bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Serotonin Transporter Absence on Brain Insulin Receptor Expression, Plasma Metabolome Changes, and ADHD-like Behavior in Mice fed a Western Diet
Authors: Anthony Daniel C. , Probert Fay , Gorlova Anna , Hebert Jenna , Radford-Smith Daniel , Nefedova Zlata , Umriukhin Aleksei , Nedorubov Andrey , Cespuglio Raymond , Shulgin Boris , Lyundup Aleksey , Lesch Klaus Peter , Strekalova Tatyana
Published: July 2024

The impaired function of the serotonin transporter (SERT) in humans has been linked to a higher risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, especially as people age. Consuming a “Western diet” (WD), which is high in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sugars, can induce metabolic syndrome. Previous research indicated that mice carrying a targeted inactivation of the Sert gene (knockout, KO) and fed a WD display significant metabolic disturbances and behaviors reminiscent of ADHD. These abnormalities might be mediated via a dysfunction in insulin receptor (IR) signaling, which is also associated with adult ADHD. However, the impact of Sert deficiency on IR signaling and systemic metabolic changes has not been thoroughly explored. In this study, we conducted a detailed analysis of locomotor behavior in wild-type (WT) and KO mice fed a WD or control diet. We investigated changes in the blood metabolome and examined, via PCR, the expression of insulin receptor A and B isoforms and key regulators of their function in the brain. Twelve-month-old KO mice and their WT littermates were fed a WD for three weeks. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analysis of plasma samples showed that KO mice on a WD had higher levels of lipids and lipoproteins and lower levels of glucose, lactate, alanine, valine, and isoleucine compared to other groups. SERT-KO mice on the control diet exhibited increased brain levels of both IR A and B isoforms, accompanied by a modest increase in the negative regulator ENPP. The KO mice also displayed anxiety-like behavior and reduced exploratory activity in an open field test. However, when the KO animals were fed a WD, the aberrant expression levels of IR isoforms in the KO mice and locomotor behavior were ameliorated indicating a complex interaction between genetic and dietary factors that might contribute to ADHD-like symptoms. Overall, our findings suggest that the lack of Sert leads to a unique metabolic phenotype in aged mice, characterized by dysregulated IR-related pathways. These changes are exacerbated by WD in the blood metabolome and are associated with behavioral abnormalities.
Diabetes and Osteoarthritis: Exploring the Interactions and Therapeutic Implications of Insulin, Metformin, and GLP-1-Based Interventions
Authors: Halabitska Iryna , Babinets Liliia , Oksenych Valentyn , Kamyshnyi Oleksandr
Published: July 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and osteoarthritis (OA) are prevalent chronic conditions with shared pathophysiological links, including inflammation and metabolic dysregulation. This study investigates the potential impact of insulin, metformin, and GLP-1-based therapies on OA progression. Methods involved a literature review of clinical trials and mechanistic studies exploring the effects of these medications on OA outcomes. Results indicate that insulin, beyond its role in glycemic control, may modulate inflammatory pathways relevant to OA, potentially influencing joint health. Metformin, recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties via AMPK activation, shows promise in mitigating OA progression by preserving cartilage integrity and reducing inflammatory markers. GLP-1-based therapies, known for enhancing insulin secretion and improving metabolic profiles in DM, also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects that may benefit OA by suppressing cytokine-mediated joint inflammation and supporting cartilage repair mechanisms. Conclusions suggest that these medications, while primarily indicated for diabetes management, hold therapeutic potential in OA by targeting common underlying mechanisms. Further clinical trials are warranted to validate these findings and explore optimal therapeutic strategies for managing both DM and OA comorbidities effectively.
Dual Regulation Mechanism of Obesity: DNA Methylation and Intestinal Flora
Authors: Ren Yi , Huang Peng , Zhang Lu , Tang Yu-Fen , Luo Sen-Lin , She Zhou , Peng Hong , Chen Yu-Qiong , Luo Jin-Wen , Duan Wang-Xin , Liu Ling-Juan , Liu Li-Qun
Published: July 2024

Obesity is a multifactorial chronic inflammatory metabolic disorder, with pathogenesis influenced by genetic and non-genetic factors such as environment and diet. Intestinal microbes and their metabolites play significant roles in the occurrence and development of obesity by regulating energy metabolism, inducing chronic inflammation, and impacting intestinal hormone secretion. Epigenetics, which involves the regulation of host gene expression without changing the nucleotide sequence, provides an exact direction for us to understand how the environment, lifestyle factors, and other risk factors contribute to obesity. DNA methylation, as the most common epigenetic modification, is involved in the pathogenesis of various metabolic diseases. The epigenetic modification of the host is induced or regulated by the intestinal microbiota and their metabolites, linking the dynamic interaction between the microbiota and the host genome. In this review, we examined recent advancements in research, focusing on the involvement of intestinal microbiota and DNA methylation in the etiology and progression of obesity, as well as potential interactions between the two factors, providing novel perspectives and avenues for further elucidating the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of obesity.
Depression Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Mortality among Breast Cancer Survivors: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey–National Death Index Linked Study
Authors: Khubchandani Jagdish , Banerjee Srikanta , Batra Kavita , Beydoun May A.
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer (BC) and depression are globally prevalent problems. Numerous reviews have indicated the high prevalence of depression among BC survivors. However, the long-term impact of depression on survival among BC survivors has not been well explored. For this investigation, we aimed to explore the relationship between BC, depression, and mortality from a national random sample of adult American women. Data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (years 2005–2010) were linked with mortality data from the National Death Index up to December 31st, 2019. A total of 4719 adult women (ages 45 years and older) were included in the study sample with 5.1% having breast cancer and more than a tenth (12.7%) having depression. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause mortality risk among those with BC was 1.50 (95% CI = 1.05–2.13) compared to those without BC. In the adjusted analysis, the risk of all-cause mortality was highest among women with both depression and BC (HR = 3.04; 95% CI = 1.15–8.05) compared to those without BC or depression. The relationship between BC and mortality was moderated by cardiovascular diseases, anemia, smoking, age, PIR, and marital status. Our analysis provides vital information on factors that could be helpful for interventions to reduce mortality risk among those with BC and depression. In addition, given the higher risk of mortality with co-occurring BC and depression, collaborative healthcare practices should help with widespread screening for and treatment of depression among BC survivors.
Dopamine Dysregulation in Reward and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Blum Kenneth , Bowirrat Abdalla , Sunder Keerthy , Thanos Panayotis K. , Hanna Colin , Gold Mark S. , Dennen Catherine A. , Elman Igor , Murphy Kevin T. , Makale Milan T.
Published: July 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is primarily characterized by core deficits in social skills, communication, and cognition and by repetitive stereotyped behaviors. These manifestations are variable between individuals, and ASD pathogenesis is complex, with over a thousand implicated genes, many epigenetic factors, and multiple environmental influences. The mesolimbic dopamine (DA) mediated brain reward system is held to play a key role, but the rapidly expanding literature reveals intricate, nuanced signaling involving a wide array of mesolimbic loci, neurotransmitters and receptor subtypes, and neuronal variants. How altered DA signaling may constitute a downstream convergence of the manifold causal origins of ASD is not well understood. A clear working framework of ASD pathogenesis may help delineate common stages and potential diagnostic and interventional opportunities. Hence, we summarize the known natural history of ASD in the context of emerging data and perspectives to update ASD reward signaling. Then, against this backdrop, we proffer a provisional framework that organizes ASD pathogenesis into successive levels, including (1) genetic and epigenetic changes, (2) disrupted mesolimbic reward signaling pathways, (3) dysregulated neurotransmitter/DA signaling, and finally, (4) altered neurocognitive and social behavior and possible antagonist/agonist based ASD interventions. This subdivision of ASD into a logical progression of potentially addressable parts may help facilitate the rational formulation of diagnostics and targeted treatments.
Emotional and Cognitive “Route” in Decision-Making Process: The Relationship between Executive Functions, Psychophysiological Correlates, Decisional Styles, and Personality
Authors: Crivelli Davide , Acconito Carlotta , Balconi Michela
Published: July 2024

Studies on decision-making have classically focused exclusively on its cognitive component. Recent research has shown that a further essential component of decisional processes is the emotional one. Indeed, the emotional route in decision-making plays a crucial role, especially in situations characterized by ambiguity, uncertainty, and risk. Despite that, individual differences concerning such components and their associations with individual traits, decisional styles, and psychophysiological profiles are still understudied. This pilot study aimed at investigating the relationship between individual propensity toward using an emotional or cognitive information-processing route in decision-making, EEG and autonomic correlates of the decisional performance as collected via wearable non-invasive devices, and individual personality and decisional traits. Participants completed a novel task based on realistic decisional scenarios while their physiological activity (EEG and autonomic indices) was monitored. Self-report questionnaires were used to collect data on personality traits, individual differences, and decisional styles. Data analyses highlighted two main findings. Firstly, different personality traits and decisional styles showed significant and specific correlations, with an individual propensity toward either emotional or cognitive information processing for decision-making. Secondly, task-related EEG and autonomic measures presented a specific and distinct correlation pattern with different decisional styles, maximization traits, and personality traits, suggesting different latent profiles.
An Unavoidable Mind-Set Reversal: Consciousness in Vision Science
Authors: Albertazzi Liliana
Published: July 2024

In recent decades, the debate on consciousness has been conditioned by the idea of bottom-up emergence, which has influenced scientific research and raised a few obstacles to any attempt to bridge the explanatory gap. The analysis and explanation of vision conducted according to the accredited methodologies of scientific research in terms of physical stimuli, objectivity, methods, and explanation has encountered the resistance of subjective experience. Moreover, original Gestalt research into vision has generally been merged with cognitive neuroscience. Experimental phenomenology, building on the legacy of Gestalt psychology, has obtained new results in the fields of amodal contours and color stratifications, light perception, figurality, space, so-called perceptual illusions, and subjective space and time. Notwithstanding the outcomes and the impulse given to neuroscientific analyses, the research carried out around these phenomena has never directly confronted the issue of what it means to be conscious or, in other words, the nature of consciousness as self-referentiality. Research has tended to focus on the percept. Therefore, explaining the non-detachability of parts in subjective experience risks becoming a sort of impossible achievement, similar to that of Baron Munchausen, who succeeds in escaping unharmed from this quicksand by pulling himself out by his hair. This paper addresses how to analyze seeing as an undivided whole by discussing several basic dimensions of phenomenal consciousness on an experimental basis and suggesting an alternative way of escaping this quicksand. This mind-set reversal also sheds light on the organization and dependence relationships between phenomenology, psychophysics, and neuroscience.
Effects of Remolding Water Content and Compaction Degree on the Dynamic Behavior of Compacted Clay Soils
Authors: Qi Shuai , Ma Wei , Zhang Xintian , Wang Jing , Hu Xingbo , Wei Zengzhi , Liu Jinhui
Published: July 2024

The stable and safe operation of highway/railway lines is largely dependent on the dynamic behavior of subgrade fillings. Clay soils are widely used in subgrade construction and are compacted at different remolding water contents and compaction degrees, depending on the field conditions. As a result, their dynamic behaviors may vary, which have not been fully investigated until now. To clarify this aspect, a series of cyclic triaxial tests were carried out in this study with three typical remolding water contents (w = 19%, 24%, and 29%), corresponding to the optimum water content as well as its dry and wet sides, and two compaction degrees (Dc = 0.8 and 0.9), which were selected according to the field-testing data. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) tests were also conducted on typical samples to investigate the corresponding soil fabric variations. The findings indicate the following: (a) The soil fabric at the optimum remolding water content and its dry side was characterized by a clay aggregate assembly with a bimodal pore size distribution. In contrast, the soil fabric on the wet side of the optimum water content consisted of dispersed clay particles with a unimodal pore size distribution. (b) As the compaction degree increased, to ensure the optimum water content and its dry side, large pores were compressed to make them smaller, while small pores remained unchanged. Comparatively, all the pores on the wet side were compressed to make them smaller. (c) For each compaction degree, as the remolding water content increased, a non-monotonic changing pattern was identified for both the permanent strain and resilient modulus; the permanent strain first decreased and then increased, while, for the resilient modulus, an initial increasing trend and then a decreasing trend were identified. In addition, a larger changing rate of the permanent strain (resilient modulus) was observed on the dry side, indicating a larger effect of the remolding water content. (d) For each remolding water content, as the compaction degree increased, the permanent strain exhibited a decreasing trend, but an increasing trend was identified for the resilient modulus. Moreover, the rate of change in the permanent strain (resilient modulus) on the dry side of the optimum water content was larger than that on the wet side. In contrast, the minimum rate of change was identified at the optimum water content. The obtained results allowed for the effects of the remolding water content and compaction degree on the dynamic behavior to be analyzed, and they helped guide the construction and maintenance of the subgrade.
Research Review and Future Directions of Key Technologies for Welding Robots in the Construction Industry
Authors: Bu Han , Cui Xiaolu , Huang Bo , Peng Shuangqian , Wan Jiuyu
Published: July 2024

The rapid development of the construction industry has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced construction efficiency and safety, propelling the development of construction robots to ensure sustainable and intelligent industry advancement. Welding robots, in particular, hold significant promise for application in steel structure construction. However, harsh construction environments, variable construction structures, and complex construction conditions present critical technical challenges for weld position, path, and quality for welding robots. This paper aims to provide a focused review of the key technical difficulties faced by welding robots in the construction industry, starting from the progress in research and applications. The review identifies the current state of welding robot technology, the technical bottlenecks encountered, and the potential solutions to these challenges, offering valuable insights for the research and development of construction robots.
Logic, Perception, and Beauty—An Outline of the Modern Proportion-Based Approach in Architecture
Authors: Januszewski Wojciech Stanisław
Published: July 2024

The present study contributes to the discourse on the environmental paradigm in architecture, recognizing beauty as essential alongside community and sustainability. It examines the modern proportion-based approach within the realm of formal aesthetics, which views proportional relationships as essential for architectural form and aims to develop methods to manipulate these relationships to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes. The main objective of this study is to characterize the modern approach as a current distinct from classical theories. The research seeks to explore the unique rationales behind a systematic approach to architectural proportions and to discern how these rationales distinguish the modern approach from its classical predecessor. The research encompasses theories from the mid-19th century to the present day. Through content and comparative analysis, this study explores theories by key figures such as A. Thiersch, H.P. Berlage, Le Corbusier, H. van der Laan, J. Żórawski, J. Hale, and P. Märkli. This study reveals the modern proportional approach as a unique current that adapts classical ideas to modern sensibilities, shifting from classical cosmological symbolism to a focus on logical consistency, visual perception, and artistic expression. It maintains a dual relationship with tradition, preserving past methods while introducing new interpretations of their aesthetic function. Despite its modest impact on contemporary practice, the proportional approach is significant, emphasizing the visual quality of the built environment and pursuing timeless design principles that transcend fleeting trends, focusing on enduring aesthetic values.
Utilization of High-Performance Concrete Mixtures for Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
Authors: Sucharda Oldrich , Gandel Radoslav , Cmiel Petr , Jerabek Jan , Bilek Vlastimil
Published: July 2024

The presented experimental program focuses on the design of high-performance dry concrete mixtures, which could find application in advanced manufacturing technologies, for example, additive solutions. The combination of high-performance concrete (HPC) with advanced or additive technologies provides new possibilities for constructing architecturally attractive buildings with high material requirements. The purpose of this study was to develop a dry mixture made from high-performance concrete that could be distributed directly in advanced or additive technologies of solutions in pre-prepared condition with all input materials (except for water) in order to reduce both financial and labor costs. This research specifically aimed to improve the basic strength characteristics—including mechanical (assessed using compressive strength, tensile splitting strength, and flexural strength tests) and durability properties (assessed using tests of resistance to frost, water, and defrosting chemicals)—of hardened mixtures, with partial insight into the rheology of fresh mixtures (consistency as assessed using the slump-flow test). Additionally, the load-bearing capacity of the selected mixtures in the form of specimens with concrete reinforcement was tested using a three-point bending test. A reference mixture with two liquid plasticizers—the first based on polycarboxylate and polyphosphonate and the second based on polyether carboxylate—was modified using a powdered plasticizer based on the polymerization product Glycol to create a dry mixture; the reference mixture was compared with the developed mixtures with respect to the above-mentioned properties. In general, the results show that the replacement of the aforementioned liquid plasticizers by a powdered plasticizer based on the polymerization product Glycol in the given mixtures is effective up to 5% (of the cement content) with regard to the mechanical and durability properties. The presented work provides an overview of the compared characteristics, which will serve as a basis for future research into the development of additive manufacturing technologies in the conditions of the Czech Republic while respecting the principles of sustainable construction.
Application of FEM and Artificial Intelligence Techniques (LRM, RFM & ANN) in Predicting the Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Reinforced Soil Foundation
Authors: Jeyaseelan Pandi Anandhi , Madhavan Muttharam
Published: July 2024

In this research paper, the behavior of shallow footing with square and rectangular shapes over geosynthetic reinforced soil was studied. A novel geogrid called “3D tube-geogrid” was utilized for this work. The impact of various reinforcement parameters, including the depth of the final layer (z), length (l), inclination (α), filler material used inside the geogrid tube, relative soil density, and the tensile stiffness of the geogrid (EA), were analyzed by running numerical simulations using PLAXIS 3D V20 software. The simulated data were used to quantify the relationship between the ultimate bearing capacity of the soil and the reinforcement parameters. Several artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, such as linear regression analysis, a random forest model, and an artificial neural network (ANN), were employed on the generated dataset. To evaluate the preciseness of these techniques, various statistical indicators, such as the squared correlation coefficient (R2), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), mean squared error (MSE), and root-mean-square error (RMSE), were calculated, and error percentages of 20.98%, 12.5%, and 6.4% were obtained for the linear regression, random forest, and ANN, respectively. The numerical study determined the optimal values of the reinforcement parameters length, z/B, inclination, and filling material to be 4B, 3, 0°, and aggregate, respectively.
Region of Interest Detection in Melanocytic Skin Tumor Whole Slide Images—Nevus and Melanoma
Authors: Cui Yi , Li Yao , Miedema Jayson R. , Edmiston Sharon N. , Farag Sherif W. , Marron James Stephen , Thomas Nancy E.
Published: July 2024

Automated region of interest detection in histopathological image analysis is a challenging and important topic with tremendous potential impact on clinical practice. The deep learning methods used in computational pathology may help us to reduce costs and increase the speed and accuracy of cancer diagnosis. We started with the UNC Melanocytic Tumor Dataset cohort which contains 160 hematoxylin and eosin whole slide images of primary melanoma (86) and nevi (74). We randomly assigned 80% (134) as a training set and built an in-house deep learning method to allow for classification, at the slide level, of nevi and melanoma. The proposed method performed well on the other 20% (26) test dataset; the accuracy of the slide classification task was 92.3% and our model also performed well in terms of predicting the region of interest annotated by the pathologists, showing excellent performance of our model on melanocytic skin tumors. Even though we tested the experiments on a skin tumor dataset, our work could also be extended to other medical image detection problems to benefit the clinical evaluation and diagnosis of different tumors.
Utilizing the Metaverse to Provide Innovative Psychosocial Support for Pediatric, Adolescent, and Young Adult Patients with Rare Cancer
Authors: Hasei Joe , Ishida Hisashi , Katayama Hideki , Maeda Naoko , Nagano Akihito , Ochi Motoharu , Okamura Masako , Iwata Shintaro , Ikuta Kunihiro , Yoshida Shinichirou , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Nakata Eiji , Nakahara Ryuichi , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the potential of the metaverse in providing psychological support for pediatric and AYA cancer patients, with a focus on those with rare cancers. The research involved ten cancer patients and survivors from four distinct regions in Japan, who participated in metaverse sessions using customizable avatars, facilitating interactions across geographical and temporal barriers. Surveys and qualitative feedback were collected to assess the psychosocial impact of the intervention. The results demonstrated that the metaverse enabled patients to connect with peers, share experiences, and receive emotional support. The anonymity provided by avatars helped reduce appearance-related anxiety and stigma associated with cancer treatment. A case study of a 19-year-old male with spinal Ewing’s sarcoma highlighted the profound emotional relief fostered by metaverse interactions. The findings suggest that integrating virtual spaces into healthcare models can effectively address the unique needs of pediatric and AYA cancer patients, offering a transformative approach to delivering psychosocial support and fostering a global patient community. This innovative intervention has the potential to revolutionize patient care in the digital age.
Cobalt Serum Level as a Biomarker of Cause-Specific Survival among Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Pietrzak Sandra , Marciniak Wojciech , Derkacz Róża , Matuszczak Milena , Kiljańczyk Adam , Baszuk Piotr , Bryśkiewicz Marta , Sikorski Andrzej , Gronwald Jacek , Słojewski Marcin , Cybulski Cezary , Gołąb Adam , Huzarski Tomasz , Dębniak Tadeusz , Lener Marcin R. , Jakubowska Anna , Kluz Tomasz , Soroka Marianna , Scott Rodney J. , Lubiński Jan
Published: July 2024

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men and the second leading cause of death in male cancer patients. The WHO suggests that cobalt is involved in the carcinogenesis of prostate cancer. There are, however, no studies associating cobalt levels and prostate cancer patient survival. In this study, 261 Polish prostate cancer (n = 261) patients were recruited into a prospective cohort between 2009 and 2015. Serum cobalt levels were measured using ICP-MS after prostate cancer diagnosis and before treatment. All study participants were assigned into quartiles (QI-QIV) based on the distribution of serum cobalt levels among censored patients. Univariable and multivariable COX regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for each serum cobalt level quartile. We found a significant relationship between high serum cobalt levels and poor prostate cancer patient total survival (HR = 2.60; 95% CI: 1.17–5.82; p = 0.02). In relation to prostate cancer patients who died as a result of other non-cancer causes, the association with high levels of cobalt was even stronger (HR = 3.67; 95% CI: 1.03–13.00; p = 0.04). The impact of high serum cobalt levels on overall survival of prostate cancer-specific-related deaths was not statistically significant.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Paracetamol and Antibacterial Activity of La-Modified TiO2 Obtained by Non-Hydrolytic Sol–Gel Route
Authors: Stoyanova Angelina , Hitkova Hristina , Kaneva Nina , Bachvarova-Nedelcheva Albena , Iordanova Reni , Marinovska Polya
Published: July 2024

The current study aims to synthesize and analyze both pure and La-doped TiO2, and evaluate the photocatalytic and antibacterial activity of as-prepared samples. Doped and undoped samples were prepared by the non-hydrolytic sol–gel method from titanium(IV) chloride, benzyl alcohol, and lanthanum(III) nitrate followed by thermal treatment. Lanthanum content in synthesized samples was 0.4, 1, and 5 mol%. The resulting nanopowders’ structure and morphology were described using XRD, IR, and UV–Vis analysis. The average particle sizes of pure and doped TiO2 were about 6–15 nm and anatase was found to be a dominant crystalline phase in the samples. It was observed that particle sizes decreased on increasing La content. The photocatalytic activity of the pure and La-doped sol–gel powders was estimated in the decomposition of paracetamol in distilled water using ultraviolet light illumination. Doping with lanthanum ions has been shown to increase the photocatalytic properties on the degradation of paracetamol. Furthermore, the annealed catalysts (pure and La3+ doped) showed increased photocatalytic activity and degradation of the analgesic in comparison with non-annealed materials. In both cases, the highest photocatalytic efficiency is observed at the optimal La3+ (1 mol%) concentration. The antimicrobial activity of 1 mol% La/TiO2 was tested against a reference strain E. coli in the presence of ultraviolet light and in dark conditions. The number of viable bacterial cells was determined by a spread plate method, and kill curves were performed. The results showed that photoactivated 1 mol% La/TiO2 exhibited a strong bactericidal effect, and in concentration, 1 mg/mL efficiently killed bacteria at an initial cell density of about 105 colony forming units in 1 mL within 15 min.
Study on Catalytic Performance in CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol over Au–Cu/C3N4 Catalysts
Authors: Li Chenyang , Yang Jian , Zhang Chongbin , Wang Cong , Lyu Chen , Fan Kai
Published: July 2024

In this paper, Au and Cu nanoparticles were successfully loaded onto porous g-C3N4 material through a hydrothermal synthesis method. By adjusting the proportion of Cu, Au-5%Cu/C3N4, Au-10%Cu/C3N4, and Au-15%Cu/C3N4, catalysts were prepared and used for the catalytic reduction of CO2 to methanol. Characterization analysis using high-resolution XPS spectra showed that with an increase in the doping amount of Cu, the electron cloud density on the Cu surface initially increased and then decreased. Electrons from Au atoms transferred to Cu atoms, leading to the accumulation of a more negative charge on the Cu surface, promoting the adsorption of partially positively charged C in CO2, which is more beneficial for catalyzing CO2. Among them, Au-10%Cu/C3N4 exhibited good reducibility and strong basic sites, as demonstrated by H2-TPR and CO2-TPD, with the conversion rates for CO2, methanol yield, and methanol selectivity being 11.58%, 41.29 g·kg−1·h−1 (0.39 μmol·g−1s−1), and 59.77%, respectively.
Hydration- and Temperature-Dependent Fluorescence Spectra of Laurdan Conformers in a DPPC Membrane
Authors: Knippenberg Stefan , De Kathakali , Aisenbrey Christopher , Bechinger Burkhard , Osella Silvio
Published: July 2024

The widely used Laurdan probe has two conformers, resulting in different optical properties when embedded in a lipid bilayer membrane, as demonstrated by our previous simulations. Up to now, the two conformers’ optical responses have, however, not been investigated when the temperature and the phase of the membrane change. Since Laurdan is known to be both a molecular rotor and a solvatochromic probe, it is subject to a profound interaction with both neighboring lipids and water molecules. In the current study, molecular dynamics simulations and hybrid Quantum Mechanics/Molecular Mechanics calculations are performed for a DPPC membrane at eight temperatures between 270K and 320K, while the position, orientation, fluorescence lifetime and fluorescence anisotropy of the embedded probes are monitored. The importance of both conformers is proven through a stringent comparison with experiments, which corroborates the theoretical findings. It is seen that for Conf-I, the excited state lifetime is longer than the relaxation of the environment, while for Conf-II, the surroundings are not yet adapted when the probe returns to the ground state. Throughout the temperature range, the lifetime and anisotropy decay curves can be used to identify the different membrane phases. The current work might, therefore, be of importance for biomedical studies on diseases, which are associated with cell membrane transformations.
Hyaluronan Mediates Cold-Induced Adipose Tissue Beiging
Authors: Chen Xi , Wang Yifan , Li Huiqiao , Deng Yanru , Giang Charlise , Song Anying , Liu Yu’e , Wang Qiong A. , Zhu Yi
Published: July 2024

Adipose tissue beiging refers to the process by which beige adipocytes emerge in classical white adipose tissue depots. Beige adipocytes dissipate chemical energy and secrete adipokines, such as classical brown adipocytes, to improve systemic metabolism, which is beneficial for people with obesity and metabolic diseases. Cold exposure and β3-adrenergic receptor (AR) agonist treatment are two commonly used stimuli for increasing beige adipocytes in mice; however, their underlying biological processes are different. Transcriptional analysis of inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) has revealed that changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) pathway genes are specific to cold exposure. Hyaluronic acid (HA), a non-sulfated linear polysaccharide produced by nearly all cells, is one of the most common components of ECM. We found that cold exposure significantly increased iWAT HA levels, whereas the β3-AR agonist CL316,243 did not. Increasing HA levels in iWAT by Has2 overexpression significantly increases cold-induced adipose tissue beiging; in contrast, decreasing HA by Spam1 overexpression, which encodes a hyaluronidase that digests HA, significantly decreases cold-induced iWAT beiging. All these data implicate a role of HA in promoting adipose tissue beiging, which is unique to cold exposure. Given the failure of β3-AR agonists in clinical trials for obesity and metabolic diseases, increasing HA could serve as a new approach for recruiting more beige adipocytes to combat metabolic diseases.
Nutritional Status in Pediatric Psoriasis: A Case–Control Study in a Tertiary Care Referral Centre
Authors: Sendrea Adelina-Maria , Cristea Sinziana , Salavastru Carmen Maria
Published: July 2024

Background: Psoriasis and obesity are chronic, inflammatory diseases, sharing certain pathophysiological factors. Psoriasis, increasingly viewed as a systemic inflammatory condition, may have various symptoms beyond the skin manifestations. Methods: This research aimed to explore the connection between body mass index (BMI) and pediatric psoriasis, through a case–control study on 100 psoriasis cases and 100 controls who were matched in terms of age and sex. The percentiles of the BMI by age and sex determined the nutritional status of each patient and control. The severity of psoriasis was evaluated based on the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI), nail involvement based on the nail psoriasis severity index (NAPSI), and quality of life impairment with the dermatology life quality index (DLQI). Results: While no statistically significant relationship was identified between increased BMI and PASI (p = 0.074), the risk of being overweight and obesity was significantly higher in the psoriasis group (OR 6.93, p = 0.003; OR 12.6, p < 0.001, respectively). The BMI increased with the PASI for psoriasis vulgaris but not for psoriasis inverse. No connections were found between disease duration and BMI (p = 0.56) or between BMI and PASI based on sex (p = 0.26). The NAPSI increased significantly with increased BMI (p = 0.000015). Conclusions: This study highlights the association between elevated BMI, psoriasis diagnosis, and severity of psoriatic onychopathy in pediatric patients, advocating for further large-scale studies to confirm these explorations and increasing awareness for better screening and management of such cases for overweight/obese patients.
Research Progress on Numerical Simulation of the Deposition and Deformation Behavior of Cold Spray Particles
Authors: Liu Zhihao , Liu Jianwu , Li Haifeng , Wu Zizhao , Zhong Yuan , Ramachandran Chidambaram Seshadri , Cheng Yingliang , Wang Qun
Published: July 2024

It is of significant theoretical and practical value to study the deposition process and deformation behavior of cold-sprayed particles to find the deposition mechanism of cold-sprayed coatings, further improve the coating performance, and expand its application scope. However, observing the deposition process and particle behavior through experiments is difficult due to the brief deposition duration of cold spray particles. Numerical simulation offers a means to slow the deposition process and predict the critical velocity, deformation behavior, bonding mechanism, and residual stress of cold-sprayed particles. This paper uses finite element analysis software, including ANSYS LS Dynamic-2022 R1 and ABAQUS-6.14, alongside various prevalent finite element methods for numerically simulating cold spray particle deposition. These methods involve the Lagrange, Euler, arbitrary Lagrange-Euler (ALE), and Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) to investigate the cold spray particle deposition process. The recent literature primarily summarizes the simulation outcomes achieved by applying these methodologies for simulating the deposition process and deformation characteristics of different particles under varying cold spraying conditions. In addition, the reliability of these simulation results is analyzed by comparing the consistency between the simulation results of single-particle and multi-particle and the actual experimental results. On this basis, these methods’ advantages, disadvantages, and applicability are comprehensively analyzed, and the future simulation research work of particle deposition process and deformation behavior of cold spraying prospects is discussed. Future research is expected to provide a more in-depth study of the micro-mechanisms, such as the evolution of the inter-particle and internal organization of the particles, near the actual situation.
Fatigue-Healing Performance Analysis of Warm-Mix Rubber Asphalt Mastic Using the Simplified Viscoelastic Continuum Damage Theory
Authors: Li Ping , Li Xiao , Yu Shangjun , Sun Linhao , Yue Jinchao , Li Ruixia
Published: July 2024

As a green and low-carbon road material, warm-mix rubber asphalt (WMRA) has received extensive attention from scholars for its road performance. In the in-depth study of its properties, the fatigue characteristics of WMRA are particularly critical. However, in current studies on asphalt fatigue performance, its self-healing ability is often underestimated or neglected. Furthermore, the simplified viscoelastic continuum damage theory (S-VECD), with its accuracy, speed, and convenience, provides a powerful tool for analyzing asphalt fatigue performance. Therefore, to analyze the fatigue and self-healing performances of WMRA in practical applications, four sample materials were selected in this study: virgin asphalt mastic (VAM), rubber asphalt mastic (RAM), Sasobit rubber asphalt mastic (SRAM), and Evotherm rubber asphalt mastic (ERAM). Subsequently, the samples were subjected to a comprehensive experimental design with frequency sweep tests, linear amplitude sweep tests, and multiple intermittent loading time sweep tests under different aging conditions. The fatigue and self-healing performances of different aging degrees and different types of WMRA were evaluated based on the S-VECD theory. The results show that aging reduces the fatigue and self-healing performances of asphalt mastic to a certain extent, and at a 7% strain, the fatigue life of SRAM after long-term aging is only 30.7% of the life of the unaged sample. The greater the aging degree, the more pronounced the effect. Under different aging levels, the warm-mix agent can significantly improve the fatigue and self-healing performances of rubber asphalt mastic. After undergoing ten fatigue intermittent loading tests, the recovery rate of the complex shear modulus for the long-term aged VAM was 0.65, which is lower than that of SRAM under the same conditions, and the warm mix can further extend the fatigue life of rubber asphalt by improving the self-healing properties of the asphalt. The role of Sasobit in enhancing the fatigue and self-healing performances of rubber asphalt mastic is more significant. This study can provide a theoretical basis for the promotion and application of WMRA pavements and contribute to the sustainable development of road construction.
Self-Healing Performance of Cellulose-Based Gel Coating with Highly Loaded Hybrid Inhibitor
Authors: Zhao Xiong , Wang Jixing , Zhang Haibing , Zhang Hailong , Ma Lu , Zhang Xianfeng , Cheng Wenhua , Zhang Huiyu , Khalaf Ali Hussein , Lin Bing , Tang Junlei
Published: July 2024

The self-healing performance of an ethyl-cellulose-based gel coating with different corrosion inhibitors was investigated in this work. Various contents of 11 alkyl imidazoline (IMO-11) were pre-loaded into the gel coating. The EIS results of scratched coatings with inhibitors confirmed the self-healing performance of the coating. As the inhibitor contents increased, the improved self-healing effect was attributed to inhibitor release, while the increased inhibitor content would also affect the film-forming ability and mechanical properties of the composite coating, and lead to the accelerated failure of the coating. Different contents of thiourea and sodium oleate were added to the gel coating with 25% IMO-11. It was hoped that the hybrid inhibitor in the coating would obtain the synergistic effect of different inhibitors during the self-healing progress. The SEM and FT-IR results indicate the hybrid inhibitor was successfully loaded into the gel coating. The EIS and morphology results of scratched coatings confirmed the enhance effect of the synergistic inhibitor on the self-healing performance of the coating. The high content of the hybrid inhibitor could enhance the corrosion protection effect of the intact gel coating. Once the coating is damaged, the fast released inhibitor could extend the corrosion protection time. The synergistic effect difference of thiourea and sodium oleate with IMO-11 did not show much difference in the coating self-healing effect in this work.
Evolution of the Microstructure, Phase Composition and Thermomechanical Properties of the CuZnIn Alloys, Achieved by Thermally Controlled Phase Transitions
Authors: Sypien Anna , Czeppe Tomasz , Wojcik Anna , Garzel Grzegorz , Goral Anna , Kopyto Marek , Swiatek Zbigniew
Published: July 2024

Ternary alloys with CuZnIn compositions based on the binary CuZn diagram and the modeled ternary system solidus projection were investigated. The as-cast alloys, hot-rolled sheets, and samples annealed at low temperature were examined. It was found that the α-CuZn solution phase, with minor indium additions (1–2% at.), was the primary phase crystallizing during casting and remained stable at low temperatures. The ternary phase with an approximate composition of Cu8(In,Zn)4.5 and a structure analogous to the high-temperature γ-Cu9In4 phase crystallized from the liquid state and remained stable at low temperatures. This behavior results from the stabilization against peritectoidal decomposition by the Zn atoms when substituting In in the structure. A new phase γ*-Cu9(In,Zn)4 with a modified structure was identified, characterized by a reduced unit cell and an altered electronic structure. The hot-rolling process preserves the phase composition and forms a composite-like structure, with the matrix composition of γ* and large ellipsoidal α-CuZn solution particles. On a microscale, the γ* matrix exhibited a specific structure resulting from segregation processes and was composed of micrometer-sized α-CuZn(In) solution particles and nano-sized β-CuZn phase precipitates. Low-temperature annealing intensifies the γ* matrix decomposition through binary phase precipitation.
Distribution, Ecology, Chorology and Phytocenology of Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa) in the Oltenia Region, Romania
Authors: Răduțoiu Daniel , Cosmulescu Sina
Published: July 2024

This article provides useful information on the distribution of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) and presents additional data on the ecology, chorology and phytocenology of the species in the Oltenia region, Romania, based on literary sources, herbaria and field observations. By providing accurate and detailed data, this study contributes significantly to the existing knowledge, as well as mapping efforts of the species at the European level. In the subspontaneous flora of the Oltenia region, the C. sativa species is found in sheltered resorts in the counties of Gorj (Glogova, Valea Perilor, Tismana, Pocruia, Polovragi, etc.) and Mehedinți (Comăneşti, Baia de Aramă, etc.), on mesobasic soils, balanced from a hydraulic point of view. The phytocenoses where this species grows are rich in southern elements (e.g., Cornus mas L., Cerasus avium (L.) Moench, Quercus dalechampii Ten., Tilia tomentosa Moench). They are included in the Castaneo-Quercetum Horvat 1938 association. In Romania, habitats that include areas occupied by sweet chestnut are classified within habitat R4141—Daco-Balkan forests of oak (Quercus petraea) and chestnut (C. sativa) with Genista tinctoria. This habitat has a very high biodiversity conservation value and ecological importance. According to the Natura 2000 directive, sweet chestnut forests are included in the habitat category 9260, which underlines the importance at the European level for biodiversity conservation.
Renal Function Preservation in Purely Off-Clamp Sutureless Robotic Partial Nephrectomy: Initial Experience and Technique
Authors: Franco Antonio , Riolo Sara , Tema Giorgia , Guidotti Alessio , Brassetti Aldo , Anceschi Umberto , Bove Alfredo Maria , D’Annunzio Simone , Ferriero Mariaconsiglia , Mastroianni Riccardo , Misuraca Leonardo , Guaglianone Salvatore , Tuderti Gabriele , Leonardo Costantino , Cicione Antonio , Licari Leslie Claire , Bologna Eugenio , Flammia Rocco Simone , Nacchia Antonio , Trucchi Alberto , Lombardo Riccardo , Franco Giorgio , Tubaro Andrea , Simone Giuseppe , De Nunzio Cosimo
Published: July 2024

The aim of our study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a sutureless off-clamp robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (sl-oc RAPN), particularly its impact on renal function. A multicenter study was conducted from April 2021 to June 2022. Patients diagnosed with a renal mass of >2 cm and a PADUA score of ≤6 consecutively underwent an sl-oc RAPN procedure. Tumor features, patients characteristics, and intraoperative outcomes were assessed. An evaluation of renal function was performed preoperatively, and again at 1 and 3 months after surgery by measuring the creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. The renal function of the two separate kidneys was assessed by a sequential renal scintigraphy performed before and at least 30 days after surgery. A total of 21 patients underwent an sl-oc RAPN. The median age was 64 years (IQR 52/70), the median tumor diameter was 40 mm (IQR 29/45), and the median PADUA score was 4 (3.5/5). The intraoperative outcomes included operative time (OT), 90 (IQR 74/100) min; estimated blood loss (EBL), 150 (IQR 50/300) mL; and perioperative complications, CD > 3 1(5%); only two patients presented positive surgical margins in their final histology (2/21, 10%). Compared to the preoperative value, a decrease in renal function was highlighted with a statistically significant median decrease of 10 mL/min (p < 0.01). The renal scintigraphy showed an overall decrease in renal function compared to the preoperative value, with a range in the operated kidney that varied from 0 to 15 mL/s and from 0% to 40%, with a median value of 4 mL/s and 12%. sl-oc RAPN is a safe procedure, with a minimal impact on kidney function alteration. This technique has proven effective in preserving renal function and maintaining optimal oncological outcomes with limited complications.