bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sevoflurane Induces Neurotoxicity in the Animal Model with Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropathology via Modulating Glutamate Transporter and Neuronal Apoptosis
Authors: Huang Chunxia , Chu John Man Tak , Liu Yan , Kwong Vivian Suk Wai , Chang Raymond Chuen Chung , Wong Gordon Tin Chun
Published: June 2022

Perioperative neurocognitive disorders are frequently observed in postoperative patients and previous reports have shown that pre-existing mild cognitive impairment with accumulated neuropathology may be a risk factor. Sevoflurane is a general anesthetic agent which is commonly used in clinical practice. However, the effects of sevoflurane in postoperative subjects are still controversial, as both neurotoxic or neuroprotective effects were reported. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of sevoflurane in 3 × Tg mice, a specific animal model with pre-existing Alzheimer’s disease neuropathology. 3 × Tg mice and wild-type mice were exposed to 2 h of sevoflurane respectively. Cognitive function, glutamate transporter expression, MAPK kinase pathways, and neuronal apoptosis were accessed on day 7 post-exposure. Our findings indicate that sevoflurane-induced cognitive deterioration in 3 × Tg mice, which was accompanied with the modulation of glutamate transporter, MAPK signaling, and neuronal apoptosis in the cortical and hippocampal regions. Meanwhile, no significant impact was observed in wild-type mice. Our results demonstrated that prolonged inhaled sevoflurane results in the exacerbation of neuronal and cognitive dysfunction which depends on the neuropathology background.
Molecular Mechanisms and Therapies of Myeloid Leukaemia
Authors: Brown Elliott , Guinn Barbara-ann
Published: June 2022

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is defined as a malignant disorder of the bone marrow (BM) that is characterised by the clonal expansion and differentiation arrest of myeloid progenitor cells [...]
Advances in Biologically Applicable Graphene-Based 2D Nanomaterials
Authors: Jampilek Josef , Kralova Katarina
Published: June 2022

Climate change and increasing contamination of the environment, due to anthropogenic activities, are accompanied with a growing negative impact on human life. Nowadays, humanity is threatened by the increasing incidence of difficult-to-treat cancer and various infectious diseases caused by resistant pathogens, but, on the other hand, ensuring sufficient safe food for balanced human nutrition is threatened by a growing infestation of agriculturally important plants, by various pathogens or by the deteriorating condition of agricultural land. One way to deal with all these undesirable facts is to try to develop technologies and sophisticated materials that could help overcome these negative effects/gloomy prospects. One possibility is to try to use nanotechnology and, within this broad field, to focus also on the study of two-dimensional carbon-based nanomaterials, which have excellent prospects to be used in various economic sectors. In this brief up-to-date overview, attention is paid to recent applications of graphene-based nanomaterials, i.e., graphene, graphene quantum dots, graphene oxide, graphene oxide quantum dots, and reduced graphene oxide. These materials and their various modifications and combinations with other compounds are discussed, regarding their biomedical and agro-ecological applications, i.e., as materials investigated for their antineoplastic and anti-invasive effects, for their effects against various plant pathogens, and as carriers of bioactive agents (drugs, pesticides, fertilizers) as well as materials suitable to be used in theranostics. The negative effects of graphene-based nanomaterials on living organisms, including their mode of action, are analyzed as well.
Next Steps for Intradialytic Cycling Research
Authors: King Alexis C. , Wilund Kenneth R.
Published: June 2022

Hemodialysis patients typically have extremely low physical activity levels, which contributes to poor physical function and quality of life (QOL). Numerous studies show that exercise, intradialytic cycling in particular, may improve physical and cardiovascular function and QOL. But there are also significant inconsistencies in the literature, and the benefits in many studies are modest. This may be due in part to methodological limitations in intradialytic cycling trials, including small sample sizes, short interventions, low volume, and intensity of exercise prescriptions, and/or low retention and protocol adherence rates. The goal of this review is twofold. First, we summarize the current literature on intradialytic cycling in HD patients, highlighting benefits and concerns noted in several recently published trials that were among the most robust and clinically relevant trials conducted to date. Second, we will consider strategies for moving forward with exercise and physical activity interventions in HD, including promoting intradialytic cycling as a core component of a more patient-centric and comprehensive strategy that helps progress patients towards standard physical activity guidelines. We urge researchers and exercise professionals to consider intradialytic cycling as a valuable component of a comprehensive patient-centered, lifestyle intervention, as opposed to a stand-alone exercise prescription.
Recycled Materials in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Authors: Petrella Andrea , Notarnicola Michele
Published: June 2022

Waste represents a huge reserve of resources that, after appropriate management, can guarantee a sustainable and continuous supply of materials and energy over the years [...]
Electrochemical Mechanism of Molten Salt Electrolysis from TiO2 to Titanium
Authors: Meng Xianghai , Zhao Hongmei , Bi Sheng , Ju Zilai , Yang Zhenming , Yang Yu , Li Hui , Liang Jinglong
Published: June 2022

Electrochemical mechanisms of molten salt electrolysis from TiO2 to titanium were investigated by Potentiostatic electrolysis, cyclic voltammetry, and square wave voltammetry in NaCl-CaCl2 at 800 °C. The composition and morphology of the product obtained at different electrolysis times were characterized by XRD and SEM. CaTiO3 phase was found in the TiO2 electrochemical reduction process. Electrochemical reduction of TiO2 to titanium is a four-step reduction process, which can be summarized as TiO2→Ti4O7→Ti2O3→TiO→Ti. Spontaneous and electrochemical reactions take place simultaneously in the reduction process. The electrochemical reduction of TiO2→Ti4O7→Ti2O3→TiO affected by diffusion was irreversible.
Performance, Reaction Pathway and Kinetics of the Enhanced Dechlorination Degradation of 2,4-Dichlorophenol by Fe/Ni Nanoparticles Supported on Attapulgite Disaggregated by a Ball Milling–Freezing Process
Authors: Wu Hongdan , Wang Junwen , Liu Hong , Fan Xianyuan
Published: June 2022

Attapulgite (ATP) disaggregated by a ball milling–freezing process was used to support Fe/Ni bimetallic nanoparticles (nFe/Ni) to obtain a composite material of D-ATP-nFe/Ni for the dechlorination degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), thus improving the problem of agglomeration and oxidation passivation of nanoscale zero-valent iron (nFe) in the dechlorination degradation of chlorinated organic compounds. The results show that Fe/Ni nanoparticle clusters were dispersed into single spherical particles by the ball milling–freezing-disaggregated attapulgite, in which the average particle size decreased from 423.94 nm to 54.51 nm, and the specific surface area of D-ATP-nFe /Ni (97.10 m2/g) was 6.9 times greater than that of nFe/Ni (14.15 m2/g). Therefore, the degradation rate of 2,4-DCP increased from 81.9% during ATP-nFe/Ni application to 96.8% during D-ATP-nFe/Ni application within 120 min, and the yield of phenol increased from 57.2% to 86.1%. Meanwhile, the reaction rate Kobs of the degradation of 2,4-DCP by D-ATP-nFe/Ni was 0.0277 min−1, which was higher than that of ATP-nFe/Ni (0.0135 min−1). In the dechlorination process of 2,4-DCP by D-ATP-nFe/Ni, the reaction rate for the direct dechlorination of 2,4-DCP of phenol (k5 = 0.0156 min−1) was much higher than that of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP, k2 = 0.0052 min−1) and 2-chlorophenol (2-CP, k1 = 0.0070 min−1), which suggests that the main dechlorination degradation pathway for the removal of 2,4-DCP by D-ATP-nFe/Ni was directly reduced to phenol by the removal of two chlorine atoms. In the secondary pathway, the removal of one chlorine atom from 2,4-DCP to generate 2-CP or 4-CP as intermediate was the rate controlling step. The final dechlorination product (phenol) was obtained when the dechlorination rate accelerated with the progress of the reaction. This study contributes to the broad topic of organic pollutant treatment by the application of clay minerals.
Characterization of Si and SiO2 in Dust Emitted during Granite Polishing as a Function of Cutting Conditions
Authors: Kouam Jules , Songmene Victor , Bahloul Ali , Samuel Agnes M.
Published: June 2022

Particles emitted during manufacturing processes such as polishing can represent a serious danger for the environment and for occupational safety. The formation mechanisms responsible for these dust emissions include chip formation, friction at the tool/workpiece and chip/tool interfaces, shearing and cutting. These mechanisms thus depend on workpiece and tool properties, as well as the polishing conditions. In the case of granite polishing, particle emissions during polishing can contain chemical compounds such as silica, which represent harmful health risks for the worker. It is therefore important to characterize the particles emitted and to search for possible interactions between the particles (size and composition) and the machining conditions in order to find ways of reducing emissions at the source. In this study, an investigation was undertaken to characterize the particles emitted during granite polishing as a function of polishing conditions, type of granite, and abrasive grit sizes used. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed for particle morphology characterization and particle grain size and chemical composition were evaluated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) techniques, respectively. Results show that the influence of polishing speed and feed rate on particle emission depends mainly on the granite type used, providing useful information for controlling the polishing procedure, and thereby dust emission.
Studies of Selective Recovery of Zinc and Manganese from Alkaline Batteries Scrap by Leaching and Precipitation
Authors: Skrzekut Tomasz , Piotrowicz Andrzej , Noga Piotr , Wędrychowicz Maciej , Bydałek Adam W.
Published: June 2022

Recovery of zinc and manganese from scrapped alkaline batteries were carried out in the following way: leaching in H2SO4 and selective precipitation of zinc and manganese by alkalization/neutralization. As a result of non-selective leaching, 95.6–99.7% Zn was leached and 83.7–99.3% Mn was leached. A critical technological parameter is the liquid/solid treatment (l/s) ratio, which should be at least 20 mL∙g−1. Selective leaching, which allows the leaching of zinc only, takes place with a leaching yield of 84.8–98.5% Zn, with minimal manganese co-leaching, 0.7–12.3%. The optimal H2SO4 concentration is 0.25 mol∙L−1. Precipitation of zinc and manganese from the solution after non-selective leaching, with the use of NaOH at pH = 13, and then with H2SO4 to pH = 9, turned out to be ineffective: the manganese concentrate contained 19.9 wt.% Zn and zinc concentrate, and 21.46 wt.% Mn. Better selectivity results were obtained if zinc was precipitated from the solution after selective leaching: at pH = 6.5, 90% of Zn precipitated, and only 2% manganese. Moreover, the obtained concentrate contained over 90% of ZnO. The precipitation of zinc with sodium phosphate and sodium carbonate is non-selective, despite its relatively high efficiency: up to 93.70% of Zn and 4.48–93.18% of Mn and up to 95.22% of Zn and 19.55–99.71% Mn, respectively for Na3PO4 and Na2CO3. Recovered zinc and manganese compounds could have commercial values with suitable refining processes.
A Systematical Evaluation of the Crystallographic Orientation Relationship between MC Precipitates and Ferrite Matrix in HSLA Steels
Authors: Li Xiaolin , Yang Jiawei , Li Yating , Liu Linxi , Jin Chi , Gao Xiangyu , Deng Xiangtao , Wang Zhaodong
Published: June 2022

Here we systematically investigate the crystallographic orientation relationship (OR) between MC-type precipitates (M, metal; C, carbon) and ferrite matrix in the Ti-Mo microalloyed steel with different processing. In the specimens without austenite deformation, the interphase precipitation can be obtained, and the precipitates obey Baker–Nutting (BN) OR with ferrite matrix. By contrast, in the specimens with austenite deformation, the supersaturated precipitates were formed in ferrite grains, which can obey BN, Nishiyama–Wasserman (NW), Kurdjumov–Sachs (KS) and Pitsch (P) ORs simultaneously. The cooling rate after austenite deformation can influence the OR between carbides and ferrite in the MC/ferrite system. At the cooling rate of 80 °C/s, carbides and ferrite can roughly satisfy these OR with the deviation ≥ 10°, while at the cooling rate of 20 °C/s, carbides and ferrite can strictly obey the specific OR. The energy accumulated in the deformation process and maintained in the fast-cooling process (80 °C/s) can offset the formation energy of the carbides. Thus, the carbides formed in the specimen with the cooling rate of 80 °C/s do not strictly satisfy the specific ORs to meet the rule of lowest energy, and then deviate by a small angle based on the specific ORs.
Geotechnical Engineering Properties of Cement Fly Ash Gravel Mixtures for Application as Column-Supported Highway and Railway Embankments
Authors: Jongpradist Pornkasem , Krairan Krissakorn , Jamsawang Pitthaya , Chen Xiaobin
Published: June 2022

Our study investigates the geotechnical engineering properties of cement fly ash gravel mixtures in the laboratory. Gravels with three different size ranges were blended with cement and fly ash. The mixture properties were investigated, including the porosity, density, permeability, unconfined compressive and splitting tensile strengths, cohesion, and friction angle after curing for 28, 50, and 90 days, respectively. The experimental results revealed that the gravel sizes and fly ash contents significantly influenced the strength characteristics. The permeability coefficients of the cement fly ash gravel mixtures were 0.9 to 1.7 cm/s, much higher than a soil-cement column. The unconfined compressive strengths and splitting tensile strengths were found to be from 3.75 to 18.5 MPa and from 0.5 to 2.5 MPa, respectively. The cohesion and friction angle values ranged from 2.2 to 5.3 MPa and 30 to 40 degrees. The mixture strength was 6 to 30 times higher than a soil-cement column. The 15% fly ash provided the best strength characteristics as it exhibited the most significant calcium silicate hydrate contents. Thus, using cement fly ash gravel column-supported embankments is more productive than using a soil-cement column and granular pile to increase the column-bearing capacity and overall stability and accelerate the consolidation process.
The Strength of Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) Sawn Timber in Correlation with Selected Wood Defects
Authors: Wieruszewski Marek , Trociński Adrian , Kawalerczyk Jakub , Derkowski Adam , Mirski Radosław
Published: June 2022

Pine timber of Polish origin intended for structural purposes is characterized by significant variability in the quality parameters. Technological suitability determined on the basis of relevant international classifications is based on the assessment of both selected mechanical and physical properties of wood. Moreover, the description of visual properties is also a valuable indicator regarding defect distribution. In the group of quality features playing a crucial role in the classification of sawn timber, there are knots, disruptions of grains, cracks, etc. Thus, the aim of the research was to determine the correlation between the presence of selected defects and the strength properties of individual timber pieces. This type of study is based on a nondestructive test method that allows for high optimization of sawn materials processing. In the case of sawn timber of Polish origin, the modulus of elasticity (MOE) determined using the sonic test is commonly used as a criterion. The research material was harvested from southern Poland. The results of the conducted studies confirmed a correlation between an increasing occurrence of particular types of defects and the results of MOE. Furthermore, as a result of the performed investigations, no significant effect of narrow surface cracks on strength properties was observed.
GL Beams Reinforced with Plywood in the Outer Layer
Authors: Dziurka Dorota , Derkowski Adam , Wieruszewski Marek , Kuliński Marcin , Mirski Radosław
Published: June 2022

Glulam beams are increasingly used in the construction industry because of their high strength and the possibility of using round timber with smaller cross-sections. The load-bearing capacity of beams is strongly related to the quality of the outer layers and, in the case of wood, especially the tension zones. For these reasons, this study decided to replace the outer lamella with tensile plywood. The produced beams were subjected to static bending strength and modulus of elasticity evaluation. It was shown that the best static bending strength values were obtained for beams containing plywood in the tension layer. However, the change in structure in the tension zone of beams made of glued laminated timber results not only in an increase in the load capacity of elements produced in this way but also in a decrease in the range/range of the obtained results of bending strength. This way of modifying the construction of glued laminated beams allows a more rational use of available pine timber.
Simulations of Fractures of Heterogeneous Orthotropic Fiber-Reinforced Concrete with Pre-Existing Flaws Using an Improved Peridynamic Model
Authors: Zhou Luming , Zhu Shu , Zhu Zhende , Xie Xinghua
Published: June 2022

The propagation and coalescence of cracks in fiber-reinforced concretes (FRCs) is the direct cause of instability in many engineering structures. To predict the crack propagation path and failure mode of FRCs, an orthotropic-bond-based peridynamic (PD) model was established in this study. A kernel function reflecting long-range force was introduced, and the fiber bond was used to describe the macroanisotropy of the FRC. The crack propagation process of the FRC plate with flaws was simulated under uniaxial tensile loading. The results showed that under homogeneous conditions, the cracks formed along the centerline of the isotropic concrete propagate in a direction perpendicular to the load. Under anisotropic conditions, the cracks propagate strictly in the direction of the fiber bond. The failure degree of the FRC increases with the increase in heterogeneity. When the shape parameter is 10 and the fiber bond is 0°, the failure mode changes from tensile to shear failure. When the fiber bond is 45°, the FRC changes from a state where outer cracks penetrate the entire specimen to a state where cracks coalesce at the middle. It was found that the improved model can effectively simulate the crack propagation processes of orthotropic FRC materials.
Mass Spectrometry-Based Analysis of Lipid Involvement in Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology—A Review
Authors: Kelley Andrea R.
Published: June 2022

Irregularities in lipid metabolism have been linked to numerous neurodegenerative diseases. The roles of abnormal brain, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) lipid levels in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) onset and progression specifically have been described to a great extent in the literature. Apparent hallmarks of AD include, but are not limited to, genetic predisposition involving the APOE Ɛ4 allele, oxidative stress, and inflammation. A common culprit tied to many of these hallmarks is disruption in brain lipid homeostasis. Therefore, it is important to understand the roles of lipids, under normal and abnormal conditions, in each process. Lipid influences in processes such as inflammation and blood–brain barrier (BBB) disturbance have been primarily studied via biochemical-based methods. There is a need, however, for studies focused on uncovering the relationship between lipid irregularities and AD by molecular-based quantitative analysis in transgenic animal models and human samples alike. In this review, mass spectrometry as it has been used as an analytical tool to address the convoluted relationships mentioned above is discussed. Additionally, molecular-based mass spectrometry strategies that should be used going forward to further relate structure and function relationships of lipid irregularities and hallmark AD pathology are outlined.
Advances in Metabolomics-Driven Diagnostic Breeding and Crop Improvement
Authors: Razzaq Ali , Wishart David S. , Wani Shabir Hussain , Hameed Muhammad Khalid , Mubin Muhammad , Saleem Fozia
Published: June 2022

Climate change continues to threaten global crop output by reducing annual productivity. As a result, global food security is now considered as one of the most important challenges facing humanity. To address this challenge, modern crop breeding approaches are required to create plants that can cope with increased abiotic/biotic stress. Metabolomics is rapidly gaining traction in plant breeding by predicting the metabolic marker for plant performance under a stressful environment and has emerged as a powerful tool for guiding crop improvement. The advent of more sensitive, automated, and high-throughput analytical tools combined with advanced bioinformatics and other omics techniques has laid the foundation to broadly characterize the genetic traits for crop improvement. Progress in metabolomics allows scientists to rapidly map specific metabolites to the genes that encode their metabolic pathways and offer plant scientists an excellent opportunity to fully explore and rationally harness the wealth of metabolites that plants biosynthesize. Here, we outline the current application of advanced metabolomics tools integrated with other OMICS techniques that can be used to: dissect the details of plant genotype–metabolite–phenotype interactions facilitating metabolomics-assisted plant breeding for probing the stress-responsive metabolic markers, explore the hidden metabolic networks associated with abiotic/biotic stress resistance, facilitate screening and selection of climate-smart crops at the metabolite level, and enable accurate risk-assessment and characterization of gene edited/transgenic plants to assist the regulatory process. The basic concept behind metabolic editing is to identify specific genes that govern the crucial metabolic pathways followed by the editing of one or more genes associated with those pathways. Thus, metabolomics provides a superb platform for not only rapid assessment and commercialization of future genome-edited crops, but also for accelerated metabolomics-assisted plant breeding. Furthermore, metabolomics can be a useful tool to expedite the crop research if integrated with speed breeding in future.
Interactions between Tryptophan Metabolism, the Gut Microbiome and the Immune System as Potential Drivers of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Teunis Charlotte , Nieuwdorp Max , Hanssen Nordin
Published: June 2022

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing and therefore is its burden of disease as NALFD is a risk factor for cirrhosis and is associated with other metabolic conditions such as type II diabetes, obesity, dyslipidaemia and atherosclerosis. Linking these cardiometabolic diseases is a state of low-grade inflammation, with higher cytokines and c-reactive protein levels found in individuals with NAFLD, obesity and type II diabetes. A possible therapeutic target to decrease this state of low-grade inflammation is the metabolism of the essential amino-acid tryptophan. Its three main metabolic pathways (kynurenine pathway, indole pathway and serotonin/melatonin pathway) result in metabolites such as kynurenic acid, xanturenic acid, indole-3-propionic acid and serotonin/melatonin. The kynurenine pathway is regulated by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), an enzyme that is upregulated by pro-inflammatory molecules such as INF, IL-6 and LPS. Higher activity of IDO is associated with increased inflammation and fibrosis in NAFLD, as well with increased glucose levels, obesity and atherosclerosis. On the other hand, increased concentrations of the indole pathway metabolites, regulated by the gut microbiome, seem to result in more favorable outcomes. This narrative review summarizes the interactions between tryptophan metabolism, the gut microbiome and the immune system as potential drivers of cardiometabolic diseases in NAFLD.
Observations on the Frequency, Duration, and Geographical Extent of Summertime Cold-Front Activity in the Southeastern USA: 1973–2020
Authors: Mitchell Tyler J. , Knapp Paul A. , Ortegren Jason T.
Published: June 2022

We analyzed summertime (June–August) cold-front activity via frequency and duration in the southeastern USA during 1973–2020 to summarize and identify the temporal trends of the annual and total number of hours associated with cold fronts, cold-front days, and multi-day cold-front events. Using data from 34 ASOS Network stations, we defined summertime cold fronts as events that lowered the dew point temperature below 15.56 °C (< 60 °F). Additionally, we examined 500 hPa geopotential height anomalies associated with years with cold front frequency/duration deviations of +/− 1.0 SD. The extent of the cold-front activity exhibited a north–south latitudinal gradient with a more southerly latitudinal expression on the east side of the Appalachian Mountains and was negligible south of the 30°N latitude. The cold-front activity was most prominent during the first half of June. Our results suggest that all three metrics of summertime cold-front activity were stable at a regional scale during the 48-year study period with a few (three–five) stations experiencing significant decreases. A regional-scale stability was coincident with significant increases in minimum, maximum, and average summertime temperatures in the southeastern USA. Years with either above-average or below-average cold-front activity were concurrent with synoptic conditions that supported either troughing or ridging in the southeastern USA. We conclude that the observed weakening in the southeastern USA warming hole is the result of external and/or internal forcings unrelated to reductions in anomalously cool summer weather.
Restoration Insights Gained from a Field Deployment of Dithionite and Acetate at a Uranium In Situ Recovery Mine
Authors: Reimus Paul , Clay James , Jemison Noah
Published: June 2022

Mining uranium by in situ recovery (ISR) typically involves injecting an oxidant and a complexing agent to mobilize and extract uranium in a saturated ore zone. This strategy involves less infrastructure and invasive techniques than traditional mining, but ISR often results in persistently elevated concentrations of U and other contaminants of concern in groundwater after mining. These concentrations may remain elevated for an extended period without remediation. Here, we describe a field experiment at an ISR facility in which both a chemical reductant (sodium dithionite) and a biostimulant (sodium acetate) were sequentially introduced into a previously mined ore zone in an attempt to establish reducing geochemical conditions that, in principle, should decrease and stabilize aqueous U concentrations. While several lines of evidence indicated that reducing conditions were established, U concentrations did not decrease, and in fact increased after the amendment deployments. We discuss likely reasons for this behavior, and we also discuss how the results provide insights into improvements that could be made to the restoration process to benefit from the seemingly detrimental behavior.
The Ulug-Sair Gold Occurrence (Western Tuva, Russia): Mineralogy, Ore Genesis, and S-O Isotope Systematics
Authors: Kuzhuget Renat V. , Ankusheva Natalia N. , Pirajno Franco , Mongush Andrey A. , Butanaev Yuri V. , Suge-Maadyr Nadezhda V.
Published: June 2022

Ulug-Sair Au-Bi-Te-Se mineralization is one prospect for native Au in the Western Tuva, and its origin remains debated. Mineralization consists of gold–sulfide–quartz veins in the host sedimentary rocks (conglomerates, siltstones, shales), quartz–tourmaline, and quartz–carbonate–sericite–altered rocks. To determine its origin, we examined the mineralogical–geochemical features, formation conditions, and fluid sources of the Ulug-Sair ore. A mineralogical–geochemical investigation outlines two substages with Au: an early gold–sulfide–quartz with pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena, gold, and electrum; and a late gold–telluride–sulfide–quartz, characterized by the presence of Bi-bearing minerals (AgBiTe, Bi2Te2Se, Cu3BiS3, Bi), tellurides (Au and Ag), Se-tellurides (Ag and Bi), and selenides (Au, Ag, and Hg). The paragenesis of Au–Ag tellurides, and fluid inclusion study data (microthermometry, Raman spectroscopy, LA-ICP-MS, and crush leach analysis (gas and ion chromatography, ICP-MS) in quartz showed that quartz–tourmaline-altered rocks were formed by an aqueous Mg–Na–K-chloride fluid with a salinity of 8–10 wt % NaCl eq. at 325–370 °C, whereas the host quartz–carbonate–sericite-altered rocks were formed from CO2–H2O fluid containing CH4 and N2, with a salinity of 0.18–6.1 wt % NaCl eq. at 200–400 °C. Gold-bearing mineral assemblages were formed at P ~ 0.75–1.0 kbar (~2.3–3 km) due to CO2–H2O chloride (Na–K ± Fe, Mg) fluid with CH4, Na2SO4, and Na2B2O5, and salinities 1.7–12.5 wt % NaCl eq. at temperatures decreasing from 360 up to 115 °C (gold–sulfide–quartz veins—360–130 °C, and gold–telluride–sulfide–quartz veins—330–115 °C), and variable fO2, fS2, fSe2, and fTe2. Results of the investigation of the isotope composition of S in pyrites indicates the magmatic origin of the fluid (δ18SH2S fluid from −0.4 to +2.5‰). The stable O isotope data in quartz indicates that, at an early substage, the formation of ore involved a fluid of magmatic and metamorphic origin (from +8.2 to +11.6‰), and, in the later substage, multiple sources of hydrothermal fluids (from +3.1 to +10.4‰), including magmatic-derived, metamorphic-derived, and meteoric waters. These data, in conjunction with structurally controlled mineralization, point towards similarities of the Ulug-Sair ore system with orogenic gold deposits.
An Overview of Slope Failure in Mining Operations
Authors: Kolapo Peter , Oniyide Gafar Omotayo , Said Khadija Omar , Lawal Abiodun Ismail , Onifade Moshood , Munemo Prosper
Published: June 2022

The primary aim of every twenty-first century mining operation is to extract as much ore as possible in a safe and economical manner. Failure in mine excavation occurs when the shear stress acting on the rock is greater than the shear strength of the rock mass. The stability of rock slopes in open-pit mine and quarry operations is extremely important from both economic and safety points of view because unstable slopes can result in the loss of human life and damage to properties. This paper presents an overview of several case studies of slope failure in mining operations and explains various modes of failure in rock slopes, as well as factors that influence the stability of slope walls. With the aim of enforcing the importance of monitoring and evaluating slope stability in mining, both linear equilibrium and numerical modeling techniques were reviewed to elaborate their importance in designing stable slopes. In addition, the process of slope failure was discussed, and key signs of failure were indicated. In an effort to prevent mines from experiencing the hazards of slope failure, this study reports previous work performed in determining slope failure and the current state-of-the-art models, which entail the integration of analytical methods with artificial intelligence techniques. This innovation would help overcome the drawbacks of conventional prediction techniques that are cumbersome and ambiguous.
Antiproliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Effects of a Phenolic-Rich Extract from Lycium barbarum Fruits on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 16-Positive Head Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Peraza-Labrador Alberto , Buitrago Diana Marcela , Coy-Barrera Ericsson , Perdomo-Lara Sandra J.
Published: June 2022

The in vitro antiproliferative activity of a phenolic-rich extract from Lycium barbarum fruits against head and neck HPV16 squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been demonstrated, indicating for the first time that L. barbarum extract inhibits human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 cell lines. Ethanol extract of L. barbarum was used for cell viability evaluation on SCC090, CAL27, and HGnF cell lines. After 24 and 48 h, the cell cycle effect of L. barbarum extract (at 1.0, 10, and 100 µg/mL) was measured via flow cytometry. In addition, the mRNA expression on E6/E7 and p53 via RT-PCR and the expression of p16, p53, Ki-67, and Bcl-2 via immunohistochemistry were also determined. Untreated cells, 20 µM cisplatin, and a Camellia sinensis-derived extract were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. We demonstrated that the studied L. barbarum extract resulted in G0/G1 arrest and S phase accumulation in SCC090 at 1.0 and 10 μg/mL. A reduction in mRNA levels of E6/E7 oncogenes (p < 0.05) with p53 overexpression was also observed through PCR, while immunohistochemical analyses indicated p16 overexpression (p > 0.05) and a decrease in p53 overexpression. The observed effects were associated with anticancer and immunomodulatory phenolics, such as flavonols/flavan-3-ols and tyramine-conjugated hydroxycinnamic acid amides, identified in the studied extract. These findings revealed that the phenolic-rich extract of L. barbarum fruits has promising properties to be considered further for developing new therapies against oral and oropharyngeal HPV lesions.
Gold Nanoparticles as Effective ion Traps in Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Cross-Linked by Metal-Ligand Coordination
Authors: Wrzesińska Angelika , Tomaszewska Emilia , Ranoszek-Soliwoda Katarzyna , Bobowska Izabela , Grobelny Jarosław , Ulański Jacek , Wypych-Puszkarz Aleksandra
Published: June 2022

At this time, the development of advanced elastic dielectric materials for use in organic devices, particularly in organic field-effect transistors, is of considerable interest to the scientific community. In the present work, flexible poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) specimens cross-linked by means of ZnCl2-bipyridine coordination with an addition of 0.001 wt. %, 0.0025 wt. %, 0.005 wt. %, 0.04 wt. %, 0.2 wt. %, and 0.4 wt. % of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were prepared in order to understand the effect of AuNPs on the electrical properties of the composite materials formed. The broadband dielectric spectroscopy measurements revealed one order of magnitude decrease in loss tangent, compared to the coordinated system, upon an introduction of 0.001 wt. % of AuNPs into the polymeric matrix. An introduction of AuNPs causes damping of conductivity within the low-temperature range investigated. These effects can be explained as a result of trapping the Cl− counter ions by the nanoparticles. The study has shown that even a very low concentration of AuNPs (0.001 wt. %) still brings about effective trapping of Cl− counter anions, therefore improving the dielectric properties of the investigated systems. The modification proposed reveals new perspectives for using AuNPs in polymers cross-linked by metal-ligand coordination systems.
Synthetic Access to Aromatic α-Haloketones
Authors: Porré Marre , Pisanò Gianmarco , Nahra Fady , Cazin Catherine S. J.
Published: June 2022

α-Haloketones play an essential role in the synthesis of complex N-, S-, O-heterocycles; of which some exhibit a remarkable biological activity. Research further illustrated that α-bromo-, α-chloro-, and α-iodoketones are key precursors for blockbuster pharmacological compounds. Over the past twenty years, substantial advances have been made in the synthesis of these industrially relevant building blocks. Efforts have focused on rendering the synthetic protocols greener, more effective and versatile. In this survey, we summarised and thoroughly evaluated the progress of the field, established in the past two decades, in terms of generality, efficacy and sustainability.
Effectiveness of Oxygen during Sintering of Silver Thin Films Derived by Nanoparticle Ink
Authors: Feng Feng , Hong Haofeng , Gao Xing , Ren Tian , Ma Yuan , Feng Pingfa
Published: June 2022

Silver nanoparticle (NP) inks have been widely used in the ink-jet printing field because of their excellent properties during low-temperature sintering. However, the organic dispersant used to prevent the aggregation and sedimentation of NPs can hinder the sintering process and result in the high resistivity of sintered films. In this study, silver thin films derived from silver NP ink with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) dispersant were sintered in different atmospheres of pure nitrogen, air, and pure oxygen. The effect of the oxygen content in the sintering atmosphere on the thermal properties of the ink, the electrical resistivity and microstructure of the sintered films, and the amount of organic residue were studied by using differential scanning calorimetry, the four-point probe method, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, etc. The mechanism of optimizing the film resistivity by influencing the decomposition of the PVP dispersant and the microstructure evolution of the silver thin films through the sintering atmosphere was discussed. The results demonstrated that an oxygen-containing atmosphere could be effective for silver NPs in two ways. First, the oxygen content could enhance the diffusion ability of silver atoms, thus accelerating the stage transition of microstructural evolution at low temperatures. Second, the oxygen content could enable the PVP to decompose at a temperature much lower than in conditions of pure nitrogen, thus helping to finalize the densification of a silver film with a low resistivity of 2.47 μΩ·cm, which is approximately 1.5-fold that of bulk silver. Our findings could serve as a foundation for the subsequent establishment of ink-jet printing equipment and the optimization of the sintering process for printing silver patterns on flexible substrates.
Diet and Pediatric Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Mediterranean Countries
Authors: Strisciuglio Caterina , Cenni Sabrina , Serra Maria Rosaria , Dolce Pasquale , Kolacek Sanja , Sila Sara , Trivic Ivana , Bar Lev Michal Rozenfeld , Shamir Raanan , Kostovski Aco , Papadopoulou Alexandra , Roma Eleftheria , Katsagoni Christina , Jojkic-Pavkov Danijela , Campanozzi Angelo , Scarpato Elena , Miele Erasmo , Staiano Annamaria
Published: June 2022

Background: The increased intake of FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyol) rich foods has been suggested as a possible trigger of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). Despite the high FODMAP content, the Mediterranean diet (MD) appears to have beneficial effects on health. Our aim was to evaluate whether the prevalence of FGIDs in different Mediterranean countries may be influenced by FODMAP consumption and adherence to the MD. Methods: A school-based, cross-sectional, multicenter study was performed in six countries in the Mediterranean area: Croatia, Greece, Israel, Italy, Macedonia, and Serbia. Subjects 4-18 years were examined in relation to their eating habits and the presence of FGIDs, using Rome IV criteria, 3-day food diaries and Mediterranean Diet Quality Index in Children and Adolescents (KIDMED) questionnaires. Results: We enrolled 1972 subjects between 4 and 9 years old (Group A), and 2450 subjects between 10 and 18 years old (Group B). The overall prevalence of FGIDs was 16% in Group A and 26% in Group B. FODMAP intake was significantly different among countries for both age groups. In both groups, no significant association was found between FGIDs and FODMAPs. Adherence to the MD in all countries was intermediate, except for Serbia, where it was low. In both groups, we found a statistically significant association between FGIDs and the KIDMED score (Group A: OR = 0.83, p < 0.001; Group B: OR = 0.93, p = 0.005). Moreover, a significant association was found between the KIDMED score and functional constipation (Group A: OR = 0.89, p = 0.008; Group B: OR = 0.93, p = 0.010) and postprandial distress syndrome (Group A: OR = 0.86, p = 0.027; Group B: OR = 0.88, p = 0.004). Conclusions: Our data suggest that the prevalence of FGIDs in the Mediterranean area is not related to FODMAP consumption, whereas adherence to the MD seems to have a protective effect.
Manipulating Microbiota to Treat Atopic Dermatitis: Functions and Therapies
Authors: Alam Md Jahangir , Xie Liang , Yap Yu-Anne , Marques Francine Z. , Robert Remy
Published: June 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a globally prevalent skin inflammation with a particular impact on children. Current therapies for AD are challenged by the limited armamentarium and the high heterogeneity of the disease. A novel promising therapeutic target for AD is the microbiota. Numerous studies have highlighted the involvement of the skin and gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of AD. The resident microbiota at these two epithelial tissues can modulate skin barrier functions and host immune responses, thus regulating AD progression. For example, the pathogenic roles of Staphylococcus aureus in the skin are well-established, making this bacterium an attractive target for AD treatment. Targeting the gut microbiota is another therapeutic strategy for AD. Multiple oral supplements with prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, and synbiotics have demonstrated promising efficacy in both AD prevention and treatment. In this review, we summarize the association of microbiota dysbiosis in both the skin and gut with AD, and the current knowledge of the functions of commensal microbiota in AD pathogenesis. Furthermore, we discuss the existing therapies in manipulating both the skin and gut commensal microbiota to prevent or treat AD. We also propose potential novel therapies based on the cutting-edge progress in this area.
Antiproliferative Activity of a New Quinazolin-4(3H)-One Derivative via Targeting Aurora Kinase A in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lee Ji Yun , Yang Huarong , Kim Donghwa , Kyaw Kay Zin , Hu Ruoci , Fan Yanhua , Lee Sang Kook
Published: June 2022

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common lung cancer subtype. Although chemotherapy and targeted therapy are used for the treatment of patients with NSCLC, the survival rate remains very low. Recent findings suggested that aurora kinase A (AKA), a cell cycle regulator, is a potential target for NSCLC therapy. Previously, we reported that a chemical entity of quinazolin-4(3H)-one represents a new template for AKA inhibitors, with antiproliferative activity against cancer cells. A quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivative was further designed and synthesized in order to improve the pharmacokinetic properties and antiproliferation activity against NSCLC cell lines. The derivative, BIQO-19 (Ethyl 6-(4-oxo-3-(pyrimidin-2-ylmethyl)-3,4-dihydroquinazolin-6-yl)imidazo [1,2-a]pyridine-2-carboxylate), exhibited improved solubility and antiproliferative activity in NSCLC cells, including epidermal growth factor receptor–tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI)-resistant NSCLC cells. BIQO-19 effectively inhibited the growth of the EGFR-TKI-resistant H1975 NSCLC cells, with the suppression of activated AKA (p-AKA) expression in these cells. The inhibition of AKA by BIQO-19 significantly induced G2/M phase arrest and subsequently evoked apoptosis in H1975 cells. In addition, the combination of gefitinib and BIQO-19 exhibited synergistic antiproliferative activity in NSCLC cells. These findings suggest the potential of BIQO-19 as a novel therapeutic agent for restoring the sensitivity of gefitinib in EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLC cells.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity and Chemopreventive Potential in Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines of the Standardized Extract Obtained from the Aerial Parts of Zigzag Clover (Trifolium medium L.)
Authors: Zgórka Grażyna , Maciejewska-Turska Magdalena , Makuch-Kocka Anna , Plech Tomasz
Published: June 2022

The aboveground parts of Trifolium medium L. (zigzag clover), a little-known representative of the family Fabaceae, collected during flowering in a wild stand (Sławin-Szerokie district, Lublin, Poland), were used in this study. Our previous investigations confirmed the higher content of phytoestrogenic isoflavones (especially biochanin A and formononetin derivatives) in T. medium compared to the closely related medicinal plant T. pratense (red clover) and the involvement of these compounds in anti-osteoporotic effects in ovariectomized female rats. The current study focused on evaluating other antibiodegenerative (antioxidant, chemopreventive, and cytostatic) effects for the lyophilisate (TML) obtained from wild zigzag clover. For this purpose, efficient ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was employed, followed by vacuum drying and phytochemical standardization using a newly developed reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-LC) coupled with a PDA detection. Malonylglycosides of biochanin A and formononetin were the predominant compounds and were found to contribute more than 54% to the total isoflavone content determined in the standardized extract of zigzag clover. The antioxidant potential of TML was examined in vitro using the Folin–Ciocalteu and cupric ion-reducing (CUPRAC) methods in addition to the free radical (DPPH• and ABTS•+) scavenging assays. The cytotoxic effects of TML, formononetin, and ononin were evaluated on MCF-7 (estrogen-dependent) and MDA-MB-231 (estrogen-independent) human breast cancer cell lines using the MTT assay. The important role of malonyl isoflavone derivatives has been indicated both in chemoprevention and potential cytotoxic effects of TML against certain types of breast cancer.