Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Microwave Active Filter Design

A simplified method for the project and design of microwave active filters is presented here. The presented design is based on the use of an active inductor that emulates an inductor behavior by implementing a passive variable phase- and amplitude-compen- sating network and amplifiers, forming a gyrator-C architecture. This method can be applied with success for the design of bandpass filters with very high performances in terms of integration and application from a few hundreds of MHz to tens of GHs with filter high dynamic range and frequency tuning capability.
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Nannochloropsis oculata with Ethanol and Betaine: 1,2-Propanediol Eutectic Solvent for Antioxidant Pigment-Rich Extracts Retaining Nutritious the Residual Biomass

The aim of this study was the development of an efficient “green” extraction method of Nannochloropsis oculata to produce antioxidant extracts and nutritious residual biomass. Twenty-one extraction methods were evaluated by measuring the reactivity with the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent: ultrasonication or maceration at different temperatures with different organic solvents, extraction at different pH values, enzyme-assisted extraction, encapsulation with β-cyclodextrin, and the use of natural deep eutectic solvents. Ultrasound-assisted extraction with ethanol or betaine: 1,2-propanediol in a molar ratio of 2:5 (BP) had optimal extractive capacity. Both extracts were evaluated with antioxidant assays and the ethanol extract exhibited significantly higher (at least twofold) values. The determination of carotenoids by LC-MS and HPLC-DAD revealed the dominance of violaxanthin and antheraxanthin and their fourfold higher concentrations in the ethanol extract. The 1H-NMR characterization of the ethanol extract confirmed the results of the colorimetric and chromatographic assays. The microalgal biomass was characterized before and after the extraction in terms of humidity, ash, carbohydrates, proteins, chlorophyll-a, carotenoids, and lipids; the identity and content of the latter were determined with gas chromatography. BP caused a smaller depletion of the lipids from the biomass compared to ethanol, but proteins, carbohydrates, and ash were at a higher content in the biomass obtained after ethanol extraction, whereas the biomass was dry and easy to handle. Although further optimization may take place for the scale-up of those procedures, our study paves the way for a green strategy for the valorization of microalgae in cosmetics without generating waste, since the remaining biomass can be used for aquafeed.
Effect of Substrate-RF on Sub-200 nm Al0.7Sc0.3N Thin Films

Sc-doped aluminum nitride is emerging as a new piezoelectric material which can substitute undoped aluminum nitride (AlN) in radio-frequency MEMS applications, thanks to its demonstrated enhancement of the piezoelectric coefficients. Furthermore, the recent demonstration of the ferroelectric-switching capability of the material gives AlScN the possibility to integrate memory functionalities in RF components. However, its high-coercive field and high-leakage currents are limiting its applicability. Residual stress, growth on different substrates, and testing-temperature have already been demonstrated as possible knobs to flatten the energy barrier needed for switching, but no investigation has been reported yet on the whole impact on the dielectric and ferroelectric dynamic behavior of a single process parameter. In this context, we analyze the complete spectrum of variations induced by the applied substrate-RF, from deposition characteristics to dielectric and ferroelectric properties, proving its effect on all of the material attributes. In particular, we demonstrate the possibility of engineering the AlScN lattice cell to properly modify leakage, breakdown, and coercive fields, as well as polarization charge, without altering the crystallinity level, making substrate-RF an effective and efficient fabrication knob to ease the limitations the material is facing.
A method for the preliminary design of gears using a reduced number of American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) correction factors

ABSTRACT Typically, the preliminary design of mechanical components such as gears is carried out using standardized design processes such as those developed by the American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA). These design standards include a large number of ‘correction factors’ to account for various uncertainties. As the knowledge about these uncertainties increases, it becomes possible to include them systematically in the design procedure, thereby reducing the number of empirical correction factors. Robust design provides a way to design in the presence of various uncertainties. In this article, a design method is proposed to eliminate empirical correction factors and is demonstrated by eliminating two correction factors from the AGMA design standards for a spur gear, namely, the factor of safety in contact and the reliability factor by the formal introduction of uncertainty in the magnitude of load and material properties. The proposed method is illustrated with the design of an automotive gear with desired reliability, cost and robustness.
Effect of chlorophyll in alginate-based edible film in inhibiting spoilage of fish snacks

Edible films are environmentally biodegradable materials used for food packaging. The edible green alga Caulerpa racemosa has antimicrobial properties; however, its chlorophyll-based bioactive compounds can be damaged when heated so it is prepared in microcapsules. Our research evaluated the effect of Caulerpa microcapsules on an alginate-based edible film on film properties and food spoilage. The microcapsules were used at concentrations of 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%. The edible film was measured for film properties, total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity (DPPH), functional group (FTIR) and microstructure (SEM). Food spoilage was evaluated on a popular fish-based product (fish bubble snacks). Bacterial strains of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were used to evaluate antimicrobial effectiveness of the edible films. The addition of Caulerpa microcapsules had no significant negative effect on physical properties of the alginate-based film, while the smoother and more homogenous surface should enhance the barrier properties of the film. The slow and evenly distributed release of active compounds from the microcapsules increased resistance to Rhizopus sp. and significantly reduced the proliferation of E. coli but not S. aureus on coated fish snacks. Caulerpa racemosa can be used to enhance the effectiveness of alginate-based films in delaying spoilage and could extend product shelf-life
Current and historical factors drive variation of reproductive traits in unisexual mosses in Europe: A case study

Unisexual bryophytes provide excellent models to study the mechanisms that regulate the frequency of sexual versus asexual reproduction in plants, and their ecological and evolutionary implications. Here, we determined sex expression, phenotypic sex ratio, and individual shoot traits in 242 populations of the cosmopolitan moss Pseudoscleropodium purum spanning its whole distributional range. We tested whether niche differentiation, sex‐specific differences in shoot size, and biogeographical history explained the spatial variation of reproductive traits. We observed high levels of sex expression and predominantly female‐biased populations, although both traits showed high intraspecific variation among populations. Sex expression and sex ratio were partly explained by current macroscale environmental variation, with male shoots being less frequent at the higher end of the environmental gradients defined by the current distribution of the species. Female bias in population sex ratio was significantly lower in areas recolonized after the last glacial maximum (recent populations) than in glacial refugia (long‐term persistent populations). We demonstrated that reproductive trait variation in perennial unisexual mosses is partially driven by macroscale and historical environmental variation. Based on our results, we hypothesize that sexual dimorphism in environmental tolerance and vegetative growth contribute to sex ratio bias over time, constraining the chances of sexual reproduction, especially in long‐term persistent populations. Further studies combining genetic analyses and population monitoring should improve our understanding of the implications of the intraspecific variation in the frequency of sexual versus asexual reproduction in bryophyte population fitness and eco‐evolutionary dynamics.
Space Shuttle Program (SSP) Dual Docked Operations (DDO)

This document describes the concept definition, studies, and analysis results generated by the Space Shuttle Program (SSP), International Space Station (ISS) Program (ISSP), and Mission Operations Directorate for implementing Dual Docked Operations (DDO) during mated Orbiter/ISS missions. This work was performed over a number of years. Due to the ever increasing visiting vehicle traffic to and from the ISS, it became apparent to both the ISSP and the SSP that there would arise occasions where conflicts between a visiting vehicle docking and/or undocking could overlap with a planned Space Shuttle launch and/or during docked operations. This potential conflict provided the genesis for evaluating risk mitigations to gain maximum flexibility for managing potential visiting vehicle traffic to and from the ISS and to maximize launch and landing opportunities for all visiting vehicles.
Beyond the rainbow: a discourse analysis of English sports organisations LGBT+ equality diversity and inclusion policies

ABSTRACT LGBT+ issues and advocacy are becoming more considered in various policies throughout society. However, sport is often described as a resistive space to such policies. This paper examines the effectiveness of current LGBT+ equality policies within English sports organisations. Specifically, 188 National Governing Body (NGB) policies were reviewed as well as 67 policies from other relevant organisations. We utilised a Foucauldian discourse analysis to identify the dominant narratives within the policies. From our analysis, we suggest that what is explicit throughout the policies is a partial stasis. This stasis takes the form of organisations gesturing towards change but failing to implement it concretely in their policies. We describe this process using the concept of ‘equality-proofing’ where just enough is done by organisations to gesture towards change or equality. Finally, recommendations for future policy praxis are considered.
The Role of Indoleamine 2, 3-Dioxygenase 1 in Regulating Tumor Microenvironment

Simple Summary Tumor microenvironment is a complex and dynamically changing entity, which is crucial for tumor development. Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 is elevated in the tumor microenvironment and is strongly associated with tumor histological malignancy. Therefore, the Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 metabolic pathway as a potential tumor immune escape could be used as a novel strategy for cancer therapy. However, the current phase III clinical trials did not achieve a desired result. Thus, it is imperative to further explore the immunosuppressive mechanism mediated by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 in the tumor microenvironment to optimize clinical trial treatment strategies. Abstract Indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) is a rate-limiting enzyme that metabolizes an essential amino acid tryptophan (Trp) into kynurenine (Kyn), and it promotes the occurrence of immunosuppressive effects by regulating the consumption of Trp and the accumulation of Kyn in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies have shown that the main cellular components of TME interact with each other through this pathway to promote the formation of tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. Here, we review the role of the immunosuppression mechanisms mediated by the IDO1 pathway in tumor growth. We discuss obstacles encountered in using IDO1 as a new tumor immunotherapy target, as well as the current clinical research progress.
Promising Therapeutic Impact of a Selective Estrogen Receptor Downregulator, Fulvestrant, as Demonstrated In Vitro upon Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma Cell Lines

Few studies have reported hormonal agent use in the treatment of low-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (LGSOCs), which are chemoresistant. Considering the need for novel effective therapies, we investigated the hormone receptor expression and hormonal inhibition efficacy in LGSOCs. Using immunohistochemistry, we assessed the estrogen receptor (ER) expression status in 33 cases of histologically confirmed serous ovarian tumors, including 10, 11, and 12 cases of LGSOCs, serous borderline tumors (SBTs), and serous cystadenomas (SCAs), respectively. The genetic background reported in our previous study was used in the current study. MPSC1 cells, which were established from LGSOCs, were used in cell proliferation assays. We observed a higher ER expression in LGSOCs and SBTs than in SCAs (70%, 81%, and 50%, respectively). Thus, LGSOCs and SBTs exhibit higher ER expression than SCAs. Moreover, the PIK3CA mutation positively correlated with ER expression in LGSOCs (p = 0.0113). MPSC1 cells showed low ER expression on Western blotting. MPSC1 cell proliferation was significantly inhibited by fulvestrant (a selective ER downregulator). The activation of ER and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways may play an important role in LGSOC carcinogenesis. ER downregulation with fulvestrant or combination therapy with PI3K inhibitors is a possible novel treatment for patients with LGSOCs.
Emotions of the Anthropocene across Oceania

As human activities have destabilised life on Earth, a new geological era is upon us. While there is a myriad of challenges that have emerged because of such human-driven planetary changes, one area of investigation that requires ongoing scholarly attention and scientific debate is the emotions of the Anthropocene. The emotional, mental, and psychological burdens induced by rapid and unprecedented change must be understood to better reflect the experiences of people around the globe and to initiate conversations about how emotions may be used for transformative change and effective politics. This paper aims to provide insights into the types of emotions that are emerging in Oceania as the Anthropocene unfolds. To do this, we draw on several data sets: questionnaire results with visitors of Mt Barney Lodge in the World Heritage Gondwana area in Queensland, Australia; another questionnaire with Pacific Island “experts” engaged in climate change, development, and disaster risk management work; interviews with locals living in the Cook Islands; and various spoken, written, and visual art from the Pacific. Bringing these data sets together allows us to explore a diversity of experiences, perspectives, and emotional responses to the Anthropocene from participants across Oceania. We found that acute and slow-onset weather events, experiences of direct loss and change, a perceived lack of agency or control over futures, and a sense of injustice triggered emotions including fear, stress, anxiety, exhaustion, sadness, grief, anger, frustration, helplessness, worry, but also empowerment. These results are critical for the first step of acknowledging and naming the emotions that are emerging in Oceania, such that they can then be worked through, and may be used for transformative change, effective politics, and agency over futures.
SUPERCONDUCTOR AND CABLE R&D FOR HIGH FIELD ACCELERATOR MAGNETS AT FERMLAB Invited paper at the International Workshop on Progress of Nb-based Superconductors, Feb. 2-3, 2004

This paper presents the results of the strand and cable R&D being performed at Fermilab. Nb3Sn strands of various designs and diameters produced with the traditional Internal Tin, Modified Jelly Roll, Restacked Rod Process, and Powder-in-Tube methods were studied. Since superconducting strands in accelerator magnets are used in the form of Rutherford cables, the effect of cabling degradation was measured on extracted strands for a variety of cable geometries and Nb3Sn technologies. Critical current sensitivity of impregnated cables to transverse pressure was also measured using a special probe.
Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: Knautia arvensis

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Knautia arvensis (L.) Coult. (Field Scabious) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation. Knautia arvensis is a perennial hemicryptophyte, with a tap root system, and bluish‐lilac inflorescences. It is native in Britain. It occurs predominantly on well‐drained to moderately dry soils such as dry grassy fields, pastures, roadsides and dry hedge banks. It has a vast Eurasian native distribution. Reproduction occurs through the production of seeds and rhizomes, though K. arvensis possesses very limited clonal growth. It has a gynodioecious breeding system. Flowers are nectariferous and insect pollinated, showing sexual dimorphism in several traits. The hermaphroditic flowers are protandrous and self‐compatible. Flowers are mainly pollinated by butterflies (Lepidoptera), Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera. Knautia is a genus noteworthy for its high occurrence of hybridisation and polyploidy. Knautia arvensis has the widest distribution within the genus, and hybridisation both within members of the same group and with taxa of other groups is frequently reported. Although declining in natural habitats within England, K. arvensis is increasingly being sown within wildflower seed mixtures used in restoration schemes across the country, as it is a late flowering species that provides a good source of nectar for pollinators.
Analysis of Rear-End Events on Congested Freeways by Using Video-Recorded Shock Waves

Rear-end crashes on congested freeways are among the most frequently occurring capacity-reducing incidents. Empirical evidence suggests that freeway rear-end crashes tend to occur when stopping shock waves form on freeways. To understand the occurrence of such incidents, this study determined conditions by which a stopping wave results in a rear-end crash. Reviewing the existing literature on rear-end crash mechanisms, the study first established a sufficient condition for a shock wave to produce a rear-end crash and then verified it by using video recordings of 41 shock waves, including five resulting in rear-end crashes, on Interstate I-94 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. For each shock wave, key kinematic features of the involved drivers, including initial speeds, following headway, average decelerations, and reaction times, were estimated. The proposed crash condition successfully distinguished between successful brake-to-stop events and rear-end crashes. Detailed analysis of two rear-end crashes illustrated how drivers with reaction times longer than their following headways played a key role in determining the crash outcome of a shock wave. These findings suggest that interventions focusing on the relationship between reaction time and following headway could reduce the frequency of rear-end crashes.
Investigating the Relation of Intelligence and Executive Functions in Children and Adolescents with and without Intellectual Disabilities

Despite their separate research traditions, intelligence and executive functioning (EF) are both theoretically and empirically closely related to each other. Based on a subsample of 8- to 20-year-olds of the standardization and validation sample (N = 1540) of an internationally available instrument assessing both cognitive abilities, this study aimed at investigating a comprehensive structural model of intelligence and EF tasks and at gaining insight into whether this comprehensive model is applicable across sexes and age groups as well as to a subsample of participants with (borderline) intellectual disabilities (IQ ≤ 85, n = 255). The results of our exploratory factor analysis indicated one common EF factor that could be sufficiently integrated into the intelligence model within our confirmatory factor analyses. The results suggest that the EF factor can be added into the model as a sixth broad ability. The comprehensive model largely showed measurement invariance across sexes and age groups but did not converge within the subsample of participants with (borderline) intellectual disabilities. The results and implications are discussed in light of the current literature.
Glioma-Associated Microglia Characterization in the Glioblastoma Microenvironment through a ‘Seed-and Soil’ Approach: A Systematic Review

Background and aim: Ever since the discovery of tumor-associated immune cells, there has been growing interest in the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between these cells and tumor cells. A “seed and soil” approach has been recently introduced to describe the glioblastoma (GBM) landscape: tumor microenvironments act as fertile “soil” and interact with the “seed” (glial and stem cells compartment). In the following article, we provide a systematic review of the current evidence pertaining to the characterization of glioma-associated macrophages and microglia (GAMs) and microglia and macrophage cells in the glioma tumor microenvironment (TME). Methods: An online literature search was launched on PubMed Medline and Scopus using the following research string: “((Glioma associated macrophages OR GAM OR Microglia) AND (glioblastoma tumor microenvironment OR TME))”. The last search for articles pertinent to the topic was conducted in February 2022. Results: The search of the literature yielded a total of 349 results. A total of 235 studies were found to be relevant to our research question and were assessed for eligibility. Upon a full-text review, 58 articles were included in the review. The reviewed papers were further divided into three categories based on their focus: (1) Microglia maintenance of immunological homeostasis and protection against autoimmunity; (2) Microglia crosstalk with dedifferentiated and stem-like glioblastoma cells; (3) Microglia migratory behavior and its activation pattern. Conclusions: Aggressive growth, inevitable recurrence, and scarce response to immunotherapies are driving the necessity to focus on the GBM TME from a different perspective to possibly disentangle its role as a fertile ‘soil’ for tumor progression and identify within it feasible therapeutic targets. Against this background, our systematic review confirmed microglia to play a paramount role in promoting GBM progression and relapse after treatments. The correct and extensive understanding of microglia–glioma crosstalk could help in understanding the physiopathology of this complex disease, possibly opening scenarios for improvement of treatments.