bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Component-wise iterative ensemble Kalman inversion for static Bayesian models with unknown measurement error covariance
Authors: Botha Imke , Adams Matthew P , Frazier David , Khuong Tran Dang , Bennett Frederick R , Drovandi Christopher
Published: October 2023

The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is a Monte Carlo approximation of the Kalman filter for high dimensional linear Gaussian state space models. EnKF methods have also been developed for parameter inference of static Bayesian models with a Gaussian likelihood, in a way that is analogous to likelihood tempering sequential Monte Carlo (SMC). These methods are commonly referred to as ensemble Kalman inversion (EKI). Unlike SMC, the inference from EKI is asymptotically biased if the likelihood is non-linear and/or non-Gaussian and if the priors are non-Gaussian. However, it is significantly faster to run. Currently, a large limitation of EKI methods is that the covariance of the measurement error is assumed to be fully known. We develop a new method, which we call component-wise iterative EKI (CW-IEKI), that allows elements of the covariance matrix to be inferred alongside the model parameters at negligible extra cost. This novel method is compared to SMC on a linear Gaussian example as well as four examples with non-linear dynamics (i.e. non-linear function of the model parameters). The non-linear examples include a set of population models applied to synthetic data, a model of nitrogen mineralisation in soil that is based on the Agricultural Production Systems Simulator, a model predicting seagrass decline due to stress from water temperature and light, and a model predicting coral calcification rates. On our examples, we find that CW-IEKI has relatively similar predictive performance to SMC, albeit with greater uncertainty, and it has a significantly faster run time.
High radiation performance and multi-band acoustically driven piezoelectric antenna based on energy trapping theory
Authors: Zhang Yong , Zhou Hongcheng , Yan Zhongming , Wang Yu
Published: October 2023

The paper introduces a novel design method for an acoustically driven piezoelectric antenna with high radiation performance and broadband characteristics based on energy trapping theory. The reasonableness of the design method is demonstrated by analytically deriving the radiated magnetic field, radiated efficiency and resonant frequency, which are further validated by simulation analysis. Furthermore, a prototype is fabricated and measured, and the results indicate remarkable improvements compared to the non-energy trapping mode, the bandwidth is widened by 10%, the radiation efficiency is increased by 28%, the radiation magnetic field is increased by three times, the transmission distance is increased by 2.75 times. The radiation enhancement and multi-band capability of the proposed antenna has been successfully demonstrated. Additionally, we have successfully implemented amplitude modulation signals transmission using proposed antenna. These results highlight the significant potential of the proposed antenna for portable, miniaturized, and high-performance wireless communication devices.
Physical properties of Be-based fluoroperovskite compounds XBeF3 (X = K, Rb): a first-principles study
Authors: Mouna Sarah Chaba , Radjai Missoum , Rahman Md. Atikur , Bouhemadou Abdelmadjid , Abdullah  , Houatis Djamel , Allali Djamel , Essaoud Saber Sâad , Allaf Hatem
Published: October 2023

In this study, we used the ab-initio computational tools as implemented in the CASTEP code to explore the effects of pressure on the structural, elastic, electronic, thermodynamic and optical properties of the fluoroperovskite compounds XBeF3 (X = K, Rb) based on Being. Exchange–correlation interactions were modeled using the GGA-PBEsol functional. The ground state of the title materials was characterized by calculating the optimized lattice parameter, the bulk modulus B and its pressure derivative, and the Goldsmith tolerance factor. These materials exhibit structural stability in the cubic structure even when subjected to significant pressure levels, extending up to 18 GPa. The analysis of numerical assessments of single-crystal elastic constants (Cij
), polycrystalline elastic moduli, namely shear modulus (G), Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio, as well as the anisotropy factor (A), highlights the mechanical stability, elastic anisotropy and ductility of considered the compounds. The thermodynamic properties of these materials were studied through the Debye quasi-harmonic model. Analysis of energy band structures and density of states spectra shows that XBeF3 (X = K, Rb) is insulating in nature, with band gaps of 7.99 and 7.26 eV, respectively. Additionally, we calculated the linear optical spectra, including dielectric function, absorption coefficient, refractive index, optical reflectivity, and energy loss function. Based on the results obtained, these materials could be used in various optoelectronic devices operating in the UV spectrum and in energy storage devices.
Morphology of Bi(110) quantum islands on epitaxial graphene
Authors: Koch Julian , Ghosal Chitran , Sologub Sergii , Tegenkamp Christoph
Published: October 2023

Proximitized 2D materials present exciting prospects for exploring new quantum properties, enabled by precise control of structures and interfaces through epitaxial methods. In this study, we investigated the structure of ultrathin coverages formed by depositing high-Z element bismuth (Bi) on monolayer graphene (MLG)/SiC(0001). By utilizing electron diffraction and scanning tunneling microscopy, ultrathin Bi nanostructures epitaxially grown on MLG were studied. Deposition at 300 K resulted in formation of needle-like Bi(110)-terminated islands elongated in the zig-zag direction and aligned at an angle of approximately 1.75∘ with respect to the MLG armchair direction. By both strain and quantum size effects, the shape, the orientation and the thickness of the Bi(110) islands can be rationalized. Additionally, a minority phase of Bi(110) islands orthogonally aligned to the former ones were seen. The four sub-domains of this minority structure are attributed to the formation of mirror twin boundaries, resulting in two potential alignments of Bi(110) majority and minority domains with respect to each other, in addition to two possible alignments of the majority domain with respect to graphene. Notably, an annealing step at 410 K or lowering the deposition temperature, significantly increases the concentration of the Bi(110) minority domain. Our findings shed light on the structural control of proximitized 2D materials, showcasing the potential for manipulating 2D interfaces.
First-principle study of the electronic structure of layered Cu2Se
Authors: Yi Ju-Xia , Zhang Rui-Zi , Zhang Yu-Yang , Du Shi-Xuan
Published: October 2023

Copper selenide (Cu2Se) has attracted significant attention due to the extensive applications in thermoelectric and optoelectronic devices over the last few decades. Among various phase structures of Cu2Se, layered Cu2Se exhibits unique properties, such as purely thermal phase transition, high carrier mobility, high optical absorbance and high photoconductivity. Herein, we carry out a systematic investigation for the electronic structures of layered Cu2Se with several exchange-correlation functionals at different levels through first-principle calculations. It can be found that the electronic structures of layered Cu2Se are highly sensitive to the choice of functionals, and the correction of on-site Coulomb interaction also has a noticeable influence. Comparing with the results calculated with hybrid functional and G0W0method, it is found that the electronic structures calculated with LDA + U functional are relatively accurate for layered Cu2Se. In addition, the in-plane biaxial strain can lead to the transition of electronic properties from metal to semiconductor in the layered Cu2Se, attributed to the change of atomic orbital hybridization. Furthermore, we explore the spin-orbit coupling (SOC) effect of Cu2Se and find that the weak SOC effect on electronic structures mainly results from spatial inversion symmetry of Cu2Se. These findings provide valuable insights for further investigation on this compound.
Investigation of surface orientation dependent sputtering of Ag
Authors: Nilsson Rasmus , Choupanian Shiva , Ronning Carsten , Nordlund Kai , Granberg Fredric
Published: October 2023

Sputtering of metal surfaces can be both a beneficial phenomenon, for instance in the coating industry, or an undesired side-effect, for instant materials subjected to irradiation. While the average sputtering yields are well known in common metals, recent studies have shown that the yields can depend on the crystallographic orientation of the surface much stronger than commonly appreciated. In this study, we investigate by computational means, molecular dynamics, the sputtering of single crystalline Ag surfaces under various incoming energies. The results at low and high energy are compared to experimental results for single crystalline Ag nanocubes of different orientations. We observe strong differences between the sputtering yields of different surface directions and ion energies. We analyze the results in terms of the atom cluster size of the sputtered materials, and show that the cluster size distribution is a key factor to understand the correspondence between simulations and experiments. At low energies mainly single atoms are sputtered, whereas at higher energies the sputtered material is mainly in atom clusters.
Analysis and prediction of railway track longitudinal level using multiple machine learning methods
Authors: Han Lei , Liao Yingying , Wang Haoyu , Zhang Hougui
Published: October 2023

With the fast development of computer science, many prediction models based on machine learning methods have been used in the railway industry, which can better predict the random characteristics in track degradation, plan maintenance activities, and eventually meet the requirement of railway transportation. However, the applicability and generality of these models are unclear and the comparative analysis of these models on the random railway track is rare, which makes it hard for railway engineers to choose the most suitable prediction models in practice. In this paper, the track longitudinal level of a section of a railway measured monthly by the rail infrastructure alignment acquisition system for 1.5 years in the Netherlands has been analysed using multiple mathematical methods. After that, three machine learning-based prediction models were developed to predict the future development of the track longitudinal level, using support vector machine, grey model and deep neural network. The prediction performance of different prediction models is compared and discussed. Recommendations for choosing prediction models and further development are provided.
Application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for the analysis of pig bones
Authors: Marković Milica , Ranković Dragan , Savić Marjetka , Perović Ivana , Milovanović Dubravka , Kuzmanović Miroslav
Published: October 2023

An application of the laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy technique (LIBS) for the elemental analysis of pig shoulder bone samples is reported. Measurements were performed using a compact laboratory-made LIBS system based on the TEA CO2 laser and time-integrated signal detection. The recorded spectra consisted of well-defined atomic and single-charged ionic lines of bone matrix elements (Ca and P) and other constituent elements (e.g. Mg, Zn, Na, K, and C) with a good signal-to-noise ratio suitable for chemical analysis. Based on the elemental composition of bone samples measured by inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy, limits of detection (LOD) of LIBS analysis were estimated for several elements. LOD ranged from 2.2 ppm (K) to 16 ppm (Zn). Carbon and Hα spectral lines were used for plasma diagnostics by measuring Stark widths. Optical profilometry was used to assess the capability of LIBS for depth profile analysis. For laser fluence between 13.0 and 18.2 J cm−2, the ablation rate per pulse ranged from 6 to 10 μm.
Comparative investigation of detector responses and measurement uncertainties in fast-neutron coincidence counting for nuclear material accountancy
Authors: Yoon Seonkwang , Lee Chaehun , Seo Hee , Kim Ho-Dong
Published: October 2023

Fast-neutron measurement with organic scintillators has been considered one of the alternative techniques to thermal neutron measurement based on He-3 proportional counters, due to their economic and measurement-uncertainty potential for nuclear material accountancy. Nevertheless, highly suppressed neutron detection efficiencies and nuclide-dependent features indicated in the fast system as well as the utilization of pulse-shape discrimination which necessitates a significant energy threshold could lead to challenges in terms of characterizing nuclear material samples. This work confirmed a reasonable similarity of simulated results to experimental results concerning the non-linear light-output function of proton recoils. Consequently, nuclide-dependent detector responses and measurement uncertainty were investigated with varying diverse measurement parameters (the number of detectors, measurement time, and sample quantity). Also, comparative studies were conducted for the ACP Safeguards Neutron Counter, a developed thermal system, and the Fission Informative Neutron-based ACcounting, the proposed fast system currently under development by Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, for passive non-destructive assay of special nuclear materials.
Pressure-induced disorder and nanosizing inhibits superconductivity in In2Te3
Authors: Zhen Jiapeng , Liu Ying , Dong Hongliang , Zhang Ziyou , Zhang Shihui , Wang Gui , Zhou Yan , Wan Shun , Chen Bin , Liu Guanjun
Published: October 2023

The generation of disorder often gives rise to profound and irreversible physical phenomena. Here, we explore the influence of disorder on the superconducting properties of In2Te3 through comprehensive high-pressure investigations. Building upon previous findings, we investigated the progressive suppression of superconductivity in In2Te3 during the depressurization process: the increased disorder that ultimately leads to the complete disappearance of the superconducting state. Simultaneously, our high-pressure x-ray diffraction analysis reveals an irreversible structural phase transition. Furthermore, microstructure analysis using transmission electron microscopy clearly demonstrates both grain refinement and a substantial enhancement of disorder. These findings not only provide valuable insights into the mechanism by which disorder suppresses superconductivity, but also offer guidance for future advancements in the fabrication of atmospheric-pressure superconductors.
Ultrahigh-acetone-sensitivity sensor based on Pt-loaded TiO2 porous nanoparticles synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method
Authors: Ke Zhang , Hang Wei , Yunsheng Li , Wenrui Zhang , PengDang Zhu , Ruiyu Zhang
Published: October 2023

A simple hydrothermal method based on an orthogonal experimental design was used to synthesis Pt-loaded TiO2 mesoporous nanoparticles in one step. The successful synthesis of Pt-loaded TiO2 nanoparticles was demonstrated by various characterization methods. The effects of the modification of Pt and its explanation are described in detail by means of the test results. Through systematic gas-sensing tests, we found that the Pt-loaded TiO2 nanoparticles outperform pure TiO2 nanoparticles, with a high response value (S = 42.5) to 200 ppm acetone at 260 °C and with a film thickness of 0.45 mm, far superior to that of pure TiO2. The response time (8 s) and recovery time (11 s) of the material are also relatively good with excellent selectivity and long-term stability (30 days). The frequent use of acetone as an organic solution in factories and laboratories, as well as the possibility of making a preliminary diagnosis of diabetes by detecting acetone levels in exhaled gas, make this work promising for environmental monitoring and medical diagnosis.
Effect of the neutral beam injector operational regime on the Alfven eigenmode saturation phase in DIII-D plasma
Authors: Varela J , Spong D A , Garcia L , Ghai Y , Zarzoso D , del-Castillo-Negrete D , Betar H , Ortiz J , Pace D C , Van Zeeland M A , Du X , Sanchez R , Tribaldos V , Reynolds-Barredo J M
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of the neutral beam injector (NBI) operation regime on the saturation phase of the Alfven Eigenmodes (AEs) in DIII-D plasma. The analysis is done using the linear and nonlinear versions of the gyro-fluid code FAR3d. A set of parametric analyses are performed modifying the nonlinear simulation EP β (NBI injection power), EP energy (NBI voltage) and the radial location of the EP density profile gradient (NBI radial deposition). The analysis indicates a transition from the soft (local plasma relaxation) to the hard MHD (global plasma relaxation) limit if the simulation EP

β
⩾
0.02

, leading to bursting MHD activity caused by radial AEs overlapping. MHD bursts cause an enhancement of the EP transport showing ballistic-like features as avalanche-like events. Simulations in the soft MHD limit show an increment of the EP density gradient as the EP β increases. On the other hand, there is a gradient upper limit in the hard MHD limit, consistent with the critical-gradient behavior. AEs induce shear flows and zonal current leading to the deformation of the flux surfaces and the safety factor profile, respectively, particularly strong for the simulation in the hard MHD limit. Simulations in the hard MHD regime show a decrease of the AE frequency in the saturation phase; this is caused by the destabilization of a transitional mode between a

9

/

3
−
10

/

3

TAE and a

9

/

3

RSAE that may explain the AE frequency down-sweeping observed in some DIII-D discharges. Reducing the EP energy in the nonlinear simulations leads to a weakening of the plasma perturbation. On the other hand, increasing the EP energy causes the opposite effect. Nonlinear simulations of off-axis NBI profiles indicate a lower plasma perturbation as the EP density gradient is located further away from the magnetic axis.
Generalisation of fluctuation-dissipation theorem to systems with absorbing states
Authors: Padmanabha Prajwal , Azaele Sandro , Maritan Amos
Published: October 2023

Systems that evolve towards a state from which they cannot depart are common in nature. But the fluctuation-dissipation theorem (FDT), a fundamental result in statistical mechanics, is mainly restricted to systems near-stationarity. In processes with absorbing states, the total probability decays with time, eventually reaching zero and rendering the predictions from the standard response theory invalid. In this article, we investigate how such processes respond to external perturbations and develop a new theory that extends the framework of the FDT. We apply our theory to two paradigmatic examples that span vastly different fields—a birth–death process in forest ecosystems and a targeted search on DNA by proteins. These systems can be affected by perturbations which increase their rate of extinction/absorption, even though the average or the variance of population sizes are left unmodified. These effects, which are not captured by the standard response theory, are exactly predicted by our framework. Our theoretical approach is general and applicable to any system with absorbing states. It can unveil important features of the path to extinction masked by standard approaches.
Floating dark matter in celestial bodies
Authors: Leane Rebecca K. , Smirnov Juri
Published: October 2023

Dark matter (DM) can be captured in celestial bodies after scattering and losing sufficient energy to become gravitationally bound. We derive a general framework that describes the current DM distribution inside celestial objects, which self-consistently includes the effects of concentration diffusion, thermal diffusion, gravity, and capture accumulation. For DM with sufficient interactions, we show that a significant DM population can thermalize and sit towards the celestial-body surface. This surface-enhanced DM distribution allows for new phenomenology for DM searches in a wide range of celestial bodies, including the Sun, Earth, Jupiter, Brown Dwarfs, and Exoplanets.
Long plasma duration operation analyses with an international multi-machine (tokamaks and stellarators) database
Authors: Litaudon X. , Bosch H.-S. , Morisaki T. , Barbarino M. , Bock A. , Belonohy E. , Brezinsek S. , Bucalossi J. , Coda S. , Daniel R. , Ekedahl A. , Hanada K. , Holcomb C. , Huang J. , Ide S. , Jakubowski M. , Kuteev B. V. , Lerche E. , Luce T. , Maget P. , Song Y. , Stober J. , Houtte D. VAN , Xi Y. , Xue L. , Yoon S. , Zhang B. ,   JET contributors
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Combined high-fusion performance and long-pulse operation is one of the key integration challenges for fusion energy development in magnetic devices. Addressing these challenges requires an integrated vision of physics and engineering aspects with the purpose of simultaneously increasing time duration and fusion performance. Significant progress has been made in tokamaks and stellarators, including very recent achievement in duration and/or performance. This progress is reviewed by analyzing the experimental data (109 plasma pulses with a total of 3200 data points, i.e. on average 29 data per pulse) provided by ten tokamaks (in alphabetical order: Axially Symmetric Divertor Experiment Upgrade, DIII-D, Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak, Joint European Torus, JT-60 Upgrade, Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research, tokamak à configuration variable, Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor, Tore Supra, W Environment in Steady-State Tokamak) and two stellarators (Large Helical Device and Wendelstein 7-X) expanding the pioneering work of Kikuchi (Kikuchi M. and Azumi M. 2015 Frontiers in Fusion Research II: Introduction to Modern Tokamak Physics (Springer)). Data have been gathered up to January 2022 and coordination has been provided by the recently created International Energy Agency-International Atomic Energy Agency international Coordination on International Challenges on Long duration OPeration group. By exploiting the multi-machine international database, recent progress in terms of injected energies (e.g. 1730 MJ in L-mode, 425 MJ in H-mode), durations (1056 s in L-mode, 101 s in H-mode), injected powers, and sustained performance will be reviewed. Progress has been made to sustain long-pulse operation in tokamaks and stellarators with superconducting coils, actively cooled components, and/or with metallic walls. The graph of the fusion triple products as a function of duration shows a dramatic reduction of, at least two orders of magnitude when increasing the plasma duration from less than 1 s to 100 s. Indeed, long-pulse operation is usually reached in dominant electron-heating modes at reduced density (current drive optimization) but with low ion temperatures ranging from 1 to 3 keV for discharges above 100 s. Difficulties in extending the duration may arise from coupling high heating powers over long durations and the evolving plasma-wall interaction towards an unstable operational domain. Possible causes limiting the duration and critical issues to be addressed prior to ITER operation and DEMO design are reported and analyzed.
Improvisational mistakes
Authors: Ravasio Matteo
Published: October 2023

This paper discusses mistakes that occur in improvised musical performance. I first develop a couple of distinctions that are useful to understand the varied nature of such mistakes. Particularly, I think that it is important to distinguish mistakes that depend upon formal features of the music, and mistakes that are such in virtue of a failure of the performer’s intentions. Within this latter category, I argue that it is useful to distinguish between two different layers of performance intentions. Subsequently, I discuss the idea that, in improvised performance, mistakes are not merely tolerated but are, in some sense, valuable, showing how the distinction I develop can shed some light on these issues.
Discrepancies in Patient and Caregiver Ratings of Personality Change in Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Authors: Rhodes Emma , Mechanic-Hamilton Dawn , Phillips Jeffrey S , Bahena Alejandra , Vitali Nykko , Hlava Quinn , Cook Philip , Gee James , Grossman Murray , McMillan Corey , Massimo Lauren
Published: October 2023

Objective

Personality change in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) is complicated by the patient and informant factors that confound accurate reporting of personality traits. We assessed the impact of caregiver burden on informant report of Big Five personality traits (extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness) and investigated the regional cortical volumes associated with larger discrepancies in the patient and informant report of the Big Five personality traits.

Method

Sixty-four ADRD participants with heterogeneous neurodegenerative clinical phenotypes and their informants completed the Big Five Inventory (BFI). Caregiver burden was measured using the Zarit Burden Interview. Discrepancy scores were computed as the difference between patient and informant ratings for the BFI. Regional gray matter volumes from T1-weighted 3T MRI were normalized to intracranial volume and related to global Big Five discrepancy scores using linear regression.

Results

Higher levels of caregiver burden were associated with higher informant ratings of patient neuroticism (ß = 0.08, p = .012) and with lower informant ratings of patient agreeableness (ß = 0.11, p = .021) and conscientiousness (ß = 0.04, p = .034) independent of disease severity. Patients with greater Big Five discrepancy scores showed smaller cortical volumes in the right medial prefrontal cortex (β = −5.24, p = .045) and right superior temporal gyrus (β = −7.91, p = .028).

Conclusions

Informant ratings of personality traits in ADRD can be confounded by the caregiver burden, highlighting the need for more objective measures of personality and behavior in dementia samples. Discrepancies between informant and patient ratings of personality may additionally reflect loss of insight secondary to cortical atrophy in the frontal and temporal structures.
Machine learning-derived cycle length variability metrics predict spontaneously terminating ventricular tachycardia in implantable cardioverter defibrillator recipients
Authors: Sau Arunashis , Ahmed Amar , Chen Jun Yu , Pastika Libor , Wright Ian , Li Xinyang , Handa Balvinder , Qureshi Norman , Koa-Wing Michael , Keene Daniel , Malcolme-Lawes Louisa , Varnava Amanda , Linton Nicholas W F , Lim Phang Boon , Lefroy David , Kanagaratnam Prapa , Peters Nicholas S , Whinnett Zachary , Ng Fu Siong
Published: October 2023

Aims

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapies have been associated with increased mortality and should be minimized when safe to do so. We hypothesized that machine learning-derived ventricular tachycardia (VT) cycle length (CL) variability metrics could be used to discriminate between sustained and spontaneously terminating VT.

Methods and results

In this single-centre retrospective study, we analysed data from 69 VT episodes stored on ICDs from 27 patients (36 spontaneously terminating VT, 33 sustained VT). Several VT CL parameters including heart rate variability metrics were calculated. Additionally, a first order auto-regression model was fitted using the first 10 CLs. Using features derived from the first 10 CLs, a random forest classifier was used to predict VT termination. Sustained VT episodes had more stable CLs. Using data from the first 10 CLs only, there was greater CL variability in the spontaneously terminating episodes (mean of standard deviation of first 10 CLs: 20.1 ± 8.9 vs. 11.5 ± 7.8 ms, P < 0.0001). The auto-regression coefficient was significantly greater in spontaneously terminating episodes (mean auto-regression coefficient 0.39 ± 0.32 vs. 0.14 ± 0.39, P < 0.005). A random forest classifier with six features yielded an accuracy of 0.77 (95% confidence interval 0.67 to 0.87) for prediction of VT termination.

Conclusion

Ventricular tachycardia CL variability and instability are associated with spontaneously terminating VT and can be used to predict spontaneous VT termination. Given the harmful effects of unnecessary ICD shocks, this machine learning model could be incorporated into ICD algorithms to defer therapies for episodes of VT that are likely to self-terminate.
Fundamental Rights of Corporations as International Human Rights: The Perspective of Regional Economic Courts
Authors: Wiater Patricia
Published: October 2023

The article deals with the question of whether and why international human rights law should protect corporations at the example of regional economic integration systems such as the European Union. For the European Court of Justice, granting human rights to corporations is the natural response to the key role that private companies play in the integration program. Regional human rights courts, in contrast, partly struggle to recognise corporations as human rights holders. The article critically examines the theoretical raison d’être of fundamental rights of corporations, granted in the framework of international human rights, and reflects on them on the basis of a Rule of Law-postulate.
Differential Roles of Oxytocin Receptors in the Prefrontal Cortex and Nucleus Accumbens on Cocaine Self-Administration and Reinstatement of Cued Cocaine Seeking in Male Rats
Authors: Penrod Rachel D , Taniguchi Makoto , Kearns Angela M , Hopkins Jordan L , Reichel Carmela M
Published: October 2023

Background

Little is known about the specific roles of cortical and accumbal oxytocin receptors in drug use disorders. To better understand the importance of the endogenous oxytocin system in cocaine relapse behavior, we developed an adeno-associated viral vector–expressing short hairpin (sh) RNAs to selectively degrade the rat oxytocin receptor (OxyR) mRNA in vivo.

Methods

Male (Sprague-Dawley) rats received bilateral infusions of the shRNA for the oxytocin receptor (shOxyR) or an shRNA control virus into the prefrontal cortex (PFC) or the nucleus accumbens core (NAc). Rats self-administered cocaine on an escalating FR ratio for 14 days, lever responding was extinguished, and rats were tested for cued and cocaine-primed reinstatement of drug seeking.

Results

OxyR knockdown in the PFC delayed the acquisition of lever pressing on an fixed ratio 1 schedule of reinforcement. All rats eventually acquired the same level of lever pressing and discrimination, and there were no differences in extinction. OxyR knockdown in the NAc had no effect during acquisition. In both the PFC and NAc, the shOxyR decreased cued reinstatement relative to shRNA control virus but was without effect during drug-primed reinstatement. OxyR knockdown in the PFC increased chamber activity during a social interaction task.

Conclusions

This study provides critical new information about how endogenous OxyRs function to affect drug seeking in response to different precipitators of relapse. The tool developed to knockdown OxyRs in rat could provide important new insights that aid development of oxytocin-based therapeutics to reduce return-to-use episodes in people with substance use disorder and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
When the Rich Get Richer: Class, Globalization, and the Sociotropic Determinants of Populism
Authors: Powers Kathleen E , Rathbun Brian C
Published: October 2023

Globalization is frequently linked to populism in advanced industrial societies, yet scholars have found little evidence for a direct connection between citizens’ personal economic fortunes and populist beliefs. We draw on the sociotropic tradition to argue that beliefs about how the global economy differently affects groups in society link globalization to populism and its component elements—anti-elitism, people-centrism, and demand for popular sovereignty. Data from an original survey of US residents support our argument that beliefs about whether wealthy Americans have gained from globalization—the rich getting richer—correlate with populist attitudes. This pattern holds while adjusting for a broad range of pocketbook measures and the nativist attitudes associated with right-wing populism. Results from a pre-registered experiment further show that exposure to an article about globalization enriching Davos billionaires increases two of three populist beliefs, lending causal leverage to our empirical tests. Our results emphasize the class dynamics created by outside financial forces, rather than the effects on the country as a whole, suggesting that international relations (IR) scholars gain important insights by accounting for globalization’s uneven effects. Perceptions about globalization inform attitudes about politics in general, a layer deeper than foreign economic policy preferences.
Effects of lysophospholipids and multi-enzymes on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal health, and cecal microflora of male cherry valley ducks
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Li Jian , Wang Jianping , Nie Kangkang , Luo Zheng , Xu Shengyu , Lin Yan , Feng Bin , Zhuo Yong , Hua Lun , Che Lianqiang
Published: October 2023

Improvement of nutrient utilization to promote growth performance is always pursued in poultry. In this study, a total of 360 1-d-old male ducklings was randomly assigned to 3 treatments in terms of diet treatment groups. Three treatments were as follows: basal diet (Con group) or basal diet supplemented with 300 mg/kg multi-enzymes (ENZ group) or 500 mg/kg lysophospholipids (LPL group). On day 42, ducks were slaughtered for samplings. The results revealed that supplementary LPL improved the body weight (BW) at day 14 and average daily gain (ADG) during days 1 to 14 and improved the feed conversion rate (FCR) for the overall period (P < 0.05) by improving nutrient utilization of dry matter and ether extract (P < 0.05) compared with the Con group. Dietary ENZ improved the FCR from days 15-42 and 1-42, and nitrogen utilization (P < 0.05) compared with the Con group. Jejunal villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio were higher (P < 0.05) in the LPL group and tended to be higher (P < 0.1) in the ENZ group compared to the Con group. Supplementation with either LPL or ENZ reduced interleukin-1β concentration in jejunal mucus (P < 0.05). Both LPL and ENZ enhanced serum total superoxide dismutase activity (P < 0.05), whereas only supplementation with LPL elevated total antioxidant capacity (P < 0.05). In terms of cecal microbiota, microbial richness tended to be reduced by LPL, with low observed-OTUs and Chao1 (0.05 < P < 0.1). Supplementation with ENZ led to higher abundances of cellulolytic bacteria such as Fibrobacterota, [Eubacterium]_xylanophilum_group, and Bifidobacterium. Overall, both LPL and ENZ improved FCR, which may be relevant to ameliorative intestinal health, overall antioxidant ability, and cecal microbiome.
The Folklore of Evolution in Andrew Lang’s Writings
Authors: McCullough Anna
Published: October 2023

This article builds upon Bernard Lightman and Peter Bowler’s works on the non-Darwinian nature of Victorian evolution, arguing that while their arguments helpfully reorient our understanding of evolution’s historiography, they underestimate the diversity of evolutionary theory in the Victorian era. Victorian evolution was highly idiosyncratic, as each individual (scientist, author, or reader) interpreted evolution according to his or her own preconceptions, resulting in a myriad of evolutionary theories. To illustrate this diversity, this article examines the work of Andrew Lang, a prolific late-nineteenth-century journalist, anthropologist, and fairy-tale enthusiast. I focus on two of his largely unstudied works to demonstrate how he exposed and critiqued Victorian assumptions about evolution and the origins of the theory. The first work, ‘Higgins, the Inventor of Evolution’ (1897), uses satire to reveal that evolution’s theoretical history was often overlooked in the nineteenth century. The second, The Princess Nobody (1884), is a children’s fairy tale that exemplifies how fairy-tale tropes can help modern readers grasp evolutionary ideas. Significantly, both works recycle older texts that also address evolutionary questions, making Lang a participant in a folkloric tradition of interpreting and critiquing evolutionary theory. Lang viewed evolutionary theory as similar to a mythic story that is told and reinterpreted through the generations. His writing demonstrates that the origins of evolutionary theory are ambiguous, and that traditional fairy tales convey ideas about human origins and kinship with animals that predate Darwin’s studies.
Synergistic induction of phytoalexins in Nicotiana attenuata by jasmonate and ethylene signaling mediated by NaWRKY70
Authors: Song Na , Wu Jinsong
Published: October 2023

Production of the phytoalexins scopoletin and scopolin is regulated by jasmonate (JA) and ethylene signaling in Nicotiana species in response to Alternaria alternata, the necrotrophic fungal pathogen that causes brown spot disease. However, how these two signaling pathways are coordinated to control this process remains unclear. In this study, we found that the levels of these two phytoalexins and transcripts of their key enzyme gene, feruloyl-CoA 6ʹ-hydroxylase 1 (NaF6ʹH1), were synergistically induced in Nicotiana attenuata by co-treatment with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and ethephon. By combination of RNA sequencing and virus-induced gene silencing, we identified a WRKY transcription factor, NaWRKY70, which had a similar expression pattern to NaF6ʹH1 and was responsible for A. alternata-induced NaF6ʹH1 expression. Further evidence from stable transformed plants with RNA interference, knock out and overexpression of NaWRKY70 demonstrated that it is a key player in the synergistic induction of phytoalexins and plant resistance to A. alternata. Electrophoretic mobility shift, chromatin immunoprecipitation–quantitative PCR, and dual-luciferase assays revealed that NaWRKY70 can bind directly to the NaF6ʹH1 promoter and activate its expression. Furthermore, the key regulator of the ethylene pathway, NaEIN3-like1, can directly bind to the NaWRKY70 promoter and activate its expression. Meanwhile, NaMYC2s, important JA pathway transcription factors, also indirectly regulate the expression of NaWRKY70 and NaF6ʹH1 to control scopoletin and scopolin production. Our data reveal that these phytoalexins are synergistically induced by JA and ethylene signaling during A. alternata infection, which is largely mediated by NaWRKY70, thus providing new insights into the defense responses against A. alternata in Nicotiana species.
3D-Spatiotemporal forecasting the expansion of supernova shells using deep learning towards high-resolution galaxy simulations
Authors: Hirashima Keiya , Moriwaki Kana , Fujii Michiko S , Hirai Yutaka , Saitoh Takayuki R , Makino Junichiro
Published: October 2023

Supernova (SN) plays an important role in galaxy formation and evolution. In high-resolution galaxy simulations using massively parallel computing, short integration time-steps for SNe are serious bottlenecks. This is an urgent issue that needs to be resolved for future higher-resolution galaxy simulations. One possible solution would be to use the Hamiltonian splitting method, in which regions requiring short time-steps are integrated separately from the entire system. To apply this method to the particles affected by SNe in a smoothed particle hydrodynamics simulation, we need to detect the shape of the shell on and within which such SN-affected particles reside during the subsequent global step in advance. In this paper, we develop a deep learning model, 3D-Memory In Memory (3D-MIM), to predict a shell expansion after a SN explosion. Trained on turbulent cloud simulations with particle mass mgas = 1 M⊙, the model accurately reproduces the anisotropic shell shape, where densities decrease by over 10 per cent by the explosion. We also demonstrate that the model properly predicts the shell radius in the uniform medium beyond the training data set of inhomogeneous turbulent clouds. We conclude that our model enables the forecast of the shell and its interior where SN-affected particles will be present.
A high-resolution haplotype-resolved Reference panel constructed from the China Kadoorie Biobank Study
Authors: Yu Canqing , Lan Xianmei , Tao Ye , Guo Yu , Sun Dianjianyi , Qian Puyi , Zhou Yuwen , Walters Robin G , Li Linxuan , Zhu Yunqing , Zeng Jingyu , Millwood Iona Y , Guo Ruidong , Pei Pei , Yang Tao , Du Huaidong , Yang Fan , Yang Ling , Ren Fangyi , Chen Yiping , Chen Fengzhen , Jiang Xiaosen , Ye Zhiqiang , Dai Lanlan , Wei Xiaofeng , Xu Xun , Yang Huanming , Wang Jian , Chen Zhengming , Zhu Huanhuan , Lv Jun , Jin Xin , Li Liming
Published: October 2023

Precision medicine depends on high-accuracy individual-level genotype data. However, the whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is still not suitable for gigantic studies due to budget constraints. It is particularly important to construct highly accurate haplotype reference panel for genotype imputation. In this study, we used 10 000 samples with medium-depth WGS to construct a reference panel that we named the CKB reference panel. By imputing microarray datasets, it showed that the CKB panel outperformed compared panels in terms of both the number of well-imputed variants and imputation accuracy. In addition, we have completed the imputation of 100 706 microarrays with the CKB panel, and the after-imputed data is the hitherto largest whole genome data of the Chinese population. Furthermore, in the GWAS analysis of real phenotype height, the number of tested SNPs tripled and the number of significant SNPs doubled after imputation. Finally, we developed an online server for offering free genotype imputation service based on the CKB reference panel (https://db.cngb.org/imputation/). We believe that the CKB panel is of great value for imputing microarray or low-coverage genotype data of Chinese population, and potentially mixed populations. The imputation-completed 100 706 microarray data are enormous and precious resources of population genetic studies for complex traits and diseases.
Structural and functional basis of inositol hexaphosphate stimulation of NHEJ through stabilization of Ku-XLF interaction
Authors: Kefala Stavridi Antonia , Gontier Amandine , Morin Vincent , Frit Philippe , Ropars Virginie , Barboule Nadia , Racca Carine , Jonchhe Sagun , Morten Michael J , Andreani Jessica , Rak Alexey , Legrand Pierre , Bourand-Plantefol Alexa , Hardwick Steven W , Chirgadze Dimitri Y , Davey Paul , De Oliveira Taiana Maia , Rothenberg Eli , Britton Sebastien , Calsou Patrick , Blundell Tom L , Varela Paloma F , Chaplin Amanda K , Charbonnier Jean-Baptiste
Published: October 2023

The classical Non-Homologous End Joining (c-NHEJ) pathway is the predominant process in mammals for repairing endogenous, accidental or programmed DNA Double-Strand Breaks. c-NHEJ is regulated by several accessory factors, post-translational modifications, endogenous chemical agents and metabolites. The metabolite inositol-hexaphosphate (IP6) stimulates c-NHEJ by interacting with the Ku70–Ku80 heterodimer (Ku). We report cryo-EM structures of apo- and DNA-bound Ku in complex with IP6, at 3.5 Å and 2.74 Å resolutions respectively, and an X-ray crystallography structure of a Ku in complex with DNA and IP6 at 3.7 Å. The Ku-IP6 interaction is mediated predominantly via salt bridges at the interface of the Ku70 and Ku80 subunits. This interaction is distant from the DNA, DNA-PKcs, APLF and PAXX binding sites and in close proximity to XLF binding site. Biophysical experiments show that IP6 binding increases the thermal stability of Ku by 2°C in a DNA-dependent manner, stabilizes Ku on DNA and enhances XLF affinity for Ku. In cells, selected mutagenesis of the IP6 binding pocket reduces both Ku accrual at damaged sites and XLF enrolment in the NHEJ complex, which translate into a lower end-joining efficiency. Thus, this study defines the molecular bases of the IP6 metabolite stimulatory effect on the c-NHEJ repair activity.
HALL: a comprehensive database for human aging and longevity studies
Authors: Li Hao , Wu Song , Li Jiaming , Xiong Zhuang , Yang Kuan , Ye Weidong , Ren Jie , Wang Qiaoran , Xiong Muzhao , Zheng Zikai , Zhang Shuo , Han Zichu , Yang Peng , Jiang Beier , Ping Jiale , Zuo Yuesheng , Lu Xiaoyong , Zhai Qiaocheng , Yan Haoteng , Wang Si , Ma Shuai , Zhang Bing , Ye Jinlin , Qu Jing , Yang Yun-Gui , Zhang Feng , Liu Guang-Hui , Bao Yiming , Zhang Weiqi
Published: October 2023

Diverse individuals age at different rates and display variable susceptibilities to tissue aging, functional decline and aging-related diseases. Centenarians, exemplifying extreme longevity, serve as models for healthy aging. The field of human aging and longevity research is rapidly advancing, garnering significant attention and accumulating substantial data in recent years. Omics technologies, encompassing phenomics, genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics and microbiomics, have provided multidimensional insights and revolutionized cohort-based investigations into human aging and longevity. Accumulated data, covering diverse cells, tissues and cohorts across the lifespan necessitates the establishment of an open and integrated database. Addressing this, we established the Human Aging and Longevity Landscape (HALL), a comprehensive multi-omics repository encompassing a diverse spectrum of human cohorts, spanning from young adults to centenarians. The core objective of HALL is to foster healthy aging by offering an extensive repository of information on biomarkers that gauge the trajectory of human aging. Moreover, the database facilitates the development of diagnostic tools for aging-related conditions and empowers targeted interventions to enhance longevity. HALL is publicly available at https://ngdc.cncb.ac.cn/hall/index.
M2OR: a database of olfactory receptor–odorant pairs for understanding the molecular mechanisms of olfaction
Authors: Lalis Maxence , Hladiš Matej , Khalil Samar Abi , Briand Loïc , Fiorucci Sébastien , Topin Jérémie
Published: October 2023

Mammalian sense of smell is triggered by interaction between odorant molecules and a class of proteins, called olfactory receptors (ORs). These receptors, expressed at the surface of olfactory sensory neurons, encode myriad of distinct odors via a sophisticated activation pattern. However, determining the molecular recognition spectrum of ORs remains a major challenge. The Molecule to Olfactory Receptor database (M2OR, https://m2or.chemsensim.fr/) provides curated data that allows an easy exploration of the current state of the research on OR-molecule interaction. We have gathered a database of 75,050 bioassay experiments for 51 395 distinct OR-molecule pairs. Drawn from published literature and public databases, M2OR contains information about OR responses to molecules and their mixtures, receptor sequences and experimental details. Users can obtain information on the activity of a chosen molecule or a group of molecules, or search for agonists for a specific OR or a group of ORs. Advanced search allows for fine-grained queries using various metadata such as species or experimental assay system, and the database can be queried by multiple inputs via a batch search. Finally, for a given search query, users can access and download a curated aggregation of the experimental data into a binarized combinatorial code of olfaction.