Search Results (38,200)

The present study investigates post-emplacement zeolitization processes in two widespread pyroclastic units from Central Italy: the Cimina Ignimbrite and the Sorano Ignimbrite. A total of seventy-five samples from ten outcrops were analyzed using optical and environmental scanning electron microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, X-ray powder diffraction, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Analytical results allow the mineral distribution, zeolite composition, textural relationships, and geochemical features of the zeolite-bearing rocks to be defined. In the Cimina Ignimbrite, zeolitization affects the glassy portion of the groundmass, where the glass transforms into a medium- to high-temperature mineral assemblage dominated by clinoptilolite-Ca and cristobalite. This transformation is restricted to the innermost parts of the deposit. In contrast, zeolitization in the Sorano Ignimbrite involves the entire glassy fraction of pumice clasts, with extensive alteration of the glass into medium- to low-temperature zeolites such as chabazite-K and phillipsite-K. The results reveal a significant correlation between the chemical composition of the juvenile material and that of the newly formed zeolites in both types of ignimbrites, particularly in the Sorano Ignimbrite. Zeolitization in Central Italy ignimbrites likely occurs in a natural autoclave-like setting, where hot fluids remain trapped in the deposit for a long time. Full article

Zinc-based alloys have been extensively studied for their potential applications in biodegradable materials, yet their corrosion behaviour necessitates the development of effective surface treatments. In this study, a ZnMg alloy was developed by casting in an inert medium and subsequently treating it with Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO). The corrosion behaviour was characterised in a 0.9% NaCl solution through Tafel polarisation, cyclic polarisation, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Additionally, the surface morphology was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and EDX analysis. The structure and phases of the oxide layer and of the corrosion products were investigated through X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrochemical results demonstrated a substantial decrease in the corrosion current density and an increase in the polarisation resistance for the treated samples. Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) modelling revealed the formation of a layer exhibiting distinct capacitive behaviour, comprising two distinct regions. XRD analysis confirmed evidence of corrosion compounds characteristic of chlorinated media on the surface. The findings indicated that PEO treatment enhanced the corrosion resistance of the ZnMg alloy, suggesting its suitability for biomedical applications or exposure to marine environments characterised by high levels of corrosion. Full article

The rapid dissipation of soft metal lubricants would deteriorate the self-lubricating properties of the coatings at elevated temperatures. In this study, the core-shell structured Mo@Ag@Ni particles were prepared via electroless plating to suppress the rapid dissipation of Ag and facilitate tribochemical reactions at high temperatures. The NiCrAlY-Mo@Ag@Ni composite coating was sprayed on the substrate of Inconel 718 alloy using atmospheric plasma spraying technology. The results of this study show that the structural design of Mo@Ag@Ni can enhance the bonding strength of the particle interface, resulting in a high microhardness of approximately 332.2 HV. During high-temperature friction tests, Mo@Ag@Ni can provide excellent tribological properties by promoting the silver molybdate formation on the worn surface. At 800 °C, the friction coefficient and wear rate are only about 0.32 and 1.58 × 10⁻⁵ mm³N⁻¹m⁻¹, respectively. Moreover, the Ni shell layer can inhibit the rapid diffusion of Ag and provide sufficient Ag₂O to maintain the continuity of Ag₂MoO₄ lubricating film, which endows the coating with a longer lubrication life. Over multi-thermal cycles, the friction coefficient and wear rate constantly maintain at about 0.3 and 2.5 × 10⁻⁵ mm³N⁻¹m⁻¹, respectively. Full article

Background/Objectives: Low levels of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) in the blood can be used as a diagnostic marker for sepsis. SARS-CoV-2 infection, a more recent cause of sepsis, shares similarities with non-SARS-CoV-2 sepsis but also exhibits distinct features. We have recently shown that plasma cholesteryl ester levels are higher in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection than in patients without, and this study analysed whether this may extend to differences in LPC, a bioactive constituent of lipoproteins. Methods: The plasma levels of 13 LPC species were measured by flow injection analysis tandem mass spectrometry (FIA-MS/MS) in 157 patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), sepsis or septic shock. Of these patients, 24 had SARS-CoV-2 infection. Results: Patients with SIRS exhibited higher plasma levels of the minor LPC species LPC 15:0 and 22:4 compared to those with sepsis or septic shock. Five LPC species were also reduced in the plasma of 31 patients with liver cirrhosis; therefore, patients with cirrhosis or SIRS were excluded from subsequent analyses. Compared to 76 non-COVID-19 patients with sepsis or septic shock, SARS-CoV-2 infection in 21 patients was associated with significantly higher plasma levels of ten individual LPC species and total LPC concentration. In patients with sepsis/septic shock, LPC species showed negative correlations with procalcitonin and interleukin-6, and positive correlations with gamma-glutamyltransferase and cholesteryl ester levels. In contrast, no significant associations were observed between LPC levels and C-reactive protein, aminotransferases, or free cholesterol. Conclusions: Differential LPC levels, despite comparable disease severity, may serve as metabolic biomarkers to distinguish SARS-CoV-2 sepsis from other causes of sepsis and inform targeted therapeutic approaches. Full article

Background and Objectives: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) represents an increasing public health concern, closely linked with cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurocognitive disorders, as well as impaired quality of life. The complex pathophysiology of OSA involves upper airway dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation, with endothelial dysfunction considered central to its associated comorbidities. Despite notable advances in OSA research, the biological mechanisms driving these complications remain insufficiently understood. The present study aimed to examine the associations between redox status, proinflammatory biomarkers, and the gene expression of full-length receptor for advanced glycation end products (flRAGE) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) in relation to the presence and severity of OSA. Materials and Methods: The study cohort comprised 125 participants with diagnosed OSA and 42 controls without evidence of OSA. General and clinical characteristics were recorded for all participants. Laboratory analyses included the assessment of redox and inflammatory markers in serum and plasma, while flRAGE and TGF-β1 messenger ribonucleic acids (mRNA) were quantified in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results: Patients with OSA demonstrated elevated oxidative stress and inflammation, characterized by increased total antioxidant status (TAS) and C-reactive protein CRP levels, together with reduced concentrations of soluble RAGE (sRAGE). The severity of OSA, indicated by the apnea-hypopnea index, increases total oxidative status (TOS) and TGF-β1 mRNA, while sRAGE decreases. The sRAGE–ROS-related factor was negatively associated with OSA, whereas the redox status factor showed a positive association. TOS was independently and positively correlated with OSA severity. Conclusions: Individuals with OSA exhibit a state of enhanced oxidative stress and inflammation. Increasing severity of OSA was associated with rising TOS and TGF-β1 mRNA expression, accompanied by declining sRAGE concentrations. A combined redox–inflammatory biomarker profile was found to be associated with both the presence and severity of OSA. Full article

Background: Periodontitis (PD) is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with systemic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). PANoptosis—a form of regulated cell death integrating pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis—has been implicated in inflammatory diseases, but its role in PD and its overlap with COPD is not well understood. Methods: Gene expression datasets for PD and COPD were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Differentially expressed genes were intersected with 78 PANoptosis-related genes. Functional enrichment (GO, KEGG), protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, and machine learning (XGBoost with ROC curves) identified key regulatory genes. Immune infiltration was evaluated, and drug–gene interactions were analyzed using DGIDB. Results: Seven PANoptosis-related core genes—ACO1, NLRC4, CASP8, HSPA4, IL1B, MEFV, and CYCS—were identified in both PD and COPD. These genes were enriched in pathways involving inflammasomes, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Immune analysis showed significant differences in B cells, T cells, dendritic cells, and plasma cells. Potential drug targets, including IL1B and CASP8, were identified. Conclusions: This is the first study to link PANoptosis to both PD and COPD. The findings reveal shared molecular mechanisms and suggest PANoptosis-related genes as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in chronic inflammatory oral disease. Full article

The aim of this study was to evaluate the haemostatic potential and biocompatibility of a newly developed composite material for its use in blood-contacting applications. Based on promising reports on polylactide (PLA), sodium alginate (ALG), and bioactive additives such as hardystonite (HT) and zinc sulphide (ZnS), a melt-blown PLA nonwoven was modified via dip-coating using an ALG solution as a matrix for incorporating HT and ZnS particles, resulting in the PLA-ALG-ZnS-HT composite. The material was characterised in terms of surface morphology, specific surface area, pore volume, average pore size, and zeta potential (pH~7.4). Haemostatic activity was assessed by measuring blood coagulation parameters, while biocompatibility was evaluated through the viability of human peripheral blood mononuclear (PBM) cells and human foreskin fibroblasts (Hs68). Genotoxicity was analysed using the comet assay and plasmid relaxation test. Results confirmed a uniform alginate coating with dispersed HT and ZnS particles on PLA fibres. The modification increased the surface area and pore volume and caused a shift toward less negative zeta potential. Haemostatic testing showed prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), likely due to Zn²⁺ interactions with clotting factors. Biocompatibility tests showed high cell viability and no genotoxic effects. Our findings suggest that the PLA-ALG-ZnS-HT composite is safe for blood and skin cells and may serve as an anticoagulant material. Full article

Silicon carbide (SiC) has become the material of choice for precision optical systems due to its exceptional optical characteristics. However, conventional anti-reflection strategies for SiC components predominantly utilize deposited thin-film coatings, which are frequently compromised by insufficient environmental robustness and long-term stability concerns. To overcome these limitations, direct nanostructuring of SiC substrates has emerged as a promising alternative solution. This work introduces an innovative graded-index microcone array design fabricated on SiC substrates, achieving superior broadband anti-reflection performance. Our two-step fabrication methodology comprises plasma-induced formation of tunable nanofiber etch masks through controlled argon bombardment parameters, followed by precision reactive ion etching (RIE) for microcone array formation. By systematically varying plasma exposure duration, we demonstrate precise control over nanofiber mask morphology, which in turn enables the fabrication of height-optimized SiC microcone arrays. The resulting structures exhibit exceptional optical performance, achieving an ultra-low average reflectivity of 2.25% across the spectral range of 2.5–8 μm. This breakthrough fabrication technique not only extends the available toolbox for SiC micro/nanofabrication but also provides a robust platform for next-generation optical applications. Unlike conventional thin-film approaches, our nanostructuring method preserves the intrinsic mechanical and environmental durability of the SiC substrate while delivering a favorable optical performance. Full article

In the race toward next-generation electronics and energy systems, ceramic nanocomposites have taken center stage due to their remarkable dielectric and ferroelectric functionalities. By pushing the boundaries of nanoscale engineering, recent studies have shown how microstructural control and interfacial design can unlock unprecedented levels of polarization, permittivity, and frequency stability. This review presents a critical and up-to-date synthesis of the last decade’s progress in ceramic-based nanocomposites, with a special focus on the structure property processing nexus. Diverse processing techniques ranging from conventional sintering to advanced spark plasma sintering and scalable wet-chemical methods are analyzed for their influence on phase purity, grain boundary behavior, and interfacial polarization. The review also explores breakthroughs in lead-free and eco-friendly systems, flexible ferroelectric nanocomposites, and high-k dielectrics suitable for miniaturized devices. By identifying both the scientific opportunities and persistent challenges in this rapidly evolving field, this work aims to guide future innovations in material design, device integration, and sustainable performance. Full article

Background: Several studies have established correlations between low serum levels of vitamin D and various pathologies, such as diabetes mellitus and its complications. However, few studies analyze its levels in matrices other than blood plasma, such as tears and saliva. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of using tears and saliva as alternative biological matrices for laboratory assessment of vitamin D and glucose concentration in individuals with type II diabetes mellitus and healthy individuals, using the electrochemiluminescence method. Methods: This study included volunteers with type II diabetes and healthy controls, excluding those with certain comorbidities or a BMI ≥ 40. Blood, tear, and saliva samples were taken after 3 h of fasting for biochemical analysis of fasting glucose and vitamin D. Statistical analysis was conducted using GraphPad Prism^® 8.0—with Pearson and other tests to evaluate correlations—at a significance level of 5% and test power > 95%. Results: A negative correlation between serum vitamin D values and those found in saliva (p = 0.041) was found, as well as a positive correlation between serum glucose values and those found in tears (p = 0.0254). Conclusions: Tears and saliva samples can be used as proxies for venous blood samples in specific situations, such as studying blood glucose levels and vitamin D levels. However, expanding the sample size is essential to confirm the correlation and develop an accurate equation for estimating serum levels of these markers using these alternative matrices. Full article

Dromedary camels raised under semi-extensive management can act as One Health sentinels for environmental exposures and food chain surveillance, yet serum reference information remains scarce. Our objective was to provide the most comprehensive assessment to date of physiological and toxicological serum profiles in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) from the Canary Islands. We included 114 clinically healthy animals of different sex, age, and reproductive status. Serum samples were analyzed for essential, toxic, and potentially toxic elements using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In addition, a high-throughput multi-residue method based on QuEChERS extraction followed by UHPLC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS was used to screen for 360 organic compounds, including pesticides, veterinary drugs, human pharmaceuticals, and persistent organic pollutants. Essential elements showed biologically consistent variations according to sex, age group, and pregnancy status. Males had higher levels of selenium and copper, while calves showed elevated concentrations of manganese and zinc. Pregnant females exhibited lower iron, zinc, and selenium levels, consistent with increased fetal demand. These results provide preliminary reference values for healthy camels, stratified by physiological status. In contrast, classical toxic elements such as arsenic, mercury, lead, and cadmium were found at very low or undetectable concentrations. Several potentially toxic elements, including barium, strontium, and rare earth elements, were detected sporadically but without toxicological concern. Only 13 organic compounds (3.6%) were detected in any sample, and concentrations were consistently low. The most prevalent was the PAH acenaphthene (55.3%), followed by the fungicide procymidone and the PAH fluorene. Notably, no residues of the usually detected 4,4′-DDE or PCB congeners were found in any sample. These findings confirm the low environmental and dietary exposure of camels under low-intensity farming systems and highlight their value as sentinel species for food safety and environmental monitoring. Full article

The demand for antimicrobial and biocompatible materials in biomedical applications continues to grow, particularly in the context of wound care and textiles. This study explores the development of multifunctional coatings by applying magnesium (Mg) nanoparticles onto medical-grade cotton textiles using magnetron sputtering—a solvent-free and environmentally sustainable technique. A comprehensive material characterization confirmed the formation of Mg, MgO and Mg(OH)₂/MgH₂ phases, along with generally consistent particle coverage and increased fiber surface roughness. The antibacterial testing revealed the effective inhibition of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria—except Enterococcus faecalis. Additionally, the growth of the fungus Candida albicans and the microalgae Prototheca spp. was reduced by over 80%. Importantly, a cytocompatibility evaluation using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) demonstrated not only non-toxicity but a significant increase in cell viability after 72 h, particularly in samples treated for 20 and 60 min, indicating a potential cytoprotective and proliferative effect. These findings highlight the dual functionality of plasma-sputtered Mg nanoparticle coatings, offering a promising strategy for the development of eco-friendly, antimicrobial and cell-supportive medical textiles. Full article

Background/Objectives: Reflecting the interaction between dissolution and absorption, the biphasic dissolution system is an appealing approach for estimating the intestinal absorption of drugs in humans. The study aims to characterize the suitability of the biphasic in vitro dissolution testing to set up an in vitro–in vivo correlation (IVIVC) for the original and generic immediate-release (IR) tablets of a Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) Class II drug, bicalutamide (BIC). Methods: USP apparatus II paddle was used to conduct dissolution testing. A level A IVIVC was obtained between in vitro partitioning and in vivo absorption data of the original drug. The single-compartmental modeling was used for pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis. The generic product’s plasma concentrations were estimated. Results: There was a good correlation between in vitro and in vivo data (r² = 0.98). The area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) and maximum plasma concentration (C_max) ratios for generic/original were 1.04 ± 0.01 and 0.951 ± 0.026 (mean ± SD), respectively. Conclusions: The biphasic dissolution testing may present an in vivo predictive tool for developing generic products of poorly soluble and highly permeable drugs such as BIC, which are characterized by pH-independent poor solubility. Full article

Endothelial activation and cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are exacerbated in the interaction of HIV infection and pre-eclampsia. This study compares the levels of soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), and E-selectin (sE-selectin) in HIV-infected normotensive pregnant versus pre-eclamptic women. We investigated the plasma concentration of sVCAM-1, sICAM-1, and sE-selectin in normotensive pregnant women (n = 40) and pre-eclamptic women (n = 40) using an immunoassay procedure. The concentrations of both sVCAM-1 (p < 0.0083) and sE-selectin (p < 0.0260) were significantly different from sICAM-1 in pre-eclampsia compared to normotensive pregnant groups, irrespective of HIV status. In contrast to sVCAM-1, sICAM-1 (p = 0.0349) and sE-selectin (p < 0.0445) concentrations were significantly elevated in HIV-positive compared to HIV-negative groups, regardless of pregnancy type. In pregnancies complicated by HIV, statistically significant differences in ICAM-1 concentration were observed between pre-eclamptic HIV-positive versus pre-eclamptic HIV-negative groups (p < 0.0010). Similarly, sVCAM-1 levels differed significantly between pre-eclamptic HIV-negative and normotensive HIV-positive groups (p < 0.0139). In contrast, sE-selectin levels varied significantly between pre-eclamptic HIV-positive versus normotensive HIV-negative groups (p < 0.0485). We report a dysregulation of sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, and SE-selectin in the co-morbidity of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women living with HIV. This differential expression may be attributed to oxidative stress emanating from the hypoxic endothelial activation in both pre-eclampsia and HIV infection and exacerbated by the immune restorative action of antiretroviral therapy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Plasma cell gingivitis (PCG) is a rare, benign, non-dental-plaque-induced inflammatory condition characterized by dense subepithelial infiltration of polyclonal plasma cells. Due to its nonspecific clinical presentation, PCG represents a diagnostic challenge. This case report aims to describe a clinical case of PCG, highlighting the diagnostic process, histopathological correlation, and therapeutic approach. Methods: A 57-year-old male presented with a polypoid, erythematous, and edematous gingival lesion in the anterior maxillary region, with spontaneous bleeding on probing. Following clinic assessment, an incisional biopsy was performed, alongside complete hematological and inflammatory profiling. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed the presence of an inflammatory infiltrate. Results: Histological evaluation revealed spongiotic squamous epithelium characterized by a dense plasma cell infiltrate with a liquenoid pattern of CD3-positive T and CD20-positive B lymphocytes. A polytypic expression of kappa and lambda light chains was also detected. The patient underwent topical corticosteroid therapy, showing progressive clinical improvement and resolution of symptoms, although minor mucosal involvement persisted. Conclusions: PCG remains a rare and underdiagnosed condition requiring integration of clinical, hematological, and histopathological data for accurate diagnosis. While corticosteroids remain the first-line therapy, emerging treatments, including photobiomodulation, may offer future adjunctive strategies to improve outcomes and reduce recurrence. Full article