Search Results (2,667)

Cystic fibrosis (CF), the most common hereditary lung disease in Caucasians, is caused by dysfunction of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). We evaluated CFTR function using a newly developed Ussing chamber system, the Multi Trans Epithelial Current Clamp (MTECC), in an in vitro model of human airway epithelia. Air–liquid interface (ALI) cultures were established from nasal brushings of healthy controls (HC) and CF patients with biallelic CFTR variants. ALI layer thickness was similar between groups (HC: 62 ± 13 µm; CF: 55 ± 9 µm). Immunofluorescence showed apical CFTR expression in HC, but reduced or absent signal in CF cultures. MTECC enabled continuous measurement of transepithelial resistance (Rt), potential difference (PD), and conductance (G_t). G_t was significantly reduced in CF cultures compared to HC (0.825 ± 0.024 vs. −0.054 ± 0.016 mS/cm²), indicating impaired cAMP-inducible ion transport by CFTR. Treatment of CF cultures with elexacaftor, tezacaftor, and ivacaftor (Trikafta^®) increased G_t, reflecting partial restoration of CFTR function. These findings demonstrate the utility of MTECC in detecting functional differences in CFTR activity and support its use as a platform for evaluating CFTR-modulating therapies. Our model may contribute to the development of personalized treatment strategies for CF patients. Full article

This study presents a comparison of the mechanical properties of selected high-performance concrete mixtures, some of which contained a proportion of recycled concrete aggregate (15% or 30%) as a substitute for natural aggregate. A reference mixture without recycled concrete aggregate was used for comparison. Initially, the properties of concrete containing both the natural and recycled aggregate types were characterized. This was followed by a series of mechanical tests investigating the compressive strength, flexural strength, and chemical resistance (including resistance to de-icing agents and sulfuric acid). The structural performance of reinforced concrete (RC) beams produced from the mixtures was assessed, and surface morphology was evaluated using a digital microscope. The results confirmed that the use of recycled aggregate had a measurable yet limited effect on the properties of hardened concrete. While the compressive strength tended to decrease slightly with an increasing degree of replacement, the flexural strength remained stable in all the mixtures. The tested mixtures demonstrated adequate resistance to de-icing agents and sulfuric acid. Interestingly, specimens subjected to a frost-resistance test showed improved flexural strength, potentially due to ongoing hydration or microcrack healing. In addition, the RC beams with partial aggregate replacement achieved a higher load-bearing capacity compared to the reference beams. The optical surface evaluation method proved to be a valuable tool, complementary to conventional strength testing. This research enhances the current understanding of recycled aggregate concrete and supports its potential for structural applications. Full article

Aflatoxin contamination, primarily caused by Aspergillus flavus, poses a significant threat to peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production, food safety, and global trade. Despite extensive efforts, breeding for durable resistance remains difficult due to the polygenic and environmentally sensitive nature of resistance. Although germplasm such as J11 have shown partial resistance, none of the identified lines demonstrated stable or comprehensive protection across diverse environments. Resistance involves physical barriers, biochemical defenses, and suppression of toxin biosynthesis. However, these traits typically exhibit modest effects and are strongly influenced by genotype–environment interactions. A paradigm shift is underway with increasing focus on host susceptibility (S) genes, native peanut genes exploited by A. flavus to facilitate colonization or toxin production. Recent studies have identified promising S gene candidates such as AhS5H1/2, which suppress salicylic acid-mediated defense, and ABR1, a negative regulator of ABA signaling. Disrupting such genes through gene editing holds potential for broad-spectrum resistance. To advance resistance breeding, an integrated pipeline is essential. This includes phenotyping diverse germplasm under stress conditions, mapping resistance loci using QTL and GWAS, and applying multi-omics platforms to identify candidate genes. Functional validation using CRISPR/Cas9, Cas12a, base editors, and prime editing allows precise gene targeting. Validated genes can be introgressed into elite lines through breeding by marker-assisted and genomic selection, accelerating the breeding of aflatoxin-resistant peanut varieties. This review highlights recent advances in peanut aflatoxin resistance research, emphasizing susceptibility gene targeting and genome editing. Integrating conventional breeding with multi-omics and precision biotechnology offers a promising path toward developing aflatoxin-free peanut cultivars. Full article

Herein, α-MnO₂-supported Pt-Pd bimetal (xPd-yPt/α-MnO₂; x and y are the weight loadings (wt%) of Pd and Pt, respectively; x = 0, 0.23, 0.47, 0.93, and 0.92 wt%; and y = 0.91, 0.21, 0.46, 0.89, and 0 wt%) catalysts were prepared using the polyvinyl alcohol-protected NaBH₄ reduction method. The physicochemical properties of the catalysts were determined by means of various techniques and their catalytic activities for toluene oxidation were evaluated. It was found that among the xPd-yPt/α-MnO₂ samples, 0.93Pd-0.89Pt/α-MnO₂ showed the best catalytic performance, with the toluene oxidation rate at 156 °C (r_cat) and space velocity = 60,000 mL/(g h) being 6.34 × 10⁻⁴ mol/(g s), much higher than that of 0.91Pt/α-MnO₂ (1.31 × 10⁻⁴ mol/(g s)) and that of 0.92Pd/α-MnO₂ (6.13 × 10⁻⁵ mol/(g s)) at the same temperature. The supported Pd-Pt bimetallic catalysts possessed higher Mn³⁺/Mn⁴⁺ and O_ads/O_latt molar ratios, which favored the enhancement in catalytic activity of the supported Pd-Pt bimetallic catalysts. Furthermore, the 0.47Pd-0.46Pt/α-MnO₂ sample showed better resistance to sulfur dioxide poisoning. The partial deactivation of 0.47Pd-0.46Pt/α-MnO₂ was attributed to the formation of sulfate species on the sample surface, which covered the active site of the sample, thus decreasing its toluene oxidation activity. In addition, the in situ DRIFTS results demonstrated that benzaldehyde and benzoate were the intermediate products of toluene oxidation. Full article

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) undergoes thermal degradation during processing and operation, which necessitates the use of effective thermal stabilizers. The purpose of this work is to comprehensively evaluate the potential of new hierarchically structured titanium phosphates (TiP) with controlled morphology as thermal stabilizers of plasticized PVC, focusing on the effect of morphology and Ti/P ratio on their stabilizing efficiency. The thermal stability of the compositions was studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in both inert (Ar) and oxidizing (air) atmospheres. The effect of TiP concentration and its synergy with industrial stabilizers was analyzed. An assessment of the key degradation parameters is given: the temperature of degradation onset, the rate of decomposition, exothermic effects, and the carbon residue yield. In an inert environment, TiPMSI/TiPMSII microspheres demonstrated an optimal balance by increasing the temperature of degradation onset and the residual yield while suppressing the rate of decomposition. In an oxidizing environment, TiPR rods and TiPMSII microspheres provided maximum stability, enhancing resistance to degradation onset and reducing the degradation rate by 10–15%. Key factors of effectiveness include ordered morphology (spheres, rods); the Ti-deficient Ti/P ratio (~0.86), which enhances HCl binding; and crystallinity. The stabilization mechanism of titanium phosphates is attributed to their high affinity for hydrogen chloride (HCl), which catalyzes PVC chain scission, a catalyst for the destruction of the PVC chain. The unique microstructure of titanium phosphate provides a high specific surface area and, as a result, greater activity in the HCl neutralization reaction. The formation of a sol–phosphate framework creates a barrier to heat and oxygen. An additional contribution comes from the inhibition of oxidative processes and the possible interaction with unstable chlorallyl groups in PVC macromolecules. Thus, hierarchically structured titanium phosphates have shown high potential as multifunctional PVC thermostabilizers for modern polymer materials. Potential applications include the development of environmentally friendly PVC formulations with partial or complete replacement of toxic stabilizers, the optimization of thermal stabilization for products used in aggressive environments, and the use of hierarchical TiP structures in flame-resistant and halogen-free PVC-based compositions. Full article

Clozapine, a second-generation antipsychotic known for its effectiveness in treating resistant schizophrenia, is often linked with serious hematological side effects, particularly neutropenia and agranulocytosis. This review investigates the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of clozapine-induced neutropenia (CIN) and agranulocytosis (CIA), outlines associated risk factors, and evaluates current clinical management strategies. Clozapine’s pharmacological profile, marked by its antagonism of dopamine D4 and serotonin receptors, contributes to both its therapeutic advantages and hematological toxicity. Epidemiological data show a prevalence of CIN and CIA at approximately 3.8% and 0.9%, respectively, with onset typically occurring within the first six months of treatment. Key risk factors include older age, Asian and African American ethnicity, female sex, and certain genetic predispositions. The development of CIN and CIA may involve bone marrow suppression and autoimmune mechanisms, although the exact processes remain partially understood. Clinical presentation often includes nonspecific symptoms such as fever and signs of infection, necessitating regular hematological monitoring in accordance with established guidelines. Management strategies include dosage adjustments, cessation of clozapine, and the administration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSF). Advances in pharmacogenomics show promise for predicting susceptibility to CIN and CIA, potentially improving patient safety. This review emphasizes the importance of vigilant monitoring and personalized treatment approaches to reduce the risks associated with clozapine therapy. Full article

This study investigates the use of waste glass powder derived from fluorescent lamps as a partial replacement for cement in mortar production, aiming to valorize this Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and enhance sustainability in the construction sector. Mortars were formulated by substituting 25% of cement by volume with glass powders from fluorescent lamp glass and green bottle glass. The experimental program evaluated mechanical strength, durability parameters and ecotoxicological performance. Results revealed that clean fluorescent lamp mortars showed the most promising mechanical behavior, exceeding the reference in long-term compressive (54.8 MPa) and flexural strength (10.0 MPa). All glass mortars exhibited significantly reduced chloride diffusion coefficients (85–89%) and increased electrical resistivity (almost 4 times higher), indicating improved durability. Leaching tests confirmed that the incorporation of fluorescent lamp waste did not lead to hazardous levels of heavy metals in the cured mortars, suggesting effective encapsulation. By addressing both technical (mechanical and durability) and ecotoxic performance, this research contributes in an original and relevant way to the development of more sustainable building materials. Full article

Cancer metabolic reprogramming plays a critical role in tumor progression and therapeutic resistance, underscoring the need for advanced analytical strategies. Metabolomics, leveraging mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, offers a comprehensive and functional readout of tumor biochemistry. By enabling both targeted metabolite quantification and untargeted profiling, metabolomics captures the dynamic metabolic alterations associated with cancer. The integration of metabolomics with machine learning (ML) approaches further enhances the interpretation of these complex, high-dimensional datasets, providing powerful insights into cancer biology from biomarker discovery to therapeutic targeting. This review systematically examines the transformative role of ML in cancer metabolomics. We discuss how various ML methodologies—including supervised algorithms (e.g., Support Vector Machine, Random Forest), unsupervised techniques (e.g., Principal Component Analysis, t-SNE), and deep learning frameworks—are advancing cancer research. Specifically, we highlight three major applications of ML–metabolomics integration: (1) cancer subtyping, exemplified by the use of Similarity Network Fusion (SNF) and LASSO regression to classify triple-negative breast cancer into subtypes with distinct survival outcomes; (2) biomarker discovery, where Random Forest and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) models have achieved >90% accuracy in detecting breast and colorectal cancers through biofluid metabolomics; and (3) prognostic modeling, demonstrated by the identification of race-specific metabolic signatures in breast cancer and the prediction of clinical outcomes in lung and ovarian cancers. Beyond these areas, we explore applications across prostate, thyroid, and pancreatic cancers, where ML-driven metabolomics is contributing to earlier detection, improved risk stratification, and personalized treatment planning. We also address critical challenges, including issues of data quality (e.g., batch effects, missing values), model interpretability, and barriers to clinical translation. Emerging solutions, such as explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) approaches and standardized multi-omics integration pipelines, are discussed as pathways to overcome these hurdles. By synthesizing recent advances, this review illustrates how ML-enhanced metabolomics bridges the gap between fundamental cancer metabolism research and clinical application, offering new avenues for precision oncology through improved diagnosis, prognosis, and tailored therapeutic strategies. Full article

With the increasing detection of artemisinin resistance to front-line antimalarials in Africa and notwithstanding the planned roll-out of RTS’S and R21 in Africa, the search for new vaccines with high efficacy remains an imperative. Towards this endeavour, we performed in silico screening to identify Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte stage genes that could be targets of protection or diagnosis. Through the analysis we identified a gene, Pf3D7_1105800, coding for a Plasmodium falciparum subtilisin-like domain-containing protein (PfSDP) and thus dubbed the gene Pfsdp. Genetic diversity assessment revealed the Pfsdp gene to be relatively conserved across continents with signs of directional selection. Using RT qPCR and Western blots, we observed that Pfsdp is expressed in all developmental stages of the parasite both at the transcript and protein level. Immunofluorescence assays found PfSDP protein co-localizing with PfMSP-1 and partially with Pfs48/45 at the asexual and sexual stages, respectively. Further, we demonstrated that anti-PfSDP peptide-specific antibodies inhibited erythrocyte invasion by 20–60% in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting that PfSDP protein might play a role in merozoite invasion. We also discovered that PfSDP protein is immunogenic in children from different endemic areas with antibody levels increasing from acute infection to day 7 post-treatment, followed by a gradual decay. The limited effect of antibodies on erythrocyte invasion could imply that it might be more involved in other processes in the development of the parasite. Full article

This article deals with the effect of Kr¹⁵⁺ ion irradiation on the structure and properties of partially stabilized zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂ + 3 mol. % Y₂O₃) ceramics. Ion irradiation is used to simulate radiation damage typical of operating conditions in nuclear reactors and space technology. It is shown that with an increase in the irradiation fluence, point defects are formed, dislocations accumulate, and the crystal lattice parameters change. At high fluences (>10¹³ ions/cm²), a phase transition of the monoclinic (m-ZrO₂) phase to the tetragonal (t-ZrO₂) and cubic (c-ZrO₂) modifications is observed, which is accompanied by a decrease in the crystallite size and an increase in internal stresses. Changes in the mechanical properties of the material were also observed: at moderate irradiation fluences, strengthening is observed due to the formation of dislocation structures, whereas at high fluences (>10¹⁴ ions/cm²), a decrease in strength and a potential amorphization of the structure begins. The change in the phase composition was confirmed by X-ray phase analysis and Raman spectroscopy. The results obtained allow a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of radiation-induced phase transformations in stabilized ZrO₂ and can be used in the development of ceramic materials with increased radiation resistance. Full article

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris ssp. vulgaris) is a vital crop, contributing to nearly a quarter of global sugar production, but faces significant challenges from biotic stressors, particularly aphids, which transmit damaging yellowing viruses such as Beet Yellow Virus (BYV) and Beet Mild Yellowing Virus (BMYV). Following the partial ban of neonicotinoids in Europe, viral infections in sugar beet have surged, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of aphid-mediated virus transmission mechanisms. This study aims to evaluate the transmission efficiency of BYV and BMYV through different clones of the aphid vector Myzus persicae from sugar beet seed companies across Europe, and to analyze the feeding behaviors of efficient clones to identify factors influencing virus transmission. The transmission rates of yellowing viruses by M. persicae clones ranged from 52% to 79% for BMYV (mean 65%) and 7% to 96% for BYV (mean 47%). While no significant differences in BMYV transmission efficiency were observed among clones, a significant difference was detected between two BYV-carrying clones. Moreover, the BYV-carrying clone exhibited prolonged penetration activities during its feeding phase compared to the BMYV-carrying clone, suggesting a potential behavioral influence on transmission efficiency. This study highlights the importance of considering aphid clone influence in the development of sugar beet resistance. Full article

The covalent cross-linking of caseins by the enzyme transglutaminase (Tgase) stabilizes the structure of casein micelles. In our study, the effects of a pretreatment of skim milk (SM) by Tgase on milk protein fractionation by microfiltration were tested. Tgase was found to induce amount-dependent modifications of all milk proteins in SM and a reduction in deposit resistance for laboratory dead-end filtrations of up to 20%. This improvement in process performance could partially be confirmed in pilot-scale cross-flow filtrations of Tgase-pretreated SM and micellar casein solutions (MCC). These comparative trials with untreated retentates under a variation of ΔpTM (0.5–2 bar) at 10 and 50° revealed distinct differences in deposit behavior and achieved the reduction in deposit resistance in a range of 0–20%. The possibility of pre-fouling with enzymatically pretreated MCC prior to SM filtration was also investigated. Under different pre-fouling conditions, practical modes of retentate change, and pre-foulant compositions, a switch to untreated SM consistently resulted in an immediate and major increase in deposit resistance by 50–150%. This was partially related to the change in the ionic environment and the protein fraction. Nevertheless, our results underline the potential of Tgase pretreatment and pre-fouling approaches to alter filtration performance for different applications. Full article

This study investigates the effects of samarium (Sm) promotion on the catalytic activity of 5 weight percent Ni catalysts for partial oxidation of methane (POM)-based hydrogen production supported on a Si-Al mixed oxide (10SiO₂+90Al₂O₃) system. Several 5% Ni-based catalysts supported on silica–alumina was used to test the POM at 600 °C. Sm additions ranged from 0 to 2 wt.%. Impregnation was used to create these catalysts, which were then calcined at 500 °C and examined using BET, H₂-TPR, XRD, FTIR, TEM, Raman spectroscopy, and TGA methods. Methane conversion (57.85%) and hydrogen yield (56.89%) were greatly increased with an ideal Sm loading of 1 wt.%, indicating increased catalytic activity and stability. According to catalytic tests, 1 wt.% Sm produced high CH₄ conversion and H₂ production, as well as enhanced stability and resistance to carbon deposition. Nitrogen physisorption demonstrated a progressive decrease in pore volume and surface area with the addition of Sm, while maintaining mesoporosity. At moderate Sm loadings, H₂-TPR and XRD analyses showed changes in crystallinity and increased NiO reducibility. Sm incorporation into the support and its impact on the ordering of carbon species were indicated by FTIR and Raman spectra. The optimal conditions to maximize H₂ yield were successfully identified through optimization of the best catalyst, and there was good agreement between the theoretical predictions (87.563%) and actual results (88.39%). This displays how successfully the optimization approach achieves the intended outcome. Overall, this study demonstrates that the performance and durability of Ni-based catalysts for generating syngas through POM are greatly enhanced by the addition of a moderate amount of Sm, particularly 1 wt.%. Full article

The disposal of agro-industrial waste is a pressing environmental issue. At the same time, due to the high silica content in specific agricultural residues, their processed products can be utilised in various industrial sectors as substitutes for commercial materials. This study investigates the key technological, physico-mechanical, and viscoelastic properties of industrial elastomeric compounds based on synthetic styrene–butadiene rubber, intended for the tread of summer passenger car tyres, when replacing the commercially used highly reinforcing silica filler (SF), Extrasil 150VD brand (white carbon black), with a carbon–silica filler (CSF). The CSF is produced by carbonising a finely ground mixture of rice production waste (rice husks and stems) in a pyrolysis furnace at 550–600 °C without oxygen. It was found that replacing 20 wt.pts. of silica filler with CSF in industrial tread formulations improves processing parameters (Mooney viscosity increases by up to 5.3%, optimal vulcanisation time by up to 9.2%), resistance to plastic deformation (by up to 7.7%), and tackiness of the rubber compounds (by 31.3–34.4%). Viscoelastic properties also improved: the loss modulus and mechanical loss tangent decreased by up to 24.0% and 14.3%, respectively; the rebound elasticity increased by up to 6.3% and fatigue resistance by up to 2.7 thousand cycles; and the internal temperature of samples decreased by 7 °C. However, a decrease in tensile strength (by 10.7–27.0%) and an increase in wear rate (up to 43.3% before and up to 22.5% after thermal ageing) were observed. Nevertheless, the overall results of this study indicate that the CSF derived from the carbonisation of rice production waste—containing both silica and carbon components—can effectively be used as a partial replacement for the commercially utilised reinforcing silica filler in the production of tread rubber for summer passenger car tyres. Full article

This paper evaluates the synergistic effect of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers and nanosilica (nS) on the mechanical behavior and deformation properties of engineered cementitious composites (ECCs). ECCs have gained a reputation for high ductility, crack control, and strain-hardening behavior. Nevertheless, the next step is to improve their performance even more through nano-modification and fine-tuning of fiber dosage—one of the major research directions. In the experiment, six types of ECC mixtures were made by maintaining constant PVA fiber content (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0%), while the nanosilica contents were varied (0, 1, 2, 3, and 5%). Stress–strain tests carried out in the form of compression, together with unrestrained shrinkage measurement, were conducted to test strength, strain capacity, and resistance to deformation, which was highest at 80 MPa, recorded in the concrete with 2% nS and 0.5% PVA. On the other hand, the mixture of 1.5% PVA and 3% nS had the highest strain result of 2750 µm/m, which indicates higher ductility. This is seen to be influenced by refined microstructures, improved fiber dispersion, and better fiber–matrix interfacial bonding through nS. In addition to these mechanical modifications, the use of nanosilica, obtained from industrial byproducts, provided the possibility to partially replace Portland cement, resulting in a decrease in the amount of CO₂ emissions. In addition, the enhanced crack resistance implies higher durability and reduced long-term maintenance. Such results demonstrate that optimized ECC compositions, including nS and PVA, offer high performance in terms of strength and flexibility as well as contribute to the sustainability goals—features that will define future eco-efficient infrastructure. Full article