bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Height-to-Diameter Ratio on the Compression Test Results of Remodeled Loess and Its Mechanism
Authors: Yao Wang , Li Xi’an , Wu Youjun , Xue Quan , Hao Zhitao , Shi Jianfeng , Zhang Chen , Ren Yongbiao
Published: January 2023

The confined compression test is the most widely used test to study the compressive deformation of soil in a laboratory, and the height–diameter (H/D) ratio has a significant effect on the confined compression test results. However, there has been limited research on the effect of the H/D ratio on loess compression deformation. In this work, a series of confined compression tests were carried out on the remolded loess samples using a modified oedometer to explore the effect of the H/D ratio on the compression deformation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests were used to investigate the variation of the microstructure in soils with different H/D ratios along the sample height. The results showed that the axial strain of the remolded loess decreases with the increase in the H/D ratio. The influence of the H/D ratio on the compression deformation is not obvious at lower pressures and compaction degrees, but it is significantly enhanced when the H/D ratio is beyond 0.65. The compression curves of the remolded loess samples with different H/D ratios fit the Gompertz equation well, and the transition point of the compression curves becomes difficult to identify with the increase in the H/D ratio. The compression index (Cc) decreases exponentially as a function of the H/D ratio, while the compressive yield stress (Pc) increases linearly with the increase in the H/D ratio. SEM analysis showed that, with the increase in the H/D ratio, the compression deformation of the sample changed from the whole sample involved in compression to the part of the soil in contact with the pressure. The compression of loess is mainly dominated by the compression of macropores and mesopores. The development of the soil–ring wall friction on the compression deformation induced by the H/D ratio was analyzed based on the change in microstructure, and a three-stage development of the soil–ring wall friction was established. These results and analysis established the connection between the specification and the literature, providing strong support for the rationality of the confined compression test results.
Investigation of Intermediate-Height Horizontal Brace Forces under Horizontal and Vertical Loads including Random Initial Imperfections
Authors: Yang Haixu , Liu Shuo , Fang Zhiyuan , Zhao Jinyou
Published: January 2023

In engineering practice, longitudinal brace systems for column-braced systems are designed to resist both horizontal and vertical loads. In previous experimental research on horizontal brace forces for column-braced systems of intermediate height, only vertical loads were considered. Hence, this paper presents a numerical simulation of numerous column-braced systems subjected to horizontal and vertical loads. In the numerical simulation, second-order analysis was adopted, and the Monte Carlo method was used to incorporate the randomness of initial imperfections in the horizontal brace and column. From the finite element (FE) analyses and probability model statistics, the normal probability density equation for intermediate-height horizontal brace forces under horizontal and vertical loads was obtained, and the corresponding design intermediate-height horizontal brace forces were determined and compared with those under vertical loads only. The results indicate that the design intermediate-height horizontal brace forces under horizontal and vertical loads are significantly greater than those under only vertical loads, and that the design intermediate-height horizontal brace forces under horizontal and vertical loads are also greater than the simple superposition results of horizontal loads and intermediate-height horizontal brace forces under only vertical loads.
Role of Decompressive Surgery in Neurologically Intact Patients with Low to Intermediate Intraspinal Metastatic Tumor Burden
Authors: von Spreckelsen Niklas , Ossmann Julian , Lenz Maximilian , Nadjiri Lukas , Lenschow Moritz , Telentschak Sergej , Meyer Johanna , Keßling Julia , Knöll Peter , Eysel Peer , Goldbrunner Roland , Perrech Moritz , Scheyerer Max , Celik Eren , Zarghooni Kourosh , Neuschmelting Volker
Published: January 2023

Background: Surgical decompression (SD) followed by radiotherapy (RT) is superior to RT alone in patients with metastatic spinal disease with epidural spinal cord compression (ESCC) and neurological deficit. For patients without neurological deficit and low- to intermediate-grade intraspinal tumor burden, data on whether SD is beneficial are scarce. This study aims to investigate the neurological outcome of patients without neurological deficit, with a low- to intermediate-ESCC, who were treated with or without SD. Methods: This single-center, multidepartment retrospective analysis includes patients treated for spinal epidural metastases from 2011 to 2021. Neurological status was assessed by Frankel grade, and intraspinal tumor burden was categorized according to the ESCC scale. Spinal instrumentation surgery was only considered as SD if targeted decompression was performed. Results: ESCC scale was determined in 519 patients. Of these, 190 (36.6%) presented with no neurological deficit and a low- to intermediate-grade ESCC (1b, 1c, or 2). Of these, 147 (77.4% were treated with decompression and 43 (22.65%) without. At last follow-up, there was no difference in neurological outcome between the two groups. Conclusions: Indication for decompressive surgery in neurologically intact patients with low-grade ESCC needs to be set cautiously. So far, it is unclear which patients benefit from additional decompressive surgery, warranting further prospective, randomized trials for this significant cohort of patients.
Progresses, Challenges, and Prospects of CRISPR/Cas9 Gene-Editing in Glioma Studies
Authors: Kang Xianhui , Wang Yijian , Liu Pan , Huang Baojun , Zhou Baofeng , Lu Shufang , Geng Wujun , Tang Hongli
Published: January 2023

Glioma refers to a tumor that is derived from brain glial stem cells or progenitor cells and is the most common primary intracranial tumor. Due to its complex cellular components, as well as the aggressiveness and specificity of the pathogenic site of glioma, most patients with malignant glioma have poor prognoses following surgeries, radiotherapies, and chemotherapies. In recent years, an increasing amount of research has focused on the use of CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology in the treatment of glioma. As an emerging gene-editing technology, CRISPR/Cas9 utilizes the expression of certain functional proteins to repair tissues or treat gene-deficient diseases and could be applied to immunotherapies through the expression of antigens, antibodies, or receptors. In addition, some research also utilized CRISPR/Cas9 to establish tumor models so as to study tumor pathogenesis and screen tumor prognostic targets. This paper mainly discusses the roles of CRISPR/Cas9 in the treatment of glioma patients, the exploration of the pathogenesis of neuroglioma, and the screening targets for clinical prognosis. This paper also raises the future research prospects of CRISPR/Cas9 in glioma, as well as the opportunities and challenges that it will face in clinical treatment in the future.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Subtype-Specific Tyrosine Kinases as Triple Negative Breast Cancer Biomarkers
Authors: Limsakul Praopim , Choochuen Pongsakorn , Charupanit Gorn , Charupanit Krit
Published: January 2023

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) shows impediment to the development of targeted therapies due to the absence of specific molecular targets. The high heterogeneity across TNBC subtypes, which can be classified to be at least four subtypes, including two basal-like (BL1, BL2), a mesenchymal (M), and a luminal androgen receptor (LAR) subtype, limits the response to cancer therapies. Despite many attempts to identify TNBC biomarkers, there are currently no effective targeted therapies against this malignancy. In this study, thus, we identified the potential tyrosine kinase (TK) genes that are uniquely expressed in each TNBC subtype, since TKs have been typically used as drug targets. Differentially expressed TK genes were analyzed from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and were confirmed with the other datasets of both TNBC patients and cell lines. The results revealed that each TNBC subtype expressed distinct TK genes that were specific to the TNBC subtype. The identified subtype-specific TK genes of BL1, BL2, M, and LAR are LYN, CSF1R, FGRF2, and SRMS, respectively. These findings could serve as a potential biomarker of specific TNBC subtypes, which could lead to an effective treatment for TNBC patients.
Adjuvant BRAF-MEK Inhibitors versus Anti PD-1 Therapy in Stage III Melanoma: A Propensity-Matched Outcome Analysis
Authors: De Meza Melissa M. , Blokx Willeke A. M. , Bonenkamp Johannes J. , Blank Christian U. , Aarts Maureen J. B. , van den Berkmortel Franchette W. P. J. , Boers-Sonderen Marye J. , De Groot Jan Willem B. , Haanen John B. A. G. , Hospers Geke A. P. , Kapiteijn Ellen , Van Not Olivier J. , Piersma Djura , Van Rijn Rozemarijn S. , Stevense-den Boer Marion , Van der Veldt Astrid A. M. , Vreugdenhil Gerard , Van den Eertwegh Alfonsus J. M. , Suijkerbuijk Karijn P. M. , Wouters Michel W. J. M.
Published: January 2023

Adjuvant BRAF/MEK- and anti-PD-1 inhibition have significantly improved recurrence-free survival (RFS) compared to placebo in resected stage III BRAF-mutant melanoma. However, data beyond the clinical trial setting are limited. This study describes the toxicity and survival of patients treated with adjuvant BRAF/MEK inhibitors and compares outcomes to adjuvant anti-PD-1. For this study, stage III BRAF V600 mutant cutaneous melanoma patients treated with adjuvant BRAF/MEK-inhibition or anti-PD-1 were identified from the Dutch Melanoma Treatment Registry. BRAF/MEK- and anti-PD-1-treated patients were matched based on propensity scores, and RFS at 12 and 18 months were estimated. Between 1 July 2018 and 31 December 2021, 717 patients were identified. Of these, 114 patients with complete records were treated with BRAF/MEK therapy and 532 with anti-PD-1. Comorbidities (p = 0.04) and geographical region (p < 0.01) were associated with treatment choice. In 45.6% of BRAF/MEK-treated patients, treatment was prematurely discontinued. Grade ≥ 3 toxicity occurred in 11.5% of patients and was the most common cause of early discontinuation (71.1%). At 12 and 18 months, RFS in BRAF/MEK-treated patients was 85% and 70%, compared to 68% and 68% in matched anti-PD-1-treated patients (p = 0.03). In conclusion, comorbidities and geographical region determine the choice of adjuvant treatment in patients with resected stage III BRAF-mutant melanoma. With the currently limited follow-up, BRAF/MEK-treated patients have better RFS at 12 months than matched anti-PD-1-treated patients, but this difference is no longer observed at 18 months. Therefore, longer follow-up data are necessary to estimate long-term effectiveness.
TRIM10 Is Downregulated in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Plays a Tumor Suppressive Role via Regulating NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Li Lin , Li Qi , Zou Zhengrong , Huang Zoufang , Chen Yijian
Published: January 2023

Background: Accumulating evidence suggests that members of the tripartite motif (TRIMs) family play a crucial role in the development and progression of hematological malignancy. Here, we explored the expression and potential role of TRIM10 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Methods: The expression levels of TRIM10 were investigated in AML patients and cell lines by RNA-seq, qRT-PCR and Western blotting analysis. Lentiviral infection was used to regulate the level of TRIM10 in AML cells. The effects of TRIM10 on apoptosis, drug sensitivity and proliferation of AML cells were evaluated by flow cytometry and cell-counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, as well as being assessed in a murine model. Results: TRIM10 mRNA and protein expression was reduced in primary AML samples and AML cell lines in comparison to the normal controls and a human normal hematopoietic cell line, respectively. Moreover, overexpression of TRIM10 in HL60 and K562 cells inhibited AML cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis. The nude mice study further confirmed that overexpression of TRIM10 blocked tumor growth and inhibited cell proliferation. In contrast, knockdown of TRIM10 in AML cells showed contrary results. Subsequent mechanistic studies demonstrated that knockdown of TRIM10 enhanced the expression of nuclear protein P65, which implied the activation of the NF-κB signal pathway. Consistently, overexpression of TRIM10 in AML cells showed a contrary result. These data indicated that inactivation of the NF-κB pathway is involved in TRIM10-mediated regulation in AML. TRIM10 expression can be de-repressed by a combination that targets both DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase. Conclusions: Our results strongly suggested that TRIM10 plays a tumor suppressive role in AML development associated with the NF-κB signal pathway and may be a potential target of epigenetic therapy against leukemia.
Actual and Potential Role of Primary Care Physicians in Cancer Prevention
Authors: Mańczuk Marta , Przepiórka Irena , Cedzyńska Magdalena , Przewoźniak Krzysztof , Gliwska Elwira , Ciuba Agata , Didkowska Joanna , Koczkodaj Paweł
Published: January 2023

Although the role of primary care in cancer prevention has been proven, its assumptions are still insufficiently implemented and the actual rates of cancer prevention advice delivery remain low. Our study aimed to identify the actual and potential role of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the cancer prevention area. Design of the study is a cross-sectional one, based on a survey of 450 PCPs who took part in a nationwide educational project in Poland. Only 30% of PCPs provide cancer prevention advice routinely in their practice, whereas 70% do that only sometimes. PCPs’ actual role in cancer prevention is highly unexploited. They inquire routinely about the patient’s smoking history (71.1%), breast cancer screening program (43.7%), cervical cancer screening (41.1%), patient’s alcohol consumption (34%), patient’s physical activity levels (32.3%), body mass index (29.6%), the patient’s eating habits (28%) and patient’s potential for sun/UV-Ray exposure (5.7%). The potential role of PCPs in cancer prevention is still underestimated and underutilized. Action should be taken to raise awareness and understanding that PCPs can provide cancer prevention advice. Since lack of time is the main obstacle to providing cancer prevention advice routinely, systemic means must be undertaken to enable PCPs to utilize their unquestionable role in cancer prevention.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations for the Michaelis Complex of Ectoine Synthase (EctC)
Authors: Andrys-Olek Justyna , Heider Johann , Borowski Tomasz
Published: January 2023

Ectoine is a chemical chaperone synthesised and used by bacteria to defend against osmotic stress. Although it has already gained attention from the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, thanks to its hydrating and cell-protecting properties, the reaction mechanism of its final synthesis step is still not fully understood. The ultimate step of ectoine biosynthesis is catalysed by the ectoine synthase enzyme (EctC), which requires an iron ion for substrate binding and overall enzymatic activity. Even though a crystal structure for Paenibacillus lautus EctC—substrate complex is available (PDB: 5ONN), it is not very informative with respect to the geometry of the active site because: (1) the crystal was obtained at a pH value far from the enzyme’s pH optimum, (2) the electron density at the Fe position is weak, and (3) the Fe-ligand distances are too long. To fill this gap, in this work we have used classical molecular dynamics simulations to model the enzyme-substrate (N-gamma-acetyl-L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid) complex of Paenibacillus lautus EctC (PlEctC). Since PlEctC is a homodimeric protein, MD simulations were carried out for a dimer with various plausible occupancies by the substrate and for two plausible coordination geometries around the catalytic Fe ion: tetrahedral and octahedral. MD results revealed that the presence of the ligand has a stabilising effect on the protein structure, most notably on a short helix 112–118, which flanks the entrance to the active site. The most important amino acids for substrate binding are Trp21, Arg25, Asn38, Thr40, and Tyr52, which were also identified in the crystal structure. Importantly, the substrate can easily adopt a conformation suitable for the progress of the catalytic reaction, and it does so spontaneously for the octahedral 6-coordinate geometry of the iron cofactor or with a low energy penalty (ca. 3 kcal/mol) in the case of 4-coordinate tetrahedral geometry. Simulations for different substrate occupancy states did not reveal any signs of cooperativity between the two monomers.
Equilibrium Shapes of Ag, Ni, and Ir Nanoparticles under CO Conditions
Authors: Zhang Meng , Han Yu , Xu Wenwu , Zhu Beien , Gao Yi
Published: January 2023

Metal nanoparticles are widely used in catalysis by virtue of their excellent physicochemical properties, which are closely related to their morphology. In this work, we predict the reshaping of Ag, Ni, and Ir metal nanoparticles under a CO atmosphere using the recently proposed multiscale structure reconstruction model. In the low-pressure environment, temperature has little effect on the structures of Ag nanoparticles. However, the structures of Ag nanoparticles will change significantly in high- and low-temperature environments. Ni and Ir nanoparticles are greatly affected by the environment due to their stronger interactions with CO. This study demonstrates the structural changes of Ag, Ni, and Ir nanoparticles under different pressures and temperatures, providing theoretical guidance for in situ experiments and the rational design of nanocatalysts.
Performance and Mechanism of Hydrothermally Synthesized MoS2 on Copper Dissolution
Authors: Lu Hao , Cao Fang , Huang Xiaoyu , Yang Honggang
Published: January 2023

The recovery of copper from circuit boards is currently a hot topic. However, recycling copper from circuit boards economically and environmentally is still a considerable challenge. In this study, a simple hydrothermal method was used to synthesize MoS2 with nano-flower-like morphology using sodium molybdate dihydrate and thiourea as molybdenum and sulfur sources. The metal copper in the chip was successfully dissolved under the action of free radicals produced by ultrasound. The results show that under the catalytic action of hydrothermal synthesis MoS2, the concentration of Cu2+ dissolved by ultrasonic treatment for 10 h is 39.46 mg/L. In contrast, the concentration of Cu2+ dissolved by commercial MoS2 is only 2.20 mg/L under the same condition. The MoS2 is polarized by external mechanical forces and reacts with water to produce H+ and free electrons e−, which can combine with O2 and OH− to produce ·OH and ·O2− free radicals. Elemental Cu is converted to Cu2+ by the attack of these two free radicals.
The Bronchoprotective Effects of Dual Pharmacology, Muscarinic Receptor Antagonist and β2 Adrenergic Receptor Agonist Navafenterol in Human Small Airways
Authors: Jude Joseph Antony , Dainty Ian , Karmacharya Nikhil , Jester William , Panettieri Reynold
Published: January 2023

Bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory agents are the mainstream treatments in chronic obstructive and pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. The combination of β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonists and muscarinic antagonists shows superior bronchoprotective effects compared to these agents individually. Navafenterol (AZD8871) is a single-molecule, dual pharmacology agent combining muscarinic antagonist and β2AR agonist functions, currently in development as a COPD therapeutic. In precision-cut human lung slices (hPCLS), we investigated the bronchoprotective effect of navafenterol against two non-muscarinic contractile agonists, histamine and thromboxane A2 (TxA2) analog (U46619). Navafenterol pre-treatment significantly attenuated histamine-induced bronchoconstriction and β2AR antagonist propranolol reversed this inhibitory effect. TxA2 analog-induced bronchoconstriction was attenuated by navafenterol pre-treatment, albeit to a lesser magnitude than that of histamine-induced bronchoconstriction. Propranolol completely reversed the inhibitory effect of navafenterol on TxA2 analog-induced bronchoconstriction. In the presence of histamine or TxA2 analog, navafenterol exhibits bronchoprotective effect in human airways and it is primarily mediated by β2AR agonism of navafenterol.
A CD19-Anti-ErbB2 scFv Engager Protein Enables CD19-Specific CAR T Cells to Eradicate ErbB2+ Solid Cancer
Authors: Hombach Andreas A. , Ambrose Christine , Lobb Roy , Rennert Paul , Abken Hinrich
Published: January 2023

The efficacy of CD19-specific CAR T cells in the treatment of leukemia/lymphoma relies, at least in part, on the unique properties of the particular CAR and the presence of healthy B cells that enhance the target cell lysis and cytokine secretion through repetitive stimulation. Here, we report to apply the same CAR to target solid tumors, such as ErbB2+ carcinoma. CD19 CAR T cells are redirected towards the ErbB2+ cells by a fusion protein that is composed of the herceptin-derived anti-ErbB2 scFv 4D5 linked to the CD19 exodomain. The CD19-4D5scFv engager enabled CD19 CAR T cells to recognize the ErbB2+ cancer cells and to suppress the ErbB2+ tumor growth. The primary killing capacity by the ErbB2-redirected CD19 CAR T cells was as efficient as by the ErbB2 CAR T cells, however, adding CD19+ B cells furthermore reinforced the activation of the CD19 CAR T cells, thereby improving the anti-tumor activities. The ErbB2-redirected CD19 CAR T cells, moreover, showed a 100-fold superior selectivity in targeting cancer cells versus healthy fibroblasts, which was not the case for the ErbB2 CAR T cells. The data demonstrate that the CD19 CAR T cells can be high-jacked by a CD19-scFv engager protein to attack specifically solid cancer, thereby expanding their application beyond the B cell malignancies.
Zebrafish: A Model Deciphering the Impact of Flavonoids on Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Mhalhel Kamel , Sicari Mirea , Pansera Lidia , Chen Jincan , Levanti Maria , Diotel Nicolas , Rastegar Sepand , Germanà Antonino , Montalbano Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

Over the past century, advances in biotechnology, biochemistry, and pharmacognosy have spotlighted flavonoids, polyphenolic secondary metabolites that have the ability to modulate many pathways involved in various biological mechanisms, including those involved in neuronal plasticity, learning, and memory. Moreover, flavonoids are known to impact the biological processes involved in developing neurodegenerative diseases, namely oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Thus, several flavonoids could be used as adjuvants to prevent and counteract neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Zebrafish is an interesting model organism that can offer new opportunities to study the beneficial effects of flavonoids on neurodegenerative diseases. Indeed, the high genome homology of 70% to humans, the brain organization largely similar to the human brain as well as the similar neuroanatomical and neurochemical processes, and the high neurogenic activity maintained in the adult brain makes zebrafish a valuable model for the study of human neurodegenerative diseases and deciphering the impact of flavonoids on those disorders.
Milk Fat Globule Epidermal Growth Factor VIII Fragment Medin in Age-Associated Arterial Adverse Remodeling and Arterial Disease
Authors: Wang Mingyi , McGraw Kimberly R. , Monticone Robert E.
Published: January 2023

Medin, a small 50-amino acid peptide, is an internal cleaved product from the second discoidin domain of milk fat globule epidermal growth factor VIII (MFG-E8) protein. Medin has been reported as the most common amylogenic protein in the upper part of the arterial system, including aortic, temporal, and cerebral arterial walls in the elderly. Medin has a high affinity to elastic fibers and is closely associated with arterial degenerative inflammation, elastic fiber fragmentation, calcification, and amyloidosis. In vitro, treating with the medin peptide promotes the inflammatory phenotypic shift of both endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. In vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies demonstrate that medin enhances the abundance of reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species produced by both endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells and promotes vascular endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffening. Immunostaining and immunoblotting analyses of human samples indicate that the levels of medin are increased in the pathogenesis of aortic aneurysm/dissection, temporal arteritis, and cerebrovascular dementia. Thus, medin peptide could be targeted as a biomarker diagnostic tool or as a potential molecular approach to curbing the arterial degenerative inflammatory remodeling that accompanies aging and disease.
High-Dose Ascorbate in Combination with Anti-PD1 Checkpoint Inhibition as Treatment Option for Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Burkard Markus , Niessner Heike , Leischner Christian , Piotrowsky Alban , Renner Olga , Marongiu Luigi , Lauer Ulrich M. , Busch Christian , Sinnberg Tobias , Venturelli Sascha
Published: January 2023

Ascorbate acts as a prooxidant when administered parenterally at high supraphysiological doses, which results in the generation of hydrogen peroxide in dependence on oxygen. Most cancer cells are susceptible to the emerging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Accordingly, we evaluated high-dose ascorbate for the treatment of the B16F10 melanoma model. To investigate the effects of ascorbate on the B16F10 cell line in vitro, viability, cellular impedance, and ROS production were analyzed. In vivo, C57BL/6NCrl mice were subcutaneously injected into the right flank with B16F10 cells and tumor-bearing mice were treated intraperitoneally with ascorbate (3 g/kg bodyweight), immunotherapy (anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) antibody J43; 2 mg/kg bodyweight), or both treatments combined. The efficacy and toxicity were analyzed by measuring the respective tumor sizes and mouse weights accompanied by histological analysis of the protein levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (Pcna), glucose transporter 1 (Glut-1), and CD3. Treatment of B16F10 melanoma-carrying mice with high-dose ascorbate yielded plasma levels in the pharmacologically effective range, and ascorbate showed efficacy as a monotherapy and when combined with PD1 inhibition. Our data suggest the applicability of ascorbate as an additional therapeutic agent that can be safely combined with immunotherapy and has the potential to potentiate anti-PD1-based immune checkpoint blockades.
The RUNX Family, a Novel Multifaceted Guardian of the Genome
Authors: Dutta Bibek , Osato Motomi
Published: January 2023

The DNA repair machinery exists to protect cells from daily genetic insults by orchestrating multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors. One such factor recently identified is the Runt-related transcription factor (RUNX) family, a group of proteins that act as a master transcriptional regulator for multiple biological functions such as embryonic development, stem cell behaviors, and oncogenesis. A significant number of studies in the past decades have delineated the involvement of RUNX proteins in DNA repair. Alterations in RUNX genes cause organ failure and predisposition to cancers, as seen in patients carrying mutations in the other well-established DNA repair genes. Herein, we review the currently existing findings and provide new insights into transcriptional and non-transcriptional multifaceted regulation of DNA repair by RUNX family proteins.
Evaluation of Endocan as a Treatment for Acute Inflammatory Respiratory Failure
Authors: Hureau Maxence , Portier Lucie , Prin Méline , de Nadai Patricia , Balsamelli Joanne , Tsicopoulos Anne , Mathieu Daniel , Lassalle Philippe , Grigoriu Bogdan , Gaudet Alexandre , De Freitas Caires Nathalie
Published: January 2023

Background: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition resulting from acute pulmonary inflammation. However, no specific treatment for ARDS has yet been developed. Previous findings suggest that lung injuries related to ARDS could be regulated by endocan (Esm-1). The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential efficiency of endocan in the treatment of ARDS. Methods: We first compared the features of acute pulmonary inflammation and the severity of hypoxemia in a tracheal LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) model performed in knockout (Esm1−/−) and wild type (WT) littermate C57Bl/6 mice. Next, we assessed the effects of a continuous infusion of glycosylated murine endocan in our ALI model in Esm1−/− mice. Results: In our ALI model, we report higher alveolar leukocytes (p < 0.001), neutrophils (p < 0.001), and MPO (p < 0.001), and lower blood oxygenation (p < 0.001) in Esm1−/− mice compared to WT mice. Continuous delivery of glycosylated murine endocan after LPS-induced ALI resulted in decreased alveolar leukocytes (p = 0.012) and neutrophils (p = 0.012), higher blood oxygenation levels (p < 0.001), and reduced histological lung injury (p = 0.04), compared to mice treated with PBS. Conclusions: Endocan appears to be an effective treatment in an ARDS-like model in C57Bl/6 mice.
Towards Youth-Centred Planetary Health Education
Authors: Tilleczek Kate C. , Terry Mark , MacDonald Deborah , Orbinski James , Stinson James
Published: January 2023

This paper presents data and analyses from our Planetary Health Film Lab (PHFL) and its sister project the Youth Climate Report. Qualitative data include semi-structured interviews with youth and their educators and content analysis of films produced by young people (ages 19–25) from six countries (Australia, Columbia, Ecuador, Italy, India, Canada). The educative processes designed for the Planetary Health Film Lab are illustrative of our work to build the field of planetary health education that is with/for young people whose educative projects are mobilized in turn to educate wider audiences and for policy change. The analyses show how youth document and record planetary health concerns alongside responsive projects that are embedded in awareness of climate justice and their interconnected ecological systems. The qualitative content analyses of selected films resulted in three themes: (1) Anthropogenic footprints, (2) Ecological and climate justice, and (3) Collective local/global solutions. Data also illustrates how young people’s participation in educative film projects contribute to the education of others and address related intergenerational justice issues. Implications for the knowledge, ethics and practices of youth-centred planetary health education are discussed as they augment the Framework for Planetary Health. Youth are crucial but overlooked collaborators in redressing planetary health education, an error we begin to correct through transdisciplinary approaches with/for young people who could help define the field.
Cracking Behavior of Gd2Zr2O7/YSZ Multi-Layered Thermal Barrier Coatings Deposited by Suspension Plasma Spray
Authors: Amer Mohamed , Curry Nicholas , Hayat Qamar , Sharma Rohit , Janik Vit , Zhang Xiang , Nottingham Jon , Bai Mingwen
Published: January 2023

A new multi-layered thermal barrier coating system (TBCs) containing gadolinium zirconate (GZ, Gd2Zr2O7) and yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) was developed using suspension plasma spray (SPS) to improve the overall thermal cycling performance. This study focuses on the cracking behavior of the GZ/YSZ TBC after thermal exposure to find out the key factors that limit its lifetime. Different cracking behaviors were detected depending on the thermal treatment condition (i.e., horizontal cracks within the ceramic layer and at the thermally grown oxide (TGO)/YSZ interface) which can be related to stresses developed through thermal expansion mismatch and increased TGO thickness beyond a critical value, respectively. A reduction in hardness of bond coat (BC) was measured by nanoindentation and linked with the thermally activated grain growth mechanism. The hardness and elastic modulus of ceramic layers (GZ and YSZ) showed an increased trend after treatment that contributed to the interfacial cracks.
Effect of Fabric Electrode Surface Coating Medium on ECG Signal Quality under Dynamic and Static Conditions
Authors: Zhang Yazhou , Zhou Jinli , Yang Hongying , Liu Qingxia , Wang Ming , Xiong Fan , Chen Dongyi , Du Lixin
Published: January 2023

This study intends to explore the influence of a fabric electrode skin interface filling medium on ECG signals under dynamic and static conditions, so as to be able to better monitor both stable and dynamic ECG signals. In this paper, cotton fabric electrodes were prepared using electroless silver-plated conductive cotton fabric, and then the electrodes were integrated into a physiotherapy-grade elastic bandage to assemble the fabric ECG tape. The electrode impedance tester and the BIOPAC physiological recorder were used to measure the fabric electrode-skin impedance and electrocardiogram under dynamic and static conditions, respectively. Later, the influence of the fabric electrode coated medium on the acquisition effect of an electrocardiogram signal under dynamic and static conditions is discussed. The results show that in the absence of a dielectric reagent coating, the cotton fabric electrode is easily disturbed by external noise which leads to large electrode-skin contact impedance. However, the electrode-skin contact impedance is greatly reduced after coating the fabric electrode with the dielectric reagent. At the same time, after applying the conducive paste coating, the corresponding change curve of the fabric electrode became more stable, and the impedance value was less than 0.005 MΩ·cm2, which meets the standard requirement for textile dry electrode skin impedance. In a state of rest, a clear and stable ECG can be collected regardless of whether the medium reagent is coated or not. However, only after applying the conductive paste can a stable ECG signal be collected under the three motion modes, or can a P wave, QRS wave group, or T wave be clearly distinguished. In addition, there is a high correlation with the disposable gel electrode, which can satisfy the requirements of the long-term monitoring of ECG signals under dynamic conditions.
Characterization and Boron Diffusion Kinetics on the Surface-Hardened Layers of Royalloy Steel
Authors: Orihel Peter , Drienovský Marián , Gabalcová Zuzana , Jurči Peter , Keddam Mourad
Published: January 2023

The Royalloy steel was boronized at 1173, 1223, 1248, 1273 or 1323 K for 1, 3, 5, 7 or 10 h using a Durborid powder mixture. The boronized samples were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Vickers microhardness testing. The kinetic activity of boronized layers growth obeys the parabolic law, and the maximum thickness was 182 ± 10 µm. The thickness of FeB makes up to 40% of the total layer thickness. The obtained layers have two phases, which were composed of FeB and Fe2B phases, except for the sample boronized at 1173 K for 1 h which had an Fe2B layer only. The microhardness of the Fe2B phase had a range of 1370–1703 HV0.1, and that of the FeB phase was within 1727–2231 HV0.1. During the boronizing process, the chromium created extra particles with the highest amount of chromium in the transient region. The highest amount of silicon was observed at the boride layer/substrate interface. The amount of manganese was slightly lower in the boride layers compared to the amount in the substrate. Finally, the integral diffusion model was applied to determine the boron activation energies in the FeB and Fe2B layers, and this was followed by a comparison with the literature data.
Mathematical Modeling and Analysis of the Steady Electro-Osmotic Flow of Two Immiscible Fluids: A Biomedical Application
Authors: Alyousef Haifa A. , Yasmin Humaira , Shah Rasool , Shah Nehad Ali , El-Sherif Lamiaa S. , El-Tantawy Samir A.
Published: January 2023

The in vitro fabrication of big osteoarticular implants integrating biomaterials and cells is of tremendous interest because these tissues have a limited ability to regenerate. However, the growth of such cells in vitro is highly problematic, especially later in the culture, when the extracellular matrix has almost filled the initial porous network. Thus, the fluid flow required to properly perfuse the sample cannot be obtained by the hydraulic driving force alone. Fluid pumping is a central concern of a microfluidic system and electro-osmotic pumps (EOPs) are commonly employed for this purpose. Using electro-kinetic equations as a basis, this study analyzed the variations of a two-fluid electro-osmotic flow of viscoelastic fluid flow through a channel. The behavior of the fluid was studied through the Ellis equation. This is how the electro-osmotic pump functions, as demonstrated in the literature that it electrically drags a conducting fluid across a non-conducting fluid through interfacial dragging force along the channel. A steady-state analytical solution for the system in a conducting fluid channel was studied by undertaking an interface planner for fluids exhibiting Newtonian rheological properties. The pumping characteristics were studied in detail by using the Ellis model’s parameters. The fluid rheology was studied, which showed the viability of this technique.
Microstructure Evolution and Hardness Improvement of WC-Co Composites Sintered with Fe Substituting Part of Co Binder
Authors: Li Xun , Zhang Junfei , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Xianwei , Ji Vincent , Liu Jinlong
Published: January 2023

WC-13Co (wt.%) composite with Fe added was prepared by pressureless sintering, and its microstructure and mechanical properties were analyzed by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and Vickers hardness tester. The effect of Fe and C content on the microstructure of the eta phase, binder phase, grain size and porosity, as well as mechanical properties in the W-Co-Fe-C system, was discussed quantitatively. The position of added Fe in the lattice of the composites is clarified. When 2%–4% Fe was added, Fe existes in both the binder phase and the low-carbon eta phase. In the lattice of the eta phase, Fe occupies the position of Co and Fe uniformly existes in the binder with the structure of simple cubic when the composites is in the eutectic phase region. Differently from the previous report that the growth of WC in liquid Fe was severely limited, the size of WC in the W-Co-Fe-C system increases from 1.14 μm to 1.21 μm when the content of Fe increases from 0 to 4%, which indicates that the growth behavior of WC in liquid CoFe was different from that in liquid Fe, but closer to that in liquid Co. The sample added both 2% Fe and 1% C has the optimum matching of hardness and toughness. Compared with the hardness of 979 HV30 in the sample without adding Fe and C, the hardness of the sample with both 2% Fe and 1% C added achieved 1071 HV30, which is increased by 9.4% under the conditions of a slight increase in fracture toughness.
Investigation of Electrochemical Characteristics and Interfacial Contact Resistance of TiN-Coated Titanium as Bipolar Plate in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Heo Ho-Seong , Kim Seong-Jong
Published: January 2023

In this research, titanium nitride (TiN) was applied to grade 1 titanium as a bipolar plate for a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The TiN was deposited by the arc ion plating method (AIP) to investigate the electrochemical characteristics of the anode and cathode environments in the PEMFC. The corrosion experiments were conducted in an aqueous solution of pH 3 (H2SO4 + 0.1 ppm HF, 80 °C) determined by the Department of Energy (DoE). The hydrogen gas and air were bubbled to simulate the anode and cathode environments. The potentiodynamic polarization experiment showed that there was no active peak. The potentiostatic experiment showed that the current densities of the TiN-coated specimens were less than 1 μA/cm2 in both the anode and cathode. As a result of observing the surface with an SEM before and after the potentiostatic experiment, only pinholes generated during the coating process were observed, and no corrosion damage was observed. Furthermore, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis showed that the coated specimens had a higher charge transfer resistance than the titanium substrate. In the case of interfacial contact resistance (ICR), the TiN-coated specimen displayed lower resistance than the titanium substrate and satisfied the DoE technical target of less than 10 mΩ·cm2 at 140 N/cm2.
GPU-Based Cellular Automata Model for Multi-Orient Dendrite Growth and the Application on Binary Alloy
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Meng Hongji , Yang Jian , Xie Zhi
Published: January 2023

To simulate dendrite growth with different orientations more efficiently, a high-performance cellular automata (CA) model based on heterogenous central processing unit (CPU)+ graphics processing unit (GPU) architecture has been proposed in this paper. Firstly, the decentered square algorithm (DCSA) is used to simulate the morphology of dendrite with different orientations. Secondly, parallel algorithms are proposed to take full advantage of many cores by maximizing computational parallelism. Thirdly, in order to further improve the calculation efficiency, the task scheduling scheme using multi-stream is designed to solve the waiting problem among independent tasks, improving task parallelism. Then, the present model was validated by comparing its steady dendrite tip velocity with the Lipton–Glicksman–Kurz (LGK) analytical model, which shows great agreement. Finally, it is applied to simulate the dendrite growth of the binary alloy, which proves that the present model can not only simulate the clear dendrite morphology with different orientations and secondary arms, but also show a good agreement with the in situ experiment. In addition, compared with the traditional CPU model, the speedup of this model is up to 158×, which provides a great acceleration.
Monoammonium Trimetaphosphimate (NH4)H2(PO2NH)3
Authors: Günther Daniel , Paulmann Carsten , Oeckler Oliver
Published: January 2023

Trimetaphosphimates show a rich structural variability in both cation coordination and anion arrangement. They are precursors for crystalline, as well as amorphous oxonitridophosphates. The ammonium trimetaphosphimate (NH4)H2(PO2NH)3 is formed during the decomposition of the corresponding acid in solution. The monoclinic crystal structure of the monoammonium salt was elucidated by single crystal X-ray diffraction using synchrotron radiation. The trimetaphosphimate monoanions exhibit a twist conformation and form crankshaft-like stacks along [100], which have so far only been observed in (NH4)3(PO2NH)3·H2O and Ag3(PO2NH)3. (NH4)H2(PO2NH)3 decomposes at 170 °C, forming a poorly crystalline phase. Therefore, it is a model system and possible precursor for the synthesis of oxonitridophosphates.
Comparative Characterization of the TiN and TiAlN Coatings Deposited on a New WC-Co Tool Using a CAE-PVD Technique
Authors: Matei Alecs Andrei , Turcu Ramona Nicoleta , Pencea Ion , Herghelegiu Eugen , Petrescu Mircea Ionut , Niculescu Florentina
Published: January 2023

The main objective of this work was to assess and compare the structure and mechanical properties of the TiN and TiAlN coatings deposited on a new WC-Co tool using the cathodic arc evaporation vacuum deposition (CAE-PVD) technique. The cutting tool was sintered at high temperature and high pressure using a powder tungsten carbide matrix ligated with cobalt (WC-Co). Powdered grain growth inhibitors (TiC, TaC, and NbC) were admixed into the matrix to enhance its strength and to facilitate the adhesion of the Ti base coatings. Detailed scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were performed, aiming to substantiate the effectiveness of the inhibitor additions. XRD data were thoroughly exploited to estimate the phase contents, average crystallite sizes (D), coating thicknesses (t), texture coefficients (Thkl), and residual stress levels (σ). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to calculate the average roughness (Ra) and the root mean square (Rq). The microhardness (µHV) was measured using the Vickers method. The TiAlN characteristics (D = 55 nm, t = 3.6 μm, T200 = 1.55, µHV = 3187; σ = −2.8 GPa, Ra = 209 nm, Rq = 268 nm) compared to TiN ones (D = 66 nm, t = 4.3 μm, T111 = 1.52, µHV = 2174; σ = +2.2 GPa, Ra = 246 nm, Rq = 309 nm) substantiate the better adequacy of the TiAlN coating for the WC-Co substrate. The structural features and data on the TiN and TiAlN coatings, the tool type, the different stress kinds exerted into these coatings, and the way of discrimination of the coating adequacy are the novelties addressed in the paper.
Influence of Fly Ash on the Fluidity of Blast Furnace Slag for the Preparation of Slag Wool
Authors: Du Peipei , Long Yue , Zhang Yuzhu , Zhang Liangjin
Published: January 2023

Using fly ash as the modifier, blast furnace slag was modified to prepare slag wool, fulfilling the goal of using one type of waste to make use of another type of waste, and it is of great significance for the comprehensive utilization of industrial bulk solid wastes and resource recycling. In the process of forming fiber from blast furnace slag, fluidity is the key factor affecting the smooth formation of fiber from slag. To explore the changes in the fluidity of modified blast furnace slag, the temperature-dependent viscosity of modified blast furnace slag with different amounts of fly ash added was measured, and the effects of fly ash addition on the viscosity, fluidity, and activation energy of particle migration, and slag structure of modified blast furnace slag were investigated. The results indicated that with the increase in the amount of fly ash added, in the high-temperature region (>1324 °C), the viscosity of modified blast furnace slag increases gradually, the fluidity decreases gradually (i.e., the fluidity becomes worse), and the suitable fiber-forming temperature range gradually widens. When the fly ash addition increases from 5% to 25%, the trend of the activation energy of slag particle migration is as follows: increase, decrease, increase significantly, decrease. When the addition of fly ash is less than 20%, the SiO2 content and slag temperature jointly affect the breakage and reorganization of oxygen bridge bonding in the silicon-oxygen tetrahedron in the slag structure. When the addition of fly ash increases to 25%, the slag temperature dominates the breakage of oxygen bridge bonding in the silicon-oxygen tetrahedron in the slag structure. When using fly ash as the modifier to prepare slag wool, from the perspective of slag fluidity and process operability, the optimum addition amount of fly ash is 15%.