bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Priming on Distinct Immunosuppressive Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells under Translationally Relevant Conditions
Authors: Herger Nick , Heggli Irina , Mengis Tamara , Devan Jan , Arpesella Leonardo , Brunner Florian , Distler Oliver , Dudli Stefan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

Abstract
Background Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is widely recognized as the gold standard for direct pulp capping (DPC) materials, but it has certain limitations. In this study, a novel combination of simvastatin and calcium hydroxide (SIM-CH) was investigated as a potential DPC material. We aimed to histologically assess the effects of SIM-CH on angiogenesis and cell organization in comparison to MTA.Methods A total of 32 sound maxillary incisor teeth from 16 male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into two groups: Group I received MTA, and Group II received SIM-CH as a DPC material. Class V cavities were prepared in the upper incisor teeth, and the DPC materials were applied. The final restoration was accomplished using light-cured resin-modified glass ionomer. After 1 and 2 weeks, the animals were euthanized, and histological analysis was performed following routine preparation and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The pulp region was evaluated, and a scoring system was employed to assess morphological changes in the odontoblastic layer. The odontoblastic layer width (in mm), and blood vessel count were evaluated under ×100 magnification. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test of normality of the distribution of the variables. Comparisons were carried using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Pearson Chi-square test was used to test association between qualitative variables. Fisher's exact test is used when indicated.Results The findings indicated that there is no statistically significant difference between the tested materials in all tested parameters except for odontoblast cell layer width in the second week between MTA and SM-CH groups, and in MTA in the 1ST and 2nd week. Besides, there was a statistically significant difference in the blood vessels count in SM-CH between the 1ST and 2nd week. Regarding the descriptive analysis, all specimens demonstrated widely distributed congested capillaries. Most of odontoblast cells were arranged in a palisaded pattern with columnar cell bodies.Conclusions Simvastatin has the potential in improving angiogenic and pulp capping properties of calcium hydroxide.
Reversing immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment of fibrolamellar carcinoma via PD-1 and IL-10 blockade
Authors: Daniel Sara K , Sullivan Kevin M , Dickerson Lindsay K , Bijgaart Renske JE van den , Utria Alan F , Labadie Kevin P , Kenerson Heidi L , Jiang Xiuyun , Smythe Kimberly S , Campbell Jean S , Pierce Robert H , Kim Teresa S , Riehle Kimberly J , Yeung Raymond S , Carter Jason A , Barry Kevin C , Pillarisetty Venu G 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: Fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC) is a rare liver tumor driven by the DNAJ-PKAc fusion protein that affects healthy young patients. Little is known about the immune response to FLC, limiting rational design of immunotherapy.
Methods: Multiplex immunohistochemistry and gene expression profiling were performed to characterize the FLC tumor immune microenvironment and adjacent non-tumor liver (NTL). Flow cytometry and T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing were performed to determine the phenotype of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and the extent of T cell clonal expansion. Fresh human FLC tumor slice cultures (TSCs) were treated with antibodies blocking programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and interleukin-10 (IL-10), with results measured by cleaved caspase-3 immunohistochemistry.
Results: Immune cells were concentrated in fibrous stromal bands, rather than in the carcinoma cell compartment. In FLC, T cells demonstrated decreased activation and regulatory T cells in FLC had more frequent expression of PD-1 and CTLA-4 than in NTL. Furthermore, T cells had relatively low levels of clonal expansion despite high TCR conservation across individuals. Combination PD-1 and IL-10 blockade signficantly increased tumor cell death in human FLC TSCs.
Conclusions: Immunosuppresion in the FLC tumor microenvironment is characterized by T cell exclusion and exhaustion, which may be reversible with combination immunotherapy.
Enhancing the Occupational Safety, and Well-Being of Mining and Construction Workers: An Application of Emotional Intelligence Training (EIT)
Authors: Iyanda Mukhtar Olalekan , Taiwo Blessing Olamide , Akinlabi Adams Abiodun , Fissha Yewuhalashet , Phili Kelebogile , Ikeda Hajime , Kawamura Youhei 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The mining and construction sector in Nigeria holds a pivotal position in driving economic development; nonetheless, it encounters notable challenges, such as project failures and safety apprehensions. The impact of leadership and safety considerations encompasses a broad spectrum of outcomes for projects and the welfare of individuals. The primary aim of this study is to investigate the possibility of inducing significant changes by introducing emotional intelligence (EI) training in the mining and construction industries in Ogun State, Nigeria. The present study employed a mixed-methods research design to authenticate the significant enhancements in post-training emotional intelligence (EI) levels seen among personnel at New Creation Constructions Ltd. The study included the consideration of five distinct groups (A-E) that were responsible for managing comparable projects. The optimization of Group E's improvement was achieved by the implementation of Emotional Intelligence (EI) training, and subsequently compared to the performance of the remaining four groups. The safety procedures within Group E experienced a substantial enhancement, marked by an escalated utilization of protective equipment, heightened consciousness of safety measures, and a reinforced dedication to safeguarding the welfare of colleagues. Group E exhibited outstanding project management efficiency, displaying commendable performance in multiple areas such as budget adherence, adherence to safety procedures, stakeholder satisfaction, effective communication, and proficient procurement management. To optimize the benefits outlined above, we suggest implementing emotional intelligence (EI) training programs, leadership development initiatives, stress management interventions, regular evaluations of well-being, and focused research tailored to the specific needs of the organization.