bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Effect of Bilateral Eye Movements on Memory Retrieval in Ageing and Dementia
Authors: Polden Megan , Crawford Trevor J.
Published: September 2022

It has been reported that performing bilateral eye movements for a short period can lead to an enhancement of memory retrieval and recall (termed the “saccade induced retrieval effect (SIRE)”). The source of this effect has been debated within the literature and the phenomenon has come under scrutiny as the robustness of the effect has recently been questioned. To date investigations of SIRE have largely been restricted to younger adult populations. Here, across two experiments, we assess the robustness and generalisability of the SIRE specifically in relation to disease and ageing. Experiment 1 employed a between subject’s design and presented younger and older participants with 36 words prior to completing one of three eye movement conditions (bilateral, antisaccade or a fixation eye movement). Participants then performed a word recognition task. Experiment 2 assessed the SIRE in individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Mild cognitive impairment and Parkinson’s by employing an online within subject’s design. Results showed no significant difference between groups in the number of words recognised based on eye movement condition. Neither experiment 1 or 2 replicated the SIRE effect therefore the findings from this study add to the growing number of studies that have failed to replicate the SIRE effect.
Clinical Evaluation of Nerve Function in Electrical Accident Survivors with Persisting Neurosensory Symptoms
Authors: Wold Andrew , Rådman Lisa , Norman Kerstin , Olausson Håkan , Thordstein Magnus
Published: September 2022

Objective: Work related electrical accidents are prevalent and can cause persisting symptoms. We used clinical neurophysiological techniques to assess neurosensory function following electrical accidents and correlated test results with the patients’ symptoms. Methods: We studied 24 patients who reported persisting neurosensory symptoms following a workplace electrical accident. We assessed nerve function using quantitative sensory testing (QST), thermal roller testing, laser evoked potential (LEP), and electroneurography. The patients’ results were compared with previously established normative data. Results: Altogether, 67% of the patients showed at least one neurosensory impairment with a large heterogeneity in test results across patients. At a group level, we observed significant deviations in in QST, LEP, and sensory and motor neurography. Overall, we found a weak correlation between test results and self-reported symptoms. Conclusions: In a majority of patients with neurosensory symptoms after a workplace electrical accident, neurosensory testing confirmed the existence of an underlying impairment of the nervous system.
Review of Water Leak Detection Methods in Smart Building Applications
Authors: Mohd Yussof Nurfarah Anisah , Ho Hann Woei
Published: September 2022

In recent years, the identification of water leak detection methods has entered a wide range of fields. Pipeline failures in water distribution networks lead to the loss of a considerable amount of high-quality water. Different monitoring methods are often used to identify the failing infrastructure, which is subsequently maintained. Increased pressures on a fast-expanding water supply network needs the development of better leak detection technologies, particularly for use in smart building applications. This paper offers a detailed examination of water leak detection methods, intending to determine the state-of-the-art approaches and make recommendations for future research. It is designed to demonstrate smart buildings, but it may also be utilized in another similar context. This review concludes that, despite prior achievements, there is still much room for improvement, particularly in the domain of real-time models for earlier leak detection methods in building automation. These models should enable the integration of leakage detection, evaluation, and control system that, with minimal human interaction, may be customized for efficient leakage detection in real-world circumstances.
Optimization of the Stacking Plans for Precast Concrete Slab Based on Assembly Sequence
Authors: Zou Yiquan , Gao Qin , Wang Shuqiang
Published: September 2022

Precast concrete (PC) slabs are widely used in the assembly of concrete residential buildings. The PC slabs are manufactured at the factory and then arranged in stacks for transport to the construction site for assembly. Currently, optimization of the stacking plans for PC slabs focuses on yard-space utilization and transportation efficiency and rarely considers the assembly sequence; secondary sequencing of prefabricated elements is required during construction to meet the lifting scheme, which leads to increased construction preparation time and risk of worker injury. To enable stacking crews to generate stacking plans rapidly and systematically to improve the on-site lifting efficiency of the components, this paper proposes a storage-location allocation model with two objectives: reduce secondary-sorting workload and increase stacking stability for PC slabs. At the same time, it must match the characteristics of the problem. To prevent the solution from falling into the local optimum during the evolution of the particle swarm optimization algorithm, we introduce an elitist learning strategy, which can improve the solutions when the group converges. Finally, we verify our allocation model and optimization algorithm through example simulations. The simulation results show that, compared with the traditional method, the stacking plans generated by this method have a lower secondary-sorting workload and higher stacking stability when using the same number of storage racks.
Study on Early Shrinkage and Mechanical Properties of Concrete with Various Cementitious Materials
Authors: Wang Peng , Xie Ming , Liu Lei
Published: September 2022

Due to the rapid development of industrialization, the recycling and utilization of industrial by-products have received extensive attention. In this paper, binary, ternary, and quaternary composite cementitious materials were prepared using steel slag, blast furnace slag, and fly ash, and the effects of different cementitious materials on concrete properties were explored. A variety of solid wastes were mixed, and batches of concrete with high mechanical properties and durability were prepared by adjusting the type and amount of cementitious materials used. A total of 15 batches of concrete were prepared and tested for compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, axial compressive strength, elastic modulus, and drying shrinkage. The test results show that a fly ash, blast furnace slag powder, and steel slag powder ratio of 1:1:2 produces a concrete with the best mechanical properties. Among them, the cube compressive strength can reach 62.9 MPa, the splitting tensile strength is 5.7 MPa, the axial compressive strength and elastic modulus are increased, the early shrinkage is small, the growth rate is slow, and the 28d concrete shrinkage rate is 4.87 × 10−4. This new type of green mixed concrete can not only control production costs, but can also reduce environmental impact and decrease carbon dioxide emissions.
Immersive VR versus BIM for AEC Team Collaboration in Remote 3D Coordination Processes
Authors: Astaneh Asl Bita , Dossick Carrie Sturts
Published: September 2022

Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Reality (VR) are both tools for collaboration and communication, yet questions still exist as to how and in what ways these tools support technical communication and team decision-making. This paper presents the results of an experimental research study that examined multidisciplinary Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) team collaboration efficiency in remote asynchronous and synchronous communication methods for 3D coordination processes by comparing BIM and immersive VR both with markup tools. Team collaboration efficiency was measured by Shared Understanding, a psychological method based on Mental Models. The findings revealed that the immersive experience in VR and its markup tool capabilities, which enabled users to draw in a 360-degree environment, supported team communication more than the BIM markup tool features, which allowed only one user to draw on a shared 2D screenshot of the model. However, efficient team collaboration in VR required the members to properly guide each other in the 360-degree environment; otherwise, some members were not able to follow the conversations.
Study Using Machine Learning Approach for Novel Prediction Model of Liquid Limit
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Naqeeb , Qamar Sana Ullah , Alshameri Badee , Karam Steve , Çodur Merve Kayacı , Nawaz Muhammad Muneeb , Riaz Malik Sarmad , Azab Marc
Published: September 2022

The liquid limit (LL) is considered the most fundamental parameter in soil mechanics for the design and analysis of geotechnical systems. According to the literature, the LL is governed by different particle sizes such as sand content (S), clay content (C), and silt content (M). However, conventional methods do not incorporate the effect of all the influencing factors because traditional methods utilize material passing through a # 40 sieve for LL determination (LL40), which may contain a substantial number of coarse particles. Therefore, recent advancements suggest that the LL must be determined using material passing from a # 200 sieve. However, determining the liquid limit using # 200 sieve material, referred to as LL200 in the laboratory, is a time-consuming and difficult task. In this regard, artificial-intelligence-based techniques are considered the most reliable and robust solutions to such issues. Previous studies have adopted experimental routes to determine LL200 and no such attempt has been made to propose empirical correlation for LL200 determination based on influencing factors such as S, C, M, and LL40. Therefore, this study presents a novel prediction model for the liquid limit based on soil particle sizes smaller than 0.075 mm (# 200 sieve) using gene expression programming (GEP). Laboratory experimental data were utilized to develop a prediction model. The results indicate that the proposed model satisfies all the acceptance requirements of artificial-intelligence-based prediction models in terms of statistical checks such as the correlation coefficient (R2), root-mean-square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and relatively squared error (RSE) with minimal error. Sensitivity and parametric studies were also conducted to assess the importance of the individual parameters involved in developing the model. It was observed that LL40 is the most significant parameter, followed by C, M, and S, with sensitivity values of 0.99, 0.93, 0.88, and 0.78, respectively. The model can be utilized in the field with more robustness and has practical applications due to its simple and deterministic nature.
Enhanced Thermal Stability of Polyphosphate-Dependent Glucomannokinase by Directed Evolution
Authors: Sun Heming , Zhu Wenlong , Zhang Qinfei , Zheng Ruonan , Liu Luo , Cao Hui
Published: September 2022

Polyphosphate-dependent glucomannokinase (PPGMK) is able to utilize inorganic polyphosphate to synthesize mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) instead of highly costly ATP. This enzyme was modified and designed by combining error-prone PCR (EP-PCR) and site-directed saturation mutagenesis. Two mutants, H92L/A138V and E119V, were screened out from the random mutation library, and we used site-specific saturation mutations to find the optimal amino acid at each site. Finally, we found the optimal combination mutant, H92K/E119R. The thermal stability of H92K/E119R increased by 5.4 times at 50 °C, and the half-life at 50 °C increased to 243 min. Moreover, the enzyme activity of H92K/E119R increased to 16.6 U/mg, and its enzyme activity is twice that of WT. We analyzed the structure of the mutant using molecular dynamics simulation. We found that the shortening of the hydrogen bond distance and the formation of salt bridges can firmly connect the α-helix and β-sheet and improve the stability of the PPGMK structure.
Microwave-Sample-Preparation-System-Assisted Biogenic Synthesis of Copper Oxide Nanoplates Using Saussurea costus Root Aqueous Extract and Its Environmental Catalytic Activity
Authors: Taha Amel
Published: September 2022

Using safe and environmentally benign materials is considered one of the green chemistry approaches to avoid waste production. This research reported the biogenic synthesis of CuO nanoplates using Saussurea costus root extract assisted by a microwave sample preparation system. The phytochemical contents in the Saussurea costus root aqueous extract work as the reducing and capping agents for the nanoparticles. The biosynthesized CuO nanoplates were analyzed using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FT-IR, XRD, HR-TEM, DLS, FESEM, and EDS techniques. According to the HR-TEM and FE-SEM results, the CuO nanoparticles exhibited a plate-like shape with a mean size of 29 nm. Furthermore, the XRD results showed a typical agreement with the pattern of the monoclinic phase of copper oxide. The catalytic efficiency of the CuO nanoplates in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol using NaBH4 was examined in terms of environmental catalytic activity. The reaction time took less than 10 min. Thus, CuO nanoplates synthesized via Saussurea costus root aqueous extract show high catalytic-activity potential for the environmental catalytic application of the removal of nitro pollutants.
Thermochemical Properties of High Entropy Oxides Used as Redox-Active Materials in Two-Step Solar Fuel Production Cycles
Authors: Le Gal Alex , Vallès Marielle , Julbe Anne , Abanades Stéphane
Published: September 2022

The main challenges and obstacles to the development of hydrogen/carbon monoxide production from the splitting of water/carbon dioxide through two-step solar thermochemical cycles are strongly related to material concerns. Ineed, ceria is the main benchmark redox material used in such processes because it provides very good oxidation reaction kinetics, reactions reversibility and thermal cycling stability. This is at the expense of a low reduction yield (non-stoichiometry δ in CeO2-δ) at relatively high temperatures (≥1400 °C), which requires operation at low oxygen partial pressures during the reduction step. Hence, the specific fuel output per mass of redox material, i.e., the amount of H2/CO produced per cycle, remains low, thereby limiting the overall solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency. Perovskites offer larger amounts of fuel produced per cycle but the reaction kinetics are slow. This study addresses the thermochemical investigation of a new class of metal oxides, namely high entropy oxides (HEOs), with the aim of improving the specific amount of fuel generated per cycle with good kinetic rates. Different formulations of high entropy oxides were investigated and compared using thermogravimetric analysis to evaluate their redox activity and ability to split CO2 during thermochemical cycles. Among the different formulations tested, five HEOs yielded CO with a maximum specific fuel output of 154 µmol/g per cycle. These materials’ performances exceeded the production yields of ceria under similar conditions but are still far from the production yields reached with lanthanum–manganese perovskites. This new class of materials, however, opens a wide path for research into new formulations of redox-active catalysts comparing favorably with the ceria redox performance for solar thermochemical synthetic fuel production.
Membrane Bioreactors: A Promising Approach to Enhanced Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Cellulose
Authors: Al-Mardeai Saleha , Elnajjar Emad , Hashaikeh Raed , Kruczek Boguslaw , Van der Bruggen Bart , Al-Zuhair Sulaiman
Published: September 2022

The depletion of fossil fuel resources and the negative impact of their use on the climate have resulted in the need for alternative sources of clean, sustainable energy. One available alternative, bioethanol, is a potential substitute for, or additive to, petroleum-derived gasoline. In the lignocellulose-to-bioethanol process, the cellulose hydrolysis step represents a major hurdle that hinders commercialization. To achieve economical production of bioethanol from lignocellulosic materials, the rate and yield of the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose, which is preferred over other chemically catalyzed processes, must be enhanced. To achieve this, product inhibition and enzyme loss, which are two major challenges, must be overcome. The implementation of membranes, which can permeate molecules selectively based on their size, offers a solution to this problem. Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) can enhance enzymatic hydrolysis yields and lower costs by retaining enzymes for repeated usage while permeating the products. This paper presents a critical discussion of the use of MBRs as a promising approach to the enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulosic materials. Various MBR configurations and factors that affect their performance are presented.
Construction of SrTiO3–LaCrO3 Solid Solutions with Consecutive Band Structures for Photocatalytic H2 Evolution under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Guan Xiangjiu , Zong Shichao , Tian Li , Zhang Yazhou , Shi Jinwen
Published: September 2022

SrTiO3–LaCrO3 continuous solid solutions with LaCrO3 content ranging from 0.00 to 1.00 were prepared via a polymerized complex method. The light absorption ability of SrTiO3 was improved by the consecutive tuning of the bandgap upon the introduction of LaCrO3 (up to 570 nm). The solid solutions exhibited significantly enhanced photocatalytic activities for H2 evolution under visible light irradiation, with an optimized H2 evolution rate of 1368 μmol h−1 g−1 obtained when LaCrO3 content was 0.10 (with 1 wt% Pt as cocatalyst), corresponding to an apparent quantum yield of 3.68% at 400 nm. Supported by comprehensive characterization, the improved photocatalytic performance was attributed to the simultaneously adjusted conduction band and valance band originating from the hybridization of Cr 3d, Ti 3d and O 2p orbitals, as well as the accelerated separation and migration of photogenerated charge carriers derived from the distortion of TiO6 octahedra.
Hybrid Composite of Subnanometer CoPd Cluster-Decorated Cobalt Oxide-Supported Pd Nanoparticles Give Outstanding CO Production Yield in CO2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Yan Che , Bhalothia Dinesh , Yang Shou-Shiun , Beniwal Amisha , Chang You-Xun , Wang Pin-Chieh , Cheng Yu-Chia , Chen Chi-Liang , Wu Shun-Chi , Chen Tsan-Yao
Published: September 2022

Catalytic carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrogenation to carbon monoxide (CO) via reverse water-gas shift (RWGS) reaction is of particular interest due to its direct use in various industrial processes as feedstock. However, the competitive CO2 methanation process severely limits the RWGS reaction in a lower temperature range. In this context, we propose a novel nanocatalyst (NC) comprising oxygen vacancy-enriched subnanometer-scale CoPd hybrid cluster (CoOxVPd)-anchored Pd nanoparticles (NPs) on cobalt oxide support underneath (denoted as CP-CoOxVPd) by using a galvanic replacement reaction-assisted wet chemical reduction method. As-developed CP-CoOxVPd NC initiated the RWGS reaction at 423 K temperature while showing an optimum CO production yield of ∼3414 μmol g−1catalyst and a CO selectivity as high as ∼99% at 523 K in the reaction gas of CO2:H2 = 1:3. The results of physical characterizations along with electrochemical and gas chromatography (GC) suggest that abundant oxygen vacancies in the surface-anchored CoOxVPd clusters are vital for CO2 adsorption and subsequent activation, while neighboring Pd domains facilitate the H2 dissociation. The obtained results are expected to provide a feasible design of Co-based NCs for the RWGS reaction.
Au/Ti Synergistically Modified Supports Based on SiO2 with Different Pore Geometries and Architectures
Authors: Petcu Gabriela , Anghel Elena Maria , Buixaderas Elena , Atkinson Irina , Somacescu Simona , Baran Adriana , Culita Daniela Cristina , Trica Bogdan , Bradu Corina , Ciobanu Madalina , Parvulescu Viorica
Published: September 2022

New photocatalysts were obtained by immobilization of titanium and gold species on zeolite Y, hierarchical zeolite Y, MCM-48 and KIT-6 supports with microporous, hierarchical and mesoporous cubic structure. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2-physisorption, scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), diffuse reflectance UV–Vis spectroscopy (DRUV-Vis), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The photocatalytic properties were evaluated in degradation of amoxicillin (AMX) from water, under UV (254 nm) and visible light (532 nm) irradiation. The higher degradation efficiency and best apparent rate constant were obtained under UV irradiation for Au-TiO2-KIT-6, while in the visible condition for the Au-TiO2-MCM-48 sample containing anatase, rutile and the greatest percent of Au metallic clusters were found (evidenced by XPS). Although significant values of amoxicillin degradation were obtained, total mineralization was not achieved. These results were explained by different reaction mechanisms, in which Au species act as e− trap in UV and e− generator in visible light.
PNP-Ligated Rare-Earth Metal Catalysts for Efficient Polymerization of Isoprene
Authors: Ma Rongqing , Hu Hongfan , Li Xinle , Zhou Yi , Li Huashu , Sun Xin , Zhang Xueqin , Mao Guoliang , Xin Shixuan
Published: September 2022

The tridentate PNP ligand-supported rare-earth metal complexes, i.e., bis[o-diphenylphosphinophenyl]amido-Re-bis[o-dimethylaminobenzyl], [(Ph2P-o-C6H4)2N]Re[(CH2-o-Me2N(C6H4))2]: (Re = Y, 1; Nd, 2; Gd, 3) were applied to isoprene polymerization. When activated with borate activator ([PhMe2NH][B(C6F5)4] (NH-BARF), catalysts 1 and 3 exhibited excellent catalytic efficiency in aromatic media, produced very-high to ultrahigh molecular weight (Mw over 130 × 104 g/moL) polyisoprene rubber (PIR), and the obtained PIR contained over 98% cis-1,4 head-to-tail repeating unites. In most cases, the borate-activated polymerization reaction proceeded in a quasi-living pattern (PDI = 1.2–1.5) under controlled monomer conversion; whereas, activated with the commercially available modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO3A) in aliphatic hydrocarbon media, complexes 1, 2 and 3 all showed high catalytic efficiency, produced high molecular weight PIR with narrow molecular weight distribution (PDI ≤ 2.0) and high cis-1,4 head-to tail repeating unites in the range of 91–95%. Thus, the catalyst systems that consisted of 1, 2 and 3/MMAO3A, are closely relevant to the current industrial polybutadiene rubber (PBR) and PIR production processes.
The Effect of Germanium-Loaded Hydroxyapatite Biomaterials on Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Growth
Authors: Elango Jeevithan , Bushin Rodion , Lijnev Artiom , De Aza Piedad N. , Martínez Carlos Pérez-Albacete , Marín José Manuel Granero , Hernandez Ana Belen , Olmo Luis Ramón Meseguer , Val José Eduardo Maté Sánchez De
Published: September 2022

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a hard mineral component of mineralized tissues, mainly composed of calcium and phosphate. Due to its bioavailability, HA is potentially used for the repair and regeneration of mineralized tissues. For this purpose, the properties of HA are significantly improved by adding natural and synthetic materials. In this sense, the germanium (Ge) mineral was loaded in HA biomaterial by cold isostatic pressure for the first time and characterization and biocompatibility using bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) were investigated. The addition of Ge at 5% improved the solubility (3.32%), stiffness (18.34 MPa), water holding (31.27%) and biodegradation (21.87%) properties of HA, compared to control. Compared to all composite biomaterials, the drug-releasing behavior of HA-3% Ge was higher at pH 1 and 3 and the maximum drug release was obtained at pH 7 and 9 with HA-5% Ge biomaterials. Among the different mediums tested, the DMEM-medium showed a higher drug release rate, especially at 60 min. HA-Ge biomaterials showed better protein adhesion and apatite layer formation, which ultimately proves the compatibility in BM-MSCs culture. Except for higher concentrations of HA (5 and 10 mg/mL), the different concentrations of Ge and HA and wells coated with 1% of HA-1% Ge had higher BM-MSCs growth than control. All these findings concluded that the fabricated HA biomaterials loaded with Ge could be the potential biomaterial for culturing mammalian cells towards mineralized tissue repair and regeneration.
The Kinetic Mechanism of 3′-5′ Exonucleolytic Activity of AP Endonuclease Nfo from E. coli
Authors: Senchurova Svetlana I. , Kuznetsova Aleksandra A. , Ishchenko Alexander A. , Saparbaev Murat , Fedorova Olga S. , Kuznetsov Nikita A.
Published: September 2022

Escherichia coli apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endonuclease Nfo is one of the key participants in DNA repair. The principal biological role of this enzyme is the recognition and hydrolysis of AP sites, which arise in DNA either as a result of the spontaneous hydrolysis of an N-glycosidic bond with intact nitrogenous bases or under the action of DNA glycosylases, which eliminate various damaged bases during base excision repair. Nfo also removes 3′-terminal blocking groups resulting from AP lyase activity of DNA glycosylases. Additionally, Nfo can hydrolyze the phosphodiester linkage on the 5′ side of some damaged nucleotides on the nucleotide incision repair pathway. The function of 3′-5′-exonuclease activity of Nfo remains unclear and probably consists of participation (together with the nucleotide incision repair activity) in the repair of cluster lesions. In this work, using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and the stopped-flow method, we analyzed the kinetics of the interaction of Nfo with various model DNA substrates containing a 5′ single-stranded region. These data helped to describe the mechanism of nucleotide cleavage and to determine the rates of the corresponding stages. It was revealed that the rate-limiting stage of the enzymatic process is a dissociation of the reaction product from the enzyme active site. The stability of the terminal pair of nucleotides in the substrate did not affect the enzymatic-reaction rate. Finally, it was found that 2′-deoxynucleoside monophosphates can effectively inhibit the 3′-5′-exonuclease activity of Nfo.
Macrophages, Chronic Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Li He , Meng Ya , He Shuwang , Tan Xiaochuan , Zhang Yujia , Zhang Xiuli , Wang Lulu , Zheng Wensheng
Published: September 2022

The prevalence of obesity has reached alarming levels, which is considered a major risk factor for several metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D), non-alcoholic fatty liver, atherosclerosis, and ischemic cardiovascular disease. Obesity-induced chronic, low-grade inflammation may lead to insulin resistance, and it is well-recognized that macrophages play a major role in such inflammation. In the current review, the molecular mechanisms underlying macrophages, low-grade tissue inflammation, insulin resistance, and T2D are described. Also, the role of macrophages in obesity-induced insulin resistance is presented, and therapeutic drugs and recent advances targeting macrophages for the treatment of T2D are introduced.
Recent Developments on the Roles of Calcium Signals and Potential Therapy Targets in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Lei Jiahui , Deng Fengying , Ding Hongmei , Fu Mengyu , Xu Ting , Ji Bingyu , Feng Lin , Li Min , Qiu Junlan , Gao Qinqin
Published: September 2022

Intracellular calcium (Ca2+) concentration ([Ca2+]i) is implicated in proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in cancerous tissues. A variety of oncologic therapies and some candidate drugs induce their antitumor effects (in part or in whole) through the modulation of [Ca2+]i. Cervical cancer is one of most common cancers among women worldwide. Recently, major research advances relating to the Ca2+ signals in cervical cancer are emerging. In this review, we comprehensively describe the current progress concerning the roles of Ca2+ signals in the occurrence, development, and prognosis of cervical cancer. It will enhance our understanding of the causative mechanism of Ca2+ signals in cervical cancer and thus provide new sights for identifying potential therapeutic targets for drug discovery.
Platelets and the Cybernetic Regulation of Ischemic Inflammatory Responses through PNC Formation Regulated by Extracellular Nucleotide Metabolism and Signaling
Authors: Granja Tiago F. , Köhler David , Leiss Veronika , Eggstein Claudia , Nürnberg Bernd , Rosenberger Peter , Beer-Hammer Sandra
Published: September 2022

Ischemic events are associated with severe inflammation and are here referred to as ischemic inflammatory response (IIR). Recent studies identified the formation of platelet–neutrophil complexes (PNC) as key players in IIR. We investigated the role of extracellular platelet nucleotide signaling in the context of IIR and defined a cybernetic circle, including description of feedback loops. Cybernetic circles seek to integrate different levels of information to understand how biological systems function. Our study specifies the components of the cybernetic system of platelets in IIR and describes the theoretical progression of IIR passing the cybernetic cycle with positive and negative feedback loops based on nucleotide-dependent signaling and functional regulation. The cybernetic components and feedback loops were explored by cytometry, immunohistological staining, functional blocking antibodies, and ADP/ATP measurements. Using several ex vivo and in vivo approaches we confirmed cybernetic parameters, such as controller, sensor, and effector (VASP phosphorylation, P2Y12, ADORAs and GPIIb/IIIa activity), as well as set points (ADP, adenosine) and interfering control and disturbance variables (ischemia). We demonstrate the impact of the regulated platelet–neutrophil complex (PNC) formation in blood and the resulting damage to the affected inflamed tissue. Taken together, extracellular nucleotide signaling, PNC formation, and tissue damage in IIR can be integrated in a controlled cybernetic circle of platelet function, as introduced through this study.
Hedgehog Signaling as a Therapeutic Target for Airway Remodeling and Inflammation in Allergic Asthma
Authors: Tam Anthony , Osei Emmanuel Twumasi , Cheung Chung Y. , Hughes Michael , Yang Chen X. , McNagny Kelly M. , Dorscheid Delbert R. , Singhera Gurpreet K. , Hallstrand Teal S. , Warner Stephanie , Hogg James C. , Hackett Tillie L. , Lim Chinten J. , Sin Don D.
Published: September 2022

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have shown that variants of patched homolog 1 (PTCH1) are associated with lung function abnormalities in the general population. It has also been shown that sonic hedgehog (SHH), an important ligand for PTCH1, is upregulated in the airway epithelium of patients with asthma and is suggested to be involved in airway remodeling. The contribution of hedgehog signaling to airway remodeling and inflammation in asthma is poorly described. To determine the biological role of hedgehog signaling-associated genes in asthma, gene silencing, over-expression, and pharmacologic inhibition studies were conducted after stimulating human airway epithelial cells or not with transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1), an important fibrotic mediator in asthmatic airway remodeling that also interacts with SHH pathway. TGFβ1 increased hedgehog-signaling-related gene expression including SHH, GLI1 and GLI2. Knockdown of PTCH1 or SMO with siRNA, or use of hedgehog signaling inhibitors, consistently attenuated COL1A1 expression induced by TGFβ1 stimulation. In contrast, Ptch1 over-expression augmented TGFβ1-induced an increase in COL1A1 and MMP2 gene expression. We also showed an increase in hedgehog-signaling-related gene expression in primary airway epithelial cells from controls and asthmatics at different stages of cellular differentiation. GANT61, an inhibitor of GLI1/2, attenuated TGFβ1-induced increase in COL1A1 protein expression in primary airway epithelial cells differentiated in air–liquid interface. Finally, to model airway tissue remodeling in vivo, C57BL/6 wildtype (WT) and Ptch1+/− mice were intranasally challenged with house dust mite (HDM) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) control. Ptch1+/− mice showed reduced sub-epithelial collagen expression and serum inflammatory proteins compared to WT mice in response to HDM challenge. In conclusion, TGFβ1-induced airway remodeling is partially mediated through the hedgehog signaling pathway via the PTCH1-SMO-GLI axis. The Hedgehog signaling pathway is a promising new potential therapeutic target to alleviate airway tissue remodeling in patients with allergic airways disease.
STAT3 and Its Pathways’ Dysregulation—Underestimated Role in Urological Tumors
Authors: Golus Maciej , Bugajski Piotr , Chorbińska Joanna , Krajewski Wojciech , Lemiński Artur , Saczko Jolanta , Kulbacka Julita , Szydełko Tomasz , Małkiewicz Bartosz
Published: September 2022

Nowadays, molecular research is essential for the better understanding of tumor cells’ pathophysiology. The increasing number of neoplasms is taken under ‘the molecular magnifying glass’; therefore, it is possible to discover the complex relationships between cytophysiology and tumor cells. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) belongs to the family of latent cytoplasmic transcription factors called STATs, which comprises seven members: STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5A, STAT5B, and STAT6. Those proteins play important role in cytokine-activated gene expression by transducing signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus. Abnormal prolonged activation results in tumorigenesis, metastasis, cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis. Inhibition of this transcription factor inhibits the previously mentioned effects in cancer cells, whereas normal cells are not affected. Hence, STAT3 might be a viable target for cancer therapy.
Di-n-Butyl Phthalate and Its Monoester Metabolite Impairs Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis in Human Cells: Mechanistic In Vitro Studies
Authors: Källsten Liselott , Pierozan Paula , Martin Jonathan W. , Karlsson Oskar
Published: September 2022

The widespread environmental contaminant di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) has been linked with reduced testosterone levels and adverse reproductive health outcomes in men. However, the underlying mechanisms of these anti-androgenic effects and the potential effects on other classes of steroid hormones remain to be elucidated. Here, we conducted mechanistic studies in human adrenocortical H295R cells exposed to 1–500 µM of DBP or its metabolite, mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), for 48 h. Quantification of steroid hormones in the cell medium by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry revealed that both phthalates significantly decreased testosterone, androstenedione, corticosterone, and progesterone levels, in particular after dibutyryl-cyclic-AMP stimulation of steroidogenesis. Western blot analysis of key steroidogenic proteins showed that DBP induced a dose-dependent decrease of CYP11A1 and HSD3β2 levels, while MBP only significantly decreased CYP17A1 levels, indicating that the compounds affect early steps of the steroidogenesis differently. Both DBP and MBP exposure also lead to a dose-related decrease in HSD17β3, the enzyme which catalyzes the final step in the testosterone biosynthesis pathway, although these effects were not statistically significant. Interestingly, DBP increased the cortisol concentration, which may be due to the non-significant CYP11B1 increase in DBP-exposed cells. In contrast, MBP decreased cortisol concentration. Moreover, the analysis of superoxide generation and quantification of the protein oxidation marker nitrotyrosine demonstrated that DBP induced oxidative stress in H295R cells while MBP reduced protein nitrotyrosine levels. These findings confirm the anti-androgenic effects of DBP and MBP and reveal several differences in their toxicological mechanisms, with possible implications for future research on phthalate toxicity.
The Adjustment Strategy of Venus Flytrap Photosynthetic Apparatus to UV-A Radiation
Authors: Miernicka Karolina , Tokarz Barbara , Makowski Wojciech , Mazur Stanisław , Banasiuk Rafał , Tokarz Krzysztof M.
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the response of the photosynthetic apparatus of the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula J. Ellis) to UV-A radiation stress as well as the role of selected secondary metabolites in this process. Plants were subjected to 24 h UV-A treatment. Subsequently, chl a fluorescence and gas exchange were measured in living plants. On the collected material, analyses of the photosynthetic pigments and photosynthetic apparatus proteins content, as well as the contents and activity of selected antioxidants, were performed. Measurements and analyses were carried out immediately after the stress treatment (UV plants) and another 24 h after the termination of UV-A exposure (recovery plants). UV plants showed no changes in the structure and function of their photosynthetic apparatus and increased contents and activities of some antioxidants, which led to efficient CO2 carboxylation, while, in recovery plants, a disruption of electron flow was observed, resulting in lower photosynthesis efficiency. Our results revealed that D. muscipula plants underwent two phases of adjustment to UV-A radiation. The first was a regulatory phase related to the exploitation of available mechanisms to prevent the over-reduction of PSII RC. In addition, UV plants increased the accumulation of plumbagin as a potential component of a protective mechanism against the disruption of redox homeostasis. The second was an acclimatization phase initiated after the running down of the regulatory process and decrease in photosynthesis efficiency.
Effect of Glucose Levels on Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Poznyak Anastasia V. , Litvinova Larisa , Poggio Paolo , Sukhorukov Vasily N. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: September 2022

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death and disability. The development of cardiovascular diseases is traditionally associated with various risk factors, most of which are somehow related to an unhealthy lifestyle (smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, etc.). There are also risk factors associated with genetic predisposition, as well as the presence of concomitant diseases, especially chronic ones. One of the most striking examples is, of course, type 2 diabetes. This metabolic disorder is associated with impaired carbohydrate metabolism. The main clinical manifestation of type 2 diabetes is elevated blood glucose levels. The link between diabetes and CVD is well known, so it is logical to assume that elevated glucose levels may be important, to some extent, in the context of heart and vascular disease. In this review, we tried to summarize data on the possible role of blood glucose as a risk factor for the development of CVD.
Objective Measures of Immediate “Energizing” Effect of Light: Studies Review and Data Analysis
Authors: Danilenko Konstantin V.
Published: September 2022

While the energizing effect of light has been known since the early years of light therapy, its reliable detection using objective measures is still not well-established. This review aims to ascertain the immediate energizing effect of light and determine its best indicators. Sixty-four articles published before July 2022 were included in the review. The articles described 72 (sub-)studies performed in healthy individuals. Fourteen measures were analyzed. The analysis showed that light causes an energizing effect that can be best documented by measuring core (rectal) body temperature: the proportion of the studies revealing increasing, unchanging, and decreasing rectal temperature was 13/6/1. The second most suitable indicator was heart rate (10/22/1), which showed concordant changes with rectal temperature (a trend, seven mutual studies). There is no evidence from the reviewed articles that oxygen consumption, skin conductance, blood pressure, heart rate variability, non-rectal inner temperature (combined digestive, tympanic, and oral), skin temperature, or cortisol levels can provide light effect detection. Four other measures were found to be unsuitable as well but with less certainty due to the low number of studies (≤3): skin blood flow, noradrenaline, salivary alpha-amylase, and thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. On the other hand, light exposure had a noticeable effect on sympathetic nerve activity measured using microneurography; however, this measure can be accepted as a marker only tentatively as it was employed in a single study. The analysis took into account three factors—study limitation in design/analysis, use of light in day- or nighttime, and relative brightness of the light stimulus—that were found to significantly influence some of the analyzed variables. The review indicates that the energizing effect of light in humans can be reliably detected using rectal temperature and heart rate.
Effects of Initial Microstructure on the Low-Temperature Plasma Nitriding of Ferritic Stainless Steel
Authors: Li Lingze , Liu Ruiliang , Liu Quanli , Wu Zhaojie , Meng Xianglong , Fang Yulan
Published: September 2022

AISI 430 ferritic stainless steel with different initial microstructures was low-temperature plasma nitrided to improve its hardness and wear resistance in the present investigation. The microstructure and properties of the low-temperature nitrided layers on stainless steel with different initial microstructures were studied by an optical microscope, X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, microhardness tester, pin-on-disk tribometer, and electrochemical workstation. The results show that the low-temperature nitrided layer characteristics of ferritic stainless steel are highly initial-microstructure dependent. For the ferritic stainless steel with a solid solution and annealing treatment, it had the best performance after low-temperature plasma nitriding when compared with the stainless steel with other initial microstructures. The nitrided layer thickness reached 34 μm after nitriding at 450 °C for 8 h. The phase composition of the low-temperature-nitrided layer consisted mainly of a nitrogen “expanded” α phase (αN) and iron nitrides (Fe4N and Fe2–3N). The hardness of the nitrided layer could reach up to 1832 HV0.1. Moreover, the wear and corrosion resistance of the nitrided layer on the solution and annealing treated ferritic stainless steel could be improved at the same time.
Protein Carbonylation as a Reliable Read-Out of Urban Pollution Damage/Protection of Hair Fibers
Authors: Cavagnino Andrea , Starck Arthur , Bobier Anaïs , Baraibar Martin A.
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: Environmental factors, such as airborne pollutants and solar UV, induce oxidative damage to proteins and lipids on hair fibers, leading to decreased hair strength and shine, increased fiber porosity, brittleness, dryness, and stiffness. Traditional methods used for hair damage/protection/reparation assessment show limitations in sensitivity or specificity for evidencing the benefits to be gained from the protection/reparation of hair fibers against environmental stressors. (2) Methods: Ex vivo experimental models of hair fibers exposed to urban pollutants and UV irradiation were developed. Targeted proteomics approaches for the quantification of oxidatively damaged (carbonylated) proteins on hair fibers were optimized. (3) Results: A significant dose-dependent increase in carbonylation both in the cuticle and cortex proteins was observed upon exposure of hair fibers to particulate matter and UV-A radiation, at daily stress equivalent doses. Increased protein carbonylation on keratins and keratin-associated proteins led to loss of hair fiber structural integrity. The oxidative modification of proteins induced by urban pollution exposure led to hair cuticle structural damage revealed by an increased permeability. However, protein carbonylation was prevented in the presence of antioxidant compounds. (4) Conclusions: Protein carbonylation is an early event in hair fiber damage which can be used as a reliable biomarker for the efficacy of hair care interventions against environmental stressors.
Properties of SiC and Si3N4 Thin Films Containing Self-Assembled Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Isaković Senad , Đekić Maja , Tkalčević Marija , Boršćak Denis , Periša Ivana , Bernstorff Sigrid , Mičetić Maja
Published: September 2022

The properties of semiconductor materials can be strongly affected by the addition of metallic nanoparticles. Here we investigate the properties of SiC + Au and Si3N4 + Au thin films prepared by magnetron sputtering deposition followed by thermal annealing. The influence of gold addition on the optical and electrical properties is explored. We show the formation of self-assembled Au nanoparticles in SiC and Si3N4, with the size and arrangement properties determined by the deposition and annealing conditions. Both SiC- and Si3N4-based films show an increase in the overall absorption with increasing Au content, and its decrease with increasing annealing temperature. All films show the presence of surface plasmon resonance, whose peaks shift toward larger wavelengths with increasing Au nanoparticle size. The resistivity significantly drops with the Au content increase for both types of matrices, although the resistivity of Si3N4-based films is much higher. The incorporated quantity of Au in the host matrix was chosen in such a way to demonstrate that a huge range of optical and electrical characteristics is achievable. The materials are very interesting for application in opto-electronic devices.
Control of 11-Aza:4-X-SalA Cocrystal Polymorphs Using Heteroseeds That Switch On/Off Halogen Bonding
Authors: Li Keyao , Roy Monalisa , Nisar Madiha , Wong Lawrence W-Y. , Sung Herman H-Y. , Haynes Richard K. , Williams Ian D.
Published: September 2022

A family of: 1:1 cocrystals 11-Aza:4-X-SalA have been prepared from the potent anti-malarial compound 11-azaartemisinin with 4-halosalicylic acids. When X = 4-Cl, 4-Br and 4-I, two conformational polymorphs can be isolated in each case. Monoclinic type-I was found previously for parent 11-Aza:SalA (1) and 11-Aza:4-Br-SalA (3a) which have polar 21 stacks of molecular pairs with no short halogen bond contacts between stacks. Orthorhombic type-II is found for 4-Cl (3b) and 4-I (4b) from solution growth. This has a translational stack of molecular pairs involving a conformational change of the acid-lactam hetero-synthon and supramolecular association of stacks via halogen bonds. Notably, phase pure polymorph type-I can be formed for 4-Cl (3a) and 4-I (4a) by hetero-seeding with 11-Aza:SalA, whist conversely phase pure type-II for 4-Br (2b) can be formed using homo-seeding from liquid assisted grinding (LAG) product. This work demonstrates both the viability of engineering polymorphic cocrystal forms using hetero-seeds and the involvement of halogen bonds in helping to discriminate quite different polymorphic types.
Study on Precipitation Processes and Phase Transformation Kinetics of Iron Phosphate Dihydrate
Authors: Wang Huiqi , Guo Mingxia , Niu Yue , Dai Jiayu , Yin Qiuxiang , Zhou Ling
Published: September 2022

The process of the phase transformation from amorphous to crystalline FePO4·2H2O was studied in this research. It was found that Fe and P are predominantly present as FeHPO4+ and FeH2PO42+ and an induction period exists during the transition from amorphous to monoclinic form. The induction period and the time required for phase transformation were shortened with the increased temperature. Phase transformation could be kinetically described by the Johnson–Mehl–Avrami (JMA) dynamics model. The dissolution rate of amorphous FePO4·2H2O is the rate-limiting step of this process. the activation energy of phase transformation is calculated to be 9.619 kJ/mol. The results in this study provided more guidelines for the regulation of FePO4·2H2O precursors by precipitation method.