bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploratory Analysis of Serial 18F-fluciclovine PET-CT and Multiparametric MRI during Chemoradiation for Glioblastoma
Authors: Fatania Kavi , Frood Russell , Tyyger Marcus , McDermott Garry , Fernandez Sharon , Shaw Gary C. , Boissinot Marjorie , Salvatore Daniela , Ottobrini Luisa , Teh Irvin , Wright John , Bailey Marc A. , Koch-Paszkowski Joanna , Schneider Jurgen E. , Buckley David L. , Murray Louise , Scarsbrook Andrew , Short Susan C. , Currie Stuart
Published: July 2022

Anti-1-amino-3-18fluorine-fluorocyclobutane-1-carboxylic acid (18F-fluciclovine) positron emission tomography (PET) shows preferential glioma uptake but there is little data on how uptake correlates with post-contrast T1-weighted (Gd-T1) and dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) activity during adjuvant treatment. This pilot study aimed to compare 18F-fluciclovine PET, DCE-MRI and Gd-T1 in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy for glioblastoma (GBM), and in a parallel pre-clinical GBM model, to investigate correlation between 18F-fluciclovine uptake, MRI findings, and tumour biology. 18F-fluciclovine-PET-computed tomography (PET-CT) and MRI including DCE-MRI were acquired before, during and after adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (60 Gy in 30 fractions with temozolomide) in GBM patients. MRI volumes were manually contoured; PET volumes were defined using semi-automatic thresholding. The similarity of the PET and DCE-MRI volumes outside the Gd-T1 volume boundary was measured using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC). CT-2A tumour-bearing mice underwent MRI and 18F-fluciclovine PET-CT. Post-mortem mice brains underwent immunohistochemistry staining for ASCT2 (amino acid transporter), nestin (stemness) and Ki-67 (proliferation) to assess for biologically active tumour. 6 patients were recruited (GBM 1–6) and grouped according to overall survival (OS)—short survival (GBM-SS, median OS 249 days) and long survival (GBM-LS, median 903 days). For GBM-SS, PET tumour volumes were greater than DCE-MRI, in turn greater than Gd-T1. For GBM-LS, Gd-T1 and DCE-MRI were greater than PET. Tumour-specific 18F-fluciclovine uptake on pre-clinical PET-CT corresponded to immunostaining for Ki-67, nestin and ASCT2. Results suggest volumes of 18F-fluciclovine-PET activity beyond that depicted by DCE-MRI and Gd-T1 are associated with poorer prognosis in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy for GBM. The pre-clinical model confirmed 18F-fluciclovine uptake reflected biologically active tumour.
Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition Suppresses AMPK and Sensitizes Cancer Cells to Pyroptosis under Energy Stress
Authors: Liang Mingwei , Li Jennifer W. , Luo Huacheng , Lulu Sarah , Calbay Ozlem , Shenoy Anitha , Tan Ming , Law Brian K. , Huang Shuang , Xiao Tsan Sam , Chen Hao , Wu Lizi , Chang Jia , Lu Jianrong
Published: July 2022

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is implicated in tumor metastasis and therapeutic resistance. It remains a challenge to target cancer cells that have undergone EMT. The Snail family of key EMT-inducing transcription factors directly binds to and transcriptionally represses not only epithelial genes but also a myriad of additional genomic targets that may carry out significant biological functions. Therefore, we reasoned that EMT inherently causes various concomitant phenotypes, some of which may create targetable vulnerabilities for cancer treatment. In the present study, we found that Snail transcription factors bind to the promoters of multiple genes encoding subunits of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) complex, and expression of AMPK genes was markedly downregulated by EMT. Accordingly, high AMPK expression in tumors correlated with epithelial cell markers and low AMPK expression in tumors was strongly associated with adverse prognosis. AMPK is the principal sensor of cellular energy status. In response to energy stress, AMPK is activated and critically reprograms cellular metabolism to restore energy homeostasis and maintain cell survival. We showed that activation of AMPK by energy stress was severely impaired by EMT. Consequently, EMT cancer cells became hypersensitive to a variety of energy stress conditions and primarily underwent pyroptosis, a regulated form of necrotic cell death. Collectively, the study suggests that EMT impedes the activation of AMPK signaling induced by energy stress and sensitizes cancer cells to pyroptotic cell death under energy stress conditions. Therefore, while EMT promotes malignant progression, it concurrently induces collateral vulnerabilities that may be therapeutically exploited.
The Role of Natural Products and Their Multitargeted Approach to Treat Solid Cancer
Authors: Muhammad Naoshad , Usmani Darksha , Tarique Mohammad , Naz Huma , Ashraf Mohammad , Raliya Ramesh , Tabrez Shams , Zughaibi Torki A. , Alsaieedi Ahdab , Hakeem Israa J. , Suhail Mohd
Published: July 2022

Natural products play a critical role in the discovery and development of numerous drugs for the treatment of various types of cancer. These phytochemicals have demonstrated anti-carcinogenic properties by interfering with the initiation, development, and progression of cancer through altering various mechanisms such as cellular proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Treating multifactorial diseases, such as cancer with agents targeting a single target, might lead to limited success and, in many cases, unsatisfactory outcomes. Various epidemiological studies have shown that the steady consumption of fruits and vegetables is intensely associated with a reduced risk of cancer. Since ancient period, plants, herbs, and other natural products have been used as healing agents. Likewise, most of the medicinal ingredients accessible today are originated from the natural resources. Regardless of achievements, developing bioactive compounds and drugs from natural products has remained challenging, in part because of the problem associated with large-scale sequestration and mechanistic understanding. With significant progress in the landscape of cancer therapy and the rising use of cutting-edge technologies, we may have come to a crossroads to review approaches to identify the potential natural products and investigate their therapeutic efficacy. In the present review, we summarize the recent developments in natural products-based cancer research and its application in generating novel systemic strategies with a focus on underlying molecular mechanisms in solid cancer.
BMP Signaling Pathway in Dentin Development and Diseases
Authors: Liu Mengmeng , Goldman Graham , MacDougall Mary , Chen Shuo
Published: July 2022

BMP signaling plays an important role in dentin development. BMPs and antagonists regulate odontoblast differentiation and downstream gene expression via canonical Smad and non-canonical Smad signaling pathways. The interaction of BMPs with their receptors leads to the formation of complexes and the transduction of signals to the canonical Smad signaling pathway (for example, BMP ligands, receptors, and Smads) and the non-canonical Smad signaling pathway (for example, MAPKs, p38, Erk, JNK, and PI3K/Akt) to regulate dental mesenchymal stem cell/progenitor proliferation and differentiation during dentin development and homeostasis. Both the canonical Smad and non-canonical Smad signaling pathways converge at transcription factors, such as Dlx3, Osx, Runx2, and others, to promote the differentiation of dental pulp mesenchymal cells into odontoblasts and downregulated gene expressions, such as those of DSPP and DMP1. Dysregulated BMP signaling causes a number of tooth disorders in humans. Mutation or knockout of BMP signaling-associated genes in mice results in dentin defects which enable a better understanding of the BMP signaling networks underlying odontoblast differentiation and dentin formation. This review summarizes the recent advances in our understanding of BMP signaling in odontoblast differentiation and dentin formation. It includes discussion of the expression of BMPs, their receptors, and the implicated downstream genes during dentinogenesis. In addition, the structures of BMPs, BMP receptors, antagonists, and dysregulation of BMP signaling pathways associated with dentin defects are described.
Effects of Air Pollution on Cellular Senescence and Skin Aging
Authors: Martic Ines , Jansen-Dürr Pidder , Cavinato Maria
Published: July 2022

The human skin is exposed daily to different environmental factors such as air pollutants and ultraviolet (UV) light. Air pollution is considered a harmful environmental risk to human skin and is known to promote aging and inflammation of this tissue, leading to the onset of skin disorders and to the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation issues. Besides this, components of air pollution can interact synergistically with ultraviolet light and increase the impact of damage to the skin. However, little is known about the modulation of air pollution on cellular senescence in skin cells and how this can contribute to skin aging. In this review, we are summarizing the current state of knowledge about air pollution components, their involvement in the processes of cellular senescence and skin aging, as well as the current therapeutic and cosmetic interventions proposed to prevent or mitigate the effects of air pollution in the skin.
VMP1 Regulated by chi-miR-124a Effects Goat Myoblast Proliferation, Autophagy, and Apoptosis through the PI3K/ULK1/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Yufang , Zhou Zuyang , Li Kunyu , Wang Peng , Chen Yulin , Deng Shoulong , Li Wenting , Yu Kun , Wang Kejun
Published: July 2022

The production of goat meat is determined by the growth speed of muscle fibers, and the autophagy and apoptosis of myoblast cells is a crucial process in the growth of muscle fibers. The rapid growth of muscle fibers occurs from one month old to nine months old in goats; however, the mechanisms of myoblast cells’ autophagy and apoptosis in this process are still unknown. To identify candidate genes and signaling pathway mechanisms involved in myoblast apoptosis and autophagy, we compared the expression characteristics of longissimus dorsi tissues from Wu’an goats—a native goat breed of China—at 1 month old (mon1 group) and 9 months old (mon9 group). Herein, a total of 182 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEGs) in the mon1 vs. mon9 comparison, along with the KEGG enrichments, showed that the PI3K-Akt pathway associated with autophagy and apoptosis was significantly enriched. Among these DEGs, expression of vacuole membrane protein 1 (VMP1)—a key gene for the PI3K-Akt pathway—was significantly upregulated in the older goats relative to the 1-month-old goats. We demonstrated that VMP1 promotes the proliferation and autophagy of myoblasts, and inhibits their apoptosis. The integration analysis of miRNA–mRNA showed that miR-124a was a regulator of VMP1 in muscle tissue, and overexpression and inhibition of miR-124a suppressed the proliferation and autophagy of myoblasts. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway was an important pathway for cell autophagy. Additionally, the activator of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, the expression of VMP1, and ULK1 were higher than the negative control, and the expression of mTOR was depressed. The expression of VMP1, ULK1, and mTOR was the opposite when the inhibitor was added to the myoblasts. These results show that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway promoted the expression of VMP1 and ULK1. By using adenovirus-mediated apoptosis and proliferation assays, we found that that miR-124a inhibits myoblast proliferation and autophagy, and promotes their apoptosis by targeting VMP1. In conclusion, our results indicated that VMP1 was highly expressed in the LD muscle tissues of nine-month-old goats, and that it was regulated by miR-124a to inhibit myoblast cells’ apoptosis through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, and to promote proliferation and autophagy. These findings contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in myoblast proliferation, autophagy, and apoptosis.
Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Lipids in the Scent Glands of Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) in Different Reproductive Statuses
Authors: Xie Wenqian , Mu Shengheng , Zhong Jinkun , Zhang Chaoran , Zhang Haolin , Wang Xiaodong , Weng Qiang
Published: July 2022

As a typical seasonal breeding animal, male muskrats have a pair of scent glands that can emit musky odor substances to attract females during the breeding period. The present study aimed to visualize the differences in the distribution of lipids in the scent glands of muskrats during their different reproductive statuses by imaging mass spectrometry and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results revealed remarkable differences in the expression and spatial distribution of lipids detected in the scent glands of muskrats during the different reproductive statuses. In addition, the expression levels of lipid molecules PC (32:0) and LysoPC (16:0) were found to be significantly higher in the breeding season than in the non-breeding season. Moreover, the mRNA expression levels of lipid synthesis enzyme Pemt and Pla2g4b were higher in the breeding season than in the non-breeding season, and there were positive correlations between the expression intensities of lipid molecules and the expression levels of Pemt and Pla2g4b. The present study investigates the changes and distribution of the endogenous lipid in the scent glands of muskrats and elucidates that the seasonal changes in the lipid metabolism may affect the functions of the scent glands in muskrats.
Extracellular Vesicles, Inflammation, and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Akhmerov Akbarshakh , Parimon Tanyalak
Published: July 2022

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. The underlying mechanisms of most cardiovascular disorders involve innate and adaptive immune responses, and extracellular vesicles are implicated in both. In this review, we describe the mechanistic role of extracellular vesicles at the intersection of inflammatory processes and cardiovascular disease. Our discussion focuses on atherosclerosis, myocardial ischemia and ischemic heart disease, heart failure, aortic aneurysms, and valvular pathology.
The Clinical Chameleon of Autoinflammatory Diseases in Children
Authors: Sangiorgi Eugenio , Rigante Donato
Published: July 2022

The very first line of defense in humans is innate immunity, serving as a critical strongpoint in the regulation of inflammation. Abnormalities of the innate immunity machinery make up a motley group of rare diseases, named ‘autoinflammatory’, which are caused by mutations in genes involved in different immune pathways. Self-limited inflammatory bouts involving skin, serosal membranes, joints, gut and other districts of the human body burst and recur with variable periodicity in most autoinflammatory diseases (ADs), often leading to secondary amyloidosis as a long-term complication. Dysregulated inflammasome activity, overproduction of interleukin (IL)-1 or other IL-1-related cytokines and delayed shutdown of inflammation are pivotal keys in the majority of ADs. The recent progress of cellular biology has clarified many molecular mechanisms behind monogenic ADs, such as familial Mediterranean fever, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (or ‘autosomal dominant familial periodic fever’), cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome, mevalonate kinase deficiency, hereditary pyogenic diseases, idiopathic granulomatous diseases and defects of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. A long-lasting history of recurrent fevers should require the ruling out of chronic infections and malignancies before considering ADs in children. Little is known about the potential origin of polygenic ADs, in which sterile cytokine-mediated inflammation results from the activation of the innate immunity network, without familial recurrency, such as periodic fever/aphthous stomatitis/pharyngitis/cervical adenopathy (PFAPA) syndrome. The puzzle of febrile attacks recurring over time with chameleonic multi-inflammatory symptoms in children demands the inspection of the mixture of clinical data, inflammation parameters in the different disease phases, assessment of therapeutic efficacy of a handful of drugs such as corticosteroids, colchicine or IL-1 antagonists, and genotype analysis to exclude or confirm a monogenic origin.
A Novel Technique for the Generation of Substantial Numbers of Functional Resident T Cells from Kidney Tissue
Authors: Betjes Michiel G. H. , Prevoo Frederique , van den Bosch Thierry P. P. , Klepper Mariska , Litjens Nicolle H. R.
Published: July 2022

Studying functionality and antigen-specificity of resident kidney T cells derived from a kidney biopsy is hampered by the lack of sufficient numbers of T cells obtained by the standard method of enzymatic tissue dissociation. Enzymatic dissociation of kidney tissue was compared to a novel method of whole kidney tissue culture allowing T cells to migrate into the medium in the presence of exogenous IL-2 and IL-15. T cell numbers were quantified and phenotype of resident T cells (CD69+CD103+/−), TCR Vβ repertoire and functional characteristics were analyzed with multi-parameter flow cytometry. Renal tissue culture for four weeks in the presence of exogenous IL-2 and IL-15 yielded significantly higher numbers of T cells (1.3 × 104/mm3) when compared to cultures without exogenous cytokines (71/mm3) or direct isolation by enzymatic dissociation (662/mm3 T cells, p < 0.05). The proportion of T cells with a resident phenotype did not change in the tissue culture; percentages amounted to 87.2% and 85.1%, respectively. In addition, frequencies of CD4+, CD8+, CD4−CD8−, T cells and MAIT T cells remained similar. For both CD4+ and CD8+, T cells had a more differentiated memory phenotype after tissue culture, but the distribution of TCR Vβ families did not change. In addition, the predominant Th1 cytokine secretion profile and poly-functionality of resident kidney T cell remained intact. T cell proliferation potential was not affected, excluding exhaustion and enrichment of BKV- and CMV-reactive resident T cells was observed. In conclusion, the kidney tissue culture method yields significantly increased numbers of resident T cells without major effects on composition and functionality.
“I Feel Happy Again”: Methylphenidate Supports Health-Related Quality of Life in Survivors of Pediatric Brain Tumor
Authors: Verity Sarah J. , Bell Lauren , Ryles Jade , Hill Rebecca M.
Published: July 2022

Background: The deleterious impact upon the cognitive development of survivors of pediatric brain tumors (PBT) is well documented. Impairment in cognitive function is associated with reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL), such that survivors of PBT report difficulties in multiple distinct domains and an overall reduced quality of life. Studies of the use of methylphenidate in survivors of PBT to alleviate impairment in cognitive functions have shown some success. The current study aimed to explore the impact upon HRQoL in survivors of PBT of a trial of psychostimulant medication. Method: Data were collected from 12 pediatric neuro-oncology patients aged 7–17 years receiving methylphenidate treatment. HRQoL was measured using the PEDS QL quality of life self-report measure and a semi-structured questionnaire-based interview. Results: Analyses of data demonstrates benefit to five domains associated with HRQoL: social, emotional, academic, physical, and cognition. Conclusion: Survivors of PBT reported favorable views as to the subjective benefit of methylphenidate on post-treatment impairment of HRQoL. This medication may offer the potential for restoration of a sense of ‘normality’ of function following cancer treatment in this clinical population.
Improving Recognition of Treatable Rare Neuromuscular Disorders in Primary Care: A Pilot Feasibility Study
Authors: Ricci Federica S. , D’Alessandro Rossella , Vacchetti Martina , Salvalaggio Anna , Somà Alessandra , Daffunchio Giorgia , Spada Marco , Turra Renato , Bobbio Marisa , Ciuti Alessandro , Davico Chiara , Vitiello Benedetto , Mongini Tiziana E.
Published: July 2022

Innovative targeted treatments for neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) can dramatically improve the course of illness. Diagnostic delay, however, is a major impediment. Here, we present a pilot project aimed at assessing the feasibility of a screening program to identify children at high risk for NMDs within the first 30 months of life. The Promoting Early Diagnosis for Neuromuscular Disorders (PEDINE) project implemented a three-step sequential screening in an area of about 300,000 people with (1) an assessment of the motor development milestones to identify “red flags” for NMDs by primary care pediatricians (PCPs) as part of the routine Health Status Check visits; (2) for the children who screened positive, a community neuropsychiatric assessment, with further referral of suspected NMD cases to (3) a hospital-based specialized tertiary care center. In the first-year feasibility study, a total of 10,032 PCP visits were conducted, and twenty children (0.2% of the total Health Status Check visits) screened positive and were referred to the community neuropsychiatrist. Of these, four had elevated creatine kinase (CK) serum levels. This pilot study shows that screening for NMDs in primary care settings is feasible and allows children at high risk for muscular disorder to be promptly identified.
Clinical Efficacy of Empirical Therapy in Children with Vasovagal Syncope
Authors: Tao Chunyan , Cui Yaxi , Zhang Chunyu , Liu Xueqin , Zhang Qingyou , Liu Ping , Wang Yuli , Du Junbao , Jin Hongfang
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: This case-control study was designed to assess the efficacy of empiric treatment for vasovagal syncope in children; (2) Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 181 children with vasovagal syncope from the Department of Pediatrics of Peking University First Hospital. The participants were categorized into four groups, based on the empiric treatment received: conventional treatment, including health education and orthostatic training; conventional treatment plus oral rehydration salts; conventional treatment plus metoprolol; conventional treatment plus midodrine hydrochloride. Patients were followed up to evaluate the syncopal or presyncopal recurrence. Kaplan–Meier curves were drawn to explore the syncopal or presyncopal recurrence in children, and the differences were compared among the groups using a log-rank test; (3) Results: Among the 181 children with vasovagal syncope, 11 were lost to follow-up. The median time of follow-up was 20 (8, 42) months. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve showed no significant difference in syncopal or presyncopal recurrence in children treated with different empiric options according to a log-rank test (χ2 = 1.328, p = 0.723); (4) Conclusions: The efficacy of unselected empiric therapy of vasovagal syncope in children was limited, and the individualized therapies merit further studies.
Socioeconomic Inequalities and Toothbrushing Frequency among Schoolchildren Aged 6 to 12 Years in a Multi-Site Study of Mexican Cities: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Acuña-González Gladys Remigia , Casanova-Sarmiento Juan Alejandro , Islas-Granillo Horacio , Márquez-Rodríguez Sonia , Benítez-Valladares David , Mendoza-Rodríguez Martha , de la Rosa-Santillana Rubén , Navarrete-Hernández José de Jesús , Medina-Solís Carlo Eduardo , Maupomé Gerardo
Published: July 2022

Periodic toothbrushing is the most common, effective, and reliable way to mechanically remove biofilm from oral tissues. The objective of the present study was to determine the association between toothbrushing frequency and socioeconomic position for schoolchildren between 6 and 12 years of age in four cities in Mexico. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 500 Mexican schoolchildren between 6 and 12 years of age from public schools in four Mexican cities. Questionnaires were administered to the parents/guardians of the schoolchildren to obtain the variables included in the study. The dependent variable was toothbrushing frequency, dichotomized as: 0 = less than twice a day and 1 = at least twice a day. The analysis was performed in Stata. The average age of the schoolchildren was 8.9 ± 1.9 years; 50.4% were female. The prevalence of toothbrushing was 52.8% (at least twice a day) (95% CI = 48.4−57.1). In the multivariate model, the variables associated (p < 0.05) with toothbrushing frequency were older age of the schoolchild (OR = 1.14); younger age of the mother (OR = 0.93); being a girl (OR = 1.70); being enrolled in Seguro Popular (OR = 0.69); being in a household that was owned (OR = 2.43); and being a schoolchild who lived in a home that owned a car (OR = 1.31). The prevalence of toothbrushing at least twice a day was just over 50% in these Mexican children. We found demographic and socioeconomic variables to be associated with toothbrushing. Based on socioeconomic variables that were associated with toothbrushing frequency—such as health insurance, home ownership and the household owning a car—the results of the present study confirm the existence of health inequalities in toothbrushing frequency.
Ultra-Uniform Copper Deposition in High Aspect Ratio Plated through Holes via Pulse-Reverse Plating
Authors: Ge Wen , Li Wensheng , Li Rihong , Dong Yifan , Zeng Ziming , Cao Hui , Yu Longlin , Wen Zhijie , He Jin
Published: July 2022

The uniformity and microstructure of the copper deposition in the high aspect ratio plated through holes (penetrating holes) are crucial for the performance of printed circuit board. We systematically investigated the effects of reverse pulse parameters in the period pulse reverse (PPR) plating on the uniformity and microstructure of the copper deposition, including reverse pulse frequency, reverse pulse duty cycle and reverse pulse current density. The Cu deposition behavior (throwing power) and its crystallographic characteristics, including grain size, crystallographic orientation, and grain boundary, were characterized by means of field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Our results clarify that the reverse pulse current density and duty ratio should be low to achieve the full filling and high uniformity of the through holes. The reverse pulse frequency of 1500 Hz would prevent the through holes to be fully filled. The copper electrodeposition in PTH prepared by double pulse electrodeposition has the good (111) surface texture and grain boundary distribution. This work demonstrated that the period pulse reverse (PPR) plating provides unique advantages in achieving the ultra-uniform copper deposition in the high aspect ratio plated through holes.
A Brief Summary of Publications in the Special Issue: Advances in Corrosion Resistant Coatings
Authors: Gan Yong
Published: July 2022

This Special Issue, “Advances in Corrosion-Resistant Coatings”, is situated in the section “Corrosion, Wear and Erosion” in the Coatings journal (ISSN 2079-6412) [...]
The Importance of Structure and Corrosion Resistance of Steels/Alloys
Authors: Wang Yongqiang , Liu Wenlong , Li Na , Zheng Chengsi
Published: July 2022

Steels/alloys are widely used in various aspects of human society, such as transportation and construction, machinery manufacturing, oil, chemical, petrochemical, marine, and nuclear power industries, etc [...]
Special Issue: Ceramic and Metallic Biomaterials Nanoparticles for Applications in Medical Sciences
Authors: Buema Gabriela , Herea Dumitru-Daniel , Dragos-Pinzaru Oana-Georgiana
Published: July 2022

Nowadays, the development of new materials that can be used to treat, repair, diagnose, replace, or restore a function of the human body represents one of the key research topics for the worldwide scientists and medical industries [...]
Porous vs. Nanotubular Anodic TiO2: Does the Morphology Really Matters for the Photodegradation of Caffeine?
Authors: Hanif Muhammad Bilal , Sihor Marcel , Liapun Viktoriia , Makarov Hryhorii , Monfort Olivier , Motola Martin
Published: July 2022

Herein, the preparation of nanotubular and porous TiO2 structures (TNS) is presented for photocatalytic applications. Different TNS were prepared in three different types of glycerol- and ethylene glycol-based electrolytes on a large area (approx. 20 cm2) via anodization using different conditions (applied potential, fluoride concentration). Morphology, structure, and optical properties of TNS were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffractometry (XRD), and Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS), respectively. All TNS possess optical band-gap energy (EBG) in the range from 3.1 eV to 3.2 eV. Photocatalytic degradation of caffeine was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of TNS. Overall, nanotubular TiO2 possessed enhanced degradation efficiencies (up to 50% degradation) compared to those of porous TiO2 (up to 30% degradation). This is due to the unique properties of nanotubular TiO2, e.g., improved incident light utilization. As the anodization of large areas is, nowadays, becoming a trend, we show that both nanotubular and porous TiO2 are promising for their use in photocatalysis and could be potentially applicable in photoreactors for wastewater treatment. We believe this present work can be the foundation for future development of efficient TiO2 nanostructures for industrial applications.
Dynamic Compression Properties of Ni-Fe Slag Powder Soil Cement under Impact Load
Authors: Chen Feng , Tong Shenghao , Hao Wang , Shen Shilin
Published: July 2022

In this research, Ni-Fe slag powder and mineral powder are blended into mineral admixtures and added to soil cement, with the aim of investigating the mechanical property of soil cement under a dynamic environment, and the dynamic properties of Ni-Fe slag powder soil cement after impact compression are obtained by conducting split-Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test. The results show that under the same age and different admixture conditions, the dynamic stress of Ni-Fe slag powder soil cement increases first and then decreases and reaches the maximum when the admixture ratio is 40%, and the dynamic stresses at 7 d, 28 d and 60 d were 5.10 MPa, 9.73 MPa and 13.51 MPa, respectively. Under the same admixture ratio, Ni-Fe slag powder soil cement shows an increasing trend in dynamic stress with age, and its growth rate at the curing age from 7 d and 28 d is significantly higher than that at the curing age from 28 d to 60 d. After comparison, it is concluded that the best admixture ratio for Ni-Fe slag powder is 40%, which is close to the maximum value of 45% for mineral admixtures to replace cement as specified in the national standard.
Effect of La2O3 on Microstructure and Properties of Laser Cladding SMA Coating on AISI 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Liu Linlin , Qiao Yueqi , Xu Peng
Published: July 2022

Known as having a stress self-accommodation characteristic, the laser cladding shape memory alloy (SMA) coatings have been widely used in material failure repair. Nevertheless, their further development is greatly limited by their low microhardness (250 HV0.2) and corrosion resistance. Benefiting from the capability of refined grain and adjusted microstructure, rare earth oxides play a key role in improving the properties of materials. Herein, to improve the microhardness and anti-corrosion of laser cladding SMA coatings, different amounts of La2O3 were doped in SMA coating. The influence of the different La2O3 doping amounts on the phases, grain size and microhardness was studied. The anti-corrosion of the SMA/La2O3 composite coating was explored in 3.5 wt.% sodium chloride solution. Results showed that the grain of the SMA/La2O3 composite coating is significantly refined. When doping with 0.9 wt.%, the refinement rate reaches 19%. Furthermore, based on the Hall–Petch effect, the microhardness of the SMA/La2O3 composite coating is increased to 450 HV0.2. At the same time, the anti-corrosion of the composite coating is enhanced due to the smaller grain size and fewer defects.
Study on Cold Recycled Asphalt Mixtures with Emulsified/Foamed Asphalt in the Laboratory and On-Site
Authors: Zhao Haisheng , Su Jianming , Ma Shijie , Su Chunhua , Wang Xiaoyan , Li Zengguang , Wei Jincheng , Cui Shiping
Published: July 2022

Millions of tons of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and reclaimed aggregate or reclaimed inorganic binder stabilized aggregate (RAI) is produced every year in China. The cold recycled mixture (CRM) technology reduces fuel consumption, emissions, and cost and utilizes the high content of RAP. In this paper, six types of CRM with varying RAP/RAI composition and asphalt binders were investigated. The laboratory tests included strength indicators, high temperature stability, low temperature crack resistance, water stability, and dynamic modulus. A full-scale trial section was constructed after the laboratory tests. Except for low temperature failure strain without secondary compaction in the mixture design, test results illustrated that the performances of different CRMs met the specifications. The cement addition limited the thermo-viscoelastic behavior of the CRM. The RAI contents had reduced the water sensitivity of CRM, and the emulsified asphalt CRM had better performance than the foamed asphalt CRM. The performances of samples cored from the test section in the field met the specifications and were lower than that in the laboratory. The curing conditions in the field were not as effective as in the laboratory. The curing conditions and compaction method should simulate the conditions in the field to guide the CRM selection and mixture design.
Special Issue: Environmental Corrosion of Metals and Its Prevention: An Overview and Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Wei Boxin , Xu Jin
Published: July 2022

Corrosion is a natural process of deterioration and an extremely costly problem [...]
Special Issue: Surface Modification of Engineering and Functional Materials
Authors: Pelevin Ivan A. , Ozherelkov Dmitriy Yu.
Published: July 2022

The ongoing development of both engineering and functional materials is leading to new requirements in terms of their surface properties [...]
Large-Scale Synthesis h-BN Films on Copper-Nickel Alloy by Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Feng Yuhan , Zhang Yumin , Liu Jipeng , Zhang Ye , Xie Yongshuai
Published: July 2022

Due to its high thermal and chemical stability, excellent dielectric properties, unique optical properties, corrosion resistance, and oxidation resistance, the two-dimensional hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) is often used in a thermal conductor protective layer in deep ultraviolet light-emitting detector fields. However, due to the complicated growth conditions of h-BN, it is often necessary to prepare h-BN by the CVD method in a high vacuum environment, which is limited to a certain extent in terms of film size and production cost. In order to solve this problem, we proposed a method to prepare h-BN thin films by atmospheric CVD (APCVD). This method does not need a vacuum environment, which reduces energy consumption and cost, and makes the operation simpler and the experimental environment safer. The preparation of high-quality h-BN film was carried out using a Cu-Ni alloy as the growth substrate. The growth process of h-BN film was studied, and the influence of growth parameters on the structure of the h-BN film was explored. The morphological features and elemental composition pairs of the samples were characterized and analyzed, which confirmed that the high-quality h-BN film could be successfully grown on the Cu-Ni alloy substrate by APCVD. The UV detection device prepared by using the prepared h-BN film as the photoresponse material had good photoresponse characteristics and performance stability. It provides a new idea for the low-cost preparation of large-scale h-BN.
Growth and Spectroscopy of Yb:YMgB5O10 Crystal
Authors: Gorbachenya Konstantin N. , Yasukevich Anatol S. , Lazarchuk Andrey I. , Kisel Victor E. , Kuleshov Nikolay V. , Volkova Elena A. , Maltsev Victor V. , Koporulina Elizaveta V. , Yapaskurt Vasiliy O. , Kuzmin Nikolai N. , Ksenofontov Dmitry A. , Mitina Diana D. , Jiliaeva Anna I.
Published: July 2022

A transparent Yb:YMgB5O10 single crystal with dimensions up to 25 × 23 × 25 mm and weight 10.337 g was grown using a high-temperature solution growth on dipped seeds technique with a K2Mo3O10 solvent. The Yb3+ concentration was calculated to be 4.7 at.% (NYb = 3.71 × 1020 atoms/cm3) with a distribution coefficient Kd of 0.59. The grown crystal was characterized by means of PXRD, TGA-DSC and ATR-FTIR techniques. The spectroscopic characteristics of the Yb:YMgB5O10 crystal were demonstrated. Absorption cross-section spectra were produced. The luminescence spectra of the Yb:YMgB5O10 crystal were measured in the spectral range of 950–1100 nm. The luminescence kinetics of the 2F5/2 energy level were investigated and the lifetime was determined.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Crystallization Behavior of Octadecane on a Homogeneous Nucleus
Authors: Tafelmeier Stefanie , Hiebler Stefan
Published: July 2022

Latent heat storages have the ability to contribute to a more sustainable energy supply network. However, phase change materials (PCM) used for latent heat storages often show supercooling. This phenomenon takes place whenever the PCM begins crystallizing below the freezing point and is one of the biggest drawbacks holding back the widespread use of PCM. Nucleation agents (NA) can be used to avoid the supercooling, yet the choice of an effective NA is not straightforward. In this work, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was tested in order to simulate the crystallization of Octadecane on a NA. The simulation results include density, phase change temperature and enthalpy as well as the crystal structure and lie in good agreement with literature values and the authors’ own experimental data. Further simulations of the crystallization process on different surfaces of homogeneous nuclei acting as a NA were performed. The results reflect the hypothesis that liquid molecules start crystallizing easier on surfaces exposing the whole chain side rather than the chain ends. With the result, that the choice of parameters for the MD simulation represent the Octadecane system reliably and further studies can be performed including heterogeneous NA.
Investigation of Major Flavonoids from Artemisia argyi as a Potential COVID-19 Drug: Molecular Docking and DFT Calculations
Authors: Lu Yang , Zhang Bin , Wang Ning , Li Mengshan , Xi Ning
Published: July 2022

Flavonoids from natural products are well-identified as potential antiviral agents in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection and related diseases. However, some major species of flavonoids from Chinese traditional folk medicine, such as of Artemisia argyi (A. argyi), have not been evaluated yet. Here, we choose five major flavonoids obtained from A. argyi, namely, Jaceosidin (1), Eupatilin (2), Apigenin (3), Eupafolin (4), and 5,6-Dihydroxy-7,3′,4′-trimethoxyflavone (5), compared to the well-studied Baicalein (6), as potential inhibitors analogs for COVID-19 by computational modeling strategies. The frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs), chemical reactivity descriptors, and electrostatic surface potential (ESP) were performed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Additionally, these flavonoids were docked on the main protease (PDB: 6LU7) of SARS-CoV-2 to evaluate the binding affinities. Computational analysis predicted that all of these compounds show a high affinity and might serve as potential inhibitors to SARS-CoV-2, among which compound (5) exhibits the least binding energy (−155.226 kcal/mol). The high binding affinity could be enhanced by increasing the electron repulsion due to the valence shell electron pair repulsion model (VSEPR). Consequently, the major flavonoids in Artemisia argyi have a significant ability to reduce the deterioration of COVID-19 in the terms of DFT calculations and molecular docking.
A Study on the Healing Performance of Solid Capsules for Crack Self-Healing of Cementitious Composites
Authors: Kim Yong Jic , Choi Yun Wang , Oh Sung-Rok
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study is to investigate the healing performance of solid capsules made of cement as a basis for manufacturing self-healing capsules that can heal cracks in cementitious composites. The solid capsules were mixed with 5%, 10%, and 15% concentrations on the cement. The self-healing performance of cementitious composites with solid capsules was investigated through three evaluations. First, the mechanical strength-healing performance was evaluated through a re-loading test. Second, the durability-healing performance was evaluated through a permeability test. Finally, the crack-healing performance was examined by observing the crack widths. Through evaluation of the healing performance of the solid capsules, the healing performance of the compressive strength was found to be high when the capsule proportion was 10% and its size was within the range of 300 μm to 850 μm. Furthermore, the splitting tensile strength showed a high healing performance when the capsule proportion mixed was 15% and its size was 850 μm. In the case of the permeability test, a capsule size of 850 μm showed a healing effect greater than 95%. Cracks with a width of up to 200 μm tended to heal using capsules with a size of 600 μm to 850 μm.
TSFZ Growth of Eu-Substituted Large-Size LSCO Crystals
Authors: Voloshyna Olesia , Romaka Vitaliy V. , Karmakar Koushik , Seiro Silvia , Maljuk Andrey , Büchner Bernd
Published: July 2022

The travelling solvent floating zone (TSFZ) growth of Eu-substituted LSCO (La1.81−xEuxSr0.19CuO4, with nominal x = 0 ÷ 0.4) single crystals was systematically explored for the first time. The substitution of La with Eu considerably decreased the decomposition temperature. Optimal growth parameters were found to be: oxygen pressure 9.0–9.5 bars; Eu-free CuO-poor solvent (66 mol% CuO) with a molar ratio of La2O3:SrCO3:CuO = 4:4.5:16.5 and growth rate 0.6 mm/hour. The obtained single crystals were characterized with optical polarized microscopy, X-ray diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis. The solubility of Eu in LSCO appeared to be limited to x~0.36–0.38 under the used conditions. The substitution of La3+ with smaller Eu3+ ions led to a structural transition from tetragonal with space group I4/mmm for La1.81Sr0.19CuO4 (x = 0) to orthorhombic with space group Fmmm for La1.81−xSr0.19EuxCuO4 (x = 0.2, 0.3, 0.4), and to a substantial shrinking of the c-axis from 13.2446 Å (x = 0.0) to 13.1257 Å (x = 0.4). Such structural changes were accompanied by a dramatic decrease in the superconducting critical temperature, Tc, from 29.5 K for x = 0 to 13.8 K for 0.2. For x ≥ 0.3, no superconductivity was detected down to 4 K.
Evidence for Genetic Hybridization between Released and Wild Game Birds: Phylogeography and Genetic Structure of Chukar Partridge, Alectoris chukar, in Turkey
Authors: Albayrak Tamer , García José Antonio Dávila , Özmen Özlem , Karadas Filiz , Ateş Duygu , Wink Michael
Published: July 2022

The Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar, Galliformes) is one of the most important game birds in its native range, spanning from the Balkans to eastern Asia, and the regions of Europe, North America and New Zealand where it was introduced. Previous studies found two main genetic lineages of the species forming an eastern and a western clade. Chukar Partridges are raised in game farms and released to supplement natural populations for shooting in the USA, Canada, Greece, and Turkey. To explore intraspecific genetic structure, phylogeography, and possible genetic admixture events of A. chukar in Turkey, we genotyped individuals from fourteen wild and five captive populations at two mitochondrial and ten microsatellite DNA loci in. Wild and farmed Chukar Partridge samples were analyzed together to investigate possible influences of intraspecific hybridizations. We found that the farmed chukars, which mainly (85%) cluster into the eastern clade, and wild ones were genetically distinct. The latter could be separated into six management units (MUs), with partridges from Gökçeada Island in the Aegean Sea forming the most divergent population. Intraspecific hybridization was detected between wild and captive populations. This phenomenon causes rampant introgression and homogenization. The phylogeographic analysis revealed admixture among wild populations; nevertheless, this did not impair pointing to Anatolia as likely having a “refugia-within-refugia” structure. We recommend that the genetic structure of Chukar Partridge and its MUs be taken into account when developing the policy of hunting, production, and release to preserve the genetic integrity of this species.
Thermal Denaturation of Milk Whey Proteins: A Comprehensive Review on Rapid Quantification Methods Being Studied, Developed and Implemented
Authors: Freire Paulina , Zambrano Allison , Zamora Anna , Castillo Manuel
Published: July 2022

Heat treatment of milk signifies a certain degree of protein denaturation, which modifies the functional properties of dairy products. Traditional methods for detecting and quantifying the denaturation of whey proteins are slow, complex and require sample preparation and qualified staff. The world’s current trend is to develop rapid, real-time analytical methods that do not destroy the sample and can be applied on/in-line during processing. This review presents the rapid methods that are being studied, developed and/or applied to determine and quantify the thermal denaturation of whey proteins, including spectroscopic, electrochemical and miniaturized methods. The selected methods save a significant amount of time and money compared to the traditional ones. In addition, the review emphasizes the methods being applied directly to milk and/or that have potential for on/in/at-line application. There are interesting options to quantify thermal denaturation of whey proteins such as biosensors, nanosensors and microchips, which have fast responses and could be automated. In addition, electrochemical sensors are simple to use and portable, while spectroscopy alternatives are suitable for on/in/at-line process.
Kaposi Sarcoma in Afghanistan: A Case Series from a Tertiary Referral Center
Authors: Higgins Alyssa D. , Dunn Richard J. , Malikzai Omer , Ahmadzai Mirwais , Gardner Jerad M. , Stoff Benjamin K. , McMichael Josette R.
Published: July 2022

Kaposi sarcoma is a vascular endothelial neoplasm caused by human herpesvirus 8. Although it is a well-studied disease, little is known about the specific characteristics or epidemiology of Kaposi sarcoma in Afghanistan. The data consist primarily of anecdotal reports and epidemiological studies extrapolated from neighboring countries. In this case series, we summarize existing data about Kaposi sarcoma in Afghanistan and present seven histologically confirmed cases with associated clinical features to shed light on the characteristics of Kaposi sarcoma in this unique geographic setting.