Search Results (18)

Experimental research was conducted to characterize the ignition delay time and combustion performance of non-toxic reactants as a possible replacement for highly toxic fuels, such as hydrazine. The liquid fuel and oxidizer were N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA) and white fuming nitric acid (WFNA), respectively. The hypergolic ignition delay of the reactants was determined using 100% TMEDA with either >90% or >99.5% WFNA that was distilled, titrated, and droplet-tested in a laboratory setting while controlling the parameters that affect the quality of the yielded product. It was observed that >90% WFNA had three times longer average ignition delay than >99.5% WFNA with both mixtures producing ignition delay times less than 20 ms. Based upon the demonstrated hypergolic droplet test results, a fluid delivery feed system and hypergolic heavyweight bipropellant rocket engine were designed and fabricated to characterize the combustion efficiency of these non-toxic reactants. The rocket injector and characteristic length differed while operating under similar flow conditions to evaluate combustion efficiency. Results demonstrated similar engine performance between both cases of WFNA with improvements of over 30% in combustion efficiency with increased characteristic length. Tests using 100% TMEDA/>90% WFNA achieved a combustion efficiency of 88%. Full article

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) emerging as major etiologies. This review explores the epidemiological trends, pathogenesis, and clinical management of HCC arising from MASH and ALD, highlighting both the shared and distinct mechanisms. MASH-HCC is driven by metabolic dysregulation, including obesity, insulin resistance, and lipotoxicity, with genetic polymorphisms such as PNPLA3 and TM6SF2 playing critical roles in disease progression. ALD-HCC, in contrast, is propelled by the toxic byproducts of ethanol metabolism, including acetaldehyde and reactive oxygen species, which induce chronic inflammation, and fibrosis. Both conditions also involve immune dysregulation, gut dysbiosis, and increased intestinal permeability, contributing to hepatic carcinogenesis. The review emphasizes that, while there is consensus regarding the screening of HCC in cirrhosis patients, there is lack of consensus on screening strategies for non-cirrhotic MASH patients who are also at risk for HCC. This underscores the importance of the early detection of cirrhosis using advanced diagnostic tools such as transient elastography and fibrosis scores. Current therapeutic approaches, ranging from surgical resection, liver transplantation, and locoregional therapies to systemic therapies like immune checkpoint inhibitors, are discussed, with an emphasis on the need for personalized treatment strategies. Finally, the review highlights future research priorities, including the development of novel biomarkers, exploration of the gut–liver axis, and deeper investigation of the interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. By synthesizing these insights, the review aims to inform multidisciplinary approaches to reduce the global burden of MASH- and ALD-related HCC and improve patient outcomes. Full article

The synergistic application of magnetic fields and iron oxide nanorod particles (IONPs) presents a novel therapeutic approach for inducing lysosome-dependent cell death (LDCL) via magneto-mechanical force (MMF). This study demonstrates the efficacy of decaying oscillating pulsed magnetic fields (DOPMFs) to propel IONPs to induce rapid tumor regression via lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP). The systematic evaluation of dose-dependent parameters revealed that DOPMF intensity and pulse number critically determine A375 melanoma cell viability reduction. Mechanistic investigations identified two hallmark biomarkers of LMP: increased cytosolic cathepsin B activity and downregulated LAMP-2 expression. Crucially, in vivo experiments using A375 melanoma-bearing mouse models corroborated the therapeutic potential of this approach, showing significant tumor growth inhibition without systemic toxicity or invasive procedures. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that MMF by IONPs under DOPMF stimulation exhibits significant efficacy in suppressing melanoma proliferation, offering a non-invasive, targeted approach for oncological intervention. Full article

Propellants play a crucial role in the propulsion systems of aerospace vehicles, and their combustion characteristics are susceptible to external environmental conditions. This study systematically investigated the impact of various initial conditions on the combustion process of ADN-based propellant, including combustion products, equilibrium pressure, adiabatic temperature, and ignition delay time. The results indicate that the primary combustion products of ADN-based propellant include N₂O, N₂, CO₂, OH, and others. ADN-based propellant exhibits a distinct two-stage combustion process under low pressure and temperature conditions (P₀ = 2 atm, T₀ = 586 K). Conversely, under high pressure and temperature conditions (P₀ = 10 atm, T₀ = 2930 K), the two stages of combustion occur almost simultaneously, making them difficult to distinguish. Furthermore, as the initial temperature increases, the ignition delay time decreases significantly, and the combustion rate accelerates. When the initial temperature rises from 400 K to 2800 K at a pressure of P₀ =10 atm, the ignition delay time decreases from 3.5 ms to 0.6 μs. Interestingly, changes in initial pressure have a relatively minor impact on the ignition delay time compared to changes in temperature. Therefore, temperature has a more crucial influence on the combustion characteristics of ADN-based propellant than pressure. This study holds promise for providing new combustion optimization strategies for the aerospace industry and promoting the development of aircraft designs towards higher performance and sustainability. Full article

Mitoregulin (MTLN) is a 56-amino-acid mitochondrial microprotein known to modulate mitochondrial energetics. MTLN gene expression is elevated broadly across most cancers and has been proposed as a prognostic biomarker for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In addition, lower MTLN expression in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) correlates with significantly improved patient survival. In our studies, we have found that MTLN silencing in A549 NSCLC cells slowed proliferation and, in accordance with this, we observed the following: (1) increased proportion of cells in the G1 phase of cell cycle; (2) protein changes consistent with G1 arrest (e.g., reduced levels and/or reduced phosphorylation of ERK, MYC, CDK2, and RB, and elevated p27^Kip1); (3) reduction in clonogenic cell survival and; (4) lower steady-state cytosolic and mitochondrial H₂O₂ levels as indicated by use of the roGFP2-Orp1 redox sensor. Conflicting with G1 arrest, we observed a boost in cyclin D1 abundance. We also tested MTLN silencing in combination with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) and auranofin (AF), drugs that inhibit GSH synthesis and thioredoxin reductase, respectively, to elevate the reactive oxygen species (ROS) amount to a toxic range. Interestingly, clonogenic survival after drug treatment was greater for MTLN-silenced cultures versus the control cultures. Lower H₂O₂ output and reduced vulnerability to ROS damage due to G1 status may have jointly contributed to the partial BSO + AF resistance. Overall, our results provide evidence that MTLN fosters H₂O₂ signaling to propel G1/S transition and suggest MTLN silencing as a therapeutic strategy to limit NSCLC growth. Full article

Solid propellants play a crucial role in various civil, scientific, and defence-related aerospace propulsion applications due to their efficient energy release, high energy density, low fabrication cost, and ease of operation. Ammonium dinitramide (ADN) has gained considerable attention as a potential oxidizer for green solid propellants due to its high oxygen content, significant energy density, non-toxicity, and non-polluting combustion products, leading to lower environmental impact. As ADN is a new desirable oxidizer in the field of solid propellants, understanding the practicality and viability of the use of ADN in composite solid propellants necessitates a thorough understanding of its chemical and thermal decomposition pathways in addition to its combustion characteristics in the presence of other ingredients. ADN is being explored as an alternative to the traditionally used ammonium perchlorate (AP), a toxic oxidizer containing chlorine (Cl). Additionally, AP monopropellants often suffer from moderate burning rates and poor mechanical strength. To address these limitations, researchers have explored the incorporation of metal additives, such as aluminium (Al), magnesium (Mg), and metalloid boron (B), to enhance the combustion performance and burn rate of AP. These metals not only act as energy-rich additives but also influence the combustion process through various mechanisms. The incorporation of metal additives into ADN has shown promising enhancements in the overall energetic performance of green solid propellants. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the thermal decomposition of ADN and its combustion behaviour, along with the combustion of ADN-based solid propellants with metal additives. Finally, based on an extensive review of the existing literature, various research pathways for focused future collaborative efforts are identified to further advance ADN-based “green” solid propellants. Full article

Harnessing solar energy to produce hydrogen through semiconductor-mediated photocatalytic water splitting is a promising avenue to address the challenges of energy scarcity and environmental degradation. Ever since Fujishima and Honda’s groundbreaking work in photocatalytic water splitting, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) has garnered significant interest as a semiconductor photocatalyst, prized for its non-toxicity, affordability, superior photocatalytic activity, and robust chemical stability. Nonetheless, the efficacy of solar energy conversion is hampered by TiO₂’s wide bandgap and the swift recombination of photogenerated carriers. In pursuit of enhancing TiO₂’s photocatalytic prowess, a panoply of modification techniques has been explored over recent years. This work provides an extensive review of the strategies employed to augment TiO₂’s performance in photocatalytic hydrogen production, with a special emphasis on foreign dopant incorporation. Firstly, we delve into metal doping as a key tactic to boost TiO₂’s capacity for efficient hydrogen generation via water splitting. We elaborate on the premise that metal doping introduces discrete energy states within TiO₂’s bandgap, thereby elevating its visible light photocatalytic activity. Following that, we evaluate the role of metal nanoparticles in modifying TiO₂, hailed as one of the most effective strategies. Metal nanoparticles, serving as both photosensitizers and co-catalysts, display a pronounced affinity for visible light absorption and enhance the segregation and conveyance of photogenerated charge carriers, leading to remarkable photocatalytic outcomes. Furthermore, we consolidate perspectives on the nonmetal doping of TiO₂, which tailors the material to harness visible light more efficiently and bolsters the separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers. The incorporation of various anions is summarized for their potential to propel TiO₂’s photocatalytic capabilities. This review aspires to compile contemporary insights on ion-doped TiO₂, propelling the efficacy of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and anticipating forthcoming advancements. Our work aims to furnish an informative scaffold for crafting advanced TiO₂-based photocatalysts tailored for water-splitting applications. Full article

The treatment landscape of metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) is rapidly evolving with the recent approvals of poly-ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPis) as monotherapy or as part of combination therapy with androgen receptor pathway inhibitors in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Already part of the therapeutic armamentarium in different types of advanced cancers, these molecules have shaped a new era in mPCa by targeting genomic pathways altered in these patients, leading to promising responses. These agents act by inhibiting poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) enzymes involved in repairing single-strand breaks in the DNA. Based on the PROfound and TRITON3 trials, olaparib and rucaparib were respectively approved as monotherapy in pretreated patients with mCRPC and alterations in prespecified genes. The combinations of olaparib with abiraterone (PROpel) and niraparib with abiraterone (MAGNITUDE) were approved as first-line options in patients with mCRPC and alterations in BRCA1/2, whereas the combination of talazoparib with enzalutamide (TALAPRO-2) was approved in the same setting in patients with alterations in any of the HRR genes, which are found in around a quarter of patients with advanced prostate cancer. Additional trials are already underway to assess these agents in an earlier hormone-sensitive setting. Future directions will include refining the treatment sequencing in patients with mCRPC in the clinic while taking into account the financial toxicity as well as the potential side effects encountered with these therapies and elucidating their mechanism of action in patients with non-altered HRR genes. Herein, we review the biological rationale behind using PARPis in mCRPC and the key aforementioned clinical trials that paved the way for these approvals. Full article

Urea, a basic chemical compound, holds diverse applications across numerous domains, ranging from agriculture to energy storage. Of particular interest is its role as a hydrogen bond donor (HBD). This specific characteristic has propelled its utilization as an essential component in crafting deep eutectic solvents (DESs) for battery electrolytes. Incorporating urea into DESs presents a promising avenue to address environmental concerns associated with traditional electrolytes, thereby advancing battery technology. Conventional electrolytes, often composed of hazardous and combustible solvents, pose significant environmental risks upon improper disposal potentially contaminating soil and water and threatening both human health and ecosystems. Consequently, there is a pressing need for eco-friendly alternatives capable of upholding high performance and safety standards. DESs, categorized as organic salts resulting from the blending of two or more compounds, have emerged as promising contenders for the next generation of electrolytes. Urea stands out among DES electrolytes by enhancing ion transport, widening the electrochemical window stability (ESW), and prolonging battery cycle life. Further, its non-toxic nature, limited flammability, and elevated thermal stability play pivotal roles in mitigating environmental concerns and safety issues associated with traditional electrolytes. Laboratory testing of urea-based DES electrolytes across various battery systems, including Al-ion, Na-ion, and Zn-ion batteries, has already been demonstrated. This review examines the evolution of urea-based DES electrolytes by elucidating their structure, molecular interaction mechanisms, performance attributes, and preparation methodologies. Full article

“Heptil” (unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine—UDMH) is extensively employed worldwide as a propellant for rocket engines. However, UDMH constantly loses its properties as a result of its continuous and uncontrolled absorption of moisture, which cannot be rectified. This situation threatens its long-term usability. UDMH is an exceedingly toxic compound (Hazard Class 1), which complicates its transportation and disposal. Incineration is currently the only method used for its disposal, but this process generates oxidation by-products that are even more toxic than the original UDMH. A more benign approach involves its immediate reaction with a formalin solution to form 1,1–dimethyl-2-methylene hydrazone (MDH), which is significantly less toxic by an order of magnitude. MDH can then be polymerized under acidic conditions, and the resulting product can be burned, yielding substantial amounts of nitrogen oxides. This review seeks to shift the focus of MDH from incineration towards its application in the synthesis of relatively non-toxic and readily available analogs of various pharmaceutical substances. We aim to bring the attention of the international chemical community to the distinctive properties of MDH, as well as other hydrazones (such as glyoxal, acrolein, crotonal, and meta-crolyl), wherein each structural fragment can initiate unique transformations that have potential applications in molecular design, pharmaceutical research, and medicinal chemistry. Full article

The health risks associated with formaldehyde have propelled relevant stakeholders to push for the production of non-toxic wood adhesives. Several countries including the USA, Japan, and Germany have implemented policies mandating manufacturers to reduce the emissions of formaldehyde to lower levels. Protein adhesives stand out due to their sustainability, renewable sources, and biodegradability. However, they are limited by poor wet strength and water resistance, which affect their wide acceptability in the marketplace. Researchers have developed multiple strategies to mitigate these issues to advance protein adhesives so they may compete more favorably with their petroleum-based counterparts. This review paper explores these strategies including cross-linking, modified fillers, and the removal of hydrophilic content while providing insights into the methodological approaches utilized in recent literature with a comparison of the resultant protein adhesives. Full article

Hybrid rocket engines (HREs) offer a low-cost, reliable, and environmentally friendly solution for both launch and in-space applications. Hybrid propellants have been identified as green thanks to their use of non-toxic, non-carcinogenic oxidizers. Of particular relevance are storable oxidizers, namely high-concentration (≥90 wt.%) hydrogen peroxide (HP, H₂O₂) and nitrous oxide (N₂O). This work provides a survey of experimental activities based on H₂O₂ and N₂O for hybrid rocket propulsion applications. Open literature data are completed with original thermochemical calculations to support the discussion. Full article

Naringin (NG), a natural flavanone glycoside, possesses a multitude of pharmacological properties, encompassing anti-inflammatory, sedative, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-osteoporosis, and lipid-lowering functions, and serves as a facilitator for the absorption of other drugs. Despite these powerful qualities, NG’s limited solubility and bioavailability primarily undermine its therapeutic potential. Consequently, innovative solubilization methodologies have received considerable attention, propelling a surge of scholarly investigation in this arena. Among the most promising solutions is the enhancement of NG’s solubility and physiological activity without compromising its inherent active structure, therefore enabling the formulation of non-toxic and benign human body preparations. This article delivers a comprehensive overview of NG and its physiological activities, particularly emphasizing the impacts of structural modification, solid dispersions (SDs), inclusion compound, polymeric micelle, liposomes, and nanoparticles on NG solubilization. By synthesizing current research, this research elucidates the bioavailability of NG, broadens its clinical applicability, and paves the way for further exploration and expansion of its application spectrum. Full article

During the operation of ADN (ammonium dinitramide, (NH⁴⁺N(NO₂)²⁻))-based thrusters, the ADN-based liquid propellant, a non-toxic green energetic material, tends to flow boil in the capillary tube due to heat transfer from the wall. A three-dimensional transient numerical simulation of the flow boiling of ADN-based liquid propellant in the capillary tube was carried out using the VOF (Volume of Fluid) coupled Lee model. The flow-solid temperature and the gas–liquid two-phase distribution and the wall heat flux at different heat reflux temperatures were analyzed. The results show that the magnitude of the mass transfer coefficient of the Lee model significantly influences the gas–liquid distribution in the capillary tube. The total bubble volume increased from 0 mm³ to 957.4 mm³ when the heat reflux temperature was increased from 400 K to 800 K. The bubble formation position moves upwards along the inner wall surface of the capillary tube. Increasing the heat reflux temperature intensifies the boiling phenomenon. When the outlet temperature exceeded 700 K, the transient liquid mass flow rate in the capillary tube was already reduced by more than 50%. The results of the study can be used as a reference for the design of ADN-based thruster. Full article