bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of second near infrared fluorescence imaging to trace CelTrac1000-labeled hair follicle epidermal neural crest stem cells in repairing rat facial nerve defects
Authors: Lv Shangrui , Zhu Guochen , Zhang Jing , Tang Li , Li Qiong
Published: November 2023

Background Tissue engineering based on stem cells has achieved satisfactory results in repairing facial nerve defects. However, the in vivo process of the transplanted cells has not been fully clear until now, although it is critical to understand the process and the underlying mechanism of regeneration for better therapeutic outcomes. Recently, second near-infrared window (NIR-II) fluorescence imaging has emerged as a rapidly evolving bio-imaging technique capable of visualizing and quantifying biological processes at the cellular level of living organisms.
Methods Firstly, rat hair follicle epidermal neural crest stem cells (EPI-NCSCs) were isolated, cultured and identified by expression of SOX10 and Nestin, and then labeled with CelTrac1000. Rat acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) were prepared by chemical extraction. Secondly, 30 adult male rats were randomly and equally assigned into three groups: ANA + cells group, ANA group, and autograft group. The buccal branch of the facial nerve on right side was exposed and a 10-mm-long gap was bridged by ANA laden with CelTrac1000-labeled EPI-NCSCs, ANA laden with CelTrac1000 dye, and autologous nerve, respectively. Thirdly, CelTrac1000-labeled EPI-NCSCs were detected by NIR-II optical imaging system to visualize the behavior of the transplanted cells in vivo postoperatively. Finally, vibrissa movement, compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) of vibrissal muscle, facial motoneurons retrotraced by Fluorogold, morphology and histology of the regenerated nerves in three groups were analyzed after surgery, respectively.
Results Through 14 weeks of dynamic observation, we found that EPI-NCSCs successfully survived in the ANAs in vivo. Meanwhile, the region of the NIR-II fluorescence signals was gradually limited to be consistent with the route of the regenerative segment of the facial nerve. Furthermore, the degree of the vibrissa movement, the recovery value of the onset latency and amplitude of CMAPs, the number of Fluorogold-labeled cells, the CD31 positive area/total area, the mean gray value of S100 and β-tubulin III, the number and the diameter of the myelinated nerve fibers in the ANA group were lower than the other two groups (P < 0.05), and the other two groups had similar values (P > 0.05). Additionally, the thickness of the myelin sheaths was the thinnest in the ANA group, and the thickest in the autograft group (P< 0.05).
Conclusions The migration map of local CelTrac1000-labeled EPI-NCSCs was successfully monitored by the NIR-II fluorescence imaging system when EPI-NCSCs within the ANAs were applied to treat rat facial nerve defects. Additionally, EPI-NCSCs promoted the ANAs to repair facial nerve defects in a small animal model.
Prevalence and Predictors of Erectile Dysfunction among Filipino men on Social Media: A cross-sectional study
Authors: De Guzman Sagie
Published: November 2023

Objectives:
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and predictors of Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in Filipino men aged 18 and older through a cross-sectional survey from a larger study validating Random Spontaneous Erection Questionnaires (RSEQs).
Methods:
A sample of N= 1,463 social media users from various Philippine regions completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnairen on an online survey platform. This assessed ED prevalence and severity, alongside demographic data to explore the impact of age, education, civil status, and sexual orientation. Multiple regression was conducted to find predictors of ED among Filipino men. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis.
Results:
ED prevalence among Filipino men was 65.9%. Multiple Regression analysis identified age (ß = -.209, t = -4.919, p < .001), civil status (ß = 2.757, t = 2.809, p < .05), and education (ß = .824, t = 2.856, p < .05) as significant predictors of IIEF scores. Variations in ED prevalence were noted across different social and cultural variables.
Conclusion:
This pioneering study reveals significant ED prevalence among Filipino men, providing essential sociocultural insights for future health interventions and public health planning. The findings emphasize the role of primary care providers, including nurses, in screening and assessing ED in young and middle-aged Filipino men for early management and referral. Further research is needed to explore health-seeking behaviors related to ED in this population.
Knowledge, attitudes, convenience and practice of self-medication among university students of Bangladesh: Structural equation modeling
Authors: Tohan Mortuja Mahamud , Ahmed Faysal , Juie Israt Jahan , Kabir Anamul , Howlader Md. Hasan , Rahman Md. Ashfikur
Published: November 2023

Self-medication is a prevalent practice among university students globally and is a significant public health concern. However, previous research has been limited in scope, focusing primarily on specific student groups or the general public, leaving a gap in understanding the causal relationships associated with self-medication; this study aims to investigate the factors influencing self-medication practices among university students in Bangladesh by developing a comprehensive causal model. Data from 417 students across five public universities were collected using the random walk technique by a team of 10 members. The study utilized constructs of knowledge, attitude, and convenience related to self-medication as independent variables, with self-medication practice as the dependent variable. One-way ANOVA and structural equation modeling were employed to develop a causal model of self-medication practice among university students in Bangladesh. The findings revealed that students with better medication knowledge and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were more likely to practice self-medication. A positive attitude towards self-medication and ADRs was also significantly associated with higher self-medication practice scores. Additionally, those who perceived self-medication as convenient and prescribed medication as inconvenient had higher self-medication practice scores. The attitude towards self-medication had the most substantial negative effect on self-medication practice, followed by the inconvenience of prescribed medication and the convenience of self-medication. The model explained 87% of the variance in self-medication practice, indicating a good fit for the data. University students in Bangladesh possess intermediate knowledge of medication and primary knowledge of ADRs. They exhibit a positive attitude towards self-medication and ADRs. Physical convenience favors self-medication, while the inconvenience of prescribed medication contributes to its lower preference. Policymakers should focus on evidence-based guidelines for self-medication and enhance the quantity and accessibility of prescribed medications to address the issue effectively.
Reconfiguration of four-degree limited Laman graphs
Authors: Trinh Hoang Minh
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes several simple algorithms for expanding and reducing Laman graphs, of which each vertex has at most four neighbors. These algorithms can be iteratively performed to construct or degenerate a given four-degree limited Laman graph. The correctness of the proposed algorithms is asserted by Laman’s criterion.
Climate change and its influence on water systems increases the cost of electricity system decarbonization
Authors: Szinai Julia , Yates David , Pérez Pedro Sánchez , Staadecker Martin , Kammen Daniel , Jones Andrew , Hidalgo-Gonzalez Patricia
Published: November 2023

The electricity sector faces a dual challenge: decarbonization and adaptation to climate change. In many regions, this challenge is complicated by interdependence of electricity and water systems, through hydropower and energy-intensive water resources. By coupling detailed water and electricity system models, we evaluate how climate change alters pathways to carbon-free generation across the Western Interconnect, emphasizing water interactions. We find that grid planning that ignores climate projections and water linkages underestimates the capacity and investment needed to achieve decarbonization and maintain grid reliability. By 2050, electricity use could grow by up to 2% annually but up to 8% in July from cooling and water-related electricity demand, while hydropower generation could decrease annually by 23%. To adapt, the region would need to build up to 139 GW of capacity between 2030 and 2050, which is equivalent to nearly thrice California’s peak demand and adds up to $150 billion (7%) in costs.
Formation of Future FL teachers’ Professional Competence on the Basis of Digital Resources
Authors: Bekkozhanova Gulnar , Akbembetova Aishagul , Syzdykbayev Nurgali , Nurpeissova Saule , Akynzhanova Alma , Chaldanbaeva Aigul
Published: November 2023

The formation of professional competence is a cyclical process. The constant improvement of professionalism is necessary in the process of pedagogical activity. The importance of the research is that the teaching process is associated with the socialization and individualization of future foreign language teacher’s professional development, who consciously organizes his own life, and his own intellectual development. In this connection, the process of self-development should be determined in training professionals. This process also needs modern advances of modern digital technologies and systematization of digital resources. The purpose of the research is to work out the effective methodology on the formation future FL teacher’s professional competence based on digital resources. The background of the research isa scientific and systematic investigation on theprofessional competence developmentthrough search for modern approaches and technologies. We can highlight three major factors of conducting our research: 1) the need of professional training in the context of digitalization, 2) implementation of the model of competence-based education, and 3) methodological recommendations on professional training. The hypothesis of the research is that the professional competence formation of future foreign language teachers can be effective if we make use of modern digital resources in training process. The effectiveness of program content can be increased, if student’s professional competencies and the ability to work are formed using authentic materials and digital resources. As a result of the research, the systematization of a competence-based model and using digital environment in education process were proven to stimulate professional competencies and self-development. In this connection, we used theoretical analysis of research materials and experimental methods which is divided into 3 practical stages. The method of modelling, experimental testing students’ professional competence assisted the effectiveness of using digital resources. As the main recommendations, we offer the model of professional competence and effective methods on the formation of future FL teachers’ foreign language professional competence at higher schools.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of V3O7 / V2O5 – reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite towards methylene blue dye degradation
Authors: Aruchamy Kathirvel , Sudarsan Darsana , Ajith Manujith , Sreeku Arya Arayannamangalath Mana , Ayyasamy Uma Maheswari , Manickam Sivakumar
Published: November 2023

This work investigates the photocatalytic performance of V2O5 and V3O7 nanoparticles and their nanocomposites with rGO. The as-annealed V2O5 and V3O7 nanoparticles exhibited pure orthorhombic and monoclinic structures with an optical bandgap of 2.3 and 2.5 eV, respectively. The corresponding vibrational modes using Raman and FTIR spectroscopy analysis further confirm the form. The morphological studies reveal that V2O5 and V3O7 nanoparticles possess plate and petal-like morphology, respectively. Moreover, in the case of V2O5/V3O7 - rGO nanocomposites, the plate/petal-like nanoparticles are embedded within rGO sheets. Incorporating nanoparticles within rGO sheets has quenched the green photoluminescence emission, enhancing their photocatalytic performance upon irradiation with white light of 100 mW/cm2. This is ascribed to the effective transport of interfacial electrons from vanadium oxide nanoparticles to the rGO surface, reducing the recombination of photogenerated charge carriers. These results indicate that the vanadium oxide/rGO nanocomposites have potential applications in wastewater treatment.
Developing an early warning system to strengthen disaster risk resilience: experiences from flood-prone areas of KwaZulu-Natal province.
Authors: Lunga Wilfred , Nkosi Moremi , Chirima George , Madzivhandila Thanyani , Ratshiedana Phathutshedzo , Ramaphakela Tshegofatso , Majikijela Yamkela , Musarurwa Charles
Published: November 2023

Globally, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events including flash floods, rising sea levels, and storms is increasing. Poorly planned informal settlements have become more vulnerable. In most regions, infrastructure to cope and protect the vulnerable from such impacts is inadequate. This article aimed to elucidate the main issues faced by South Africa in terms of flood forecasting as well as present an innovative method to assess exposure to floods. A qualitative approach was utilized to gather data during interviews with community leaders and residents of Quarry Road informal settlement. A flood hazard index was developed in a GIS environment. Distance from rivers was calculated, and rainfall intensity and water table level were estimated from metrological measurements, groundwater logging data, and SAR data. A spatial analysis evaluated each grid-point on every parameter and according to the local conditions and each point was assigned values on a scale between 2 and 10. The findings revealed areas most prone to floods in the settlement and the need for a comprehensive post-flood damage database meant for validation purposes and calibrating future prediction models.
Electrically Driven Spin Resonance of 4f Electrons in a Single Atom on a Surface
Authors: Bae Yujeong , Reale Stefano , Hwang Jiyoon , Oh Jeongmin , Brune Harald , Heinrich Andreas , Donati Fabio
Published: November 2023

A pivotal challenge in quantum technologies lies in reconciling long coherence times with efficient manipulation of the quantum states of a system. Lanthanide atoms, with their well-localized 4f electrons, emerge as a promising solution to this dilemma if provided with a rational design for manipulation and detection. Here we construct tailored spin structures to perform electron spin resonance on a single lanthanide atom using a scanning tunneling microscope. A magnetically coupled structure made of an erbium and a titanium atom enables us to both drive the erbium’s 4felectron spins and indirectly probe them through the titanium’s 3d electrons. In this coupled configuration, the erbium spin states exhibit a five-fold increase in the spin relaxation time and a two-fold increase in the driving efficiency compared to the 3d electron counterparts. Our work provides a new approach to accessing highly protected spin states, enabling their coherent control in an all-electric fashion.
Title-Hypoplastic Acute Myeloid Leukemia - Case Report with Literature Review.
Authors: M Abinaya , Kumar Ashwinee , Sinha Ruchi , Singh Avinash
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Hypoplastic acute leukemia (HAL), also known as smoldering leukemia, is a form of atypical leukemia. It is a rare entity and currently defined as having cellularity of < 20 % in bone marrow with>20 % blasts at presentation. Hypocellular acute myeloid leukemia are more frequent than hypocellular variant of acute lymphoid leukemia. Although cases of hypoplastic acute myeloid in children and younger age group have been reported in literature, they are extremely rare.
Case Presentation: A 16 year old boy presenting with fever, dyspnea, weakness and easy fatigueability. Bone marrow aspirate revealed hypocellular smears with presence of 38 % blasts. Immunohistochemistry was performed on biopsy. Blasts were positive for CD34 and MPO with strong membranous positivity for CD7. A final diagnosis of ‘Hypoplastic acute myeloid leukemia AML-M0’ was made.
Conclusion: These cases pose a diagnostic challenge to the hematopathologist and treating physician, as hematological features of hypoplasticAML, hypocellularmyelodysplastic syndrome and aplastic anemia are similar. Therefore, it is crucial to distinguish between these diseases as treatment modalities are different for each entity.
Tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase-1 (WARS1) depletion and high tryptophan concentration lead to genomic instability in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Izadi Mahmoud , Ali Tayyiba , Shurrab Farah , Aharpour Ebrahim , Pourkarimi Ehsan
Published: November 2023

The fidelity of translation is ensured by a family of proteins named aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, making them crucial for development and survival. More recently, mutations in the tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase (WARS1) have been linked to various human diseases, from intellectual disability to various types of cancer. To understand the function of WARS1, we investigated the effect of WARS-1 depletion during the mitotic and meiotic cell cycle in the developing germline of C. elegans and demonstrated the role of WARS-1 in genome integrity. wars-1 knockdown results in cell cycle arrest of the mitotically active germ cells. Such mitotic arrest is also associated with canonical DNA damage-induced checkpoint signaling in mitotic and meiotic germ cells. Significantly, such DNA checkpoint activation is associated with the morphological anomalies in chromatin structures that are the hallmarks of genome instability, such as the formation of chromatin bridges, micronuclei, and chromatin buds. We believe that WARS-1 depletion increases the intracellular concentration of tryptophan and an elevated level of its catabolites, leading to genomic instability. Our result demonstrates that exposing C. elegans to a high tryptophan dosage leads to DNA damage checkpoint activation. All in all, we have strong evidence that knocking down wars-1 results in defects in genomic integrity.
The molecular mechanism underlying KRAS regulation on STK31 expression in Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Yangchao , Yuting Liu , Tang Shing Chun , To Ka Fai , Li Bo , Chan Stephen , Wong Chi Hin
Published: November 2023

KRAS mutations are common in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) but targeting mutant KRAS is still challenging. Kinase inhibitors are ideal targeted therapeutics for mutant KRAS-driven cancer. In our study, an esiRNA screening was performed to identify kinases that play a critical role in KRAS mutant driven PDAC. STK31 was identified as a potential therapeutic target for KRAS mutant PDAC. In this study, we aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of STK31 in KRAS mutant PDAC and its therapeutic potential. Our results showed that STK31 was upregulated in KRAS mutant PDAC patients with poor survival and highly expressed in PDAC cell lines with KRAS G12D mutant background. Inhibition of STK31 in KRAS mutant cell lines significantly reduced PDAC cell growth and hindered in vivo tumor growth. Gain and loss of function experiments revealed that STK31 is a downstream target of KRAS in PDAC. Pharmacological inhibition assay showed MAPK/ERK signaling involved in STK31 regulation. The further mechanistic study validated that c-Jun, regulated by KRAS/MAPK signaling, directly modulates the transcription level of STK31 by binding to its promoter region. By analyzing RNA sequencing data, we found cell cycle regulators CCNB1 and CDC25C are downstream targets of STK31. Our results indicate that STK31 promotes PDAC cell growth by regulating the KRAS/MAPK/ERK/c-Jun signaling pathway and its impact on cell cycle regulator CCNB1.
Highly Acidic, γ-Al2O3 Nanorods and SiO2 Nanoparticles Recovered from Solid Wastes as Promising Catalysts for Production of Bioethelene and Diethyl Ether Biofuels
Authors: Hussein Abouelhassan Ahmed Gomaa , Abdelkader Adel , Khodari Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

Herein, low-cost effective, highly acidic γ-Al2O3 and silica were recovered from alumina can and silica bead wastes respectively, using simple precipitation method, the prepared catalysts were characterized using different characterization techniques such as TGA, DSC, XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM and BET surface area measurements. Quantitative and qualitative measurements of total surface acidity and their types (Brönsted and Lewis) were measured using temperature programmed desorption of pyridine (PY-TPD) and dimethyl pyridine (DMPY-TPD) as probe molecules. Then prepared catalysts were tested in the dehydration of bioethanol to bioethylene and diethyl ether at temperature range of 300–400°C. The results indicated the superiority of γ-Al2O3 catalyst than silica at all reaction temperatures. Different kinetic parameters, such as the effect of weight hourly space velocity and the effect of stability and durability for four successive catalytic cycles were studied for γ-Al2O3 catalyst at a temperature range of 200–400°C, where catalyst shown remarkable stability for all catalytic cycles.
Controlled coaggregation pathways of perovskite nanocrystals and supramolecular dye assemblies
Authors: Yamauchi Mitsuaki , Kubo Naoki , Aratani Naoki , Yamada Hiroko , Masuo Sadahiro
Published: November 2023

High-order aggregates of semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs), known as superlattices, enable the fabrication of exceptional nanomaterials with structure-related physical properties and functionalities. The achievement of a heterogeneous superlattice composed of NCs and functional organic dyes leads to distinctive photophysical properties arising from the interaction between the NCs and dyes, thus activating multicomponent material chemistry. However, a methodology for controlling their heterostructures is yet to be established. Herein, we report a novel supramolecularly controlled coaggregation system involving perovskite NCs and perylene bisimide derivatives (PBIs) that form disorder, low-order, or high-order heterostructures. Their heterostructures were determined by the aggregation conditions of the PBIs (monomers, small aggregates, or large aggregates) before mixing with the NC. Notably, the high-order heterostructure exhibits an exceptional arrangement structure, such as Roman pavement, in which one-dimensionally arranged NCs and one-dimensionally stacked PBIs are alternately arranged at nanometer-scale intervals, as visualized using transmission electron microscopy. Spectroscopic analysis revealed that a high-order heterostructure (heterogeneous superlattice) was formed via an alteration in the π−π stacking interactions between the PBIs on the flat surface of the NC. Moreover, the high-order heterogeneous superlattice exhibited more efficient energy transfer from the NC to the assembled PBIs compared to the low-order heterostructure.
Predicting drug-protein interactions by preserving the node connectivity and topological structure based on the multi source data
Authors: Wei Jiahao , Lu Linzhang , Shen Tie
Published: November 2023

Examining potential drug-target interactions (DTIs) is a pivotal component of drug discovery and repurposing.Recently, there has been a significant rise in the use of computational techniques to predict DTIs. Nevertheless, previous investigations have predominantly concentrated on assessing either the connections between nodes or the consistency of the network’s topological structure in isolation. Such one-sided approaches could severely hinder the accuracy of DTI predictions. In this study, we propose a novel method called TTGCN, which combines heterogeneous graph convolutional neural networks (GCN) and graph attention networks (GAT) to address the task of DTI prediction. TTGCN employs a two-tiered feature learning strategy, utilizing GAT and residual GCN (R-GCN) to extract drug and target embeddings from the diverse network, respectively. These drug and target embeddings are then fused through a mean-pooling layer. Finally, we employ an inductive matrix completion technique to forecast DTIs while preserving the network’s node connectivity and topological structure.Our approach demonstrates superior performance in terms of Area Under the Curve (AUC) and Area Under the Precision-Recall Curve (AUPR) in experimental comparisons, highlighting its significant advantages in predicting DTIs. Furthermore, case studies provide additional evidence of its ability to identify potential DTIs.
Impact of model’s resolution on the sea surface temperature climate change signal in the South Eastern Tropical Atlantic
Authors: Cabos William , Vázquez Rubén , Vara Alba de la , Sein Dmitry V , Koseki Shunya
Published: November 2023

In this paper we study the influence of atmospheric and oceanic resolutions on the sea surface temperature (SST) under climate change and the related mechanisms. To this end, a set of historical period and future simulations in which two different atmospheric resolutions are combined with two different oceanic resolutions, one of them eddy-permitting, are used. We found that the magnitude of the warming is more dependent on atmospheric resolution, while the influence of oceanic resolution is stronger on the spatial pattern of SST changes, leading to the enhancement of the climate change signal in coastal regions. The mechanisms related to these changes involve both the atmosphere and the ocean, with the last playing the main role. We found that changes in upwelling are the primary drivers of SST changes in regions close to the coast, and these changes in SST exhibit a clear seasonal pattern, precisely associated with the significant seasonality of the Benguela upwelling. The radiative and turbulent fluxes are modified by the changes in the climate and are also influenced by the resolution and SST patterns. The net long wave fluxes into the ocean are increased, when the short wave fluxes decrease. These changes result from the adjustment to the increase of greenhouse gasses, which leads to a stronger warming of the atmosphere than the ocean surface, which increases the long wave radiation and the formation of low clouds.
Correlations Between Environmental Enteropathy and Anemia in Pediatric Patients Under Five Years: An Investigation of Lead Exposure
Authors: Unar Ahsanullah , Chanihoon Ghulam Qadir
Published: November 2023

Iron deficiency anemia and elevated blood lead levels (BPb) can have substantial health implications for young children. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of these conditions among children aged 1 to 5 years attending a daycare center within a pediatric unit. A total of 360 children of varying genders underwent anemia screening, with 230 testing positive and 137 testing negative. Among the anemic children, the severity of anemia was classified as mild and severe based on hemoglobin levels, while non-anemic children constituted the reference group. The findings indicated that anemic children exhibited higher mean BPb values compared to non-anemic children. The prevalence of BPb levels exceeding 100 µg/L was 60% among non-anemic children, 54% among severe anemic children, and 49% among severe anemic children with BPb levels below 200 µg/L. Furthermore, a significant negative correlation was observed between BPb levels and hemoglobin and iron levels in anemic children. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between BPb levels and the age of children of both genders. In conclusion, this study highlights the significant association between BPb levels and key blood parameters, suggesting their potential as biomarkers for lead intoxication and iron-deficient anemia. Future research in this field should focus on elucidating the causal relationships and exploring intervention strategies to reduce lead exposure and prevent iron-deficient anemia in pediatric populations.
Realizing the promise of machine learning in precision oncology:
expert perspectives on opportunities and challenges
Authors: Blasimme Alessandro , Nittas Vasileios , Ormond Kelly , Vayena Effy
Published: November 2023

The application of machine learning in precision oncology is an emerging field. To capture the status quo, challenges, opportunities, ethical implications, and future directions, we conducted semi-structured interviews with academic and clinical experts. Our participants agreed that machine learning in precision oncology is in infant stages, with clinical integration still rare. Overall, participants equated ongoing developments with better clinical workflows and improved treatment decisions for more cancer patients. They underscored the ability of machine learning to tackle the dynamic nature of cancer, break down the complexity of molecular data, and support decision-making. Our participants emphasized obstacles related to molecular data access, clinical utility, and guidelines. Availability of reliable and well-curated data to train and validate machine learning algorithms, as well as integration of multiple data sources, were described as constraints, yet necessary for future clinical integration. Frequently mentioned ethical challenges included privacy risks, equity, explainability, trust, and incidental findings, with privacy being the most polarizing. While participants recognized the issue of hype surrounding machine learning in precision oncology, they agreed that , in an assistive role, it represents the future of precision oncology.
Impacts of Priming on Distinct Immunosuppressive Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells under Translationally Relevant Conditions
Authors: Herger Nick , Heggli Irina , Mengis Tamara , Devan Jan , Arpesella Leonardo , Brunner Florian , Distler Oliver , Dudli Stefan
Published: November 2023

Background
The multimodal properties of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), particularly their ability to modulate immune responses is of high interest in translational research. Pro-inflammatory, hypoxic, and 3D culture priming are promising and often used strategies to improve the immunosuppressive potency of MSCs, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Therefore, the aims of this study were i) to compare the effects of pro-inflammatory, hypoxic, and 3D culture priming on the in vitro immunosuppressive potential of MSCs, ii) to assess if immunosuppressive priming effects are temporally preserved under standard and translationally relevant culture conditions, and iii) to investigate if the three priming strategies engage the same immunosuppressive mechanisms.
Methods
Functional in vitro T cell suppressive potency measurements were conducted to assess the impact of pro-inflammatory, hypoxic, and 3D culture priming on the immunosuppressive potential of human bone marrow-derived MSCs. Primed MSCs were either cultured under standard cell culture conditions or translationally relevant culture conditions, and their transcriptomic adaptations were monitored over time. Next-generation sequencing was performed to assess if different priming strategies activate distinct immunosuppressive mechanisms.
Results
i) Pro-inflammatory, hypoxic, and 3D culture priming induced profound transcriptomic changes in MSCs resulting in a significantly enhanced T cell suppressive potential of pro-inflammatory and 3D culture primed MSCs. ii) Priming effects rapidly faded under standard cell culture conditions but were partially preserved under translationally relevant conditions. Interestingly, continuous 3D culture priming of MSCs maintained the immunosuppressive potency of MSCs. iii) Next-generation sequencing revealed that priming strategy-specific differentially expressed genes are involved in the T cell suppressive capacity of MSCs, indicating that different priming strategies engage distinct immunosuppressive mechanisms.
Conclusion
Priming can be a useful approach to improve the immunosuppressive potency of MSCs. However, future studies involving primed MSCs should carefully consider the significant impact of translationally relevant conditions on the preservation of priming effects. Continuous 3D culture could act as a functionalized formulation, supporting the administration of MSC spheroids for a sustainably improved immunosuppressive potency.
Dynamic Deformation Behaviors in Single Body-Centered-Cubic (BCC) phase Refractory High-entropy Alloys
Authors: Lee Chanho , Xie Dongyue , Li Juntan , Huang Aomin , Lear Calvin , Mirkoohi Elham , Prorok Bart , Meyers Marc , Xu Haixuan , Song Gian , Liaw Peter , Gray George , Li Nan , Fensin Saryu
Published: November 2023

The mechanical behavior and microstructural evolution of a single body-centered-cubic (BCC) phase NbTaTiV refractory high-entropy alloy (RHEA) were studied over a wide range of strain-rates (from 1 × 10-4 to 2 × 103 s-1) and temperatures [from room temperature (RT) to 850 °C]. The evolution of yield strength as a function of strain rate and temperature showed that the present RHEA had less strain-rate dependence and a strong resistance to softening at high temperatures. The formation of thin type-I twins was observed during high-strain rate deformation. The present work also showed that the thin twins did not significantly affect the work-hardening/softening rate during high strain-rate testing at all temperatures. Contrary to the high strain-rate behavior, substantial strain-hardening was observed at quasi-static rates, when the materials were tested at cryogenic temperatures. This difference in behavior was attributed to the formation of “thick” twins at cryogenic temperatures, which not only act as stronger barriers to dislocation motion but also interact with each other leading to an increase in the work hardening rate. The temperature increase during high strain-rate testing was estimated by theoretical calculations. The relatively low stacking fault energies with high twinning stress for NbTaTiV were predicted by density functional theory calculations. Moreover, a modified Zerilli-Armstrong constitutive model was also fit to represent the strength of this material at varying strain rates and temperatures.
Microwave plasmonic frequency diverse array for high-resolution far-field target localization using a single physical channel
Authors: Zhang Hao Chi , Zhang Le Peng , Mao Zihuan , Liu Shengheng , Amin Moeness , Ma Yahui , He Pei Hang , Cui Tie Jun
Published: November 2023

Developing highly compact, low-cost and light-weight localization apparatus enables the feasibility of their massive deployment greatly broadens the horizon of their applications, which prompts the need to reduce the receiver hardware complexity. The optimal solution would be a single-channel system, but it inherently suffers from the tightly constrained angular resolution. Here, a non-uniform frequency diverse array (FDA) is proposed to achieve high-resolution localization with a single receiver channel. By integrating the spoof plasmonic technology into the FDA system to mitigate mutual coupling, the transmitting frequency diverse components are isolated at the receiver to enable further utilization of virtual multi-channel processing and push the resolution limit. The capability of the designed FDA prototype is confirmed by measured results of time-varying electromagnetic distributions and several closely-spaced target localizations and their resolutions.
An Experimental Study on the Interaction Effects between a Rectangular Supersonic Jet and a Flat Wall at Different Wall Lengths
Authors: Manikanta T.V.S. , Sri B.T.N.
Published: November 2023

An experimental investigation was undertaken to study the effect of placing a flat wall at the rectangular exit (Aspect Ratio = 2) of a supersonic nozzle on the shock cell structure, and transverse deflection behavior of the jet issuing from the nozzle\(.\) The design exit Mach number (\({M}_{e})\) was 1.8. In the experiments, the length of the wall (\({L}_{w})\) and nozzle pressure ratio (NPR) were varied to explore their effect on the jet interaction with the wall. Schlieren images & wall pressure data obtained from the experiments were used to study shock cell structure and for calculation of two-dimensional normal force and moment coefficients. In over-expansion conditions, the interaction between the jet and the wall caused a downward deflection of the jet up to \({{L}_{w}=D}_{h}\) (hydraulic diameter). Under-expansion conditions of the jet made the jet deflect upward irrespective of the magnitude of \({L}_{w}\) till \({{L}_{w}=8D}_{h}\). The two-dimensional normal force and moment coefficients of the wall were more or less insensitive to the variation in \({L}_{w}\) beyond \({4D}_{h}\). However, for \({L}_{w}\) < \({4D}_{h}\), the jet expansion conditions determined the nature of variation with \({L}_{w}\). The effect of wall was such that reduction in wall-bound supersonic core length was maximum at \({L}_{w}\) = \({0.5D}_{h}\) at over-expansion conditions and at \({L}_{w}\)=\({D}_{h}\) at under expansion conditions.
Immunoinformatics Approach to Rift Valley Fever Virus Vaccine Design in Ruminants
Authors: Oladipo Elijah Kolawole , Taiwo Oluseyi Rotimi , Teniola Fashanu Omotoyosi , Temitope Adedokun Praise , Boluwatife Akanni Motunrayo , Oluwaseyi Oyewale Isaac , Oladimeji Bolanle Victor , Taiwo Jonathan Iyanuoluwa , Adejumo Isaac Oluseun
Published: November 2023

Rift Valley fever is a new arboviral illness with serious public health implications. The disease, which is brought on by the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), is linked to severe economic losses in animals as well as a number of human ailments. There are currently no authorized live attenuated vaccines for human use, and they have been linked to increased risks of abortion in ruminants. In this study, the use of reverse vaccination was applied in creating a vaccine using a segment for use in ruminants by exploring proteins in the M-glycoprotein segment. Glycoprotein sequences were retrieved from cattle, sheep and goats from endemic countries across Africa and subjected to computational analysis for B and T cell epitope prediction. Highly conserved, immunodominant epitopes were obtained and connected with the ideal linkers for proper conformation. A Bos taurus-specific beta-defensin was also added to increase immunogenicity. The secondary as well as tertiary structures of the vaccine were then determined by SOPMA and alphafold2, respectively. Analysis of the vaccine’s physicochemical properties all yielded favorable results of its potential effectiveness and safety. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis was carried out using Toll-like receptors 7 and 8 to show molecular binding interactions. While in-silico analyses have yielded satisfactory results, translational research may be required to validate the vaccines’ effectiveness in animals.
Financial Performance, Digital Disclosure, and Firm Value: Do Purely Local Companies Differ From Cross-Listed Firms? Evidence from East African Countries 2012–2022
Authors: keter charles kiprono sang , Cheboi Prof. Josephat Yegon , Kosgei Prof. David
Published: November 2023

In the new global economy, marked by technological uncertainty, financial performance and digital activities have emerged as major concerns for shareholders and stakeholders. The study looks at the role of digital disclosure in the relationship between financial performance and firm value and whether purely local companies differ from cross-listed firms. To test the current study hypothesis, we apply linear regressions with panel data using the NSE, RSE, DSE, and USE data bases from a sample of 39 Kenya, 3 Rwanda, 17 Tanzania, and 14 Uganda firms respectively, over the period 2012–2022. The sample consisted of 51 purely local firms and 8 cross-listed firms. The study's findings indicate that there was a significant main effect between financial performance and firm value and also a significant main effect of digital disclosure on firm value. There was a significant interaction between going digital and financial performance and firm value. Lastly, there was a statistically significant difference between cross listed and purely local firm. Digital disclosure at lower levels enhances the relationship between financial performance and firm value. Generally, firms that are cross-listed provide more digital disclosure information compared to purely local listed companies. Firms practice conservative disclosure of digital activities since unsuccessful research activities may influence future performance and investors' confidence.
Survival and Growth Response of Four Agroforestry Species to Post Planting Management Regimes
Authors: Gebru Girmay , Gebremedhin Gebrekiros , Smethurst Philip J. , Birhane Emiru , M.Hadgu Kiros , Alemie Araya , Muthuri C.W. , Said Hadia
Published: November 2023

Post planting seedling management activities are important factors that determinegrowth and survivalof tree species. A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of management regimes on growth and survival ofCordia africana, Croton macrostachyus, Vachelliaabyssinica, and Grevillea robustatree species. The management regimes (treatments)were with and without application of fertilizer, irrigation and weeding. Management regimeswere arranged in split-split-split plot design replicated three times with tree species as main plot factor and other treatments randomized totheir assigned sub plots. Plant height, root collar diameter and survivaldata were collectedfor statistical analysis. The nonparametrictestKaplan-Meierwas used to estimatesurvival probabilities. Besides, multivariate analysis and Tukey HSD for post hoc testswereemployed for assessing management effects on growth parameters of the tree species. Accordingly, time and management regimes significantly affected growth and survival of tree species. Seedlings with one and four months after planting had better survival and growth rates than twenty months after planting. Apart from main effects fertilizer and weeding, management regimes revealed no interaction effects.Vachelliaabyssinica and Cordia africanahadhigher survival rates, whileVachelliaabyssinica revealed least in growth rate. Height and diameter of Cordia africana and Croton macrostachyushad significant and strong correlations with fertilizerand so does weeding withGrevillea robusta.Generally, management regimes improved growth and survival of the tree species. However, effect of irrigation and fertilizer rates on growth and survival of agroforestry tree speciesrequires further systematic study for packaging management recommendation.
Modelling crop management and environmental effects on the development of Leptosphaeria maculans pseudothecia
Authors: Bondad Jamina Gabrielle , Whish Jeremy Patrick Milroy , Sprague Susan , de Wuow Angela Van , Barry Kara , Harrison Matthew Tom
Published: November 2023

The timing of ascospore release is critical in the prediction of Blackleg infection, particularly if the timing of spore release coincides with early development of canola seedlings. Historically, prediction models have used average daily temperature and an environment calibration to estimate a minimum rainfall amount to trigger development. This paper describes a different approach based on hydro-thermal time, where soil evaporation and rainfall are used as a surrogate to estimate when the stubble is wet, and temperature is accumulated on an hourly basis. Furthermore, the stubble orientation due to differing harvest management practices is considered, as stubble knocked down has greater contact with the soil compared to stubble which remains in a standing position. Pseudothecia and ascospore development in the standing and lying treatments was monitored weekly to measure the rate of development in diverse environments. The new modelling approach was used to describe the pseudothecial maturation rate and predict the timing of ascospore release. Subsequently, a range of Australian and international datasets were used to assess the robustness and accuracy of this new model’s predictions. When tested across multiple locations and seasons globally, the hydro-thermal time approach had similar performance (R2 = 0.94, RMSD = 16 days) to the existing Sporacle Ezy model (R2 = 0.90, RMSD = 22 days), but without the need to calibrate in different environments and account for the delayed rate of development in standing stubble. Integrating this new approach into early warning systems for canola growers will help in the management of control measures.
Effects of plating thickness on SiCp /Al composite brazed joint structure and performance
Authors: Fan Xiaojie , YANG Na , GAO Yulan , XU Dongxia
Published: November 2023

To clarify the effects of plating thickness on the structure and performance of the brazed joints of a SiCp/Al composite, the surface of the SiCp/6063Al composite was treated with electroless nickel plating. The microstructure, shear strength, air-tightness, and fracture morphology of the nickel-plated SiCp/6063Al composite brazed joints were analyzed by SEM and other experimental methods. The results demonstrated that the structure and morphology of the brazing seams of the SiCp/6063Al composite with different plating thicknesses were basically the same. Specifically, the structure of the brazing seam was mostly dense, without holes or gaps. The shear strength of brazed joints increased with the nickel plating thickness. The brazing of nickel-plated SiCp/6063Al composite with a plating time of 30 min, brazing temperature of 290 ℃, and holding time of 30 min led to brazed joints with a high shear strength and good air-tightness. According to the analysis of the shear fracture morphology and the EDS spectrum the feature region of the brazed joint, fractures of the brazed joint mainly occurred in the brazing filler layer and at the junction of the brazing filler and nickel plating.
Angiogenesis and Cell Organization after Direct Pulp Capping with Simvastatin Mixed with Calcium Hydroxide Compared with Mineral Trioxide Aggregates
Authors: Elkaramany Samar M. , ELNozahy Amira A. , ELHak Amel R. , Khalil Nesma M.
Published: November 2023

Background Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is widely recognized as the gold standard for direct pulp capping (DPC) materials, but it has certain limitations. In this study, a novel combination of simvastatin and calcium hydroxide (SIM-CH) was investigated as a potential DPC material. We aimed to histologically assess the effects of SIM-CH on angiogenesis and cell organization in comparison to MTA.Methods A total of 32 sound maxillary incisor teeth from 16 male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into two groups: Group I received MTA, and Group II received SIM-CH as a DPC material. Class V cavities were prepared in the upper incisor teeth, and the DPC materials were applied. The final restoration was accomplished using light-cured resin-modified glass ionomer. After 1 and 2 weeks, the animals were euthanized, and histological analysis was performed following routine preparation and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The pulp region was evaluated, and a scoring system was employed to assess morphological changes in the odontoblastic layer. The odontoblastic layer width (in mm), and blood vessel count were evaluated under ×100 magnification. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test of normality of the distribution of the variables. Comparisons were carried using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Pearson Chi-square test was used to test association between qualitative variables. Fisher's exact test is used when indicated.Results The findings indicated that there is no statistically significant difference between the tested materials in all tested parameters except for odontoblast cell layer width in the second week between MTA and SM-CH groups, and in MTA in the 1ST and 2nd week. Besides, there was a statistically significant difference in the blood vessels count in SM-CH between the 1ST and 2nd week. Regarding the descriptive analysis, all specimens demonstrated widely distributed congested capillaries. Most of odontoblast cells were arranged in a palisaded pattern with columnar cell bodies.Conclusions Simvastatin has the potential in improving angiogenic and pulp capping properties of calcium hydroxide.