bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fucoxanthin Prevents Pancreatic Tumorigenesis in C57BL/6J Mice That Received Allogenic and Orthotopic Transplants of Cancer Cells
Authors: Murase Wataru , Kamakura Yukino , Kawakami Serina , Yasuda Ayaka , Wagatsuma Momoka , Kubota Atsuhito , Kojima Hiroyuki , Ohta Tohru , Takahashi Mami , Mutoh Michihiro , Tanaka Takuji , Maeda Hayato , Miyashita Kazuo , Terasaki Masaru
Published: December 2021

Fucoxanthin (Fx) is a marine carotenoid with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties in various animal models of carcinogenesis. However, there is currently no information on the effects of Fx in animal models of pancreatic cancer. We investigated the chemopreventive effects of Fx in C57BL/6J mice that received allogenic and orthotopic transplantations of cancer cells (KMPC44) derived from a pancreatic cancer murine model (Ptf1aCre/+; LSL-krasG12D/+). Using microarray, immunofluorescence, western blot, and siRNA analyses, alterations in cancer-related genes and protein expression were evaluated in pancreatic tumors of Fx-administered mice. Fx administration prevented the adenocarcinoma (ADC) development of pancreatic and parietal peritoneum tissues in a pancreatic cancer murine model, but not the incidence of ADC. Gene and protein expressions showed that the suppression of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 21 (CCL21)/chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) axis, its downstream of Rho A, B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA), N-cadherin, αSMA, pFAK(Tyr397), and pPaxillin(Tyr31) were significantly suppressed in the pancreatic tumors of mice treated with Fx. In addition, Ccr7 knockdown significantly attenuated the growth of KMPC44 cells. These results suggest that Fx is a promising candidate for pancreatic cancer chemoprevention that mediates the suppression of the CCL21/CCR7 axis, BTLA, tumor microenvironment, epithelial mesenchymal transition, and adhesion.
Spatially Resolved Expression of Transposable Elements in Disease and Somatic Tissue with SpatialTE
Authors: Valdebenito-Maturana Braulio , Guatimosim Cristina , Carrasco Mónica Alejandra , Tapia Juan Carlos
Published: December 2021

Spatial transcriptomics (ST) is transforming the way we can study gene expression and its regulation through position-specific resolution within tissues. However, as in bulk RNA-Seq, transposable elements (TEs) are not being studied due to their highly repetitive nature. In recent years, TEs have been recognized as important regulators of gene expression, and thus, TE expression analysis in a spatially resolved manner could further help to understand their role in gene regulation within tissues. We present SpatialTE, a tool to analyze TE expression from ST datasets and show its application in somatic and diseased tissues. The results indicate that TEs have spatially regulated expression patterns and that their expression profiles are spatially altered in ALS disease, indicating that TEs might perform differential regulatory functions within tissue organs. We have made SpatialTE publicly available as open-source software under an MIT license.
Combined In Silico, Ex Vivo, and In Vivo Assessment of L-17, a Thiadiazine Derivative with Putative Neuro- and Cardioprotective and Antidepressant Effects
Authors: Sarapultsev Alexey , Vassiliev Pavel , Grinchii Daniil , Kiss Alexander , Mach Mojmir , Osacka Jana , Balloova Alexandra , Paliokha Ruslan , Kochetkov Andrey , Sidorova Larisa , Sarapultsev Petr , Chupakhin Oleg , Rantsev Maxim , Spasov Alexander , Dremencov Eliyahu
Published: December 2021

Depression associated with poor general medical condition, such as post-stroke (PSD) or post-myocardial infarction (PMID) depression, is characterized by resistance to classical antidepressants. Special treatment strategies should thus be developed for these conditions. Our study aims to investigate the mechanism of action of 2-morpholino-5-phenyl-6H-1,3,4-thiadiazine, hydrobromide (L-17), a recently designed thiadiazine derivative with putative neuro- and cardioprotective and antidepressant-like effects, using combined in silico (for prediction of the molecular binding mechanisms), ex vivo (for assessment of the neural excitability using c-Fos immunocytochemistry), and in vivo (for direct examination of the neuronal excitability) methodological approaches. We found that the predicted binding affinities of L-17 to serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT) and 5-HT3 and 5-HT1A receptors are compatible with selective 5-HT serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antagonists of 5-HT3 and 5-HT1A receptors, respectively. L-17 robustly increased c-Fos immunoreactivity in the amygdala and decreased it in the hippocampus. L-17 dose-dependently inhibited 5-HT neurons of the dorsal raphe nucleus; this inhibition was partially reversed by the 5-HT1A antagonist WAY100135. We suggest that L-17 is a potent 5-HT reuptake inhibitor and partial antagonist of 5-HT3 and 5-HT1A receptors; the effects of L-17 on amygdaloid and hippocampal excitability might be mediated via 5-HT, and putatively mediate the antidepressant-like effects of this drug. Since L-17 also possesses neuro- and cardioprotective properties, it can be beneficial in PSD and PMID. Combined in silico predictions with ex vivo neurochemical and in vivo electrophysiological assessments might be a useful strategy for early assessment of the efficacy and neural mechanism of action of novel CNS drugs.
Engineering of Vaginal Lactobacilli to Express Fluorescent Proteins Enables the Analysis of Their Mixture in Nanofibers
Authors: Stojanov Spase , Plavec Tina Vida , Kristl Julijana , Zupančič Špela , Berlec Aleš
Published: December 2021

Lactobacilli are a promising natural tool against vaginal dysbiosis and infections. However, new local delivery systems and additional knowledge about their distribution and mechanism of action would contribute to the development of effective medicine. This will be facilitated by the introduction of the techniques for effective, inexpensive, and real-time tracking of these probiotics following their release. Here, we engineered three model vaginal lactobacilli (Lactobacillus crispatus ATCC 33820, Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323, and Lactobacillus jensenii ATCC 25258) and a control Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC 8014 to express fluorescent proteins with different spectral properties, including infrared fluorescent protein (IRFP), green fluorescent protein (GFP), red fluorescent protein (mCherry), and blue fluorescent protein (mTagBFP2). The expression of these fluorescent proteins differed between the Lactobacillus species and enabled quantification and discrimination between lactobacilli, with the longer wavelength fluorescent proteins showing superior resolving power. Each Lactobacillus strain was labeled with an individual fluorescent protein and incorporated into poly (ethylene oxide) nanofibers using electrospinning, as confirmed by fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. The lactobacilli retained their fluorescence in nanofibers, as well as after nanofiber dissolution. To summarize, vaginal lactobacilli were incorporated into electrospun nanofibers to provide a potential solid vaginal delivery system, and the fluorescent proteins were introduced to distinguish between them and allow their tracking in the future probiotic-delivery studies.
Effects of Osthole on Inflammatory Gene Expression and Cytokine Secretion in Histamine-Induced Inflammation in the Caco-2 Cell Line
Authors: Kordulewska Natalia K. , Topa Justyna , Rozmus Dominika , Jarmołowska Beata
Published: December 2021

Hyperactivity of the immune system in the gastrointestinal tract leads to the development of chronic, inflammation-associated disorders. Such diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, are not completely curable, but the specific line of treatment may reduce its symptoms. However, the response to treatment varies among patients, creating a necessity to uncover the pathophysiological basis of immune-mediated diseases and apply novel therapeutic strategies. The present study describes the anti-inflammatory properties of osthole during histamine-induced inflammation in the intestinal Caco-2 cell line. Osthole reduced the secretion of cytokines (CKs) and the expression level of inflammation-associated genes, which were increased after a histamine treatment. We have shown that the secretion of pro-inflammatory CKs (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) during inflammation may be mediated by NFκB, and, after osthole treatment, this signaling pathway was disrupted. Our results suggest a possible role for osthole in the protection against inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract; thus, osthole may be considered as an anti-inflammatory modulator.
Targeting AVIL, a New Cytoskeleton Regulator in Glioblastoma
Authors: Cornelison Robert , Marrah Laine , Horter Drew , Lynch Sarah , Li Hui
Published: December 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common adult neural malignancy and the deadliest. The standard of care is optimal, safe, cytoreductive surgery followed by combined radiation therapy and alkylating chemotherapy with temozolomide. Recurrence is common and therapeutic options in the recurrent setting are limited. The dismal prognosis of GBM has led to novel treatments being a serious roadblock in the field, with most new treatments failing to show efficacy. Targeted therapies have shown some success in many cancers, but GBM remains one of the most difficult to treat, especially in recurrence. New chemotherapeutic directions need to be explored, possibly expanding the targeted chemotherapy spectrum in previously unforeseen ways. In this perspective paper, we will explain why AVIL, an actin-binding protein recently found to be overexpressed in GBM and a driving force for GBM, could prove versatile in the fight against cancer. By looking at AVIL and its potential to regulate FOXM1 and LIN28B, we will be able to highlight a way to improve outcomes for GBM patients who normally have very little hope.
Management of Osteoporosis in Men: A Narrative Review
Authors: Vescini Fabio , Chiodini Iacopo , Falchetti Alberto , Palermo Andrea , Salcuni Antonio Stefano , Bonadonna Stefania , De Geronimo Vincenzo , Cesareo Roberto , Giovanelli Luca , Brigo Martina , Bertoldo Francesco , Scillitani Alfredo , Gennari Luigi
Published: December 2021

Male osteoporosis is a still largely underdiagnosed pathological condition. As a consequence, bone fragility in men remains undertreated mainly due to the low screening frequency and to controversies in the bone mineral density (BMD) testing standards. Up to the 40% of overall osteoporotic fractures affect men, in spite of the fact that women have a significant higher prevalence of osteoporosis. In addition, in males, hip fractures are associated with increased morbidity and mortality as compared to women. Importantly, male fractures occur about 10 years later in life than women, and, therefore, due to the advanced age, men may have more comorbidities and, consequently, their mortality is about twice the rate in women. Gender differences, which begin during puberty, lead to wider bones in males as compared with females. In men, follicle-stimulating hormones, testosterone, estrogens, and sex hormone-binding levels, together with genetic factors, interact in determining the peak of bone mass, BMD maintenance, and lifetime decrease. As compared with women, men are more frequently affected by secondary osteoporosis. Therefore, in all osteoporotic men, a complete clinical history should be collected and a careful physical examination should be done, in order to find clues of a possible underlying diseases and, ultimately, to guide laboratory testing. Currently, the pharmacological therapy of male osteoporosis includes aminobisphosphonates, denosumab, and teriparatide. Hypogonadal patients may be treated with testosterone replacement therapy. Given that the fractures related to mortality are higher in men than in women, treating male subjects with osteoporosis is of the utmost importance in clinical practice, as it may impact on mortality even more than in women.
Advances in Lipid Extraction Methods—A Review
Authors: Saini Ramesh Kumar , Prasad Parchuri , Shang Xiaomin , Keum Young-Soo
Published: December 2021

Extraction of lipids from biological tissues is a crucial step in lipid analysis. The selection of appropriate solvent is the most critical factor in the efficient extraction of lipids. A mixture of polar (to disrupt the protein-lipid complexes) and nonpolar (to dissolve the neutral lipids) solvents are precisely selected to extract lipids efficiently. In addition, the disintegration of complex and rigid cell-wall of plants, fungi, and microalgal cells by various mechanical, chemical, and enzymatic treatments facilitate the solvent penetration and extraction of lipids. This review discusses the chloroform/methanol-based classical lipid extraction methods and modern modifications of these methods in terms of using healthy and environmentally safe solvents and rapid single-step extraction. At the same time, some adaptations were made to recover the specific lipids. In addition, the high throughput lipid extraction methodologies used for liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based plant and animal lipidomics were discussed. The advantages and disadvantages of various pretreatments and extraction methods were also illustrated. Moreover, the emerging green solvents-based lipid extraction method, including supercritical CO2 extraction (SCE), is also discussed.
Mass-Spectrometry-Based Functional Proteomic and Phosphoproteomic Technologies and Their Application for Analyzing Ex Vivo and In Vitro Models of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Moore Jarrod , Emili Andrew
Published: December 2021

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an autosomal dominant disease thought to be principally caused by mutations in sarcomeric proteins. Despite extensive genetic analysis, there are no comprehensive molecular frameworks for how single mutations in contractile proteins result in the diverse assortment of cellular, phenotypic, and pathobiological cascades seen in HCM. Molecular profiling and system biology approaches are powerful tools for elucidating, quantifying, and interpreting dynamic signaling pathways and differential macromolecule expression profiles for a wide range of sample types, including cardiomyopathy. Cutting-edge approaches combine high-performance analytical instrumentation (e.g., mass spectrometry) with computational methods (e.g., bioinformatics) to study the comparative activity of biochemical pathways based on relative abundances of functionally linked proteins of interest. Cardiac research is poised to benefit enormously from the application of this toolkit to cardiac tissue models, which recapitulate key aspects of pathogenesis. In this review, we evaluate state-of-the-art mass-spectrometry-based proteomic and phosphoproteomic technologies and their application to in vitro and ex vivo models of HCM for global mapping of macromolecular alterations driving disease progression, emphasizing their potential for defining the components of basic biological systems, the fundamental mechanistic basis of HCM pathogenesis, and treating the ensuing varied clinical outcomes seen among affected patient cohorts.
Circulatory Neutrophils Exhibit Enhanced Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation in Early Puerperium: NETs at the Nexus of Thrombosis and Immunity
Authors: Giaglis Stavros , Sur Chowdhury Chanchal , van Breda Shane Vontelin , Stoikou Maria , Tiaden André N. , Daoudlarian Douglas , Schaefer Guenther , Buser Andreas , Walker Ulrich A. , Lapaire Olav , Hoesli Irene , Hasler Paul , Hahn Sinuhe
Published: December 2021

Pregnancy is associated with elevated maternal levels of cell-free DNA of neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) origin, as circulatory neutrophils exhibit increased spontaneous NET formation, mainly driven by G-CSF and finely modulated by sex hormones. The postpartum period, on the other hand, involves physiological alterations consistent with the need for protection against infections and fatal haemorrhage. Our findings indicate that all relevant serum markers of neutrophil degranulation and NET release are substantially augmented postpartum. Neutrophil pro-NETotic activity in vitro is also upregulated particularly in post-delivery neutrophils. Moreover, maternal puerperal neutrophils exhibit a strong pro-NETotic phenotype, associated with increased levels of all key players in the generation of NETs, namely citH3, MPO, NE, and ROS, compared to non-pregnant and pregnant controls. Intriguingly, post-delivery NET formation is independent of G-CSF in contrast to late gestation and complemented by the presence of TF on the NETs, alterations in the platelet activity status, and activation of the coagulation cascade, triggered by circulating microparticles. Taken together, our results reveal the highly pro-NETotic and potentially procoagulant nature of postpartum neutrophils, bridging an overt immune activation with possible harmful thrombotic incidence.
Plastid Deficient 1 Is Essential for the Accumulation of Plastid-Encoded RNA Polymerase Core Subunit β and Chloroplast Development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yang Zhipan , Liu Mingxin , Ding Shunhua , Zhang Yi , Yang Huixia , Wen Xiaogang , Chi Wei , Lu Congming , Lu Qingtao
Published: December 2021

Plastid-encoded RNA polymerase (PEP)-dependent transcription is an essential process for chloroplast development and plant growth. It is a complex event that is regulated by numerous nuclear-encoded proteins. In order to elucidate the complex regulation mechanism of PEP activity, identification and characterization of PEP activity regulation factors are needed. Here, we characterize Plastid Deficient 1 (PD1) as a novel regulator for PEP-dependent gene expression and chloroplast development in Arabidopsis. The PD1 gene encodes a protein that is conserved in photoautotrophic organisms. The Arabidopsis pd1 mutant showed albino and seedling-lethal phenotypes. The plastid development in the pd1 mutant was arrested. The PD1 protein localized in the chloroplasts, and it colocalized with nucleoid protein TRXz. RT-quantitative real-time PCR, northern blot, and run-on analyses indicated that the PEP-dependent transcription in the pd1 mutant was dramatically impaired, whereas the nuclear-encoded RNA polymerase-dependent transcription was up-regulated. The yeast two-hybrid assays and coimmunoprecipitation experiments showed that the PD1 protein interacts with PEP core subunit β (PEP-β), which has been verified to be essential for chloroplast development. The immunoblot analysis indicated that the accumulation of PEP-β was barely detected in the pd1 mutant, whereas the accumulation of the other essential components of the PEP complex, such as core subunits α and β′, were not affected in the pd1 mutant. These observations suggested that the PD1 protein is essential for the accumulation of PEP-β and chloroplast development in Arabidopsis, potentially by direct interaction with PEP-β.
Protective Effect of Dinitrosyl Iron Complexes Bound with Hemoglobin on Oxidative Modification by Peroxynitrite
Authors: Kosmachevskaya Olga V. , Nasybullina Elvira I. , Shumaev Konstantin B. , Novikova Natalia N. , Topunov Alexey F.
Published: December 2021

Dinitrosyl iron complexes (DNICs) are a physiological form of nitric oxide (•NO) in an organism. They are able not only to deposit and transport •NO, but are also to act as antioxidant and antiradical agents. However, the mechanics of hemoglobin-bound DNICs (Hb-DNICs) protecting Hb against peroxynitrite-caused, mediated oxidative modification have not yet been scrutinized. Through EPR spectroscopy we show that Hb-DNICs are destroyed under the peroxynitrite action in a dose-dependent manner. At the same time, DNICs inhibit the oxidation of tryptophan and tyrosine residues and formation of carbonyl derivatives. They also prevent the formation of covalent crosslinks between Hb subunits and degradation of a heme group. These effects can arise from the oxoferryl heme form being reduced, and they can be connected with the ability of DNICs to directly intercept peroxynitrite and free radicals, which emerge due to its homolysis. These data show that DNICs may ensure protection from myocardial ischemia.
Mapping Resistance to Argentinean Fusarium (Graminearum) Head Blight Isolates in Wheat
Authors: Sgarbi Carolina , Malbrán Ismael , Saldúa Luciana , Lori Gladys Albina , Lohwasser Ulrike , Arif Mian Abdur Rehman , Börner Andreas , Yanniccari Marcos , Castro Ana Maria
Published: December 2021

Fusarium head blight (FHB) of wheat, caused by Fusarium graminearum (Schwabe), is a destructive disease worldwide, reducing wheat yield and quality. To accelerate the improvement of scab tolerance in wheat, we assessed the International Triticeae Mapping Initiative mapping population (ITMI/MP) for Type I and II resistance against a wide population of Argentinean isolates of F. graminearum. We discovered a total of 27 additive QTLs on ten different (2A, 2D, 3B, 3D, 4B, 4D, 5A, 5B, 5D and 6D) wheat chromosomes for Type I and Type II resistances explaining a maximum of 15.99% variation. Another four and two QTLs for thousand kernel weight in control and for Type II resistance, respectively, involved five different chromosomes (1B, 2D, 6A, 6D and 7D). Furthermore, three, three and five QTLs for kernel weight per spike in control, for Type I resistance and for Type II resistance, correspondingly, involved ten chromosomes (2A, 2D, 3B, 4A, 5A, 5B, 6B, 7A, 7B, 7D). We were also able to detect five and two epistasis pairs of QTLs for Type I and Type II resistance, respectively, in addition to additive QTLs that evidenced that FHB resistance in wheat is controlled by a complex network of additive and epistasis QTLs.
Padlock Probe-Based Generation of DNAzymes for the Colorimetric Detection of Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Authors: Conzemius Rick , Haunold Ariadne , Barišić Ivan
Published: December 2021

The increasing emergence of multidrug- and pan-resistant pathogens requires rapid and cost-efficient diagnostic tools to contain their further spread in healthcare facilities and the environment. The currently established diagnostic technologies are of limited utility for efficient infection control measures because they are either cultivation-based and time-consuming or require sophisticated assays that are expensive. Furthermore, infectious diseases are unfortunately most problematic in countries with low-resource settings in their healthcare systems. In this study, we developed a cost-efficient detection technology that uses G-quadruplex DNAzymes to convert a chromogenic substrate resulting in a color change in the presence of antibiotic resistance genes. The assay is based on padlock probes capable of high-multiplex reactions and targets 27 clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes associated with sepsis. In addition to an experimental proof-of-principle using synthetic target DNA, the assay was evaluated with multidrug-resistant clinical isolates.
Cell Death, Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Mechanisms and Cytoprotective Molecules
Authors: Vejux Anne
Published: December 2021

Neurodegenerative diseases are the most common chronic neurological pathologies associated with age, with a major impact on the patient’s quality of life [...]
Metformin Treatment Attenuates Brain Inflammation and Rescues PACAP/VIP Neuropeptide Alterations in Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Mandwie Mawj , Karunia Jocelyn , Niaz Aram , Keay Kevin A. , Musumeci Giuseppe , Rennie Claire , McGrath Kristine , Al-Badri Ghaith , Castorina Alessandro
Published: December 2021

High-fat diet (HFD)-induced comorbid cognitive and behavioural impairments are thought to be the result of persistent low-grade neuroinflammation. Metformin, a first-line medication for the treatment of type-2 diabetes, seems to ameliorate these comorbidities, but the underlying mechanism(s) are not clear. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) are neuroprotective peptides endowed with anti-inflammatory properties. Alterations to the PACAP/VIP system could be pivotal during the development of HFD-induced neuroinflammation. To unveil the pathogenic mechanisms underlying HFD-induced neuroinflammation and assess metformin’s therapeutic activities, (1) we determined if HFD-induced proinflammatory activity was present in vulnerable brain regions associated with the development of comorbid behaviors, (2) investigated if the PACAP/VIP system is altered by HFD, and (3) assessed if metformin rescues such diet-induced neurochemical alterations. C57BL/6J male mice were divided into two groups to receive either standard chow (SC) or HFD for 16 weeks. A further HFD group received metformin (HFD + M) (300 mg/kg BW daily for 5 weeks) via oral gavage. Body weight, fasting glucose, and insulin levels were measured. After 16 weeks, the proinflammatory profile, glial activation markers, and changes within the PI3K/AKT intracellular pathway and the PACAP/VIP system were evaluated by real-time qPCR and/or Western blot in the hypothalamus, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and amygdala. Our data showed that HFD causes widespread low-grade neuroinflammation and gliosis, with regional-specific differences across brain regions. HFD also diminished phospho-AKT(Ser473) expression and caused significant disruptions to the PACAP/VIP system. Treatment with metformin attenuated these neuroinflammatory signatures and reversed PI3K/AKT and PACAP/VIP alterations caused by HFD. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that metformin treatment rescues HFD-induced neuroinflammation in vulnerable brain regions, most likely by a mechanism involving the reinstatement of PACAP/VIP system homeostasis. Data also suggests that the PI3K/AKT pathway, at least in part, mediates some of metformin’s beneficial effects.
Evaluation of Freeze Drying and Electrospinning Techniques for Saffron Encapsulation and Storage Stability of Encapsulated Bioactives
Authors: Golpira Fatemeh , Maftoonazad Neda , Ramaswamy Hosahalli S.
Published: December 2021

Saffron extract was encapsulated into a gelatin matrix by means of electrospinning and freeze drying techniques and the degradation kinetics of bioactive compounds were evaluated during their storage at 4, 24, and 35 °C as compared to non-encapsulated control. The encapsulation efficiency, thermal properties, storage stability, morphology, and diameter distribution of the encapsulated saffron extract were evaluated as output parameters. In general, both encapsulation techniques demonstrated superior retention of bioactive compounds compared to samples without encapsulation during the entire storage period. Electrospinning and freeze drying techniques were able to retain at least 96.2 and 93.7% of crocin, respectively, after 42 days of storage at 35 °C with the 15% saffron extract. The half-life (t1/2) time parameter for the control sample (with 15% saffron extract without encapsulation) was 22 days at 4 °C temperature, while that encapsulated by electrospinning was 138 days and that obtained for freeze drying was 77 days, The half-lives were longer at lower temperatures. The encapsulation efficiency of crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal associated with the electro-spun gelatin fibers were 76.3, 86.0, and 74.2%, respectively, and in comparison, the freeze drying encapsulation efficiencies were relatively lower, at 69.0, 74.7, and 65.8%, respectively. Electro-spun gelatin fibers also had higher melting and denaturation temperatures of 78.3 °C and 108.1 °C, respectively, as compared to 65.4 °C and 93.2 °C, respectively, for freeze-dried samples. Thus, from all respects, it was concluded that electrospinning was a better and more effective technique than freeze drying in terms of preserving saffron bioactive compounds.
Activated Carbon Modification towards Efficient Catalyst for High Value-Added Products Synthesis from Alpha-Pinene
Authors: Sreńscek-Nazzal Joanna , Kamińska Adrianna , Miądlicki Piotr , Wróblewska Agnieszka , Kiełbasa Karolina , Wróbel Rafał Jan , Serafin Jarosław , Michalkiewicz Beata
Published: December 2021

DT0-activated carbons modified with HCl and HNO3 acids, which were used for the first time in the catalytic process of alpha-pinene isomerization, are presented in this study. The carbon materials DT0, DT0_HCl, DT0_HNO3, and DT0_HCl_HNO3 were examined with the following methods: XRF, SEM, EDX, XPS, FT-IR, XRD, and N2 adsorption at −196 °C. It was shown that DT0_HCl_HNO3-activated carbon was the most active material in the alpha-pinene isomerization process. Detailed studies of alpha-pinene isomerization were carried out over this carbon by changing the reaction parameters such as time (5–180 min) and temperature (60–175 °C). The 100% conversion of alpha-pinene was achieved at the temperature of 160 °C and catalyst content of 5 wt% after 3 h over the DT0_HCl_HNO3 catalyst. Camphene and limonene were the main products of the alpha-pinene isomerization reaction.
In Situ Analyses of Surface-Layer Composition of CxNy Thin Films Using Methods Based on Penning Ionization Processes—Introductory Investigations
Authors: Grigorian Galina , Konkol Izabela , Cenian Adam
Published: December 2021

Carbon nitride materials have received much attention due to their excellent tribological, mechanical and optical properties. It was found that these qualities depend on the N/C ratio; therefore, the possibility to control it in situ in the sputtered film is of high importance. The plasma-electron spectroscopy method based on the Penning ionization process analysis is developed here to control this ratio in CNx films produced by plasma-sputtering in a pulsed-periodic regime of glow discharge. The electron energy distribution function is determined by the means of a single Langmuir probe placed in the center of the discharge tube. The mixture N2:CH4:He was used in the process of sputtering. The applied concentrations of CH4 varied in the range of 2–8%, and He concentration was 80–90%. The gas pressure in the discharge tube used for sputtering varied between 1 and 10 Torr, and the current was between 10 and 50 mA. It was shown that the proposed method enables the extraction of information on the composition of the surface layer of the investigated film and the development of an on-line inspection, without extracting the film from the sputtering chamber.
Influence of Initial Temperature and Convective Heat Loss on the Self-Propagating Reaction in Al/Ni Multilayer Foils
Authors: Baloochi Mostafa , Shekhawat Deepshikha , Riegler Sascha Sebastian , Matthes Sebastian , Glaser Marcus , Schaaf Peter , Bergmann Jean Pierre , Gallino Isabella , Pezoldt Jörg
Published: December 2021

A two-dimensional numerical model for self-propagating reactions in Al/Ni multilayer foils was developed. It was used to study thermal properties, convective heat loss, and the effect of initial temperature on the self-propagating reaction in Al/Ni multilayer foils. For model adjustments by experimental results, these Al/Ni multilayer foils were fabricated by the magnetron sputtering technique with a 1:1 atomic ratio. Heat of reaction of the fabricated foils was determined employing Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Self-propagating reaction was initiated by an electrical spark on the surface of the foils. The movement of the reaction front was recorded with a high-speed camera. Activation energy is fitted with these velocity data from the high-speed camera to adjust the numerical model. Calculated reaction front temperature of the self-propagating reaction was compared with the temperature obtained by time-resolved pyrometer measurements. X-ray diffraction results confirmed that all reactants reacted and formed a B2 NiAl phase. Finally, it is predicted that (1) increasing thermal conductivity of the final product increases the reaction front velocity; (2) effect of heat convection losses on reaction characteristics is insignificant, e.g., the foils can maintain their characteristics in water; and (3) with increasing initial temperature of the foils, the reaction front velocity and the reaction temperature increased.
A Methodology to Evaluate Long Term Durability of Dam Concrete Due to Calcium Leaching through Microscopic Tests and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Nie Ding , Wang Haoyu , Li Pengfei , Han Xun , Zhang Jingbin , Wang Chengzhi
Published: December 2021

Hydropower dams are subjected to soft water penetration during their service lives. Concrete deterioration due to calcium leaching will decrease the durability of concrete and affect dam safety. The long-term performance of concrete dams due to calcium leaching should be evaluated and predicted accurately to complete reinforcement work in a timely manner. In this paper, a methodology that combined microscopic tests and numerical analysis to evaluate the long-term performance of dam concrete due to calcium leaching is proposed. The current state of concrete is evaluated by analyzing the components of sediments and seepage water through microscopic and spectroscopic tests, such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The long-term degradation of concrete was predicted by utilizing a multi-scale model of calcium leaching, which considered the micro-pore structure of cement hydrates flux with time. The simulated results using this calcium leaching model showed a good agreement with other experiments. Finally, a real case study including field inspection was performed and the long-term durability of dam concrete was predicted through microscopic tests and finite element analysis method. It implies that the proposed method could provide calculation and theoretical basis for the durability analysis of concrete dams due to calcium leaching.
Thermal Cloak: Theory, Experiment and Application
Authors: Yue Xiuli , Nangong Junyi , Chen Peiyan , Han Tiancheng
Published: December 2021

In the past two decades, owing to the development of metamaterials and the theoretical tools of transformation optics and the scattering cancellation method, a plethora of unprecedented functional devices, especially invisibility cloaks, have been experimentally demonstrated in various fields, e.g., electromagnetics, acoustics, and thermodynamics. Since the first thermal cloak was theoretically reported in 2008 and experimentally demonstrated in 2012, great progress has been made in both theory and experiment. In this review, we report the recent advances in thermal cloaks, including the theoretical designs, experimental realizations, and potential applications. The three areas are classified according to the different mechanisms of heat transfer, namely, thermal conduction, thermal convection, and thermal radiation. We also provide an outlook toward the challenges and future directions in this fascinating area.
Recovery of Valuable Materials and Methods for Their Management When Recycling Thin-Film CdTe Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Kuczyńska-Łażewska Anna , Klugmann-Radziemska Ewa , Witkowska Agnieszka
Published: December 2021

Due to the development of new photovoltaic technologies, there is a need to research new recycling methods for these new materials. The recovery of metals from photovoltaic (PV) modules would reduce the consumption of raw materials. Therefore, the development of recycling technologies for used and damaged modules of newer generations is important for environmental reasons. The aim of the research is to shed light on the nature of the chemical reactions that occur in recycling technology for second-generation photovoltaic modules. This work is focused mainly on cells made of Cadmium Telluride (CdTe). It was proven that prior thermal delamination was necessary. Moreover, an improvement in understanding of the recovery process depending on used leaching solution was achieved.
Extremely Non-Auxetic Behavior of a Typical Auxetic Microstructure Due to Its Material Properties
Authors: Bilski Mikołaj , Wojciechowski Krzysztof W. , Stręk Tomasz , Kędziora Przemysław , Grima-Cornish James N. , Dudek Mirosław R.
Published: December 2021

The re-entrant honeycomb microstructure is one of the most famous, typical examples of an auxetic structure. The re-entrant geometries also include other members as, among others, the star re-entrant geometries with various symmetries. In this paper, we focus on one of them, having a 6-fold symmetry axis. The investigated systems consist of binary hard discs (two-dimensional particles with two slightly different sizes, interacting through infinitely repulsive pairwise potential), from which different structures, based on the mentioned geometry, were formed. To study the elastic properties of the systems, computer simulations using the Monte Carlo method in isobaric-isothermal ensemble with varying shape of the periodic box were performed. The results show that all the considered systems are isotropic and not auxetic—their Poisson’s ratio is positive in each case. Moreover, Poisson’s ratios of the majority of examined structures tend to +1 with increasing pressure, which is the upper limit for two-dimensional isotropic media, thus they can be recognized as the ideal non-auxetics in appropriate thermodynamic conditions. The results obtained contradict the common belief that the unique properties of metamaterials result solely from their microstructure and indicate that the material itself can be crucial.
Concept and Development of an Accelerated Repeated Rolling Wheel Load Simulator (ARROWS) for Fatigue Performance Characterization of Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Kohlmeier Julian , Schulze Christian , Oeser Markus
Published: December 2021

Fatigue performance is one of the most important properties that affect the service life of asphalt mixture. Many fatigue test methods have been developed to evaluate the fatigue performance in the lab. Although these methods have contributed a lot to the fatigue performance evaluation and the development of fatigue related theory and model, their limitations should not be ignored. This paper starts by characterizing the stress state in asphalt pavement under a rolling wheel load. After that, a literature survey focusing on the experimental methods for fatigue performance evaluation is conducted. The working mechanism, applications, benefits, and limitations of each method are summarized. The literature survey results reveal that most of the lab test methods primarily focus on the fatigue performance of asphalt mixture on a material level without considering the effects of pavement structure. In addition, the stress state in the lab samples and the loading speed differ from those of asphalt mixture under rolling wheel tire load. To address these limitations, this paper proposes the concept of an innovative lab fatigue test device named Accelerated Repeated Rolling Wheel Load Simulator (ARROWS). The motivation, concept, and working mechanism of the ARROWS are introduced later in this paper. The ARROWS, which is under construction, is expected to be a feasible and effective method to simulate the repeated roll wheel load in the laboratory.
Impact of Short-Cut SWCF Yarn on Conductivity and Electrical Heatability of Silicone–MWCNT Composites
Authors: Trommer Kristin , Gnanaseelan Minoj
Published: December 2021

The incorporation of MWCNTs in polymer systems up to the percolation range renders them electrically conductive. However, this conductivity is not high enough for heating applications in the low-voltage range (<24 V). The combination of nanoscaled MWCNTs with microscaled short SWCNT fibers that was investigated in this study causes an abrupt rise in the conductivity of the material by more than an order of magnitude. Silicone was used as a flexible and high-temperature-resistant matrix polymer. Conductive silicone coatings and films with SWCF contents of 1.5% to 5% and constant MWCNT contents of 3% and 5% were developed, and their electrical and thermal properties in the voltage range between 6 and 48 V were investigated. The electrical conductivity of 3% MWCNT composite materials rose with a 5% addition of SWCFs. Because of this spike in conductivity, output power of 1260 W/m2 was achieved, for example, for a 100 µm thick composite containing 3% MWCNT and 4% SWCF at 24 V with a line spacing of 20 cm. Thermal measurements show a temperature increase of 69 K under these conditions. These findings support the use of such conductive silicone composites for high-performance coatings and films for challenging and high-quality applications.
Deformation and Failure Properties of High-Ni Lithium-Ion Battery under Axial Loads
Authors: Wang Genwei , Zhang Shu , Li Meng , Wu Juanjuan , Wang Bin , Song Hui
Published: December 2021

To explore the failure modes of high-Ni batteries under different axial loads, quasi-static compression and dynamic impact tests were carried out. The characteristics of voltage, load, and temperature of a battery cell with different states of charge (SOCs) were investigated in quasi-static tests. The mechanical response and safety performance of lithium-ion batteries subjected to axial shock wave impact load were also investigated by using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) system. Different failure modes of the battery were identified. Under quasi-static axial compression, the intensity of thermal runaway becomes more severe with the increase in SOC and loading speed, and the time for lithium-ion batteries to reach complete failure decreases with the increase in SOC. In comparison, under dynamic SHPB experiments, an internal short circuit occurred after impact, but no violent thermal runaway was observed.
Nanotechnology in Fire Protection—Application and Requirements
Authors: Rabajczyk Anna , Zielecka Maria , Popielarczyk Tomasz , Sowa Tomasz
Published: December 2021

Nanotechnology is used, to an increasing extent, in practically every aspect of the economy and society. One area where nanotechnology is constantly advancing is fire protection. Nanostructures are found in elements used in direct protection, such as in protective clothing, filters, and helmets. Solutions in the field of nanotechnology are also used in elements reducing the fire risk and increasing the fire safety, such as building materials and structures, paints, coatings, or fire safety equipment (e.g., fire detectors). However, new solutions may also pose a threat to the safety of people and the environment. As a result of operation or combustion and degradation processes, the emission of nano-substances with toxic properties may occur. Therefore, knowledge in this field is necessary, as it allows for the appropriate targeting and use of nanotechnology.
A Cleanable Self-Assembled Nano-SiO2/(PTFE/PEI)n/PPS Composite Filter Medium for High-Efficiency Fine Particulate Filtration
Authors: Luo Yan , Shen Zhongyun , Ma Zhihao , Chen Hongfeng , Wang Xiaodong , Luo Minger , Wang Ran , Huang Jianguo
Published: December 2021

A silicon dioxide/polytetrafluoroethylene/polyethyleneimine/polyphenylene sulfide (SiO2/PTFE/PEI/PPS) composite filter medium with three-dimensional network structures was fabricated by using PPS nonwoven as the substrate which was widely employed as a cleanable filter medium. The PTFE/PEI bilayers were firstly coated on the surfaces of the PPS fibers through the layer-by-layer self-assembly technique ten times, followed by the deposition of SiO2 nanoparticles, yielding the SiO2/(PTFE/PEI)10/PPS composite material. The contents of the PTFE component were easily controlled by adjusting the number of self-assembled PTFE/PEI bilayers. As compared with the pure PPS nonwoven, the obtained SiO2/(PTFE/PEI)10/PPS composite material exhibits better mechanical properties and enhanced wear, oxidation and heat resistance. When employed as a filter material, the SiO2/(PTFE/PEI)10/PPS composite filter medium exhibited excellent filtration performance for fine particulate. The PM2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 μm) filtration efficiency reached up to 99.55%. The superior filtration efficiency possessed by the SiO2/(PTFE/PEI)10/PPS composite filter medium was due to the uniformly modified PTFE layers, which played a dual role in fine particulate filtration. On the one hand, the PTFE layers not only increase the specific surface area and pore volume of the composite filter material but also narrow the spaces between the fibers, which were conducive to forming the dust cake quickly, resulting in intercepting the fine particles more efficiently than the pure PPS filter medium. On the other hand, the PTFE layers have low surface energy, which is in favor of the detachment of dust cake during pulse-jet cleaning, showing superior reusability. Thanks to the three-dimensional network structures of the SiO2/(PTFE/PEI)10/PPS composite filter medium, the pressure drop during filtration was low.
Novel Combinatorial Strategy Using Thermal Inkjet Bioprinting, Chemotherapy, and Radiation on Human Breast Cancer Cells; an In-Vitro Cell Viability Assessment
Authors: Campbell Aleli , Gutierrez Denisse A. , Knight Colin , Vines Charlotte M. , Heydarian Rosalinda , Philipovskiy Alexander , Varela-Ramirez Armando , Boland Thomas
Published: December 2021

Background: Breast cancer (BC) continues to have the second highest mortality amongst women in the United States after lung cancer. For 2021, the American Cancer Association predicted 281,550 new invasive breast cancer cases besides 49,290 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer and 43,600 deaths from the metastatic disease. A treatment modality is radiation therapy, which is given for local control as well as palliation of patient symptoms. The initial step of new drug development is in-vitro cell studies, which help describe new drug properties and toxicities. However, these models are not optimal, and better ones have yet to be determined. This study uses bioprinting technology to elucidate the sensitivity of tumor cells to the combination of palbociclib (PD) and letrozole (Let) treatment. We hypothesize that this technology could serve as a model to predict treatment outcomes more efficiently. Methods: The breast cancer cell lines MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 as well as the normal breast epithelial cell line, MCF-10A, were treated with PD-Let with and without radiotherapy (RT), and cell viability was compared in pairwise fashion for thermally inkjet bioprinted (TIB) and manually seeded (MS) cells. Results: In absence of radiation, the TIB MCF7 cells have 2.5 times higher viability than manually seeded (MS) cells when treated with 100 µM palbociclib and 10 µM letrozole, a 36% higher viability when treated with 50 µM palbociclib and 10 µM letrozole, and an 8% higher viability when treated with 10 µM palbociclib and 10 µM letrozole. With 10 Gy of radiation, TIB cells had a 45% higher survival rate than MS cells at the lowest palbociclib concentration and a 29% higher survival rate at the intermediate palbociclib concentration. Without radiation treatment, at a concentration of 10 μM PD-Let, TIB MDA-MB-231 cells show a 8% higher viability than MS cells when treated with 10 µM PD and 10 µM Let; at higher drug concentrations, the differences disappeared, but some 1.7% of the TIB MDA-MB-231 cells survived exposure to 150 μM of PD + 10 μM letrozole vs. none of the MS cells. These cells are more radiation sensitive than the other cell lines tested and less sensitive to the combo drug treatments. We observed an 18% higher survival of TIB MCF-10A cells without radiation treatment when exposed to 10 μM PD + 10 μM Let but no difference in cell survival between the two groups when radiation was applied. Independent of growth conditions, TIB cells did not show more resistance to radiation treatment than MS cells, but a higher resistance to the combo treatment was observed, which was most pronounced in the MCF-7 cell line. Conclusion: Based on these results, we suggest that TIB used in in-vitro models could be a feasible strategy to develop and/or test new anticancer drugs.