bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usage of Natural Fibre Composites for Sustainable Material Development: Global Research Productivity Analysis
Authors: Ravindran Gobinath , Mahesh Vutukuru , Bheel Naraindas , Chittimalla Sampada , Srihitha Katakam , Sushmasree Alamadri
Published: May 2023

Natural-fibre-reinforced composites (NFRCs) are revolutionising the way materials are used for various purposes, and they have enriched applications from aerospace to concrete. In tandem with these works, sustainable materials that are eco-friendly and possess strength and endurance are rapidly replacing conventional materials. Recent decades have shown that many exuberant, curious-minded researchers are working on this particular domain, creating numerous materials for a variety of applications. What exactly is being performed in the laboratory is not being carried out in the field and duly disseminated. The major constraint is knowledge sharing and bottlenecks involved in assessing that research. Scientometrics is a field providing access to the consolidated research landscape report on a particular topic informing research on what work is being performed, how it is performed, who performs it, and what is the future scope. In this work, we analyse the research works, trends, and challenges related to NFRCs for engineering applications. It is found that research works, and the utilisation related to NFRCs, have soared in the last two decades, which proves to be a promising area to work upon. We use the Scopus database for the analysis, and scientometric analysis is carried over with biblioshiny. We find that there is a decreasing trend in publications (−12.74%/year); 272 sources are involved with 1690 documents published containing 5554 authors with 54 single-authored documents. There are 3919 keywords involved with 16.51 average citations received for the documents published. This work can be used to understand the research trend and also to take up newer research.
A Validated Framework for Characterising Informal Settlements: Two Cases from Greater Cairo, Egypt
Authors: Bakhaty Asser , Salama Ashraf M. , Dimitrijević Branka
Published: May 2023

There have been significant research studies on informal settlements within various disciplines including sociology, economy, politics, governance, and urbanism. However, little is known about the complexity and dynamism of informal settlements. The purpose of this study is to develop a framework for understanding the multiplicity of factors influencing the formation and transformation of informal settlements. It examines and validates various intricacies characterising informal settlements in three ways. First, informal settlement characteristics and their relationships are explored. Second, growth and transformation variables are examined. Third, qualities of the informal urban form and those that relate to sustainability are juxtaposed. Utilising two case studies from Greater Cairo, a qualitative approach is adopted including a critical analysis of the literature, interviews with experts and academics, and field observations. Through a comprehensive investigation of informal settlements, two deductions were made: First, the critical physical, social, and economic characteristics that influence their growth were identified. Second, the unique correlations between these characteristics were established and verified by the two case studies. The correlations assist in establishing the logic and dynamics of the informal settlements that can then be applied to develop intervention strategies. In addition, the inferred informal urban form can be considered as a sustainable urban form tailored for further analyses of informal settlements of cities of the global south.
Data-Driven Quantitative Performance Evaluation of Construction Supervisors
Authors: Yang Cheng , Lin Jia-Rui , Yan Ke-Xiao , Deng Yi-Chuan , Hu Zhen-Zhong , Liu Cheng
Published: May 2023

The performances of construction supervisors are essential for the monitoring, control, and coordination of the construction process of a project in order to adhere to a predefined schedule, cost, quality and other factors. However, it is challenging to evaluate their performance due to limitations such as data deficiency, human error, etc. Thus, this paper proposes an approach to data-driven quantitative performance evaluation of construction supervisors by integrating an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and activity tracking. The proposed approach contains three parts, namely, index extraction, weighting, data-driven index calculation, and then validation by case study. Firstly, performance indexes were developed based on a literature review as well as surveys and function analysis of the information system for construction supervision (CSI system). Then, the weights of and relationships among of the indexes are determined by AHP. After that, with daily workflow and inspection activities tracked in the CSI system, a method and a software module for automatic calculation of indexes were developed. Lastly, the proposed approach was validated by a real-world case. The result showed that the proposed approach can quantify the performance of a construction supervisor systematically and automatically, which shed lights on how to evaluate the performance of a worker based on the tracking of daily activities. The data-driven process enhanced our strong interpretation of member actions and evaluation indexes, and can boost the performance of every member in an organization.
Vibration Performance of Bamboo Bundle/Wood Veneer Composite Floor Slabs for Joist-Type Floor Coverings
Authors: Chen Linbi , Han Shanyu , Li Deyue , Deng Jianchao , Chen Fuming , Wang Ge
Published: May 2023

Bamboo engineering materials are green, high-strength, tough, durable, and structurally safe, and have promising application prospects in various modern green and low-carbon buildings. To investigate the vibration behavior of bamboo-bundle laminated veneer lumber (BLVL) for use in floor slabs, this study designed two kinds of full-scale vibration tests under a pedestrian load: an extraction hammer impact test and a static concentrated load test. The results are expected to provide a theoretical foundation and data to support the application of bamboo bundle veneer laminated composite materials in the construction field. The results showed that the self-oscillation frequency and mid-span deflection of the BLVL composite met the requirements of multiple relevant regulations when used as the structural material of floor slabs. The BLVL floor slab had greater flexural stiffness and better vibration-damping performance than the OSB floor slab. The first-order self-oscillation frequency of the BLVL composite floor slab was 13.769 Hz, the damping ratio of the first three orders of modalities was 1.262–2.728%, and the maximum static deflection in the span of the joist was 0.932 mm under a 1 kN concentrated load. The 1 kN static deflection of the BLVL was reduced by 22.33%, and the root mean square (RMS) acceleration of the walking load response was significantly lower than that of the OSB floor slab. The preparation of BLVL composite materials through homogeneous lamination of bamboo bundle veneer and wood veneer may help to improve the vibration behavior of bamboo–wood structures such as floor slabs and walls.
Development of a Low-Cost Luminance Imaging Device with Minimal Equipment Calibration Procedures for Absolute and Relative Luminance
Authors: Bishop Daniel , Chase J. Geoffrey
Published: May 2023

Luminance maps are information-dense measurements that can be used to directly evaluate and derive a number of important lighting measures, and improve lighting design and practices. However, cost barriers have limited the uptake of luminance imaging devices. This study presents a low-cost custom luminance imaging device developed from a Raspberry Pi microcomputer and camera module; however, the work may be extended to other low-cost imaging devices. Two calibration procedures for absolute and relative luminance are presented, which require minimal equipment. To remove calibration equipment limitations, novel procedures were developed to characterize sensor linearity and vignetting, where the accurate characterization of sensor linearity allows the use of lower-cost and highly non-linear sensors. Overall, the resultant device has an average absolute luminance error of 6.4% and an average relative luminance error of 6.2%. The device has comparable accuracy and performance to other custom devices, which use higher-cost technologies and more expensive calibration equipment, and significantly reduces the cost barrier for luminance imaging and the better lighting it enables.
Review of Bond-Slip Behavior between Rebar and UHPC: Analysis of the Proposed Models
Authors: Huang Yuan , Liu Yuming
Published: May 2023

With superior mechanical properties and workability, ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) has been utilized extensively in engineering projects. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the bond behavior of UHPC or ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC), researchers studied the factors influencing the bond-slip between rebar and UHPC or UHPFRC over the past few years. The literature-proposed ultimate bond strength formulas and the bond-slip constitutive model between rebar and UHPFRC are analyzed and compared. Based on the bond test database of UHPFRC, the results indicate that UHPFRC strength, relative concrete cover thickness, relative bond length, and steel fiber volume content are the primary parameters influencing the ultimate bond strength between rebar and UHPFRC. In the bond-slip constitutive model, the nonlinear ascending and linear descending model is more accurate than other models. This paper concludes by discussing the shortcomings in UHPC or UHPFRC bond research and predicting the future research trend.
Application and Practice of Variable Axial Force Cable in Powerhouse Truss Reinforcement System
Authors: Shen Zizhen , Hong Min , Li Xunfeng , Shen Zigang , Wang Lianbo , Wang Xueping
Published: May 2023

Long-span steel structure trusses are widely used in factory buildings. However, with the increase in service time and dynamic load fatigue, transverse cracks at the bottom of the middle span and oblique deformation of the abdomen during the operation process may appear in a considerable part of long-span trusses with dynamic load. The U-shaped cracks at the bottom and belly, as well as the mid-span down deflection of the main truss, can also reduce the functionality of the factory building truss structure and limit the original crane load, thus affecting the normal safety and durability of the structure. Therefore, the principle of variable axial force cable system in the long-span factory building truss structure and 3D3S software modelling were applied. Analysing and studying the reinforcement method of large-span powerhouse trusses can provide practical experience for subsequent similar projects. In view of the above phenomenon, the large-span powerhouse trusses of Hongcheng Powerhouse No. 1 and No. 2, located in Tonglu, Zhejiang Province, were used as the research objects, and the variable axial force cable method was proposed to strengthen and lift the load. Considering the span of the powerhouse truss, a cable system with 22 m and a controlling force of 400 kN was proposed for Powerhouse 1, and a cable system with a variable axial force of 24 m was proposed for Powerhouse 2. The force model of large-span trusses was established by using the finite element method, which is commonly used to analyse the force of the truss. The influence of the reinforcement effect was analysed under two working conditions and compared from three aspects: stiffness, bearing capacity and stability. Furthermore, the phenomenon of uneven stress distribution was analysed. The stress distribution characteristics of each node were understood by simulating the most disadvantageous node plates with the greatest internal force before and after reinforcement.
Risk and Prognosis of Thyroid Cancer in Patients with Graves’ Disease: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Palella Marco , Giustolisi Francesca Maria , Modica Fiascaro Adriana , Fichera Martina , Palmieri Antonella , Cannarella Rossella , Calogero Aldo E. , Ferrante Margherita , Fiore Maria
Published: May 2023

Graves’ disease (GD) is an autoimmune disease considered the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Some studies have investigated its relationship with the risk and prognosis of developing thyroid cancer. Considering that there is no consensus on the relationship between GD and thyroid cancer risk, this umbrella review aimed to summarize the epidemiologic evidence and evaluate its strength and validity on the associations of GD with thyroid cancer risk and its prognosis. This umbrella review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We systematically searched PubMed and Scopus from January 2012 to December 2022. The strength of the epidemiological evidence was graded as high, moderate, or weak by the Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR-2). “Strong” evidence was found for the risk of thyroid cancer in GD patients with thyroid nodular disease (OR: 5.30; 95% CI 2.43–12) and for the risk of mortality from thyroid cancer in these patients (OR 2.93, 95% CI 1.17–7.37, p = 0.02), particularly in Europe (OR 4.89; 95% CI 1.52–16). The results of this umbrella review should be interpreted with caution; as the evidence comes mostly from retrospective studies, potential concerns are selection and recall bias, and whether the empirically observed association reflects a causal relationship remains an open question.
TIM-3 Qualifies as a Potential Immunotherapeutic Target in Specific Subsets of Patients with High-Risk Soft Tissue Sarcomas (HR-STS)
Authors: Berclaz Luc M. , Altendorf-Hofmann Annelore , Lindner Lars H. , Burkhard-Meier Anton , Di Gioia Dorit , Dürr Hans Roland , Klein Alexander , Albertsmeier Markus , Schmidt-Hegemann Nina-Sophie , Klauschen Frederick , Knösel Thomas
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: The expression of T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM-3), an immune checkpoint receptor on T cells, has been associated with dismal outcomes and advanced tumor stages in various solid tumors. The blockade of TIM-3 is currently under examination in several clinical trials. This study examines TIM-3 expression in high-risk soft tissue sarcomas (HR-STS). (2) Methods: Tumor cell expression of TIM-3 on protein level was analyzed in pre-treatment biopsies of patients with HR-STS. TIM-3 expression was correlated with clinicopathological parameters including tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) counts, programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PDL-1) expression in patients with HR-STS. Survival dependent on the expression of TIM-3 was analyzed. (3) Results: TIM-3 expression was observed in 101 (56%) out of 179 pre-treatment biopsies of patients with HR-STS. TIM-3 expression was significantly more often observed in undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (UPS) compared to other histological subtypes (p < 0.001), high TIL counts (p < 0.001), and high PD-1 (p < 0.001) and PD-L1 expression (p < 0.001). TIM-3 expression did not have a prognostic impact on survival in patients with HR-STS. (4) Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate a significant tumor cell expression of TIM-3 in specific subsets of patients with HR-STS. TIM-3 qualifies as a potential immunotherapeutic target in HR-STS.
Bone Marrow Adipocytes Contribute to Tumor Microenvironment-Driven Chemoresistance via Sequestration of Doxorubicin
Authors: Kwak Jun-Goo , Lee Jungwoo
Published: May 2023

Chemoresistance is a significant problem in the effective treatment of bone metastasis. Adipocytes are a major stromal cell type in the bone marrow and may play a crucial role in developing microenvironment-driven chemoresistance. However, detailed investigation remains challenging due to the anatomical inaccessibility and intrinsic tissue complexity of the bone marrow microenvironment. In this study, we developed 2D and 3D in vitro models of bone marrow adipocytes to examine the mechanisms underlying adipocyte-induced chemoresistance. We first established a protocol for the rapid and robust differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) into mature adipocytes in 2D tissue culture plastic using rosiglitazone (10 μM), a PPARγ agonist. Next, we created a 3D adipocyte culture model by inducing aggregation of hBMSCs and adipogenesis to create adipocyte spheroids in porous hydrogel scaffolds that mimic bone marrow sinusoids. Simulated chemotherapy treatment with doxorubicin (2.5 μM) demonstrated that mature adipocytes sequester doxorubicin in lipid droplets, resulting in reduced cytotoxicity. Lastly, we performed direct coculture of human multiple myeloma cells (MM1.S) with the established 3D adipocyte model in the presence of doxorubicin. This resulted in significantly accelerated multiple myeloma proliferation following doxorubicin treatment. Our findings suggest that the sequestration of hydrophobic chemotherapeutics by mature adipocytes represents a potent mechanism of bone marrow microenvironment-driven chemoresistance.
Aquathermolysis of Heavy Crude Oil: Comparison Study of the Performance of Ni(CH3COO)2 and Zn(CH3COO)2 Water-Soluble Catalysts
Authors: Abdelsalam Yasser I. I. , Aliev Firdavs A. , Mirzayev Oybek O. , Sitnov Sergey A. , Katnov Vladimir E. , Akhmetzyanova Leysan A. , Mukhamatdinova Rezeda E. , Vakhin Alexey V.
Published: May 2023

Aquathermolysis is one of the crucial processes being considered to successfully upgrade and irreversibly reduce the high viscosity of heavy crude oil during steam enhanced oil recovery technologies. The aquathermolysis of heavy oil can be promoted by transition metal-based catalysts. In this study, the catalytic performance of two water-soluble catalysts Ni(CH3COO)2 and Zn(CH3COO)2 on the aquathermolytic upgrading of heavy oil at 300 °C for 24 h was investigated in a high pressure–high temperature (HP-HT) batch reactor. The comparison study showed that nickel acetate is more effective than zinc acetate in terms of viscosity reduction at 20 °C (58% versus 48%). The viscosity alteration can be mainly explained by the changes in the group composition, where the content of resins and asphaltenes in the upgraded heavy crude oil sample in the presence of nickel catalyst was reduced by 44% and 13%, respectively. Moreover, the nickel acetate-assisted aquathermolysis of heavy oil contributed to the increase in the yield of gasoline and diesel oil fractions by 33% and 29%, respectively. The activity of the compared metal acetates in hydrogenation of the crude oil was judged by the results of the atomic H/C ratio. The atomic H/C ratio of crude oil upgraded in the presence of Ni(CH3COO)2 was significantly increased from 1.52 to 2.02. In addition, the catalyst contributed to the desulfurization of crude oil, reducing the content of sulfur in crude oil from 5.55 wt% to 4.51 wt% The destructive hydrogenation of resins and asphaltenes was supported by the results of gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy analysis methods. The obtained experimental results showed that using water-soluble catalysts is effective in promoting the aquathermolytic reactions of heavy oil and has a great potential for industrial-scale applications.
Porous Hybrid PVDF/BiFeO3 Smart Composite with Magnetic, Piezophotocatalytic, and Light-Emission Properties
Authors: Orudzhev Farid , Alikhanov Nariman , Amirov Abdulkarim , Rabadanova Alina , Selimov Daud , Shuaibov Abdulatip , Gulakhmedov Rashid , Abdurakhmanov Magomed , Magomedova Asiyat , Ramazanov Shikhgasan , Sobola Dinara , Giraev Kamal , Amirov Akhmed , Rabadanov Kamil , Gadzhimagomedov Sultanakhmed , Murtazali Rabadanov , Rodionova Valeria
Published: May 2023

The creation of multi-stimuli-sensitive composite polymer–inorganic materials is a practical scientific task. The combination of photoactive magneto-piezoelectric nanomaterials and ferroelectric polymers offers new properties that can help solve environmental and energy problems. Using the doctor blade casting method with the thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) technique, we synthesized a hybrid polymer–inorganic nanocomposite porous membrane based on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3/BFO). We studied the samples using transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM/SEM), infrared Fourier spectroscopy (FTIR), total transmission and diffuse reflection, fluorescence microscopy, photoluminescence (PL), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), vibrating-sample magnetometer (VSM), and piezopotential measurements. Our results demonstrate that the addition of BFO increases the proportion of the polar phase from 76.2% to 93.8% due to surface ion–dipole interaction. We also found that the sample exhibits laser-induced fluorescence, with maxima at 475 and 665 nm depending on the presence of nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. Furthermore, our piezo-photocatalytic experiments showed that under the combined actions of ultrasonic treatment and UV–visible light irradiation, the reaction rate increased by factors of 68, 13, 4.2, and 1.6 compared to sonolysis, photolysis, piezocatalysis, and photocatalysis, respectively. This behavior is explained by the piezoelectric potential and the narrowing of the band gap of the composite due to the mechanical stress caused by ultrasound.
In Situ Growth of Ti3C2/UiO-66-NH2 Composites for Photoreduction of Cr(VI)
Authors: He Huan , Wang Xusheng , Yu Qin , Wu Wenbin , Feng Xinya , Kong Deyu , Ren Xiaohui , Gao Junkuo
Published: May 2023

Cr(VI) is one of the most toxic heavy metals, posing multiple threats to humans and ecosystems. Photoreduction of toxic Cr(VI) to para-toxic Cr(III) is one of the most effective ways to remove heavy metal chromium but is still challenging. Herein, Ti3C2/UiO-66-NH2 composites with different ratio of Ti3C2 were synthesized via an in situ solvothermal process and used for the enhanced photocatalytic removal of Cr(VI) for the first time. The UiO-66-NH2 nanoparticles were dispersed on the surface and slits of accordion-like Ti3C2 homogeneously. A strong interfacial interaction between Ti3C2 and UiO-66-NH2 was formed, which was indicated by the XPS. The Fermi level of the MXene cocatalyst is lower than UiO-66-NH2; thus, Ti3C2 can serve as the electron sink and accumulate photogenerated electrons from UiO-66-NH2 on its surface. A depletion layer was also formed due to the different Fermi levels of UiO-66-NH2 and Ti3C2, which prevents electrons from flowing back to UiO-66-NH. The strong interfacial interaction and formed depletion layer are beneficial for the following charge transfer from UiO-66-NH2 to Ti3C2 after light irradiation and for suppressing the photogenerated charge recombination. With suitable band positions and enhanced charge separation ability, Ti3C2/UiO-66-NH2 composites exhibited better photoreduction efficiency of Cr2O72− than pure Ti3C2 and UiO-66-NH2, with optimized samples reaching 100% in 40 min. The photoreduction kinetics of Cr2O72− by 2-T/U was also studied, with a photoreduction rate of 0.0871 min−1, which is about 2.6 times higher than that of the pure UiO-66-NH. This research provides a new type of efficient and environmentally friendly photocatalysts for the photoreduction of Cr2O72−.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Diclofenac in Tap Water on TiO2 Nanotubes Assisted with Ozone Generated from Boron-Doped Diamond Electrode
Authors: Ma Daichuan , Han Xianying , Li Xinsheng , Luo Daibing
Published: May 2023

Degradation of pharmaceuticals in water by TiO2 photocatalysis often suffers from low efficiency due to low activity and mass transfer limitation. In this work, diclofenac removal in tap water was performed by photocatalysis on TiO2 nanotube growth on Ti mesh substrate assisted by ozone (O3), which was generated from a hole-arrayed boron-doped diamond (HABDD) film electrode. The vertically oriented TiO2 nanotubes were used as the heterogeneous photocatalyst. The HABDD, as a self-standing diamond electrode, was designed and custom-made by MWCVD technology. The microstructures and crystalline of the TiO2 nanotubes and HABDD were characterized by a scanning electronic micrograph (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Unlike other ozone generation methods, direct generation of ozone in the flowing water was applied in the photocatalysis process, and its effect was discussed. The diclofenac removal performance of the electrochemical-photocatalytic system was studied depending on O3 generation efficiency, flowing rate, and the initial diclofenac concentration. The enhanced degradation effect from O3 molecules on TiO2 photocatalysis was attributed to the larger active surface area, the increased photo-generated charge separation rate, and the contact area of O3. The degradation efficiency in the combined electrochemical-photocatalytic TiO2/O3/UV system was higher than that of the O3/UV and TiO2/UV routes individually. Furthermore, a theoretical calculation was used to analyze the TiO2/O3 interface in aqueous media in terms of the final energy. This system created an almost in situ feeding channel of oxidants in the TiO2 photocatalysis process, thus increasing photocatalytic efficiency. This synergetic system is promising in the treatment of pharmaceuticals in water.
Pyrolysis of Lignin in the Presence of Cerium Oxide Coupled with Molten Salts
Authors: Huang Yue , Si Renhao , Wei Yi
Published: May 2023

Lignin is a crucial raw material for the synthesis of phenol due to its high oxygen concentration; however, the selectivity of phenol in pyrolysis products is low. This study chose cerium oxide as the coupling agent for molten salts, and the reaction’s process conditions—including temperature and catalyst dosage—were examined. The influence of metal loading on the reaction and byproducts of catalytic pyrolysis was examined. The outcomes demonstrated that the best monophenol production was accomplished at 550 °C and an Fe loading of 15 wt.%, with 93.93 wt.% monophenols in the bio-oil. While methoxy was more easily broken and rearranged, producing more monophenols, the presence of the catalyst enhanced the oxidation of Cα-OH and the breaking of β-O-4 bonds, which is significant for the study of lignin pyrolysis.
Three-Dimensional Graphene Aerogel Supported on Efficient Anode Electrocatalyst for Methanol Electrooxidation in Acid Media
Authors: Osman Siti Hasanah , Kamarudin Siti Kartom , Basri Sahriah , A. Karim Nabilah
Published: May 2023

This work attempted to improve the catalytic performance of an anodic catalyst for use in direct methanol fuel cells by coating graphene aerogel (GA) with platinum nanoparticles. A hydrothermal, freeze-drying, and microwave reduction method were used to load Pt–Ru bimetallic nanoparticles onto a graphene aerogel. The mesoporous structure of a graphene aerogel is expected to enhance the mass transfer in an electrode. XRD, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, and TEM described the as-synthesized PtRu/GA. Compared to commercial PtRu/C with the same loading (20%), the electrocatalytic performance of PtRu/GA presents superior stability in the methanol oxidation reaction. Furthermore, PtRu/GA offers an electrochemical surface area of 38.49 m2g−1, with a maximal mass activity/specific activity towards methanol oxidation of 219.78 mAmg−1/0.287 mAcm−2, which is higher than that of commercial PtRu/C, 73.11 mAmg−1/0.187 mAcm−2. Thus, the enhanced electrocatalytic performance of PtRu/GA for methanol oxidation proved that GA has excellent potential to improve the performance of Pt catalysts and tolerance towards CO poisoning.
Transcriptome Profiling Reveals Enhanced Mitochondrial Activity as a Cold Adaptive Strategy to Hypothermia in Zebrafish Muscle
Authors: Cahill Thomas , Chan Sherine , Overton Ian M. , Hardiman Gary
Published: May 2023

The utilisation of synthetic torpor for interplanetary travel once seemed farfetched. However, mounting evidence points to torpor-induced protective benefits from the main hazards of space travel, namely, exposure to radiation and microgravity. To determine the radio-protective effects of an induced torpor-like state we exploited the ectothermic nature of the Danio rerio (zebrafish) in reducing their body temperatures to replicate the hypothermic states seen during natural torpor. We also administered melatonin as a sedative to reduce physical activity. Zebrafish were then exposed to low-dose radiation (0.3 Gy) to simulate radiation exposure on long-term space missions. Transcriptomic analysis found that radiation exposure led to an upregulation of inflammatory and immune signatures and a differentiation and regeneration phenotype driven by STAT3 and MYOD1 transcription factors. In addition, DNA repair processes were downregulated in the muscle two days’ post-irradiation. The effects of hypothermia led to an increase in mitochondrial translation including genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and a downregulation of extracellular matrix and developmental genes. Upon radiation exposure, increases in endoplasmic reticulum stress genes were observed in a torpor+radiation group with downregulation of immune-related and ECM genes. Exposing hypothermic zebrafish to radiation also resulted in a downregulation of ECM and developmental genes however, immune/inflammatory related pathways were downregulated in contrast to that observed in the radiation only group. A cross-species comparison was performed with the muscle of hibernating Ursus arctos horribilis (brown bear) to define shared mechanisms of cold tolerance. Shared responses show an upregulation of protein translation and metabolism of amino acids, as well as a hypoxia response with the shared downregulation of glycolysis, ECM, and developmental genes.
Phylogenomic Analysis of micro-RNA Involved in Juvenile to Flowering-Stage Transition in Photophilic Rice and Its Sister Species
Authors: Dash Prasanta K. , Gupta Payal , Sreevathsa Rohini , Pradhan Sharat Kumar , Sanjay Tenkabailu Dharmanna , Mohanty Mihir Ranjan , Roul Pravat K. , Singh Nagendra K. , Rai Rhitu
Published: May 2023

Vegetative to reproductive phase transition in phototropic plants is an important developmental process and is sequentially mediated by the expression of micro-RNA MIR172. To obtain insight into the evolution, adaptation, and function of MIR172 in photophilic rice and its wild relatives, we analyzed the genescape of a 100 kb segment harboring MIR172 homologs from 11 genomes. The expression analysis of MIR172 revealed its incremental accumulation from the 2-leaf to 10-leaf stage, with maximum expression coinciding with the flag-leaf stage in rice. Nonetheless, the microsynteny analysis of MIR172s revealed collinearity within the genus Oryza, but a loss of synteny was observed in (i) MIR172A in O. barthii (AA) and O. glaberima (AA); (ii) MIR172B in O. brachyantha (FF); and (iii) MIR172C in O. punctata (BB). Phylogenetic analysis of precursor sequences/region of MIR172 revealed a distinct tri-modal clade of evolution. The genomic information generated in this investigation through comparative analysis of MIRNA, suggests mature MIR172s to have evolved in a disruptive and conservative mode amongst all Oryza species with a common origin of descent. Further, the phylogenomic delineation provided an insight into the adaptation and molecular evolution of MIR172 to changing environmental conditions (biotic and abiotic) of phototropic rice through natural selection and the opportunity to harness untapped genomic regions from rice wild relatives (RWR).
Glycine-β-Muricholic Acid Improves Liver Fibrosis and Gut Barrier Function by Reducing Bile Acid Pool Size and Hydrophobicity in Male Cyp2c70 Knockout Mice
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Nazmul , Chen Jianglei , Wang Huaiwen , Du Yanhong , Clayton Yung Dai , Gu Lijie , Li Tiangang
Published: May 2023

Cyp2c70 knockout mice lack the enzyme that produces muricholic acids and show a “human-like” hydrophobic bile acid pool-induced hepatobiliary injury. In this study, we investigated the potential anti-cholestasis effect of glycine-conjugated β muricholic acid (G-β-MCA) in male Cyp2c70 KO mice based on its hydrophilic physiochemical property and signaling property as an farnesoid X receptor (FXR) antagonist. Our results showed that G-β-MCA treatment for 5 weeks alleviated ductular reaction and liver fibrosis and improved gut barrier function. Analysis of bile acid metabolism suggested that exogenously administered G-β-MCA was poorly absorbed in the small intestine and mostly deconjugated in the large intestine and converted to taurine-conjugated MCA (T-MCA) in the liver, leading to T-MCA enrichment in the bile and small intestine. These changes decreased the biliary and intestine bile acid hydrophobicity index. Furthermore, G-β-MCA treatment decreased intestine bile acid absorption via unknown mechanisms, resulting in increased fecal bile acid excretion and a reduction in total bile acid pool size. In conclusion, G-β-MCA treatment reduces the bile acid pool size and hydrophobicity and improves liver fibrosis and gut barrier function in Cyp2c70 KO mice.
Recent Research Advances in Double-Strand Break and Mismatch Repair Defects in Prostate Cancer and Potential Clinical Applications
Authors: Jaworski Damian , Brzoszczyk Bartosz , Szylberg Łukasz
Published: May 2023

Prostate cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related death in men worldwide. Recent research advances have emphasized the critical roles of mismatch repair (MMR) and double-strand break (DSB) in prostate cancer development and progression. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the molecular mechanisms underlying DSB and MMR defects in prostate cancer, as well as their clinical implications. Furthermore, we discuss the promising therapeutic potential of immune checkpoint inhibitors and PARP inhibitors in targeting these defects, particularly in the context of personalized medicine and further perspectives. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of these novel treatments, including Food and Drugs Association (FDA) drug approvals, offering hope for improved patient outcomes. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of understanding the interplay between MMR and DSB defects in prostate cancer to develop innovative and effective therapeutic strategies for patients.
Ppb-Level NO2 Sensor with High Selectivity Fabricated by Flower-like Au-Loaded In2O3
Authors: Zhang Ji , Zhang Fangfang , Li Xu , Wang Qingji
Published: May 2023

With increasingly serious environmental problems caused by the improvement in people’s living standards, the number of cars has increased sharply in recent years, which directly leads to the continuous increase in the concentration of NO2 in the air. NO2 is a common toxic and irritant gas, which is harmful to both the human body and the environment. Therefore, this research focuses on NO2 detection and is committed to developing high-performance, low detection limit NO2 sensors. In this study, flower-like Au-loaded In2O3 was successfully fabricated using the hydrothermal method and the wet impregnation method. The morphological features and chemical compositions of the as-prepared samples were characterized using SEM, TEM, XRD and XPS. A variety of sensors were fabricated and the gas-sensing properties of sensors were investigated. The results indicate that the sensor based on 0.5 mol% Au/In2O3 shows a response value of 1624 to 1 ppm NO2 at 100 °C, which is 14 times that based on pure In2O3. Meanwhile, the detection limit of the sensor based on 0.5 mol% Au/In2O3 for NO2 is 10 ppb, and the response value is 10.4. In addition, the sensor based on 0.5 mol% Au/In2O3 also has high selectivity to NO2 among CO, CO2, H2, CH4, NH3, SO2 and H2S. Finally, the sensitization mechanism of Au/In2O3 was discussed, and the reasons for improving the performance of the sensor were analyzed. The above results and analysis demonstrate that the gas-sensing attributes of the sensor based on 0.5 mol% Au/In2O3 to NO2 improved remarkably; at the same time, it has been proved that the composite material has extensive potential in practical applications.
The Benefit of a Retrospective Pregnancy Anamnesis in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: The Reliability of Maternal Self-Report during Childhood Development
Authors: Mestermann Stefan , Fasching Peter A. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Gerlach Jennifer , Kratz Oliver , Moll Gunther H. , Kornhuber Johannes , Eichler Anna ,   the IMAC-Mind-Consortium
Published: May 2023

Pregnancy anamnesis is a crucial part of child and adolescent psychiatry diagnostics. In previous works, the reliability of retrospective maternal self-report on perinatal characteristics was heterogeneous. This prospective longitudinal study aimed to evaluate women’s recall of prenatal events in a within-subject design. A sample of 241 women gave a self-report on prenatal alcohol, smoking, partnership quality, pregnancy satisfaction, and obstetric complications during the 3rd trimester (t0), childhood (t1, 6–10 y), and adolescence (t2, 12–14 y). The intra-individual agreement was examined. The t0–t1–(t2) agreement was poor to substantial; this was highest for smoking and worst for obstetric complications, followed by alcohol (Fleiss’ κ = 0.719 to −0.051). There were significant t0–t1–(t2) differences for all pregnancy variables (p < 0.017), except for 3rd trimester satisfaction (p = 0.256). For alcohol (t0 25.8%, t1 17.4%, t2 41.0%) and smoking (t0 11.9%, t1 16.4%, t2 22.6%), the highest self-reported rates were found during adolescence. During childhood, fewer obstetric complications (t0 84.9%, t1 42.2%) and worse partnerships were reported (t0 M = 8.86, t1 M = 7.89). Thought to be due to social stigmata and memory effects, pregnancy self-reports cannot be precisely reproduced. Creating a respectful and trusting atmosphere is essential for mothers to give honest self-reports that are in the best interest of their children.
Pediatric Gaucher Disease Presenting with Massive Splenomegaly and Hepatic Gaucheroma
Authors: Bossù Gianluca , Pedretti Laura , Bertolini Lorenzo , Esposito Susanna
Published: May 2023

Gaucher Disease (GD) is a condition resulting from an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, characterized by a deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme beta-glucocerebrosidase. This leads to the accumulation of glucocerebroside and other glycolipids in multiple tissues, causing damage to various organ systems. The diagnosis of GD can be challenging due to its heterogeneity, non-specific symptoms, and variability across different geographic regions and age groups. Although GD is suspected based on symptoms or signs, the diagnosis is confirmed through the measurement of deficient b-glucocerebrosidase activity and the identification of biallelic pathogenic variants in the GBA gene. Intravenous enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is recommended for GD patients. In this paper, we report a case of a 2-year and 8-month-old girl with massive splenomegaly and radiological finding of hepatic gaucheroma, in whom a genetic study showed homozygous mutation on the GBA gene at c.1448T>C (p.Leu483Pro) and certified the diagnosis of GD. This patient represents the youngest child reported to have gaucheroma and also the first one presenting with gaucheroma at the diagnosis and not during the follow up, highlighting that GD should be routinely included in the differential diagnosis of children presenting with splenomegaly and hepatomegaly, taking into account that the early start of ERT can change the natural history of the disease-preventing serious complications.
Elevated Urinary Hepcidin Level and Hypoferremia in Infants with Febrile Urinary Tract Infection: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hsu Yu-Chen , Huang Hsin-Chun , Tang Kuo-Su , Su Li-Ting , Huang Ying-Hsien , Huang Hui-Chen , Chen I-Lun
Published: May 2023

To evaluate the kinetics of serum and urinary hepcidin levels along with anemia-related parameters during the infection course of infants with febrile urinary tract infection (UTI), we enrolled febrile infants aged one to four months in this prospective study. Febrile patients with UTI were allocated into Escherichia coli (E. coli) or non-E. coli groups according to urine culture results. Septic workup, blood hepcidin, iron profile, urinalysis, and urinary hepcidin–creatinine ratio were collected upon admission and 3 days after antibiotic treatment. In total, 118 infants were included. On admission, the febrile UTI group showed a significant reduction in serum iron level and a significant elevation of urinary hepcidin–creatinine ratio compared to the febrile control counterpart. Moreover, urinary hepcidin–creatinine ratio had the highest odds ratio, 2.01, in logistics regression analysis. After 3 days of antibiotic treatment, hemoglobin and the urinary hepcidin–creatinine ratio were significantly decreased. Patients with an E. coli UTI had a significantly decreased urinary hepcidin–creatinine ratio after 3 days of antibiotics treatment, whereas the non-E. coli group showed insignificant changes. Our study suggested that the urinary hepcidin–creatinine ratio elevated during acute febrile urinary tract infection and significantly decreased after 3 days of antibiotics treatment, especially in E. coli UTI.
Pirarubicin Combination Low-Dose Chemotherapy for Early Infantile Stage MS Neuroblastoma: Case Report
Authors: Kato Yutaka , Kawaguchi Hiroshi , Sakata Naoki , Ueda Satoshi , Okano Munehiro , Nishino Yuuki , Ryujin Masako , Takemura Yutaka , Takemura Tsukasa , Sugimoto Keisuke , Okada Satoshi
Published: May 2023

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a neural crest-derived malignant tumor which is diagnosed during infancy in approximately 40% of cases; spontaneous regressions are observed, but there are varying degrees of severity. Treatment is indicated if an infant’s condition is at risk of deterioration. Herein, we report the case of a 42-day-old boy who presented with hepatomegaly and was diagnosed with stage MS NB. A pathological diagnosis of “poorly differentiated neuroblastoma with low mitosis-karyorrhexis index, favorable histology” was made; his tumor cells were hyperdiploid and MYCN was not amplified. Because he had respiratory distress caused by the rapidly evolving hepatomegaly, two cycles of chemotherapy containing vincristine and cyclophosphamide were administered in the second and fourth weeks of admission; however, his abdominal tumor did not shrink. In the sixth week of admission, chemotherapy was revised to pirarubicin and cyclophosphamide, and the tumor began to shrink. After discharge, there was no re-elevation of tumor markers; after 1 year, the hepatomegaly and liver metastases disappeared. During the 5-year follow-up, his growth and development were normal and he progressed without sequelae. A regimen that includes pirarubicin could merit further study in the treatment of early infants with stage MS low-risk NB who are at risk of complications.
Incidental Hyperferritinemia in Very Young Infants with Mild Symptoms of COVID-19 Disease
Authors: Shishido Yuka , Nakamura Haruhiko , Nakagawa Tomohiro , Kanou Shinsuke , Ito Takeshi , Kuwana Shota , Ota Chiharu
Published: May 2023

Background: The number of children infected with novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has increased during the outbreak of the Omicron strain. Hyperferritinemia has been reported in severe cases of COVID-19, and in children or neonates with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS). Hyperferritinemia is considered to be one of the signs of MIS, but thus far, there have been few summarized reports on it. We retrospectively analyzed four infants less than 3 months of age with SARS-CoV-2 infections treated in our institution during the outbreak of the Omicron strain. Results: most patients were in good condition, but hyperferritinemia was observed in all of four cases. Conclusions: Hyperferritinemia can be observed in infantile COVID-19 patients even with mild symptoms. It is necessary to carefully monitor their clinical course and monitor the patients.
Preparation and Performance Study of Radiation-Proof Ultra-High-Performance Concrete
Authors: Zhou Min , Yang Tengyu , Li Jinhui , Qiu Bing , Qiu Wenjun , Li Baiyun , Shu Benan , Gong Jinhua , Guo Lixian , Li Yongling
Published: May 2023

With the continuous development of nuclear technology, it is necessary to urgently solve the nuclear safety problem. γ-rays have a strong penetrating power. The γ-ray-shielding performance of ordinary concrete prepared with natural sand is weak and cannot meet the practical application of engineering. The γ-ray shielding performance of concrete can be effectively improved through the use of titaniferous sand with a better γ-ray protection effect. To prepare ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) that can provide radiation protection, the influence law of its performance was investigated. The effects of ilmenite sand on the workability, mechanical properties, durability, and radiation-shielding properties of UHPC were investigated via mix testing, compressive strength and flexural strength testing, and a radiation-shielding simulation. The results show that an appropriate amount of ilmenite sand can improve the ultra-high-performance concrete’s work performance; however, ilmenite sand has little effect on its compressive strength. Although it is not conducive to the development of flexural and tensile strength, the γ-ray shielding performance of the UHPC increases with an increase in the addition of ilmenite sand. When the titanite sand admixture is 70%, the γ-ray linear absorption coefficient of the prepared UHPC is 0.158 cm−1, and the γ-ray shielding performance is significantly improved; meanwhile, its durability performance is excellent.
An Optimization Method for CNC Laser Combination Cutting of Irregular Plate Remainders
Authors: Li Li , Wu Zhaoyun , Zhang Zhongwei , Zhang Yulan
Published: May 2023

The key research question in this study is how to cut pieces in irregular plate remainders, because there are many irregular plate leftovers created during the CNC (Computer Numerical Control) process. This will increase material utilization and allow plate leftovers to be reused. One of the issues being researched is how to arrange plate remainders on the surface of the CNC machine; this issue is known as combination layout optimization. The other issue being researched is combination cutting-path optimization of plate remainders, which aims to determine the cutting path of parts of plate remainders. A genetic algorithm based on the gravity-center NFP (No-Fit Polygon) method was applied to optimize the layout pattern, and then the geometric coordinates of a part included in one plate remainder after packing were obtained by geometric transformation with the help of a three-layer graphic data correlation model, which quickly identified the inside and outside contours of parts. A colony algorithm based on the mathematical model of cutting-path optimization was used to optimize the cutting path of the parts in the plate remainders. Finally, some simulation tests were performed to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. The results of the algorithm for packing irregular shapes for some instances show that our algorithm outperforms the other algorithms. On most instances, the average plate utilization ratio using our algorithm, after running 20 times, is improved by 1% to 9% in comparison to the best plate utilization ratio using the tree search algorithm. The best idle travel of an example achieved by the algorithm in this paper is 7632 mm after running the cutting-path optimization algorithm 20 times, while that of the traditional equivalent TSP (Traveling Salesman Problem) algorithm is 11,625 mm, which significantly demonstrates the efficiency of the algorithm.