bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
pH‐responsive persistent luminescence nanoprobes biosensor for autofluorescence‐free determination of glucose level in human samples and fingerprint encryption
Authors: Ma Xiaohu , Zhu Runzhi , Zhang Hui , Meng Zhe
Published: September 2024

Glucose level is an important indicator of diabetes, and maintaining an appropriate physiological concentration of glucose is important for human health. However, traditional optical sensors are interfered by the interference of strong background autofluorescence and natural responsive luminescence, which severely limits their application in complex biological samples. Herein, as a novel glucose biosensing probe, green‐emitting Zn2GeO4:Mn2+, Eu3+ (ZGME) persistent luminescence nanoparticles (PLNPs) with pH stimulus‐responsive was prepared by a facile one‐pot hydrothermal method. We also investigated the pH stimulus‐responsive luminescence behaviour of ZGME over a range of pH values from 2.8 to 8.0. Taking advantage of the interesting property that ZGME photoluminescence intensity has a pH response, within an extraordinarily narrow pH range of 5.0–6.5 for highly selectivity and sensitive determination of glucose level in human samples by acid‐responsive quenching and persistent luminescent performance. The detection results show high accuracy of the measured values of glucose in serum with a wide detection range (2.5 μg L−1‐10 mg L−1) and low detection limit (0.5 μg L−1). Finally, the pH‐responsive persistent luminescence also makes ZGME promising for high‐level fingerprint information encryption. Hence, the established pH stimulation‐responsive PLNPs‐based biosensing probe offers excellent performance with high selective, accuracy and signal‐to‐noise ratio for detection of glucose level in human samples.
Social determinants of health on attitudes toward childbearing among women with multiple sclerosis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Khoshsirat Nahid Abbasi , Mokaram Romina , Mahmoodi Zohreh , Shahrestanaki Ehsan , Ghavidel Nooshin
Published: September 2024

Background

Pregnancy and motherhood are very valuable but challenging for women with multiple sclerosis (MS). Given that there are limited studies in this field, this study aimed to determine the social determinants of health on attitudes toward childbearing among women with MS.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study on 206 women with MS in Alborz province, Iran, from February to June 2023 using convenience sampling. The data were collected using the questionnaire, and a linear regression analysis was applied.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 36.80 ± 6.50 years. Participants’ Attitudes toward Fertility and Childbearing (PAFC) had a positive significant association with social support (B = .10, SE = .04, p = .023) and a significant negative association with the total score of depression, anxiety, and stress scale (B = −.13, SE = .06, p = .047) and depression (B = −.40, SE = .18, p = .023). However, the association between anxiety (B = −.25, SE = .20, p = .211), stress (B = −.36, SE = .18, p = .050), MS severity (B = .04, SE = .30, p = .890), and socioeconomic status scale (SES) (B = −.08, SE = .32, p = .806) was nonsignificant with PAFC.

Conclusion

Our results showed that factors, including social support and mental health especially depression, can affect PAFC in women with MS. Therefore, it is necessary to determine specific strategies for policymakers to help MS patients manage pregnancy and motherhood.
SGLT‐2 inhibitors and high‐dose acarbose as potential high‐risk combinations for ketosis and ketoacidosis in Asian patients with T2DM: A case series
Authors: Qiang Wei , Yang Fei , Liu Ling , Dong Ruiqing , Sun Yushi , Mondal Ahona , Guo Hui
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

High‐dose acarbose may increase the risk of diabetic ketosis/diabetic ketoacidosis in Asian patients on sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors. Healthcare providers and patients should be cautious to avoid this combination.

Low‐calorie diets should be avoided in patients receiving sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT‐2) inhibitors to decrease the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). High‐dose acarbose can decelerate carbohydrate absorption. We detail three cases of diabetic ketosis (DK) following concurrent SGLT‐2 inhibitor and high‐dose acarbose therapy (acarbose 300 mg/day and dapagliflozin 10 mg/day). Patients, aged 38–63 years with 3–10 years of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), developed DK, indicated by moderate urinary ketones and high glucose (urine ketone 2+ to 3+ and glucose 3+ to 4+) without acidosis, within 4 days to 1 month post‐therapy initiation. Serum glucose was 172.8–253.8 mg/dL; HbA1c was 9.97%–10.80%. The combination therapy was halted, and DK was managed with low‐dose intravenous insulin and fluids, followed by intensive insulin therapy. High‐dose acarbose with SGLT‐2 inhibitors may increase the risk of DK/DKA in Asian patients.
Metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma presenting as a lytic calvarial mass
Authors: Parraga Shirley , Pasli Melisa , Behm Hayley , Zeches Breann , Reddy Revanth
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common types of cancer. More focus is being placed on clinical presentations of distant metastasis from HCC. Head masses should be investigated even when no concerning symptoms are found in patients with prior history of alcohol abuse and liver comorbidities.
Effect of TiO2 Crystal Phase on the Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation Using Formic Acid over the Pd/TiO2 Catalyst
Authors: Mu Lili , Hua Zelin , Zhao Xuejuan , Ruan Chenxuanzhi , Chen Shanshan , Li Licheng
Published: September 2024

The influence of crystal phase of TiO2 on the catalytic performance of transfer hydrogenation using formic acid (HCOOH) over Pd/TiO2 catalyst has not been clarified before. In this study, Pd/TiO2 catalysts with four typical TiO2 crystal phases, that is, rutile, anatase, brookite, and TiO2(B), were synthesized and analyzed. The catalytic results showed that the TiO2 crystal phase could vary the transfer hydrogenation performance of the Pd/TiO2 catalysts by several to tens of times, which was in the following tendency: Pd/rutile > Pd/anatase > Pd/brookite > Pd/TiO2(B). Detailed comparison manifests the Pd dispersion state is obviously different on various TiO2 surfaces, which the relatively small particle size and more metallic are observed on Pd/rutile and Pd/anatase catalysts, contributing to the high catalytic performance. The reaction mechanism study further indicates that HCOOH on Pd/rutile is more liable to be dehydrogenated than that on other Pd/TiO2 catalysts, especially for the transformation of bidentate to monodentate formate. Pd/brookite shows the relatively highest selectivity of HCOOH dehydration. However, it is difficult for the HCOOH dehydrogenation to occur on Pd/TiO2(B). This work elucidates the roles of TiO2 crystal phase in Pd/TiO2 catalysts for the transfer hydrogenation reaction, which is expected to facilitate the development of efficient catalysts.
MoSe2‐Sensitized Water Splitting Assisted by C60‐Dendrons on the Basal Surface
Authors: Tajima Tomoyuki , Matsuura Tomoki , Efendi Arif , Yukimoto Mariko , Takaguchi Yutaka
Published: September 2024

To facilitate water splitting using MoSe2 as a light absorber, we fabricated water‐dispersible MoSe2/C60‐dendron nanohybrids via physical modification of the basal plane of MoSe2. Upon photoirradiation, the mixed‐dimension MoSe2/C60 (2D/0D) heterojunction generates a charge‐separated state (MoSe2⋅+/C60⋅−) through electron extraction from the exciton in MoSe2 to C60. This process is followed by the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) from water in the presence of a sacrificial donor (1‐benzyl‐1,4‐dihydronicotinamide) and co‐catalyst (Pt‐PVP). The apparent quantum yields of the HER were estimated to be 0.06 % and 0.27 % upon photoexcitation at the A‐ and B‐exciton absorption peaks (λmax=800 and 700 nm), respectively.
3D printers – a great tool for chemistry lessons
Authors: Sieve Bernhard F.
Published: September 2024

Mithilfe eines 3D‐Druckers lassen sich heutzutage auch ohne Kenntnisse über die Handhabung von CAD‐Programmen einfach und kostengünstig Labormaterialien, Sachmodelle und Übungsmaterialien selbst erstellen. Im Beitrag werden Beispiele vorgestellt und nötige Grundlagen vermittelt.
Obstacle avoidance planning for industrial robots based on singular manifold splitting configuration space
Authors: Liu Yibo , Zhang Xuyan , Wu Chaoqun , Yang Minghui
Published: September 2024

Obstacle avoidance planning is the primary element in ensuring safe robot applications such as welding, assembly, and drilling. The states in the configuration space (C‐space) provide the pose information of any part of the manipulator and are preferentially considered in motion planning. However, it is difficult to express the environmental information directly in the high dimensional C‐space, limiting the application of C‐space obstacle avoidance planning. This paper proposes a singular manifold splitting C‐space method and designs a compatible obstacle avoidance strategy. The specific method is as follows: first, according to the specific structure of industrial robots, arm‐wrist separation obstacle avoidance planning is proposed to fix the robot as a 3R manipulator to reduce the dimension of C‐space. Next, the C‐space is segmented according to the singular manifolds, and the unique domain is delineated to complete the streamlining of the volume of the C‐space. Then, with the help of the point cloud, the obstacles are enveloped and mapped to the unique domain to construct the pseudo‐obstacle map. Industrial robots' obstacle avoidance planning is completed based on the pseudo‐obstacle map combined with an improved Rapidly‐Exploring Random Trees (RRT) algorithm. This method dramatically improves the efficiency of obstacle avoidance planning in the C‐space and avoids the effect of singularities on industrial robots. Finally, the effectiveness of the method is verified by physical experiments.
Concerns about cannabis use in sober homes
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2024

Researchers have found that abstinence‐based policies in sober living homes should include a ban on cannabis use as well as alcohol and other drug use. The study was meant to look more closely at the evidence suggesting that cannabis may be “safer” than other drugs. However, cannabis legalization has put sober homes in a difficult position regarding cannabis use among residents.
A Simple and Efficient Procedure for Developing Mouse Germline Stem Cell Lines with Gene Knock‐in via CRISPR/Cas9 Technology
Authors: Wang Yang , Hu Shuaitao , Han Chunsheng
Published: September 2024

Cultured mammalian spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), also known as germline stem cells (GSCs), hold great promise for applications such as fertility preservation, gene therapy, and animal breeding, particularly in conjunction with accurate gene editing. Although the in vitro development of mouse GSC (mGSC) lines, and gene‐targeting procedures for such lines, were initially established about two decades ago, it remains challenging for beginners to efficiently accomplish these tasks, partly because mGSCs proliferate more slowly and are more resistant to lipid‐mediated gene transfection than pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). Meanwhile, methods for mGSC culture and gene editing have been evolving constantly to become simpler and more efficient. Here, we describe how to develop mGSC lines from small mouse testis samples and how to carry out gene knock‐in in these cells using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, detailing three basic protocols that constitute a streamlined procedure. Using these simple and efficient procedures, site‐specific knock‐in mGSC lines can be obtained in 3 months. We hope that these protocols will help researchers use genetically modified GSCs to explore scientific questions of interest and to accumulate experience for application to GSC research in other mammalian species. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Establishment of mouse GSCs lines from small testicular samples

Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of plasmids for gene knock‐in using the CRISPR/Cas9 system

Basic Protocol 3: Establishment of gene knock‐in mGSC lines by electroporation gene delivery
Uncovering the genomic diversity of the wild forage crop Setaria sphacelata
Authors: Franco Ana Luiza , Azevedo Ana Luisa Sousa , Reis Aryane Campos , Matos Elyabe Monteiro , Fonseca Marina Arantes , Pereira Antônio Vander , Leitch Ilia J. , Leitch Andrew R. , Viccini Lyderson Facio
Published: September 2024

Grasses are considered one of the most important angiosperm groups in economic terms. The Setaria sphacelata complex is an intriguing species with considerable variation in genome size (GS). It is currently being explored from a genomic perspective especially because of its great adaptability under winter periods. Repetitive DNA sequences are known to contribute significantly to GS diversity, which in turn can play a role in impacting the ecology and evolution of a species. This study is aimed to characterize the GS and repetitive elements of different germplasm accessions of S. sphacelata. We analyzed 540 plants from 70 accessions collected worldwide. Flow cytometry was used for GS estimation, together with chromosome counting, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), and bioinformatic analysis. Most (i.e., 80%) accessions were tetraploids (2n = 4x = 36) with GS ranging from 3.0 to 3.7 pg/2C. Additionally, a low number of diploids (2n = 2x = 18; ∼1.6 to 2 pg/2C), pentaploids (2n = 5x = 45: ∼4 pg/2C), hexaploids (2n = 6x = 54; ∼4.4 pg/2C), and octoploids (2n = 8x = 72; ∼6 pg/2C,) were detected. The greatest variation was found in accessions from South Africa. RepeatExplorer2 showed that 39% and 43% of the genomes of two diploid accessions comprised repetitive sequences, with Ty3/gypsy retrotransposons being the most abundant repeats. However, variation in the percentage of two Ty3/gypsy sublineages, Athila and Ogre, suggests different process of amplification and deletion of repeats during the evolution of the species complex. In contrast, FISH revealed some satellite repeats with a conserved localized distribution in pericentromeric regions between accessions. Although differences in the distribution of the FISH signals over the chromosomes were observed between the different ploidy levels, the data suggest that increases in the ploidy level were associated with the occurrence of hybridization and DNA loss.
Collision detection and mitigation based on optimization and Kronecker recurrent neural network in WSN
Authors: Khare Akhil , Selvakumar Kannapiran , Dugyala Raman
Published: September 2024

Nowadays, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have paid huge attention among researchers due to their wide applications. WSNs possess multiple sensor nodes that transmit data to each other by using constrained energy resources. The sensor nodes are highly affected by collision due to the transmission of packets over the network by one or two nodes at the same time. Collision detection is necessary to increase network security and enhance the lifetime of sensor nodes. In most of the previous research, efficiently implementing collision detection algorithms while minimizing resource usage remains a significant challenge. Thus, a hybrid deep learning model deep Kronecker recurrent neural network (DKRNN) is developed in this research. Here, the cluster head is selected using the chronological skill optimization algorithm (CSOA) algorithmic approach by considering multi‐objective parameters like energy, distance, delay, and trust. The network‐based parameters are then extracted from the network. Later, the collision is detected using the DKRNN approach and the collision is mitigated finally using a packet pre‐scheduling model named Dolphin Ant Lion Optimization (Dolphin ALO). Moreover, the detection performance of CSOA+ DKRNN is validated, and it achieved superior performance with a collision detection rate (CDR) of 0.940, packet delivery ratio (PDR) of 0.660, throughput of 0.850Mbps, and energy consumption of 0.110 J.
Differences in phenology across three trophic levels between two Afrotropical sites separated by four degrees latitude
Authors: Jarrett Crinan , Simon Ojodomo Godday , Tchana Christian N. , Pev Thaddeus Apezan , Meigang Kamkeng Michelle Fany , Wandji Alain Christel , Manu Shiiwua A. , Tchoumbou Mélanie Adèle , Helm Barbara , Powell Luke L. , Nwaogu Chima J.
Published: September 2024

Birds time their life cycle events to favourable windows in environmental conditions. In tropical environments, where photoperiod variation is small, birds show high variability in the timing of life cycle stages, yet these species have been severely underrepresented in phenology research. Here, we investigated temporal patterns in bird life cycles and resource availability in two sites in tropical Africa: Weppa (Nigeria, 7° N) and Elat (Cameroon, 3° N). In these sites we captured common bulbuls (Pycnonotus barbatus), a widespread generalist, and recorded breeding and moult over a 12‐month period. Simultaneously, we surveyed fruiting tree and arthropod abundance. Our aim was to quantify seasonal patterns in moult and breeding in bulbuls at both sites, and link them to fluctuations in local fruit and arthropod abundance and precipitation. Moult was more seasonal than breeding in both sites, and seasonality of both life cycle events was stronger in Nigeria than Cameroon. The peak timing for moult was 1.5 months earlier in Nigeria than Cameroon. Seasonal variation in abundance of fruiting trees and arthropods was different between sites, as were the associations with breeding and moulting. In Nigeria, we found a positive association between moult and arthropod abundance, and a negative one with fruiting tree abundance. In contrast, in Cameroon moult was associated with higher precipitation, while breeding occurred at times with higher fruit abundance. Our results provide evidence that, even in similar habitats separated by four degrees in latitude, seasonal patterns across three trophic levels are variable. Understanding links between environmental conditions and life cycle events can reveal potential vulnerabilities of tropical species, and guide conservation efforts.
Niche partitioning and host specialisation in fish‐parasitising isopods: Trait‐dependent patterns from three ecosystems on the east coast of India
Authors: Mohapatra Sandeep Kumar , Swain Anshuman , Ray Dipanjan , Behera Rajesh Kumar , Tripathy Basudev , Seth Jaya Kishor , Mohapatra Anil
Published: September 2024

Due to their large size and obligate nature, Cymothoid isopods inflict a high degree of tissue damage to fish. Still, they are understudied at an ecosystem level despite their global presence and ecological role. In this work, we collected fish host‐isopod parasite data, along with their life history and ecological traits, from the northern part of the east coast of India and investigated patterns in host specialisation and preference of isopod parasites using a trait‐based network perspective. We observed that the region of attachment of the parasite (buccal cavity, branchial cavity, and skin) and host fish ecology (schooling behaviour and habitat characteristics) influenced host specialisation and preference. We found that branchial cavity‐attaching parasites preferred schooling, pelagic fishes, whereas buccal cavity‐attaching parasites preferred mostly non‐schooling, demersal fishes. Skin‐attaching parasites were found to be generalists and had no preference based on our examined host traits.
Epigenotoxicity: Decoding the epigenetic imprints of genotoxic agents and their implications for regulatory genetic toxicology
Authors: Godschalk Roger , Faulk Christopher , LaRocca Jessica , van Benthem Jan , Marchetti Francesco
Published: September 2024

Regulatory genetic toxicology focuses on DNA damage and subsequent gene mutations. However, genotoxic agents can also affect epigenetic marks, and incorporation of epigenetic data into the regulatory framework may thus enhance the accuracy of risk assessment. Additionally, epigenetic alterations may identify non‐genotoxic carcinogens that are not captured with the current battery of tests. Epigenetic alterations could also explain long‐term consequences and potential transgenerational effects in the absence of DNA mutations. Therefore, at the 2022 International Workshops on Genotoxicity Testing (IWGT) in Ottawa (Ontario, Canada), an expert workgroup explored whether including epigenetic endpoints would improve regulatory genetic toxicology. Here we summarize the presentations and the discussions on technical advancements in assessing epigenetics, how the assessment of epigenetics can enhance strategies for detecting genotoxic and non‐genotoxic carcinogens and the correlation between epigenetic alterations with other relevant apical endpoints.
Design and implementation of tilting‐plate drainage equipment for paddy field
Authors: Duan Zhenhua , Xiang Chun , Shi Gaoping , Wang Jinhao
Published: September 2024

Drainage equipment is an important part of paddy field drainage and irrigation system, and its performance research and application are conducive to the promotion and implementation of high‐standard farmland construction. Aiming at the different water demand of rice in different growing stages, low water level control precision, large manual operation and extensive management of existing drainage machinery, a tilting‐plate drainage equipment using upper overflow mode was proposed in this paper. Based on the Geneva mechanism principle, a unique linkage mechanism is designed, which can realize water retaining operation and silt discharge operation through a single motor drive, and the relationship between the motor angle and the water retaining height is established. Through mechanical analysis and dynamic simulation of the mechanism, the motion characteristics of the water baffle, silt plate and the change of the motor torque are studied. A remote control system based on a 4G module is designed to control the drainage equipment easily through the user layer. The performance test of the prototype shows that the precision error of the optimized water retaining height control is less than 3.75%. The maximum height of water retaining operation is 180 mm, and the maximum load of silt discharge operation is 10 kg, which can meet the actual operation requirements. The design is beneficial to improve the precision and intelligence level of paddy field drainage management, and the research process can provide some help for the development and application of this kind of equipment.
Development of the critical zone environment in the highly dynamic landscape of the Forni Glacier forefield: Winds, tree vegetation, pedogenesis and surface waters after glacier retreat
Authors: Leonelli Giovanni , Masseroli Anna , Trombino Luca , Golzio Alessio , Bonetti Adalberto , Maggi Valter , Pelfini Manuela
Published: September 2024

The expansion of glacier‐free forelands after glacier retreat is emerging as a typical climate change‐dependent feature that is widely studied for assessing biogeomorphic feedbacks and analysing the vertical processes and changes occurring in the critical zone (CZ). However, the horizontal processes occurring in the CZ environment are still poorly understood. Here, we comprehensively analyse the development of the CZ environment over time in the Forni Glacier forefield, Italian Alps, since the end of the Little Ice Age (LIA) by considering different sectors (air, forest, water and soil) in two portions of the glacier forefield: the lower portion, which occurs below the glacier‐forefield treeline (GFT), where a fully functioning CZ environment has developed, and the upper portion, which occurs above the GFT, in the proglacial area (PA), where only an incipient CZ exists. The early stages of CZ development in the PA are highly influenced by katabatic winds, which impact the colonisation patterns of saplings and young trees, and characterised by high‐energy geomorphic processes that cause sediment reworking and initial stages of soil development. Below the GFT, the minimum tree ecesis interval after glacier retreat reaches a median value of 38 years (n = 8), and the fully developed CZ environment (with trees reaching at least 2 m in height after 20 years) formed after ~60 years following glacier retreat and is characterised by forest cover, soils organised in a chronosequence and contrasting isotopic signatures of surface and running waters. The correlation with the isotopic signatures of tree rings allowed us to estimate a groundwater flow period of approximately 2 months from the slopes into the CZ of the valley floor. By analysing the horizontal processes driving the geomorphic and biotic evolution patterns of a glacier forefield, this work introduces a novel approach for assessing the development of the CZ environment over time.
The oral ferroportin inhibitor vamifeport prevents liver iron overload in a mouse model of hemochromatosis
Authors: Nyffenegger Naja , Flace Anna , Varol Ahmet , Altermatt Patrick , Doucerain Cédric , Sundstrom Hanna , Dürrenberger Franz , Manolova Vania
Published: September 2024

Hemochromatosis is an inherited iron overload condition caused by mutations that reduce the levels of the iron‐regulatory hormone hepcidin or its binding to ferroportin. The hepcidin–ferroportin axis is pivotal to iron homeostasis, providing opportunities for therapeutic intervention in iron overload disorders like hemochromatosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the oral ferroportin inhibitor vamifeport in the Hfe C282Y mouse model, which carries the most common mutation found in patients with hemochromatosis. A single oral dose of vamifeport lowered serum iron levels in Hfe C282Y mice, with delayed onset and shorter duration than observed in wild‐type mice. Vamifeport induced transient hypoferremia by inhibiting ferroportin and resulted in a feedback regulation of liver Hamp in wild‐type mice, which was absent in Hfe C282Y mice, reflecting the dysregulated systemic iron sensing in this hemochromatosis model. Chronic dosing with vamifeport led to sustained serum and liver iron reductions in Hfe C282Y mice, as well as markedly reducing liver Hamp expression in Hfe C282Y mice, suggesting distinct regulation of liver Hamp expression following acute or continuous iron restriction via vamifeport. At the tested dose, vamifeport retained its activity when combined with phlebotomy and did not significantly interfere with liver iron removal by phlebotomy in Hfe C282Y mice. These data demonstrate that chronic vamifeport treatment significantly reduces serum iron levels and prevents liver iron loading in the Hfe C282Y mouse model of hemochromatosis, thus providing preclinical proof of concept for the efficacy of vamifeport in hemochromatosis with or without phlebotomy.
Improving the natural convection of the heat sink inside an enclosure by fin perforation for electronic applications
Authors: Abdulsahib Ahmed Dhafer , Alkhafaji Dhirgham , Albayati Ibrahim M.
Published: September 2024

The present study aims to enhance the natural convection in the heat sink inside an enclosure by perforating fins for power electronic applications. The enclosure is a cube that is manufactured in such a way that the upper and lower surfaces, as well as the front and back surfaces, are thermally insulated. The right surface is hot, while the left surface is cold at a temperature difference ∆T of (4°C, 8°C, 10°C). The heat sink used consists of five fins that are attached to the heated surface. The heat sink fins are perforated with perforation number NP (4, 8, 12, and 16) and perforation diameter DP (0.5 and 1 cm). Temperatures are measured using 13 thermocouples placed within the enclosure and the temperature distribution is determined using a FLIR E30BX IR thermal camera, while velocity contours are obtained using numerical software. The main results showed improvement in heat transfer with an increase in the number of perforations and (DP = 1 cm) was found to be more efficient than (DP = .5 cm), for instance, when (∆T = 10°C) for (NP = 16) and (DP = .5 cm). There is a 2.9% improvement in temperature reduction on the fins' tip, while at =(DP = 1 cm), the percentage of improvement was 3.5% and showed a greater expansion of the velocity lines between the fins at (∆T = 10°C), where the rate of increase in the velocity contours from (∆T = 4 and 8°C) reaches 20% and 7% respectively. In addition, heat sinks with perforated fins are both lighter and more cost‐effective in terms of metal usage during the manufacturing process.
The balance between helper T 17 and regulatory T cells in osteoimmunology and relevant research progress on bone tissue engineering
Authors: Zhu Shuyu , Zhou Jing , Xie Zhigang
Published: September 2024

Background

Bone regeneration is a well‐regulated dynamic process, of which the prominent role of the immune system on bone homeostasis is more and more revealed by recent research. Before fully activation of the bone remodeling cells, the immune system needs to clean up the microenvironment in facilitating the bone repair initiation. Furthermore, this microenvironment must be maintained properly by various mechanisms over the entire bone regeneration process.

Objective

This review aims to summarize the role of the T‐helper 17/Regulatory T cell (Th17/Treg) balance in bone cell remodeling and discuss the relevant progress in bone tissue engineering.

Results

The role of the immune response in the early stages of bone regeneration is crucial, especially the impact of the Th17/Treg balance on osteoclasts, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and osteoblasts activity. By virtue of these knowledge advancements, innovative approaches in bone tissue engineering, such as nano‐structures, hydrogel, and exosomes, are designed to influence the Th17/Treg balance and thereby augment bone repair and regeneration.

Conclusion

Targeting the Th17/Treg balance is a promising innovative strategy for developing new treatments to enhance bone regeneration, thus offering potential breakthroughs in bone injury clinics.
ImageGP 2 for enhanced data visualization and reproducible analysis in biomedical research
Authors: Chen Tong , Liu Yong‐Xin , Chen Tao , Yang Mei , Fan Siqing , Shi Minglei , Wei Buqing , Lv Huijiao , Cao Wandi , Wang Chongming , Cui Jianzhou , Zhao Jiwen , Han Yilai , Xi Jiao , Zheng Ziqiang , Huang Luqi
Published: September 2024

ImageGP is an extensively utilized, open‐access platform for online data visualization and analysis. Over the past 7 years, it has catered to more than 700,000 usages globally, garnering substantial user feedback. The updated version, ImageGP 2 (available at https://www.bic.ac.cn/BIC), introduces a redesigned interface leveraging cutting‐edge web technologies to enhance functionality and user interaction. Key enhancements include the following: (i) Addition of modules for data format transformation, facilitating operations such as matrix merging, subsetting, and transformation between long and wide formats. (ii) Streamlined workflows with features like preparameter selection data validation and grouping of parameters with similar attributes. (iii) Expanded repertoire of visualization functions and analysis tools, including Weighted Gene Co‐Expression Network Analysis, differential gene expression analysis, and FASTA sequence processing. (iv) Personalized user space for uploading large data sets, tracking analysis history, and sharing reproducible analysis data, scripts, and results. (v) Enhanced user support through a simplified error debugging feature accessible with a single click. (vi) Introduction of an R package, ImageGP, enabling local data visualization and analysis. These updates position ImageGP 2 as a versatile tool serving both wet‐lab and dry‐lab researchers with expanded capabilities.
Greater TIMP‐1 protein levels and neointimal formation represent sex‐dependent cellular events limiting aortic vessel expansion in female rats
Authors: Al‐Katat Aya , Boudreau Laurie , Gagnon Emmanuelle , Assous Ines , Villeneuve Louis , Leblanc Charles Alexandre , Bergeron Alexandre , Sirois Martin , El‐Hamamsy Ismael , Calderone Angelino
Published: September 2024

Fragmentation/loss of the structural protein elastin represents the precipitating event translating to aortic expansion and subsequent aneurysm formation. The present study tested the hypothesis that greater protein expression of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) and neointimal growth secondary to a reduction of medial elastin content represent sex‐dependent events limiting aortic vessel expansion in females. TIMP‐1 protein levels were higher in the ascending aorta of female versus male patients diagnosed with a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). The latter paradigm was recapitulated in the aorta of adult male and female rats complemented by greater TIMP‐2 expression in females. CaCl2 (0.5 M) treatment of the infrarenal aorta of adult male and female rats increased the in situ vessel diameter and expansion was significantly smaller in females despite a comparable reduction of medial elastin content. The preferential appearance of a neointimal region of the CaCl2‐treated infrarenal aorta of female rats may explain in part the smaller in situ expansion and neointimal growth correlated positively with the % change of the in situ diameter. Neointimal formation was secondary to a significant increase in the density of medial/neointimal vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) that re‐entered the G2‐M phase whereas VSMC cell cycle re‐entry was attenuated in the CaCl2‐treated infrarenal aorta of male rats. Thus, greater TIMP‐1 expression in the aorta of female BAV patients may prevent excessive elastin fragmentation and preferential neointimal growth following CaCl2‐treatment of the infrarenal aorta of female rats represents a sex‐dependent biological event limiting vessel expansion secondary to a significant loss of the structural protein.
GAD1 ameliorates glioma progression through regulating cuproptosis via RAS/MAPK pathway
Authors: Gao Zhiqiang , Yang Jing
Published: September 2024

Glioma represents a primary malignant tumor occurring in the central nervous system. Glutamate decarboxylase (GAD1) plays a significant role in tumor development; however, its function of GAD1 and underlying mechanisms in glioma progression remain unclear. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) obtained from the GSE12657 and GSE15209 datasets that intersected with cuproptosis‐related genes and pivot genes were identified using comprehensive bioinformatics methods. The elesclomol (ES) treatment was used to induce cuproptosis in U251 cells, which was validated by detecting intracellular copper levels and cuproptosis marker expression. Lentivirus‐mediated gene overexpression was performed to explore the effects of GAD1 using functional assays in vitro and in a mouse xenograft model. The RAS agonist ML098 was used to verify the effect of GAD1 on the RAS/MAPK pathway in glioma cells. A total of 87 cuproptosis‐related DEGs and seven hub genes were obtained, with five genes upregulated and two were downregulated in gliomas. Overexpression of GAD1 inhibited proliferation, invasion, and migration, promoted apoptosis of glioma cells, and suppressed tumorigenesis in vivo. In addition, GAD1 overexpression enhanced the sensitivity of glioma cells to cuproptosis. Additionally, ML098 treatment attenuated the inhibitory effect of GAD1 overexpression on the malignant phenotype of ES‐treated cells. GAD1 plays an anti‐oncogenic role in glioma by regulating apoptosis via inhibition of the RAS/MAPK pathway.
Mangiferin activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor pathway to protect SOD1‐G93A induced NSC‐34 motor neurons from oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Su Boyang , He Zhengqing , Liu Jing , Li Mao , Huang Xusheng
Published: September 2024

One of the main factors in the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is oxidative stress. Mangiferin (MF), a natural plant polyphenol, has anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The aim of our study was to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of MF in the hSOD1‐G93A ALS cell model. Our result revealed that MF treatment reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), decreased oxidative damage, and reduced apoptosis. Additionally, it was observed that MF significantly increased the synthesis of the antioxidant genes hemeoxygenase‐1 and NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1, which are downstream of the Nrf2 signaling pathway, and increased the expression and activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2). Nrf2 knockdown greatly promoted apoptosis, which was reversed by MF treatment. To summarize, MF promoted the Nrf2 pathway and scavenged MDA and ROS to protect the ALS cell model.
Application and diagnostic points of carotid artery ultrasound in the detection of internal carotid artery absence: Analysis of 16 cases and literature review
Authors: Cheng Pan , Liu Baolong , Yu Delin , Xu Jing
Published: September 2024

Objective

To summarize the ultrasound diagnostic key points and imaging characteristics of absence of the internal carotid artery (ICA), and to explore the application value of carotid artery ultrasound in the diagnosis of ICA absence.

Methods

Sixteen patients diagnosed with ICA absence at our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical data, ultrasound images, and other relevant imaging data were reviewed. The ultrasound diagnostic key points and related imaging characteristics of ICA absence were summarized. Combined with a literature review, the application of carotid artery ultrasound in the diagnosis of ICA absence was discussed.

Results

Among the 16 patients, there were 10 males and 6 females ages ranging from 13 to 80 years. Among them, 5 patients had a history of cerebral infarction, 1 patient had a history of subarachnoid hemorrhage, and 10 patients had no history of stroke. Among the 16 patients, there were 10 left‐sided lesions, 5 right‐sided lesions, and 1 bilateral lesion. Three patients had concomitant aneurysms. Carotid ultrasound examinations in all 16 ICA absent patients revealed that a significantly slender common carotid artery (CCA) diameter compared to the contralateral (3.91 ± 0.73 vs. 6.92 ± 1.42, p < 0.001). On the side of ICA absence, the bifurcation of the carotid artery was not detected, with the CCA directly continuing as a single artery (external carotid artery, ECA). The temporal superficial artery percussion test was positive in all cases, and the blood flow spectrum of the single artery (ECA) on the side of the absent ICA showed a serrated pattern during diastole. On the side where the ICA was absent, the blood flow spectrum morphology of the CCA and ECA was consistent. Based on other relevant imaging examinations, the patients were classified into Lie types: A (10 cases), B (2 cases), C (1 case), D (1 case), and 2 cases were unclassified.

Conclusion

Carotid artery ultrasound has the advantages of easy operation, affordability, non‐invasiveness, and capable of dynamic and high repeatability. Compared to other imaging examinations, it can provide more evidence for the diagnosis of ICA absence, and is suitable for widespread application and promotion.
Social anxiety and paranoid beliefs in adolescents
Authors: Kingston J. L. , Schlier B. , Leigh E. , Widyasari D. , Bentall R. P.
Published: September 2024

Background

Paranoid beliefs are common in the general adolescent population. The paranoia hierarchy suggests common social evaluative concerns may develop into persecutory thoughts via ideas of reference, a milder intermediary facet of paranoia. Socially anxious concerns and paranoid beliefs co‐occur in adolescent and adult groups, but the specifics of their association is not well understood. In a general population adolescent sample, we examined (a) whether social anxiety and paranoia can be differentiated, (b) patterns of co‐occurrence and (c) psychosocial factors that differentiate social anxiety alone versus in combination with paranoia.

Methods

An online cross‐sectional survey design, recruiting UK adolescents (n = 604, 14–17 years), via Qualtrics. Participants were quota sampled for equal distribution on age and gender.

Results

Measurement models supported a hierarchical structure, with separate but correlated general factors of paranoia and social anxiety. This model was invariant across age groups 14–15 and 16–17 years. The largest subgroup of participants with clinically significant symptoms showed elevated social anxiety plus paranoia (21%, n = 124), followed by high social anxiety without paranoia (14%, n = 84). Paranoia without social anxiety occurred the least (7% n = 39). Subgroup comparisons suggested social anxiety plus paranoia was characterised by exposure to threating experiences (discrimination, bullying, adverse life events in the last 12‐month), anxious attachment and high levels of distress, whereas social anxiety was more associated with feeling inferior to others, enhanced loneliness, avoidant attachment and a low sense of belonging.

Conclusions

Social anxiety and paranoia are differentiable in adolescents. Paranoia commonly co‐occurs with social anxiety, especially in those with exposure to threat environments in the last 12‐month. Adolescents with social anxiety plus paranoia reported the highest levels of distress, underscoring the importance of improved understanding of this group.
Broad‐spectrum antiviral effect of MoringaA‐loaded exosomes against IAV by mediating the GCN5‐TFEB‐autolysosome pathway
Authors: Lv Chunmei , Li Ruidong , Yang Dandan , Song Shunqiang , Cheng Xu , Chen Tingting , Chen Lei , Xiong Yongai
Published: September 2024

Influenza virus‐induced viral pneumonia is a major threat to human health, and specific therapeutic agents for viral pneumonia are still lacking. MoringaA (MA) is an anti‐influenza virus active compound isolated from Moringa seeds, which can inhibit influenza virus by activating the TFEB‐autophagic lysosomal pathway in host cells. In this study, we obtained exosomes from M2‐type macrophages and encapsulated and delivered MA (MA‐Exos), and we investigated the efficacy of MA‐Exos in antiviral and viral pneumonia in vivo and in vitro, respectively. In addition, we provided insights into the mechanism by which MA‐Exos regulates TFEB‐lysosomal autophagy by RNA sequencing. The MA‐Exos showed broad‐spectrum inhibition of IAV, and significant promotion of the autophagic lysosomal pathway. Meanwhile, we found that GCN5 gene and protein were significantly down‐regulated in IAV‐infected cells after MA‐Exos intervention, indicating its blocking the acetylation of TFEB by GCN5. In addition, MA‐Exos also significantly promoted autophagy in lung tissue cells of mice with viral pneumonia. MA‐Exos can inhibit and clear influenza virus by mediating the TFEB‐autophagy lysosomal pathway by a mechanism related to the down‐regulation of histone acetyltransferase GCN5. Our study provides a strategy for targeting MA‐Exos for the treatment of viral pneumonia from both antiviral and virus‐induced inflammation inhibition pathways.
A new modified Bessel‐type radial basis function for meshless methods: Utilized in the analysis of free vibration in 2D functionally graded Euler–Bernoulli beams
Authors: Hosseini Shahram , Abbaspour Fatemeh , Nazari Romina
Published: September 2024

Radial basis functions (RBFs) are extensively employed in mesh‐free methods owing to their distinct properties. This study presents a novel RBF formulation based on a modified first‐kind Bessel function, introduced for the first time. The efficacy and precision of the proposed function are assessed through an examination of the free vibrations of Euler–Bernoulli beams composed of two‐directional functionally graded materials. Longitudinal and thickness property variations are modeled in polynomial and exponential forms, respectively. The performance of the novel RBF is scrutinized under various boundary conditions (clamped, simply supported, and free), and comparative analyses are conducted against similar investigations and an RBF based on the first‐kind Bessel function. Convergence analysis of the proposed modified first‐kind Bessel function‐based RBF reveals superior convergence rates compared to the first‐kind Bessel function‐based RBF. Moreover, a comparison between results obtained from modeling using the proposed RBF and exact solutions underscores the adequacy of this approach, with a maximum discrepancy of 4.933% observed under clamped‐free boundary conditions. In essence, the findings suggest that the proposed modified first‐kind Bessel function‐based RBF holds promise for analyzing the free vibrations of functionally graded Euler–Bernoulli beams. The primary aim of this research is to introduce and validate a new RBF based on a modified first‐kind Bessel function for the analysis of free vibrations in Euler–Bernoulli beams made of two‐directional functionally graded materials. The study focuses on evaluating the performance and accuracy of this novel RBF in comparison with existing RBFs and exact solutions. By addressing the limitations of conventional RBFs and proposing an innovative approach, this research aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of meshless methods in structural vibration analysis.
Assessing South Indian Ocean tropical cyclone characteristics in HighResMIP simulations
Authors: Pall Pardeep , Gagnon Alexandre S. , Bollasina Massimo A. , Zarzycki Colin M. , Huang Yuner , Beckett Christopher T. S. , Ramanantoanina Harinaivo , Reynolds Thomas P. S.
Published: September 2024

Several damaging tropical cyclones (TCs) have occurred recently over the South Indian Ocean (SIO) region, causing enormous social and economic losses. Yet, while many studies have examined SIO TC characteristics using observations and reanalysis, only a few have assessed these characteristics specifically for this region in climate models, and fewer have investigated their projections under climate change. Here we do this for a historical (1980–2010) and future (2020–2050) period, using multimodel simulations from the High Resolution Model Intercomparison Project, as well as examine biases in the historical period relative to a reanalysis (ERA5). The models have horizontal resolutions of 25–50 km, which has enabled an improved ability to represent tropical cyclones globally in previous studies. TempestExtremes software is employed to detect tropical storm and cyclone tracks. In cases where TempestExtremes cannot be applied due to a lack of requisite variables in a dataset, we instead examine extreme wind speeds in that dataset. For the historical period, we find considerable variation in model biases compared to ERA5, which itself exhibits realistic spatial patterns of tracks and their monthly distribution. Models do at least agree on positive biases in track frequency east of Madagascar and somewhat in the Mozambique Channel. However, the models and ERA5 only produce Category 3 tropical cyclones at best. Wind speeds for 25 km resolution models have much larger positive biases than for 50 km ones, suggesting the former can simulate even higher‐category tropical cyclones. Considerable intermodel variation is also found in track changes between the future and historical periods. No systematic intercategory pattern of change exists, and low signal‐to‐noise may obscure any such patterns in the limited timespan of available data. Thus, no meaningful conclusions can be drawn regarding changes in track intensity. Nevertheless, track frequency broadly decreases across models for the region, as does accumulated cyclone energy. An east‐to‐west shift in track location from east of Madagascar toward the Mozambique Channel is also implied by track frequency and wind speed changes. Our findings provide information to potentially improve storm resiliency in this vulnerable region.