Matrix Degradation Research Articles

Development of an advanced hydride reorientation model for Zircaloy cladding and its experimental validation

Hydride reorientation, which occurs under hoop stress during cooling, stands out as a primary mechanism for material degradation in spent fuel management. The radial hydride fraction (RHF) is strongly involved in the mechanical integrity of cladding, highlighting the necessity for a robust modeling framework for quantitative analysis. However, the predictability of previous thermodynamic models for hydride reorientation in reactor-grade Cold Worked Stress Relieved (CWSR) Zircaloy has been hindered due to the intricate nature of hydride reorientation and the difficulties in characterizing microstructures. Recent successful EBSD characterization of reactor-grade CWSR Zircaloy have revealed valuable insights into microstructural characteristics of hydrides, enabling advancements in the modeling framework of hydride reorientation. This study aims to develop a thermodynamic model specifically focused on predicting the RHF. The developed thermodynamic model, based on classical nucleation theory, integrates aforementioned microstructural findings, combined with the Hydride-Nucleation-Growth-Dissolution (HNGD) model to capture transient precipitation behavior during cooling. Extensive experimental validations demonstrate enhanced predictability of the model. Additionally, the study examines the sensitivities of hydride reorientation to hydrogen concentration, applied stress, and cooling rate. It also provides predictions on reorientation behavior for engineering implications such as extension of wet storage, matrix hardening, recrystallization, and thermal cycling, supported by plausible explanations rooted in the underlying physical mechanisms elucidated through the model.

Dissociative electrochemical analysis of materials degradation of an anion exchange membrane electrolyser

For anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysers, degradation studies provide valuable insights into how individual components degrade. Often, this presents a formidable challenge as each component significantly contributes to overall degradation. Here, we propose a methodology to individually compare the degradation of key components in AEM electrolysers: hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst, oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalyst, and the AEM itself. First, to measure the degradation of catalyst-coated substrates (CCS) commonly used in AEM electrolysers, the AEM was replaced with a diaphragm (Zirfon Agfa UTP 500) permeable to OH− ions and stable in alkaline media. Subsequently, a cell with a stable catalytic layer (Nafion-coated Ni-felt substrates) was assembled to focus on membrane degradation with an AEM Sustainion X37-50 Grade 60. Chronopotentiometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) revealed that the cell with the AEM experienced a threefold increase in ohmic resistance, attributed to the loss of functional groups. Additionally, an ion exchange capacity (IEC) analysis indicated that Sustainion lost approximately 20% of its ion exchange capacity. In contrast, the cell composed of CCS and Zirfon showed lower degradation. EIS data fitting demonstrated increased kinetic-related resistances while the ohmic resistance remained unchanged. This work presents a practical approach for comparing component degradation in AEM electrolysers.

Energy and exergy analysis of photovoltaic systems integrated with pulsating heat pipe and hybrid nanofluids

Solar energy is harnessed from solar radiation and converted into various forms of energy, primarily electricity. It is a crucial part of the renewable energy landscape due to its abundance, sustainability, and potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Photovoltaic (PV) panels have become a critical component in the transition toward sustainable energy; however, the efficiency and longevity of PV systems are significantly influenced by their operating temperature. Excessive heat can reduce the efficiency of PV cells and accelerate material degradation. Pulsating heat pipes (PHPs), with their excellent thermal management capabilities, present a promising solution to these challenges. This paper comprehensively investigates the effect of incorporating a three-dimensional PHP into PV systems, using working fluids with varying thermal properties, namely water, graphene oxide (GO) nanofluid with three different concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 g/L) and their mixture with nano-encapsulated phase change material (Nano PCM), forming a hybrid nanofluid, at a concentration of 5 g/L. The collected data are analyzed from energy and exergy perspectives. The findings show that using Nano PCM in the nanofluid-based PV system (at the highest concentration) produces 22.3 Wh/day, increasing the system’s electrical power output by approximately 12 % compared to a PV panel with no cooling system. It outperforms the other systems studied, with the highest overall exergy efficiency of 35.4 %. The results also indicate an average improvement in first-law efficiency. Additionally, the study shows varying levelized costs of energy (LCOE) for the system cooled with different coolants.

SbSeI for high-efficient photocatalytic degradation of multiple pollutants

Photocatalytic degradation is an effective technology for degrading water pollution that plays a significant role in environmental remediation. Ternary 2D ternary V-VI-VIIA semiconductors are ideal candidates for photocatalytic degradation of pollutants due to effective light absorption and high charge carrier mobility. In this work, high-quality SbSeI crystals were prepared using the chemical vapor transport (CVT) method and their photocatalytic degradation performance for multiple pollutants was studied. SbSeI exhibits excellent photocatalytic performance in the degradation of potassium dichromate (Cr (VI)), rhodamine B (RhB), tetracycline hydrochloride (TC-HCl) and methyl orange (MO). More than 98% of Cr (VI) and RhB can be removed after irradiation with an Xe lamp for 10 min and 40 min, respectively. The capture experiments and electron spin resonance results indicated that ·O2− plays a major role in reducing Cr (VI), while h+ plays a primary role in the degradation of MO, RhB and TC-HCl. Interestingly, the degradation rate of Cr (VI) is 1.3 times higher than that of a single pollutant system, and the degradation rate of RhB is 1.6 times higher, due to the enhanced separation and utilization of holes and electrons. The results demonstrate that SbSeI is a potential photocatalytic degradation material.

Vinpocetine protects against osteoarthritis by inhibiting ferroptosis and extracellular matrix degradation via activation of the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway

BackgroundOsteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive joint condition marked by the slow degradation of articular cartilage. Vinpocetine (Vin), a synthetic derivative of vincamine derived from the vinca plant, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, the specific role and mechanism of Vin in the treatment of OA remain largely unexplored. ObjectivesThe study is designed to uncover the impacts of Vin on tert‑butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP)-induced ferroptosis and to explore its potential role and underlying mechanisms in the treatment of OA. Concurrently, we established an OA mouse model through medial meniscal instability surgery to assess the therapeutic effects of Vin in vivo. MethodsThrough network pharmacology analysis, we have identified the key targets and potential pathways of Vin. To simulate an oxidative stress-induced OA environment in vitro, we induced chondrocyte injury using TBHP. We tested how Vin affects chondrocytes under TBHP induction by DHE and DCFH-DA probes, BODIPY-C11 and FerroOrange staining, mitochondrial function assessment, Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence techniques. Simultaneously, we established an OA mouse model through medial meniscal instability surgery to assess the in vivo therapeutic effects of Vin. In this model, we used X-ray and micro-CT imaging, SO staining, TB staining, H&E staining, and immunohistochemistry to analyze the role of Vin in detail. ResultsThis study demonstrated that Vin effectively suppressed TBHP-induced ferroptosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and significantly lessened mitochondrial damage associated with ferroptosis. In the OA mouse model, Vin improved cartilage degeneration, subchondral remodeling, synovitis, and ECM degradation. Vin worked by activating the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway and inhibiting the Keap1-Nrf2 interaction. This study focused on the function of ferroptosis in OA and its influence on chondrocyte damage and disease progression, offering novel perspectives on potential treatments. ConclusionVin activated the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway, thereby slowing OA progression, inhibiting ferroptosis, and preventing ECM degradation.

Ethyl butyrate inhibits caudal fin regeneration in adult zebrafish by disrupting extracellular matrix remodeling

Wound healing and tissue regeneration are influenced by a variety of factors. Adverse lifestyle habits, such as excessive alcohol consumption, delay wound healing and increase the risk of secondary infections. Ethyl butyrate is a common food additive widely used to enhance the aroma of alcoholic beverages. This additive is generally considered harmless to human health in both industrial and domestic settings. However, the ecotoxicity and its effects on wound healing have not been elucidated. In this study, we used zebrafish as the experimental animal, and the caudal fins were amputated to explore the effects of ethyl butyrate on wound healing and tissue regeneration. The effect of ethyl butyrate on blastema and bone regeneration and its impact on the transcriptional levels of regeneration-related genes and inflammation-related genes were evaluated. RNA-seq was conducted to determine the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the treatment and the control groups. KEGG and GO analysis was conducted to explore the functions of DEGs. Significantly enriched GO terms and KEGG pathways were identified to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the inhibition of zebrafish caudal fin regeneration by ethyl butyrate. The results demonstrated that ethyl butyrate significantly inhibited the regeneration of zebrafish caudal fins, including blastema and bone regeneration. Ethyl butyrate exposure significantly downregulated the expression of genes associated with bone and blastema regeneration and inflammation response. KEGG and GO functional analyses revealed that the DEGs were associated with significant enrichment of extracellular matrix-receptor interactions. Ethyl butyrate treatment downregulated the expression of most extracellular matrix-related genes. These findings indicate that ethyl butyrate potentially modulates pathways associated with the structure, adhesion, modification, and degradation of the extracellular matrix, thereby disrupting extracellular matrix remodeling, inhibiting wound inflammation, impairing blastema and bone regeneration and ultimately hindering caudal fin regeneration. In summary, the findings demonstrate that ethyl butyrate disrupts extracellular matrix remodeling and inhibits the regeneration of zebrafish caudal fins. These results provide valuable insights into the rational use of ethyl butyrate and further investigation of wound healing mechanisms.

Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and its gene polymorphism of Hydatid Cyst Disease in an Infected Patients

Hydatid cystic disease is an economic burden in Iraq since it decreases the productivity of sheep, goats, cows, and camels by making the organs unpalpable for human consumption, hence weight-loss and ill health. This is one of the most common zoonosis diseases shared between human beings and animals and appears in man hosts inlcuded some organes, such as liver and lung as hydatid cyst . it causes many complications that may lead to death in repured parasites. Now there are no safe and effective in the fight against this parasite, and the search for such medications is in research. The Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 is a one of the enzymes that belong to the family of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play a crucial role in the proteolytic degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). These enzymes have a zinc ion in the active site that is important for their proteolytic activity. MMP-9, also known as Gelatinase B, catalyzes gelatin and degrades components of the ECM, including abundant type IV collagen in basement membranes. MMP-9 plays an important role in various biological processes, including tissue remodeling, angiogenesis, and tissue inflammation. The objective of the study is to determine the impact of MMP-9 serum levels and specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs17576 and rs76070157 on patients with hydatid disease, in comparison to a control group of healthy individuals. A total of (62) patients diagnosed with hydatid disease, consisting of 18 males and 44 females, were compared to a control group of(75) individuals, comprising 29 males and 46 females .The study examined the MMP-9 rs17576 and rs76070157 )SNPs( in patients with hydatid disease, comparing them to a control group of healthy individuals. The study revealed no statistically significant difference in the average age between the two groups at a significance level of 0.05. Additionally, the study found higher concentrations of MMP-9 in the sera of the infected group (20.40 ± 1.52 pg/µl) compared to the control group (19.49 ± 1.62 pg/µl). The rs17576 )SNPs( data indicated that the TT genotype and T allele exhibited a slightly higher frequency percentage in the group of patients with hydatid disease compared to the healthy group, however this difference was not statistically significant. The values are (98.4% and 99.0%) the value of pc is 0.001. The elevated odds ratio (OR) associated with the TT genotype and T allele may serve as a potential risk factor for hydatid disease. The rs17576 SNPs displayed genotypes that were not in accordance with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. However, these genotypes were consistent with those observed in a control group. The GG genotype showed a significant increase in frequency compared to the control group (100.0% vs. 100.0%), while the G allele exhibited a non-significant increase in frequency. The odds ratio (OR) for the TG genotype was 3.68, and the p-value (pc) was 0.05.Elevated value could potentially increase the risk of hydatid disease. The presence of the TG genotype was shown to considerably increase the frequency percentage in the group of patients with hydatid disease. The odds ratio (OR) value of 1.6 suggests that it may be a risk factor for hydatid disease, with a frequency of 98.4% compared to 0.99 % in the control group. The p-value of 0.001 indicates a statistically significant association. The GG genotype was present in (0%) of the affected group but absent (100.0%) in the healthy group. The odds ratio (OR) of 3.68, with a p-value of 0.001, suggests that the GG genotype is associated with a significantly lower risk of hydatid disease.

Animal Experimental Study of Bioabsorbable Left Atrial Appendage Occluder.

Left atrial appendage (LAA) closure can prevent stroke in high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation.A bioabsorbable LAA occluder made of degradable polymer materials, such as polydioxanone (PDO) and poly-L-lactic acid (PLA), and nitinol wire was used. Occluders were successfully implanted in 18 Chinese rural dogs, 2 of which died within 48 hours after operation due to pericardial tamponade and hemorrhage, respectively. Follow-up observation was performed after transcatheter LAA closure. New tissue was found on the surface of the occluder 2 months after operation. No adjacent structures such as the mitral valve and the left superior pulmonary vein were affected by the occluder discs. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was performed at 3 months after operation, which showed intact intimal structure on the occluder surface, and unabsorbed PDO and PLA were observed. Scanning electron microscopy showed irregular arrangement of endothelial cells. New endothelial tissue was observed to completely cover the occluder at 6 months after operation. Most PDOs were replaced by fibrous connective tissue, and scanning electron microscopy showed regularly arranged endothelial cells. Pathological examination at 12 months showed only a small remnant of PDO. The gross specimens of the liver, spleen, and kidneys and pathological examination did not indicate thromboembolism.The bioabsorbable LAA occluder made of PDO, PLA, and nitinol wire was safe and effective for the occlusion of LAA in dogs. The surface of the occluder was endothelialized half a year after operation. The absorbable materials of the occluder were degraded after 1 year.

Circulating Matrix Metalloproteinases for Prediction of Aortic Dilatation in Children with Bicuspid Aortic Valve: A Single-Center, Observational Study

Circulating biomarkers have been proposed for early identification of aortic dilatation progression associated with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), but matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are distinguished as signatures of increased extracellular matrix degradation, a landmark of aneurysm formation. The current study aims to identify the role of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and the MMP inhibitor, TIMP-1, in identifying aortic dilation in children with BAV. We conducted a study on 73 children divided into two study groups, depending on the presence of aortic dilatation (group 1–43 BAV controls and group 2–30 children with BAV and aortic dilatation). Each patient underwent a cardiac ultrasound and, in each case, serum MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 were quantified using xMAP technology. Comparison of the MMPs between the two study groups revealed significantly higher values only in the case of TIMP-1, among BAV controls. Moreover, the same TIMP-1 inversely correlated with aortic annulus absolute size and z score, as well as with ascending aorta z score. No particular correlation between the aortic phenotype and the presence of aortic dilatation was found. Future longitudinal research starting at pediatric ages could show the significance of MMPs screening in BAV individuals as predictors of aortic aneurysm formation.

Local Application of a New Chalconic Derivative (Chalcone T4) Reduces Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in a Periodontitis Model in Rats.

Chalcones are phenolic compounds with biological properties. This study had the aim to evaluate the effects of topical administration of a new synthetic chalcone, Chalcone T4, in an animal model of periodontitis induced by ligature. Forty rats were distributed in the following experimental groups: negative control (without periodontitis and topical application of distilled water), positive control (periodontitis and topical application of distilled water), chalcone I and II (periodontitis and topical application of 0.6 mg/mL and 1.8 mg/mL, respectively). Chalcone or distilled water was administered into the gingival sulcus of the first molars daily for 10 days, starting with the ligature installation. The following outcomes were evaluated: alveolar bone loss (µCT and methylene blue dye staining), quantification of osteoclasts (histomorphometry), cell infiltrate and collagen content (stereometry), gene expression of mediators (Nfact11, Tnf-α, Mmp-13, iNos, Sod and Nrf2) by (RT-qPCR); expression of BCL-2 and Caspase-1 (immunohistochemistry). Chalcone T4 inhibited bone resorption and prevented collagen matrix degradation. Reduction in the expression of inflammatory markers (Nfact11, Tnf-α, Mmp-13, and Caspase-1), attenuation of oxidative stress (iNOS reduction, and increase in Sod), and pro-apoptotic effect of the compound (BCL-2 reduction), were associated its effects on periodontal tissues. Topical application of Chalcone T4 prevented bone resorption and inflammation, demonstrating potential in the adjunctive treatment of periodontitis.

Adipose tissue-derived extracellular vesicles aggravate temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis associated with obesity.

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA) is a major disease that affects maxillofacial health and is characterised by cartilage degeneration and subchondral bone remodelling. Obesity is associated with the exacerbation of pathological manifestations of TMJ OA. However, the underlying mechanism between adipose tissue and the TMJ axis remains limited. To evaluate the effects of obesity and the adipose tissue on the development of TMJ OA. The obesity-related metabolic changes in TMJ OA patients were detected by physical signs and plasma metabolites. The effects of adipose tissue-derived EVs (Ad-EVs) on TMJ OA was investigated through histological and cytological experiments as well as gene editing technology. Alterations of Ad-EVs in obese state were identified by microRNA-seq analysis and the mechanism by which EVs affect TMJ OA was explored in vitro and in vivo. Obesity and the related metabolic changes were important influencing factors for TMJ OA. Ad-EVs from obese mice induced marked chondrocyte apoptosis, cartilage matrix degradation and subchondral bone remodelling, which exacerbated the development of TMJ OA. Depletion of Ad-EVs secretion by knocking out the geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (Ggpps) gene in adipose tissue significantly inhibited the obesity-induced aggravation of TMJ OA. MiR-3074-5p played an important role in this process . Our work unveils an unknown link between obese adipose tissue and TMJ OA. Targeting the Ad-EVs and the miR-3074-5p may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for obesity-related TMJ OA. High-fat-diet-induced obesity aggravate the progression of TMJ OA in mice. Obese adipose tissue participates in cartilage damage through the altered miRNA in extracellular vesicles. Inhibition of miR-3074-5p/SMAD4 pathway in chondrocyte alleviated the effect of HFD-EVs on TMJ OA.

New Insights into the Pathophysiology of Coronary Artery Aneurysms.

Coronary aneurysms are typically defined as sections of a coronary artery where the diameter is more than 1.5 times that of an adjacent normal segment. In rare circumstances, these aneurysms can become exceedingly large, leading to the classification of giant coronary artery aneurysms. Despite their occurrence, there is no clear consensus on the precise definition of giant coronary artery aneurysms, and their etiology remains somewhat ambiguous. Numerous potential causes have been suggested, with atherosclerosis being the most prevalent in adults, accounting for up to 50% of cases. In pediatric populations, Kawasaki disease and Takayasu arteritis are the primary causes. Although often discovered incidentally, coronary artery aneurysms can lead to severe complications. These complications include local thrombosis, distal embolization, rupture, and vasospasm, which can result in ischemia, heart failure, and arrhythmias. The optimal approach to medical, interventional, or surgical management of these aneurysms is still under debate and requires further clarification. This literature review aims to consolidate current knowledge regarding coronary artery aneurysms' pathophysiology, emphasizing their definition, causes, complications, and treatment strategies. Recent research has begun to explore the molecular mechanisms involved in the formation and progression of coronary artery aneurysms. Various molecules, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), inflammatory cytokines, and growth factors, play crucial roles in the degradation of the extracellular matrix and the remodeling of vascular walls. Elevated levels of MMPs, particularly MMP-9, have been associated with the weakening of the arterial wall, contributing to aneurysm development. Inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukins (IL-1β and IL-6) have been implicated in promoting inflammatory responses that further degrade vascular integrity. Additionally, growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may influence angiogenesis and vascular remodeling processes. Understanding these molecular pathways is essential for developing targeted therapies aimed at preventing the progression of coronary artery aneurysms and improving patient outcomes.

Chemically Degradable Vitrimers Based on Divanillin Imine Diepoxy Monomer and Aliphatic Diamines for Enhanced Carbon Fiber Composite Applications

This study presents the development of a diglycidyl monomer containing two imine groups that can act as dynamic and reversible bonds. During the curing of the monomer with two different amine hardeners, we confirmed the formation of new imine groups due to the transamination reaction between the imine groups of the diepoxy monomer with the amine groups of the hardener. The effect of this structural change was observed in the stress relaxation behavior, resulting in the overlapping of two different relaxation modes. The analytical modelling was able to extract two distinct characteristic relaxation times using a double-element Maxwell model. A second characterization of the stress relaxation process by frequency sweep experiments was performed to corroborate the results obtained, confirming speedy stress relaxation. Acid-catalyzed hydrolysis was performed on the studied materials, demonstrating the complete degradation of the network. We finally confirmed that the synthesized diepoxy compound is suitable for preparing carbon-fiber-reinforced composite materials, demonstrating easy fiber impregnation, fast reshaping, and especially a total degradation of the polymer matrix that allows for the recovery of the carbon fibers in mild conditions. This epoxy–amine system is an excellent candidate for overcoming the traditional limits of thermosets in preparing fiber-reinforced composites.

A Review of Bacterial Biofilm Components and Formation, Detection Methods, and Their Prevention and Control on Food Contact Surfaces

The microbial biofilms are a community of microorganisms that adhere to each other and to surfaces, typically in a mucilaginous or gel-like matrix composed of extracellular polymeric substances, including polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and DNA. In the food industry, the bacterial biofilms may be formed on different surfaces and cause post-processing contamination or cross-contamination from the food contact surfaces to food products. Conventional cleaning and sanitizing methods are often ineffective at removing bacterial biofilms. Among more recent alternative methods proposed to address this problem are the use of hydrolytic enzymes, essential oils, and bacteriocins. These methods show promise since their antibacterial and antibiofilm actions involve degradation of the extracellular polymeric matrix of the biofilm and lead to inhibition of the foodborne pathogens present. Understanding the limitations and mechanisms of action of enzymes, bacteriocins, and essential oils in controlling bacterial biofilms on foods and food contact surfaces is essential for developing solutions to prevent and control biofilm formation. This review critically summarizes the current knowledge of bacterial biofilm components, their formation, detection methods, prevention, and removal from food contact surfaces.

Spatial proteomics and transcriptomics of the maternal-fetal interface in placenta accreta spectrum

In severe Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS), trophoblasts gain deep access in the myometrium (placenta increta). This study investigated alterations at the fetal-maternal interface in PAS cases using a systems biology approach consisting of immunohistochemistry, spatial transcriptomics and proteomics. We identified spatial variation in the distribution of CD4+, CD3+ and CD8+ T-cells at the maternal-interface in placenta increta cases. Spatial transcriptomics identified transcription factors involved in promotion of trophoblast invasion such as AP-1 subunits ATF-3 and JUN, and NFKB were upregulated in regions with deep myometrial invasion. Pathway analysis of differentially expressed genes demonstrated that degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and class 1 MHC protein were increased in increta regions, suggesting local tissue injury and immune suppression. Spatial proteomics demonstrated that increta regions were characterised by excessive trophoblastic proliferation in an immunosuppressive environment. Expression of inhibitors of apoptosis such as BCL-2 and fibronectin were increased, while CTLA-4 was decreased and increased expression of PD-L1, PD-L2 and CD14 macrophages. Additionally, CD44, which is a ligand of fibronectin that promotes trophoblast invasion and cell adhesion was also increased in increta regions. We subsequently examined ligand receptor interactions enriched in increta regions, with interactions with ITGβ1, including with fibronectin and ADAMS, emerging as central in increta. These ITGβ1 ligand interactions are involved in activation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition and remodelling of ECM suggesting a more invasive trophoblast phenotype. In PAS, we suggest this is driven by fibronectin via AP-1 signalling, likely as a secondary response to myometrial scarring.

Investigation of methylene blue dye degradation using green synthesized mesoporous silver-titanium

In this study, we synthesized mesoporous silver-titanium (Ag/TiO2) through green synthesis approach using mangosteen pericarp extract, which subsequently can act as both adsorbent and photocatalyst materials. Additionally, we investigated and compared the degradation of methylene blue (MB) using mesoporous Ag/TiO2 under dark conditions, visible light irradiation, and both dark-light conditions to analyze the adsorption-photocatalysis activity. The achieved mesoporous structure in this study offers distinct advantages as an adsorbent. Moreover, the addition of silver (Ag) to titanium dioxide (TiO2) shows promise in enhancing photocatalytic activity in MB degradation, which enhances photocatalytic activity in the visible light region due to its localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), which excites more electrons, resulting in increased MB degradation. The highest degradation percentage of 97.08 % was obtained using a dark-light degradation mechanism, demonstrating that the synthesized mesoporous Ag/TiO2 has potential as an effective integrated adsorbent-photocatalyst material for MB dye degradation.

Easily reusable g-C3N4/NiFe2O4 magnetic heterojunction material for tetracycline degradation by visible light

To efficiently degrade tetracycline (TC) in water, magnetic reusable g-C3N4/NiFe2O4 heterojunction photocatalyst was synthesized by thermal polymerization and hydrothermal method. The obtained heterojunction photocatalyst achieved efficient degradation by degrading 86 % of TC in 2 h under visible light irradiation. and showed excellent magnetic reusable performance. The heterostructure formed between g-C3N4 and NiFe2O4 improved the separation efficiency and photoresponse range of photogenerated electrons and holes, and thus improved the photocatalytic degradation performance of the material. This study provides a new strategy for the efficient degradation of TC in water under visible light.

Omega-3 fatty acids protect cartilage from acute injurie by reducing the mechanical sensitivity of chondrocytes

Acute cartilage injuries, such as intra-articular fractures and blunt impacts, frequently result in chondrocyte death and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, significantly elevating the risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Despite advances in treatment, no effective therapies currently exist to fully cure PTOA or halt its progression. This study explores the protective effects of the dietary fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on human primary chondrocytes (HPCs) and cartilage explants exposed to mechanical overload and blunt trauma. HPCs were isolated and subjected to mechanical stretching using BioFlex six-well culture plates, while cartilage explants were subjected to impact loading via a customized drop tower. EPA was incorporated into the culture medium, followed by assays to evaluate cell viability, calcium (Ca²⁺) influx, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and collagen type II alpha (Col-2a) expression. EPA treatment markedly decreased chondrocyte mechanical sensitivity, as demonstrated by enhanced cell viability and reduced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Furthermore, EPA inhibited Piezo1 activation, leading to lower intracellular Ca²⁺ concentrations, decreased apoptosis, and diminished ROS levels. In cartilage explants, EPA improved chondrocyte viability, minimized structural damage, and sustained higher Col-2a expression compared to the blunt trauma group. These results indicate that EPA effectively shields chondrocytes and cartilage explants from mechanical overload-induced damage by inhibiting Piezo1 activation and mitigating Ca²⁺ influx, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. The findings suggest that EPA supplementation could offer a promising strategy for preventing PTOA progression following acute cartilage injuries. Further research is warranted to assess the clinical applications of EPA and confirm its efficacy in larger animal models and human trials.

Manufacturing of Sustainable Composite Materials: The Challenge of Flax Fiber and Polypropylene.

The widespread use of synthetic composite materials has raised environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradability and energy-intensive production. This paper explores the potential of natural composites, specifically flax-polypropylene, as a sustainable alternative to traditional composites for semi-structural applications. In fact, the mechanical properties of flax-polypropylene composites are similar to synthetic ones (such as those made with E-glass fibers). However, processing challenges related to fiber-matrix interaction and material degradation necessitate suited process parameters for this sustainable type of material. For this reason, this review highlights the importance of optimizing existing manufacturing processes, such as hot press molding, to better accommodate the specific characteristics of polypropylene-flax composites. By refining the parameters and techniques involved in hot press molding, researchers should overcome current limitations and fully capitalize on its potential to produce composite materials of optimal quality. Therefore, a comprehensive literature assessment was conducted to analyze the properties and processing challenges of flax-polypropylene composites. Key process parameters affecting the material's performance are identified and discussed. By optimizing process parameters for flax-polypropylene composites, it is possible to develop a sustainable and high-performance material with a reduced environmental footprint. Further research is needed to scale up production and explore different applications for this sustainable composite material.

Multifaceted role of the actin-binding protein WIP: Promotor and inhibitor of tumor progression and dissemination.

Cancer cells depend on actin cytoskeleton reorganization to achieve hallmark malignant functions including abnormal activation, proliferation, migration and invasiveness. (Neural)-Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome protein ((N-)WASP) binds actin and forms a complex with the WASP-interacting protein (WIP), which plays a critical role in regulating the actin cytoskeleton, through (N)-WASP-dependent and independent functions. Mutations in the WIP gene (WIPF1) lead to severe early onset immunodeficiency in humans and severe autoimmunity and shortened lifespan in mice. This review covers the available evidence about the physiological role of WIP in different tissues and its contribution to human disease, focusing on cancer. In solid tumors overexpression of WIP has mostly been associated with tumor initiation, progression and dissemination through matrix degradation by invadopodia, while a suppressive function has been shown for WIP in certain hematological cancers. Interestingly, a minority of studies suggest a protective role for WIP in specific tumor contexts. These data support the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms underlying WIP's diverse functions in health and disease and raise important questions for future work.