bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bibliometric Analysis of Aerosol-Radiation Research from 1999 to 2023
Authors: Wang Shuai , Yi Bingqi
Published: October 2024

Aerosol and aerosol-cloud radiation interactions significantly influence Earth’s radiative balance, hydrological cycle, global monsoons, atmospheric circulation, and climate, attracting substantial scientific attention. This study employs bibliometric and quantitative trend analyses to evaluate the development, knowledge structure, and research trends in aerosol and aerosol-cloud radiation interactions from 1999 to 2023 using Web of Science Core Collection data. Results reveal a consistent increase in publications and citations, indicating sustained attention in this field. The USA and China are identified as the most prolific countries, with significant contributions from institutions like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. However, while the USA shows a recent decline in growth, China has demonstrated a significant upward trend in research contributions. Productive journals include Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics and the Journal of Geophysical Research-Atmospheres, with prolific authors such as Babu S. Suresh and Li Zhanqing. A co-occurrence analysis of keywords identifies research topics focused on aerosol optical properties, aerosol types, aerosol radiation interactions, and aerosol-cloud interactions. Emerging trends emphasize advanced methodologies such as remote sensing, model simulation, and artificial intelligence, with growing attention to regions like the Southern Ocean and the Arctic. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights for researchers, identifying knowledge gaps and guiding future research directions in aerosol and aerosol-cloud radiation interactions, which are crucial for understanding their climatic and atmospheric impacts.
Climate Change Mitigation Perspectives from Sub-Saharan Africa: The Technical Pathways to Deep Decarbonization at the City Level
Authors: Akomolafe Bayode , Clarke Amelia , Ayambire Raphael
Published: October 2024

The complex and multidimensional effect of climate change, coupled with low socioeconomic development, in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) makes the region vulnerable to the changing climate and threatens its inhabitants’ survival, livelihood, and health. Subnational actions have been widely acclaimed as effective in combatting climate change. Local governments in SSA have been developing and implementing climate action plans to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this article, we qualitatively assessed climate change mitigation technical pathways at the city level by studying four major African megacities’ climate plans and actions. The cities studied are Accra, Ghana; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. This study provides insight into the novel and innovative policy design and instrumentation options to sustainably address climate change mitigation in SSA. With the past literature focusing on climate adaptation for the Global South, this study shows leading context-specific efforts in climate change mitigation that simultaneously address local sustainable development needs. Our assessment identified the prioritized technical pathways for climate change mitigation in the selected cities, as well as innovative techniques and areas for improvement. Given that it also identifies emerging best practices, this study’s findings can be helpful to local governments and practitioners pursuing local deep decarbonization and international organizations supporting these programs.
Fixed Point Results of Fuzzy Multivalued Graphic Contractive Mappings in Generalized Parametric Metric Spaces
Authors: Nazir Talat , Abbas Mujahid , Khan Safeer Hussain
Published: October 2024

The aim of this paper is to introduce to a pair of fuzzy graphic rational F-contraction multivalued mappings and to study the necessary condition for the existence of common fixed points of fuzzy multivalued mappings in the setup of generalized parametric metric space endowed with a directed graph. A non-trivial example is presented to support the results presented herein. Our results improve and extend some recent results in the existing literature.
Starlikeness and Convexity of Generalized Bessel-Maitland Function
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Umar , Breaz Daniel , Raza Mohsan , Cotîrlă Luminiţa-Ioana
Published: October 2024

The main objective of this research is to examine a specific sufficiency criteria for the starlikeness and convexity of order δ, k-uniform starlikeness, k-uniform convexity, lemniscate starlikeness and convexity, exponential starlikeness and convexity, uniform convexity of the Generalized Bessel-Maitland function. Applications of these conclusions to the concept of corollaries are also provided. Additionally, an illustrated representation of these outcomes will be presented. So functional inequalities involving gamma function will be the main research tools of this exploration. The outcomes from this study generalize a number of conclusions from earlier studies.
An Analysis of Type-I Generalized Progressive Hybrid Censoring for the One Parameter Logistic-Geometry Lifetime Distribution with Applications
Authors: Nagy Magdy , Mosilhy Mohamed Ahmed , Mansi Ahmed Hamdi , Abu-Moussa Mahmoud Hamed
Published: October 2024

Based on Type-I generalized progressive hybrid censored samples (GPHCSs), the parameter estimate for the unit-half logistic-geometry (UHLG) distribution is investigated in this work. Using maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and Bayesian estimation, the parameters, reliability, and hazard functions of the UHLG distribution under GPHCSs have been assessed. Likewise, the computation is carried out for the asymptotic confidence intervals (ACIs). Furthermore, two bootstrap CIs, bootstrap-p and bootstrap-t, are mentioned. For symmetric loss functions, like squared error loss (SEL), and asymmetric loss functions, such as linear exponential loss (LL) and general entropy loss (GEL), there are specific Bayesian approximations. The Metropolis–Hastings samplers methodology were used to construct the credible intervals (CRIs). In conclusion, a genuine data set measuring the mortality statistics of a group of male mice with reticulum cell sarcoma is regarded as an application of the methods given.
(Almost) Ricci Solitons in Lorentzian–Sasakian Hom-Lie Groups
Authors: Peyghan Esmaeil , Nourmohammadifar Leila , Ali Akram , Mihai Ion
Published: October 2024

We study Lorentzian contact and Lorentzian–Sasakian structures in Hom-Lie algebras. We find that the three-dimensional sl(2,R) and Heisenberg Lie algebras provide examples of such structures, respectively. Curvature tensor properties in Lorentzian–Sasakian Hom-Lie algebras are investigated. If v is a contact 1-form, conditions under which the Ricci curvature tensor is v-parallel are given. Ricci solitons for Lorentzian–Sasakian Hom-Lie algebras are also studied. It is shown that a Ricci soliton vector field ζ is conformal whenever the Lorentzian–Sasakian Hom-Lie algebra is Ricci semisymmetric. To illustrate the use of the theory, a two-parameter family of three-dimensional Lorentzian–Sasakian Hom-Lie algebras which are not Lie algebras is given and their Ricci solitons are computed.
Exploiting Content Characteristics for Explainable Detection of Fake News
Authors: Muñoz Sergio , Iglesias Carlos Á.
Published: October 2024

The proliferation of fake news threatens the integrity of information ecosystems, creating a pressing need for effective and interpretable detection mechanisms. Recent advances in machine learning, particularly with transformer-based models, offer promising solutions due to their superior ability to analyze complex language patterns. However, the practical implementation of these solutions often presents challenges due to their high computational costs and limited interpretability. In this work, we explore using content-based features to enhance the explainability and effectiveness of fake news detection. We propose a comprehensive feature framework encompassing characteristics related to linguistic, affective, cognitive, social, and contextual processes. This framework is evaluated across several public English datasets to identify key differences between fake and legitimate news. We assess the detection performance of these features using various traditional classifiers, including single and ensemble methods and analyze how feature reduction affects classifier performance. Our results show that, while traditional classifiers may not fully match transformer-based models, they achieve competitive results with significantly lower computational requirements. We also provide an interpretability analysis highlighting the most influential features in classification decisions. This study demonstrates the potential of interpretable features to build efficient, explainable, and accessible fake news detection systems.
Phylogeography of the Sinica Group of Macaques in the Himalayas: Taxonomic and Evolutionary Implications
Authors: Khanal Laxman , Li Xueyou , Subba Asmit , Ulak Sapana , Kyes Randall C. , Jiang Xue-Long
Published: October 2024

Owing to the taxonomic incongruence between the morphological features and genetic relationships of the sinica group of macaques (genus Macaca), the taxonomy of this macaque group has remained inconclusive. We aimed to resolve the taxonomic quandary and improve our understanding of the historical biogeography of the group by including macaque DNA samples from previously unsampled areas in the Himalayas. We sequenced and analyzed three mitochondrial DNA loci [cytochrome b (CYTB), cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) and D-loop; 2898 bp] for sequence polymorphism, phylogenetics, species delimitation, and ancestral area reconstruction. We confirmed the occurrence of Arunachal macaque (Macaca munzala) on the southern slopes of the Eastern Himalayas in the Xizang Zizhiqu (Tibet Autonomous Region) of China. The results revealed that the sinica group of macaques is a parapatric species group composed of seven distinct species. Phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses revealed that the two previously considered subspecies of Assamese macaques (the eastern subspecies M. assamensis assamensis and the western subspecies M. a. pelops) are two distinct species. The eastern Assamese macaque is a sister species to the Tibetan macaque, whereas the western Assamese macaque and Arunachal macaque are the closest genetic sister species. The sinica group of macaques underwent five vicariance and seven dispersal radiations in the past, which mainly coincided with the Quaternary climatic oscillations between the late Pliocene and the late Pleistocene. By integrating our phylogenetic and ancestral area reconstruction results with findings from previous paleontological and molecular studies, we propose a robust hypothesis about the phylogeography of the sinica group of macaques.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Neurodevelopmental Impairments: Microbiome, Gut, and Brain Entanglements
Authors: Sha Cuilee , Jin Zhaosheng , Ku Stella Y. , Kogosov Ann S. , Yu Sun , Bergese Sergio D. , Hsieh Helen
Published: October 2024

There is significant communication and interdependence among the gut, the microbiome, and the brain during development. Diseases, such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), highlight how injury to the immature gastrointestinal tract leads to long-term neurological consequences, due to vulnerabilities of the brain in the early stages of life. A better understanding of the developing gut–microbiota–brain axis is needed to both prevent and treat the devastating consequences of these disease processes. The gut–microbiota–brain axis is a bidirectional communication pathway that includes metabolic, nervous, endocrine, and immune components. In this review, we discuss gut development, microbiome colonization and maturation, and the interactions that influence neurodevelopment in the context of NEC. We describe the components of the gut–brain axis and how the microbiome is an integral member of this relationship. Finally, we explore how derangements within the microbiome and gut–microbiota–brain axis affect the normal development and function of the other systems and long-term neurodevelopmental consequences for patients.
Advancing Roles and Therapeutic Potentials of Pyroptosis in Host Immune Defenses against Tuberculosis
Authors: Yang Jiayi , Ma Yuhe , Yu Jiaqi , Liu Yilin , Xia Jiaojiao , Kong Xinen , Jin Xiaoying , Li Jiaxiang , Lin Siqi , Ruan Yongdui , Yang Fen , Pi Jiang
Published: October 2024

Tuberculosis (TB), an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection, remains a deadly global public health burden. The use of recommended drug combinations in clinic has seen an increasing prevalence of drug-resistant TB, adding to the impediments to global control of TB. Therefore, control of TB and drug-resistant TB has become one of the most pressing issues in global public health, which urges the exploration of potential therapeutic targets in TB and drug-resistant TB. Pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death characterized by cell swelling and rupture, release of cellular contents and inflammatory responses, has been found to promote pathogen clearance and adopt crucial roles in the control of bacterial infections. It has been demonstrated that Mtb can cause host cell pyroptosis, and these host cells, which are infected by Mtb, can kill Mtb accompanied by pyroptosis, while, at the same time, pyroptosis can also release intracellular Mtb, which may potentially worsen the infection by exacerbating the inflammation. Here, we describe the main pathways of pyroptosis during Mtb infection and summarize the identified effectors of Mtb that regulate pyroptosis to achieve immune evasion. Moreover, we also discuss the potentials of pyroptosis to serve as an anti-TB therapeutic target, with the aim of providing new ideas for the development of TB treatments.
Compound K Promotes Megakaryocytic Differentiation by NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Hwang Seonhwa , Park Min-Seo , Koo Anthony Junhoe , Yoo Eunsoo , Song Seh-Hyon , Kim Hye-Kyung , Park Min-Hi , Kang Jae-Seon
Published: October 2024

Platelets are essential blood components that maintain hemostasis, prevent excessive bleeding, and facilitate wound healing. Reduced platelet counts are implicated in various diseases, including leukemia, hepatitis, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Enhancing megakaryocytic differentiation is a promising strategy to increase platelet production. Compound K (CK), a major bioactive metabolite of ginsenosides from Panax ginseng, has demonstrated anti-cancer and neuroprotective properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of CK on megakaryocytic differentiation and apoptosis in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cell lines K562 and Meg-01. CK treatment significantly upregulated the mRNA expression of key megakaryocytic differentiation markers, including CD61, CD41, and CD42a, and promoted the formation of large, multinucleated cells in K562 cells. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis revealed that CK at 5 µM induced apoptosis, a critical process in thrombocytopoiesis, in both K562 and Meg-01 cells. RT2 Profiler PCR array analysis further identified a marked increase in the expression of genes associated with the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in CK-treated K562 and Meg-01 cells. This study is the first to demonstrate that CK promotes megakaryocytic differentiation and apoptosis through the activation of the ERK/EGR1 and NLRP3 inflammasome pathways. These findings suggest that CK may enhance platelet production, indicating its potential as a therapeutic candidate for platelet-related disorders and other associated diseases.
The Causal Relationship between Inflammatory Cytokines and Liver Cirrhosis in European Descent: A Bidirectional Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study and the First Conclusions
Authors: Shi Shiya , Zhou Yanjie , Zhang He , Zhu Yalan , Jiang Pengjun , Xie Chengxia , Feng Tianyu , Zeng Yuping , He He , Luo Yao , Chen Jie
Published: October 2024

Background: Observational studies have highlighted the pivotal role of inflammatory cytokines in cirrhosis progression. However, the existence of a causal link between inflammatory cytokines and cirrhosis remains uncertain. In this study, we conducted a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis at a summarized level to illuminate the potential causal relationship between the two variables. Methods: This study utilized genetic variance in cirrhosis and inflammatory cytokines from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of European descent. The MR-PRESSO outlier test, Cochran’s Q test, and MR-Egger regression were applied to assess outliers, heterogeneity, and pleiotropy. The inverse variance weighted method and multiple sensitivity analyses were used to evaluate causalities. Furthermore, the validation set was used for simultaneous data validation. Results: The inflammatory cytokine monocyte chemoattractant protein 3 (MCP-3) was supposedly associated with a greater risk of cirrhosis. And cirrhosis was significantly correlated with increased levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). Conclusions: This study suggests that MCP-3 might be associated with the etiology of cirrhosis, while several inflammatory cytokines could potentially play a role in its downstream development. Additionally, the progression of cirrhosis was associated with elevated levels of HGF, suggesting a possible role for liver repair functions.
Establishment and Characterization of a Stable Producer Cell Line Generation Platform for the Manufacturing of Clinical-Grade Lentiviral Vectors
Authors: Arrasate Ane , Bravo Igone , Lopez-Robles Carlos , Arbelaiz-Sarasola Ane , Ugalde Maddi , Meijueiro Martha Lucia , Zuazo Miren , Valero Ana , Banos-Mateos Soledad , Ramirez Juan Carlos , Albo Carmen , Lamsfus-Calle Andrés , Fertin Marie J.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: To date, nearly 300 lentiviral-based gene therapy clinical trials have been conducted, with eight therapies receiving regulatory approval for commercialization. These advances, along with the increased number of advanced-phase clinical trials, have prompted contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) to develop innovative strategies to address the growing demand for large-scale batches of lentiviral vectors (LVVs). Consequently, manufacturers have focused on optimizing processes under good manufacturing practices (GMPs) to improve cost-efficiency, increase process robustness, and ensure regulatory compliance. Nowadays, the LVV production process mainly relies on the transient transfection of four plasmids encoding for the lentiviral helper genes and the transgene. While this method is efficient at small scales and has also proven to be scalable, the industry is exploring alternative processes due to the high cost of GMP reagents, and the batch-to-batch variability predominantly attributed to the transfection step. Methods: Here, we report the development and implementation of a reliable and clinical-grade envisioned platform based on the generation of stable producer cell lines (SCLs) from an initial well-characterized lentiviral packaging cell line (PCL). Results: This platform enables the production of VSV-G-pseudotyped LVVs through a fully transfection-free manufacturing process. Our data demonstrate that the developed platform will facilitate successful technological transfer to large-scale LVV production for clinical application. Conclusions: With this simple and robust stable cell line generation strategy, we address key concerns associated with the costs and reproducibility of current manufacturing processes.
Biomimetic Origami: A Biological Influence in Design
Authors: Ebrahimi Fakhari Hadi , Rosario Barboza Juan , Mardanpour Pezhman
Published: October 2024

Origami, the art of paper folding, has long fascinated researchers and designers in its potential to replicate and tap the complexity of nature. In this paper, we pursue the crossing of origami engineering structures and biology, the realm of biologically-inspired origami structures categorized by the two biggest taxonomy kingdoms and DNA origami. Given the diversity of life forms that Earth comprises, we pursue an analysis of biomimetic designs that resemble intricate patterns and functionalities occurring in nature. Our research begins by setting out a taxonomic framework for the classification of origami structures based on biologically important kingdoms. From each of these, we explore the engineering structures inspired by morphological features, behaviors, and ecological adaptations of organisms. We also discuss implications in realms such as sustainability, biomaterials development, and bioinspired robotics. Thus, by parlaying the principles found in nature’s design playbook through the art of folding, biologically inspired origami becomes fertile ground for interdisciplinary collaboration and creativity. Through this approach, we aim to inspire readers, researchers, and designers to embark on a journey of discovery in which the boundaries between art, science, and nature are blurred, providing a foundation for innovation to thrive.
Bedouin Adolescents during the Iron Swords War: What Strategies Help Them to Cope Successfully with the Stressful Situation?
Authors: Al-Said Haled , Braun-Lewensohn Orna
Published: October 2024

This study examined the emotional reactions and coping resources of Bedouin teenagers (ages 12–18) following the events of 7 October 2023 and the subsequent Iron Swords War between Israel and Hamas forces in Gaza. This study focused on the relationships between subjective exposure, personal sense of coherence, community resilience, and the use of different coping strategies, on the one hand, and anxiety, anger, and psychological distress, on the other. During 2024, 762 participants completed the study questionnaire, which addressed the different study variables. The findings revealed significant differences between the boys and the girls. Specifically, the girls reported higher levels of subjective exposure and emotional reactions. Personal sense of coherence was found to be a significant protective factor. In contrast, the use of nonproductive coping strategies increased distress. This study underscores the need for intervention programs tailored for this society and by gender, as well as training for educational professionals, to help them to identify and treat emotional reactions to stress in ways that take into consideration the Bedouin cultural context. This study enhances our understanding of how Bedouin teenagers cope with stressful situations and crises.
The Shield of Self-Esteem: Buffering against the Impact of Traumatic Experiences, Fear, Anxiety, and Depression
Authors: Rossi Alessandro Alberto , Pizzoli Silvia Francesca Maria , Fernandez Isabel , Invernizzi Roberta , Panzeri Anna , Taccini Federica , Mannarini Stefania
Published: October 2024

Background: Adverse life occurrences (e.g., severe accidents, violence/abuse, organic disorders such as COVID-19) can elicit traumatic responses that heighten fear, anxiety, and depression. However, scientific research has shown that certain variables, such as self-esteem, based on theories like terror management theory (TMT) and the anxiety-buffering hypothesis (ABH), can mitigate the negative effects of trauma. This study aimed to test the ABH by assessing the buffering role of self-esteem in the relationships among the impact of traumatic experiences, fear, anxiety, and depression. Method: An observational research design was used. This study involved 321 participants who experienced COVID-19 as a traumatic experience. A sequential multiple-mediation model with observed variables (path analysis) was used to test the impact of the traumatic experience on fear, anxiety, and depression, examining the protective role of self-esteem. Results: A path analysis revealed that fear and anxiety mediated the relationship between the impact of the traumatic experience of COVID-19 and depression. Additionally, in line with the ABH, self-esteem was found to mediate the relationship between the predictors and their adverse psychological consequences. This suggests that self-esteem played a buffering role, mitigating the negative impact of traumatic experiences on mental health outcomes. Conclusions: These findings underscore the central mediating role of self-esteem, as well as fear and anxiety, in the pathway from trauma-related factors to depression. These insights advocate for evidence-based interventions aimed at alleviating the psychological suffering associated with traumatic experiences, fostering adaptation, and supporting psychological health.
Numerical Simulation for Risk Assessment of Tunnel Construction through Fault Fracture Zones
Authors: Nong Xingzhong , Bai Wenfeng , Yi Shixuan , Lu Zizhao , Lu Yi
Published: October 2024

This study explores the deformation characteristics of surrounding rock during tunnel construction through fault fracture zones. A numerical model is established using ABAQUS to analyze the interaction between the shield machine, support system, and geotechnical materials. The model incorporates key factors, including palm face support force, grouting pressure, and the friction between the shield shell and surrounding rock. The results show that the plastic zone of the surrounding rock is concentrated within the fault zone and at the junction with normal rock, propagating along the contact surface. In the loosening zone, stress and strength are significantly reduced, leading to crack expansion and plastic slip. Without adequate support, these conditions can result in tunnel destabilization. The displacement of the surrounding rock is most prominent during the detachment of the shield tail and the synchronized grouting phase. These findings provide valuable insights for improving tunnel construction safety and stability in fault fracture zones, where the integrity of the surrounding rock is compromised by fractures and fissures. However, the constructed models may restrict the ability to capture all complex material behaviors and interactions that could arise in actual field conditions.
Case Studies on Evacuation Elevator Systems in Supertall Buildings
Authors: Huan Shiyu , Yun AYoung , Cui Ervin
Published: October 2024

In 2009, the International Building Code (IBC) introduced a new requirement for an additional exit stair or evacuation elevators in buildings (except residential buildings) over 420 ft. (128 m) tall. This new requirement has emerged as a critical innovation in occupant evacuation in supertall buildings, offering the potential for faster egress during emergencies. In the 2018 edition of the IBC, the analysis of full building evacuation with elevators is further required to demonstrate an evacuation time of less than 1 h. This paper examines the implementation of evacuation elevators in accordance with recent building code developments, such as the International Building Code (IBC), Chinese “General Code for Fire Protection of Buildings and Constructions” (GB 55037-2022), and the Korean Building Code (KBC). This study provides a comparative analysis of these regulations, highlighting the evolving acceptance of elevator-based evacuation methods. Since the requirements on means of egress in the codes in China and Korea follow similar concepts in the IBC, case studies of supertall buildings in China and Korea, where evacuation elevators were integrated into the overall egress strategy, are carried out to demonstrate the capability of evacuation elevators in achieving the IBC’s requirement for full evacuation within one hour. Using computer-based egress modeling, the study evaluates practical solutions for reducing evacuation times, exploring factors such as elevator capacity, speed, and coordination with traditional stairwell egress. The results suggest that, while evacuation elevators can significantly improve evacuation efficiency, achieving the one-hour target remains a challenge in complex, high-occupancy environments. The study indicates the importance of optimizing the balance between stair and elevator usage and explores the future role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing evacuation systems.
Combined PET Radiotracer Approach Reveals Insights into Stromal Cell-Induced Metabolic Changes in Pancreatic Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Doctor Alina , Laube Markus , Meister Sebastian , Kiss Oliver C. , Kopka Klaus , Hauser Sandra , Pietzsch Jens
Published: October 2024

Background/Objective Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are producing extracellular matrix, which promotes the formation of a dense fibrotic microenvironment. This makes PDAC a highly heterogeneous tumor-stroma-driven entity, associated with reduced perfusion, limited oxygen supply, high interstitial fluid pressure, and limited bioavailability of therapeutic agents. Methods In this study, spheroid and tumor xenograft models of human PSCs and PanC-1 cells were characterized radiopharmacologically using a combined positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracer approach. [18F]FDG, [18F]FMISO, and [18F]FAPI-74 were employed to monitor metabolic activity, hypoxic metabolic state, and functional expression of fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAPα), a marker of activated PSCs. Results In vitro, PanC-1 and multi-cellular tumor spheroids demonstrated comparable glucose uptake and hypoxia, whereas FAPα expression was significantly higher in PSC spheroids. In vivo, glucose uptake as well as the transition to hypoxia were comparable in PanC-1 and multi-cellular xenograft models. In mice injected with PSCs, FAPα expression decreased over a period of four weeks post-injection, which was attributed to the successive death of PSCs. In contrast, FAPα expression increased in both PanC-1 and multi-cellular xenograft models over time due to invasion of mouse fibroblasts. Conclusion The presented models are suitable for subsequently characterizing stromal cell-induced metabolic changes in tumors using noninvasive molecular imaging techniques.
Tissue-Agnostic Targeting of Neurotrophic Tyrosine Receptor Kinase Fusions: Current Approvals and Future Directions
Authors: Gouda Mohamed A. , Thein Kyaw Z. , Hong David S.
Published: October 2024

NTRK fusions are oncogenic drivers for multiple tumor types. Therefore, the development of selective tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) inhibitors, including larotrectinib and entrectinib, has been transformative in the context of clinical management, given the high rates of responses to these drugs, including intracranial responses in patients with brain metastases. Given their promising activity in pan-cancer cohorts, larotrectinib and entrectinib received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) approval for tissue-agnostic indications in patients with advanced solid tumors harboring NTRK fusions. The safety profiles for both drugs are quite manageable, although neurotoxicity driven by the on-target inhibition of normal NTRK can be a concern. Also, on- and off-target resistance mechanisms can arise during therapy with TRK inhibitors, but they can be addressed with the use of combination therapy and next-generation TRK inhibitors. More recently, the FDA approved the use of repotrectinib, a second-generation TRK inhibitor, in patients with NTRK fusions, based on data suggesting clinical efficacy and safety, which could offer another tool for the treatment of NTRK-altered cancers. In this review, we summarize the current evidence related to the use of TRK inhibitors in the tissue-agnostic setting. We also elaborate on the safety profiles and resistance mechanisms from a practical perspective.
Impact of Six Months of Three Different Modalities of Exercise on Stress in Post-Treatment Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Hughes Daniel C. , Gorzelitz Jessica , Ortiz Alexis , Cohen Lorenzo , Parma Dorothy Long , Boggess Terri , Darby Nydia Tijerina , Balaji Shragvi , Ramirez Amelie G.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Extensive evidence suggests that exercise is physically and mentally beneficial for cancer survivors. This study reports on changes in self-reported stress, physiological biomarkers for stress (salivary cortisol), and HR-QOL constructs for fifty breast cancer survivors participating in one of three different exercise programs over 6 months. Methods: Fifty post-treatment breast cancer survivors were randomized to either therapeutic yoga-based exercise (YE), comprehensive exercise (CE) (aerobic, resistance, flexibility), or choosing (C) their own exercise activities. Participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Medical Outcomes Short-Form 36® (SF-36), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Five samples of salivary cortisol were collected on two consecutive days. The 10 samples were used to calculate the diurnal rhythm slope. Outcome measures were repeated after six months. Results: All groups improved in HR-QOL measures of PSS; PSQI sleep quality components of latency and daytime functioning; and five of the ten SF-36 scales (Mental Component Scale, Social Functioning subscale, Mental Health subscale, Physical Component Scale, Physical Functioning subscale). Although the CE group observed the most favorable change in cortisol (−0.183), where cortisol slope changes approached significance (p = 0.057), but no significant decrease in cortisol between groups were noted. Conclusions: Our results suggest that it is the engagement of, rather than the specific type of exercise, which is associated with improved HR-QOL. However, longer-term studies with better adherence monitoring and larger sample sizes are needed to better determine clinical impact.
Significant Effects of Adding Mode on Low-Temperature De-NOx Performance and SO2 Resistance of a MnCeTiOx Catalyst Prepared by the Co-Precipitation Method
Authors: Yang Xi , Xue Hongyan , Wang Lei , Yu Jun , Han Lupeng , Mao Dongsen
Published: October 2024

Three MnCeTiOx catalysts with the same composition were prepared by conventional co-precipitation (MCT-C), reverse co-precipitation (MCT-R), and parallel co-precipitation (MCT-P), respectively, and their low-temperature SCR performance for de-NOx was evaluated. The textural and structural properties, surface acidity, redox capacity, and reaction mechanism of the catalysts were investigated by a series of characterizations including N2 adsorption and desorption, XRD, SEM, XPS, H2-TPR, NH3-TPD, NO-TPD, and in situ DRIFTs. The results revealed that the most excellent catalytic performance was achieved on MCT-R, and more than 90% NOx conversion can be obtained at 100–300 °C under a high GHSV of 80,000 mL/(gcat·H). Furthermore, MCT-R possessed optimal tolerance to H2O and SO2 poisoning. The excellent catalytic performance of MCT-R can be attributed to its larger BET specific surface area; higher contents of Mn4+, Ce3+, and adsorbed oxygen species; and more adsorption capacity for NH3 and NO. Moreover, in situ DRIFTs results indicated that the NH3-SCR reaction follows simultaneously the Langmuir–Hinshelwood and Eley–Rideal mechanisms at 100 °C. By adjusting the adding mode during the co-precipitation process, excellent low-temperature de-NOx activity of MCT-R can be obtained simply and conveniently, which is of great practical value for the preparation of a MnCeTiOx catalyst for denitrification.
A Review of Hydrogen Production via Seawater Electrolysis: Current Status and Challenges
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Zhang Yu , Li Zhichuan , Yu Ende , Ye Haibin , Li Zihang , Guo Xinshu , Zhou Daojin , Wang Cheng , Sha Qihao , Kuang Yun
Published: October 2024

Seawater electrolysis represents a promising green energy technology with significant potential for efficient energy conversion. This study provides an in-depth examination of the key scientific challenges inherent in the seawater-electrolysis process and their potential solutions. Initially, it analyzes the potential issues of precipitation and aggregation at the cathode during hydrogen evolution, proposing strategies such as self-cleaning cathodes and precipitate removal to ensure cathode stability in seawater electrolysis. Subsequently, it addresses the corrosion challenges faced by anode catalysts in seawater, introducing several anti-corrosion strategies to enhance anode stability, including substrate treatments such as sulfidation, phosphidation, selenidation, and LDH (layered double hydroxide) anion intercalation. Additionally, this study explores the role of regulating the electrode surface microenvironment and forming unique coordination environments for active atoms to enhance seawater electrolysis performance. Regulating the surface microenvironment provides a novel approach to mitigating seawater corrosion. Contrary to the traditional understanding that chloride ions accelerate anode corrosion, certain catalysts benefit from the unique coordination environment of chloride ions on the catalyst surface, potentially enhancing oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance. Lastly, this study presents the latest advancements in the industrialization of seawater electrolysis, including the in situ electrolysis of undiluted seawater and the implementation of three-chamber dual anion membranes coupled with circulating electrolyte systems. The prospects of seawater electrolysis are also explored.
Kisspeptin Alleviates Human Hepatic Fibrogenesis by Inhibiting TGFβ Signaling in Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Prasad Kavita , Bhattacharya Dipankar , Shams Shams Gamal Eldin , Izarraras Kimberly , Hart Tia , Mayfield Brent , Blaszczyk Maryjka B. , Zhou Zhongren , Pajvani Utpal B. , Friedman Scott L. , Bhattacharya Moshmi
Published: October 2024

The peptide hormone kisspeptin attenuates liver steatosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), and fibrosis in mouse models by signaling via the kisspeptin 1 receptor (KISS1R). However, whether kisspeptin impacts fibrogenesis in the human liver is not known. We investigated the impact of a potent kisspeptin analog (KPA) on fibrogenesis using human precision-cut liver slices (hPCLS) from fibrotic livers from male patients, in human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), LX-2, and in primary mouse HSCs. In hPCLS, 48 h and 72 h of KPA (3 nM, 100 nM) treatment decreased collagen secretion and lowered the expression of fibrogenic and inflammatory markers. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that KISS1R is expressed and localized to HSCs in MASH/fibrotic livers. In HSCs, KPA treatment reduced transforming growth factor b (TGFβ)-the induced expression of fibrogenic and inflammatory markers, in addition to decreasing TGFβ-induced collagen secretion, cell migration, proliferation, and colony formation. Mechanistically, KISS1R signaling downregulated TGFβ signaling by decreasing SMAD2/3 phosphorylation via the activation of protein phosphatases, PP2A, which dephosphorylates SMAD 2/3. This study revealed for the first time that kisspeptin reverses human hepatic fibrogenesis, thus identifying it as a new therapeutic target to treat hepatic fibrosis.
Systematic Comparison of CRISPR and shRNA Screens to Identify Essential Genes Using a Graph-Based Unsupervised Learning Model
Authors: Ding Yulian , Denomy Connor , Freywald Andrew , Pan Yi , Vizeacoumar Franco J. , Vizeacoumar Frederick S. , Wu Fang-Xiang
Published: October 2024

Generally, essential genes identified using shRNA and CRISPR are not always the same, raising questions about the choice between these two screening platforms. To address this, we systematically compared the performance of CRISPR and shRNA to identify essential genes across different gene expression levels in 254 cell lines. As both platforms have a notable false positive rate, to correct this confounding factor, we first developed a graph-based unsupervised machine learning model to predict common essential genes. Furthermore, to maintain the unique characteristics of individual cell lines, we intersect essential genes derived from the biological experiment with the predicted common essential genes. Finally, we employed statistical methods to compare the ability of these two screening platforms to identify essential genes that exhibit differential expression across various cell lines. Our analysis yielded several noteworthy findings: (1) shRNA outperforms CRISPR in the identification of lowly expressed essential genes; (2) both screening methodologies demonstrate strong performance in identifying highly expressed essential genes but with limited overlap, so we suggest using a combination of these two platforms for highly expressed essential genes; (3) notably, we did not observe a single gene that becomes universally essential across all cancer cell lines.
Features of Dielectric Properties of 0.20BiScO3·0.45PbTiO3·0.35PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3 Samples Obtained by the Melt-Hardening Method
Authors: Nogai A. A. , Nogai A. S. , Uskenbaev D. E. , Nogai E. A.
Published: October 2024

This paper studies the structural parameters and electrophysical properties (dielectric and piezo electric, as well as currents of thermostimulated depolarization) of samples of composition 0.20BiScO3·0.45PbTiO3·0.35PbMg1/3Nb2/3O3 (or in short 0.20BS·0.45PT·0.35PMN) obtained by ceramic and melt-hardening methods of synthesis. In the ceramic method, the samples were obtained from the starting oxides by two-stage firing. In the melt method, amorphous precursors were first obtained from heat-treated and non-heat-treated starting oxide mixtures by melting and subsequent quenching under sharply gradient temperature conditions. Samples were obtained after grinding, pressing, and thermal annealing of the synthesized precursors, and four types of samples differing in size and shape of the intermediate precursor particles (crystallites) were obtained. The X-ray phase analysis showed that the predominant phase in the studied samples is the perovskite phase; in both types of samples, up to 5 wt.% of impurity phase with pyrochlore structure was also present. The samples of 0.20BS·0.45PT·0.35PMN exhibit dielectric properties characteristic of relaxor ferroelectrics, and the polarized samples exhibit a pronounced piezo effect with a piezo modulus value of d33~200 pC/N. A comparative analysis of the properties of the samples obtained by different methods has been carried out. The essential advantage of the melt method is that its use allows obtaining varieties of four kinds of ferroelectric relaxors and reduces the time of synthesis of samples by 2–3 times.
Protective Effects of Cervus elaphus and Eucommia ulmoides Mixture (KGC01CE) on Muscle Loss and Function in Aged Rats
Authors: Koo Gi-Bang , Kwon Han Ol , Kim Jong Han , Lee Seung Ho , Shim Sung Lye , Jang Kyoung Hwa
Published: October 2024

Sarcopenia is a condition characterized by a progressive loss of muscle mass and function which are influenced by certain factors such as aging, nutritional deficiencies, and chronic diseases. Despite numerous efforts to prevent or treat sarcopenia, effective therapeutic options for this disease remain limited. This study aims to evaluate the effects of KGC01CE treatment, a mixture of Cervus elaphus (Ce) and Eucommia ulmoides (Eu), which are well-known traditional herbal medicines in Asia, on age-related muscle loss and functional decline in aged rats. KGC01CE has been found to be more effective than the individual extracts in inhibiting dexamethasone (DEX)-induced muscle atrophy and improving muscle mass and grip strength in C2C12 cells and aged rats. Moreover, animal studies were conducted to determine the minimum effective dose, and a 12-week oral administration of KGC01CE treatment at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg to 15-month-old aged rats resulted in a dose-dependent increase in lean mass, muscle mass, grip strength, and muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), which had decreased due to aging. Furthermore, it was shown that KGC01CE activated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway and inhibited the expression of muscle-degrading proteins MuRF, Atrogin-1, and myostatin. These results suggest that KGC01CE treatment may effectively prevent muscle loss and functional decline, providing a novel therapeutic strategy for sarcopenia.
Magnetic Prediction of Doped Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials Based on Swin–ResNet
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhou Chuntian , Liang Fengfeng , Liu Guangjie , Zhu Jinlong
Published: October 2024

Magnetism is an important property of doped two-dimensional nanostructures. By introducing dopant atoms or molecules, the electronic structure and magnetic behavior of the two-dimensional nanostructures can be altered. However, the complexity of the doping process requires different strategies for the preparation and testing of various types, layers, and scales of doped two-dimensional materials using traditional techniques. This process is resource-intensive, inefficient, and can pose safety risks when dealing with chemically unstable materials. Deep learning-based methods offer an effective solution to overcome these challenges and improve production efficiency. In this study, a deep learning-based method is proposed for predicting the magnetism of doped two-dimensional nanostructures. An image dataset was constructed for deep learning using a publicly available database of doped two-dimensional nanostructures. The ResNet model was enhanced by incorporating the Swin Transformer module, resulting in the Swin–ResNet network architecture. A comparative analysis was conducted with various deep learning models, including ResNet, Res2net, ResneXt, and Swin Transformer, to evaluate the performance of the optimized model in predicting the magnetism of doped two-dimensional nanostructures. The optimized model demonstrated significant improvements in magnetism prediction, with a best accuracy of 0.9.
The Influence of Magnetic Field Orientation on the Efficacy and Structure of Ni-W-SiC Coatings Produced by Magnetic Field-Assisted Electrodeposition
Authors: Zhang Hongbin , Li Zhiping , Wei Lixin , Xia Fafeng
Published: October 2024

This study presents a novel approach to enhancing the performance of Ni-W-SiC coatings through magnetic field-assisted electrodeposition, with a specific focus on the influence of magnetic field orientation. The coatings were evaluated for their structure, surface topology, roughness, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. The results indicated that the perpendicular magnetic orientation of the coating, obtained at a magnetic field value equal to 0.3 T (S1), showed the largest content of SiC, with a minimal grain size of Ni-W, measuring 84.7 nm with smooth, fine, and dense surface architecture. The S1 coating’s surface roughness, as revealed by AFM images, was 24.46 nm, significantly less than that of the coatings produced with 0 T (S0) and 0.3 T (S2) magnetic inductions. XRD results revealed that the Ni-W grains’ predominant growth direction shifted from the planar direction of (200) to the (111) direction, due to the application of a magnetic field oriented perpendicularly. In addition, the S1 coating had an outstanding corrosion resistance. Furthermore, S1, among all coatings, had the highest value of hardness, along with the lowest coefficient of friction and higher wear resistance. This work sets the stage for future advancements in surface engineering, demonstrating the potential of magnetic field orientation as a tool for material enhancement.