Search Results (180)

Multiciliated cells generate fluid flow along epithelial surfaces, and defects in their development or function cause primary ciliary dyskinesia. The fluid flow is generated by the coordinated beating of motile cilia, which are microtubule-based organelles. The base of each cilium, the basal body, is anchored to the apical cell membrane and surrounded by a dense apical cytoskeleton of actin, microtubules, and intermediate filaments. Several cell adhesion proteins play a role in the connection of the basal body to the apical cytoskeleton. Here, we show that the desmosomal protein plakophilin3, a member of the armadillo family of proteins, localizes to the striated rootlet in Xenopus laevis multiciliated cells. Knockdown of plakophilin 3 leads to significant defects in cilia-generated fluid flow and basal body docking. These defects are cell-autonomous and independent of cell intercalation and gross changes in the actin cytoskeleton. These findings suggest a crucial role for PKP3 in basal body apical migration and docking in multiciliated cells, highlighting a novel connection between desmosomal proteins and ciliary function. Full article

Adhesively bonded fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) anchors have emerged as a progressive alternative to traditional steel anchors in concrete structures, owing to their superior corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, and light weight. Despite their increasing use, a robust mechanics-based bond model capable of accurately predicting the load transfer behaviour has not yet been developed. This study presents a fracture mechanics-based analytical bond model for post-installed adhesive FRP anchors embedded in concrete. The model formulation is derived from fundamental equilibrium and compatibility principles, incorporating a bilinear bond–slip law that captures both elastic and softening behaviours. A new expression for the effective bond length is also proposed. Validation of the model against a comprehensive database of direct pull-out tests reported in the literature shows excellent agreement between predicted and experimental pull-out forces (R² = 0.980; CoV = 0.058). Future research should aim to extend the proposed model to account for confinement effects, long-term durability, the impact of adhesive type, and cyclic loading conditions. Full article

Ultra-high performance concretes (UHPCs) have been widely used in the construction industry due to their high strength and long-term performance. The purpose of this article is to review the literature on UHPC that contained at least two types of hybrid fiber with different lengths, diameters, and volumetric contents. The results show that the type of fiber, its geometry, including length, diameter, and shape, as well as volumetric content, affect the properties of the concrete, not only in the hardened state, but also in the fresh state. The compressive and flexural strength results increase with higher impact velocity and steel fiber content, with a higher content of shorter fibers contributing to increased strength and energy absorption. Tensile strength increases with the length of the steel fibers and the higher content of polyolefin, polyoxymethylene, and polyester fibers. Investigating new types of fiber, various shape factors, geometries, and anchoring mechanisms of hybrid fibers is essential to improve the workability, adhesion, and strength of the material. Full article

Quantitative phosphoproteomics enables the comprehensive analysis of signaling pathways driven by overexpressed cancer receptors, revealing the molecular mechanisms that underpin tumor progression and therapy resistance. The glycoprotein L1 cell adhesion molecule (L1CAM) is overexpressed in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) and plays a crucial role in carcinogenesis by regulating cancer stem cell properties. Here, CRISPR–Cas9-mediated knockout of L1CAM in ovarian cancer OVCAR8 and OVCAR4 cells significantly impaired anchor-independent growth in soft agar assays and reduced clonogenic survival following external beam irradiation. In vivo, L1CAM knockout decreased cancer stem cell frequency and significantly decreased tumorigenicity. To uncover L1CAM-regulated signaling networks, we employed quantitative phosphoproteomics and proteomics. Bioinformatics analyses and validation studies revealed L1CAM-associated pathways that contribute to radioresistance through DNA repair processes and mammalian target or rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)-mediated signaling. In conclusion, our study established a link between L1CAM-dependent tumorigenesis and radioresistance, both hallmarks of cancer stemness, with phosphorylation of key proteins involved in DNA damage response. This study further emphasizes the value of quantitative phosphoproteomics in cancer research, showcasing its ability to enhance understanding of cancer progression and therapy resistance. Full article

This study utilized unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and terrestrial laser scanners (TLS) to develop a 3D numerical model of slope anchors and conduct a comprehensive analysis. Initial data were collected using a UAS with 4 K resolution, followed by a second dataset captured 6 months later with 8 K resolution after artificially damaging the anchor. The model analyzed damage factors such as cracks, destruction, movement, and settlement. Cracks smaller than 0.3 mm were detected with an error margin of ±0.05 mm. The maximum damaged area on the anchor head was within 3% of the designed value, and the volume of damaged regions was quantified. A combination analysis examined elevation differences on the anchor’s irregular bottom surface, resulting in an average difference at 20 points, reflecting ground adhesion. The rotation angle (<1°) and displacement of the anchor head were also measured. The study successfully extracted quantitative damage data, demonstrating the potential for an accurate assessment of anchor performance. The findings highlight the value of integrating UAS and TLS technologies for slope maintenance. By organizing these quantitative metrics into a database, this approach offers a robust alternative to traditional visual inspections, especially for inaccessible facilities, providing a foundation for enhanced safety evaluations. Full article

The classical approach for the preparation of an endodontically treated molar with a post and core involves widening the anatomically complex system of canals, which may be narrow or curved with variable angulation. The aforementioned along with the fact that restorative dentistry stands against the wastage of tooth tissue make endocrowns an appealing alternative. Bindl and Mörmann first described an all-ceramic crown anchored to the internal portion of the pulp chamber and on the cavity margins, thus obtaining macromechanical retention provided by the axial opposing pulpal walls and microretention attained with the use of adhesive cementation. The purpose of this report is to describe the protocol for the treatment plan selection, preparation, impression, and adhesive cementation of an endocrown with a follow-up of 5 years. A 56-year-old male patient presented to the Postgraduate Clinic of Prosthodontics seeking rehabilitation for tooth No. #36. A clinical examination revealed multiple immediate composite resin restorations with unacceptable morphology and adaptation to the remaining tooth as well as a lack of a contact point but, rather, a large, concave contact area facilitating food entrapment. Since the tooth was endodontically treated, the proposed treatment plan included the fabrication of an all-ceramic endocrown. The steps of preparation, attribution of the correct shape, impression, and adhesive luting under rubber dam isolation are thoroughly described. The final functional and aesthetic result, patient’s satisfaction, and the 5-year follow-up render restorations such as endocrowns, which draw their retention from adhesive luting, a viable alternative to conventional approaches. Full article

In response to the issue of the insufficient adhesion strength of polypropylene materials, a plasma–ultrasonic treatment is proposed. Plasma treatment is first conducted to activate the polypropylene adherends, and then ultrasonic vibration is applied to the adhesive to facilitate the interface contact, enhancing the bonding performance of polypropylene. The shear strength of the test specimens was assessed using single-lap shear tests. The bonding samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), contact angle, and infrared analysis to explore the bonding mechanism of plasma–ultrasonic treatment. The results show that compared to untreated polypropylene specimens, the plasma treatment process increased the shear strength of the polypropylene specimens by 370.3%, and the addition of ultrasonic-assisted technology further increased the shear strength of the polypropylene specimens by 10.6%. The coefficient of variation decreased from 0.53 in the untreated sample to 0.32 for the plasma–ultrasonic treatment, enhancing the stability of adhesion. Plasma treatment introduces active groups, such as hydroxyl groups, onto the surface of polypropylene and increases the surface roughness of polypropylene. Ultrasonic treatment promotes the penetration of adhesive microstructures on the surface of polypropylene, enhancing the anchoring effect of the adhesive, thereby improving bonding performance. Furthermore, through molecular dynamics analysis, compared to the untreated polypropylene bonding system, the bonding energy of the bonding system under the plasma–ultrasonic treatment was increased by 57%, effectively enhancing the shear strength of polypropylene bonding. Plasma–ultrasonic treatment can effectively improve the bonding strength of polypropylene, providing a new idea for the study of polymer bonding. Full article

Ancient stone masonry is a composite structure, mainly comprised of stone elements. During restoration, stone elements are sometimes found to present serious fragmentation, and their structural continuity must be re-established. In such cases, an adhesive material can be applied to reattach the detached fragment to its original position, with or without the use of pins or anchors, according to the size of the fragment and its position. However, many considerations must be taken into account regarding compatibility with the ancient material and the performance and longevity of the intervention. In the current study, a series of pastes are designed for the reattachment of stone fragments, with and without the concurrent use of titanium pins, aiming to re-establish the continuity of the porous stone elements of the Acropolis circuit wall. The designed pastes are examined in terms of physical and mechanical characteristics and assessed in relation to their compatibility with the original stone material, while their effectiveness as adhesive and/or anchoring materials is evaluated through a real-time and -scale pilot application on site at the Acropolis monument work site using fragments of the original ancient stone material. The natural lime–metakaolin paste presents the optimum results as an adhesive and anchoring material. Full article

Background/Objectives: Secure large-bore cannula insertion is critical for effective extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), as inadequate fixation can lead to complications such as infection, dislodgment, and life-threatening events. With inconsistent guidelines for ECMO line management, this study compares the effectiveness of traditional suture fixation to an adhesive securement method in the prevention of ECMO cannula dislodgment using an in vitro model. Methods: Porcine skin and muscle tissue sections were prepared and mounted in a custom holder. A 21F venous ECMO cannula was inserted using a modified Seldinger technique. Three fixation methods were randomly compared: (1) three silk sutures, and (2a) one silk suture with a CathGrip adhesive anchoring device. In addition, a sub-analysis was performed using (2b) the Hollister adhesive anchoring device. A uniaxial testing machine simulated 50 mm cannula dislodgment, measuring tensile forces at 12.5, 25, and 50 mm dislodgment points. Results: A total of 26 ECMO cannula fixations using sutures, 26 with adhesive CathGrip, six with a Hollister device, and three controls were tested across six porcine samples. Sutures demonstrated greater variability in force at maximum dislocation, with 27% rupturing at 50 mm. In contrast, CathGrip provided greater flexibility without tearing. The adhesive exhibited higher stiffness (2.38 N/mm vs. 2.09 N/mm, p < 0.001) and dislodgment energy (0.034 J vs. 0.032 J, p = 0.002) in the 0–5 mm range, while sutures showed greater stiffness in the 5–50 mm range (1.42 N/mm vs. 1.18 N/mm, p < 0.001). At larger displacements (25 mm and 50 mm) and in total energy absorption, no statistically significant differences were observed (p = 0.57). In a sub-analysis, the six fixations using the Hollister device exhibited higher variability and significantly lower dislodgment forces at 25 mm (p = 0.033) and 50 mm (p = 0.004) compared to the CathGrip device. Conclusions: This study suggests that adhesive anchoring methods, such as CathGrip, may provide comparable or potentially superior fixation strength to sutures for ECMO cannula stabilization under controlled conditions. However, further research, including clinical trials, is necessary to confirm these findings, evaluate long-term performance, and explore the implications for dislodgment risk and infection prevention in clinical practice. Full article

Implant-associated infections are a frequent complication of surgeries involving biomaterial implants. Staphylococcus and Enterococcus species are the leading causes of infections linked to bone-anchored and joint implants. To address this challenge, developing antibacterial coatings to prevent bacterial attachment and biofilm formation on biomaterials is critical. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of two biomaterial coatings: titanium nitride (TiN) and titanium nitride with silver nanoparticles (TiN/Ag). Antibacterial activity was tested against common biofilm-forming pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Enterococcus faecium. The results demonstrated that both coatings significantly reduced bacterial cell counts, with the TiN/Ag coating showing superior performance due to the addition of silver nanoparticles. This enhancement was particularly effective in reducing biofilm formation across all the tested strains, with the most pronounced effects observed for E. faecium and E. faecalis. The silver nanoparticles synergistically improved the antibiofilm properties of the TiN coating, efficiently disrupting biofilm integrity and reducing bacterial adhesion. By reducing bacterial attachment and biofilm formation on biomaterial surfaces, TiN/Ag coatings offer a promising strategy to minimize complications associated with biomaterial implants. These findings highlight the potential of TiN and TiN/Ag coatings for medical applications. Full article

Hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogels offer a promising approach for soft tissue application due to their biocompatibility, tunable mechanical properties, ability to mimic the extracellular matrix, and capacity to support cell adhesion and proliferation. In this work, bioadhesive composite hydrogels were developed by integrating graphite derivatives (EG) into a dopamine-modified HA matrix (HA-Cat), which enhances tissue adhesion through catechol groups that mimic mussel-inspired adhesion mechanisms. The EG was functionalized via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction (f-EG), that allowed the anchoring of silver nanoparticles (f-EG-Ag) and grafting of hydrocaffeic acid (f-EG-Cat) on the functionalized EG surfaces. The hydrogels were produced by oxidative crosslinking of HA-Cat under mild basic pH conditions using sodium periodate. Indirect in vitro assays using L929 fibroblast cells showed high biocompatibility and enhanced cell proliferation at optimized composite hydrogel concentrations. These findings suggest that composite hydrogels could find an application as bioactive, adhesive scaffolds for the regeneration of soft tissues, where they can facilitate localized agent delivery and integration with the host tissue. Full article

Calcium carbonate scaling causes significant damage and financial losses to various industries, particularly in deep-water oil exploration. It is affected by factors like pressure, temperature, pH, solution chemistry, and surface finish. Surface finish is critical, as it interacts with the fluid and serves as a substrate for the anchoring of calcium carbonate crystals. However, many studies investigate this phenomenon under conditions that differ from those encountered in deep-water oil exploration. Tests are commonly performed under atmospheric pressure and lacking fluid flow or CO₂ influence, which limits their relevance to industrial conditions. This study aims to evaluate the influence of surface finish on the formation of calcium carbonate scaling under conditions that more closely resemble actual operating environments. 304 stainless steel was selected to replicate industrial conditions, owing to its chemical stability and common use in industrial settings. The tests were conducted in a plant with high-pressure capabilities, operating under continuous flow conditions with CO₂ injection. Controlled surfaces were prepared through metallographic polishing, machining, sandblasting, and laser texturing techniques. Surface characterization was performed using a 3D optical profilometer and scratch testing to measure the average adhesion force. The polymorphs formed were characterized by Raman spectroscopy. Fractal dimension analysis was applied to quantify the complexity of the analyzed surfaces. The results indicate that surfaces with higher fractal dimensions exhibit greater scaling mass and higher adhesion force. The main polymorph observed was calcite. Additionally, it was noted that the texture orientation relative to the flow affects scaling, with higher scaling values observed on surfaces oriented perpendicular to the flow. These findings are crucial for optimizing material selection and surface treatments in deep-water oil exploration, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs. Full article

Worms are organisms characterized by simple structures, low energy consumption, and stable movement. Inspired by these characteristics, worm-like soft robots demonstrate exceptional adaptability to unstructured environments, attracting considerable interest in the field of biomimetic engineering. The primary challenge currently involves improving the motion performance of worm-like robots from the perspectives of actuation and anchoring. In this study, a single segment worm-like soft robot driven by electrohydraulic actuators is proposed. The robot consists of a soft actuation module and two symmetrical anchoring modules. The actuation modules enable multi-degree-of-freedom motion of the robot using symmetric dual-electrode electrohydraulic actuators, while the anchoring modules provide active friction control through bistable electrohydraulic actuators. A hierarchical microstructure design is used for the biomimetic adhesive surface, enabling rapid, reversible, and stable attachment to and detachment from different surfaces, thereby improving the robot’s surface anchoring performance. Experimental results show that the designed robot can perform peristaltic and bending motions similar to a worm. It achieves rapid bidirectional propulsion on both dry and wet surfaces, with a maximum speed of 10.36 mm/s (over 6 velocity/length ratio (min⁻¹)). Full article

There is much promise for creating metal organic framework (MOF) films on metal substrates in fields including sensing and electrical conduction. For these applications, direct production of MOF films with strong bonding on metal substrates is extremely desirable. In this study, a simple one-step method without the need for additives or pre-modification is used to directly create zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) films with strong bonding on zinc substrate. The formation mechanisms of ZIF-8 film are analyzed. The strong bonding ZIF-8 film can be attributed to an in-situ grown ZnO interlayer between the ZIF-8 and substrate. The growth process shows the formation time of zinc oxide on the substrate, which is subsequently covered by ZIF-8 crystals. The ZnO interlayer results from a combination of decomposition products of the solvent and the zinc ions. Furthermore, the ZnO interlayer serves as a sacrificial precursor for the in-situ nucleation and continuous growth of ZIF-8 film. It serves as an anchoring site between ZIF-8 film and substrate, resulting in strong adhesion. This paper describes a simple and straightforward production process that is expected to provide a theoretical basis for the laboratory preparation of ZIF films. Full article

A comprehensive investigation into the design and electrochemical optimization of composite electrodes consisting of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/graphene oxide (GO)/Methanococcus deltae and reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/Methanococcus deltae hybrids, anchored onto stainless-steel (SS) substrates, has been conducted. The GO and rGO materials were synthesized using a modified Hummer method. The resulting SS/PEDOT/GO and SS/PEDOT/rGO composite electrodes were subjected to systematic electrochemical characterization, focusing on the PEDOT p-type and n-type doping/undoping processes within diverse solvent environments (CH₃CN and H₂O) and electrolyte compositions (LiClO₄ and KCl). Raman spectroscopy analysis confirmed the successful integration of graphene derivatives into the electrode structures, while field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed increased surface roughness upon GO and rGO incorporation. This increase in surface roughness is believed to enhance the adhesion of Methanococcus deltae microorganisms and facilitate efficient electron transport. Electrochemical measurements showed that the resulting SS/PEDOT/GO and SS/PEDOT/rGO anodes exhibit remarkable electrocatalytic activity. The SS/PEDOT/GO electrode achieved a maximum power density of 1014.420 mW/cm², while the SS/PEDOT/rGO electrode reached 632.019 mW/cm². Full article