bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Decomposition of H2O2 Using Metallic Silver Nanoparticles under UV/Visible Light for the Removal of p-Nitrophenol from Water
Authors: Mahy Julien G. , Kiendrebeogo Marthe , Farcy Antoine , Drogui Patrick
Published: May 2023

Three Ag nanoparticle (NP) colloids are produced from borohydride reduction of silver nitrate in water by varying the amount of sodium citrate. These nanoparticles are used as photocatalysts with H2O2 to degrade a p-nitrophenol (PNP) solution. X-ray diffraction patterns have shown the production of metallic silver nanoparticles, whatever the concentration of citrate. The transmission electron microscope images of these NPs highlighted the evolution from spherical NPs to hexagonal/rod-like NPs with broader distribution when the citrate amount increases. Aggregate size in solution has also shown the same tendency. Indeed, the citrate, which is both a capping and a reducing agent, modifies the resulting shape and size of the Ag NPs. When its concentration is low, the pH is higher, and it stabilizes the formation of uniform spherical Ag NPs. However, when its concentration increases, the pH decreases, and the Ag reduction is less controlled, leading to broader distribution and bigger rod-like Ag NPs. This results in the production of three different samples: one with more uniform spherical 20 nm Ag NPs, one intermediate with 30 nm Ag NPs with spherical and rod-like NPs, and one with 50 nm rod-like Ag NPs with broad distribution. These three Ag NPs mixed with H2O2 in water enhanced the degradation of PNP under UV/visible irradiation. Indeed, metallic Ag NPs produce localized surface plasmon resonance under illumination, which photogenerates electrons and holes able to accelerate the production of hydroxyl radicals when in contact with H2O2. The intermediate morphology sample presents the best activity, doubling the PNP degradation compared to the irradiated experiment with H2O2 alone. This better result can be attributed to the small size of the NPs (30 nm) but also to the presence of more defects in this intermediate structure that allows a longer lifetime of the photogenerated species. Recycling experiments on the best photocatalyst sample showed a constant activity of up to 40 h of illumination for a very low concentration of photocatalyst compared to the literature.
Cobalt-/pH-Modified V2O5-MoO3/TiO2 Catalyst with Enhanced Activity for the Low-Temperature Selective Catalytic Reduction Process
Authors: Wang Ruonan , Zhang Yanli , Fan Xing , Li Jian
Published: May 2023

Currently, the elimination of gaseous pollutants—particularly nitrogen oxides—has emerged as a significant concern. Among various deNOx technologies, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) has gained prominence as the primary approach for NOx abatement, owing to its superior performance. In this study, novel low-temperature SCR catalysts were developed by regulating the pH value and doping cobalt based on a V2O5-MoO3/TiO2 (VMT) catalyst. The results show an increased SCR performance with 82.8% and 91.1% for catalysts after pH (=10) modification (VMT-10) and (1 wt%) Co/pH (=10) modification (1CoVMT-10), respectively. H2-TPR, NH3-TPD, XPS and DRIFTS confirmed that the pH regulation transformed polymerization V species into isolated V5+=O, thus leading to an increase in the number of acid sites, which enhanced the NH3 and NO2 adsorption capacity. Furthermore, the DRIFTS study indicated that the NH3-SCR reaction over 1CoVMT-10 followed the E–R and L–H mechanism.
The Effect of Different g-C3N4 Precursor Nature on Its Structural Control and Photocatalytic Degradation Activity
Authors: Liu Xiuhang , Xu Xiaoye , Gan Huihui , Yu Mengfei , Huang Ying
Published: May 2023

Due to its good visible-light photocatalytic activity and environmental friendliness, g-C3N4 has attracted much attention. The relationship between precursor type and the properties of obtained catalysts is interesting to investigate. In this work, target catalysts were prepared via the thermal polymerization of different precursors, melamine, a mixture of urea and melamine, and a mixture of melamine and cyanuric acid. The prepared g-C3N4 were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–vis DRS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Through the characterization and analysis, the adjusting of precursors could result in the change of the microstructure. The maximum BET surface area was 98.04 cm3g−1 through precursor controlling, more than eight times that of MCN (11.15 cm3g−1) using melamine as precursor. The thermal decomposition process was also analyzed to discuss the interaction and polymerization with precursor controlling. The introduction of melamine and cyanuric acid with melamine as precursors led to the formation of a special nanotube structure and additional function groups on the surface of g-C3N4 to increase the photocatalytic activity.
Validation and Functional Analysis of Reference and Tissue-Specific Genes in Adipose Tissue of Freshwater Drum, Aplodinotus grunniens, under Starvation and Hypothermia Stress
Authors: Xue Miaomiao , Wen Haibo , Xu Pao , Chen Jianxiang , Wang Qingyong , Tang Yongkai , Ma Xueyan , Lv Guohua , Li Hongxia , Song Changyou
Published: May 2023

Adipose tissue is critical to the growth, development, and physiological health of animals. Reference genes play an essential role in normalizing the expression of mRNAs. Tissue-specific genes are preferred for their function and expression in specific tissues or cell types. Identification of these genes contributes to understanding the tissue–gene relationship and the etiology and discovery of new tissue-specific targets. Therefore, reference genes and tissue-specific genes in the adipose tissue of Aplodinotus grunniens were identified to explore their function under exogenous starvation (1 d, 2 w, 6 w) and hypothermic stress (18 °C and 10 °C for 2 d and 8 d) in this study. Results suggest that 60SRP was the most stable reference gene in adipose tissue. Meanwhile, eight genes were validated as tissue-specific candidates from the high-throughput sequencing database, while seven of them (ADM2, β2GP1, CAMK1G, CIDE3, FAM213A, HSL, KRT222, and NCEH1) were confirmed in adipose tissue. Additionally, these seven tissue-specific genes were active in response to starvation and hypothermic stress in a time- or temperature-dependent manner. These results demonstrate that adipose-specific genes can be identified using stable internal reference genes, thereby identifying specific important functions under starvation and hypothermic stress, which provides tissue-specific targets for adipose regulation in A. grunniens.
Cellular and Mitochondrial NAD Homeostasis in Health and Disease
Authors: Waddell Jaylyn , Khatoon Rehana , Kristian Tibor
Published: May 2023

The mitochondrion has a unique position among other cellular organelles due to its dynamic properties and symbiotic nature, which is reflected in an active exchange of metabolites and cofactors between the rest of the intracellular compartments. The mitochondrial energy metabolism is greatly dependent on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) as a cofactor that is essential for both the activity of respiratory and TCA cycle enzymes. The NAD level is determined by the rate of NAD synthesis, the activity of NAD-consuming enzymes, and the exchange rate between the individual subcellular compartments. In this review, we discuss the NAD synthesis pathways, the NAD degradation enzymes, and NAD subcellular localization, as well as NAD transport mechanisms with a focus on mitochondria. Finally, the effect of the pathologic depletion of mitochondrial NAD pools on mitochondrial proteins’ post-translational modifications and its role in neurodegeneration will be reviewed. Understanding the physiological constraints and mechanisms of NAD maintenance and the exchange between subcellular compartments is critical given NAD’s broad effects and roles in health and disease.
Role of Autophagy in Ehrlichia-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Sharma Aditya Kumar , Ismail Nahed
Published: May 2023

Autophagy is a cellular process that involves the cell breakdown and recycling of cellular components, such as old, damaged, or abnormal proteins, for important cellular functions including development, immune function, stress, and starvation [...]
The Pesticide Chlordecone Promotes Parkinsonism-like Neurodegeneration with Tau Lesions in Midbrain Cultures and C. elegans Worms
Authors: Parrales-Macias Valeria , Michel Patrick P. , Tourville Aurore , Raisman-Vozari Rita , Haïk Stéphane , Hunot Stéphane , Bizat Nicolas , Lannuzel Annie
Published: May 2023

Chlordecone (CLD) is an organochlorine pesticide (OCP) that is currently banned but still contaminates ecosystems in the French Caribbean. Because OCPs are known to increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD), we tested whether chronic low-level intoxication with CLD could reproduce certain key characteristics of Parkinsonism-like neurodegeneration. For that, we used culture systems of mouse midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons and glial cells, together with the nematode C. elegans as an in vivo model organism. We established that CLD kills cultured DA neurons in a concentration- and time-dependent manner while exerting no direct proinflammatory effects on glial cells. DA cell loss was not impacted by the degree of maturation of the culture. The use of fluorogenic probes revealed that CLD neurotoxicity was the consequence of oxidative stress-mediated insults and mitochondrial disturbances. In C. elegans worms, CLD exposure caused a progressive loss of DA neurons associated with locomotor deficits secondary to alterations in food perception. L-DOPA, a molecule used for PD treatment, corrected these deficits. Cholinergic and serotoninergic neuronal cells were also affected by CLD in C. elegans, although to a lesser extent than DA neurons. Noticeably, CLD also promoted the phosphorylation of the aggregation-prone protein tau (but not of α-synuclein) both in midbrain cell cultures and in a transgenic C. elegans strain expressing a human form of tau in neurons. In summary, our data suggest that CLD is more likely to promote atypical forms of Parkinsonism characterized by tau pathology than classical synucleinopathy-associated PD.
Functional Characterisation of the Circular RNA, circHTT(2-6), in Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Gantley Laura , Stringer Brett W. , Conn Vanessa M. , Ootsuka Youichirou , Holds Duncan , Slee Mark , Aliakbari Kamelya , Kirk Kirsty , Ormsby Rebecca J. , Webb Stuart T. , Hanson Adrienne , Lin He , Selth Luke A. , Conn Simon J.
Published: May 2023

Trinucleotide repeat disorders comprise ~20 severe, inherited, human neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders, which result from an abnormal expansion of repetitive sequences in the DNA. The most common of these, Huntington’s disease (HD), results from expansion of the CAG repeat region in exon 1 of the HTT gene via an unknown mechanism. Since non-coding RNAs have been implicated in the initiation and progression of many diseases, herein we focused on a circular RNA (circRNA) molecule arising from non-canonical splicing (backsplicing) of HTT pre-mRNA. The most abundant circRNA from HTT, circHTT(2-6), was found to be more highly expressed in the frontal cortex of HD patients, compared with healthy controls, and positively correlated with CAG repeat tract length. Furthermore, the mouse orthologue (mmu_circHTT(2-6)) was found to be enriched within the brain and specifically the striatum, a region enriched for medium spiny neurons that are preferentially lost in HD. Transgenic overexpression of circHTT(2-6) in two human cell lines—SH-SY5Y and HEK293—reduced cell proliferation and nuclear size without affecting cell cycle progression or cellular size, or altering the CAG repeat region length within HTT. CircHTT(2-6) overexpression did not alter total HTT protein levels, but reduced its nuclear localisation. As these phenotypic and genotypic changes resemble those observed in HD patients, our results suggest that circHTT(2-6) may play a functional role in the pathophysiology of this disease.
Oxidative Stress and MicroRNAs in Endothelial Cells under Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Minjares Morgan , Wu Wendy , Wang Jie-Mei
Published: May 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are radical oxygen intermediates that serve as important second messengers in signal transduction. However, when the accumulation of these molecules exceeds the buffering capacity of antioxidant enzymes, oxidative stress and endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction occur. EC dysfunction shifts the vascular system into a pro-coagulative, proinflammatory state, thereby increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular (CV) diseases and metabolic disorders. Studies have turned to the investigation of microRNA treatment for CV risk factors, as these post-transcription regulators are known to co-regulate ROS. In this review, we will discuss ROS pathways and generation, normal endothelial cell physiology and ROS-induced dysfunction, and the current knowledge of common metabolic disorders and their connection to oxidative stress. Therapeutic strategies based on microRNAs in response to oxidative stress and microRNA’s regulatory roles in controlling ROS will also be explored. It is important to gain an in-depth comprehension of the mechanisms generating ROS and how manipulating these enzymatic byproducts can protect endothelial cell function from oxidative stress and prevent the development of vascular disorders.
Retinal Cell Damage in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Zhou Jing , Chen Bo
Published: May 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), the most common microvascular complication that occurs in diabetes mellitus (DM), is the leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults. The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy is approximately 30% of the diabetic population and untreated DR can eventually cause blindness. For decades, diabetic retinopathy was considered a microvascular complication and clinically staged by its vascular manifestations. In recent years, emerging evidence has shown that diabetic retinopathy causes early neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration that may precede vascular pathology and affect retinal neurons as well as glial cells. This knowledge leads to new therapeutic strategies aiming to prevent dysfunction of retinal neurons at the early stage of DR. Early detection and timely treatment to protect retinal neurons are critical to preventing visual loss in DR. This review provides an overview of DR and the structural and functional changes associated with DR, and discusses neuronal degeneration during diabetic retinopathy, the mechanisms underlying retinal neurodegeneration and microvascular complications, and perspectives on current and future clinic therapies.
Development of ANN Models for Prediction of Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Oil-in-Aqueous Plant Extract Emulsions Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Sirovec Sara , Benković Maja , Valinger Davor , Sokač Cvetnić Tea , Gajdoš Kljusurić Jasenka , Jurinjak Tušek Ana , Jurina Tamara
Published: May 2023

The potential of applying Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models based on near-infrared (NIR) spectra for the characterization of physical and chemical features of oil-in-aqueous oregano/rosemary extract emulsions was explored in this work. Emulsions were prepared using a batch emulsification process, with pea protein as the emulsifier. NIR spectral data were connected to the results of the analysis of physical and chemical properties of the emulsions (zeta potential, Feret droplet diameter, total polyphenolic content, and antioxidant capacity) with the final aim of quantitative prediction of the physical and chemical features. For that purpose, robust non-linear multivariate analysis (Artificial Neural Network modeling) was applied. The spectra themselves were preprocessed using several approaches (raw spectra, Savitzky–Golay smoothing, standard normal variate, and multiplicative scatter corrections) after which the impact of NIR spectral preprocessing on the ANN model’s efficiency was evaluated. The results show that NIR spectroscopy integrated with ANN computation can be employed to quantitatively predict the physical and chemical properties of oil-in-plant extract emulsions (R2 > 0.9).
Fluorescence Evolution of Gold Nanoclusters in the Presence of Shapely Silver Nanoparticles and UV-Vis Light
Authors: Chen Jui-Chang , Hsiao Wen-Chuan , Hsu Chen-Yu , Huang Bo-Hao , Huang Cheng-Liang
Published: May 2023

Gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) belong to a class of materials that is highly fluorescent and biocompatible. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) protected gold nanoclusters (BSA-Au NCs) have been extensively used in biological applications due to their easy synthesis and relatively high quantum yield. Therefore, understanding the behavior of BSA-Au NCs in different chemical and physical environments is essential to enhance their application in biological systems. In this study, we investigated the effect of plasmonic nanostructures with different localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) wavelengths on the behavior of BSA-Au NCs by recording time-dependent fluorescence spectra in the presence of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with various shapes. However, we did not observe any conclusive LSPR-wavelength-dependent fluorescent behavior. Additionally, the fluorescence intensity of BSA-Au NCs exhibited gradual decay under light excitation, even at several hundred μW/cm2 in a fluorescence spectrometer, indicating that they are not as photostable as previously assumed. We found further that the photostability of BSA-Au NCs is affected by the wavelength of the incident light (370, 420, 480, and 550 nm), which can be accurately described using bi-exponential decay functions. Our study provides an easy in situ method to evaluate the photostability of Au NCs under different-wavelength light irradiation using a commercial fluorescence spectrometer.
Recent Advances in Electrochemiluminescence-Based Single-Cell Analysis
Authors: He Qian-Nan , Ma Zheng-Yuan , Yang Yu-Xin , Xu Cong-Hui , Zhao Wei
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the increasing demand for highly sensitive tracking of life processes has promoted scientists to explore advanced analytical techniques. Developing universal analytical methods to detect individual differences and temporal changes among cells is crucial for fundamental study and clinical applications. Among existing technologies, the electrochemiluminescence (ECL) approach has attracted attention for various purposes, such as detecting biomolecules, monitoring cellular activities, imaging subcellular structures, and evaluating cell viability. ECL analysis and imaging provide high sensitivity, low background noise, and spatiotemporal resolution for single-cell analysis. In this review, we explore the evolution of ECL technology in cell analysis and emphasize single-cell assays, including detecting released cellular molecules and surface biomarkers, analysing intracellular components, imaging cell membranes, and cell adhesion. We first briefly introduce the mechanism and apparatus for ECL-based single-cell analysis and, subsequently, focus on four aspects of research related to single-cell analysis and imaging. Furthermore, the latest advances in ECL-driven photodynamic therapy and super-resolution ECL microscopy are also discussed. Finally, we discuss the current obstacles and prospects for ECL single-cell analysis.
Allografts for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) Reconstruction in Adolescent Patients with Recurrent Patellofemoral Instability: A Systematic Review
Authors: Migliorini Filippo , Maffulli Nicola , Söllner Stefan , Pasurka Mario , Kubach Joshua , Bell Andreas , Betsch Marcel
Published: May 2023

This systematic review updates the currently available evidence on medial patella-femoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction using allografts. The outcomes were measured with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), redislocation and complication rates. This study was performed according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines using the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science databases, accessed in February 2023. Studies examining the clinical outcomes of MPFL reconstruction with allografts in adolescents and children with recurrent patellofemoral instability (PFI) were included. Data from three trials, including 113 surgical procedures in 121 children, were retrieved. 40% (48/121) of the included patients were girls. The mean age of the patients was 14.7 ± 0.8 years, and the mean follow-up length was 38.1 ± 16.5 months. With MPFL allograft reconstruction, the Kujala score improved by 14.7% (p < 0.0001) and the IKDC by 38.8% (p < 0.0001). The rate of dislocations was 5% (6 of 121), reoperation for instability was 11% (13 of 121), and subluxation was 2% (1 of 47). Conclusion: These results encourage the use of allografts for MPFL reconstruction in adolescent patients with recurrent patellofemoral instability. Though patellofemoral instability is common in clinical practice, the current literature lacks clinical evidence on allograft MPFL reconstruction. Additional high-quality investigations are required to properly establish the long-term advantages of allograft MPFL and its complication rate.
The Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on the Gut–Brain Axis in Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Sabit Hussein , Kassab Areej , Alaa Donia , Mohamed Shaza , Abdel-Ghany Shaimaa , Mansy Mohamed , Said Osama A. , Khalifa Mona A. , Hafiz Halah , Abushady Asmaa M.
Published: May 2023

The pathophysiology of several psychiatric diseases may entail disturbances in the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and metabolic pathways. Variations in how these effects present themselves may be connected to individual variances in clinical symptoms and treatment responses, such as the observation that a significant fraction of participants do not respond to current antipsychotic drugs. A bidirectional signaling pathway between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract is known as the microbiota–gut–brain axis. The large and small intestines contain more than 100 trillion microbial cells, contributing to the intestinal ecosystem’s incredible complexity. Interactions between the microbiota and intestinal epithelium can alter brain physiology and affect mood and behavior. There has recently been a focus on how these relationships impact mental health. According to evidence, intestinal microbiota may play a role in neurological and mental illnesses. Intestinal metabolites of microbial origin, such as short-chain fatty acids, tryptophan metabolites, and bacterial components that might stimulate the host’s immune system, are mentioned in this review. We aim to shed some on the growing role of gut microbiota in inducing/manipulating several psychiatric disorders, which may pave the way for novel microbiota-based therapies.
Overexpression of OLIG2 and MYT1L Transcription Factors Enhance the Differentiation Potential of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Oligodendrocytes
Authors: Fahim Ifrah , Ishaque Aisha , Ramzan Faiza , Shamsuddin Shamsul Azlin Bin Ahmad , Ali Anwar , Salim Asmat , Khan Irfan
Published: May 2023

Background: Demyelinating diseases represent a broad spectrum of disorders and are characterized by the loss of specialized glial cells (oligodendrocytes), which eventually leads to neuronal degeneration. Stem cell-based regenerative approaches provide therapeutic options to regenerate demyelination-induced neurodegeneration. Objectives: The current study aims to explore the role of oligodendrocyte-specific transcription factors (OLIG2 and MYT1L) under suitable media composition to facilitate human umbilical-cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) differentiation toward oligodendrocyte for their potential use to treat demyelinating disorders. Methodology: hUC-MSCs were isolated, cultured, and characterized based on their morphological and phenotypic characteristics. hUC-MSCs were transfected with OLIG2 and MYT1L transcription factors individually and in synergistic (OLIG2 + MYT1L) groups using a lipofectamine-based transfection method and incubated under two different media compositions (normal and oligo induction media). Transfected hUC-MSCs were assessed for lineage specification and differentiation using qPCR. Differentiation was also analyzed via immunocytochemistry by determining the expression of oligodendrocyte-specific proteins. Results: All the transfected groups showed significant upregulation of GFAP and OLIG2 with downregulation of NES, demonstrating the MSC commitment toward the glial lineage. Transfected groups also presented significant overexpression of oligodendrocyte-specific markers (SOX10, NKX2.2, GALC, CNP, CSPG4, MBP, and PLP1). Immunocytochemical analysis showed intense expression of OLIG2, MYT1L, and NG2 proteins in both normal and oligo induction media after 3 and 7 days. Conclusions: The study concludes that OLIG2 and MYT1L have the potential to differentiate hUC-MSCs into oligodendrocyte-like cells, which is greatly facilitated by the oligo induction medium. The study may serve as a promising cell-based therapeutic strategy against demyelination-induced neuronal degeneration.
First Record of the Northern Wolffish Anarhichas denticulatus Krøyer, 1845 (Anarhichadidae: Zoarcoidei: Perciformes) in the Siberian Arctic: Further Evidence of Atlantification?
Authors: Orlov Alexei M. , Orlova Svetlana Yu. , Rybakov Maxim O. , Emelianova Olga R. , Vedishcheva Elena V.
Published: May 2023

A single specimen of the northern wolffish Anarhichas denticulatus Krøyer, 1845, 393 mm in length, was documented for the first time in the Siberian Arctic (Laptev Sea, Russia). Species identification was confirmed by an integrative taxonomic approach that included examination of external morphology and DNA barcoding using the COI mtDNA gene. This species is widely distributed in the North Atlantic, but records in the Arctic Ocean are limited to the Canadian and US coasts. This record might represent a significant range extension of about 7500 km for the species and may be associated with the eastward transport of a pelagic juvenile specimen from the Northeastern Atlantic to the Laptev Sea by the North Atlantic current, consistent with the hypothesis of Atlantification of the Arctic Ocean. X-ray images of the Laptev Sea specimen and photographs showing ontogenetic variations of species’ coloration are provided for reference. The Laptev Sea specimen had a more elongated shape, longer preorbital distance, and longer pectoral, dorsal, and anal fins, as well as a larger eye and wider caudal fin compared to North Atlantic samples. The size differences are likely associated with conditions experienced as a juvenile during the pelagic stage of the lifecycle.
Effect of High-Energy Shot Peening on Properties of High-Velocity Oxygen-Fuel Spraying
Authors: Li Fengbo , Zhang Conghui , Pang Qingtao , Fang Gang , Xu Guoqiang
Published: May 2023

A Cr3C2-Al2O3-NiCr composite coating was prepared on an INCONEL600 alloy surface through high-velocity oxygen-fuel spraying followed by further processing through high-energy shot peening to create the composite coating. The microhardness and friction properties of the composite coating are analyzed by a microhardness tester and reciprocating friction tester. The microscopic structure and wear trace of the composite coating were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The element distribution of the coating was analyzed by energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The porosity of the coating was detected by industrial CT. The phase and residual stress of the coating were tested by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrochemical corrosion and friction wear performance of the samples under different surface states were discussed. The results showed that the compactness of the coating was improved and the porosity was significantly reduced after high-energy shot peening. The high-energy shot peening did not alter the phase composition of the coating but introduced residual compressive stress. The microhardness of theCr3C2-Al2O3-NiCr high-velocity oxygen-fuel coating can reach 2.9 times that of the INCONEL600 substrate, and the hardness of the coating after high-energy shot peening can reach 3.9 times of that of the substrate. After high-energy shot peening, the corrosion resistance of the coating in HCl solution is improved. Compared with the INCONEL600 substrate, the friction coefficient and calculated wear rate of the Cr3C2-Al2O3-NiCr high-velocity oxygen-fuel coating decrease by 62.5% and 79.6%, respectively. After high-energy shot peening, the friction coefficient and calculated wear rate of the coating decrease by 75% and 98.7%, respectively.
Optical Characterization of Inhomogeneous Thin Films Deposited onto Non-Absorbing Substrates
Authors: Dvořák Jan , Vohánka Jiří , Buršíková Vilma , Franta Daniel , Ohlídal Ivan
Published: May 2023

In this study, a novel approach for characterizing the optical properties of inhomogeneous thin films is presented, with a particular focus on samples exhibiting absorption in some part of the measured spectral range. Conventional methods of measuring the samples only from the film side can be limited by incomplete information at the lower boundary of the film, leading to potentially unreliable results. To address this issue, depositing the thin films onto non-absorbing substrates to enable measurements from both sides of the sample is proposed. To demonstrate the efficacy of this approach, a combination of variable-angle spectroscopic ellipsometry and spectrophotometry at near-normal incidence was employed to optically characterize three inhomogeneous polymer-like thin films. The spectral dependencies of the optical constants were modeled using the Kramers–Kronig consistent model. It was found that it is necessary to consider thin, weakly absorbing transition layers between the films and the substrates. The obtained results show excellent agreement between the fits and the measured data, providing validation of the structural and dispersion models, as well as the overall characterization procedure. The proposed approach offers a method for optically characterizing a diverse range of inhomogeneous thin films, providing more reliable results when compared to traditional one-sided measurements.
EIS and LEIS Study on In Vitro Corrosion Resistance of Anodic Oxide Nanotubes on Ti–13Zr–13Nb Alloy in Saline Solution
Authors: Łosiewicz Bożena , Stróż Agnieszka , Kubisztal Julian , Osak Patrycja , Zubko Maciej
Published: May 2023

This work concerns the search for new ways to modify the surface of the biomedical Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy for applications in regenerative medicine and personalized medicine. Obtained for the first time, oxide nanotubes (ONTs) layers of first-generation (1G) on a Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy were produced by anodizing in 0.5% HF electrolyte at 20 V for 120 min. The physico-chemical characterization of the obtained bamboo-inspired 1G ONTs was conducted using TEM and ATR-FTIR methods. In vitro corrosion resistance of the 1G ONTs and comparative Ti–13Zr–13Nb substrate in saline solution at 37 °C was conducted by open-circuit potential, Tafel curves, anodic polarization curves, and EIS methods. LEIS and SVET study of local corrosion resistance was also carried out. It was found that surface modification by anodizing of the Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy under proposed conditions allowed to obtain porous ONTs highly resistant to pitting corrosion. The obtained results give a new insight into the relationship between the morphological parameters of first-generation oxide nanotubes and in vitro corrosion resistance of the Ti–13Zr–13Nb alloy in saline solution at the macro- and microscale.
Direct Fabrication and Characterization of Zirconia Thick Coatings on Zirconium Hydride as a Hydrogen Permeation Barrier
Authors: Wang Zhi-Gang , Chen Wei-Dong , Yan Shu-Fang , Zhong Xue-Kui , Ma Wen , Song Xi-Wen , Wang Ya-Ming , Ouyang Jia-Hu
Published: May 2023

The present work attempted to produce thick zirconia coatings formed by micro-arc oxidation as a hydrogen permeation barrier on zirconium hydride alloy. A novel multiphase zirconia coating was achieved, exhibiting superior hydrogen permeation barrier performance. The growth dynamics, formation mechanism, and phase evolution behavior of thick zirconia coatings were explored, and the hydrogen permeation barrier performance was evaluated by means of vacuum dehydrogenation experiment. The hydrogen desorption quantity was monitored by analyzing pressure changes with a quadruple mass spectrometer (QMS). Experimental results show that the multiphase coatings were composed of monoclinic ZrO2 (m-ZrO2), tetragonal ZrO2 (t-ZrO2), and a trace of cubic ZrO2 (c-ZrO2). The coatings were generally divided into a dense and uniform inner, intermediate layer, and a porous top layer. The quantitative analysis indicates an increased amount of m-ZrO2 toward the coating surface and an increased amount of t-ZrO2 toward the oxide/metal interface. This novel multiphase thick zirconia coating can noticeably improve hydrogen permeation resistance, and the permeation reduction factor (PRF) value is improved by nearly 13 times compared with bare zirconium hydride. It is demonstrated that hydrogen desorption is retarded to some extent in the presence of thick zirconia coating. Hydrogen desorption of the sample with ceramic coating started at 660 °C, which was apparently higher than that of the sample without coating.
Crystal Structure of New 1-Phenyl-Substituted Tribenzsilatranes
Authors: Romanovs Vitalijs , Belyakov Sergey , Doronina Evgeniya , Sidorkin Valery , Roisnel Thierry , Jouikov Viatcheslav
Published: May 2023

The family of practically requested “common” silatrane derivatives of triethanolamine X-Si(OCH2CH2)3N, 1, was enlarged with the first representatives of 3,4,6,7,10,11-tribenzo-2,8,9trioxa-5-aza-1-silatricyclo(3.3.3.0^1,5^)undecanes X-Si(O-para-R-C6H3)3N, tribenzsilatranes 2 (R = H (a), Me (b), F (c)), carrying the substituent R in the side aromatic rings. These compounds were prepared via the transesterification of phenyl trimethoxysilane with the corresponding triphenol amines and studied using XRD and DFT calculations. These derivatives of 1-X-(4-R-2,2′,2′′-nitrilotriphenoxy)silane are expected to have, as their parent “common” silatranes 1, diverse biological and pharma activities. A common characteristic feature of the molecular structures of both 1 and 2 is the presence of an intramolecular dative bond N→Si whose existence is evidenced by geometric and quantum topological (AIM) criteria. In the crystals, the length of this bond (dSiN) is noticeably longer in tribenzsilatranes than in 1. The results of DFT B3PW91/6-311++G(d,p) calculations suggest the reason for this to be the more rigid nature of the potential functions of the N→Si bond deformation in 2 compared to 1. The relative degree of “softness”/”hardness” of the potential functions can be assessed from the difference in the calculated values of dSiN in isolated molecules 1 and 2a–c and in their crystals.
Microstructure and Solute Concentration Analysis of Epitaxial Growth during Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing of Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Geng Ruwei , Cheng Yanhai , Chao Luqiang , Wei Zhengying , Ma Ninshu
Published: May 2023

Microstructure and solute distribution have a significant impact on the mechanical properties of wire and arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) deposits. In this study, a multiscale model, consisting of a macroscopic finite element (FE) model and a microscopic phase field (PF) model, was used to predict the 2319 Al alloy microstructure evolution with epitaxial growth. Temperature fields, and the corresponding temperature gradient under the selected process parameters, were calculated by the FE model. Based on the results of macroscopic thermal simulation on the WAAM process, a PF model with a misorientation angle was employed to simulate the microstructure and competitive behaviors under the effect of epitaxial growth of grains. The dendrites with high misorientation angles experienced competitive growth and tended to be eliminated in the solidification process. The inclined dendrites are commonly hindered by other grains in front of the dendrite tip. Moreover, the solute enrichment near the solid/liquid interface reduced the driving force of solidification. The inclined angle of dendrites increased with the misorientation angle, and the solute distributions near the interface had similar patterns, but various concentrations, with different misorientation angles. Finally, metallographic experiments were conducted on the WAAM specimen to validate the morphology and size of the dendrites, and electron backscattered diffraction was used to indicate the preferred orientation of grains near the fusion line, proving the existence of epitaxial growth.
Recent Advances in the Surgical Management of Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Scheller Boris , Culié Dorian , Poissonnet Gilles , Dassonville Olivier , D’Andréa Grégoire , Bozec Alexandre
Published: May 2023

A growing incidence of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) has been reported in most developed countries, corresponding mainly to incidentally discovered small papillary thyroid carcinomas. Given the excellent prognosis of most patients with DTC, optimal therapeutic management, minimizing complications, and preserving patient quality of life are essential. Thyroid surgery has a central role in both the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of patients with DTC. Thyroid surgery should be integrated into the global and multidisciplinary management of patients with DTC. However, the optimal surgical management of DTC patients is still controversial. In this review article, we discuss the recent advances and current debates in DTC surgery, including preoperative molecular testing, risk stratification, the extent of thyroid surgery, innovative surgical tools, and new surgical approaches.
Short-Term and Long-Term Predictions: Is the Green Crab Carcinus maenas a Threat to Antarctica and Southern South America under a Climate-Change Scenario?
Authors: Vera-Escalona Iván , Gimenez Lucas H. , Brante Antonio
Published: May 2023

Non-native species can have profound implications on the survival of native ones. This is especially true for some invasive crabs, such as the green crab Carcinus maenas, a native species to the Northern Hemisphere that has been introduced into southern Argentina, from where it could expand through Argentina, Chile, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Hence, there is interest in forecasting changes in C. maenas habitat suitability through time to predict if potential future invasions might occur. Here, by using a Species Distribution Model (SDM) approach, we estimated the habitat suitability for C. maenas along southern South America and the Antarctic Peninsula under two future climate-change scenarios. Our results reveal that under current conditions, habitat suitability for C. maenas along the Antarctic Peninsula is null and very restricted in Argentina and Chile. Habitat suitability along the Antarctic Peninsula remained null in the short-term (30 years) and long-term future (80 years), despite the climate-change scenario considered. Surprisingly, when considering future conditions, habitat suitability along the coast of Argentina and Chile decreased and became nil for some currently occupied locations. Thus, the SDM results suggest that climate change could have a negative effect on the habitat suitability of C. maenas leading to potential local extinctions.
Perianal Basal Cell Carcinoma—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Real-World Data
Authors: Tsai Tzong-Yun , Liao Chun-Kai , Zhang Bang-Yan , Huang Yen-Lin , Tsai Wen-Sy , You Jeng-Fu , Yeh Chien-Yuh , Hsieh Pao-Shiu
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: BCC is a sporadic disease that develops in areas of the skin not exposed to the sun. Perianal BCC, which occurs in the anorectal region, accounts for less than 0.2% of all BCC cases. There have been only a few reported cases of the disease, with fewer than 200 cases reported in total. Given the diagnostic challenges and potential for misdiagnosis, we conducted a systematic review of perianal basal cell carcinoma using real-world data to provide comprehensive and detailed information on the disease. (2) Methods: The study was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, 2020. Patients’ clinical pathologic features, tumor characteristics, treatment modalities, and outcomes were presented. (3) Results: The results of 41 studies involving 140 patients were analyzed. The most common symptoms reported by patients at presentation were anorectal bleeding, pain, and pruritus. Ulceration was the most frequently observed tumor characteristic. The majority of patients underwent local excision as their primary treatment, with only eight patients experiencing a recurrence. Our analysis did not reveal any statistically significant differences in the outcomes of different treatment modalities. (4) Conclusions: Identifying perianal BCC poses a significant challenge as it closely resembles other anal diseases, thereby making it difficult to differentiate between the different conditions. However, a wide local excision with clear margins is considered an effective treatment option for most patients. Alternative treatments, such as radiotherapy, may be recommended for patients who are unable to undergo surgery.
Therapy for Temporomandibular Disorders: 3D-Printed Splints from Planning to Evaluation
Authors: Somogyi Andrea , Végh Dániel , Róth Ivett , Hegedüs Tamás , Schmidt Péter , Hermann Péter , Géczi Zoltán
Published: May 2023

Introduction: This article describes the authors’ digital workflow-based method for fabricating intraoral occlusal splints, from planning to the evaluation phase. Materials and Methods: In our protocol, first, we had a registration phase. This included taking digital impressions, determining the centric relation (CR) position with the deprogrammer Luci Jig, and using the digital facebow for measuring the individual values. The laboratory phase was next, which included planning and manufacturing with a 3D printer. The last phase was delivery, when we checked the stability of the splint and adjusted the occlusal part. Result: The average cost is lower for a fully digital splint than for conventional methods. In terms of time, there was also a significant difference between the classic and digital routes. From a dental technical point of view, the execution was much more predictable. The printed material was very rigid and, therefore, fragile. Compared to the analog method, the retention was much weaker. Conclusion: The presented method permits time-efficient laboratory production, and may also be performed chairside in a dental office. The technology is perfectly applicable to everyday life. In addition to its many beneficial properties, its negative properties must also be highlighted.
Management of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw with Photobiomodulation and Minimal Surgical Intervention
Authors: El Mobadder Marwan , Grzech-Lesniak Zuzanna , El Mobadder Wassim , Rifai Mohamad , Ghandour Maher , Nammour Samir
Published: May 2023

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a relatively common pathology occurring in around 5% of patients taking bisphosphate and other antiresorptive or anti-angiogenic medications. Despite the efforts, as of today there is still no consensus on its management. In this case report, the successful management of stage II MRONJ was performed for an eighty-three-year-old female patient suffering from pain and alteration in her normal oral functions (swallowing and phonation). The treatment consisted of three sessions of photobiomodulation therapy (PBM), followed by minimal surgical intervention and three other sessions of PBM. PBM was applied on the sites of osteonecrosis with the follow parameters: 4 J/cm2; a power of 50 mW; 8 mm applicator diameter; a continuous contact mode. Irradiation was performed on three points, including the vestibular, occlusal and lingual parts of each of the bone exposure areas. Each point was irradiated for 40 s, and, in total, nine points were made per session, and nine sessions were conducted. To assess the pain, a visual analogue scale was used in which zero represented no pain at all and ten represented the greatest pain. At the first session and before any intervention, the patient stated that her pain was 8 out of 10. At the end of the treatment, a significant reduction in VAS was noted (2/10) and, clinically, a healing of the soft tissue in the previously exposed bone was observed. This case report suggests that the combination of PBM with surgical intervention is promising in the management of MRONJ.
The Spillover Effects of US Unconventional Monetary Policy on Inflation and Non-Inflation Targeting Emerging Markets
Authors: Ntshangase Lwazi Senzo , Zhou Sheunesu , Kaseeram Irrshad
Published: May 2023

This study employs the panel vector autoregressive (PVAR) model to examine the spillover effect of US unconventional monetary policy on inflation and non-inflation targeting emerging markets post credit crunch and during COVID-19 from 2000Q1 to 2020Q4. Unlike other analyses, this paper adds to the existing body of knowledge by employing a dummy variable to represent the United States’ quantitative easing. Other included control variables are equity prices, the federal reserve rate, the exchange rate, central bank assets and the short-term interest rate. This paper estimated two-panel VARs, Model one and Model two, for inflation and non-inflation targeting emerging markets, respectively. Model one consists of eight inflation-targeting markets, and Model two consists of four non-inflation-targeting countries. Other included control variables are equity prices, the federal reserve rate, the nominal effective exchange rate, and the central bank policy rate. According to the empirical results, the US unconventional monetary policy induces a surge in the exchange rate and a decrease in the central bank policy rate for both inflation and non-inflation targeting emerging markets. However, there was no significant impact on the equity prices. The empirical results are statistically significant, robust, and consistent with previous studies except for the response of equity prices. Unconventional monetary policy is effective in steering macroeconomic variables in developed economies. The monetary policymakers in emerging markets must also use the currency reserve to stabilise the macroeconomic variables in response to US unconventional monetary policy shocks.
The Roles of Academic Self-Efficacy and Intolerance of Uncertainty on Decisional Procrastination in University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sagone Elisabetta , Indiana Maria Luisa
Published: May 2023

Decisional procrastination has been one of the main phenomena analysed in university students, together with self-efficacy, during the COVID-19 pandemic. We examined the roles of academic self-efficacy and intolerance of uncertainty on decisional procrastination in 318 Italian university students. Furthermore, the mediating role of the intolerance of uncertainty on the relationships between academic self-efficacy and decisional procrastination was explored. The Academic Self-Efficacy Scale, the Decisional Procrastination Scale, and the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale were used. Results: Decisional procrastination was predicted by the components of academic self-efficacy and the intolerance of uncertainty (prospective and inhibitory intolerance). Furthermore, the mediating role of the prospective intolerance of uncertainty was confirmed in the relationship between self-efficacy (self-engagement and self-oriented decision-making) and decisional procrastination. Conclusions: This study adds new evidence to findings in the analysis of the role of the intolerance of uncertainty in mitigating the relationships between the self-efficacy of students in the academic context and their tendency to procrastinate in decision-making processes, which has been poorly investigated to date by scholars in this research field. Future research will deal with a specific situation of procrastinating behaviours, such as the completion of a master’s thesis or the respect for the deadline of an article’s submission.