bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imports, FDI Spillovers and Firm Performance
Authors: Adem Anwar S.
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the productivity effects of the number of inputs a firm chooses to import. It also analyses how accounting for the productivity gains from imported inputs affects foreign direct investment (FDI) spillover. The identification of the gains from imports comes from comparing productivity differences among firms that use different numbers of imported inputs, all else being equal. Using a firm‐level dataset, I find a positive gain from imported inputs for both domestic and foreign‐owned firms with the magnitude being larger for the latter. Moreover, I find a positive horizontal FDI spillover; whereas, the results for backward and forward spillovers seem mixed. Finally, I find little evidence suggesting accounting for the productivity effects of imported inputs affects gains from foreign presence. This indicates that productivity gains from imported inputs and FDI spillover are different and unrelated.
Search, transport costs and labour markets in South Africa
Authors: Shah Kishan , Sturzenegger Federico
Published: November 2024

South Africa's labour market exhibits a unique equilibrium with one of the highest unemployment rates in the world and yet a low level of informal employment. The unemployment rate has remained high and persistent over recent decades, in spite of the formal demise of the apartheid regime and subsequent transition to democracy in 1994. This paper uses a matching model of the labour market to argue that spatial considerations combined with low productivity of informal work may be responsible for such an outcome. Spatial dispersion inherited from the apartheid regime thins the labour market, creating exclusion and perpetuating spatial segregation. In most developing countries, the result would be higher informal employment. However, spatial dispersion also reduces productivity in the informal sector so that workers prefer to look for a low probability job in the formal sector rather than move to informality. This produces high and persistent unemployment rates. As a result, transportation costs and housing deregulation may become the key factors in improving the working of the labour market in South Africa.
Disruption of aldehyde dehydrogenase decreases cell wall‐bound p‐hydroxycinnamates and improves cell wall digestibility in rice
Authors: Yamamoto Senri , Afifi Osama Ahmed , Lam Lydia Pui Ying , Takeda‐Kimura Yuri , Osakabe Yuriko , Osakabe Keishi , Bartley Laura E. , Umezawa Toshiaki , Tobimatsu Yuki
Published: November 2024

In grass cell walls, ferulic acid (FA) serves as an important cross‐linker between cell wall polymers, such as arabinoxylan (AX) and lignin, affecting the physicochemical properties of the cell walls as well as the utilization properties of grass lignocellulose for biorefinering. Here, we demonstrate that hydroxycinnamaldehyde dehydrogenase (HCALDH) plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of the FA used for cell wall feruloylation in rice (Oryza sativa). Bioinformatic and gene expression analyses of aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) identified two rice ALDH subfamily 2C members, OsHCALDH2 (OsALDH2C2) and OsHCALDH3 (OsALDH2C3), potentially involved in cell wall feruloylation in major vegetative tissues of rice. CRISPR‐Cas9 genome editing of OsHCALDH2 and OsHCALDH3 revealed that the contents of AX‐bound ferulate were reduced by up to ~45% in the cell walls of the HCALDH‐edited mutants, demonstrating their roles in cell wall feruloylation. The abundance of hemicellulosic sugars including arabinosyl units on AX was notably reduced in the cell walls of the HCALDH‐edited mutants, whereas cellulose and lignin contents remained unaffected. In addition to reducing cell wall‐bound ferulate, the loss of OsHCALDH2 and/or OsHCALDH3 also partially reduced cell wall‐bound p‐coumarate and sinapate in the vegetative tissues of rice, whereas it did not cause detectable changes in the amount of γ‐oryzanol (feruloyl sterols) in rice seeds. Furthermore, the HCALDH‐edited mutants exhibited improved cell wall saccharification efficiency, both with and without alkaline pretreatment, plausibly due to the reduction in cell wall cross‐linking FA. Overall, HCALDH appears to present a potent bioengineering target for enhancing utilization properties of grass lignocellulose.
Complex Flow Patterns in Compressible Viscoelastic Liquids: Blood Flow Through a Compliant Aorta
Authors: Zubelewicz Aleksander
Published: November 2024

In viscoelastic liquids, molecules are prone to spatial and temporal ordering. At equilibrium, the collective motions are rare events and their timespan is short. In flowing liquids, the propensity for ordering increases, and once molecular assemblies are formed, they trap a measurable amount of energy. The working hypothesis here is that the ordering phenomena are linked to microinertia forces, where the angular motion enables the collective response of molecules, pure shear supports the irrotational flow, and pressure perturbations aid the thermal fluctuations. The study is solely focused on the mechanistic aspect of the liquid's behavior. In the second part of the article, the model is implemented into a numerical code, where Lagrangian cells are subjected to Eulerian motions. The concept is applied to a medically relevant problem of the blood flow through a compliant aorta decorated with a plaque deposit. We have shown that the flow compressibility and the aorta viscoelasticity are among the key factors responsible for the plaque rupture. It should be stated that plaque rupture is the cause of most heart attacks worldwide.
Surface Effects Study: A Continuum Approach From Fundamental Modes to Higher Modes and Topological Polarization in Orthotropic Piezoelectric Materials
Authors: Seema  , Singhal Abhinav
Published: November 2024

The primary goal of the current work is to investigate how wave propagation influences the performance of surface acoustics wave (SAW) macro- and nano-sensors. Therefore, shear horizontal (SH) waves use the surface piezoelectricity theory to explore SH waves in an orthotropic piezoelectric quasicrystal (PQC) layer overlying an elastic framework (Model I), a piezoelectric substrate, and an orthotropic PQC substrate (model II). This study employs a variable-separable technique. The theoretical forms are constructed and used to present the wavenumber of surface waves in any direction of the piezoelectric medium, based on the differential equations and matrix formulation. In addition, we take into account the surface elasticity theory in order to obtain the phase velocity equation. Two configurations are examined: an orthotropic piezoelectric material layer over an elastic framework and a piezoelectric material half-space with a nanosubstrate. Analytical expressions for frequency equations are derived for both symmetric and antisymmetric waves. This study investigates the effects of surface elastic constants, surface density, anisotropic piezoelectric constant, and symmetric and antisymmetric modes on phase velocity. This study is confined to only linear wave propagation. Additionally, the analysis is based on idealized material properties, surface properties, and characteristic length of the material.
Large Language Models for Predicting Empathic Accuracy Between a Designer and a User
Authors: Fabunmi Oluwatoba , Halgamuge Saman , Beck Daniel , Holtta-Otto Katja
Published: November 2024

Empathic design research aims to gain deep and accurate user understanding. We can measure the designer's empathic ability as empathic accuracy (EA) in understanding the user's thoughts and feelings during an interview. However, the EA measure currently relies on human rating and is thus time-consuming, making the use of large language models (LLMs) an attractive alternative. It is essential to consider two significant constraints when implementing LLMs as a solution: the choice of LLM and the impact of domain-specific datasets. Datasets of the interactions between the designer and the user are not generally available. We present such a dataset consisting of the EA task employed in user interviews to measure empathic understanding. It consists of over 400 pairs of user thoughts or feelings matched with a designer's guess of the same and the human ratings of the accuracy. We compared the performance of six sentence embedding state-of-the-art LLMs with different pooling techniques on the EA task. We used the LLMs to extract semantic information before and after fine-tuning. We conclude that directly using LLMs based on their reported performance in general language tasks could result in errors when judging a designer's empathic ability. We also found that fine-tuning LLMs on our dataset improved their performance, but the model's ability to fit the EA task and pooling method also determined the LLM's performance. The results will provide insight for other LLM-based similarity analyses in design.
Enhanced Antideposition Performance of Film Cooling With a Shaped Sweeping Jet Hole
Authors: Zhang Tianlun , Huang Weichen , Wang Kechen , Wen Xin , Zhou Wenwu , Liu Yingzheng
Published: November 2024

Shaped sweeping jet (SSJ) holes represent an advancement in sweeping jet (SJ) technology, as they offer enhanced cooling performance. To reveal the antideposition capabilities of SSJs, particle deposition results of 777-shaped and SSJ holes were compared through a combination of experiments and numerical simulations. Three-dimensional (3D) deposition topography was measured through the multiperspective scanning (MPS) method across various blowing ratios (M = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0). The findings revealed that SSJ holes exhibited superior antideposition performance across a range of blowing ratios, resulting in a 5–14% reduction in deposition roughness compared with the 777-shaped holes. To improve the precision of particle deposition simulations, a novel deposition and removal model incorporating an unsteady simulation strategy was developed and quantitatively validated against experimental results. Computational analyses revealed that the remarkable antideposition performance of SSJ holes was due to the formation of unique vortex structures, distinct from the counter-rotating vortex pair, and the increased level of periodic oscillation-induced wall shear stress near the hole exit. These findings underscore the potential of SSJ technology in film-cooling applications to mitigate deposition concerns.
Effects of Radially Variable Sweep Vanes on Rotor–Stator Interaction Noise
Authors: Shen Zihan , Wang Xiaoyu , Zhang Guangyu , Sun Xiaofeng
Published: November 2024

This article presents a three-dimensional semianalytic cascade model for the prediction of rotor–stator interaction noise, which includes the effects of radially variable sweep angle and chord length to better account for the latest trends in the fan-stage stator design of turbofan aero-engines. The theoretical modeling and solution method are first introduced, with special attention paid to the singularity problem brought by the nonuniformity of the stator vanes in the radial direction. The tonal rotor–stator interaction noise for stators with a radially varying sweep angle or a radially varying chord length is then calculated and analyzed. It is discovered that the phase variation in unsteady pressure loading near the stator leading edge greatly affects the resulting tonal interaction noise, while the sweep of a stator trailing edge shows less influence on the rotor–stator interaction. The duct mode characteristic of the cut-on modes has proved to be an important factor in the design of a swept stator. In addition, the soft vane design can further reduce the tonal interaction noise on a swept stator cascade.
Exact solutions for the inverse problem of the time-independent Schrödinger equation
Authors: Bhalgamiya Bhavika , Novotny Mark A.
Published: November 2024

We introduce an “inverse method” for solving the time-independent Schrödinger equation. Rather than derive wave functions that are solutions for a given external potential V(r→), we ask the inverse question of which V(r→) will have a given probability density function P(r→). Several examples of ground states in one, two, and three dimensions are presented for both well-known and more exotic probability density functions in position space.
Hyperbolic times in Minkowski space
Authors: Zenginoğlu Anıl
Published: November 2024

Time functions with asymptotically hyperbolic geometry play an increasingly important role in many areas of relativity, from computing black hole perturbations to analyzing wave equations. Despite their significance, many of their properties remain underexplored. In this expository article, I discuss hyperbolic time functions by considering the hyperbola as the relativistic analog of a circle in two-dimensional Minkowski space and argue that suitably defined hyperboloidal coordinates are as natural in Lorentzian manifolds as spherical coordinates are in Riemannian manifolds.
The field inside an infinite solenoid of arbitrary cross section using Ampère's law
Authors: Malcolm Ian C.
Published: November 2024

Editor's Note: This brief note shows how symmetry arguments can be used to find the B-field of an infinite solenoid with a non-circular cross section and includes a review of how the pseudovector B behaves on reflection.
Energy density of any capacitor or inductor
Authors: Zheng Jinliang , Tsai Shang-Yuu
Published: November 2024

Most introductory physics courses derive the energy densities of the static electric and magnetic field for the simple cases of parallel plate capacitors and infinitely long solenoids. Authors then inform readers, usually without proof, that the energy density equations derived for the simple cases are actually the correct equations for all capacitors and inductors, regardless of their shape. The proof of the general case is typically omitted because it involves the differential calculus of vector fields. In view of this, we provide a derivation for the energy density only based on integral calculus for capacitors and inductors of any kind. The derivation, albeit seemingly complicated at first, is conceptually simple enough for introductory physics courses and does not require any knowledge of the differential calculus of vector fields.
In Other Journals
Authors: Smith Jesse , Jiang Di , Seale Madeleine , Maroso Mattia , Vignieri Sacha , Wible Brad , Yeston Jake S.
Published: November 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
EPA braces for change under Trump
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: November 2024

Industry looks forward to looser rules, and agency scientists may face pressure
Prospect of RFK Jr. at HHS alarms biomedical community
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn , Wadman Meredith
Published: November 2024

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has vowed to scrutinize proven vaccines and slash staff at research and regulatory agencies
Supplemental Material: Cadmium isotope constraints on primary productivity and environmental perturbations across the Late Ordovician mass extinction
Authors: Zhao He , Wang Xiangdong , al. et
Published: November 2024

Sampling information and analytical results of geochemical data at the Wangjiawan section.
Abstracts from international emergency medicine journals
Authors: Production EMJ
Published: November 2024

Editor’s note: EMJ has partnered with the journals of multiple international emergency medicine societies to share from each a highlighted research study, as selected by their editors. This edition will feature an abstract from each publication.
Primary melanoma of the urinary tract: a clinicopathological study of cases and literature review
Authors: Wang Lisha , Wali Mohammed , Sun Yue
Published: November 2024

Aim

Primary malignant melanomas in the bladder or urethra are exceedingly rare. Diagnosing these tumours presents substantial challenges due to their close resemblance in gross appearance and histology to urothelial carcinomas.

Methods

A retrospective review of our department archives from 2000 to 2023 identified four cases of primary malignant melanoma in the urinary tract. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records.

Results

This retrospective case series investigates the clinical presentations, histopathological characteristics, immunohistochemical profiles and molecular features of four unique cases of primary malignant melanoma in the bladder or urethra.

Conclusion

Our analysis aims to deepen the understanding of the diagnostic and management strategies for this extremely rare disease.
Evaluate the Effects of Low-Power Laser Therapy at 940nm and How it Affects Leukocytic Pyrogen Expression
Authors: Timimi Zahra Al
Published: November 2024

Leukocytic pyrogens, which are frequently called cytokines that are proinflammatory, initiate and enhance the process of inflammatory reactions when tissues are injured. This is an essential biological process causing a high temperature and boosts the defenses of the immune system to infections. Using laboratory mice as the experimental animal, the study sought to ascertain how cold laser stimulation affects the synthesis and release of leukocytic pyrogens, which are important in initiating and intensifying the body’s reaction to inflammatory damage to tissues. The goal of the research was to ascertain the effects of cold laser treatments on the generation and distribution of these crucial components of the immune system’s ability to protect against pathogens. Forty lab mice were used to create standard 1-cm facial wounds. Two groupings of animals have been formed. A continuous 940-nm laser with 500[Formula: see text]mW of output power, 0.8[Formula: see text]cm2 of beam spot area at the target, and instantaneous delivery of an energy density of 187.5 J/cm2 is used to treat the first group. This happens when the mice sustain injuries and the second group serves as a control group. Leukocytic pyrogen initially appeared to be an immunohistochemistry-positive stain throughout laser-treated and untreated control specimens. In the untreated group, the levels of leukocytic pyrogen increased from the beginning to the third day, then decreased for an entire week, and then increased once more after a period of two weeks. Leukocytic pyrogen concentration, on the other hand, showed a significant decline on both the initial and third days following therapy with laser in comparison to those in the control group. The findings of this investigation suggest that leukocytic pyrogen expression could be impacted by therapeutic lasers. Leukocytic pyrogen levels which evolve show the manner in which the cell reacts to inflammatory conditions. This work presented sheds the spotlight on the possible advantages of medical laser therapy concerning leukocytic pyrogen concentrations as well as indicates interesting possibilities for more studies in this field.
The Effect of In-Plane Wave Vector and Heterostructure Strain on Spin-Transport Properties in ZnO/ZnCdO Heterostructure
Authors: Priyadharshini V. J. , Gopinath D. , Meharajbegum A. , Bruno Chandrasekar L. , Rafi Ahamed S. , Gnanasekaran Lalitha
Published: November 2024

The effect of in-plane wave vectors on spin-dependent transport properties is examined theoretically. In this work, ZnO/Zn[Formula: see text]CdxO double barrier-heterostructure with an identical barrier width of 30 Å is considered. The transmission coefficient is calculated by using the transfer matrix. The role of Dresselhaus spin–orbit coupling is accounted. The in-plane wave vector influences the energy separation between different orientations of the electrons. The spin separation ranges from 0.002[Formula: see text]meV to 0.008[Formula: see text]meV as the in-plane wave vector changes from [Formula: see text]/m to [Formula: see text]/m. The degree of spin polarization is enhanced at the high magnitude of the in-plane wave vector. The dwell time of the incident electrons is examined. The role of heterostructure strain on spin-transport properties is also reported. About 73% of polarization efficiency is observed in this study when the heterostructure strain is observed.
Rational Design of Selective Electrochemical Sensor for Dexketoprofen Determination in Human Plasma: Application based on Molecularly Imprinted Co-Polymer
Authors: Nessiem Marina A. , Riad Safa’a M. , Fayed Ahmed S. , Mahmoud Amr M. , Arafa Reham M.
Published: November 2024

A simple, repeatable, and inexpensive molecularly imprinted co-polymer (MIP) sensor was fabricated for Dexketoprofen (DKP) determination. One-step electro-polymerization of levodopa (L-dopa) and o-phenylenediamine (oPD) functional monomers onto a pencil graphite electrode (PGE) with DKP as a template molecule has been developed to fabricate Dexketoprofen PGE/MIP (L-Dopa-co-oPD) sensor. Choice of functional monomers was guided by UV-spectrophotometric method to examine the binding interactions between the template and monomers. The fabricated PGE/MIP (L-Dopa-co-oPD) sensor was characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. By employing differential pulse voltammetry, quantitative measurements of DKP were obtained by measuring the decline of the redox probe signal (ferrocyanide/ferricyanide) in presence of the drug. The results revealed a consistent voltammetric response with a correlation coefficient of 0.9998 with LOD and LOQ to be 4.0 × 10−15 M and 1.2 × 10−4 M, respectively, over a dynamic linearity range of 1.0 × 10−12 M to 1.0 × 10−14 M of DKP. The sensor exhibited great selectivity for the DKP over structurally related and concurrently delivered drugs allowing its application in its pharmaceutical dosage form and in human plasma samples. The proposed technique was assessed by white analytical chemistry via RGB model showing affordable, environmentally friendly, robust, effective, and sustainable analysis of drug samples.
High Performance of All-Solid-State Batteries with PEO:NaTFSI at 40 °C
Authors: Peta Gayathri , Samala Nagaprasad Reddy , Fayena-Greenstein Miryam , Elias Yuval , Aurbach Doron
Published: November 2024

Developing polymer electrolytes as an alternative to aprotic liquid electrolytes for lithium and sodium-ion batteries aims to enhance their safety, durability, and cost. Among these, polyethylene oxide (PEO) is a favorite choice due to its wide availability, excellent versatility, and mechanical properties. PEO:NaTFSI and PEO:NaFSI are stable and efficient ion-conducting solid polymer electrolytes compared to other PEO:NaX matrices (for instance, X = [PF6]−, [ClO4]−). We tested Na/PEO:NaTFSI/NVP cells at low temperatures (40 °C) and carried out a series of electrochemical measurements to extract vital performance metrics such as diffusion coefficient, transference number, conductivity, and activation energy. Our findings emphasize the important role of the anions’ nature in the properties of polymeric electrolytes like those based on PEO, in which there are strong interactions between the ions and the oxygen atoms. Highly important are the interfacial interactions of the anions with the electrodes, which form surface species that determine stability and charge-transfer kinetics. Significant impact of TFSI anions on the cathode-electrolyte interfacial properties may explain the exceptional performance of sodium batteries at 40 °C, which is below the melting temperature of PEO. Our findings may open the door for an effective operation of solid-state batteries at room temperatures.
Illegitimate publishers in physiology: attracting citations and infiltration into legitimate databases
Authors: Tomlinson Owen W.
Published: November 2024

Illegitimate publishing exists in physiology, with 8,801 articles being published in 67 potentially illegitimate journals. Potentially illegitimate journals claim to be indexed by databases such as Google Scholar and Index Copernicus in an attempt to appear legitimate. Lists of legitimate and illegitimate publishers show overlap and some illegitimate articles infiltrate PubMed Central, leading to citations from the wider academic sector.
Microseconds-level coding of echo delay in the auditory brainstem of an FM-echolocating bat
Authors: Simmons Andrea Megela , Warnecke Michaela , Simmons James A.
Published: November 2024

Echolocating big brown bats resolve time delays with a sharp precision of 1 µs or less. How this hyperacuity is accomplished in the auditory system is unknown. We now report that the precision of latency registration (latency jitter) in population activity from two brainstem nuclei in response to simulated echolocation sounds is in the range of tens of microseconds. These values are smaller than observed in single neuron responses and approach the bat’s psychophysical acuity.
Evaluation of Heavy Metal Uptake by Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) Plants
Authors: Monrroy Mariel , Solis Huris , Quiel Deilyn , Araúz Onix , García José Renán
Published: November 2024

Food contamination with heavy metals accumulated in agricultural soils due to extensive fertilizer and pesticide use poses a significant threat to human health. To address this global concern, measures must be taken to evaluate the risk of heavy metal contamination of food and medicinal agricultural plants. Recently, pigeon pea (guandul, Cajanus cajan), a legume commonly found in Panamá, has been reported to grow in soils contaminated with heavy metals and absorb them. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the capacity of C. cajan plants to absorb and bioaccumulate heavy metals. C. cajan was cultivated in soils contaminated with Cd, Cr, Zn, Cu, and Mn to assess heavy metal bioaccumulation and its impact on these plants. While the initial responses were minimal, prolonged exposure revealed significant impacts, with metals such as Zn, Cr, Cu, and Mn positively influencing chlorophyll production, whereas Cd adversely affected chlorophyll synthesis and plant height and viability. C. cajan exhibited varying efficiencies in soil metal removal, notably in extracting Cr, Zn, and Mn. Translocation and bioaccumulation factors indicated the effective movement of Cu, Zn, and Mn to shoots, while Zn, Cr, and Cd primarily accumulated in the roots. These findings highlight the potential of C. cajan for phytostabilization and phytoextraction in metal‐contaminated environments. Our findings suggest that C. cajan is a viable crop for cultivation in moderately metal‐contaminated soils. Future research should optimize cultivation practices to maximize phytoremediation potential and deepen the understanding of metal uptake mechanisms in this species, processes that are crucial for sustainable agriculture and environmental management.
The Expression Profiles and Clinical Significance of Mixed Lineage Kinases in Glioma
Authors: Huang Jin , Liu Yuankun , Wang Gaosong , Chen Yuning , Shen Yifan , Zhang Jiahao , Ji Wei , Shao Junfei
Published: November 2024

Mixed lineage kinases (MLKs), comprising seven members: MLK1‐4, dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK), leucine zipper kinase (LZK), and sterile alpha motif and leucine zipper containing kinase (ZAK), belong to the mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K) family. These kinases are implicated in the progression of numerous cancers by activating mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades or functioning as ser/thr and tyr kinases. However, their specific roles in glioma remain elusive. In the present study, we utilized bioinformatics approaches to investigate the expression patterns of MLKs in low‐grade gliomas (LGG) and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Additionally, we analyzed their clinical significance and delved into the potential mechanisms underlying MLK activity as well as their association with tumor‐immune infiltrating cells (TIICs) in glioma. Furthermore, we conducted in vitro studies to elucidate the functional roles of MLK1‐2 in glioma. Our findings revealed that the expressions of MLK1‐2 were conspicuously downregulated in GBM and positively correlated with patients’ overall survival. Conversely, ZAK exhibited an opposing trend. Notably, our newly devised risk score model exhibited superior performance in predicting patient prognoses. Moreover, we analyzed the potential mechanisms of MLK activity and its interplay with tumor immune infiltration. Last, we validated the antitumor effect of MLK1‐2 at the in vitro level. In summary, our study sheds new insights into the roles of MLKs in glioma, particularly MLK1‐2, and their potential as therapeutic targets.
Transcriptome Analysis of Platelet‐Rich Plasma–Treated Osteoarthritic Chondrocyte
Authors: Suh Dae Keun , Yeo Woo Jin , Cheong Kuhoang , Heo Jae-Won , Kim Dong Hyeon , Lee Soo Mi , Lee Yong-Soo , Suh Dong Won
Published: November 2024

As a blood‐derived biomaterial, platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has been considered a potential therapy and tried in knee and hip osteoarthritis with beneficial effects as an anti‐inflammatory and potent regenerative agent. To better understand the substantial effect of PRP on chondrocytes in an inflammatory environment, we analyzed the transcriptome profile by RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) after PRP administration in IL‐1β‐treated osteoarthritic chondrocytes which were isolated from human knee articular cartilage tissue. A total of 24,424 genes were analyzed, and significant changes in expression were observed for 226 genes in the control (CTL) versus IL‐1β group and 300 genes in the IL‐1β versus IL‐1β+PRP group. The Top 20 significantly upregulated and downregulated genes and the major altered genes in nine categories that are closely related to chondrocyte physiology were analyzed, and the expression of several important genes in each category was evaluated by qRT‐PCR and western blot analysis. Our study revealed that the PRP, at the gene expression level, has apparent anti‐inflammatory, cell proliferative, and regenerative activities in chondrocytes in the presence of IL‐1β, which mimic an osteoarthritic environment. Identifying potent molecules that regulate cartilage physiology represents a promising therapeutic approach for suppressing cartilage degeneration, especially that caused by inflammation‐induced osteoarthritis.
Quantification of the Synergistic Inhibitory Effects of an Oncolytic Herpes Virus Plus Paclitaxel on Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Cells
Authors: Park Anna , Byun Jong Hyuk , Jung Il Hyo , Iwami Shingo , Kim Kwang Su
Published: November 2024

Conventional synergy theory explains the inhibitory effects of drug combinations at specific times. Determining the magnitude of inhibition is crucial for exploring the synergy effect. In the results of previous studies, the Chou–Talalay multiple drug effect analysis demonstrated that the combination of a mutant oncolytic herpes virus (G207) and the chemotherapeutic agent (paclitaxel) is the most effective strategy for treating anaplastic thyroid cancer, compared to other combinations such as G207 and NV1023 or paclitaxel and doxorubicin. However, the mechanism behind the synergy effect of G207 and paclitaxel remains unknown, and measuring the synergy effect over time is challenging and expensive. In this study, we formulated a mathematical model to quantify the synergy of G207, paclitaxel, and both over time using the dataset. We conducted a Bayesian estimation of tumor cell proliferation over 16 days using Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling. The Bliss independence was incorporated into the model to compare the observed and expected responses to combination therapy. The expected antitumor effect was significantly lower than the experimental data, suggesting a synergistic effect. Our result showed that the antitumor effect was influenced by the rate of inhibition of tumor growth and the absolute growth delay. Additionally, we found that combination therapy achieved an additional 24% antitumoral effect and a 12‐day delay in cell growth. This modeling approach suggests the possibility of quantifying synergistic effects.
Geroderma Osteodysplastica With Concomitant Transposition of Great Vessels: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Saad Charbel , Aoun Christine , Iskandar Charbel , Hayek Tony , Matar Maroun , Megarbane Andre
Published: November 2024

Geroderma Osteodysplastica (GO) is a rare autosomal recessive connective tissue disease characterized by wrinkled skin and osteoporosis, two distinct aging‐related features. A loss of function mutation in GORAB results in the disease. Immediately after birth, a cyanotic female neonate was found to have transposition of great vessels (TGV) that was corrected with an uneventful surgical recovery. The patient was noted to have wrinkled skin and hyperlaxity in her joints. After a complete nutritional and metabolic panel, in addition to karyotyping, imaging, skin histopathology analysis, and genetic testing she was found to have GO. We found two novel compound heterozygous mutations in GORAB: p.Asp236∗ and pAsp236Ala. This is the first study that reports the concurrent incidence of GO with TGV. The patient was started on bisphosphonates, which led to a reduction in the occurrence of fractures. An early diagnosis of GO is warranted to prevent or reduce bone density loss due to osteoporosis via initiation of bisphosphonate treatment. Whole exome sequencing remains the gold standard for diagnosing GO and ruling out phenotypically similar disorders.
Research on Autodocking Control Technology of the Propellant Umbilical Connector of Launch Vehicles
Authors: Wu Penghui , Zheng Guokun
Published: November 2024

Aimed at the unattended requirements of the heavy launch vehicle filling and launching support system, this paper focuses on the propellant filling and discharge automatically. This paper adopts the parametric variable frequency and amplitude variation equation to simulate the motion of the launch vehicle under wind load conditions. The equivalent spring damping model is used to simulate the real flexible umbilical arm of the rocket. In this paper, the compound active disturbance rejection control and robust integral sign control (CADRCRISC) method is proposed, including feedforward compensation control, linear feedback control, robust control, and extended state observer (ESO) control. This method can adapt to external disturbances and achieve high‐precision follow‐up control, which is verified through experiments and simulations. The method can adaptively realize fast‐following responses and regulate against any disturbance. The research on the automatic docking control technology of the combined connector is of great significance to the unattended launch support system for heavy launch vehicles. Besides, the control method proposed in this paper can be applied in other similar automatic docking applications.
Screening and Characterization of Potential Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors From Phyllanthus emblica L. Fruits Using Affinity Ultrafiltration Combined With Ultra‐High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Dawa Yangzom , Chen Juan
Published: November 2024

In this study, targeting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) related to Alzheimer’s disease, a screening method, affinity ultrafiltration combined with ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (AUF–UHPLC–Q‐TOF MS) was developed for the discovery and identification of AChE inhibitors from Phyllanthus emblica L. fruits, a medicinal and food homologous plant. The 30% ethanol extract of P. emblica fruit was incubated with AChE allowing active components to form complexes with AChE. Subsequently, the complexes were separated from the incubation and dissociated to release active components, followed by UHPLC–Q‐TOF MS analysis. Ultimately, a total of 18 compounds bound to AChE were screened out and identified. Among them, elaeocarpusin, putranjivain A, and chebulagic acid were confirmed to possess the highest affinity to AChE by molecular docking. Subsequently, the AChE inhibitory activity of commercially available chebulagic acid and corilagin was verified in vitro. Ultimately, cellular assays demonstrated that both chebulagic acid and corilagin enhanced cell viability in a concentration‐dependent manner when compared to a model of AD cells induced by Aβ25–35. Moreover, it was noted that chebulagic acid exhibited superior protective effects relative to corilagin against Aβ25–35‐induced injury in PC12 cells. These findings indicate that the developed methodology is not only straightforward and rapid but also reliable, offering significant insights for the screening of active compounds from complex medicinal and food homologous plants.
Pediatric Uveitis in a Tertiary Referral Center in East China: Clinical Patterns and Visual Outcomes
Authors: Lei Boya , Zhou Xianjin , Gu Ruiping , Shu Qinmeng , Ding Xinyi , Jiang Rui , Chang Qing , Xu Gezhi , Liu Haimei , Sun Li , Zhou Min
Published: November 2024

Background: To describe the clinical patterns and visual outcomes of pediatric uveitis at a tertiary referral center in East China.

Methods: Retrospective case series. Clinical records of patients with pediatric uveitis who presented between January 2014 and July 2021 were reviewed.

Results: The children included (n = 283; 146 females, 137 males) had a mean age at presentation of 10.6 ± 3.5 years. There was a predominance of chronic (62.9%), noninfectious (81.3%) disease, and anterior uveitis was the most common uveitis type (54.8%). Idiopathic chronic anterior uveitis (17.3%) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)–associated anterior uveitis (16.3%) were the most common noninfectious types; ocular toxocariasis (14.8%) and viral retinitis (1.4%) were the most common infectious etiologies. Ocular complications were observed in 53.0% of patients during follow‐up. Systemic immunosuppressive therapy was administered to 66.8% of patients, 67.2% of whom required immunosuppressive drugs and/or biological agents (127/189 children). Surgical treatment was conducted in 38 (13.4%) patients. Improvement or preservation of visual acuity was observed in 95.2% of patients for whom follow‐up visual acuity was recorded (179/188 patients).

Conclusions: Pediatric uveitis was predominantly chronic and noninfectious, with anterior involvement. Systemic therapy was required by most patients, and most eyes showed improved visual acuity.
Cholera Outbreaks in Zimbabwe: An In‐Depth Analysis of Drivers, Constraints and Reimagining the Use of Medicinal Plants
Authors: Marumure Jerikias , Nyila Monde A.
Published: November 2024

Cholera, an intestinal infection caused by Vibrio cholerae, poses a severe threat to public health, particularly in developing countries. This narrative review discusses drivers for cholera outbreaks, challenges and viable alternatives, in Zimbabwe. A literature search was conducted using electronic databases notably ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and PubMed, as well as thesis and conference papers. Evidence indicates that the epidemiology, as well as risk factors, includes (1) extreme droughts; (2) political meddling in health issues and water supply; (3) natural disasters; (4) migration; (5) problems with water and sanitation; and (6) the endemic nature of the causative agent as well as its development of drug resistance. Reliable supply of clean water and proper sanitation and hygiene as the main key to prevention is emphasised. The use of antibiotics and vaccines for therapy, as well as the use of medicinal plants in traditional medicine, is discussed. Kirkia acuminata and Ziziphus mucronata root and stem bark infusions or decoctions were revealed to be the most common folklore treatments for cholera in rural communities. The potential of medicinal plants as anti‐Vibrio cholerae remedies based on their positive antibacterial assays, and mechanism of action is also presented. Finally, the development of innovative anti‐Vibrio cholerae therapeutics based on natural leads and compounds and adapted for use in resource‐constrained cholera‐prone areas is viewed as a potential option, to complement cholera prevention and treatment, particularly in resource‐limited endemic areas.
Polygenic Risk Score, Healthy Lifestyle Score, and Colorectal Cancer Risk: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shen Yuefan , Chen Weiwei , Fu Chengqu , Liu Xinyi , Miao Junyan , Li Jiacong , Li Ni , Hang Dong
Published: November 2024

Background:

Both genetic factors and lifestyle play a critical role in colorectal cancer, but the extent to which an increased genetic risk can be offset by a healthy lifestyle remains unclear.

Methods:

We included 51,171 participants from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer cohort. A polygenic risk score was created based on 205 genetic variants associated with colorectal cancer, and a healthy lifestyle score was constructed based on six lifestyle factors. Cox regression models were used to evaluate the association of genetic and lifestyle factors with colorectal cancer incidence.

Results:

Compared with individuals at low genetic risk (the lowest 20%), those with intermediate genetic risk (20%–80%) and high genetic risk (the highest 20%) had a significantly increased risk of colorectal cancer (HR = 1.71 and 2.52, respectively). Compared with participants with a favorable lifestyle (scoring 4–6), those with an unfavorable lifestyle (scoring 0 or 1) had a 47% higher risk of colorectal cancer. Moreover, participants with a high genetic risk and a favorable lifestyle had a 45% lower risk of colorectal cancer than those with a high genetic risk and an unfavorable lifestyle, with their 10-year absolute risks of 1.29% and 2.07%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that adherence to a healthy lifestyle holds promise to reduce the genetic impact on colorectal cancer risk.

Impact:

This study indicates that modifiable lifestyle factors play an important role in colorectal cancer prevention, providing new insights for personalized prevention strategies.
Data from The Significance of Comprehensive Metabolic Phenotypes in Cancer Risk: A Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort Study
Authors: Watanabe Takeshi , Nguyen Tien Van , Katsuura-Kamano Sakurako , Arisawa Kokichi , Ishizu Masashi , Unohara Taichi , Tanaka Keitaro , Shimanoe Chisato , Nagayoshi Mako , Tamura Takashi , Kubo Yuko , Kato Yasufumi , Oze Isao , Ito Hidemi , Michihata Nobuaki , Nakamura Yohko , Tanoue Shiroh , Koriyama Chihaya , Suzuki Sadao , Nakagawa-Senda Hiroko , Koyama Teruhide , Tomida Satomi , Kuriki Kiyonori , Takashima Naoyuki , Harada Akiko , Wakai Kenji , Matsuo Keitaro
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The present study investigated the relationship between metabolic phenotypes and the risk of cancer in a Japanese population using the criteria of metabolic phenotypes based on an examination and those based on questionnaires. We used data from 25,357 subjects for examination-based analyses and those from 53,042 subjects for questionnaire-based analyses in the Japan Multi-institutional Collaborative Cohort study. Metabolic phenotypes were defined by classifying subjects according to their body mass index (BMI; obesity: BMI  ≥25 kg/m2; normal weight: BMI  <25 kg/m2) and the number of metabolic abnormalities. Metabolic abnormalities were defined according to metabolic syndrome components of the Joint Interim Statement criteria for examination-based analyses and self-reported histories of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension for questionnaire-based analyses. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses adjusted for potential confounders were performed for total and site-specific cancer incidence rates according to metabolic phenotypes. Metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUHO) was significantly associated with cancer incidence in both examination-based [HR (95% confidence interval), 1.17 (1.01–1.36)] and questionnaire-based analyses [HR (95% confidence interval), 1.15 (1.04–1.26)]. Regarding site-specific cancer in questionnaire-based analyses, metabolically healthy obesity and MUHO were associated with colorectum and liver cancers in all subjects and with breast cancer in female subjects. Subjects with a metabolically unhealthy normal weight had a higher risk of pancreatic cancer. Moreover, MUHO was associated with corpus uteri cancer in female subjects. This prospective cohort study suggests that metabolic phenotypes are important risk factors for total and some site-specific cancers in Japanese adults.
Significance:
The prospective cohort study in a large Japanese population suggested that metabolic phenotypes are important risk factors for total and some site-specific cancers in Japanese adults. Moreover, the risk of each site-specific cancer may differ according to metabolic phenotypes.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Drive Kidney Stone Formation
Authors: Yang Zhiming , Chen Xiong , Qi Guannan , Gu Jie , Liu Zheng , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: November 2024

Introduction: This study aims to explore the contribution of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) to kidney stones. Methods: The microarray data from GSE73680 and bioinformatic analysis were applied to identify differentially expressed genes in patients with kidney stones. A rat model of kidney stones was established through ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride administration. The plasma was collected for examining cf-DNA, DNase I, MPO-DNA, H3Cit and NE. Superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and calcium were examined through biochemical analysis. MPO, H3Cit, and NE in kidney tissues were detected via immunofluorescence staining. Cell apoptosis was evaluated through TUNEL assays. HE, Periodic Acid-Schiff and Von Kossa staining were applied to determine histological structure, calcium deposits and stone formation in the kidneys. Neutrophil elastase inhibitor Sivelestat (SIVE) was administrated for NET suppression in rats. Results: A total of 403 differentially expressed genes including 270 upregulated and 133 downregulated genes were identified between renal papillary tissues with Randall’s plaque and normal tissues. Gene ontology enrichment, KEGG pathway and protein-protein interaction network analysis of these dysregulated genes were performed. Moreover, increased NET markers including cf-DNA, DNase I, MPO-DNA, H3Cit and NE and calcium deposits were observed in patients with kidney stones. Subsequently, we established a rat model of kidney stones. We found that NET formation was significantly elevated in kidney stone rats, and renal tubular injury and apoptotic cells were enhanced as kidney stones developed. Strikingly, we found that suppression of NETs via SIVE could significantly reduce calcium deposits and apoptotic cells and alleviate tubular injury, thus improving kidney function. Conclusion: NETs drive the formation of kidney stones, thus aggravating kidney injury. Our study identifies NETs as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker for nephrolithiasis.
RIP3 augments neuroinflammation by facilitating neutrophil infiltration during an ischemic stroke.
Authors: Li Baiyu , Ling Zexia , Wang Yanyan , Xing Yinhua
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Neutrophil infiltration is responsible for the neuroinflammation during an ischemic stroke. Here, we explored the role of receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIP3) in neutrophil infiltration during an ischemic stroke.
Methods: The rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was utilized to identify pivotal proteins involved in neutrophil infiltration during an ischemic stroke. Neutrophils were isolated from the peripheral blood of mice, and a co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) assay was performed to identify the proteins that interact with RIP3.
Results: The rat MCAO model was successfully established. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) was significantly up-regulated in the MCAO group, indicating the presence of neutrophil infiltration. RIP3 protein level exhibited a similar trend to MPO protein level, suggesting that neuroinflammation might be partly activated by RIP3 through the promotion of neutrophil infiltration. Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) and mass spectrometry (MS) analyses suggested that RIP3 facilitated neutrophil infiltration partly by affecting protein kinases (Rock1 and Prkaca) downstream of RIP3, and the interaction between RIP3 and Rock1 or Prkaca was validated by IF and co-IP assays.
Conclusion: In this study, it was observed that RIP3 affects neutrophil infiltration, a critical phenomenon associated with neuronal injury during ischemic stroke, partly by the modulation of downstream proteins such as Rock1 and Prkaca.