bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human KRAS Gene May Be Hard to Detect in Quantitative PCR via Probe Detection Chemistry
Authors: Ng Wenfa
Published: June 2023

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is the gold standard approach for detecting a variety of pathogens either via probe-based or SYBR green detection chemistry. Generally, probe-based detection is more specific than SYBR green chemistry. This report describes work done in using a FAM probe targeting a specific segment of the human KRAS gene for detecting presence and relative abundance of the gene in human gastric CloTest samples. Results indicate ineffective detection of the human KRAS gene in samples that are shown to harbor the gene through a similar qPCR assay using SYBR green detection chemistry. Such observations point to inability of the designed FAM probe to bind to target segment of the human KRAS gene that suggests a region of rapid genomic evolution that require close surveillance in the public health community. Given its rapid genomic evolution, this probe region may be an important region in the human KRAS gene playing critical functional roles in either molecular recognition or other structural functions. Overall, human KRAS gene may be undergoing rapid genomic evolution, and qPCR probes targeting specific segment of the gene may be rendered ineffective in short time clinically, thereby, making SYBR green qPCR assay a more reliable choice.
Fiscal Expenditure on People's Livelihood and the Achievement of Regional High-Quality Economic Development Systems: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Guowei , Zhang Liang , Wang Dingqing
Published: June 2023

Existing research lacks studies that explore the impact of government fiscal support on the high-quality development of regional economy and society from the perspective of livelihood-based infrastructure construction. The investigation in this paper explores the economic and social effects of government fiscal support behavior from the perspective of livelihood infrastructure construction. On the basis of the TOPSIS-Entropy Method, this paper constructs an evaluation indicator that closely conforms to the denotation and requirements of high-quality development and then carries out empirical regressions in combination with government expenditure on people's livelihood to verify the theoretical hypothesis, whose transmission mechanism and moderating effect are further empirically tested. The results reveal that increasing government expenditure on people's livelihoods can effectively improve regional high-quality development, but the marginal improvement degree varies with different periods and locations. The mechanism test proves that the regional consumption level plays a significant part in the mediating effect, accounting for 24.27% of the total effect. Urbanization is also the critical impetus for regional high-quality development and positively moderates the promotion effect of people's livelihood fiscal expenditure. Our study presents a theoretical basis and policy inspiration for improving residents' quality of life and welfare level and improving people's livelihood in the midst of high-quality economic development.
Impact of Time Span and Missing Data on the Noise Model Estimation of GNSS Time Series
Authors: Sun Xiwen. , Lu Tieding , Hu Shunqiang , Huang Jiahui. , He Xiaoxing. , Montillet Jean-Philippe , Ma Xiaping , Huang Zhengkai
Published: June 2023

Noise model selection criteria has a significant impact on identifying the stochastic noise proper-ties of any GNSS daily coordinate time series. The low-frequency random walk noise existing in these time series could lead to overestimation of the tectonic rate, so it is of great significance to accurately detect the random walk component. This study focuses on noise model estimation cri-terion (BIC_tp) derived from the AIC and the BIC by introducing 2π factors. It is more sensitive to abnormal steps (random jumps). Using observation data from 72 GNSS stations from 1992 to 2022 and simulated data, four combined noise models are used to explore the impacts of time se-ries lengths (ranging from2 to 24 years) and data loss (between 2% and 30%) on noise models and velocity estimation. The results show that as the time length increased, the selected optimal noise model, and the estimated uncertainty of the tectonic trend with different data gap, gradually con-verge. When the time length is short (less than 8 years), it could lead to the FNRWWN, FNWN, and PLWN models being mistakenly estimated as GGMWN models, thereby affecting the accura-cy of determining the station velocity parameters. When the time length is 12 years, the RW noise component is more probably detected, As the time length increases, the impact of RW on velocity uncertainty is weakened. Finally, we conclude that for a time series with a minimum time length of 12 years, both the selection of the optimal stochastic noise model and the estimation of the ve-locity parameters are reliable.
Gypsogenin Fighting for A Position in The Pentacyclic Triter-penes Game of Thrones on Anti-Cancer Therapy: A Critical Review
Authors: Radwan Mohamed , Abd-Alla Howaida I. , Elmezayen Hatem , Abourehab Mohammed A.S. , El‐Beeh Mohamed E. , Tateishi Hiroshi , Otsuka Masami , Fujita Mikako
Published: June 2023

Abstract: In the last decade, gypsogenin has widely grabbed the attention of medicinal chemists by virtue of its prominent anti-cancer potential. Despite its late identification, gypsogenin proved itself as a new an-ti-proliferative player battling for a front position among other classic pentacyclic triterpenes such as oleanolic acid, glycyrrhetinic acid, ursolic acid, betulinic acid, and celastrol. Herein, we present insights into the anti-cancer activity of gypsogenin and its semisynthetic derivatives and go further by introducing our perspective to judiciously guide the prospect rational design. The present article opens a new venue for better exploitation of gypsogenin chemical entity as a lead compound in cancer chemotherapy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review article exploring the anti-cancer activity of gypsogenin derivatives.
Validation of Lead-DBS β-oscillation Localization with Directional Electrodes
Authors: Boëx Colette , Awadhi Abdullah Al , Tyrand Rémi , Corniola Marco Vincenzo , Kibleur Astrid , Fleury Vanessa , Burkhard Pierre R. , Momjian Shahan
Published: June 2023

The Lead-DBS imaging toolbox reconstructs the location of β-oscillations in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The objective was to compare this probabilistic location with those of intraoperative monopolar β-oscillations (Vercise Cartesia directional electrodes, Boston Scientific). Also, the efficacy of stimulated structures in reducing motor symptoms were analysed. β-oscillations were computed from local field potentials [0.5-3kHz] by using shielded wires for monopolar recordings with an extracranial shielded reference. For each electrode contact, power spectral densities of the β-band [13-31Hz] were compared with those of all eight electrode contacts. The DISTAL, electrophysiological, and DBS target atlases of the Lead-DBS toolbox were applied to the reconstructed electrodes from preoperative MRI and postoperative CT. Thirty-six electrodes (20 patients: 7 female, 13 male; 16/20 both, 4/20 single STN) were analysed. Stimulation sites dorsal and/or lateral to the sensorimotor STN were most efficient. In 33/36 electrodes at least one contact was measured with stronger β-oscillations, 23 in or touching the ventral subpart of the probabilistic volume with β-oscillations, 10 not located in or touching but adjacent to this volume; in 3/36 electrodes, no contact was found with β-oscillations, they were distant from this volume. Monopolar local field potentials confirmed the ventral subpart of the probabilistic β-oscillations.
Dogs Harbor Leishmania braziliensis and Participate in the Transmission Cycle of Human Tegumentary Leishmaniasis
Authors: Lago Jamile , Fraga Deborah , Coelho Lívia , Jesus Matheus Silva de , Leite Bruna , Werneck Guilherme L. , Arruda Sergio , Lago Ednaldo , Carvalho Edgar M. , Bacellar Olivia
Published: June 2023

Dogs play an important role in the transmission of Leishmania infantum but epidemiologic and clinical studies of canine tegumentary leishmaniasis (CTL) are scarce. In an endemic area of human American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis (ATL) caused by Leishmania braziliensis, we determine the prevalence and incidence of both CTL and subclinical (SC) L. braziliensis infection in dogs and evaluated if the presence of dogs with the CTL or the SC L. braziliensis infection is associated with the occurrence of human ATL. SC infection in healthy animals and CTL in animals with ulcers was determined by PCR on biopsied healthy skin or on the ulcer or detecting antibodies against soluble leishmania antigen. We compared the occurrence of human ATL in homes with dogs with CTL or SC infection with control homes without dogs or with dogs without CTL or SC infection. The prevalence of SC infection was 35% and of CTL 31%. The incidence of SC infection in dogs was 4.6% and of CTL was 9.3%. The frequency of ATL in humans was 50% in homes with infected dogs and 13% in homes without L. braziliensis infection in dogs. CTL and SC infection is highly prevalent, and dogs may participate in the transmission chain of L. braziliensis.
Study on Effect of Carburizing on Microstructure and High Temperature Oxidation Properties of Hot Dip Aluminum Coating on Titanium Alloy
Authors: Yang Wenying , Li Faguo
Published: June 2023

Ti-Al alloy phase layer/Ti-Al carburizing composite coating was prepared on the surface of titanium alloy by the stepwise coating method of hot dip aluminization and then carburizing. The weight gain results of the composite coating showed that the titanium alloy coated with the composite coating had long-term stability (≥16 days) at 800oC. The microstructure, phase structure and composition of the composite coating were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).The composite coating is composed of an alloy phase layer and a carburized layer. The natural transition of four phases (Ti3Al/TiAl/TiAl2/TiAl3) in the alloy phase layer, significantly improves the interfacial bonding between the coating and the substrate, and slows down the propagation of microcracks through the coating.Al2O3, TiC and C in the carburizing layer improve the surface hardness of the coating, and TiAl2 and Al2O3 also have excellent oxidation resistance at high temperature.
Long-tailed Image Classification Method Based on Enhanced Contrastive Visual-language
Authors: Song Ying , Li Mengxing , Wang Bo
Published: June 2023

To solve the problem that the common long-tailed classification method does not use the semantic features of the original label text of the image, and the difference between the classification accuracy of most classes and minority classes is large, the long-tailed image classification method based on enhanced contrast visual language trains the head class and tail class samples separately, uses text image to pre-train the information, and uses enhanced momentum contrast loss function and RandAugment enhancement to improve the learning of tail class samples. On the ImageNet-LT long-tailed dataset, the enhanced contrastive visual-language based long-tailed image classification method has improved all class accuracy, tail class accuracy, middle class accuracy, and F1 values by 3.4%, 7.6%, 3.5%, and 11.2%, respectively, compared to the BALLAD method. The difference in accuracy between the head class and tail class is reduced by 1.6% compared to the BALLAD method. The results of three comparative experiments indicate that the long-tailed image classification method based on enhanced contrastive visual-language has improved the performance of tail classes and reduced the accuracy difference between majority and minority classes.
The Hyperbolic Ptolemy’s Theorem in the Poincare Ball Model of Analytic Hyperbolic Geometry
Authors: Ungar Abraham A.
Published: June 2023

Ptolemy’s Theorem in Euclidean geometry, named after the Greek astronomer and mathematician Claudius Ptolemy, is well known. We translate Ptolemy’s Theorem from analytic Euclidean geometry into the Poincar´e ball model of analytic hyperbolic geometry, which is based on M¨obius addition. The translation of Ptolemy’s Theorem from Euclidean geometry into hyperbolic geometry is achieved by means of the hyperbolic trigonometry, called gyrotrigonometry, to which the Poincar´e ball model gives rise, and by means of the duality of trigonometry and gyrotrigonometry.
An Amphipathic Cell-Penetrating Peptide-Aided Delivery of Cas9 RNP for Gene Editing and Correction
Authors: Öktem Mert , De Jong Olivier G. , Mastrobattista Enrico
Published: June 2023

The CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system has enormous potential in the treatment of multiple genetic disorders. To fully harness this potential, it is essential to deliver CRISPR-Cas9 components safely and effectively into the nuclei of target cells. In this study, we tested the amphipathic cell-penetrating peptide LAH5, previously used for DNA delivery, to intracellularly deliver spCas9: sgRNA ribonucleoprotein (RNP) and RNP/single-stranded homology-directed repair (HDR) template. We discovered that the LAH5 peptide effectively formed nanocomplexes with both RNP and RNP/HDR cargo, and that these nanocomplexes were taken up by cells effectively. Peptide/RNP nanocomplexes were characterized for size and charge, and nanocomplexation with RNP and RNP/HDR cargo was demonstrated via an electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Various ratios of peptide/RNP nanocomplexes were functionally screened on fluorescent reporter cell lines for gene editing and HDR-mediated gene correction. Additionally, targeted gene editing of the CCR5 gene was demonstrated in various cell lines. This LAH5-based delivery strategy paves the way for the development of therapeutic delivery systems for CRISPR/Cas-based genomic engineering.
Exhaled Nitric Oxide and Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity Susceptibility
Authors: Fothergill David Mark , Gertner Jeffrey W
Published: June 2023

Individual susceptibility to pulmonary oxygen toxicity (PO2tox) is highly variable and currently lacks a reliable biomarker for predicting pulmonary hyperoxic stress. As nitric oxide (NO) is involved in many respiratory system processes and functions, we aimed to determine if expired nitric oxide (FENO) levels can provide an indication of PO2tox susceptibility in humans. Eight U.S. Navy trained divers volunteered as subjects. The hyperoxic exposures consisted of six- and eight-hour hyperbaric chamber dives conducted on consecutive days in which subjects breathed 100% oxygen at 202.65 kPa. Subjects’ individual variability in pulmonary function and FENO was measured twice daily over five days and compared with their post-dive values to assess susceptibility to PO2tox. Only subjects who showed no decrements in pulmonary function following the six-hour exposure conducted the eight-hour dive. FENO decreased by 55% immediately following the six-hour oxygen exposure (n=8, p<0.0001) and by 63% following the eight-hour exposure (n=4, p<0.0001). Four subjects showed significant decreases in pulmonary function immediately following the six-hour exposure. These subjects had the lowest baseline FENO and the lowest post-dive FENO and had clinical symptoms of PO2tox. Individuals with low FENO were the first to develop PO2tox symptoms and deficits in pulmonary function from the hyperoxic exposures. These data suggest that endogenous levels of NO in the lung may protect against the development of PO2tox.
Vortex Beam in Turbulent Kerr Medium
Authors: Bulygin Andrey D. , Geints Yury E. , Geints Ilia Yu.
Published: June 2023

The dynamics of the topological charge of a vortex optical beam propagating in a turbulent air with accounting for the cubic nonlinearity is theoretically considered. On a number of examples, we show that the optical beam self-focusing manifests itself ambiguously depending on optical wave power. At near-critical values of beam power, self-focusing leads to enhanced spatial localization of optical vortices and substantial suppression of vortex walk-off relative to the beam axis caused by air turbulence. However, with increasing of optical intensity the modulation instability imposed by cubic nonlinearity becomes significant and contributes jointly with medium turbulence to faster divergence of vortex beams.
Microscopic Mechanism of Ultrosonic Vibration Assisted Pressing WC-Co Powder by Simulation
Authors: Chen Yuhang , Xie Junjie , Wang Yun , Huang Lirong , Su Binbin , Yang Youwen
Published: June 2023

The ultrasonic vibration assisted pressing process can improve the fluidity, the uneven distribution of density and particle size of WC-Co powder. However, the microscopic mechanism of ultrasonic vibration on the powder remains unclear. In this paper, WC and Co particles are simulated by three-dimensional spherical models of two particle sizes with the aide of the secondary development of Python. At the same time, the forming process of powder at mesoscale is simulated in the virtue of the finite element analysis software ABAQUS. The influence of vibration amplitude on the fluidity, the filling density and the stress distribution of WC-Co powder is investigated when the ultrasonic vibration is applied to the conventional pressing process. From simulation results, the ultrasonic vibration amplitude has great influences on the density of the compact. With the increase of the ultrasonic amplitude, the compact density also increases gradually. At the initial stage of the compaction, the particles move violently under the action of ultrasonic vibration, the fluidity is obviously enhanced, the arch bridge effect between particles is destroyed, the fine particles quickly fill the pores between the large particles, which increase the density, and the residual stress in the billet decreases after the compaction. From the experimental results, the size distribution of the billet is more uniform, the elastic aftereffect is reduced, the dimensional instability is improved, and the density curves obtained by experiment and simulation are within a reasonable error range.
Evaluating Sarcopenia Using Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis and Phase Angle
Authors: Tang Saizhao , Jiang Fang Lin , Eom Seon-Ho , Lee Jae-Young , Chae Ji Heon , Kim Chul-Hyun
Published: June 2023

Sarcopenia becomes more common with age, being most prevalent among elderly individuals. According to the EWGSOP, muscle mass is one of the criteria for the evaluation of sarcopenia. The main methods for evaluating muscle mass are CT, MRI, and DXA, but these methods are difficult to apply in the field due to equipment costs, radioactivity, and lack of portability. BIVA and PhA are alternative approaches for assessing somatic cell mass and volume and do not require predictive equations. These variables are clinically relevant parameters that indicate cell health, especially cell membrane integrity and cell function. This study in sarcopenic and nonsarcopenic elderly volunteers aimed to determine the BIVA distribution pattern among individual sarcopenia patients; to evaluate the relationship between PhA and muscle strength, muscle quality, and physical function; and to find any correlates of PhA. The sample comprised 134 free-living elderly individuals of both sexes aged 69–91 years. Anthropometric parameters, grip strength, DXA findings, BIA results, and physical performance (the 6-meter walk test) were measured. Impedance vector distributions were evaluated in sarcopenia patients and healthy elderly individuals using BIVA. According to the AWGS criteria, sarcopenia was diagnosed according to DXA findings, grip strength and physical performance test results. Group differences were evaluated using the t test, Mann‒Whitney U test, and Hotelling's T2 test. Correlation analysis was performed to identify variables significantly associated with PhA. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine whether PhA was associated with muscle strength, muscle quality and physical function. BIVA detected a significant difference between the sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups (both sexes) due to higher R/H values and lower phase angles in a few individuals, whereas Xc/Ht values did not differ between the two groups. The sarcopenia group had a significantly lower PhA than the non-sarcopenia group among both males (p<0.01) and females (p<0.05). PhA was significantly correlated with age, ASM, HGS, and muscle quality in both sexes and significantly correlated with ASM/Ht2 and physical performance in males. PhA was a significant indicator of muscle strength in both males (β = 2.6; p<0.01) and females (β = 3.4; p<0.01), a significant indicator of muscle quality in both males (β = 0.07; p<0.05) and females (β = 0.17; p<0.01), and a significant indicator of physical performance in males (β = 0.3; p<0.01). BIVA can detect changes in muscle mass in individuals with sarcopenia and is a practical method for the assessment of sarcopenia in the field. PhA is a good indicator of muscle strength, muscle quality and physical performance (in males). These methods can help diagnose sarcopenia in elderly individuals with reduced mobility.
A Comparative Investigation of Chemical Decontamination Methods for In Situ Cleaning of Dental Implant Surfaces
Authors: Hussain Badra , Khan Sadia , Agger Anne Eriksson , Ellingsen Jan Eirik , Lyngstadaas Ståle Petter , Bueno Jaime , Haugen Håvard J
Published: June 2023

Surface chemistry evaluation plays a crucial role in assessing the efficacy of chemical decontamination products for titanium implants. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of chemical decontamination solutions in cleaning a contaminated dental implant surface and to evaluate the potential of combining Pluronic gel with hydrogen peroxide (NuBone®Clean) by evaluating pellicle disruption and re-formation on implant surfaces. In addition, ensuring safety with in- vitro and human testing protocols. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) was utilized for surface analysis. All the tested gels had some effect on the surface cleanness except for PrefGel®. Among the tested chemical decontamination candidates, NuBone®Clean demonstrated effectiveness in providing a cleaner titanium surface. Furthermore, none of the tested chemical agents exhibited any cytotoxic effects, and the safety assessment showed no adverse events. The results of this study highlight the significance of conducting comprehensive evaluations, encompassing safety and efficacy, before introducing new chemical agents for dental treatments. The findings suggest that NuBone®Clean shows potential as a chemical decontamination solution for implant surfaces. However, further investigation through randomized clinical trials is necessary. By adhering to rigorous testing protocols, the development of safe and efficient chemical decontamination strategies can be advanced, benefiting patients and promoting progress in the field of implant dentistry.
Experimental and Numerical Flexural-Torsional Performance of Thin-Walled Open-Ended Steel Vertical Pile Foundations Subjected to Lateral Loads
Authors: Pérez José Antonio , Reyes-Rodríguez Antonio Manuel , Sánchez-González Estíbaliz , Ríos José D.
Published: June 2023

This research investigates the effects of torsional moments on the mechanical behavior of thin-walled open-ended vertical pile foundations subjected to lateral wind loads. The warping and torsion effect generated over the piles due to the resultant lateral load impact outside the shear center is analyzed in-field tests. Complementarily, a two-dimensional finite element model based on the simple bending stress-strain state as well as a three-dimensional finite element model considering torsional effects were implemented and their results analyzed. Finally, a comparative analysis between the in-field lateral loading tests and the finite element model approaches was established and correlations between the errors and the parameters of influence were highlighted. From the results, it has been ascertained that the slender thin-walled open-ended pile foundations are particularly sensitive to small load deviations from their center of gravity, this leads to the fact that the slenderer and the more eccentricity of the load, the more it affects the torsion and warping of the pile. Calculation methodologies usually consider a simple in-plane bending behavior which conducts to errors between 44 and 58% of the experimental results.
Human iPSC-Derived 3D Hepatic Organoids in a Miniaturized Dynamic Culture System
Authors: Calamaio Serena , Serzanti Marialaura , Boniotti Jennifer , Fra Annamaria , Garrafa Emirena , Cominelli Manuela , Verardi Rosanna , Poliani Pietro Luigi , Dotti Silvia , Villa Riccardo , Mazzoleni Giovanna , Dell'Era Patrizia , Steimberg Nathalie
Published: June 2023

The process of identifying and approving a new drug is a time-consuming and expensive procedure. One of the biggest issues to overcome is the risk of hepatotoxicity, which is one of the main reasons for drug withdrawal from the market. While animal models are the gold standard in preclinical drug testing, the translation of results into therapeutic intervention is often ambiguous due to interspecies differences in hepatic metabolism. The discovery of human induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSCs) and their derivatives has opened new possibilities for drug testing. We used mesenchymal stem cells and hepatocytes both derived from hiPSC, together with endothelial cells, to miniaturize the process of generating hepatic organoids. These organoids were then cultivated in vitro using both static and dynamic cultures. Additionally, we tested spheroids composed solely by induced hepatocytes. By miniaturizing the system, we demonstrated the possibility of maintaining the organoids, but not the spheroids, in culture for up to 15 days. This timeframe may be sufficient to carry out a hypothetical pharmacological test or screening. In conclusion, we propose that the hiPSC-derived liver organoids model could complement or, in the near future, replace the pharmacological and toxicological tests conducted on animals.
A Physical Mechanism of the Generation of Stable Positive Kinetic Energy Systems and a Qualitative Explanation of the Proportions of the Four Ingredients in the Universe
Authors: Wang Huai-Yu
Published: June 2023

The author’s opinion is that the negative energy solutions of the Dirac equation mean that a particle can be of negative kinetic energy (NKE) besides positive kinetic energy (PKE). We think that NKE particles are dark ones and NKE matter is dark matter. In our previous works, the dark matter theory of the NKE version and the dark energy theory that matched dark matter theory were put forth. In this work, we investigate the topics related to the metamorphosis of objects between PKE and NKE. We first evaluate the collosions between a PKE and a NKE particles. A scenario of accelerating PKE particles is raised. We put forth the cosmic dark radiation background and gravity potential background. In the universe, negative energy is predominating. In the observable universe, substances constitute stable PKE systems. The total energy of every such system is negative. We propose a mechanism that NKE substances combine into stable PKE systems. Macroscopically, NKE objects can constitute stable PKE astrophysical systems by means of gravity between them. Microscopically, NKE particles can combine into stable PKE systems by means of attractive interactions between them, say, Coulomb attraction. Currently, people think that there are four ingrediants in the universe: photons \Omega_R0, matter \Omega_M0, dark matter \Omega_DM, and dark energy \Omega_\lambda0. We analyze the order of the appearance of the four ingredients and conclude that qualitatively, their proportions should be \Omega_\lambda0 > \Omega_DM > \Omega_M0 > \Omega_R0.
Моделирование графов ближайших соседей для оценки вероятности независимости выборочных данных
Authors: Кислицын Алексей Алексеевич , Kislitsyn Aleksei Alekseevich
Published: June 2023

Предложена методика, основанная на расчетах статистик структур графов ближайших соседей, которые представляются в виде бенчмарка вероятностей распределения графов по числу несвязных фрагментов. Отклонение фактически наблюдаемого наступления связности от расчетного позволит определить, с какой вероятностью данную выборку можно считать совокупностью статистически независимых величин. Доказываются утверждения о независимости статистик графов ближайших соседей от распределения расстояний и от неравенства треугольника, что позволяет провести численное моделирование таких структур. Проводятся оценки точности рассчитанных статистик для графов и их сравнение с оценками, полученными с помощью моделирования случайных координат точек в $d$-мерном пространстве. Показано, что модель графов ближайших соседей без учета размерности пространства приводит к достаточно точным оценкам статистик структур графов в пространствах размерности выше пяти. Для пространств меньшей размерности бенчмарк может быть получен непосредственным расчетом расстояний между точками со случайными координатами в единичном кубе. Предложенный метод применяется к задаче анализа уровня нестационарности каталога землетрясений по региону Курилы--Камчатка. Анализируются длины выборок промежутков времен между соседними событиями. Показано, что анализируемая система в целом взаимосвязана с вероятностью 0.91, причем эта зависимость принципиально отличается от лаговой корреляции между элементами выборки.
Descriptions of Scientific Literacy Skills of 9th Grade of Secondary School Students on Human Excretory System
Authors: Amir Siti Darmi , Yunus Sitti Rahma , Hasanuddin Hasanuddin , Ramlawati Ramlawati , Saenab Sitti
Published: June 2023

This study is a quantitative descriptive survey research that aims to describe the level of scientific literacy skills of ninth-grade of secondary school students’ in Angkona sub-district accredicted A and B for 2021/2022 academic year in terms of context, knowledge, and scientific competence on human excretory system topics. Population of this study were all ninth grade of secondary school students accredicted A and B throughout in Angkona sub-district with 252 students, namely SMPN A which was accredicted A; and SMPN B, C, and D were accredicted B. Samples were selected using saturated sample technique so that the samples in this research were 252 students. The instrument of this research was 20 multiple choice questions on human excretory system topics. The data collection technique was by giving tests directly at school and/or giving online test for students who did not come to school via Google Form and/or WhatsApp. The data were analyzed using analysis of quantitative descriptive. The results obtained are the scientific literacy skills of ninth-grade of secondary school students in Angkona sub-district: (1) in the context of science is in “medium”, (2) knowledge of science is in the “medium”, and (3) competence of science is in the “low” category.
Tren Pencarian Dan Penelitian Terkait Ekonomi Lingkungan
Authors: Syahadat Ray March , Harini Harini
Published: June 2023

Artikel ini bertujuan untuk melihat tren penelitian mengenai ekonomi lingkungan dalam rentang tahun 2017 hingga 2022, sehingga dapat menjadi gambaran dalam mencapai pembangunan berkelanjutan. Metode yang digunakan antara lain penelusuran dengan menggunakan Google Trends, Harzing’s Publish or Perish, dan pemetaan bibliometrik menggunakan VOSviewer. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa pencarian dengan menggunakan kata kunci environmental economics pergerakannya cenderung konstan dan sumber pencarinya didominasi oleh negara-negara Afrika dan Pasifik serta sebagian kecil negara Amerika Latin dan Skandinavia berdasarkan Google Trends. Umumnya karakter negara yang mencari topik ini adalah negara kecil dan miskin. Berdasarkan informasi dengan menggunakan Harzing’s Publish or Perish, terdapat 991 artikel yang diterbitkan dengan kata kunci tersebut. Selanjutnya pemetaan bibliometrik menunjukkan bahwa terdapat enam klaster topik penelitian mengenai environmental economics dan topik penelitian yang banyak diangkat mengenai emisi dan energi. Topik-topik yang belum banyak diangkat antara lain studi kasus pada negara tertentu, climate policy, water, renewable energy, dan environmental management. Topik yang terlihat belum diangkat yaitu hubungan antara environmental economics dengan pertanian dan pandemi COVID-19.
Enhancing Precise Genome Editing in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells through Dual Inhibition of DNA Damage Response and Repair Pathways
Authors: Park Ju-Chan , Kim Yun-Jeon , Kang Chan Young , Bae Sangsu , Cha Hyuk-Jin
Published: June 2023

Precise genome editing is crucial for establishing isogenic human disease models and ex vivo stem cell therapy from the patient-derived human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). Unlike Cas9-mediated knock-in, cytosine base editor (CBE) and prime editor (PE) achieve the desirable gene correction without inducing DNA double strand breaks. However, hPSCs possess highly active DNA repair systems and are particularly susceptible to p53-dependent cell death. These unique characteristics impede the efficiency of gene editing in hPSCs. Here, we demonstrate that dual inhibition of p53-mediated cell death and distinct activation of the DNA damage repair system upon DNA damage by CBE or PE additively enhanced editing efficiency in hPSCs. The BE4stem system comprised of dominant negative p53 (p53DD) and three UNG inhibitor (UGI), engineered to specifically diminish base excision repair (BER), improved CBE efficiency in hPSCs. Addition of dominant negative MLH1 to inhibit mismatch repair activity and p53DD in the conventional PE system also significantly enhanced PE efficiency in hPSCs. Thus, combined inhibition of the unique cellular cascades engaged in hPSCs upon gene editing could significantly enhance precise genome editing in these cells.
Reciprocal Regulation of T Follicular Helper Cells and Dendritic Cells Drives Chronic Colitis Development
Authors: Bai Xue , Chen Sijie , Chi Xinxin , Xie Bowen , Guo Xinyi , Feng Han , Wei Peng , Zhang Di , Xie Shan , Gou Mengting , Qiao Qin , Liu Xinwei , Jin Wei , Xu Wei , Wang Xiaohu , Zhang Xuegong , Dong Chen
Published: June 2023

The immunological mechanisms underlying chronic colitis are poorly understood. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are critical in helping B cells during germinal center reactions. In a T cell transfer colitis model, a lymphoid structure composed of mature type 2 conventional dendritic cells (cDC2s) and Tfh cells were found within T cell zones of colonic lymphoid follicles. Tfh cells were required for mature cDC2 accumulation, the formation of DC-T cell clusters and colitis development. Moreover, cDC2s promoted Tfh cell differentiation, contributing to colitis development. Importantly, a lineage-tracing analysis showed that, following migration to lamina propria, Tfh cells trans-differentiated into long-lived pathogenic Th1 cells. Our findings have therefore demonstrated the reciprocal regulation of Tfh cells and DCs in colonic lymphoid follicles, which is critical in chronic colitis pathogenesis.
Rationally engineered high-entropy oxides using finely tunable combustion synthesis for Li-ion battery anodes
Authors: Shin Dongjoon , Chae Seunghoon , Park Seonghyun , Seo Byungseok , Choi Wonjoon
Published: June 2023

High-entropy oxides (HEOs) are promising conversion-type anode materials for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) owing to their excellent cycling stability and rate capability. However, their conventional synthesis and screening comprise time-consuming and complex processes involving phase and interface segregation of individual elements. Herein, we report a rational screening strategy for LIB anodes using precisely tunable HEOs fabricated by one-step combustion synthesis with different fuel-to-oxidizer ratios (φ). The slight fuel-lean condition (φ-0.95) facilitates a suitable temperature and anti-reductive atmosphere for the optimal HEO synthesis. This enables high crystallinity, perfectly homogeneous elemental distribution, and adequate porous structures without selective precipitation, whereas lower or higher fuel-to-oxidizer ratios result in forming an excessively porous morphology or the element segregation. HEO-based anodes with φ-0.95 exhibit outstanding specific capacity (1165 mAh∙g-1, 80.9% retention at 0.1 A∙g-1, and 791 mAh∙g-1 even at 3 A∙g-1), an excellent rate capability, and stable cycling life (1252 mAh∙g-1, 80.9% retention after 100 cycles at 0.2 A∙g-1). This design strategy will inspire fascinating HEO electrodes that cannot be achieved through conventional fabrication methods.
A stress-charged non-Newtonian-fluid persistent luminescent material
Authors: Zhou Jinyu , Wang Wenxiang , Wang Shanwen , Wang Jia , Gu Yan , Jin Xianfeng , Tian Birong , Wang Yuhua , Zhang Jiachi
Published: June 2023

It presents a BaSi2O2N2:Eu2+/PVA persistent luminescence (PersL) gel material that traps can be charged by stress instead of irradiation. It can emit green PersL without preirradiation at room temperature, and even after initial PersL disappears, stored PersL traces can be stimulated again at high temperature. The gel material is demonstrated to be a typical non-Newtonian fluid showing shear thinning characteristics and variable mechanical behaviors. It is viscous at low frequencies, but exhibits elastic behaviors at high frequencies. Typically, the gel material can be made into fixed shapes or pulled into strips. Also, it can be hard enough to bore holes on apples, elastic enough to bounce and even melt. Furthermore, the gel material shows good stability, self-healing, water resistance and biocompatibility. Some typical intelligent light-emitting devices based on the BaSi2O2N2:Eu2+/PVA gel material are designed to show potential applications in safety signage, emergency lighting, anticounterfeiting and tooth occlusion analysis.
Contrasting Negative Effects of Multipollutant Exposure on Femoral and Spinal Bone Mineral Density: Findings from a Population-based Study in US Adults
Authors: Zheng Zitian , Luo Huanhuan , Xu Wennan , Shi Lei , Wang Fei , Qiu Yudian , Wang Lin , Xu Yanan , Sun Chao , Xue Qingyun
Published: June 2023

Summary
Multipollutant exposures negatively impact femoral and spinal bone mineral density (BMD) in US adults. polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are detrimental to femoral BMD, while phthalates are associated with decreased spinal BMD. Urgent actions are required to mitigate these environmental exposures and preserve bone health.
Purpose:
The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between environmental exposures and osteoporosis. The study aimed to assess the impact of four categories of environmental chemicals, namely heavy metals, phthalates, PAHs, and phenols, on BMD.
Methods:
A population-based sample of 3029 participants from the United States was utilized for this investigation. Various statistical methods including generalized linear regression, generalized additive models (GAMs), quantile g-computation (Qgcomp) approach, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were employed to analyze the relationship between environmental chemicals and BMD.
Results:
The study findings demonstrate a negative association between blood and urine levels of environmental chemicals and BMD in the US adult population. Notably, the association between chemical exposure and BMD varied significantly between the spine and femur regions. The analysis further revealed distinct negative correlations between chemical mixtures and BMD in these two regions.
Conclusion:
This study provides compelling evidence of the detrimental effects of multipollutant exposures to heavy metals, phthalates, PAHs, and phenols on BMD in the US population. Moreover, the study highlights the divergent negative associations observed between the spine and femur regions, with PAHs exerting a more pronounced adverse effect on BMD in the femoral region and phthalates exhibiting a stronger negative association with BMD in the total spine. These findings underscore the importance of minimizing exposure to these specific pollutants, particularly in individuals experiencing disparities in BMD between the spine and femur.
DMKT: Dynamic Mining for Proof of Working Based on KNN Trust Model
Authors: Wang Hui , Hu Yanlan , Zhang Xiaowei , Yang Zhenyu , Hu Donghui
Published: June 2023

Blockchain as a technological foundation for achieving secure data transmission between peers is a very promising platform in various fields. PoW is a widely used consensus algorithm in blockchain systems, but it still faces issues such as low throughput and resource waste. In order to address these issues, we have proposed a new consensus protocol called DMKT, which aims to improve the system's throughput and reduce resource waste. The DMKT model dynamically adjusts the mining difficulty of nodes based on their trust values. In this paper, we use machine learning to classify transactions generated by nodes and calculate the classification results, which are used as parameters to calculate node trust values. We also incorporate the inherent properties of nodes in the blockchain system and the evaluation attributes of neighbors into the system calculation of trust values. Additionally, in this model, the trust values of the nodes are recalculated after each cycle, thus avoiding the problem of power concentration caused by always selecting a single node to maintain the accounting.Through this dynamic adjustment of node mining difficulty, the trust value increases, the mining difficulty decreases, and the trust value decreases, the mining difficulty increases, thus improving system performance.
Bergenin suppresses the changes in gut microbiota and colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium in KM mice
Authors: Wang Yisheng , Yu Lixia , Li Xueyuan , Chen Huan , Ren Peng , Li Na , Jiang Lei
Published: June 2023

Background Gut dysbiosis is associated with various health conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract that has no cure. One potential approach for managing IBD is the use of natural products that have anti-inflammatory and gut microbiota-regulating effects. Bergenin is a bioactive compound obtained from plants, and its therapeutic potential in IBD has not been extensively studied.Objective This study aimed to investigate the potential of bergenin in regulating gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by colitis in a mouse model.Methods and Results In this study, a colitis mouse model was established by exposing mice to 2.5% DSS for 7 days. The clinical symptoms were assessed, and the composition of the gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results revealed that the treatment with bergenin (50 mg/Kg/d) significantly improved clinical symptoms compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The degree of histological damage was also lower in the bergenin-treated group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The dysbiosis of the gut microbiota caused by DSS was significantly attenuated by bergenin treatment compared to the control group (P < 0.01). The treatment with bergenin led to increased species diversity and relative abundance of the genus Barnesiella.Conclusion The study findings suggest that bergenin has the potential to maintain gut health by suppressing dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and ameliorating clinical symptoms caused by DSS. Bergenin may be considered a potential therapeutic agent for managing IBD in the future. However, further studies are needed to investigate the long-term effects of bergenin on gut microbiota and its safety before clinical use.
Viscoelastic–plastic rheological model and its application to tunnels
Authors: Li Hao , Yan Qixiang , Zhang Hong , Wu Lizhou , Zhou Jianting
Published: June 2023

Tunnels exhibit obvious continuous deformation during excavation and operation. This behavior is closely associated with the time-dependent behavior of rocks, which is induced by groundwater level fluctuation. This paper proposes a rheological model consisting of a Hooke elastomer, Kelvin body, and novel plastic element in series (called the HKP model) to describe the creep response of rocks with consideration to groundwater change characterized by dry–wet cycles. First, dry–wet cycle creep tests were carried out to investigate the time-dependent behavior, that is, the creep behavior of sandstone. Then, the creep equation of the viscoelastic–plastic model was derived, and the damage coefficients under the effect of dry–wet cycles and time were obtained. Finally, the HKP model was established to investigate the continuous deformation during tunnel excavation. The results reveal that dry–wet cycles have obvious effects on the physical properties and creep behavior of sandstone. The creep behavior of sandstone undergoes three stages, namely, the decaying, steady, and accelerated stages, which can be reasonably described by the proposed HKP model. Tunnels exhibit obvious creep behavior owing to excavation. The proposed model can accurately predict tunnel deformation in practice. Thus, the HKP model can help in establishing tunnel maintenance strategies to ensure long–term safety.
Multi-phase-field approach to fracture demonstrating the role of solid-solid interface energy on crack propagation
Authors: Jafarzadeh Hossein , Shchyglo Oleg , Steinbach Ingo
Published: June 2023

A multi-phase-field approach for crack propagation considering the contribution of the interface energy is presented. The interface energy is either the grain boundary energy or the energy between a pair of solid phases and is directly incorporated into to the Ginzburg-Landau equation for fracture. The finite difference method is utilized to solve the crack phase field evolution equation and fast Fourier method is used to solve the mechanical equilibrium equation in three dimensions for a polycrystalline material. The importance of the interface (grain boundary) energy is analyzed numerically for various model problems. The results show how the interface energy variations change the crack trajectory between the intergranular and transgranular fracture.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) MSC code1 · MSC code2 · more
Average long-term background contents of chemical elements and organic substances in the flows of the natural component of the “Suspension of rivers” environment flowing into Lake Baikal reservoirs
Authors: Astrakhantseva O. Yu. , Belozertseva I. A. , Palkin O. Yu. , Skosyrsky N. A.
Published: June 2023

The physical and chemical state of the waters of Lake Baikal and the flows of the natural component of the environment flowing into and out is one of the most important elements of the chemical interaction of lake water substances with the environment. To study the natural regularities of the distribution of matter in the “substances of Baikal waters – substances of the flows of the natural component of the environment” megasystem, it is necessary to know the background components in the substance of the flows and their amount. The average long-term content of chemical elements and organic matter was estimated in mg/l. The method for calculating average long-term contents (mg/l, %) of chemical elements and organic (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Al, Si, Mn2+, Fetot, SO42-, HCO3-, Cl-, NO3-, PO43-, H+, O2, As, B, Cr, Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb, Sr, Zn, Co, U, V, Br, Rb, Mo, Corg, Norg, Porg, Sorg, CO2, Ti) in natural component flows environment “suspension of the rivers” flowing into the Southern, Selenginsky, Middle, Northern reservoirs of Baikal was developed. The results of analysis of the chemical composition of suspended substances in rivers for 1976-2001 were used. Natural indicators of the contents of chemical elements and organic matter in the suspended substance of rivers are important for comparative assessments, especially under the increased anthropogenic load. The data are necessary for assessing the scale of river chemical input with river suspension into the reservoirs of Baikal and calculating the contribution of the natural environment flows “River suspension” to the chemical balances of the lake reservoirs.