Search Results (19,800)

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), a non-enzymatically glycated form of adult hemoglobin (HbA0), is a widely used biomarker for diabetes. Its concentration is strongly correlated with the long-term glycemic state and the risk of diabetes development. However, beyond its diagnostic role, its physiological functions remain poorly understood. To fill this gap, we investigated the intracellular distribution of HbA1C and its potential impact on red blood cell (RBC) functions. Specifically, the differences in cytosolic and membrane pools of HbA1C in RBCs from individuals with prediabetes, overt type 2 diabetes (T2D), and healthy controls were explored. Our cross-sectional findings confirmed the intracellular heterogeneity of HbA1C and revealed a strong correlation between fluctuations in HbA1C and those of other hemoglobin isoforms, specifically HbA2 and HbA0. This correlation was particularly evident in the context of diabetes or acute exposure to Ca²⁺-depleted environments. We also observed that short-term hyperglycemia does not significantly alter HbA1C intracellular localization. Furthermore, we found that the intracellular distribution of HbA1C is correlated with several physiological properties of RBCs, with these links varying according to the specific pathological abnormalities associated with pre- and overt diabetes. Further research is required to fully understand the mechanisms and implications of these observations. Full article

This study examines the contrast in the nonlinear dynamics of Thrinax radiata Lodd. ex Schult. & Schult. f. Seed germplasm explored by optical and electrical signals. By integrating chaotic attractors for the modulation of the optical and electrical measurements, the research ensures high sensitivity monitoring of seed germplasm dynamics. Reflectance measurements and electrical responses were analyzed across different laser pulse energies using Newton–Leipnik and Rössler chaotic attractors for signal characterization. The optical attractor captured laser-induced changes in reflectance, highlighting nonlinear thermal effects, while the electrical attractor, through a custom-designed circuit, revealed electromagnetic interactions within the seed. Results showed that increasing laser energy amplified voltage magnitudes in both systems, demonstrating their sensitivity to energy inputs and distinct energy-dependent chaotic patterns. Fractional calculus, specifically the Caputo fractional derivative, was applied for modeling temperature distribution within the seeds during irradiation. Simulations revealed heat transfer about 1 °C in central regions, closely correlating with observed changes in chaotic attractor morphology. This interdisciplinary approach emphasizes the unique strengths of each method: optical attractors effectively analyze photoinduced thermal effects, while electrical attractors offer complementary insights into bioelectrical properties. Together, these techniques provide a realistic framework for studying seed germplasm dynamics, advancing knowledge of their responses to external perturbations. The findings pave the way for future applications and highlight the potential of chaos theory for early detection of structural and bioelectrical changes induced by external energy inputs, thereby contributing to sample protection. Our results provide quantitative dynamical descriptors of laser-evoked seed responses that establish a tractable framework for future studies linking these metrics to physiological outcomes. Full article

Understanding the temporal dynamics and spatial distribution of key soil properties is essential for sustainable land management and informed decision-making. This study assessed the spatial variability and decadal changes (2013–2023) of topsoil properties in Córdoba, central Argentina, using digital soil mapping (DSM) and machine learning (ML) algorithms. Three ML methods—Quantile Regression Forest (QRF), Cubist, and Support Vector Machine (SVM)—were compared to predict soil organic matter (SOM), extractable phosphorus (P), and pH at 0–20 cm depth, based on environmental covariates related to site climate, vegetation, and topography. QRF consistently outperformed the other models in prediction accuracy and uncertainty, confirming its suitability for DSM in heterogeneous landscapes. Prediction uncertainty was higher in marginal mountainous areas than in intensively managed plains. Over ten years, SOM, P, and pH exhibited changes across land-use classes (cropland, pasture, and forest). Extractable P declined by 15–35%, with the sharpest reduction in croplands (−35.4%). SOM decreased in croplands (−6.7%) and pastures (−3.1%) but remained stable in forests. pH trends varied, with slight decreases in croplands and forests and a small increase in pastures. By integrating high-resolution mapping and temporal assessment, this study advances DSM applications and supports regional soil monitoring and sustainable land-use planning. Full article

Background: The Tibetan Plateau, which is known for its high elevation and low oxygen levels, presents a challenging environment for its inhabitants. To adapt to these hypoxic conditions, species of Schizothoracine, a subfamily of Cyprinidae, have developed unique physiological mechanisms and functions. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine involved in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and the cellular immune response. However, its specific role in adaptation to hypoxia remains poorly understood. Methods: In this study, we aimed to characterize the TGF-β1 gene in Gymnocypris dobula (Gd) and Schizothorax prenanti (Sp) and to test whether TGF-β1 contributes to hypoxia adaptation in plateau Schizothoracine fish. The predicted protein for Gd-TGF-β1 contains several primary domains, including cwf21 (cdc5 protein 21), GYF (Glycine-Tyrosine-Phenylalanine), FN1 (Fibronectin 1), a conservative domain, and a signal peptide. Results: The results of tissue distribution revealed that the mRNA level of TGF-β1 in brain, heart, muscle, skin, gills, and spleen—which are key tissues involved in oxygen sensing, transport, and physiological adaptation to hypoxic environments—was significantly lower in G. dobula than that in S. prenanti. Western blotting analysis revealed that the expression of activated TGF-β1 in G. dobula was significantly higher than that in S. prenanti. To investigate whether TGF-β1 in G. dobula possesses hypoxic adaptive features, Gd-TGF-β1 and Sp-TGF-β1 were cloned into an expression vector and transfected into 293-T cells, which are widely used due to their ease of culture, high transfectability, and well-characterized properties. We found that the survival rate of cells transfected with Gd-TGF-β1 was significantly higher than that of cells transfected with Sp-TGF-β1 after hypoxia treatment. Conclusions: These findings suggest that G. dobula may promote hypoxic adaptation through the activation and increased expression of TGF-β1. Changes in TGF-β1 expression may play a role in the adaptation of G. dobula to hypoxic conditions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Microneedling is increasingly applied to enhance transepidermal drug delivery. Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) has recognized biostimulatory properties, but its delivery and distribution within the dermis remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of microneedling for transepidermal CaHA delivery, focusing on retention, dispersion, and collagen expression, and to investigate the role of hyaluronidase in modulating these effects. Methods: Fluorescently labeled CaHA nanopowder was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal fluorescence microscopy. Nine experimental groups were established, varying microneedling intensity and hyaluronidase application. Ex vivo porcine skin samples were analyzed histologically for CaHA penetration and distribution. HaCaT keratinocyte cultures were treated with CaHA, and mRNA expression of collagen types I, III, IV, and MMP-1 was quantified. Results: High-intensity microneedling improved CaHA retention but caused tissue damage. Low-intensity microneedling showed limited retention, enhanced by hyaluronidase co-application. In vitro, CaHA increased collagen type III and IV expression, while collagen type I and MMP-1 remained unchanged. Conclusions: Microneedling effectively delivers CaHA into the dermis and stimulates collagen remodeling. Optimizing microneedling intensity is essential to balance efficacy and safety, and hyaluronidase may enhance clinical outcomes by improving CaHA distribution. Full article

This study develops a systemic framework to conceptualize digital organizational resilience in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as an emergent property of entangled socio-technical systems. Building on theories of distributed cognition, sociomateriality, and resilience engineering, this paper argues that resilience does not reside in isolated elements—such as leadership, technologies, or procedures—but in their dynamic interplay. Four interdependent dimensions—human, technological, organizational, and institutional—are identified as constitutive of resilience capacities. The research design is conceptual and exploratory in nature. Two theory-driven conceptual statements are formulated: first, that natural language mediation in human–machine interaction enhances coordination and adaptability; and second, that distributed cognition and prototyping practices strengthen collective problem-solving and adaptive capacity. These conceptual statements are not statistically tested but serve as conceptual anchors for the model and as guiding directions for future empirical studies. Empirical illustrations from Ecuadorian MSMEs ground the framework in practice. The evidence highlights three insights: (1) structural fragility, as micro and small firms dominate the economy but face high mortality and financial vulnerability; (2) uneven digitalization, with limited adoption of BPM, ERP, and AI due to skill and resource constraints; and (3) disproportionate gains from modest interventions, such as optimization models or collaborative prototyping. This study contributes to organizational theory by positioning MSMEs as socio-technical ecosystems, providing a conceptual foundation for future empirical validation. Full article

The coupled method of inertial focusing and magnetic separation is effective for detecting and isolating circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood, wherein the design of a multi-physics coupled microfluidic device plays a critical role in the sorting efficiency. This paper presents a novel compact microfluidic device that combines inertial and magnetic forces for CTC separation. Using the finite element method, the effects of three major parameters (e.g., fluid velocity, particle properties, and magnetic field distribution) on sorting efficiency were comprehensively investigated and discussed. Simulated and experimental results demonstrate that the designed compact microfluidic device with coupled physical fields achieves high separation purity (>98%) for CTCs larger than 19 μm in diameter over a wide range of parameters, such as a fluid velocity greater than 3.5 × 10⁻⁸ m³/s, a remanent flux density between 1.08 T and 1.28 T, and the position of the magnet ranging from 2.5 mm to 4 mm. Full article

This study examines the forced vibration behavior of a hydroelastic system composed of a functionally graded material (FGM) plate, a barotropic compressible Newtonian viscous fluid, and an adjacent rigid wall. The fluid occupies the gap between the plate and the wall. A time-harmonic force, applied in and along the free surface of the FGM plate, excites vibrations within the system. The plate’s motion is modeled using the exact equations of elastodynamics, while the fluid dynamics are described by the linearized Navier–Stokes equations for compressible viscous flow. The governing equations, which feature variable coefficients, are solved using a discrete analytical approach. Boundary conditions enforce impermeability at the rigid wall and continuity of both forces and velocities at the fluid–plate interface. The investigation focuses on the plane strain state of the plate coupled with the corresponding two-dimensional fluid flow. Numerical analyses are conducted to evaluate normal stresses and velocity distributions along the interface. The primary objective is to assess how the graded material properties of the plate influence the frequency-dependent responses of stresses and velocities at the plate–fluid boundary. Full article

Collagen peptides derived from fish skin may be limited in food applications due to undesirable flavors. To investigate the effects of Maillard reaction modification on their physicochemical and flavor properties, collagen peptides from tilapia skin were prepared via enzymatic hydrolysis, followed by the Maillard reaction with four reducing sugars (xylose, ribose, glucose and glucosamine) through a combined procedure involving simultaneous enzyme inactivation and Maillard reaction at 100 °C. The resultant Maillard reaction products (MRPs) were characterized by analyzing free amino groups, peptide size distribution and color difference, while the reaction progression was monitored using UV absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. The flavor profile of MRPs was analyzed through quantitative descriptive sensory evaluation and GC-MS coupled with principal component analysis. Among the four reducing sugars tested, glucosamine-induced Maillard reaction products exhibited the most pronounced physicochemical and sensory improvements. Specifically, glucosamine-MRPs showed the greatest reduction in free amino groups (0.69 μmol/L) and a notable decrease in high-molecular-weight peptides (3.31%), accompanied by an increase in low-molecular-weight fractions. Colorimetric analysis revealed a marked color change (ΔE = 31.78), and spectral analysis further confirmed intensified UV absorbance and fluorescence intensity in the glucosamine group, indicating advanced reaction progression. Sensory evaluation demonstrated a significant reduction in bitterness and enhancement of umami and saltiness. Moreover, GC-MS analysis revealed that the glucosamine-treated group exhibited the most favorable volatile profile, characterized by an increase in aromatic compounds and a substantial decrease in undesirable odorants. This study provides a theoretical basis for controlling the undesirable flavor of collagen peptides through low-extent Maillard reactions by different reducing sugars. Full article

Accurate assessment of coalbed methane (CBM) content is essential for characterizing subsurface reservoir distribution, guiding well placement, and estimating reserves. Current methods for determining coal seam gas content mainly rely on direct laboratory measurements of core samples or indirect interpretations derived from well log data. However, conventional coring is costly, while log-based approaches often depend on linear empirical formulas and are restricted to near-wellbore regions. In practice, the relationships between elastic properties and gas content are highly complex and nonlinear, leading conventional linear models to produce substantial prediction errors and inadequate performance. This study introduces a novel method for predicting gas content in deep coal seams using a Conditional Generative Adversarial Network (CGAN). First, elastic parameters are obtained through pre-stack inversion. Next, sensitivity analysis and attribute optimization are applied to identify elastic attributes that are most sensitive to gas content. A CGAN is then employed to learn the nonlinear mapping between multiple fluid-sensitive seismic attributes and gas content distribution. By integrating multiple constraints to refine the discriminator and guide generator training, the model achieves accurate gas content prediction directly from seismic data. Applied to a real dataset from a CBM block in the Ordos Basin, China, the proposed CGAN-based method produces predictions that align closely with measured gas content trends at well locations. Validation at blind wells shows an average prediction error of 1.6 m³/t, with 83% of samples exhibiting errors less than 3 m³/t. This research presents an effective and innovative deep learning approach for predicting coalbed methane content. Full article

The delamination of building facades creates a critical demand for inorganic adhesive mortars with high long-term adhesion. Geopolymer (GP) represents an eco-friendly alternative to Portland cement (PC). However, the effect of polymer additives, commonly used in cement-based adhesive mortars, on GP mortar remains insufficiently studied. This study examines the effects of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) polymer on the workability, mechanical properties, durability, and microstructure of GP mortar. Results show that an optimal HPMC content (0.4 wt%) improves the fluidity, compressive strength, and adhesive strength of GP mortar, approximately 6%, 16%, and 20%, respectively. These enhancements are attributed to the incorporation of uniformly distributed microbubbles in the mortar matrix. Beyond this optimal content, however, HPMC impairs flowability and adhesion due to its thickening effect. In contrast, VAE addition significantly enhanced adhesive strength by approximately 28%, albeit at the cost of a 17% reduction in compressive strength, resulting from the retardation of the alkali activation process. This gain in adhesion is associated with the formation of a continuous polymer film that establishes both physical interlocking and chemical bonding with the GP matrix. Furthermore, HPMC improved the durability of the GP mortar, while VAE did not contribute to this aspect. These insights offer valuable guidance for designing high-performance GP-based adhesive mortars suitable for building applications. Full article

Very-high-energy electron (VHEE) beams, ranging from 50 to 300 or 400 MeV, are the subject of intense research investigation, with considerable interest concerning applications in radiation therapy due to their accurate energy deposition into large and deep-seated tissues, sharp beam edges, high sparing properties, and minimal radiation effects on normal tissues. The very-high-energy electron beam, which ranges from 50 to 400 MeV, and Ultra-High-Energy Electron beams up to 1–2 GeV, are considered extremely effective for human tumor therapy while avoiding the spatial requirements and cost of proton and heavy ion facilities. Many research laboratories have developed advanced testing infrastructures with VHEE beams in Europe, the USA, Japan, and other countries. These facilities aim to accelerate the transition to clinical application, following extensive simulations for beam transport that support preclinical trials and imminent clinical deployment. However, the clinical implementation of VHEE for FLASH radiation therapy requires advances in several areas, including the development of compact, stable, and efficient accelerators; the definition of sophisticated treatment plans; and the establishment of clinically validated protocols. In addition, the perspective of VHEE for accessing ultra-high dose rate (UHDR) dosimetry presents a promising procedure for the practical integration of FLASH radiotherapy for deep tumors, enhancing normal tissue sparing while maintaining the inherent dosimetry advantages. However, it has been proven that a strong effort is necessary to improve the main operational accelerator conditions, ensuring a stable beam over time and across space, as well as compact infrastructure to support the clinical implementation of VHEE for FLASH cancer treatment. VHEE-accessing ultra-high dose rate (UHDR) perspective dosimetry is integrated with FLASH radiotherapy and well-prepared cancer treatment tools that provide an advantage in modern oncology regimes. This study explores technological progress and the evolution of electron accelerator beam energy technology, as simulated by the ASTRA code, for developing VHEE and UHEE beams aimed at medical applications. FLUKA code simulations of electron beam provide dose distribution plots and the range for various energies inside the phantom of PMMA. Full article

Microplastics (<5 mm) and nanoplastics (~100 nm), which are invisible to the naked eye, originate primarily from fragmentation and breakdown larger plastic debris are increasingly pervasive in the environment. Once released, they can disperse widely in the environment, pollute them adversely and ultimately be taken up by living organisms, including humans, through multiple exposure pathways. Their distribution in aquatic systems is influenced by their physiochemical properties including density, hydrophobicity, and chemical stability, along with environmental conditions and biological activities. To better understand the dynamics of micro- and nanoplastics in surface water, this study conducted a comprehensive review of 194 published articles and scientific reports covering marine, freshwater, and wastewater systems. We assessed the abundance, spatial distribution and the factors that govern their behavior in aquatic systems and analyzed the sampling techniques, pretreatment process, and detection and removal techniques to understand the ongoing scenario of these pollutants in surface water and to identify the ecological risks and potential toxicological effects on living biota via direct and indirect exposure pathways. Full article

Background/Objectives: Innovative intranasal delivery systems have emerged as a strategy to overcome the limitations of conventional COVID-19 vaccines, including suboptimal mucosal immunity, limited antigen retention, and vaccine hesitancy. This study aimed to evaluate physicochemical properties and murine safety of a novel COVID-19 intranasal vaccine candidate based on CHIVAX 2.1 (CVX)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs). Methods: The CVX recombinant protein was encapsulated into CNPs using the ionic gelation method. The nanoparticles were characterized by their physicochemical properties (mean size, zeta potential, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency) and spectroscopic profiles. Mucin adsorption and in vitro release profiles in simulated nasal fluid were also assessed. In vivo compatibility was evaluated through histopathological analysis of tissues in male C-57BL/6J mice following intranasal administration. Results: CNPs exhibited controlled size distribution (38.5–542.5 nm) and high encapsulation efficiency (65.4–92.2%). Zeta potential values supported colloidal stability. TEM analysis confirmed spherical morphology and successful CVX encapsulation, and immunogenic integrity was also demonstrated. Mucin adsorption analysis demonstrated effective nasal retention, particularly in particles ≈90 nm. In vitro release studies revealed a biphasic protein profile, where ≈80% of the recombinant protein was released within 2 h. Importantly, histopathological analyses and weight monitoring of intranasally immunized mice revealed no signs of adverse effects related to toxicity. Conclusions: The ionic gelation encapsulation process preserved the physical and immunological integrity of CVX antigen. Furthermore, the intranasal administration of the CVX-loaded CNPs demonstrated a favorable safety profile in vivo. These findings support the potential of the CVX intranasal vaccine formulation for further immunogenicity studies, with no apparent biosafety concerns. Full article

Carbyne, a linear chain of carbon atoms, possesses extraordinary properties but has remained elusive due to its extreme instability. While encapsulation within carbon nanotubes stabilizes carbyne, a lack of synthetic control over its location has prevented practical use. Here, we introduce a spatially localized plasma jet technique that enables the guided spatially selective self-assembly of carbyne encapsulated within multiwalled carbon nanotube (carbyne@MWCNT) hybrids on graphite surfaces. This method uses intense, localized plasma energy to simultaneously grow nanotubes and synthesize carbyne within them, where the nanotube structure and carbyne encapsulation are governed by the localized heat flux distribution. Beyond confirming carbyne formation via its characteristic Raman mode, we discover its second-order vibrational spectrum, confirming anharmonic interactions between the chain and its nanotube container. This spatial control can be used to architect functional carbyne@MWCNT arrays, whose potential applications are discussed in detail. Full article