bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the LaMn1−xFexO3 (x = 0–1) Composition on Catalytic Activities in the Reactions Involving Oxygen
Authors: Isupova Lyubov , Rogov Vladimir , Gerasimov Evgenii , Prosvirin Igor
Published: December 2022

Perovskite samples of the LaMn1−xFexO3 (x = 0–1) series were prepared by the Pechini method; their physicochemical properties were studied using XRD, HRTEM, XPS, and BET, and their catalytic activity was estimated in nitrous oxide decomposition and methane and CO oxidation reactions. In methane and CO oxidation reactions, all intermediate (0 < x < 1) samples of the series exhibited a lower catalytic activity normalized to the unit surface area as compared to the extreme terms, whereas in the nitrous oxide decomposition all intermediate samples were more active than extreme terms of the series. Different dependences of activities on the composition obtained in the study for the tested reactions involving the catalyst oxygen are caused by differences in the reaction mechanisms.
Development of a Solid Catalyst Based on Pt Supported on Heterostructure (NaNbO3/NaNb3O8/NiO) Applied to the Photodegradation of Phenol in Seawater
Authors: Costa Kimberly G. , Asencios Yvan J. O.
Published: December 2022

Phenol and its derivatives are present in effluents from several industrial processes, such as petroleum refining (produced water) and the pharmaceutical industry, and they are highly toxic. The present work elaborated a new catalyst for the removal of phenol and its derivatives. The photocatalyst was prepared by a simple method from the ammonium oxalate of niobium and nickel nitrate, resulting in heterostructures (principally NaNbO3/NaNb3O8 and a lesser amount of NiO) named NiNb. Platinum was deposited on this catalyst (NiNb/Pt catalyst), and its photocatalytic activity was tested on the degradation of phenol in seawater and distilled water, in the presence and absence of UV-C light (germicidal, λ = 254 nm), and with varying concentrations of platinum and varying pH of the solution. The catalyst was characterized by different techniques (SEM, EDS, DRS, XRD, TXRF, SBET,). The results of the study showed that the NiNb/Pt catalyst achieved 65% phenol removal in seawater and about 57% removal in distilled water. The reuse of the catalyst was also studied, and the photocatalytic mechanism was investigated by tests with scavenger agents and terephthalic acid.
Synthesis of Sulfonated Carbon from Discarded Masks for Effective Production of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Hao Hengyu , Shen Feng , Yang Jirui , Qiu Mo , Guo Haixin , Qi Xinhua
Published: December 2022

5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), as one of the top ten important platform chemicals, can be used to produce 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), 2,5-dimethyl furan (DMF), levulinic acid, and other chemicals. An environmentally friendly system for the synthesis of sulfonated carbon materials from discarded masks has been proposed. A series of mask-based solid acid catalysts (bMC-SO3H) were prepared by a simple two-step process. Mechanochemical pretreatment (ball milling) of waste mask and sulfonated group precursor, followed by thermal carbonization under nitrogen gas, were used to synthesize sulfonated porous carbon. The total acid amount of the prepared bMC-SO3H was measured by the Boehm method, which exhibited 1.2–5.3 mmol/g. The addition of the sulfonated group precursor in the mechanochemical treatment (ball milling) process caused intense structure fragmentation of the discarded masks. These sulfonated porous carbons (bMC(600)-SO3H) as solid acid catalysts achieved fructose conversion of 100% and HMF yield of 82.1% after 120 min at 95 °C in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride. The bMC-SO3H could be reused five times, during which both the HMF yield and fructose conversion were stable. This work provides a strategy for the synthesis of sulfonated carbon from discarded masks and efficient catalyzed fructose upgrading to HMF.
Unraveling the Effect of MgAl/CuO Nanothermite on the Characteristics and Thermo-Catalytic Decomposition of Nanoenergetic Formulation Based on Nanostructured Nitrocellulose and Hydrazinium Nitro-Triazolone
Authors: Dourari Mohammed , Tarchoun Ahmed Fouzi , Trache Djalal , Abdelaziz Amir , Bekhouche Slimane , Harrat Abdelatif , Boukeciat Hani , Matmat Nawel
Published: December 2022

The present study aims to develop new energetic composites containing nanostructured nitrocellulose (NNC) or nitrated cellulose (NC), hydrazinium nitro triazolone (HNTO), and MgAl-CuO nanothermite. The prepared energetic formulations (NC/HNTO/MgAl-CuO and NNC/HNTO/MgAl-CuO) were analyzed using various analytical techniques, such as Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetry (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The outstanding catalytic impact of MgAl-CuO on the thermal behavior of the developed energetic composites was elucidated by kinetic modeling, applied to the DSC data using isoconversional kinetic methods, for which a considerable drop in the activation energy was acquired for the prepared formulations, highlighting the catalytic influence of the introduced MgAl-CuO nanothermite. Overall, the obtained findings demonstrated that the newly elaborated NC/HNTO/MgAl-CuO and NNC/HNTO/MgAl-CuO composites could serve as promising candidates for application in the next generation of composite explosives and high-performance propellants.
Structurally Modified MXenes-Based Catalysts for Application in Hydrogen Evolution Reaction: A Review
Authors: Raja Sulaiman Raja Rafidah , Hanan Abdul , Wong Wai Yin , Mohamad Yunus Rozan , Shyuan Loh Kee , Walvekar Rashmi , Chaudhary Vishal , Khalid Mohammad
Published: December 2022

Green hydrogen production via electrocatalytic water splitting paves the way for renewable, clean, and sustainable hydrogen (H2) generation. H2 gas is produced from the cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), where the reaction is catalyzed primarily from Pt-based catalysts under both acidic and alkaline environments. Lowering the loading of Pt and the search for alternative active catalysts for HER is still an ongoing challenge. Two-dimensional MXenes are effective supports to stabilize and homogenously distribute HER-active electrocatalysts to boost the HER performance. Factors involved in the effectiveness of MXenes for their role in HER include transition metal types and termination groups. Recently, tailoring the conditions during the synthesis of MXenes has made it possible to tune the morphology of MXenes from multilayers to few layers (delaminated), formation of porous MXenes, and those with unique crumpled and rolled structures. Changing the morphology of MXenes alters the surface area, exposed active sites and accessibility of electrolyte materials/ions to these active sites. This review provides insight into the effects of varying morphology of MXenes towards the electrocatalytic HER activity of the MXene itself and MXene composites/hybrids with HER-active catalysts. Synthesis methods to obtain the different MXene morphologies are also summarized.
Application of Low-Cost Plant-Derived Carbon Dots as a Sustainable Anode Catalyst in Microbial Fuel Cells for Improved Wastewater Treatment and Power Output
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Narayanan S. Shankara , Thapa Bhim Sen , Pandit Soumya , Pant Kumud , Mukhopadhyay Anoop Kumar , Peera Shaik Gouse
Published: December 2022

Microbial fuel cells (MFC) can generate electric energy from wastewater which can be enhanced further by anode catalysts. The recovery of electrons produced by oxidation of organics catalyzed by bacteria in the anode was enhanced when carbon dots(CDs) were added into the MFC. In this present study, a novel strategy for designing anode material and the fabrication of a high-efficient and environmentally friendly anode for energy generation from wastewater was reported. The CDs were synthesized by the pyrolysis of a peanut shell at the temperature of 250 °C for 2 h with a heating rate of 10 °C min−1. Thus synthesized CDs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV/Vis spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The TEM analysis showed morphology with an average size of 1.62 nm. The UV/Vis absorbance of the CDs shows a wide absorption band without a characteristic peak. The excitation spectrum of CDs recorded at the emission wavelength of 440 nm exhibits a peak around 320 nm. CDs were investigated as an anode material in a MFC utilizing acetate as the organic substrate. The average chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal in closed circuit operation mode was 89%. The maximum power density production (7.2 W/m3) was observed in MFC containing 1 mg/cm2 CD-impregnated anode (CDsIA). The CDsIA provides the ability to promote efficient biofilm formation. These results emphasize the application of CD-based electrodes in MFCs for the simultaneous treatment of wastewater and electricity generation while also providing additional benefits.
The Progress of Metal-Organic Framework for Boosting CO2 Conversion
Authors: Di Zhengyi , Qi Yu , Yu Xinxin , Hu Falu
Published: December 2022

With the rapid development of modern society, environmental problems, including excessive amounts of CO2 released in the atmosphere, are becoming more and more serious. It is necessary to develop new materials and technologies to reduce pollution. Among them, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown potential for application in the area of catalysis due to their ultra-high specific surface area, structural versatility, and designability as well as ease of modification and post-synthesis. Herein, we summarize recent research advances by use of MOFs for boosting CO2 conversion. Furthermore, challenges and possible research directions related to further exploration are also discussed.
Design and Architecture of P-O Co-Doped Porous g-C3N4 by Supramolecular Self-Assembly for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Zhu Ximiao , Yang Fan , Liu Jinhua , Zhou Guangying , Chen Dongdong , Liu Zhang , Fang Jianzhang
Published: December 2022

A novel phosphorus and oxygen co-doped graphitic carbon nitride (sheetP-O-CNSSA) photocatalyst was successfully synthesized and applied for H2 evolution under visible light. In the synthesis process of sheetP-O-CNSSA, the supramolecular complex was developed by the self-assembly and copolymerization reaction among melamine, cyanuric acid (CA) and trithiocyanuric acid (TCA) to act as g-C3N4 precursors, while (NH4)2HPO4 was applied as P and O precursors for element doping. The chemical structures, morphologies, and optical properties of the sheetP-O-CNSSA were characterized by a series of measurements, i.e., XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, UV-vis DRS, and PL. The results suggested that the introduction of P and O elements could enhance the separation and migration efficiency of photogenerated electrons and holes in the energy band of g-C3N4. The photocatalytic tests over Erythrosin B (EB) sensitized sheetP-O-CNSSA indicated that the hydrogen evolution was greatly enhanced compared with other catalysts and non-sensitized sheetP-O-CNSSA under visible light irradiation. Finally, a possible dye-sensitized photocatalysis mechanism was also proposed on the basis of the as-obtained results.
Synapsin III Regulates Dopaminergic Neuron Development in Vertebrates
Authors: Faustini Gaia , Longhena Francesca , Muscò Alessia , Bono Federica , Parrella Edoardo , La Via Luca , Barbon Alessandro , Pizzi Marina , Onofri Franco , Benfenati Fabio , Missale Cristina , Memo Maurizio , Zizioli Daniela , Bellucci Arianna
Published: December 2022

Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by alterations in the mesocorticolimbic and nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathways. Polymorphisms in the Synapsin III (Syn III) gene can associate with ADHD onset and even affect the therapeutic response to the gold standard ADHD medication, methylphenidate (MPH), a monoamine transporter inhibitor whose efficacy appears related with the stimulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Interestingly, we previously showed that MPH can bind Syn III, which can regulate neuronal development. These observations suggest that Syn III polymorphism may impinge on ADHD onset and response to therapy by affecting BDNF-dependent dopaminergic neuron development. Here, by studying zebrafish embryos exposed to Syn III gene knock-down (KD), Syn III knock-out (ko) mice and human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-derived neurons subjected to Syn III RNA interference, we found that Syn III governs the earliest stages of dopaminergic neurons development and that this function is conserved in vertebrates. We also observed that in mammals Syn III exerts this function acting upstream of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)- and cAMP-dependent protein kinase 5 (Cdk5)-stimulated dendrite development. Collectively, these findings own significant implications for deciphering the biological basis of ADHD.
The N-Terminal Part of the 1A Domain of Desmin Is a Hot Spot Region for Putative Pathogenic DES Mutations Affecting Filament Assembly
Authors: Brodehl Andreas , Holler Stephanie , Gummert Jan , Milting Hendrik
Published: December 2022

Desmin is the major intermediate filament protein of all three muscle cell types, and connects different cell organelles and multi-protein complexes such as the cardiac desmosomes. Several pathogenic mutations in the DES gene cause different skeletal and cardiac myopathies. However, the significance of the majority of DES missense variants is currently unknown, since functional data are lacking. To determine whether desmin missense mutations within the highly conserved 1A coil domain cause a filament assembly defect, we generated a set of variants with unknown significance and systematically analyzed the filament assembly using confocal microscopy in transfected SW-13, H9c2 cells and cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. We found that mutations in the N-terminal part of the 1A coil domain affect filament assembly, leading to cytoplasmic desmin aggregation. In contrast, mutant desmin in the C-terminal part of the 1A coil domain forms filamentous structures comparable to wild-type desmin. Our findings suggest that the N-terminal part of the 1A coil domain is a hot spot for pathogenic desmin mutations, which affect desmin filament assembly. This study may have relevance for the genetic counselling of patients carrying variants in the 1A coil domain of the DES gene.
The Emerging Roles of Extracellular Chaperones in Complement Regulation
Authors: Geraghty Nicholas J. , Satapathy Sandeep , Wilson Mark R.
Published: December 2022

The immune system is essential to protect organisms from internal and external threats. The rapidly acting, non-specific innate immune system includes complement, which initiates an inflammatory cascade and can form pores in the membranes of target cells to induce cell lysis. Regulation of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) is essential for normal cellular and organismal function, and has been implicated in processes controlling immunity and infection. Chaperones are key players in maintaining proteostasis in both the intra- and extracellular environments. Whilst intracellular proteostasis is well-characterised, the role of constitutively secreted extracellular chaperones (ECs) is less well understood. ECs may interact with invading pathogens, and elements of the subsequent immune response, including the complement pathway. Both ECs and complement can influence the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as other diseases including kidney diseases and diabetes. This review will examine known and recently discovered ECs, and their roles in immunity, with a specific focus on the complement pathway.
Genome-Wide Association Study Identifies CDKN1A as a Novel Locus Associated with Muscle Fiber Composition
Authors: Semenova Ekaterina A. , Zempo Hirofumi , Miyamoto-Mikami Eri , Kumagai Hiroshi , Larin Andrey K. , Sultanov Rinat I. , Babalyan Konstantin A. , Zhelankin Andrey V. , Tobina Takuro , Shiose Keisuke , Kakigi Ryo , Tsuzuki Takamasa , Ichinoseki-Sekine Noriko , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Naito Hisashi , Burniston Jatin , Generozov Edward V. , Fuku Noriyuki , Ahmetov Ildus I.
Published: December 2022

Muscle fiber composition is associated with physical performance, with endurance athletes having a high proportion of slow-twitch muscle fibers compared to power athletes. Approximately 45% of muscle fiber composition is heritable, however, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) underlying inter-individual differences in muscle fiber types remain largely unknown. Based on three whole genome SNP datasets, we have shown that the rs236448 A allele located near the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A (CDKN1A) gene was associated with an increased proportion of slow-twitch muscle fibers in Russian (n = 151; p = 0.039), Finnish (n = 287; p = 0.03), and Japanese (n = 207; p = 0.008) cohorts (meta-analysis: p = 7.9 × 10−5. Furthermore, the frequency of the rs236448 A allele was significantly higher in Russian (p = 0.045) and Japanese (p = 0.038) elite endurance athletes compared to ethnically matched power athletes. On the contrary, the C allele was associated with a greater proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers and a predisposition to power sports. CDKN1A participates in cell cycle regulation and is suppressed by the miR-208b, which has a prominent role in the activation of the slow myofiber gene program. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that the rs236448 C allele was associated with increased CDKN1A expression in whole blood (p = 8.5 × 10−15) and with greater appendicular lean mass (p = 1.2 × 10−5), whereas the A allele was associated with longer durations of exercise (p = 0.044) reported amongst the UK Biobank cohort. Furthermore, the expression of CDKN1A increased in response to strength (p < 0.0001) or sprint (p = 0.00035) training. Accordingly, we found that CDKN1A expression is significantly (p = 0.002) higher in the m. vastus lateralis of strength athletes compared to endurance athletes and is positively correlated with the percentage of fast-twitch muscle fibers (p = 0.018). In conclusion, our data suggest that the CDKN1A rs236448 SNP may be implicated in the determination of muscle fiber composition and may affect athletic performance.
Targeting mGlu1 Receptors in the Treatment of Motor and Cognitive Dysfunctions in Mice Modeling Type 1 Spinocerebellar Ataxia
Authors: Liberatore Francesca , Antenucci Nico , Tortolani Daniel , Mascio Giada , Fanti Federico , Sergi Manuel , Battaglia Giuseppe , Bruno Valeria , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Maccarrone Mauro , Notartomaso Serena
Published: December 2022

Type 1 spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA1) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with no effective treatment to date. Using mice modeling SCA1, it has been demonstrated that a drug that amplifies mGlu1 receptor activation (mGlu1 receptor PAM, Ro0711401) improves motor coordination without the development of tolerance when cerebellar dysfunction manifests (i.e., in 30-week-old heterozygous ataxin-1 [154Q/2Q] transgenic mice). SCA1 is also associated with cognitive dysfunction, which may precede cerebellar motor signs. Here, we report that otherwise healthy, 8-week-old SCA1 mice showed a defect in spatial learning and memory associated with reduced protein levels of mGlu1α receptors, the GluN2B subunit of NMDA receptors, and cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the hippocampus. Systemic treatment with Ro0711401 (10 mg/kg, s.c.) partially corrected the learning deficit in the Morris water maze and restored memory retention in the SCA1 mice model. This treatment also enhanced hippocampal levels of the endocannabinoid, anandamide, without changing the levels of 2-arachidonylglycerol. These findings suggest that mGlu1 receptor PAMs may be beneficial in the treatment of motor and nonmotor signs associated with SCA1 and encourage further studies in animal models of SCA1 and other types of SCAs.
CHRDL1 Regulates Stemness in Glioma Stem-like Cells
Authors: Berglar Inka , Hehlgans Stephanie , Wehle Andrej , Roth Caterina , Herold-Mende Christel , Rödel Franz , Kögel Donat , Linder Benedikt
Published: December 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM) still presents as one of the most aggressive tumours in the brain, which despite enormous research efforts, remains incurable today. As many theories evolve around the persistent recurrence of this malignancy, the assumption of a small population of cells with a stem-like phenotype remains a key driver of its infiltrative nature. In this article, we research Chordin-like 1 (CHRDL1), a secreted protein, as a potential key regulator of the glioma stem-like cell (GSC) phenotype. It has been shown that CHRDL1 antagonizes the function of bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4), which induces GSC differentiation and, hence, reduces tumorigenicity. We, therefore, employed two previously described GSCs spheroid cultures and depleted them of CHRDL1 using the stable transduction of a CHRDL1-targeting shRNA. We show with in vitro cell-based assays (MTT, limiting dilution, and sphere formation assays), Western blots, irradiation procedures, and quantitative real-time PCR that the depletion of the secreted BMP4 antagonist CHRDL1 prominently decreases functional and molecular stemness traits resulting in enhanced radiation sensitivity. As a result, we postulate CHRDL1 as an enforcer of stemness in GSCs and find additional evidence that high CHRDL1 expression might also serve as a marker protein to determine BMP4 susceptibility.
Ectopic Tumor VCAM-1 Expression in Cancer Metastasis and Therapy Resistance
Authors: VanHeyst Kristen A. , Choi Sung Hee , Kingsley Daniel T. , Huang Alex Y.
Published: December 2022

Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (VCAM-1; CD106) is a membrane protein that contributes critical physiologic functional roles in cellular immune response, including leukocyte extravasation in inflamed and infected tissues. Expressed as a cell membrane protein, VCAM-1 can also be cleaved from the cell surface into a soluble form (sVCAM-1). The integrin α4β1 (VLA-4) was identified as the first major ligand for VCAM-1. Ongoing studies suggest that, in addition to mediating physiologic immune functions, VCAM-1/VLA-4 signaling plays an increasingly vital role in the metastatic progression of various tumors. Additionally, elevated concentrations of sVCAM-1 have been found in the peripheral blood of patients with cancer, suggesting the tumor microenvironment (TME) as the source of sVCAM-1. Furthermore, over-expression of VLA-4 was linked to tumor progression in various malignancies when VCAM-1 was also up-regulated. This review explores the functional role of VCAM-1 expression in cancer metastasis and therapy resistance, and the potential for the disruption of VCAM-1/VLA-4 signaling as a novel immunotherapeutic approach in cancer, including osteosarcoma, which disproportionately affects the pediatric, adolescent and young adult population, as an unmet medical need.
Unbalanced Glutamine Partitioning between CD8T Cells and Cancer Cells Accompanied by Immune Cell Dysfunction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Jianfei , Wang Rui , Liu Zhongliang , Fan Jun , Liu Shenglu , Tan Shunde , Li Xinkai , Li Bo , Yang Xiaoli
Published: December 2022

Glutamine metabolism is critical both for the proliferation of cancer cells and the activation of CD8T cells to kill cancer cells. We aim to explore the relationship between the glutamine metabolism of CD8T cells and cancer cells and tumor immunity in the tumor microenvironment. In a TCGA cohort, we found that patients with high scores of glutamine-metabolism-related genes showed poor prognoses, and that a high score of glutamine-metabolism-related genes was an independent risk factor for HCC patients. In single-cell RNA-seq data, we found that, in some patients, the glutamine metabolism gene scores of tumor cells were significantly higher than those of CD8T cells, while decreased ratios of CD8-Tef-GZMA and suppressed tumor-killing activity of CD8-Tef-APOC2 were observed. A further genetic dynamics pseudotime analysis suggested that immune remodeling of these two subpopulations was accompanied by metabolic reprogramming. CD8-Tef-APOC2 in the dominant group tended to metabolize exogenous lipids, while the metabolic program of CD8-Tef-GZMA in the nondominant group was characterized by amino acid and endogenous lipid synthesis. In addition, we found that the glutamine metabolism inhibitor JHU083 promoted the proliferation of CD8T cells and improved the efficacy of PD-1 blockers. We proposed a new tool to quantify the glutamine partitioning between tumor cells and CD8T cells, through which the unique immune microenvironment could be identified at the transcriptome level. Furthermore, the simultaneous destruction of the glutamine metabolism in tumor cells and CD8T cells facilitated the enrichment of tumor-infiltrating CD8T cells and enhanced the efficacy of immunotherapy.
Oxidative Stress and Extracellular Matrix Remodeling Are Signature Pathways of Extracellular Vesicles Released upon Morphine Exposure on Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Vujić Tatjana , Schvartz Domitille , Furlani Izadora Liranço , Meister Isabel , González-Ruiz Víctor , Rudaz Serge , Sanchez Jean-Charles
Published: December 2022

Morphine, a commonly used antinociceptive drug in hospitals, is known to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) by first passing through brain endothelial cells. Despite its pain-relieving effect, morphine also has detrimental effects, such as the potential induction of redox imbalance in the brain. However, there is still insufficient evidence of these effects on the brain, particularly on the brain endothelial cells and the extracellular vesicles that they naturally release. Indeed, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized bioparticles produced by almost all cell types and are currently thought to reflect the physiological state of their parent cells. These vesicles have emerged as a promising source of biomarkers by indicating the functional or dysfunctional state of their parent cells and, thus, allowing a better understanding of the biological processes involved in an adverse state. However, there is very little information on the morphine effect on human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs), and even less on their released EVs. Therefore, the current study aimed at unraveling the detrimental mechanisms of morphine exposure (at 1, 10, 25, 50 and 100 µM) for 24 h on human brain microvascular endothelial cells as well as on their associated EVs. Isolation of EVs was carried out using an affinity-based method. Several orthogonal techniques (NTA, western blotting and proteomics analysis) were used to validate the EVs enrichment, quality and concentration. Data-independent mass spectrometry (DIA-MS)-based proteomics was applied in order to analyze the proteome modulations induced by morphine on HBMECs and EVs. We were able to quantify almost 5500 proteins in HBMECs and 1500 proteins in EVs, of which 256 and 148, respectively, were found to be differentially expressed in at least one condition. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the “cell adhesion and extracellular matrix remodeling” process and the “HIF1 pathway”, a pathway related to oxidative stress responses, were significantly modulated upon morphine exposure in HBMECs and EVs. Altogether, the combination of proteomics and bioinformatics findings highlighted shared pathways between HBMECs exposed to morphine and their released EVs. These results put forward molecular signatures of morphine-induced toxicity in HBMECs that were also carried by EVs. Therefore, EVs could potentially be regarded as a useful tool to investigate brain endothelial cells dysfunction, and to a different extent, the BBB dysfunction in patient circulation using these “signature pathways”.
An Altered Skin and Gut Microbiota Are Involved in the Modulation of Itch in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Moniaga Catharina Sagita , Tominaga Mitsutoshi , Takamori Kenji
Published: December 2022

Skin and gut microbiota play an important role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD). An alteration of the microbiota diversity modulates the development and course of AD, e.g., decreased microbiome diversity correlates with disease severity, particularly in lesional skin of AD. Itch is a hallmark of AD with unsatisfying treatment until now. Recent evidence suggests a possible role of microbiota in altering itch in AD through gut–skin–brain interactions. The microbial metabolites, proinflammatory cytokines, and impaired immune response lead to a modulation of histamine-independent itch, disruption of epidermal barrier, and central sensitization of itch mechanisms. The positive impact of probiotics in alleviating itch in AD supports this hypothesis, which may lead to novel strategies for managing itchy skin in AD patients. This review summarizes the emerging findings on the correlation between an altered microbiota and gut–skin–brain axis in AD, especially in modulating itchy skin.
The Correlations among Dietary Lifestyle, Microecology, and Mind-Altering Toxoplasmosis on the Health of People, Place, and the Planet
Authors: de Araujo Goes Vanessa , Tajudeen Yusuf Amuda , El-Sherbini Mona Said
Published: December 2022

Being one of the most common foodborne protozoa worldwide, chronic toxoplasmosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) could contribute significantly to the etiology of several mental disorders. The neurotropic parasite can directly influence the gut microbiota, causing inflammation with subsequent degradation of tryptophan required for parasite growth. Research in humans and animals shows that the gut microbiome is involved in the regulation of brain serotonergic pathways through the microbiota–gut–brain axis. Since the serotonin system is extensively interconnected with the body’s master clock through neuronal networks, the microbiota has been suggested as a potential mediator, fine-tuning circadian misalignment, following a reciprocal relationship with human eating patterns. Furthermore, adherence to an intermittent fasting diet can improve the serotonin biosynthesis pathway in the intestines and improve cognitive function. This review aims to explain the role of fasting in parasite-driven gut microbiome perturbation and the mechanisms by which Toxoplasma infection alters brain function. Due to its significant impact on social–economic status, diet patterns, microbiota disruption, circadian rhythm, chronic inflammation, and mental disorders, toxoplasmosis is an underestimated threat that could be prevented by simple lifestyle changes through educational actions. Furthermore, there are few research studies that address toxoplasmosis-induced mental disorders from a holistic perspective. Thus, a planetary health lens is needed to understand these correlations that directly relate to the promotion of a resilient and empathic civilization, crucial to enabling a flourishing healthy society on all scales.
Au–Ru Composite for Enzyme-Free Epinephrine Sensing
Authors: Panov Maxim S. , Zakharov Alexey P. , Khairullina Evgenia M. , Tumkin Ilya I. , Mereshchenko Andrey S. , Nikolaev Dmitrii M. , Vasin Andrey V. , Ryazantsev Mikhail N.
Published: December 2022

We report the synthesis and investigation of Au–Ru composite with highly developed specific surface area exhibiting excellent electrocatalytic performance suitable for detection of such hydrophobic metabolites as epinephrine in the physiological environment. This electrode material was fabricated using two-stage laser-assisted metal deposition technique. The morphological and structural studies of Au–Ru were performed using methods of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD). The voltammetric methods, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and direct amperometry, were used to analyze the composite’s electrochemical properties. The Au–Ru sensor exhibited two linear ranges of the non-enzymatic epinephrine detection: 0.01–10 μM and 10–1000 μM. The calculated sensitivities within these two ranges were 32.8 and 3.3 μA μM−1 cm−2, whereas the corresponding limits of detection were 9 and 20 nM, respectively. The Au–Ru sensor also revealed good stability and reproducibility, as well as high selectivity towards epinephrine detection in the presence of a number of the interfering species.
Results of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fracture by Treatment Using Bioabsorbable Nails in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Wiktor Łukasz , Tomaszewski Ryszard
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Anterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures are characteristic for skeletally immature patients, and appropriate treatment is currently debated in the literature. The study aimed to evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes in patients with tibial eminence fractures treated with bioabsorbable nails in one orthopedic clinic. (2) Methods: After retrospective evaluation, we found 17 patients with tibial eminence fractures treated in orthopedic departments between January 2013 and July 2022 using bioabsorbable fixation nails. The study group comprised 12 boys and five girls aged 5 to 15.2 (average 10.1). The mean follow-up was 28 months. We diagnosed five type II fractures, ten type III fractures, and two type IV fractures according to Meyers–McKeever classification. (3) Results: We obtained a high healing rate—17 patients with the complete union on the control radiographs. We diagnosed two cases of malunion, of which one required revision surgery. Only one patient showed a slight anterior knee laxity. The treatment effect at follow-up was assessed using the Lysholm Knee Score and IKDC Score. The median Lysholm Score was 96.64 (SD 4.54), and the median IKDC Score was 84.64 (SD 3.10), which were both excellent results. (4) Conclusions: Based on our results, surgery using bioabsorbable devices for type II, III, and IV tibial eminence fractures in young individuals is an effective alternative, allowing good outcomes and restoring proper knee stability. The crucial factor for a good effect is a stable fracture fixation. Arthroscopic surgery gives good outcomes with minimal invasion. It is important not to prolong the attempts of arthroscopic reduction and to perform the open reduction to shorten the procedure’s time and avoid complications.
Diagnostic Validity and Reliability of Low-Dose Prospective ECG-Triggering Cardiac CT in Preoperative Assessment of Complex Congenital Heart Diseases (CHDs)
Authors: Almalki Yassir Edrees , Basha Mohammad Abd Alkhalik , Alduraibi Sharifa Khalid , Alshamrani Khalaf , Huneif Mohammed Ayed , Alduraibi Alaa Khalid , Almedhesh Sultan A. , Alshamrani Hassan A. , Elbanna Khaled Ahmed Ahmed , Algazzar Youssef H. , Metwally Maha Ibrahim
Published: December 2022

For the precise preoperative evaluation of complex congenital heart diseases (CHDs) with reduced radiation dose exposure, we assessed the diagnostic validity and reliability of low-dose prospective ECG-gated cardiac CT (CCT). Forty-two individuals with complex CHDs who underwent preoperative CCT as part of a prospective study were included. Each CCT image was examined independently by two radiologists. The primary reference for assessing the diagnostic validity of the CCT was the post-operative data. Infants and neonates were the most common age group suffering from complex CHDs. The mean volume of the CT dose index was 1.44 ± 0.47 mGy, the mean value of the dose-length product was 14.13 ± 5.4 mGy*cm, and the mean value of the effective radiation dose was 0.58 ± 0.13 mSv. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy of the low-dose prospective ECG-gated CCT for identifying complex CHDs were 95.6%, 98%, 97%, 97%, and 97% for reader 1 and 92.6%, 97%, 95.5%, 95.1%, and 95.2% for reader 2, respectively. The overall inter-reader agreement for interpreting the cardiac CCTs was good (κ = 0.74). According to the results of our investigation, low-dose prospective ECG-gated CCT is a useful and trustworthy method for assessing coronary arteries and making a precise preoperative diagnosis of complex CHDs.
Impact of the Visual Performance Reinforcement Technique on Oral Hygiene Knowledge and Practices, Gingival Health, and Plaque Control in Hearing- and Speech-Impaired Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kumar Ram , Deshpande Apurva , Ankola Anil , Sankeshwari Roopali , Hampiholi Vinuta , Hebbal Mamata , Jalihal Sagar , Pai Khot Atrey , Valakkunja Deepika , Kotha Sree
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of oral health education (OHE), incorporating a novel pre-validated visual performance reinforcement (VPR) technique and sign language, on gingival health, plaque control, and oral hygiene knowledge and practices in 12 to 15-year-old hearing- and speech-impaired adolescents. A double-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted in a government school for deaf children in Belagavi, Karnataka, India. A total of 80 adolescents, aged 12–15 years, were randomly assigned, using a computer-generated table of random numbers, into two groups: Group A receiving the VPR technique (n = 40), and Group B receiving sign language (n = 40). A specially designed pre-validated closed-ended questionnaire was administered to both groups, followed by clinical examination to obtain the gingival and plaque index, before intervention and at a 16-week follow-up period. Group A showed a significant increase in the knowledge gained when compared to Group B. Similarly, a significant improvement in oral hygiene practices was also observed in Group A. However, at the 16-week follow-up, there were no statistically significant differences in gingival and plaque scores between the groups. OHE using the VPR technique can be as effective and satisfactory as sign language in the reduction of gingival and plaque scores and in the improvement of knowledge and its application in oral hygiene maintenance among hearing- and speech-impaired adolescents.
Influence of Fluorine and Nitrogen Co-Doping on the Structural and Morphological Properties of Sol-Gel ZnO Films
Authors: Ivanova Tatyana , Harizanova Antoaneta , Koutzarova Tatyana , Vertruyen Benedicte , Closset Raphael
Published: December 2022

The structural, vibrational, optical and morphological properties of ZnO:N:F films, obtained by the sol-gel method, were investigated. The effect of single (fluorine, nitrogen) and F, N co-doping and thermal treatments (300–600 °C) on the properties of ZnO films was analyzed. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) revealed that ZnO:N:F films crystallized in a polycrystalline wurtzite structure. F and N incorporation changed lattice parameters, crystallite sizes, texture coefficients (TC) and residual stress. TC (002) of ZnO:N:F films increased with annealing, reaching 1.94 at 600 °C lower than the TC (002) of ZnO and ZnO:N films. The shifting of the characteristic absorption bands and/or the appearance of new IR lines were detected for ZnO:N:F samples. The highest transmittance (90.98%) in the visible spectral region was found for ZnO:F films. ZnO:N:F films possessed optical transparency up to 88.18% and their transmittance decreased at the higher annealings. The optical band gap (Eg) values of ZnO:N:F films were changed with fluorine and nitrogen concentrations. The formation of the wrinkle-like structures on the surface of ZnO and ZnO:N films was depicted in Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) images. The F, N dual doping modified ZnO morphology and suppressed wrinkle formation.
Measurements of Carbon Diffusivity and Surface Transfer Coefficient by Electrical Conductivity Relaxation during Carburization: Experimental Design by Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Ma Wenbo , Sheng Jianjun , Wang Yiheng , Yan Mufu , Wu Yujian , Qin Shaohua , Zhou Xiaoliang , Zhang Yanxiang
Published: December 2022

The diffusion coefficient (D) and surface transfer coefficient (β) of carbon are important parameters governing the kinetics of carburization, and some other heat treatment processes accompanied by redistribution of carbon in steel. Here, we propose to use an electrical conductivity relaxation (ECR) method for the in situ measurement of D and β of carbon. The feasibility of the method is discussed by the theoretical modeling of carburization for an infinitely long rectangular sample. The synthetic ECR data for the carburization is simulated by tracking the relaxation of electrical conductivity upon a sharp or a gradual change of carbon potential. Then, by Fourier transform, the synthetic ECR data is transformed to an impedance spectroscopy, which is used for estimation of D and β by fitting with a one-dimensional equivalent circuit model. The effects of the width-to-thickness ratio of the sample and the duration of carbon potential buildup on the accuracy of the estimated D and β are studied. The feasibility of the ECR method is verified, and rational guidance for experimental design is proposed.
Effects of Graphene Morphology on Properties of Carbon Nanotube/Polyurethane Film Strain Sensors
Authors: Liu Chen , Ge Xiang , Geng Jiaqi , Men Yuanli , Yuan Caideng
Published: December 2022

The film flexible sensors can convert tiny changes in size or force into electrical signals. They are key components of intelligent devices and wearable devices, and are widely used in human-computer interaction, electronic skin, health monitoring, implantable diagnosis, and other fields. This kind of sensor is generally composed of polymer matrix and conductive components, while carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene (GN), as typical one-dimensional and two-dimensional conductive carbon nano-materials, respectively, have been used to build film flexible sensors. In order to explore the relationship between the GN size and thickness, and the performance of film sensors, the GN-CNT/PU composite film sensors were prepared by in situ polymerization of polyurethane (PU) in the presence of GN and CNT. A highly sensitive GN-CNT/PU flexible film sensor was prepared with a high gauge factor (GF) up to 13.15 in a strain range of 0–20%; an exceptionally low percolation threshold of GN is about 0.04 vol% when the CNT content is fixed at 0.2 vol%, which is below the percolation threshold of CNT/PU nanocomposites. The size of the GN layer affects the GFs of the flexible film sensors; a GN with a smaller size can achieve a greater GF. This study paves the way for the better application of different qualities of GN in flexible sensors.
Effect of Doping Content of MgO on Solar Absorptivity to IR Emissivity Ratio of Al2O3 Coatings
Authors: Zhu Han , Wang Weize , Ye Dongdong , Yang Ting , Li Dongpeng , Yang Min , Yuan Baohan , Wang Yihao
Published: December 2022

High-emissivity coatings are often used on the surfaces of solar probes to block heat from the sun. Therefore, improving the thermal control ability is the standard for determining the quality of the coatings. In this study, MgO was doped into Al2O3 to improve the thermal control ability of the coatings and to analyse the effect of different MgO doping contents. The solar absorptivity to infrared (IR) emissivity ratio (α/ε) was used to evaluate the thermal control ability of the coatings. The results showed that 5 wt.% MgO doping content is the best choice. The main reason for the change in α/ε is related to the doping of MgO, which affects the grain size of Al2O3.
Surface Wettability and Coating Performance of Plasma-Treated Wood-Based Composite Panels
Authors: Gholamiyan Hadi , Ashouri Javad , Ahmadi Peyman , Hosseinpourpia Reza
Published: December 2022

The effect of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment was studied on the surface characteristics and coating performance of transparent epoxy resin on the surface of particleboard (PB) and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). The plasma treatment was performed at three plasma energies (10, 15, and 20 kW) and three distances from the nozzle (10, 20, and 30 mm). Analyzing the samples by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicated the changes of their chemical structure by means of the plasma treatment. The contact angle study showed a significant increase in surface wettability after plasma treatment with a pronounced effect observed by treatment parameters. The surface roughness was also significantly increased by the plasma treatment. The strength of the coating adhesion to the surface of the PB and MDF composite panels was also significantly improved by the plasma treatment, while no obvious trend was observed by treatment parameters. The highest adhesion strength of 2.03 MPa and 3.63 MPa were obtained by the PB and MDF samples, respectively, treated at a 10 mm nozzle distance and 15 kW plasma energy. The scratch resistance of the epoxy coatings showed a similar trend as the adhesion strength illustrating an inferior isolated surface of the coating after the plasma treatment.
Effect of Different Anti-Stripping Agents on the Rheological Properties of Asphalt
Authors: Shu Shiqi , Zhuang Chuanyi , Ren Ruibo , Xing Baodong , Chen Kun , Li Gen
Published: December 2022

Water damage is one of the main forms of early damage of highway asphalt pavement, which seriously affects the service performance of asphalt pavement. To address the problem of early water damage of asphalt pavement, the addition of anti-stripping agents in asphalt is an effective technical means. To further analyze the influence of anti-stripping agents on asphalt performance, Qingchuan rock asphalt, acylamine anti-stripping agent, fatty amine anti-stripping agent, rock asphalt + acylamine anti-stripping agent and rock asphalt + fatty amine anti-stripping agent were selected to modify the base asphalt. The rheological properties of modified asphalt were tested using a dynamic shear rheometer and bending beam rheometer. Combined with the mathematical-model-fitting test results of Sigmoidal, Burgers, viscoelastic continuum damage model (VECD), etc., the effects of different anti-stripping agents on the rheological properties of asphalt were evaluated through model parameters. The results showed that the Qingchuan rock asphalt could improve the high-temperature resistance to deformation of asphalt and improved the resistance to deformation of asphalt in a wide frequency domain but increased the risk of low-temperature cracking of asphalt. Acylamine anti-stripping agents and aliphatic amine anti-stripping agents reduced the elastic recovery ability and deformation resistance under a wide frequency domain of asphalt at high temperatures but enhanced the flexible deformation and ductility of asphalt at low temperatures. The compound anti-stripping agent not only improved the high-temperature deformation resistance of asphalt, but also improved the deficiency of rock asphalt’s low-temperature performance and effectively enhanced its performance.