bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iteration-Based Recycling and Reshaping Method for Inflow Turbulence Generation and Its Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Cao Shuyang , Cao Jinxin
Published: January 2022

For the analysis of the aerodynamic characteristics of the buildings immersed in the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), it is necessary to generate a turbulence velocity field with similar temporal and special characteristics to the ABL to obtain a reliable result. In this paper, an improved precursor simulation method called the recycling and reshaping method (RRM) is proposed to generate a turbulent boundary layer in an LES model. The laminar inflow is firstly disturbed by the virtual roughness blocks realized by adding drag force term in the momentum equation, then the inflow velocity profile is reshaped every several steps to adjust the streamwise velocity profile in the downstream target area to meet the requirements. The final turbulence field generated by RRM with virtual roughness blocks is in good agreement with the target velocity conditions. Then, the simulation of the wind-induced pressure on an isolated low-rise building surface is carried out, using the generated turbulence boundary layer as inflow. The comparison between numerical results and TPU aerodynamic database shows that the time-averaged wind-induced surface pressure obtained by LES can be considered in good accordance with the measurements over the whole building surface. However, the non-ignorable deviations for the fluctuating pressure result in the flow separation corners still exist.
Cortisol and Dexamethasone Mediate Glucocorticoid Actions in the Lesser Spotted Catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula)
Authors: Cabrera-Busto Juncal , Mancera Juan M. , Ruiz-Jarabo Ignacio
Published: January 2022

Corticosteroids are hormones produced in vertebrates exerting gluco- and mineralocorticoid actions (GC and MC) mediated by specific receptors (GR and MR, respectively). In elasmobranchs, the major circulating corticosteroid is the 1α-hydroxycorticosterone (1α-OHB). This hormone acts as a MC, but to date its role as a GC has not been established. As there is no 1α-OHB standard available, here we employed a set of in vivo and ex vivo approaches to test GC actions of other corticosteroids in the lesser spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula). Dexamethasone (DEX, a synthetic corticosteroid) slow-release implants decreased plasma 1α-OHB levels after 7 days, and modified carbohydrates metabolism in liver and white muscle (energy stores and metabolic enzymes). In addition, ex vivo culture of liver and white muscle explants confirmed GC actions of corticosteroids not naturally present in sharks (cortisol and DEX) by increasing glucose secretion from these tissues. Dose–response curves induced by cortisol and DEX, altogether with the use of specific GR inhibitor mifepristone, confirmed the involvement of GR mediating glucose secretion. This study highlights the influence of corticosteroids in the glucose balance of S. canicula, though the role of 1α-OHB as a GC hormone in sharks should be further confirmed.
Point Mutations at a Key Site Alter the Cytochrome P450 OleP Structural Dynamics
Authors: Montemiglio Linda Celeste , Gugole Elena , Freda Ida , Exertier Cécile , D’Auria Lucia , Chen Cheng Giuseppe , Nardi Alessandro Nicola , Cerutti Gabriele , Parisi Giacomo , D’Abramo Marco , Savino Carmelinda , Vallone Beatrice
Published: January 2022

Substrate binding to the cytochrome P450 OleP is coupled to a large open-to-closed transition that remodels the active site, minimizing its exposure to the external solvent. When the aglycone substrate binds, a small empty cavity is formed between the I and G helices, the BC loop, and the substrate itself, where solvent molecules accumulate mediating substrate-enzyme interactions. Herein, we analyzed the role of this cavity in substrate binding to OleP by producing three mutants (E89Y, G92W, and S240Y) to decrease its volume. The crystal structures of the OleP mutants in the closed state bound to the aglycone 6DEB showed that G92W and S240Y occupied the cavity, providing additional contact points with the substrate. Conversely, mutation E89Y induces a flipped-out conformation of this amino acid side chain, that points towards the bulk, increasing the empty volume. Equilibrium titrations and molecular dynamic simulations indicate that the presence of a bulky residue within the cavity impacts the binding properties of the enzyme, perturbing the conformational space explored by the complexes. Our data highlight the relevance of this region in OleP substrate binding and suggest that it represents a key substrate-protein contact site to consider in the perspective of redirecting its activity towards alternative compounds.
Predicting miRNA-Disease Association Based on Neural Inductive Matrix Completion with Graph Autoencoders and Self-Attention Mechanism
Authors: Jin Chen , Shi Zhuangwei , Lin Ken , Zhang Han
Published: January 2022

Many studies have clarified that microRNAs (miRNAs) are associated with many human diseases. Therefore, it is essential to predict potential miRNA-disease associations for disease pathogenesis and treatment. Numerous machine learning and deep learning approaches have been adopted to this problem. In this paper, we propose a Neural Inductive Matrix completion-based method with Graph Autoencoders (GAE) and Self-Attention mechanism for miRNA-disease associations prediction (NIMGSA). Some of the previous works based on matrix completion ignore the importance of label propagation procedure for inferring miRNA-disease associations, while others cannot integrate matrix completion and label propagation effectively. Varying from previous studies, NIMGSA unifies inductive matrix completion and label propagation via neural network architecture, through the collaborative training of two graph autoencoders. This neural inductive matrix completion-based method is also an implementation of self-attention mechanism for miRNA-disease associations prediction. This end-to-end framework can strengthen the robustness and preciseness of both matrix completion and label propagation. Cross validations indicate that NIMGSA outperforms current miRNA-disease prediction methods. Case studies demonstrate that NIMGSA is competent in detecting potential miRNA-disease associations.
ECMpy, a Simplified Workflow for Constructing Enzymatic Constrained Metabolic Network Model
Authors: Mao Zhitao , Zhao Xin , Yang Xue , Zhang Peiji , Du Jiawei , Yuan Qianqian , Ma Hongwu
Published: January 2022

Genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs) have been widely used for the phenotypic prediction of microorganisms. However, the lack of other constraints in the stoichiometric model often leads to a large metabolic solution space being inaccessible. Inspired by previous studies that take an allocation of macromolecule resources into account, we developed a simplified Python-based workflow for constructing enzymatic constrained metabolic network model (ECMpy) and constructed an enzyme-constrained model for Escherichia coli (eciML1515) by directly adding a total enzyme amount constraint in the latest version of GEM for E. coli (iML1515), considering the protein subunit composition in the reaction, and automated calibration of enzyme kinetic parameters. Using eciML1515, we predicted the overflow metabolism of E. coli and revealed that redox balance was the key reason for the difference between E. coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in overflow metabolism. The growth rate predictions on 24 single-carbon sources were improved significantly when compared with other enzyme-constrained models of E. coli. Finally, we revealed the tradeoff between enzyme usage efficiency and biomass yield by exploring the metabolic behaviours under different substrate consumption rates. Enzyme-constrained models can improve simulation accuracy and thus can predict cellular phenotypes under various genetic perturbations more precisely, providing reliable guidance for metabolic engineering.
Fluorescent Aptasensor and Colorimetric Aptablot for p-tau231 Detection: Toward Early Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Phan Le Minh Tu , Cho Sungbo
Published: January 2022

The pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia, is considered to be mainly driven by two major hallmarks (tau and amyloid beta). It is highly desirable to develop an affordable medicinal diagnostic that can be utilized worldwide for the early diagnosis of AD. Hence, p-tau231 was selected as a specific target, which appears both in AD serum and cerebrospinal fluid, for the development of a sensing platform for the diagnosis of AD. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first aptamer-mediated biosensors that rely on sensitive fluorescent and colorimetric aptasensors for the rapid monitoring of p-tau231. The nitrogen-doped carbon dot-based turn-on fluorescent aptasensor could rapidly analyze p-tau231 down to 3.64 ng/mL within 40 min, and the colorimetric Cu-enhanced-Au aptablot displayed high sensitivity at 4.71 pg/mL through a digital camera, with visibility to the naked eye down to 8 ng/mL p-tau231 within 140 min. Owing to their advantages, which include affordability, rapidity, high sensitivity, and dependence on complicated instruments, these aptamer-based biosensors offer significant potential for the early diagnosis of AD worldwide.
The Role of Substrate Topography and Stiffness on MSC Cells Functions: Key Material Properties for Biomimetic Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Kozaniti Foteini K. , Deligianni Despina D. , Georgiou Margarita D. , Portan Diana V.
Published: January 2022

The hypothesis of the present research is that by altering the substrate topography and/or stiffness to make it biomimetic, we can modulate cells behavior. Substrates with similar surface chemistry and varying stiffnesses and topographies were prepared. Bulk PCL and CNTs-reinforced PCL composites were manufactured by solvent casting method and electrospinning and further processed to obtain tunable moduli of elasticity in the range of few MPa. To ensure the same chemical profile for the substrates, a protein coating was added. Substrate topography and properties were investigated. Further on, the feedback of Wharton’s Jelly Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells to substrates characteristics was investigated. Solvent casting scaffolds displayed superior mechanical properties compared to the corresponding electrospun films. However, the biomimetic fibrous texture of the electrospun substrates induced improved feedback of the cells with respect to their viability and proliferation. Cells’ adhesion and differentiation was remarkably pronounced on solvent casting substrates compared to the electrospun substrates. Soft substates improved cells multiplication and migration, while stiff substrates induced differentiation into bone cells. Aspects related to the key factors and the ideal properties of substrates and microenvironments were clarified, aiming towards the deep understanding of the required optimum biomimetic features of biomaterials.
Comparing between Different Sets of Preprocessing, Classifiers, and Channels Selection Techniques to Optimise Motor Imagery Pattern Classification System from EEG Pattern Recognition
Authors: Ferracuti Francesco , Iarlori Sabrina , Mansour Zahra , Monteriù Andrea , Porcaro Camillo
Published: January 2022

The ability to control external devices through thought is increasingly becoming a reality. Human beings can use the electrical signals of their brain to interact or change the surrounding environment and more. The development of this technology called brain-computer interface (BCI) will increasingly allow people with motor disabilities to communicate or use assistive devices to walk, manipulate objects and communicate. Using data from the PhysioNet database, this study implemented a pattern classification system for use in a BCI on 109 healthy volunteers during real movement activities and motor imagery recorded by 64-channels electroencephalography (EEG) system. Different classifiers such as Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Decision Trees (TREE) were applied on different combinations of EEG channels. Starting from two channels (C3, C4 and CP3 and CP4) positioned on the contralateral and ipsilateral sensorimotor cortex, the Region of Interest (RoI) centred on C3/Cp3 and C4/Cp4 and, finally, a data-driven automatic channels selection was tested to explore the best channel combination able to increase the classification accuracy. The results showed that the proposed automatic channels selection was able to significantly improve the performance of each classifier achieving 98% of accuracy for classification of real and imagined hand movement (sensitivity = 97%, specificity = 99%, AUC = 0.99) by SVM. While the accuracy of the classification between the imagery of hand and foot movements was 91% (sensitivity = 87%, specificity = 86%, AUC = 0.93) also with SVM. In the proposed approach, the data-driven automatic channels selection outperforms classical a priori channel selection models such as C3/C4, Cp3/Cp4, or RoIs around those channels with the utmost accuracy to help remove the boundaries of human communication and improve the quality of life of people with disabilities.
Citicoline and COVID-19-Related Cognitive and Other Neurologic Complications
Authors: Turana Yuda , Nathaniel Michael , Shen Robert , Ali Soegianto , Aparasu Rajender R.
Published: January 2022

With growing concerns about COVID-19’s hyperinflammatory condition and its potentially damaging impact on the neurovascular system, there is a need to consider potential treatment options for managing short- and long-term effects on neurological complications, especially cognitive function. While maintaining adequate structure and function of phospholipid in brain cells, citicoline, identical to the natural metabolite phospholipid phosphatidylcholine precursor, can contribute to a variety of neurological diseases and hypothetically toward post-COVID-19 cognitive effects. In this review, we comprehensively describe in detail the potential citicoline mechanisms as adjunctive therapy and prevention of COVID-19-related cognitive decline and other neurologic complications through citicoline properties of anti-inflammation, anti-viral, neuroprotection, neurorestorative, and acetylcholine neurotransmitter synthesis, and provide a recommendation for future clinical trials.
Motor Cortical Plasticity Induced by Volitional Muscle Activity-Triggered Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Median Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Kariyawasam Pramudika Nirmani , Suzuki Shinya , Yoshida Susumu
Published: January 2022

Bilateral motor training is a useful method for modifying corticospinal excitability. The effects of bilateral movement that are caused by artificial stimulation on corticospinal excitability have not been reported. We compared motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) of the primary motor cortex (M1) after conventional bilateral motor training and artificial bilateral movements generated by electromyogram activity of abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscle-triggered peripheral nerve stimulation (c-MNS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation of the ipsilateral M1 (i-TMS). A total of three protocols with different interventions—bilateral finger training, APB-triggered c-MNS, and APB-triggered i-TMS—were administered to 12 healthy participants. Each protocol consisted of 360 trials of 30 min for each trial. MEPs that were induced by single-pulse TMS, short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI), and intracortical facilitation (ICF) that were induced by paired-pulse TMS were assessed as outcome measures at baseline and at 0, 20, 40, and 60 min after intervention. MEP amplitude significantly increased up to 40 min post-intervention in all protocols compared to that at the baseline, although there were some differences in the changing pattern of ICF and SICI in each protocol. These findings suggest that artificial bilateral movement has the potential to increase the ipsilateral cortical excitability of the moving finger.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on (Health) Care Situation of People with Parkinson’s Disease in Germany (Care4PD)
Authors: Fründt Odette , Hanff Anne-Marie , Mai Tobias , Kirchner Christiane , Bouzanne des Mazery Emma , Amouzandeh Ali , Buhmann Carsten , Krüger Rejko , Südmeyer Martin
Published: January 2022

The Care4PD study examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the care situation of people (PwP) with Parkinson’s disease in Germany. A comprehensive, nationwide, anonymous questionnaire for PwP was distributed by the members’ journal of the German Parkinson’s Disease Association and in several PD specialized in- and outpatient institutions. PwP subjectively evaluated their general care situation and individual impairments during the pandemic. We analyzed 1269 eligible out of 1437 returned questionnaires (88.3%) and compared PwP with (p-LTC) and without (np-LTC) professional long-term care. Both groups rated the general pandemic-related consequences as being rather mild to moderate (e.g., worsening of symptom or concerns). However, familial/social contact restrictions were indicated as most compromising, whereas access to outpatient professional health care providers was less affected. PwP with professional LTC reported more impairment than those without. COVID-19 vaccination rates and acceptance were generally high (p-LTC: 64.3%, np-LTC: 52.3%) at the time of the study, but realization of sanitary measures—especially wearing masks as a patient during care sessions—still needs to be improved. Technical options for telemedicine were principally available but only rarely used. Altogether, during the COVID-19 pandemic, PwP in Germany seemed to have a relatively stable health care access, at least in outpatient settings, while mainly social isolation compromised them. The p-LTC group was more impaired in everyday live compared with the np-LTC group.
Split-Belt Training but Not Cerebellar Anodal tDCS Improves Stability Control and Reduces Risk of Fall in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Nguemeni Carine , Hiew Shawn , Kögler Stefanie , Homola György A. , Volkmann Jens , Zeller Daniel
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to examine the therapeutic potential of multiple sessions of training on a split-belt treadmill (SBT) combined with cerebellar anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on gait and balance in People with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS). Twenty-two PwMS received six sessions of anodal (PwMSreal, n = 12) or sham (PwMSsham, n = 10) tDCS to the cerebellum prior to performing the locomotor adaptation task on the SBT. To evaluate the effect of the intervention, functional gait assessment (FGA) scores and distance walked in 2 min (2MWT) were measured at the baseline (T0), day 6 (T5), and at the 4-week follow up (T6). Locomotor performance and changes of motor outcomes were similar in PwMSreal and PwMSsham independently from tDCS mode applied to the cerebellum (anodal vs. sham, on FGA, p = 0.23; and 2MWT, p = 0.49). When the data were pooled across the groups to investigate the effects of multiple sessions of SBT training alone, significant improvement of gait and balance was found on T5 and T6, respectively, relative to baseline (FGA, p < 0.001 for both time points). The FGA change at T6 was significantly higher than at T5 (p = 0.01) underlining a long-lasting improvement. An improvement of the distance walked during the 2MWT was also observed on T5 and T6 relative to T0 (p = 0.002). Multiple sessions of SBT training resulted in a lasting improvement of gait stability and endurance, thus potentially reducing the risk of fall as measured by FGA and 2MWT. Application of cerebellar tDCS during SBT walking had no additional effect on locomotor outcomes.
Effects of a Cognitive-Motor Training on Anticipatory Brain Functions and Sport Performance in Semi-Elite Basketball Players
Authors: Lucia Stefania , Bianco Valentina , Boccacci Luca , Di Russo Francesco
Published: January 2022

The aim of this research was to test the possible effects of cognitive–motor training (CMT) on athletes’ sport performance and cognitive functions. Namely, specific athletic tests, brain processes associated with anticipatory event-related potential (ERP) components and behavioral performance during a cognitive discrimination response task were evaluated pre- and post-training. Twenty-four young semi-professional basketball players were recruited for the study and randomly divided into an experimental (Exp) group executing the CMT training and a control (Con) group performing standard motor training. The CMT training protocol included exercises in which participants performed cognitive tasks during dribbling exercises using interactive devices which emitted visual and auditory stimuli, in which athletes’ responses were recorded. Results showed that following training, only the Exp group improved in all sport-specific tests (17%) and more than the Con group (88% vs. 60%) in response accuracy during the cognitive test. At brain level, post-training anticipatory cognitive processes associated with proactive inhibition and top-down attention in the prefrontal cortex were earlier and heightened in the Exp group. Our findings confirm previous studies on clear improved efficacy of CMT training protocols on sport performance and cognition compared to training based on motor exercises only, but extend the literature in showing that these effects might be explained by enhanced anticipatory brain processing in the prefrontal cortex. The present study also suggests that in order to achieve specific athletic goals, the brain adapts cognitive functions by means of neuroplasticity processes.
A Comparison of IgG Index and Oligoclonal Band in the Cerebrospinal Fluid for Differentiating between RRMS and NMOSD
Authors: Chen Bo , Tian Dai-Shi , Bu Bi-Tao
Published: January 2022

As the oligoclonal band in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF-OCB) in predicting relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is less sensitive in Asian populations than that in westerners, it remains elusive whether the IgG index could serve as an alternative. The purpose of this study was to compare these two methods of differentiating between RRMS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in Chinese patients. A total of 171 patients (81 RRMS and 90 NMOSD) were retrospectively recruited, of whom 82 (56 RRMS and 26 NMOSD) received the CSF-OCB testing additionally. When the onset age was ≤38.5 years, IgG index with the threshold of 0.67 had a significant agreement (k = 0.4, p < 0.001) with the diagnosis while CSF-OCB failed to discriminate (k = 0.1, p = 0.578). However, when the onset age was >38.5 years, both IgG index with the threshold of 0.8 and CSF-OCB were moderately consistent with the diagnosis (both k > 0.4, p < 0.05). In total, our optimized algorithm had the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive accuracy of 0.778, slightly outperforming the CSF-OCB model. Accordingly, a combination of the onset age and IgG index could serve as an alternative to CSF-OCB for differentiating between RRMS and NMOSD in Chinese patients.
Neuronal Glial Crosstalk: Specific and Shared Mechanisms in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chavda Vishal , Singh Kavita , Patel Vimal , Mishra Meerambika , Mishra Awdhesh Kumar
Published: January 2022

The human brain maintains billions of neurons functional across the lifespan of the individual. The glial, supportive cells of the brain are indispensable to neuron elasticity. They undergo various states (active, reactive, macrophage, primed, resting) and carefully impose either quick repair or the cleaning of injured neurons to avoid damage extension. Identifying the failure of these interactions involving the relation of the input of glial cells to the inception and/or progression of chronic neurodegenerative diseases (ND) is crucial in identifying therapeutic options, given the well-built neuro-immune module of these diseases. In the present review, we scrutinize different interactions and important factors including direct cell–cell contact, intervention by the CD200 system, various receptors present on their surfaces, CXC3RI and TREM2, and chemokines and cytokines with special reference to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The present review of the available literature will elucidate the contribution of microglia and astrocytes to the pathophysiology of AD, thus evidencing glial cells as obligatory transducers of pathology and superlative targets for interference.
Machine Learning Techniques Focusing on the Energy Performance of Buildings: A Dimensions and Methods Analysis
Authors: Anastasiadou Maria , Santos Vítor , Dias Miguel Sales
Published: January 2022

The problem of energy consumption and the importance of improving existing buildings’ energy performance are notorious. This work aims to contribute to this improvement by identifying the latest and most appropriate machine learning or statistical techniques, which analyze this problem by looking at large quantities of building energy performance certification data and other data sources. PRISMA, a well-established systematic literature review and meta-analysis method, was used to detect specific factors that influence the energy performance of buildings, resulting in an analysis of 35 papers published between 2016 and April 2021, creating a baseline for further inquiry. Through this systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis, machine learning and statistical approaches primarily based on building energy certification data were identified and analyzed in two groups: (1) automatic evaluation of buildings’ energy performance and, (2) prediction of energy-efficient retrofit measures. The main contribution of our study is a conceptual and theoretical framework applicable in the analysis of the energy performance of buildings with intelligent computational methods. With our framework, the reader can understand which approaches are most used and more appropriate for analyzing the energy performance of different types of buildings, discussing the dimensions that are better used in such approaches.
The Journal Buildings: A Bibliometric Analysis (2011–2021)
Authors: Xiao Zhiwen , Qin Yong , Xu Zeshui , Antucheviciene Jurgita , Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras
Published: January 2022

The journal Buildings was launched in 2011 and is dedicated to promoting advancements in building science, building engineering and architecture. Motivated by its 10th anniversary in 2021, this study aims to develop a bibliometric analysis of the publications of the journal between April 2011 and October 2021. This work analyzes bibliometric performance indicators, such as publication and citation structures, the most cited articles and the leading authors, institutions and countries/regions. Science mappings based on indicators such as the most commonly used keywords, citation and co-citation, and collaboration are also developed for further analysis. In doing so, the work uses the Scopus database to collect data and Bibliometrix to conduct the research. The results show the strong growth of Buildings over time and that researchers from all over the world are attracted by the journal.
The Role of Dielectrophoresis for Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis
Authors: Russo Giorgio , Musso Nicolò , Romano Alessandra , Caruso Giuseppe , Petralia Salvatore , Lanzanò Luca , Broggi Giuseppe , Camarda Massimo
Published: January 2022

Liquid biopsy is emerging as a potential diagnostic tool for prostate cancer (PC) prognosis and diagnosis. Unfortunately, most circulating tumor cells (CTC) technologies, such as AdnaTest or Cellsearch®, critically rely on the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) marker, limiting the possibility of detecting cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) and mesenchymal-like cells (EMT-CTCs) that are present during PC progression. In this context, dielectrophoresis (DEP) is an epCAM independent, label-free enrichment system that separates rare cells simply on the basis of their specific electrical properties. As compared to other technologies, DEP may represent a superior technique in terms of running costs, cell yield and specificity. However, because of its higher complexity, it still requires further technical as well as clinical development. DEP can be improved by the use of microfluid, nanostructured materials and fluoro-imaging to increase its potential applications. In the context of cancer, the usefulness of DEP lies in its capacity to detect CTCs in the bloodstream in their epithelial, mesenchymal, or epithelial–mesenchymal phenotype forms, which should be taken into account when choosing CTC enrichment and analysis methods for PC prognosis and diagnosis.
Investigation of Photocatalysis by Mesoporous Titanium Dioxide Supported on Glass Fibers as an Integrated Technology for Water Remediation
Authors: De Ceglie Cristina , Pal Sudipto , Murgolo Sapia , Licciulli Antonio , Mascolo Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

The photocatalytic efficiency of an innovative UV-light catalyst consisting of a mesoporous TiO2 coating on glass fibers was investigated for the degradation of pharmaceuticals (PhACs) in wastewater effluents. Photocatalytic activity of the synthesized material was tested, for the first time, on a secondary wastewater effluent spiked with nine PhACs and the results were compared with the photolysis used as a benchmark treatment. Replicate experiments were performed in a flow reactor equipped with a UV radiation source emitting at 254 nm. Interestingly, the novel photocatalyst led to the increase of the degradation of carbamazepine and trimethoprim (about 2.2 times faster than the photolysis). Several transformation products (TPs) resulting from both the spiked PhACs and the compounds naturally occurring in the secondary wastewater effluent were identified through UPLC-QTOF/MS/MS. Some of them, produced mainly from carbamazepine and trimethoprim, were still present at the end of the photolytic treatment, while they were completely or partially removed by the photocatalytic treatment.
Cerium d-Block Element (Co, Ni) Bimetallic Oxides as Catalysts for the Methanation of CO2: Effect of Pressure
Authors: Branco Joaquim Miguel Badalo , Ferreira Ana Cristina , Martinho Joana Filipa
Published: January 2022

Nickel– and cobalt–cerium bimetallic oxides were used as catalysts for the methanation of CO2 under pressure. The catalysts’ activity increases with pressure and an increase of just 10 bar is enough to double the yield of methane and to significantly improve the selectivity. The best results were those obtained over nickel–cerium bimetallic oxides, but the effect of pressure was particularly relevant over cobalt–cerium bimetallic oxides, which yield to methane increases from almost zero at atmospheric pressure to 50–60% at 30 bar. Both catalyst types are remarkably competitive, especially those containing nickel, which were always more active than a commercial rhodium catalyst used as a reference (5wt.% Rh/Al2O3) and tested under the same conditions. For the cobalt–cerium bimetallic oxides, the existence of a synergetic interaction between Co and CoO and the formation of cobalt carbides seems to play an important role in their catalytic behavior. Correlation between experimental reaction rates and simulated data confirms that the catalysts’ behavior follows the Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson kinetic model, but Le Chatelier’s principle is also important to understand the catalysts’ behavior under pressure. A catalyst recycle study was also performed. The results obtained after five cycles using a nickel–cerium catalyst show insignificant variations in activity and selectivity, which are important for any type of practical application.
Insights into Modern Therapeutic Approaches in Pediatric Acute Leukemias
Authors: Panuciak Kinga , Margas Mikołaj , Makowska Karolina , Lejman Monika
Published: January 2022

Pediatric cancers predominantly constitute lymphomas and leukemias. Recently, our knowledge and awareness about genetic diversities, and their consequences in these diseases, have greatly expanded. Modern solutions are focused on mobilizing and impacting a patient’s immune system. Strategies to stimulate the immune system, to prime an antitumor response, are of intense interest. Amid those types of therapies are chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells, bispecific antibodies, and antibody–drug conjugates (ADC), which have already been approved in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)/acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), i.e., NOD-like receptors (NLRs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and several kinds of therapy antibodies are well on their way to showing significant benefits for patients with these diseases. This review summarizes the current knowledge of modern methods used in selected pediatric malignancies and presents therapies that may hold promise for the future.
A Tight Control of Non-Canonical TGF-β Pathways and MicroRNAs Downregulates Nephronectin in Podocytes
Authors: Sopel Nina , Ohs Alexandra , Schiffer Mario , Müller-Deile Janina
Published: January 2022

Nephronectin (NPNT) is an extracellular matrix protein in the glomerular basement membrane that is produced by podocytes and is important for the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier. Upregulated transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and altered NPNT are seen in different glomerular diseases. TGF-β downregulates NPNT and upregulates NPNT-targeting microRNAs (miRs). However, the pathways involved were previously unknown. By using selective inhibitors of the canonical, SMAD-dependent, and non-canonical TGF-β pathways, we investigated NPNT transcription, translation, secretion, and regulation through miRs in podocytes. TGF-β decreased NPNT mRNA and protein in cultured human podocytes. TGF-β-dependent regulation of NPNT was meditated through intracellular signaling pathways. Under baseline conditions, non-canonical pathways predominantly regulated NPNT post-transcriptionally. Podocyte NPNT secretion, however, was not dependent on canonical or non-canonical TGF-β pathways. The canonical TGF-β pathway was also dispensable for NPNT regulation after TGF-β stimulation, as TGF-β was still able to downregulate NPNT in the presence of SMAD inhibitors. In contrast, in the presence of different non-canonical pathway inhibitors, TGF-β stimulation did not further decrease NPNT expression. Moreover, distinct non-canonical TGF-β pathways mediated TGF-β-induced upregulation of NPNT-targeting miR-378a-3p. Thus, we conclude that post-transcriptional fine-tuning of NPNT expression in podocytes is mediated predominantly through non-canonical TGF-β pathways.
Nanoencapsulated Myricetin to Improve Antioxidant Activity and Bioavailability: A Study on Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Agraharam Gopikrishna , Girigoswami Agnishwar , Girigoswami Koyeli
Published: January 2022

Flavonoids are natural polyphenolic compounds that mainly possess antioxidant properties due to more hydroxyl groups in their structure and play an important role in combatting many diseases. Myricetin is a flavonoid found in grapes, green tea, fruits, and vegetables and is not only an antioxidant but also is a pro-oxidant. Myricetin is sparingly soluble in water and restricts its properties due to low bioavailability. The present study reports the liposomal nanoformulations of myricetin to improve its bioavailability with reduced pro-oxidant activity. The nanoformulated myricetin was characterized using different photophysical tools, such as dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect of nanoencapsulated myricetin on the developing zebrafish embryo was studied in terms of microscopic observations, cumulative hatchability, and antioxidant activities, such as catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, after treating the zebrafish embryo with standard oxidant hydrogen peroxide. The results obtained from the cumulative hatchability, developmental studies, and antioxidant assays indicated that the liposomal nanoformulation of myricetin had enhanced antioxidant activity, leading to defense against oxidative stress. The formulation was highly biocompatible, as evidenced by the cumulative hatching studies as well as microscopic observations. The positive effects of liposomal nanoformulation on zebrafish embryos can open an avenue for other researchers to carry out further related research and to check its activities in clinical studies and developmental studies.
Low p-SYN1 (Ser-553) Expression Leads to Abnormal Neurotransmitter Release of GABA Induced by Up-Regulated Cdk5 after Microwave Exposure: Insights on Protection and Treatment of Microwave-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: Zhi Wei-Jia , Qiao Si-Mo , Zou Yong , Peng Rui-Yun , Yan Hai-Tao , Ma Li-Zhen , Dong Ji , Zhao Li , Yao Bin-Wei , Zhao Xue-Long , Feng Xin-Xing , Hu Xiang-Jun , Wang Li-Feng
Published: January 2022

With the wide application of microwave technology, concerns about its health impact have arisen. The signal transmission mode of the central nervous system and neurons make it particularly sensitive to electromagnetic exposure. It has been reported that abnormal release of amino acid neurotransmitters is mediated by alteration of p-SYN1 after microwave exposure, which results in cognitive dysfunction. As the phosphorylation of SYN1 is regulated by different kinases, in this study we explored the regulatory mechanisms of SYN1 fluctuations following microwave exposure and its subsequent effect on GABA release, aiming to provide clues on the mechanism of cognitive impairment caused by microwave exposure. In vivo studies with Timm and H&E staining were adopted and the results showed abnormality in synapse formation and neuronal structure, explaining the previously-described deficiency in cognitive ability caused by microwave exposure. The observed alterations in SYN1 level, combined with the results of earlier studies, indicate that SYN1 and its phosphorylation status (ser-553 and ser62/67) may play a role in the abnormal release of neurotransmitters. Thus, the role of Cdk5, the upstream kinase regulating the formation of p-SYN1 (ser-553), as well as that of MEK, the regulator of p-SYN1 (ser-62/67), were investigated both in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that Cdk5 was a negative regulator of p-SYN1 (ser-553) and that its up-regulation caused a decrease in GABA release by reducing p-SYN1 (ser-553). While further exploration still needed to elaborate the role of p-SYN1 (ser-62/67) for neurotransmitter release, MEK inhibition had was no impact on p-Erk or p-SYN1 (ser-62/67) after microwave exposure. In conclusion, the decrease of p-SYN1 (ser-553) may result in abnormalities in vesicular anchoring and GABA release, which is caused by increased Cdk5 regulated through Calpain-p25 pathway after 30 mW/cm2 microwave exposure. This study provided a potential new strategy for the prevention and treatment of microwave-induced cognitive dysfunction.
Novel Structures of Functionalized Graphene Oxide with Hydrazide: Characterization and Bioevaluation of Antimicrobial and Cytocompatibility Features
Authors: Zarafu Irina , Limban Carmen , Radulescu Cristiana , Dulama Ioana Daniela , Nuta Diana Camelia , Chirita Cornel , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen , Badiceanu Carmellina Daniela , Popa Marcela , Bleotu Coralia , Dragu Laura Denisa , Stirbescu Raluca Maria , Bucurica Ioan Alin , Stanescu Sorina Geanina , Ionita Petre
Published: January 2022

Graphite was oxidized to graphene oxide and activated by thionyl chloride, for further covalently linking three hydrazides with potential biological activity. The obtained materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared and Raman spectroscopies. The presence of various functional groups specific to graphene oxide (GO) functionalized with different hydrazides was confirmed by spectral data. The ratio between D- and G-bands, observed in Raman spectra, allowed for an evaluation of the disorder degree and the mean crystallite size of the samples. The micrographs highlighted that the samples lead to the occurrence of disorders, probably caused by the sp3 carbons, the formation of oxygen-containing functional groups in the basal planes, and by various structural defects. The new graphene oxide–hydrazide derivatives were tested for their antimicrobial and cytotoxicity activity. Their antimicrobial activity against planktonic and biofilm-embedded cells was inferior to that of free hydrazides, except for GO-3 against planktonic Escherichia coli and GO-2 against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm, demonstrating that further optimization is needed to be able to exploit the huge potential of GO for developing potent antimicrobials.
Comparative Analysis of Polymer Composites Produced by FFF and PJM 3D Printing and Electrospinning Technologies for Possible Filter Applications
Authors: Kozior Tomasz , Mamun Al , Trabelsi Marah , Sabantina Lilia
Published: January 2022

Three-dimensional printing technologies are mainly used to build objects with complex shapes and geometry, largely prototypes, and thanks to the possibility of building very thin layers of material with small pores, electrospinning technology allows for the creation of structures with filtration properties, in particular very small particles. The combination of these technologies creates new possibilities for building complex-shape composites that have not been comprehensively tested so far. The article describes the results of research on composites manufactured by combining samples prepared with two 3D printing technologies, Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) and Photo-Curing of Liquid Polymer Resins (PJM) in combination with electrospinning (ES) technology. The surface morphology of composites manufactured from biocompatible materials was investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and contact angle measurements, and chemical composition analysis was studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). This approach to creating composites appears to be an alternative to developing research for filtration applications. The article presents basic research illustrating the quality of composites produced by combining two unconventional technologies: 3D printing and electrospinning (ES). The analysis of the research results showed clear differences in the structure of composites produced with the use of various 3D printing technologies. The CLSM analysis showed a much better orientation of the fibers in the MED610 + PAN/gelatin composite, and the measurement of the contact angle and its indirect interpretation also for this composite allows for the conclusion that it will be characterized by a higher value of adhesion force. Moreover, such composites could be used in the future for the construction of filtering devices and in medical applications.
Evolution of the Surface Structure and Functional Properties of the Electroconducting Polymer Coatings onto Porous Films
Authors: Elyashevich Galina Kazimirovna , Gerasimov Dmitry Igorevich , Kuryndin Ivan Sergeevich , Lavrentyev Viktor Konstantinovich , Rosova Elena Yurievna , Vylegzhanina Milana Ernestovna
Published: January 2022

Composite systems containing electroconducting polymer coatings (polyaniline and polypyrrole) applied to porous films of semicrystalline polymers (polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinylidene fluoride) have been prepared. Porous supports were obtained in the process based on polymer melt extrusion with subsequent annealing, uniaxial extensions, and thermal stabilization. Conducting coatings were formed by the oxidative polymerization of the monomers directly onto the porous supports. The structure (overall porosity, permeability, pore sizes, factor of orientation) and morphology (specific surface and character of the film surface) of the supports were characterized by sorptometry, filtration porosimetry, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray scattering techniques. It was observed that the porous supports have a strongly developed relief surface which is formed in the pore formation process. It was proven by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) that the porous supports have an oriented structure, and the surface of the composites is defined by the morphology inherent in the conducting component. It was shown that these composites (porous support/conducting coating) demonstrate electric conductivity both along the surface and between surfaces. It was demonstrated that the deposition of conducting coatings leads to an increase in the water wettability of the composites compared with pronounced hydrophobic supports. The composites are characterized by good adhesion between components due to a relief film surface as well as high mechanical strength and elasticity provided by the oriented character of the supports.
Evaluating the Performance of Aluminum Sacrificial Anodes with Different Concentration of Gallium in Artificial Sea Water
Authors: Xi Yuntao , Jia Mao , Zhang Jun , Zhang Wanli , Yang Daoyong , Sun Liang
Published: January 2022

In this manuscript, the influence of gallium content additions of Al-Zn-In-Mg alloy was investigated through electrochemical techniques and microstructure observation in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The results indicated that Al-Zn-In-Mg-0.03Ga alloy has the best discharge performance among all alloys. We propose that this is due to the fact that gallium addition to the Al-4Zn-In-Mg alloy improves the discharge activity of the alloy as well as elevating its anodic efficiency. In particular, the effect of gallium addition to improve discharge activity tends to be a parabolic curve, in which there is an increase when the gallium is first added that rises to the maximum anode current efficiency of about 98.25% whenever gallium content is 0.03 wt%.
Effect of Water and Salt on the Colloidal Stability of Latex Particles in Ionic Liquid Solutions
Authors: Takács Dóra , Tomšič Matija , Szilagyi Istvan
Published: January 2022

The colloidal stability of sulfate (SL) and polyimidazolium-modified sulfate (SL-IP-2) latex particles was studied in an ionic liquid (IL) of ethylammonium nitrate (EAN) and its water mixtures. Aggregation rates were found to vary systematically as a function of the IL-to-water ratio. Repulsive electrostatic interactions between particles dominated at low IL concentrations, while they were significantly screened at intermediate IL concentrations, leading to destabilization of the dispersions. When the IL concentration was further increased, the aggregation of latex particles slowed down due to the increased viscosity and finally, a striking stabilization was observed in the IL-rich regime close to the pure IL solvent. The latter stabilization is due to the formation of IL layers at the interface between particles and IL, which induce repulsive oscillatory forces. The presence of the added salt in the system affected differently the structure of the interfaces around SL and SL-IP-2 particles. The sign of the charge and the composition of the particle surfaces were found to be the most important parameters affecting the colloidal stability. The nature of the counterions also plays an important role in the interfacial properties due to their influence on the structure of the IL surface layers. No evidence was observed for the presence of long-range electrostatic interactions between the particles in pure ILs. The results indicate that the presence of even low concentrations of water and salt in the system (as undesirable impurities) can strongly alter the interfacial structure and thus, the aggregation mechanism in particle IL dispersions.