bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An immune-competent human gut microphysiological system enables inflammation-modulation by Faecalibacterium prausnitzii
Authors: Zhang Jianbo , Huang Yu-Ja , Trapecar Martin , Wright Charles , Schneider Kirsten , Kemmitt John , Hernandez-Gordillo Victor , Yoon Jun Young , Poyet Mathilde , Alm Eric J. , Breault David T. , Trumper David L. , Griffith Linda G.
Published: March 2024

Crosstalk of microbes with human gut epithelia and immune cells is crucial for gut health. However, there is no existing system for a long-term co-culture of human innate immune cells with epithelium and oxygen-intolerant commensal microbes, hindering the understanding of microbe-immune interactions in a controlled manner. Here, we established a gut epithelium-microbe-immune (GuMI) microphysiological system to maintain the long-term continuous co-culture ofFaecalibacterium prausnitzii/Faecalibacterium duncaniaewith colonic epithelium, antigen-presenting cells (APCs, herein dendritic cells and macrophages), and CD4+naive T cells circulating underneath the colonic epithelium. In GuMI-APC condition, multiplex cytokine assays suggested that APCs contribute to the elevated level of cytokines and chemokines secreted into both apical and basolateral compartments compared to GuMI condition that lacks APC. In GuMI-APC withF. prausnitzii(GuMI-APC-FP),F. prausnitziiincreased the transcription of pro-inflammatory genes such as toll-like receptor 1 (TLR1) and interferon alpha 1 (IFNA1) in the colonic epithelium, without a significant effect on cytokine secretion, compared to the GuMI-APC without bacteria (GuMI-APC-NB). In contrast, in the presence of CD4+naive T cells (GuMI-APCT-FP),TLR1,IFNA1, andIDO1transcription levels decreased with a simultaneous increase inF. prausnitzii-induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL8) compared to GuMI-APC-FP that lacks T cells. These results highlight the contribution of individual innate immune cells in regulating the immune response triggered by the gut commensalF. prausnitzii. The integration of defined populations of immune cells in the gut microphysiological system demonstrated the usefulness of GuMI physiomimetic platform to study microbe-epithelial-immune interactions in healthy and disease conditions.
Optical second harmonic generation in anisotropic multilayers with complete multireflection of linear and nonlinear waves using ♯SHAARP.ml package
Authors: Zu Rui , Wang Bo , He Jingyang , Weber Lincoln , Saha Akash , Chen Long-Qing , Gopalan Venkatraman
Published: March 2024

Optical second harmonic generation (SHG) is a nonlinear optical effect widely used for nonlinear optical microscopy and laser frequency conversion. Closed-form analytical solution of the nonlinear optical responses is essential for evaluating materials whose optical properties are unknown a priori. A recent open-source code, ♯SHAARP.si, can provide such closed form solutions for crystals with arbitrary symmetries, orientations, and anisotropic properties at a single interface. However, optical components are often in the form of slabs, thin films on substrates, and multilayer heterostructures with multiple reflections of both the fundamental and up to ten different SHG waves at each interface, adding significant complexity. Many approximations have therefore been employed in the existing analytical approaches, such as slowly varying approximation, weak reflection of the nonlinear polarization, transparent medium, high crystallographic symmetry, Kleinman symmetry, easy crystal orientation along a high-symmetry direction, phase matching conditions and negligible interference among nonlinear waves, which may lead to large errors in the reported material properties. To avoid these approximations, we have developed an open-source package named Second Harmonic Analysis of Anisotropic Rotational Polarimetry in Multilayers (♯SHAARP.ml). The reliability and accuracy are established by experimentally benchmarking with both the SHG polarimetry and Maker fringes using standard and commonly used nonlinear optical materials as well as twisted 2-dimensional heterostructures.
Orbital Reef and commercial low Earth orbit destinations—upcoming space research opportunities
Authors: Zea Luis , Warren Liz , Ruttley Tara , Mosher Todd , Kelsey Laura , Wagner Erika
Published: March 2024

As the International Space Station comes to the end of a transformative era of in-space research, NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Destinations (CLD) Program aims to catalyze a new generation of platforms with co-investment from the private sector, preventing a potential gap in research performed in LEO, while building a robust LEO economy. In this paper, we provide insight into the CLD Program focusing on Orbital Reef, describing its operational and technical characteristics as well as new opportunities it may enable. Achieving about a third of the pressurized volume of the ISS with the launch of a single pressurized module and growing to support hundreds of Middeck Locker Equivalents (MLE) in passive and active payloads internally and externally, Orbital Reef will enable government, academic, and commercial institutions to continue and expand upon research and development (R&D) efforts currently performed on ISS. Additionally, it will enable nascent markets to establish their operations in space, by initiating new lines of research and technology development and the implementation of new ventures and visions. Using Blue Origin’s New Glenn heavy launch system, Sierra Space’s cargo and crew Dream Chaser® vehicles, and Boeing’s Starliner crew vehicle, and expertise from Amazon/Amazon Supply Chain, Arizona State University, Genesis Engineering, and Redwire, Orbital Reef is being designed to address ISS-era transportation logistics challenges. Finally, this manuscript describes some of the expected challenges from the ISS-to-CLD transition, and provides guidance on how researchers in academia and industry can shape the future of commercial destinations and work performed in LEO.
Thioredoxin is a metabolic rheostat controlling regulatory B cells
Authors: Bradford Hannah F. , McDonnell Thomas C. R. , Stewart Alexander , Skelton Andrew , Ng Joseph , Baig Zara , Fraternali Franca , Dunn-Walters Deborah , Isenberg David A. , Khan Adnan R. , Mauro Claudio , Mauri Claudia
Published: March 2024

Metabolic programming is important for B cell fate, but the bioenergetic requirement for regulatory B (Breg) cell differentiation and function is unknown. Here we show that Breg cell differentiation, unlike non-Breg cells, relies on mitochondrial electron transport and homeostatic levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that TXN, encoding the metabolic redox protein thioredoxin (Trx), is highly expressed by Breg cells, unlike Trx inhibitor TXNIP which was downregulated. Pharmacological inhibition or gene silencing of TXN resulted in mitochondrial membrane depolarization and increased ROS levels, selectively suppressing Breg cell differentiation and function while favoring pro-inflammatory B cell differentiation. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), characterized by Breg cell deficiencies, present with B cell mitochondrial membrane depolarization, elevated ROS and fewer Trx+ B cells. Exogenous Trx stimulation restored Breg cells and mitochondrial membrane polarization in SLE B cells to healthy B cell levels, indicating Trx insufficiency underlies Breg cell impairment in patients with SLE.
Establishment of a zebrafish inbred strain, M-AB, capable of regular breeding and genetic manipulation
Authors: Sadamitsu Kenichiro , Velilla Fabien , Shinya Minori , Kashima Makoto , Imai Yukiko , Kawasaki Toshihiro , Watai Kenta , Hosaka Miho , Hirata Hiromi , Sakai Noriyoshi
Published: March 2024

Inbred strains of organisms are genetically highly uniform and thus useful for life science research. We have previously reported the ongoing generation of the zebrafish IM strain from the India (IND) strain through full sib-pair mating for 16 generations. However, the IM fish laid a small number of offspring and had a short lifespan, implying the need for discreet care in breeding. Here, we report the subsequent establishment of IM strain as well as the generation of a new inbred zebrafish strain, Mishima-AB (M-AB). M-AB was derived from the *AB strain by full sib-pair mating for over 20 generations, which fulfills the general criterion for the establishment of an inbred strain. In contrast to the IM case, maintenance of the M-AB strain by sib-pair mating required almost no special handling. Genome sequencing of IM individuals from the 47th generation and M-AB individuals from the 27th generation revealed that SNP-based genomic heterogeneity across whole-genome nucleotides was 0.008% and 0.011%, respectively. These percentages were much lower than those of the parental IND (0.197%) and *AB (0.086%) strains. These results indicate that the genomes of these inbred strains were highly homogenous. We also demonstrated the successful microinjection of antisense morpholinos, CRISPR/Cas9, and foreign genes into M-AB embryos at the 1-cell stage. Overall, we report the establishment of a zebrafish inbred strain, M-AB, which is capable of regular breeding and genetic manipulation. This strain will be useful for the analysis of genetically susceptible phenotypes such as behaviors, microbiome features and drug susceptibility.
Long non-coding RNA LINC-PINT as a novel prognostic biomarker in human cancer: a meta-analysis and machine learning
Authors: Lin Jie , Chen Li , Zhang Dan
Published: March 2024

Long intergenic non-protein coding RNA, P53 induced transcript (LINC-PINT) exhibits different expression patterns in the majority of tumors, yet its relationship with cancer prognosis remains a subject of debate. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the prognostic significance of LINC-PINT in diverse human cancer. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases to identify pertinent studies exploring the correlation between LINC-PINT expression and cancer patients. Moreover, bioinformatics analysis and in vitro validation were used to validate the results of the meta-analysis and to investigate the potential oncogenic mechanism of LINC-PINT. The meta-analysis encompassed 8 studies, involving 911 patients. The pooled analysis demonstrated a significant association between upregulation of LINC-PINT expression and better survival (P = 0.002) during the cancers. Meanwhile, its downregulation was correlated with advanced tumor staging (P = 0.04) and tumor differentiation (P = 0.03). Additionally, bioinformatics analysis showed that LINC-PINT expression was observed to be linked with Tumor Mutational Burden (TMB) and Microsatellite Instability (MSI) in tumors, the results of bioinformatics were verified by qRT-PCR. And functional enrichment analysis hinted at its involvement in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Dysregulated LICN-PINT expression is associated with the clinical prognostic and pathological features of various cancers, exhibiting substantial potential as a novel prognostic biomarker.
Assisted reproductive technology-associated risk factors for placenta accreta spectrum after vaginal delivery
Authors: Jwa Seung Chik , Tamaru Shunsuke , Takamura Masashi , Namba Akira , Kajihara Takeshi , Ishihara Osamu , Kamei Yoshimasa
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate assisted reproductive technology (ART) factors associated with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) after vaginal delivery. This was a registry-based retrospective cohort study using the Japanese national ART registry. Cases of live singleton infants born via vaginal delivery after single embryo transfer (ET) between 2007 and 2020 were included (n = 224,043). PAS was diagnosed in 1412 cases (0.63% of deliveries), including 1360 cases (96.3%) derived from frozen-thawed ET cycles and 52 (3.7%) following fresh ET. Among fresh ET cycles, assisted hatching (AH) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4–4.7) and blastocyst embryo transfer (aOR, 2.2; 95% CI 1.3–3.9) were associated with a significantly increased risk of PAS. For frozen-thawed ET cycles, hormone replacement cycles (HRCs) constituted the greatest risk factor (aOR, 11.4; 95% CI 8.7–15.0), with PAS occurring in 1.4% of all vaginal deliveries following HRC (1258/91,418 deliveries) compared with only 0.11% following natural cycles (55/47,936). AH was also associated with a significantly increased risk of PAS in frozen-thawed cycles (aOR, 1.2; 95% CI 1.02–1.3). Our findings indicate the need for additional care in the management of patients undergoing vaginal delivery following ART with HRC and AH.
Structural optimization of multistage depressurization sleeve of axial flow control valve based on Stacking integrated learning
Authors: Li Shuxun , Deng Guolong , Hu Yinggang , Yu Mengyao , Ma Tingqian
Published: March 2024

Due to the requirements of the working environment, the marine axial flow control valve needs to reduce the noise as much as possible while ensuring the flow capacity to meet the requirements. To improve the noise reduction effect of the axial flow control valve, this paper proposes a Stacking integrated learning combined with particle swarm optimization (PSO) method to optimize a multi-stage step-down sleeve of the axial flow control valve. The liquid dynamic noise and flow value of the axial flow control valve are predicted by computational fluid dynamics. Based on the preliminary evaluation of its performance, the structural parameters of the multi-stage pressure-reducing sleeve are parameterized by three-dimensional modeling software. The range of design variables is constrained to form the design space, and the design space is sampled by the optimal Latin hypercube method to form the sample space. An automated solution platform is built to solve noise and flow values under different structural parameters. The Stacking method is used to fuse the three base learners of decision tree regression, Kriging, and support vector regression to obtain a structural optimization fusion model with better prediction accuracy, and the accuracy of the fusion model is evaluated by three different error metrics of coefficient of determination (R2), Root Mean Squared Error, and Mean Absolute Error. Then the PSO particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to optimize the fusion model to obtain the optimal structural parameter combination. The optimized multi-stage depressurization structure parameters are as follows: hole diameter t1 = 3.8 mm, hole spacing t2 = 1 mm, hole drawing angle t3 = 6.4°, hole depth t4 = 3.4 mm, and two-layer throttling sleeve spacing t5 = 4 mm. The results show that the peak sound pressure level of the noise before and after optimization is 91.32 dB(A) and 78.2 dB(A), respectively, which is about 14.4% lower than that before optimization. The optimized flow characteristic curve still maintains the percentage flow characteristic and meets the requirement of flow capacity Kv ≥ 60 at the maximum opening. The optimization method provides a reference for the structural optimization of the axial flow control valve.
Associations of different type of physical activity with all-cause mortality in hypertension participants
Authors: Ge Chenliang , Long Binghua , Lu Qingjian , Jiang Zhiyuan , He Yan
Published: March 2024

Few studies explored the association of different type of physical activity with all-cause mortality in hypertension (HBP) participants. A retrospective cohort analysis was performed using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data to explore association of moderate-intensity physical activity (MPA), vigorous-intensity physical activity (VPA), sedentary behavior with mortality in HBP individuals. Among 10,913 HBP participants followed for a median of 6.2 years, VPA was not associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality compared to participants without VPA in multivariate Cox survival analysis. MPA was linked to lower all-cause mortality at durations of 0–150 min/week (HR, 0.72; 95% CI 0.58–0.88), 150–300 min/week (HR, 0.71; 95% CI 0.52–0.96), and > 300 min/week (HR, 0.61; 95% CI 0.49–0.77) compared to no MPA. Sedentary behavior of 6–8 h/day (HR, 1.35; 95% CI 1.15–1.59) and > 8 h/day (HR, 1.55; 95% CI 1.34–1.79) were associated with increased mortality risk versus < 6 h/day. Further research is needed to explore whether VPA can improve outcomes for HBP individuals and to determine the optimal duration of VPA.MPA is linked to lower mortality risk, indicating its potential as the best physical activity intensity for HBP individuals.
The transcription of the main gene associated with Treacher–Collins syndrome (TCOF1) is regulated by G-quadruplexes and cellular nucleic acid binding protein (CNBP)
Authors: Gil Rosas Mauco , Centola Cielo , Torres Mercedes , Mouguelar Valeria S. , David Aldana P. , Piga Ernesto J. , Gomez Dennis , Calcaterra Nora B. , Armas Pablo , Coux Gabriela
Published: March 2024

Treacle ribosome biogenesis factor 1 (TCOF1) is responsible for about 80% of mandibular dysostosis (MD) cases. We have formerly identified a correlation between TCOF1 and CNBP (CCHC-type zinc finger nucleic acid binding protein) expression in human mesenchymal cells. Given the established role of CNBP in gene regulation during rostral development, we explored the potential for CNBP to modulate TCOF1 transcription. Computational analysis for CNBP binding sites (CNBP-BSs) in the TCOF1 promoter revealed several putative binding sites, two of which (Hs791 and Hs2160) overlap with putative G-quadruplex (G4) sequences (PQSs). We validated the folding of these PQSs measuring circular dichroism and fluorescence of appropriate synthetic oligonucleotides. In vitro studies confirmed binding of purified CNBP to the target PQSs (both folded as G4 and unfolded) with Kd values in the nM range. ChIP assays conducted in HeLa cells chromatin detected the CNBP binding to TCOF1 promoter. Transient transfections of HEK293 cells revealed that Hs2160 cloned upstream SV40 promoter increased transcription of downstream firefly luciferase reporter gene. We also detected a CNBP-BS and PQS (Dr2393) in the zebrafish TCOF1 orthologue promoter (nolc1). Disrupting this G4 in zebrafish embryos by microinjecting DNA antisense oligonucleotides complementary to Dr2393 reduced the transcription of nolc1 and recapitulated the craniofacial anomalies characteristic of Treacher Collins Syndrome. Both cnbp overexpression and Morpholino-mediated knockdown in zebrafish induced nolc1 transcription. These results suggest that CNBP modulates the transcriptional expression of TCOF1 through a mechanism involving G-quadruplex folding/unfolding, and that this regulation is active in vertebrates as distantly related as bony fish and humans. These findings may have implications for understanding and treating MD.
Prognostic value of measurement of myocardial extracellular volume using dual-energy CT in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Jiang Ying , Ye Jiaqi , Yang Yang , Zhang Ying , Yan Xiaoyun , Qiang Wenhui , Chen Haixiao , Xu Shuang , Zhou Lei , Qi Rongxing , Zhang Qing
Published: March 2024

Diffuse myocardial fibrosis is associated with adverse outcomes in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Dual-energy CT (DECT) can noninvasively assess myocardial fibrosis by quantification of extracellular volume (ECV) fraction. This study evaluated the association between ECV measured by DECT and clinical outcomes in patients with HFpEF. 125 hospitalized HFpEF patients were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. ECV was measured using DECT with late iodine enhancement. The composite endpoint was defined as HFpEF hospitalization and all-cause mortality during the follow-up. During the median follow-up of 10.4 months, 34 patients (27.20%) experienced the composite outcomes, including 5 deaths; and 29 HFpEF hospitalizations. The higher DECT-ECV group had higher rates of composite outcomes than the low ECV group (log-rank X2 = 6.818, P = 0.033). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, the ECV (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.06–1.30, P = 0.001) and NT-pro BNP (HR 2.83, 95% CI 1.16–6.88, P = 0.022) were independent risk factors for the adverse outcomes. Myocardial ECV measured using DECT was an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes in patients with HFpEF.
High-efficiency and low-hazard artillery recoil reduction technology based on barrel gas reflection
Authors: He Fu , Dai Jinsong , Lin Shengye , Wang Maosen , Su Xiaopeng
Published: March 2024

Reducing recoil as well as reducing muzzle hazards are important issues in artillery design. This paper presents a barrel gas reflection method for the artillery aiming for efficient recoil reduction while reducing muzzle hazards. The launching process is modeled by coupling the interior ballistic equations and the flow equations of the barrel gas reflection device. The fourth-order Runge–Kutta method was used to solve the model, and the LHS method as well as the Kriging model was used to establish a mapping relationship between the parameters and the effect. To validate the proposed model, shooting experiments are carried out on a 30 mm caliber artillery. The maximum error between the experiment and simulation results was 5.32%. The experiment has demonstrated that the barrel gas reflection method increases the recoil reduction efficiency of artillery by 44.54% and reduces the muzzle hazard by 52.18%. Finally, the barrel gas reflection method can produce effects with the muzzle device at the same time, and it has little effect on the velocity of the projectile muzzle velocity, and it provides a new way of thinking for the development of future artillery recoil reduction technology.
Association of body mass index with long-term outcomes in older adults hospitalized for COVID-19: an observational study
Authors: Putot Alain , Guyot Charline , Manckoundia Patrick , Van Wymelbeke-Delannoy Virginie
Published: March 2024

Both underweight and obesity have been associated with poor prognosis in COVID-19. In an older populations of patients hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2 infection, we aimed to evaluate the association between body mass index (BMI) and short and long-term prognosis. Among 434 consecutive patients aged ≥ 70 years and hospitalized for suspected COVID-19 at a university hospital, 219 patients (median age of 83 years, 53% male) testing positive for COVID-19 and for whom BMI was recorded at admission, agreed to participate. Among them, 39 had a BMI < 20 kg/m2, 73 had a BMI between 20 and 24.9 kg/m2 and 107 had a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. After adjustment for confounders, BMI < 20 kg/m2 was associated with a higher risk of one-year mortality (hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval]: 1.75 [1.00–3.05], p = 0.048), while BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 was not (HR: 1.04 [0.64–1.69], p = 0.9). However, BMI was linearly correlated with both in-hospital acute respiratory failure (p = 0.02) and cardiovascular events (p = 0.07). In this cohort of older patients hospitalized for COVID-19, low BMI, rather than high BMI, appears as an independent risk factor for death after COVID-19. The pathophysiological patterns underlying this excess mortality remain to be elucidated.
A comparative study on green synthesis and characterization of Mn doped ZnO nanocomposite for antibacterial and photocatalytic applications
Authors: Hasan Murtaza , Liu Qiang , Kanwal Ayesha , Tariq Tuba , Mustafa Ghazala , Batool Sana , Ghorbanpour Mansour
Published: March 2024

Biological and green synthesis of nanomaterial is a superior choice over chemical and physical methods due to nanoscale attributes implanted in a green chemistry matrix, have sparked a lot of interest for their potential uses in a variety of sectors. This research investigates the growing relevance of nanocomposites manufactured using ecologically friendly, green technologies. The transition to green synthesis correlates with the worldwide drive for environmentally sound procedures, limiting the use of traditional harsh synthetic techniques. Herein, manganese was decorated on ZnO NPs via reducing agent of Withania-extract and confirmed by UV-spectrophotometry with highest peak at 1:2 ratio precursors, and having lower bandgap energy (3.3 eV). XRD showed the sharp peaks and confirms the formation of nanoparticles, having particle size in range of 11–14 nm. SEM confirmed amorphous tetragonal structure while EDX spectroscopy showed the presence of Zn and Mn in all composition. Green synthesized Mn-decorated ZnO-NPs screened against bacterial strains and exhibited excellent antimicrobial activities against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. To check further, applicability of synthesized Mn-decorated Zn nanocomposites, their photocatalytic activity against toxic water pollutants (methylene blue (MB) dye) were also investigated and results showed that 53.8% degradation of MB was done successfully. Furthermore, the installation of green chemistry in synthesizing nanocomposites by using plant extract matrix optimizes antibacterial characteristics, antioxidant and biodegradability, helping to build sustainable green Mn decorated ZnO nanomaterial. This work, explains how biologically friendly Mn-doped ZnO nanocomposites can help reduce the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials. Based on these findings, it was determined that nanocomposites derived from biological resources should be produced on a wide scale to eradicate environmental and water contaminants through degradation.
Future drought risk and adaptation of pastoralism in Eurasian rangelands
Authors: Nandintsetseg Banzragch , Chang Jinfeng , Sen Omer L. , Reyer Christopher P. O. , Kong Kaman , Yetemen Omer , Ciais Philippe , Davaadalai Jamts
Published: March 2024

Drought risk threatens pastoralism in rangelands, which are already under strain from climatic and socioeconomic changes. We examine the future drought risk (2031–2060 and 2071–2100) to rangeland productivity across Eurasia (West, Central, and East Asia) using a well-tested process-based ecosystem model and projections of five climate models under three shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) scenarios of low (SSP1−2.6), medium (SSP3−7.0), and high (SSP5−8.5) warming relative to 1985–2014. We employ a probabilistic approach, with risk defined as the expected productivity loss induced by the probability of hazardous droughts (determined by a precipitation-based index) and vulnerability (the response of rangeland productivity to hazardous droughts). Drought risk and vulnerability are projected to increase in magnitude and area across Eurasian rangelands, with greater increases in 2071–2100 under the medium and high warming scenarios than in 2031–2060. Increasing risk in West Asia is caused by longer and more intense droughts and vulnerability, whereas higher risk in Central and East Asia is mainly associated with increased vulnerability, indicating overall risk is higher where vulnerability increases. These findings suggest that future droughts may exacerbate livestock feed shortages and negatively impact pastoralism. The results have practical implications for rangeland management that should be adapted to the ecological and socioeconomic contexts of the different countries in the region. Existing traditional ecological knowledge can be promoted to adapt to drought risk and embedded in a wider set of adaptation measures involving management improvements, social transformations, capacity building, and policy reforms addressing multiple stakeholders.
Segregation of morphogenetic regulatory function of Shox2 from its cell fate guardian role in sinoatrial node development
Authors: Li Hua , Tang Qinghuang , Yang Tianfang , Wang Zhengsen , Li Dainan , Wang Linyan , Li Liwen , Chen Yaoyi , Huang Hai , Zhang Yanding , Chen YiPing
Published: March 2024

Shox2 plays a vital role in the morphogenesis and physiological function of the sinoatrial node (SAN), the primary cardiac pacemaker, manifested by the formation of a hypoplastic SAN and failed differentiation of pacemaker cells in Shox2 mutants. Shox2 and Nkx2-5 are co-expressed in the developing SAN and regulate the fate of the pacemaker cells through a Shox2-Nkx2-5 antagonistic mechanism. Here we show that simultaneous inactivation of Nkx2-5 in the SAN of Shox2 mutants (dKO) rescued the pacemaking cell fate but not the hypoplastic defects, indicating uncoupling of SAN cell fate determination and morphogenesis. Single-cell RNA-seq revealed that the presumptive SAN cells of Shox2-/- mutants failed to activate pacemaking program but remained in a progenitor state preceding working myocardium, while both wildtype and dKO SAN cells displayed normal pacemaking cell fate with similar cellular state. Shox2 thus acts as a safeguard but not a determinant to ensure the pacemaking cell fate through the Shox2-Nkx2-5 antagonistic mechanism, which is segregated from its morphogenetic regulatory function in SAN development.
Characterization of tumor evolution by functional clonality and phylogenetics in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kacar Zeynep , Slud Eric , Levy Doron , Candia Julián , Budhu Anuradha , Forgues Marshonna , Wu Xiaolin , Raziuddin Arati , Tran Bao , Shetty Jyoti , Pomyen Yotsawat , Chaisaingmongkol Jittiporn , Rabibhadana Siritida , Pupacdi Benjarath , Bhudhisawasdi Vajarabhongsa , Lertprasertsuke Nirush , Auewarakul Chirayu , Sangrajrang Suleeporn , Mahidol Chulabhorn , Ruchirawat Mathuros , Wang Xin Wei
Published: March 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a molecularly heterogeneous solid malignancy, and its fitness may be shaped by how its tumor cells evolve. However, ability to monitor tumor cell evolution is hampered by the presence of numerous passenger mutations that do not provide any biological consequences. Here we develop a strategy to determine the tumor clonality of three independent HCC cohorts of 524 patients with diverse etiologies and race/ethnicity by utilizing somatic mutations in cancer driver genes. We identify two main types of tumor evolution, i.e., linear, and non-linear models where non-linear type could be further divided into classes, which we call shallow branching and deep branching. We find that linear evolving HCC is less aggressive than other types. GTF2IRD2B mutations are enriched in HCC with linear evolution, while TP53 mutations are the most frequent genetic alterations in HCC with non-linear models. Furthermore, we observe significant B cell enrichment in linear trees compared to non-linear trees suggesting the need for further research to uncover potential variations in immune cell types within genomically determined phylogeny types. These results hint at the possibility that tumor cells and their microenvironment may collectively influence the tumor evolution process.
Complex rupture dynamics of the extremely shallow August 2020 M5.1 Sparta, North Carolina earthquake
Authors: Neves Miguel , Chuang Lindsay Y. , Li Wei , Peng Zhigang , Figueiredo Paula M. , Ni Sidao
Published: March 2024

On August 9, 2020, an Mw 5.1 earthquake ruptured the uppermost crust near the town of Sparta, North Carolina, creating the first co-seismic faulting surface rupture documented in the Eastern United States. Combining deep learning and matched filter earthquake detection, with differential-travel times relocation, we obtain a catalog of 1761 earthquakes, about 5.8 times the number of events listed in the standard USGS/NEIC catalog. The relocated seismicity revealed a complex fault structure with distinct planar alignments, supported by a moment tensor inversion with significant non-double-couple component. The Sparta mainshock with a centroid depth of 1.3 km is interpreted to have nucleated near the intersection of two main fault strands. The mainshock likely ruptured a blind strike-slip fault and a reverse fault associated with the identified surface rupture, both possibly part of a flower structure-like diffuse fault zone. Our observations highlight a complex behavior of extremely shallow earthquakes in stable continental regions.
A forsterite-reinforced polypropylene fumarate/methoxy polyethylene glycol-hydrogel enriched with flavonoid nanoparticles enhances osteoconductivity
Authors: Zaghian Mahsa , Varshosaz Jaleh , Rostami Mahboubeh , Mirian Mina
Published: March 2024

PPF–MPEG/Fs/Hst–GNPs caused significant enhancement in mineralization, differentiation, cell proliferation and higher expression of bone-specific genes including; collagen 1, osteocalcin, and osteopontin compared to the blank hydrogel.
Cytotoxicity assessment of exfoliated MoS2 using primary human mast cells and the progenitor cell-derived mast cell line LAD2
Authors: Lin Hazel , del Rio Castillo Antonio Esau , González Viviana Jehová , Bonaccorso Francesco , Vázquez Ester , Fadeel Bengt , Bianco Alberto
Published: March 2024

Assessment of the impact of molybdenum disulfide on immune cells (e.g., mast cells) is required to ascertain its biocompatibility in view of its future development for biomedical applications.
Enhancing the photocatalytic hydrogen production performance of CdS by introducing a co-catalyst CoTPPBr4 (7,8,17,18-tetrabromo-5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin)
Authors: Wang Zong , Wang Xinxin , Chen Kelai , Yin Haojun , Su Huangsheng , Wu Yundang , Ni Chunlin , Liu Wei
Published: March 2024

This study developed an efficient photocatalyst for hydrogen production, consisting of CdS nanorods and the CoTPPBr4 co-catalyst.
The synthesis of polyisoxazoles incorporating fatty acids
Authors: Clark Andrew James , Jones Nyle Owen Saul , Alhathir Abdulrahman
Published: March 2024

Biobased polyisoxazoles prepared from nitrile-N-oxides and renewable fatty acid derivatives give mixtures of linear, cyclic, cross-linked or furoxan incorporated materials, (Tg = −1.1 to 62.0 °C), depending upon the substrate and conditions.
Sustainable practices for semi-paralysed people using gesture-link paralysis glove
Authors: Madhavi Arelli , Likithasree Dukkipati , Palacharla Sai Deepika , Sai Vynika Deevi Sri , Almusawi Muntather , Manjunatha  , Dutt Amit , Parmar Ashish
Published: March 2024

The work addresses the communication barriers experienced by semiparalyzed individuals through the introduction of the “paraglove,” a cuttingedge wearable device leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The paraglove is equipped with flex sensors, seamlessly integrated into the glove, and connected to an ESP32 microcontroller board. The flex sensors detect minimal hand gestures, allowing users to signal for crucial activities such as eating, restrooms, and signalling for emergencies. Through IoT, these gestures are translated into text messages, a process facilitated by the ESP32 microcontroller. The resulting text data is then stored and continuously updated within Google Firebase. To ensure seamless communication, the paraglove utilises the Kodular Companion application. The sustainable information is transmitted to family members or guardians through the application, enhancing the connectivity and support system for individuals with paralysis. The integration of an OLED display sensor directly on the glove provides users with real-time feedback by presenting the interpreted output. The combination of flex sensors, ESP32 microcontroller, IoT technology, Google Firebase, and Kodular Companion application simplifies communication for those facing paralysis and empowers them to engage with the world more effectively. This technological solution addresses the immediate communication needs and contributes to the overall well-being of individuals with paralysis.
Indoor air quality analysis and sustainable practices
Authors: Manasa V. , Thanvi Palagulla Sri , Srija Cherukuri , Kruthika Gopathi , Al-Farouni Mohammed , R J Anandhi , Singla Atul , Parmar Ashish
Published: March 2024

A constant supply of fresh air is vital for eliminating harmful bacteria and supporting the body's immune system against viruses and infections. Poor indoor air quality poses significant health risks, affecting human well-being and productivity. To address this issue, indoor air quality analysis is essential for enclosed spaces like homes, offices, and schools. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be up to 1000 times more polluted than outdoor air, with modern lifestyles leading to people spending 80-90% of their time indoors. Air pollution, as reported by the World Health Organization, causes 7 million deaths annually, primarily affecting the lungs and increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Monitoring indoor air quality parameters such as CO2 and humidity levels is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. By utilizing sensors like MQ135 and DHT11, we can measure indoor pollutants and evaluate ventilation systems' effectiveness. Automation, such as using servo motors for ventilation, helps maintain safe indoor air quality levels. This approach can be implemented across various sectors, including schools, malls, and offices, to create healthier environments. Ultimately, indoor air quality analysis plays a vital role in enhancing indoor air quality and promoting occupant well-being.
Improving Soil Properties for Construction Usage with Fly Ash and Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Saxena Abhishek , Gupta Priyanka , Rajalakshmi B. , Kanojiya Mahesh , Praveen  , Tyagi Lalit Kumar , Almusawi Muntather
Published: March 2024

Changes made to any soil property with the goal of improving the soil’s engineering performance are collectively referred to as soil improvement. This might include enhancing groundwater conditions, decreasing compressibility, minimising permeability, or strengthening the structure’s structural integrity. Soil enhancement might be a short-term solution to make building easier or a long-term strategy to improve the finished structure’s performance over time. Expansive soils, especially black cotton soil, pose serious problems for the building sector because of their negative swelling and shrinking characteristics. The purpose of this study is to better understand how stabilizing substances like fly ash and rice husk ash (RHA) might help address these issues and enhance the qualities of soil suitable for building. To evaluate the efficacy of RHA and fly ash as swell reduction layers and to improve unconfined compressive strength (UCS) in highway construction, the materials will be added to natural soil in different percentages (RHA: 0%, 15%, and 30%; fly ash: 10%, 20%, and 30%). Nine different combinations were tested using UCS after the quantities were established using the Taguchi optimization approach. The results suggest that adding these waste items can greatly strengthen the soil, and that certain combinations work best for stabilizing the soil. The study highlights how soils in construction can be addressed by utilizing sustainable resources like fly ash and RHA.
Analysing Indirect Methods for Comparatively Determining the Compressive Strength of Materials with Various Properties
Authors: Raman Ravi Shankar , Dasari Kavitha , Chandrashekar Rakesh , Chaudhari J.G. , Kalra Ravi , Pahwa Shilpa , AL-Attabi Kassem
Published: March 2024

The properties and compressive strength of hardened concrete are examined by destructive and non-destructive testing methods. There was no direct relationship between non-destructive testing results for existing concrete structures. This article describes the comparison between rebound and compression hammer tests of hardened concrete. It also describes the comparison of strength and cube compressive strength as well as the comparison of modulus of elasticity according to different standards.Destructive and non-destructive techniques were used in an experimental programme on various concrete mixtures, including M20, M25, and M30. A comprehensive technique was used for evaluating the compressive strength properties of concrete grades M20, M25, and M30, using both destructive and non-destructive testing methods. The impact strength, maximum load, Schmidt hammer, and uniaxial compression test findings have been also reviewed within the examination. The study’s primary purpose was to clarify the connections between specific evaluations technique and actual grades. Similarly, those connections were subjected to an in-depth validation technique using previously advanced formulation from previous research, which produced precious statistics about the assessment of concrete strength. These findings increase our understanding of concrete’s behaviour and provide essential path for destiny packages inside the engineering and construction industries, enabling properly-informed decision-making in those domains.
Investigating Three-Dimensional RCC Frames under Seismic Loading with Various Soil Conditions
Authors: Raman Ravi Shankar , Rajitha Akula , Aravinda K , Deshmukh Amol , Kalra Ravi , Maan Preeti , AL-Attabi Kassem
Published: March 2024

Equivalent lateral forces are used in earthquake engineering to build structures that can survive seismic shocks. Considering seismic waves affect how the Earth moves, buildings in India’s seismically active areas must be built to withstand earthquakes. This study examines how multistorey reinforced concrete building frames function seismically while taking into account different soil types, loading scenarios, and seismic Zones IV. For a twelve-storey skyscraper, the analysis includes earthquake reaction storey displacement. This study looks into how soil changes in seismic zone IV affect buildings’ responses, as well as how seismic zones themselves affect them. The building’s natural time periods were evaluated using both response spectrum analysis and time history analysis methods. These results provide insightful information about the complex interaction between soil type and seismic zone, Member stresses and maximum displacement are calculated using static and dynamic analysis. In India’s seismically active region, the necessity for earthquake-resistant structures is highlighted by seismic waves that alter the motion of the earth. Response spectrum analysis combines modal responses via techniques including SRSS, CQC, and ABS, taking into account a variety of response modes. This study compares earthquake loads using various soil types in Zone IV to evaluate building performance during earthquakes. This project’s primary goal is to analyse a multistorey building’s seismic response. Staad Pro Software does load calculations in order to analyse the entire structure. Staad-Pro analysis employs the Limit State create approach, which complies with the Indian Standard Code of Practice.
Promoting sustainable safety: Integrating fall detection for person and wheelchair safety
Authors: Polepaka Sanjeeva , Sangem Harshini , Aleti Amrutha Varshini , Ajjuri Akshitha , Mundher Adnan Myasar , B Swathi , Nagpal Amandeep , Kalra Ravi
Published: March 2024

Fall detection systems are crucial for ensuring the safety of the elderly, especially those who are wheelchair-bound. A potential remedy involves promptly detecting human falls in near real-time to facilitate rapid assistance. While various methods have been suggested for fall detectors, there remains a necessity to create precise and sturdy architectures, methodologies, and protocols for detecting falls, particularly among elderly individuals, especially those using wheelchairs. The objective is to design an affordable and dependable IoT-based system for detecting falls in wheelchair users, alerting nearby individuals for assistance and promote sustainable safety. The setup includes a MEMS Sensor, GSM module, and Arduino UNO microcontroller for detecting falls, with the goal of securing the well-being and promoting independent living for the elderly.
Enhancing Aluminum-Based Composite Manufacturing: Leveraging Si3N4 Reinforcement via Friction Stir Process
Authors: Singh Harjeet , Goel Radha , Nagpal Amandeep , P Sanjeeva , J Karthiyayini , Ahmed Raghad
Published: March 2024

In the realm of composite manufacturing, this study delves into the innovative approach of enhancing Aluminum-Based Composite Manufacturing through Si3N4 Reinforcement leveraged via Friction Stir Process (FSP). The FSP technique, executed with precision using a vertical milling machine, intricately fabricates composite materials with unparalleled properties. Meticulously chosen parameters including pin diameter, tool tilt angle, and tool profile, coupled with precise tool traversal and rotation, define the operation. The composite substrate, composed of AA 2024, undergoes stringent cleanliness protocols before Si3N4 powders are strategically placed into a designated groove on the titanium surface for processing. Microscopic examination reveals the uniform dispersion of Si3N4 particles within the aluminum matrix, profoundly enhancing mechanical properties. The tensile strength experiences a remarkable 21.45% improvement, while hardness witnesses a significant enhancement of 36.9%. Additionally, fatigue strength is notably improved by 24.12%, and wear resistance sees a substantial boost of 30.44% following Si3N4 nanoparticle integration via FSP.
Numerical investigation on Double Tube Counter Flow Heat Exchanger
Authors: Raman Ravi Shankar , B Swathi , V Alekhya , Zade Shrikant , Kumar Ashwani , Jayronia Sonali , Alzubaidi Laith H.
Published: March 2024

In the current study, the investigation of heat transfer and fluid flow Characteristics of Pure water when pass through a double tube heat exchanger (DTHX). this investigation has been conducted across various Reynolds Number to gain insights into their performance also conducted a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation using the ANSYS-FLUENT 22 R1 software. Result obtained was validated by comparing to empirical correlation data found in the existing literature. The investigation considered various operating variable as Reynolds Number and temperature across the inner, and outer tubes. Specifically, the Reynolds Number of a range of 2500 to 5500 at 333 K, and 2500 at 303 K for the respective tubes. Key findings are that friction factor is increase by 6.38% as compared to correlation (Blasius) in existing literature. And Nusselt number (Nu) increase by 40.84% as compared to correlation at the Reynolds Number (Re) of 2500. The heat transfer coefficients (hi) were increased by 8.30% as compared to existing literature.
Boron Nitride Reinforcement: Revolutionizing Aluminum-Based Composite Manufacturing via Friction Stir Process
Authors: Sharma Tarunika , M Santoshi Kumari , Singh Navdeep , Bhati Savita , Arora Deepika , Abood Ahmed Salam
Published: March 2024

The revolutionizing potential of boron nitride (BN) reinforcement in Aluminum-Based Composite Manufacturing via Friction Stir Process (FSP) is showcased in this study. FSP, executed with precision using a vertical milling machine, fabricates composite materials with exceptional properties. The meticulous selection of parameters, including pin diameter, tool tilt angle, and rotation speed, ensures optimal results. AA 2024 substrate undergoes secure affixation, adhering to cleanliness protocols. The SEM image reveals a homogenous dispersion of BN particles, crucial for optimizing mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.The incorporation of BN via FSP leads to significant enhancements across various mechanical properties. Tensile strength improves by 20.78%, hardness by 34.44%, fatigue strength by 23.83%, and wear resistance by 28.28%. These improvements underscore the efficacy of BN reinforcement through FSP, offering promising prospects for advanced composite manufacturing. The study exemplifies the potential of BN to revolutionize the industry, paving the way for the development of high-performance aluminum composites with superior mechanical characteristics.