Attenuation Of Stress Research Articles

Experimental assessment of square-wave spatial spanwise forcing of a turbulent boundary layer

We present an experimental realisation of spatial spanwise forcing in a turbulent boundary layer flow, aimed at reducing the frictional drag. The forcing is achieved by a series of spanwise running belts, running in alternating spanwise direction, thereby generating a steady spatial square-wave forcing. Stereoscopic particle image velocimetry in the streamwise–wall-normal plane is used to investigate the impact of actuation on the flow in terms of turbulence statistics, drag performance characteristics, and spanwise velocity profiles, for a non-dimensional wavelength of λx+=397\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\lambda _x^+ = 397$$\\end{document}. In line with reported numerical studies, we confirm that a significant flow control effect can be realised with this type of forcing. The scalar fields of the higher-order turbulence statistics show a strong attenuation of stresses and production of turbulence kinetic energy over the first belt already, followed by a more gradual decrease to a steady-state energy response over the second belt. The streamwise velocity in the near-wall region is reduced, indicative of a drag-reduced flow state. The profiles of the higher-order turbulence statistics are attenuated up to a wall-normal height of y+≈100\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$y^+ \\approx 100$$\\end{document}, with a maximum streamwise stress reduction of 45% and a reduction of integral turbulence kinetic energy production of 39%, for a non-dimensional actuation amplitude of A+=12.7\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$A^+ = 12.7$$\\end{document}. An extension of the classical laminar Stokes layer theory is introduced, based on the linear superposition of Fourier modes, to describe the non-sinusoidal boundary condition that corresponds to the current case. The experimentally obtained spanwise velocity profiles show good agreement with this extended theoretical model. The drag reduction was estimated from a linear fit in the viscous sublayer in the range 2≤y+≤5\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$2 \\le y^+\\le 5$$\\end{document}. The results are found to be in good qualitative agreement with the numerical implementations of Viotti et al. (Phys Fluids 21, 2009), matching the drag reduction trend with A+\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$A^+$$\\end{document}, and reaching a maximum of 20%.Graphical abstract

Novel superhydrophobic sponge with flower-like architecture for oily emulsion separation and organic pollutants photodegradation

Design functionalized absorbent materials that fulfillment complex requirements in sophisticated water-treatment fields remains challenging. In this paper, a novel superhydrophobic/superoleophilic sponge with flower-like channel structures and a photodegradation functionality was fabricated via in-situ chelation of zinc oxide (ZnO) and nano-Ag particles. After low surface energy modification with POTS, the as-prepared sponge displayed remarkable superwettability, with a water contact angle (WCA) of 158.8° ± 1.3°. This endowed it with the ultrafast, selective absorption of diverse oils that are 33.9–135.2 times of their own weight. The prepared sponge’s emulsified oil separation efficiency can reach 99.87%, owing to its superhydrophobic/superoleophilic properties and the electrostatic attraction demulsification, guiding effect of ZnO layer crystal plane. Furthermore, the construction of Schottky barrier at the ZnO@Ag interface reduced the recombination rate of photoexcited electrons and electron-holes. Thereby, the prepared sponge’s photodegradation efficiency reached up to 97.07% after 4 h sunlight irradiation. Notably, the stress attenuation of the prepared sponge was only 14.6% after 100 absorption cycles, indicating its excellent mechanical stability. Moreover, the prepared sponge showed excellent environmental tolerance under severe conditions with its WCA stably exceeding 150.0°. Thus, this durable superwetting sponge can be effectively used for oil/water emulsion separation and organic pollutant degradation.

Valsartan Mitigates the Progression of Methotrexate-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Rats via the Attenuation of Renal Inflammation and Oxidative Stress.

Methotrexate (MTX) is a folic acid antagonist, commonly administered for the treatment of a variety of cancers. However, methotrexate toxicity including bone marrow suppression and hepatic and renal toxicity limits its use. Angiotensin AT1 receptor blockers including Valsartan (Val) possess the ability to ameliorate MTX-induced toxicity through various mechanisms. In this study, we explored the potential reno-protective effects of Val against MTX-induced acute kidney injury in rats. Twenty-four Wistar rats were randomly segregated into 3 groups. Group 1 served as the control group and received an oral dose of 1mL/kg of normal saline. Group 2 received a single dose of 20 mg/kg of MTX intraperitoneally (IP) for 5 days. Group 3 received a single IP dose of 20 mg/kg of MTX followed by an oral dose of 10 mg/kg of Valsartan for 5 days. At the end of the experiment, the levels of serum kidney biomarkers, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers were accessed. Furthermore, the effect of MTX on kidney tissue histology was examined. Our results showed that MTX treatment increased the level of serum kidney and inflammatory biomarkers and decreased the level of antioxidants SOD and GSH while increasing the lipid peroxidation contents. Furthermore, MTX treatment caused structural changes to kidney histology. However, the administration of Val significantly prevented these changes. Valsartan possesses nephroprotective potential and might serve as a potential therapeutic strategy against MTX-induced kidney injury.

Chrysophyllum albidum (African star apple) Fruit-Skin Attenuates Hyperglycemia-Mediated Oxidative Stress in Experimental Diabetic Rats

Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disturbance characterized by hyperglycemia has become a health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. Hyperglycemia mediated oxidative stress performs a key role in diabetic complications. The fruit-skin of Chrysophyllum albidum (African star apple) has been reported to have anti-hyperglycemic, hypolipidemic and in vitro antioxidant properties, but its effect on oxidative damage in diabetic animals has not been well investigated. This study investigated the effect of Chrysophyllum albidum fruit-skin (CAFS) in mitigating hyperglycemia induced oxidative stress in diabetic rats. Oxidative stress markers included superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), lipidperoxidation status using malondialdehyde and non-enzymatic antioxidants in serum, hepatic and pancreatic tissues. Non-diabetic and streptozotocin-diabetic rats were compared after 4 weeks of treatment. The diabetic untreated group showed significant (p< 0.05) elevation of malondialdehyde and depression of non-enzymatic antioxidants levels, while suppressing SOD and CAT activities in serum, hepatic and pancreatic tissues when compared to normal rats. CAFS supplemented diet treatment ameliorated these metabolic disturbances and increased the activities of hepatic and pancreatic SOD from 0.28±0.25 to 0.61±0.13 Unit/mg protein and 0.08±0.01 to 0.15±0.01 Unit/mg protein respectively and CAT from 0.21±0.06 to 0.81±0.17 Unit/mg protein and 0.07±0.01 to 0.50±0.15 Unit/mg protein respectively. The findings suggest that CAFS treatment in diabetic rats exerts a protective effect via attenuation of oxidative stress mediated by hyperglycemia and improves the antioxidant status.

Silicon Combined with Trichoderma harzianum and Organic Matter as an Environmental Friendly Strategy for Mitigating Salt Stress in Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)

Silicon is known to be an effective salt stress attenuator for crops, and evaluating its application effectiveness in combination with other salt stress attenuators is essential for crops and soils. This work aimed to assess whether applying organic matter (OM) and Trichoderma (T) potentiates silicon (Si) in mitigating soil salinization and promoting quinoa growth under salt stress. Quinoa plants were grown in pots under saline irrigation (3.12 dS m−1) and subjected to the following treatments: quinoa only; quinoa + Si; quinoa + Si + OM; quinoa + Si + T; and quinoa + Si + OM + T, at two levels of soil moisture—30 and 80% of the available water content (AWC). Sixty days after transplanting, soil and quinoa plants were collected from the pots. At 80% AWC, Si + OM and Si + OM + T promoted the highest fresh mass for quinoa—301.54 and 247.26 g, respectively. Si + OM + T significantly mitigated saline parameters (EC = 9.82 dS m−1; ESP = 32.27%). Si combined with OM and T was the most effective way to attenuate salt stress in quinoa and soil salinization and promote a more sustainable way to manage saline irrigation in semiarid regions.

Molecular mechanisms involved in alcohol craving, IRF3, and endoplasmic reticulum stress: a multi-omics study

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the most prevalent substance use disorder worldwide. Acamprosate and naltrexone are anti-craving drugs used in AUD pharmacotherapy. However, molecular mechanisms underlying their anti-craving effect remain unclear. This study utilized a patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based model system and anti-craving drugs that are used to treat AUD as “molecular probes” to identify possible mechanisms associated with alcohol craving. We examined the pathophysiology of craving and anti-craving drugs by performing functional genomics studies using iPSC-derived astrocytes and next-generation sequencing. Specifically, RNA sequencing performed using peripheral blood mononuclear cells from AUD patients with extreme values for alcohol craving intensity prior to treatment showed that inflammation-related pathways were highly associated with alcohol cravings. We then performed a genome-wide assessment of chromatin accessibility and gene expression profiles of induced iPSC-derived astrocytes in response to ethanol or anti-craving drugs. Those experiments identified drug-dependent epigenomic signatures, with IRF3 as the most significantly enriched motif in chromatin accessible regions. Furthermore, the activation of IRF3 was associated with ethanol-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress which could be attenuated by anti-craving drugs, suggesting that ER stress attenuation might be a target for anti-craving agents. In conclusion, we found that craving intensity was associated with alcohol consumption and treatment outcomes. Our functional genomic studies suggest possible relationships among craving, ER stress, IRF3 and the actions of anti-craving drugs.

Surface Residual Stress Release Behavior of Shot-Peened Springs

Shot peening is the primary method used to improve the fatigue life of springs. In this study, we aimed to quantify the reduction in residual stresses in the shot-peened layer by considering factors such as surface roughness, cyclic loading, and the helix angle, based on the spring’s periodic variation and curvature characteristics. We developed an equivalent replacement algorithm to address the challenge of characterizing the dynamic accumulation and attenuation of residual stresses under cyclic multiaxial stresses. This algorithm accurately modeled the dynamic attenuation of residual stresses and was incorporated into the spring life prediction model. Experimental validation demonstrated the high accuracy of the model for predicting fatigue life.

Oxidative Stress in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 and Its Attenuation by Herbal Remedies in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Systematic Review.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder that gives rise to motor incoordination and progressive functional disabilities. Although pharmacological interventions have revealed promising prospects in the management of SCA3, adverse effects may become unbearable. The use of herbal remedies in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may serve as potential alternative medicines to delay the progression of the disease. This systematic review is intended to identify, appraise, and summarize the findings of studies pertaining to the therapeutic roles of herbal remedies in TCM targeting oxidative stress in the management of SCA3. A literature search for relevant articles published from 1 January 2013 to 30 June 2023 in three databases, namely PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, was carried out according to the procedures of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A total of ten preclinical studies met the inclusion criteria of the systematic review. We recognized the therapeutic potential of Brassica napus, Codonopsis pilosula, Curcuma sp., Gardenia jasminoides, Gastrodia elata, Ginkgo biloba, Glycyrrhiza inflata, Hericium erinaceus, Hyptis sp., Paeonia lactiflora, Panax ginseng, Poria cocos, Pueraria lobata, Rehmannia glutinosa, and Scrophularia ningpoensis. We identified the types of preclinical models expressing polyglutamine (polyQ) expanded mutant protein (mATXN3), inducers of oxidative stress that mimic the SCA3 pathogenesis, and effective doses of the herbal remedies. The modes of action contributing to the attenuation of oxidative stress are activation of antioxidant pathways, ubiquitin-proteasome system and autophagy, regulation of apoptosis, proinflammatory signaling pathway and chaperones, regulation of mitochondrial function and biogenesis, and restoration of neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. In conclusion, herbal remedies in TCM may possibly delay the progression of SCA3, therefore providing justification for clinical trials.

O241: A multi-omic systematic review of metabolites involved in predicting of the response to neoadjuvant therapy in locally advanced rectal cancer

Abstract Introduction Locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT), displays varying treatment responses. Despite extensive research in the "omics" fields, clinical practice lacks NCRT predictive biomarkers for LARC. Metabolomics, an emerging "omics" discipline, quantitatively assesses small metabolites' influence on the phenotype and has successfully identified biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis, including colorectal cancer. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to identify metabolomic studies in LARC patients undergoing NCRT and elucidate treatment response-associated metabolic pathways. Methods A systematic review was performed using Pubmed, Web of Science, and Scopus, collating statistically significant metabolites from selected studies. Subsequently, pathway and enrichment analyses were performed using Metaboanalyst 5.0. Results Eight eligible studies examined 184 metabolites. Pathway analysis revealed fifteen significant metabolic pathways, notably emphasizing alanine and branched chain amino acid metabolism. Enrichment analysis confirmed the importance of alanine metabolism, alongside oxidative phosphorylation, gluconeogenesis, and glycolysis. Discussion In these pathways, paramount significance lies in their ability to generate ATP to meet increased energy demands via oxidative phosphorylation and gluconeogenesis, crucial in the context of NCRT. Furthermore, pathways proficient in neutralizing harmful reactive oxidation species, contributors to radiation-induced DNA damage, play a critical role in treatment response determination. In summary, the metabolomic landscape in LARC patients undergoing NCRT sheds light on pivotal pathways for predicting treatment response. These findings underscore the importance of energy metabolism and the attenuation of oxidative stress as promising avenues for further research and the development of LARC therapy predictive biomarkers.

Bacillus subtilis HW2 enhances growth performance and alleviates gut injury via attenuation of endoplasmic reticulum stress and regulation of gut microbiota in broilers under necrotic enteritis challenge

This study investigated the effects of Bacillus subtilis HW2 on the growth performance, immune response, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and intestinal health in broilers with necrotic enteritis. Three hundred 1-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers (33.88 ± 2.34 g) were randomly allocated to 5 groups including non-infected control (NC group), basal diet + necrotic enteritis challenge (NE group), basal diet + 1 × 106 CFU/g B. subtilis HW2 + necrotic enteritis challenge (L-Pro group), basal diet + 5 × 106 CFU/g B. subtilis HW2 + necrotic enteritis challenge (M-Pro group), and basal diet + 1 × 107 CFU/g B. subtilis HW2 + necrotic enteritis challenge (H-Pro group), with 6 replicates per group. All broilers except NC group were orally given with sporulated coccidian oocysts at day 14 and Clostridium perfringens from days 19 to 21. Results showed that L-Pro and M-Pro groups improved growth performance and intestinal morphology in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers, and L-Pro, M-Pro, and H-Pro groups improved intestinal barrier function and immune response and decreased ER stress in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. Analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that L-Pro group increased the abundances of Alistipes, Coprobacter, Barnesiella, and Limosilactobacillus, decreased Erysipelatoclostridium abundance on day 42 in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. M-Pro group increased Turicibacter abundance on day 28 and the abundances of Alistipes, Barnesiella, and Limosilactobacillus on day 42 in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. H-Pro group decreased Romboutsia abundance on day 28 and unidentified_Clostridia abundance on day 42 in necrotic enteritis-challenged broilers. Analysis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) revealed higher isobutyric acid and isovaleric acid levels in L-Pro and M-Pro groups than NE group. Correlation analysis revealed the correlations between the biochemical parameters and gut microbiota as well as SCFAs, especially Romboutsia, Barnesiella, Coprobacter, isobutyric acid, and isovaleric acid. Overall, our results indicated that B. subtilis HW2 supplementation could ameliorate necrotic enteritis infection-induced gut injury. The optimal dietary supplementation dosage of Bacillus subtilis HW2 was 5 × 106 CFU/g.

The Effects of Oxygen-Derived Free-Radical Scavengers During Normothermic Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion.

Oxidative stress occurs during ex-situ heart perfusion (ESHP) and may negatively affect functional preservation of the heart. We sought to assess the status of key antioxidant enzymes during ESHP, and the effects of augmenting these antioxidants on the attenuation of oxidative stress and improvement of myocardial and endothelial preservation in ESHP. Porcine hearts were perfused for 6 hours with oxygen-derived free-radical scavengers polyethylene glycol (PEG)-catalase or PEG-superoxide dismutase (SOD) or with naive perfusate (control). The oxidative stress-related modifications were determined in the myocardium and coronary vasculature, and contractile function, injury, and endothelial integrity were compared between the groups. The activity of key antioxidant enzymes decreased and adding catalase and SOD restored the enzyme activity. Cardiac function and endothelial integrity were preserved better with restored catalase activity. Catalase and SOD both decreased myocardial injury and catalase reduced ROS production and oxidative modification of proteins in the myocardium and coronary vasculature. The activity of antioxidant enzymes decrease in ESHP. Catalase may improve the preservation of cardiac function and endothelial integrity during ESHP. While catalase and SOD may both exert cardioprotective effects, unbalanced SOD and catalase activity may paradoxically increase the production of reactive species during ESHP.

Attenuation of Oxidative Stress in Erythrocytes Stored with Vitamin C and l-Carnitine in Additive Solution-7.

Background: Blood transfusion has advanced toward component therapy for specific requirements during trauma and surgery. Oxidative stress is induced in erythrocytes during storage. Hence, antioxidants as additives can be employed to counteract oxidative stress and enhance antioxidant defenses. Therefore, this study investigates the combinatorial effects of vitamin C and l-carnitine on erythrocytes during storage. Methodology: Erythrocyte samples were categorized into control and experimental groups-vitamin C (10 mM) and l-carnitine (10 mM) and stored under blood bank conditions (at 4°C) for 35 days. Hemoglobin (Hb), antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT] and glutathione peroxidase [GPX]), lipid peroxidation products (conjugate dienes and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARSs]), protein oxidation products, metabolic markers (glucose, lactate dehydrogenase), glutathione (GSH), superoxides, and hemolysis were assessed at weekly intervals. Results: SOD activity increased on day 7 in the controls, whereas it increased on days 7 and 14 in the experimental groups. CAT activity increased on day 35 in both the groups. GPX activity increased on day 7 in the controls. Hb levels decreased on days 14 and 35 in the controls and on day 35 in the experimental groups. Hemolysis increased from day 7 onward in both the groups. Protein oxidation products were maintained throughout the storage. GSH levels increased on day 21 in the controls and on days 14 and 21 in the experimental groups. Superoxides and conjugate dienes decreased from day 14 in both the groups. TBARSs decreased on day 7 in the experimental groups. Conclusion: Vitamin C and l-carnitine have synergistically enhanced the efficacy of stored erythrocytes in terms of Hb, antioxidant enzymes, and lipid peroxidation.

Neutrophils and NADPH Oxidases Are Major Contributors to Mild but Not Severe Ischemic Acute Kidney Injury in Mice.

Upregulation of free radical-generating NADPH oxidases (NOX), xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR), and neutrophil infiltration-induced, NOX2-mediated respiratory burst contribute to renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), but their roles may depend on the severity of IRI. We investigated the role of NOX, XOR, and neutrophils in developing IRI of various severities. C57BL/6 and Mcl-1ΔMyelo neutrophil-deficient mice were used. Oxidases were silenced by RNA interference (RNAi) or pharmacologically inhibited. Kidney function, morphology, immunohistochemistry and mRNA expression were assessed. After reperfusion, the expression of NOX enzymes and XOR increased until 6 h and from 15 h, respectively, while neutrophil infiltration was prominent from 3 h. NOX4 and XOR silencing or pharmacological XOR inhibition did not protect the kidney from IRI. Attenuation of NOX enzyme-induced oxidative stress by apocynin and neutrophil deficiency improved kidney function and ameliorated morphological damage after mild but not moderate/severe IRI. The IR-induced postischemic renal functional impairment (BUN, Lcn-2), tubular necrosis score, inflammation (TNF-α, F4/80), and decreases in the antioxidant enzyme (GPx3) mRNA expression were attenuated by both apocynin and neutrophil deficiency. Inhibition of NOX enzyme-induced oxidative stress or the lack of infiltration by NOX2-expressing neutrophils can attenuate reperfusion injury after mild but not moderate/severe renal IR.

Research on less temperature flawing resistance of steel residue asphalt composition based on SCB test

In view of the increasing application of steel residue in asphalt pavement construction in China, in order to analyze the less temperature flawing resistance of steel residue asphalt composition, the less temperature semi-circular bending test (SCB) was used to analyze the less temperature flawing resistance of steel residue asphalt composition (SSAC-13) with various residue content based on the stress peak value and stress attenuation, rupture toughness, rupture energy and critical rupture energy density. The results show that the content of steel residue has a noticeable influence on the less temperature flawing resistance of steel residue asphalt composition. Considering the less temperature flawing resistance, the recommended steel residue content is 40%.

Hydrogen exerts neuroprotective effects after subarachnoid hemorrhage by attenuating neuronal ferroptosis and inhibiting neuroinflammation

ObjectiveSpontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), the third most common stroke subtype, is associated with high mortality and disability rates. Therefore, finding effective therapies to improve neurological function after SAH is critical. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of hydrogen in the context of SAH, specifically, by examining its role in attenuating neuronal ferroptosis and inhibiting neuroinflammation, which are exacerbated by excess iron ions after SAH. Methods: Mice were exposed to chambers containing 3% hydrogen, and cells were cultured in incubators containing 60% hydrogen. Neurological function in mice was assessed using behavioral scores. Protein changes were detected using western blotting. Inflammatory factors were detected using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Probes, electron microscopy, and related kits were employed to detect oxidative stress and ferroptosis. Results: Hydrogen improved the motor function, sensory function, and cognitive ability of mice after SAH. Additionally, hydrogen facilitated Nuclear factor erythroid 2 -related factor 2 activation, upregulated Glutathione peroxidase 4, and inhibited Toll-like receptor 4, resulting in downregulation of inflammatory responses, attenuation of oxidative stress after SAH, and inhibition of neuronal ferroptosis. Conclusion: Hydrogen exerts neuroprotective effects by inhibiting neuronal ferroptosis and attenuating neuroinflammation after SAH.

Evaluating the fracture characterization of asphalt mixtures under freeze-thaw damage based on full-field measurements

Understanding the fracture characterization of asphalt mixtures is important to improve pavement performance in seasonal frozen regions. It is necessary to analyze the cracking characteristics and mechanism of asphalt mixtures under the action of freeze–thaw damage. The semi-circular bending (SCB) crack test combined with digital image correlation (DIC) was conducted to evaluate the fracture characterization of asphalt mixtures under freeze–thaw cycles. The X-ray scanning measurement, bending beam rheology (BBR) test, oblique shear test, the generalized Maxwell model (GM), and the cohesive zone model (CZM) were utilized to reconstruct the 3D heterogeneous finite element (FE) model and reveal the damage mechanism. The results indicated that the freeze–thaw cycles negatively affected the cracking resistance of asphalt mixtures. After 20 freeze–thaw cycles, the fracture energy, stiffness, flexibility index, stress intensity factor, and crack evolution rate decreased by 22.96%, 19.53%, 63.93%, 63.93%, and 61.15%, respectively. The FE model was able to reflect the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures with different numbers of freeze–thaw cycles well. The FE model can well reflect the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures under different numbers of freeze–thaw cycles. It also reveals the deterioration of asphalt mortar properties and interfacial adhesion under the action of freeze–thaw damage, which leads to the reduction of internal stress transfer efficiency and attenuation of cracking resistance of asphalt mixtures. This study contributed to the damage mechanism evaluation of asphalt mixtures in seasonal frozen regions and may help with pavement design, construction, and maintenance.

Anti-hepatopathy and anti-nephropathy activities of Taraxacum officinale in a rat model of Streptozotocin diabetes-induced hepatorenal toxicity and dyslipidemia via attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, electrolyte imbalances, and mitochondrial dysfunction

Diabetes and chronic liver and kidney disease are common long-term conditions worldwide. Taraxacum officinale (TOE) has many medicinal properties, due to it phytochemicals constitutions. This study investigate activities of TOE in Streptozotocin diabetes-Induced Hepatorenal toxicity. Sixty rats were randomized into groups A, B, C, D, E, and F of ten rats each (n = 10). Group normal control, group B treated with TOE, group C diabetic (DM) negative control, group D DM rats treated with TOE, group E DM rats treated with metformin (MF)], group F treated with TOE follow by STZ-diabetic). Serum lipid profile, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), total proteins (TP), albumin (ALB), Urea, and creatinine, electrolyte, oxidative and antioxidant enzymes, caspase 3, inflammatory cytokines, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle enzymes and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), liver and kidney histology were investigated.Treatment with TOE ameliorated all the electrolyte disruptions in DM rats. Treatment with TOE and TOE + MF recovered caspase 3, inflammatory makers, oxidative and antioxidant enzymes in DM rats. Moreover, an increase in lipid profile, hepatic and renal functional markers, ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, TP, ALB, Urea, TCA and renal mitochondrial respiratory-chain complexes (I-IV) and ΔΨm and a decrease in creatinine clearance was recovered in DM rats by TOE and TOE + MF treatment. TOE and TOE + MF protected against hepatic and renal histological damage in DM group.Hepatorenal toxicity was effectively ameliorated by the TOE administration. TOE might be considered as a potential protective agent against hepatorenal toxicity.

The Role of Trabecular, Ligamentous-Intervertebral Disk and Facet Joints Systems: A Finite Element Analysis in the L4-S1 Vertebrae.

Descriptive. Trabecular bone in the vertebrae is critical for the distribution of load and stress throughout the neuroaxis, as well as the intervertebral disk, ligamentous complex, and facet joints. The objective was to assess the stress and strain distribution of the L4-S1 spine segment by a finite element analysis. A lumbosacral spine model was built based on a CT-Scan. Trabecular-to-cortical bone distribution, ligaments, intervertebral disk, and facet joints with cartilage were included. A perpendicular force was applied over the L4 upper terminal plate of 300N, 460N and 600N in neutral, plus 5Nm and 7.5Nm for flexion and extension movements. Maximum principal stress and total deformation were the main studied variables. Trabecular bone confers resistance to axial loads on the vertebrae by elastic capacity and stress distribution. MPS and TD showed axial stress attenuation in the nucleus pulposus and longitudinal ligaments, as well as load distribution capacity. Facet joints and discontinuous ligaments showed greater TD values in flexion moments but greater MPS values in extension, conferring stability to the lumbosacral junction and axial load distribution. We propose 3 anatomical systems for axial load distribution and stress attenuation in the lumbosacral junction. Trabecular bone distributes loads, while the ligamentous-intervertebral disk transmits and attenuate axial stress. Facet joints and discontinuous ligaments act as stabilizers for flexion and extension postures. Overall, the relationship between trabecular bone, ligamentous-intervertebral disk complex and facet joints is necessary for an efficient load distribution and segmental axial stress reduction.This slide can be retrieved from the Global Spine Congress 2023.

Stress Attenuation Effect of Combined Approach of Yoga and Diet Intervention Among Metabolic Syndrome Patients.

Persistent exposure to psychosocial stress is linked to an increased risk of metabolic disease, including obesity, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Metabolic syndrome is driven by an unhealthy lifestyle encompassing a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet as well as psychological distress, which potentially triggers these metabolic derailments. Various mind-body practices, such as postures, breathing, meditation, and relaxation, are included in yoga. Studies suggest that even one yoga session can improve cognitive function, oxygen saturation, baroreflex sensitivity, sympathovagal balance, and the body's ability to recover from stressful stimuli. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the stress attenuation effect of a combined approach of yoga and diet intervention among metabolic syndrome patients. In this study we randomized 200 subjects diagnosed with metabolic syndrome as per the Joint interim statement 2009 into control and combined (yoga+diet) groups according to their intervention which was given for 6 months. Anthropometric, physiological, perceived stress score and biochemical parameters were collected at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. The study's findings show that, at three and six months from baseline, the combined yoga with diet approach significantly reduced metabolic risk factors (waist circumference, SBP, DBP, fasting blood glucose, and triglycerides) and improved HDL. At three and six months following the combined (yoga+diet) intervention, the perceived stress score also showed a substantial reduction. Combined (yoga+diet) interventions are effective in lowering the risk of metabolic syndrome and perceived stress.

Protective effect of secretory APE1/Ref-1 on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via suppression of ROS and p53 pathway.

The clinical application of doxorubicin (DOX), a potent anthracycline anticancer drug that effectively treats various malignancies, is limited by its side effects, such as cardiomyopathy. Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (APE1/Ref-1) is a multifunctional protein that can be secreted and is a promising target for the reduction of DOX-induced inflammation and oxidative stress. We aimed to investigate the protective role of secretory APE1/Ref-1 against DOX-induced cardiac injury. Designated adenoviral preprotrypsin-leading sequence APE1/Ref-1 (Ad-PPTLS-APE1/Ref-1) was used to overexpress secretory APE1/Ref-1 and assess its role in preventing DOX-induced cardiomyopathy in vitro. Our findings revealed that exposure to secretory APE1/Ref-1 significantly decreased N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels in DOX-treated H9C2 cells. In addition, secretory APE1/Ref-1 reduced the severity of cardiomyocyte injury and apoptosis in both in vitro and in vivo DOX-induced cardiotoxicity models. The observed cardioprotective effects of secretory APE1/Ref-1 were mediated via inhibition of the p53 signalling pathway and enhancement of cell viability through attenuation of oxidative stress in DOX-treated cardiomyocytes. Our study provides evidence that secretory APE1/Ref-1 has the potential to inhibit DOX-induced cardiac toxicity by inhibiting oxidative stress and p53 related apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that secretory APE1/Ref-1 supplementation is a promising strategy to attenuate DOX-induced cardiomyocyte damage in a preclinical model. Further clinical investigations are essential to validate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of the intervention in human subjects.