altyar Ahmed E. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M.
Published: August 2022

The current study sought to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Amaryllis vittata (L.) leaf and bulb extracts in order to determine their biological significance and use the toxic plants for human health benefits. The formation of silver nanoparticles was detected by a change in color from whitish to brown for bulb-AgNPs and from light green to dark brown for leaf-AgNPs. For the optimization of silver nanoparticles, various experimental physicochemical parameters such as pH, temperature, and salt were determined. UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray dispersion spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersion spectroscopy analysis were used to characterize nanoparticles. Despite the fact that flavonoids in plant extracts were implicated in the reduction and capping procedure, the prepared nanoparticles demonstrated maximum absorbency between 400 and 500 nm. SEM analysis confirmed the preparation of monodispersed spherical crystalline particles with fcc structure. The bioinspired nanoparticles were found to show effective insecticidal activity against Tribolium castaneum and phytotoxic activity against Lemna aequincotialis. In comparison to plant extracts alone, the tested fabricated nanoparticles showed significant potential to scavenge free radicals and relieve pain. Antibacterial testing against human pathogenic strains, i.e., Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aureginosa, and antifungal testing against Aspergillus niger revealed the significant potential for microbe resistance using AgNPs. As a result of the findings, the tested silver nanoparticles demonstrated promising potential for developing new and effective pharmacological and agricultural medications. Furthermore, the effects of biogenic AgNPs on an in vitro culture of Solanum tuberosum L. plants were investigated, and the findings indicated that bulb-AgNPs and leaf-AgNPs produced biomass and induced antioxidants via their active constituents. As a result, bulb-AgNPs and leaf-AgNPs may be recommended for use in Solanum tuberosum L. tissue culture for biomass fabrication and metabolic induction.
Wettability of Nanostructured Transition-Metal Oxide (Al2O3, CeO2, and AlCeO3) Powder Surfaces
Authors: Alheshibri Muidh , Albetran H. M. , Abdelrahman B. H. , Al-Yaseri A. , Yekeen N. , Low I. M.
Published: August 2022

Wettability has been the focal point of many studies in metal oxide materials due to their applications in water–gas shift reactions, organic reactions, thermochemical water splitting, and photocatalysis. This paper presents the results of systematic experimental studies on the wettability of surfaces of nanostructured transition-metal oxides (TMOs) (Al2O3, CeO2, and AlCeO3). The wettability of nanoparticles was investigated by measuring contact angles of different concentrations of water-based nanofluids (0.05–0.1 wt%) on the glass slide. The morphology, the heterostructure, and the nature of incorporated nanoparticles were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Characteristic diffraction patterns of the nanomaterials were evaluated using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The contact angles of water–Al2O3, water–CeO2, and water–AlCeO3 were measured as 77.5 ± 5°, 89.8 ± 4°, and 69.2 ± 1°, respectively. This study suggests that AlCeO3 is strongly water-wet (hydrophilic), while CeO2 is weakly water-wet (hydrophobic). It further demonstrated that the sizes and compositions of the nanoparticles are key parameters that influence their wetting behaviors.
A Study of the Kinematics System in Drilling Inconel 718 for Improving of Hole Quality in the Aviation and Space Industries
Authors: Bronis Mateusz , Miko Edward , Nowakowski Lukasz , Bartoszuk Marian
Published: August 2022

This article discusses experimental results concerning the quality of through holes drilled in Inconel 718. The tests involved hole cutting under 27 different conditions using different values of the feed per revolution and spindle speed, and different types of kinematic system. The drilling was performed on a CTX Alpha 500 universal turning center using tools with internal coolant supply. Three kinematic systems were considered for hole cutting. The first, based on the driven tool holder, had a stationary workpiece and a rotating and linearly fed tool. In the second, where drilling was based on the spindle rotations, the workpiece rotated while the tool moved along a straight line. In the third system, the workpiece and the tool rotated in opposite directions; the tool also performed a linear motion. The study aimed to assess the quality of holes on the basis of the following output parameters: the hole diameter, cylindricity and straightness errors, and the surface texture. A multifactorial statistical analysis was used to determine how the hole quality was dependent on the process parameters and the type of drilling kinematics. The findings confirm that the kinematic system, as well as the feed per revolution, are the key factors affecting the quality of holes drilled in Inconel 718. The analysis of the hole drilling process for Inconel 718, performed using a CNC turning center, shows that the third kinematic system was the best option as all the four parameters describing the hole quality had the lowest values. The best results were obtained in the 6th (n = 637 rpm, fn = 0.075 mm/rev, KIN III) and 8th experiments (n = 955 rpm, fn = 0.075 mm/rev, KIN II), because the parameters were then the lowest, with the scatter of results being up to 30%.
Synthesis and Characterization of Nanoporous ZnO Films by Controlling the Zn Sublimation by Using ZnO/Zn Precursor Films
Authors: Hernández-Rodríguez Yazmin Mariela , Lopez-Salazar Primavera , Juarez-Diaz Gabriel , Paredes-Rubio Gabriel Romero , Peña-Sierra Ramón
Published: August 2022

A reliable process for the formation of nanoporous ZnO films supported on amorphous quartz and (100) silicon substrates via the processing of ZnO/Zn precursor films is reported. The process is based on the sublimation mechanism of Zn implemented in a novel ZnO/Zn precursor film to produce a nanoporous film. A scanning electron microscopy analysis of the nanoporous ZnO films’ surfaces revealed the presence of ZnO nano-features with round tips; in contrast, the nanoporous ZnO films supported on (100) Si substrates showed hexagonal nut-like nanostructures. The crystallite size of the nanoporous ZnO films decreased as the sublimation temperature was increased. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies demonstrated that formations of oxygen vacancies were produced during the processing stages (as the main structural lattice defects in the ZnO nanoporous films). The analysis of the photoluminescence response confirmed that the active deep-level centers were also related to the oxygen vacancies generated during the thermal processing of the ZnO/Zn precursor films. Finally, a qualitative mechanism is proposed to explain the formation of nanoporous ZnO films on quartz and crystalline Si substrates. The results suggest that the substrates used have a strong influence on the nanoporous ZnO structures obtained with the Zn-sublimation-controlled process.
Interfacial Reaction Mechanism between Ceramic Mould and Single Crystal Superalloy for Manufacturing Turbine Blade
Authors: Yao Jiansheng , Dong Longpei , Wu Zhenqiang , Wang Lili , Shen Bin , Yang Xiaowei
Published: August 2022

Single crystal superalloys are the preferred materials for manufacturing turbine blades of advanced aero-engines, due to their excellent high temperature comprehensive performance. The interfacial reaction between alloys and ceramic mould are an important factor to influence the surface quality and service performance of the turbine blade. It is very important to reveal the interfacial reaction mechanism to improve turbine blade quality and yield rate. In this paper, the interfacial reactions between DD6 single crystal superalloy and ceramic mould were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The results show that the main reaction products were HfO2, Al2O3 and Y3Al5O12 when the yttrium oxide powders were the prime coat materials, while alloy surface suffered undesirable sand fusion; the thicknesses of the reaction layers were over 20 μm. The reaction layer can be divided into two layers, the layer close to the alloy was mainly composed of Al2O3 and Y3Al5O12, and the layer close to the mould was composed of SiO2, Al2O3 and Y3Al5O12. Avoiding the formation of Y2O3-Al2O3-SiO2 ternary low-melts can solve the interfacial reaction between DD6 alloy and yttrium oxide mould.
Silver-Neodymium Codoped Lithium Aluminum Metaphosphate Glasses for Radio-Photoluminescence Dosimeter
Authors: Ma Xiben , Cheng Jimeng , Fan Sijun , Wang Xin , Chen Wei , Chen Shubin , Hu Lili
Published: August 2022

Commercial radio-photoluminescence (RPL) glass dosimeters generally use Ag single-doped phosphate glass as a single-wavelength sensor. Now, a novel type of Ag–Nd-codoped phosphate glass has been developed, which can be applied to dual-wavelength or multi-wavelength RPL sensors, and can thus improve the accuracy and stability of RPL dosimeters. An anhydrous 99.5 (0.7LiPO3–0.3Al (PO3)3) −0.25Ag2O–0.25Nd2O3 glass was prepared and irradiated at different doses, and then the absorption, fluorescence, infrared transmission spectra, as well as fluorescence lifetimes were tested and analyzed. The results show that there is an energy transfer between the Ag defect center and Nd3+ ions, and the transfer efficiency using 380 nm excitation is greater than that using 310 nm excitation. Aside from the 650 nm fluorescence of the Ag defect center, strong 882 nm and 1054 nm fluorescences of Nd ions are exhibited. It is possible that these fluorescences would allow the developed Ag–Nd-codoped phosphate glass to be applied to new RPL glass sensors and dosimeters.