Fiber Architecture Research Articles

The ARPKD Protein DZIP1L Regulates Ciliary Protein Entry by Modulating the Architecture and Function of Ciliary Transition Fibers.

Serving as the cell's sensory antennae, primary cilia are linked to numerous human genetic diseases when they malfunction. DZIP1L, identified as one of the genetic causes of human autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), is an evolutionarily conserved ciliary basal body protein. Although it has been reported that DZIP1L is involved in the ciliary entry of PKD proteins, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, an uncharacterized role of DZIP1L is reported in modulating the architecture and function of transition fibers (TFs), striking ciliary base structures essential for selective cilia gating. Using C. elegans as a model, C01G5.7 (hereafter termed DZIP-1) is identified as the sole homolog of DZIP1L, which specifically localizes to TFs. While DZIP-1 or ANKR-26 (the ortholog of ANKRD26) deficiency shows subtle impact on TFs, co-depletion of DZIP-1 and ANKR-26 disrupts TF assembly and cilia gating for soluble and membrane proteins, including the ortholog of ADPKD protein polycystin-2. Notably, the synergistic role for DZIP1L and ANKRD26 in the formation and function of TFs is highly conserved in mammalian cilia. Hence, the findings illuminate an evolutionarily conserved role of DZIP1L in TFs architecture and function, highlighting TFs as a vital part of the ciliary gate implicated in ciliopathies ARPKD.

Structural diversity of crustacean exoskeletons and its implications for biomimetics.

The crustacean cuticle is a biological composite material consisting of chitin-protein fibres in a mineralized matrix. Recent research has revealed a surprising range of fibre architectures and mineral compositions of crustacean skeletal structures adapted to various mechanical demands. It is becoming increasingly clear that the organic fibres in the cuticle may be organized in patterns differing from the standard twisted plywood model. Observed fibre architectures in protruding skeletal structures include longitudinal and circular parallel fibre arrays. Skeletal minerals often include calcium phosphates in addition to calcium carbonates. Furthermore, skeletal properties are affected by protein cross-linking, which replaces mineralization as a stiffening mechanism in some structures. Several common structural motifs, such as the stiffening of the outer skeletal layers, the incorporation of non-mineralized cuticle in exposed structures, and interchanging layers of parallel fibres and the twisted plywood structure, can be identified in skeletal elements with similar functions. These evolutionary solutions have the potential for biomimetic applications, particularly as manufacturing technologies advance. To make use of this potential, we need to understand the processes behind the formation of the crustacean exoskeleton and determine which features are truly adaptive and worth mimicking.

Conductive Polyisocyanide Hydrogels Inhibit Fibrosis and Promote Myogenesis.

Reliable in vitro models closely resembling native tissue are urgently needed for disease modeling and drug screening applications. Recently, conductive biomaterials have received increasing attention in the development of in vitro models as they permit exogenous electrical signals to guide cells toward a desired cellular response. Interestingly, they have demonstrated that they promote cellular proliferation and adhesion even without external electrical stimulation. This paper describes the development of a conductive, fully synthetic hydrogel based on hybrids of the peptide-modified polyisocyanide (PIC-RGD) and the relatively conductive poly(aniline-co-N-(4-sulfophenyl)aniline) (PASA) and its suitability as the in vitro matrix. We demonstrate that incorporating PASA enhances the PIC-RGD hydrogel's electroactive nature without significantly altering the fibrous architecture and nonlinear mechanics of the PIC-RGD network. The biocompatibility of our model was assessed through phenotyping cultured human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) and murine C2C12 myoblasts. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that PIC-PASA hydrogels inhibit the fibrotic behavior of HFFs while promoting myogenesis in C2C12 cells without electrical stimulation. The composite PIC-PASA hydrogel can actively change the cell fate of different cell types, providing an attractive tool to improve skin and muscle repair.

Evolutionary origin of alpha rhythms in vertebrates.

The purpose of this review extends beyond the traditional triune brain model, aiming to elucidate the evolutionary aspects of alpha rhythms in vertebrates. The forebrain, comprising the telencephalon (pallium) and diencephalon (thalamus, hypothalamus), is a common feature in the brains of all vertebrates. In mammals, evolution has prioritized the development of the forebrain, especially the neocortex, over the midbrain (mesencephalon) optic tectum, which serves as the prototype for the visual brain. This evolution enables mammals to process visual information in the retina-thalamus (lateral geniculate nucleus)-occipital cortex pathway. The origin of posterior-dominant alpha rhythms observed in mammals in quiet and dark environments is not solely attributed to cholinergic pontine nuclei cells functioning as a 10 Hz pacemaker in the brainstem. It also involves the ability of the neocortex's cortical layers to generate traveling waves of alpha rhythms with waxing and waning characteristics. The utilization of alpha rhythms might have facilitated the shift of attention from external visual inputs to internal cognitive processes as an adaptation to thrive in dark environments. The evolution of alpha rhythms might trace back to the dinosaur era, suggesting that enhanced cortical connectivity linked to alpha bands could have facilitated the development of nocturnal awakening in the ancestors of mammals. In fishes, reptiles, and birds, the pallium lacks a cortical layer. However, there is a lack of research clearly observing dominant alpha rhythms in the pallium or organized nuclear structures in fishes, reptiles, or birds. Through convergent evolution, the pallium of birds, which exhibits cortex-like fiber architecture, has not only acquired advanced cognitive and motor abilities but also the capability to generate low-frequency oscillations (4-25 Hz) resembling alpha rhythms. This suggests that the origins of alpha rhythms might lie in the pallium of a common ancestor of birds and mammals.

Different Castration Methods Induced Variations in Behavioural Responses, ‎Scrotal Circumference and Testicular Histo-architecture in Red Sokoto ‎Bucks

I In this study, we assessed the behavioural responses, scrotal circumference, and testicular histo-architecture of red Sokoto bucks after undergoing castration through Burdizzo, in situ spermatic cord ligation, and orchidectomy. Sixteen red Sokoto bucks aged 6 months to 1 year, weighing between 11-12 kg, were randomly assigned to four groups, each comprising four bucks: Group A (Burdizzo), B (in situ spermatic cord ligation), C (orchidectomy), and D (control). Following the castration procedures, the bucks were observed for behavioural changes, and scrotal circumference was measured. Testicular tissue sections were collected from bucks in Groups A and B at 3-, 6-, and 9-weeks post-castration, and processed for histological examination. The findings revealed diverse behavioural responses in Groups A, B, and C, including back arching, vocalization, teeth grinding, altered posture, changes in appetite, and dorsal lip curling. There was a significant (p < 0.05) progressive decrease in mean scrotal circumference in Groups A, B, and C. Histologically, the testes exhibited empty seminiferous tubules with fibrous architecture from three to nine weeks post-castration in Groups A and B. Castration via Burdizzo, in-situ spermatic cord ligation and orchidectomy induced distinct behavioural responses and changes in scrotal circumference in the red Sokoto bucks. The behavioural responses observed in the present study were noted to be mild in Group A, while Groups B and C presented moderate responses, thus, suggesting a varying degree of pain induction. This implies that Burdizzo castration induced less pain when compared to in-situ spermatic cord ligation and orchidectomy. Testicular histo-architecture was altered by Burdizzo and in-situ spermatic cord ligation in red Sokoto bucks. Therefore, the choice of castration method for red Sokoto bucks should be based on the specific characteristics of interest, availability of equipment, convenience, and technical efficiency.

Smartphone-based selective and sensitive detection of vitamin B1 in synthetic urine using U-bend SPR optical fiber probe

This paper introduces an innovative optical fiber surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor designed for smartphone assistance, aiming at detecting vitamin B1 in synthetic urine. The key novelty lies in the amalgamation of silver nanocoated cysteine with a gold-plated optical fiber probe, fostering efficient detection through the robust electrostatic interaction between negatively charged Cys-capped AgNPs and positively charged vitamin B1 molecules. Notably, this biosensor leverages the smartphone's digital camera capabilities to discern varying color intensities. A self-developed application ensures real-time monitoring of green and red channel intensities in the SPR signal, thereby mitigating the risk of false detections. Moreover, the integration of the fabricated optical fiber probe with the smartphone is achieved through a 3D-printed casing, endowing the biosensor with the advantages of portability, handheld operation, and cost-effectiveness. The proposed U-shaped optical fiber SPR biosensor, coupled with smartphone technology, demonstrates the ability to detect vitamin B1 within the concentration range of 2–10 μM, yielding a commendable R2 value of 0.9973. Experimental findings affirm that this novel biosensor, built on the U-shaped SPR optical fiber architecture and empowered by smartphones, is an economical, uncomplicated, and portable device adept at accurately and efficiently detecting vitamin B1 across a broad concentration spectrum. Its potential applications extend to the area of low-cost biochemical component identification.

The impact of input node placement in the controllability of structural brain networks

Network controllability refers to the ability to steer the state of a network towards a target state by driving certain nodes, known as input nodes. This concept can be applied to brain networks for studying brain function and its relation to the structure, which has numerous practical applications. Brain network controllability involves using external signals such as electrical stimulation to drive specific brain regions and navigate the neurophysiological activity level of the brain around the state space. Although controllability is mainly theoretical, the energy required for control is critical in real-world implementations. With a focus on the structural brain networks, this study explores the impact of white matter fiber architecture on the control energy in brain networks using the theory of how input node placement affects the LCC (the longest distance between inputs and other network nodes). Initially, we use a single input node as it is theoretically possible to control brain networks with just one input. We show that highly connected brain regions that lead to lower LCCs are more energy-efficient as a single input node. However, there may still be a need for a significant amount of control energy with one input, and achieving controllability with less energy could be of interest. We identify the minimum number of input nodes required to control brain networks with smaller LCCs, demonstrating that reducing the LCC can significantly decrease the control energy in brain networks. Our results show that relying solely on highly connected nodes is not effective in controlling brain networks with lower energy by using multiple inputs because of densely interconnected brain network hubs. Instead, a combination of low and high-degree nodes is necessary.

Construction of ethyl methane sulfonate mutant library in G. arboreum and rapid identification of mutant genes via repeated re-sequencing

Cotton (Gossypium) is the leading economic crop and provides most of renewable spinning fibers for the worldwide textile industry. The diploid Asiatic cotton (G. arboreum), with spinnable fiber and relatively simple genome, is an ideal model for cotton functional genomics and fiber biology. In this study, we constructed an ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) mutant library of Asiatic cotton. Stable mutants with various phenotypic variations in leaf, flower, fiber and plant architecture were obtained in M1 generation. Genome-wide mutation analysis revealed high-density mutations distributed evenly on whole genome. Using repeated re-sequencing of M1 mutant plants, the candidate genes of 10 out of 15 mutants were identified. The functions of GaYUC4 and GaPDX1, candidate genes for bar blade and yellow leaf vein, respectively, were further confirmed using virus induced gene silencing in Asiatic and/or upland cottons. Our work paved way for expansion of Asiatic cotton mutant library and subsequent applications in cotton functional genomics and cotton breeding.

Publisher Correction: Vertical-Aligned and Ordered-Active Architecture of Heterostructured Fibers for High Electrochemical Capacitance

Publisher Correction: Vertical-Aligned and Ordered-Active Architecture of Heterostructured Fibers for High Electrochemical Capacitance

Differential influences of rest tremor on brain fiber architecture in essential tremor and Parkinson's disease

BackgroundRest tremor is a movement disorder commonly found in diseases like Parkinson's disease (PD) and essential tremor (ET). Rest tremor typically shows slower progression in PD, but more severe progression in ET. However, the underlying white matter organization of rest tremor behind PD and ET remains unclear. MethodsThis study included 57 ET patients (40 without rest tremor (ETWR), 17 with rest tremor (ETRT)), 68 PD patients (34 without rest tremor (PDWR), 34 with rest tremor (PDRT)), and 62 normal controls (NC). Fixel-based analysis was used to evaluate the structural changes of white matter in rest tremor in these different diseases. ResultsThe fiber-bundle cross-section (FC) of the right non-decussating dentato-rubro-thalamic tract and several fibers outside the dentato-rubro-thalamic pathway in ETWR were significantly higher than that in NC. The fiber density and cross-section of the left nigro-pallidal in PDWR is significantly lower than that in NC, while the FC of bilateral nigro-pallidal in PDRT is significantly lower than that in NC. ConclusionET patients with pure action tremor showed over-activation of fiber tracts. However, when superimposed with rest tremor, ET patients no longer exhibited over-activation of fiber tracts, but rather showed a trend of fiber tract damage. Except for the nigro-pallidal degeneration in all PD, PDRT will not experience further deterioration in fiber organization. These results provide important insights into the unique effects of rest tremor on brain fiber architecture in ET and PD.

Single-fiber probes for combined sensing and imaging in biological tissue: recent developments and prospects.

Single-fiber-based sensing and imaging probes enable the co-located and simultaneous observation and measurement (i.e., 'sense' and 'see') of intricate biological processes within deep anatomical structures. This innovation opens new opportunities for investigating complex physiological phenomena and potentially allows more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of disease. This prospective review starts with presenting recent studies of single-fiber-based probes for concurrent and co-located fluorescence-based sensing and imaging. Notwithstanding the successful initial demonstration of integrated sensing and imaging within single-fiber-based miniaturized devices, the realization of these devices with enhanced sensing sensitivity and imaging resolution poses notable challenges. These challenges, in turn, present opportunities for future research, including the design and fabrication of complex lens systems and fiber architectures, the integration of novel materials and other sensing and imaging techniques.

Solubilization of Phospholipid by Surfactin Leading to Lipid Nanodisc and Fibrous Architecture Formation.

Nanodiscs belong to a category of water-soluble lipid bilayer nanoparticles. In vivo nanodisc platforms are useful for studying isolated membrane proteins in their native lipid environment. Thus, the development of a practical method for nanodisc reconstruction has garnered consider-able research interest. This paper reports the self-assembly of a mixture of bio-derived cyclic peptide, surfactin (SF), and l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC). We found that SF induced the solubilization of DMPC multilamellar vesicles to form their nanodiscs, which was confirmed by size-exclusion chromatography, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy analyses. Owing to its amphiphilic nature, the self-assembled structure prevents the exposure of the hydrophobic lipid core to aqueous media, thus embedding ubiquinol (CoQ10) as a hydrophobic model compound within the inner region of the nanodiscs. These results highlight the feasibility of preparing nanodiscs without the need for laborious procedures, thereby showcasing their potential to serve as promising carriers for membrane proteins and various organic compounds. Additionally, the regulated self-assembly of the DMPC/SF mixture led to the formation of fibrous architectures. These results show the potential of this mixture to function as a nanoscale membrane surface for investigating molecular recognition events.

Preparation of Short Collagen Nanofibers for Injectable Hydrogels: Comparative Assessment of Fragmentation Methods, Physicomechanical Properties, and Biocompatibility

AbstractCollagen nanofibers can be employed in hydrogels to create injectable nanocomposite hydrogels, mimicking the fibrous architecture of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). As long continuous electrospun collagen nanofibers are not applicable, fragmentation is inevitable to obtain injectable hydrogels with a fine viscosity. Here, four methods: hand grinding (HG), homogenizer (HM), mixer milling (MM), and ultrasonication (UH) are used to disintegrate and shorten collagen nanofiber mats before incorporation into an injectable hyaluronic acid hydrogel as a matrix. The Length‐to‐diameter (L/d) ratio and morphology of fragmented collagen are compared by SEM. The injection force, mechanical properties, and cell viability of the selected collagen‐incorporated hydrogels are also evaluated. UH emerges as the most effective method, yielding the highest L/d ratio of 46 and a notable compressive modulus of 8.7 ± 0.92 kPa. Assessment of the in vitro cell viability of the encapsulated chondrocytes in the collagen‐incorporated hydrogels demonstrates good biocompatibility, and hydrogels containing UH short nanofiber, in particular, show an increase in cell proliferation. This work indicates how collagen mats can be effectively broken down and combined with injectable hydrogels to enhance both their mechanical behavior and biocompatibility.

Experimental process characterisation for high-volume compression moulding of hybrid-architecture composites

Compression moulding of woven fabric prepreg and sheet moulding compound (SMC) in a single-shot process combines the superior mechanical properties of continuous fibre composites and the high design flexibility of discontinuous fibre composites. This experimental study presents insights into the moulding characteristics of prepreg and SMC and explores the interaction between these two materials during manufacturing of hybrid-architecture composites. All tests were performed under typical compression moulding conditions using a squeeze flow testing rig. The response of each material was interpreted through proposed material models applied to the data acquired from single architecture tests. Critical interaction mechanisms were identified from hybrid architecture tests, alongside some additional deformation mechanisms, such as high level of in-plane fibre tow deformation not observed in single-architecture tests. Novel experimental methods were also introduced to quantify the change in meso-scale fibre architecture in the prepreg induced by the flow of SMC. The outcomes of this study not only shed light on the essential interaction mechanisms of hybrid-architecture composites but also provide valuable insights into deformation mechanisms not apparent in isolated material studies. Ultimately, these findings will facilitate the future development of a numerical simulation model for hybrid moulding processes.

A 6-week randomized-controlled field study: effect of isokinetic eccentric resistance training on strength, flexibility and muscle structure of the shoulder external rotators in male junior handball players.

Background: Team handball involves a tremendous amount of shoulder motion with high forces during repeated extended external range of motion. This causes shoulder complaints and overuse injuries. While eccentric training for the lower extremity shows preventive effects by improving strength, range of motion and fascicle length, there is a research gap for the shoulder joint and for advanced tissue characterization using diffusion tensor imaging. Objectives: To investigate the effects of 6-week eccentric isokinetic resistance training on strength, flexibility, and fiber architecture characteristics of the external rotators compared to an active control group in junior male handball players. Methods: 15 subjects were randomly assigned to the eccentric training group and 14 subjects to the active control group (conventional preventive training). Primary outcome measures were eccentric and concentric isokinetic strength of the external rotators, range of motion, and muscle fascicle length and fascicle volume. Results: The intervention group, showed significant changes in eccentric strength (+15%). The supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles showed significant increases in fascicle length (+13% and +8%), and in fractional anisotropy (+9% and +6%), which were significantly different from the control group. Conclusion: Eccentric isokinetic training has a significant effect on the function and macroscopic structure of the shoulder external rotators in male junior handball players. While strength parameters and muscle structure improved, range of motion did not change. This research helps understanding the physiology of muscle and the role of eccentric training on shoulder function and muscle structure. Furthermore, DTI was found to be a promising tool for advanced tissue characterization, and the in vivo derived data can also serve as model input variables and as a possibility to extend existing ex-vivo muscle models. Future research is needed for functional and structural changes following convenient eccentric field exercises.

Composite Plate Optimization: Integrating Analysis Techniques and Design Iterations for Enhanced Mechanical Performance

This essay delves into the comprehensive analysis of composite plate behavior under various loading conditions, focusing on uniaxial loading and the effects of layup design on safety factors. Through a comparative study between Classical Laminate Plate Theory (CLPT) calculations and Finite Element (FE) analysis, discrepancies in stress and strain predictions are identified, attributing them to assumptions made in each method. Furthermore, the essay explores failure prediction using Tsai-Wu criteria and Maximum Stress theory, determining the safety of laminates under different loading scenarios. Additionally, Finite Element analysis is employed to assess the impact of layup design variations on safety factors, leading to recommendations for optimized designs. The limitations of FE models compared to physical tests are discussed, along with alternative approaches such as advanced manufacturing techniques and novel fiber architectures to further enhance safety factors and alter failure modes.

The impact of measurement technique and sampling on estimates of skeletal muscle fibre architecture.

Skeletal muscle fibre architecture provides important insights into performance of vertebrate locomotor and feeding behaviours. Chemical digestion and in situ sectioning of muscle bellies along their lengths to expose fibres, fibre orientation and intramuscular tendon, are two classical methods for estimating architectural variables such as fibre length (Lf) and physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA). It has recently been proposed that Lf estimates are systematically shorter and hence less accurate using in situ sectioning. Here we addressed this hypothesis by comparing Lf estimates between the two methods for the superficial masseter and temporalis muscles in a sample of strepsirrhine and platyrrhine primates. Means or single-specimen Lf estimates using chemical digestion were greater in 17/32 comparisons (53.13%), indicating the probability of achieving longer fibres using chemical digestion is no greater than chance in these taxonomic samples. We further explored the impact of sampling on scaling of Lf and PCSA in platyrrhines applying a bootstrapping approach. We found that sampling-both numbers of individuals within species and representation of species across the clade significantly influence scaling results of Lf and PCSA in platyrrhines. We show that intraspecific and clade sampling strategies can account for differences between previously published platyrrhine scaling studies. We suggest that differences in these two methodological approaches to assessing muscle architecture are relatively less consequential when estimating Lf and PCSA for comparative studies, whereas achieving more reliable estimates within species through larger samples and representation of the full clade space are important considerations in comparative studies of fibre architecture and scaling.

Effect of CVI-induced porosity on elastic properties and mechanical behaviour of 2.5D and 3D Cf/SiC composites with multilayered interphase

The effect of CVI-induced porosity on mechanical behaviour of Cf/SiC composites possessing 2.5D (woven) and 3D (NOOBed) architectures with multilayered (PyC/SiC)n=4 interphase has been investigated. X-ray computed micro-tomography has shown that inter-bundle and inter-fibre pore distribution is influenced by fibre architecture. Elastic constants measured by ultrasound phase spectroscopy have revealed greater anisotropy in 2.5D Cf/SiC composite than 3D Cf/SiC composite. Owing to negligible Cf fraction and flattened inter-bundle pores distributed in thickness direction of 2.5D Cf/SiC composite, the elastic constant, C11 (∼15±0.03 GPa) is <1/6th of C22 and C33 obtained along fibre directions. Despite the flexural strength of 2.5D Cf/SiC composite (∼335±8 MPa) being ∼24% higher than 3D Cf/SiC composite, a more equitable distribution of Cf along three mutually orthogonal directions leads to higher fracture toughness of 3D Cf/SiC composites (∼19±1 MPa-m1/2) and greater damage tolerance. Porosity distributions having influence on crack paths, also affect both strength and fracture behaviour.

Influence of the Textile Reinforcement on the Joint Formation of Pin-Joined Composite/Metal Parts

AbstractHybrid components consisting of continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic (CFRT) and steel components exhibit promising potential in advanced lightweight construction. However, the joining operation presents a significant challenge due to the materials’ distinct physical and chemical properties. This paper studies a joining method in which dual pin arrays protruding from the surface of the metal component are inserted into the locally heated CFRT component to create a form-fitting joint. The primary objective is to scrutinize the influence of various CFRT materials on joint formation and quantify the resulting properties. The fiber type (glass and carbon) and fiber architecture (unidirectional and bidirectional reinforcement) are varied. All materials could successfully be joined via the direct pin pressing process, while depending on the CFRT material, distinct characteristic fiber morphologies could be identified. Bidirectionally reinforced carbon fiber reinforced samples showed the highest overall strength, while unidirectionally glass fiber reinforced samples showed the highest energy absorption and second highest ultimate strength.

A novel core-shell C/SiC bolt prepared by chemical vapor infiltration and its fiber strengthening mechanisms

Integrated manufacturing techniques have been extensively utilized to assemble thermal structural components made of continuous fiber reinforced silicon carbide composites (C/SiC) to fabricate large and complex components. The mechanical joint, always in terms of C/SiC bolts, become the weakest link in the components. Laminated C/SiC bolts have been invented to meet the requirements of the high temperature applications. Due to the low shear strengths of C/SiC, the threads are prone to be damaged. In order to fully employ the high tensile strength of carbon fibers, core-shell C/SiC bolt is proposed with the shell prepared by woven fiber architecture. Uniform circumferential microstructure of the threaded teeth has been obtained and the corresponding strength has been improved through fiber bridging mechanism. The results shows that the thread pull-off strength is 17.96% greater than that of the laminated thread tooth, and the stud tensile strength is slightly improved up to 2.96%. The stud shear strength is enhanced by 45.29% and 46.88% with unidirectional C/SiC rod and ZrO2 ceramic rod, respectively. The improvements are mainly caused by the fiber tension-shear coupling effects. Especially the introduction of unidirectional C/SiC rod improves the shear strength of the bolts by fully utilizing the fiber strengthening mechanisms under in-plane shear loading.