Deposition Of Material Research Articles

Design and Preparation of One-Dimensional Cathode By Electrophoretic Deposition Method for Flexible Knitted Batteries

Rechargeable batteries are highly promising energy storage systems that can convert and store electrical energy. Effective energy storage systems should have high energy density, high power, safety, environmentally friendliness, and long cycle life. To meet the aforementioned objectives, researchers have attempted to use different morphologies of nanomaterials as electrodes to improve the electrochemical performance of batteries. Among the materials available, one-dimensional structures have unique properties over traditional ones and extensive applications in wearable devices due to their flexibility [1]. Flexible batteries have several advantages such as mechanical flexibility, good energy storage capabilities, affordability, and environmental safety [2]. They knitted or sewed into textiles, folded into random forms, and wrapped around body parts like the neck or wrist [3]. However, there is little research that covers Li-ion batteries that have a one-dimensional flexible structure.Achieving simultaneous high electronic/ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability is difficult in a homogeneous single-component electrode material. Consequently, the development of precisely defined functional one-dimensional (1D) hetero-nanostructures that effectively integrate the advantages and address the limitations of various electrochemically active materials becomes critical [1].The proposed methodology involves the electrophoretic deposition of lithium iron phosphate on conductive nickel wire, providing a one-dimensional cathode structure. As an anode, nickel-tin is deposited on nickel wire by electrochemical deposition. The deposition method allows greater precision and control over the deposition of active material on the current collector and also has possible applications on different structures such as 1D and 3D. Also, the electrolyte was obtained by layer-by-layer method, by dipping the cathode and anode, separately, in polymers to coat the cathode material as an electrolyte-separator film. The full cell was assembled and the better results will be presented in the meeting. Acknowledgments This research was funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Grant No. АР19679855).

All Organic Quinone Solid State Batteries for Environmentally Friendly and Chemical Robust Alternatives Beyond Lithium-Ion Batteries

Introduction: Organic solid-state quinone batteries have unparalleled properties that can meet the most urgent challenges the industry faces. It can create an energy system that is environmentally friendly and electrochemically robust, while being cost efficient enough for industry to adopt and invest in. The inspiration for fully organic solid-state batteries came from extended studies on our all-organic aqueous redox flow batteries, where much of the science of organic redox coupling molecules were understood. Like redox flow batteries, organic solid state quinone batteries utilizes the breaking and reforming of bonds to generate electrical energy. However, it doesn’t require the constant flow of charge carrier solution like the flow batteries. Consequently, this avoids the cost of an extra pumping system and significantly reduce the size of the batteries compared to flow battery systems. Furthermore, the downsized battery system allows for the cell to be implemented into applications such as EV and portable devices. The redox species are directly deposited onto the electrodes. This deposition of active material on carbon paper enables higher surface area for charge transfer, which increases the capacity for fast charge and discharge compared to flow batteries. Additionally, the active materials are of organic quinone nature providing great robustness that other battery systems like lithium-ion batteries don’t allow. The redox chemistry of these quinones still happens in aqueous system, which allows us to use very small amount of aqueous electrolyte instead of the combustible organic solvent used in lithium batteries. Results and discussion: The appropriate quinone species for this solid-state battery must be electrochemically stable and dissolution free in the aqueous system. Various quinones with different substituents were tested. One of the promising redox couples discovered is 2-methylanthraquinone (MAQ) and duroquinone (DQ). The couple displayed a cell voltage of 400 mV (0.4 V) as shown in Figure 1. This value was found to correspond to the redox potential difference between DQ and MAQ. New methods of deposition of active materials onto the electrodes were developed. High conductivity was achieved by introducing CNT with appropriate binder, which resulted in improvements to the cell’s charge and discharge performance (Figure 2). Figure 1. Cyclic voltammetry study of 10 mM 2-Methylanthraquinone (MAQ) and 10 mM Duroquinone (DQ) in 1 M sulfuric acid with 20% ethanol, MSE reference electrode, glassy carbon, 50 mV/s. (Refer to image file) Figure 2: Charge and discharge of solid-state batteries of 2-Methylanthraquinone (MAQ) and Duroquinone (DQ) at 10 mA. (Refer to image file)For the positive side, 0.164 g of duroquinone was deposited on 25 cm2 carbon paper with 0.05 g of CNT. Correspondingly, 0.222 g of 2-Methylantroquinone was deposited for the negative side. The cell was assembled with Nafion 117 as separator and small amount of 1 M sulfuric acid as the supporting electrolyte. The initial charge and discharge curve of this cell showed 97% columbic efficiency. Long-term cycling to test the stability was performed and other redox couples also showed higher cell voltage with high efficiency.The next step for this study is to explore different redox couples that might have better compatibility and higher cell voltage compared to the current redox couple. This will be done through studying the large library of organic compounds including quinones and other redox active organic compounds. Figure 1

Effect of the Saccharin Concentration on Electrodeposition of the Fe-Ni Alloy

The FMM (Fine Metal Mask) used in the OLED display manufacturing process is a metal sheet with holes formed to allow the deposition of diode material only in the sub-pixel area. To prevent deformation and misalignment of the FMM (Fine Metal Mask) caused by heat during the RGB organic deposition process, an Invar plate with a thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) close to 0 is used. The Invar sheet applied to the current FMM is manufactured through a metallurgical process, and its final thickness after rolling is 20 micron. However, due to limitations in reducing thickness with the rolling process, for manufacturing FMM with a thickness of under 10 micron for next-generation high-resolution (UHD-level) displays, the bottom-up electroplating process is suitable. However, to maintain the shape of the electroplated Invar sheet while ensuring commercial-grade low CTE, heat treatment at temperatures exceeding 600℃ for an extended period is required, utilizing thermo-mechanical processing methods. If uniformity in the microstructure composed of nano-grains is ensured in the electroplated Invar alloy in the As-deposited, it is possible to increase the efficiency of the process by reducing the heat-treatment processing cost.Therefore, in this study, we investigated the microstructural evolution in the Invar alloy by controlling the surface stress of the electroplated layer during pre-plating. We controlled the key additive, saccharin, in the Fe-Ni alloy electrolyte to assist the diffusion of iron and nickel ions. By examining the relation between microstructural uniformity, determined by the plated layer, and CTE, we propose optimized process conditions for the pre-plated Invar sheet.

Effects of 'dedo de moça' pepper extract administration on wistar rat pregnancy and fetal development

Introduction: The dedo de moça pepper is spicy due to capsaicin, which activates receptors in sensory neurons, generating a burning sensation. Studies suggest that capsaicin-sensitive neurons, by releasing neuropeptides, may affect uterine contraction. Objective: To evaluate the effect of chronic administration of capsaicin extract (Cps) during pregnancy in Wistar rats and their fetuses. Methodology: Pregnant female Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 5/group): Group I – Negative Control; Group II – Positive Control; Group III – Cps 1 – 0.25 mL; Group IV – Cps 2 – 0.5 mL. Exposure was initiated after embryo implantation (3rd day of pregnancy) until full term (20th day of pregnancy), with gavage performed three times per week. Results: On the 20th day, pregnant rats were euthanized, and outcomes evaluated included weight gain, placental morphology, reproductive capacity, and embryonic/fetal development. Ingestion of capsaicin extract resulted in negative impacts on fetal intrauterine growth parameters and placental alterations, with deposition of atypical hyaline material for gestational age and changes in vascular structures. Conclusion: The results indicate that capsaicin extract interfered with placental exchange, leading to intrauterine growth restriction of the fetuses.

Survival and Growth of Asellus aquaticus on Different Food Sources from Drinking Water Distribution Systems

Invertebrates, including Asellidae, are part of the natural ecosystem of the drinking water distribution system (DWDS) and are known to cause a nuisance to consumers. In addition, recently, the potential role of the species Asellus aquaticus (L. 1758) in the regrowth of Aeromonas bacteria was published. Aeromonas is included in the Dutch drinking water guidelines as a process parameter, and the guideline values are regularly exceeded. Although neither A. aquaticus nor Aeromonas is associated with health risks, the Evides drinking water utility shows a strong interest in the possible reasons for these exceedances and possible control measures. In surface waters, Asellidae feed mainly on decaying leaves that are abundantly present. These food sources are not present in the DWDS. Therefore, we determined suitable food sources for A. aquaticus in the DWDS. Laboratory experiments show that A. aquaticus individuals survive on biofilm on pipe wall material and loose deposits (sediments) collected from DWDS. Growth and survival rates on these loose deposits were even higher than on the positive control (decaying leaves). As the basis of these loose deposits is inorganic (iron deposits, sand, and pipe particles), the organic matter (living and decaying bacteria, protozoans, fungi, and invertebrates) must be their substrate. These experiments validate hypotheses that Asellidae can grow and survive on organic matter in deposits in DWDS.

Lanthanum deposition of the gastric mucosa in a dialysis patient.

A 49-year-old man presented for a screening esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) as part of his registration for a donated kidney transplant. He had been on hemodialysis for 4 years for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) due to diabetic nephropathy. He was taking lanthanum carbonate (LaC) for hyperphosphatemia. A plain abdominal radiograph and CT showed the radiopaque appearance of LaC. EGD disclosed whitish spots resembling xanthomas in the stomach. Biopsies showed deposition of granular crystalline-like material and phagocytosis of these by multinucleated giant cells on HE staining. These histiocytes were positive for CD68. La deposition was suspected because of the long-term oral administration of LaC. LaC is commonly used to treat hyperphosphatemia in patients with ESRD. La deposition on the gastric mucosa presents with various endoscopic findings, including whitish spots, annular whitish mucosa, and diffuse whitish mucosa. The gastric endoscopic findings of La deposition reflect the infiltrated histiocytes and not the LC deposition itself. Our case highlights the importance of recognizing the rare but characteristic imaging findings of gastrointestinal La deposition in hemodialysis patients who are taking LaC.

Time-transgressive microbial diversity in a tropical bat guano accumulation, Deer Cave, Mulu, Borneo

Bat guano accumulations in caves can constitute large deposits of organic material, particularly chitin and its degradation products, that host a diverse microbiome. Previous microbiological studies have not addressed the stratified nature of these deposits in the context of the timeframe of the decomposition process. We present such data (temperature, pH, DNA sampling of eight carbon-dated strata) for a 75 cm-deep tropical guano accumulation that undergoes complete decomposition over a timescale of ~120 years. The aerobic, surface layer of freshly-fallen guano has the greatest diversity of taxa, with Bacteroidota co-dominant with Pseudomonadota, and includes many taxa unique to this zone (including those from guanophagic invertebrates, bat guts, and insects). The ~20-40-year-old, more anaerobic, middle layer of increasing acidity and temperature has fewer taxa, with Pseudomonadota dominant and Bacteroidota almost disappearing, and many taxa tolerant of high temperatures and anaerobic conditions. The ~60-120-year-old, deepest, zone has the lowest diversity with a single genus of Actinomycetota (Mycobacterium) taking over as dominant. We also present data on the significantly different microbiomes of guano falling into aerobic versus water-logged, anaerobic conditions at the surface, the anaerobic having almost twice the diversity of the aerobic, including many taxa that are unique to this sample. Taxa of especial interest include methanogens, sulphur reducers and oxidizers, chitin decomposers, halophiles, acidophiles, and extremophiles.

Temporal characteristics of a 6.2 Ma-long ash-fall history in the NW Pacific

Explosive volcanism is one of the most dangerous and far-reaching natural hazards. The largest eruptions are the rarest, so studies of their temporal patterns have to rely on long archives. In this paper, we apply fractal and spectral analyses to the 6.2 Ma-long record of ash-falls at the Detroit Seamount (DS6M), > 600 km east of the Kamchatka Peninsula, NW Pacific, combined with a terrestrial record for the last 30 ka (T30ka). These datasets are the most complete for volcanism in the North Pacific, and DS6M spans all Pleistocene glaciations. In both datasets, events are grouped (Weibull parameter k < 0.84) with no characteristic scale of grouping in the time domain of thousands to millions of years. The fractal dimension of the studied data below the unity may be intrinsic to the volcanism (e.g. as a proxy of fractal composition and topography of a subducting plate) or represent uneven deposition and recovery of tephra. Only for the last 700 ka of DS6M, an increase in the correlation dimension values suggests the applicability of spectral analysis; however, no Milankovitch frequencies have been detected in this dataset. When compared to other North Pacific data for areas repeatedly glaciated in the Middle and Late Pleistocene and to a climate proxy of 18O isotopic stack LR04, the studied data suggest that variation in timing of ash-falls among the sites predominates over hemispheric-scale climatic forcing. If so, Quaternary glaciations had a limited effect on the timing of large explosive eruptions in North Pacific, still affecting the transit and deposition of erupted material.

Fully Consolidated Deposits from Oxide Dispersion Strengthened and Silicon Steel Powders via Friction Surfacing

Abstract The objective of this work is to study the ability of friction surfacing to deposit metal alloys that are difficult to process with traditional methods. Creep and neutron irradiation resistant oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) materials cannot be produced via conventional casting route due to insolubility of the oxidic and metallic alloy constituents, causing unintended inhomogeneous oxide dispersion and material behavior. Increasing silicon content of Iron-Silicon (Fe-Si) improves electromagnetic properties but embrittles the material significantly and the fusion based manufacturing methods unable to process this steel. The solid-state nature of the friction surfacing process offers a potential alternative processing route to enable wider usage of difficult to process alloy systems. Both ODS and Fe-Si materials are available in powder forms. While the existing literature in friction surfacing focuses on depositing composites by incorporating small quantities powders through holes in consumable rod, this is a first study that shows a large charge of powder can be converted to a homogeneous fully consolidated deposit in friction surfacing. A novel methodology is used that incorporates the high portion of powder feedstock into hollow consumable friction surfacing rods (up to 35% volume fraction). It was found that fully consolidated deposits can be produced with powder feedstocks using proposed methodology. A recrystallized, homogeneous, equiaxed microstructure was observed in Fe-Si 6.8 wt% and a new generation FeAlOY ODS alloy deposits processed with hollow stainless-steel friction surfacing rods. Both powder and rod material plasticize and deposit without bulk intermixing.

Feedback mechanism between gully landforms and sediment trapping efficiency in a check dam

Check dams have been used worldwide for a variety of purposes. With increasing age, check dams gradually lose their sediment trapping function via the continuous deposition of material carried by debris flows and flash floods, and eventually, check dams become unable to perform the designed mitigation function. In this paper, the sediment deposit evolution in a dam with multiple debris flow surges and its influence on the sediment trapping effect were investigated. The results showed that the debris flow deposition process can be divided into three phases: the backwater-controlled deposition phase, landform-controlled deposition phase, and quasi-equilibrium phase. The sediment trapping ratio of the check dam gradually decreased as the deposit volume increased and was linearly negatively correlated with the sediment deposition rate. Moreover, a mathematical model describing the negative feedback between deposit volume and sediment trapping ratio was established, and the physical meanings of the coefficients in the model and their empirical values were clarified. Furthermore, the deposit distribution, which satisfied the Weibull distribution in the longitudinal direction, was revealed. In the cross-sectional direction, the distribution of deposition gradually became uneven with increasing sediment filling rate.

THE BABYNSKA SUITE TUFFS OF THE CONTINENTAL FLOOD BASALTS OF WESTERN VOLYN: MINERALOGY, PETROGRAPHY, PETROCHEMISTRY, GENETIC AND APPLIED SIGNIFICANCE

According to the data of comprehensive precision research, the spatial distribution and mineral composition were revealed, the petrographic and petrochemical features, and the genetic and practical significance of the Babynska effusive-pyroclastic suite tuffs of the continental flood basalts of Western Volyn were clarified in connection with the copper content. The thicknesses and hypsometry of the relief of the paleosurface of the pyroclastic formations of the Babynska suite were analyzed and the important elements of its vertical and lateral structure (by area) were clarified, the real picture of which is reflected in the constructed maps of the thicknesses and relief of the paleosurface of the pyroclastic formations of the suite, in particular, on the Ratnе–-Kamin-Kashyrsk Area. The formation of the Babynska suite tuffs in the regime of gravitational deposition of pyroclastic material with the accumulation of tuff deposits at the stage of incomplete solidification of volcanic material and the formation of coarse, non-rhythmic layering, without clear signs of redeposition, i.e. of volcanomictіс origin, has been proven. Differences in the mineral composition and petrochemistry of tuffs of different colors: gray-green and red-brown were found. Emphasis is placed on the enrichment of native copper in tuffs of gray-green color and possible explanations for this correlation are proposed. The obtained results from a genetic point of view provide important information for paleovolcanogenic and paleogeographical reconstructions, in practical terms they contribute to the improvement of the copper bearing prospects of volcanogenic layers of the continental flood basalts and can be proposed for use by production organizations of the geological profile.

Variable Layer Heights in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing and WAAM Information Models

In Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), variable layer heights enable the non-parallel or non-planar slicing of parts. In researching variable layer heights, this paper documents printing strategies for a reference geometry whose key features are non-orthogonal growth and unsupported overhangs. The complexity of 3D printing with welding requires parameter optimization to control the deposition of molten material. Thus, 3D printing with welding requires the precise deposition of molten material. Currently, there is no standard solution for the customization of process parameters and intelligent collection of data from sensors. To address this gap in technology, this research develops an Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled, distributed communication protocol to control process parameters, synchronize commands, and integrate device data. To intelligently collect sensor information, this research creates a query-able database during pre-planning and production. This contributes to fundamental research in WAAM by documenting strategies for printing variable layer heights, the customization of control parameters, and the collection of data through a WAAM Information Model (WIM).

Directed energy deposition of functional gradient material to enhance mechanical properties of heterogeneous stainless steels

In this study, 316L/18Ni300 functional gradient material (FGM) were designed and prepared via directed energy deposition, aiming to achieve synergistic enhancement of strength and toughness between two different lattice-structured steels. Macroscopic analyses showed that the interlayer metallurgical bonding of the 316L/18Ni300 FGM was achieved, and no obvious defects such as unfused and inclusions were observed. Spatially heterogeneous structures cellular dendrite, epitaxially grown columnar dendrites, columnar dendrites were observed along the building direction. The microhardness of the 316L/18Ni300 FGM surface is 329 HV, which is an improvement of 185 % as compared to 316L. The static tensile and three-point bending results show that 316L/18Ni300 FGM combines the toughness of 316L with the strength of 18Ni300. In the reciprocating sliding wear test, 316L/18Ni300 FGM showed an increase in wear resistance along the building direction, with a 35 % increase on the surface. This study not only provides innovative ideas and theoretical guidance for 316L/18Ni300 FGM in terms of mechanical property enhancement, but also opens up a new path for broadening 316L for a wide range of applications.

Pulmonary light chain deposition disease from a respiratory physician's perspective

Pulmonary light chain deposition disease (PLCDD) is a rare monoclonal immunoglobulin deposition disease characterized by the deposition of specific immunoglobulin light chains in lung tissue. In its early stages, PLCDD presents with mild clinical symptoms, while pulmonary imaging shows multiple nodules and thin-walled cysts. Pathologically, there is a deposition of eosinophilic amorphous protein-like material in the tissues, which stains negative for Congo red. The exact pathological mechanism of PLCDD remains unclear, and its clinical presentation lacks specificity. Challenges associated with this condition include difficulties in diagnosis, selection and evaluation of treatment options, lack of clear monitoring criteria, and standards for prognosis assessment. Further research is needed to elucidate the pathogenesis of PLCDD, to establish standardized diagnostic and therapeutic protocols, and to evaluate treatment efficacy and prognostic factors.

Hyaline fibromatosis syndrome: a rare, yet recognizable syndrome.

Hyaline fibromatosis syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by ANTXR2 pathogenic variants. The disorder is characterized by the deposition of amorphous hyaline material in connective tissues. The hallmarks of the disease are joint contractures, generalized skin stiffness, hyperpigmented papules over extensor surfaces of joints, fleshy perianal masses, severe diarrhea, and gingival hypertrophy. The severity of the disease varies and prognosis is poor. No specific treatment is yet available. Most patients with the severe form of the condition pass away before the second year of age. In this study, we describe the clinical and molecular findings of a cohort of seven hyaline fibromatosis syndrome patients who were diagnosed and followed up at a single tertiary reference center in Turkey. Genomic DNA was extracted by standard salting out method from peripheric blood samples of three patients. In one patient DNA extraction was performed on pathology slides since peripheric blood DNA was not available. All coding exons of the ANTXR2 were amplified and sequenced on ABI Prism 3500 Genetic Analyser. Sanger sequencing was performed in 3 patients and homozygous c.945T>G p.(Cys315Trp), c.1073dup p.(Ala359CysfsTer13), and c.1074del p.(Ala359HisfsTer50) variants were identified in ANTXR2. All patients passed away before the age of five years. HFS is a rare, progressive disorder with a broad phenotypic spectrum. HFS can be recognized easily with distinctive clinical features. Nevertheless, it has poor prognosis with increased mortality due to severe clinical decompensation.

Solfataric Alteration at the South Sulfur Bank, Kilauea, Hawaii, as a Mechanism for Formation of Sulfates, Phyllosilicates, and Silica on Mars

Abstract Solfataric alteration at the South Sulfur Bank of the former Kilauea caldera produced opal, Mg- and Fe-rich smectites, gypsum, and jarosite through silica replacement of pyroclastic Keanakako’i ash and leaching of basaltic lavas. This site on the island of Hawaii serves as an analog for formation of several minerals found in altered deposits on Mars. Two distinct alteration environments were characterized in this study including a light-toned, high-silica, friable outcrop adjacent to the vents, and a bedded outcrop containing alternating orange/tan layers composed of smectite, gypsum, jarosite, hydrated silica, and poorly crystalline ferric oxide phases. This banded unit likely represents deposition of pyroclastic material with variations in chemistry over time that was subsequently altered via moderate hydrothermal and pedogenic processes and leaching of basaltic caprock to enhance the Si, Al, Mg, Fe, and Ca in the altered layers. In the light-toned, friable materials closest to the vents along the base of the outcrop glassy fragments were extensively altered to opal-A plus anatase. Lab measurements of samples returned from the field were conducted to replicate recent instruments at Mars and provide further characterization of the samples. These include elemental analyses, sample texture, XRD, SEM, VNIR/mid-IR reflectance spectroscopy, TIR emittance spectroscopy, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. Variations in the chemistry and mineralogy of these samples are consistent with alteration through hydrothermal processes as well as brines that may have formed through rain interacting with sulfuric fumes. Silica is present in all altered samples and the friable pyroclastic ash material with the strongest alteration contains up to 80 wt.% SiO2. Sulfate mineralization occurred at the South Sulfur Bank through fumarolic action from vents and likely included solfataric alteration from sulfuric gases and steam, as well as oxidation of sulfides in the basaltic caprock. Gypsum and jarosite are typically present in different layers of the altered wall, likely because they require different cations and pH regimes. The presence of both jarosite and gypsum in some samples implies high sulfate concentrations and the availability of both Ca2+ and Fe3+ cations in a brine percolating through the altered ash. Pedogenic conditions are more consistent with the observed Mg-smectites and gypsum in the tan layers, while jarosite and nontronite likely formed under more acidic conditions in the darker orange layers. Assemblages of smectite, Ca-sulfates, and jarosite similar to the banded orange/tan unit in our study are observed on Mars at Gale crater, Noctis Labyrinthus, and Mawrth Vallis, while high-silica outcrops have been identified in parts of Gusev crater, Gale crater, and Nili Patera on Mars.

#2282 Outcomes of renal amyloidosis: 8 years experience of tertiary center

Abstract Background and Aims Amyloidosis is a disease caused by the extracellular deposition of amyloid material that leads to organ dysfunction. Renal involvement is frequent and is characterized by amyloid fibrils pathologic deposition in glomeruli, vessels and interstitium. The most common presentation is nephrotic-range proteinuria or nephrotic syndrome and can progress to end stage kidney disease (ESKD). Prognosis is usually poor, especially with cardiac and severe renal involvement that requires renal replacement therapy. The goal of this study was to analyse the outcomes of patients with amyloidosis followed at the nephrology clinic in our centre. Method Descriptive analysis of all confirmed amyloid patients, followed by the Nephrology department from January 2015 to June 2023. Results We identified 49 patients with a mean age of 64 ± 16 years [18-88], mainly Caucasian (n = 47, 82%) and male (n = 28, 57%). The majority of patients were diagnosed through renal biopsy (26, 53%). The most common amyloid type was AL (n = 18, 38%), followed by ATTR (n = 16, 33%) and AA (n = 12, 25%). In 3 patients the amyloid type couldn't be characterized. Renal presentation was mostly as CKD 28/49 (57%), 15/49 (30.6%) as nephrotic syndrome and 6/49 (12%) patients as AKI. At presentation, almost half of the patients (24/49, 49%) had nephrotic-range proteinuria, with a mean proteinuria of 6.72 ± 6.12 g/d [0.103-19.8] and mean sCr was 2.6 ± 3.1 mg/dl [0.5-18.9]. AL amyloidosis had an almost equal distribution between lambda (9/18, 50%) and kappa chain (8/18, 44%, one unknown). Extrarenal involvement was frequent, mainly cardiac (12/18, 67%). Also 12/18 (67%) patients needed dialysis after a mean of 9 ± 15 months post-diagnosis, 16/18 (89%) received treatment and mortality was 61%, in mean 16 ± 17 months post-diagnosis, mainly due to disease progression. AA amyloidosis was secondary to chronic infection in 7/12 (58%), 3/12 (25%) autoimmune diseases and in 2/12 (17%) unknown. Extrarenal involvement was less frequent, also mainly cardiac (3/12, 25%). 7/12 (58%) patients needed dialysis after a mean of 97 ± 117 months post-diagnosis and mortality was 58%, in mean 46 ± 66 months post-diagnosis, mainly due to acute infection. Two patients were diagnosed already on dialysis. Regarding ATTR amyloidosis, all patients had a positive genetic test, extrarenal involvement was very frequent (13/16, 81%), mostly cardiac and peripheric nervous system. No patients required dialysis during follow-up, and one patient died of unknown cause. Conclusion In our cohort, renal AL and AA amyloidosis had poor prognosis, with a high progression to ESKD and very significant mortality, irrespective of treatment. Conversely, ATTR amyloidosis patients had lower progression to dialysis and death, probably as a consequence of disease-modifying therapies instituted in recent years.

Lack of evidence for GWAS signals of exfoliation glaucoma working via monogenic loss-of-function mutation in the nearest gene.

Exfoliation syndrome (XFS) is a systemic disease of elastin-rich tissues involving a deposition of fibrillar exfoliative material (XFM) in the anterior chamber of the eye, which can promote glaucoma. The purpose of this study was to create mice with CRISPR/Cas9-induced variations in candidate genes identified from human genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and screen them for indices of XFS. Variants predicted to be deleterious were sought in the Agpat1, Cacna1a, Loxl1, Pomp, Rbms3, Sema6a, and Tlcd5 genes of C57BL/6J mice using CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing. Strains were phenotyped by slit-lamp, SD-OCT imaging, and fundus exams at 1-5 mos of age. Smaller cohorts of 12-mos-old mice were also studied. Deleterious variants were identified in six targets; Pomp was recalcitrant to targeting. Multiple alleles of some targets were isolated, yielding 12 strains. Across all genotypes and ages, 277 mice were assessed by 902 slit-lamp exams, 928 SD-OCT exams, and 358 fundus exams. Homozygosity for Agpat1 or Cacna1a mutations led to early lethality; homozygosity for Loxl1 mutations led to pelvic organ prolapse, preventing aging. Loxl1 homozygotes exhibited a conjunctival phenotype of potential relevance to XFS. Multiple other genotype-specific phenotypes were variously identified. XFM was not observed in any mice. This study did not detect XFM in any of the strains. This may have been due to species-specific differences, background dependence, or insufficient aging. Alternatively, it is possible that the current candidates, selected based on proximity to GWAS signals, are not effectors acting via monogenic loss-of-function mechanisms.

Retinoic acid related orphan receptor α is a genetic modifier that rescues retinal degeneration in a mouse model of Stargardt disease and Dry AMD

Degeneration of the macula is associated with several overlapping diseases including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt Disease (STGD). Mutations in ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily A Member 4 (ABCA4) are associated with late-onset dry AMD and early-onset STGD. Additionally, both forms of macular degeneration exhibit deposition of subretinal material and photoreceptor degeneration. Retinoic acid related orphan receptor α (RORA) regulates the AMD inflammation pathway that includes ABCA4, CD59, C3 and C5. In this translational study, we examined the efficacy of RORA at attenuating retinal degeneration and improving the inflammatory response in Abca4 knockout (Abca4−/−) mice. AAV5-hRORA-treated mice showed reduced deposits, restored CD59 expression and attenuated amyloid precursor protein (APP) expression compared with untreated eyes. This molecular rescue correlated with statistically significant improvement in photoreceptor function. This is the first study evaluating the impact of RORA modifier gene therapy on rescuing retinal degeneration. Our studies demonstrate efficacy of RORA in improving STGD and dry AMD-like disease.

Influence of the concentration of KOH-based aqueous electrolyte on the electrochemical behavior of NiO thin film

In this research, we explored the influence of varying concentrations of KOH electrolyte (0.5, 1, and 2 M) on the electrochemical characteristics of Nickel Oxide (NiO) thin film. The deposition of NiO material onto glass and Fluor Tin Oxide (FTO) coated glass substrates was achieved through the chemical spray pyrolysis method. Subsequent examinations encompassed structural, morphological, optical, and electrochemical assessments, employing X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometry, and cyclic voltammetry (CV), respectively. XRD analysis unveiled a polycrystalline cubic structure of NiO with a preference for orientation along the (111) plane. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of the NiO phase, whereas SEM images depicted the emergence of interconnected nanograins with occasional minor cracks. EDS examination and elemental mapping further substantiated a homogeneous dispersion of elements. Optical analysis disclosed a band gap energy of 3.54 eV and an average transmittance of 71 % in the visible range. Electrochemical analysis indicated that the specific capacitance reached its peak at [1 M] (70 F. g−1). The [2 M] electrolyte exhibited the highest optical modulation (29 %), the most substantial charge density (Qi = 9.5 mC/cm2), and the most favorable switching kinetics. However, the coloration efficiency slightly decreased from 30.94 cm2/C in [1 M] to 30.47 cm2/C in the [2 M] solution, despite these improvements.