bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development Pattern of Toppling Deformation Slopes in Western China
Authors: Li Xingming , Cao Kaiming , Huang Shaoping , Xing Ruiming , Yang Yuanhai
Published: May 2023

Controlled by regional geological background, and affected by human activity and weathering, toppling deformation slopes occur in different regions in China. Based on statistics about domestic toppling deformation slopes and their distribution, the regional geological susceptibility zonation area of toppling deformation slopes was determined. Firstly, a regional geological susceptibility evaluation was conducted according to these toppling deformation slopes, choosing landform, stratigraphic age, seismic intensity and tectonic stress distribution, and the study area was divided into very low, low, medium, high and very high susceptibility areas. Secondly, a geographic position susceptibility evaluation was conducted aimed at different sections of typical rivers in western China and the toppling deformation slopes related to them, and the study area was divided into upstream, midstream and downstream of 11 rivers that were respectively classified into very low, low, high and very high susceptibility areas. Thirdly, based on the results, associations between the toppling deformation factors (lithology, slope height, elevation, horizontal depth and vertical depth) and the distribution of deformation slopes were revealed. Finally, the development regularity was analyzed comprehensively. The results show that the toppling deformation slopes of hydropower projects are more developed in Sichuan, Qinghai and Yunnan provinces of China. With regard to regional geography, besides the Yellow River, both the Lancang River and the Yalong River flow through areas with toppling deformation that are classified as highly susceptible geological zones in all levels. The results of this study can be used as references for site selection plans in hydropower projects.
Deformation Response of a Pipeline to Nearby Deep Foundation Pit Excavation: Numerical Simulations and Field Tests
Authors: Song Zhanping , Wu Youchuan , Zhang Yuwei , Wang Kuisheng , Tian Jiale , Tian Xiaoxu
Published: May 2023

Deep foundation pit excavation (DFPE) for metro stations in soft layers can cause strata deformation, impairing the safety and performance of nearby existing structures. This paper aims to explore the impact of DFPE on an adjacent oil pipeline using numerical simulations and field tests. Using the project of Xinxingcun Station of Tianjin Metro Line 4 in China as a case study, two approaches of layered excavation (LE) and bench excavation (BE) are proposed for DFPE. The deformation induced by the two approaches was analyzed using the FE method. The maximum vertical settlement of the oil pipeline caused by LE was 8.1 mm, compared with the maximum vertical settlement of 12.5 mm caused by BE. In practice, LE was selected as the construction scheme for the DFPE in Xinxingcun Station. Some field measurement work on pipeline deformation was conducted, and the results were in good agreement with the numerical simulation. Lastly, the change pattern in the pipeline-soil gap was studied. The angle of the position with peak gap width increased from 25° to 110°.
Study on Preparation and Processing Properties of Mechano-Chemical Micro-Grinding Tools
Authors: Song Xin , Ke Feifan , Zhu Keyi , Ren Yinghui , Zhou Jiaheng , Li Wei
Published: May 2023

The application of hard and brittle materials such as single-crystal silicon in small parts has expanded sharply, and the requirements for their dimensional accuracy and processing surface quality have been continuously improved. This paper proposes using mechano-chemical micro-grinding tools to process single-crystal silicon, which can realize the high-quality and efficient processing of such tiny parts through mechano-chemical composite action. The microstructure composition of the mechano-chemical micro-grinding tools was designed, the theoretical analysis model of grinding force was established and verified by experiments, and the temperature field distribution during mechano-chemical micro-grinding of single-crystal silicon was simulated and studied, which provided a theoretical basis for mechano-chemical action. Special micro-grinding tools were developed, and mechano-chemical micro-grinding processing tests were carried out. The results show that the coupling synergy of grinding force and grinding temperature improves the chemical activity of the micro-grinding tools, thereby promoting the solid–solid phase chemical reaction of abrasives and additives at the sharp points of the surface of the micro-grinding tools. And when the content of cerium oxide abrasive is 25%, it is more conducive to the solid–solid phase chemical reaction, and calcium oxide can be used as an additive to promote the active agent of solid–solid phase chemical reaction, improve the degree of chemical reaction, and thus improve the removal rate of materials. Soft reactants that are easy to remove are generated on the surface of monocrystalline silicon and are removed by the mechanical friction between the abrasive grain and the surface of the silicon wafer, and finally achieve low-damage processing with a surface roughness of Ra1.332 nm, which is much better than the surface roughness of Ra96.363 nm after diamond abrasive processing.
Response-Surface-Methodology-Based Optimization of High-Quality Salvia hispanica L. Seed Oil Extraction: A Pilot Study
Authors: Saelee Manee , Sivamaruthi Bhagavathi Sundaram , Kesika Periyanaina , Peerajan Sartjin , Tansrisook Chawin , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat , Sittiprapaporn Phakkharawat
Published: May 2023

Chia seeds play an important role in human health and nutrition since they contain dietary fiber, lipids, protein, polyphenolic compounds, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The present study aimed to evaluate the yield and quality of chia seed oil (extracted using the screw press method) in terms of total phenolic content, acid, and peroxide levels. A central composite design was used to optimize the extraction procedure, and the response surface methodology was used to assess the results. The restriction die size of 1 cm, pressing temperature of 53 °C, and no dry heat were the optimal conditions for extracting the desired quality of chia seed oil according to the predicted response surface methodology model. The conditions were evaluated and a 29.47% yield was achieved, with a TPC of 2.20 µg GAE/g of oil, acid content of 0.96 mg KOH/g of oil, and peroxide content of 2.87 mEq/Kg of oil. The extraction process exceeded 45.10 min. Antioxidant activities of 19.21 μg TE/g of oil (ABTS radical scavenging activity), 5.69 μg TE/g of oil (DPPH radical scavenging activity), and 186.68 μg CE/g of oil (nitric oxide free radical scavenging activity) were observed. The fatty acid composition of the chia seed oil samples is also reported herein. We report the optimal conditions for extracting oil from local cultivar chia seeds, thus helping to analyze changes in the composition and impact due to geographical differences in oil quality. The extracted chia seed oil could be utilized for functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical applications.
Solutions for Some Mathematical Physics Problems Issued from Modeling Real Phenomena: Part 1
Authors: Meghea Irina
Published: May 2023

This paper brings together methods to solve and/or characterize solutions of some problems of mathematical physics equations involving p-Laplacian and p-pseudo-Laplacian. Using surjectivity or variational approaches, one may obtain or characterize weak solutions for Dirichlet or Newmann problems for these important operators. This article details three ways to use surjectivity results for a special type of operator involving the duality mapping and a Nemytskii operator, three methods starting from Ekeland’s variational principle and, lastly, one with a generalized variational principle to solve or describe the above-mentioned solutions. The relevance of these operators and the possibility of their involvement in the modeling of an important class of real phenomena determined the author to group these seven procedures together, presented in detail, followed by many applications, accompanied by a general overview of specialty domains. The use of certain variational methods facilitates the complete solution of the problem via appropriate numerical methods and computational algorithms. The exposure of the sequence of theoretical results, together with their demonstration in as much detail as possible has been fulfilled as an opportunity for the complete development of these topics.
Bivariate Discrete Odd Generalized Exponential Generator of Distributions for Count Data: Copula Technique, Mathematical Theory, and Applications
Authors: Al-Essa Laila A. , Eliwa Mohamed S. , Shahen Hend S. , Khalil Amal A. , Alqifari Hana N. , El-Morshedy Mahmoud
Published: May 2023

In this article, a new family of bivariate discrete distributions is proposed based on the copula concept, in the so-called bivariate discrete odd generalized exponential-G family. Some distributional properties, including the joint probability mass function, joint survival function, joint failure rate function, median correlation coefficient, and conditional expectation, are derived. After proposing the general class, one special model of the new bivariate family is discussed in detail. The maximum likelihood approach is utilized to estimate the family parameters. A detailed simulation study is carried out to examine the bias and mean square error of maximum likelihood estimators. Finally, the importance of the new bivariate family is explained by means of two distinctive real data sets in various fields.
Empirical Data Suggest That the Kashmir Musk Deer (Moschus cupreus, Grubb 1982) Is the One Musk Deer Distributed in the Western Himalayas: An Integration of Ecology, Genetics and Geospatial Modelling Approaches
Authors: Sharief Amira , Joshi Bheem Dutt , Kumar Vineet , Singh Hemant , Singh Vinay Kumar , Dar Shahid Ahmad , Graham Catherine , Ramesh Chinnasamy , Quyoom Iyaz , Thakur Mukesh , Sharma Lalit Kumar
Published: May 2023

Insufficient research has been conducted on musk deer species across their distribution range, primarily because of their elusive behaviour and the fact they occupy remote high-altitude habitats in the Himalayas above 2500 m. The available distribution records, primarily derived from ecological studies with limited photographic and indirect evidence, fail to provide comprehensive information on the species distribution. Consequently, uncertainties arise when attempting to determine the presence of specific taxonomic units of musk deer in the Western Himalayas. This lack of knowledge hampers species-oriented conservation efforts, as there need to be more species-specific initiatives focused on monitoring, protecting, and combatting the illegal poaching of musk deer for their valuable musk pods. We used transect surveys (220 trails), camera traps (255 cameras), non-invasive DNA sampling (40 samples), and geospatial modelling (279 occurrence records) to resolve the taxonomic ambiguity, and identify the suitable habitat of musk deer (Moschus spp.) in Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand and the Lahaul–Pangi landscape of Himachal Pradesh. All the captured images and DNA-based identification results confirmed the presence of only Kashmir musk deer (KDM) (Moschus cupreus) in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. The results suggest that KMD inhabit a narrow range of suitable habitats (6.9%) of the entire Western Himalayas. Since all evidence indicates that only KMD are present in the Western Himalayas, we suggest that the presence of other species of musk deer (Alpine musk deer and Himalayan musk deer) was wrongly reported. Therefore, future conservation plans and management strategies must focus only on KMD in the Western Himalayas.
Mitochondrial Diabetes Is Associated with the ND4 G11696A Mutation
Authors: Ding Yu , Zhang Shunrong , Guo Qinxian , Leng Jianhang
Published: May 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common endocrine disorder which remains a large challenge for clinicians. Previous studies have suggested that mitochondrial dysfunction plays an active role in T2DM progression, but a detailed mechanism is still elusive. In the current study, two Han Chinese families with maternally inherited T2DM were evaluated using clinical, genetic, molecular, and biochemical analyses. The mitochondrial genomes were PCR amplified and sequenced. Phylogenetic and bioinformatic analyses were used to assess the potential pathogenicity of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations. Interestingly, the matrilineal relatives of these pedigrees exhibited variable severity of T2DM, in particular, the age at onset of T2DM varied from 26 to 65 years, with an average of 49 years. Sequence analysis revealed the presence of ND4 G11696A mutation, which resulted in the substitution of an isoleucine for valine at amino acid (AA) position 312. Indeed, this mutation was present in homoplasmy only in the maternal lineage, not in other members of these families, as well as 200 controls. Furthermore, the m.C5601T in the tRNAAla and novel m.T5813C in the tRNACys, showing high evolutional conservation, may contribute to the phenotypic expression of ND4 G11696A mutation. In addition, biochemical analysis revealed that cells with ND4 G11696A mutation exhibited higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) productions than the controls. In contrast, the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), ATP, mtDNA copy number (mtDNA-CN), Complex I activity, and NAD+/NADH ratio significantly decreased in cell lines carrying the m.G11696A and tRNA mutations, suggesting that these mutations affected the respiratory chain function and led to mitochondrial dysfunction that was involved in T2DM. Thus, our study broadened the clinical phenotypes of m.G11696A mutation.
Causal Associations between Functional/Structural Connectivity and Stroke: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Wang Yisong , Yang Longtao , Liu Jun
Published: May 2023

Disruption of brain resting-state networks (RSNs) is known to be related to stroke exposure, but determining causality can be difficult in epidemiological studies. We used data on genetic variants associated with the levels of functional (FC) and structural connectivity (SC) within 7 RSNs identified from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis among 24,336 European ancestries. The data for stroke and its subtypes were obtained from the MEGASTROKE consortium, including up to 520,000 participants. We conducted a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the causality relationship between FC and SC within 7 RSNs and stroke and its subtypes. The results showed that lower global mean FC and limbic network FC were associated with a higher risk of any ischemic stroke and small vessel stroke separately. Moreover, ventral attention network FC and default mode network SC have a positive causal relationship with the risk of small vessel stroke and large artery stroke, respectively. In the inverse MR analysis, any stroke and large artery stroke were causally related to dorsal attention network FC and somatomotor FC, respectively. The present study provides genetic support that levels of FC or SC within different RSNs have contrasting causal effects on stroke and its subtypes. Moreover, there is a combination of injury and compensatory physiological processes in brain RSNs following a stroke. Further studies are necessary to validate our results and explain the physiological mechanisms.
Study of Liquid-Based Cytology Using Next-Generation Sequencing as a Liquid Biopsy Application in Patients with Advanced Oncological Disease
Authors: Peña Karla Beatríz , Riu Francesc , Hernandez Anna , Guilarte Carmen , Elizalde-Horcada Marcos , Parada David
Published: May 2023

In patients with advanced cancer, it is necessary to detect driver mutations and genetic arrangements. If a mutation is found, targeted therapy may become an option. However, in most patients with advanced cancer, obtaining material can be challenging, and these determinations must be made based on small biopsies or cytologic samples. We analyzed the ability of liquid-based cytology to determine the mutational status in patients with advanced cancer by next-generation sequencing. We studied cytologic samples from 28 patients between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2022. All samples were processed by next-generation sequencing using the Oncomine® Precision and Comprehensive Assay Panels for Solid Tumors. Eleven male and 17 female patients with a median age of 63.75 years were included. Clinical stage IV was predominant in 21 patients. Eleven patients died, and 17 survived. The DNA and RNA concentrations were 10.53 ng/µL and 13 ng/µL, respectively. Eleven patients showed actionable mutations, and 17 showed other genomic alterations. Liquid-based cytology can be used as a component of liquid biopsy, as it allows the identification of actionable mutations in patients with advanced oncological disease. Our findings expand the utility of liquid biopsy from different body fluids or cell aspirates.
“Holding in Anger” as a Mediator in the Relationship between Attachment Orientations and Borderline Personality Features
Authors: Messina Irene , Spataro Pietro , Sorella Sara , Grecucci Alessandro
Published: May 2023

Insecure attachment and difficulties in regulating anger have both been put forward as possible explanations for emotional dysfunction in borderline personality (BP). This study aimed to test a model according to which the influence of attachment on BP features in a subclinical population is mediated by anger regulation. In a sample of 302 participants, BP features were assessed with the Borderline features scale of the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI-BOR), attachment was measured with the Experiences in Close Relationships-12 (ECR-12), and trait anger and anger regulation were assessed with the State and Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2 (STAXI-2). The results indicated that anger suppression emerged as a significant mediator of the associations between both anxious and avoidant attachment and BP traits, while anger control resulted as a marginal mediator in the association between attachment avoidance and BP. Suppressing anger may reflect different forms of cognitive or behavioural avoidance of anger, which may differ on the basis of attachment orientations. We argue that these results may have important clinical implications: the promotion of anger regulation in BP should be considered a critical treatment goal.
Active for Life after Cancer: Association of Physical Activity with Cancer Patients’ Interpersonal Competence, Quality of Life, and Survival Beliefs
Authors: Liu Ying , Jing Longjun , Liu Yang , Wang Huilin , Yuan Tinggang , Yang Jingyu
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to examine the relationship between physical activity and cancer patients’ survival beliefs and constructed a mediation model involving the mediating effects of interpersonal competence and quality of life. We conducted 252 questionnaire surveys on multiple chat groups for cancer patients using the WeChat software, and assessed physical activity, survival beliefs, interpersonal competence, and quality of life using standard scales. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS. There were positive correlations between physical activity and quality of life (β = 0.393, p < 0.001), physical activity and interpersonal competence (β = 0.385, p < 0.001), interpersonal competence and quality of life (β = 0.455, p < 0.001), and quality of life and survival beliefs (β = 0.478, p < 0.001). In addition, a significant mediating effect between physical activity and survival beliefs was observed between interpersonal competence and quality of life (standardized indirect effect = 0.384, p < 0.001). The study revealed that effective physical activity led to higher interpersonal competence, more excellent quality of life, and improved survival beliefs in cancer patients, and that the association of physical activity with improved survival beliefs was fully mediated through interpersonal competence and quality of life. The findings suggest that the relevant government should increase policy support and publicity to improve cancer patients’ participation in physical activity.
An Approach to In Situ Evaluation of Timber Structures Based on Equalization of Non-Destructive and Mechanical Test Parameters
Authors: Josifovski Andrej , Todorović Nebojša , Milošević Jelena , Veizović Marko , Pantelić Filip , Aškrabić Marina , Vasov Miomir , Rajčić Aleksandar
Published: May 2023

This paper addresses the challenges in evaluating the structural performance of built structures using non-destructive methods and in situ tests. Such an examination of structural properties, without their sampling, is a diagnostic improvement, especially for historical heritage buildings, where it is not allowed to violate their physical integrity. Therefore, the research proposes a non-destructive testing method based on the equalization of the mechanically and non-destructively determined parameters of the strength of built-in timber. The research included three phases: (1) a preliminary examination; (2) a calibration procedure of the non-destructive method, and (3) in situ application of the established non-destructive method. The preliminary examination involved testing specimens using X-rays and ultrasonic waves by directing them, analogous to mechanical testing, in the fibers’ longitudinal, radial, and tangential directions. In the second phase, it was shown that equalizing the parameters of mechanical and non-destructive testing using ultrasound and X-rays of timber was feasible. Furthermore, mechanical calibration was conducted to establish an applicable non-destructive in situ method. Finally, in the third phase, an in situ assessment of timber architectural elements confirms the effectiveness of the suggested non-destructive approach in diagnosing architectural structures.
The Role of MRI and PET/CT in Radiotherapy Target Volume Determination in Gastrointestinal Cancers—Review of the Literature
Authors: Secerov Ermenc Ajra , Segedin Barbara
Published: May 2023

Positron emission tomography with computed tomography (PET/CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could improve accuracy in target volume determination for gastrointestinal cancers. A systematic search of the PubMed database was performed, focusing on studies published within the last 20 years. Articles were considered eligible for the review if they included patients with anal canal, esophageal, rectal or pancreatic cancer, as well as PET/CT or MRI for radiotherapy treatment planning, and if they reported interobserver variability or changes in treatment planning volume due to different imaging modalities or correlation between the imaging modality and histopathologic specimen. The search of the literature retrieved 1396 articles. We retrieved six articles from an additional search of the reference lists of related articles. Forty-one studies were included in the final review. PET/CT seems indispensable for target volume determination of pathological lymph nodes in esophageal and anal canal cancer. MRI seems appropriate for the delineation of primary tumors in the pelvis as rectal and anal canal cancer. Delineation of the target volumes for radiotherapy of pancreatic cancer remains challenging, and additional studies are needed.
Exploring the Expression of the «Dark Matter» of the Genome in Mesothelioma for Potentially Predictive Biomarkers for Prognosis and Immunotherapy
Authors: Felley-Bosco Emanuela
Published: May 2023

Recent high-throughput RNA sequencing technologies have confirmed that a large part of the non-coding genome is transcribed. The priority for further investigations is nevertheless generally given in cancer to coding sequences, due to the obvious interest of finding therapeutic targets. In addition, several RNA-sequencing pipelines eliminate repetitive sequences, which are difficult to analyze. In this review, we shall focus on endogenous retroviruses. These sequences are remnants of ancestral germline infections by exogenous retroviruses. These sequences represent 8% of human genome, meaning four-fold the fraction of the genome encoding for proteins. These sequences are generally mostly repressed in normal adult tissues, but pathological conditions lead to their de-repression. Specific mesothelioma-associated endogenous retrovirus expression and their association to clinical outcome is discussed.
Systems Genomics Reveals microRNA Regulation of ICS Response in Childhood Asthma
Authors: Sharma Rinku , Tiwari Anshul , Kho Alvin T. , Celedón Juan C. , Weiss Scott T. , Tantisira Kelan G. , McGeachie Michael J.
Published: May 2023

Background: Asthmatic patients’ responses to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are variable and difficult to quantify. We have previously defined a Cross-sectional Asthma STEroid Response (CASTER) measure of ICS response. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have shown strong effects on asthma and inflammatory processes. Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify key associations between circulating miRNAs and ICS response in childhood asthma. Methods: Small RNA sequencing in peripheral blood serum from 580 children with asthma on ICS treatment from The Genetics of Asthma in Costa Rica Study (GACRS) was used to identify miRNAs associated with ICS response using generalized linear models. Replication was conducted in children on ICS from the Childhood Asthma Management Program (CAMP) cohort. The association between replicated miRNAs and the transcriptome of lymphoblastoid cell lines in response to a glucocorticoid was assessed. Results: The association study on the GACRS cohort identified 36 miRNAs associated with ICS response at 10% false discovery rate (FDR), three of which (miR-28-5p, miR-339-3p, and miR-432-5p) were in the same direction of effect and significant in the CAMP replication cohort. In addition, in vitro steroid response lymphoblastoid gene expression analysis revealed 22 dexamethasone responsive genes were significantly associated with three replicated miRNAs. Furthermore, Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) revealed a significant association between miR-339-3p and two modules (black and magenta) of genes associated with immune response and inflammation pathways. Conclusion: This study highlighted significant association between circulating miRNAs miR-28-5p, miR-339-3p, and miR-432-5p and ICS response. miR-339-3p may be involved in immune dysregulation, which leads to a poor response to ICS treatment.
Degranulation of Mast Cells as a Target for Drug Development
Authors: Yang Bo-Gie , Kim A-Ram , Lee Dajeong , An Seong Beom , Shim Yaein Amy , Jang Myoung Ho
Published: May 2023

Mast cells act as key effector cells of inflammatory responses through degranulation. Mast cell degranulation is induced by the activation of cell surface receptors, such as FcεRI, MRGPRX2/B2, and P2RX7. Each receptor, except FcεRI, varies in its expression pattern depending on the tissue, which contributes to their differing involvement in inflammatory responses depending on the site of occurrence. Focusing on the mechanism of allergic inflammatory responses by mast cells, this review will describe newly identified mast cell receptors in terms of their involvement in degranulation induction and patterns of tissue-specific expression. In addition, new drugs targeting mast cell degranulation for the treatment of allergy-related diseases will be introduced.
Emotional and Behavioral Problems of Children with ASD—The Lessons That We Learned from the Pandemic
Authors: Stankova Margarita , Kamenski Tsveta , Ivanov Ivan , Mihova Polina
Published: May 2023

The data available for changes in the behavior and emotional state of children with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) in lockdown situations are controversial and scarce. In our research, we compare results before the first COVID-19 lockdown of 21 children with ASD and 21 typically developing children, four to five years of age with those obtained immediately after. The study attempts to answer the question of whether there are changes in the levels of emotional and behavioral problems in children with ASD after the lockdown and how these new living conditions affect some aspects of their functioning. The instruments used for data analysis are the Childhood Autism Spectrum Test (CAST); Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL); Survey on the consequences of COVID-19 on the life and development of the participants. No significant differences in the emotional and behavioral state of the participants were found, except for attention deficit/hyperactivity problems where ASD children showed lower levels after the lockdown. ASD group parents’ answers to the survey pointed towards more positive consequences of staying at home. Some reported they had more time for learning together, communicating, playing, and assisting the learning process through online therapy. As negatives, the parents of ASD children reported low physical activity, increased time with electronic devices, and time spent with the same people. Caregivers of typically developing children agreed that the lockdown had only negative effects. To conclude, for children with ASD in the study, the lockdown period demonstrated that more time spent with parents in structured everyday activities is an opportunity that can lead to positive results in their behavior.
Selective Concurrence of the Long Non-Coding RNA MALAT1 and the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 to Promoter Regions of Active Genes in MCF7 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Arratia Felipe , Fierro Cristopher , Blanco Alejandro , Fuentes Sebastian , Nahuelquen Daniela , Montecino Martin , Rojas Adriana , Aguilar Rodrigo
Published: May 2023

In cancer cells, the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1 has arisen as a key partner for the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), an epigenetic modifier. However, it is unknown whether this partnership occurs genome-wide at the chromatin level, as most of the studies focus on single genes that are usually repressed. Due to the genomic binding properties of both macromolecules, we wondered whether there are binding sites shared by PRC2 and MALAT1. Using public genome-binding datasets for PRC2 and MALAT1 derived from independent ChIP- and CHART-seq experiments performed with the breast cancer cell line MCF7, we searched for regions containing PRC2 and MALAT1 overlapping peaks. Peak calls for each molecule were performed using MACS2 and then overlapping peaks were identified by bedtools intersect. Using this approach, we identified 1293 genomic sites where PRC2 and MALAT1 concur. Interestingly, 54.75% of those sites are within gene promoter regions (<3000 bases from the TSS). These analyses were also linked with the transcription profiles of MCF7 cells, obtained from public RNA-seq data. Hence, it is suggested that MALAT1 and PRC2 can concomitantly bind to promoters of actively-transcribed genes in MCF7 cells. Gene ontology analyses revealed an enrichment of genes related to categories including cancer malignancy and epigenetic regulation. Thus, by re-visiting occupancy and transcriptomic data, we identified a key gene subset controlled by the collaboration of MALAT1 and PRC2.
Galvanic Deposition of Calcium Phosphate/Bioglass Composite Coating on AISI 316L
Authors: Zanca Claudio , Milazzo Alessandro , Campora Simona , Capuana Elisa , Pavia Francesco Carfì , Patella Bernardo , Lopresti Francesco , Brucato Valerio , La Carrubba Vincenzo , Inguanta Rosalinda
Published: May 2023

Calcium phosphate/Bioglass composite coatings on AISI 316L were investigated with regard to their potential role as a beneficial coating for orthopedic implants. These coatings were realized by the galvanic co-deposition of calcium phosphate compounds and Bioglass particles. A different amount of Bioglass 45S5 was used to study its effect on the performance of the composite coatings. The morphology and chemical composition of the coatings were investigated before and after their aging in simulated body fluid. The coatings uniformly covered the AISI 316L substrate and consisted of a brushite and hydroxyapatite mixture. Both phases were detected using X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. Additionally, both analyses revealed that brushite is the primary phase. The presence of Bioglass was verified through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, which showed the presence of a silicon peak. During aging in simulated body fluid, the coating was subject to a dynamic equilibrium of dissolution/reprecipitation with total conversion in only the hydroxyapatite phase. Corrosion tests performed in simulated body fluid at different aging times revealed that the coatings made with 1 g/L of Bioglass performed best. These samples have a corrosion potential of −0.068V vs. Ag/AgCl and a corrosion current density of 8.87 × 10−7 A/cm2. These values are better than those measured for bare AISI 316L (−0.187 V vs. Ag/AgCl and 2.52 × 10−6 A/cm2, respectively) and remained superior to pure steel for all 21 days of aging. This behavior indicated the good protection of the coating against corrosion phenomena, which was further confirmed by the very low concentration of Ni ions (0.076 ppm) released in the aging solution after 21 days of immersion. Furthermore, the absence of cytotoxicity, verified through cell viability assays with MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells, proves the biocompatibility of the coatings.
Wide-Range-Sensing Candle Soot/Elastomer Strain Sensors with High Sensitivity
Authors: Wang Yuan , Xiong Zhong
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, flexible resistive strain sensors attract growing attention owing to their various applications in the fields of electronic skin, human health detection, body motion, etc. Unfortunately, to date, the fabrication of a high-sensitivity soft sensor under a wide-range strain through a simple and cost-competitive approach is still a challenge. In this work, a facile polymer-surface-swelling-adhesion approach was developed to fabricate bilayer candle soot/poly (styrene-b-ethylene-butylene-b-styrene) elastic strain sensors, which obtained a high sensitivity performance at a wide range of strain. When the surface density of candle soot was 0.42 mg/cm2, the gauge factor (GF) values of the sensor were 113, 77, and 177 for various strain ranges of 0%–9%, 9%–60%, and 60%–100%, respectively. The sensor could detect tiny strains such as 0.1% and demonstrated a sensing time of 265 ms at 10% strain. Moreover, after 1000 cyclic loading-unloading at 30% strain, the relative resistance variations remain stable. The sensing mechanism was explained by the tunnel effect for low and medium strain ranges and contact resistance change for the high strain range. As a further step, respiration with a surgical mask, body motion, and road roughness were successfully monitored by using the sensor.
Machine Learning-Based Dynamic Attribute Selection Technique for DDoS Attack Classification in IoT Networks
Authors: Ullah Subhan , Mahmood Zahid , Ali Nabeel , Ahmad Tahir , Buriro Attaullah
Published: May 2023

The exponential growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) has led to the rapid expansion of interconnected systems, which has also increased the vulnerability of IoT devices to security threats such as distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. In this paper, we propose a machine learning pipeline that specifically addresses the issue of DDoS attack detection in IoT networks. Our approach comprises of (i) a processing module to prepare the data for further analysis, (ii) a dynamic attribute selection module that selects the most adaptive and productive features and reduces the training time, and (iii) a classification module to detect DDoS attacks. We evaluate the effectiveness of our approach using the CICI-IDS-2018 dataset and five powerful yet simple machine learning classifiers—Decision Tree (DT), Gaussian Naive Bayes, Logistic Regression (LR), K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), and Random Forest (RF). Our results demonstrate that DT outperforms its counterparts and achieves up to 99.98% accuracy in just 0.18 s of CPU time. Our approach is simple, lightweight, and accurate for detecting DDoS attacks in IoT networks.
Synthesis, Structural and Magnetic Characterization of Superparamagnetic Ni0.3Zn0.7Cr2−xFexO4 Oxides Obtained by Sol-Gel Method
Authors: Mallah Abdulrahman , Al-Thuwayb Fatimah , Khitouni Mohamed , Alsawi Abdulrahman , Suñol Joan-Josep , Greneche Jean-Marc , Almoneef Maha M.
Published: May 2023

The sol-gel process was used to produce ferrite Ni0.3Zn0.7Cr2−xFexO4 compounds with x = 0, 0.4, and 1.6, which were then subsequently calcined at several temperatures up to 1448 K for 48 h in an air atmosphere. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry were used to examine the structure and magnetic characteristics of the produced nanoparticles. A single-phase pure Ni0.3Zn0.7Cr2−xFexO4 nanoparticle had formed. The cubic Fd3¯m spinel structure contained indexes for all diffraction peaks. The crystallite size is a perfect fit for a value of 165 ± 8 nm. Based on the Rietveld analysis and the VSM measurements, the low magnetization Ms of Ni0.3Zn0.7Cr2−xFexO4 samples was explained by the absence of ferromagnetic Ni2+ ions and the occupancy of Zn2+ ions with no magnetic moments in all tetrahedral locations. Moreover, because of the weak interactions between Fe3+ ions in the octahedral locations, the magnetization of the current nanocrystals is low or nonexistent. According to Mössbauer analyses, the complicated hyperfine structures are consistent with a number of different chemical atomic neighbors, such as Ni2+, Zn2+, Cr3+, and Fe3+ species that have various magnetic moments. A Fe-rich neighbor is known to have the highest values of the hyperfine field at Fe sites, while Ni- and Cr-rich neighbors are responsible for the intermediate values and Zn-rich neighbors are responsible for the quadrupolar component.
Microvascular Alteration in COVID-19 Documented by Nailfold Capillaroscopy
Authors: Mondini Lucrezia , Confalonieri Paola , Pozzan Riccardo , Ruggero Luca , Trotta Liliana , Lerda Selene , Hughes Michael , Bellan Mattia , Confalonieri Marco , Ruaro Barbara , Salton Francesco , Tavano Stefano
Published: May 2023

COVID-19 is a multisystemic disease that mainly affects and causes dysregulation of the endothelium, causing systemic manifestations. A nailfold video capillaroscopy is a safe, easy, and noninvasive method to evaluate microcirculation alteration. In this review, we analyzed the literature available to date regarding the object of nailfold video capillaroscopy (NVC) use in patients with a SARS-CoV-2 infection, both in the acute phase and after discharge. The scientific evidence pointed out the main alterations in capillary circulation shown by NVC, so reviewing the findings of each article allowed us to define and analyze the future prospects and needs for possibly including NVC within the management of patients with COVID-19, both during and after the acute phase.
OwlFusion: Depth-Only Onboard Real-Time 3D Reconstruction of Scalable Scenes for Fast-Moving MAV
Authors: Gou Guohua , Wang Xuanhao , Sui Haigang , Wang Sheng , Zhang Hao , Li Jiajie
Published: May 2023

Real-time 3D reconstruction combined with MAVs has garnered significant attention in a variety of fields, including building maintenance, geological exploration, emergency rescue, and cultural heritage protection. While MAVs possess the advantages of speed and lightness, they also exhibit strong image blur and limited computational resources. To address these limitations, this paper presents a novel approach for onboard, depth-only, real-time 3D reconstruction capable of accommodating fast-moving MAVs. Our primary contribution is a dense SLAM system that combines surface hierarchical sparse representation and particle swarm pose optimization. Our system enables the robust tracking of high-speed camera motion and facilitates scaling to large scenes without being constrained by GPU memory resources. Our robust camera tracking framework is capable of accommodating fast camera motions and varying environments solely by relying on depth images. Furthermore, by integrating path planning methods, we explore the capabilities of MAV autonomous mapping in unknown environments with restricted lighting. Our efficient reconstruction system is capable of generating highly dense point clouds with resolutions ranging from 2 mm to 8 mm on surfaces of different complexities at rates approaching 30 Hz, fully onboard a MAV. We evaluate the performance of our method on both datasets and real-world platforms and demonstrate its superior accuracy and efficiency compared to existing methods.
Self-Organization and Genomic Causality in Models of Morphogenesis
Authors: Deichmann Ute
Published: May 2023

The debate about what causes the generation of form and structure in embryological development goes back to antiquity. Most recently, it has focused on the divergent views as to whether the generation of patterns and form in development is a largely self-organized process or is mainly determined by the genome, in particular, complex developmental gene regulatory processes. This paper presents and analyzes pertinent models of pattern formation and form generation in a developing organism in the past and the present, with a special emphasis on Alan Turing’s 1952 reaction–diffusion model. I first draw attention to the fact that Turing’s paper remained, at first, without a noticeable impact on the community of biologists because purely physical–chemical models were unable to explain embryological development and often also simple repetitive patterns. I then show that from the year 2000 and onwards, Turing’s 1952 paper was increasingly cited also by biologists. The model was updated to include gene products and now seemed able to account for the generation of biological patterns, though discrepancies between models and biological reality remained. I then point out Eric Davidson’s successful theory of early embryogenesis based on gene-regulatory network analysis and its mathematical modeling that not only was able to provide a mechanistic and causal explanation for gene regulatory events controlling developmental cell fate specification but, unlike reaction–diffusion models, also addressed the effects of evolution and organisms’ longstanding developmental and species stability. The paper concludes with an outlook on further developments of the gene regulatory network model.
Double Quantification of Template and Network for Palmprint Recognition
Authors: Lin Qizhou , Leng Lu , Kim Cheonshik
Published: May 2023

The outputs of deep hash network (DHN) are binary codes, so DHN has high retrieval efficiency in matching phase and can be used for high-speed palmprint recognition, which is a promising biometric modality. In this paper, the templates and network parameters are both quantized for fast and light-weight palmprint recognition. The parameters of DHN are binarized to compress the network weight and accelerate the speed. To avoid accuracy degradation caused by quantization, mutual information is leveraged to optimize the ambiguity in Hamming space to obtain a tri-valued hash code as a palmprint template. Kleene Logic’s tri-valued Hamming distance measures the dissimilarity between palmprint templates. The ablation experiments are tested on the binarization of the network parameter, and the normalization and trivialization of the deep hash output value. The sufficient experiments conducted on several contact and contactless palmprint datasets confirm the multiple advantages of our method.
Mobile Robot Path Planning Algorithm Based on RRT_Connect
Authors: Zhang Lieping , Shi Xiaoxu , Yi Yameng , Tang Liu , Peng Jiansheng , Zou Jianchu
Published: May 2023

Targeting some problems of the RRT_Connect path planning algorithm, such as average search and low efficiency, proposes an improved RRT_Connect algorithm that may optimize the searched nodes and parts of planned paths. Firstly, an improved RRT_Connect algorithm based on destination and searched node bias strategy is proposed. Secondly, an improved RRT_Connect algorithm is put forward for the optimization of the searched nodes and some planned paths to deal with the problem of low quality reflected in the improved RRT_Connect path planning algorithm, and the optimization for the cost of path planning by figuring out valid new nodes and parent nodes of adjacent nodes within a certain range. On this basis, the path planning algorithm is verified by simulation and actual experiments. It is shown by the experimental results that the improved RRT_Connect algorithm proposed in this paper can not only shorten the time and length of path planning but also decrease the number of search iterations and nodes.
TCAD Modeling of GaN HEMT Output Admittance Dispersion through Trap Rate Equation Green’s Functions
Authors: Catoggio Eva , Donati Guerrieri Simona , Bonani Fabrizio
Published: May 2023

We present a novel and numerically efficient approach to analyse the sensitivity of AC parameters to variations of traps in GaN HEMTs. The approach exploits an in-house TCAD simulator implementing the drift-diffusion model self-consistently coupled with trap rate equations, solved in dynamic conditions with the Harmonic Balance algorithm. The capability of the model is demonstrated studying the low-frequency dispersion of a 150 nm gate-length AlGaN/GaN HEMT output admittance YDD as a function of the trap energy of Fe-induced buffer traps. The real part of YDD exhibits strong frequency dispersion and an important degradation of the output resistance at high frequency. The imaginary part is characterized by a peak at a frequency decreasing with trap energy deeper in the gap, in agreement with experimental data on similar structures. Distributed local sources show that YDD is most sensitive to trap energy variations localized in the buffer region under the gate, peaking under the unsaturated portion of channel towards the source. Trap variations affect the output admittance when localized in depth into the buffer up to a 100 nm distance from the channel.
Revolutionizing Repairability of Industrial Electronics in Oil and Gas Sector: A Mathematical Model for the Index of Repairability (IOR) as a Novel Technique
Authors: Alkouh Ahmad , Keddar Kamel Abderrazak , Alatefi Saad
Published: May 2023

The oil and gas (O&G) field is the most sought-after industry in the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCCs) and holds significant importance in the region’s economy. Therefore, this sector requires various industrial electrical, and electronics equipment (EEE) products to perform multiple tasks throughout the upstream, downstream, and midstream segments. However, as these EEE products approach their end of life (EoL), the sector faces the challenge of managing failed units. As a result, replacing or recycling failed EEE products can contribute to the growing problem of electronic waste (e-waste), which can have severe environmental consequences. In addition, while some EEE products can be repaired or remanufactured with low reliability, many others cannot be fixed due to various technical reasons. This paper’s primary goal is to propose a circular economy strategy and sustainable practices that promote the longevity of industrial EoL electronic products in the O&G sector through remanufacturing. We introduced and implemented a new mathematical score, the Index Of Repairability (IOR), which aims to assess the ease of EEE repairability in the O&G sector and improve their lifespan and durability based on four criteria: design, spare parts availability, software access, and documentation. This novel mathematical metric leverages the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and set theory. Additionally, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can adopt and benefit from this innovative IOR by incorporating eco-design principles and designing more easily repairable industrial products for technicians, thereby reducing the negative impact of e-waste, enhancing stakeholder satisfaction, and minimizing downtime. Furthermore, governmental organizations can implement regulations and incentives to advocate for and mandate the use of the IOR by OEMs, ensuring that the electronics industry prioritizes repairability, remanufacturing, and sustainability.