bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid Droplets in Lung Cancers Are Crucial for the Cell Growth and Starvation Survival
Authors: Lung Jrhau , Hung Ming-Szu , Wang Ting-Yao , Chen Kuan-Liang , Luo Chi-Wen , Jiang Yuan-Yuan , Wu Shin-Yi , Lee Li-Wen , Lin Paul-Yann , Chen Fen-Fen , Liao Hui-Fen , Lin Yu-Ching
Published: October 2022

For rapid and unlimited cell growth and proliferation, cancer cells require large quantities of nutrients. Many metabolic pathways and nutrient uptake systems are frequently reprogrammed and upregulated to meet the demand from cancer cells, including the demand for lipids. The lipids for most adult normal cells are mainly acquired from the circulatory system. Whether different cancer cells adopt identical mechanisms to ensure sufficient lipid supply, and whether the lipid demand and supply meet each other, remains unclear, and was investigated in lung cancer cells. Results showed that, despite frequent upregulation in de novo lipogenesis and the lipid transporter system, different lung cancer cells adopt different proteins to acquire sufficient lipids, and the lipid supply frequently exceeds the demand, as significant amounts of lipids stored in the lipid droplets could be found within lung cancer cells. Lipid droplet surface protein, PLIN3, was found frequently overexpressed since the early stage in lung cancer tissues. Although the expression is not significantly associated with a specific gender, age, histology type, disease stage, and smoking habit, the frequently elevated expression of PLIN3 protein indicates the importance of lipid droplets for lung cancer. These lipid droplets are not only for nutrient storage, but are also crucial for tumor growth and proliferation, as well as survival in starvation. These results suggest that manipulation of lipid droplet formation or TG storage in lung cancer cells could potentially decrease the progression of lung cancer. Further exploration of lipid biology in lung cancer could help design novel treatment strategies.
Blood Reflux-Induced Epigenetic Factors HDACs and DNMTs Are Associated with the Development of Human Chronic Venous Disease
Authors: Chang Shun-Fu , Tsai Hsiao-En , Kuo Jong-Tar , Ruan Yu-Rong , Chen Chiu-Yen , Wang Shin-Yi , Liu Po-Yu , Lee Ding-Yu
Published: October 2022

Blood reflux and metabolic regulation play important roles in chronic venous disease (CVD) development. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) serve as repressors that inhibit metabolic signaling, which is induced by proatherogenic flow to promote aortic endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to elucidate the relationship between blood reflux and epigenetic factors HDACs and DNMTs in CVD. Human varicose veins with different levels of blood reflux versus normal veins with normal venous flow were examined. The results show that HDAC-1, -2, -3, -5, and -7 are overexpressed in the endothelium of varicose veins with blood reflux. Blood reflux-induced HDACs are enhanced in the varicose veins with a longer duration time of blood reflux. In contrast, these HDACs are rarely expressed in the endothelium of the normal vein with normal venous flow. Similar results are obtained for DNMT1 and DNMT3a. Our findings suggest that the epigenetic factors, HDACs and DNMTs, are induced in venous ECs in response to blood reflux but are inhibited in response to normal venous flow. Blood reflux-induced HDACs and DNMTs could inhibit metabolic regulation and promote venous EC dysfunction, which is highly correlated with CVD pathogenesis.
Gut Microbiota, Metabolic Disorders and Breast Cancer: Could Berberine Turn Out to Be a Transversal Nutraceutical Tool? A Narrative Analysis
Authors: Cazzaniga Massimiliano , Zonzini Giordano Bruno , Di Pierro Francesco , Moricoli Sara , Bertuccioli Alexander
Published: October 2022

Metabolic disorders, mainly characterized as the marked alteration of the lipid and carbohydrate profile, in addition to the clinical presence of the direct consequences of these alterations, are pathological conditions that have considerably increased in prevalence in recent years. They are directly linked to the onset of various pathologies, including cancer, particularly breast cancer, and are hormone-responsive. Alongside the known conditions responsible for this scenario, such as nutrition and lifestyle in general, the importance of both the colonic microbiota and the various organs and systems is becoming increasingly evident. In fact, it is now evident that microbial dysbiosis plays a fundamental role in the onset of these metabolic disorders, and therefore how these conditions are indirectly responsible for the onset and progression of neoplasms. Indirect mechanisms such as an altered Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio; the formation of metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), in particular, butyrate, which is capable of acting as a tumor suppressor; and the glucuronidase activity of estroboloma (bacteria responsible for estrogen metabolism) are just some of the most important mechanisms that contribute to the history of breast cancer. It is therefore understandable that in clinical terms, it is essential to associate the modulation of metabolic disorders and the microbial conditions that contribute to generating them with common therapies, preferably using compounds and solutions that are effective and acceptable for the patient without side effects. Nutraceuticals such as berberine (active both in metabolic scenarios and in the microbiota) and interventions modulating the microbial structure such as the use of probiotics and prebiotics seem to be ideal solutions for these preventive and no-longer-ignorable strategies in the light of numerous data now present in the literature.
Discovery of New Phenylacetone Monooxygenase Variants for the Development of Substituted Indigoids through Biocatalysis
Authors: Núñez-Navarro Nicolás , Salazar Muñoz Javier , Castillo Francisco , Ramírez-Sarmiento César A. , Poblete-Castro Ignacio , Zacconi Flavia C. , Parra Loreto P.
Published: October 2022

Indigoids are natural pigments obtained from plants by ancient cultures. Romans used them mainly as dyes, whereas Asian cultures applied these compounds as treatment agents for several diseases. In the modern era, the chemical industry has made it possible to identify and develop synthetic routes to obtain them from petroleum derivatives. However, these processes require high temperatures and pressures and large amounts of solvents, acids, and alkali agents. Thus, enzyme engineering and the development of bacteria as whole-cell biocatalysts emerges as a promising green alternative to avoid the use of these hazardous materials and consequently prevent toxic waste generation. In this research, we obtained two novel variants of phenylacetone monooxygenase (PAMO) by iterative saturation mutagenesis. Heterologous expression of these two enzymes, called PAMOHPCD and PAMOHPED, in E. coli was serendipitously found to produce indigoids. These interesting results encourage us to characterize the thermal stability and enzyme kinetics of these new variants and to evaluate indigo and indirubin production in a whole-cell system by HPLC. The highest yields were obtained with PAMOHPCD supplemented with L-tryptophan, producing ~3000 mg/L indigo and ~130.0 mg/L indirubin. Additionally, both enzymes could oxidize and produce several indigo derivatives from substituted indoles, with PAMOHPCD being able to produce the well-known Tyrian purple. Our results indicate that the PAMO variants described herein have potential application in the textile, pharmaceutics, and semiconductors industries, prompting the use of environmentally friendly strategies to obtain a diverse variety of indigoids.
Advanced Genetic Studies on Powdery Mildew Resistance in TGR-1551
Authors: López-Martín María , Pérez-de-Castro Ana , Picó Belén , Gómez-Guillamón María Luisa
Published: October 2022

Cucurbits powdery mildew (CPM) is one of the main limiting factors of melon cultivation worldwide. Resistance to races 1, 2, and 5 has been reported in the African accession TGR-1551, whose resistance is controlled by a dominant–recessive epistasis. The dominant and recessive quantitative trail loci (QTL) have previously been located in chromosomes 5 and 12, respectively. We used several densely genotyped BC3 families derived from the cross between TGR-1551 and the susceptible cultivar ‘Bola de Oro’ to finely map these resistance regions. The further phenotyping and genotyping of the selected BC5, BC5S1, BC5S2, BC4S1, BC4xPS, and (BC4xPS) S1 offspring allowed for the narrowing of the candidate intervals to a 250 and 381 kb region in chromosomes 5 and 12, respectively. Moreover, the temperature effect over the resistance provided by the dominant gene has been confirmed. High resolution melting markers (HRM) were tightly linked to both resistance regions and will be useful in marker-assisted selection programs. Candidate R genes with variants between parents that caused a potential modifier impact on the protein function were identified within both intervals. These candidate genes provide targets for future functional analyses to better understand the resistance to powdery mildew in melons.
Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Nanoparticle Biodistribution: A Review of Existing Models, Simulation Software, and Data Analysis Tools
Authors: Kutumova Elena O. , Akberdin Ilya R. , Kiselev Ilya N. , Sharipov Ruslan N. , Egorova Vera S. , Syrocheva Anastasiia O. , Parodi Alessandro , Zamyatnin Andrey A. , Kolpakov Fedor A.
Published: October 2022

Cancer treatment and pharmaceutical development require targeted treatment and less toxic therapeutic intervention to achieve real progress against this disease. In this scenario, nanomedicine emerged as a reliable tool to improve drug pharmacokinetics and to translate to the clinical biologics based on large molecules. However, the ability of our body to recognize foreign objects together with carrier transport heterogeneity derived from the combination of particle physical and chemical properties, payload and surface modification, make the designing of effective carriers very difficult. In this scenario, physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling can help to design the particles and eventually predict their ability to reach the target and treat the tumor. This effort is performed by scientists with specific expertise and skills and familiarity with artificial intelligence tools such as advanced software that are not usually in the “cords” of traditional medical or material researchers. The goal of this review was to highlight the advantages that computational modeling could provide to nanomedicine and bring together scientists with different background by portraying in the most simple way the work of computational developers through the description of the tools that they use to predict nanoparticle transport and tumor targeting in our body.
Improving Fmoc Solid Phase Synthesis of Human Beta Defensin 3
Authors: Walewska Aleksandra , Kosikowska-Adamus Paulina , Tomczykowska Marta , Jaroszewski Bartosz , Prahl Adam , Bulaj Grzegorz
Published: October 2022

Human β-defensin 3, HBD-3, is a 45-residue antimicrobial and immunomodulatory peptide that plays multiple roles in the host defense system. In addition to interacting with cell membranes, HBD-3 is also a ligand for melanocortin receptors, cytokine receptors and voltage-gated potassium channels. Structural and functional studies of HBD-3 have been hampered by inefficient synthetic and recombinant expression methods. Herein, we report an optimized Fmoc solid-phase synthesis of this peptide using an orthogonal disulfide bonds formation strategy. Our results suggest that utilization of an optimized resin, coupling reagents and pseudoproline dipeptide building blocks decrease chain aggregation and largely improve the amount of the target peptide in the final crude material, making the synthesis more efficient. We also present an alternative synthesis of HBD-3 in which a replacement of a native disulfide bridge with a diselenide bond improved the oxidative folding. Our work enables further biological and pharmacological characterization of HBD-3, hence advancing our understanding of its therapeutic potential.
Identification of KFB Family in Moso Bamboo Reveals the Potential Function of PeKFB9 Involved in Stress Response and Lignin Polymerization
Authors: Yang Kebin , Li Ziyang , Zhu Chenglei , Liu Yan , Sun Huayu , Li Xueping , Gao Zhimin
Published: October 2022

The Kelch repeat F-box (KFB) protein is an important E3 ubiquitin ligase that has been demonstrated to perform an important post-translational regulatory role in plants by mediating multiple biological processes. Despite their importance, KFBs have not yet been identified and characterized in bamboo. In this study, 19 PeKFBs were identified with F-box and Kelch domains; genes encoding these PeKFBs were unevenly distributed across 12 chromosomes of moso bamboo. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the PeKFBs were divided into eight subclades based on similar gene structures and highly conserved motifs. A tissue-specific gene expression analysis showed that the PeKFBs were differentially expressed in various tissues of moso bamboo. All the promoters of the PeKFBs contained stress-related cis-elements, which was supported by the differentially expression of PeKFBs of moso bamboo under drought and cold stresses. Sixteen proteins were screened from the moso bamboo shoots’ cDNA library using PeKFB9 as a bait through a yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) assay. Moreover, PeKFB9 physically interacted with PeSKP1-like-1 and PePRX72-1, which mediated the activity of peroxidase in proteolytic turnover. Taken together, these findings improved our understanding of PeKFBs, especially in response to stresses, and laid a foundation for revealing the molecular mechanism of PeKFB9 in regulating lignin polymerization by degrading peroxidase.
2D FEM Investigation of Residual Stress in Diamond Burnishing
Authors: Felhő Csaba , Varga Gyula
Published: October 2022

Sliding friction diamond burnishing is a finishing machining operation whose purpose is to improve the surface integrity of previously machined surfaces and increase their surface hardness. When analyzing a complex process involving plastic deformation, friction, and the interaction between solids, finite element models (FEMs) involve a significant amount of simplification. The aim of this study is to investigate a 2D FEM of the residual stress occurring during diamond burnishing. Before burnishing, the samples were processed by fine turning. Based on the simulations and laboratory experiments performed, it can be concluded that the diamond burnishing process can be modeled with relatively good approximation using two-dimensional modeling. It was also concluded that it is important to consider the initial surface topography in two-dimensional tests. The results indicate that the diamond burnishing process improved the residual stress properties of EN 1.4301 austenitic stainless steel by creating relatively high compressive stress, whose magnitude was between 629 and 1138 MPa depending on the applied force. However, the stress distribution is not uniform; it is mostly concentrated under the roughness peaks.
MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Online Identification of Trichophyton indotineae Using the MSI-2 Application
Authors: Normand Anne-Cécile , Moreno-Sabater Alicia , Jabet Arnaud , Hamane Samia , Cremer Geneviève , Foulet Françoise , Blaize Marion , Dellière Sarah , Bonnal Christine , Imbert Sébastien , Brun Sophie , Packeu Ann , Bretagne Stéphane , Piarroux Renaud
Published: October 2022

Trichophyton indotineae is an emerging pathogen which recently spread from India to Europe and that is more prone than other species of the Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex to show resistance to terbinafine, resulting in the necessity of rapid identification. Here, we improved the online MSI-2 MALDI-TOF identification tool in order to identify T. indotineae. By multiplying the culture conditions (2 culture media and 6 stages of growth) prior to protein extractions for both test isolates and reference strains, we added 142 references corresponding to 12 strains inside the T. mentagrophytes complex in the online MSI-2 database, of which 3 are T. indotineae strains. The resulting database was tested with 1566 spectra of 67 isolates from the T. mentagrophytes complex, including 16 T. indotineae isolates. Using the newly improved MSI-2 database, we increased the identification rate of T. indotineae from 5% to 96%, with a sensitivity of 99.6%. We also identified specific peaks (6834/6845 daltons and 10,634/10,680 daltons) allowing for the distinction of T. indotineae from the other species of the complex. Our improved version of the MSI-2 application allows for the identification of T. indotineae. This will improve the epidemiological knowledge of the spread of this species throughout the world and will help to improve patient care.
Let-7 microRNAs Are Possibly Associated with Perineural Invasion in Colorectal Cancer by Targeting IGF Axis
Authors: Niculae Andrei Marian , Dobre Maria , Herlea Vlad , Manuc Teodora Ecaterina , Trandafir Bogdan , Milanesi Elena , Hinescu Mihail Eugen
Published: October 2022

Increased insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis activity is associated with the development and progression of different types of malignancies, including colorectal cancer (CRC). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) belonging to the let-7 family have been reported to target genes involved in this axis and are known as tumor suppressors. In this study, in silico bioinformatic analysis was performed to assess miRNA–mRNA interactions between eight miRNAs belonging to the let-7 family and genes involved in the IGF signaling pathway, coding for receptors and substrates. miRNAs’ expression analysis revealed that hsa-let-7a-5p, hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-let-7c-5p, hsa-let- 97 7d-5p, hsa-let-7e-5p, hsa-let-7f-5p, and hsa-let-7g-5p were significantly down-regulated in 25 CRC tumoral tissues (T) compared to the corresponding adjacent peritumoral tissues (PT). Moreover, our results showed an upregulation of miR-let-7e-5p in CRC tissues with mutations in KRAS codon 12 or 13, and, for the first time, found a specific dysregulation of let-7a-5p, let-7b-5p, let-7c-5p, let-7d-5p, and let-7i-5p in CRC with perineural invasion. Our results sustain the relationship between the IGF axis, let-7 miRNAs, and CRC and suggest an association between the expression of these miRNAs and perineural invasion.
Polyphenols and Their Nanoformulations: Protective Effects against Human Diseases
Authors: Anand Santosh , Sowbhagya Ramachandregowda , Ansari Mohammad Azam , Alzohairy Mohammad A. , Alomary Mohammad N. , Almalik Asiyah I. , Ahmad Wasim , Tripathi Takshashila , Elderdery Abozer Y.
Published: October 2022

Polyphenols are the secondary metabolites synthesized by the plants as a part of defense machinery. Owing to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancerous, antineoplastic, and immunomodulatory effects, natural polyphenols have been used for a long time to prevent and treat a variety of diseases. As a result, these phytochemicals may be able to act as therapeutic agents in treating cancer and cardiovascular and neurological disorders. The limited bioavailability of polyphenolic molecules is one issue with their utilization. For the purpose of increasing the bioavailability of these chemicals, many formulation forms have been developed, with nanonization standing out among them. The present review outlines the biological potential of nanoformulated plant polyphenolic compounds. It also summarizes the employability of various polyphenols as nanoformulations for cancer and neurological and cardiovascular disease treatment. Nanoencapsulated polyphenols, singular or in combinations, effective both in vitro and in vivo, need more investigation.
Serotonin Type 3 Receptor Is Potentially Involved in Cellular Stress Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Correia Ana Salomé , Silva Isabel , Oliveira José Carlos , Reguengo Henrique , Vale Nuno
Published: October 2022

Depression is a disease with several molecular mechanisms involved, such as problems in the serotonergic pathway. This disease is very complex and prevalent, and thus important to deeply study and aim to overcome high rates of relapse and therapeutic failure. In this study, two cellular lines were used (HT-22 and SH-SY5Y cells) to gain insight about the role of the serotonin type 3 (5-HT3) receptor in cellular stress induced by hydrogen peroxide and/or corticosterone. In research, these compounds are known to mimic the high levels of oxidative stress and dysfunction of the hypothalamus–hypophysis–adrenal axis by the action of glucocorticoids, usually present in depressed individuals. The receptor 5-HT3 is also known to be involved in depression, previously demonstrated in studies that highlight the role of these receptors as promising targets for antidepressant therapy. Indeed, the drugs used in this work (mirtazapine, scopolamine, and lamotrigine) interact with this serotonergic receptor. Thus, by using cell morphology, cell viability (neutral red and MTT), and HPLC assays, this work aimed to understand the role of these drugs in the stress induced by H2O2/corticosterone to HT-22 and SH-SY5Y cell lines. We concluded that the antagonism of the 5-HT3 receptor by these drugs may be important in the attenuation of H2O2-induced oxidative stress to the cells, but not in the corticosterone-induced stress.
Characteristics of Mortar Containing Oyster Shell as Fine Aggregate
Authors: Jung Ui-In , Kim Bong-Joo
Published: October 2022

In this study, oyster shells were processed and classified into sizes equal to or smaller than the fine aggregate threshold, and their engineering properties and fire-resistant performance were examined. The differences in heating weight loss of oyster shell aggregate (OSAs) with different particle sizes were examined using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The TGA results showed indicating that the temperature at which decarboxylation reaction started depended on the OSA particle size. The porosity of mortar specimens was analyzed using mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The porosity area and porosity of the OSA-containing mortar increased with decreasing particle size. Mortar fire-resistant boards with heated for 2 h in accordance with the heating conditions of KS F 2257-1(methods of fire-resistant testing for structural element—general requirements) to measure their back-side temperature. The board made with OSA2.5 exhibited 273.2 °C, which is more than 90 °C higher than the back-side temperature of the board with OSA 0.6Under. Such difference was attributed to the greater heat transfer delay caused by higher porosity, porosity area, and specific surface area in OSAs with small particle sizes. The TGA results combined with the heating test results suggested that CO2 would be generated at different temperatures in boards containing OSAs with different particle sizes because of the differences in the endothermic reaction temperature.
Optimization of Graphene Nanoplatelets Dispersion and Its Performance in Cement Mortars
Authors: Zhou Yong , Wang Yuliang , Gao Tianming , Ling Yifeng , Jiang Nengdong , Tawfek Abdullah M. , Yuan Huaqiang
Published: October 2022

As promising next-generation conducting materials, Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNPs) have been widely used to enhance the mechanical and pressure-sensitive properties of cement-based materials. However, this beneficial effect highly depended on its dispersion. In this study, polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) surfactant, high-speed shear, and ultrasonication were used to disperse GNPs. To fully exert the mechanical and pressure-sensitive properties and enhance the dispersion effect of GNPs in cement-based materials, the dispersing method parameters, including PVP concentration, ultrasonication time, shear time, and rate, were optimized. The dispersion degree of GNPs was evaluated by absorbance. The results show that the optimal dispersion parameters were 10 mg/mL of PVP concentration, 15 min of ultrasonication time, 15 min of shear time, and 8000 revolutions per minute (rpm) of shear rate. In addition, the effect of GNPs dosage (0.05, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0 wt%) on the setting time, flowability, and mechanical and pressure-sensitive properties of cement mortar were examined. Results reveal that the optimum dosage of GNPs was found at 1.0 wt%.
Effect of Ultra-High Pressure Sintering and Spark Plasma Sintering and Subsequent Heat Treatment on the Properties of Si3N4 Ceramics
Authors: Lv Xiaoan , Li Xianhui , Huang Junwei , Ge Changchun , Yu Qi
Published: October 2022

In this study, coarse Beta silicon nitride (β-Si3N4) powder was used as the raw material to fabricate dense Si3N4 ceramics using two different methods of ultra-high pressure sintering and spark plasma sintering at 1550 °C, followed by heat treatment at 1750 °C. The densification, microstructure, mechanical properties, and thermal conductivity of samples were investigated comparatively. The results indicate that spark plasma sintering can fabricate dense Si3N4 ceramics with a relative density of 99.2% in a shorter time and promote α-to-β phase transition. Coarse β-Si3N4 grains were partially fragmented during ultra-high pressure sintering under high pressure of 5 GPa, thereby reducing the number of the nucleus, which is conducive to the growth of elongated grains. The UHP sample with no fine α-Si3N4 powder addition achieved the highest fracture strength (822 MPa) and fracture toughness (6.6 MPa·m1/2). The addition of partial fine α-Si3N4 powder facilitated the densification of the SPS samples and promoted the growth of elongated grains. The β-Si3N4 ceramics SPS sintered with fine α-Si3N4 powder addition obtained the best comprehensive performance, including the highest density of 99.8%, hardness of 1890 HV, fracture strength of 817 MPa, fracture toughness of 6.2 MPa·m1/2, and thermal conductivity of 71 W·m−1·K−1.
Simulation and Optimization of FAPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells with a BaTiO3 Layer for Efficiency Enhancement
Authors: Stanić Denis , Kojić Vedran , Bohač Mario , Čižmar Tihana , Juraić Krunoslav , Rath Thomas , Gajović Andreja
Published: October 2022

Since the addition of BaTiO3 in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) provides a more energetically favorable transport route for electrons, resulting in more efficient charge separation and electron extraction, in this work we experimentally prepared such a PSC and used a modeling approach to point out which simulation parameters have an influence on PSC characteristics and how they can be improved. We added a layer of BaTiO3 onto the TiO2 electron transport layer and prepared a PSC, which had an FTO/TiO2/BaTiO3/FAPbI3/spiro-OMeTAD/Au architecture with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11%. Further, we used the simulation program SCAPS-1D to investigate and optimize the device parameters (thickness of the BaTiO3 and absorber layers, doping, and defect concentration) resulting in devices with PCEs reaching up to 15%, and even up to 20% if we assume an ideal structure with no interlayer defects. Our experimental findings and simulations in this paper highlight the promising interplay of multilayer TiO2/BaTiO3 ETLs for potential future applications in PSCs.
Influence of Al-O and Al-C Clusters on Defects in Graphene Nanosheets Derived from Coal-Tar Pitch via Al4C3 Precursor
Authors: Lin Peng , Zhang Yinggan , Cui Zhou , Xiong Rui , Wen Cuilian , Wu Bo , Lin Qilang , Sa Baisheng
Published: October 2022

By treating Al4C3 as the precursor and growth environment, graphene nanosheets (GNs) can efficiently be derived from coal-tar pitch, which has the advantages of simple preparation process, high product quality, green environmental protection, low equipment requirements and low preparation cost. However, the defects in the prepared GNs have not been well understood. In order to optimize the preparation process, based on density functional theory calculations, the influence mechanism of Al-O and Al-C clusters on defects in GNs derived from coal-tar pitch via Al4C3 precursor has been systematically investigated. With minute quantities of oxygen-containing defects, Al-O and Al-C clusters have been realized in the prepared GNs from X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. Therefore, the influences of Al-O and Al-C clusters on graphene with vacancy defects and oxygen-containing defects are systematically explored from theoretical energy, electron localization function and charge transfer analysis. It is noted that the remaining Al-O and Al-C clusters in GNs are inevitably from the thermodynamics point of view. On the other hand, the existence of defects is beneficial for the further adsorption of Al-O and Al-C clusters in GNs.
The Freeze-Thaw Strength Evolution of Fiber-Reinforced Cement Mortar Based on NMR and Fractal Theory: Considering Porosity and Pore Distribution
Authors: Zhang Chaoyang , Liu Taoying , Jiang Chong , Chen Zhao , Zhou Keping , Chen Lujie
Published: October 2022

Predicting the strength evolution of fiber-reinforced cement mortar under freeze-thaw cycles plays an important role in engineering stability evaluation. In this study, the microscopic pore distribution characteristics of fiber-reinforced cement mortar were obtained by using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology. The change trend of T2 spectrum curve and porosity cumulative distribution curve showed that the freeze-thaw resistance of cement mortar increased first and then decreased with the fiber content. The optimal fiber content was approximately 0.5%. By conducting mechanical experiments, it is found that the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of the samples exhibited the ‘upward convex’ evolution trends with freeze-thaw cycles due to cement hydration, and based on fractal theory, the negative correlation between UCS and Dmin was established. Eventually, a freeze-thaw strength prediction model considering both porosity and pore distribution was proposed, which could accurately predict the strength deterioration law of cement-based materials under freeze-thaw conditions.
Radiolytic Gas Production from Aluminum Coupons (Alloy 1100 and 6061) in Helium Environments—Assessing the Extended Storage of Aluminum Clad Spent Nuclear Fuel
Authors: Conrad Jacy K. , Pu Xiaofei , Khanolkar Amey , Copeland-Johnson Trishelle M. , Pilgrim Corey D. , Wilbanks Joseph R. , Parker-Quaife Elizabeth H. , Horne Gregory P.
Published: October 2022

Corrosion of aluminium alloy clad nuclear fuel, during reactor operation and under subsequent wet storage conditions, promotes the formation of aluminium hydroxide and oxyhydroxide layers. These hydrated mineral phases and the chemisorbed and physisorbed waters on their surfaces are susceptible to radiation-induced processes that yield molecular hydrogen gas (H2), which has the potential to complicate the long-term storage and disposal of aluminium clad nuclear fuel through flammable and explosive gas mixture formation, alloy embrittlement, and pressurization. Here, we present a systematic study of the radiolytic formation of H2 from aluminium alloy 1100 (AA1100) and 6061 (AA6061) coupons in “dry” (~0% relative humidity) and “wet” (50% relative humidity) helium environments. Cobalt-60 gamma irradiation of both aluminium alloy types promoted the formation of H2, which increased linearly up to ~2 MGy, and afforded G-values of 1.1 ± 0.1 and 2.9 ± 0.1 for “dry” and “wet” AA1100, and 2.7 ± 0.1 and 1.7 ± 0.1 for “dry” and “wet” AA6061. The negative correlation of H2 production with relative humidity for AA6061 is in stark contrast to AA1100 and is attributed to differences in the extent of corrosion and varying amounts of adsorbed water in the two alloys, as characterized using optical profilometry, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction techniques.
Corrosion Behavior of Cold-Rolled and Solution-Treated Fe36Mn20Ni20Cr16Al5Si3 HEA in Different Acidic Solutions
Authors: Mahmoud Essam R. I. , Mohamed Lamiaa Z. , Gepreel Mohamed A. , Ebied Saad , Abdelfatah Aliaa
Published: October 2022

New high entropy alloys with good corrosion resistance in severe environment are receiving increasing attention. This work reports upon the microstructure and the corrosion resistance of the non-equiatomic Fe36Mn20Ni20Cr16Al5Si3 alloy in different acidic solutions. This alloy was designed by thermodynamic calculations using CALPHAD SOFTWARE, fabricated through casting, subjected to cold-rolling and solution-treatment, and compared with SS304 stainless steel. The corrosion test was performed through electrochemical behavior in 0.6 M NaCl and 0.6 M NaCl with 0.5 M H2SO4 and 0.6 M NaCl with 1 M H2SO4 solutions. Experimental results indicate that the alloy is composed of FCC phase as the main constituent besides a small amount of other BCC/B2 phases and other intermetallics. The corrosion test measurements revealed that cold-rolled Fe36Mn20Ni20Cr16Al5Si3 alloy is more resistant to corrosion in 0.6 M NaCl, while it is more susceptible to localized pits in H2SO4 to 0.6 M NaCl. Experimental results indicate that the pits are preferentially occurred in the areas of BCC/B2 phase precipitates. The solution-treated Fe36Mn20Ni20Cr16Al5Si3 HEA has the highest corrosion resistance compared to others with the addition of H2SO4 to 0.6 M NaCl. Surface morphologies of the different conditions were studied, and relevant results were reported.
Short and Long-Term Solubility, Alkalizing Effect, and Thermal Persistence of Premixed Calcium Silicate-Based Sealers: AH Plus Bioceramic Sealer vs. Total Fill BC Sealer
Authors: Donnermeyer David , Schemkämper Patrick , Bürklein Sebastian , Schäfer Edgar
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to investigate the short- and long-term solubility, alkalizing potential, and suitability for warm-vertical compaction of AH Plus Bioceramic Sealer (AHBC), and Total Fill BC Sealer (TFBC) compared to the epoxy-resin sealer AH Plus (AHP). A solubility test was performed according to ISO specification 6876 and further similar to ISO requirements over a period of 1 month in distilled water (AD) and 4 months in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). The pH of the immersion solution was determined weekly. Sealers were exposed to thermal treatment at 37, 57, 67, and 97 °C for 30 s. Furthermore, heat treatment at 97 °C was performed for 180 s to simulate inappropriate implementation of warm vertical filling techniques. Physical properties (setting time, flow, film thickness according to ISO 6876) and chemical properties (Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy) were assessed. AHBC and TFBC were associated with significantly higher solubility than AHP over 1 month in AD and 4 months in PBS (p < 0.05). AHBC and TFBC both reached high initial alkaline pH, while TFBC was associated with a longer-lasting alkaline potential than AHBC. Initial pH of AHBC and TFBC was higher in AD than in PBS. None of the sealers were compromised by thermal treatment.
Topology Optimization for Hybrid Lattice Compliant Mechanisms with Multiple Microstructures
Authors: Wei Nan , Ye Hongling , Wang Weiwei , Li Jicheng , Tian Fuwei , Sui Yunkang
Published: October 2022

Hybrid lattice compliant mechanisms (HLCMs) composed of multiple microstructures have attracted widespread interest due to their superior compliant performance compared to the traditional solid compliant mechanisms. A novel optimization scheme for HLCMs is presented using the independent continuous mapping (ICM) method. Firstly, the effective properties of multiple orthogonal and anisotropic lattice microstructures are obtained by taking advantage of homogenization theory, which are used to bridge the relationship between the macrostructure layout and microstructure recognition. Then, a new parallel topology optimization model for optimizing HLCMs is built via a generalized multi-material, recognizing interpolation scheme with filter functions. In addition, the characterization relationship between independent continuous variables and performance of different elements is established. Sensitivity analysis and linear programming are utilized to solve the optimal model. Lastly, numerical examples with a displacement inverter mechanism and compliant gripper mechanism demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for designing HLCMs with various lattice microstructures. Anisotropic lattice microstructures (ALMs) significantly facilitate the efficient use of constitutive properties of materials. Hence, HLCMs consisting of various ALMs achieve superior compliant performance than counterparts comprising different orthogonal lattice microstructures (OLMs). The presented method offers a reference to optimize HLCMs, as well as promotes the theoretical development and application of the ICM method.
Heterogeneous Multiphase Microstructure Formation through Partial Recrystallization of a Warm-Deformed Medium Mn Steel during High-Temperature Partitioning
Authors: Sadeghpour Saeed , Javaheri Vahid , Somani Mahesh , Kömi Jukka , Karjalainen Pentti
Published: October 2022

A novel processing route is proposed to create a heterogeneous, multiphase structure in a medium Mn steel by incorporating partial quenching above the ambient, warm deformation, and partial recrystallization at high partitioning temperatures. The processing schedule was implemented in a Gleeble thermomechanical simulator and microstructures were examined by electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The hardness of the structures was measured as the preliminary mechanical property. Quenching of the reaustenitized sample to 120 °C provided a microstructure consisting of 73% martensite and balance (27%) untransformed austenite. Subsequent warm deformation at 500 °C enabled partially recrystallized ferrite and retained austenite during subsequent partitioning at 650 °C. The final microstructure consisted of a heterogeneous mixture of several phases and morphologies including lath-tempered martensite, partially recrystallized ferrite, lath and equiaxed austenite, and carbides. The volume fraction of retained austenite was 29% with a grain size of 200–300 nm and an estimated average stacking fault energy of 45 mJ/m2. The study indicates that desired novel microstructures can be imparted in these steels through suitable process design, whereby various hardening mechanisms, such as transformation-induced plasticity, bimodal grain size, phase boundary, strain partitioning, and precipitation hardening can be activated, resulting presumably in enhanced mechanical properties.
Diabetes Mellitus as a Predictive Factor for Urinary Tract Infection for Patients Treated with Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Ozawa Kaori , Takai Manabu , Taniguchi Tomoki , Kawase Makoto , Takeuchi Shinichi , Kawase Kota , Kato Daiki , Iinuma Koji , Nakane Keita , Koie Takuya
Published: October 2022

Background and Objectives: We aimed to investigate the rate of incidence and risk factors of post-transplant urinary tract infection (UTI) in patients receiving kidney transplantation (KT) at our institution. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was carried out on patients who underwent KT for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) from January 2008 to December 2021 at Gifu University Hospital. UTI was defined as the existence of bacterial and/or fungal infection in urine with ≥105 colony-forming units/mL, with or without urinary and/or systemic symptoms of UTI. Patients were divided into two groups: those with UTI after KT (UTI group) and those without UTI (non-UTI group). The primary endpoint of this study was the relationship between covariates and UTI after KT. Results: Two hundred and forty patients with ESKD received KT at Gifu University Hospital. Thirty-four participants developed UTI after surgery, and the most common pathogen was Escherichia coli. At the end of the follow-up, graft loss was observed in six patients (2.5%), independent of UTI episodes. In the multivariate analysis, diabetes mellitus (DM) was statistically associated with post-transplant UTI in kidney transplant recipients. Conclusions: Preoperative serum glucose control in patients with DM may have a crucial role in preventing UTI and preserving renal function after KT.
Development of Hydraulic Lifting System of Deep-Sea Mineral Resources
Authors: Hu Qiong , Li Zhenfu , Zhai Xiaoyu , Zheng Hao
Published: October 2022

Lifting coarse mineral particles from thousands of meters of seabed to the supportive vessSel is a crucial part of exploitation of deep-sea mineral resources, and the vertical transportation part is a key component of the deep-sea mining system. Three typical vertical transportation schemes are discussed and compared from the aspects of working mechanism, structural scheme, transportation capacity, system efficiency and implementation feasibility in the context of commercial exploitation of deep-sea polymetallic nodules. The conclusion is that the hydraulic pipeline lifting system with a centrifugal pump is a comprehensive scheme. Furthermore, the basic composition and function of the hydraulic lifting system are introduced, and the transportation performance indicators and technical requirements under commercial mining conditions are analyzed. As the key equipment of the lifting system, the structural characteristics, design theory, transportation performance analysis methods and research progress of the lifting pump are described. A 1000 m sea trial was carried out. The lifting system, the tests of the centrifugal pump and the sea trial are introduced.
Understanding and Creating Spatial Interactions with Distant Displays Enabled by Unmodified Off-The-Shelf Smartphones
Authors: Babic Teo , Reiterer Harald , Haller Michael
Published: October 2022

Over decades, many researchers developed complex in-lab systems with the overall goal to track multiple body parts of the user for a richer and more powerful 2D/3D interaction with a distant display. In this work, we introduce a novel smartphone-based tracking approach that eliminates the need for complex tracking systems. Relying on simultaneous usage of the front and rear smartphone cameras, our solution enables rich spatial interactions with distant displays by combining touch input with hand-gesture input, body and head motion, as well as eye-gaze input. In this paper, we firstly present a taxonomy for classifying distant display interactions, providing an overview of enabling technologies, input modalities, and interaction techniques, spanning from 2D to 3D interactions. Further, we provide more details about our implementation—using off-the-shelf smartphones. Finally, we validate our system in a user study by a variety of 2D and 3D multimodal interaction techniques, including input refinement.
Young Australian Adults Prefer Video Posts for Dissemination of Nutritional Information over the Social Media Platform Instagram: A Pilot Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Chan Virginia , Allman-Farinelli Margaret
Published: October 2022

Growing social media use in young adults may have applications in health promotion. This study aimed to determine the acceptability and feasibility of using Instagram to disseminate nutritional information to young Australians and assess the most preferred post style. A cross-sectional web-based pilot survey was conducted in 18–30-year-olds residing in New South Wales. Eight sets of mock Instagram posts were generated comprising three formats: (i) text/icon, (ii) realistic image, or (iii) video. Respondents (n = 108) were asked to review and rank posts from highest to lowest according to likelihood of engagement, visual preference, motivation to change eating behaviors, and relevancy of information. The Friedman test (Wilcoxon signed-rank test post hoc analysis with Bonferroni correction) was conducted to determine differences between the three post styles. Video style posts were more likely to be engaged with (p < 0.001), visually preferred (p < 0.001), more motivating to change eating behaviors (p < 0.001), and presented the most relevant food and nutrition knowledge (p < 0.001) compared with the other post styles. Most participants reported that Instagram was a suitable platform to share food and nutrition information (96%). The findings of this pilot study can be used to inform a large study that investigates the use of Instagram among a more diverse population and with a greater number of video posts tailored for audience segmentation.
Why Give My Surgical Patients Probiotics
Authors: Kotzampassi Katerina
Published: October 2022

Although there are various hypotheses on the health-promoting roles probiotic supplementation play—via targeting the gut microbiota and/or regulating the systemic immune and metabolic responses—the precise nature of this benefit in restitution of health following surgery remains under discussion and in doubt [...]
Speciation Analysis Highlights the Interactions of Auranofin with the Cytoskeleton Proteins of Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Kupiec Monika , Tomaszewska Agnieszka , Jakubczak Wioletta , Haczyk-Więcek Maja , Pawlak Katarzyna
Published: October 2022

Two types of lung cells (epithelial cancer lung cells, A-549 and lung fibroblasts MRC-5) were exposed to the clinically established gold drug auranofin at concentrations close to the half-maximal inhibitory drug concentrations (IC50). Collected cells were subjected to speciation analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Auranofin showed better affinity toward proteins than DNA, RNA, and hydrophilic small molecular weight compounds. It can bind to proteins that vary in size (~20 kDa, ~75 kDa, and ≥200 kDa) and pI. However, the possibility of dimerization and protein–protein complex formation should also be taken into account. µRPLC/CZE-ESI-MS/MS studies on trypsinized proteins allowed the indication of 76 peptides for which signal intensity was influenced by auranofin presence in cells. Based on it, identity was proposed for 20 proteins. Except for thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), which is directly targeted by gold complex, the proteins were found to be transformed. Five indicated proteins: myosin, plectin, talin, two annexins, and kinase M3K5, are responsible for cell–cell, cell–protein interactions, and cell motility. A wound healing test confirmed their regulation by auranofin as cell migration decreased by 40% while the cell cycle was not interrupted.
Exploring Novel Pyridine Carboxamide Derivatives as Urease Inhibitors: Synthesis, Molecular Docking, Kinetic Studies and ADME Profile
Authors: Naseer Ayesha , Osra Faisal Abdulrhman , Awan Asia Naz , Imran Aqeel , Hameed Abdul , Ali Shah Syed Adnan , Iqbal Jamshed , Zakaria Zainul Amiruddin
Published: October 2022

The rapid development of resistance by ureolytic bacteria which are involved in various life-threatening conditions such as gastric and duodenal cancer has induced the need to develop a new line of therapy which has anti-urease activity. A series of pyridine carboxamide and carbothioamide derivatives which also have some novel structures were synthesized via condensation reaction and investigated against urease for their inhibitory action. Among the series, 5-chloropyridine-2 yl-methylene hydrazine carbothioamide (Rx-6) and pyridine 2-yl-methylene hydrazine carboxamide (Rx-7) IC50 = 1.07 ± 0.043 µM, 2.18 ± 0.058 µM both possessed significant activity. Furthermore, molecular docking and kinetic studies were performed for the most potent inhibitors to demonstrate the binding mode of the active pyridine carbothioamide with the enzyme urease and its mode of interaction. The ADME profile also showed that all the synthesized molecules present oral bioavailability and high GI absorption.