bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrete pore and particle size distributions during pore blocking and cake filtration
Authors: Tarifa Jhon Moron , Santos Adriano dos
Published: January 2024

Modeling membrane filtration is important for plenty industrial applications. The understanding of the phenomena and related mechanisms aims at the improvement of techniques in different areas. Therefore, different authors have proposed models to describe the mechanisms related to the filtration process involving either cake build-up or blocking processes, a few of them however have proposed both concepts simultaneously, although none considered pore and particle size distribution during the process, which is the proposal brought up in this paper. Transient solutions for filtrate volume and filter cake thickness as a function of initial pore and particle size distributions are obtained. Good matching between the studied experimental data and the proposed model was observed. In general, the results showed that permeability reduction and filtrate volume are strongly influenced by the initial pore and particle size distributions. In addition, the cake build-up rate depends on both the particle size distribution and the residual flow through blocked pores. It was observed that, after all the largest particles have blocked the smaller pores, effective permeability and flow rate vary only due to cake build-up. Finally, because the proposed empirical parameters do not depend on the pore size distribution, this model can be applied for predicting permeability decline for any feed concentration.
Influence of implant shape and prosthetic platform on cervical bone resorption: A systematic review
Authors: Soares Victor de Melo , Reis Andréa Cândido dos
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to critically evaluate the existing literature and answer the question, “Which implant format and prosthetic platform promotes the least cervical resorption?”. Material and method: SCOPUS, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, EMBASE, Lilacs, and Google Scholar databases were searched in September 2023. Results: The database search resulted in 2850 articles. Of the 12 articles selected for full reading, 2 remained in this systematic review. There is a lack of information to form an opinion and to perform statistical analysis of the data, so descriptive analysis was performed. Conclusions: Based on the studies included in this systematic review, the implant shape influences primary stability and osseointegration, but it is not yet possible to relate it directly to POC. However, the type of prosthetic platform has a direct influence. In addition to the type of prosthetic platform used, the various characteristics related to the shape of the implant must be considered to maintain satisfactory bone levels.
Analisis Kekasaran Permukaan Pada Pengaruh Kecepatan Spindel Dan Feeding Terhadap Material Baja AISI 1045 Pada Mesin Bubut CNC
Authors: Aththabary Priatama Muhammad Rizllah , Oktriadi Yudi , Zulfitriyanto Zulfitriyanto
Published: January 2024

In this era of increasingly advanced industrial technology development, of course, everyone wants the best results in making a product. For example in the machining process, one of which is CNC lathe machining, the level of roughness of a product really needs to be reviewed. The minimum surface roughness shows that the quality of a CNC machining process is very good, because the smaller the surface roughness value, the greater the quality value of a product, therefore in order to achieve this goal it is necessary to set the right parameters. Parameters varied were spindle speed (Rpm) and feeding. In this study the method used is the experimental method, with a combination of parameters to obtain surface roughness values. The material used is AISI 1045 steel, with the results of the data being analyzed using the Taguchi Smaller the Better method in Minitab 21.3 software. From the results of the calculation of the mean factor, the percent contribution to the spindle speed was obtained at 56.28%, while at feeding it was obtained at 38.14%. The optimal roughness value is obtained from the combination of parameters in the CNC lathe process on AISI 1045 steel which can make the optimal response value obtained at a spindle speed of 1645 rpm and a feeding of 0.18 mm/rev.
Sistem Informasi Perwalian Adopsi MBKM di Polman Negeri Babel
Authors: Fitri Salsabilah , Rissinta Rissinta , Josi Ahmat , Andriyanto Sidhiq
Published: January 2024

The guidance process and credit claims in Polman Negeri Babel are still carried out manually, where each guardian lecturer must retrieve and process student data without using an information system that makes the results inaccurate. Because of this, we build Website-based independent adoption guardianship information system for independent campus learning (MBKM). The result achieved is the use of a Website-based information system that can facilitate guidance and claim credits. The output which is produced in this system is a summary of the semester guidance results and reports at the guardian lecturers.
Aplikasi Penerjemah Bahasa Bangka Ke Bahasa Indonesia Menggunakan Neural Machine Translation Berbasis Website
Authors: Razsiah Fadel , Josi Ahmat , Mubaroh Sari
Published: January 2024

At this time, machine translation is one of the options for translating languages, especially for people who want to learn a language. Bangka language is a language that is often used by the Bangka people for everyday life. There have been many developments for machine translation, but no one has yet developed a translation machine for the Bangka language. The development of a machine translation using Neural Machine Translation (NMT) and its implementation using the Flask microframework is the first step for the development of a machine translation for the Bangka language. This study aims to make and find out the translation results of the Bangka language translator application into Indonesian using the RNN translator model. The development starts from creating a parallel corpus of Bangka language to Indonesian and machine translation architecture with the RNN model. The research method starts from dataset collection, data preprocessing, modeling and training, system evaluation and implementation. From the results of the BLEU Scores evaluation, a value of 55.3% was obtained for Bangka to Indonesian. Furthermore, the model is implemented in the form of a website by utilizing the Flask framework, so that users can easily translate.
Sistem Informasi Data Alumni SMK Negeri 2 Pangkalpinang Berbasis Website
Authors: Sanjaya Rio , Fujiyanti Linda , Afriansyah Riki
Published: January 2024

One of the largest SMKs in the Bangka Belitung Islands is SMK Negeri 2 Pangkalpinang. At SMK Negeri 2 Pangkalpinang, alumni registration is still done with a Google form that can't be edited in the event of a data collection error, which can make the administration's validation process more difficult. The process of collecting alumni data, therefore, requires a more efficient system. The creation of a SMK Negeri 2 Pangkalpinang alumni data system is the goal of this study. This study used observation, interviews, and data collection about the alumni data collection information system at SMK Negeri 2 Pangkalpinang to collect the data. The waterfall development method is used to create the system. The development of a website-based alumni data information system for SMK Negeri 2 Pangkalpinang that is capable of managing alumni data and assisting the administration in processing alumni data is the outcome of this study. The user satisfaction survey found that 81.2% of respondents agreed that the system works well.
Rancang Bangun Sistem Informasi Promosi Pariwisata Kecamatan Lepar Pongok Kabupaten Bangka Selatan
Authors: Zuhri Zuhri , Josi Ahmat , Andriyanto Sidhiq
Published: January 2024

Lepar Pongok District has 8 tourist attractions but what can be displayed on the website are 6 tourist attractions, information about tourist attractions in Lepar Pongok District is still lacking, due to the lack of information about tourism in Lepar Pongok District, so with this the author is interested in making "Design of a Tourism Promotion Information System in Lepar Pongok District, South Bangka Regency". The aim of this final project is to design and build a Tourism Promotion Information System for Lepar Pongok District, South Bangka Regency as an effort to promote tourism in Lepar Pongok District. In the tourism promotion information system research in the Lepar Pongok sub-district, the data collection method used was the interview, documentation, observation, and literature study. And the method used in designing a tourism promotion information system website in Lepar Pongok district, the district is the waterfall method. The results of research on the tourism promotion information system website in the Lepar Pongok sub-district, district based on the tests that have been carried out, get a percentage value of 83% so this application is feasible to use. The conclusion from research on the tourism promotion information system website in Lepar Pongok sub-district, South Bangka district is that this website can make it easier for potential tourists to find out which tourism destinations are in Lepar Pongok sub-district and are feasible to use.
Analisis Pengaruh Elektroda E309-16 Pada Sambungan Baja Carbon Aisi 1045 Dan Stainless Steel 304 Dengan Menggunakan Pengelasan Smaw
Authors: Haryanto Budi , Tuparjono Tuparjono , Darta Yuli
Published: January 2024

The bimetallic welding process is a welding process that connects two different types of metal. This study aims to determine the effect of the E309-16 electrode on the connection of two materials using smaw welding on tensile strength. The materials used were carbon steel AISI 1045 and stainless steel 304. This study used an experimental method with a penetration and filling welding process with a 60° V seam using an E309-16 electrode. The shape of the specimens in this study used the ASTM E8 standard. From the results of the tensile test research conducted, the E309-16 electrode has an influence on the bimetallic welding process on AISI 1045 carbon steel and 304 stainless steelwith a resulting tensile strength of 58.01 Kg/mm – 68.48 Kg/mm, yield strength that is produced by 35.97 Kg/mm – 37.12 Kg/mm, the resulting strain value was 12.50% - 43.00% and was able to withstand a given tensile load of 6450 Kg – 7900 Kg. and the bimetallic welding process using the E309-16 electrode has a more binding effect on the 304 stainless steel material, this is evidenced by the broken specimens in the weld area and the lower carbon content of 304 stainless steel with a carbon content of 0.042% compared to AISI steel material 1045 which has a carbon content of 0.42%.
Sistem Informasi Manajemen UKM dan ORMAWA di Polman Negeri Babel
Authors: Azzah Haaniyah Adinda , Afriansyah Riki , Agita Rindri Yang
Published: January 2024

Student affairs at Polman Negeri Babel are divided into Student Activity Units (UKM) and Student Organizations (ORMAWA). Administrative processes such as submitting work programs, accountability reports, and submitting activity proposals are not well structured. There is no data collection for UKM and ORMAWA members, the membership registration process is still conventional and there is a lack of information delivery media. Based on these problems, research was carried out which aimed to build a Management Information System for UKM and ORMAWA at Polman Negeri Babel. The methods used in data collection are observation and interviews. As for the research method used prototype method. The method used to test the system is the User Acceptance Test (UAT) method with black box testing and beta testing techniques. The system built is in accordance with the plan based on the results of black box testing. While the beta testing results obtained a percentage of 88.48%. It can be concluded from this study that the development of the Management Information System for UKM and ORMAWA at Polman Negeri Babel suits user needs and facilitates the administrative process, membership registration, conveying or obtaining information, records logs of activities and membership of UKM and ORMAWA
Kekuatan Tarik yang Dipengaruhi Arah Susunan dan Fraksi Volume Serat Pelepah Nipah Pada Komposit Serat
Authors: Rizki Muhammad , Erwansyah Erwansyah , Idiar Idiar
Published: January 2024

Nipa plant is a plant that can be found in water areas such as in swamps. Quite a lot that can be utilized from this swamp plant. Utilization of the nipa plant can be sourced from its fruit, midrib, and leaf bones [1]. In addition to the uses previously described, the nipa plant in its midrib has fiber which has been extensively researched on this fiber. Nipa midribs which have fibers can be used as reinforcement for fiber composites. This study aims to determine the effect of arrangement and volume fraction of fibers that have been determined, as well as knowing whether the use of nipa midrib fiber as a composite reinforcement material can or cannot achieve the tensile strength value of the high impact ABS plastic material on the car dashboards. The research method in this study uses factorial design with manual composite printing. The results of this study were that the highest value of the tensile strength of the nipa midrib fiber composite was found in the vertical arrangement direction with a volume fraction 15%, namely 26.43 MPa, while the lowest value is found in the direction of horizontal arrangement with a volume fraction of 15%, namely 14.07 MPa. So that the value of the nipa midrib fiber composite in the vertical arrangement direction with a volume fraction of 15% achieves the tensile strength value of the high impact ABS plastic material on the car dashboards, namely 20 – 40 MPa.
Analisis Pengaruh Nilai Parameter Proses Pemesinan Milling Terhadap Kekasaran Permukaan Almunium 7075
Authors: Mahendra Anan , Yudo Eko , Kurniawan Zaldy
Published: January 2024

Miiling machining is one of the machining processes that are widely used for the manufacture of a component of goods with a milling machining process, the time required to make components should be as minimal as possible so that high production capacity can be achieved. The maximum cutting process parameter will result in a high rate of material feeding, so it can also result in the appropriate surface roughness (Ra) desired. The purpose of this study is to obtain the lowest surface roughness value produced by the process from CNC milling with the parameters used and to determine the level of roughness of the aluminum surface using the depth of cut, cutting speed, and rotation speed. The method used is the Taguchi method with three parameters, namely spindle rotation (Rpm), Feeding Depth, Feeding Speed taken from this study the results of a tool data called roungnes tester obtained and directly retrieving the most optimal value data of 0.239 Ra which has been averaged. Then in the percentage up to these three factors that have been done.from the results have been obtained have a small prenstasi of 30% and obtained a response value of less than 1%. This taguchi method is to improve product quality and process in about the same time. The results of this optimization are used to try the operator's consideration when determining the combination to get the optimal value possible.
Pengaruh Jenis Pendingin Dan Variasi Sudut Potong Terhadap Kekasaran Permukaan Bubut Baja SCM 440
Authors: Angga Muhammad Angga Pratama , Kurniawan Zaldy , Yudo Eko
Published: January 2024

Abstract At present it is not surprising that industrial competition continues in different parts of production according to the form of business. This is entirely due to the development of science and technology which is increasingly advanced day by day. As well as in the field of machining, namely machine tools and production, production machines that play an important role in the course of industrial activities, one of which is the lathe. The material used in this test is alloy steel SCM 440, this material is medium carbon chromium molybdenum alloy steel, SCM 440 alloy steel contains chromium and molybdnum. Has an alloy composition of 0.38-0.43% C, 0.90-1.20% Cr, 0.15-035% Si, 0.60-0.85% Mn, 0.15-0.30% Mo, and 0.03 max p/s. The diameter of the BK tube is Ø25 x 100 mm. This study uses the Taguchi method. The parameters used are the angle of cut, type of coolant and feeding speed. The optimum parameters for obtaining a low roughness value are the cutting angle of 13°, the type of cooling cutting oil and the feeding speed of 0.040 mm. With a S/N ratio of -10.396.
Pengaruh Media Pendingin Bio Solar Pada Perlakuan Panas Untuk Meningkatkan Kekerasan Roda Gigi Sproket
Authors: Gusmantoro Devri , Erwansyah Erwansyah , Dwi Krishnaningsih Shanty
Published: January 2024

The sprocket gears is one part of motorcycle that functions as a power transfer transmission. The service of gears can be influenced by several aspect, one of which is the hardness of sprocket gears. The hardness of the sprocket gear material can be increased by various mathod, one of which is heat treatment. This study used an experimental method with the aim of knowing the effect of bio diesel as the main cooling medium on increasing the hardness of non-original sprocket gears. The research process included carburizing and hardening processes on 2 non-original brands at temperature of 910°C and then cooled using bio diesel and water cooling media with a holding time of 30 minute and 60 minutes. The results showed that the heat treatment process could increase the hardness of brand A with a normal hardness of 104 HB resulting in the highest value in the parameter holding time of 60 minute and water cooling medium with a hardness value of 111,6 HB and brand B of normal hardness with a value of 110,8 HB producing the highest value is the holding time parameter of 60 minutes and water cooling medium with a hardness value of 115,9 HB. Based on the result obtained, water cooling medium is higher than bio diesel cooling medium.
Pengaruh Variasi Kecepatan Putar Dan Waktu Gesek Terhadap Kekuatan Impak Sambungan Las Gesek Pada Baja AISI 4340
Authors: Saputra Maula , Rodika Rodika , Ary Wahyudie Ilham
Published: January 2024

Welding is a very important process in the industrial world and is not left behind in today's developments. Friction welding techniques that rely on heat by friction of two materials, besides this friction welding without the use of filler metal or electrodes and the processing time is not long, this friction welding is very good for solid objects such as shafts. At this time, a test will be carried out on the effect of variations in rotational speed and friction time on the impact strength of joints in AISI 4340 steel. This study will use lathes with variations in rotational speed parameters of 720, 1000 and 1400 rpm with times of 50, 70 and 90 seconds. The material used is AISI 4340 steel in the form of a solid cylinder and impact strength testing will be carried out using the charpy method. From the research conducted, the highest average results were obtained, namely at 1400 Rpm and with a time of 90 seconds with an impact energy value of 31.93 J and an average impact price of 0.398 J/mm2. While the lowest average value is at 720 rpm variation and with a time of 50 seconds with an impact energy value of 6.43 J and an average impact price of 0.079 J/mm2. So variations in the parameters of rotational speed and friction time greatly affect the strength of the material to be impact tested.
Perilaku Impulsive Buying Gen-Z dalam Perspektif Etika Bisnis Islam
Authors: Aminah Aminah , Nurhasanah Lisa
Published: January 2024

Globalisasi saat ini mempengaruhi perilaku konsumsi masyarakat. Kecenderungan masyarakat mengarah pada perilaku konsumsi irrasional yaitu impulsive buying. Dengan berkembangnya teknologi internet yang sangat pesat, sehingga merubah pola belanja Generasi-Z yang awalnya berbelanja di toko menjadi berbelanja secara online di marketplace. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis perilaku konsumsi impulsive buying dan tinjauan etika bisnis Islam terhadap perilaku konsumsi impulsive buying yang dilakukan generasi-Z di marketplace.Dengan jenis field research dan menggunakan metode kuantitatif, adapun teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah survey dengan menyebarkan kuisioner kepada 399 responden di kabupaten Cirebon yang merupakan sample dalam penelitian ini.Metode analisis yang digunakan adalah deskriptif dan tabulasi. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa perilaku impulsive buying yang dilakukan generasi-Z di Kabupaten Cirebon termasuk pada tipe pembelian suggestion impulsive yang dipengaruhi oleh faktor eksternal, yaitu review atau penilaian produk yang ingin dibelinya.Selain faktor eksternal tersebut, perilaku impulsive buying juga dipengaruhi faktor internal, antara lain promosi; visual produk yang menarik; diskon; dan gratis ongkos kirim.Perilaku impulsive buying Generasi-Z dalam perspektif etika bisnis Islam belum dijalankan secara optimal, khususnya dari prinsip “tanggung jawab”. Hal ini karena sebagian besar responden pernah melakukan hit and run atau membatalkan pesanan.
Heat Stress Challenges and Resilience
Authors:   , Lian Puqiao
Published: January 2024

Strenuous exercise alters intestinal function by inducing heat stress in the gut and unbalancing the gut microbiota. The resilient mechanisms of the body to oxidative stress and heat stress assist the gut to counteract the damage caused by strenuous exercise. Exercise followed by proper rest day(s) offers potential protection against strenuous exercise-induced intestinal damage by modulating the gut microbiota and facilitating gastrointestinal repair. Nutrients, such as antioxidants, amino acids, PUFAs, and NDOs, are beneficial and may contribute to intestinal homeostasis. In particular, the antioxidant ALA is potentially beneficial in preserving intestinal epithelial integrity under heat stress and oxidative stress conditions in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. In the future, ALA in combination with other nutritional components may prevent or ameliorate intestinal injuries caused by strenuous exercise.
MEDICAL CHEMISTRY
Authors:   Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Stupák Marek , Smolko Lukáš , Urban Peter , Birková Anna , Mašlanková Jana , Hubková Beáta , Čižmárová Beáta , Mareková Mária
Published: January 2024

Medical Chemistry presents an overview of the most important topics of general, organic and bioinorganic chemistry for students of General and Dental Medicine study programs. Its aim is to provide a theoretical basis for the study of the subject Medical Chemistry and for understanding processes and chemical reactions which are taking place in the human body. Each topic directly links chemical principles to the processes in living organisms and thus can help the students to clearly see the application of the presented information. Therefore, it also provides a good starting point for further study of Medical Biochemistry, for which the knowledge of these principles is necessary.
Depressive symptoms are related to asthma control but not self-management among rural adolescents
Authors: Patel Neha B. , Céspedes Amarilis , Liu Jianfang , Bruzzese Jean-Marie
Published: January 2024

Background

Depression, a relevant comorbidity with asthma, has been reported to be associated with asthma morbidity. Asthma self-management is essential to asthma control and may be negatively impacted by depression. We examined these associations in rural adolescents, a group with relatively high asthma morbidity and depressive symptoms, a population often ignored in asthma research.

Methods

We used baseline data from a randomized trial of an asthma intervention for adolescents in rural South Carolina (n = 197). Adolescents completed the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D), three indices of asthma self-management (the Asthma Prevention Index, the Asthma Management Index and the Asthma Self-Efficacy Index), and the Asthma Control Test (ACT). Poisson and linear regression tested associations between depression, self-management, and asthma control. The models controlled for demographic variables and included school as a fixed effect.

Results

Most participants (mean age = 16.3 ± 1.2 years) self-identified as female (68.5%) and Black (62.43%). The mean CES-D score was 19.7 ± 10.3, with 61.4% of participants at risk for depression. The depressive symptoms were significantly related to asthma control [β = −0.085, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.14 to −0.03] but not to prevention [relative risk (RR) = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.99–1.01], management (RR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.99–1.01), or self-efficacy (β = −0.002, 95% CI = −0.01 to 0.01),

Conclusions

In this sample of rural adolescents, as depressive symptoms increased, asthma control declined. Depressive symptoms were not associated with asthma self-management, suggesting that the aspects of self-management we assessed are not an avenue by which depression impacts asthma control. Additional research is needed to further understand the relationship between depressive symptoms, asthma self-management, and control.
Computational design and evaluation of the mechanical and electrical behavior of a piezoelectric scaffold: a preclinical study
Authors: Badali Vahid , Checa Sara , Zehn Manfred M. , Marinkovic Dragan , Mohammadkhah Melika
Published: January 2024

Piezoelectric scaffolds have been recently developed to explore their potential to enhance the bone regeneration process using the concept of piezoelectricity, which also inherently occurs in bone. In addition to providing mechanical support during bone healing, with a suitable design, they are supposed to produce electrical signals that ought to favor the cell responses. In this study, using finite element analysis (FEA), a piezoelectric scaffold was designed with the aim of providing favorable ranges of mechanical and electrical signals when implanted in a large bone defect in a large animal model, so that it could inform future pre-clinical studies. A parametric analysis was then performed to evaluate the effect of the scaffold design parameters with regard to the piezoelectric behavior of the scaffold. The designed scaffold consisted of a porous strut-like structure with piezoelectric patches covering its free surfaces within the scaffold pores. The results showed that titanium or PCL for the scaffold and barium titanate (BT) for the piezoelectric patches are a promising material combination to generate favorable ranges of voltage, as reported in experimental studies. Furthermore, the analysis of variance showed the thickness of the piezoelectric patches to be the most influential geometrical parameter on the generation of electrical signals in the scaffold. This study shows the potential of computer tools for the optimization of scaffold designs and suggests that patches of piezoelectric material, attached to the scaffold surfaces, can deliver favorable ranges of electrical stimuli to the cells that might promote bone regeneration.
A novel ventriculoperitoneal shunt flow sensor based on electrically induced spatial variation in cerebrospinal fluid charge density
Authors: Zarrin David A. , Jafari Matiar , Kim Won , Colby Geoffrey P.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts divert cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) out of cerebral ventricles in patients with hydrocephalus or elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). Despite high failure rates, there exist limited clinically viable solutions for long-term and continuous outpatient monitoring of CSF flow rate through VP shunts. We present a novel, low-power method for sensing analog CSF flow rate through a VP shunt premised on induced spatial electrical charge variation.

Methods: Two geometric variants of the proposed sensing mechanism were prototyped: linear wire (P1) and cylindrical (P2) electrodes. Normal saline was gravity-driven through P1 and a commercially available shunt system in series. True flow rates were measured using a high-precision analytical balance. Subsequently, artificial CSF was driven by a programmable syringe pump through P2. Flow rate prediction models were empirically derived and tested. Sensor response was also assessed during simulated obstruction trials. Finally, power consumption per flow measurement was measured.

Results: P1 (17 mm long) and P2 (22 mm long) averaged 7.2% and 4.2% error, respectively, in flow rate measurement from 0.01 to 0.90 mL/min. Response curves exhibited an appreciably flattened profile during obstruction trials compared to non-obstructed states. P2 consumed 37.5 µJoules per flow measurement.

Conclusion: We propose a novel method for accurately sensing CSF flow rate through a VP shunt and validate this method at the benchtop with normal saline and artificial CSF over a board range of flows (0.01–0.90 mL/min). The sensing element is highly power efficient, compact, insertable into existing shunt and valve assemblies, and does not alter CSF flow mechanics.
Tristetraprolin promotes survival of mammary progenitor cells by restraining TNFα levels
Authors: Stedile Micaela , Lara Montero Angela , García Solá Martín Emilio , Goddio María Victoria , Beckerman Inés , Bogni Emilia , Ayre Marina , Naguila Zaira , Coso Omar A. , Kordon Edith C.
Published: January 2024

Tristetraprolin (TTP) is an RNA binding protein that destabilizes mRNAs of factors involved in proliferation, invasiveness, and inflammation. Disruption of the gene that codes for TTP (Zfp36) led to severe arthritis, autoimmunity, cachexia and dermatitis in mice. It has been shown that these phenotypes were mostly due to excessive TNFα levels in the affected tissues. We have previously reported that TTP expression is required for lactation maintenance. Our results indicated that conditional MG TTP-KO female mice displayed early involution due to the untimely induction of pro-inflammatory pathways led mostly by TNFα overexpression. Here we show that reducing TTP levels not only affects the fully differentiated mammary gland, but also harms morphogenesis of this tissue by impairing the progenitor cell population. We found that Zfp36 expression is linked to mammary stemness in human and mice. In addition, diminishing TTP expression and activity induced apoptosis of stem-like mouse mammary cells, reduced its ability to form mammospheres in culture and to develop into complete glands when implanted into cleared mammary fat pads in vivo. Our results show that survival of the stem-like cells is compromised by increased levels of inflammatory cytokines and stimulation of signaling cascades involving NFκB, STAT3 and MAPK-p38 activation. Moreover, TNFα overexpression and the consequent p38 phosphorylation would be the leading cause of progenitor cell death upon TTP expression restriction. Taken together, our results reveal the relevance of TTP for the maintenance of the mammary progenitor cell compartment by maintaining local TNFα levels at bay.
Versatile approach towards fully desymmetrized trehalose with a novel set of orthogonal protecting groups
Authors: Vašíček Tomáš , Arensmeyer Benjamin , Monti Alessandro , Zamyatina Alla
Published: January 2024

Trehalose-containing glycans play an essential role in bacterial pathogenesis, host-pathogen interaction, and cell signaling. The investigation of trehalose uptake and metabolism in Mycobacteria using synthetic desymmetrized trehalose probes is an important approach for the development of diagnostic tools and potential therapeutics for tuberculosis. Trehalose-derived mycobacterial glycolipids activate the innate immune response through recognition by the C-type lectin Mincle, justifying efforts to develop novel trehalose-based Mincle-dependent adjuvants. The chemical synthesis of trehalose-based glycoconjugates, glycolipids, and small-molecule trehalose probes requires the challenging chemical desymmetrization of eight hydroxyl groups in a C2-symmetric disaccharide αGlc(1↔1)αGlc. Using a novel set of orthogonal protecting groups, we developed a flexible multiscale synthetic approach to a collection of differently and variably protected fully desymmetrized trehalose derivatives, ready for final chemical modification with relevant functional or reporter groups. Using a regioselective and site-specific protecting group strategy, we performed multiple symmetry-breaking operations, resulting in a library of trehalose-derived orthogonally protected building blocks as a versatile source for the synthesis of complex trehalose-containing glycans.
Long-chain organic molecules enable mixed dimensional perovskite photovoltaics: a brief view
Authors: Zhou Xianfang , Wang Taomiao , Liang Xiao , Wang Fei , Xu Yan , Lin Haoran , Hu Ruiyuan , Hu Hanlin
Published: January 2024

The remarkable optoelectronic properties of organometal halide perovskite solar cells have captivated significant attention in the energy sector. Nevertheless, the instability of 3D perovskites, despite their extensive study and attainment of high-power conversion efficiency, remains a substantial obstacle in advancing PSCs for practical applications and eventual commercialization. To tackle this issue, researchers have devised mixed-dimensional perovskite structures combining 1D and 3D components. This innovative approach entails incorporating stable 1D perovskites into 3D perovskite matrices, yielding a significant improvement in long-term stability against various challenges, including moisture, continuous illumination, and thermal stress. Notably, the incorporation of 1D perovskite yields a multitude of advantages. Firstly, it efficiently passivates defects, thereby improving the overall device quality. Secondly, it retards ion migration, a pivotal factor in degradation, thus further bolstering stability. Lastly, the inclusion of 1D perovskite facilitates charge transport, ultimately resulting in an elevated device efficiency. In this succinct review, we thoroughly encapsulate the recent progress in PSCs utilizing 1D/3D mixed-dimensional architectures. These advancements encompass both stacked bilayer configurations of 1D/3D structures and mixed monolayer structures of 1D/3D. Additionally, we tackle critical challenges that must be surmounted and offer insights into the prospects for further advancements in this domain.
Transcriptional profiling specifies the pathogen-specific human host response to infectious keratitis
Authors: Lapp Thabo , Kammrath Betancor Paola , Schlunck Günther , Auw-Hädrich Claudia , Maier Philip , Lange Clemens , Reinhard Thomas , Wolf Julian
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Corneal infections are a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. Here we applied high-resolution transcriptomic profiling to assess the general and pathogen-specific molecular and cellular mechanisms during human corneal infection.

Methods

Clinical diagnoses of herpes simplex virus (HSV) (n=5) and bacterial/fungal (n=5) keratitis were confirmed by histology. Healthy corneas (n=7) and keratoconus (n=4) samples served as controls. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) human corneal specimens were analyzed using the 3’ RNA sequencing method Massive Analysis of cDNA Ends (MACE RNA-seq). The cellular host response was investigated using comprehensive bioinformatic deconvolution (xCell and CYBERSORTx) analyses and by integration with published single cell RNA-seq data of the human cornea.

Results

Our analysis identified 216 and 561 genes, that were specifically overexpressed in viral or bacterial/fungal keratitis, respectively, and allowed to distinguish the two etiologies. The virus-specific host response was driven by adaptive immunity and associated molecular signaling pathways, whereas the bacterial/fungal-specific host response mainly involved innate immunity signaling pathways and cell types. We identified several genes and pathways involved in the host response to infectious keratitis, including CXCL9, CXCR3, and MMP9 for viral, and S100A8/A9, MMP9, and the IL17 pathway for bacterial/fungal keratitis.

Conclusions

High-resolution molecular profiling provides new insights into the human corneal host response to viral and bacterial/fungal infection. Pathogen-specific molecular profiles may provide the foundation for novel diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic approaches that target inflammation-induced damage to corneal host cells with the goal to improve the outcome of infectious keratitis.
DNA damage response coregulator ddrR affects many cellular pathways and processes in Acinetobacter baumannii 17978
Authors: Cook Deborah , Flannigan Mollee D. , Chariker Julia H. , Hare Janelle M.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Acinetobacter baumannii strain 17978 is an opportunistic pathogen possessing a DNA damage response (DDR) in which multiple error-prone polymerase genes are co-repressed by a UmuD homolog, UmuDAb, and the small Acinetobacter-specific protein DdrR. Additionally, these regulators coactivate nine other genes. We identified the DNA damage-inducible transcriptome for wildtype, umuDAb, and recA strains, and later established the ddrR DDR transcriptome. However, the ATCC 17978 reference genome had several assembly errors and lacked the 44 kb virulence locus, AbaAL44, that is present in the strain 17978 UN.

Methods

For this project, we combined our earlier single-end read RNAseq data with the ddrR paired-end reads and aligned these data to the improved 17978 UN genome assembly that resembled our laboratory strain, 17978 JH.

Results

New DESeq2 analyses verified previous differentially expressed genes (DEGs) but also found 339 genes in 17978 JH that were not annotated or physically present in the older genome assembly. Sixty-three were differentially expressed after DNA damage, and 182 had differential basal expression when comparing umuDAb, ddrR, or recA strains to wildtype, with 94 genes’ expression unchanged. This work identified and characterized the 55 gene DNA damage-repressible transcriptome, 98% of which required either umuDAb or ddrR for repression. Two-thirds of these DEGs required both regulators. We also identified 110 genes repressed only in the ddrR strain, ~50% of which were due to increased basal expression levels. Basal gene expression in the ddrR mutant was further dysregulated independent of the DDR. Over 800 genes were upregulated, and over 1200 genes were downregulated compared to wildtype expression. Half of A. baumannii’s essential genes were upregulated in the ddrR strain, including cell division genes, and two-thirds of these were downregulated in the umuDAb strain.

Discussion

The ddrR mutant upregulated genes enriched in translation, RNA metabolism, protein metabolism, AA/FA/cell-structure synthesis, and transport, while downregulating genes enriched in quorum sensing, biofilm production, secretion systems, pilus production, cell adhesion, and aromatics and chlorine degradation. Our data underscore the need for accurate and appropriately matched genome assemblies and indicate that ddrR affects approximately 60% of the genome, rendering it a potential target for Acinetobacter baumannii infection treatment.
A decision framework to integrate in-situ and ex-situ management for species in the European Union
Authors: Staerk Johanna , Colchero Fernando , Kenney Melissa A. , Wilson Kerrie A. , Foden Wendy B. , Carr Jamie A. , Pereboom Zjef , Bland Lucie , Flesness Nate , Martin Tara , Maiorano Luigi , Fa Julia E. , Possingham Hugh P. , Conde Dalia A.
Published: January 2024

Zoos and aquaria in the European Union (EU) can play a crucial role in the conservation of EU species, as they currently hold nearly half (49%) of EU terrestrial vertebrates. In this study, we analyzed the species composition and population sizes of EU zoos and developed a framework to prioritize recommendations for additional ex-situ and in-situ interventions for 277 at-risk EU species. Our results showed that EU zoos currently hold 39% of threatened EU species, 27% of EU endemic species, 62% of EU species vulnerable to climate change, 20% of EU species listed by the Alliance for Zero Extinction (AZE), 25% of Evolutionary Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) EU species, while only 5% are subject to ex-situ conservation. Using our framework, we found that additional captive breeding was recommended for 60-61%% of species while expanding protected areas was recommended for only 2–22%, as 217 out of 277 species already met habitat protection targets. Both interventions were recommended for up to 20% of species, while the remaining 18% required no interventions because captive populations and habitat protection fully met targets. Our flexible framework can support more effective integrated conservation planning decisions for EU species and help identify target species for further in-depth assessment by the IUCN Ex-situ guidelines.
A fracture modeling method for ultra-deep reservoirs based on geologic information fusion: an application to a low porosity sandstone reservoirs in X gas field of a basin in western China
Authors: Wang Rujun , Tang Yongliang , Yang Fenglai , She Jiaofeng , Li Xiaorui , Chen Naidong , Ji Ce , He Yingzheng
Published: January 2024

The reservoirs of ultra-deep and low-permeability sandstones typically exhibit characteristics of lithological tightness and poor physical properties. Fractures control the oil and gas content as well as the productivity of such reservoirs. However, the distribution of fractures is complex, exhibiting strong heterogeneity. Therefore, a systematic study on reservoir fracture modeling can provide geological foundations for the development of such reservoirs. Due to the considerable burial depth of these reservoirs, conventional methods relying solely on seismic information have limited reliability, and the established discrete network models of fractures are often less dependable. In this paper, taking the X gas reservoir in a basin in western China as an example, we discuss a fracture modeling method based on the integration of geological information to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of fracture modeling. The modeling method primarily involves the use of deterministic methods to obtain large-scale fractures, while random simulation is employed for small and medium-scale fractures. The fracture development control factors and seismic attribute information are integrated using permanence of ratios (PR) model to establish a fracture development probability field model. Subsequently, the geometric parameters of fractures and the fracture density model are used as input parameters to generate a discrete network model of small and medium-scale fractures using a object-based modeling method. Finally, based on the fracture equivalent property model and verified through geological understanding, analysis of production dynamics, and numerical simulation of the gas reservoir, it is demonstrated that the fracture model established using the proposed method aligns with geological understanding and exhibits high reliability.
Study on surface deformation pattern in mine closure area of complex karst mountainous region based on SBAS-InSAR technology
Authors: Huang Guangcai , Dong Jihong , Xi Wenfei , Zhao Zilong , Li Sifa , Kuang Zhong , An Quan , Wei Jin , Zhu Yuhua
Published: January 2024

Liupanshui City in Guizhou Province represents a karst mountainous region with a delicate geological environment. The area has a long history of coal mining, and several coal mines have been progressively closed in recent years. However, even after closure of coal mines, the fractured rock mass in the mined-out areas continues to undergo deformation over a specific period. In karst mountainous regions, this deformation is affected by various factors including elevation, slope, precipitation, and vegetation. In this study, we employed SBAS-InSAR technology to construct a time series of surface deformation data from January 2019 to May 2022 within Liupanshui City’s LuJiaZhai-DaPingDi Minefield. Subsequently, this data was comprehensively analyzed in conjunction with time series vegetation cover, monthly precipitation, elevation, and slope data from the identical period. The key findings of this research are as follows: 1) After the closure of the mine, the subsidence area gradually stabilized, yet the volume of subsidence continues to increase. The subsidence area primarily occurs near the MaiZiGou Coal Mine air-mining area, which had a relatively short closure time, as well as in higher elevation areas in the southern and eastern parts of the minefield. Specifically, the maximum cumulative subsidence and the subsidence rate during the study period reached −60.3 mm and −21.83 mm/a, respectively. 2) Surface deformation is closely linked to slope, vegetation type, and rainfall, with subsidence rates and amounts noticeably higher during the rainy season than in the dry season. 3) Surface vegetation cover types display varied effects on deformation, with grassland or shrub areas being more sensitive to precipitation than forests. Forests, especially pine and fir, show a delayed subsidence response to rain, typically 2–3 months post-rainy season onset. This inhibitory effect lessens with increasing slope, particularly beyond a 25° threshold, where responsiveness to precipitation and associated subsidence significantly increase. The findings of this study hold substantial scientific implications for the restoration and management of closed mining areas, as well as the prevention of geological hazards in karst complex mountainous regions.
Towards a comprehensive framework of social presence for online, hybrid, and blended learning
Authors: Kreijns Karel , Yau Jane , Weidlich Joshua , Weinberger Armin
Published: January 2024

Social presence, which refers to the psychological phenomenon of perceiving other persons in technology mediated communication as “real” and with whom one can connect, has gained an increasing interest by teachers and researchers involved in designing online, hybrid, and blended learning environments, particularly group learning settings known as computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL). While some scholars attribute social presence primarily to the physical attributes of communication media, others emphasize the importance of social contextual and individual factors. Despite considering these factors, they still cannot fully explain the varying degrees of social presence experienced across different communication and collaboration modes and modalities. Consequently, there is a need for a more comprehensive theoretical account on the antecedents of social presence. In this article we propose such an account that integrates the social information processing (SIP) theory, construal level theory (CLT), and telepresence theory into one social presence framework. In line with CLT, we propose that social presence is also influenced by the impressions (construals) we construct from other persons not only through the accumulation of messages over time but also through the psychological distance we feel to those persons, which may be imposed by features of the communication media or realities of the learning context. Further, in line with telepresence theory, we propose that social presence is influenced by the sense of being “present” in the remote physical or virtual place, as this is where other salient persons “are.” This comprehensive theoretical framework allows us to understand varying degrees of social presence while in (pseudo) real-time and asynchronous communication and collaboration using a variety of different communication media ranging from text-based (e.g., e-mail, instant text messaging) to immersive (e.g., 3D computer generated; a physical remote place).