bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRISPR/Cas9 gene targeting plus nanopore DNA sequencing with the plasmid pBR322 in the classroom
Authors: Wünschiers Röbbe , Leidenfrost Robert Maximilian , Holtorf Hauke , Dittrich Bernd , Dürr Thomas , Braun Jürgen
Published: May 2024

Both nanopore-based DNA sequencing and CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing represent groundbreaking innovations in molecular biology and genomics, offering unprecedented insights into and tools for working with genetic information. For students, reading, editing, and even writing DNA will be part of their everyday life. We have developed a laboratory procedure that includes (i) the biosynthesis of a guide RNA for, (ii) targeting Cas9 to specifically linearize the pBR322 plasmid, and (iii) the identification of the cutting site through nanopore DNA sequencing. The protocol is intentionally kept simple and requires neither living organisms nor biosafety laboratories. We divided the experimental procedures into separate activities to facilitate customization. Assuming access to a well-equipped molecular biology laboratory, an initial investment of approximately $2,700 is necessary. The material costs for each experiment group amount to around $130. Furthermore, we have developed a freely accessible website (
https://dnalesen.hs-mittweida.de
) for sequence read analysis and visualization, lowering the required computational skills to a minimum. For those with strong computational skills, we provide instructions for terminal-based data processing. With the presented activities, we aim to provide a hands-on experiment that engages students in modern molecular genetics and motivates them to discuss potential implications. The complete experiment can be accomplished within half a day and has been successfully implemented by us at high schools, in teacher training, and at universities. Our tip is to combine CRISPR/Cas gene targeting with nanopore-based DNA sequencing. As a tool, we provide a
website
that facilitates sequence data analysis and visualization.
Helminth alleviates COVID-19-related cytokine storm in an IL-9-dependent way
Authors: Cao Zengguo , Wang Jiaqi , Liu Xiaolei , Liu Yang , Li Fangxu , Liu Mingyuan , Chiu Sandra , Jin Xuemin
Published: May 2024

Hyperactivation of pro-inflammatory type 1 cytokines (e.g., tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α] and interferon gamma [IFN-γ]) mirrors the inflammation of coronavirus disease 2019. Helminths could alleviate excessive immune responses. Here, helminth
Trichinella spiralis
(Ts) infection was shown to protect against TNF-α- and IFN-γ-induced shock. Mechanistically, Ts-induced protection was interleukin-9 (IL-9) dependent but not IL-4Rα. Recombinant IL-9 treatment not only improved the survival of wild-type mice with TNF-α- and IFN-γ-induced shock but also that of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-infected K18-human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) mice, emphasizing the significance of IL-9 in alleviating cytokine storm syndromes during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Interestingly, Ts excretory/secretory (TsES)-induced protection was also observed in SARS-CoV-2 infection, indicating that identifying anti-inflammatory molecules from TsES could be a novel way to mitigate adverse pathological inflammation during pathogen infection.

IMPORTANCE

Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is linked to cytokine storm triggered by type 1 pro-inflammatory immune responses. TNF-α and IFN-γ shock mirrors cytokine storm syndromes, including COVID-19. Helminths (e.g.,
Trichinella spiralis
, Ts) can potently activate anti-inflammatory type 2 immune response. Here, we found that helminth Ts-induced protection against TNF-α and IFN-γ shock was IL-9 dependent. Treatment with recombinant IL-9 could protect against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in K18-hACE2 mice. Helminth Ts excretory/secretory (TsES) products also ameliorated SARS-CoV-2 infection-related cytokine storm. In conclusion, our study emphasizes the significance of IL-9 in protecting from cytokine storm syndromes associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Anti-inflammatory molecules from TsES could be a new source to mitigate adverse pathological inflammation associated with infections, including COVID-19.
Preservation of conjugated primary bile acids by oxygenation of the small intestinal microbiota
in vitro
Authors: Firrman Jenni , Friedman Elliot S. , Hecht Aaron , Strange William C. , Narrowe Adrienne B. , Mahalak Karley , Wu Gary D. , Liu LinShu
Published: May 2024

Bile acids play a critical role in the emulsification of dietary lipids, a critical step in the primary function of the small intestine, which is the digestion and absorption of food. Primary bile acids delivered into the small intestine are conjugated to enhance functionality, in part, by increasing aqueous solubility and preventing passive diffusion of bile acids out of the gut lumen. Bile acid function can be disrupted by the gut microbiota via the deconjugation of primary bile acids by bile salt hydrolases (BSHs), leading to their conversion into secondary bile acids through the expression of bacterial bile acid-inducible genes, a process often observed in malabsorption due to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. By modeling the small intestinal microbiota
in vitro
using human small intestinal ileostomy effluent as the inocula, we show here that the infusion of physiologically relevant levels of oxygen, normally found in the proximal small intestine, reduced deconjugation of primary bile acids, in part, through the expansion of bacterial taxa known to have a low abundance of BSHs. Further recapitulating the small intestinal bile acid composition of the small intestine, limited conversion of primary into secondary bile acids was observed. Remarkably, these effects were preserved among four separate communities, each inoculated with a different small intestinal microbiota, despite a high degree of taxonomic variability under both anoxic and aerobic conditions. In total, these results provide evidence for a previously unrecognized role that the oxygenated environment of the small intestine plays in the maintenance of normal digestive physiology.

IMPORTANCE

Conjugated primary bile acids are produced by the liver and exist at high concentrations in the proximal small intestine, where they are critical for proper digestion. Deconjugation of these bile acids with subsequent transformation via dehydroxylation into secondary bile acids is regulated by the colonic gut microbiota and reduces their digestive function. Using an
in vitro
platform modeling the small intestinal microbiota, we analyzed the ability of this community to transform primary bile acids and studied the effect of physiological levels of oxygen normally found in the proximal small intestine (5%) on this metabolic process. We found that oxygenation of the small intestinal microbiota inhibited the deconjugation of primary bile acids
in vitro
. These findings suggest that luminal oxygen levels normally found in the small intestine may maintain the optimal role of bile acids in the digestive process by regulating bile acid conversion by the gut microbiota.
Draft genome sequence of Moroccan camelpox vaccine strain
Authors: Bamouh Z. , Elkarhat Z. , Hamdi J. , Fellahi S. , Tadlaoui K. Omari , Fassi-Fihri O. , Elharrak M.
Published: May 2024

Prevention and control of camelpox can be achieved by efficient vaccination. A limited number of homologous attenuated vaccines have been commercialized. In this study, we report the draft genome sequence of camelpox virus vaccine strain “CAMPOX vaccine” after 175 passages of attenuation in Vero cells.
Greenhouses represent an important evolutionary niche for
Alternaria alternata
Authors: Yang Guangzhu , Cui Sai , Huang Wenjing , Wang Shutong , Ma Jun , Zhang Ying , Xu Jianping
Published: May 2024

Alternaria alternata
is a ubiquitous soil-borne fungus capable of causing diseases in a variety of plants and occasionally in humans. While populations of
A. alternata
from infected plants have received significant attention, relatively little is known about its soil populations, including its population genetic structure and antifungal susceptibilities. In addition, over the last two decades, greenhouses have become increasingly important for food and ornamental plant production throughout the world, but how greenhouses might impact microbial pathogens such as
A. alternata
populations remains largely unknown. Different from open crop fields, greenhouses are often more intensively cultivated, with each greenhouse being a relatively small and isolated space where temperature and humidity are higher than surrounding environments. Previous studies have shown that greenhouse populations of two common molds,
Aspergillus fumigatus
and
A. alternata,
within a small community in southwestern China were variably differentiated. However, the relative contribution of physical separation among local greenhouses to the large-scale population structure remains unknown. Here, we isolated strains of
A. alternata
from seven greenhouses in Shijiazhuang, northeast China. Their genetic diversity and triazole susceptibilities were analyzed and compared with each other and with 242 isolates from nine greenhouses in Kunming, southwest China. Results showed that the isolation of greenhouses located <1 km from each other locally contributed similarly to the overall genetic variation as that between the two distant geographic regions. In addition, our results indicate that greenhouses could be significant sources of triazole resistance, with greenhouses often differing in their frequencies of resistant strains to different triazoles.

IMPORTANCE

Greenhouses have become increasingly important for food production and food security. However, our understanding of how greenhouses may contribute to genetic variations in soil microbial populations is very limited. In this study, we obtained and analyzed soil populations of the cosmopolitan fungal pathogen
Alternaria alternata
in seven greenhouses in Shijiazhuang, northeast China. Our analyses revealed high proportions of isolates being resistant to agricultural triazole fungicides and medical triazole drugs, including cross-resistance to both groups of triazoles. In addition, we found that greenhouse populations of
A. alternata
located within a few kilometers showed similar levels of genetic differentiation as those separated by over 2,000 km between northeast and southwest China. Our study suggests that greenhouse populations of this and potentially other fungal pathogens represent an important ecological niche and an emerging threat to food security and human health.
Placental mesenchymal disease masquerading as molar pregnancy with a favourable maternal and fetal outcome
Authors: Sharma Aparna , Gupta Tanisha , Rathore Ruchi , Chakraborty Oishika
Published: May 2024

Placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) is an exceptionally rare placental anomaly characterised by placentomegaly and grape-like vesicles resembling partial mole on ultrasonography, yet it can coexist with a viable fetus. We present the case of a primigravida who presented at 22 weeks gestation with a suspected partial mole but with a normally growing fetus. The differential diagnoses considered included placental mesenchymal disease, partial mole and twin pregnancy with molar pregnancy. With normal beta HCG levels and prenatal invasive testing reports, a probable diagnosis of PMD was made, and after thorough counselling, the decision was made to continue the pregnancy. The pregnancy progressed until 37 weeks, culminating in the uneventful delivery of a 2.4 kg healthy male infant. Histopathology confirmed PMD. Early recognition and management of PMD pose significant challenges, given its rarity. Prenatal identification of PMD during both early and late gestation could avert unnecessary termination of pregnancy.
Extraneural metastatic ependymoma: distant metastasis to the pleura, lungs, lymph nodes and bone
Authors: Guirguis Mina , Jiang Zhixin , Cai Chunyu , Youssef Michael
Published: May 2024

Ependymomas are neuroepithelial tumours arising from ependymal cells surrounding the cerebral ventricles that rarely metastasise to extraneural structures. This spread has been reported to occur to the lungs, lymph nodes, liver and bone. We describe the case of a patient with recurrent CNS WHO grade 3 ependymoma with extraneural metastatic disease. He was treated with multiple surgical resections, radiation therapy and salvage chemotherapy for his extraneural metastasis to the lungs, bone, pleural space and lymph nodes.
Reverse total shoulder replacement versus anatomical total shoulder replacement for osteoarthritis: population based cohort study using data from the National Joint Registry and Hospital Episode Statistics for England
Authors: Valsamis Epaminondas Markos , Prats-Uribe Albert , Koblbauer Ian , Cole Sophie , Sayers Adrian , Whitehouse Michael R , Coward Gillian , Collins Gary S , Pinedo-Villanueva Rafael , Prieto-Alhambra Daniel , Rees Jonathan L
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To answer a national research priority by comparing the risk-benefit and costs associated with reverse total shoulder replacement (RTSR) and anatomical total shoulder replacement (TSR) in patients having elective primary shoulder replacement for osteoarthritis.

Design

Population based cohort study using data from the National Joint Registry and Hospital Episode Statistics for England.

Setting

Public hospitals and publicly funded procedures at private hospitals in England, 2012-20.

Participants

Adults aged 60 years or older who underwent RTSR or TSR for osteoarthritis with intact rotator cuff tendons. Patients were identified from the National Joint Registry and linked to NHS Hospital Episode Statistics and civil registration mortality data. Propensity score matching and inverse probability of treatment weighting were used to balance the study groups.

Main outcome measures

The main outcome measure was revision surgery. Secondary outcome measures included serious adverse events within 90 days, reoperations within 12 months, prolonged hospital stay (more than three nights), change in Oxford Shoulder Score (preoperative to six month postoperative), and lifetime costs to the healthcare service.

Results

The propensity score matched population comprised 7124 RTSR or TSR procedures (126 were revised), and the inverse probability of treatment weighted population comprised 12 968 procedures (294 were revised) with a maximum follow-up of 8.75 years. RTSR had a reduced hazard ratio of revision in the first three years (hazard ratio local minimum 0.33, 95% confidence interval 0.18 to 0.59) with no clinically important difference in revision-free restricted mean survival time, and a reduced relative risk of reoperations at 12 months (odds ratio 0.45, 95% confidence interval 0.25 to 0.83) with an absolute risk difference of −0.51% (95% confidence interval −0.89 to −0.13). Serious adverse events and prolonged hospital stay risks, change in Oxford Shoulder Score, and modelled mean lifetime costs were similar. Outcomes remained consistent after weighting.

Conclusions

This study’s findings provide reassurance that RTSR is an acceptable alternative to TSR for patients aged 60 years or older with osteoarthritis and intact rotator cuff tendons. Despite a significant difference in the risk profiles of revision surgery over time, no statistically significant and clinically important differences between RTSR and TSR were found in terms of long term revision surgery, serious adverse events, reoperations, prolonged hospital stay, or lifetime healthcare costs.
Cognitive stimulation for people with dementia in nursing homes: a protocol for a feasibility study examining a new 24/7 approach (CogStim24)
Authors: Folkerts Ann-Kristin , Seven Ümran Sema , Guicheteau Julie , N Dichter Martin , Hellmich Martin , Köpke Sascha , Kalbe Elke
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Based on the available evidence, cognitive stimulation is recommended as an intervention for people with dementia (PwD). Currently, cognitive stimulation is regularly offered as a group programme in care facilities. However, some residents, such as those who are bedridden, cannot participate. Furthermore, group programmes were not feasible during the pandemic. A concept that accompanies everyday life and enables cognitive stimulation in everyday communication (ie, ‘24/7’) has been missing. Therefore, this feasibility study aims to (1) assess the feasibility of a new continuous 24/7 cognitive stimulation programme (CogStim24) based on a process evaluation and (2) examine the possible effects of CogStim24 on the primary outcome of global cognition in PwD and further PwD-related and staff-related outcomes.

Methods and analysis

The complex CogStim24 programme is developed to be conducted as an everyday intervention during routine care including cognitively stimulating techniques, such as reminiscence therapy, multisensory stimulation and physical activity. In this unblinded single-arm study with pre-assessments and post-assessments, four nursing homes with a total of N=20 nursing and care staff will participate in an 11-week CogStim24 training programme. The intervention will be conducted to N=60 PwD. Neuropsychological assessments will be conducted pre-staff and post-staff training, as well as after a 6-week implementation phase. A process evaluation will be performed.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the ethics committee of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. Although cognitive stimulation is known to be effective for enhancing global cognition and quality of life in PwD, it is currently undersupplied to PwD. Therefore, CogStim24 has the potential to reach many more PwD. This study has the potential to serve as a basis for a large multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial. An interdisciplinarity team and mixed-methods approach will help generate information on the practicality and mechanisms of impact of CogStim24. This is important for the further development of the intervention and for facilitating its implementation. The study results will be disseminated via presentations at scientific conferences and meetings for healthcare professionals and PwD and their relatives. Several manuscripts presenting results of the different study parts will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

DRKS00024381.
Hungarian general practice paediatricians’ antibiotic prescribing behaviour for suspected respiratory tract infections: a qualitative study
Authors: Babarczy Balázs , Hajdu Ágnes , Benko Ria , Matuz Mária , Papp Renáta , Antoniou Pantelis , Kandelaki Ketevan , Lo Fo Wong Danilo , Warsi Sahil Khan
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Inappropriate antibiotic prescribing is a major cause of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The aim of this study was to explore paediatric general practitioners’ (GP Peds) antibiotic prescription practice in suspected respiratory tract infections (RTIs), using the capability–opportunity–motivation–behaviour framework.

Design

The design is a qualitative study based on individual, semistructured telephone or virtual interviews.

Setting

Paediatric general practice in Hungary. We applied stratified maximum variation sampling to cover the categories of age, sex and geographical location of participants.

Participants

We interviewed 22 GP Peds. Nine were male and 13 were female: 2 of them were less than 40 years old, 14 were between 40 and 60 years, and 6 were above 60 years. 10 worked in low-antibiotic prescription areas, 5 in areas with medium levels of antibiotic prescription, 3 in high-antibiotic prescription areas, and 4 in and around the capital city.

Results

Study participants had varying antibiotic prescription preferences. Personal experience and physical examination play a central role in GP Peds’ diagnostic and treatment practice. Participants emphasised the need to treat children in their entirety, taking their personal medical record, social background and sometimes parents’ preferences into account, besides the acute clinical manifestation of RTI. Most respondents were confident they apply the most effective therapy even if, in some cases, this meant prescribing medicines with a higher chance of contributing to the development of AMR. Some participants felt antibiotic prescription frequency has decreased in recent years.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that a more prudent attitude toward antibiotic prescribing may have become more common but also highlight relevant gaps in both physicians’ and public knowledge of antibiotics and AMR. To reinforce awareness and close remaining gaps, Hungary should adopt its national AMR National Action Plan and further increase its efforts towards active professional communication and feedback for primary care physicians.
Assessing the mediating role of family resilience between caregiver burden and caregiver capacity: a cross-sectional study among Chinese stroke survivors and family caregivers in a real-world setting
Authors: Xu Qihang , Ge Qingqing , Shi Lu , Zhang Yiqing , Ma Jingjing
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To investigate the relationships among caregiver burden, family resilience, and caregiver capacity in the care of stroke survivors. We hypothesised that family resilience would mediate the relationship between caregiver burden and caregiver capacity.

Design

A cross-sectional study design was used.

Setting

The study was conducted in a tertiary care setting in Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, China.

Participants

The study involved 413 stroke survivors and their primary caregivers.

Outcome measures

The primary caregivers completed the Shortened Chinese Version of the Family Resilience Assessment Scale, Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview and Family Caregiver Task Inventor and provided their sociodemographic information. Stroke survivors were assessed for activities of daily living, and their sociodemographic information was provided. Data were analysed, controlling for sociodemographic variables and focusing on the mediating effect of family resilience.

Results

Caregiver burden was influenced by the activities of daily living of stroke survivors, caregiver age and caregiver health status (p<0.05). Higher caregiver burden was associated with lower family resilience (p<0.01). Lower caregiver capacity corresponded to heavier caregiver burden (p<0.01). Family resilience mediated the relationship between caregiver burden and caregiver capacity (b=0.1568; 95% CI: 0.1063 to 0.2385).

Conclusions

Enhancing family resilience can reduce caregiver burden and improve caregiver capacity in stroke care. These findings underscore the importance of developing interventions focused on nursing skills and family resilience.
Tobacco policies and changes in the tendency of smoking cessation in cigarette users in Chile: a longitudinal cross-sectional study
Authors: Dominguez-Cancino Karen A , Martínez Pablo , Nazif-Muñoz José Ignacio
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess the impact of tobacco control regulations and policy implementation on smoking cessation tendencies in cigarette users born between 1982 and 1991 in Chile.

Design

Longitudinal cross-sectional study.

Setting

National level.

Participants

Data from the National Survey of Drug Consumption (Service of Prevention and Rehabilitation for Drug and Alcohol Consumption). A pseudo-cohort of smokers born between 1982 and 1991 (N=17 905) was tracked from 2002 to 2016.

Primary and secondary outcomes measures

Primary outcome was the tendency to cease smoking conceptualised as the report of using cigarettes 1 month or more ago relative to using cigarettes in the last 30 days. The main exposure variable was the Tobacco Policy Index—tracking tobacco policy changes over time. Logistic regression, controlling for various factors, was applied.

Results

Models suggested a 14% increase in the smoking cessation tendency of individuals using cigarettes 1 month or more ago relative to those using cigarettes in the last 30 days (OR 1.14, CI 95% CI 1.10 to 1.19) for each point increment in the Tobacco Policy index.

Conclusions

Our study contributes to documenting a positive impact of the implementation of interventions considered in the MPOWER strategy in the progression of smoking cessation tendencies in smokers born between 1982 and 1991 in Chile.
Systematic analysis of approaches used in cardiac arrest trials to inform relatives about trial enrolment of non-surviving patients
Authors: Pocock Helen , Dove Abigail , Pointeer Laura , Couper Keith , Perkins Gavin D
Published: May 2024

Background

The recruitment of patients to emergency research studies without the requirement for prior informed consent has furthered the conduct of randomised studies in cardiac arrest. Frameworks enabling this vary around the world depending on local legal or ethical requirements. When an enrolled patient does not survive, researchers may take one of three approaches to inform relatives of their enrolment: a direct (active) approach, providing information indirectly (passively) and inviting relatives to seek further information if they choose, or providing no information about the trial (no attempt). Previous studies have described experiences of US researchers’ active approach but there is little known about approaches elsewhere.

We aimed to conduct a structured investigation of methods used in cardiac arrest trials to provide information about trial enrolment to relatives of non-surviving patients.

Methods

We systematically searched trial registries to identify randomised clinical trials that recruited cardiac arrest patients. Trials were eligible for inclusion if they recruited adults during cardiac arrest (or within 1 hour of return of spontaneous circulation) between 2010 and 2022 (in the decade prior to study conception). We extracted data from trial registries and, where relevant, published papers and protocols. Investigators were contacted and asked to describe the style, rationale and timing of approach to relatives of non-surviving patients. We present descriptive statistics.

Results

Our trial registry search identified 710 unique trials, of which 108 were eligible for inclusion. We obtained information from investigators for 64 (62%) trials. Approximately equal numbers of trials attempted to actively inform relatives of non-survivors (n=28 (44% (95% CI; 31% to 57%))), or made no attempt (n=25 (39% (95% CI; 27% to 52%))). The remaining studies provided general information about the trial to relatives but did not actively inform them (n=11 (17% (95% CI; 8% to 29%))).

Conclusions

There is wide variability in the approach taken to informing relatives of non-surviving patients enrolled in cardiac arrest randomised clinical trials.
Development and validation of mortality prediction models based on the social determinants of health
Authors: Fahoum Khalid , Ringel Joanna Bryan , Hirsch Jana A , Rundle Andrew , Levitan Emily B , Reshetnyak Evgeniya , Sterling Madeline R , Ezeoma Chiomah , Goyal Parag , Safford Monika M
Published: May 2024

Background

There is no standardised approach to screening adults for social risk factors. The goal of this study was to develop mortality risk prediction models based on the social determinants of health (SDoH) for clinical risk stratification.

Methods

Data were used from REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study, a national, population-based, longitudinal cohort of black and white Americans aged ≥45 recruited between 2003 and 2007. Analysis was limited to participants with available SDoH and mortality data (n=20 843). All-cause mortality, available through 31 December 2018, was modelled using Cox proportional hazards with baseline individual, area-level and business-level SDoH as predictors. The area-level Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) was included for comparison. All models were adjusted for age, sex and sampling region and underwent internal split-sample validation.

Results

The baseline prediction model including only age, sex and REGARDS sampling region had a c-statistic of 0.699. An individual-level SDoH model (Model 1) had a higher c-statistic than the SVI (0.723 vs 0.708, p<0.001) in the testing set. Sequentially adding area-level SDoH (c-statistic 0.723) and business-level SDoH (c-statistics 0.723) to Model 1 had minimal improvement in model discrimination. Structural racism variables were associated with all-cause mortality for black participants but did not improve model discrimination compared with Model 1 (p=0.175).

Conclusion

In conclusion, SDoH can improve mortality prediction over 10 years relative to a baseline model and have the potential to identify high-risk patients for further evaluation or intervention if validated externally.
Expression of defensin genes across house fly (Musca domestica) life history gives insight into immune system subfunctionalization
Authors: Asgari Danial , Purvis Tanya , Pickens Victoria , Saski Christopher , Meisel Richard P. , Nayduch Dana
Published: May 2024

Animals encounter diverse microbial communities throughout their lifetime, which exert varying selection pressures. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which lyse or inhibit microbial growth, are a first line of defense against some of these microbes. Here we examine how developmental variation in microbial exposure has affected the evolution of expression and amino acid sequences of Defensins (an ancient class of AMPs) in the house fly ( Musca domestica). The house fly is a well-suited model for this work because it trophically associates with varying microbial communities throughout its life history and its genome contains expanded families of AMPs, including Defensins. We identified two subsets of house fly Defensins: one expressed in larvae or pupae, and the other expressed in adults. The amino acid sequences of these two Defensin subsets form distinct monophyletic clades, and they are located in separate gene clusters in the genome. The adult-expressed Defensins evolve faster than larval/pupal Defensins, consistent with different selection pressures across developmental stages. Our results therefore suggest that varied microbial communities encountered across life history can shape the evolutionary trajectories of immune genes.
Online identification and feed-forward compensation of nonlinear friction in servo system based on RBF neural network model
Authors: Zhu Yuheng , Li Xuewei , Kong Lingyi , Zhang Taihao , Zheng Guangming
Published: May 2024

In this paper, an online identification and compensation method of nonlinear friction based on radial basis function (RBF) neural network model is proposed for the influence of nonlinear friction on machining accuracy in the low speed process of servo feed system of CNC machine tools. First, a three-layer single-input-output RBF neural network model is established for describing the nonlinear friction of servo feeding system. Second, the neural network online learning algorithm is improved based on adaptive gain, which improves the stability and accuracy of the algorithm. Finally, experiments were carried out on a three-axis milling machine to compensate the friction in the servo feed system in real time based on the online identification results. The results show that the method can effectively improve the online identification accuracy and convergence rate, and effectively improved the low-speed performance of the servo feed system.
Gravitational wave effects and phenomenology of a two-component dark matter model
Authors: Hosseini Mojtaba , Ayazi Seyed Yaser , Mohamadnejad Ahmad
Published: May 2024

We study an extension of the Standard Model (SM) which could have two candidates for dark matter (DM) including a Dirac fermion and a vector dark matter (VDM) under a new U(1) gauge group in the hidden sector. The model is classically scale-invariant and the electroweak symmetry breaks because of loop effects. We investigate the parameter space allowed by current experimental constraints and phenomenological bounds. We probe the parameter space of the model in the mass range $$1< M_V<5000$$

1
<

M
V

<
5000

GeV and $$1<M_{\psi }<5000$$

1
<

M
ψ

<
5000

GeV. It has been shown that there are many points in this mass range that are in agreement with all phenomenological constraints. The electroweak phase transition has been discussed and it has been shown that there is region in the parameter space of the model consistent with DM relic density and direct detection constraints that, at the same time, can lead to first-order electroweak phase transition. The gravitational waves produced during the phase transition could be probed by future space-based interferometers such as LISA and BBO.
Balanced and Aeppli parameters for the heterotic moduli
Authors: Picard Sébastien , Wu Pei-Lin
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we fix the complex structure and explore the moduli space of the heterotic system by considering two different yet “dual” deformation paths starting from a Kähler solution. They correspond to deformation along the Bott–Chern cohomology class and the Aeppli cohomology class, respectively. Using the implicit function theorem, we prove the stability of the existence of heterotic solutions under these two deformations and hence establish an initial step in constructing local moduli coordinates around a Kähler solution.
Product Introduction with Parallel Importation
Authors: Xu Fengmei , Yang Feng , Shan Feifei , Chen Ting
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to investigate the manufacturer’s product introduction decision when entering a foreign market by considering parallel importation. This paper considers a situation where a manufacturer already sells an original product directly in the domestic market and decides to introduce an original product, a new product, or both through a retailer in a foreign market, and a parallel importer may divert the original product across markets due to price gap (we call it parallel importation). This paper shows that when consumers perceive gray products as perfect substitutes for authorized products, the manufacturer switches from introducing two products to introducing a new product and still maintains the quality of the new product in the presence of parallel importation. Furthermore, in response to parallel importation, the manufacturer not only narrows the price gap for original products between two markets but also reduces the wholesale price of new products in the foreign market. In addition, parallel importation always hurts the retailer but may benefit the manufacturer. Counterintuitively, parallel importation always improves social welfare in the domestic market but may damage social welfare in the foreign market.
A unified model of particle physics and cosmology: Origin of inflation, baryogenesis, neutrino mass, CDM and dark energy
Authors: Yang Wei-Min
Published: May 2024

I propose a unified model of particle physic and cosmology based on both a new extension of the standard particle model and the fundamental principle of the standard cosmology. Beyond the standard model, I introduce several species of dark fields with the dark symmetry of [Formula: see text], the inflation field, cold dark matter (CDM) and dark energy (DE) are of course included among them. The model can coherently and completely describe the origin and evolution of the universe from the primordial inflation to the reheating, to the baryogenesis, to the current CDM and DE, and also the neutrino mass generation mechanism. For the energy evolution of each phase, I give its dynamical system of equations, and solve them by some special techniques. The numerical results can clearly show how each evolution is successfully implemented, furthermore, the model demonstrates that the DE genesis is purely from the CDM condensation, which is essentially a reverse process of the primordial slow-roll inflation, there is not the so-called “cosmological constant energy”. By use of fewer input parameters, the model not only exactly reproduces the measured inflationary data and the current energy density budget, but also finely predicts such important values as the tensor-to-scalar ratio [Formula: see text], the inflaton mass [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV, the reheating temperature [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV, the CDM mass [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], in particular, the model smoothly clarifies and eliminates the “Hubble tension”. In short, the unified model newly establishes the deeper and closer relations between particle physics and cosmology, therefore we expect the ongoing and future experiments to test the model.
Deep Learning Wind Power Prediction Model Based on Attention Mechanism-Based Convolutional Neural Network and Gated Recurrent Unit Neural Network
Authors: Hou Zai-Hong , Bai Yu-Long , Ding Lin , Yue Xiao-Xin , Huang Yu-Ting , Song Wei , Bi Qi
Published: May 2024

Accurate prediction of wind power is crucial for the efficient operation and risk management of wind farms. This paper introduces a deep learning model for wind power prediction that integrates an Attention mechanism with a convolutional neural network (CNN) and a gated recurrent unit (GRU) neural network. Addressing the randomness, intermittency, volatility and uncertainty of wind speed, we first apply swarm decomposition (SWD) to preprocess the original wind power data into subsequences. Subsequently, the CNN extracts spatial features, and the GRU identifies temporal correlations. The Attention mechanism enhances feature significance, further optimizing prediction accuracy. Complex error sequences generated by the CNN–GRU–Attention (CGA) model are corrected using the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA). We evaluated the model’s performance using three wind power datasets against 16 other models, employing six evaluation indices (MSE, RMSE, MAPE, Theil’s [Formula: see text], TIC and SPL) and the Diebold–Mariano (DM) test and model confidence set (MCS) for model testing. Our results demonstrate the proposed model’s superior accuracy and efficiency in predicting wind power.
Strengthening interacting agegraphic dark energy DGP constraints with local measurements and multimessenger forecastings
Authors: Hernández-Márquez Maribel , Escamilla-Rivera Celia
Published: May 2024

An explanation of the nature of dark energy has been treated in extra dimensions within the scheme of string theory. One of the most successful models is inspired by the Dvali–Gabadadze–Porrati (DGP) model, in which the universe is a 4-dimensional brane embedded in a 5-dimensional Minkowski spacetime. In this landscape, the study of the evolution of the normal branch has led us to different kinds of dark energy, where the most simple case is the cosmological constant [Formula: see text]. Moreover, other viable cosmological solutions are related to agegraphic dark energy, which allows a late cosmic acceleration within an interacting mechanism. To explore the viability of these solutions and possible gravitational leakage, in this paper, we present constraints on such models using recent standard sirens forecasting in addition to local observables such as Pantheon (SNIa), [Formula: see text] measurements, baryonic acoustic oscillations (BAO). Our results show that the value associated with the species of quantum fields n in these models is strongly restricted for supernovae observations to [Formula: see text], and for GW standard sirens mock data prefers a value of [Formula: see text].
A Bakry–Émery criterion for weighted contractivity and L2-Hardy inequalities
Authors: Qiu Yaozhong
Published: May 2024

We show a symmetric Markov diffusion semigroup satisfies a weighted contractivity condition if and only if a [Formula: see text]-Hardy inequality holds, and we give a Bakry–Émery-type criterion for the former. We then give some applications.
The edge ideals of the join of some vertex weighted oriented graphs
Authors: Cui Yijun , Zhu Guangjun , Wei Xiaoqi
Published: May 2024

This paper describes the primary decomposition of the edge ideal of the join of weighted oriented graphs in terms of the information from each of those graphs. Using this decomposition and induction, we derive formulas for the depth and regularity of ordinary powers of the edge ideal of the join of two graphs consisting of isolated vertices. Furthermore, we provide upper bounds for the regularity of symbolic powers of such an edge ideal. For the edge ideal of the join of two graphs with at least one oriented edge for each graph, we provide exact formulas for their depth and regularity, as well as upper bounds for the regularity of ordinary powers of such an edge ideal. Some examples demonstrate that these upper bounds are sometimes attainable and sometimes strict.
The Synergistic Effect of Nitrogen-Doped Carbonized Kapok Fiber to Amorphous/Nanocrystalline Fe85SiAl6Cr8 for Broad Effective Absorption Bandwidth Microwave Absorber
Authors: Wang Aiqiong , Li Jianxiong , Zhao Xiaoming
Published: May 2024

With the increasing quantity of intelligent and portable electric devices, a broad effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) microwave absorber (MWA) is required for shielding microwave (MW) interference. An MWA with a magnetic-dielectric synergistic effect is necessary for broadening the EAB of it. The amorphous/nanocrystalline Fe85SiAl6Cr8 (FSAC) is a nanolevel high magnetic loss MWA, and the introduction of medium dielectric loss MWA nitrogen-doped carbonized kapok fiber (NCKF) with an appropriate proportion improved the impedance match and damping ability of the composite and broadened the EAB. The results revealed that the minimum reflection loss (RL[Formula: see text] of FSAC/NCKF was −22.5 dB at 16.8[Formula: see text]GHz with a thickness of 1.20[Formula: see text]mm, and the EAB was 4.91[Formula: see text]GHz with a thickness of 1.30[Formula: see text]mm. Besides, the EAB moved to the low-frequency range when the thickness increased. Meanwhile, the RL of the simulation and the experiment were remarkably similar. The strategy offers an approach for developing a MWA with broad EAB.
Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticle from Aqueous Extracts of Hedera helix L., Senna alexandrina Mill., Thymus vulgaris L. and Tribulus terrestris L. and Evaluation of Their In-Vitro Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Effects
Authors: Jafari Mandana , Juybari Kobra Bahrampour , Shiri Hamidreza , Amirkhosravi Arian , Mehrabani Mehrnaz , Mehrabani Mitra
Published: May 2024

Until now, the therapeutic potential of metal nanoparticles (NPs) has received much attention thanks to their unique properties. In addition, natural extracts of plants have shown significant therapeutic ability in various diseases. Therefore, the present study aimed to synthesize AuNPs using aqueous extracts of Hedra helix (Hh-AuNPs), Senna alexandrina (Sa-AuNPs), Thyme vulgaris (Tv-AuNPs) and Tribulus terrestris (Tt-AuNPs) and then investigate their antioxidant and cytotoxic effects on cancerous and normal breast cell lines. For this purpose, the prepared Phyto-NPs were analyzed employing the TEM technique and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The antioxidant activities of all aqueous extracts and the Phyto-NPs were analyzed by FRAP and DPPH assays. Their cytotoxic effects against the MCF-7, MCF-10 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines were also determined using an MTT assay. UV–Vis spectrum of Hh-AuNPs, Sa-AuNPs, Tv-AuNPs and Tt-AuNPs disclosed absorption peaks at wavelengths of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm and [Formula: see text], respectively. TEM image illustrated a spherical shape of Phyto-AuNPs with particle sizes of under 100[Formula: see text]nm. Phyto-AuNPs demonstrated more antioxidant activities than the plant extracts alone. Moreover, Phyto-AuNPs indicated higher cytotoxic activities against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines compared to plant extracts. This report provides new possibilities for using the above-mentioned aqueous extracts for the green synthesis of AuNPs, which may be applied to future animal breast cancer models or one step higher clinically for breast cancer patients.
A Unified Technique for Stability Analysis of an Embedded FG Porous Nano/Microbeam Via Modified Couple Stress Theory
Authors: Uzun Büşra , Yaylı Mustafa Özgür
Published: May 2024

In this study, modified couple stress theory-dependent stability analysis of functionally graded porous nano/microbeams under deformable support conditions, for the first time, is carried out via a solution method based on the Fourier series and Stokes’ transform. The modified couple stress theory is used as a size-dependent elasticity theory including the small-scale effect. The functionally graded material formulation is based on the power-law distribution found in the literature. The governing equation of the problem and especially the force boundary conditions are determined and the appropriate solution technique is selected. Fourier sine series is chosen as the lateral displacement function of functionally graded porous nano/microbeam under axial loads. Accordingly, the Fourier coefficients are found by substituting this function in the governing equation. Then, these coefficients and the Stokes’ transformation are applied to the force boundary conditions to construct general eigenvalue problems for the stability analysis. The results are compared with the rigid boundary conditions and it is shown that an excellent agreement is achieved. Then, several examples are solved for the functionally graded porous nanobeams and the effects of different parameters are analyzed and presented in a series of graphs and tables.
Influence of Phosphorus Molar Ratio on the Fabrication and Electrochemical Properties of Nanorod-Shaped LiFePO4 Synthesized via Iron Powder Reduction for Lithium-Ion Battery Applications
Authors: Qin Anrui , Hu Junxian , Wang Li , Yuan Yajie , Li Yin , Yao Yaochun
Published: May 2024

In this work, nanorod lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) materials are synthesized by a liquid-phase method using iron powder, H3PO4, and LiOH[Formula: see text]H2O as source materials. The crystal structure, morphology and electrochemical performance are characterized. The results illustrate that the molar ratio of Li:Fe:P plays a significant role in regulating the morphology and structure of LiFePO4. When the molar ratio is Li:Fe:P [Formula: see text] 3:1:1 it shows irregular nanoparticles, and when the molar ratio is Li:Fe:P [Formula: see text] 3:1:1.5 it transforms into rod-like particles. Furtherly, The LiFePO4/C (Li:Fe:P [Formula: see text] 3:1:1.5) material, adding carbon coating at 180[Formula: see text]C for 12[Formula: see text]h, displays a discharge capacity of 120[Formula: see text]mAh/g at 1[Formula: see text]C, and even after 200 cycles with the capacity retention of above 95.7%. Our findings provide a simple, economical and environmentally friendly way to produce LiFePO4 cathode material for outstanding performance in lithium-ion battery (LIB).
Controllable synthesis and magnetization of Fe3O4 microspheres wrapped with amorphous carbon
Authors: Li Li , Li Guang
Published: May 2024

A straightforward solvothermal methodology was employed to synthesize [Formula: see text] microspheres and [Formula: see text]@C hybrids, where amorphous carbon encapsulated [Formula: see text] microspheres. This encapsulation was achieved by meticulously controlling the reaction duration and glucose concentrations within the hydrothermal process. Analysis via X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy confirmed that all specimens retained a homogeneous [Formula: see text] phase. Following encapsulation, the [Formula: see text] particles were uniformly distributed across the amorphous carbon spheres, with fine particle sizes in the hybrids measuring less than 20 nm. Magnetic characterization revealed that parameters such as saturation magnetization, remanent magnetization, and coercivity of the [Formula: see text] microspheres could be significantly adjusted by varying the hydrothermal reaction time. Notably, the hybrids exhibited a 5- to 10-fold increase in both coercivity and remanent magnetization when compared to the pristine [Formula: see text] microspheres. Nonetheless, the saturation magnetization of the hybrids reached up to 90% of that observed in bulk [Formula: see text]. These magnetic properties are predominantly influenced by the size effect associated with the nanostructured [Formula: see text].