Radioprotective efficacy of plastic polymer against the toxicogenomic effects of radiopharmaceutical 18F-FDG on human lymphocytes

Are Metal Halide Perovskite Solar Cells Ready for Space Applications?

The appeal of metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has been widely demonstrated in the field of photovoltaic technology. On account of the excellent optical and electrical properties, as well as compatibility with flexible substrates, the PSCs also hold the highest record of specific power for lightweight solar cell devices, suggesting excellent promise in space applications. Hence, there is increasing interest in the performance of PSCs in space environments where radiation beams and thermal cycling can cause extreme stress on the devices. In this Perspective, we provide a brief summary of the research on PSCs for space applications. The radiation tolerance and thermal stability of PSCs and the fundamental mechanisms are discussed and analyzed. Key challenges facing PSC technology toward future space applications are demonstrated. This Perspective features the prospect of PSCs as the next frontier in space PV technology.

A conserved region of Acinetobacter trimeric autotransporter adhesion, Ata, provokes suppression of Acinetobacter baumannii virulence

The Acinetobacter trimeric autotransporter adhesin (Ata) is an important virulence factor. The conserved region from the genomic sequence of a 6777bp/2258 amino acid of Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC®19606™ ata was explored. A 263aa of the C-terminal of Ata (rcAta₂₆₃) was expressed. The effect of rcAta₂₆₃ on A. baumannii virulence was studied in a murine model. IgG and IgA were elicited and the mice groups challenged with A. baumannii showed significant survival rates from 66 to 100%. The bacterial loads were determined in the spleens, livers, and lungs of both control and test groups. The adhesion rate of A. baumannii to A549 cells in the presence of serum, cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and biofilm disruption potential of rcAta₂₆₃ were determined. Intraperitoneally challenged groups showed a significantly reduced bacterial load in the organs of the immunized mice. Intranasal challenge reduced 4 logs of bacterial CFU/g in the test group. The immunized mice sera reduced adherence of A. baumannii to A549 cells to 80%. No cytotoxic or mutagenic effect was detected. Biofilm disruption was significantly increased in the presence of immunized mice sera. Immunization with the conserved region of Ata significantly combats the virulence of A. baumannii which could be considered as a therapeutic strategy to control A. baumannii infections.