The Impact of Multiple Functional Layers in the Structure of Magnetic Nanoparticles and Their Influence on Albumin Interaction

In nanomedicine, hybrid nanomaterials stand out for providing new insights in both the diagnosis and treatment of several diseases. Once administered, engineered nanoparticles (NPs) interact with biological molecules, and the nature of this interaction might directly interfere with the biological fate and action of the NPs. In this work, we synthesized a hybrid magnetic nanostructure, with antibacterial and antitumoral potential applications, composed of a magnetite core covered by silver NPs, and coated with a modified chitosan polymer. As magnetite NPs readily oxidize to maghemite, we investigated the structural properties of the NPs after addition of the two successive layers using Mössbauer spectroscopy. Then, the structural characteristics of the NPs were correlated to their interaction with albumin, the major blood protein, to evidence the consequences of its binding on NP properties and protein retention. Thermodynamic parameters of the NPs–albumin interaction were determined. We observed that the more stable NPs (coated with modified chitosan) present a lower affinity for albumin in comparison to pure magnetite and magnetite/silver hybrid NPs. Surface properties were key players at the NP–biological interface. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that demonstrates a correlation between the structural properties of complex hybrid NPs and their interaction with albumin.

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Study on the Shear Structural Yield of Soft Soil Affected by Drainage Condition

Applied Mechanics and Materials ◽

10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.256-259.416 ◽

2012 ◽

Vol 256-259 ◽

pp. 416-421 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Ai Wu Yang ◽

Ling Wei Kong ◽

Li Qiang Lu

Keyword(s):

Yield Stress ◽

Internal Structure ◽

Structural Properties ◽

Structural Characteristics ◽

Soft Soil ◽

Undisturbed Soil ◽

Soil Particles ◽

Axial Shear ◽

The Impact

Four kinds of tri-axial shear structural yield stress is studied by controlling the pre-test consolidate degree and draining condition during the test. The results showed that draining condition influenced the tri-axial shear structural yield stress. When under the UU condition, structural characteristics appeared not clearly; when consolidated before testing and un-drained during test, only the undisturbed soil performed the structural yield stress; when draining during testing, the undisturbed soil showed the increased structural yield stress while the remolded soil could form certain structure. The impact of the draining condition on the structural characteristics is incurred by the change of the internal structure, which means that the draining condition have changed the arrangement and connection of the soil particles, then changed the soil structural properties.

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Aberrant Bcl-x splicing in cancer: from molecular mechanism to therapeutic modulation

Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research ◽

10.1186/s13046-021-02001-w ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 40 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Zhihui Dou ◽

Dapeng Zhao ◽

Xiaohua Chen ◽

Caipeng Xu ◽

Xiaodong Jin ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Cancer Cells ◽

Human Cancer ◽

Structural Characteristics ◽

Therapy Resistance ◽

Regulatory Elements ◽

Aberrant Splicing ◽

Clinical Role ◽

Splicing Isoforms ◽

The Impact ◽

Splicing Patterns

AbstractBcl-x pre-mRNA splicing serves as a typical example to study the impact of alternative splicing in the modulation of cell death. Dysregulation of Bcl-x apoptotic isoforms caused by precarious equilibrium splicing is implicated in genesis and development of multiple human diseases, especially cancers. Exploring the mechanism of Bcl-x splicing and regulation has provided insight into the development of drugs that could contribute to sensitivity of cancer cells to death. On this basis, we review the multiple splicing patterns and structural characteristics of Bcl-x. Additionally, we outline the cis-regulatory elements, trans-acting factors as well as epigenetic modifications involved in the splicing regulation of Bcl-x. Furthermore, this review highlights aberrant splicing of Bcl-x involved in apoptosis evade, autophagy, metastasis, and therapy resistance of various cancer cells. Last, emphasis is given to the clinical role of targeting Bcl-x splicing correction in human cancer based on the splice-switching oligonucleotides, small molecular modulators and BH3 mimetics. Thus, it is highlighting significance of aberrant splicing isoforms of Bcl-x as targets for cancer therapy.

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DNA-Guided Assembly for Fibril Proteins

Mathematics ◽

10.3390/math9040404 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 9 (4) ◽

pp. 404

Author(s):

Alexandru Amărioarei ◽

Frankie Spencer ◽

Gefry Barad ◽

Ana-Maria Gheorghe ◽

Corina Iţcuş ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Computational Model ◽

Structural Properties ◽

Self Assembly ◽

Structural Characteristics ◽

Computational Modelling ◽

Shape Reconstruction ◽

Raw Material ◽

Dna Assembly ◽

Mesh Structure ◽

Elementary Fibril

Current advances in computational modelling and simulation have led to the inclusion of computer scientists as partners in the process of engineering of new nanomaterials and nanodevices. This trend is now, more than ever, visible in the field of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-based nanotechnology, as DNA’s intrinsic principle of self-assembly has been proven to be highly algorithmic and programmable. As a raw material, DNA is a rather unremarkable fabric. However, as a way to achieve patterns, dynamic behavior, or nano-shape reconstruction, DNA has been proven to be one of the most functional nanomaterials. It would thus be of great potential to pair up DNA’s highly functional assembly characteristics with the mechanic properties of other well-known bio-nanomaterials, such as graphene, cellulos, or fibroin. In the current study, we perform projections regarding the structural properties of a fibril mesh (or filter) for which assembly would be guided by the controlled aggregation of DNA scaffold subunits. The formation of such a 2D fibril mesh structure is ensured by the mechanistic assembly properties borrowed from the DNA assembly apparatus. For generating inexpensive pre-experimental assessments regarding the efficiency of various assembly strategies, we introduced in this study a computational model for the simulation of fibril mesh assembly dynamical systems. Our approach was based on providing solutions towards two main circumstances. First, we created a functional computational model that is restrictive enough to be able to numerically simulate the controlled aggregation of up to 1000s of elementary fibril elements yet rich enough to provide actionable insides on the structural characteristics for the generated assembly. Second, we used the provided numerical model in order to generate projections regarding effective ways of manipulating one of the the key structural properties of such generated filters, namely the average size of the openings (gaps) within these meshes, also known as the filter’s aperture. This work is a continuation of Amarioarei et al., 2018, where a preliminary version of this research was discussed.

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Being a Gambler during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study with Italian Patients and the Effects of Reduced Exposition

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health ◽

10.3390/ijerph18020424 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 18 (2) ◽

pp. 424

Author(s):

Maria Anna Donati ◽

Silvia Cabrini ◽

Daniela Capitanucci ◽

Caterina Primi ◽

Roberta Smaniotto ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Structural Characteristics ◽

Gambling Behavior ◽

Online Gambling ◽

Problem Gamblers ◽

Electronic Gambling Machines ◽

Electronic Gambling ◽

Gambling Market ◽

The Impact ◽

Gambling Activities

The COVID-19 pandemic, with the consequent lockdown of about 3 months, can be viewed as an experimental model to observe the impact of the depletion of environmental factors that stimulate gambling, particularly electronic gambling machines (EGMs) that were set to zero. The effects of some structural characteristics of gambling activities that increase gambling behavior were studied among disordered gamblers in treatment in this unique scenario. In fact, studies investigating the effects of the lockdown on problem gamblers (PGs) under treatment are missing. The aims of this study were to analyze patients’ gambling behavior and craving during the lockdown and to conduct a comparison between gambling disorder (GD) symptoms at the beginning of the treatment and during lockdown. The study was conducted in Italy, the European country with the largest gambling market and the first to be affected by the virus. Data were collected through a semi-structured telephone interview conducted by healthcare professionals. Participants were 135 PGs under treatment (109 males, mean age = 50.07). Results showed that most PGs achieved a significant improvement in their quality of life, with less gambling behavior, GD symptoms, and lower craving. No shift toward online gambling and very limited shift towards other potential addictive and excessive behaviors occurred. The longer the treatment, the more monitoring is present and the better the results in terms of symptoms reduction. Individual and environmental characteristics during the lockdown favored the reduction in symptoms. Consideration for prevention and treatment are discussed.

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Bending Strength and Fracture Behaviour of Metal-Ceramic Interpenetrating Phase Composites Manufactured by Using Semi-Solid Forming Technology

Solid State Phenomena ◽

10.4028/www.scientific.net/ssp.327.111 ◽

2022 ◽

Vol 327 ◽

pp. 111-116

Author(s):

Laura Schomer ◽

Kim Rouven Riedmüller ◽

Mathias Liewald

Keyword(s):

Bending Strength ◽

Fracture Behaviour ◽

Structural Characteristics ◽

Process Window ◽

Metallic Material ◽

Forming Technology ◽

Metal Ceramic ◽

Semi Solid ◽

The Impact ◽

Interpenetrating Phase Composites

Interpenetrating Phase Composites (IPC) belong to a special category of composite materials, offering great potential in terms of material properties due to the continuous volume structure of both composite components. While manufacturing of metal-ceramic IPC via existing casting and infiltration processes leads to structural deficits, semi-solid forming represents a promising technology for producing IPC components without such defects. Thereby, a solid open pore body made of ceramic is infiltrated with a metallic material in the semi-solid state. Good structural characteristics of the microstructure as the integrity of the open-pore bodies after infiltration and an almost none residual porosity within the composites have already been proven for this manufacturing route within a certain process window. On this basis, the following paper focuses on the mechanical properties such as bending strength of metal-ceramic IPC produced by using semi-solid forming technology. Thereby, the impact of the significant process parameters on these properties is analysed within a suitable process window. Furthermore, a fractographic analysis is carried out by observing and interpreting the fracture behaviour during these tests and the fracture surface thereafter.

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The Potential Applications of Raman Spectroscopy in Unravelling Complex Palaeowildfire Ecosystems

10.5194/egusphere-egu21-2626 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Thomas Theurer ◽

David Muirhead ◽

David Jolley ◽

Dmitri Mauquoy

Keyword(s):

Raman Spectroscopy ◽

Carbonaceous Material ◽

Complex Interactions ◽

Intensity Changes ◽

Potential Applications ◽

Ecosystem Studies ◽

History Of ◽

The Impact ◽

Unique Relationship

<p>Raman spectroscopy represents a novel methodology of characterising plant-fire interactions through geological history, with enormous potential. Applications of Raman spectroscopy to charcoal have shown that this is an effective method of understanding intensity changes across palaeofire regimes. Such analyses have relied on the determination of appropriate Raman parameters, given their relationship with temperature of formation and microstructural changes in reference charcoals. Quantitative assessments of charcoal microstructure have also been successfully applied to the assessment of carbonaceous maturation under alternate thermal regimes, such as pyroclastic volcanism. Palaeowildfire systems in association with volcanism may present a complex history of thermal maturation, given interactions between detrital charcoals and volcanogenic deposition. However, whilst palaeofire and volcanic maturation of carbonaceous material are well understood individually, their interaction has yet to be characterised. Here we present the first analysis of palaeofire charcoals derived from volcanic ignition utilising Raman spectroscopy. Our results indicate that complex interactions between volcanism and palaeofire systems may be better understood by the characterisation of charcoal microstructure, alongside palaeobotanical and ecosystem studies. Understanding the unique relationship between wildfires and volcanism, and the impact that this has on the fossil record, may better assist our understanding of wildfire systems in deep history. Further still, this highlights the potential for better understanding the socioecological impacts of modern and future wildfire systems closely associated with volcanic centres.&#160;</p>

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FEATURES OF THE RUSSIAN SMALL BUSINESS MODEL AND THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

RSUH/RGGU Bulletin Series Economics Management Law ◽

10.28995/2073-6304-2021-1-71-85 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 71-85

Author(s):

Natal’ya E. Egorova ◽

Keyword(s):

Small Business ◽

Business Model ◽

Small Businesses ◽

Structural Characteristics ◽

Bank Lending ◽

Structural Instability ◽

Government Support ◽

Negative Consequences ◽

Development Levels ◽

The Impact

The article analyzes the quantitative and structural stability of Russian small business and identifies the model features of its functioning. It investigates the dynamics of development of Russian small business is investigated and notes a downward trend in the number of small and medium-sized enterprises over the past two years. A conclusion is drawn that the quantitative indicators reflecting its functioning are highly sensitive to the negative effects of the macroeconomic environment. The author introduces a concept of the small business heterogeneity and brings up its structural characteristics, represented by various categories of small and medium-sized firms. Comparative analysis of the Russian small business model with foreign small business confirms its quantitative and structural instability. That makes the considered sector of the national economy vulnerable to shocks (externalities), including the COVID-19 pandemic. It is assumed that the negative consequences of the pandemic will affect Russian small businesses more than foreign ones, and the gap in their development levels will widen. An assessment of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Russian small business and a forecast of its development are made in the context of limited government support and the absence of active bank lending.

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IIOT and Real Time Data Analytics - Maximizing the Impact on Safety and Productivity

10.2118/205610-ms ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Ryan Daher ◽

Nesma Aldash

Keyword(s):

Real Time ◽

Case Studies ◽

Data Analytics ◽

Contact Tracing ◽

Time Data ◽

Seamless Integration ◽

Location Services ◽

Industrial Internet ◽

Potential Applications ◽

The Impact

Abstract With the global push towards Industry 4.0, a number of leading companies and organizations have invested heavily in Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT's) and acquired a massive amount of data. But data without proper analysis that converts it into actionable insights is just more information. With the advancement of Data analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, numerous methods can be used to better extract value out of the amassed data from various IIOTs and leverage the analysis to better make decisions impacting efficiency, productivity, optimization and safety. This paper focuses on two case studies- one from upstream and one from downstream using RTLS (Real Time Location Services). Two types of challenges were present: the first one being the identification of the location of all personnel on site in case of emergency and ensuring that all have mustered in a timely fashion hence reducing the time to muster and lessening the risks of Leaving someone behind. The second challenge being the identification of personnel and various contractors, the time they entered in productive or nonproductive areas and time it took to complete various tasks within their crafts while on the job hence accounting for efficiency, productivity and cost reduction. In both case studies, advanced analytics were used, and data collection issues were encountered highlighting the need for further and seamless integration between data, analytics and intelligence is needed. Achievements from both cases were visible increase in productivity and efficiency along with the heightened safety awareness hence lowering the overall risk and liability of the operation. Novel/Additive Information: The results presented from both studies have highlighted other potential applications of the IIOT and its related analytics. Pertinent to COVID-19, new application of such approach was tested in contact tracing identifying workers who could have tested positive and tracing back to personnel that have been in close proximity and contact therefore reducing the spread of COVID. Other application of the IIOT and its related analytics has also been tested in crane, forklift and heavy machinery proximity alert reducing the risk of accidents.

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Structural Properties of G,T-Parallel Duplexes

Journal of Nucleic Acids ◽

10.4061/2010/763658 ◽

2010 ◽

Vol 2010 ◽

pp. 1-11 ◽

Cited By ~ 3

Author(s):

Anna Aviñó ◽

Elena Cubero ◽

Raimundo Gargallo ◽

Carlos González ◽

Modesto Orozco ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Molecular Dynamics ◽

Structural Properties ◽

Theoretical Calculations ◽

Md Simulations ◽

Theoretical Studies ◽

Duplex Structure ◽

Strong Stabilization ◽

The Stability ◽

The Impact

The structure of G,T-parallel-stranded duplexes of DNA carrying similar amounts of adenine and guanine residues is studied by means of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and UV- and CD spectroscopies. In addition the impact of the substitution of adenine by 8-aminoadenine and guanine by 8-aminoguanine is analyzed. The presence of 8-aminoadenine and 8-aminoguanine stabilizes the parallel duplex structure. Binding of these oligonucleotides to their target polypyrimidine sequences to form the corresponding G,T-parallel triplex was not observed. Instead, when unmodified parallel-stranded duplexes were mixed with their polypyrimidine target, an interstrand Watson-Crick duplex was formed. As predicted by theoretical calculations parallel-stranded duplexes carrying 8-aminopurines did not bind to their target. The preference for the parallel-duplex over the Watson-Crick antiparallel duplex is attributed to the strong stabilization of the parallel duplex produced by the 8-aminopurines. Theoretical studies show that the isomorphism of the triads is crucial for the stability of the parallel triplex.

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Molecular Dynamics Studies on the Growth and Structural Properties of Hydrogenated DLC Films

Key Engineering Materials ◽

10.4028/www.scientific.net/kem.373-374.108 ◽

2008 ◽

Vol 373-374 ◽

pp. 108-112

Author(s):

Yu Jun Zhang ◽

Guang Neng Dong ◽

Jun Hong Mao ◽

You Bai Xie

Keyword(s):

Molecular Dynamics ◽

Structural Properties ◽

Impact Energy ◽

Frictional Coefficient ◽

Carbon Films ◽

Dynamics Simulation ◽

Diamond Surface ◽

Hydrogen Atoms ◽

Molecular Configuration ◽

The Impact

The novel frictional properties of hydrogenated DLC (Diamond-like Carbon) films have been reported for nearly ten years. But up to now, researchers still haven’t known the exact mechanism resulting in the super-low frictional performance of hydrogenated DLC films. Especially they have little knowledge on the molecular configuration and structural properties of these kinds of films. In this paper, CH3 radicals with different impact energies are selected as source species to deposit DLC films on diamond (100) by molecular dynamics simulation. Results show hydrogenated DLC films can be successfully obtained when impact energy is in an appropriate scope that is no less than 20eV. The depositing processes involve impinging diamond surface and bonding procedure. Some atoms, instead of bonding with substrate atoms, fly away from the diamond surface. Only suitable impact energy can improve the growth of the film. Within 30eV to 60eV, the maximum deposition ratio is attained. In addition, when carbon atoms act as the deposition sources, the deposition ratio is relatively higher. Furthermore, the authors find that species with higher concentration of carbon atoms in deposition sources lead to a better deposition rate. Carbon atoms are more reactive than hydrogen atoms. Then the relative densities of DLC films are calculated. The density curves indicate that the structures of the films vary obviously as the impact energy augments. The average relative density is generally monotone increase with the increment of impact energy. The hybridization of carbon atoms greatly affects the properties of hydrogenated DLC films. The transition between sp2 and sp3 will result in the graphitization and reduce the frictional coefficient when DLC films are used as tribo-pair in friction.

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