bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose-Dependent Biphasic Action of Quetiapine on AMPK Signalling via 5-HT7 Receptor: Exploring Pathophysiology of Clinical and Adverse Effects of Quetiapine
Authors: Okada Motohiro , Fukuyama Kouji , Motomura Eishi
Published: August 2022

Recent pharmacological studies indicated that the modulation of tripartite-synaptic transmission plays important roles in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, mood disorders and adverse reactions. Therefore, to explore the mechanisms underlying the clinical and adverse reactions to atypical antipsychotics, the present study determined the effects of the sub-chronic administration of quetiapine (QTP: 3~30 μM) on the protein expression of 5-HT7 receptor (5-HT7R), connexin43 (Cx43), cAMP level and intracellular signalling, Akt, Erk and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in cultured astrocytes and the rat hypothalamus, using ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry and capillary immunoblotting systems. QTP biphasically increased physiological ripple-burst evoked astroglial D-serine release in a concentration-dependent manner, peaking at 10 μM. QTP enhanced the astroglial signalling of Erk concentration-dependently, whereas both Akt and AMPK signalling’s were biphasically enhanced by QTP, peaking at 10 μM and 3 μM, respectively. QTP downregulated astroglial 5-HT7R in the plasma membrane concentration-dependently. Protein expression of Cx43 in astroglial cytosol and intracellular cAMP levels were decreased and increased by QTP also biphasically, peaking at 3 μM. The dose-dependent effects of QTP on the protein expression of 5-HT7R and Cx43, AMPK signalling and intracellular cAMP levels in the hypothalamus were similar to those in astrocytes. These results suggest several complicated pharmacological features of QTP. A therapeutically relevant concentration/dose of QTP activates Akt, Erk and AMPK signalling, whereas a higher concentration/dose of QTP suppresses AMPK signalling via its low-affinity 5-HT7R inverse agonistic action. Therefore, 5-HT7R inverse agonistic action probably plays important roles in the prevention of a part of adverse reactions of QTP, such as weight gain and metabolic complications.
IL-Functionalized Mg3Al-LDH as New Efficient Adsorbent for Pd Recovery from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Cocheci Laura , Lupa Lavinia , Tolea Nick Samuel , Lazău Radu , Pode Rodica
Published: August 2022

Palladium is a noble metal of the platinum group metals (PGMs) with a high value and major industrial applications. Due to the scarce palladium resources, researchers’ attention is currently focused on Pd ions recovery from secondary sources. Regarding the recovery process from aqueous solutions, many methods were studied, amongst which adsorption process gained a special attention due to its clear advantages. Moreover, the efficiency and the selectivity of an adsorbent material can be further improved by functionalization of various solid supports. In this context, the present work aims at the synthesis and characterization of Mg3Al-LDH and its functionalization with ionic liquid (IL) (Methyltrialkylammonium chloride) to obtain adsorbent materials with high efficiency in Pd removal from aqueous solutions. The maximum adsorption capacity developed by Mg3Al-LDH is 142.9 mg Pd., and depending on the functionalization method used (sonication and co-synthesis, respectively) the maximum adsorption capacity increases considerably, qmax-Mg3Al IL-US = 227.3 mg/g and qmax-Mg3Al IL-COS = 277.8 mg/g.
Rescue of Mitochondrial SIRT3 Ameliorates Ischemia-like Injury in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Liu Xi , Li Yi , Zhang Zhen , Lu Juan , Pei Gang , Huang Shichao
Published: August 2022

Structural and functional alterations of vasculature caused by age-related factors is critically involved in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. The longevity genes sirtuins (SIRTs) are extensively investigated in aging-associated pathologies, but their distinct roles in ischemic stroke still remain to be clarified. To address this question, we applied oxygen and glucose deprived/reperfusion (OGD/R) to induce ischemic injury in human endothelial cells (ECs), which are the main component of vasculature in the brain. The results showed that OGD/R led to various damages to ECs, including compromised cell viability, increased LDH release, overproduced ROS, enhanced apoptosis and caspase activity. Meanwhile, the expression of mitochondrial SIRT3 was robustly decreased in ECs after OGD/R treatment. Consistently, rescue of SIRT3 by ectopic expression, but not nuclear SIRT1, in ECs reversed the OGD/R-induced cell damage. Interestingly, some front-line drugs for ischemic stroke, including clopidogrel, aspirin and dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP), also rescued SIRT3 and reduced OGD/R-induced endothelial injury, suggesting that the recovery of SIRT3 expression was critical for the protection of these drugs. Moreover, our results demonstrated that 10-hydroxy-NBP (OHNBP), a major metabolite of NBP, showed better blood-brain barrier crossing capability than NBP, but still retained the effects on SIRT3 by NBP. Together, our results suggested that SIRT3 may serve as a potential novel target for treatment of ischemic stroke.
Discovery of Epipodophyllotoxin-Derived B2 as Promising XooFtsZ Inhibitor for Controlling Bacterial Cell Division: Structure-Based Virtual Screening, Synthesis, and SAR Study
Authors: Song Ying-Lian , Liu Shuai-Shuai , Yang Jie , Xie Jiao , Zhou Xiang , Wu Zhi-Bing , Liu Li-Wei , Wang Pei-Yi , Yang Song
Published: August 2022

The emergence of phytopathogenic bacteria resistant to antibacterial agents has rendered previously manageable plant diseases intractable, highlighting the need for safe and environmentally responsible agrochemicals. Inhibition of bacterial cell division by targeting bacterial cell division protein FtsZ has been proposed as a promising strategy for developing novel antibacterial agents. We previously identified 4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin (DMEP), a naturally occurring substance isolated from the barberry species Dysosma versipellis, as a novel chemical scaffold for the development of inhibitors of FtsZ from the rice blight pathogen Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). Therefore, constructing structure−activity relationship (SAR) studies of DMEP is indispensable for new agrochemical discovery. In this study, we performed a structure−activity relationship (SAR) study of DMEP derivatives as potential XooFtsZ inhibitors through introducing the structure-based virtual screening (SBVS) approach and various biochemical methods. Notably, prepared compound B2, a 4′-acyloxy DMEP analog, had a 50% inhibitory concentration of 159.4 µM for inhibition of recombinant XooFtsZ GTPase, which was lower than that of the parent DMEP (278.0 µM). Compound B2 potently inhibited Xoo growth in vitro (minimum inhibitory concentration 153 mg L−1) and had 54.9% and 48.4% curative and protective control efficiencies against rice blight in vivo. Moreover, compound B2 also showed low toxicity for non-target organisms, including rice plant and mammalian cell. Given these interesting results, we provide a novel strategy to discover and optimize promising bactericidal compounds for the management of plant bacterial diseases.
Hazard Assessment of the Effects of Acute and Chronic Exposure to Permethrin, Copper Hydroxide, Acephate, and Validamycin Nanopesticides on the Physiology of Drosophila: Novel Insights into the Cellular Internalization and Biological Effects
Authors: Demir Eşref , Kansız Seyithan , Doğan Mehmet , Topel Önder , Akkoyunlu Gökhan , Kandur Muhammed Yusuf , Turna Demir Fatma
Published: August 2022

New insights into the interactions between nanopesticides and edible plants are required in order to elucidate their impacts on human health and agriculture. Nanopesticides include formulations consisting of organic/inorganic nanoparticles. Drosophila melanogaster has become a powerful model in genetic research thanks to its genetic similarity to mammals. This project mainly aimed to generate new evidence for the toxic/genotoxic properties of different nanopesticides (a nanoemulsion (permethrin nanopesticides, 20 ± 5 nm), an inorganic nanoparticle as an active ingredient (copper(II) hydroxide [Cu(OH)2] nanopesticides, 15 ± 6 nm), a polymer-based nanopesticide (acephate nanopesticides, 55 ± 25 nm), and an inorganic nanoparticle associated with an organic active ingredient (validamycin nanopesticides, 1177 ± 220 nm)) and their microparticulate forms (i.e., permethrin, copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO4·5H2O), acephate, and validamycin) widely used against agricultural pests, while also showing the merits of using Drosophila—a non-target in vivo eukaryotic model organism—in nanogenotoxicology studies. Significant biological effects were noted at the highest doses of permethrin (0.06 and 0.1 mM), permethrin nanopesticides (1 and 2.5 mM), CuSO4·5H2O (1 and 5 mM), acephate and acephate nanopesticides (1 and 5 mM, respectively), and validamycin and validamycin nanopesticides (1 and 2.5 mM, respectively). The results demonstrating the toxic/genotoxic potential of these nanopesticides through their impact on cellular internalization and gene expression represent significant contributions to future nanogenotoxicology studies.
High IGKC-Expressing Intratumoral Plasma Cells Predict Response to Immune Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Onieva Juan Luis , Xiao Qingyang , Berciano-Guerrero Miguel-Ángel , Laborda-Illanes Aurora , de Andrea Carlos , Chaves Patricia , Piñeiro Pilar , Garrido-Aranda Alicia , Gallego Elena , Sojo Belén , Gálvez Laura , Chica-Parrado Rosario , Prieto Daniel , Pérez-Ruiz Elisabeth , Farngren Angela , Lozano María José , Álvarez Martina , Jiménez Pedro , Sánchez-Muñoz Alfonso , Oliver Javier , Cobo Manuel , Alba Emilio , Barragán Isabel
Published: August 2022

Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Blockade (ICB) constitutes the current limiting factor for the optimal implementation of this novel therapy, which otherwise demonstrates durable responses with acceptable toxicity scores. This limitation is exacerbated by a lack of robust biomarkers. In this study, we have dissected the basal TME composition at the gene expression and cellular levels that predict response to Nivolumab and prognosis. BCR, TCR and HLA profiling were employed for further characterization of the molecular variables associated with response. The findings were validated using a single-cell RNA-seq data of metastatic melanoma patients treated with ICB, and by multispectral immunofluorescence. Finally, machine learning was employed to construct a prediction algorithm that was validated across eight metastatic melanoma cohorts treated with ICB. Using this strategy, we have unmasked a major role played by basal intratumoral Plasma cells expressing high levels of IGKC in efficacy. IGKC, differentially expressed in good responders, was also identified within the Top response-related BCR clonotypes, together with IGK variants. These results were validated at gene, cellular and protein levels; CD138+ Plasma-like and Plasma cells were more abundant in good responders and correlated with the same RNA-seq-defined fraction. Finally, we generated a 15-gene prediction model that outperformed the current reference score in eight ICB-treated metastatic melanoma cohorts. The evidenced major contribution of basal intratumoral IGKC and Plasma cells in good response and outcome in ICB in metastatic melanoma is a groundbreaking finding in the field beyond the role of T lymphocytes.
RNA-Seq Analysis of UPM-Exposed Epithelium Co-Cultivated with Macrophages and Dendritic Cells in Obstructive Lung Diseases
Authors: Misiukiewicz-Stępien Paulina , Mierzejewski Michał , Zajusz-Zubek Elwira , Goryca Krzysztof , Adamska Dorota , Szeląg Michał , Krenke Rafał , Paplińska-Goryca Magdalena
Published: August 2022

Background. Elevated concentrations of airborne pollutants are correlated with an enlarged rate of obstructive lung disease morbidity as well as acute disease exacerbations. This study aimed to analyze the epithelium mRNA profile in response to airborne particulate matter in the control, asthma, and COPD groups. Results. A triple co-culture of nasal epithelium, monocyte-derived macrophages, and monocyte-derived dendritic cells obtained from the controls, asthma, and COPD were exposed to urban particulate matter (UPM) for 24 h. RNA-Seq analysis found differences in seven (CYP1B1, CYP1B1-AS1, NCF1, ME1, LINC02029, BPIFA2, EEF1A2), five (CYP1B1, ARC, ENPEP, RASD1, CYP1B1-AS1), and six (CYP1B1, CYP1B1-AS1, IRF4, ATP1B2, TIPARP, CCL22) differentially expressed genes between UPM exposed and unexposed triple co-cultured epithelium in the control, asthma, and COPD groups, respectively. PCR analysis showed that mRNA expression of BPIFA2 and ENPEP was upregulated in both asthma and COPD, while the expression of CYP1B1-AS1 and TIPARP was increased in the epithelium from COPD patients only. Biological processes changed in UPM exposed triple co-cultured epithelium were associated with epidermis development and epidermal cell differentiation in asthma and with response to toxic substances in COPD. Conclusions. The biochemical processes associated with pathophysiology of asthma and COPD impairs the airway epithelial response to UPM.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Topiramate in a Chronic Model of TNBS-Induced Colitis
Authors: Silva Inês , Mendes Priscila , Guerra Sofia , Pinto Rui , Mateus Vanessa
Published: August 2022

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by a chronic and relapsing inflammatory response in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stools, and weight loss. Currently, there is no cure, and the pharmacological treatment includes drugs that induce and keep the patient in remission, not reversing the underlying pathogenic mechanism. These therapies, in the long term, may cause various side effects and complications, which has increased the need to investigate new, more effective, and safer pharmacological approaches. In preclinical studies, topiramate has demonstrated a potential anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the production of several pro-inflammatory cytokines. This study aimed to investigate the effect of topiramate in a chronic TNBS-induced colitis model in rodents. Experimental colitis was induced by four intrarectal administrations of 1% TNBS in female CD-1 mice. Topiramate 10 and 20 mg were administered intraperitoneally for 14 days. Several parameters were evaluated, such as bodyweight, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), fecal hemoglobin, fecal calprotectin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-10. Topiramate reduces TNBS-induced colonic damage in a model of chronic experimental colitis and normalizes the stool consistency and anus appearance. Additionally, topiramate significantly reduced the concentration of ALP, fecal hemoglobin, fecal calprotectin, TNF-α, and IL-10, demonstrating it to be a promising pharmacological approach for the treatment of IBD in the future.
Utilization of Olive Pomace in Green Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles: Physico-Chemical Characterization, Bioaccessibility and Biocompatibility
Authors: Galić Emerik , Radić Kristina , Golub Nikolina , Vitali Čepo Dubravka , Kalčec Nikolina , Vrček Ena , Vinković Tomislav
Published: August 2022

Olive pomace extract (OPE) was investigated as a potential surface modifier for the development of the green synthesis process of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). In order to evaluate them as potential nutraceuticals, the obtained nanosystems were characterized in terms of size distribution, shape, zeta potential, stability in different media, gastrointestinal bioaccessibility and biocompatibility. Systems with a unimodal size distribution of spherical particles were obtained, with average diameters ranging from 53.3 nm to 181.7 nm, depending on the type of coating agent used and the presence of OPE in the reaction mixture. The nanosystems were significantly affected by the gastrointestinal conditions. Bioaccessibility ranged from 33.57% to 56.93% and it was significantly increased by functionalization of with OPE. Biocompatibility was investigated in the HepG2 and Caco2 cell models, proving that they had significantly lower toxicity in comparison to sodium selenite. Significant differences were observed in cellular responses depending on the type of cells used, indicating differences in the mechanisms of toxicity induced by SeNPs. The obtained results provide new insight into the possibilities for the utilization of valuable food-waste extracts in the sustainable development of nanonutraceuticals.
Characterization of Mechanical and Damping Properties of Nettle and Glass Fiber Reinforced Hybrid Composites
Authors: Abbès Fazilay , Xu Shihua , Abbès Boussad
Published: August 2022

Growing environmental concerns are becoming significant challenges for large-scale applications in the automotive industry. Replacing and hybridizing glass fibers with natural fibers for non-structural applications is one effective way to address this challenge, while retaining the useful properties of both. This paper investigates the mechanical and damping performance of four types of compression-molded materials: polyester matrix (reference), nettle (6% by weight), hybrid 1 (6% glass and 6% nettle by weight), and hybrid 2 (12% glass and 6% nettle by weight), with polyester matrix at an ambient temperature. The tensile tests using digital image correlation (DIC) showed that by adding 6% by weight nettle fibers for polymer matrix tensile modulus increases by 21%. For the hybrid 1 two-layer composite (6% by weight glass and 6% by weight nettle) and the hybrid 2 three-layer composite (12% by weight glass and 6% by weight nettle), it increases by 80% and 101%, respectively. On the other hand, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) has been used to assess the damping properties of the materials. The results showed that the loss factor increased by 6~14% for nettle reinforced composite, by 8~25% for hybrid 1 glass-nettle reinforced composite and by 2~15% for hybrid 2 glass-nettle reinforced composite for frequencies around 1.0~2.0 Hz and around 12 Hz corresponding to vehicle body and suspension natural frequencies, respectively. These results showed that glass fibers can be replaced by nettle fibers without compromising performance.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Atmospheric Water Generation by Hybrid Nanofluids to Mitigate Global Water Scarcity
Authors: Kode Venkateswara R. , Stuckenberg David J. , Went Erick K. , Erickson Owen M. , Plumer Ethan
Published: August 2022

Globally, multiple efforts are being made to develop active atmospheric water generation (AWG) or atmospheric water extraction (AWE) systems, particularly using direct air-cooling technology to produce water from ambient air. However, this legacy technique is highly energy-intensive; it can only be operated when the local dew point is above the freezing point of water, and does not scale to create enough water to offer solutions for most industries, services, or agriculture. Liquid-desiccant-based AWG methods show promising performance advantages, and offer a versatile approach to help address the thermodynamics, health risks, and geographic constraints currently encountered by conventional active AWG systems. In this study, we performed a techno-economic analysis of a liquid-desiccant-based AWG system with a continuous operating style. An energy balance was performed on a single design point of the AWG system configuration while using a LiCl liquid desiccant loaded with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). We showed that the MWCNTs can be doped in LiCl for effective heat transfer during water desorption, resulting in lowering of the sensible heat load by ≈49% on the AWG system. We demonstrated that the specific energy consumption (SEC) can currently be obtained as low as 0.67 kWh per US gallon, while changing the inlet desiccant stream concentration of MWCNT-doped LiCl under the given conditions. While the production cost of water (COW) showed a significant regional dependency, economic analysis revealed that water can be produced at a minimum selling price of USD 0.085 per US gallon, based on the 2021 annual average wholesale electricity cost of USD 0.125 per kWh in the U.S.A., thereby providing a strong foundation for future research to meet desirable and competitive water costs by 2026, but before 2031.
Photovoltaic Cell Generations and Current Research Directions for Their Development
Authors: Pastuszak Justyna , Węgierek Paweł
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the different generations of photovoltaic cells and current research directions focusing on their development and manufacturing technologies. The introduction describes the importance of photovoltaics in the context of environmental protection, as well as the elimination of fossil sources. It then focuses on presenting the known generations of photovoltaic cells to date, mainly in terms of the achievable solar-to-electric conversion efficiencies, as well as the technology for their manufacture. In particular, the third generation of photovoltaic cells and recent trends in its field, including multi-junction cells and cells with intermediate energy levels in the forbidden band of silicon, are discussed. We also present the latest developments in photovoltaic cell manufacturing technology, using the fourth-generation graphene-based photovoltaic cells as an example. An extensive review of the world literature led us to the conclusion that, despite the appearance of newer types of photovoltaic cells, silicon cells still have the largest market share, and research into ways to improve their efficiency is still relevant.
Microstructural Study of CrNiCoFeMn High Entropy Alloy Obtained by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Campari Enrico Gianfranco , Casagrande Angelo
Published: August 2022

The high entropy alloy (HEA) of equiatomic composition CrNiFeCoMn and with FCC crystal structure was additively manufactured in a selective laser melting (SLM) process starting from mechanically alloyed powders. The as-produced alloy shows fine nitride and σ phase precipitates, which are Cr-rich and stable up to about 900 K. The precipitates increase in number and dimensions after long-period annealing at 900–1300 K, with a change in the HEA mechanical properties. Higher aging temperatures in the furnace, above 1300 K, turn the alloy into a single FCC structure, with the disappearance of the nitride and σ phase precipitates inside the grains and at the grain boundaries, but still with the presence of a finer Cr-rich nitride precipitation phase. These results suggest that the as-produced HEA is a supersaturated solid solution at low and intermediate temperature with nitrides and σ nanostructures.
Influence of CeO2 and TiO2 Particles on Physicochemical Properties of Composite Nickel Coatings Electrodeposited at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Makarava Iryna , Esmaeili Mohammadamin , Kharytonau Dzmitry S. , Pelcastre Leonardo , Ryl Jacek , Bilesan Mohammad Reza , Vuorinen Esa , Repo Eveliina
Published: August 2022

The Ni-TiO2 and Ni-CeO2 composite coatings with varying hydrophilic/hydrophobic characteristics were fabricated by the electrodeposition method from a tartrate electrolyte at ambient temperature. To meet the requirements of tight regulation by the European Chemicals Agency classifying H3BO3 as a substance of very high concern, Rochelle salt was utilized as a buffer solution instead. The novelty of this study was to implement a simple one-step galvanostatic electrodeposition from the low-temperature electrolyte based on a greener buffer compared to traditionally used, aiming to obtain new types of soft-matrix Ni, Ni-CeO2, and Ni-TiO2 coatings onto steel or copper substrates. The surface characteristics of electrodeposited nickel composites were evaluated by SEM, EDS, surface contact angle measurements, and XPS. Physiochemical properties of pure Ni, Ni-CeO2, and Ni-TiO2 composites, namely, wear resistance, microhardness, microroughness, and photocatalytic activity, were studied. Potentiodynamic polarization, EIS, and ICP-MS analyses were employed to study the long-term corrosion behavior of coatings in a 0.5 M NaCl solution. Superior photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue, 96.2% after 6 h of illumination, was achieved in the case of Ni-TiO2 composite, while no substantial change in the photocatalytic behavior of the Ni-CeO2 compared to pure Ni was observed. Both composites demonstrated higher hardness and wear resistance than pure Ni. This study investigates the feasibility of utilizing TiO2 as a photocatalytic hydrophilicity promoter in the fabrication of composite coatings for various applications.
Resveratrol-Loaded Diacetate Fiber by Supercritical CO2 Fluid Assisted Impregnation
Authors: Zhu Weiwei , Long Jiajie , Shi Meiwu
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: Supercritical CO2 fluid (SCF-CO2)-assisted impregnation presents advantages on loading active drugs to polymer substrates, since it enables the realization of a drug-loaded polymer without any solvent residue. Besides, CO2 gas and drugs can be recycled and utilized again. Resveratrol-loaded diacetate fiber by SCF-CO2-assisted impregnation was done to give diacetate fiber biological activity function for enhancing its added value. (2) Methods: The effect of SCF-CO2 temperature, pressure and treatment time on loading ability (LA) of resveratrol onto diacetate fiber was explored by ultraviolet visible spectrophotometer. The variation of structure and property of diacetate fiber was analyzed by characterization instruments. (3) Results: LA had been increasing with SCF-CO2 treatment time, temperature and pressure when SCF-CO2 was above 70 °C, 12 MPa. The inhibiting rate of resveratrol to free radicals was affected positively by SCF-CO2. After resveratrol was impregnated by SCF-CO2 it appeared some small white granular substances on the surface of diacetate fiber. It had a good interaction between resveratrol and molecular chain of diacetate fiber. (4) Conclusions: Resveratrol was well-loaded onto the diacetate fiber by SCF-CO2 assisted impregnation.
2D Digital Reconstruction of Asphalt Concrete Microstructure for Numerical Modeling Purposes
Authors: Klimczak Marek , Jaworska Irena , Tekieli Marcin
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we deal with the issue of asphalt concrete microstructure recognition for further numerical analysis. An efficient reconstruction of the underlying microstructure makes the composite analysis more reliable. We propose for this purpose a methodology based on the image processing and focus on a two-dimensional case (it can be easily used as a part of the 3D geometry reconstruction, however). Initially obtained geometry of the inclusions is further simplified to reduce the cost of the finite element mesh generation. Three straightforward geometry simplification algorithms are used to perform this process in a controlled way. Subsequently, we present the solutions of two problems, i.e., heat flow and elasticity (plane strain), in order to illustrate the effectiveness of the whole elaborated methodology. The numerical results were obtained using the finite element method. Consequently, an error analysis is demonstrated in order to refer the overkill mesh solutions to the ones presented in this study. The main finding of this paper is the efficient methodology dedicated to a digital reconstruction of the asphalt concrete microstructure by the image processing. It can be also extended to other materials exhibiting similar microstructure.
Enhancement of Impact Abrasion Resistance Performances of White Cast Iron Utilizing Ti3AlC2
Authors: Dong Qi , Li Haolin , Xing Shuming , Qiu Bo
Published: August 2022

Al-Ti-C master alloy agent is currently the most promising grain refiner. This work investigates the influence of Ti3AlC2 addition (1.0–3.0 wt.%) on the microstructure of a hypoeutectic cast iron (4.7 wt.% Cr, 2.3 wt.% C). Microstructures of the samples were examined by SEM (scanning electron microscope). It was demonstrated that the added Ti3AlC2 did reduce the size of coarse primary carbides. The XRD (X-ray diffraction) pattern shows that Ti3AlC2 is decomposed into TiC in the alloy substrate. The EDS (energy dispersive spectrometer) interfacial element analysis shows that TiC combines well with the matrix interface. As the Ti3AlC2 amount was increased, the finest microstructure was achieved. When 2 wt.% Ti3AlC2 was added, the wear-resistance property of the material improved and became two times harder than the former. However, when 3% Ti3AlC2 was added, TiC gathered at the crystal boundary, which caused a decrease in the wear resistance of the material.
Experimental Evaluation of the Properties of Recycled Aggregate Pavement Brick with a Composite Shaped Phase Change Material
Authors: Ru Chaojie , Li Guoxin , Guo Fanxing , Sun Xuedi , Yu Deliang , Chen Zheng
Published: August 2022

Brick waste makes up a significant part of the solid waste that is generated from building demolition globally. The disposal of this waste consumes land, causes environmental pollution, and is a waste of resources. In order to use this construction waste and increase its functionality, two types of stable-shape PEG-400/SiO2 composite shaped PCM and Tet/SiO2 composite shaped PCM were studied and added to recycled aggregate pavement bricks, and two new types of composite shaped PCM recycled aggregate pavement bricks were created. SEM, DSC, TGA, and other test methods found the two PCMs to be successfully adsorbed by SiO2, and the setting effect of PEG-400/SiO2 was found to be better than that of Tet/SiO2. The physicochemical properties of both composite shaped PCMs remained stable within the TGA test temperature range. The prepared PCM was added to the recycled aggregate pavement brick. A comprehensive analysis of the properties of the composite shaped PCM recycled orthopedic pavement brick found the compressive strength and flexural strength of Tet/SiO2 PCM recycled aggregate pavement brick to be significantly higher than those of PEG-400/SiO2 PCM recycled aggregate pavement brick. With a recycled aggregate content of 60% and a compound shaped PCM content of 5%, the 28-day strength of the recycled aggregate pavement brick was found to be higher than that of the recycled aggregate pavement brick with a recycled aggregate content of 70% and a compound shaped PCM content of 10%. This study provides reference for the optimization and upgrading of the thermal storage performance of composite shaped PCM in practical applications, and is of great significance for promoting thermal energy storage development and expanding its application range.
Fabrication of Color Glass by Pearlescent Pigments and Dissolved EVA Film
Authors: Lim Seongmin , Ahn Hyeon-Sik , Gasonoo Akpeko , Lee Jae-Hyun , Choi Yoonseuk
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we propose a single-layer thin-film color glass manufacturing process for building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) with excellent aesthetics and high transmittance, through a solution process using pearlescent pigments. As a matrix for the color solution, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), which serves as an encapsulant and adhesive for the photovoltaic module (PV), was dissolved and used as a matrix for the color solution. The color glass produced is excellent in securing the aesthetics of buildings, has a high transmittance of 90% or more, outputs a maximum solar power generation efficiency of 91% from a solar cell, and can minimize the deterioration of power generation efficiency. In addition, the characteristics do not change over time, so it is suitable as color glass for BIPV. Through this study, the solution-based color glass manufacturing process for BIPV using dissolved EVA as a matrix forms a single-layer thin film with good color extensions. The choice of EVA as a matrix makes it possible for color glass to be easily attached to a solar panel using a heat press method. This proposed technique makes it easier and simpler to manufacture color glass as compared to the physical vapor deposition process. The adoption of this solution process technique to fabricate pearlescent pigment-based color glass can effectively reduce the time and cost of the process, so it is expected to be applied to the low-cost BIPV market with excellent aesthetics and high transmittance.
Research on Clamping Action Control Technology for Floating Fixtures
Authors: Zhu Benchi , Mu Zhuang , He Wenbo , Fan Longxin , Zhao Guolong , Yang Yinfei
Published: August 2022

By adaptively releasing deformation during machining, floating clamping significantly raises the machining quality of aircraft structural parts. The fundamental issue to be resolved is how to precisely control the clamping action of the floating fixtures. In this study, the machining process of aircraft beams was studied, utilizing the finite element method (FEM) from the perspective of strain energy evolution. The study found that the increment of deformation and the variation of the strain energy between adjacent removed layers of the material showed the same trend of change, and targeted clamping loosening at the stage of an excessive strain energy evolution gradient is beneficial to reducing the final deformation of the workpiece. Therefore, a clamping action control method based on strain energy evolution gradient regulation is proposed, and a clamping action control strategy of floating fixtures was formulated. Furthermore, a cutting experiment was carried out, and the results showed that the maximum deformation of the aircraft beam using the clamping action control strategy was only 0.112 mm, which was reduced by 74.6% compared to traditional clamping.
Needle Penetration Simulation: Influence of Penetration Angle and Sample Stress on the Mechanical Behaviors of Polymers Applying a Cast Silicone and a 3D-Printed Resin
Authors: von Steuben Thore , Enzmann Florian K. , Spintzyk Sebastian , Rupp Frank , Roehler Ariadne
Published: August 2022

For surgical catheterization training applications, realistic and effective materials are desired. In this study, the relevance of a needle puncture angle and a simulated wall stress on different elastic materials were determined in a previously developed experimental setup. Both settings were considered individually in two new setups. In addition, a control setup with neither angle nor prestress was designed. During the process of puncturing the samples of two materials (Replisil 9N and Formlabs Elastic 50A), force–displacement values were collected, and three predefined parameters evaluated. The differences between the angled/stressed groups and the control group were analyzed. The additively processed material required a significantly higher force to puncture than the conventional one (p < 0.001). Moreover, a needle angulation of 45° required more force than puncturing orthogonally. Prestressing the samples did not clearly influence the resulting force. An evaluation of relative parameters showed that the investigated materials behaved differently but not linearly differently under the influence of needle angle and prestress. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the properties and suitability of materials for surgical training models in appropriate experimental setups considering multiple parameters.
An Alkaloid from a Highly Invasive Seaweed Increases the Voracity and Reproductive Output of a Model Fish Species
Authors: Schiano Valentina , Cutignano Adele , Maiello Daniela , Carbone Marianna , Ciavatta Maria , Polese Gianluca , Fioretto Federica , Attanasio Chiara , Palladino Antonio , Felline Serena , Terlizzi Antonio , D’Angelo Livia , de Girolamo Paolo , Turano Mimmo , Lucini Carla , Mollo Ernesto
Published: August 2022

The invasive macroalga Caulerpa cylindracea has spread widely in the Mediterranean Sea, becoming a favorite food item for native fish for reasons yet unknown. By using a combination of behavioral, morphological, and molecular approaches, herein we provide evidence that the bisindole alkaloid caulerpin, a major secondary metabolite of C. cylindracea, significantly increases food intake in the model fish Danio rerio, influencing the regulation of genes involved in the orexigenic pathway. In addition, we found that the compound improves fish reproductive performance by affecting the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal axis. The obtained results pave the way for the possible valorization of C. cylindracea as a sustainable source of a functional feed additive of interest to face critical challenges both in aquaculture and in human nutrition.
Novel β-Hairpin Peptide from Marine Polychaeta with a High Efficacy against Gram-Negative Pathogens
Authors: Safronova Victoria N. , Bolosov Ilia A. , Kruglikov Roman N. , Korobova Olga V. , Pereskokova Eugenia S. , Borzilov Alexander I. , Panteleev Pavel V. , Ovchinnikova Tatiana V.
Published: August 2022

In recent years, new antibiotics targeting multidrug resistant Gram-negative bacteria have become urgently needed. Therefore, antimicrobial peptides are considered to be a novel perspective class of antibacterial agents. In this study, a panel of novel BRICHOS-related β-hairpin antimicrobial peptides were identified in transcriptomes of marine polychaeta species. Two of them—abarenicin from Abarenicola pacifica and UuBRI-21 from Urechis unicinctus—possess strong antibacterial potential in vitro against a wide panel of Gram-negative bacteria including drug-resistant strains. Mechanism of action assays demonstrate that peptides disrupt bacterial and mammalian membrane integrity. Considering the stronger antibacterial potential and a low ability of abarenicin to be bound by components of serum, this peptide was selected for further modification. We conducted an alanine and arginine scanning of abarenicin by replacing individual amino acids and modulating hydrophobicity so as to improve its antibacterial potency and membrane selectivity. This design approach allowed us to obtain the Ap9 analog displaying a high efficacy in vivo in the mice septicemia and neutropenic mice peritonitis models. We demonstrated that abarenicin analogs did not significantly induce bacterial resistance after a four-week selection experiment and acted on different steps of the biofilm formation: (a) killing bacteria at their planktonic stage and preventing biofilm formation and (b) degrading pre-formed biofilm and killing embedded bacteria. The potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of the abarenicin analog Ap9 with its high efficacy in vivo against Gram-negative infection in mice models makes this peptide an attractive candidate for further preclinical investigation.
Attitudes towards the Utilization of Intraosseous Access in Prehospital and Emergency Medicine Nursing Personnel
Authors: Žunkovič Matjaž , Markota Andrej , Lešnik Amadeus
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives: Insertion of an intraosseous access device enables intravascular access for critically ill patients in a prehospital and emergency department setting even when intravenous access is not possible. The aim of our study was to assess the attitudes of prehospital and emergency department nursing staff towards the utilization of intraosseous access devices. Materials and Methods: We performed quantitative research using a closed-ended structured questionnaire distributed to prehospital unit and associated emergency department nursing staff serving a population of around 200,000 inhabitants. Results: We distributed 140 questionnaires, and 106 were returned and completed. Of these, 69 (65.1%) respondents needed more than three attempts to achieve peripheral intravenous access at least once in the last year and 29 (27.4%) required central venous access because of impossible intravenous access. In the last five years, 8 (7.5%) respondents used endotracheal route for administration of medications. Despite this, only 48 (45.3%) of respondents have ever used the intraosseous route. Also, 79 (74.5%) respondents received at least some training in obtaining IO access; however, 46 (43.4%) answered that education regarding intraosseous access is not sufficient, and 92 (86.8%) answered that they wanted additional training regarding intraosseous access. Conclusions: Prehospital and emergency department nursing staff are aware of the importance of intraosseous access and understand the need for additional education and certification in this field.
Penetration of Water-Soluble Material through Gas-Cleaning Filters
Authors: Schwarz Almuth D. , Meyer Jörg , Dittler Achim
Published: August 2022

To predict the behavior of gas-cleaning filters during real-world operation, it is essential to understand their response to ambient conditions. The temporary presence of water droplets in gas-cleaning filtration systems due to fog, spray rain, or condensation, as examples of irregular events, has an impact on the filters’ operating performance, especially when soluble particles are present. In this work, surface filters were loaded with mixtures of water-soluble salt particles and insoluble glass spheres. These were, subsequently, exposed to water mist and dried by a particle-free gas stream. A novel approach to analyze the drainage of solution on filters with soluble filter cakes is presented, which allows the detection of solubles on the clean gas side of the filter. As a result, this work, for the first time, presents a sighting of the penetration of soluble filter cake material through gas-cleaning filters. Furthermore, filter performance, in terms of differential pressure and fractional separation efficiency, was determined and a characteristic differential pressure evolution for hydrophilic filters during exposure to water mist was also identified. The fractional separation efficiency of gas-cleaning filters decreases due to exposure to water mist. The findings are supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and X-ray microtomography (µ-CT analysis) images.
Perfluorooctanesulfonate Can Cause Negative Bias in Creatinine Measurement in Hemodialysis Patients Using Polysulfone Dialysis Membranes
Authors: Liu Wen-Sheng , Lin Chien-Hung , Li Szu-Yuan , Lin Chih-Ching , Liu Tsung-Yun , Tan Ann Charis , Tsou Han-Hsing , Chan Hsiang-Lin , Lai Yen-Ting
Published: August 2022

Serum creatinine is an important clinical marker for renal clearance. However, two conventional methods (Jaffe and enzymatic) are prone to interferences with organic compounds as compared to the standard method (isotope dilution–liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry) and can cause a significant negative bias. Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are two common perfluorochemicals (PFCs) that can easily be accumulated in humans. We aimed to verify whether this bias is the result of an accumulation of PFCs. The serum creatinine values of 124 hemodialysis patients were analyzed using the three methods. We also aimed to evaluate which biochemical parameters will influence the difference between the conventional methods and the standard method. We found that a significant underestimation occurred when using the conventional methods. Albumin is an independent factor associated with negative bias, but it loses this correlation after dialysis, likely due to the removal of protein-bound uremic toxins. PFOS can cause negative bias when using the enzymatic method. Furthermore, this linear correlation is more significant in patients who used polysulfone-based dialysis membranes, possibly due to the better clearance of other uremic toxins. The serum creatinine of uremic patients can be significantly underestimated when using conventional methods. PFCs, as well the type of dialysis membrane being used, can be influencing factors.
Thermodynamic Properties and Equation of State for Solid and Liquid Aluminum
Authors: Kozyrev Nikolay V. , Gordeev Vladimir V.
Published: August 2022

High-temperature equations of state for solid and liquid aluminum were constructed herein using experimental data on thermodynamic properties, thermal expansion, compressibility, bulk modulus and sound velocity measurements, supplemented with phase diagram data (melting curve). The entire set of experimental data was optimized using the temperature-dependent Tait equation over a pressure range of up to 800 kbar and over a temperature range from 20 K to the melting point for solid aluminum and to 3800 K for liquid aluminum. The temperature dependence of thermodynamic and thermophysical parameters was described by an expanded Einstein model. The resultant equations of state describe well the totality of experimental data within measurement errors of individual variables.
GPRC6A Mediates Glucose and Amino Acid Homeostasis in Mice
Authors: He Yumin , Su Jingyun , Gao Hongrui , Li Jianzhong , Feng Zemeng , Yin Yulong
Published: August 2022

GPRC6A, an important member of the G-protein-coupled receptor superfamily, has been widely studied in body health maintenance and related diseases. However, it is still controversial whether GPRC6A plays a vital role in glucose homeostasis, and the role of GPRC6A on amino acid homeostasis has not been reported. In this study, GPRC6A was knocked out in C57BL6 mice, and we found that GPRC6A plays an important role in the glucose metabolism, mainly affecting the glucose clearance capacity and gluconeogenesis in mice. GPRC6A plays an important role in maintaining amino acid homeostasis under dietary restrictions, and this may be realized by participating in the regulation of autophagy. Since a large amount of amino acid is lost from urine in aged GPRC6A−/− mice, it is possible that GPRC6A regulates amino acid homeostasis by affecting the integrity of tissue structure. GPRC6A is involved in the regulation of mTORC1 activation but is not necessary for mTORC1 activation under sufficient nutritional supply. In the absence of exogenous amino acids, the loss of GPRC6A induces the GCN2 pathway activation and excessive autophagy of cells, leading to the overactivation of mTORC1, which may be detrimental to body health and cell survival. In summary, this study provides a theoretical and experimental basis for the metabolic process of GPRC6A in body growth and health.
Blood Flow of Au-Nanofluid Using Sisko Model in Stenotic Artery with Porous Walls and Viscous Dissipation Effect
Authors: Tang Tao-Qian , Rooman Muhammad , Vrinceanu Narcisa , Shah Zahir , Alshehri Ahmed
Published: August 2022

Nanofluids are extremely useful to investigators due to their greater heat transfer rates, which have significant applications in multiple industries. The primary objective of this article is to look into the effect of viscous dissipation in Sisko nano liquid flow with gold Au nanoparticles on a porous stenosis artery. Heat transfer properties were explored. Blood was utilized as a base fluid for nanoparticles. To renovate the governing nonlinear PDEs into nonlinear ODEs, appropriate transformations were used. The bvp4c-based shooting method, via MATLAB, was used to determine the numerical results of the nonlinear ODEs. Furthermore, flow forecasts for each physical quantity were explored. To demonstrate the physical influences of flow constraints versus presumed flow fields, physical explanations were used. The findings demonstrated that the velocity contour improved as the volume fraction, curvature, power law index, and material parameter upsurged. For the Prandtl number, the volume fraction of nanoparticles, the index of the power law, and the temperature profile of the nanofluid declined. Furthermore, the drag force and transfer of the heat were also investigated as explanations for influences on blood flow. Further, the Nusselt number reduced and the drag force enhanced as the curvature parameter values increased. The modeling and numerical solutions play an impressive role in predicting the cause of atherosclerosis.