bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the combined impact of fatty liver-induced TGF-β1 and LPS-activated macrophages in fibrosis through a novel 3D serial section methodology
Authors: Ishiyama Shiori , Hayatsu Manabu , Toriumi Taku , Tsuda Hiromasa , Watanabe Keisuke , Kasai Hirotake , Kishigami Satoshi , Mochizuki Kazuki , Mikami Yoshikazu
Published: May 2024

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), caused by fat buildup, can lead to liver inflammation and damage. Elucidation of the spatial distribution of fibrotic tissue in the fatty liver in NASH can be immensely useful to understand its pathogenesis. Thus, we developed a novel serial section-3D (SS3D) technique that combines high-resolution image acquisition with 3D construction software, which enabled highly detailed analysis of the mouse liver and extraction and quantification of stained tissues. Moreover, we studied the underexplored mechanism of fibrosis progression in the fatty liver in NASH by subjecting the mice to a high-fat diet (HFD), followed by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. The HFD/LPS (+) group showed extensive fibrosis compared with control; additionally, the area of these fibrotic regions in the HFD/LPS (+) group was almost double that of control using our SS3D technique. LPS administration led to an increase inTnfα and Il1βmRNA expression and the number of macrophages in the liver. On the other hand, transforming growth factor-β1 (Tgfβ1) mRNA increased in HFD group compared to that of control group without LPS-administration. In addition, COL1A1 levels increased in hepatic stellate cell (HSC)-like XL-2 cells when treated with recombinant TGF-β1, which attenuated with recombinant latency-associated protein (rLAP). This attenuation was rescued with LPS-activated macrophages. Therefore, we demonstrated that fatty liver produced “latent-form” of TGF-β1, which activated by macrophages via inflammatory cytokines such as TNFα and IL1β, resulting in activation of HSCs leading to the production of COL1A1. Moreover, we established the effectiveness of our SS3D technique in creating 3D images of fibrotic tissue, which can be used to study other diseases as well.
Comparison of outcomes between off-pump and on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery using collaborative targeted maximum likelihood estimation
Authors: Adineh Hossein Ali , Hoseini Kaveh , Zareban Iraj , Jalali Arash , Nazemipour Maryam , Mansournia Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2024

There are some discrepancies about the superiority of the off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery over the conventional cardiopulmonary bypass (on-pump). The aim of this study was estimating risk ratio of mortality in the off-pump coronary bypass compared with the on-pump using a causal model known as collaborative targeted maximum likelihood estimation (C-TMLE). The data of the Tehran Heart Cohort study from 2007 to 2020 was used. A collaborative targeted maximum likelihood estimation and targeted maximum likelihood estimation, and propensity score (PS) adjustment methods were used to estimate causal risk ratio adjusting for the minimum sufficient set of confounders, and the results were compared. Among 24,883 participants (73.6% male), 5566 patients died during an average of 8.2 years of follow-up. The risk ratio estimates (95% confidence intervals) by unadjusted log-binomial regression model, PS adjustment, TMLE, and C-TMLE methods were 0.86 (0.78–0.95), 0.88 (0.80–0.97), 0.88 (0.80–0.97), and 0.87(0.85–0.89), respectively. This study provides evidence for a protective effect of off-pump surgery on mortality risk for up to 8 years in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.
Green synthesis of metal nanoparticles and study their anti-pathogenic properties against pathogens effect on plants and animals
Authors: Usman Osama , Mohsin Baig Mirza Muhammad , Ikram Mujtaba , Iqbal Tehreem , Islam Saharin , Syed Wajid , Al-Rawi Mahmood Basil A. , Naseem Misbah
Published: May 2024

According to an estimate, 30% to 40%, of global fruit are wasted, leading to post harvest losses and contributing to economic losses ranging from $10 to $100 billion worldwide. Among, all fruits the discarded portion of oranges is around 20%. A novel and value addition approach to utilize the orange peels is in nanoscience. In the present study, a synthesis approach was conducted to prepare the metallic nanoparticles (copper and silver); by utilizing food waste (Citrus plant peels) as bioactive reductants. In addition, the Citrus sinensis extracts showed the reducing activity against metallic salts copper chloride and silver nitrate to form Cu-NPs (copper nanoparticles) and Ag-NPs (Silver nanoparticles). The in vitro potential of both types of prepared nanoparticles was examined against plant pathogenic bacteria Erwinia carotovora (Pectobacterium carotovorum) and pathogens effect on human health Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Moreover, the in vivo antagonistic potential of both types of prepared nanoparticles was examined by their interaction with against plant (potato slices). Furthermore, additional antipathogenic (antiviral and antifungal) properties were also examined. The statistical analysis was done to explain the level of significance and antipathogenic effectiveness among synthesized Ag-NPs and Cu-NPs. The surface morphology, elemental description and size of particles were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy and zeta sizer (in addition polydispersity index and zeta potential). The justification for the preparation of particles was done by UV–Vis Spectroscopy (excitation peaks at 339 nm for copper and 415 nm for silver) and crystalline nature was observed by X-ray diffraction. Hence, the prepared particles are quite effective against soft rot pathogens in plants and can also be used effectively in some other multifunctional applications such as bioactive sport wear, surgical gowns, bioactive bandages and wrist or knee compression bandages, etc.
Study on heat transfer and pressure steady-state characteristics of a floating nozzle under a moving wall
Authors: Liu Zhihui , Zhang Jiahao , Zhang Zhijian
Published: May 2024

This work considers the flow field as two-dimensional turbulent flow and studies the steady-state properties of heat transfer and the pressure of the suspension nozzle. An adiabatic wall parallel to the moving wall and two slit entrances at either end of the adiabatic wall make up the rectangular flow field. The SST $$k - \omega$$

k
-
ω

turbulence model is used in the turbulence computation. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses are conducted on the distribution of the flow field, temperature field, local Nusselt number, local pressure coefficient, average Nusselt number, and average pressure coefficient under various combination conditions. The findings indicate that when the suspension nozzle's flow field varies greatly, wall-jet velocity ratio is 0.1. A rise in Jet inclination angle is not helpful for the wall's suspension, and it has minimal effect on the flow field. The flow field is greatly influenced by separation space-slit width ratio. Larger separation space-slit width ratio values are advantageous for the wall's heat transmission but unfavorable for the wall's suspension. The flow field is most influenced by wall-jet velocity ratio. The wall's ability to convey heat is stronger the higher the wall-jet velocity ratio, but its ability to support weight falls.
Risk assessment of land subsidence based on GIS in the Yongqiao area, Suzhou City, China
Authors: Chai Longfei , Wei Lu , Cai Pengjie , Liu Jiankui , Kang Jia , Zhang Zhen
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on the Yongqiao District in Suzhou City, Anhui Province, China, aiming to analyze the current situation of ground settlement and its influencing factors in the area. The selected risk indices include settlement rate, cumulative settlement amount, groundwater level drop funnel, thickness of loose sediment layer, thickness of soft soil layer, and the number of groundwater extraction layers. Additionally, vulnerability indices such as population density, building density, road traffic, and functional zoning are considered. An evaluation index system for assessing land Subsidence risk was established. The risk evaluation of land Subsidence was conducted using the Hierarchical analysis-composite index method and ArcGIS spatial analysis, The evaluation results show that the area of higher risk area is about 2.82 km2, accounting for 0.96% of the total area, mainly distributed in the area of Jiuli village, Sanba Street. The middle risk area is distributed around the higher area, with an area of about 9.18 km2, accounting for 3.13% of the total area. The lower risk areas were distributed in most of the study area, covering an area of 222.24 km2, accounting for 75.82% of the total area. The low risk assessment area is mainly distributed in Bianhe Street and part of Zhuxianzhuang Town, with an area of about 58.88 km2, accounting for 20.09% of the total area. The findings of this study are not only crucial for informing local policies and practices related to land use planning, infrastructure development, and emergency response but also enhance our understanding of the complexities of land Subsidence processes and their interactions with human activities, informing future research and practice in environmental risk assessment and management.
Effect of exogenous calcitriol on myopia development and axial length in guinea pigs with form deprivation myopia
Authors: Liang Rongbin , Shi Wenqing , Li Tao , Gao Hui , Wan Ting , Li Bing , Zhou Xiaodong
Published: May 2024

The annual increase in myopia prevalence poses a significant economic and health challenge. Our study investigated the effect of calcitriol role in myopia by inducing the condition in guinea pigs through form deprivation for four weeks. Untargeted metabolomics methods were used to analyze the differences in metabolites in the vitreous body, and the expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the retina was detected. Following form deprivation, the guinea pigs received intraperitoneal injections of calcitriol at different concentrations. We assessed myopia progression using diopter measurements and biometric analysis after four weeks. Results indicated that form deprivation led to a pronounced shift towards myopia, characterized by reduced choroidal and scleral thickness, disorganized collagen fibers, and decreased scleral collagen fiber diameter. Notably, a reduction in calcitriol expression in vitreous body, diminished vitamin D and calcitriol levels in the blood, and decreased VDR protein expression in retinal tissues were observed in myopic guinea pigs. Calcitriol administration effectively slowed myopia progression, preserved choroidal and scleral thickness, and prevented the reduction of scleral collagen fiber diameter. Our findings highlight a significant decrease in calcitriol and VDR expressions in myopic guinea pigs and demonstrate that exogenous calcitriol supplementation can halt myopia development, enhancing choroidal and scleral thickness and scleral collagen fiber diameter.
Harnessing LSTM and XGBoost algorithms for storm prediction
Authors: Frifra Ayyoub , Maanan Mohamed , Maanan Mehdi , Rhinane Hassan
Published: May 2024

Storms can cause significant damage, severe social disturbance and loss of human life, but predicting them is challenging due to their infrequent occurrence. To overcome this problem, a novel deep learning and machine learning approach based on long short-term memory (LSTM) and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) was applied to predict storm characteristics and occurrence in Western France. A combination of data from buoys and a storm database between 1996 and 2020 was processed for model training and testing. The models were trained and validated with the dataset from January 1996 to December 2015 and the trained models were then used to predict storm characteristics and occurrence from January 2016 to December 2020. The LSTM model used to predict storm characteristics showed great accuracy in forecasting temperature and pressure, with challenges observed in capturing extreme values for wave height and wind speed. The trained XGBoost model, on the other hand, performed extremely well in predicting storm occurrence. The methodology adopted can help reduce the impact of storms on humans and objects.
Maternal choline supplementation mitigates premature foetal weight gain induced by an obesogenic diet, potentially linked to increased amniotic fluid leptin levels in rats
Authors: Yau-Qiu Zhi Xin , Galmés Sebastià , Castillo Pedro , Picó Catalina , Palou Andreu , Rodríguez Ana María
Published: May 2024

Placental leptin may impact foetal development. Maternal overnutrition has been linked to increased plasma leptin levels and adverse effects on offspring, whereas choline, an essential nutrient for foetal development, has shown promise in mitigating some negative impacts of maternal obesity. Here, we investigate whether a maternal obesogenic diet alters foetal growth and leptin levels in the foetal stomach, amniotic fluid (AF), and placenta in late gestation and explore the potential modulating effects of maternal choline supplementation. Female rats were fed a control (CD) or a western diet (WD) four weeks before mating and during gestation, half of them supplemented with choline (pregnancy days 11–17). Leptin levels (in foetal stomach, AF, and placenta) and leptin gene expression (in placenta) were assessed on gestation days 20 and 21. At day 20, maternal WD feeding resulted in greater leptin levels in foetal stomach, placenta, and AF. The increased AF leptin levels were associated with a premature increase in foetal weight in both sexes. Maternal choline supplementation partially prevented these alterations, but effects differed in CD dams, causing increased AF leptin levels and greater weight in male foetuses at day 20. Maternal choline supplementation effectively mitigates premature foetal overgrowth induced by an obesogenic diet, potentially linked to increased AF leptin levels. Further research is needed to explore the sex-specific effects.
Investigating the mechanism of interfacial tension reduction through the combination of low-salinity water and bacteria
Authors: Abdi Arastoo , Ranjbar Behnam , Kazemzadeh Yousef , Aram Farzaneh , Riazi Masoud
Published: May 2024

In the enhanced oil recovery (EOR) process, interfacial tension (IFT) has become a crucial factor because of its impact on the recovery of residual oil. The use of surfactants and biosurfactants can reduce IFT and enhance oil recovery by decreasing it. Asphaltene in crude oil has the structural ability to act as a surface-active material. In microbial-enhanced oil recovery (MEOR), biosurfactant production, even in small amounts, is a significant mechanism that reduces IFT. This study aimed to investigate fluid/fluid interaction by combining low biosurfactant values and low-salinity water using NaCl, MgCl2, and CaCl2salts at concentrations of 0, 1000, and 5000 ppm, along withGeobacillus stearothermophilus. By evaluating the IFT, this study investigated different percentages of 0, 1, and 5 wt.% of varying asphaltene with aqueous bulk containing low-salinity water and its combination with bacteria. The results indicated G.Stearothermophilusled to the formation of biosurfactants, resulting in a reduction in IFT for both acidic and basic asphaltene. Moreover, the interaction between asphaltene andG. Stearothermophiluswith higher asphaltene percentages showed a decrease in IFT under both acidic and basic conditions. Additionally, the study found that the interaction between acidic asphaltene andG. stearothermophilus, in the presence of CaCl2, NaCl, and MgCl2salts, resulted in a higher formation of biosurfactants and intrinsic surfactants at the interface of the two phases, in contrast to the interaction involving basic asphaltene. These findings emphasize the dependence of the interactions between asphaltene andG. Stearothermophilus, salt, and bacteria on the specific type and concentration of asphaltene.
Cervical percutaneous interferential current stimulation improves citric acid cough tests in patients with Parkinson’s disease on medication
Authors: Nakamori Masahiro , Toko Megumi , Yamada Hidetada , Hayashi Yuki , Ushio Kai , Yoshikawa Kohei , Hiraoka Aya , Yoshikawa Mineka , Nagasaki Toshikazu , Shimizu Yoshitaka , Mikami Yukio , Maruyama Hirofumi
Published: May 2024

Aspiration pneumonia is the leading cause of death in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The incidence of silent aspiration is high in such patients owing to decreased pharyngeal and laryngeal sensation; thus, interventions for this condition may help prevent pneumonia. In this single-arm, open-label study, we used a cervical percutaneous interferential current stimulation device to activate pharyngeal and laryngeal sensory nerves. We evaluated its effectiveness in patients with Hoehn–Yahr stages 2–4 Parkinson’s disease. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with a normal cough reflex after consuming 1% citric acid at the end of the intervention compared with baseline measurements. In total, 25 patients received neck percutaneous interferential current stimulation for 20 min twice weekly for 8 weeks. Afterward, the proportion of patients with a normal cough reflex after 1% citric acid consumption increased significantly (p = 0.001), whereas other indicators, such as tongue pressure, peak expiratory flow, and penetration or aspiration during videofluoroscopic examination, remained unchanged. A longer duration of illness, higher Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale total scores, and higher levodopa equivalent daily doses were significantly associated with improved cough test outcomes. Hence, cervical percutaneous interferential current stimulation significantly improved cough reflexes and may improve silent aspiration.

Trial Registration: Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, jRCTs062220013, first registered 09/05/2022.
A transcriptomic based deconvolution framework for assessing differentiation stages and drug responses of AML
Authors: Karakaslar E. Onur , Severens Jeppe F. , Sánchez-López Elena , van Veelen Peter A. , Zlei Mihaela , van Dongen Jacques J. M. , Otte Annemarie M. , Halkes Constantijn J. M. , van Balen Peter , Veelken Hendrik , Reinders Marcel J. T. , Griffioen Marieke , van den Akker Erik B.
Published: May 2024

The diagnostic spectrum for AML patients is increasingly based on genetic abnormalities due to their prognostic and predictive value. However, information on the AML blast phenotype regarding their maturational arrest has started to regain importance due to its predictive power for drug responses. Here, we deconvolute 1350 bulk RNA-seq samples from five independent AML cohorts on a single-cell healthy BM reference and demonstrate that the morphological differentiation stages (FAB) could be faithfully reconstituted using estimated cell compositions (ECCs). Moreover, we show that the ECCs reliably predict ex-vivo drug resistances as demonstrated for Venetoclax, a BCL-2 inhibitor, resistance specifically in AML with CD14+ monocyte phenotype. We validate these predictions using LUMC proteomics data by showing that BCL-2 protein abundance is split into two distinct clusters for NPM1-mutated AML at the extremes of CD14+ monocyte percentages, which could be crucial for the Venetoclax dosing patients. Our results suggest that Venetoclax resistance predictions can also be extended to AML without recurrent genetic abnormalities and possibly to MDS-related and secondary AML. Lastly, we show that CD14+ monocytic dominated Ven/Aza treated patients have significantly lower overall survival. Collectively, we propose a framework for allowing a joint mutation and maturation stage modeling that could be used as a blueprint for testing sensitivity for new agents across the various subtypes of AML.
Predicting recurrent chat contact in a psychological intervention for the youth using natural language processing
Authors: Hornstein Silvan , Scharfenberger Jonas , Lueken Ulrike , Wundrack Richard , Hilbert Kevin
Published: May 2024

Chat-based counseling hotlines emerged as a promising low-threshold intervention for youth mental health. However, despite the resulting availability of large text corpora, little work has investigated Natural Language Processing (NLP) applications within this setting. Therefore, this preregistered approach (OSF: XA4PN) utilizes a sample of approximately 19,000 children and young adults that received a chat consultation from a 24/7 crisis service in Germany. Around 800,000 messages were used to predict whether chatters would contact the service again, as this would allow the provision of or redirection to additional treatment. We trained an XGBoost Classifier on the words of the anonymized conversations, using repeated cross-validation and bayesian optimization for hyperparameter search. The best model was able to achieve an AUROC score of 0.68 (p < 0.01) on the previously unseen 3942 newest consultations. A shapely-based explainability approach revealed that words indicating younger age or female gender and terms related to self-harm and suicidal thoughts were associated with a higher chance of recontacting. We conclude that NLP-based predictions of recurrent contact are a promising path toward personalized care at chat hotlines.
Brain endothelial cells promote breast cancer cell extravasation to the brain via EGFR-DOCK4-RAC1 signalling
Authors: Galloni Chiara , Egnuni Teklu , Zahed Mohajerani Safoura , Ye Jiaqi , Mittnacht Sibylle , Speirs Valerie , Lorger Mihaela , Mavria Georgia
Published: May 2024

The role of endothelial cells in promoting cancer cell extravasation to the brain during the interaction of cancer cells with the vasculature is not well characterised. We show that brain endothelial cells activate EGFR signalling in triple-negative breast cancer cells with propensity to metastasise to the brain. This activation is dependent on soluble factors secreted by brain endothelial cells, and occurs via the RAC1 GEF DOCK4, which is required for breast cancer cell extravasation to the brain in vivo. Knockdown of DOCK4 inhibits breast cancer cell entrance to the brain without affecting cancer cell survival or growth. Defective extravasation is associated with loss of elongated morphology preceding intercalation into brain endothelium. We also show that brain endothelial cells promote paracrine stimulation of mesenchymal-like morphology of breast cancer cells via DOCK4, DOCK9, RAC1 and CDC42. This stimulation is accompanied by EGFR activation necessary for brain metastatic breast cancer cell elongation which can be reversed by the EGFR inhibitor Afatinib. Our findings suggest that brain endothelial cells promote metastasis through activation of cell signalling that renders breast cancer cells competent for extravasation. This represents a paradigm of brain endothelial cells influencing the signalling and metastatic competency of breast cancer cells.
Transmission risks of Omicron BA.5 following inactivated COVID-19 vaccines among children and adolescents in China
Authors: Guo Zihao , Zeng Ting , Lu Yaoqin , Sun Shengzhi , Liang Xiao , Ran Jinjun , Wu Yushan , Chong Marc K. C. , Wang Kai , Zhao Shi
Published: May 2024

Background

As SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants circulating globally since 2022, assessing the transmission characteristics, and the protection of vaccines against emerging Omicron variants among children and adolescents are needed for guiding the control and vaccination policies.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study for SARS-CoV-2 infections and close contacts aged <18 years from an outbreak seeded by Omicron BA.5 variants. The secondary attack rate (SAR) was calculated and the protective effects of two doses of inactivated vaccine (mainly Sinopharm /BBIBP-CorV) within a year versus one dose or two doses above a year after vaccination against the transmission and infection of Omicron BA.5 were estimated.

Results

A total of 3442 all-age close contacts of 122 confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections aged 0–17 years were included. The SAR was higher in the household setting and for individuals who received a one-dose inactivated vaccine or those who received a two-dose for more than one year, with estimates of 28.5% (95% credible interval [CrI]: 21.1, 37.7) and 55.3% (95% CrI: 24.4, 84.8), respectively. The second dose of inactivated vaccine conferred substantial protection against all infection and transmission of Omicron BA.5 variants within a year.

Conclusions

Our findings support the rollout of the second dose of inactivated vaccine for children and adolescents during the Omciron BA.5 predominant epidemic phase. Given the continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, monitoring the transmission risk and corresponding vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 variants among children and adolescents is important to inform control strategy.
Proteomic features of soft tissue tumours in adolescents and young adults
Authors: Tam Yuen Bun , Low Kaan , PS Hari , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Arthur Amani , Chen Tom W. , Thway Khin , Sadanandam Anguraj , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: May 2024

Background

Adolescents and young adult (AYA) patients with soft tissue tumours including sarcomas are an underserved group with disparities in treatment outcomes.

Methods

To define the molecular features between AYA and older adult (OA) patients, we analysed the proteomic profiles of a large cohort of soft tissue tumours across 10 histological subtypes (AYA n = 66, OA n = 243), and also analysed publicly available functional genomic data from soft tissue tumour cell lines (AYA n = 5, OA n = 8).

Results

Biological hallmarks analysis demonstrates that OA tumours are significantly enriched in MYC targets compared to AYA tumours. By comparing the patient-level proteomic data with functional genomic profiles from sarcoma cell lines, we show that the mRNA splicing pathway is an intrinsic vulnerability in cell lines from OA patients and that components of the spliceosome complex are independent prognostic factors for metastasis free survival in AYA patients.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the importance of performing age-specific molecular profiling studies to identify risk stratification tools and targeted agents tailored for the clinical management of AYA patients.
Architecture for sub-100 ms liquid crystal reconfigurable intelligent surface based on defected delay lines
Authors: Neuder Robin , Späth Marc , Schüßler Martin , Jiménez-Sáez Alejandro
Published: May 2024

Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, comprised of passive tunable elements, are emerging as an essential device for upcoming millimeter wave and terahertz wireless systems. A fundamental aspect of the device involves the tuning technology used to achieve reconfigurability. Among alternatives such as semiconductors and micro-electromechanical systems, liquid crystal offers advantages including cost- and power-effective large-panel scalability. In this context, conventional liquid crystal-based reconfigurable intelligent surface approaches face limitations in optimizing for bandwidth, response time and loss simultaneously, requiring trade-offs between them. Here we detail an architecture for a liquid crystal-based reconfigurable intelligent surface with compact defected delay lines that provide continuous, 360-degree tunability, enabling fast response time, wide bandwidth and low loss. A reconfigurable intelligent surface with a thin 4.6μm liquid crystal layer is designed, fabricated, and characterized, exhibiting response times of 72 milliseconds, insertion losses below 7 dB, and a 6.8 GHz (10.9%) bandwidth at 62 GHz, all while utilizing a lossy glass substrate and gold as a conductor.
Open-source interactive design platform for 3D-printed microfluidic devices
Authors: Zhang Yushen , Li Mengchu , Tseng Tsun-Ming , Schlichtmann Ulf
Published: May 2024

Microfluidics and 3D printing offer exciting opportunities for the development of new technologies and applications in the fields of biology, chemistry, and medicine. However, the design of 3D-printed microfluidic devices remains a challenging and complex task, requiring specialized knowledge and expertise in fluid mechanics, 3D modeling, and 3D printing technology. Currently, there are very few tools helping engineers to do the labor-intensive process of designing microfluidic devices, let alone any tools that can help them design microfluidic devices for 3D printing. In this work, we introduce Flui3d, an interactive software platform for designing microfluidic devices for 3D printing. Flui3d offers a standard parameterized component library, support for multi-layer design, and the ability to design and configure microfluidic devices without the need for specialized knowledge. Flui3d incorporates a distinctive Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) function, facilitating seamless fabrication of the designed microfluidic devices using commercial consumer-grade printers. We discuss the key features and benefits of Flui3d and demonstrate them by designing examples of microfluidic devices. We also discuss the design complexity and the potential applications of Flui3d.
Diverse misinformation: impacts of human biases on detection of deepfakes on networks
Authors: Lovato Juniper , St-Onge Jonathan , Harp Randall , Salazar Lopez Gabriela , Rogers Sean P. , Haq Ijaz Ul , Hébert-Dufresne Laurent , Onaolapo Jeremiah
Published: May 2024

Social media platforms often assume that users can self-correct against misinformation. However, social media users are not equally susceptible to all misinformation as their biases influence what types of misinformation might thrive and who might be at risk. We call “diverse misinformation” the complex relationships between human biases and demographics represented in misinformation. To investigate how users’ biases impact their susceptibility and their ability to correct each other, we analyze classification of deepfakes as a type of diverse misinformation. We chose deepfakes as a case study for three reasons: (1) their classification as misinformation is more objective; (2) we can control the demographics of the personas presented; (3) deepfakes are a real-world concern with associated harms that must be better understood. Our paper presents an observational survey (N = 2016) where participants are exposed to videos and asked questions about their attributes, not knowing some might be deepfakes. Our analysis investigates the extent to which different users are duped and which perceived demographics of deepfake personas tend to mislead. We find that accuracy varies by demographics, and participants are generally better at classifying videos that match them. We extrapolate from these results to understand the potential population-level impacts of these biases using a mathematical model of the interplay between diverse misinformation and crowd correction. Our model suggests that diverse contacts might provide “herd correction” where friends can protect each other. Altogether, human biases and the attributes of misinformation matter greatly, but having a diverse social group may help reduce susceptibility to misinformation.
Impact of chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine antiseptic solutions on the cervicovaginal microenvironment during laparoscopic hysterectomies: a pilot study
Authors: Łaniewski Paweł , Smith Gabriella , Crossley Phoebe , Farland Leslie V. , Mahnert Nichole D. , Herbst-Kralovetz Melissa M.
Published: May 2024

The use of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) as surgical preparation solution has been advocated due to reduced bacterial loads compared with povidone-iodine (PI). We aimed to investigate changes to the vaginal microenvironment among patients who had laparoscopic hysterectomy and were surgically prepped using 4% CHG compared to 7.5% PI. Premenopausal women who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign conditions and were prepped with either CHG or PI per surgeon’s choice were enrolled. Vaginal swabs and cervicovaginal lavages were collected prior to vaginal preparation and at 4–6 week post-operative visits for microbiome (α and β diversity, bacterial relative abundances, vaginal pH) and immune marker analyses (protein profiles and concentrations). Antimicrobial activity of clinical CHG and PI formulations were tested in vitro using minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentration assays. Between February 2021 and June 2022, 41 patients were enrolled. Seven patients either withdrew consent or met exclusion criteria for vaginal bleeding. Thirty-four patients had pre-operative samples collected; 13 patients were lost to follow-up. A total of 21 patients with longitudinal samples of pre- and post-operative collection contributed to this study: 13 in the CHG group and 8 in the PI group. Prior to surgery, 75–77% of women in both groups exhibited Lactobacillus dominance. PI did not change overall vaginal microbiome profiles; however, CHG impacted Lactobacillus iners-dominant profiles, shifting to other lactobacilli (50%) or dysbiotic anaerobes (33%). Lactobacillus crispatus-dominant profiles, which are optimal for vaginal health, were not impacted by either antiseptic solution. In vitro assays further confirmed higher susceptibility of L. iners to CHG solution compared to other vaginal lactobacilli species. Pro-inflammatory cytokines or chemokines were not increased in the CHG or PI group. Our study suggests that CHG does not increase the rate of post-operative vaginal dysbiosis, or genital inflammation compared to PI. Species-specific effects of CHG on vaginal lactobacilli and its clinical impact require further investigation.
Assessment of the phytotoxicity of HNTs on two plants, Cynodon dactylon and Brassica rapa L
Authors: Huang Ming , Huang Jiawei , Yu Haohong , Fangzhang Qili , Liu Mingxian
Published: May 2024

High concentration of HNTs dispersion inhibited plant growth, and HNTs dispersion was more phytotoxic to Brassica rapa L than Cynodon dactylon.
Floquet engineering of the orbital Hall effect and valleytronics in two-dimensional topological magnets
Authors: Li Runhan , Zou Xiaorong , Chen Zhiqi , Feng Xiaoran , Huang Baibiao , Dai Ying , Niu Chengwang
Published: May 2024

Multiple topological phase transitions with a tunable orbital Hall effect under the irradiation of right-handed or left-handed circularly polarized light in two-dimensional ferromagnets.
Visible-light-mediated C–H amidation of imidazoheterocycles with N-amidopyridiniums
Authors: Wen Lili , Tan Qiannan , Pi Chao , Yuan Juan , Zhang Jingyu , Mi Xia
Published: May 2024

C-3 amidated imidazoheterocycles were synthesized via a visible light-promoted reaction of imidazoheterocycles with N-amidopyridinium salts catalyzed by 4CzIPN under mild conditions.
Microporous carbons derived from nitrogen-rich triazatruxene-based porous organic polymers for efficient cathodic supercapacitors
Authors: Saber Ahmed F. , Kuo Shiao-Wei , EL-Mahdy Ahmed F. M.
Published: May 2024

Triazatruxene-based porous organic polymers and their microporous carbons were designed and prepared for efficient supercapacitors.
High-performance solution-deposited ambipolar Ir(iii) complex phosphors with aggregation-induced phosphorescence enhancement behavior based on an N–PO resonant variation skeleton
Authors: Feng Zhao , Wang Hongyan , Liu Siqi , Xu Shipan , Chen Ziyi , Zhong Daokun , Yang Xiaolong , Sun Yuanhui , Zhou Guijiang
Published: May 2024

Ir(iii) complexes bearing the N–PO resonance variation skeleton show high PLQYs, ambipolar and AIPE features. Their solution-deposited OLEDs achieve a 3.0 V turn-on voltage and EL efficiencies of 26.9%, 69.2 cd A−1 and 59.3 lm W−1.
Quick UDP Internet Connections and Transmission Control Protocol in unsafe networks: A comparative analysis
Authors: Simpson Andrew , Alshaali Maitha , Tu Wanqing , Asghar Muhammad Rizwan
Published: May 2024

Secure data transmission and efficient network performance are both key aspects of the modern Internet. Traditionally, Transport Layer Security (TLS)/Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) has been used for reliable and secure networking communications. In the past decade, Quick User Datagram Protocol (UDP) Internet Connections QUIC has been designed and implemented on UDP, attempting to improve security and efficiency of Internet traffic. Real‐world platform investigations are carried out in this paper to evaluate TLS/TCP and QUIC/UDP in maintaining communication, security and efficiency under three different types of popular cyber‐attacks. A set of interesting findings, including delay, loss, server CPU utilisation and server memory usage are presented to provide a comprehensive understanding of the two protocol stacks in performing malicious traffic. More specifically, in terms of the efficiency in achieving short delays and low packet loss rates with limited CPU and memory resources, QUIC/UDP performs better under Denial of Service attacks but TLS/TCP overtakes QUIC/UDP when handling MitM attacks. In terms of security, the implementation of TCP tends to be more secure than QUIC, but QUIC traffic patterns are harder to learn using machine learning methods. We hope that these insights will be informative in protocol selection for future networks and applications, as well as shedding light on the further development of the two protocol stacks.
DNA methylation plays important roles in lifestyle transition of Arthrobotrys oligospora
Authors: Shi Jiajia , Liu Jiaxin , Li Heng , Tang Yao , Liu Shuqun , Sun Zhirong , Yu Zefen , Ji Xinglai
Published: May 2024

Trap formation is the key indicator of carnivorous lifestyle transition of nematode‐trapping fungi (NTF). Here, the DNA methylation profile was explored during trap induction of Arthrobotrys oligospora, a typical NTF that captures nematodes by developing adhesive networks. Whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing identified 871 methylation sites and 1979 differentially methylated regions (DMRs). This first‐of‐its‐kind investigation unveiled the widespread presence of methylation systems in NTF, and suggested potential regulation of ribosomal RNAs through DNA methylation. Functional analysis indicated DNA methylation's involvement in complex gene regulations during trap induction, impacting multiple biological processes like response to stimulus, transporter activity, cell reproduction and molecular function regulator. These findings provide a glimpse into the important roles of DNA methylation in trap induction and offer new insights for understanding the molecular mechanisms driving carnivorous lifestyle transition of NTF.
Synthesis of Substituted Cyclooctenes through Cross-Coupling Reactions
Authors: Uraguchi Daisuke , Asano Keisuke , Murata Ryuichi , Yoshida Rakuto
Published: May 2024

Cross-coupling methods for the introduction of various substituents onto the olefin moiety of cyclooctenes were developed. A range of 1-substituted cis-cyclooctenes were synthesized. These protocols unlocked routes to previously inaccessible derivatives, permitting the syntheses of cis-cyclooctenes bearing various functional groups. Moreover, the method was applied to the synthesis of a 1,2-disubstituted trans-cyclooctene for the first time, which proved to be a significantly more active organocatalyst than the previously developed monosubstituted trans-cyclooctene.
Synthesis of Dihydrobenzosiloles and Silacyclopentanes by Double Hydroalumination of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Kinoshita Hidenori , Osawa Ryusei , Ogihara Kotaro , Hamasaki Fumine , Miura Katsukiyo
Published: May 2024

We have developed an efficient method for the synthesis of 2,3-dihydro-1H-1-benzosiloles in 19% to 90% isolated yield from 1-hydrosilyl-2-ethynylbenzenes by using two equivalents of diisobutylaluminum hydride. The reaction mechanism involves regioselective double hydroalumination of the alkyne moiety followed by cyclization to a 2-alanyldihydrobenzosilole. A silacyclopentane (silolane) was also synthesized in 97% isolated yield from the corresponding 4-silylbut-1-yne under the same reaction conditions. Although the substrate-scope study was conducted on a 0.5-mmol scale, a gram-scale reaction of (2-ethynylphenyl)(diphenyl)silane under the optimized reaction conditions successfully afforded the desired product in 94% isolated yield without loss of reactivity.
Outcome of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Patients with Cirrhosis and Refractory Hepatic Hydrothorax: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Giri Suprabhat , Patel Ranjan Kumar , Tripathy Taraprasad , Chaudhary Mansi , Anirvan Prajna , Chauhan Swati , Rath Mitali Madhumita , Panigrahi Manas Kumar
Published: May 2024

Background Around 5% of patients with cirrhosis of the liver develop hepatic hydrothorax (HH). For patients with refractory HH (RHH), transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) has been investigated in small studies. Hence, the present meta-analysis aimed to summarize the current data on the outcome of TIPS in patients with RHH.

Methods From inception through June 2023, MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus were searched for studies analyzing the outcome of TIPS in RHH. Clinical response, adverse events (AEs), mortality, and shunt dysfunction were the primary outcomes assessed. The event rates with their 95% confidence interval were calculated using a random-effects model.

Results A total of 12 studies (n = 466) were included in the final analysis. The pooled complete and partial response rates were 47.2% (35.8–58.5%) and 25.5% (16.7–34.3%), respectively. The pooled incidences of serious AEs and post-TIPS liver failure after TIPS in RHH were 5.6% (2.1–9.0%) and 7.6% (3.1–12.1%), respectively. The pooled incidences of overall hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and severe HE nonresponsive to standard treatment after TIPS in RHH were 33.2% (20.0–46.4%) and 3.6% (0.4–6.8%), respectively. The pooled 1-month and 1-year mortality rates were 14.0% (8.3–19.6%) and 42.0% (33.5–50.4%), respectively. The pooled incidence of shunt dysfunction after TIPS in RHH was 24.2% (16.3–32.2%).

Conclusion RHH has a modest response to TIPS in patients with cirrhosis, with only half having a complete response. Further studies are required to ascertain whether early TIPS can improve the outcome of patients with cirrhosis and HH.
Imaging in Esophageal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Talasila Pallavi , Hedge Swaroop G. , Periasamy Kannan , Nagaraj Satish Subbiah , Singh Harmandeep , Singh Harjeet , Gupta Pankaj
Published: May 2024

Esophageal cancer is one of the common cancers. Risk factors are well recognized and lead most commonly to two distinct histological subtypes (squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma). The diagnosis is based on endoscopic evaluation. The most challenging aspect of management is accurate staging as it guides appropriate management. Endoscopic ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography-CT, and magnetic resonance imaging are the imaging tests employed for the staging. Each imaging test has its own merits and demerits. Imaging is also critical to evaluate posttreatment complication and for response assessment. In this review article, we discuss in detail the risk factors, anatomical aspects, and role of imaging test in staging and evaluation of complications and response after treatment.
Navigating Misfit Feedback: The Role of Organizational Prestige in Early-Stage Recruitment
Authors: DePatie Thomas P. , Nolan Kevin P. , Billotti Brianna , Ha Joseph
Published: May 2024

Recognizing the ability of organizational prestige to meet financial, career, social, and status needs, we posit that job seekers will desire employment with prestigious firms in the face of person–organization (PO) misfit feedback. Drawing upon social identity theory, the theory of symbolic attraction, and the motivational model of fit, we suggest that when job seekers disagree with PO misfit feedback, prestige and the imagined benefits of employment motivate job seekers to desire employment. These imagined benefits serve as a needs-meeting mechanism aiding self-esteem, self-worth, and perceived social status. We conducted a between-subjects experiment investigating PO fit feedback, agreement with PO fit feedback, and employer image to explore this phenomenon. Notably, we found that when job seekers disagreed with misfit feedback, they reported greater organizational desirability when the organization was impressive (versus respectable). We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of job seeker reactions to PO fit feedback and organizational prestige as a needs-meeting mechanism.
Alternative vein bypass in octogenarians with chronic limb-threatening ischaemia
Authors: Kluckner Michaela , Enzmann Florian K , Hitzl Wolfgang , Wippel David , Hold Alina , Hölzenbein Thomas , Nierlich Patrick
Published: May 2024

Background

Octogenarians are regarded as one of the frailest patient groups among the chronic limb-threatening ischaemia population with high perioperative morbidity and mortality rates. As a result, alternative vein bypass surgery in the absence of sufficient great saphenous vein is often not considered as a potential treatment option. The aim of this study was to compare the results of octogenarians undergoing alternative vein bypass surgery due to chronic limb-threatening ischaemia to younger patients.

Methods

A single-centre retrospective analysis of patients undergoing bypass surgery for chronic limb-threatening ischaemia with alternative autologous vein grafts between 1997 and 2018 was performed. Patients aged over 80 years were compared with those under 80 years. Graft patency rates were assessed and a risk factor analysis for limb loss was performed.

Results

In total, 592 patients underwent bypass surgery during the study interval. Twenty-one per cent (n = 126) of patients were 80 years or older. At 4 years, primary, primary-assisted and secondary patency as well as limb salvage rates were not significantly different between the two groups (46% versus 50%, 60% versus 66%, 69% versus 72%, 72% versus 77%, for octogenarians versus non-octogenarians respectively). Major amputations were performed in 27 (21%) octogenarians and 91 (20%) non-octogenarians (P = 0.190). No higher 30-day and long-term mortality rates nor morbidity rates were detected in the octogenarian group with a median follow-up time of 27 (interquartile range 12–56) months. Minor amputation, the reason for alternative vein grafts, as well as the profunda femoris artery as proximal origin of the bypass were risk factors for limb loss in the postoperative course.

Conclusion

Alternative vein bypass surgery in octogenarians with chronic limb-threatening ischaemia is safe and effective in terms of patency rates, limb salvage and survival compared with younger patients in the absence of sufficient great saphenous vein. Age alone should not be a deterrent from performing bypass surgery.