bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osr1 Is Required for Mesenchymal Derivatives That Produce Collagen in the Bladder
Authors: Murugapoopathy Vasikar , Cammisotto Philippe G. , Mossa Abubakr H. , Campeau Lysanne , Gupta Indra R.
Published: November 2021

The extracellular matrix of the bladder consists mostly of type I and III collagen, which are required during loading. During bladder injury, there is an accumulation of collagen that impairs bladder function. Little is known about the genes that regulate production of collagens in the bladder. We demonstrate that the transcription factor Odd-skipped related 1 (Osr1) is expressed in the bladder mesenchyme and epithelium at the onset of development. As development proceeds, Osr1 is mainly expressed in mesenchymal progenitors and their derivatives. We hypothesized that Osr1 regulates mesenchymal cell differentiation and production of collagens in the bladder. To test this hypothesis, we examined newborn and adult mice heterozygous for Osr1, Osr1+/−. The bladders of newborn Osr1+/− mice had a decrease in collagen I by western blot analysis and a global decrease in collagens using Sirius red staining. There was also a decrease in the cellularity of the lamina propria, where most collagen is synthesized. This was not due to decreased proliferation or increased apoptosis in this cell population. Surprisingly, the bladders of adult Osr1+/− mice had an increase in collagen that was associated with abnormal bladder function; they also had a decrease in bladder capacity and voided more frequently. The results suggest that Osr1 is important for the differentiation of mesenchymal cells that give rise to collagen-producing cells.
Protective Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum Lac16 on Clostridium perfringens Infection-Associated Injury in IPEC-J2 Cells
Authors: Zhou Yuanhao , Wang Baikui , Wang Qi , Tang Li , Zou Peng , Zeng Zihan , Zhang Huihua , Gong Li , Li Weifen
Published: November 2021

Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) causes intestinal injury through overgrowth and the secretion of multiple toxins, leading to diarrhea and necrotic enteritis in animals, including pigs, chickens, and sheep. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) Lac16 on C. perfringens infection-associated injury in intestinal porcine epithelial cell line (IPEC-J2). The results showed that L. plantarum Lac16 significantly inhibited the growth of C. perfringens, which was accompanied by a decrease in pH levels. In addition, L. plantarum Lac16 significantly elevated the mRNA expression levels of host defense peptides (HDPs) in IPEC-J2 cells, decreased the adhesion of C. perfringens to IPEC-J2 cells, and attenuated C. perfringens-induced cellular cytotoxicity and intestinal barrier damage. Furthermore, L. plantarum Lac16 significantly suppressed C. perfringens-induced gene expressions of proinflammatory cytokines and pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in IPEC-J2 cells. Moreover, L. plantarum Lac16 preincubation effectively inhibited the phosphorylation of p65 caused by C. perfringens infection. Collectively, probiotic L. plantarum Lac16 exerts protective effects against C. perfringens infection-associated injury in IPEC-J2 cells.
Aesculetin Accelerates Osteoblast Differentiation and Matrix-Vesicle-Mediated Mineralization
Authors: Na Woojin , Kang Min-Kyung , Park Sin-Hye , Kim Dong Yeon , Oh Su Yeon , Oh Moon-Sik , Park Sohyun , Kang II-Jun , Kang Young-Hee
Published: November 2021

The imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation in favor of resorption results in bone loss and deterioration of bone architecture. Osteoblast differentiation is a sequential event accompanying biogenesis of matrix vesicles and mineralization of collagen matrix with hydroxyapatite crystals. Considerable efforts have been made in developing naturally-occurring plant compounds, preventing bone pathologies, or enhancing bone regeneration. Coumarin aesculetin inhibits osteoporosis through hampering the ruffled border formation of mature osteoclasts. However, little is known regarding the effects of aesculetin on the impairment of matrix vesicle biogenesis. MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured in differentiation media with 1–10 μM aesculetin for up to 21 days. Aesculetin boosted the bone morphogenetic protein-2 expression, and alkaline phosphatase activation of differentiating MC3T3-E1 cells. The presence of aesculetin strengthened the expression of collagen type 1 and osteoprotegerin and transcription of Runt-related transcription factor 2 in differentiating osteoblasts for 9 days. When ≥1–5 μM aesculetin was added to differentiating cells for 15–18 days, the induction of non-collagenous proteins of bone sialoprotein II, osteopontin, osteocalcin, and osteonectin was markedly enhanced, facilitating the formation of hydroxyapatite crystals and mineralized collagen matrix. The induction of annexin V and PHOSPHO 1 was further augmented in ≥5 μM aesculetin-treated differentiating osteoblasts for 21 days. In addition, the levels of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase and collagen type 1 were further enhanced within the extracellular space and on matrix vesicles of mature osteoblasts treated with aesculetin, indicating matrix vesicle-mediated bone mineralization. Finally, aesculetin markedly accelerated the production of thrombospondin-1 and tenascin C in mature osteoblasts, leading to their adhesion to preformed collagen matrix. Therefore, aesculetin enhanced osteoblast differentiation, and matrix vesicle biogenesis and mineralization. These findings suggest that aesculetin may be a potential osteo-inductive agent preventing bone pathologies or enhancing bone regeneration.
Clinical Translation of Combined MAPK and Autophagy Inhibition in RAS Mutant Cancer
Authors: Lee Jennifer J. , Jain Vaibhav , Amaravadi Ravi K.
Published: November 2021

RAS (rat sarcoma virus) mutant cancers remain difficult to treat despite the advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Targeted therapies against the components of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, including RAS, RAF, MEK, and ERK, have demonstrated activity in BRAF mutant and, in limited cases, RAS mutant cancer. RAS mutant cancers have been found to activate adaptive resistance mechanisms such as autophagy during MAPK inhibition. Here, we review the recent clinically relevant advances in the development of the MAPK pathway and autophagy inhibitors and focus on their application to RAS mutant cancers. We provide analysis of the preclinical rationale for combining the MAPK pathway and autophagy and highlight the most recent clinical trials that have been launched to capitalize on this potentially synthetic lethal approach to cancer therapy.
Predicting Student Dropout in Self-Paced MOOC Course Using Random Forest Model
Authors: Dass Sheran , Gary Kevin , Cunningham James
Published: November 2021

A significant problem in Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) is the high rate of student dropout in these courses. An effective student dropout prediction model of MOOC courses can identify the factors responsible and provide insight on how to initiate interventions to increase student success in a MOOC. Different features and various approaches are available for the prediction of student dropout in MOOC courses. In this paper, the data derived from a self-paced math course, College Algebra and Problem Solving, offered on the MOOC platform Open edX partnering with Arizona State University (ASU) from 2016 to 2020 is considered. This paper presents a model to predict the dropout of students from a MOOC course given a set of features engineered from student daily learning progress. The Random Forest Model technique in Machine Learning (ML) is used in the prediction and is evaluated using validation metrics including accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, Area Under the Curve (AUC), and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. The model developed can predict the dropout or continuation of students on any given day in the MOOC course with an accuracy of 87.5%, AUC of 94.5%, precision of 88%, recall of 87.5%, and F1-score of 87.5%, respectively. The contributing features and interactions were explained using Shapely values for the prediction of the model.
Exploring the Use of Entomopathogenic Nematodes and the Natural Products Derived from Their Symbiotic Bacteria to Control the Grapevine Moth, Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Vicente-Díez Ignacio , Blanco-Pérez Rubén , Chelkha Maryam , Puelles Miguel , Pou Alicia , Campos-Herrera Raquel
Published: November 2021

The European grapevine moth (EGVM) Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is a relevant pest in the Palearctic region vineyards and is present in the Americas. Their management using biological control agents and environmentally friendly biotechnical tools would reduce intensive pesticide use. The entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in the families Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae are well-known virulent agents against arthropod pests thanks to symbiotic bacteria in the genera Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus (respectively) that produce natural products with insecticidal potential. Novel technological advances allow field applications of EPNs and those bioactive compounds as powerful bio-tools against aerial insect pests. This study aimed to determine the viability of four EPN species (Steinernema feltiae, S. carpocapsae, S. riojaense, and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) as biological control agents against EGVM larval instars (L1, L3, and L5) and pupae. Additionally, the bioactive compounds from their four symbiotic bacteria (Xenorhabdus bovienii, X. nematophila, X. kozodoii, and Photorhabdus laumondii subsp. laumondii, respectively) were tested as unfiltered ferment (UF) and cell-free supernatant (CFS) against the EGVM larval instars L1 and L3. All of the EPN species showed the capability of killing EGVM during the larval and pupal stages, particularly S. carpocapsae (mortalities of ~50% for L1 and >75% for L3 and L5 in only two days), followed by efficacy by S. feltiae. Similarly, the bacterial bioactive compounds produced higher larval mortality at three days against L1 (>90%) than L3 (~50%), making the application of UF more virulent than the application of CFS. Our findings indicate that both steinernematid species and their symbiotic bacterial bioactive compounds could be considered for a novel agro-technological approach to control L. botrana in vineyards. Further research into co-formulation with adjuvants is required to expand their viability when implemented for aboveground grapevine application.
The Feasibility of Utilizing Cultured Cordyceps militaris Residues in Cosmetics: Biological Activity Assessment of Their Crude Extracts
Authors: Pintathong Punyawatt , Chomnunti Putarak , Sangthong Sarita , Jirarat Areeya , Chaiwut Phanuphong
Published: November 2021

Solid-based residues (SBRs) left from harvesting the fruiting bodies of cultured Cordyceps mushrooms are a challenge to sustainability. Therefore, in this study, the SBRs from the cultivation of Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris) via solid-state fermentation (SSF) were employed to prepare crude extracts, with the aim of considering their possible use in cosmetics. The SBRs obtained from cultivation with solid media containing defatted rice bran mixed with barley, white rice, Riceberry rice, and wheat were named SBR-B, SBR-R, SBR-Rb, and SRB-W, respectively. They were extracted with solvents of differing polarity and then evaluated for their total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total carbohydrate content (TCC). In addition, antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities, photoprotection, and cytotoxicity were also assessed. The results revealed that the total bioactive contents and biological capacities of crude SBR extracts were significantly influenced by the types of SBR and extraction solvent (p < 0.05). The SBR-B extracted with hot water exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (66.62 ± 2.10, 212.00 ± 3.43, and 101.62 ± 4.42 mg TEAC/g extract) when assayed by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods, respectively, whereas tyrosinase inhibitory activity (51.13 ± 1.11 mg KAE/g extract) with 90.43 ± 1.96% inhibition at 1 mg/mL was excellently achieved by SBR-Rb extracted by 50% (v/v) ethanol. Correlations between bioactive contents in the crude extracts and their biological activities were mostly proven at a strong level (p < 0.01). The capability of the crude extracts to absorb UV over the range of 290–330 nm disclosed their potential roles as natural UV absorbers and boosters. Cytotoxicity analysis using fibroblast cell lines tested with hot water and 50% (v/v) ethanolic SBR extracts demonstrated safe use within a concentration range of 0.001–10 mg/mL. Interestingly, their fibroblast proliferative capacity, indicating anti-aging properties, was highly promoted. The chemical composition analyzed via LC–MS/MS techniques showed that seven phenolic acids and four flavonoids were identified in the crude SBR extracts. Furthermore, the other compounds present included nucleosides, nucleobases, amino acids, sugars, phospholipids, alkaloids, organic acids, vitamins, and peptides. Therefore, it is emphasized that SBRs from C. militaris can be a prospective source for preparing crude extracts employed in cosmetics. Lastly, they could be further utilized as multifunctional ingredients in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals.
Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis and Dosing Optimization of Prophylactic Fluconazole in Japanese Patients with Hematological Malignancy
Authors: Sakamoto Yasutaka , Isono Hikaru , Enoki Yuki , Taguchi Kazuaki , Miyazaki Takuya , Kunimoto Hiroyoshi , Koike Hirofumi , Hagihara Maki , Matsumoto Kenji , Nakajima Hideaki , Sahashi Yukiko , Matsumoto Kazuaki
Published: November 2021

We conducted population pharmacokinetic (PPK) analysis and Monte Carlo simulations to determine the appropriate prophylactic dose of fluconazole to prevent invasive candidiasis in patients with hematological malignancies. Patients receiving chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation at Yokohama City University Hospital between November 2018 and March 2020 were included. Additionally, patients receiving oral fluconazole for prophylaxis were recruited. We set the free area under the curve/minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) = 50 as the target and determined the largest MIC (breakpoint MIC) that could achieve more than 90% probability of target attainment. The blood fluconazole concentration of 54 patients (119 points) was used for PPK analysis. The optimal model was the one-compartment model with first-order administration and first-order elimination incorporating creatinine clearance (CLcr) as a covariate of clearance and body weight as a covariate of distribution volume. We conducted Monte Carlo simulation with fluconazole at 200 mg/day or 400 mg/day dosing schedules and patient body weight and CLcr ranging from 40 to 70 kg and 40–140 mL/min, respectively. The breakpoint MICs on the first dosing day and at steady state were 0.5–1.0 μg/mL and 1.0–2.0 μg/mL for 200 mg/day and 1.0–2.0 μg/mL and 2.0–4.0 μg/mL for 400 mg/day, respectively. The recommended dose was 400–700 mg/day for the loading dose and 200–400 mg/day for the maintenance dose. Our findings suggest that the optimal prophylactic dose of fluconazole in hematological malignancy patients depends on CLcr and body weight, and a sufficient loading and maintenance dose may be needed to completely prevent invasive candidiasis.
A 1D Model for Predicting Heat and Moisture Transfer through a Hemp-Concrete Wall Using the Finite-Element Method
Authors: Benkhaled Maroua , Ouldboukhitine Salah-Eddine , Bakkour Amer , Amziane Sofiane
Published: November 2021

Plant-based concrete is a construction material which, in addition to having a very low environmental impact, exhibits excellent hygrothermal comfort properties. It is a material which is, as yet, relatively unknown to engineers in the field. Therefore, an important step is to implement reliable mass-transfer simulation methods. This will make the material easy to model, and facilitate project design to deliver suitable climatic conditions. In recent decades, numerous studies have been carried out to develop models of the coupled transfers of heat, air and moisture in porous building envelopes. Most previous models are based on Luikov’s theory, considering mass accumulation, air and total pressure gradient. This theory considers the porous medium to be homogeneous, and therefore allows for hygrothermal transfer equations on the basis of the fundamental principles of thermodynamics. This study presents a methodology for solving the classical 1D (one-dimensional) HAM (heat, air, and moisture) hygrothermal transfer model with an implementation in MATLAB. The resolution uses a discretization of the problem according to the finite-element method. The detailed solution has been tested on a plant-based concrete. The energy and mass balances are expressed using measurable transfer quantities (temperature, water content, vapor pressure, etc.) and coefficients expressly related to the macroscopic properties of the plant-based concrete (thermal conductivity, specific heat, water vapor permeability, etc.), determined experimentally. To ensure this approach is effective, the methodology is validated on a test case. The results show that the methodology is robust in handling a rationalization of the model whose parameters are not ranked and not studied by their degree of importance.
Lithium-Cation Conductivity of Solid Solutions in Li6-xZr2-xAxO7 (A = Nb, Ta) Systems
Authors: Shekhtman Georgiy Sh. , Kalashnova Anastasia V. , Antonov Boris D.
Published: November 2021

Li6-xZr2-xAxO7 (A = Nb; Ta) system with 0 < x < 0.30 is synthesized by glycine-nitrate method. Boundaries of solid solutions based on monoclinic Li6Zr2O7 are determined; temperature (200–600 °C) and concentration dependences of conductivity are investigated. It is shown that monoclinic Li6Zr2O7 exhibits better transport properties compared to its triclinic modification. Li5.8Zr1.8Nb(Ta)0.2O7 solid solutions have a higher lithium-cation conductivity at 300 °C compared to solid electrolytes based on other lithium zirconates due the “open” structure of monoclinic Li6Zr2O7 and a high solubility of the doping cations.
Effects of Montmorillonite and Gentamicin Addition on the Properties of Electrospun Polycaprolactone Fibers
Authors: Stodolak-Zych Ewa , Kurpanik Roksana , Dzierzkowska Ewa , Gajek Marcin , Zych Łukasz , Gryń Karol , Rapacz-Kmita Alicja
Published: November 2021

Electrospinning was used to obtain multifunctional fibrous composite materials with a matrix of poly-ɛ-caprolactone (PCL) and 2 wt.% addition of a nanofiller: montmorillonite (MMT), montmorillonite intercalated with gentamicin sulphate (MMTG) or gentamicin sulphate (G). In the first stage, the aluminosilicate gallery was modified by introducing gentamicin sulfate into it, and the effectiveness of the intercalation process was confirmed on the basis of changes in the clay particle size from 0.5 µm (for MMT) to 0.8 µm (for MMTG), an increase in the interplanar distance d001 from 12.3 Å (for MMT) to 13.9 Å (for MMTG) and altered clay grain morphology. In the second part of the experiment, the electrospinning process was carried out in which the polymer nonwovens with and without the modifier were prepared directly from dichloromethane (DCM) and N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). The nanocomposite fibrous membranes containing montmorillonite were prepared from the same polymer solution but after homogenization with the modifier (13 wt.%). The degree of dispersion of the modifier was evaluated by average microarray analysis from observed area (EDS), which was also used to determine the intercalation of montmorillonite with gentamicin sulfate. An increase in the size of the fibers was found for the materials with the presence of the modifier, with the largest diameters measured for PCL_MMT (625 nm), and the smaller ones for PCL_MMTG (578 nm) and PCL_G (512 nm). The dispersion of MMT and MMTG in the PCL fibers was also confirmed by indirect studies such as change in mechanical properties of the nonwovens membrane, where the neat PCL nonwoven was used as a reference material. The addition of the modifier reduced the contact angle of PCL nonwovens (from 120° for PCL to 96° for PCL_G and 98° for PCL_MMTG). An approximately 10% increase in tensile strength of the nonwoven fabric with the addition of MMT compared to the neat PCL nonwoven fabric was also observed. The results of microbiological tests showed antibacterial activity of all obtained materials; however, the inhibition zones were the highest for the materials containing gentamicin sulphate, and the release time of the active substance was significantly extended for the materials with the addition of montmorillonite containing the antibiotic. The results clearly show that the electrospinning technique can be effectively used to obtain nanobiocomposite fibers with the addition of nonintercalated and intercalated montmorillonite with improved strength and increased stiffness compared to materials made only of the polymer fibers, provided that a high filler dispersion in the spinning solution is obtained.
A Novel Biodegradable Composite Polymer Material Based on PLGA and Silver Oxide Nanoparticles with Unique Physicochemical Properties and Biocompatibility with Mammalian Cells
Authors: Smirnova Veronika V. , Chausov Denis N. , Serov Dmitriy A. , Kozlov Valery A. , Ivashkin Petr I. , Pishchalnikov Roman Y. , Uvarov Oleg V. , Vedunova Maria V. , Semenova Anastasia A. , Lisitsyn Andrey B. , Simakin Alexander V.
Published: November 2021

A method for obtaining a stable colloidal solution of silver oxide nanoparticles has been developed using laser ablation. The method allows one to obtain nanoparticles with a monomodal size distribution and a concentration of more than 108 nanoparticles per mL. On the basis of the obtained nanoparticles and the PLGA polymer, a nanocomposite material was manufactured. The manufacturing technology allows one to obtain a nanocomposite material without significant defects. Nanoparticles are not evenly distributed in the material and form domains in the composite. Reactive oxygen species (hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical) are intensively generated on the surfaces of the nanocomposite. Additionally, on the surface of the composite material, an intensive formation of protein long-lived active forms is observed. The ELISA method was used to demonstrate the generation of 8-oxoguanine in DNA on the developed nanocomposite material. It was found that the multiplication of microorganisms on the developed nanocomposite material is significantly decreased. At the same time, the nanocomposite does not inhibit proliferation of mammalian cells. The developed nanocomposite material can be used as an affordable and non-toxic nanomaterial to create bacteriostatic coatings that are safe for humans.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Biological Evaluation of Novel 5-Hydroxymethylpyrimidines
Authors: Stolarczyk Marcin , Matera-Witkiewicz Agnieszka , Wolska Aleksandra , Krupińska Magdalena , Mikołajczyk Aleksandra , Pyra Anna , Bryndal Iwona
Published: November 2021

Pyrimidine displays a wide array of bioactivities, and thence, it is still considered a potent unit of new drug research. Its derivative, 5-hydroxymethylpyrimidine, can be found as a scaffold of nontypical nitrogen bases in DNA and as a core of some natural bioactive compounds. In this study, we obtained a series of 5-hydroxymethylpyrimidines that vary in the 4-position by the reduction of proper esters. All compounds were characterized by spectroscopic analysis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction was performed for some of them. Biological investigations estimated cytotoxic properties against normal (RPTEC) and cancer (HeLa, HepaRG, Caco-2, AGS, A172) cell lines. It was found that the derivatives with an aliphatic amino group at the 4-position are generally less toxic to normal cells than those with a benzylsulfanyl group. Moreover, compounds with bulky constituents exhibit better anticancer properties, though at a moderate level. The specific compounds were chosen due to their most promising IC50 concentration for in silico study. Furthermore, antimicrobial activity tests were performed against six strains of bacteria and one fungus. They demonstrated that only derivatives with at least three carbon chain amino groups at the 4-position have weak antibacterial properties, and only the derivative with 4-benzylsulfanyl constituent exhibits any antifungal action.
Effect of the Shape of Rolling Passes and the Temperature on the Corrosion Protection of the Mg/Al Bimetallic Bars
Authors: Mróz Sebastian , Jagielska-Wiaderek Karina , Szota Piotr , Stefanik Andrzej , Kosturek Robert , Wachowski Marcin
Published: November 2021

The paper presents the results of experimental tests of the rolling process of Mg/Al bimetallic bars in two systems of classic passes (horizontal oval-circle-horizontal oval-circle variant I) and modified (multi-radial horizontal oval-multi-radial vertical oval-multi-radial horizontal oval-circle-variant II). The feedstock in the form of round bimetallic bars with a diameter of 22 mm and 30% of the outer aluminum layer was made through explosive welding. The bimetallic bars consisted of an AZ31 magnesium core and a 1050A aluminum outer layer. Bars with a diameter of 17 mm were obtained as a result of rolling in four passes. The rolling process in the passes was conducted at two temperatures of 300 and 400 °C. Based on the analysis of the test results, it was found that the use of modified passes and a lower rolling temperature (300 °C) ensures a more homogenous distribution of the plating layer around the circumference of the core and results in an even grain decreasing, which improves the corrosion resistance of bimetallic bars compared to rolling bars in a classic system of passes and at a higher temperature (400 °C).
A Fluorescence Kinetic-Based Aptasensor Employing Stilbene Isomerization for Detection of Thrombin
Authors: Zeng Xinling , Zhou Qing , Wang Liyan , Zhu Xiaoxian , Cui Kuiyan , Peng Xinsheng , Steele Terry W. J. , Chen Huizhi , Xu Hui , Zhou Yubin
Published: November 2021

It is important to detect thrombin due to its physiological and pathological roles, where rapid and simple analytical approaches are needed. In this study, an aptasensor based on fluorescence attenuation kinetics for the detection of thrombin is presented, which incorporates the features of stilbene and aptamer. We designed and synthesized an aptasensor by one-step coupling of stilbene compound and aptamer, which employed the adaptive binding of the aptamer with thrombin to cause a change in stilbene fluorescence attenuation kinetics. The sensor realized detection of thrombin by monitoring the variation in apparent fluorescence attenuation rate constant (kapp), which could be further used for probing of enzyme–aptamer binding. In comprehensive studies, the developed aptasensor presented satisfactory performance on repeatability, specificity, and regeneration capacity, which realized rapid sensing (10 s) with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.205 μM. The strategy was successful across seven variants of thrombin aptasensors, with tunable kapp depending on the SITS (4-Acetamido-4′-isothiocyanato-2,2′-stilbenedisulfonic acid disodium salt hydrate) grafting site. Analyte detection mode was demonstrated in diluted serum, requiring no separation or washing steps. The new sensing mode for thrombin detection paves a way for high-throughput kinetic-based sensors for exploiting aptamers targeted at clinically relevant proteins.
Synthesis and Characterization of Al- and SnO2-Doped ZnO Thermoelectric Thin Films
Authors: Latronico Giovanna , Singh Saurabh , Mele Paolo , Darwish Abdalla , Sarkisov Sergey , Pan Sian Wei , Kawamura Yukihiro , Sekine Chihiro , Baba Takahiro , Mori Takao , Takeuchi Tsunehiro , Ichinose Ataru , Wilson Simeon
Published: November 2021

The effect of SnO2 addition (0, 1, 2, 4 wt.%) on thermoelectric properties of c-axis oriented Al-doped ZnO thin films (AZO) fabricated by pulsed laser deposition on silica and Al2O3 substrates was investigated. The best thermoelectric performance was obtained on the AZO + 2% SnO2 thin film grown on silica, with a power factor (PF) of 211.8 μW/m·K2 at 573 K and a room-temperature (300 K) thermal conductivity of 8.56 W/m·K. PF was of the same order of magnitude as the value reported for typical AZO bulk material at the same measurement conditions (340 μW/m·K2) while thermal conductivity κ was reduced about four times.
Extensional Magnetorheology of Viscoelastic Human Blood Analogues Loaded with Magnetic Particles
Authors: Nunes João M. , Galindo-Rosales Francisco J. , Campo-Deaño Laura
Published: November 2021

This study represents a pioneering work on the extensional magnetorheological properties of human blood analogue fluids loaded with magnetic microparticles. Dynabeads M-270 particles were dispersed in Newtonian and viscoelastic blood analogue fluids at 5% wt. Capillary breakup experiments were performed, with and without the influence of an external magnetic field aligned with the flow direction. The presence of the particles increased the viscosity of the fluid, and that increment was larger when embedded within a polymeric matrix. The application of an external magnetic field led to an even larger increment of the viscosity of the working fluids, as the formation of small aggregates induced an increment in the effective volume fraction of particles. Regarding the liquid bridge stability, the Newtonian blood analogue fluid remained as a Newtonian liquid exhibiting a pinch-off at the breakup time in any circumstance. However, in the case of the viscoelastic blood analogue fluid, the presence of the particles and the simultaneous application of the magnetic field enhanced the formation of the beads-on-a-string structure, as the Ohnesorge number remained basically unaltered, whereas the time of the experiment increased due to its larger viscosity, which resulted in a decrease in the Deborah Number. This result was confirmed with fluids containing larger concentrations of xanthan gum.
Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of AA4047/AA7075 Transition Zone Formed Using Electron Beam Wire-Feed Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Filippov Andrey , Utyaganova Veronika , Shamarin Nikolay , Vorontsov Andrey , Savchenko Nikolay , Gurianov Denis , Chumaevskii Andrey , Rubtsov Valery , Kolubaev Evgeny , Tarasov Sergei
Published: November 2021

A gradient transition zone was obtained using electron beam deposition from AA4047 wire on AA7075 substrate and characterized for microstructures, tensile strength and corrosion resistance. The microstructure of the transition zone was composed of aluminum alloy grains, Al/Si eutectics and Fe-rich and Si-rich particles. Such a microstructure provided strength comparable to that of AA7075-T42 substrate but more intense corrosion due to the higher amount of anodic Mg2Si particles. The as-deposited AA4047 zone formed above the transition zone was composed of aluminum alloy dendrites and interdendritic Al/Si eutectics with low mechanical strength and high corrosion potential.
Influence of Surface Treatment on Steel Adhesive Joints Strength—Varnish Coats
Authors: Rudawska Anna , Miturska-Barańska Izabela , Doluk Elżbieta
Published: November 2021

The purpose of the paper is to determine the impact of surface treatment on the strength of adhesive joints, made from various steel sheets. Two variants of the surface treatment steel adherends were used: without the varnish coat and with the varnish coat, using three polymer-based varnishes (a simple, a hybrid, and a gel). Two types of the adhesives were used to prepare the adhesive joints: a single-component cyanoacrylate adhesive and a two-component epoxy adhesive. A strength test of the adhesive joints (EN DIN 1465 standard), a coating adhesion test (ASTM D3359-B standard), and surface topography, as well as surface roughness, parameters (PN-EN ISO 11562, PN-EN ISO 4287, and PN-EN ISO 25178 standards) were used. Based on the strength tests, it was observed that the adhesive joints, with the hybrid varnish onto the adherend’s surface, achieved markedly lower shear strength. The best results, in terms of the adhesive joint strength, made using the cyanoacrylate adhesive were achieved for the joints where the adherends were coated with a simple varnish, while in the joints made using the epoxy adhesive, the highest shear strength was achieved by the joints of sheets whose surfaces were coated with the gel varnish.
Biomimetic Growth of Hydroxyapatite on SiO2 Microspheres to Improve Its Biocompatibility and Gentamicin Loading Capacity
Authors: Herrera-Alonso Alejandra E. , Ibarra-Alonso María C. , Esparza-González Sandra C. , Estrada-Flores Sofía , García-Cerda Luis A. , Martínez-Luévanos Antonia
Published: November 2021

The interest in multifunctional biomaterials to be implanted are also able to release drugs that reduce pain and inflammation or prevent a possible infection has increased. Bioactive materials such as silica (SiO2) containing surface silanol groups contribute to the nucleation and growth of hydroxyapatite (HAp) in a physiological environment. Regarding biocompatibility, the spherical shape of particles is the desirable one, since it does not cause mechanical damage to the cell membrane. In this work, the synthesis of SiO2 microspheres was performed by the modified Stöber method and they were used for the biomimetic growth of HAp on their surface. The effect of the type of surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and polyethylene glycol (PEG)), and heat treatment on the morphology and size of SiO2 particles was investigated. Monodisperse, spherical-shaped SiO2 microparticles with an average particle size of 179 nm, were obtained when using PEG (SiO2-PEG). The biomimetic growth of HAp was performed on this sample to improve its biocompatibility and drug-loading capacity using gentamicin as a model drug. Biomimetic growth of HAp was confirmed by FTIR-ATR, SEM-EDX and TEM techniques. SiO2-PEG/HAp sample had a better biocompatibility in vitro and gentamicin loading capacity than SiO2-PEG sample.
Fabrication of Graphene/Zinc Oxide Nano-Heterostructure for Hydrogen Sensing
Authors: Lu Yang-Ming , Tseng Chi-Feng , Lan Bing-Yi , Hsieh Chia-Fen
Published: November 2021

In this study, hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) were used as reactive gases, and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) was used to grow single-layer graphene on a copper foil substrate. The single-layer graphene obtained was transferred to a single-crystal silicon substrate by PMMA transfer technology for the subsequent growth of nano zinc oxide. The characteristics of CVD-deposited graphene were analyzed by a Raman spectrometer, an optical microscope, a four-point probe, and an ultraviolet/visible spectrometer. The sol–gel method was applied to prepare the zinc oxide seed layer film with the spin-coating method, with methanol, zinc acetate, and sodium hydroxide as the precursors for growing ZnO nanostructures. On top of the ZnO seed layer, a one-dimensional zinc oxide nanostructure was grown by a hydrothermal method at 95 °C, using a zinc nitrate and hexamethylenetetramine mixture solution. The characteristics of the nano zinc oxide were analyzed by scanning electron microscope(SEM),x-ray diffractometer(XRD), and Raman spectrometer. The obtained graphene/zinc oxide nano-heterostructure sensor has a sensitivity of 1.06 at a sensing temperature of 205 °C and a concentration of hydrogen as low as 5 ppm, with excellent sensing repeatability. The main reason for this is that the zinc oxide nanostructure has a large specific surface area, and many oxygen vacancy defects exist on its surface. In addition, the P–N heterojunction formed between the n-type zinc oxide and the p-type graphene also contributes to hydrogen sensing.
Biomolecular, Histological, Clinical, and Radiological Analyses of Dental Implant Bone Sites Prepared Using Magnetic Mallet Technology: A Pilot Study in Animals
Authors: Schierano Gianmario , Baldi Domenico , Peirone Bruno , Mauthe von Degerfeld Mitzy , Navone Roberto , Bragoni Alberto , Colombo Jacopo , Autelli Riccardo , Muzio Giuliana
Published: November 2021

Background. A new instrumentation exploiting magneto-dynamic technology (mallet) proposed for implant site preparation was investigated. Methods. In the tibias of three minipigs, two sites were prepared by mallet and two by drill technique. Primary stability (ISQ) was detected after implant positioning (T0) and at 14 days (T14). X-rays and computed tomography were performed. At T14, bone samples were utilized for histological and biomolecular analyses. Results. In mallet sites, histological evaluations evidenced a significant increase in the newly formed bone, osteoblast number, and a smaller quantity of fibrous tissue. These results agree with the significant BMP-4 augmentation and the positive trend in other osteogenic factors (biological and radiological investigations). Major, albeit IL-10-controlled, inflammation was present. For both techniques, at T14 a significant ISQ increase was evidenced, but no significant difference was observed at T0 and T14 between the mallet and drill techniques. In mallet sites, lateral bone condensation was observed on computed tomography. Conclusions. Using biological, histological, clinical, and radiological analyses, this study first shows that the mallet technique is effective for implant site preparation. Based on its ability to cause osseocondensation and improve newly formed bone, mallet technology should be chosen in all clinical cases of poor bone quality.
Tool for Designing Breakthrough Discovery in Materials Science
Authors: Yoshitake Michiko
Published: November 2021

A database of material property relationships, which serves as a scientific principles database, and a database search system are proposed and developed. The use of this database can support a broader research perspective, which is increasingly important in the era of automated computer-aided experimentation and machine learning of experimental and calculated data. Examples of the wider use of scientific principles in materials research are presented. The database and its advantages are described. An implementation of the proposed database and search system as a prototype software is reported. The usefulness of the database and search system is demonstrated by an example of a surprising but reasonable discovery.
Heat Input Effect on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Electron Beam Additive Manufactured (EBAM) Cu-7.5wt.%Al Bronze
Authors: Filippov Andrey , Shamarin Nikolay , Moskvichev Evgeny , Savchenko Nikolai , Kolubaev Evgeny , Khoroshko Ekaterina , Tarasov Sergei
Published: November 2021

Electron beam additive wire-feed deposition of Cu-7.5wt.%Al bronze on a stainless-steel substrate has been carried out at heat input levels 0.21, 0.255, and 0.3 kJ/mm. The microstructures formed at 0.21 kJ/mm were characterized by the presence of both zigzagged columnar and small equiaxed grains with 10% of Σ3 annealing twin grain boundaries. No equiaxed grains were found in samples obtained at 0.255 and 0.3 kJ/mm. The zigzagged columnar ones were only retained in samples obtained at 0.255 kJ/mm. The fraction of Σ3 boundaries reduced at higher heat input values to 7 and 4%, respectively. The maximum tensile strength was achieved on samples obtained with 0.21 kJ/mm as tested with a tensile axis perpendicular to the deposited wall’s height. More than 100% elongation-to-fracture was achieved when testing the samples obtained at 0.3 kJ/mm (as tested with a tensile axis coinciding with the wall’s height).
Data Mining to Atmospheric Corrosion Process Based on Evidence Fusion
Authors: Meng Jintao , Zhang Hao , Wang Xue , Zhao Yue
Published: November 2021

An electrical resistance sensor-based atmospheric corrosion monitor was employed to study the carbon steel corrosion in outdoor atmospheric environments by recording dynamic corrosion data in real-time. Data mining of collected data contributes to uncovering the underlying mechanism of atmospheric corrosion. In this study, it was found that most statistical correlation coefficients do not adapt to outdoor coupled corrosion data. In order to deal with online coupled data, a new machine learning model is proposed from the viewpoint of information fusion. It aims to quantify the contribution of different environmental factors to atmospheric corrosion in different exposure periods. Compared to the commonly used machine learning models of artificial neural networks and support vector machines in the corrosion research field, the experimental results demonstrated the efficiency and superiority of the proposed model on online corrosion data in terms of measuring the importance of atmospheric factors and corrosion prediction accuracy.
Influence of Potassium-Based Alkaline Electrolyzed Water on Hydration Process and the Properties of Cement-Based Materials with Fly Ash
Authors: Yu Zexin , Xie Zixi , Zhang Tianyu , Yue Gongbing , Liu Haibao , Li Qiuyi , Wang Liang
Published: November 2021

Alkaline electrolyzed water, a kind of clean green water with excellent characteristics such as high activity, strong alkalinity, high ion penetrating ability, electrical charge, and good molecule adsorption, was significant to the resource utilization of industrial fly ash waste. This paper studies highly active potassium-based alkaline electrolyzed water’s impact, compared with ordinary water, on the cement hydration process using microstructural methods such as a hydration heat test, differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image analysis. Fly ash cement-based materials were first prepared with alkaline electrolyzed water as the mixing water. The alkaline electrolyzed water’s influence on fly ash paste workability and the mechanical properties of fly ash mortar for varying fly ash proportions were ratified. Then alkaline electrolyzed water with the best pH value was selected to prepare fly ash concrete, and its durability was studied. The test results showed that it is feasible to increase the utilization rate of fly ash by using alkaline electrolyzed water. Furthermore, it promoted the process of cement hydration, increased the rate of the hydration reaction, and the promotion effect increased with the increase in pH value of the alkaline electrolyzed water, and also promoted the effective decomposition of the vitreous shell of fly ash to stimulate its early activity. Concurrent tests with ordinary water paste showed that the water requirement for normal consistency and setting time with alkaline electrolyzed water paste were significantly less. Alkaline electrolyzed water also solved the problem related to the low early strength of fly ash mortar. Furthermore, using alkaline electrolyzed water with an optimum pH value of 11.5 to prepare fly ash concrete effectively reduced concrete’s carbonation depth and carbonation rate and lessened the chloride ion migration coefficient.
Bipolar Disorder and Comorbid Use of Illicit Substances
Authors: Preuss Ulrich W. , Schaefer Martin , Born Christoph , Grunze Heinz
Published: November 2021

Substance use disorders (SUD) are highly prevalent in bipolar disorder (BD) and significantly affect clinical outcomes. Incidence and management of illicit drug use differ from alcohol use disorders, nicotine use of behavioral addictions. It is not yet clear why people with bipolar disorder are at higher risk of addictive disorders, but recent data suggest common neurobiological and genetic underpinnings and epigenetic alterations. In the absence of specific diagnostic instruments, the clinical interview is conducive for the diagnosis. Treating SUD in bipolar disorder requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Most treatment trials focus on single drugs, such as cannabis alone or in combination with alcohol, cocaine, or amphetamines. Synopsis of data provides limited evidence that lithium and valproate are effective for the treatment of mood symptoms in cannabis users and may reduce substance use. Furthermore, the neuroprotective agent citicoline may reduce cocaine consumption in BD subjects. However, many of the available studies had an open-label design and were of modest to small sample size. The very few available psychotherapeutic trials indicate no significant differences in outcomes between BD with or without SUD. Although SUD is one of the most important comorbidities in BD with a significant influence on clinical outcome, there is still a lack both of basic research and clinical trials, allowing for evidence-based and specific best practices.
Formation of Water-Channel by Propylene Glycol into Polymer for Porous Materials
Authors: Hong Seong Ho , Cho Younghyun , Kang Sang Wook
Published: November 2021

In this study, a porous membrane with a cellulose acetate (CA) matrix was fabricated using propylene glycol with a water pressure treatment without a metal salt as an additive. The water pressure treatment of the fabricated CA membrane with propylene glycol yielded nanopores. The nanopores were formed as the additives in the CA chains led to plasticization. The weakened chains of the parts where the plasticization occurred were broken by the water pressure, which generated the pores. Compared to the previous study with glycerin as an additive, the size of the hydration region was controlled by the number of hydrophilic functional groups. When water pressure was applied to the CA membrane containing propylene glycol as an additive, the hydration area was small, so it was effective to control the pore size and the number of nano pores than glycerin. In addition, the number of nanopores and pore size could be easily adjusted by the water pressure. The porosity of the membrane was increased owing to the trace amount of propylene glycol, confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and porosimetry. The interaction between the CA and propylene glycol was verified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Consequently, it was the optimum composition to generate pores at the CA/propylene glycol 1:0.2 ratio, and porosity of 69.7% and average pore diameter of 300 nm was confirmed. Since it is a membrane with high porosity and nano sized pores, it is expected to be applied in various fields.
Plasma Membrane Lipids: An Important Binding Site for All Lipoprotein Classes
Authors: Axmann Markus , Plochberger Birgit , Mikula Mario , Weber Florian , Strobl Witta Monika , Stangl Herbert
Published: November 2021

Cholesterol is one of the main constituents of plasma membranes; thus, its supply is of utmost importance. This review covers the known mechanisms of cholesterol transfer from circulating lipoprotein particles to the plasma membrane, and vice versa. To achieve homeostasis, the human body utilizes cellular de novo synthesis and extracellular transport particles for supply of cholesterol and other lipids via the blood stream. These lipoprotein particles can be classified according to their density: chylomicrons, very low, low, and high-density lipoprotein (VLDL, LDL, and HDL, respectively). They deliver and receive their lipid loads, most importantly cholesterol, to and from cells by several redundant routes. Defects in one of these pathways (e.g., due to mutations in receptors) usually are not immediately fatal. Several redundant pathways, at least temporarily, compensate for the loss of one or more of them, but the defects trigger systemic diseases, such as atherosclerosis later on. Recently, intracellular membrane–membrane contact sites were shown to be involved in intracellular cholesterol transfer and the plasma membrane itself has been proposed to act as a binding site for lipoprotein-mediated cargo unloading.