Growth Modification Research Articles

Bioactive Compounds and Their Chondroprotective Effects for Osteoarthritis Amelioration: A Focus on Nanotherapeutic Strategies, Epigenetic Modifications, and Gut Microbiota

In degenerative joint disease like osteoarthritis (OA), bioactive compounds like resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, curcumin, and other polyphenols often target various signalling pathways, including NFκB, TGFβ, and Wnt/β-catenin by executing epigenetic-modifying activities. Epigenetic modulation can target genes of disease pathophysiology via histone modification, promoter DNA methylation, and non-coding RNA expression, some of which are directly involved in OA but have been less explored. OA patients often seek options that can improve the quality of their life in addition to existing treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Although bioactive and natural compounds exhibit therapeutic potential against OA, several disadvantages loom, like insolubility and poor bioavailability. Nanoformulated bioactive compounds promise a better way to alleviate OA since they also control systemic events, including metabolic, immunological, and inflammatory responses, by modulating host gut microbiota that can regulate OA pathogenesis. Recent data suggest gut dysbiosis in OA. However, limited evidence is available on the role of bioactive compounds as epigenetic and gut modulators in ameliorating OA. Moreover, it is not known whether the effects of polyphenolic bioactive compounds on gut microbial response are mediated by epigenetic modulatory activities in OA. This narrative review highlights the nanotherapeutic strategies utilizing bioactive compounds, reporting their effects on chondrocyte growth, metabolism, and epigenetic modifications in osteoarthritis amelioration.

CO2 plasma inducing steel-slag with active sites for efficient growth of carbon nanotubes for the high-performance microwave absorption

As a solid waste generated in the metallurgical process, the highly efficient catalysis of steel-slag for carbon nanotube (CNT) growth remains a huge challenge. Herein, a CO2 plasma-inducing approach for modifying the steel-slag catalyst with rich active sites was developed for CNT growth in the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process. Furthermore, the high-energy CO2 plasma refines the particles on the steel-slag surface, reducing the particle size on the surface of steel-slag effectively increasing the active sites of the catalyst. In addition, the thermal effect generated by the gas molecule ionization process under CO2 increases the background temperature of the steel-slag, and the interaction between the oxygen-active substances produced and the iron oxide on the surface of steel-slag undergoes an oxidation reaction upon full contact with high-energy particles, which greatly improves the catalytic efficiency of the steel-slag as a catalyst for CNT, and increases the catalytic efficiency by 50 % compared with the non-plasma modified steel-slag as a catalyst for catalyzing CNTs. In addition, catalytically grown CNTs encapsulate magnetic steel-slag catalysts to form a three-dimensional CNT network structure, with high-performance electromagnetic wave absorption. The composite absorbing material with a thickness of only 3.55 mm has a minimum absorption rate of −64.08 dB for electromagnetic waves at a frequency of 7.9 GHz. The dielectric and the magnetic loss of steel-slag lead to enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption. Therefore, this study provides an inexpensive and environmentally friendly idea for the design of high-efficiency CNT growth and solid waste catalyst modification synthesized with high-performance absorbers.

Recent Progress of Thin Crystal Engineering for Perovskite Solar Cells.

Metal halide perovskite single crystals hold promise for photovoltaics with high efficiency and stability due to their superior optoelectronic properties and weak bulk ion migration. The past several years have witnessed rapid development of single-crystal perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with efficiency rocketed from 6.5% to 24.3%, however, which still lags behind their polycrystalline counterparts. Moreover, the poor device stability under light illumination is contrary to the high ion migration barrier of perovskite single crystals. The key limiting factors should be the low crystalline quality and high surface defect density of solution-grown thin single crystals. Under this circumstance, a review paper summarizing the recent progress and challenges will be instructive for future development of this emerging field. In this manuscript, the crystal engineering used to enhance carrier transport and suppress carrier recombination in vertical single-crystal PSCs will be summarized initially, including crystal growth, component control, surface and interface modification. Subsequently, the application of perovskite single crystals in lateral single-crystal PSCs will be discussed and compared with the conventionally vertical structure. Finally, the challenges and proposed strategies for the development of single-crystal PSCs are provided.

Integrated textural and geochemical analysis of igneous zircon by atom probe tomography

Mechanisms relating to growth and/or compositional modification of zircon occur at the atomic scale. For felsic igneous systems, processes responsible for growth patterns in zircon have previously remained elusive as the volume of material needed to analyze these compositional features using traditional in-situ methods is considerably larger than the typical sub-micron scale distribution of trace elements. To illuminate some of these driving forces, we characterize and quantify minor and trace element concentrations in igneous zircon grains by combining methods of cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging, electron microprobe microanalysis (EMPA) elemental maps for Hf, Y, Yb and U or Th, and atom probe tomography (APT). We focus on igneous zircon from the Chon Aike Silicic Large Igneous Province (Patagonia) that provide novel insights into (1) dissolution and re-crystallization during crustal anatexis, (2) crystallization to produce oscillatory zonation patterns that are typical of igneous zircons, and (3) the incorporation of trace element impurities (e.g., P, Be, and Al) at the nanoscale. Significantly, these APT volumes provide nanoscale sampling of boundaries between oscillatory growth zones in an igneous zircon to reveal compositional zoning of Y and, to a lesser extent P, which appear as high-angle, planar features. These concentration boundaries measured on the order of 10 to 12 nm are difficult to reconcile with proposed mechanisms for generating fine-scaled oscillations. Lastly, we fit diffusional profiles to measured Y concentrations to provide an estimate on the maximum timescales of zircon growth prior to eruption, as a function of the temperature at which diffusion occurred. When combined with known pressure-temperature-time paths for the magmatic system considered, these extremely short diffusion profiles that are resolvable by APT provide a powerful method to constrain timescales of crystal growth.

Kyanite microstructural and microchemical characteristics reveal differences in growth, deformation and chemical modification: A case study from the Paleoproterozoic suture zone of South Harris, NW Scotland

Based on petrological association, cathodoluminescence (CL), trace element signatures and orientation relationships, two generations of kyanite are distinguished in a high temperature, high pressure garnet-biotite-aluminosilicate bearing migmatite of South Harris, NW Scotland. The migmatite shows a garnet and biotite rich domain (Grt-Bt domain) which is cut at a low angle by a dominantly coarse-grained plagioclase-quartz leucosome. In addition, a fine-grained plagioclase-quartz-kyanite domain (Plag-Qtz-Ky domain) is present intercalated with the Grt-Bt domain and subparallel to the plagioclase-quartz domain. Type 1 kyanite is coarse grained and associated with Bt clusters and garnet within the Grt-Bt domain. It grew relatively early, syn- to post-garnet growth, in a suprasolidus environment resulting in crystallographically determined oscillatory CL and trace element zoning. Grains record evidence of progressive deformation in the crystal plastic regime, where deformation is accommodated by dislocation glide, climb and deformation twinning. The dominant activated slip system is (100)<001> with minor component of <100>, while deformation twins show a ∼ 180° rotation around ∼<001> axis and a twin plane near (001). Grains appear to be impervious to deformation induced diffusion with all zoning remaining sharp despite crystal plastic deformation. Grains in direct contact with the Plag-Qtz-Ky domain show late modification of the CL and trace element signature suggesting melt-mediated interface-coupled dissolution-precipitation reaction. This modification resulted in crosscutting lobate high trace element regions and irregular rims with low Cr and V content. These rims show similar CL and trace element characteristics as Type 2 kyanite which are exclusively seen within the Plag-Qtz-Ky domain suggesting that Type 2 grains are cogenetic with Type 1 rims. Type 2 grains are finer grained than Type 1 grains and show near uniform CL and trace element distributions with rare oscillatory zoned and relatively higher Cr & V bright cores. Type 2 show either no or very localized internal deformation features. However, they exhibit a clear shape preferred orientation which coincides with a crystallographic preferred orientation where the longest shape axis is parallel to <001>. We propose that Type 2 kyanite grains underwent melt-present deformation by rigid body rotation in an externally derived melt with different trace element chemistry than the host rock. This melt thus interacted chemically by melt-mediated interface-coupled dissolution-precipitation reactions with the surrounding rocks forming the Type 1 rims.Our study shows detailed analysis of kyanite is an important tool for giving constraints on the deformation, P–T and melting history of high-grade metamorphic rocks and migmatites.

High-performance sulfur-rich COF/PTFE composite membrane for the efficient removal of Hg(II) from acidic wastewater

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as advanced materials for addressing heavy metal pollution in acidic environments. However, powdered COF adsorbents face challenges such as poor operability and a tendency to agglomerate, limiting their industrial wastewater treatment applications. In this study, we prepared a sulfur-rich COF-OSH/mPTFE composite membrane through in situ growth and subsequent modification of COFs on the surface of amino-functionalized PTFE porous membranes. The COF-OSH/mPTFE composite exhibits a remarkable adsorption capacity for mercuric cations (Hg2+), reaching 223.5 mg/g. Notably, even at pH 1, the adsorption capacity remains high at 68.9 mg/g. The adsorption process demonstrates excellent resistance to interference from Na+ and Ca2+ ions and shows good reusability. Furthermore, COF-OSH/mPTFE reduced the concentration of Hg2+ in a 100 mL solution (5 mg/L) by over 80 % within 13 min at pH 5, and by over 40 % at pH 2. Even after continuous treatment of 20 L of Hg2+ solution, a significant reduction in Hg2+ concentration in the filtrate was still observed. The COF-OSH/mPTFE composite membrane addresses the cleanliness and recovery issues associated with powdered adsorbents in adsorption environments. The simple, efficient, and low-energy filtration process endows COF-OSH/mPTFE with excellent capability for treating acidic wastewater containing Hg2+.

Recent developments in orthodontic treatment-an overview

Background: Recent developments in orthodontic treatment have significantly impacted the management of various dental and skeletal issues in preadolescent patients. These advancements encompass a wide range of approaches aimed at addressing problems during the mixed-dentition phase, particularly skeletal discrepancies. Growth modification, camouflage, and orthognathic surgery are primary strategies used to correct these discrepancies. Aim: The aim of this overview is to present a comprehensive summary of recent developments in orthodontic treatment, focusing on growth modification strategies applied to address skeletal and dental issues in preadolescent patients. Methods: This overview examines various orthodontic treatment methods, including growth modification techniques such as the use of headgear, functional appliances, and orthognathic surgery. The discussion also explores the application of these methods to different types of malocclusions and skeletal discrepancies, particularly anteroposterior, transverse, and vertical problems.

Xenolith Petrochronology (San Luis Potosi, Mexico) Constrains Heat Sources for Cenozoic Ultrahigh‐Temperature Metamorphism in the Lower Crust

AbstractUltrahigh‐temperature (UHT; &gt;900°C) metamorphism drives crustal differentiation and is widely recognized in the rock record, but its geodynamic causes are debated. Previous work on granulite‐facies metapelite xenoliths from San Luis Potosí, Mexico suggests the lower crust experienced a protracted UHT metamorphic event that coincided with the onset of regional extension. To determine the duration, conditions, and heat sources of UHT metamorphism recorded by these xenoliths, this study characterizes the major‐element, trace‐element, and U‐Pb isotopic systematics of quartz, rutile, feldspar, garnet, and zircon by in situ electron microprobe (EPMA) and laser‐ablation inductively coupled‐plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS), and augments these data with detailed petrography, thermobarometry, phase equilibria modeling, and diffusion modeling. Thermobarometry and phase equilibria modeling suggest peak metamorphic conditions exceeded 0.7 GPa and 900°C. Zircon petrochronology confirms &gt;15 Myr of UHT conditions since its onset at ∼30 Ma. A small population of zircon record elevated temperatures following transition from backarc compression to extension during the waning stages of orogenesis (60–37 Ma). Garnet preserves trace‐element zoning and mineral inclusions consistent with suprasolidus garnet growth and subsequent compositional modification by intracrystalline rare‐earth element diffusion during protracted heating, with diffusion chronometry timescales in agreement with zircon data, followed by fluid‐driven remobilization of trace elements along now‐healed fractures within ∼1 Myr of eruption. In sum, these data are most compatible with lithospheric mantle attenuation or removal as the dominant heat transport mechanism driving synextensional UHT metamorphism and crustal melting, which has bearing on models for crustal differentiation and formation of modern and ancient granulite terranes globally.

Nanomaterials as Next-Gen Corrosion Inhibitors: A Comprehensive Review for Ceramic Wastewater Treatment

This study reviews the use of corrosion inhibitors in industrial wastewater treatment, specifically in ceramic wastewater. It discusses the main problem limits the use of treated wastewater, which is corrosion behavior. To reduce this behavior and enable safe reuse of industrial wastewater, corrosion inhibitors are used. The study aims to provide insights into the selection, use, and effectiveness of corrosion inhibitor types in the media under study. The results can help engineers, researchers, and wastewater treatment professionals to find the best corrosion inhibitors for various municipal wastewater applications, increasing the sustainability and efficiency of wastewater treatment processes. The ceramic industry faces challenges in managing complex aqueous effluents generated from mining, shaping, glazing, and manufacturing processes. Nanomaterial-based alternatives, such as titanium nanotubes, zinc oxide nanoparticles, nanoenhanced filters, and stimuli responsive polymer and silica coatings, have emerged as promising next-generation corrosion inhibitors due to their multilayer passivation and high specific surface area. The analysis focuses on the feasibility of these materials' mechanisms, such as crystal deformation, nucleation hindrance, coating barriers, and passivation improvement, in industrial settings. In conclusion, the use of corrosion inhibitors in industrial wastewater treatment can significantly improve the sustainability and efficiency of wastewater treatment processes. Understanding the mechanisms by which these nanomaterials influence crystal growth modification, deposition kinetics, and passivation performance could lead to more effective and sustainable solutions for industrial wastewater treatment.

A 3D-CBCT Volumetric Analysis of Cervical Vertebrae Angulation and Airway Dimensions

Aim: To evaluate the relationship between airway dimensions and cervical vertebrae angulations in dental patients using three-dimensional cone beam computed tomography (3D-CBCT) technology. Materials and Methods: Pre-treatment CBCT scans and cephalometric radiographs were measured for 59 patients (mean age 22±2.3yrs.) using the Dolphin3D software system (version 11.7; Dolphin Imaging &amp; Management Solutions, Chatworth, CA) to record airway dimensions and cervical vertebral angulations. All CBCT images were acquired using the same standard protocol for collection using the iCAT CBCT Unit (Imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA): 13cm field of view, 0.4mm voxel size, 8.9sec scan time. Intraclass Correlations (ICC) were performed on duplicate measurements of 10 CBCT scans after a two-week interval to assess reliability. P-value and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to statistically assess the relationship between vertebral angulations and airway dimensions. Results: ICC values from the reliability assessment were &gt;0.90. Pearson correlation coefficients were categorized based on confidence level as follows: high (&gt;0.75 or &lt;-0.75), moderate (0.5 to 0.74 or -0.5 to -0.74), or weak (0.3 to 0.49 or -0.3 to -0.49). No high/moderate correlations were observed. Weak correlations (p&lt;0.05) were observed between the nasopharyngeal volume and the soft tissue thickness at CV1(-0.47) and CV2(-0.34). A weak correlation was observed between the nasal cavity volume and S-N (+0.41) as well as ANS-PNS(+0.38). A weak correlation was observed between the total airway volume and the soft tissue thickness at CV2(-0.34). Conclusion: The soft tissue thickness of the posterior wall of the airway at the level of cervical vertebrae-2 appears to have a weak, negative correlation with several upper airway parameters and total airway volume. Soft tissue thickness of the posterior pharyngeal wall is crucial for dental clinicians to analyze prior to some procedures such as orthognathic surgery and orthodontic treatment that involve growth modification and jaw positioning, as it may have an association with decreased airway volume. Clinical Significance: The relationship between cervical vertebrae angulation, airway, and craniofacial morphology is a complex aspect of human anatomy. In dentistry, it is crucial that clinicians recognize the vital role cervical vertebrae angulation and airway interact in relation to craniofacial morphology. Knowledge of these interconnections will significantly inform treatment planning for multiple oral health conditions such as malocclusions, jaw discrepancies, and temporomandibular joint disorders.

Treatment of Class III Malocclusion with Open Bite and Macroglossia Using an Anterior Loop

General Background: Class III malocclusion is a prevalent dental anomaly characterized by the anterior positioning of the mandible relative to the maxilla, posing functional and aesthetic challenges. Specific Background: This condition may present with additional complexities such as dental crowding, open bite, and macroglossia, complicating the orthodontic treatment approach. Knowledge Gap: While conventional treatment modalities include orthognathic surgery and growth modification, there is limited documentation on the efficacy of orthodontic camouflage in non-surgical settings, particularly in adults with completed growth. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of orthodontic camouflage using anterior stainless steel loops in managing dentoskeletal Class III malocclusion accompanied by anterior open bite and macroglossia, without premolar extraction. Results: Over a 7-month treatment period, significant corrections in overjet, overbite, and molar relationship were achieved, demonstrating the potential of this approach as a non-surgical alternative. Novelty: This research introduces a modified technique involving stainless steel wire with specific loop placements, contributing to the orthodontic management strategies for complex Class III cases. Implications: The findings support the broader application of camouflage techniques in orthodontic practice, offering a viable option for patients opting out of surgery and highlight the need for further studies to optimize and validate such approaches.Highlights: Efficiency of Camouflage: Shows how orthodontic camouflage can effectively treat complex Class III malocclusion without surgery. Novel Technique: Introduces a new method using stainless steel loops in wires to enhance treatment outcomes. Clinical Implications: Expands non-surgical treatment options in orthodontics, offering viable alternatives to surgery. Keywords: Class III Malocclusion, Orthodontic Camouflage, Open Bite, Macroglossia

Overexpression of zinc finger DHHC-type containing 1 is associated with poor prognosis and cancer cell growth and metastasis in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma.

The zinc finger DHHC-type containing 1 (ZDHHC1) gene is implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of various malignant tumors, but its precise involvement in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) remains unknown. Thus, this study investigated ZDHHC1 expression in UCEC using publicly available TCGA and Xena databases and elucidated the functions and mechanisms of the ZDHHC1 gene in UCEC progression using bioinformatics and in vitro experiments. The correlation between ZDHHC1 expression and prognosis, clinical features, immune cells, and RNA modifications of UCEC was evaluated using nomograms, correlation, ROC, and survival analyses. The impacts of ZDHHC1 overexpression on UCEC progression and mechanisms were explored with bioinformatics and in vitro experiments. Our study revealed that ZDHHC1 expression was significantly downregulated in UCEC and correlated with poor prognosis, cancer diagnosis, clinical stage, age, weight, body mass index, histological subtypes, residual tumor, tumor grade, and tumor invasion. Notably, Cox regression analysis and constructed nomograms showed that downregulated ZDHHC1 expression was a prognostic factor associated with poor prognosis in patients with UCEC. Conversely, above-normal ZDHHC1 expression inhibited the cell growth, cell cycle transition, migration, and invasion of UCEC cells, which may be related to the cell cycle, DNA replication, PI3K-AKT, and other pathways that promote tumor progression. Altered ZDHHC1 expression in UCEC was significantly associated with RNA modifications and the changes in cancer immune cell populations, such as CD56 bright NK cells, eosinophils, Th2 cells, and cell markers. In conclusion, considerably reduced ZDHHC1 expression in UCEC is associated with cancer cell growth, metastasis, poor prognosis, immune infiltration, and RNA modifications, revealing the promising potential of ZDHHC1 as a prognostic marker for UCEC.

Treatment modalities for management of skeletal and dental Class III malocclusion – A case series

Class III malocclusion is a challenging phenomenon to comprehend. Research done to determine the cause of Class III malocclusion revealed that the deformity affects all aspects of the craniofacial system, not only the jaws. Skeletal and dentoalveolar abnormalities coexist in the majority of patients with Class III malocclusion. Orthognathic surgery, dentoalveolar compensation, and growth modification are the three main therapies available for skeletal Class III malocclusion. Until the pubertal growth spurt, growth modification needs to be started. Thereby, in order to deal with skeletal Class III malocclusion in a grownup, orthognathic surgery collectively with conventional orthodontic therapy will be required in order optimize facial esthetics as well as attain stable occlusion. The objectives of the case series are to highlight different approaches to resolving skeletal Class III malocclusion, which includes orthognathic surgery, orthopedic appliance therapy, and extractions.

Advancing Engineered Plant Living Materials through Tobacco BY-2 Cell Growth and Transfection within Tailored Granular Hydrogel Scaffolds.

In this study, an innovative approach is presented in the field of engineered plant living materials (EPLMs), leveraging a sophisticated interplay between synthetic biology and engineering. We detail a 3D bioprinting technique for the precise spatial patterning and genetic transformation of the tobacco BY-2 cell line within custom-engineered granular hydrogel scaffolds. Our methodology involves the integration of biocompatible hydrogel microparticles (HMPs) primed for 3D bioprinting with Agrobacterium tumefaciens capable of plant cell transfection, serving as the backbone for the simultaneous growth and transformation of tobacco BY-2 cells. This system facilitates the concurrent growth and genetic modification of tobacco BY-2 cells within our specially designed scaffolds. These scaffolds enable the cells to develop into predefined patterns while remaining conducive to the uptake of exogenous DNA. We showcase the versatility of this technology by fabricating EPLMs with unique structural and functional properties, exemplified by EPLMs exhibiting distinct pigmentation patterns. These patterns are achieved through the integration of the betalain biosynthetic pathway into tobacco BY-2 cells. Overall, our study represents a groundbreaking shift in the convergence of materials science and plant synthetic biology, offering promising avenues for the evolution of sustainable, adaptive, and responsive living material systems.

Effects of two-phase treatment with functional appliances versus one-phase treatment with pre-molar extraction in Class II div 1 monozygotic twins: A case study

The aim of the study was to compare the skeletal, dental, or soft-tissue outcomes of a one-phase camouflage treatment with pre-molar extraction versus a two-phase treatment with combined twin-block high-pull headgear followed by fixed orthodontic treatment in monozygotic twins. 12-year-old male monozygotic twins presented to the dental clinic with complaints about their anterior teeth. Cephalometric analysis of the patients revealed skeletal Class II malocclusion and a long facial type. Extraoral examination of the patients revealed incompetence of lip seal and a convex profile. In Patient 1, the use of a high pull headgear combined with a twin block to correct skeletal anteroposterior and vertical malocclusions with growth modification and then fixed orthodontic treatment was planned. Patient 2 did not comply with the treatment, complaining that the use of the device could cause esthetic problems and difficulties in use. Therefore, camouflage treatment with extraction of four pre-molars was planned as another treatment option for Class II patients in Patient 2. With the camouflage treatment, the patient continued to grow normally. The combined treatment with twin block and a high pull occipital headgear resulted in inhibition of maxillary growth and a reduction in the severity of the skeletal Class II malocclusion, but the mandibular changes were similar in both patients at the end of treatment. Despite the different treatment modalities, both twins achieved a Class I canine-molar relationship and ideal overjet and overbite. Patients can close their lips with improved soft-tissue profiles. The criteria for the choice of treatment depend entirely on the requirements of the patient.

Effect of acidic polymers on the morphology of non-photochemical laser-induced nucleation of potassium bromide

Non-photochemical laser-induced nucleation (NPLIN) in supersaturated potassium bromide (KBr) solutions with the addition of acidic polymers is reported here for the first time. Upon absorbing the incident laser, crystallites are immediately induced along the laser pathway in the solution, eventually growing into needle-shaped crystals of varying sizes. When comparing induction time, nucleation probability, and crystal habits with spontaneous nucleation, the results suggest that NPLIN creates a distinct morphological pathway, transforming cubic crystals into needle-like structures. Additionally, it improves crystallization probability and growth rate. This paper aims to realize control from crystal nucleation to crystal growth by adding acidic polymers to the process of laser-induced nucleation, potentially influencing crystal morphology modification in NPLIN. With 19 wt% acidic polymers added to the solution as additives, control over both crystal growth and morphological modifications was observed: cubic KBr crystals with square patterns were produced through laser irradiation, and there was a varying reduction in both the number and growth rate of the crystals. The influence of acidic polymers on the solution environment was analyzed to determine the reasons for the variations in crystal quantity and growth speed. The underlying mechanisms responsible for the changes in crystal shape were also discussed.

Optical and electrochemical properties of manganese oxide (Mn3O4) nanoparticles: Investigating the influence of calcination temperature on supercapacitor performance

In this study, we investigate the influence of calcination temperature on the structural, optical, and electrochemical properties of Mn3O4 nanoparticles synthesized through a chemical co-precipitation route. Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) images depict the formation of highly agglomerated, spherical-shaped particles. At calcination temperatures of 700 °C and 900 °C, the observation reveals the emergence of flat pellets and rod-like structures. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns confirm the presence of the Mn3O4 phase in M0 and M1 samples. However, the sample calcined at 500 °C (M3) showed a mixed phase of Mn3O4 and Mn2O3. Upon further calcination at 700 and 900 °C, this mixed phase undergoes complete transformation into the Mn2O3 phase. The change in absorption onset and photoluminescence intensity of samples is found with an increase in calcination temperature due to the crystal growth and phase modification. Furthermore, the synthesized samples are employed as electrode materials for supercapacitor applications. The sample calcined at 300 °C (M1) in three-electrode system demonstrated the specific capacitance (Csp) of 273.3 F/g at 0.5 A/g in an alkaline medium. The asymmetric cell assembled by using M1 and Hibiscus cannabinus stem-derived carbon material (HBC-900) delivered higher Csp of 205.7 F/g at 0.5 A/g. In addition, asymmetric supercapacitor device exhibited a high energy and power density of 43.1 Wh/kg and 476.2 W/kg with 82.07 % of initial Csp retention over 10,000 cycles at 10 A/g, which makes the sample M1 as the potential electrode material for supercapacitor application.

Complexes of tubulin oligomers and tau form a viscoelastic intervening network cross-bridging microtubules into bundles

The axon-initial-segment (AIS) of mature neurons contains microtubule (MT) fascicles (linear bundles) implicated as retrograde diffusion barriers in the retention of MT-associated protein (MAP) tau inside axons. Tau dysfunction and leakage outside of the axon is associated with neurodegeneration. We report on the structure of steady-state MT bundles in varying concentrations of Mg2+ or Ca2+ divalent cations in mixtures containing αβ-tubulin, full-length tau, and GTP at 37 °C in a physiological buffer. A concentration-time kinetic phase diagram generated by synchrotron SAXS reveals a wide-spacing MT bundle phase (Bws), a transient intermediate MT bundle phase (Bint), and a tubulin ring phase. SAXS with TEM of plastic-embedded samples provides evidence of a viscoelastic intervening network (IN) of complexes of tubulin oligomers and tau stabilizing MT bundles. In this model, αβ-tubulin oligomers in the IN are crosslinked by tau’s MT binding repeats, which also link αβ-tubulin oligomers to αβ-tubulin within the MT lattice. The model challenges whether the cross-bridging of MTs is attributed entirely to MAPs. Tubulin-tau complexes in the IN or bound to isolated MTs are potential sites for enzymatic modification of tau, promoting nucleation and growth of tau fibrils in tauopathies.

Characterisation of anhydro-sialic acid transporters from mucosa-associated bacteria.

Sialic acid (Sia) transporters are critical to the capacity of host-associated bacteria to utilise Sia for growth and/or cell surface modification. While N-acetyl-neuraminic acid (Neu5Ac)-specific transporters have been studied extensively, little is known on transporters dedicated to anhydro-Sia forms such as 2,7-anhydro-Neu5Ac (2,7-AN) or 2,3-dehydro-2-deoxy-Neu5Ac (Neu5Ac2en). Here, we used a Sia-transport-null strain of Escherichia coli to investigate the function of members of anhydro-Sia transporter families previously identified by computational studies. First, we showed that the transporter NanG, from the Glycoside-Pentoside-Hexuronide:cation symporter family, is a specific 2,7-AN transporter, and identified by mutagenesis a crucial functional residue within the putative substrate-binding site. We then demonstrated that NanX transporters, of the Major Facilitator Superfamily, also only transport 2,7-AN and not Neu5Ac2en nor Neu5Ac. Finally, we provided evidence that SiaX transporters, of the Sodium-Solute Symporter superfamily, are promiscuous Neu5Ac/Neu5Ac2en transporters able to acquire either substrate equally well. The characterisation of anhydro-Sia transporters expands our current understanding of prokaryotic Sia metabolism within host-associated microbial communities.

Holistic Approaches to Plant Stress Alleviation: A Comprehensive Review of the Role of Organic Compounds and Beneficial Bacteria in Promoting Growth and Health.

Plants select microorganisms from the surrounding bulk soil, which act as a reservoir of microbial diversity and enrich a rhizosphere microbiome that helps in growth and stress alleviation. Plants use organic compounds that are released through root exudates to shape the rhizosphere microbiome. These organic compounds are of various spectrums and technically gear the interplay between plants and the microbial world. Although plants naturally produce organic compounds that influence the microbial world, numerous efforts have been made to boost the efficiency of the microbiome through the addition of organic compounds. Despite further crucial investigations, synergistic effects from organic compounds and beneficial bacteria combinations have been reported. In this review, we examine the relationship between organic compounds and beneficial bacteria in determining plant growth and biotic and abiotic stress alleviation. We investigate the molecular mechanism and biochemical responses of bacteria to organic compounds, and we discuss the plant growth modifications and stress alleviation done with the help of beneficial bacteria. We then exhibit the synergistic effects of both components to highlight future research directions to dwell on how microbial engineering and metagenomic approaches could be utilized to enhance the use of beneficial microbes and organic compounds.