bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Realization of high discharge frequency in LC pulse generator for EDM by ignition using transistor circuit
Authors: Jiang Lin , Kunieda Masanori
Published: November 2022

This paper aims to design a novel pulse generator for electrical discharge machining (EDM) which can generate discharge current pulse with high discharge frequency more efficiently. Recent research has revealed that the LC pulse generator is able to generate higher rising speed discharge current pulses and high open voltage for EDM by utilizing electromotive force induced by an inductor. Conventional LC generators use inductors to store energy and switches to control the open gap voltage and discharge current flowing through the gap by varying the charging time of inductance, thereby realizing higher peak discharge power even with a low voltage DC power supply, as well as large removal volume per discharge due to high rising speed waveforms. However, the discharge probability of LC generators is lower than 20% if the discharge frequency divided by the switching frequency of the LC generator is defined as the discharge probability of the LC generator. This is because the duration of the open voltage pulse is significantly short in the order of several microseconds, although it usually takes several microseconds or longer for discharge to be ignited. This discharge delay time is an important parameter in EDM because longer delay time results in lower material removal rate, and an excessively short delay time indicates that the gap will be short circuited, resulting in decrease machining stability. Hence, this paper proposes a modified version of the LC generator in which a high impedance transistor pulse generator is used to control the discharge ignition in EDM to produce discharge frequency 2 to 3 times higher than the conventional LC pulse generator.
Quantum computing reduces systemic risk in financial networks
Authors: Aboussalah Amine Mohamed , Chi Cheng , Lee Chi-Guhn
Published: November 2022

In highly connected financial networks, the failure of a single institution can cascade into additional bank failures. This systemic risk can be mitigated by adjusting the loans, holding shares, and other liabilities connecting institutions in a way that prevents cascading of failures. We are approaching the systemic risk problem by attempting to optimize the connections between the institutions. In order to provide a more realistic simulation environment, we have incorporated nonlinear/discontinuous losses in the value of the banks. To address scalability challenges, we have developed a two-stage algorithm where the networks are partitioned into modules of highly interconnected banks and then the modules are individually optimized. We developed a new algorithms for classical and quantum partitioning for directed and weighed graphs (first stage) and a new methodology for solving Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) problems with constraints for the systemic risk context (second stage). We compare classical and quantum algorithms for the partitioning problem. Experimental results demonstrate that our two-stage optimization with quantum partitioning is more resilient to financial shocks, delays the cascade failure phase transition, and reduces the total number of failures at convergence under systemic risks with reduced time complexity.
Evaluating the genetic diversity of Erythropalum scandens based on using inter-simple sequence repeat markers
Authors: Yang Tianwei , Zhang Xiangjun , Huang Shiyu , Gao Manrong , Li Ting , Zhang Shangwen
Published: November 2022

Erythropalum scandens Blume, an emerging medicinal plant with great potential for drug development, also possesses high edible value. In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity of the germplasm of E. scandens obtained from different geographical locations using inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. For this purpose, 18 ISSR primer pairs with a distinct background and adequate polymorphism were selected. We established an optimal ISSR–PCR reaction system (20 µL) with the following parameters: 1 µL DNA template (60 ng·µL-1), 1.2 µL primers (10 µmol·µL-1), 10 µL MasterMix, and 7.8 µL H2O. A total of 183 loci were amplified using the 18 primer pairs, of which 121 (66.12%) indicated polymorphism. Moreover, 34 germplasms of E. scandens exhibited genetic similarity coefficients ranging from 0.7104 to 0.9563, genetic distances ranging from 0.0447 to 0.3420, Nei’s genetic diversity index of 0.1946, and Shannon’s information index of 0.2982, suggesting high intraspecific genetic diversity. UPGMA cluster and PCoA analyses distinguished the germplasm of E. scandens obtained from Guangxi from those collected from Guangdong, Hainan, Fujian, and Guizhou. However, the Mantel correlation analysis revealed that the genetic variation among the 34 germplasms of E. scandens was not significantly related to geographical distance. The analysis of the genetic background of wild and cultivated germplasms of E. scandens can help guide variety selection and breeding. Furthermore, the present study revealed the genetic background and affinities among 34 germplasms of E. scandens. Overall, our findings lay the foundation for the conservation and utilization of germplasm resources, identification and classification of varieties, and variety selection and improvement of E. scandens at the molecular level.
High Resolution Propagation-based Lung Imaging at Clinically Relevant X-Ray Dose Levels
Authors: Albers Jonas , Wagner Willi L. , Fiedler Mascha O. , Rothermel Anne , Wünnemann Felix , Lillo Francesca Di , Dreossi Diego , Baratella Elisa , Confalonieri Marco , Arfelli Fulvia , Kalenka Armin , Lotz Joachim , Biederer Jürgen , Wielpütz Mark O. , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Alves Frauke , Tromba Giuliana , Dullin Christian , Sodini Nicola
Published: November 2022

Absorption-based clinical computed tomography (CT) is the current imaging method of choice in the diagnosis of lung diseases. Many pulmonary diseases are affecting microscopic structures of the lung, such as terminal bronchi, alveolar spaces, sublobular blood vessels or the pulmonary interstitial tissue. As spatial resolution in CT is limited by the clinically acceptable applied x-ray dose, a comprehensive diagnosis of conditions such as interstitial lung disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or the characterization of small pulmonary nodules is limited and may require additional validation by invasive lung biopsies. Propagation-based imaging (PBI) is a phase sensitive x-ray imaging technique capable of reaching high spatial resolutions at relatively low applied radiation dose levels. In this publication, we present technical refinements of PBI for the characterization of different artificial lung pathologies, mimicking clinically relevant patterns in ventilated fresh porcine lungs in a human-scale chest phantom. The combination of a very large propagation distance of 10.7 m and a photon counting detector with 100 µm pixel size enabled high resolution PBI CT with significantly improved dose efficiency, measured by thermoluminescence detectors. Image quality was directly compared with state-of-the-art clinical CT. PBI with increased propagation distance was found to provide improved image quality at the same or even lower x-ray dose levels than clinical CT. By combining PBI with iodine k-edge subtraction imaging we further demonstrate that, the high quality of the calculated iodine concentration maps might be a potential tool for the analysis of lung perfusion in great detail. Our results indicate PBI to be of great value for accurate diagnosis of lung disease in patients as it allows to depict pathological lesions non-invasively at high resolution in 3D. This will especially benefit patients at high risk of complications from invasive lung biopsies such as in the setting of suspected idopatic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
Screening vs no screening for preterm delivery in low risk singleton pregnancies: comparison by propensity score analysis
Authors: Souka Athena , Maritsa Vasiliki Areti , Eleftheriades Makarios
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To compare the effect of a policy of screening for spontaneous preterm delivery (SPD) by transvaginal cervical length (CL) measurement versus a no screening policy in the prevention of severe prematurity.
Methods: Retrospective study on low-risk singleton pregnancies examined at 20-24 weeks. Two cohorts one with SPD screening and the other without screening were matched using propensity analysis to create the study groups. Women with short CL were treated with vaginal progesterone and/or cervical cerclage/pessary. The outcomes examined were SPD<32 weeks (SPD 32) and SPD between 20 and 32 weeks (SPD 20-32).
Results: Screening for SPD was associated with a significant reduction in the rate of SPD at less than 32 weeks (0.3% vs 0.8%, p=0.001 in the screened and no screened pregnancies respectively) and in the rate of SPD 20-32 (0.3% vs 0.9%, p=0.005 in the screened and no screened pregnancies respectively). After adjusting for maternal age, parity, body mass index, smoking and mode of conception, the screening group had significantly lower hazard for SPD 20-32 (HR=0.36, 95% CI: 0.18-0.75, p=0.006) and SPD32 (HR=0.39, 95% CI: 0.19-0.82, p=0.013).
Conclusion: Screening for SPD by transvaginal CL measurement in mid pregnancy may reduce the incidence of severe prematurity in low risk singleton pregnancies.
Propionate-producing Veillonella parvula regulates the malignant properties of tumor cells of OSCC
Authors: Chang Xinxia , Chen Yufeng , Cui Daixun , Wang Yufei , Zhou Yingjia , Zhang Xiao , Tang Genxiong
Published: November 2022

Oral squamous cell carcinoma(OSCC) remains a global health concern with high mortality and morality around the world. Emerging evidence implicates the abnormal abundance and species of oral microbiota are associated with the development of OSCC. Veillonella parvula is an anaerobic Gram-negative coccus and the resident member of the normal oral microbial community. In our study, 16S rDNA (V4) amplicon sequencing of salivary microbiome genome revealed that OSCC patients with a high expression of trop2 showed a dysbacteriosis and characterized with a significant decreased distribution of veillonella parvula. In vitro study, Veillonella parvula treatment promoted the apoptosis inhibited the proliferation and invasion ability of TROP2-high expressed head and neck sauamous cell carcinema HN6 cells compared with the human oral keratinocyte (HOK) cells through its metabolite products rather than the bacteria cell itself. Further, Propionate the main metabolite of Veillonella parvula also plays the similar anti cancer role through inhibiting the activation of TROP2 related PI3K/Akt pathway. These results suggest that propionate, the SCFA metabolite of Veillonella parvula induces cell apoptosis, inhibits cell proliferation and invasion through reducing the activation of TROP2/PI3K/AKt pathway in OSCC cells.
Co-expression network analysis identifies molecular determinants of loneliness associated with neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.
Authors: Potashkin Judith , Santiago Jose , Quinn James
Published: November 2022

Loneliness and social isolation are detrimental to mental health and may lead to cognitive impairment and neurodegeneration. Although several molecular signatures of loneliness have been identified, the molecular mechanisms by which loneliness impacts the brain remain elusive. Here we performed a bioinformatic approach to untangle the molecular underpinnings associated with loneliness. Co-expression network analysis identified 48 molecular ‘switches’ responsible for dramatic transcriptional changes in the nucleus accumbens of individuals with known loneliness. Loneliness-related switch genes were enriched in cell cycle, cancer, TGF-β, FOXO, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. Analysis stratified by sex identified 27 switch genes in males with chronic loneliness. Male-specific switch genes were enriched in infection, innate immunity, and cancer-related pathways. Correlation analysis revealed that loneliness-related switch genes significantly overlapped with 82% and 68% of human studies on Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s diseases (PD), respectively, deposited in gene expression databases. Loneliness-related switch genes, BCAM, NECTIN2, NPAS3, RBM38, PELI1, DPP10, and ASGR2, have been identified as genetic risk factors for AD. Likewise, switch genes HLA-DRB5, ALDOA, and GPNMB are known genetic loci in PD. Similarly, loneliness-related switch genes overlapped in 70% and 64% of human studies on major depressive disorder and schizophrenia, respectively. Nine switch genes, HLA-DRB5, ARHGAP15, COL4A1, RBM38, DMD, LGALS3BP, WSCD2, CYTH4, and CNTRL, overlapped with known genetic variants in depression. Seven switch genes, NPAS3, ARHGAP15, LGALS3BP, DPP10, SMYD3, CPXCR1, and HLA-DRB5 associated with known risk factors for schizophrenia. Collectively, we identified molecular determinants of loneliness and dysregulated pathways in the brain of non-demented adults. The association of switch genes with known risk factors for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases provides a molecular explanation for the observed prevalence of these diseases among lonely individuals.
A novel forming process of Al / Mg composite circular tube based on experiments and numerical simulations
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yuan Ting , Zeng Chao-wei , Hu Gang , Hu Hong-jun , OU Zhongwen
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a method of co-extrusion bimetallic combining direct extrusion and expanding shear deformation ( DEES ) process is described. This method was used to prepare Al / Mg bimetallic tubes. The composite tubes were successfully prepared at 360 ℃, 390 ℃, 420 ℃ and 3mm / s. a mathematical model of co-extrusion process using DEFORM-3D was developed to deeply understand and scientifically recognize the material flow and metallurgical reaction between aluminum alloy and magnesium alloy during co-extrusion. The finite element analysis results show that the influence of extrusion temperature on the bonding properties of extruded bimetals is reflected in many aspects due to the difference of material properties, such as atomic diffusion energy and flow stress difference during extrusion. To further analyze the deformation mechanism of Al/Mg bimetal tube in the deformation process, the microstructure of the interface bonding layer at different forming temperatures was observed and analyzed. In addition, the hardness test results show that reasonable control of the deformation temperature can improve the performance of the matrix material while reducing the thickness of the bonding layer.
Low-frequency variability enhancement of the midlatitude climate in an eddy-resolving, coupled ocean-atmosphere model. Part I: Anatomy.
Authors: Kurashina Ryosuke , Berloff Pavel
Published: November 2022

This study investigated coupling of the wind-driven ocean gyres with the atmospheric westerly jet, or jet stream, using an idealised, eddy-resolving, coupled ocean-atmosphere model. An empirical orthogonal function analysis showed that the ocean gyre variability is dominated by meridional shifts of the eastward jet extension and changes in strength of the subtropical inertial recirculation zone. On the other hand, the atmospheric jet variability is shown to be dominated by the growth of standing Rossby wave patterns which are enhanced by the presence of western boundary currents and a sharp sea surface temperature (SST) front. Singular value decompositions of the low-pass filtered data revealed positive feedbacks between meridional shifts of the ocean eastward jet extension and the growth of a standing Rossby wave disturbances in the atmospheric jet. The response of the atmosphere is controlled by shifts in meridional eddy heat fluxes which are co-located with the SST front and trigger the growth of baroclinic instabilities over the ocean basin. This eventually leads to a large-scale, barotropic circulation response in the atmosphere over the eastern ocean basin. Reduction in the atmospheric resolution inhibits the ability of atmospheric eddies to resolve length scales associated with meridional shifts of the SST front and eastward jet. This consequently weakens the influence of ocean gyre variability on the atmospheric jet and reduces the strength of the positive feedback.
In vitro evaluation of tooth whitening potential of peroxide-free OTC dental bleaching agents
Authors: Grillon Marlene , Bella Enrico di , Krejci Ivo , Ardu Stefano
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the tooth whitening potential of five over-the-counter (OTC) peroxide-free dental bleaching, as well as an experimental tooth whitening solution containing 0,1% hydrogen peroxide complexed with doping agents with a gold standard (positive control) containing 16% carbamide peroxide.
Material and methods: Eighty permanent bovine incisor teeth were randomly allocated to eight different groups. Two teeth from each group were immerged into five staining solution represented by coffee, tea, red wine, curry mixed in warm oil or distilled water (control group) and stored at 37°C during 28 days in an incubator. The teeth were then reallocated to the eight groups, resulting in ten samples per group, and each group was matched with a bleaching product. The bleaching procedures were executed following the manufacturer’s recommendations. The color of each sample was assessed over a white and black background using a quantitative numerical measurement approach with a calibrated spectrophotometer. Spectrophotometric measurements were performed after exposing the teeth to the bleaching agent for 60 min (T2), 100 min (T3), 200 min (T4), and ΔE00 was calculated.
Results: When analysed over a white background, the mean ΔE00 values ranged from 2.14 (Placebo) to 6.32 (Opalescence PF). When analysed over a black background, the mean ΔE00 values ranged from 2.31 (Placebo) to 5.78 (Opalescence PF). Statistically significant ΔE00 color changes over time for the eight groups and five staining solutions at T1 and T4 were assessed for both background using repeated ANOVA followed by Fisher's LSD post-hoc test (p-value < 0.01).
Conclusion: All tested over-the-counter whitening kits except one, exhibited positive color variation. However, the individual performance differed vastly from one brand to the other and the overall performance was less effective compared to conventional carbamide peroxide-based positive control.
Effect of direct water injection on emission of pollutants in a diesel engine using CFD and water/fuel mass ratio based parametric analysis
Authors: NKOL Fabrice Parfait NANG , BANTA Nelson Junior ISSONDJ , Offole Florence , ABBE Claude Valery NGAYIHI , Mouangue Ruben
Published: November 2022

One of the current major challenges in the industry is to considerably reduce polluting emissions from internal combustion engines to comply with increasingly strict anti-pollution standards and to remain competitive in the face of the rapid spread of green technologies. The work carried out in this paper focused on a study of the effect of direct water injection on the emission of pollutants in a diesel engine. The strategy of injecting water into the combustion chamber allows better control of the combustion phase and improves engine performance due to the temperature drop during combustion. This work aims to develop a CFD model of a diesel engine with direct water injection in the combustion chamber and to analyze the effects of water/fuel ratio on combustion, particularly on pollutant emissions. The novelty of this work is the realization of a parametric CFD study based on the water/fuel mass ratio, which is a powerful indicator that can effectively generalize the results obtained to engines of different architecture and consumption. For it, data were taken from the work done at Sandia National Laboratories by Stephen Bush and his team from a light unicycle optical diesel engine. These data made possible to design and validate a CFD model. After that we associate a model of direct injection of water, which has also been validated. Finally, we analyze the effects of water/fuel mass ratio on combustion and particularly on pollutant emissions. This work shows that the injection of water into the combustion chamber of the engine effectively reduces the emission levels of pollutants in nature. Thus, depending on the value of the water/fuel ratio, there is a reduction of 2% − 30% of NOx, 5% − 70% of soot, 5% − 40% for CO and 3% − 30% for HC.
WITHDRAWN: Exposure to Artificial Light at Night in Adolescents and Subsequent Risk of Obesity in Young Adulthood: A Nationwide Population-Based Survey
Authors: Tang Haibo , Cao Yaoquan , Wu Jingjing , Li Yalan , Li Shenxin , Shen Minxue , Zhu Liyong
Published: November 2022

Background
Previous studies have shown that artificial light at night (ALAN) is associated with obesity in adults or school-aged children, however, without addressing the critical transition period from adolescence to young adulthood.
Methods
In this study, we recruited incoming students from five geographically dispersed universities across China whose mean ALAN (nanowatts/cm2/sec) during adolescence was obtained using remotely observed nighttime data matched with information on their residence. Body weight and height were measured in a field survey. A mixed generalized linear model assessed the association between ALAN levels and body mass index (BMI).
Results
A total of 19,344 participants were included with a mean age and BMI of 18.3 ± 0.7 years and 21.2 ± 3.0 kg/m2, respectively. Our findings indicated a significant association between ALAN levels during the past 6 years and BMI (β = 0.1, 95% CI: 0.06–0.14, p < 0.0001). The results remained robust after multiple sensitivity analyses and adjustment for age, sex, parental educational, smoking, alcohol, and physical activity. In addition, a significant association between ALAN levels and BMI was observed in males (β = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.17–0.29, p < 0.0001) but not in females (β = 0.03, 95% CI: to0.08-0.02, p = 0.24).
Conclusion
These results reveal for the first time that ALAN exposure during adolescence is associated with subsequent increases in BMI at young adulthood. Further studies could help elucidate this association and clarify whether reducing exposure to ALAN during adolescence could contribute to obesity prevention in young adults.
The Identification of Significant Genes Related to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus through the Integration of the Results of a Transcriptome-Wide Association Study and an mRNA Expression Profile Analysis
Authors: Li Shuai , Xu Jiawen , Tian Ye , Zeng Yi , Si Haibo , Wu Yuangang , Zhang Shaoyun , Shen Bin
Published: November 2022

Background
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a polygenic autoimmune connective tissue disease in which heritable components play an essential role in the pathogenesis. However, the correlation between genetic variants and pathological changes in SLE is still unclear, and it is difficult to provide insights for the early diagnosis and treatment of SLE.
Methods
We conducted a transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) of SLE by integrating a genome−wide association study (GWAS) summary dataset of SLE (538 diagnosed patients and 213,145 controls derived from the FinnGen consortium). To verify the results of the TWAS analysis, the significant genes were further compared with the mRNA expression profiles of SLE to screen for common genes. Finally, significant genes were analyzed using functional enrichment and annotation analysis in Metascape to examine SLE-related gene sets.
Results
The TWAS identified 30 genes with PTWAS−adjusted values < 1.33×10− 6 (0.05/37665 = 1.33×10− 6), including HCP5 (PTWAS =8.74×10− 15) and APOM (PTWAS = 4.57×10− 12). Four common genes were identified through the comparison of the TWAS results with the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of SLE, including APOM (PTWAS = 4.57×10− 12, PDEG = 3.31×10− 02) and C2 (PTWAS = 8.04×10− 11, PDEG = 1.54×10− 02). Moreover, 36 terms were detected for the enrichment results of the TWAS, including antigen processing and presentation (logP value = -4.1938). By integrating the pathway and process enrichment analysis results of DEGs, 17 terms were identified, including allograft rejection (logP value = -7.5738).
Conclusion
The study identified a group of SLE-related genes and pathways, and the findings provide novel insights for the early diagnosis and intervention of SLE.
Asynchronous Counter in QCA Technology Using Novel D Flip-Flop
Authors: Amirzadeh Zaman , Gholami Mohammad
Published: November 2022

A strong need for high-speed and low-power consumption devices seems inevitable due to the high speed of technological advancement in the field of microelectronics. Designers are highly interested in designing and making nanoscale devices. The Quantum Cellular Automaton (QCA) is known as one of these technologies, which makes it feasible to implement digital circuits with a high operating speed. In this paper a 4-bits counter, a 3-bits bidirectional counter, a 4-bits counter with a reset terminal, and a 4-bit counter with both set and reset terminals are designed using the proposed D-latch to demonstrate that these circuits function accurately in more complex circuits. According to the results, the area was respectively reduced by 8.33% and 15.38% with a 4.76% reduction in the delay rate in the proposed 4-bits counter and 3-bits bidirectional counter compared to the best previous designs. All the designs and simulation results is being done in the QCAPro and QCADesigner software.
Clinical phenotyping and genetic diagnosis of a large cohort of Sudanese families with hereditary spinocerebellar degeneration
Authors: Stevanin Giovanni , Hamed Ahlam , Mohamed Inaam , Elseed Maha , Salih Mustafa , Elsadig Sarah , Siddig Hassab Elrasoul , Nasreldien Ali , Abdullah Mohamed Ahmed , Elzubair Maha , Omer Farouk , BAKHIET Aisha , Abubaker Rayan , Abozar Fatima , Adil Rawaa , Emad Sara , Musallam Mhammed Alhassan , Eltazi Isra , Omer Zulfa , Malik Hiba , Mohamed Mayada , Elhassan Ali , Mohamed Eman , Ahmed Ahmed , Ahmed Elhami , Eltaraifee Esraa , Hussein Bidour , Allah Amal Abd , Mohamed Lina , Nimir Mohamed , Elseed Omnia Tag , Elhassan Tasneem , Elbashier Abubakr , Alfadul Esraa , Fadul Moneeb , Ali Khalil , Taha Shaimaa , Bushara Elfatih , Amin Mutaz , koko Mahmoud , Ibrahim Muntaser , Ahmed Ammar , Elsayed Liena , Yahia Ashraf
Published: November 2022

Hereditary spinocerebellar degenerative disorders (SCDs) is an umbrella term that covers a group of monogenic conditions that share common pathogenic mechanisms and include spastic paraplegia, spastic ataxia, cerebellar ataxia, and spinocerebellar ataxia. They are often complicated with axonal neuropathy and/or intellectual impairment. More than 200 genes and loci inherited through all modes of Mendelian inheritance are known. Autosomal recessive inheritance predominates in consanguineous communities; however, autosomal dominant and X-linked inheritance can also occur. Sudan is inhabited by genetically diverse populations, yet it has high consanguinity rates. We used next-generation sequencing, genotyping, bioinformatics analysis, and candidate gene approaches to study 90 patients from 38 unrelated Sudanese families segregating multiple forms of SCDs focusing on known human disease-associated genes. We reached the genetic diagnosis in 63% and up to 73% of the studied families when considering variants of unknown significance. Taking into account a series of Sudanese families that we previously analyzed, the combined success rate in the two series reached 52–59% (31–35/59 families). We also highlighted the genetic and clinical heterogeneity of SCDs in Sudan, as we identified no single major gene in our cohort and the potential for discovering novel SCDs genes in this population.
A Survey on Computational Metaphor Processing Techniques: From Identification, Interpretation, Generation to Application
Authors: Ge Mengshi , Mao Rui , Cambria* Erik
Published: November 2022

Metaphor is a figurative language that has been frequently used in our daily lives. Due to its significance for downstream natural language processing tasks, such as machine translation and sentiment analysis, computational metaphor processing has set off an upsurge in the community. With the development of Artificial Intelligence, an increasing number of technological tools and frameworks have been proposed in this domain. In this article, we aim to comprehensively summarize and categorize previous computational metaphor processing approaches regarding metaphor identification, interpretation, generation, and application. Meanwhile, we compare the strengths and weaknesses of current works and conceive future directions in this field.
Renewable energy investments, support schemes and the dirty option
Authors: De Giovanni Domenico , Iakimova Elena
Published: November 2022

In a real options framework, we analyse the behaviour of a large energy producer who can invest in a portfolio of Renewable Energy Source (RES) and dirty energy source. Competitive fuel prices challenge the investments in RES. Given a budget constraint, the agent allocates the optimal capacities of both energy instalments and selects the optimal investment time. We use the model to compare the effectiveness of classical support schemes such as Feed-in Tariffs or Green Certificate with respect to forms of taxation of dirty technology such as Carbon Taxes or Carbon Permits. This paper proposes a conceptual framework and qualitative analysis to understand which support system enhances the attractiveness of renewable energy investments.
Association between serum copper and stroke in general population: A Nationally Representative Study
Authors: Chen Zhiqiang , Ling Qin , Liu Xiao , Wu Zuxiang , Shi Yumeng , Hu Huan , Yu Peng , Ma Jianyong , Zhang Jin , Li Ping
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVES:We aim to explore the association between serum copper and prevalence of stroke in American adults.METHODS:Data were obtained from 3 consecutive National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles (2011-2016). Weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the association between serum copper and self-reported stroke.RESULTS:A total of 5,151 adults met the inclusion criteria for this study. A total of 181 (3.51%) stroke cases were identified. Compared with the lowest tertile (<16.4 umol/l), odds ratio(OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for participants in middle tertile(16.4-19.8 umol/l) and highest tertile (>19.8 umol/l) of serum copper were 0.99(95%CI: 0.44-2.25) and 2.36(95%CI: 1.01-5.52), respectively. Per standard deviation (SD) increment of serum copper was positively associated with the prevalence of stroke (OR: 1.44, 95%CI: 1.11-1.86). Dose-response analysis showed a positive linear association between serum copper and stroke (Pnonlinearity=0.554).CONCLUSIONS:This cross-sectional study suggest a positive association between serum copper and the prevalence of stroke in American adults.
Validation of the Self-applied Binge Eating Disorder Scale in Mexican Children
Authors: Unikel Claudia , Rangel Irais Castillo , Arias Ana Berenice Casillas , García Francisco Juárez , Castañeda Leticia Adriana Rivera , Hernández Aremis Villalobos , Serrato María Isidra Hernández , Márquez Miriam Barajas
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the psychometric characteristics of the Self-applied Children’s Binge Eating Disorder Scale (SA-C-BEDS) as a screening tool for risk of binge eating disorder (BED) in a Mexican child population.
Method: the self-applied version of the C-BEDS was translated into Spanish and adapted, and its reliability, and exploratory and confirmatory validity obtained. It was administered to two samples of elementary school pupils from May-July 2022 through an Internet link.
Results: a total of 378 children (girls=193 and boys=185) with a mean age of 10.22 years, with no differences by sex, answered the questionnaire. “Eating without being hungry” was the main behavior reported (44.8% and 33.7% in girls and boys), followed by eating associated with a certain mood (25% and 21.8% in girls and boys). The scale was distributed within a single factor with a total explained variance of 55%, a significant Bartlett’s test of sphericity, 0.80 on the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test and an ordinal Alpha reliability of 0.90. Confirmatory validity demonstrated that the model fits the data and is valid.
Conclusion: the SA-C-BEDS is a valid instrument for assessing binge eating behaviors in Mexican children and provides information for identifying and preventing BED cases in a timely manner.
Level of evidence: IV
A 10-Year Summary of the Safety and Economy of a New Method for Dispensing Ranibizumab/Conbercept in Same-day Bilateral Intravitreal Injection Using a Single Vial Running title: Bilateral Anti-VEGF Injection Using a Single Vial
Authors: Shao Yi-Run , Mao Jian-Bo , Zhao Shi-xin , Shen Li-Jun
Published: November 2022

Purpose
Analyze the safety and economy of a new method for dispensing ranibizumab/conbercept in same-day bilateral intravitreal injection using a single vial.
Methods
This is a retrospective study involving a total of 2775 patients 7646 injections during 2012 to 2021. 541 patients receiving same-day bilateral intravitreal injection using a single vial were defined as bilateral injection group and 2234 patients receiving unilateral injection were defined as unilateral injection group. The dispensing method was drawing all ranibizumab/conbercept drugs by the prepackaged syringe, dividing drugs by a disposable aseptic insulin syringe drawing from the prepackaged syringe. The equipment used in bilateral injection was new for each eye. Data of gender, age, diagnosis, the kind of anti-VEGF drugs and the occurrence of infectious endophthalmitis were recorded. The cost of bilateral injection and unilateral injection for the patients requiring bilateral treatment were compared.
Results
The mean age of bilateral injection group and unilateral injection group was 61.73 ± 13.41 and 62.23 ± 15.48 years old respectively (t = 0.67, P > 0.05). The incidence of infectious endophthalmitis was 0.026% (2/7646) totally. The incidence of infectious endophthalmitis in bilateral injection group was (1/2464, 0.041%) and in unilateral injection group was (1/5182, 0.020%). There was no significant difference between two groups (χ2 = 0.29, P > 0.05). No bilateral infectious endophthalmitis occurred. Bilateral injection using a single vial saved about 46.5% cost when comparing with unilateral injection.
Conclusions
The same-day bilateral intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy using a single vial didn’t increase the incidence of infectious endophthalmitis when comparing with unilateral injection and reduced nearly a half treatment cost.
CSF 14-3-3ζ is associated with tau pathology and elevated across the Alzheimer’s disease continuum
Authors: Qiang Qiang , Skudder-Hill Loren , Toyota Tomoko , Huang Zhe , Wei Wenshi , Adachi Hiroaki
Published: November 2022

14-3-3 is a family of conserved proteins that consist of seven isoforms which are highly expressed in the brain, and 14-3-3ζ is one of the isoforms encoded by the YWHAZ gene. Previous studies demonstrated that 14-3-3ζ is deposited in the neurofibrillary tangles of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brains, and that 14-3-3ζ interacts with tau from the purified neurofibrillary tangles of AD brain extract. The present study examined the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) 14-3-3ζ levels of 719 participants from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), including cognitively normal (CN) participants, patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and patients with AD dementia. CSF 14-3-3ζ levels were increased in prodromal AD, and further elevated in AD dementia stage. CSF 14-3-3ζ levels were associated with CSF phosphorylated tau 181(p-tau) and plasma p-tau, which are fluid biomarkers of tau pathology, and could predict tau positive status with high accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC], 0.891). CSF 14-3-3ζ levels were also associated with cognitive measurements and neuroimaging findings both at baseline and during follow up, and high CSF 14-3-3ζ levels were associated with subsequent progression to AD dementia in patients with MCI. In conclusion, this study suggests that CSF 14-3-3ζ is a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of AD that may be useful in clinical practice.
Telomeric retrotransposons show high propensity to form G-quadruplexes in various species
Authors: Jedlicka Pavel , Tokan Viktor , Kejnovska Iva , Hobza Roman , Kejnovsky Eduard
Published: November 2022

Background:
Drosophila melanogaster telomeres are composed of three retrotransposons - Het-A, TART and TAHRE (HTT), which jump at the chromosome ends in orientation specific manner. Canonical telomeres, extended by telomerase, contain G-rich tandem repeats readily forming G-quadruplexes (G4). The G4 are formed just on one strand due to the GC strand bias. The HTT elements preserve the GC strand bias which is often found in telomere-targeting retrotransposons in other species as well. The G4-forming potential in these telomeric retrotranposons is unknown.
Results:
We searched for potential quadruplex-forming sequences (PQS) in the telomeric retrotransposons of the D. melanogaster fruit fly. We found that PQS are abundant in HTT elements and exhibit a strand-asymmetric distribution, being present only in non-coding strands and following the GC strand bias of canonical telomeres with possible G4 formation at G-rich ssDNA overhang. Our CD measurement showed that 13 out of 17 PQS formed G4 in vitro. This asymmetric PQS distribution in telomeric retrotransposons was common also for other Drosophila species, where evolutionary younger species have a tendency to accumulate more PQS. The majority (almost 70%) of PQS resides in the coding region of the gag gene and the regional PQS abundance correlates with the phenomenon of higher identity at the DNA level compared to amino acids. Moreover, the analysis of telomere-targeting retrotransposons from various species showed an independent selection of PQS-rich elements from distinct families.
Conclusions:
Our results support the importance of G4 in telomere maintenance and possibly represent a fundamental connection between telomerase-synthesized and non-canonical Drosophila telomeres.
Immunohistochemical detection of global epigenetic DNA modifications using antibodies to 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine.
Impact of antigen retrieval protocols.
Authors: Moshi Jobran M. , Ummelen Monique , Broers Jos L. V. , Ramaekers Frans C.S. , Hopman Anton H.N.
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to compare three different pretreatment protocols for the detection of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) in nuclear DNA. Several types of human biological samples were analyzed, including formalin fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) normal squamous epithelium, ethanol fixed cultured cells and metaphase chromosomes. The antigen retrieval methods included the low pH citrate and high pH Tris/EDTA protocols, as well as a method including a pepsin pretreatment step combined with an HCl DNA denaturation step. We saw a gradual increase in the detection levels of 5-mC and 5-hmC when going from citrate via Tris/EDTA to pepsin/HCl retrieval. While the citrate retrieval protocol was the least efficient for the immunochemical detection of 5-mC and 5-hmC, it did preserve nuclear morphology and enabled the visualization of intra- and internuclear differences in FFPE tissue and cell culture samples. By simultaneous fluorescent detection, we assessed the differences in distribution patterns for both 5-mC and 5-hmC. In addition, (hydroxy)methylation levels in FFPE material were quantified using confocal and non-confocal microscopic imaging. As a result, we observed a significant heterogeneity, as well as differences between the levels for 5-mC and 5-hmC, within and between nuclei in the different compartments of normal squamous epithelium.
Antitumor Immune Mechanisms of the Anti-Complement Factor H Antibody GT103
Authors: Bushey Ryan T. , Saxena Ruchi , Campa Michael J. , Gottlin Elizabeth B. , He You-Wen , Patz Edward F.
Published: November 2022

Development of novel therapeutic antibodies that not only kill tumor cells but modulate the adaptive immune response has the potential to produce long term anti-cancer immunity and a durable clinical response. We previously reported the discovery of an anti-complement factor H (CFH) autoantibody in lung cancer patients that were associated with early stage disease and exceptional outcomes. The human monoclonal antibody GT103, produced from a single CFH autoantibody-expressing B cell of a lung cancer patient, recognizes a conformationally distinct epitope on tumor cells, kills tumor cells, and inhibits tumor growth in animal studies. Recent experiments have shown that GT103 restructures the tumor microenvironment and initiates a robust antitumoral adaptive immune response. The current study further elucidates several mechanisms by which GT103 kills tumor cells and drives the immune program. Here we show GT103 has specificity for tumor cells without binding to native soluble CFH or normal tissues. GT103 causes complement C3 split product deposition on tumor cellsin vitroandin vivo,triggers antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis, and increases translocation of the danger associated molecular pattern molecule calreticulin to the plasma membrane.We also demonstrate that GT103 causes B cell activation and that GT103 antitumor activityin vivois B cell dependent. The complex mechanism of GT103, a tumor specific antibody that kills tumor cells and stimulates an immune response, supports further development of this human-derived antibody as a novel therapeutic option for patients with lung cancer.
Strawberry Cultivar Evaluation for Fall-planted High Tunnel System
Authors: Guan Wenjing , Haseman Dean , Ingwell Laura , Egel Daniel S.
Published: November 2022

Locally produced strawberries (Fragaria ×ananassa) have outstanding market potential. But strawberry production has been decreasing in the north-central United States, partly because of high production risks associated with the traditional matted-row system. The annual plasticulture system attracts attention but its low yield limits the wide adoption of the production system in the north-central United States. High tunnels are widely used to extend strawberry seasons worldwide, but the system was not fully explored in the United States. Although the benefits of growing strawberries in high tunnels were recognized, information on suitable strawberry cultivars specific for the fall-planted high tunnel production system is limited. A wide range of short-day and day-neutral strawberry cultivars, including recently released cultivars, were evaluated in the fall-planted annual plasticulture high tunnel systems for three seasons. Averaged among cultivars, the marketable yields were 1.96, 1.35, and 2.27 lb/plant for 2015–16, 2019–20, and 2020–21 seasons, respectively. The combined use of high tunnels and floating rowcovers created favorable microclimate conditions that led to high yields. Florida Radiance, San Andreas, Chandler, and Rocco were the top-yielding cultivars. Besides Chandler, the other top-yielding cultivars entered peak harvest in the second half of April. Harvests ended at the end of May or early June. All cultivars reached the US Department of Agriculture standard for total soluble solids in all three seasons, although Camino Real, FL Radiance, and Sweet Sensation consistently had relatively lower sugar content. Considering a warm-season crop could grow in high tunnels before or after strawberry, a diversified cropping system involving strawberry and other vegetables is highly valuable for high tunnel production systems in the north-central United States. This study did not compare cultivars’ resistance to diseases, but it should be a critical factor in selecting cultivars. Future studies are also warranted to evaluate the effects of incorporating soil treatments and cover cropping for suppressing diseases in the soil-based high tunnel system. Sustainable management strategies to control two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae) are also crucial in successfully using the system in the north-central United States.
Structure and compressibility of Fe-bearing Al-phase D
Authors: Criniti Giacomo , Ishii Takayuki , Kurnosov Alexander , Glazyrin Konstantin , Husband Rachel J. , Ballaran Tiziana Boffa
Published: November 2022

Due to its large thermal stability, Al-phase D, the (Al,Fe3+)2SiO6H2 member of the dense hydrous magnesium silicate (DHMS) phase D, may survive along hot subduction geotherms or even at ambient mantle temperatures in the Earth’s transition zone and lower mantle, therefore potentially playing a major role as a water reservoir and carrier in the Earth’s interior. We have investigated the crystal structure and high-pressure behavior of Fe-bearing Al-phase D with a composition of Al1.53(2)Fe0.22(1) Si0.86(1)O6H3.33(9) by means of single-crystal X-ray diffraction. While the structure of pure Al-phase D (Al2SiO6H2) has space group P63/mcm and consists of equally populated and half-occupied (Al,Si)O6 octahedra, Fe-incorporation in Al-phase D seems to induce partial ordering of the cations over the octahedral sites, resulting in a change of the space group from P63/mcm to P6322 and in well-resolved diffuse scattering streaks observed in X-ray images. The evolution of the unit-cell volume of Fe-bearing Al-phase D between room pressure and 38 GPa, determined by means of synchrotron X-ray diffraction in a diamond anvil cell, is well described by a third-order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state having an isothermal bulk modulus KT0 = 166.3(15) GPa and first pressure derivative KT0′ = 4.46(12). Above 38 GPa, a change in the compression behavior is observed, likely related to the high-to-low spin crossover of octahedrally coordinated Fe3+. The evolution of the unit-cell volume across the spin crossover was modeled using a recently proposed formalism based on crystal-field theory, which shows that the spin crossover region extends from approximately 30 to 65 GPa. Given the absence of abrupt changes in the compression mechanism of Fe-bearing Al-phase D before the spin crossover, we show that the strength of H-bonds and likely their symmetrization do not greatly affect the elastic properties of phase D solid solutions, independently of their compositions.
Evaluasi Keberhasilan Sistem Informasi Akademik dengan Pendekatan Model DeLone dan McLean
Authors: Meilani Lala , Suroso Arif Imam , Yuliati Lilik Noor
Published: November 2022

Development of academic management needs will increasingly complex, therefore the development of academic information systems must be oriented to user satisfaction as a way to measure the success of the information system. This study aims to analyze the performance of the quality of academic information systems (SIAKAD) and analyze the factors that influence the use, user satisfaction and net benefits of SIAKAD at Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University. The respondents used in this study consisted of three groups totaling 400 people. The model used in this research is the information system success model from DeLone and McLean. Descriptive analysis is used to explain respondents' perceptions and evaluations of the successful implementation of SIAKAD. SEM PLS analysis is used to analyze the factors that influence the successful implementation of SIAKAD at Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University. SIAKAD users rated success at the semantic level and technical level included in the good category, while the success at the effectiveness level was still in the good enough category. Hypothesis testing results indicate that the quality of information system quality and service quality has a significant positive effect on the use and satisfaction of users, the use of a significant positive effect on user satisfaction, and the use and satisfaction of users has a positive and significant effect on the net benefits of SIAKAD.