Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
miR-221-5p and miR-186-5p Are the Critical Bladder Cancer Derived Exosomal miRNAs in Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction

Bladder cancer (BC) is the tenth most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, and its carcinogenesis mechanism has not been fully elucidated. BC is able to induce natural killer (NK) cell dysfunction and escape immune surveillance. The present study found that exosomes derived from the urinary bladder cancer cell line (T24 cell) contribute in generating NK cell dysfunction by impairing viability, and inhibiting the cytotoxicity of the NK cell on target cells. Meanwhile, T24 cell-derived exosomes inhibited the expression of the important functional receptors NKG2D, NKp30, and CD226 on NK cells as well as the secretion of perforin and granzyme-B. The critical miRNAs with high expression in T24 cell-derived exosomes were identified using high-throughput sequencing. Furthermore, following dual-luciferase reporter assay and transfection experiments, miR-221-5p and miR-186-5p were confirmed as interfering with the stability of the mRNAs of DAP10, CD96, and the perforin gene in NK cells and may be potential targets used in the therapy for BC.
Ovarian Response and Fertility after Short-Term Progestagen/eCG Treatments Are Compromised in Nulliparous Sheep during Non-Breeding Season

Simple Summary The application of treatments based on controlled dose progesterone intravaginal devices (CIDR) plus equine chorionic hormone (eCG) has been favored in recent years for the induction and/or synchronization of estrus activity and ovulation in the breeding and the non-breeding seasons. In anestrous mature ewes, short-term treatments are equally effective as long-term treatments, but information on the effects of such treatments for maiden sheep is scarce. Abstract The objective of this investigation was to determine the ovarian response, fertility, and prolificacy of nulliparous sheep when compared to multiparous sheep after a short-term (7 days) CIDR/eCG treatment which was administered during the non-breeding season. All the multiparous sheep, whereas only 54% of the nulliparous ewes, showed signs of estrus. However, 81.8% of the multiparous sheep and 100% of the nulliparous ewes ovulated. Fertility was also low after short-term progesterone treatments during the anestrous season in maiden sheep (30.8 vs. 72.7% in multiparous ewes). Such results indicate significant differences in the response to CIDR/eCG protocols for induction and synchronization of estrus and ovulation between nulliparous and multiparous sheep during the non-breeding season.
Optimization of acoustic-to-articulatory mapping

An optimization approach for estimating vocal tract configurations from the speech signal is presented. The scheme concatenates a gradient search and linear successive approximation, providing fast convergence and small errors. The objective function is generated by the least-absolute-value (l/sub 1/-norm) error between the model-derived and the speech-derived first three formants. The gradient search is accelerated by using an algorithm inspired by the Fletcher-Reeves method. Linear successive approximation assures convergence in the region near the optimum articulatory vector. Constraints are imposed on the articulatory parameters to avoid physiologically impossible configurations. <<ETX>>
Resveratrol Ameliorates Fibrosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease via the Autophagy–Lysosome Pathway

Interstitial lung disease associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA-ILD) can lead to interstitial fibrosis and even lung failure as a complication of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and there is currently no effective treatment and related basic research. Studies have found that resveratrol (Res) can improve the progression of RA by regulating autophagy, and increasing evidence supports the connection between autophagy and common interstitial lung disease (ILD). We explored changes in autophagy levels in fibrotic lungs in RA-ILD and found that the level of autophagy is enhanced in the early stage but inhibited in the late stage. However, resveratrol treatment improved the level of autophagy and reversed the inhibition of autophagy, and attenuated fibrosis. We created corresponding cell models that exhibited the same phenotypic changes as animal models; under the effect of resveratrol, the level of fibrosis changed accordingly, and the fusion process of lysosomes and autophagosomes in autophagy was liberated from the inhibition state. Resveratrol effects were reversed by the addition of the late autophagy inhibitor chloroquine. These results suggest that resveratrol attenuates pulmonary fibrosis, increases autophagic flux, and modulates the autophagy–lysosome pathway, and particularly it may work by improving the formation of autophagic lysosomes, which may be an effective treatment for induced RA-ILD.
Prioritisation of critical factors affecting the adoption of social media using best-worst method: Evidence from SMEs in Egypt

Abstract This study aims to identify, analyse, and rank the critical factors affecting social media usage in Egyptian SMEs. This study proposed Technology-Organisation-Environment-Individual (TOEI) framework that integrates the individual dimension into the TOE framework to identify the key factors that drive SMEs in Egypt to use social media in their businesses. The identified factors were collected through a comprehensive review of literature, as well as participants’ opinions. The Best-Worst Method (BWM) was employed to evaluate and prioritise the factors according to their relative importance using data collected from twenty participants. The research findings indicate that relative advantage, cost-effectiveness, customer pressure, competitive pressure, complexity, owner attitude, owner support, owner innovativeness, interactivity, and observability are the highest ranked factors driving the usage of social media among SMEs in Egypt. This research has important implications for practitioners and researchers interested in investigating SMEs’ adoption of social media and how to promote the usage of social media among SMEs in developing countries. The findings of this study also help Egyptian SMEs’ owners recognise the major aspects that influence their decisions to use social media.
Insert geometry effects on surface roughness in turning process of AISI D2 steel

Surface roughness is an important parameter for ensuring that the dimension of geometry is within the permitted tolerance. The ideal surface roughness is determined by the feed rate and the geometry of the tool. However, several uncontrollable factors including work material factors, tool angle, and machine tool vibration, may also influence surface roughness. The objective of this study was to compare the measured surface roughness (from experiment) to the theoretical surface roughness (from theoretical calculation) and to investigate the surface roughness resulting from two types of insert, ‘C’ type and ‘T’ type. The experiment was focused on the turning process, using a lathe machine Colchester 6000. The feed rate was varied within the recommended feed rate range. We found that there were large deviations between the measured and theoretical surface roughness at a low feed rate (0.05 mm/r) from the application of both inserts. A work material factor of AISI D2 steel that affects the chip character is presumably responsible for this phenomenon. Interestingly, at a high feed rate (0.4 mm/r), the ‘C’ type insert resulted in 40% lower roughness compared to the ‘T’ type due to the difference in insert geometry. This study shows that the geometry of an insert may result in a different surface quality at a particular level of feed rate.
Variation of Clumping Index With Zenith Angle for Forest Canopies

Canopy clumping index (CI) characterizes the extent of the nonrandom spatial distribution of foliage elements within a canopy and is critical for determining the radiative transfer, photosynthesis, and transpiration processes in the canopy. It is widely perceived that the CI increases with zenith angle (<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\theta$ </tex-math></inline-formula>), because between-crown gaps decrease in size and number with increasing <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\theta $ </tex-math></inline-formula>. In this study, we demonstrate that this is not always true. Analytical equations between CI and <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\theta $ </tex-math></inline-formula> are first developed based on widely used forest canopy gap fraction (GF) theories. The results show that the zenith angular variation of CI is closely related to crown-projected area or crown shapes [i.e., the ratio of the crown height to its diameter (RHD)]: CI increases with <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\theta $ </tex-math></inline-formula> for canopies with “tower” crowns (RHD > 1), but decreases with <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\theta $ </tex-math></inline-formula> for “umbrella” crowns (RHD < 1) and does not vary much with <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\theta $ </tex-math></inline-formula> for “sphere” crowns (RHD = 1). These results are validated in a large-scale remote sensing data and image simulation framework (LESS) platform and published datasets, including the measurements in field and radiative transfer model intercomparison (RAMI) forest stands. The findings are essential for the derivation of angular-integrated (hemispherical) CI from in situ measurements and multiangular remote sensing.
Structure functions in a rotationally dominated turbulent flow

Structure functions are presented for the rotationally dominated flow first studied by Hopfinger, Browand, and Gagne [J. Fluid Mech. 125, 505 (1982)]. These were obtained from an image analysis of the streaks traced by neutrally buoyant particles in the fluid. In the first part of the paper the validity of the technique, first proposed by Griffiths and Hopfinger [Deep Sea Res. 31, 245 (1984)], is demonstrated. Results presented in the second part indicate a spectral distribution of energy varying like E1(k)∝k−5/2, where k is the wavenumber. The tendency toward two‐dimensionality of the flow and the consequent effect on the energy dissipation rate are confirmed. The discrepancy between the measured spectral distribution and the predicted k−3 law for two‐dimensional turbulence is interpreted as a result of the low Reynolds numbers achieved in the experiments.
Time series infrared spectroscopy of the Mira variable chi Cygni

A time series of 32 high resolution infrared spectra spanning more than three cycles of the S-type Mira variable chi Cygni is analyzed. Most spectra are of the 1.6--2.5 . mu.m region; five are of a narrow region at 4.6 . mu.m. Using information derived from the . delta.v = 1, 2, and 3 vibration-rotation bands of CO, we show that chi Cygni is characterized by a regularly pulsating photosphere and complex, circumstellar envelope.
Lipedema: Insights into Morphology, Pathophysiology, and Challenges

Lipedema is an adipofascial disorder that almost exclusively affects women. Lipedema leads to chronic pain, swelling, and other discomforts due to the bilateral and asymmetrical expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Although various distinctive morphological characteristics, such as the hyperproliferation of fat cells, fibrosis, and inflammation, have been characterized in the progression of lipedema, the mechanisms underlying these changes have not yet been fully investigated. In addition, it is challenging to reduce the excessive fat in lipedema patients using conventional weight-loss techniques, such as lifestyle (diet and exercise) changes, bariatric surgery, and pharmacological interventions. Therefore, lipedema patients also go through additional psychosocial distress in the absence of permanent treatment. Research to understand the pathology of lipedema is still in its infancy, but promising markers derived from exosome, cytokine, lipidomic, and metabolomic profiling studies suggest a condition distinct from obesity and lymphedema. Although genetics seems to be a substantial cause of lipedema, due to the small number of patients involved in such studies, the extrapolation of data at a broader scale is challenging. With the current lack of etiology-guided treatments for lipedema, the discovery of new promising biomarkers could provide potential solutions to combat this complex disease. This review aims to address the morphological phenotype of lipedema fat, as well as its unclear pathophysiology, with a primary emphasis on excessive interstitial fluid, extracellular matrix remodeling, and lymphatic and vasculature dysfunction. The potential mechanisms, genetic implications, and proposed biomarkers for lipedema are further discussed in detail. Finally, we mention the challenges related to lipedema and emphasize the prospects of technological interventions to benefit the lipedema community in the future.
Amorphous-amorphous transformation at high pressure in gallo-germanosilicate tetrahedral network glasses

We report the existence of structurally distinct amorphous states upon compression in sodium gallo- germanosilicate glasses. In situ x-ray absorption spectroscopy provides clear evidence for a transition at high pressure to a more compact arrangement of atoms based on Ga and Ge octahedral sites. This study extends previous works on simple and open tetrahedral networks
Synthesis, Adsorption Isotherm and Kinetic Study of Alkaline- Treated Zeolite/Chitosan/Fe3+ Composites for Nitrate Removal from Aqueous Solution—Anion and Dye Effects

In the present study, alkaline-treated zeolite/chitosan/Fe3+ (ZLCH-Fe) composites were prepared and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and pH of zero point of charge (pHzpc) to remove nitrates from water. The process was carried out using an adsorption method with a varied initial pH, adsorbent dosage, initial nitrate concentration and contact time. The pHzpc demonstrated that the ZLCH-Fe surface had a positive charge between 2 and 10, making it easier to capture the negative charge of nitrate. However, the optimal pH value is 7. After 270 min, the maximum adsorption capacity and percent removal reached 498 mg/g and 99.64%, respectively. Freundlich and pseudo-second-order were fitted to the adsorption isotherm and kinetic models, respectively. An evaluation was conducted on the effects of anions—SO42− and PO43−—and dyes—methylene blue (MB) and acid red 88 (AR88)—upon nitrate removal. The results indicated that the effect of the anion could be inhibited, in contrast to dye effects. However, the optimal pH values were changed to 10 for MB and 2 for AR88, resulting in a hydrogel formation. This might be indicated by the protonation of hydroxyl and amino groups resulting from a chitosan nitrate reaction in the AR88 solution.
Synthesis for OAM Vortex Electromagnetic Waves Based on Fourier–Bessel Expansion

In this article, we proposed a method for low sidelobe vortex wave synthesis. Using Fourier–Bessel series expansion, arbitrary radiation pattern function can be synthesized. Fortunately, the radiation pattern of concentric annulus array for vortex wave is a finite series involving Bessel functions of the first kind, which exactly suits for the Fourier–Bessel series expansion. Considering that a radiation pattern of vortex beam has a null depth in the center, it is similar to the difference pattern of monopulse radar. Therefore, we use the Bayliss difference pattern function as the objective pattern. By calculating Fourier–Bessel expansion coefficients, concentric annulus arrays can be used to effectively generate low sidelobe vortex beams. Our synthesis method may provide a theoretical reference for secure vortex communication and vortex radars in the future.
Experimental investigation on channel characteristics in tunnel environment for Time Reversal Ultra Wide Band techniques

The objective of this paper is to investigate the potential advantages of the Time Reversal (TR) technique applied to Impulse Radio Ultra Wide Band (UWB) signals for communications in tunnels. Indeed, in an environment with significant multipaths, it has already been outlined that this technique allows mitigating intersymbol interference and increases the peak power received at a target antenna. However, in a tunnel, as a result of the guiding effect of the structure, the spatial diversity degree decreases as the distance between the transmitter and receiver increases. An in‐depth analysis is therefore needed, and we first thus present the main characteristics of the UWB channel deduced from measurements made in a long straight arched tunnel and for a frequency band extending from 2.8 to 5 GHz. In the time domain, waveforms of the impulse radio signal are obtained through an inverse Fourier transform of the measured frequency response and examples are given for different distances varying from 50 m to 500 m. Delay spread and peak‐to‐peak gain are then studied, depending on the communication range. The case for multiple antenna transmission is also considered.
Two problems in the gravity flow of granular materials

Two problems representative of the gravity flow of granular materials are considered in the context of a theory presented by Goodman (1970). The problems consist of steady fully-developed flow of a granular material down an inclined plane and between vertical parallel plates. It is shown that the dynamical behaviour of these materials is quite different from that of a viscous fluid. For the inclined flow problem, the normal stresses are not only unequal but vary non-linearly with depth. Also the maximum value of the mass flux distribution does not necessarily occur at the upper surface. For the vertical channel-flow problem, the material behaves somewhat like a Bingham fluid in that a plug region exists in the central part of the channel. The interesting feature of this problem is that the concentration of material volume in the shearing region outside the plug may either increase or decrease from the plug to the channel wall, depending on the boundary conditions. Experimental evidence for these phenomena in real granular materials is cited. The results of this investigation suggest that the gravity flow of granular materials is essentially governed by two factors-a material characteristic length, which is possibly related to the grain size, and the externally imposed constraints such as the gravity field or the pressure exerted upon the granular material from the confining plates.
PRACTICALITY E-MODULE OF VIBRATION IN EVERYDAY LIFE ON ONLINE LEARNING TO IMPROVE SCIENCE PROCESS SKILLS OF GRADE X HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

The development of 21st century skills can be done through the discipline of physics. Physics learning in schools has a central role in providing learners with 21st century skills. One of the lessons that can develop students' skills and stimulate students to be active and creative is learning with a science process skills approach. The learning process involves more students acting more actively, as well as managing findings derived from aspects of skills. From the initial studies conducted it was found that students' science process skills in online learning to have a variety of problems. One alternative to problem solving is to develop electronic modules (e-modules) to improve students' process skills. The methodology used in this research is Research and Development (R&D). The model used is the R&D research model according to Sugiyono in 2012. The object of this research is the e-module vibration in everyday life in online learning. The data collection instrument used was a practicality questionnaire. The practicality test instrument consists of four components, it is usability, ease of use, attractiveness, and clarity. The results of the practicality assessment were analyzed based on the interpretation criteria of the scores obtained. Based on the research objectives and data analysis carried out, it was obtained the average value of e-module practicality which was developed according to the teacher, which was 94.5 in the very good category and the average value of e-module practicality according to the students got a value of 90.5 in very good category.
MODEL REDUCTION BY A SIMPLIFIED VARIANT OF DYNAMIC CONDENSATION

Abstract A simplified variant of exact dynamic condensation is presented. It allows one to improve considerably the Guyan condensation method in direct dynamic analysis or in substructuring. The dynamic effects of the slave (eliminated) degrees of freedom (abr. dof) are taken into account unlike in the Guyan condensation method which later leads in most cases to errors in the computed eigenvalues and eigenvectors. The proposed variant leads to improved precision in the computed eigensolutions in a well defined frequency domain. This method is also easier to apply numerically than the Guyan technique and it can be easily adapted to dynamic substructuring. The examples presented show the usefulness of the proposed method and the performances obtained.
Ecophysiological and Biochemical Responses Depicting Seed Tolerance to Osmotic Stresses in Annual and Perennial Species of Halopeplis in a Frame of Global Warming

Plant abundance and distribution are regulated by subtle changes in ecological factors, which are becoming more frequent under global climate change. Species with a higher tolerance to such changes, especially during early lifecycle stages, are highly likely to endure climate change. This study compared the germination adaptability of Halopeplis amplexicaulis and H. perfoliata, which differ in life-form and grow in different environments. Optimal conditions, tolerances and the biochemical responses of seeds to osmotic stresses were examined. Seeds of H. perfoliata germinated in a wider range of temperature regimes and were more tolerant to osmotic stresses than H. amplexicaulis seeds. Neither NaCl nor PEG treatment invoked the H2O2 content in germinating seeds of the tested species. Consequently, unaltered, or even decreased activities of H2O2 detoxification enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants were observed in germinating seeds in response to the aforementioned stresses. High and comparable levels of recovery from isotonic treatments, alongside a lack of substantial oxidative damage indicated that the osmotic stress, rather than the ionic toxicity, may be responsible for the germination inhibition. Hence, rainy periods, linked to water availability, may act as a key determinant for germination and H. perfoliata could be less affected by global warming owing to better germinability under high temperatures compared with H. amplexicaulis. Such studies involving biochemical analysis coupled with the germination ecology of congeneric species, which differ in life-form and occurrence are scarce, therefore are important in understanding the impacts of global changes on species abundance/distribution.
Algebraic Treatment of Second Poschl-teller, Morse-rosen and Eckart Equations

The method of an earlier paper (see ibid., vol.20, p.4075 (1987)) is applied to the non-compact case to solve a family of second Poschl-Teller Morse-Rosen and Eckart equations with quantised coupling constants. Both discrete and continuous spectra, bound state and scattering wavefunctions (transmission coefficients) are found from the matrix elements of group representations,.