Search Results (1,134)

This study presented the successful synthesis of a visible light responsive Z-scheme BiTmDySbO₇/BiEuO₃ heterojunction photocatalyst (BBHP) via the hydrothermal method, exhibiting outstanding removal efficiency for degrading the metronidazole (MNZ) in wastewater. The BBHP exhibited exceptional photocatalytic activity during the degradation process of the MNZ which was a widely detected pharmaceutical pollutant in aquatic environments. The key to the high photocatalytic activity of the BBHP was the formation of a Z-scheme photogenerated carrier transport channel which existed between BiTmDySbO₇ and BiEuO₃ within the heterojunction structure. This innovative structural design was experimentally confirmed for enhancing the separation efficiency of the photogenerated charge carriers significantly, thereby, the efficient photocatalytic activity of the BBHP was promoted. After visible light irradiation for 130 min, the BBHP achieved a removal efficiency of 99.56% for degrading MNZ and a mineralization rate of 98.11% for removing the total organic carbon (TOC) concentration. In contrast to a single photocatalyst, the removal rate of the MNZ by using the BBHP was 1.14 times that by using the BiEuO₃, 1.26 times that by using the BiTmDySbO₇, and 2.65 times that by using the nitrogen-doped TiO₂ (N-T) under visible light irradiation. The mineralization rate for removing the TOC concentration during the degradation process of the MNZ by using the BBHP was 1.17 times that by using the BiEuO₃, 1.29 times that by using the BiTmDySbO₇, and 2.86 times that by using the N-T under visible light irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation process of the MNZ by using the BBHP followed first-order kinetics model, concurrently, a dynamics rate constant of 0.0345 min⁻¹ was obtained. Furthermore, the BBHP demonstrated excellent stability and durability in accordance with multiple cyclic degradation experiments. According to the capturing radicals experiments and the electron paramagnetic resonance test experiments, it was determined that the hydroxyl radicals (•OH) and the superoxide anions (•O₂⁻) played key role during the photocatalytic degradation process of the MNZ by using the BBHP under visible light irradiation. Finally, the intermediate products that were produced during the degradation process of the MNZ were analyzed by using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer, as a result, a potential degradation pathway for the MNZ was proposed. Overall, this study could provide valuable references for future research on composite photocatalysts and effectively maintain the safety and sustainable utilization of water resource. Full article

Despite significant interest in their functional properties, the mechanical behavior of high-entropy oxides (HEOs) is not well studied, particularly at elevated temperatures. Bulk (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn)O (transition metal (TM)-HEO) samples were deformed under compression at applied stresses and temperatures ranging from 5 to 31 MPa and 600 to 850 °C, respectively. All of the deformation conditions result in creep stress exponents of n < 3, indicating that TM-HEO exhibits superplastic deformation. A transition from structural to solution-precipitation-based superplasticity is observed during deformation above 650 °C. Additionally, TM-HEO exhibits shear-thickening behavior when deformed at stresses above 9 MPa. The formation and behavior of a Cu-rich tenorite secondary phase during deformation is identified as a key factor underpinning the deformation mechanisms. The microstructure and phase state of TM-HEO before deformation also influenced the behavior, with finer grain sizes and increasing concentrations of Cu-rich tenorite, resulting in the increased prevalence of solution-precipitation deformation. While complex, the results of this study indicate that TM-HEO deforms through known superplastic deformation mechanisms. Superplasticity is a highly efficient manufacturing method and could prove to be a valuable strategy for forming HEO ceramics into complex geometries. Full article

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a highly selective, clinically approved, minimally invasive technique that effectively eliminates cancer cells. Its effectiveness is limited by poor light penetration into tissue and the hydrophobic nature of photosensitizers, highlighting the need for new approaches to treatment. Here, a theranostic upconversion nanoplatform, consisting of a NaYF₄:Yb,Er,Tm,Fe core and a NaHoF₄ shell codoped with Yb, Nd, Gd and Tb ions, was designed to enhance PDT outcomes by integrating multi-wavelength upconversion luminescence, T₂-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and PDT. The synthesized core–shell upconversion nanoparticles (CS-UCNPs) were coated with new verteporfin (VP)-conjugated alendronate-terminated poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide-co-2-aminoethyl acrylate) [Ale-P(DMA-AEA)] grafted with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). Under 980 nm NIR irradiation, CS-UCNP@Ale-P(DMA-AEA)-PEG-VP nanoparticles generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the efficient energy transfer between CS-UCNPs and VP. In a pilot preclinical study, intratumoral administration of nanoparticle conjugates to mice, followed by exposure to NIR light, induced necrosis of pancreatic tumor and suppressed its growth. Full article

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) represent a heterogeneous group of environmental opportunistic pathogens that have emerged particularly in immunocompromised individuals and patients with underlying pulmonary disorders. NTM infections primarily affect the lungs, but can also manifest as lymphadenitis, skin and soft tissue infections, and disseminated disease. This retrospective study took into consideration 425 NTM-positive samples collected between May 2011 and December 2023, analyzed by sample type, sex, and age group (0–17, 18–49, 50–65, >65 years). Antimicrobial susceptibility analysis was performed on the 223 NTM strains with greater pathogenic power and most frequently isolated, from 2016 to 2023. Pulmonary NTM disease (NTM-PD) infections were most prevalent in patients over 65 years (52.1%), while extrapulmonary NTM disease (NTM-EPD) occurred most frequently in the 0–17 age group (56.4%). Women were slightly more affected (54.4%) than men (45.6%), with the highest incidence in female individuals over 65 years old. The most frequently isolated NTM species was the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) (47% of isolates). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of 223 isolates from 2016 to 2023 revealed species-specific resistance patterns, with high susceptibility to clarithromycin in MAC (94.7%) and Mycobacterium chelonae (100%), but notable resistance in Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC). The increasing incidence of NTM infections underscores the need for improved diagnostic techniques and targeted treatment strategies. Full article

Impairments of executive function following acquired brain injury including stroke (ABI) contribute significantly to long-lasting everyday difficulties in life. Pilot work on the CO-OP Approach^TM (Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance Approach), a contextualized strategy training intervention, with ABI adults with executive dysfunction showed improved performance on untrained everyday life tasks and cognitive flexibility. Objective: Our objective was to determine the efficacy of the CO-OP Approach relative to usual occupational therapy (UOT) for community-dwelling adult survivors of ABI with executive dysfunction. Methods: Eighty-seven participants were randomized to receive CO-OP (n = 45) or UOT (n = 42) in their homes. All participants identified five personally meaningful, everyday life goals (using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM)) and received up to 15 one-hour treatment sessions twice per week. Three goals were trained, and two were untrained. Interventions were provided by occupational therapists registered with their regulatory college. The CO-OP group was trained to apply a meta-cognitive strategy to three goals. The UOT group received therapy based on the clinicians’ (experienced in community settings) determination. Testers were masked to the participants’ group. Analysis at the primary outcome (Post-test, ~10 weeks following baseline) was on an intent-to-treat basis. Results: Participants in the CO-OP group had a mean age of 57.5 years, a mean time post-ABI of 5.3 years, and were 57.8% men. Those in the usual OT group had a mean age of 54.7 years, a mean time post-ABI of 6.2 years, and were 69.0% men. The CO-OP group reported statistically significant higher improvements on COPM performance and satisfaction scores post-test for untrained and trained goals. However, these benefits were not retained at follow-up (three months post-baseline). Conclusions: The CO-OP Approach^TM shows promise for improving performance in everyday life goals for individuals with chronic ABI relative to usual community occupational therapy. Achieving retention of these benefits remains a challenge. Full article

This study examines the biocompatibility of 11 modern wound dressings (WDs)―Syspur-derm^®, Parapran^®, Lomatuell^®H, Voskopran^®, Metalline^®, Granuflex^®, Chitopran^®, HydroTac^®transparent, Branolind^®N, Aquacel^TM adhesive foam, Aquacel^TMAg⁺―developed for the treatment of acute and chronic wounds, and their potential use as secondary WD for the hydrogel-based bioengineered skin equivalent (BSE) “Equivalent Dermal, ED”. The study was conducted to better understand the properties of these WDs that influence the healing process. The biocompatibility of WDs was evaluated in vitro based on their effects on the viability of human dermal fibroblasts (DFs). The MTT assay, lifetime analysis of DFs’ morphological state, and analysis of their actin cytoskeletal organization using a WDs’ extracts showed that effects of WD on DFs varied among WDs. It has been revealed that WDs Parapran^®, Lomatuell^®H, Voskopran^®, Metalline^® and Chitopran^® have high biocompatibility and can be effectively used for wound treatment, whereas Granuflex^®, Syspyr-derm^®, HydroTac^® transparent, Branolind^®N, Aquacel^TM adhesive foam and Aquacel^TMAg⁺ have lower biocompatibility, so they could be used for wound therapy with caution. Only Parapran^® with chlorhexidine showed high biocompatibility with the BSE “The Dermal Equivalent, ED” and can be safely used in combination with it as a secondary WD. Full article

Despite growing evidence on the adaptive movement patterns that horses adopt during water treadmill (WT) exercise, underlying adaptations in muscle activity remain uninvestigated. This feasibility study aimed to develop a method for the synchronous measurement of muscle activity and movement of horses during WT exercise. Combined surface electromyography (sEMG) (2000 Hz) from selected hindlimb (biceps femoris, gluteus medius, tensor fasciae latae) and epaxial (longissimus dorsi) muscles, and three-dimensional kinematic (200 Hz) data from the back and pelvis of one (n = 1) horse were collected during overground (OG), dry treadmill (TM), and WT walking conditions. Statistical parametric mapping evaluated differences in time- and amplitude-normalised sEMG and thoracolumbar and pelvis kinematic waveforms between conditions. Distinct, significant (p < 0.05) adaptations in hindlimb and epaxial muscle activation patterns and axial and pelvic kinematics, were observed in this horse across exercise conditions. Adaptive muscle activity was most pronounced in this horse during WT, compared to OG walking. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of this method, which combines sEMG and motion capture technologies to synchronously quantify equine movement and muscle activation patterns during WT exercise. This justifies the replication of this work in a larger sample of horses to inform evidence-based training and rehabilitation programmes. Full article

Background: Cyclosporine (CSA) is a fast-acting systemic immunosuppressant frequently used in moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD), but its long-term use is limited by toxicity. AD affects as many as 20% of children and nearly 10% of adults worldwide and its chronic, recurrent course often requires several systemic treatment lines, making optimization of sequential therapy a high clinical priority. Tralokinumab, an IL-13–targeting monoclonal antibody, represents a safer alternative with a slower onset of action. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of tralokinumab initiated as monotherapy versus in overlap with CSA during the transition from conventional to biologic therapy. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study involving 27 adults with moderate-to-severe AD treated with tralokinumab for at least 16 weeks. Patients were categorized into two groups: tralokinumab monotherapy plus topical agents (TM; n = 23) and tralokinumab initiated with a cyclosporine overlap for up to 12 weeks (TO; n = 4). Disease severity was evaluated using the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), and numerical rating scale (NRS) for pruritus at baseline and weeks 16, 24, and 52. Results: Both TM and TO groups demonstrated significant clinical improvement across all outcomes, with no statistically significant differences between groups (p > 0.05 for EASI, IGA, and NRS). At week 52, TM patients showed mean reductions of 18.66 (EASI), 2.21 (IGA), and 4.49 (NRS), while TO patients showed reductions of 15, 2, and 3.50, respectively. Tralokinumab was discontinued in eight patients (29.6%), most commonly due to lack of efficacy. Discontinuation rates did not differ significantly between groups. However, the very small size of the TO group (n = 4) substantially limits statistical power and any contrasts should be interpreted as exploratory. Conclusions: In this prospective real-world cohort, we observed improvement after initiating tralokinumab, with and without a short cyclosporine bridge. In light of CSA’s risks, TM may be considered a reasonable first-line systemic option. Prospective randomized studies are needed to determine whether overlap confers additional benefit. Full article

Nanoplastics are pervasive contaminants that adversely affect male reproductive function, yet the molecular basis of polystyrene nanoplastic (PS-NP) toxicity in immature testes and effective preventive strategies remain unclear. Here, male mice (postnatal days 22–35, PND 22–35) and TM3 Leydig cells were exposed to graded PS-NPs, followed by transcriptomic profiling to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Candidate therapeutics were prioritized using Connectivity Map (CMap) analysis and molecular docking, and protein interactions were examined by co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). PS-NPs accumulated in immature testes, eliciting excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activation of NF-κB. These events coincided with the downregulation of steroidogenic enzymes (CYP11A1 and StAR) and disruption of testicular microarchitecture. In TM3 cells, PS-NPs suppressed testosterone synthesis in a concentration-dependent manner; this effect was fully reversed by pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) or Bay 11-7082. Co-IP demonstrated p65–steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1) binding consistent with formation of a transcriptional repressor complex targeting steroidogenic genes. CMap and docking analyses nominated parthenolide (PTL) as a candidate inhibitor of NF-κB nuclear translocation (predicted binding affinity, −6.585 kcal/mol), and PTL mitigated PS-NP-induced impairment of testosterone synthesis in vitro. Collectively, these data indicate that PS-NPs disrupt testosterone biosynthesis in immature testes through the ROS/NF-κB/p65–SF-1 axis, while PTL emerges as a candidate small molecule to counter nanoplastic-associated reproductive toxicity. These findings underscore translational relevance and support future evaluation under chronic low-dose exposure conditions, including in vivo validation of PTL efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety. Full article

Background/Objectives: Empathy is essential for successful social functioning, mediating different aspects of social cognition in everyday life. An intriguing aspect is the involvement of empathy even in basic neural mechanisms of action perception, thanks to its association with the Mirror Neuron System (MNS). The present retrospective study explores whether individual differences in cognitive and affective empathy, measured by the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) questionnaire, can predict motor resonance—the enhancement of motor cortex reactivity during the observation of biological movements—during transitive and intransitive action observation. Methods: Data from 160 healthy subjects who participated in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) experiments assessing corticospinal excitability during action observation were retrospectively analyzed using multiple linear regression models. Participants filled the IRI and observed intransitive single-digit finger movements (n = 80) or grasping actions directed at different targets (intransitive, object-directed, social-directed; n = 80) synchronized with TMS over the primary motor cortex, allowing the investigation of how action features modulate the relationship between participants’ empathic traits and motor resonance magnitude. Results: Results show that empathic traits do not affect motor resonance during intransitive movements, whereas they do when motor resonance is measured during the observation of transitive actions. Cognitive empathy, particularly the perspective-taking scale, significantly predicts motor resonance magnitude when observing goal-directed actions. Meanwhile, affective empathy, specifically the empathic concern scale, predicts motor resonance while observing social action. Conclusions: These findings highlight that different facets of empathy are significantly related to humans’ ability to understand others’ actions through inner simulation mechanisms, particularly concerning action goals and social relevance. Full article

Alpha7 nicotinic receptors (α7-nAChRs) are implicated in many neurological disorders, but how they fold and assemble is not well understood. Unlike native α7-nAChRs, α7-5HT3 chimeras fold efficiently in HEK cells and do not require chaperones RIC3 or TMEM35A (NACHO) for proper assembly. We investigated the effects of swapping 5HT3 and α7-receptor protein sequences on α7-5HT3R chimera surface expression in mammalian HEK293 or Bosc23 cells, or chimeric receptor function using Xenopus laevis oocytes with or without chaperones. α7-5HT3Rs, consisting of human α7-nAChRs with mouse 5HT3 transmembrane domains (TMs) express without chaperones as measured by cell surface alpha-bungarotoxin binding. However, when subunit TMs from α7-nAChRs and 5HT3Rs were mixed, chaperones were required. Substituting the SAP motif prior to the α7-nAChR “Latch” tail sequence for the 5HT3 C-terminal decreased expression relative to α7-nAChRs with chaperones. Chaperone effects on L264 and G265 mutations in M2 were also investigated. Some constructs that express well in HEK293 or Bosc23 cells are nonfunctional in oocytes with or without NACHO. Our data do not support direct binding of RIC3 or NACHO to the α7-nAChR TM4 (M4) region; instead, they emphasize the functional importance of the conserved SAP motif. Full article

This study presents an experimental investigation of steels used in special knife applications, focusing on the interrelationship between chemical composition, microstructure, heat treatment, and mechanical properties. Four representative materials were analysed: VG10 (stainless steel with nickel-laminated edges and a VG10 core), RWL₃₄^TM (powder-metallurgical steel), laminated steel K110+N695 (with a nickel interlayer), and forge-welded steel K600+K720. The steels were characterised using OES, optical microscopy and SEM, supported by EDS for local chemical analysis. Microhardness testing was applied to individual structural regions to correlate carbide morphology, layer interfaces, and heat-treatment response with hardness values. The results reveal pronounced differences in structural homogeneity and defect occurrence. Powder-metallurgical RWL₃₄^TM exhibited the most uniform microstructure with finely dispersed Cr carbides, achieving high hardness and absence of structural defects. In contrast, laminated and forge-welded steels contained large primary carbides, carbide precipitation at grain boundaries, porous cavities, and insufficient cohesion in interlayers or weld zones, which may compromise toughness. VG10 and K110+N695 showed carbide coarsening caused by inadequate heat treatment, whereas K600+K720 revealed weld-related defects and heterogeneous phase structures. Overall, the study demonstrates the critical role of heat treatment and processing route in determining blade quality and performance. The findings provide guidance for optimising steel selection and processing technologies in advanced cutlery engineering. Full article

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects ~1 in 36 children and is increasingly studied as a candidate for non-invasive neuromodulation. Two of the most widely applied modalities are quantitative EEG (QEEG)-guided repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), both targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). While both have shown promise, questions remain regarding their relative clinical profiles and scalability. Objective: To conduct a within-cohort reanalysis of QEEG-guided rTMS outcomes in paediatric ASD and to contextualise these findings alongside published reports of home-supervised tDCS. Methods: Individual participant data (n = 56, ages 6–17) from a prospective rTMS cohort were reanalysed, focusing on the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2), Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2), Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), Repetitive Behavior Scale–Revised (RBS-R), and QEEG biomarkers. Findings were then situated within a narrative synthesis of published paediatric tDCS trials, which consistently report caregiver-supervised feasibility but did not provide raw, baseline-adjusted data suitable for reanalysis. Results: rTMS was associated with large within-cohort improvements (Hedges’ g ≈ 1.0–1.6), including an 11-point reduction in SRS-2 T-scores, a 12-point reduction in ABC totals, and robust QEEG normalisation (β/γ suppression, α enhancement). Published tDCS studies report moderate, clinically meaningful improvements in social communication, executive functioning, and regulation (Cohen’s d ≈ 0.4–0.6), with excellent adherence and no serious adverse events. Conclusions: rTMS produced robust behavioural and neurophysiological improvements within its cohort, while published tDCS trials demonstrate moderate, feasible benefits in home settings. Because of incomplete baseline data and protocol differences, no direct statistical comparison was possible. These findings suggest complementary roles: rTMS as a high-intensity clinic-based intervention, and tDCS as a scalable, family-centred option. A stepped-care framework that combines both modalities should be considered hypothesis-generating only and requires validation in harmonised, randomised controlled trials. Full article

For drug-susceptible TB, the WHO-endorsed first-line regimen (isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, pyrazinamide) remains the global reference. Therapy must always be tailored to drug susceptibility, especially in MDR- and XDR-TB. HIV-associated mycobacterial infections—including Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB), disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), and Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae)—remain leading causes of morbidity and mortality in people living with HIV (PLWH). TB continues to account for the highest burden of AIDS-related deaths worldwide, while MAC and leprosy complicate care in advanced immunosuppression. This review synthesizes current evidence on epidemiology, clinical features, and management challenges of HIV–mycobacterial co-infections. We discuss drug-susceptible and drug-resistant TB therapies, drug–drug interactions with antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the clinical impact of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Beyond established regimens, we highlight host-directed strategies such as metformin, glutathione augmentation, mTOR modulation, and vitamin D; immunotherapies including interferon-γ, GM-CSF, and IL-7; and therapeutic vaccines (M72/AS01E, MTBVAC, VPM1002) as promising adjuncts. Distinct from guideline-focused overviews, this review emphasizes non-tuberculous mycobacterial disease (NTM, including MAC) and leprosy in PLWH and synthesizes host-directed and adjunctive strategies with their translational prospects, including ART compatibility and IRIS. By integrating TB, NTM, and leprosy across the HIV care continuum, we highlight opportunities not treated in detail elsewhere—particularly HDT-enabled approaches and implementation considerations in PLWH. Full article

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of varying durations of ultrasonic condensation on the formation of internal and external voids and the microhardness of apical plugs created with premixed bioceramic putty Well-Root^TM PT in standardized 3D-printed immature permanent teeth using micro-CT imaging and Vickers microhardness testing. Methods: Forty-eight 3D-printed upper incisors with simulated open apices (2 mm canal diameter) were divided into four groups (n = 12 each) based on apical plug condensation technique as follows: Group 1 (control, manual condensation), Group 2 (3-s Ultrasonic at 25 kHz), Group 3 (9-s Ultrasonic at 25 kHz), and Group 4 (15-s Ultrasonic at 25 kHz). Well-Root^TM PT was used to form 5 mm apical plugs under a microscope. Samples were stored at 37 °C and 100% humidity for one week. Micro-CT imaging was used to quantify internal, external, and total void volumes (% of total material volume), while microhardness was measured using a Vickers tester (1 kgf load, 10 s) on polished apical plug sections. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests. Results: Group 4 (15-s Ultrasonic) exhibited significantly higher external and total void volumes compared to Groups 1–3 (p < 0.001), with no significant differences in internal voids across groups (p > 0.05). Microhardness was highest in Group 1 (mean VHN: 76.95 ± 3.73), followed by Group 2 (73.11 ± 4.82), Group 3 (55.11 ± 5.28), and Group 4 (51.25 ± 7.73) (p < 0.05). Shorter ultrasonic durations (3-s Ultrasonic) resulted in fewer voids and higher microhardness compared to longer durations (15-s Ultrasonic). There was no statistically significant difference in void size among the groups compared (p > 0.05). Fractal dimension analysis showed that prolonged ultrasonic condensation results in less complex voids compared to shorter activation. Conclusion: Manual condensation of premixed bioceramic putty, by promoting denser particle packing without ultrasonic-induced disruptions, leads to higher microhardness. Brief ultrasonic activation (3-s Ultrasonic) optimizes the quality of Well-Root^TM PT apical plugs by minimizing voids and maintaining higher microhardness, thus enhancing the apical seal. Prolonged ultrasonic activation (15-s Ultrasonic) increases void formation and reduces microhardness, potentially compromising the long-term integrity of the apical barrier. Full article