Small Fragments Research Articles

Twenty Years of Graphene: From Pristine to Chemically Engineered Nano-Sized Flakes.

It is a celebratory moment for graphene! This year marks the 20th anniversary of the discovery of this amazing material by Geim and Novoselov. Curiously, it coincides with the century mark of graphite's layered structure discovery. Since the discovery of graphene with the promise that its outstanding properties would change the world, society often wonders where is graphene? In this context, their discoverers said in 2005, "despite the reigning optimism about graphene-based electronics, "graphenium" microprocessors are unlikely to appear for the next 20 years". Today, possibilities for graphene are endless! It can be used in electronics, photonics, fuel cells, energy storage, artificial intelligence, biomedicine, and even cultural heritage or sports. Additionally, the electronic properties of this material have been modified in fascinating ways. Bilayer graphene sheets have been found to be superconductive when twisted at a "magic angle", leading to a new and exciting field of research known as "moiré quantum materials" or "twistronics". Additionally, small graphene fragments with nanometer sizes undergo a quantum confinement effect of electrons, affording semiconductive materials with applications in optoelectronics. Organic synthesis allows the preparation of molecules with a graphene-like pattern with total control of the shape and size, exhibiting a big catalog of chiroptical and optoelectronic properties. This Perspective shows some of the fascinating milestones raised in the field of graphene-like materials from a chemical point of view, including functionalization strategies employed to chemically modify the topology and the properties of pristine graphene as well as the rising molecular graphenes.

VS 09 - HPB Laparoscopic Trans-Cystic Bile Duct Exploration is Safe and Feasible even after previous Cholecystectomy

Abstract Background Laparoscopic trans-cystic bile duct exploration is well know to have less comorbidity that conventional trans-ductal approach. A 56-year-old female underwent emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy in 2019 for cholecystitis. Subsequently treated conservatively for ascending cholangitis due to large stone in the bile duct on MRCP. She underwent two unsuccessful ERCPs due to anatomical challenges; large hiatus hernia and duodenal diverticulum. The MDT determined bile duct exploration was necessary as no endoscopic options remained. After assessing previous imaging, laparoscopic trans-cystic exploration was chosen to minimise complications. This video highlights the feasibility of laparoscopic trans-cystic CBD post-cholecystectomy. Method Standard four-port technique with 10mm, 30-degree laparoscope. Blunt, sharp, energised and hydro-dissection were employed. Indocyanaine green(ICG) helped identify the bile duct(CBD) and the cystic duct(CD) stump. CD was dissected from the gallbladder bed and opened for a cholangiogram; confirming a large stone in the distal bile duct. A 3.5 mm choledochoscope with electrohydraulic lithotripsy(EHL) was used to explore the bile duct and fragment the stone for extraction. Remaining small fragments were flushed into the duodenum after 20mg buscopan intravenously. Final cholangioscopy and cholangiogram through the choledochoscope showed clear ducts with good flow into the duodenum. Results The patient was started on IV antibiotics due to pyrexia on the first night of admission. The abdominal drain was removed after 48 hours, and the patient was discharged on day three to complete a five-day course of antibiotics. Nine months post-operatively, she presented with a 3x5x7.5 cm sub-hepatic abscess, requiring interventional radiology (IR) drainage and a six-week course of antibiotics. The drain was removed after a follow-up CT scan three weeks post-drainage showed resolution. There have been no further episodes of cholangitis, and she has returned to her baseline quality of life. Conclusion This case shows laparoscopic trans-cystic approach remains viable post-cholecystectomy. Advanced imaging and tools including 3.5mm choledochoscope and EHL aid safer surgery with reduced morbidity, shorter stays and faster recovery. Antibiotics may be necessary for cases with longstanding bile duct stones. Furthermore, this case highlights the importance of intraoperative cholangiography and bile duct exploration. The patient had an MRCP in 2019 that showed no bile duct stones but a dilated CBD associated with deranged LFTs. This suggests that her journey might have been less complicated if a cholangiogram had been performed during the initial laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Edge Influence in a Semi‐Deciduous Tropical Forest: An Investigation of Soil Organic Carbon Fractions

ABSTRACTRecent studies have proven the sensitivity of soil organic carbon (SOC) in responding to variations imposed by tropical forest fragmentation, which may reflect changes in both its quantity and quality. Despite this, studies evaluating soil carbon fractions as an edge effect indicator are still non‐existent. We developed this work asking: How do the oxidizable fractions of soil organic carbon (OFSOC) respond to the edge effect in fragments of semi‐deciduous seasonal forest? Is this response influenced by the size of the forest fragment? The study was conducted in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil, in three forest fragments with different sizes. Thus, three sampling sections were defined in each fragment: edge (0–10 m), transition (40–50 m), and interior. Soil samples were collected at a depth of 0–10 cm. The SOC was divided into three fractions (LC—labile carbon, MLC—moderately labile carbon, and LLC—low labile carbon), adopting the chemical method based on oxidation degrees. Reductions in the SOC (28.2%), LC (17.4%), and MLC content (66.7%) were observed at the edge in the small fragment. There was a reduction of SOC (21.3%) and LLC (39.0%) at the edge in the medium fragment, while MLC showed an increase at the edge (70.4%). The OFSOC were able to respond to the changes imposed by the edge effect, with emphasis on the LC and MLC fractions in smaller fragments. The forest fragment size influenced the level of changes caused by the edge effect in OFSOC, showing greater susceptibility in smaller fragments.

TMOD-15. TOWARD BRAIN CANCER ORGANOID-INFORMED PRECISION MEDICINE FOR GLIOBLASTOMA

Abstract BACKGROUND Improved preclinical models for glioblastoma are urgently needed to enhance the translation of research to clinical applications. Patient-Derived Tumor Organoids (PDTOs) offer a promising model that can be generated quickly. Here we explored their feasibility. METHODS Primary (n=16) and recurrent (n=2) PDTOs were established using the method described in Jacob et al. Cell. 2020 by dissecting tumours into small fragments, preserving their cytoarchitecture. Histological features of the parent tumour were compared to the matched PDTOs by a neuropathologist. To assess the molecular fidelity, comprehensive whole genome sequencing compared matched tumor tissue, PDTOs, and corresponding normal blood samples (n=11), along with RNA sequencing of matched tumor tissue and PDTOs (n=10). We assessed PDTO responses to regorafenib (n=18) and conventional TMZ (n=9), lomustine (n=9) and 10 Gy of ionizing radiation (IR) (n=6) using the automated imaging system IncuCyte S3® to evaluate whole spheroid brightfield and invasion areas following drug/IR treatment and assess viability. RESULTS We achieved a 100% establishment rate of primary GBMs using same-day procedures and an 80% rate if held under 3 days. Histological features were retained in the PDTO. Molecular overlap was greater than 90%, along with a high concordance in gene expression. PDTOs exhibited notable resistance to temozolomide and lomustine, however, showed a very modest response to IR and a moderate response to regorafenib. IncuCyte S3® analysis revealed discernible changes in whole spheroid brightfield and invasion area for regorafenib-treated PDTOs. Clinically relevant concentrations of regorafenib reduced GBM cell proliferation (Ki67 staining). Beyond this concentration, regorafenib exhibited efficacy in eliminating GBM cells. CONCLUSION PDTOs recapitulate the molecular and histological features of the original tumor and may enable the prediction of individual patient responses to therapies and guide more effective treatment selection. We are now applying our established methodology to assess a new set of promising drug candidates.

Cryophysiology of coral microfragments: effects of chilling and cryoprotectant toxicity.

Coral reefs are being degraded at alarming rates and decisive intervention actions are urgently needed. One such intervention is coral cryopreservation. Although the cryopreservation of coral sperm and larvae has been achieved, preservation of coral fragments including both its tissue and skeleton, has not. The overarching aim of this study was to understand and assess the physiological stressors that might underlie coral fragment cryopreservation, understand the long-term consequences of these exposures to continued growth, and develop a health metrics scale for future research. Therefore, we assessed small fragments (~1 cm2) from the Hawaiian coral, Porites compressa, examining: (1) chill sensitivity; (2) chemical sensitivity to complex cryoprotectants; (3) methods to safely remove algal symbionts of coral for cryopreservation; (4) continued growth over time of coral fragments exposed to chilling and cryoprotectants; and (5) assessment of health and viability of coral fragments post the applied treatments. Corals were able to withstand chilling to 0 °C for 1 min and after 2 weeks were not significantly different from the live controls, whereas, corals exposed to complex cryoprotectants needed 3 weeks of recovery. Most importantly, it appears that once the coral fragments had surpassed this initial recovery, there was no difference in subsequent growth. Technological advances in cryo-technology promise to support successful coral fragment cryopreservation soon, and its success could help secure much of the genetic and biodiversity of reefs in the next decade.

Landscape structure influences the eukaryome of a folivorous-frugivorous primate

ABSTRACT Eukaryotes are important components of primate gut communities. Despite their role in the diversity and structure of the gut ecosystem, microbiome research has focused on the prokaryotic component of the gut community. While gut bacteria are shaped by host phylogeny and diet, these factors are known to have negligible effects on eukaryotic diversity, which is expected to be modulated by the characteristics of the habitat. We assess the influence of landscape composition and configuration on the eukaryome of black and gold howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya). We collected fecal samples from 10 independent social groups inhabiting small forest fragments or orchards enriched with native tree species and applied an 18S rRNA gene fragment metabarcoding approach to describe their eukaryotic communities. We used generalized linear models to assess the power of landscape metrics in predicting the richness, diversity, evenness, and phylogenetic diversity of the eukaryome. Most communities were dominated by Ascomycota, and it is likely that many of the reads had an environmental origin. Forest cover affected eukaryome richness positively and patch density showed a positive relationship with the Simpson’s diversity and Pielou’s evenness indexes. Howler monkeys living in landscapes with lower habitat coverage had a lower eukaryotic alpha-diversity in the fecal microbiome.

Valorizing sardine scales: a circular approach to sustainable collagen for cosmetics and nutrition applications

Background and ObjectiveIn recent years, the consumption of fish products has led to a worrying trend where approximately two-thirds of the total amount of fish is discarded as waste. At the same time, scientific interest in exploring natural collagen sources for cosmetics and dietary supplements has increased. This study explores the potential of valorizing sardine scales (Sardina pilchardus), a by-product of the canning industry, through the extraction of collagen for potential use in dermocosmetic formulations and food supplements.MethodsCollagen from sardine scales was obtained though acid and enzymatic extraction. The collagen extracts were characterized by UV-Vis, FTIR spectroscopy, SDS-PAGE, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The collagen was hydrolysed with papain to small peptides. Subsequently, the biological activities of acid-soluble collagen as well as the collagen peptides in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial activity were evaluated. Furthermore, the capacity of collagen peptides to permeate the intestinal barrier, simulated with caco-2 cells, was evaluated.ResultsPurified collagen extracts were obtained from sardine scales, with enzymatic extraction method having a yield three times higher than the acid method. The SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed the extraction of type I collagen as well as its hydrolysis into small fragments (25–12 kDa). In terms of biological activities, collagen and collagen peptides have not demonstrated antimicrobial activity. However, regarding antioxidant activity, collagen peptides showed three times more capacity compared to non-hydrolyzed collagen. Meanwhile, in 6 h, about 6.37% of collagen peptides could permeate the intestinal barrier.ConclusionThis work represents a continuous effort to advance our understanding and utilization of Portuguese marine waste resources, with focus on the valorization of sardine co-products for the development of food supplement or cosmetic formulations, contributing to the sustainable evolution of the circular blue economy.

Novel hook plate for radial semilunar lip facet fragment fixation: a finite element analysis

Intra-articular fractures of the distal radius require anatomical reduction and stable fixation. When the fracture encompasses the articular facet of the bone, maintaining the reduction is challenging due to the fragment’s size and high instability. While specific implants have been developed to fix this fragment, their effectives have been limited. This study evaluates the mechanical performance of a novel hook plate conceived to stabilize the small fragment of the semilunar facet of the radius in non-osteoporotic bones. A simulated lunate facet fracture was created in an adult radius in a virtual model, and a modification of a hook plate was developed using computer-aided design (CAD). Two groups were established for the finite element method (FEM) simulation: a control group (standard plate Medartis™ (Switzerland, A-5500.23) and an angled plate with hooks set at 60º, 90º and 120º. In the FEM simulation, an axial load of 100 N was applied in the Z-axis direction on the fragment. Fracture displacement along the Z axis was more pronounced in the control model (0.32 mm) and less in the angled models, ranging from 0.22 to 0.28 mm. Notably, the plate with a 90° angle showed a more effective reduction in fragment displacement. The distribution of stresses in the system showed the highest levels of stress in the control group (59.31 MPa), followed by the subgroup with a 60° angle (55.78 MPa).In the side view, the control model showed a higher concentration of stresses (59.74 MPa), while the model with a 90° angle showed a lower value of stresses (18.87 MPa). Critical stress regions were identified in the bolts of the control and 120° models (59.47 MPa and 57.64 MPa, respectively). However, in the 90° model, no critical regions were observed in the bolts, which showed lower stress values, reaching 26.33 MPa. In the bone, the greatest concentration of stress occurred in the region where the plate was anchored. Our results showed that the 90° hook plate had a superior mechanical performance in fixing simulate lunate facet fractures at the distal radius. This angle led to minor displacements and minimized stress concentrations in the hardware, thus contributing to enhance the stability of this specific fracture.

Natural history of a newly developed calcified nodule: incidence, predictors, and clinical outcomes.

Calcified nodules (CNs) are an increasingly important, high-risk lesion subset. We sought to identify the emergence of new CNs and the relation between underlying plaque characteristics and new CN development. Patients who had undergone two optical coherence tomography (OCT) studies that imaged the same untreated calcified lesion at baseline and follow-up were included. New CNs were an accumulation of small calcium fragments at follow-up that were not present at baseline. Cardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI), or clinically driven revascularisation related to OCT-imaged, but untreated, calcified lesions were then evaluated. Among 372 untreated calcified lesions, with a median of 1.5 (first and third quartiles: 0.7-2.9) years between baseline and follow-up OCTs, new CNs were observed in 7.0% (26/372) of lesions at follow-up. Attenuated calcium representing residual lipid (odds ratio [OR] 3.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15-9.98; p=0.03); log10 calcium volume index (length×maximum arc×maximum thickness; OR 2.76, 95% CI: 1.10-6.95; p=0.03); angiographic Δangle between systole and diastole, per 10° (OR 2.30, 95% CI: 1.25-4.22; p=0.01); and time since baseline OCT, per year (OR 1.36, 95% CI: 1.05-1.75; p=0.02) were all associated with new CN development. Clinical events were revascularisation and/or MI and were more frequent in lesions with versus without a new CN (29.3% vs 15.3%; p=0.04). New CNs developed in untreated, lipid-containing, severely calcified lesions with a larger angiographic hinge motion (between systole and diastole), compared with lesions without CNs, and were associated with worse clinical outcomes.

Comparison of elective implant removal and complication rates between mini and small fragment implants for lateral malleolar fixation

IntroductionImplant removal after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of ankle fractures is common. Mini-fragment implants have gained popularity for their smaller size, with studies showing similar load to failure to small-fragment implants. We hypothesized mini-fragment implant use for ORIF of the distal fibula is associated with a lower implant removal rate and without an increase in implant failure. MethodsIn this retrospective review study at two level-one trauma centers, adult patients (>18 years) with a lateral malleolar or bimalleolar fracture were included. Chart review was performed to determine if patients received ORIF of the distal fibula with mini-fragment implants or small-fragment implants. The primary outcome was elective implant removal of the fibular plate. Secondary outcomes included complications requiring reoperation. ResultsFive-hundred and five patients were included with a mean age of 50.6 ± 17.8 years old with a mean follow-up of was 75.7 ± 61.0 weeks. Sixty patients (11.9 %) received mini-fragment fixation. The rate of elective distal fibula implant removal for the mini-fragment group was 8.3 % (5 of 60) compared to 10.8 % (48 of 445) in the small-fragment group (p = .66). The complication rate was 6.7 % (4 of 60) for the mini fragment group versus 6.5 % (29 of 445) for the small fragment group (p = 1.00). Logistic regression demonstrated that each additional week of follow-up increased the implant removal rate with the observed odd ratio (OR) of 1.007 (95 % CI 1.002–1.012). ConclusionElective implant removal rates and complications requiring reoperation were similar between mini-fragment and small-fragment fixation of distal fibula fractures. The hypothetical benefit of low-profile mini-fragment implants should be balanced with the higher implant cost.

Evaluation of an anthropometric head surrogate exposed to chisel-nosed fragment simulating projectile impact

Fragment-induced penetrating injuries pose a significant threat in modern combat. Explosions from explosive devices generate metallic fragments that can lethally penetrate various body regions, with the head being particularly most vulnerable to fatality in terms of penetration. Hence, understanding the head’s response to fragment impact is crucial. To this end, this study investigated the ballistic response of an anatomically accurate anthropometric head surrogate to fragment impact. The head surrogate comprised simulants for the three major layers of the head (skin, skull, and brain). Using a pneumatic gas gun, we impacted chisel-nosed fragment simulating projectiles (FSPs) of 1.10-g and 2.79-g on the head surrogate. We analyzed the ballistic response of the head surrogate in terms of ballistic limit velocities (V50), energy densities (E50/A), and failure mechanisms in each layer. The results indicated sensitivity to the FSP size. The 1.10-g FSP had a ∼41% higher V50 and a ∼63% higher E50/A compared to the 2.79-g FSP. Additionally, each head surrogate layer exhibited distinct failure mechanisms. The skin simulant failed due to a combination of shearing and elastic hole enlargement, forming a cavity smaller than the size of the FSP. The skull simulant fractured, creating a cavity at the entry point matching the FSP size. The brain simulant failure involved shearing of the cavity and penetration of fractured skull fragments. We also observed no significant difference in response when introducing a flexible neck attachment on which the head surrogate was mounted. Furthermore, comparisons of an anthropometric (close-shape) head surrogate with a simplified open-shaped head surrogate revealed the minimal influence of the head curvature on the response due to the localized nature of fragment penetration. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the head surrogate’s mechanical response to fragment impact. The insights from this work hold significant value in the assessment of penetrating head injury, especially against small fragments. The results can be applied in modern warhead design and forensic investigations.

Challenges of Applying Circular Economy in Agricultural Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Kurdistan Province, Iran

Current production and distribution models in agriculture primarily operate based on the 'linear economy' approach. This means that after the exploitation of natural resources and the production of the final product, a significant portion of these resources and products, now contaminated or turned into waste, exit the economic cycle. The circular economy approach in agriculture seeks to reuse waste products and depleted inputs, thereby reducing the intensity of resource exploitation and taking a step towards sustainable agriculture. However, applying circular economy concepts in agriculture across different regions, especially in developing countries like Iran, can encounter various obstacles and challenges. The present study aims to identify and analyze these obstacles and challenges in the agriculture sector of Kurdistan Province, one of Iran’s key agricultural regions. For this purpose, after reviewing the literature and gathering expert opinions from the province's agrarian elites, 16 challenging factors were identified as potential barriers to expanding the circular economy in Kurdistan Province. These were examined and analyzed using the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) approach. The required data were collected via a questionnaire in the spring of 2024. The research findings indicate that among the 16 factors analyzed, the key variables are the second, first, and third factors—namely, the illiteracy and low literacy rates among farmers, traditional and subsistence farming, and the small size and fragmentation of agricultural lands in Kurdistan Province. According to the experts and specialists interviewed, addressing these variables can significantly influence others, reducing the barriers and challenges facing the circular agricultural economy and the sustainable development of agriculture in Kurdistan Province.

Identification of an ArgR-controlled promoter within the outermost region of the IS10R mobile element.

Mobile genetic elements are small DNA fragments that can relocate within the genome, causing either gene inactivation or enhanced gene expression. Our research identified a new functional promoter and mRNA translation region within the IS10R element, which is part of the widely distributed Tn10 transposon. We found that the global regulators ArgR and IHF control the activity of this promoter. Additionally, insertion of this mini-Tn10 derivative into the barA gene resulted in the expression of a truncated but constitutive active form of the BarA sensor kinase. Overall, our work sheds light on how mobile genetic elements could impact the physiology and virulence of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria.

Dose and time dependent morphodynamic changes in the ovary of nano-nickel treated rats A SEM study

AimsPresent study demonstrates dose and time dependent effects of NiONPs (<30 nm) on the ovaries of Wistar rat. MethodsFemale rats were gavaged NiONPs or NiOMPs (5 mg/kg b.w.) for 24 h, 15 days and 30 days, euthanized and ovaries thus removed were analyzed for nickel bioaconcentration and processed for scanning electron microscopy. Serum samples were analyzed to compare the effects of nickel nano & microparticles on progesterone and estradiol values. ResultsResults confirmed the bioaccumulation of Ni in ovarian tissue. Its concentration was higher in NiONPs treated rats than NiOMPs treated rats. Progesterone level increased whereas estradiol values decreased in NiONPs and NiOMPs treated rats. SEM results also exhibited dose dependent effects on the morphology of corpoluteal complex. The structural changes varied from formation of blebs to distorted microvilli and germinal epithelium. ConclusionIt is hypothesized that NiONPs/NiOMPs are biodegraded into smaller fragments that conjugate with amino acids and or alter downstream signaling pathways, generate ROS and modulate protein structure activity relationships. Finally, these processes manifest into morphological alterations in the ovary. Biopersistence of nickel in female reproductive system may compromise with fertility and reproductive performance of exposed population.

Dynamics, Monitoring, and Forecasting of Tephra in the Atmosphere

AbstractExplosive volcanic eruptions inject hot mixtures of solid particles (tephra) and gasses into the atmosphere. Entraining ambient air, these mixtures can form plumes rising tens of kilometers until they spread laterally, forming umbrella clouds. While the largest clasts tend to settle in proximity to the volcano, the smallest fragments, commonly referred to as ash (≤2 mm in diameter), can be transported over long distances, forming volcanic clouds. Tephra plumes and clouds pose significant hazards to human society, affecting infrastructure, and human health through deposition on the ground or airborne suspension at low altitudes. Additionally, volcanic clouds are a threat to aviation, during both high‐risk actions such as take‐off and landing and at standard cruising altitudes. The ability to monitor and forecast tephra plumes and clouds is fundamental to mitigate the hazard associated with explosive eruptions. To that end, various monitoring techniques, ranging from ground‐based instruments to sensors on‐board satellites, and forecasting strategies, based on running numerical models to track the position of volcanic clouds, are efficiently employed. However, some limitations still exist, mainly due to the high unpredictability and variability of explosive eruptions, as well as the multiphase and complex nature of volcanic plumes. In the next decades, advances in monitoring and computational capabilities are expected to address these limitations and significantly improve the mitigation of the risk associated with tephra plumes and clouds.

Influence of explosive type and constant γ in Mott’s stochastic model on terminal-ballistics parameters of high-explosive warheads using numerical simulations

The research examined the use of numerical simulations for high-explosive (HE) munitions. Lagrange and Euler solvers from Ansys Autodyn, whose brief theoretical synopsis is given, were utilized. Numerical program modeling of materials under dynamic loads (explosives and solid bodies) is also explained. The study also provides a brief summary of relevant research works that address numerical simulations of the fragmentation of HE projectiles (warheads). First, using data from other authors, the numerical model in this paper was effectively validated. The original research in the publication included an evaluation of the influence of explosive type on mass distribution, as well as velocity and the kinetic energy of fragments on cylindrical warheads, along with some recommendations and findings. Results show that ordered by values of initial fragment velocity are explosives: Trinitrotoluen (TNT), H6, Comp. B, Octol, PBX-9404-3, and LX-10-1. Explosives LX-10-1 and PBX-9404-3 showed similar performance because both explosives are HMX-based mixtures, with LX-10-1 having 0.5% more Octogen (HMX). The greatest (fastest) expansion of fragments (for the given time frame of 150 µs) is present in the most potent explosives (LX-10-1 and PBX-9404-3) since they have the largest detonation velocities. In the configurations with stronger explosives (Octol, LX-10-1, PBX-9404-3), the front and rear cover of the cylinder is more fragmented than in the case of weaker explosives. The highest number of fragments is obtained with PBX-9404-3 explosive, 142% higher than using TNT charge. Also, as part of the original research in the paper, an assessment of the influence of the constant γ in Mott’s stochastic fragmentation model on the mass distribution of fragments and their kinetic energy was made. Results indicate that constant γ has the greatest influence on the number of very small fragments, which can be used when calibrating this constant with experimental data. The masses of fragments are relatively uniform (for all γ values) up to the mass group of 50–100 g, above which the most massive fragments are obtained when γ = 5. Most of the fragments have relatively high energy where that is, fragments of mass 0.5–2 g have an average kinetic energy of 470–650 J, while fragments of masses 50–100 g have an average kinetic energy of 50–85 kJ. Described numerical simulations are a valuable tool for HE warhead designers, as they can minimize the time and expense associated with optimizing HE munition design and effectiveness evaluation when used in conjunction with available analytical techniques and experimentation procedures.

Application of Genetic Origin Analysis of Copy Number Variations in Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing.

This study aimed to assess the application of origin analysis of copy number variations (CNVs) in non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and provide a basis for expanding the clinical application of NIPT. We enrolled 35,317 patients who underwent NIPT between January 2019 and March 2023. Genome sequencing of copy number variation (CNV-Seq) analysis was performed using the CNV calling pipeline to identify subchromosomal abnormalities in maternal plasma. Genetic origin was determined by comparing the chimaerism ratio of CNV and the concentration of cell-free foetal DNA (cffDNA). All pregnant women with a high risk of CNV, as indicated by the NIPT, were informed of their genetic origins. Amniocentesis was recommended for detecting the CNVs in foetal chromosomes, and pregnancy outcomes were tracked. A total of 109 pregnancies showed clinically significant positive results for CNV after NIPT, including 65 cases of maternal/foetal (M/F)-CNVs and 44 cases of F-CNVs. The occurrence of M/F-CNVs was independent of age, screening (serological or ultrasound) indications for abnormalities, and mode of pregnancy. The incidence of pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP)-F-CNVs was high in cases where serological screening indicated intermediate, high-risk, or abnormal US findings (p<0.05). In the M/F-CNV group, most of the P/LP-CNVs were small fragments with low penetrance; 55 (84.62%) were less than 5Mb in size, and nine (13.85%) were between 5 and 10Mb. In the F-CNV group, foetal P/LP-CNV was detected in 36 of 42 cases undergoing prenatal diagnosis, and no significant bias was noted in the size distribution of P/LP-F-CNV fragments. The prenatal diagnostic rate and positive predictive value in the F-CNV group were 95.45% and 85.71%, respectively, which were significantly different from those in the M/F group (26.15% and 52.95%), respectively (p<0.05). Genetic origin analysis of CNV can effectively improve adherence to prenatal diagnosis in pregnant women and the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis.

Purification and Characterization of β-Mannanase Derived from Rhizopus microsporus var. rhizopodiformis Expressed in Komagataella phaffii.

The demand for food-grade β-mannanases, ideal for high-temperature baking, is increasing. Using the Komagataella phaffii (P. pastoris) expression system for β-mannanase production, this study aimed to enhance purification methods. We evaluated better conditions for production and purification of β-mannanase (PpRmMan134A) from recombinant P. pastoris X-33, focusing on a higher purity and reducing the production of endogenous secretory proteins in fermentation. By adjusting carbon and nitrogen sources, culture time, and temperature, we controlled cell growth to reduce the production of endogenous secretory proteins. The better-evaluated conditions involved culturing recombinant P. pastoris in 70 mL buffered glycerol complex medium for 24 h at 30 °C, then in modified buffered methanol-complex medium with 0.91% (w/v) methanol, 0.56% (w/v) sorbitol, and 0.48% (w/v) mannitol for another 24 h, which improved the PpRmMan134A yield and reduced endogenous secretory proteins, shortening the fermentation time by 72 h. An affordable purification method using ultrafiltration and salt-out precipitation was utilized. PpRmMan134A showed thermostability up to 100 °C and effectively degraded locust bean gum into smaller fragments, mainly producing mannotriose. In conclusion, with its enhanced purity due to reduced levels of endogenous secretory proteins, purified PpRmMan134A emerges as a promising enzyme for high-temperature baking applications.

Resistance gene Ty-1 restricts TYLCV infection in tomato by increasing RNA silencing

A major antiviral mechanism in plants is mediated by RNA silencing through the action of DICER-like (DCL) proteins, which cleave dsRNA into discrete small RNA fragments, and ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins, which use the small RNAs to target single-stranded RNA. RNA silencing can also be amplified through the action of RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RDRs), which use single stranded RNA to generate dsRNA that in turn is targeted by DCL proteins. As a counter-defense, plant viruses encode viral suppressors of RNA silencing (VSRs) that target different components in the RNA silencing pathway. The tomato Ty-1 gene confers resistance to the DNA virus tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) and has been reported to encode an RDRγ protein. However, the molecular mechanisms by which Ty-1 controls TYLCV infection, including whether Ty-1 is involved in RNA silencing, are unknown. Here, by using a transient expression assay, we have confirmed that Ty-1 shows antiviral activity against TYLCV in Nicotiana benthamiana. Also, in transient expression-based silencing assays, Ty-1 augmented systemic transgene silencing in GFP transgenic N. benthamiana plants. Furthermore, co-expression of Ty-1 or other RDRγ proteins from N. benthamiana or Arabidopsis with various proteins resulted in lower protein expression. These results are consistent with a model wherein Ty-1-mediated resistance to TYLCV is due, at least in part, to an increase in RNA silencing activity.

Young asteroid families as the primary source of meteorites.

Understanding the origin of bright shooting stars and their meteorite samples is among the most ancient of astronomy-related questions, which at larger scales has human consequences1-3. As of today, only approximately6% of meteorite falls have been firmly linked to their sources (Moon, Mars or asteroid (4) Vesta4-6). Here we show that approximately70% of meteorites originate from three recent break-ups of D > 30 km asteroids that occurred 5.8, 7.6 and less than about40 Myr ago. These break-ups, including the well-known Karin family7, took place in the prominent yet old Koronis and Massalia families and are at the origin of the dominance of H and L ordinary chondrites among meteorite falls. These young families are distinguished among all main belt asteroids by having a uniquely high abundance of small fragments. Their size-frequency distribution remained steep for a few tens of millions of years, exceeding temporarily the production of metre-sized fragments by the largest old asteroid families (for example, Flora and Vesta). Supporting evidence includes the existence of associated dust bands8-10, the cosmic-ray exposure ages of H-chondrite meteorites11,12 and the distribution of the pre-atmospheric orbits of meteorites13-15.