bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miR-29a-3p Regulates Autophagy by Targeting Akt3-Mediated mTOR in SiO2-Induced Lung Fibrosis
Authors: Li Peiyuan , Hao Xiaohui , Liu Jiaxin , Zhang Qinxin , Liang Zixuan , Li Xinran , Liu Heliang
Published: July 2023

Silicosis is a refractory pneumoconiosis of unknown etiology that is characterized by diffuse lung fibrosis, and microRNA (miRNA) dysregulation is connected to silicosis. Emerging evidence suggests that miRNAs modulate pulmonary fibrosis through autophagy; however, its underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. In agreement with miRNA microarray analysis, the qRT-PCR results showed that miR-29a-3p was significantly decreased in the pulmonary fibrosis model both in vitro and in vivo. Increased autophagosome was observed via transmission electron microscopy in lung epithelial cell models and lung tissue of silicosis mice. The expression of autophagy-related proteins LC3α/β and Beclin1 were upregulated. The results from using 3-methyladenine, an autophagy inhibitor, or rapamycin, an autophagy inducer, together with TGF-β1, indicated that autophagy attenuates fibrosis by protecting lung epithelial cells. In TGF-β1-treated TC-1 cells, transfection with miR-29a-3p mimics activated protective autophagy and reduced alpha-smooth muscle actin and collagen I expression. miRNA TargetScan predicted, and dual-luciferase reporter experiments identified Akt3 as a direct target of miR-29a-3p. Furthermore, Akt3 expression was significantly elevated in the silicosis mouse model and TGF-β1-treated TC-1 cells. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a central regulator of the autophagy process. Silencing Akt3 inhibited the transduction of the mTOR signaling pathway and activated autophagy in TGF-β1-treated TC-1 cells. These results show that miR-29a-3p overexpression can partially reverse the fibrotic effects by activating autophagy of the pulmonary epithelial cells regulated by the Akt3/mTOR pathway. Therefore, targeting miR-29a-3p may provide a new therapeutic strategy for silica-induced pulmonary fibrosis.
Leptomeningeal Metastases in Melanoma Patients: An Update on and Future Perspectives for Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Steininger Julian , Gellrich Frank Friedrich , Engellandt Kay , Meinhardt Matthias , Westphal Dana , Beissert Stefan , Meier Friedegund , Glitza Oliva Isabella C.
Published: July 2023

Leptomeningeal disease (LMD) is a devastating complication of cancer with a particularly poor prognosis. Among solid tumours, malignant melanoma (MM) has one of the highest rates of metastasis to the leptomeninges, with approximately 10–15% of patients with advanced disease developing LMD. Tumour cells that metastasise to the brain have unique properties that allow them to cross the blood–brain barrier, evade the immune system, and survive in the brain microenvironment. Metastatic colonisation is achieved through dynamic communication between metastatic cells and the tumour microenvironment, resulting in a tumour-permissive milieu. Despite advances in treatment options, the incidence of LMD appears to be increasing and current treatment modalities have a limited impact on survival. This review provides an overview of the biology of LMD, diagnosis and current treatment approaches for MM patients with LMD, and an overview of ongoing clinical trials. Despite the still limited efficacy of current therapies, there is hope that emerging treatments will improve the outcomes for patients with LMD.
Repositioning of Anti-Diabetic Drugs against Dementia: Insight from Molecular Perspectives to Clinical Trials
Authors: Mantik Keren Esther Kristina , Kim Sujin , Gu Bonsang , Moon Sohee , Kwak Hyo-Bum , Park Dong-Ho , Kang Ju-Hee
Published: July 2023

Insulin resistance as a hallmark of type 2 DM (T2DM) plays a role in dementia by promoting pathological lesions or enhancing the vulnerability of the brain. Numerous studies related to insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling are linked with various types of dementia. Brain insulin resistance in dementia is linked to disturbances in Aβ production and clearance, Tau hyperphosphorylation, microglial activation causing increased neuroinflammation, and the breakdown of tight junctions in the blood–brain barrier (BBB). These mechanisms have been studied primarily in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but research on other forms of dementia like vascular dementia (VaD), Lewy body dementia (LBD), and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) has also explored overlapping mechanisms. Researchers are currently trying to repurpose anti-diabetic drugs to treat dementia, which are dominated by insulin sensitizers and insulin substrates. Although it seems promising and feasible, none of the trials have succeeded in ameliorating cognitive decline in late-onset dementia. We highlight the possibility of repositioning anti-diabetic drugs as a strategy for dementia therapy by reflecting on current and previous clinical trials. We also describe the molecular perspectives of various types of dementia through the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway.
Two “Edges” in Our Knowledge on the Functions of Ribosomal Proteins: The Revealed Contributions of Their Regions to Translation Mechanisms and the Issues of Their Extracellular Transport by Exosomes
Authors: Ochkasova Anastasia , Arbuzov Grigory , Malygin Alexey , Graifer Dmitri
Published: July 2023

Ribosomal proteins (RPs), the constituents of the ribosome, belong to the most abundant proteins in the cell. A highly coordinated network of interactions implicating RPs and ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) forms the functionally competent structure of the ribosome, enabling it to perform translation, the synthesis of polypeptide chain on the messenger RNA (mRNA) template. Several RPs contact ribosomal ligands, namely, those with transfer RNAs (tRNAs), mRNA or translation factors in the course of translation, and the contribution of a number of these particular contacts to the translation process has recently been established. Many ribosomal proteins also have various extra-ribosomal functions unrelated to translation. The least-understood and -discussed functions of RPs are those related to their participation in the intercellular communication via extracellular vesicles including exosomes, etc., which often carry RPs as passengers. Recently reported data show that such a kind of communication can reprogram a receptor cell and change its phenotype, which is associated with cancer progression and metastasis. Here, we review the state-of-art ideas on the implications of specific amino acid residues of RPs in the particular stages of the translation process in higher eukaryotes and currently available data on the transport of RPs by extracellular vesicles and its biological effects.
The Role of Macrophage Populations in Skeletal Muscle Insulin Sensitivity: Current Understanding and Implications
Authors: Lee Min-Kyeong , Ryu Heeyeon , Van Ji Yun , Kim Myeong-Jin , Jeong Hyeon Hak , Jung Won-Kyo , Jun Joo Yun , Lee Bonggi
Published: July 2023

Insulin resistance is a crucial factor in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other metabolic disorders. Skeletal muscle, the body’s largest insulin-responsive tissue, plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of T2DM due to defects in insulin signaling. Recently, there has been growing evidence that macrophages, immune cells essential for tissue homeostasis and injury response, also contribute to the development of skeletal muscle insulin resistance. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the role of macrophages in skeletal muscle insulin resistance. Firstly, it provides an overview of the different macrophage populations present in skeletal muscle and their specific functions in the development of insulin resistance. Secondly, it examines the underlying mechanisms by which macrophages promote or alleviate insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and altered metabolism. Lastly, the review discusses potential therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages to improve skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity and metabolic health.
Statin Use in Relation to COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Infections: Muscle and Other Considerations
Authors: Golomb Beatrice A. , Han Jun Hee , Langsjoen Peter H. , Dinkeloo Eero , Zemljic-Harpf Alice E.
Published: July 2023

Statins have been widely advocated for use in COVID-19 based on large favorable observational associations buttressed by theoretical expected benefits. However, past favorable associations of statins to pre-COVID-19 infection outcomes (also buttressed by theoretical benefits) were unsupported in meta-analysis of RCTs, RR = 1.00. Initial RCTs in COVID-19 appear to follow this trajectory. Healthy-user/tolerator effects and indication bias may explain these disparities. Moreover, cholesterol drops in proportion to infection severity, so less severely affected individuals may be selected for statin use, contributing to apparent favorable statin associations to outcomes. Cholesterol transports fat-soluble antioxidants and immune-protective vitamins. Statins impair mitochondrial function in those most reliant on coenzyme Q10 (a mevalonate pathway product also transported on cholesterol)—i.e., those with existing mitochondrial compromise, whom data suggest bear increased risks from both COVID-19 and from statins. Thus, statin risks of adverse outcomes are amplified in those patients at risk of poor COVID-19 outcomes—i.e., those in whom adjunctive statin therapy may most likely be given. High reported rates of rhabdomyolysis in hospitalized COVID-19 patients underscore the notion that statin-related risks as well as benefits must be considered. Advocacy for statins in COVID-19 should be suspended pending clear evidence of RCT benefits, with careful attention to risk modifiers.
The Effectiveness of Three-Dimensional Osteosynthesis Plates versus Conventional Plates for the Treatment of Skeletal Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Raghoebar Iva Ilse , Dubois Leander , de Lange Jan , Schepers Tim , Don Griot Peter , Essig Harald , Rozema Frederik
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To assess the difference between preformed anatomically shaped osteosynthesis plates and patient-specific implants versus conventional flat plates for the treatment of skeletal fractures in terms of anatomical reduction, operation time, approach, patient outcomes, and complications. Material and Methods: MEDLINE (1950 to February 2023), EMBASE (1966 to February 2023), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (inception to February 2023) databases were searched. Eligible studies were randomised clinical trials, prospective controlled clinical trials, and prospective and retrospective cohort studies (n ≥ 10). Inclusion criteria were studies reporting the outcomes of preformed anatomically shaped osteosynthesis plates and patient-specific implants versus conventional flat plates after treating skeletal fractures. Outcome measures included anatomical reduction, stability, operation time, hospitalisation days, patients’ outcomes, and complications. Two independent reviewers assessed the abstracts and analysed the complete texts and methodologies of the included studies. Results: In total, 21 out of the 5181 primarily selected articles matched the inclusion criteria. A meta-analysis revealed a significant difference in operation time in favour of the preformed anatomical plates and patient-specific implants versus conventional plates. Significant differences in operation time were found for the orbital (95% CI: −50.70–7.49, p = 0.008), upper limb (95% CI: −17.91–6.13, p < 0.0001), and lower limb extremity groups (95% CI: −20.40–15.11, p < 0.00001). The mean difference in the rate of anatomical reduction in the lower limb extremity group (95% CI: 1.04–7.62, p = 0.04) was also in favour of using preformed anatomical plates and patient-specific implants versus conventional plates. Conclusions: This systematic review showed a significant mean difference in surgery time favouring the use of preformed anatomical plates and patient-specific implants for orbital, upper, and lower limb extremity fractures. Additionally, preformed anatomical plates and patient-specific implants in the lower limb group result in a significantly higher rate of anatomical reduction versus conventional flat plates.
Outcomes of a Pharmacological Protocol with Pentoxifylline and Tocopherol for the Management of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaws (MRONJ): A Randomized Study on 202 Osteoporosis Patients
Authors: Colapinto Gianluca , Goker Funda , Nocini Riccardo , Albanese Massimo , Nocini Pier Francesco , Sembronio Salvatore , Argenta Francesca , Robiony Massimo , Del Fabbro Massimo
Published: July 2023

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) is a challenging situation in clinics. Previous studies have shown that pentoxifylline combined with tocopherol proved to be beneficial in patients with osteoradionecrosis, due to their antioxidant and antifibrotic properties. The aim of this randomized study was to evaluate the effect of pentoxifylline and tocopherol in patients that had developed MRONJ after tooth extractions. The study population consisted of 202 Stage I MRONJ female patients with an average age of 66.4 ± 8.3 years, who were divided into two groups. The test group (n = 108) received a pharmacological protocol with pentoxifylline and tocopherol (2 months pre-operatively and 6 months post-operatively). The control group (n = 94) had sequestrectomy operations without any pharmacological preparation. The main outcomes were clinical healing of the mucosa after 1 month, and clinical and radiographic healing of the bone lesion at 6 months. In the test group all patients had mucosal healing and there was only one relapse within 6 months. In the control group, in 17% of the patients the mucosa did not heal, 71% of the patients relapsed within two months, and 7% developed infectious complications (such as abscess or phlegmon). After 6 months, the control group patients with persisting issues were prescribed pentoxifylline and tocopherol, as in the test group. At a subsequent follow-up, all those patients healed completely. Patients were monitored for a period of 7.8 ± 0.3 years, during which no relapse or additional problems were reported. As a conclusion, pentoxifylline and tocopherol protocol seems to be beneficial in the management of MRONJ patients.
The Value of Exercise Electrocardiography in Outpatients with Stable Chest Pain and Low Pre-Test Probability of Significant Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Thorild Pontus , Mourtzinis Georgios
Published: July 2023

The role of exercise electrocardiography (ECG) in the investigation of stable chest pain has been questioned. The American Heart Association guidelines suggest the use of exercise ECG in patients with stable chest pain and low pre-test probability (PTP) of significant coronary artery disease, while the European Society of Cardiology Guidelines does not. This retrospective observational study aimed to assess the usefulness of exercise ECG in the low-PTP population with stable chest pain. We reviewed the medical records for all outpatient exercise ECGs conducted because of stable chest pain at the Department of Medicine and Emergency, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden, during 2016–2018. The identified patients were categorized in low-, intermediate-, or high-risk pre-test probability of significant coronary artery disease. All low-PTP patients were followed for one year post investigation for the incidence of acute coronary syndrome and all-cause mortality. Thus, 505 patients (mean age 60 years, 56% women) with low PTP were included in the study. Only four patients (0.6%) experienced incident myocardial infarction (three patients) or all-cause mortality (one patient). The negative predictive value of exercise ECG was 99.7%, and the positive predictive value was 28.6%. In this low-PTP population, exercise ECG yields a good negative predictive value and a poor positive predictive value.
Burden of Disease and Unmet Needs in the Diagnosis and Management of Atopic Dermatitis in the Arabic Population of the Middle East
Authors: Mahmoud Omar , Yosipovitch Gil , Attia Enas
Published: July 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects diverse ethnic groups with significant disparities in prevalence, disease progression, clinical outcomes, and access to care. There are limited data on AD in the Arabic population of the Middle East, yet there is a substantial economic and psychosocial burden of AD in this region with a large unmet need with regards to disease management that is critical to address. There is a trend of increasing prevalence of AD in the Arab Middle East; however, due to the large environmental, socioeconomic, and sociocultural heterogeneity of this region, prevalence varies greatly across and within countries. Similarly, clinical differences in disease presentations exist across the region, although data are limited. In this review, we will present clinical phenotypes of AD common in different regions of the Arab Middle East, and data on prevalence, genetic variations, and challenges of treatment. Further studies exploring molecular biomarkers, genetic polymorphisms, immune factors, and the microbiome of patients in the region will help to elucidate the mechanism behind ethnic differences in AD in this population as well as to understand susceptibilities and treatment response.
Comment on Burgos et al. Fusionless All-Pedicle Screws for Posterior Deformity Correction in AIS Immature Patients Permit the Restoration of Normal Vertebral Morphology and Removal of the Instrumentation Once Bone Maturity Is Reached. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12, 2408
Authors: Lemans Justin V. C. , Schlösser Tom P. C. , Castelein René M. , Kruyt Moyo C.
Published: July 2023

With great interest, we read the recently published paper “Fusionless All-Pedicle Screws for Posterior Deformity Correction in AIS Immature Patients Permit the Restoration of Normal Vertebral Morphology and Removal of the Instrumentation Once Bone Maturity is Reached” by Burgos et al. [...]
Comparison of the Polychromatic Image Quality of Two Refractive-Segmented and Two Diffractive Multifocal Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Salvá Luis , García Scott , García-Delpech Salvador , Martínez-Espert Anabel , Montagud-Martínez Diego , Ferrando Vicente
Published: July 2023

Evaluating chromatic aberration for a multifocal intraocular lens (MIOL) in vitro is essential for studying its performance because it helps determine the most appropriate lens for each patient, enhancing surgical outcomes. While refractive MIOLs with angular power variation have shown positive clinical outcomes, studies of these MIOLs on optical benches primarily employed monochromatic green light, neglecting the impact of longitudinal chromatic aberration (LCA) on MIOL performance. To address this gap, we evaluated the through-focus modulation transfer function (TF-MTF) and the point spread function (PSF) of two refractive segmented extended depth of focus intraocular lenses (IOLs) (Femtis Comfort and Precizon Presbyopic), comparing the results with those obtained with two widely known diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses (AcrySof IQ ReSTOR and FineVision Pod F). Measurements of the TF-MTF were conducted using both monochromatic and polychromatic light in a customized optical bench. The refractive designs exhibited distinct haloes in the PSFs. When comparing the refractive and diffractive designs, opposite signs of LCA were observed at near foci. These findings emphasize the influence of the optical design of IOLs on their performance under polychromatic light, providing valuable information for vision care professionals when selecting the most suitable lens for each patient.
Evaluation of Implant Surface Modification with Nanohydroxyapatite Associated with the Use of L-PRF: In Vivo Study in Rats
Authors: Júnior José Augusto Gabarra , Nóbrega Fernando , Oliveira Paula Gabriela , Bergamo Edmara Tatiely , Cadore Uislen , Gomes Milene Zezzi do Valle , Kjellin Per , Chaushu Liat , Bezerra Fabio , Ghiraldini Bruna , Scombatti de Souza Sergio
Published: July 2023

Leukocyte–platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) contains growth factors that stimulate bone regeneration. This study evaluated the bone repair in a tibia rat model around two implant surfaces in combination or not with L-PRF by assessing microtomographic and histomorphometric parameters. A total of 48 female rats were used in the study, in which 24 received implants with two types of surface treatments (dual acid etched—DAE or nanohydroxyapatite—nanoHA), and the other 24 received the same mini implants with L-PRF, which was collected by cardiac puncture, centrifugated, and inserted in the bone bed. The animals were euthanized 7 and 30 days after implant placement, and the retrieved samples were prepared for microtomographic and histomorphometric (bone-to-implant contact—BIC; and Bone Area Fraction Occupancy—BAFO) analyses. The adhesion of the nanoHA surface onto the implant surface was investigated by insertion and removal in simulated bone medium (Sawbones). The adhesion evaluation revealed that the loss of nanoHA after this procedure (as measured with SEM) from the implant surface was less than 1%. Overall, the nanoHA surface presented more bone in contact and in proximity to the implant, a higher bone surface/tissue volume fraction, a higher number of bone trabeculae, as well as trabecular separation relative to the DAE surface. Such results were more evident when the nanoHA surface was combined with L-PRF and after 30 days in vivo. The nanoHA surface presented higher BAFO when compared to DAE, with or without association with L-PRF. Therefore, implants with a nanoHA surface potentially benefit from the association to L-PRF.
Renal Tubular CD24 Upregulation Aggravates Folic Acid Induced Acute Kidney Injury: A Possible Role for T Regulatory Cells Inhibition in Mice
Authors: Shashar Moshe , Schwartz Doron , Zubkov Asia , Hoffman Sarit , Jankelson Lior , Shapira Shiran , Merimsky Barak , Berman Julia , Chernichovski Tamara , Amitai Oeren , Raz Michal Ariela , Hershkovitz Rami , Grupper Ayelet , Weinstein Talia , Arber Nadir , Schwartz Idit. F.
Published: July 2023

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is characterized by cell death and inflammation. CD24 is a protein induced during tissue damage and is not expressed in mature renal tissue. We explored the role of CD24 in the pathogenesis of folic acid-induced AKI (FA-AKI) in mice. A single Intraperitoneal (IP) injection of folic acid induced AKI in WT and CD24−/− mice. Renal function tests, histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, Western blot analysis, and ELISA were performed to assess the severity of renal damage and the intensity of the inflammatory response. FA-AKI induced CD24 in the distal tubular epithelial cells. Compared to WT mice, FA-AKI CD24−/− mice exhibited an attenuated reduction in renal function and histological injury, lower serum IL-10 and interferon γ, and decreased expression of renal TNFα. In contrast, renal and systemic IL-33 upregulation were augmented. CD24−/− FA-AKI animals exhibited increased splenic margination and renal infiltration of regulatory T cells (Tregs). At day 7, FA-AKI CD24−/− mice exhibited increased expression of tubular pro-apoptotic and decreased anti-apoptotic proteins compared to WT animals. Anti-CD24 antibody administration to FA-AKI mice attenuated the decrease in renal function as well as the histological injury. Renal biopsies from patients with ATN stained strongly for CD24 in the distal tubules. In conclusion, during AKI, upregulation of CD24 promotes renal inflammation through inhibition of Treg infiltration and diversion of cell death towards necrosis rather than apoptosis. Neutralization of CD24 may prove a target for future therapies in AKI.
Reliability and Validity of Emotrics in the Assessment of Facial Palsy
Authors: Kim Min Gi , Bae Cho Rong , Oh Tae Suk , Park Sung Jong , Jeong Jae Mok , Kim Dae Yul
Published: July 2023

The globally accepted evaluation method for facial palsy is the House–Brackmann facial grading system; however, it does not reflect minute changes. Several methods have been attempted, but there is no universally accepted evaluation method that is non-time-consuming and quantitative. Recently, Emotrics, a two-dimensional analysis that incorporates machine-learning techniques, has been used in various clinical fields. However, its reliability and validity have not yet been determined. Therefore, this study aimed to examine and establish the reliability and validity of Emotrics. All patients had previously received speech therapy for facial palsy at our hospital between January and November 2022. In speech therapy at our hospital, Emotrics was routinely used to measure the state of the patient’s facial palsy. A frame was created to standardize and overcome the limitation of the two-dimensional analysis. Interrater, intrarater, and intrasubject reliability were evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) by measuring the indicators that reflect eye and mouth functions. Validity was evaluated using Spearman’s correlation for each Emotrics parameter and the House–Brackmann facial grading system. A total of 23 patients were included in this study. For all parameters, there was significant interrater and intrarater reliability (ICC, 0.61 to 0.99). Intrasubject reliability showed significant reliability in most parameters (ICC, 0.68 to 0.88). Validity showed a significant correlation in two parameters (p-value < 0.001). This single-center study suggests that Emotrics could be a quantitative and efficient facial-palsy evaluation method with good reliability. Therefore, Emotrics is expected to play a key role in assessing facial palsy and in monitoring treatment effects more accurately and precisely.
Manufacturing of Metal–Polymer Hybrid Parts Using a Desktop 3-Axis Fused Filament Fabrication 3D-Printer
Authors: Belei Carlos , Meier Benjamin , Amancio-Filho Sergio T.
Published: July 2023

This study evaluated the manufacturing of metal–polymer hybrid parts using a 3-axis desktop Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) printer. Two printing strategies were employed: a more trivial one, consisting of 3D-printing the polymer directly onto the metal surface, and an alternative one, consisting of encasing the metal with printed polymer. Materials used were Ti-6Al-4V (both rolled/sandblasted and 3D-printed by laser powder bed fusion) and polyamide-based polymers. Demonstrators were designed to resemble omega-shaped skin stringers commonly used in vehicular applications. Several challenges were addressed, including harvesting the heat emanating from the deposited polymer to locally increase the substrate temperature, as well as positioning the metallic parts to avoid undesired collisions during the print job. Furthermore, to better understand the behavior of the encased metal under load, pullout tests were conducted on commercially available M6 and M8 steel nuts that were enclosed in a 3D-printed composite block. Results revealed that the length of the edge shared by the enclosure and metal significantly impacted the pullout strength.
Effect of Heat Treatment Schedules on Creep Performance of Ni-Based Superalloy Mar-M247 at 871 °C and 250 Mpa
Authors: Pan Qinghai , Sui Yongfeng , Yu Peijiong , Zhao Xinbao , Cheng Yuan , Yue Quanzhao , Gu Yuefeng , Zhang Ze
Published: July 2023

The effects of heat treatment (H1 and H2) on the creep behavior and microstructures of Mar-M247 at 871 °C/250 MPa are studied. The results show that the as-cast microstructure is composed of eutectics, γ phase, γ’ phase, MC and M23C6 carbides, while new M6C appears in heat-treated microstructures, indicating the transformation of carbides after heat treatments. The Mar-M247 is excellent, with over 1500 h of creep life, and H1 is 48% higher than H2. The addition of post-brazing and diffusion heat treatment in H2 is detrimental to creep resistance; the two steps promoted the transformation of MC into M23C6 in advance. The increase and coarsening of M23C6 would consume more γ-phase-forming elements, weakening the solution strengthening at grain boundaries. As a result, the resistance of the grain boundary and γ/γ’ interface to dislocation motion is significantly reduced, leading to the cracks’ initiation and propagation along the grain boundaries.
Quantitative Analytical and Computational Workflow for Large-Scale Targeted Plasma Metabolomics
Authors: Fecke Antonia , Saw Nay Min Min Thaw , Kale Dipali , Kasarla Siva Swapna , Sickmann Albert , Phapale Prasad
Published: July 2023

Quantifying metabolites from various biological samples is necessary for the clinical and biomedical translation of metabolomics research. One of the ongoing challenges in biomedical metabolomics studies is the large-scale quantification of targeted metabolites, mainly due to the complexity of biological sample matrices. Furthermore, in LC-MS analysis, the response of compounds is influenced by their physicochemical properties, chromatographic conditions, eluent composition, sample preparation, type of MS ionization source, and analyzer used. To facilitate large-scale metabolite quantification, we evaluated the relative response factor (RRF) approach combined with an integrated analytical and computational workflow. This approach considers a compound’s individual response in LC-MS analysis relative to that of a non-endogenous reference compound to correct matrix effects. We created a quantitative LC-MS library using the Skyline/Panorama web platform for data processing and public sharing of data. In this study, we developed and validated a metabolomics method for over 280 standard metabolites and quantified over 90 metabolites. The RRF quantification was validated and compared with conventional external calibration approaches as well as literature reports. The Skyline software environment was adapted for processing such metabolomics data, and the results are shared as a “quantitative chromatogram library” with the Panorama web application. This new workflow was found to be suitable for large-scale quantification of metabolites in human plasma samples. In conclusion, we report a novel quantitative chromatogram library with a targeted data analysis workflow for biomedical metabolomic applications.
Biological Characterization and Metabolic Variations among Cell-Free Supernatants Produced by Selected Plant-Based Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Qadi Wasim S. M. , Mediani Ahmed , Kasim Zalifah Mohd , Misnan Norazlan Mohmad , Sani Norrakiah Abdullah , Jamar Nur Hidayah
Published: July 2023

The aim of this research was to assess the antibacterial and antioxidant properties as well as the variation in metabolites of the cell-free supernatant (CFS) produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from local plants: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum ngue16, L. plantarum ng10, Enterococcus durans w3, and Levilactobacillus brevis w6. The tested strains exhibited inhibitory effects against pathogens, including Bacillus cereus, B. subtilis, Cronobacter sakazakii, Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Staphylococcus aureus using the agar spot assay and well diffusion method. The CFS from all four strains displayed antibacterial activity against these pathogens with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 3.12 to 12.5 mg/mL and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) values ranging from 6.25 to 25.0 mg/mL. Moreover, the CFS demonstrated resilience within specific pH (3–8) and temperature (60–100 °C) ranges and lost its activity when treated with enzymes, such as Proteinase K and pepsin. Furthermore, the CFS exhibited antioxidant properties as evidenced by their ability to inhibit the formation of two radicals (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) compared to the negative control, De Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) broth. The use of proton-based nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy revealed the presence and quantification of 48 metabolites in both the CFS and MRS broths. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) effectively differentiated between CFS and MRS broth by identifying the specific metabolites responsible for the observed differences. The partial least squares (PLS) model demonstrated a significant correlation between the metabolites in the LAB supernatant and the tested antibacterial and antioxidant activities. Notably, anserine, GABA, acetic acid, lactic acid, uracil, uridine, propylene glycol, isopropanol, serine, histidine, and indol-3-lactate were identified as the compounds contributing the most to the highest antibacterial and antioxidant activities in the supernatant. These findings suggest that the LAB strains investigated have the potential to be utilized in the production of functional foods and the development of pharmaceutical products.
Comparative Study between First and Second Harmonics of a Nd:YAG Laser for Cleaning Manifestation Damages That Appeared in Pigments Used on Archaeological Cartonnage
Authors: Afifi Hala , Abdel-Ghani Mona , Mahmoud Raghda , Alkallas Fatemah , Trabelsi Amira , Mostafa Ayman
Published: July 2023

This study focused on identifying the effect of the laser wavelengths used in cleaning some manifestation damage appearing in pigments used on archaeological cartonnage preserved in the Egyptian Museum, Egypt. The manifestations of damage appear as mud, resin, color, dust and microbiological damage stains. Lasers were chosen as one of the modern applications that give good results when cleaning the pigment materials without making direct contact with the material. Accordingly, lasers with a wavelength of 532 and 1064 nm were tested to identify their effect on stains caused by pigments and to choose the best one for use in cases similar to those materials in the future. This study was conducted to identify the effect of the selected wavelengths and choose the best ones to apply to the archaeological model. The evaluations were conducted using several tests and analyses, such as digital microscopy, X-ray florescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Handy colorimetry to evaluate that effect of lasers with a wavelength of 532 and 1064 nm to remove stains. The experimental study demonstrated the good effect of the Nd:YAG laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm compared with that of the 532 nm laser. The results of using the Nd:YAG laser proved the good effect of removing all stains compared with the 532 nm laser, which caused big changes when used to clean the stains on the pigment’s surfaces; it also did not help in removing or reducing some stains such as mud stains. According to these results, the good effect of the Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) make it more suitable for cleaning than that of the Nd:YAG laser (532 nm), which is not recommended for use as it gave bad results when applied.
Simulations of Flows via CFD in Microchannels for Characterizing Entrance Region and Developing New Correlations for Hydrodynamic Entrance Length
Authors: Ray Dustin R. , Das Debendra K.
Published: July 2023

Devices with microchannels are relatively new, and many correlations are not yet developed to design them efficiently. In microchannels, the flow regime is primarily laminar, where entrance length may occupy a significant section of the flow channel. Therefore, several computational fluid dynamic simulations were performed in this research to characterize the developing flow regime. The new correlations of entrance length were developed from a vast number of numerical results obtained from these simulations. A three-dimensional laminar flow for 37 Reynolds numbers (0.1, 0.2, …, 1, 2, …, 10, 20, …, 100, 200, …, 1000), primarily in low regime with water flow through six rectangular microchannels (aspect ratio: 1, 0.75, 0.5, 0.25, 0.2, 0.125), has been modeled, conducting 222 simulations to characterize flow developments and ascertain progressive velocity profile shapes. Examination of the fully developed flow condition was considered using traditional criteria such as velocity and incremental pressure drop number. Additionally, a new criterion was presented based on fRe. Numerical results from the present simulations were validated by comparing the fully developed velocity profile, friction factor, and hydrodynamic entrance length for Re > 100 in rectangular channels, for which accurate data are available in the literature. There is a need for hydrodynamic entrance length correlations in a low Reynolds number regime (Re < 100). So, the model was run numerous times to generate a vast amount of numerical data that yielded two new correlations based on the velocity and fRe criteria.
Biocontrol Efficiency of Rhizospheric Bacillus against the Plant Pathogen Fusarium oxysporum: A Promising Approach for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Boulahouat Sarah , Cherif-Silini Hafsa , Silini Allaoua , Bouket Ali Chenari , Luptakova Lenka , Alenezi Faizah N. , Belbahri Lassaad
Published: July 2023

Among plant disease management strategies, biological control is a sustainable alternative to the use of chemicals for the control of vascular wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum. Fusarium wilt is the most devastating disease affecting a wide variety of plants. Bacillus species are the most widely used biological control candidates for the control of these fungal diseases. This review describes the pathogenicity of F. oxysporum, its virulence mechanisms, and host plant–pathogen interactions. The control means deployed by Bacillus species inhibit or kill these phytopathogens. Bacillus spp. produce a wide range of secondary metabolites, including volatile and non-volatile organic compounds. Biocontrol potential is achieved through direct antimicrobial activity, the induction of the host plant’s immune response (Induced Systemic Resistance), and competition for nutrients and space. In addition, parameters governing the selection of effective biocontrol agents and their survival in plant microbial communities are discussed. The influence of the microbiota on the establishment and development of biocontrol agents can assess the potential of these treatments and facilitate the development of effective biopesticides during their field application.
The Origin of the Upper Cambrian Basin-Scale Massive Dolostones of the Xixiangchi Formation, Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Hu Huan , Xu Shenglin , Chen Anqing , Wen Long , Zhang Benjian , Zhang Xihua , Li Fuxiang , Liu Mengqi , Yong Wei
Published: July 2023

The thick Upper Cambrian Xixiangchi dolostones, developed in the Sichuan Basin, are an important deep exploration target, but their genesis is still controversial, which hinders predicting the porous dolomite distribution and related potential hydrocarbon play. Herein, based on the observation and sampling of field outcrops, combined with a microscopic thin section analysis, cathodoluminescence analysis, and geochemical study, their characteristics and genesis were investigated. The results showed that there are mainly three types of dolomite that can be distinguished: (1) fine crystalline dolomite with a low crystallinity (Type 1); (2) granular dolomite with coarse grains, maintaining the original particle structure (Type 2); and (3) grain-texture relict dolomite with a higher degree of crystal form and obvious recrystallization (Type 3). The Type 1 dolomite with a common lamina structure and the highest 87Sr/86Sr ratio implies the most continental-influenced seawater in a supratidal environment around paleouplift, where there is an evaporation pump effect in its formation. The Type 2 dolomite recorded a slightly higher diagenesis temperature and slightly lower brine salinity, which would be formed in a seepage-reflux model in the beach environment of the platform. The lowest REY content and higher dolomite temperature with structural residuals indicate that the Type 3 dolomite is the result of further burial dolomitization during the diagenetic process.
Age, Fluid Inclusion, and H–O–S–Pb Isotope Geochemistry of the Superlarge Huaaobaote Ag–Pb–Zn Deposit in the Southern Great Xing’an Range, NE China
Authors: Li Shihui , Li Zhenxiang , Chen Gongzheng , Yi Huineng , Yang Fei , Lü Xin , Shi Jiangpeng , Dou Haibo , Wu Guang
Published: July 2023

The superlarge Huaaobaote Ag–Pb–Zn deposit is located on the western slope of the southern Great Xing’an Range (SGXR). The deposit includes four ore blocks, namely, ore blocks I, II, III, and V. Except for the no. I orebody of ore block I, which is hosted in the contact zone between the Carboniferous serpentinized harzburgite and the Permian siltstone, the other orebodies all occur as veins controlled by faults. The mineralization process at the deposit can be divided into four stages: cassiterite–arsenopyrite–pyrite–quartz stage (stage I), cassiterite–chalcopyrite–pyrite–freibergite–arsenopyrite–pyrrhotite–quartz stage (stage II), sphalerite–galena–jamesonite–stibnite–freibergite–silver mineral–quartz–calcite–chlorite stage (stage III), and argentite–pyrargyrite–pyrite–quartz–calcite (stage IV). Cassiterite U–Pb dating of the Huaaobaote deposit yielded ages of 136.3–134.3 Ma, indicating that the deposit formed in the Early Cretaceous period. Two types of fluid inclusions (FIs), including liquid-rich and gas-rich FIs, have been distinguished in the quartz vein and sphalerite. The homogenization temperature during the four stages gradually decreases, with temperatures of 302–340 °C for stage I, 267–304 °C for stage II, 186–273 °C for stage III, and 166–199 °C for stage IV, respectively. The salinity (wt% NaCl eqv.) at stages I, II, III, and IV is 3.7–6.6, 0.2–4.5, 0.2–5.0, and 0.4–1.6, respectively, indicating that the ore-forming fluid is characterized by low salinity. The δ18Owater and δD values of the ore-forming fluid range from −11.9‰ to 7.9‰ and −168‰ to −76‰, respectively, indicating that the ore-forming fluid was dominantly derived from a mixture of magmatic and meteoric water. The calculated δ34SH2S values range from −3.6‰ to 1.2‰, indicating that the sulfur mainly came from granitic magma. The 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, and 208Pb/204Pb ratios of sulfides are in the ranges of 18.195–18.317, 15.509–15.667, and 37.965–38.475, respectively, implying that the ore-forming material was mainly derived from felsic magma that may be formed by the partial melting of orogenic materials. Fluid mixing, cooling, and immiscibility were the three primary mechanisms for mineral precipitation in the Huaaobaote deposit.
Diamond Formation via Carbonate or CO2 Reduction under Pressures and Temperatures of the Lithospheric Mantle: Review of Experimental Data
Authors: Bataleva Yuliya V. , Palyanov Yuri N.
Published: July 2023

Existing ideas about the polygenic origin of diamonds in nature involve various processes, mechanisms, and driving forces for diamond crystallization, including redox reactions, changes in P-T conditions, evolution of melt or fluid composition, and others. According to classical models, in the lithospheric mantle, diamond formation occurs at depths of 120–210 km and temperatures of 900–1500 °C as a result of metasomatic processes. The driving forces in these models are considered to be redox reactions leading to the reduction of carbonates, carbonate melts, or CO2 to elemental carbon. In this study, we provide a review and systematization, as well as experimental issues and possible future directions of experimental studies, on diamond crystallization from carbonate carbon through redox reactions at P,T (pressure, temperature) conditions relevant to the lithospheric mantle. These studies have demonstrated that silicon, metals (FeSi, Fe, Fe-Nialloys), carbides (SiC, Fe3C, Fe7C3), reduced components of C-O-H fluid, sulfides/sulfide melts, Fe-S-C melts, and the application of an electric field (potential difference) can act as reducing agents for carbonate/carbonate-bearing melts or CO2 fluid, leading to the formation of diamond and graphite. The experimental data reviewed in this paper not only indicate the fundamental possibility of diamond formation from carbonate carbon through the reduction of carbonate, carbonate-bearing phases, or CO2 in the mantle, but also reveal the characteristic features of the resulting diamonds. Furthermore, the significance of potential reducing agents (fluid, sulfide, silicon, metal, and carbide) in various geodynamic settings, including the lithospheric mantle at depths insufficient for stabilizing iron or carbides, has been identified.
Diastereoselective Formal 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition of Trifluoroethyl Amine-Derived Ketimines Enables the Desymmetrization of Cyclopentenediones
Authors: Li Lin-Qiang , Zhao Jian-Qiang , Zhang Yan-Ping , You Yong , Wang Zhen-Hua , Ge Zhen-Zhen , Zhou Ming-Qiang , Yuan Wei-Cheng
Published: July 2023

In this research, a metal-free diastereoselective formal 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of N-2,2,2-trifluoroethylisatin ketimines and cyclopentene-1,3-diones which can efficiently lead to the desymmetrization of cyclopentene-1,3-diones is developed. With the developed protocol, a series of tetracyclic spirooxindoles containing pyrrolidine and cyclopentane subunits can be smoothly obtained with good results (up to 99% yield and 91:9 dr). Furthermore, the methodology can be extended to trifluoromethyl-substituted iminomalonate, and the corresponding formal [3+2] cycloaddition reaction affords bicyclic heterocycles containing fused pyrrolidine and cyclopentane moieties in moderate yields with >20:1 dr. The synthetic potential of the methodology is demonstrated by the scale-up experiment and by versatile transformations of the products.
Corn Cobs’ Biochar as Green Host of Salt Hydrates for Enhancing the Water Sorption Kinetics in Thermochemical Heat Storage Systems
Authors: Nguyen Minh Hoang , Zbair Mohamed , Dutournié Patrick , Limousy Lionel , Bennici Simona
Published: July 2023

Heat storage technologies are essential for increasing the use of solar energy in the household sector. Their development can be achieved by designing new storage materials; one way is to impregnate a porous matrix with hygroscopic salts. In this article, the possibility of using biochar-based composite sorbents to develop promising new heat storage materials for efficient thermal storage is explored. Biochar-based composites with defined salt loadings (5, 10, 15, and 20%) were produced by impregnating MgSO4 into a biochar matrix derived from corn cobs. The new materials demonstrated a high water sorption capacity of 0.24 g/g (20MgCC). After six successive charging-discharging cycles (dehydration/dehydration cycles), only a negligible variation of the heat released and the water uptake was measured, confirming the absence of deactivation of 20MgCC upon cycling. The new 20MgCC composite showed an energy storage density of 635 J/g (Tads = 30 °C and RH = 60%), higher than that of other composites containing a similar amount of hydrate salt. The macroporous nature of this biochar increases the available surface for salt deposition. During the hydration step, the water molecules effectively diffuse through a homogeneous layer of salt, as described by the intra-particle model applied in this work. The new efficient biochar-based composites open a low-carbon path for the production of sustainable thermal energy storage materials and applications.