bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inverse and reciprocal regulation of p53/p21 and Bmi-1 modulates vasculogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Zhang Zhaocheng , Oh Min , Sasaki Jun-Ichi , Nör Jacques E.
Published: June 2021

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) are capable of differentiating into vascular endothelial cells. Although the capacity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to induce endothelial differentiation of stem cells is well established, mechanisms that maintain stemness and prevent vasculogenic differentiation remain unclear. Here, we tested the hypothesis that p53 signaling through p21 and Bmi-1 maintains stemness and inhibits vasculogenic differentiation. To address this hypothesis, we used primary human DPSC from permanent teeth and Stem cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous (SHED) teeth as models of postnatal mesenchymal stem cells. DPSC seeded in biodegradable scaffolds and transplanted into immunodeficient mice generated mature human blood vessels invested with smooth muscle actin-positive mural cells. Knockdown of p53 was sufficient to induce vasculogenic differentiation of DPSC (without vasculogenic differentiation medium containing VEGF), as shown by increased expression of endothelial markers (VEGFR2, Tie-2, CD31, VE-cadherin), increased capillary sprouting in vitro; and increased DPSC-derived blood vessel density in vivo. Conversely, induction of p53 expression with small molecule inhibitors of the p53-MDM2 binding (MI-773, APG-115) was sufficient to inhibit VEGF-induced vasculogenic differentiation. Considering that p21 is a major downstream effector of p53, we knocked down p21 in DPSC and observed an increase in capillary sprouting that mimicked results observed when p53 was knocked down. Stabilization of ubiquitin activity was sufficient to induce p53 and p21 expression and reduce capillary sprouting. Interestingly, we observed an inverse and reciprocal correlation between p53/p21 and the expression of Bmi-1, a major regulator of stem cell self-renewal. Further, direct inhibition of Bmi-1 with PTC-209 resulted in blockade of capillary-like sprout formation. Collectively, these data demonstrate that p53/p21 functions through Bmi-1 to prevent the vasculogenic differentiation of DPSC.
The architecture of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome inside virion
Authors: Cao Changchang , Cai Zhaokui , Xiao Xia , Rao Jian , Chen Juan , Hu Naijing , Yang Minnan , Xing Xiaorui , Wang Yongle , Li Manman , Zhou Bing , Wang Xiangxi , Wang Jianwei , Xue Yuanchao
Published: June 2021

SARS-CoV-2 carries the largest single-stranded RNA genome and is the causal pathogen of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. How the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome is folded in the virion remains unknown. To fill the knowledge gap and facilitate structure-based drug development, we develop a virion RNA in situ conformation sequencing technology, named vRIC-seq, for probing viral RNA genome structure unbiasedly. Using vRIC-seq data, we reconstruct the tertiary structure of the SARS-CoV-2 genome and reveal a surprisingly “unentangled globule” conformation. We uncover many long-range duplexes and higher-order junctions, both of which are under purifying selections and contribute to the sequential package of the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Unexpectedly, the D614G and the other two accompanying mutations may remodel duplexes into more stable forms. Lastly, the structure-guided design of potent small interfering RNAs can obliterate the SARS-CoV-2 in Vero cells. Overall, our work provides a framework for studying the genome structure, function, and dynamics of emerging deadly RNA viruses.
Enantio-sensitive unidirectional light bending
Authors: Ayuso David , Ordonez Andres F. , Decleva Piero , Ivanov Misha , Smirnova Olga
Published: June 2021

Structured light, which exhibits nontrivial intensity, phase, and polarization patterns in space, has key applications ranging from imaging and 3D micromanipulation to classical and quantum communication. However, to date, its application to molecular chirality has been limited by the weakness of magnetic interactions. Here we structure light’s local handedness in space to introduce and realize an enantio-sensitive interferometer for efficient chiral recognition without magnetic interactions, which can be seen as an enantio-sensitive version of Young’s double slit experiment. Upon interaction with isotropic chiral media, such chirality-structured light effectively creates chiral emitters of opposite handedness, located at different positions in space. We show that if the distribution of light’s handedness breaks left-right symmetry, the interference of these chiral emitters leads to unidirectional bending of the emitted light, in opposite directions in media of opposite handedness, even if the number of the left-handed and right-handed emitters excited in the medium is exactly the same. Our work introduces the concepts of polarization of chirality and chirality-polarized light, exposes the immense potential of sculpting light’s local chirality, and offers novel opportunities for efficient chiral discrimination, enantio-sensitive optical molecular fingerprinting and imaging on ultrafast time scales.
Sunda arc mantle source δ18O value revealed by intracrystal isotope analysis
Authors: Deegan Frances M. , Whitehouse Martin J. , Troll Valentin R. , Geiger Harri , Jeon Heejin , le Roux Petrus , Harris Chris , van Helden Marcel , González-Maurel Osvaldo
Published: June 2021

Magma plumbing systems underlying subduction zone volcanoes extend from the mantle through the overlying crust and facilitate protracted fractional crystallisation, assimilation, and mixing, which frequently obscures a clear view of mantle source compositions. In order to see through this crustal noise, we present intracrystal Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) δ18O values in clinopyroxene from Merapi, Kelut, Batur, and Agung volcanoes in the Sunda arc, Indonesia, under which the thickness of the crust decreases from ca. 30 km at Merapi to ≤20 km at Agung. Here we show that mean clinopyroxene δ18O values decrease concomitantly with crustal thickness and that lavas from Agung possess mantle-like He-Sr-Nd-Pb isotope ratios and clinopyroxene mean equilibrium melt δ18O values of 5.7 ‰ (±0.2 1 SD) indistinguishable from the δ18O range for Mid Ocean Ridge Basalt (MORB). The oxygen isotope composition of the mantle underlying the East Sunda Arc is therefore largely unaffected by subduction-driven metasomatism and may thus represent a sediment-poor arc end-member.
Indispensable epigenetic control of thymic epithelial cell development and function by polycomb repressive complex 2
Authors: Barthlott Thomas , Handel Adam E. , Teh Hong Ying , Wirasinha Rushika C. , Hafen Katrin , Žuklys Saulius , Roch Benoit , Orkin Stuart H. , de Villartay Jean-Pierre , Daley Stephen R. , Holländer Georg A.
Published: June 2021

Thymic T cell development and T cell receptor repertoire selection are dependent on essential molecular cues provided by thymic epithelial cells (TEC). TEC development and function are regulated by their epigenetic landscape, in which the repressive H3K27me3 epigenetic marks are catalyzed by polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). Here we show that a TEC-targeted deficiency of PRC2 function results in a hypoplastic thymus with reduced ability to express antigens and select a normal repertoire of T cells. The absence of PRC2 activity reveals a transcriptomically distinct medullary TEC lineage that incompletely off-sets the shortage of canonically-derived medullary TEC whereas cortical TEC numbers remain unchanged. This alternative TEC development is associated with the generation of reduced TCR diversity. Hence, normal PRC2 activity and placement of H3K27me3 marks are required for TEC lineage differentiation and function and, in their absence, the thymus is unable to compensate for the loss of a normal TEC scaffold.
Whole-exome sequencing of alpha-fetoprotein producing gastric carcinoma reveals genomic profile and therapeutic targets
Authors: Lu Jun , Ding Yongfeng , Chen Yanyan , Jiang Junjie , Chen Yiran , Huang Yingying , Wu Mengjie , Li Chengzhi , Kong Mei , Zhao Wenyi , Wang Haohao , Zhang Jing , Li Zhongqi , Lu Yimin , Yu Xiongfei , Jin Ketao , Zhou Donghui , Zhou Tianhua , Teng Fei , Zhang Haibin , Zhou Zhan , Wang Haiyong , Teng Lisong
Published: June 2021

Alpha-fetoprotein producing gastric carcinoma (AFPGC) is a rare and aggressive subtype of gastric cancer. However, little is known about the genomic features of this disease. We perform whole-exome sequencing analysis of AFPGC, and identify 34 significantly mutated genes. Somatic copy number alterations analysis reveals several significant focal amplifications (e.g. 19q12, 17q12) and focal deletions (e.g. 1p36.11, 9p21.3), and some of these negatively affect the patient prognosis. Comparative analyses reveal that AFPGC has distinct genomic features from gastric cancer of The Cancer Genome Atlas as well as four molecular subtypes. Several frequently altered genes with potential as therapeutic targets are identified in AFPGC. Further analysis reveals that AFPGC with amplification of CCNE1 at 19q12 and/or ERBB2 at 17q12 show poorer survival and more aggressive. Subsequently, based on our established patient-derived xenograft models for AFPGC, translational research is performed and the therapeutic value of targeting CCNE1 and ERBB2 is validated. In this work, we provide an understanding of genomic characteristics of AFPGC and propose a platform to explore and validate the genome-guided personalized treatment for this disease.
Topological phases and bulk-edge correspondence of magnetized cold plasmas
Authors: Fu Yichen , Qin Hong
Published: June 2021

Plasmas have been recently studied as topological materials. However, a comprehensive picture of topological phases and topological phase transitions in cold magnetized plasmas is still missing. Here we systematically map out all the topological phases and establish the bulk-edge correspondence in cold magnetized plasmas. We find that for the linear eigenmodes, there are 10 topological phases in the parameter space of density n, magnetic field B, and parallel wavenumber kz, separated by the surfaces of Langmuir wave-L wave resonance, Langmuir wave-cyclotron wave resonance, and zero magnetic field. For fixed B and kz, only the phase transition at the Langmuir wave-cyclotron wave resonance corresponds to edge modes. A sufficient and necessary condition for the existence of this type of edge modes is given and verified by numerical solutions. We demonstrate that edge modes exist not only on a plasma-vacuum interface but also on more general plasma-plasma interfaces. This finding broadens the possible applications of these exotic excitations in space and laboratory plasmas.
Orbital- and millennial-scale Antarctic Circumpolar Current variability in Drake Passage over the past 140,000 years
Authors: Wu Shuzhuang , Lembke-Jene Lester , Lamy Frank , Arz Helge W. , Nowaczyk Norbert , Xiao Wenshen , Zhang Xu , Hass H. Christian , Titschack Jürgen , Zheng Xufeng , Liu Jiabo , Dumm Levin , Diekmann Bernhard , Nürnberg Dirk , Tiedemann Ralf , Kuhn Gerhard
Published: June 2021

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) plays a crucial role in global ocean circulation by fostering deep-water upwelling and formation of new water masses. On geological time-scales, ACC variations are poorly constrained beyond the last glacial. Here, we reconstruct changes in ACC strength in the central Drake Passage in vicinity of the modern Polar Front over a complete glacial-interglacial cycle (i.e., the past 140,000 years), based on sediment grain-size and geochemical characteristics. We found significant glacial-interglacial changes of ACC flow speed, with weakened current strength during glacials and a stronger circulation in interglacials. Superimposed on these orbital-scale changes are high-amplitude millennial-scale fluctuations, with ACC strength maxima correlating with diatom-based Antarctic winter sea-ice minima, particularly during full glacial conditions. We infer that the ACC is closely linked to Southern Hemisphere millennial-scale climate oscillations, amplified through Antarctic sea ice extent changes. These strong ACC variations modulated Pacific-Atlantic water exchange via the “cold water route” and potentially affected the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation and marine carbon storage.
Complex magnetic properties associated with competing local and itinerant magnetism in $${\text {Pr}}_2 {\text {Co}}_{0.86} {\text {Si}}_{2.88}$$
Authors: Kundu Mily , Pakhira Santanu , Choudhary Renu , Paudyal Durga , Lakshminarasimhan N. , Avdeev Maxim , Cottrell Stephen , Adroja Devashibhai , Ranganathan R. , Mazumdar Chandan
Published: June 2021

Ternary intermetallic compound$${\text {Pr}}_2 {\text {Co}}_{0.86} {\text {Si}}_{2.88}$$Pr2Co0.86Si2.88has been synthesized in single phase and characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) analysis, magnetization, heat capacity, neutron diffraction and muon spin rotation/relaxation ($$\mu$$μSR) measurements. The polycrystalline compound was synthesized in single phase by introducing necessary vacancies in Co/Si sites. Magnetic, heat capacity, and zero-field neutron diffraction studies reveal that the system undergoes magnetic transition below$$\sim$$∼4 K. Neutron diffraction measurement further reveals that the magnetic ordering is antiferromagnetic in nature with an weak ordered moment. The high temperature magnetic phase has been attributed to glassy in nature consisting of ferromagnetic clusters of itinerant (3d) Co moments as evident by the development of internal field in zero-field$$\mu$$μSR below 50 K. The density-functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the low temperature magnetic transition is associated with antiferromagnetic coupling between Pr 4fand Co 3dspins. Pr moments show spin fluctuation along with unconventional orbital moment quenching due to crystal field. The evolution of the symmetry and the crystalline electric field environment of Pr-ions are also studied and compared theoretically between the elemental Pr and when it is coupled with other elements such as Co. The localized moment of Pr 4fand itinerant moment of Co 3dcompete with each other below$$\sim$$∼20 K resulting in an unusual temperature dependence of magnetic coercivity in the system.
Advanced glycation end products and their receptors in serum of patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Indyk Diana , Bronowicka-Szydełko Agnieszka , Gamian Andrzej , Kuzan Aleksandra
Published: June 2021

Glycation is a non-enzymatic process involving the reaction of reducing sugars or reactive oxoaldehyde with proteins, lipids or nucleic acids, which results in the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). The presented work discusses the glycation process in people with advanced stage of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The concentration of different AGEs and their receptors for 58 serum samples was determined by ELISA and by spectrofluorimetric methods. In addition to fluorescent low molecular weight and protein-bound AGEs, we have also marked a new class of AGEs: melibiose-derived glycation product (MAGE). Our attention was also focused on the two groups of AGEs receptors: scavenger receptors (SR-A and SR-B) and RAGE. The correlation between the SR-AI scavenging receptors concentration and the fluorescence of AGEs as well as diabetes biological markers: GFR, creatinine contentration and HbA1c was demonstrated. A relationship between the concentration of AGEs and their receptors was also found in serum sample of patients treated with the metformin and aspirin. Furthermore, the concentration of SR-AI scavenger and the fluorescence of total AGEs was significantly lower in treated patients than in non treated patients. AGEs have also been found to contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis and diabetic complications, what could be deduced from the correlation of AGEs level and HDL cholesterol or uric acid level. Thus, it was confirmed that AGEs are involved in the pathomechanism of diabetes and other degenerative diseases. Nowadays, it is believed that AGEs due to the long time remaining in the body may be an important diagnostic marker. Their determination may allow monitoring the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of the therapy.
Dyeing of cotton fabric materials with biogenic gold nanoparticles
Authors: Sivakavinesan M. , Vanaja M. , Annadurai G.
Published: June 2021

The present work aimed at synthesizing gold nanoparticles in a biological method employing fruit peel waste dumped in the environment. The peels of Garcinia mangostana (Mangostan), were collected from the nearby tourist spot during the season. The collected fruit peels were washed, dried, powder and extracted by using boiling water and acetone. The precipitated extract was dried and powdered for further use. The dried and powdered peel extract was added to the gold solution and boiled to 80 °C and the color change is observed. The color change indicates the completion of the synthesis of gold nanoparticles. The effect of pH, gold ion concentration, peel extract powder concentration, and the temperature was tested by varying the parameters. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized using the UV–Vis spectrophotometer to identify the surface plasmon resonance peaks corresponding to gold nanoparticles. The bio-moieties responsible for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles were identified using the Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy. The crystalline nature was detected by using an X-Ray Diffractometer. Atomic Force Microscope viewed the 3D surface image of the gold nanoparticle. The shape and morphology of the nanoparticle were identified by using a Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope. The active compounds for gold nanoparticle synthesis were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The gold nanoparticle was synthesized in various colors and used for dyeing cotton fabrics. The dyed cotton materials were exposed to various stress conditions to determine the color fastening.
Association of hepatic steatosis derived from ultrasound and quantitative MRI with prediabetes in the general population
Authors: Naeem Muhammad , Bülow Robin , Schipf Sabine , Werner Nicole , Dörr Marcus , Lerch Markus M. , Kühn Jens-Peter , Rathmann Wolfgang , Nauck Matthias , Markus Marcello Ricardo Paulista , Ittermann Till , Völzke Henry
Published: June 2021

The aim of our study was to investigate the association of hepatic steatosis derived from quantitative ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with prediabetes in a large population-based study conducted in Northeast Germany. Hepatic steatosis was assessed through transabdominal ultrasound and quantitative MRI. For analysis we included 1622 subjects with MRI who participated in an oral glucose tolerance test and reported no known type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We classified participants as proposed by the American Diabetes Association: isolated impaired fasting glucose (i-IFG), isolated impaired glucose tolerance (i-IGT), combined IFG and IGT (IFG + IGT), and undiagnosed T2DM. Regression models were adjusted for age, sex body mass index and alcohol consumption. We observed positive associations of hepatic steatosis with glycated hemoglobin, fasting glucose and insulin, 2-h glucose and insulin, as well as homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance index. Similarly, individuals having hepatic steatosis as defined by MRI had a higher relative risk ratio (RR) to be in the prediabetes groups i-IFG (RR = 1.6; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2; 2.2), i-IGT (RR = 3.3, 95% CI 2.0; 5.6) and IFG + IGT (RR = 2.5, 95% CI 1.6; 3.9) or to have undiagnosed T2DM (RR = 4.8, 95% CI 2.6; 9.0). All associations were attenuated when defining hepatic steatosis by ultrasound. Hepatic steatosis is associated with prediabetes and undiagnosed T2DM in the general population. Quantitative liver MRI revealed stronger associations with prediabetes and undiagnosed T2DM compared to ultrasound, which indicates the higher sensitivity and specificity of MRI to determine hepatic steatosis.
The learning curve of the distal radial access for coronary intervention
Authors: Roh Ji Woong , Kim Yongcheol , Lee Oh-Hyun , Im Eui , Cho Deok-Kyu , Choi Donghoon , Jeong Myung Ho
Published: June 2021

Recently, coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via the distal radial access (DRA), are gaining attention owing to fewer complications. Despite the advantages of the DRA, there is difficulty to initiate this new vascular approach. The data from 1000 patients who underwent CAG and PCI via the DRA by a single experienced radial operator were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was the success rate of the DRA per 100 cases. Moreover, the predictors of the failed DRA were analyzed. Overall, 952 (95.2%) of the total 1,000 patients underwent a successful DRA. After experiencing 200 cases, the DRA success rate was well maintained at > 94%, and there was no difference in success rate per 100 cases (Ptrend = 0.216). The predictors of failure were female sex [odds ratio (OR) 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–3.39, P = 0.049] and systolic blood pressure (SBP) of < 120 mmHg (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.04–3.36, P = 0.036). For achieving a stable DRA with the success rate of > 94%, 200 procedures would be needed. Moreover, this new approach could fail in women and patients with low SBP.

Trial registration: https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/index/index.do (Unique identifier: KCT0005349).
Impact of acute ethanol intake on cardiac autonomic regulation
Authors: Brunner Stefan , Winter Raphaela , Werzer Christina , von Stülpnagel Lukas , Clasen Ina , Hameder Annika , Stöver Andreas , Graw Matthias , Bauer Axel , Sinner Moritz F.
Published: June 2021

Acute alcohol consumption may facilitate cardiac arrhythmias underlying the ‘Holiday Heart Syndrome’. Autonomic imbalance is promoting atrial arrhythmias. We analyzed the effects of alcohol on measures of the cardiac autonomic nervous system and their relation to arrhythmias. In 15 healthy individuals, alcohol was administered parenterally until a breath alcohol concentration of 0.50 mg/l. High-resolution digital 30-min ECGs were recorded at baseline, at the time of maximum alcohol concentration, and after alcohol concentration returned to near baseline. Using customized software, we assessed periodic repolarization dynamics (PRD), deceleration capacity (DC), standard measures of heart rate variability (SDNN; RMSSD; LF; HF), and standard ECG parameters (mean heart rate; PQ; QRS; QTc interval). At the maximum alcohol concentration, PRD levels were significantly increased compared to baseline [1.92 (IQR 1.14–3.33) deg2 vs. 0.85 (0.69–1.48) deg2; p = 0.001]. PRD levels remained slightly increased when alcohol concentrations returned to baseline. DC levels were significantly decreased at the maximum alcohol concentration compared to baseline [7.79 (5.89–9.62) ms vs. 9.97 (8.20–10.99) ms; p = 0.030], and returned to baseline levels upon reaching baseline levels of alcohol. Standard HRV measures were reduced at maximum alcohol concentration. The mean heart rate increased significantly during alcohol administration. QRS and QTc duration were significantly prolonged, whereas PQ interval showed no change. Our findings revealed an increase of sympathetic activity and a reduction of parasympathetic activity under the influence of alcohol administration, resulting in autonomic imbalance. This imbalance might ultimately trigger arrhythmias underlying the ‘Holiday Heart Syndrome’.
Plasma-induced construction of defect-enriched perovskite oxides for catalytic methane combustion
Authors: Tian Qingqing , Wang Zhicheng , Yuan Minghao , Zhao Shuai , Chen Huawei , Li Lei , Cui Mifen , Qiao Xu , Fei Zhaoyang
Published: June 2021

An innovative plasma-induced strategy was employed to one-step prepare defect-enriched porous LaMnO3 and cerium-substituted LaMnO3 perovskite oxides with excellent performance in methane combustion.
Genetic variant effect prediction by supervised nonnegative matrix tri-factorization
Authors: Arani Asieh Amousoltani , Sehhati Mohammadreza , Tabatabaiefar Mohammad Amin
Published: June 2021

A new feature space, which can discriminate deleterious variants, was constructed by the integration of various input data using the proposed supervised nonnegative matrix tri-factorization (sNMTF) algorithm.
Transcriptomic sequencing reveals the response of Dunaliella salina to copper stress via the increased photosynthesis and carbon mechanism
Authors: Ling Na , Li Weilu , Xu Guiguo , Qi Zheng , Ji Chenfeng , Liu Xiaorui , Cui Di , Sun Yuan
Published: June 2021

Transcriptome sequencing showing the potential mechanisms of Dunaliella salina in response to copper stress.
Detection of a SARS-CoV-2 sequence with genosensors using data analysis based on information visualization and machine learning techniques
Authors: Soares Juliana Coatrini , Soares Andrey Coatrini , Rodrigues Valquiria Cruz , Oiticica Pedro Ramon Almeida , Raymundo-Pereira Paulo Augusto , Bott-Neto José Luiz , Buscaglia Lorenzo A. , de Castro Lucas Daniel Chiba , Ribas Lucas C. , Scabini Leonardo , Brazaca Laís C. , Correa Daniel S. , Mattoso Luiz Henrique C. , de Oliveira Maria Cristina Ferreira , de Carvalho André Carlos Ponce Leon Ferreira , Carrilho Emanuel , Bruno Odemir M. , Melendez Matias Eliseo , Oliveira Osvaldo N.
Published: June 2021

First genosensor for SARS-CoV-2 where multimodal detection principles can be employed, including image analysis based on machine learning.
A fluorescent probe for the discrimination of oxidation states of palladium
Authors: Jiang Lijun , Mak Ho-Nam , Walter Edward R. H. , Wong Wing-Tak , Wong Ka-Leung , Long Nicholas J.
Published: June 2021

A simple porphyrin–coumarin conjugate PPIX-L2 was developed for the discrimination of different oxidation states of palladium (Pd0 and Pd2+), and with a significantly improved sensitivity.
Polymorphism rs7214723 in CAMKK1: a new genetic variant associated with cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Beghi Sofia , Cavaliere Francesca , Manfredini Matteo , Ferrarese Sandro , Corazzari Claudio , Beghi Cesare , Buschini Annamaria
Published: June 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of deaths worldwide. CVDs have a complex etiology due to the several factors underlying its development including environment, lifestyle, and genetics. Given the role of calcium signal transduction in several CVDs, we investigated via PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs7214723 within the calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase kinase 1 (CAMKK1) gene coding for the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase I. The variant rs7214723 causes E375G substitution within the kinase domain of CAMKK1. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 cardiac patients. RFLP-PCR technique was applied, and statistical analysis was performed to evaluate genotypic and allelic frequencies and to identify an association between SNP and risk of developing specific CVD. Genotype and allele frequencies for rs7214723 were statistically different between cardiopathic and several European reference populations. A logistic regression analysis adjusted for gender, age, diabetes, hypertension, BMI and previous history of malignancy was applied on cardiopathic genotypic data and no association was found between rs7214723 polymorphism and risk of developing specific coronary artery disease (CAD) and aortic stenosis (AS). These results suggest the potential role of rs7214723 in CVD susceptibility as a possible genetic biomarker.
State filtering and parameter estimation for two‐input two‐output systems with time delay
Authors: Gu Ya , Zhu Quanmin , Li Chuanjiang , Zhu Peiyi , Nouri Hassan
Published: June 2021

This paper focuses on presenting a new identification algorithm to estimate the parameters and state variables for two‐input two‐output dynamic systems with time delay based on canonical state space models. First, the related input‐output equation is determined and transformed into an identification oriented model, which does not involve in the unmeasurable states, and then a residual based least squares identification algorithm is presented for the estimations. After the parameters being estimated, the system states are subsequently estimated by using the estimated parameters. Through theoretical analysis, the convergence of the algorithm is derived to provide assurance for applicability. Finally, a selected simulation example is given for a meaningful case study to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Investigation into fault tolerant capability of new modular low‐speed and high‐torque direct‐drive permanent magnet motor based on unequal span winding
Authors: Gan Baoping , Zhang Bingyi , Li Qiaoshan , Feng Guihong
Published: June 2021

Low‐speed and high‐torque direct‐drive permanent‐magnet motors have found wide applications primarily due to their outstanding performance characteristics. The special applications of these motors demand high reliability against the motor drive system, that is, the power system should have a certain level of fault tolerance. Therefore, the fault‐tolerant motor drive system has been the focus of research all over the world. Many fault‐tolerant motors can only deal with the open‐circuit fault of the winding or drive, and their capability of fault tolerance is substantially limited. When in operation, the short‐circuit fault caused by the ageing of winding insulation may result in more serious hazards than the open circuit in the winding. Such serious faults should be tolerated by the fault‐tolerant system. Moreover, the simpler maintenance or shutdown repair upon completion of fault‐tolerant operation of large‐sized fault‐tolerant motors should also be considered. Therefore, a permanent‐magnet fault‐tolerant motor with module combination stator (MCS‐PMFTSM) and unequal span winding is proposed. By changing the winding structure of the conventional motor the modular operation of the whole motor is achieved, which not only provides the motor with a high fault tolerance capacity but also reduces the downtime during repair and maintenance. In this work, the structure and operating principles of the MCS‐PMFTSM are described followed by the evaluation of the operation performances of the MCS‐PMFTSM under different fault conditions and various control strategies. The fault‐tolerant capacity of this new machine is then analysed, and the prototype is tested with a power of 12 kW and a rated speed of 100 r/min. Both theoretical analysis and test results demonstrate the outstanding operation performance and high fault tolerance of the motor.
Blockchain‐based framework of power demand response in China
Authors: Yan Yong , Huang Jianping , Chen Xingying , Zhang Zhi , Zhang Tianhan , Lin Zhenzhi
Published: June 2021

Demand response is recognized as an effective solution for eliminating power fluctuations and satisfying capacity constraints in power systems. A growing customer base equipped with energy storage and intelligent power meter on the demand side has resulted in the strong interest of China's power companies in demand response. However, most exiting demand response programs in China are based on a centralized framework, which is easier for management, but cannot support a large number of scattered small‐scale users' participation effectively. Therefore, taking the desired features of blockchain technology, such as decentralization, trustworthiness, trackability, and immutability into consideration, the applicability of blockchain in demand response is analyzed. On this basis, a new blockchain‐based framework of China's typical demand response programs is proposed, in which consensus mechanism, encryption algorithm, and smart contract of blockchain are applied to the process of invitation, bidding, and settlement in demand response. Furthermore, the development suggestions of China's demand response based on blockchain technology are put forward from the aspects of trading products, credit management, and platform construction at the end of this work.
A training sample selection method based on united generalised inner product statistics for STAP
Authors: Li Xinzhe , Xie Wenchong , Wang Yongliang
Published: June 2021

In heterogeneous environments, the snapshot under test (SUT) and the corresponding training samples are usually not independent and identically distributed, which seriously degrades the clutter suppression performance of space‐time adaptive processing (STAP). To solve this problem, this paper proposes a method which can select the training samples with similar clutter characteristics to that of the SUT. The proposed method constructs a novel united generalised inner product (UGIP) statistic with the sub‐aperture clutter covariance matrix (CCM) of the SUT and that of any other snapshot. The smaller the statistic is, the more similar the corresponding two snapshots are. Therefore, the snapshots with smaller UGIPs will be selected as training samples. The proposed method effectively improves the quality of the selected training samples for STAP and a better estimate of the CCM can be obtained. Simulation experiments verify the effectiveness of the proposed method with both simulated data and measured data.
Idealised 3D simulations of diabatically forced Ledoux convection
Authors: Daley-Yates Simon , Padioleau Thomas , Tremblin Pascal , Kestener Pierre , Mancip Martial
Published: June 2021

Aims.We investigate the impact of dimensionality, resolution, and long timescales on convective numerical simulations forced by thermo-compositional diabatic processes. We focus our study on simulations that are stable to the Schwarzschild criterion but unstable to the Ledoux one (i.e. simulations with a stabilising temperature gradient and a destabilising mean-molecular-weight gradient). We aim to establish the possibility of a reduced temperature gradient in such setups.

Methods.A suite of 3D simulations incorporating both time series and convergence studies were conducted using a high-performance numerical hydrodynamic code. We used, as a simplified and idealised test case, a sample region of the secondary atmosphere of a hot rocky exoplanet, of the order of the scale height of the system, within which the chemical transition CO + O ↔ CO2could occur. Newtonian cooling was employed to force an equilibrium temperature, and a chemical source term was used to maintain a negative mean-molecular-weight gradient in the vertical direction.

Results.Our results demonstrate that a mean-molecular-weight gradient and a chemical source term can reduce the atmosphere temperature gradient, a result that does not converge away with resolution and is stable when exploring long timescales. Simulations in two dimensions are prone to the development of shear modes, as already seen in the literature for double-diffusive convection. The 3D convective steady state is not impacted by these shear modes, suggesting that this phenomenon is linked to the dimensionality of the problem. We also show that the presence of the reduced temperature gradient is a function of the forcing timescales, disappearing if the chemical forcing is too slow. We find that the above transition leads to a bifurcation of the atmosphere’s temperature profile when the chemical forcing is fast. Such a bifurcation is reminiscent of the bifurcation seen in the boiling crisis for steam or liquid convection.

Conclusions.With the reduced temperature gradient in these idealised setups, there exists the possibility of an analogy of the reddening (currently observed in the spectra of brown dwarfs) in the spectra of rocky exoplanet atmospheres. This possibility needs, however, to be checked with detailed 1D models in order to precisely characterise the equilibrium thermal and compositional gradients, the thermal and compositional forcing timescales, and the impact of a realistic equation of state to, in turn, assess if the regime identified here will develop in realistic situations. However, the possibility of this reddening cannot be excluded a priori. This prediction is new for terrestrial atmospheres and represents strong motivation for the use of diabatic models when analysing the atmospheric spectra of rocky exoplanets that will be observed with, for example, theJames WebbSpace Telescope.
Transformation preserving controllability for nonlinear optimal control problems with joint boundary conditions
Authors: Šimon Hilscher Roman , Zeidan Vera M.
Published: June 2021

In this paper we develop a new approach for optimal control problems with general jointly varying state endpoints (also called coupled endpoints). We present a new transformation of a nonlinear optimal control problem with jointly varying state endpoints and pointwise equality control constraints into an equivalent optimal control problem of the same type but with separately varying state endpoints in double dimension. Our new transformation preserves among other properties the controllability (normality) of the considered optimal control problems. At the same time it is well suited even for the calculus of variations problems with joint state endpoints, as well as for optimal control problems with free initial and/or final time. This work is motivated by the results on the second order Sturm–Liouville eigenvalue problems with joint endpoints by Dwyer and Zettl (1994) and by the sensitivity result for nonlinear optimal control problems with separated state endpoints by the authors (2018).
Environment Development Based on Local Community, Case of “Relawan Kampung,” Banten, Indonesia
Authors: Indriyany Ika Arinia , Hikmawan M Dian , Godjali Moh. Rizky , Mahpudin
Published: June 2021

This research describes how the infrastructure development was carried out by “Relawan Kampung” (Village Volunteers), Banten, Indonesia. “Relawan Kampung” is here to overcome the anxiety of unequal development carried out by the government, which hinders people’s mobility. The development they are doing is carried out by paying attention to the sustainability of the surrounding environment and involving the local community as the key development actors. Using the theory of Development Based Community and Case Study Methods, the research results show that the independence of the “Relawan Kampung” from the government, which is reflected in the independence of funds, actually shows the success of a development. Since its establishment in 2012, “Relawan Kampung” has been able to build hundreds of bridges. This is an excellent example of how empowered civil society can meet its own needs without government assistance.
Assessment of energy sustainability and development of companies based on cognitive modeling
Authors: Drobyazko Svetlana , Hilorme Tetiana , Shevchenko Valentyna , Yudina Olena
Published: June 2021

It is proved that innovations in the field of energy are a priority for sustainable development at all levels of the economy. The purpose of this work is to build a cognitive model of enterprise development based on energy saving. Cognitive-linguistic analysis has been used as the main method for forming a system of substantiation of managerial decisions. The choice of management decisions on the development of industrial enterprises on the basis of energy saving, which are determined by building a cognitive model, is substantiated. According to the results of the analysis, the influence of sixteen factors of the external business environment on the formation of adherent solutions for the management of industrial development based on pulse modeling is studied. It is proved that, in the system of innovative management of industrial enterprises development, the target factor is the “Level of enterprise development”, and other studied factors are controlled. The use of dynamic analysis makes it possible to identify stabilizing and destabilizing factors influencing the development of industrial enterprises. The ranges of change of factors-indicators of industrial enterprises development management in the system “minimummaximum” are defined. In conclusion, оn the basis of the constructed cognitive map of innovative management of the development of electricpower industry enterprises, the ranges of change of factors-indicators of enterprise development management are determined.
Effectiveness of Groundwater Boiling as Household Water Treatment in Metro and Bekasi Cities, Indonesia
Authors: Ghaudenson Rioneli , Priadi Cindy Rianti , Foster Tim
Published: June 2021

Groundwater serves as a major drinking water source due to inadequate piped supplies in Indonesia. To eliminate the health risks associated with groundwater consumption, boiling appears as the most suitable and cost-effective treatment technique and widely practiced in Indonesia. Despite treatment efforts, inappropriate water storage and handling practices pose a higher risk of recontamination after treatment. The objective of this study was to analyse the effectiveness of groundwater boiling and treated water recontamination in Metro and Bekasi cities, Indonesia. Groundwater at the source and point of use samples were surveyed and assessed from a total of 116 households, resulting in 60% and 35% E. coli contamination, respectively. Paired testing involving boiling observed a reduction in microbial risk for 45% of households. However, 12% samples had an increase in risk even though boiling was reported. Furthermore, E. coli concentration at source prior to boiling and point of use after boiling showed a statistically significant difference (N=111, P<0.01). This study demonstrated the effectiveness of boiling in reducing contamination, although recontamination was evident in some cases, likely due to unsafe water storage and unhygienic environment.
Self-Supply Service Level Assessment as Drinking Water Source in Bekasi City (Case Study: Jatiluhur, Sumur Batu, and Jatirangga Villages)
Authors: Harera Aprilia , Putri Gita Lestari , Foster Tim
Published: June 2021

Drinking water sources derived from groundwater using selfsupply approaches are widely used in Bekasi City because only 26.8% of households are connected to the piped distribution. These self-supplied water systems can be assessed to determine how people choose a better drinking source. Therefore, this study aims to assess the service level attributes of self-supply, including accessibility, availability, and quality. A longitudinal monitoring method by means of a monthly survey to respondents was used to mens perceptions of taste, smell, color, availability, and safety. The results on both household and citywide scale showed boreholes were perceived to deliver a high service level. On the household scale, 93% of boreholes user got ‘high’ score for water service assessment, while dug wells were only 76%. During the 8 months survey, it was shown that 45% of respondents change their main source of drinking water from self-supply to other source for several reasons. Therefore, this study is expected to provide an overview related to the resilience of selfsupply drinking water for a certain period.
Sustainable Development Strategy of Pine Resin in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Mukhlisa Andi Nurul , Resty Dwiyanti Andi Amytia
Published: June 2021

Production of pine sap international level in Indonesia every period of five years has decreased significantly, it is a reference to pine sap market attention on a smaller scope that district to village level-based potential. This study aims to formulate a marketing strategy to develop the market of pine resin in Bone regency. This study was conducted in Bone regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia and held for 5 months. The analytical method used to formulate marketing strategy in this study was a semi structured interview, to analyze the data using analysis IE (internalexternal) matrix. The results of matrix calculations IFAS (internal factor analysis summary) obtained a total score of 2.85 and a matrix internal EFAS (External factors analysis summary) with a score of 3.2. The results after analyzed with IE matrix put pine resin market position of Bone Regency in the cell II, that grow and build. Recommendation development strategy of pine rosin market namely market penetration, market development, product development, integrase forward and integrase backward..
Green Intellectual Capital Factors Leading to Business Sustainability
Authors: Jermsittiparsert Kittisak
Published: June 2021

Today the impact of green intellectual capital on organizational sustainability have to be studied because of rising environmental concerns. There are three components of the green intellectual capital (GIC) which include green relational capital (GRC), green human capital (GHC) and green structural capital (GSC). This study fundamentally related to GIC three dimensions and business sustainability. Data from 238 SMEs in Thailand were collected and analyzed through PLS-PM method. Findings discovered that GHC does not have any influence on sustainability, but GSC and GRC are significantly related with sustainability of businesses.
Graphite chamber with diamond windows to look at molten salts
Authors: Yiu Yuen
Published: June 2021

The ability to conveniently characterize fluoride salts may help realize the full potential of the material to be used in various nuclear power applications.
What is needed to mainstream artificial intelligence in health care?
Authors: Scott Ian A. , Abdel-Hafez Ahmad , Barras Michael , Canaris Stephen
Published: June 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a mainstream technology in many industries, but not yet in health care. Although basic research and commercial investment are burgeoning across various clinical disciplines, AI remains relatively non-existent in most healthcare organisations. This is despite hundreds of AI applications having passed proof-of-concept phase, and scores receiving regulatory approval overseas. AI has considerable potential to optimise multiple care processes, maximise workforce capacity, reduce waste and costs, and improve patient outcomes. The current obstacles to wider AI adoption in health care and the pre-requisites for its successful development, evaluation and implementation need to be defined.
Nano-scratch and nano-indentation study of diamond-like carbon/NiP-SiC nanocomposite bilayer
Authors: Ahmadpour Samani M. , Ghasemi B. , Khodaei M.
Published: June 2021

To overcome the poor adhesion of diamond-like carbon (DLC) films to the steel substrate, an interlayer can be used. In this study, the effect of the addition of NiP-SiC nanocomposite coating as an interlayer in comparison to the NiP coating has been investigated on tribological properties of the DLC layer. Using nano-scratch and nano-indentation tests, the mechanical and nanotribological behaviour of the DLC layers, such as scratch resistance, coefficient of friction, interfacial adhesion between DLC layer and substrate, and hardness were characterised. DLC/NiP-SiC samples showed higher adhesion, hardness, elastic modulus, and lower friction coefficient. These results reveal the improved tribological properties of DLC film by applying the NiP-SiC nanocomposite interlayer in comparison to using the pure NiP interlayer.
Testing gravity of a disformal Kerr black hole in quadratic degenerate higher-order scalar-tensor theories by quasi-periodic oscillations
Authors: Chen Songbai , Wang Zejun , Jing Jiliang
Published: June 2021

By using the relativistic precession model, we have studied frequencies of quasi-periodic oscillations in the spacetime of a disformal Kerr black hole. This black hole owns an extra disformal parameter and belongs to a class of non-stealth solutions in quadratic degenerate higher-order scalar-tensor (DHOST) theories. Our result shows that only the periastron precession frequency is related to the disformal parameter, while the azimuthal frequency and the nodal precession frequency are identical with those in the usual Kerr black hole in general relativity. Combing with the observation data of GRO J1655-40, we fit parameters of the disformal Kerr black hole, and find that the disformal parameter α is almost negative in the range of 1 σ, which implies the negative disformal parameter α is favored by the observation data of GRO J1655-40.