bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partial reuse of circadian clock genes along parallel clines of diapause in two moth species
Authors: Yu Yue , Huang Li‐Li , Xue Fang‐Sen , Dopman Erik B.
Published: March 2023

Understanding the molecular basis of repeated evolution improves our ability to predict evolution across the tree of life. Only since the last decade has high‐throughput sequencing enabled comparative genome scans to thoroughly examine the repeatability of genetic changes driving repeated phenotypic evolution. The Asian corn borer (ACB),Ostrinia furnacalis(Guenée), and the European corn borer (ECB),Ostrinia nubilalis(Hübner), are two closely related moths displaying repeatable phenological adaptation to a wide range of climates on two separate continents, largely manifesting as changes in the timing of diapause induction and termination across latitude. Candidate genes underlying diapause variation in North American ECB have been previously identified. Here, we sampled seven ACB populations across 23 degrees of latitude in China to elucidate the genetic basis of diapause variation and evolutionary mechanisms driving parallel clinal responses in the two species. Using pooled whole‐genome sequencing (Pool‐seq) data, population genomic analyses revealed hundreds of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) whose allele frequencies covaried with mean diapause phenotypes along the cline. Genes involved in circadian rhythm were over‐represented among candidate genes with strong signatures of spatially varying selection. Only one of two circadian clock genes associated with diapause evolution in ECB showed evidence of reuse in ACB (period [per]), butperalleles were not shared between species nor with their outgroup, implicating independent mutational paths. Nonetheless, evidence of adaptive introgression was discovered at putative diapause loci located elsewhere in the genome, suggesting that de novo mutations and introgression might both underlie the repeated phenological evolution.
Genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms reveal recurrent waves of speciation in niche‐pockets, in Europe's most venomous snake
Authors: Thanou Evanthia , Jablonski Daniel , Kornilios Panagiotis
Published: March 2023

Within the Balkan Peninsula, topographic and climatic agents have promoted biodiversity and shaped the speciation history of many ectotherms. Here, we targeted an iconic European reptile, the nose‐horned viper species‐complex (Vipera ammodytes), and explored its spatial and temporal evolution. We (i) utilized genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms to infer genetic structure and build a time‐calibrated species‐tree, and (ii) applied species distribution modelling with niche‐divergence tests among major phylogenomic clades. Geographically structured genetic diversity was found. Cycles of recurrent isolation and expansion during glacial–interglacial periods led to allopatric speciation and to secondary contacts and formation of multiple hybrid zones throughout the Balkan Peninsula. Deep divergence is still detected among populations separated by old and imminent biogeographical barriers (Pindos Mountain Range, the Cyclades islands, etc.), but in most cases speciation is incomplete. At the other end of the speciation continuum, we recognize two well‐differentiated lineages, currently lacking any evidence of gene flow; one is distributed in the Northwestern Balkans and the other in the Southeastern Balkans, further expanding into Asia. Despite their split 5 million years ago, there is no evidence of ecological divergence, as speciation probably occurred in niche‐pockets of analogous environments. These two lineages probably represent different species, while V. transcaucasiana does not merit species status. By comparing the genomic phylogenies to an updated mitochondrial one, we propose an evolutionary scenario that resolves all mitonuclear conflicts, according to which the history of the V. ammodytes species‐complex was shaped by complex processes, including a major event of introgressive hybridization with asymmetric mitochondrial capture.
Quantitative trait loci for stay‐greenness and agronomic traits provide new insights into chlorophyll homeostasis and nitrogen use in rice
Authors: Archana Ramakrishnappa , Vinod Kunnummal Kurungara , Gopala Krishnan Subbaiyan , Vadhana Elangovan Devi Chandra , Bhowmick Prolay Kumar , Singh Vikram Jeet , Ellur Ranjith Kumar , Sathee Lekshmy , Mandal Pranab Kumar , Bollinedi Haritha , Nanda Kumar Shekharappa , Sonu  , Nagarajan Mariappan , Singh Ashok Kumar
Published: March 2023

Functional stay‐green (FSG) is characterized by delayed senescence during the reproductive stage in rice. A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from ‘Pusa 677’/‘PSG16’ was used to study the genetics of FSG in a rice mutant, ‘PSG16’. The RILs exhibited significant variation under two N regimes for agro‐morphological traits, leaf chlorophyll content, flowering time, yield components and nitrogen (N) use. Using a genome wide linkage map spanning 1910.8 cM with 104 polymorphic markers, we have mapped six major quantitative trait loci (QTLs). One robust QTL on chromosome 1 was associated consistently across different N regimes with chlorophyll content and flowering time. The QTL on chromosome 7 was associated with grain number, whereas the QTL on chromosome 6 was found related to N harvest index and spikelet fertility. Although ‘PSG16’ showed a clear advantage in grain yield as well as having better N assimilation, we could not establish a direct genetic relationship SG trait and N use. Based on the QTL information, FSG trait of ‘PSG16’ could be useful in deciphering multiple stress responses in rice.
From international law to subnational practices: How intermediaries translate the Istanbul Convention
Authors: Miaz Jonathan , Niederhauser Matthieu , Maggetti Martino
Published: March 2023

The implementation of international human right treaties is particularly challenging, especially when they entail obligations that apply at the subnational level. In this article, we examine how international law intermediaries translate and use international treaties in subnational policymaking processes. We develop a dedicated analytical framework, and we derive a typology, characterizing different types of intermediaries and systematizing the ways political‐administrative actors use international law at the subnational level. On this basis, our empirical analysis shows how the implementation of a crucial treaty—the Istanbul Convention (IC) on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence—is shaped by subnational actors and eventually used in policy processes in Swiss cantons. International law is seen not only as a constraint but also as an opportunity and a resource that can be mobilized for different purposes by a variety of intermediaries, including local public officials, MPs, and members of civil society organizations, in collaboration and sometimes in competition with each other. Specifically, our findings indicate that international law intermediaries use these treaties through bottom‐up dynamics of engagement according to their agenda and interests and their anticipation of what they can do in their cantonal context, resulting in iterative chains of intermediation. Furthermore, we observe a blurring of the boundaries between rule‐makers, intermediaries, and targets, that is, the same actors may perform different roles in a given policy process.
The nonlinear relationship between political trust and nonelectoral political participation in democratic and nondemocratic regimes
Authors: Kutuk Yasin , Usturali Adil
Published: March 2023

Objective

Citizens use nonelectoral means of political participation along with electoral ones. However, we expect that engaging in nonelectoral political participation (NEPP) is quite dependent on the legitimacy of the state and its institutions, as well as the regime type. This article explores the relationship between NEPP and political trust (PT), which can indicate the legitimacy of such institutions.

Method

We utilize the seventh wave of World Values Survey to test such relationships in countries classified as democratic and nondemocratic following the Freedom in the World Index. We hypothesize that in democratic countries there is an inverted U‐shaped curvilinear relationship between PT and NEPP. We also hypothesize that there would be a negative relationship between PT and NEPP in nondemocratic countries.

Result

The analysis of the data confirms the first hypothesis, which is our main contribution. We also found that the negative relationship in the second hypothesis exists and is linear.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that respondents in each set of countries interpret trust and participation differently. In democracies, citizens engage in NEPP when they have a medium level of trust in political institutions, and in other regimes, citizens take that risk only when their mistrust of the institutions of the regime falls below a certain level.
Estimating function method for nonnegative autoregressive models
Authors: Hari Prasad E. , Balakrishna N.
Published: March 2023

A stationary sequence of nonnegative random variables generated by autoregressive (AR) models may be used to describe the inter‐arrival times between events in counting processes. Even though, several such models are available in the literature, there is no unified approach to estimate their parameters. In this paper, we propose a class of combined estimating function method to estimate the model parameters of AR models with gamma marginals. The proposed method is compared with other estimation procedures and are illustrated by simulation and data analysis.
Cryoprecipitate contaminated with Cupriavidus pauculus: A rare cautionary case report
Authors: Li Wenxin , Wang Yongjun , Han Wenjuan , Yin Guomei
Published: March 2023

Aims

The aim was to define the source of contamination of cryoprecipitate intercepted during visual inspection before transfusion.

Materials and Methods

A clot was observed in one unit of cryoprecipitate before blood transfusion at the Dongyang People's Hospital. Bacterial cultures were performed using the BacT/ALERT system (BacT/ALERT 3D, bioMerieux, Durham, NC). The isolated bacteria were identified through conventional biochemical identification, matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry, and molecular analysis based on 16sr RNA. Samples from all individuals who came into direct contact with the cryoprecipitate were cultured, and the positive samples were then referred for bacterial identification.

Results

A leak was found at the edge of a blood bag containing the cryoprecipitate. Cupriavidus paucula was identified both in the cryoprecipitate and water from the water bath. However, there was no growth of C. paucula in the samples obtained from the red blood cell suspension co‐component, puncture site of the blood donor, blood storage refrigerator, transport case, and centrifuge.

Conclusion

C. paucula in the water from the water bath contaminated the cryoprecipitate through the invisible slit in the blood bag during thawing. Regular disinfection of water baths, double‐bagging of blood products during thawing, and careful screening of blood products before transfusion should be performed to prevent the transfusion of contaminated cryoprecipitate.
Carotid body: an emerging target for cardiometabolic co‐morbidities
Authors: Thakkar Pratik , Pauza Audrys G. , Murphy David , Paton Julian F. R.
Published: March 2023

The maintenance of glucose homeostasis is obligatory for health and survival. It relies on peripheral glucose sensing and signalling between the brain and peripheral organs via hormonal and neural responses that restore euglycaemia. Failure of these mechanisms causes hyperglycaemia or diabetes. Current anti‐diabetic medications control blood glucose but many patients remain with hyperglycemic condition. Diabetes is often associated with hypertension; the latter is more difficult to control in hyperglycaemic conditions. We ask whether a better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of glucose control could improve treatment of both diabetes and hypertension when they co‐exist. With the involvement of the carotid body (CB) in glucose sensing, metabolic regulation and control of sympathetic nerve activity, we consider the CB as a potential treatment target for both diabetes and hypertension. We provide an update on the role of the CB in glucose sensing and glucose homeostasis. Physiologically, hypoglycaemia stimulates the release of hormones such as glucagon and adrenaline, which mobilize or synthesize glucose; however, these counter‐regulatory responses were markedly attenuated after denervation of the CBs in animals. Also, CB denervation prevents and reverses insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. We discuss the CB as a metabolic regulator (not just a sensor of blood gases) and consider recent evidence of novel ‘metabolic’ receptors within the CB and putative signalling peptides that may control glucose homeostasis via modulation of the sympathetic nervous system. The evidence presented may inform future clinical strategies in the treatment of patients with both diabetes and hypertension, which may include the CB.
Highly connected 3D chromatin networks established by an oncogenic fusion protein shape tumor cell identity
Authors: Sanalkumar Rajendran , Dong Rui , Lee Lukuo , Xing Yu-Hang , Iyer Sowmya , Letovanec Igor , La Rosa Stefano , Finzi Giovanna , Musolino Elettra , Papait Roberto , Chebib Ivan , Nielsen G. Petur , Renella Raffaele , Cote Gregory M. , Choy Edwin , Aryee Martin , Stegmaier Kimberly , Stamenkovic Ivan , Rivera Miguel N. , Riggi Nicolò
Published: March 2023

Cell fate transitions observed in embryonic development involve changes in three-dimensional genomic organization that provide proper lineage specification. Whether similar events occur within tumor cells and contribute to cancer evolution remains largely unexplored. We modeled this process in the pediatric cancer Ewing sarcoma and investigated high-resolution looping and large-scale nuclear conformation changes associated with the oncogenic fusion protein EWS-FLI1. We show that chromatin interactions in tumor cells are dominated by highly connected looping hubs centered on EWS-FLI1 binding sites, which directly control the activity of linked enhancers and promoters to establish oncogenic expression programs. Conversely, EWS-FLI1 depletion led to the disassembly of these looping networks and a widespread nuclear reorganization through the establishment of new looping patterns and large-scale compartment configuration matching those observed in mesenchymal stem cells, a candidate Ewing sarcoma progenitor. Our data demonstrate that major architectural features of nuclear organization in cancer cells can depend on single oncogenes and are readily reversed to reestablish latent differentiation programs.
The CANDOR corpus: Insights from a large multimodal dataset of naturalistic conversation
Authors: Reece Andrew , Cooney Gus , Bull Peter , Chung Christine , Dawson Bryn , Fitzpatrick Casey , Glazer Tamara , Knox Dean , Liebscher Alex , Marin Sebastian
Published: March 2023

People spend a substantial portion of their lives engaged in conversation, and yet, our scientific understanding of conversation is still in its infancy. Here, we introduce a large, novel, and multimodal corpus of 1656 conversations recorded in spoken English. This 7+ million word, 850-hour corpus totals more than 1 terabyte of audio, video, and transcripts, with moment-to-moment measures of vocal, facial, and semantic expression, together with an extensive survey of speakers’ postconversation reflections. By taking advantage of the considerable scope of the corpus, we explore many examples of how this large-scale public dataset may catalyze future research, particularly across disciplinary boundaries, as scholars from a variety of fields appear increasingly interested in the study of conversation.
Establishing gas transport highways in MOF-based mixed matrix membranes
Authors: Li Conger , Qi Anheng , Ling Yang , Tao Yu , Zhang Yue-Biao , Li Tao
Published: March 2023

Achieving percolation pathways in a metal-organic framework (MOF)–based mixed matrix membrane (MMM) without compromising its mechanical properties is challenging. We developed phase separated (PS)–MMMs with an interconnected MOF domain running across the whole membrane. Through demixing two immiscible polyimides, the MOF particles were selectively partitioned into one of the preferred polymer domains at over 50 volume % local packing density, leading to a percolated network at only 19 weight % MOF loading. The CO
2
permeability of this PS-MMM is 6.6 times that of the pure polymer membrane, while the CO
2
/N
2
and CO
2
/CH
4
selectivity remain largely unchanged. Meanwhile, benefiting from its unique co-continuous morphology, the PS-MMM also exhibited markedly improved membrane ductility compared to the conventional MMM at similar MOF loading. PS-MMMs offer a practical solution to simultaneously achieve high membrane permeability and good mechanical properties.
How the yellow fever mosquito found its first human victim
Authors: Sokol Joshua
Published: March 2023

Aedes aegypti
developed a taste for humans at the birth of the Sahara, a new analysis suggests
Fast-growing open-access journals lose impact factors
Authors: Brainard Jeffrey
Published: March 2023

Web of Science delists some 50 journals, including one of the world’s largest
Generation of Short Pulses by Filtering Phase-Modulated CW Laser Radiation
Authors: Shakhmuratov R. N.
Published: March 2023

A method for generating short pulses with a high repetition rate is proposed. It is based on periodic modulation of the radiation phase of a CW laser and subsequent filtering through a narrow-band frequency filter. At the output of the filter, a sequence of short pulses is generated with a period equal to half the modulation period. In the case of a resonant filter using atoms, ions or molecules with a narrow absorption line, the appearance of pulses can be explained by constructive interference of the incident radiation with radiation coherently scattered by resonant particles. An alternative explanation of the pulse generation in the general case, when frequency filters operating on other principles are used, is based on the interference of the spectral components remaining after filtering. The method can be applied for time division multiplexing to transmit digital information through a single channel at high speed. The advantage of the proposed method is the use of phase modulation (not strictly periodic), integrated with frequency filtering to generate pulses and encode information simultaneously in one circuit, while in other known methods, information is introduced into a sequence of regularly generated pulses using additional amplitude modulation.
Distribution and determinants of choroidal vascularity index in healthy eyes from deep-learning choroidal analysis: a population-based SS-OCT study
Authors: Xuan Meng , Li Cong , Kong Xiangbin , Zhang Jian , Wang Wei , He Mingguang
Published: March 2023

Aims

To quantify the profiles of choroidal vascularity index (CVI) using fully artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithm applied to swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) images and evaluate the determinants of CVI in a population-based study.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included adults aged ≥35 years residing in the Yuexiu District of Guangzhou, China, a follow-up population-based study. All participants (n=646) underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, including SS-OCT for quantifying choroidal parameters. The CVI and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) were measured by a novel AI-based system.

Results

A total of 556 participants were included, with a mean age of 56.4±9.9 years and 44.96% women. The average CVI and SFCT of the overall population were 69.7% (95% CI 69.2 to 70.3) and 263.0 µm (95% CI 257.2 to 268.8), respectively. After adjusting for other factors, older age and longer AL were significantly associated with a lower CVI. The CVI decreased by –0.13% (–0.19 to –0.06, p<0.001) with each 1-year increase in age, –2.10% (–3.29 to –0.92, p=0.001) with each 1 mm increase in AL. Furthermore, significantly positive correlation between CVI and SFCT has been observed, with coefficient of 0.059 (0.052 to 0.065, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Using new AI-based choroidal segmentation software, we provided a fast, reliable and objective CVI profile for large-scale samples. Older age and longer AL were independent correlates of choroidal thinning and CVI decline. These factors should be considered when interpreting SS-OCT-based choroidal measurements.
Pharmacodynamic effect of gabapentin on central nervous system in patients with chronic low back pain: a [99mTc]Tc-ECD SPECT study
Authors: Papassidero Priscila , Wichert-Ana Lauro , Lia Erica Negrini , Alexandre-Santos Leonardo , Trevisan Ana Carolina , Coelho Eduardo Barbosa , Della Pasqua Oscar , Lanchote Vera Lúcia , Dach Fabíola
Published: March 2023

Background

Gabapentin is an effective therapeutic alternative for chronic low back pain, indicated in several guidelines for treating neuropathic pain as first-line medication. This study aimed to describe the pharmacodynamics of gabapentin in the central nervous system of patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) by using single-photon emission CT (SPECT) with [99mTc]Tc-ECD.

Methods

We selected 13 patients with CLBP due to lumbar disc herniation. They underwent SPECT before and after using gabapentin, compared with a SPECT database of healthy volunteers. A second analysis compared regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) changes between responders and non-responders to gabapentin and the healthy controls.

Results

The mean age of patients was 41 years, and the mean pain intensity was 5.92 points, measured by the Numeric Rating Scale. After using gabapentin, SPECT showed an increase of rCBF in the bilateral anterior cingulate gyrus and a decrease of rCBF in periaqueductal gray matter. Non-responder patients with gabapentin showed a post-treatment decrease of rCBF in the paracentral lobule of the brain.

Conclusions

A lack of improvement in some patients with gabapentin may be associated with an activated affective circuit of pain, evidenced by the increase of rCBF of the anterior cingulate cortex. A maladaptive brain state in chronic pain can explain the decrease of rCBF in the default mode network structures. Gabapentin acts directly or indirectly on neurons of periaqueductal gray substance by increasing the pain threshold and decreasing the rCBF of this structure.
Can Money Buy Happiness? Income and Multidimensional Life Satisfaction in Brunei Darussalam
Authors: SLESMAN LY , HOON CHANG-YAU , ARIFIN EVI NURVIDYA , HAJI-OTHMAN NOOR AZAM , TAN ABBY
Published: March 2023

This paper examines the nexus of income and multidimensional life satisfaction (LS) in the oil- and gas-rich Belait district of Brunei Darussalam. Using a random sample of 1,000 Belait residents and principal component factor analysis to sort 11 domains-of-life satisfaction into three uncorrelated LS spheres–LS with materialist life (job, stress, and income); LS with post-materialist life (family, spirituality, neighbors, and community activities); and LS with public life (health, neighborhood facility, feeling safe at home, and quality of living environment)—we discover the following. First, positive income effects on LS with materialist life sphere are evidenced from lower-middle- to high-income bands. Second, a positive income effect on LS with post-materialist life sphere is only found in the high-income band. Income does not relate to LS with public life sphere. These findings are robust to using each domains-of-life satisfaction and treating scores on domain satisfaction as ordinal and cardinal measures.
Composite scalar boson mass dependence on the constituent mass anomalous dimension
Authors: Doff A. , Natale A. A.
Published: March 2023

We perform a Bethe–Salpeter equation (BSE) evaluation of composite scalar boson masses in order to verify how these masses can be smaller than the composition scale. The calculation is developed with a constituent self-energy dependent on its mass anomalous dimension ([Formula: see text]), and we obtain a relation showing how the scalar mass decreases as [Formula: see text] is increased. We also discuss how fermionic corrections to the BSE kernel shall decrease the scalar mass, whose effect can be as important as the one of a large [Formula: see text]. An estimate of the top quark loop effect that must appear in the BSE calculation gives a lower bound on the composite scalar mass.
Design of an Approximate Multiplier with Time and Power Efficient Approximation Methods
Authors: Liu Ruyi , Duan Wei , Luo Xiaodie , Ren Qian , Li Yifan , Song Min
Published: March 2023

Approximate multipliers have gradually become a focus of research due to the emergence of fault-tolerant applications. This paper deals with the approximation methods for an approximation multiplier with truncation, probability transformation and a majority gate-based compressor chain. With the help of probability analysis, the proposed approximation methods are utilized in an approximate [Formula: see text] unsigned multiplier to achieve low accuracy loss, high efficiency for time and power. Compared with the precise and approximate multipliers, the proposed design brings 55.0%, 39.0% reduction in delay and 73.8%, 22.6% power saving. The proposed multiplier achieves better peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) values when evaluated with an image processing application.
PipCKG-BS: A Method to Build Cybersecurity Knowledge Graph for Blockchain Systems via the Pipeline Approach
Authors: Li Jianbin , Li Jifang , Xie Chunlei , Liang Yousheng , Qu Ketong , Cheng Long , Zhao Zhiming
Published: March 2023

The increasing sophistication of cyberattacks on blockchain systems has significantly disrupted security experts from gaining immediate insight into the security situation. The Cybersecurity Knowledge Graph (CKG) currently provides a novel technical solution for blockchain system situational awareness by integrating massive fragmented Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) about blockchain technology. However, the existing literature does not provide a solution for building CKG appropriate for blockchain systems. Therefore, designing a method to construct a CKG for blockchain systems by efficiently extracting information from the CTI is mandatory. This paper proposes PipCKG-BS, a pipeline-based approach that builds CKG for blockchain systems. The PipCKG-BS incorporates contextual features and Pre-trained Language Models (PLMs) to improve the performance of the information extraction process. Precisely, we develop the Named Entity Recognition (NER) and Relation Extraction (RE) models for cybersecurity text in PipCKG-BS. In the NER model, we apply the prompt-based learning paradigm to cybersecurity text by constructing prompt templates. In the RE model, we employ external features and prior knowledge of sentences to improve entity relationship extraction accuracy. Several experimental results demonstrate that PipCKG-BS is better than advanced methods in extracting CTI information and is an appealing solution to build high-quality CKG for blockchain systems.
Thermo-Electro-Mechanical Analysis of Micropolar FGP Cylindrical Shell Covered with Piezoelectric Actuator Layers
Authors: Sadegh Mousavi S. M. A. , Jabbari M. , Yarmohammad Tooski M.
Published: March 2023

An investigation is performed in this paper to analyze the nonlinear thermo-electro-mechanical response of long sandwich cylindrical shells with functionally graded porous (FGP) core and thin piezoelectric actuator layers. The FGP core of the sandwich shell is assumed to be temperature- and microstructure-dependent. It is assumed that the sandwich shell is subjected to uniform lateral pressure loading in a thermo-electrical environment. The equilibrium equations of the shell with infinite length are established with the aid of the virtual displacement principle and von Kármán kinematic assumptions. The governing equations are obtained in terms of displacement components based on the first-order shear deformation model of shallow cylindrical shells and the modified couple stress theory. These nonlinear differential equations are analytically solved for a sandwich shell having both the simply-supported and clamped–clamped edge conditions by employing a two-step perturbation technique. Analytical closed-form solutions are determined as a relationship including the load parameter and the mid-span deflection. The comparison examples are made with the existing results in the literature for a simple functionally graded shell, where good agreement is obtained. It is shown that the nonlinear response of the sandwich shell is highly dependent upon the temperature variation, power law index, porosity coefficient, couple stress parameter, piezoelectric layers, and geometrical parameters of the shell.
Fixed points stability, bifurcation analysis, and chaos control of a Lotka–Volterra model with two predators and their prey
Authors: Abbasi Muhammad Aqib
Published: March 2023

The study of the population dynamics of a three-species Lotka–Volterra model is crucial in gaining a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between prey and predator populations. This research takes a unique approach by exploring the stability of fixed points and the occurrence of Hopf bifurcation. By using the bifurcation theory, our study provides a comprehensive analysis of the conditions for the existence of Hopf bifurcation. This is validated through detailed numerical simulations and visual representations that demonstrate the potential for chaos in these systems. To mitigate this instability, we employ a hybrid control strategy that ensures the stability of the controlled model even in the presence of Hopf bifurcation. This research is not only significant in advancing the field of ecology but also has far-reaching practical implications for wildlife management and conservation efforts. Our results provide a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of prey–predator interactions and have the potential to inform sustainable management practices and ensure the survival of these species.
Comparison of Clustering-Based Virtual SEA Subsystem Generation Models
Authors: Sipos David , Feszty Daniel
Published: March 2023

Building a valid Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) model is far from straightforward in real life applications because it has to comply with certain requirements. Since intuition-based SEA subsystems do not always entirely meet these, more advanced methods such as clustering techniques have been proposed for model building. This paper focuses on the comparison of different clustering techniques from SEA model validity point of view in the case of a simplified car body model. Besides the compliance with the SEA theory, each obtained model is compared to a reference finite element simulation to assess its accuracy.
“I Did Watch ‘The Handmaid's Tale’”: Threat Modeling Privacy Post-roe in the United States
Authors: McDonald Nora , Andalibi Nazanin
Published: March 2023

Now that the protections of Roe v. Wade are no longer available throughout the United States, the free flow of personal data can be used by legal authorities to provide evidence of felony. However, we know little about how impacted individuals approach their reproductive privacy in this new landscape. We conducted interviews with 15 individuals who may get/were pregnant to address this gap. While nearly all reported deleting period tracking apps, they were not willing to go much further, even while acknowledging the risks of generating data. Quite a few considered a more inhospitable,Handmaid's Talelike climate in which their medical history and movements would put them in legal peril but felt that, by definition, this reality was insuperable, and also that they were not the target—the notion that privileged location, stage of life did not make them the focus of government or vigilante efforts. We also found that certain individuals (often younger and/or with reproductive risks) were more attuned to the need to modify their technology or equipped to employ high and low-tech strategies. Using an intersectional lens, we discuss implications for media advocacy and propose privacy intermediation to frame our thinking about reproductive privacy.
Mechanized Proofs of Adversarial Complexity and Application to Universal Composability
Authors: Barbosa Manuel , Barthe Gilles , Grégoire Benjamin , Koutsos Adrien , Strub Pierre-Yves
Published: March 2023

In this work, we enhance the EasyCrypt proof assistant to reason about the computational complexity of adversaries. The key technical tool is a Hoare logic for reasoning about computational complexity (execution time and oracle calls) of adversarial computations. Our Hoare logic is built on top of the module system used by EasyCrypt for modeling adversaries. We prove that our logic is sound w.r.t. the semantics of EasyCrypt programs—we also provide full semantics for the EasyCrypt module system, which was lacking previously.

We showcase (for the first time in EasyCrypt and in other computer-aided cryptographic tools) how our approach can express precise relationships between the probability of adversarial success and their execution time. In particular, we can quantify existentially over adversaries in a complexity class and express general composition statements in simulation-based frameworks. Moreover, such statements can be composed to derive standard concrete security bounds for cryptographic constructions whose security is proved in a modular way. As a main benefit of our approach, we revisit security proofs of some well-known cryptographic constructions and present a new formalization of universal composability.
Structural Biochemistry of Muscle Contraction
Authors: Wang Zhexin , Raunser Stefan
Published: March 2023

Muscles are essential for movement and heart function. Contraction and relaxation of muscles rely on the sliding of two types of filaments—the thin filament and the thick myosin filament. The thin filament is composed mainly of filamentous actin (F-actin), tropomyosin, and troponin. Additionally, several other proteins are involved in the contraction mechanism, and their malfunction can lead to diverse muscle diseases, such as cardiomyopathies. We review recent high-resolution structural data that explain the mechanism of action of muscle proteins at an unprecedented level of molecular detail. We focus on the molecular structures of the components of the thin and thick filaments and highlight the mechanisms underlying force generation through actin–myosin interactions, as well as Ca2+-dependent regulation via the dihydropyridine receptor, the ryanodine receptor, and troponin. We particularly emphasize the impact of cryo–electron microscopy and cryo–electron tomography in leading muscle research into a new era.
ZIFs-derived Hollow CoS2/N-doped Mesoporous Graphite Carbon Nanocages as an Electrochemical Sensing Platform for Hydrazine Detection in Food
Authors: Yang Jie , Zhao Shan , Wu Jiaying , Ling Chengshuang , Tang Xin , Huang Ke , Zou Zhirong , Yu Huimin , Xiong Xiaoli
Published: March 2023

The design and construction of a promising electrode is attractive for the sensitive and selective detection of hydrazine. In this paper, hollow CoS2/N-doped mesoporous graphite carbon nanocages (CoS2/HNGC) were synthesized derived from ZIF-8@ZIF-67 by annealing and sulfidation. In situ nitrogen coordination and self-compounding porous carbon with hollow structure can effectively improve electrocatalytic performance and electron transfer rate of catalyst electrode. The sensor has good performance for hydrazine with a wide linear range of 1 μM − 3 mM, high sensitivity of 2384 μA mM−1 cm−2, and detection limit of 0.272 μM (S/N = 3). In addition, the fine selectivity and the application of this sensor in food hydrazine detection suggest that CoS2/HNGC can be used as an efficient electrochemical detection material for hydrazine.
Pyronin Derivatives as Efficient Electrochemiluminescence Emitters in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Zhao Linlin , Zeng Yiying , Gong Shida , Li Chunguang , Xia Jianfei , Zhou Xin , Zhang Feifei , Wang Zonghua
Published: March 2023

The electrochemiluminescence (ECL) behavior of pyronin derivatives was reported. We found that these derivatives, as novel ECL emitters, generated an efficient emission phenomenon; that is, they showed anodic emission using tri-propylamine (TPA) as the coreactant and cathodic ECL emission using K2S2O8 as the coreactant. Because of its remarkable luminescent performance, the ECL mechanism (reductive-oxidative and oxidative-reductive) of benzylthiol-substituted pyronin (BTP) was specifically studied. Surprisingly, the cathodic ECL emission of BTP had a lower ECL peak potential at −0.54 V (vs. SCE) in aqueous solution. The potential range of −0.7 V to 0.0 V is lower than that of previously reported K2S2O8 cathodic ECL systems. Its good water solubility, easy modification, and excellent emission properties facilitate appealing (bio)analytical applications in ECL biosensors and cell imaging.
A Copolymer Based Voltammetric Sensor for the Simultaneous Determination of Neuroendocrine Tumour Biomarkers
Authors: Sam Sonia , Pallam Goldamol S. , Kumar K. Girish
Published: March 2023

Neuroendocrine tumours are cancerous and fatal lumps that originate from endocrine and nerve cells. Herein we report the first voltammetric sensor for the simultaneous determination of neuroendocrine tumour biomarkers 5-Hydroxy indole acetic acid (HIAA) and Vannillyl mandelic acid (VMA). Glassy carbon electrode modified with a copolymer of taurine and glutamic acid by electropolymerisation process has been used for the determination of the analytes. The synergistic effect of the two conducting polymers gave remarkable voltammetric response for the biomarkers. Calibration measurements for the sensor were carried out using fast and feasible square wave voltametric technique. Detection limits as low as 4.19 × 10−8 M (HIAA) and 6.16 × 10−8 M (VMA) is possible with this voltammetric sensor with only tolerable interference from their coexisting species. To boot, spike recovery analysis of the analytes in artificial urine samples gave adequate recovery values, which proves the reliability of the sensor.
Communication—Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 and N2 into Urea at ZIF-8 Cathode
Authors: Yuan Jiongliang , Liu Zhaotao , Ma Lingjia , Feng Zefeng , Zhu Kunye
Published: March 2023

The synthesis of urea has been usually performed in two steps under high temperature and high pressure with huge energy consumption. In this communication, we proposed a one-step electrocatalytic synthesis of urea under ambient condition using ZIF-8 as the catalyst and CO2 and N2 as the feedstocks. At an applied voltage of −0.10 V vs RHE, the strongest Raman peak of the C-N intermediate was observed, thus the highest rate of urea yield of 5.45 mmol h−1 g−1 was achieved, with a corresponding Faradaic efficiency of 22.03%.
Nitric Oxide as a Signaling Molecule for Biofilm Formation and Dispersal in Mediated Electron Transfer Microbial Electrochemical Systems
Authors: Beaver Kevin , Dantanarayana Ashwini , Zani Ana Bonizol , Lehto Danielle L. , Minteer Shelley D.
Published: March 2023

With applications in bioremediation, biosensing, and bioenergy, microbial electrochemical systems are a rapidly growing, multidisciplinary field within biological, chemical, and materials science. Since these systems use living microorganisms as biocatalysts, it is important to understand how microbial physiology, namely biofilm formation, affects these electrochemical systems. Specifically, the literature lacks research that assesses the effects of biofilm on metabolic current output in mediated electron transfer systems. In this study, Rhodobacter capsulatus and Pseudomonas putida GPo1 were used as model, nonpathogenic strains that facilitate electron transfer via diffusible redox mediators. Nitric oxide has gained attention in biomedicine as a gaseous signaling molecule, which at sublethal concentrations may either augment or inhibit biofilm formation depending on the bacterial species. In R. capsulatus, nitric oxide treatment was associated with increased current yield and improved biofilm formation. However, in P. putida GPo1, nitric oxide treatment corresponded to significantly reduced current output, as well as biofilm dispersal. In addition to highlighting the use of electrochemical tools to assess the effects of nitric oxide in biofilm formation, these findings demonstrate that biofilm-based mediated electron transfer systems benefit from the increased electrochemical output and enhanced cell adhesion, which is promising for more robust applications compared to their planktonic counterparts.
Emerging Memory Devices Beyond Conventional Data Storage: Paving the Path for Energy-Efficient Brain-Inspired Computing
Authors: Jha Rashmi
Published: March 2023

The current state of neuromorphic computing broadly encompasses domain-specific computing architectures designed to accelerate machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. As is well known, AI/ML algorithms are limited by memory bandwidth. Novel computing architectures are necessary to overcome this limitation. There are several options that are currently under investigation using both mature and emerging memory technologies. For example, mature memory technologies such as high-bandwidth memories (HBMs) are integrated with logic units on the same die to bring memory closer to the computing units. There are also research efforts where in-memory computing architectures have been implemented using DRAMs or flash memory technologies. However, DRAMs suffer from scaling limitations, while flash memory devices suffer from endurance issues. Additionally, in spite of this significant progress, the massive energy consumption needed in neuromorphic processors while meeting the required training and inferencing performance for AI/ML algorithms for future applications needs to be addressed. On the AI/ML algorithm side, there are several pending issues such as life-long learning, explainability, context-based decision making, multimodal association of data, adaptation to address personalized responses, and resiliency. These unresolved challenges in AI/ML have led researchers to explore brain-inspired computing architectures and paradigms.
Tracing the Origin of Genotype II African Swine Fever Virus in China by Genomic Epidemiology Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yong , Wang Qinghua , Zhu Zhongyi , Wang Shujuan , Tu Shuyang , Zhang Yongqiang , Zou Yanli , Liu Yutian , Liu Chunju , Ren Weijie , Zheng Dongxia , Zhao Yunling , Hu Yongxin , Li Lin , Shi Chuan , Ge Shengqiang , Lin Peng , Xu Fengping , Ma Jinmin , Wu Xiaodong , Ma Hongchao , Wang Zhiliang , Bao Jingyue
Published: March 2023

The pandemic spread of African swine fever (ASF) has caused serious effects on the global pig industry. Virus genome sequencing and genomic epidemiology analysis play an important role in tracking the outbreaks of the disease and tracing the transmission of the virus. Here we obtained the full-length genome sequence of African swine fever virus (ASFV) in the first outbreak of ASF in China on August 3rd, 2018 and compared it with other published genotype II ASFV genomes including 9 genomes collected in China from September 2018 to October 2020. Phylogenetic analysis on genomic sequences revealed that genotype II ASFV has evolved into different genetic clusters with temporal and spatial correlation since being introduced into Europe and then Asia. There was a strong support for the monophyletic grouping of all the ASFV genome sequences from China and other Asian countries, which shared a common ancestor with those from the Central or Eastern Europe. An evolutionary rate of 1.312 × 10−5 nucleotide substitutions per site per year was estimated for genotype II ASFV genomes. Eight single nucleotide variations which located in MGF110-1L, MGF110-7L, MGF360-10L, MGF505-5R, MGF505-9R, K145R, NP419L, and I267L were identified as anchor mutations that defined genetic clusters of genotype II ASFV in Europe and Asia. This study expanded our knowledge of the molecular epidemiology of ASFV and provided valuable information for effective control of the disease.
Energy-Efficient Regional Area Metropolitan Optical Access Network (RAMOAN) Using Modified Load Adaptive Sequence Arrangement (M-LASA) Methodology
Authors: Senthil Kumar T. , Mohan V.
Published: March 2023

Energy efficiency in optical networks is one of the important criteria to attain enhanced performance. Better energy efficiency can be attained in optical networks if the resources are properly scheduled. Polling sequences perform resource scheduling based on load requirements, and various methodologies have evolved in recent times for better efficiency. Load adaptive sequence arrangement (LASA) is one of the familiar and efficient methodologies adopted in various methodologies. However, the power consumption and idle time of optical network units are high which should be reduced to attain optimal network performances. Considering this, a modified LASA is presented in this research work for the regional area metropolitan optical access network (RAMOAN). The modified LASA is obtained by integrating the first-in-last-out polling sequence such that the proposed arrangement provides a better coverage radius, minimal power cost, maximum access reach, maximum energy saving, and minimal delay and energy cost. The better performance of the proposed approach is compared with traditional time and wavelength division multiplexed (TWDM), TWDM-protected, and RAMOAN with LASA through simulation analysis to validate the better performances of the proposed model.
Effects of Genistein on Lipid Metabolism, Antioxidant Activity, and Immunity of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) Fed with High-Carbohydrate and High-Fat Diets
Authors: Yang Liping , Zhao Mengjuan , Liu Mingyu , Zhang Wenlei , Zhi Shaoyang , Qu Leya , Xiong Jinrui , Wang Luming , Qin Chaobin , Nie Guoxing
Published: March 2023

A 56-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of genistein on growth, lipid metabolism, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of common carp fed with high-carbohydrate or high-fat diets. Five diets were used to feed fish: control diet (5% fat; CO), high-fat diet (11% fat; HF), high-carbohydrate diet (45% carbohydrate; HC), and HF or HC diet with 500 mg/kg genistein (FG or CG). Results showed that final body weight (FW) and specific growth rate (SGR) were significantly reduced, but the supplementation with genistein resulted in higher values of FW and SGR than the HF or HC group. Both high carbohydrate and high fat belong to high-energy diets, which may promote lipid deposition. Genistein obviously decreased liver triglyceride (TG) content and alleviated hepatic fat vacuolation in the HF and HC groups. The expression of lipid metabolism genes (cpt-1 and atgl) was markedly higher in the FG group than in the HF group. The lipid synthesis-related genes (fas, acc, and pparγ) were elevated in high-energy diets but recovered to the control level or reduced after genistein treatments. With respect to fatty acid transporter genes, fatp increased in the FG group, and cd36 increased in the CG group. Furthermore, the antioxidant and immune indexes, such as total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), acid phosphatase (ACP), and lysozyme (LZM) activities, were decreased, while malonate aldehyde (MDA) content, activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were enhanced in the HF and HC groups. The antioxidant and immunity values could be ameliorated by treatment with genistein. Moreover, the transcript levels of antioxidant-related genes (cat, gr, and nrf2) in the liver and anti-inflammatory factors (tgf-β and il-10) and lyz in the head kidney tissue were promoted, although the expression levels of proinflammatory factors (tnf-α and il-6) declined in the genistein supplementation group, which confirmed the antioxidant and immune-enhancing effects of genistein. Therefore, 500 mg/kg genistein could ameliorate the negative effects of high-energy diets on immunity.