bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Inability to Disassemble Rad51 Nucleoprotein Filaments Leads to Aberrant Mitosis and Cell Death
Authors: Andriuskevicius Tadas , Dubenko Anton , Makovets Svetlana
Published: May 2023

The proper maintenance of genetic material is essential for the survival of living organisms. One of the main safeguards of genome stability is homologous recombination involved in the faithful repair of DNA double-strand breaks, the restoration of collapsed replication forks, and the bypass of replication barriers. Homologous recombination relies on the formation of Rad51 nucleoprotein filaments which are responsible for the homology-based interactions between DNA strands. Here, we demonstrate that without the regulation of these filaments by Srs2 and Rad54, which are known to remove Rad51 from single-stranded and double-stranded DNA, respectively, the filaments strongly inhibit damage-associated DNA synthesis during DNA repair. Furthermore, this regulation is essential for cell survival under normal growth conditions, as in the srs2Δ rad54Δ mutants, unregulated Rad51 nucleoprotein filaments cause activation of the DNA damage checkpoint, formation of mitotic bridges, and loss of genetic material. These genome instability features may stem from the problems at stalled replication forks as the lack of Srs2 and Rad54 in the presence of Rad51 nucleoprotein filaments impedes cell recovery from replication stress. This study demonstrates that the timely and efficient disassembly of recombination machinery is essential for genome maintenance and cell survival.
Amalia Revisited—A Reanalysis of Amalia’s Dreams with the Method Structural Dream Analysis
Authors: Roesler Christian , Widmer Daniel
Published: May 2023

Since Freud’s “The interpretation of Dreams”, working with dreams has continued to play a major role in psychoanalysis, though different perspectives have developed about the function and meaning of dreams. This controversy is discussed on the background of findings in empirical as well as clinical dream research. In this paper, the research method Structural Dream Analysis is introduced which investigates the changes in structure of dreams over the course of psychotherapy. The method is applied to the specimen case Amalia X, which is considered to be the best investigated case in the history of psychotherapy research. Based on the results from this case and from other studies, the implications for psychoanalytic dream theories, namely those of Jung and Freud, are discussed.
Attachment Trauma Is Associated with White Matter Fiber Microstructural Alterations in Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa before and after Exposure to Psychotherapeutic and Nutritional Treatment
Authors: Gander Manuela , Lenhart Lukas , Steiger Ruth , Buchheim Anna , Mangesius Stephanie , Birkl Christoph , Haid-Stecher Nina , Fuchs Martin , Libal Anna , Dabkowska-Mika Agnieszka , Gizewski Elke Ruth , Sevecke Kathrin
Published: May 2023

In the present study, we explore the role of attachment for microstructural white matter (WM) changes in adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) before and after exposure to short-term and nutritional treatment. The case sample consisted of 22 female adolescent inpatients with AN (mean age: 15.2 ± 1.2 years) and the control sample were 18 gender-matched healthy adolescents (mean age: 16.8 ± 0.9 years). We performed a 3T MRI in the patient group during the acute state of AN and after weight restoration (duration: 2.6 ± 1 months) and compared the data to a healthy control group. To classify attachment patterns, we used the Adult Attachment Projective Picture System. In the patient sample, over 50% were classified with an attachment trauma/unresolved attachment status. Prior to treatment exposure, fractional anisotropy (FA) reductions and concordant mean diffusivity (MD) increases were evident in the fornix, the corpus callosum and WM regions of the thalamus, which normalized in the corpus callosum and the fornix post-therapy in the total patient sample (p < 0.002). In the acute state, patients with an attachment trauma demonstrated significant FA decreases compared to healthy controls, but no MD increases, in the corpus callosum and cingulum bilaterally, which remained decreased after therapy. Attachment patterns seem to be associated with region-specific changes of WM alterations in AN.
Machine Learning Algorithms to Predict Breast Cancer Recurrence Using Structured and Unstructured Sources from Electronic Health Records
Authors: González-Castro Lorena , Chávez Marcela , Duflot Patrick , Bleret Valérie , Martin Alistair G. , Zobel Marc , Nateqi Jama , Lin Simon , Pazos-Arias José J. , Del Fiol Guilherme , López-Nores Martín
Published: May 2023

Recurrence is a critical aspect of breast cancer (BC) that is inexorably tied to mortality. Reuse of healthcare data through Machine Learning (ML) algorithms offers great opportunities to improve the stratification of patients at risk of cancer recurrence. We hypothesized that combining features from structured and unstructured sources would provide better prediction results for 5-year cancer recurrence than either source alone. We collected and preprocessed clinical data from a cohort of BC patients, resulting in 823 valid subjects for analysis. We derived three sets of features: structured information, features from free text, and a combination of both. We evaluated the performance of five ML algorithms to predict 5-year cancer recurrence and selected the best-performing to test our hypothesis. The XGB (eXtreme Gradient Boosting) model yielded the best performance among the five evaluated algorithms, with precision = 0.900, recall = 0.907, F1-score = 0.897, and area under the receiver operating characteristic AUROC = 0.807. The best prediction results were achieved with the structured dataset, followed by the unstructured dataset, while the combined dataset achieved the poorest performance. ML algorithms for BC recurrence prediction are valuable tools to improve patient risk stratification, help with post-cancer monitoring, and plan more effective follow-up. Structured data provides the best results when fed to ML algorithms. However, an approach based on natural language processing offers comparable results while potentially requiring less mapping effort.
Genetic Ablation of the MET Oncogene Defines a Crucial Role of the HGF/MET Axis in Cell-Autonomous Functions Driving Tumor Dissemination
Authors: Modica Chiara , Cortese Marco , Bersani Francesca , Lombardi Andrea Maria , Napoli Francesca , Righi Luisella , Taulli Riccardo , Basilico Cristina , Vigna Elisa
Published: May 2023

Cancer cell dissemination is sustained by cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous functions. To disentangle the role of HGF (Hepatocyte Growth Factor) and MET ligand/receptor axis in this complex process, we genetically knocked out the MET gene in cancer cells in which MET is not the oncogenic driver. In this way, we evaluated the contribution of the HGF/MET axis to cancer cell dissemination independently of its direct activities in cells of the tumor microenvironment. The lack of MET expression in MET−/− cells has been proved by molecular characterization. From a functional point of view, HGF stimulation of MET−/− cancer cells was ineffective in eliciting intracellular signaling and in sustaining biological functions predictive of malignancy in vitro (i.e., anchorage-independent growth, invasion, and survival in the absence of matrix adhesion). Cancer cell dissemination was assessed in vivo, evaluating: (i) the ability of MET−/− lung carcinoma cells to colonize the lungs following intravenous injection and (ii) the spontaneous dissemination to distant organs of MET−/− pancreatic carcinoma cells upon orthotopic injection. In both experimental models, MET ablation affects the time of onset, the number, and the size of metastatic lesions. These results define a crucial contribution of the HGF/MET axis to cell-autonomous functions driving the metastatic process.
Breaking the Invisible Barriers: Unleashing the Full Potential of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Oncogene-Driven Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kwok Hoi-Hin , Yang Jiashuang , Lam David Chi-Leung
Published: May 2023

The rapid development of targeted therapy paved the way toward personalized medicine for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) harboring actionable genetic alternations including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), Kirsten rat sarcoma virus (ALK) and c-ros oncogene 1 (ROS1) treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) incurred lesser treatment toxicity but better therapeutic responses compared with systemic chemotherapy. Angiogenesis inhibitors targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have also shown an increase in overall survival (OS) for NSCLC patients. However, acquired resistance to these targeted therapies remains a major obstacle to long-term maintenance treatment for lung ADC patients. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) or programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) has changed the treatment paradigm for NSCLC tumors without actionable genetic alternations. Clinical studies have suggested, however, that there are no survival benefits with the combination of targeted therapy and ICIs. In this review, we will summarize and discuss the current knowledge on the tumor immune microenvironment and the dynamics of immune phenotypes, which could be crucial in extending the applicability of ICIs for this subpopulation of lung ADC patients.
The Role of TRAIL in Apoptosis and Immunosurveillance in Cancer
Authors: Pimentel Julio M. , Zhou Jun-Ying , Wu Gen Sheng
Published: May 2023

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a member of the TNF superfamily that selectively induces apoptosis in tumor cells without harming normal cells, making it an attractive agent for cancer therapy. TRAIL induces apoptosis by binding to and activating its death receptors DR4 and DR5. Several TRAIL-based treatments have been developed, including recombinant forms of TRAIL and its death receptor agonist antibodies, but the efficacy of TRAIL-based therapies in clinical trials is modest. In addition to inducing cancer cell apoptosis, TRAIL is expressed in immune cells and plays a critical role in tumor surveillance. Emerging evidence indicates that the TRAIL pathway may interact with immune checkpoint proteins, including programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), to modulate PD-L1-based tumor immunotherapies. Therefore, understanding the interaction between TRAIL and the immune checkpoint PD-L1 will lead to the development of new strategies to improve TRAIL- and PD-L1-based therapies. This review discusses recent findings on TRAIL-based therapy, resistance, and its involvement in tumor immunosurveillance.
Non-Expressed Donor KIR3DL1 Alleles May Represent a Risk Factor for Relapse after T-Replete Haploidentical Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Legrand Nolwenn , Salameh Perla , Jullien Maxime , Chevallier Patrice , Ferron Enora , David Gaelle , Devilder Marie-Claire , Willem Catherine , Gendzekhadze Ketevan , Parham Peter , Retière Christelle , Gagne Katia
Published: May 2023

KIR3DL1 alleles are expressed at different levels on the natural killer (NK) cell surface. In particular, the non-expressed KIR3DL1*004 allele appears to be common in Caucasian populations. However, the overall distribution of non-expressed KIR3DL1 alleles and their clinical relevance after T-replete haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (hHSCT) with post-transplant cyclophosphamide remain poorly documented in European populations. In a cohort of French blood donors (N = 278), we compared the distribution of expressed and non-expressed KIR3DL1 alleles using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology combined with multi-color flow cytometry. We confirmed the predominance of the non-expressed KIR3DL1*004 allele. Using allele-specific constructs, the phenotype and function of the uncommon KIR3DL1*019 allotype were characterized using the Jurkat T cell line and NKL transfectants. Although poorly expressed on the NK cell surface, KIR3DL1*019 is retained within NK cells, where it induces missing self-recognition of the Bw4 epitope. Transposing our in vitro observations to a cohort of hHSCT patients (N = 186) led us to observe that non-expressed KIR3DL1 HSC grafts increased the incidence of relapse in patients with myeloid diseases. Non-expressed KIR3DL1 alleles could, therefore, influence the outcome of hHSCT.
Temporal Changes in Nuclear Envelope Permeability during Semi-Closed Mitosis in Dictyostelium Amoebae
Authors: Mitic Kristina , Meyer Irene , Gräf Ralph , Grafe Marianne
Published: May 2023

The Amoebozoan Dictyostelium discoideum exhibits a semi-closed mitosis in which the nuclear membranes remain intact but become permeabilized to allow tubulin and spindle assembly factors to access the nuclear interior. Previous work indicated that this is accomplished at least by partial disassembly of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs). Further contributions by the insertion process of the duplicating, formerly cytosolic, centrosome into the nuclear envelope and nuclear envelope fenestrations forming around the central spindle during karyokinesis were discussed. We studied the behavior of several Dictyostelium nuclear envelope, centrosomal, and nuclear pore complex (NPC) components tagged with fluorescence markers together with a nuclear permeabilization marker (NLS-TdTomato) by live-cell imaging. We could show that permeabilization of the nuclear envelope during mitosis occurs in synchrony with centrosome insertion into the nuclear envelope and partial disassembly of nuclear pore complexes. Furthermore, centrosome duplication takes place after its insertion into the nuclear envelope and after initiation of permeabilization. Restoration of nuclear envelope integrity usually occurs long after re-assembly of NPCs and cytokinesis has taken place and is accompanied by a concentration of endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) components at both sites of nuclear envelope fenestration (centrosome and central spindle).
Architectures and Mechanisms of Perylene Diimide-Based Optical Chemosensors for pH Probing
Authors: Chen Shuai , Zhou Meng , Zhu Ling , Yang Xiaomei , Zang Ling
Published: May 2023

The precise control and monitoring of pH values remain critical for many chemical, physiological and biological processes. Perylene diimide (PDI)-based molecules and materials exhibit excellent thermal, chemical and photochemical stability, unique UV-vis absorption and fluorescent emission properties, low cytotoxicity, as well as intrinsic electron-withdrawing (n-type semiconductor) nature and impressive molecular assembly capability. These features combined enable promising applications of PDIs in chemosensors via optical signal modulations (e.g., fluorescent or colorimetric). One of the typical applications lies in the probing of pH under various conditions, which in turn helps monitor the extracellular (environmental) and intracellular pH change and pH-relying molecular recognition of inorganic or organic ions, as well as biological species, and so on. In this review, we give a special overview of the recent progress in PDI-based optical chemosensors for pH probing in various aqueous and binary water–organic media. Specific emphasis will be given to the key design roles of sensing materials regarding the architectures and the corresponding sensing mechanisms for a sensitive and selective pH response. The molecular design of PDIs and structural optimization of their assemblies in order to be suitable for sensing various pH ranges as applied in diverse scenarios will be discussed in detail. Moreover, the future perspective will be discussed, focusing on the current key challenges of PDI-based chemosensors in pH monitoring and the potential approach of new research, which may help address the challenges.
Flashbulb Memories in the Communication of the Diagnosis of Visual Impairment: The Effect of Context and Content
Authors: Mayo Pais Mª Emma , Real Deus José Eulogio , Iglesias-Souto Patricia Mª , Taboada-Ares Eva Mª
Published: May 2023

The diagnosis of a child’s visual impairment is remembered vividly and intensely by their parents. However, the way in which the diagnosis is communicated may affect the development and persistence of this memory. The aim of this study is to analyze the circumstances in which the first news of the diagnosis of visual impairment in children is given and whether the memory of this event persists over time leading to a flashbulb memory. A longitudinal study was carried out with the participation of 38 mothers. Data were collected on sociodemographics, clinical variables, circumstances surrounding the communication of the diagnosis, and the degree of agreement of the information in the two phases of the research. The diagnosis was, on the whole, given to both parents at the same time, in medical language and with little tact, generally in the office of an ophthalmologist. The mothers would have preferred to have received the news in a different way, and the existence of a flashbulb memory is confirmed, more dependent on the context in which the diagnosis was given and its content than on sociodemographic and clinical factors. The way in which the first news of such a diagnosis is given plays a significant role in how it is remembered. Therefore, an improvement in medical practice regarding the communication of such diagnoses is recommended.
Prevalence and Predictors of Alcohol Use among School-Going Adolescents in Panama: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Obeng Paul , Sambah Francis , Sarfo Jacob Owusu , Srem-Sai Medina , Gbordzoe Newton Isaac , Sorkpor Richmond Stephen , Hagan John Elvis
Published: May 2023

This study investigated the prevalence and predictors of alcohol use among school-going-age adolescents in Panama. Using a national school-based cross-sectional survey, data from a proportionate sample of school-going adolescents aged 13–17 years were obtained from the 2018 Panama Global School-based Student Health Survey [GSHS]. Data were analysed with a Pearson’s Chi-square test and weighted binary logistic regression. The results were reported with their corresponding adjusted odds ratio (AOR) at a 95% confidence interval (CI) and level of significance set at p < 0.05. The prevalence of alcohol use among adolescents in Panama was 30.6%. The odds of alcohol use were lower among adolescents in a lower grade than those in upper grades, and lower in those who did not eat from a restaurant than those who ate from a restaurant. Further, the likelihood of alcohol use was significantly high among those who engaged in physical fights, were seriously injured, were mostly worried, and whose parents used any form of tobacco. Other results showed that the odds of alcohol use were high among sedentary respondents, those who had multiple sexual partners and those who used amphetamines. Based on the present findings, a collaborative approach (i.e., stakeholders- the Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Education- community–individual levels) towards the development and adherence of appropriate interventions aimed at reducing alcohol use is required in Panama. Specific preventive interventions would be fundamental in promoting a positive school climate to help reduce adolescents’ alcohol use and, perhaps, other anti-social behaviours (e.g., physical fights and bullying).
Effect of the MgO Addition on the Structure and Physical Properties of the High Entropy HfZrCeYO Fluorite Ceramics
Authors: Zenkin Sergei , Gaydaychuk Alexander , Mitulinsky Alexander , Bulakh Vlada , Linnik Stepan
Published: May 2023

One of the most promising applications of high entropy ceramics is their use as high temperature protective materials. Due to the additional entropic stabilization of the crystal structure, four- and five-element high entropy ceramics exhibit enhanced thermal and mechanical properties. For these applications, one of the most promising high entropy protective oxides are ZrO2- and HfO2-based protective HEOs. In this article, we study the HfO2–ZrO2–Y2O3–CeO2 equimolar system with the addition of MgO as a fifth component. We found that the HfZrCeY(Mg)O system maintains a single FCC crystalline structure up to the MgO concentration = 31.9 mol.%. Additionally, we determined that an addition of MgO at the close-to-equimolar HfZrCeY(Mg)O composition enhances the thermal properties of HEO, but reduces the mechanical properties such as hardness and resistance to crack formation. The minimum weight loss at the heating from RT up to 1450 °C was measured for the close-to-equimolar HfZrCeY(Mg)O composition at 18.4 mol.% MgO. The hardness of such composition was around 18 GPa. Due to the combination of these properties, the synthesized coating can be used as a protective material for high temperature applications, such as the protection of turbine parts.
In-Situ Piezoelectric Effect for Augmenting Performance of Self-Powered ZnO-Based Photodetector
Authors: Nguyen Thi My Huyen , Bark Chung Wung
Published: May 2023

In this study, an in-situ piezoelectric effect is integrated into a photoactive region to develop a self-powered ultraviolet photodetector based on a p-n junction of ZnO@Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and poly [9,9-dioctylfluorene-co-N-[4-(3-methylpropyl)]-diphenylamine] (TFB). A ZnO@β-PVDF nanocomposite is fabricated using PVDF with the β-phase as the polymer matrix and ZnO nanoparticles as fillers. The strong piezoelectricity of β-PVDF can facilitate the separation and transport of photogenerated electrons in the depletion area and considerably reduce the dark current when the device is polarized with an external bias, resulting in an improvement in the on/off ratio and detectivity. Under 365-nm UV illumination, the as-fabricated device exhibits a high detectivity of 4.99 × 1011 Jones, an excellent on/off ratio (up to 2.75 × 104), and a fast response speed of 46/53 ms (rise/fall times). The device functions stably over approximately 1000 continuous on/off cycles and exhibits extremely long-lasting photostability when exposed to UV light. The findings demonstrate a promising strategy for enhancing the performance of photodetectors for industrial applications.
A Nano-CeO2/Zn–Mn Composite Conversion Coatings on AZ91D Magnesium Alloy Surface of Corrosion Resistance Research
Authors: Zhang Shudi , Liu Linkun , Lei Quanda , Zhang Tao , Bing Jiahui , Dong Jialin
Published: May 2023

The modified nano-CeO2/Zn–Mn phosphate composite coating was deposited on AZ91D magnesium alloy by chemical conversion to enhance its densification and corrosion resistance. The growth mechanism and corrosion resistance of the composite coating is clarified by adding different concentrations of ZnO and a certain amount of nano-CeO2 into the phosphate-plating solution. XRD and EDS show that the composite membrane is mainly composed of MgO, Mg(OH)2, Mn3(PO4)2·5H20, Zn, Zn3(PO4)2·4H2O and CeO2. Among them, AZ91D magnesium alloy matrix presents dispersed granule, clustered and petal-shaped under the action of different concentrations of ZnO. Under the optimum ZnO concentration, after adding nano-CeO2, dense grains appear, and cracks and pores in the riverbed are obviously reduced. Compared with single-layer phosphate coating, the performance of composite coating is significantly improved. The results show that the obvious double-layer structure is observed by SEM, and the thickness of the coating is about 48 μm. The LCSM shows that the surface roughness of composite coating is moderate. EIS shows that when the fitting impedance is 8050.43 Ω and PH = 3, the dropping time of copper sulfate in the composite coating is 58.6 s, which is better than that in the single-layer coating. The Tafel polarization fitting curve shows that the corrosion current density of the composite coating is obviously lower than that of the single coating, the corrosion current density is decreased from 1.86 × 10−6 A/cm2 to 9.538 × 10−7 A/cm2, and the corrosion resistance is obviously improved.
Special Issue “Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Natural Compounds”
Authors: Merah Othmane
Published: May 2023

Throughout history, humans have utilized plants as conscious or unconscious sources of molecules for food, health and well-being [...]
Synthesis of Up-Conversion Fluorescence N-Doped Carbon Dots with High Selectivity and Sensitivity for Detection of Cu2+ Ions
Authors: Xiong Yuanyuan , Chen Mengxiao , Mao Zhen , Deng Yiqing , He Jing , Mu Huaixuan , Li Peini , Zou Wangcai , Zhao Qiang
Published: May 2023

Carbon dots have drawn extensive attention in the detection of metal ions with good stability, excellent biocompatibility and low toxicity. Meanwhile, the quantum yield, response rate and the detection mechanism for Cu2+ ions are vital to their development and application. To obtain more selective and sensitive materials to detect Cu2+ ions, N-doped carbon dots (DN-CDs) were synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method using citric acid as the carbon source and diethylenetriamine (DETA) as the nitrogen source. The obtained DN-CDs exhibited stable and intense blue light emission and special near-infrared up-conversion fluorescence at 820 nm, attributed to the effect of introducing N atoms into the structure of carbon dots. Due to the dynamic quenching of the DN-CDs by Cu2+ ions, the fluorescence intensity (λex = 820 nm) of DN-CDs was quantitatively decreased in the presence of Cu2+ ions. The DN-CDs had a rapid response within 3 min. The DN-CD system exhibited a linear relationship with a concentration range from 2.5 to 50 µM and low detection limit (LOD) of 42 nM. After careful investigation, an interesting conclusion was proposed: N-doped CDs with N/O = 1:1 or higher with relatively abundant N atoms prefer to detect Cu2+ ions while those with N/O = 1:2 or lower prefer to detect Fe3+ ions.
Investigation on Structural, Tensile Properties and Electronic of Mg–X (X = Zn, Ag) Alloys by the First-Principles Method
Authors: Gao Yan , Feng Wenjiang , Wu Chuang , Feng Lu , Chen Xiuyan
Published: May 2023

In order to study the strengthening effect of Mg–X (X = Zn, Ag) alloys, solid solution structures of Mg54, Mg53X1 and Mg52X2 (X = Zn, Ag) with atomic contents of 1.8 at.% and 3.7 at.% were established, respectively. The structural stability, tensile properties and electronic properties were investigated by first-principles simulation. The calculated results of cohesive energies show that all solid solution structures were stable under different tensile strains, and Mg52Ag2 had the best stability. The results of tensile tests show that Zn and Ag atoms promoted the Mg-based alloy’s yield strength and tensile strength. In addition, through comparative analyses, we have demonstrated that the tensile property of Mg-based alloys was also affected by solid solubility. Finally, the electronic density of states (DOS) and electron density difference of several solid solution structures were analyzed.
Farmers’ Preferences and Agronomic Evaluation of Dynamic Mixtures of Rice and Bean in Nepal
Authors: Neupane Shree Prasad , Joshi Bal Krishna , Ayer Dipendra Kumar , Ghimire Krishna Hari , Gauchan Devendra , Karkee Ajaya , Jarvis Devra I. , Mengistu Dejene K. , Grando Stefania , Ceccarelli Salvatore
Published: May 2023

Field trials of rice and bean dynamic mixtures were carried out in low input and hill farming systems of Nepal from 2019 to 2021 to improve productivity and resilience. The rice trials were conducted in two locations (Jumla and Lamjung) and those on bean in Jumla, using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Dynamic mixtures were constructed from landraces, improved varieties and breeding lines for both crops. A total of 48 bean entries were used in Jumla, whereas 56 and 66 rice entries were used to make location-specific dynamic mixtures in Lamjung and Jumla, respectively. They were formed by mixing diverse varieties as a strategy to maintain a broad genetic base. Farmers (men and women) and technicians selected from the most complex mixture and the selections were added to the trials starting from second year. In rice, some mixtures and selections from the mixtures gave grain yield comparable to the improved check and higher than the local checks. In the case of bean, differences between entries were not significant but some of the selections received a high preference score. Overall, the dynamic mixtures appear as a reliable material for sustainable increase in yield in the low input and hill farming system of Nepal.
An Entropy-Based Method with a New Benchmark Dataset for Chinese Textual Affective Structure Analysis
Authors: Xiong Shufeng , Fan Xiaobo , Batra Vishwash , Zeng Yiming , Zhang Guipei , Xi Lei , Liu Hebing , Shi Lei
Published: May 2023

Affective understanding of language is an important research focus in artificial intelligence. The large-scale annotated datasets of Chinese textual affective structure (CTAS) are the foundation for subsequent higher-level analysis of documents. However, there are very few published datasets for CTAS. This paper introduces a new benchmark dataset for the task of CTAS to promote development in this research direction. Specifically, our benchmark is a CTAS dataset with the following advantages: (a) it is Weibo-based, which is the most popular Chinese social media platform used by the public to express their opinions; (b) it includes the most comprehensive affective structure labels at present; and (c) we propose a maximum entropy Markov model that incorporates neural network features and experimentally demonstrate that it outperforms the two baseline models.
Higher Education in Post-Neoliberal Times: Building Human Capabilities in the Emergent Period of Uncertainty
Authors: St. John Edward P.
Published: May 2023

This paper argues that the neoliberal consensus about education finance has broken down due to growing economic inequality. First, I use a comparative historical analysis of political alliances to examine patterns of world trade and nations’ policies for economic and educational development since World War II. The United States emphasized STEM-collegiate preparation for all students, while most countries continued the dual emphasis on technical-tertiary and higher education. Educational policy in the US and Pacific region also shifted towards a reliance on markets and student loans resulting in worsening economic inequality in access. Nations with dual technical and academic pathways in secondary and postsecondary education systems expand college enrollment rates more rapidly than the US. They also experience class conflict between the working–middle class and the new technological elite. Next, I examine how education policy shifted from national planning aligned with public funding to market-based incentives for institutional development, further exposing gaps in opportunity within nations. Finally, recognizing the variations in systemic causes of inequality, I argue that governments, education agencies, and civic activists can best promote equity by organizing to address barriers to opportunity for groups left behind in the wake of withering neoliberal education policy.
A Rigorous Standalone Literature Review of Residential Electricity Load Profiles
Authors: Kewo Angreine , Manembu Pinrolinvic D. K. , Nielsen Per Sieverts
Published: May 2023

The introduction of smart meters and time-use survey data is helping decision makers to understand the residential electricity consumption behaviour behind load profiles. However, it can be difficult to obtain the actual detailed consumption data due to privacy issues. Synthesising residential electricity consumption profiles may be an alternative way to develop synthetic load profiles that initially starts by reviewing the existing synthetic load profile methods. The purpose of this review is to identify the recent methods for synthesising residential electricity load profiles by conducting a rigorous standalone literature review. This review study has been applied and presented transparently and is replicable by other researchers. The review has answered the following research questions: the definition, concept and roles of residential electricity load profile and synthesised data; recent approaches and methods; research purposes; applicable simulations and validation methods of the final selected studies. The results show that the most applied approach in modelling residential electricity load profiles is the bottom-up approach. As it is detailed, it suitable to reflect the local residential behaviour in electricity consumption. Consequently, it is more complex to develop and calibrate the model as identified in the results. Bottom-up models are more powerful in analysing energy consumptions that focus on behavioural patterns, dwelling profiles and control strategies.
Ground Motion Prediction of High-Energy Mining Seismic Events: A Bootstrap Approach
Authors: Bańka Piotr , Lurka Adam , Szuła Łukasz
Published: May 2023

Induced seismicity has been a serious problem for many coal mines in the Upper Silesian Coal Basin in Poland for many decades. The occurring mining tremors of the rock mass generate seismic vibrations that cause concern to the local population and in some rare cases lead to partial damage to buildings on the surface. The estimation of peak ground acceleration values caused by high energy mining seismic tremors is an important part of seismic hazard assessment in mining areas. A specially designed bootstrapping procedure has been applied to estimate the ground motion prediction model and makes it possible to calculate the confidence intervals of these peak ground acceleration values with no assumptions about the statistical distribution of the recorded seismic data. Monte Carlo sampling with the replacement for 132 seismic records measured for mining seismic tremors exceeding 150 mm/s2 have been performed to estimate the mean peak ground acceleration values and the corresponding upper limits of 95% confidence intervals. The specially designed bootstrap procedure and obtained ground motion prediction model reflect much better the observed PGA values and therefore provide more accurate PGA estimators compared to the GMPE model from multiple regression analysis. The bootstrap analysis of recorded peak ground acceleration values of high-energy mining tremors provides significant information on the level of seismic hazard on the surface infrastructure. A new tool has been proposed that allows for more reliable determination of PGA estimators and identification in the areas in coal mines that are prone to high-energy seismic activity.
Development of Self-Passivating, High-Strength Ferritic Alloys for Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) and Thermal Energy Storage (TES) Applications
Authors: Aarab Fadoua , Kuhn Bernd
Published: May 2023

Concentrating solar power (CSP) and thermal energy storage (TES) based on molten salts still lacks economic feasibility, with the material investment costs being a major drawback. Ferritic stainless steels are a comparatively cheap class of materials that could significantly contribute to cost reductions. The addition of aluminum to ferritic steel can result in self-passivation by forming a compact Al2O3 top layer, which exhibits significantly higher corrosion resistance to solar salt compared to the Cr2O3 surface layers typically formed on expensive structural alloys for CSP and TES, such as austenitic stainless steels and Ni-base super alloys. However, to date, no ferritic stainless steel combining Al2O3 formation and sufficient structural strength is available. For this reason, cyclic salt corrosion tests under flowing synthetic air were carried out on seven Laves phase-forming, ferritic model alloys (17Cr2-14Al0.6-1Nb2.6-4W0.25Si), using “solar salt” (60 wt. % NaNO3 and 40 wt. % KNO3). The Al content was varied to investigate the influence on the precipitation of the mechanically strengthening Laves phase, as well as the impact on the formation of the Al-oxide top layer. The W and Nb contents of the alloys were increased to examine their influence on the precipitation of the Laves phase. The salt corrosion experiments demonstrated that simultaneous self-passivation against a molten salt attack and mechanical strengthening by precipitation of fine Laves phase particles is possible in novel ferritic HiperFerSCR (salt corrosion-resistant) steel. Microstructural examination unveiled the formation of a compact, continuous Al2O3 layer on the surface of the model alloys with Al contents of 5 wt. % and higher. Furthermore, a stable distribution of fine, strengthening Laves phase precipitates was achieved in the metal matrix, resulting in a combination of molten salt corrosion resistance and potentially high mechanical strength by a combination of solid solution and precipitation strengthening. These results show that high-strength ferritic alloys are suitable for use in CSP applications.
Enlightening Load Modeling by Means of Power Factor Decompositions
Authors: Paredes Helmo K. Morales , Arcadepani Matheus Branco , Moreira Alexandre Candido , Gonçalves Flávio A. Serrão , Pinhabel Marafão Fernando
Published: May 2023

Considering the proliferation of power electronics applications and distributed energy resources, modern power grids are facing a significant increase in harmonic currents circulation and supply voltage deterioration, occasionally associated with small frequency variations. In such a context, the understanding of power phenomena in circuits with linear and non-linear loads under non-sinusoidal voltage conditions is nontrivial and still does not allow for an easy interpretation of harmonic sources, harmonic power flow or the identification of the parameters of a proper equivalent circuit. The main challenge is to develop modern theoretical approaches for load characterization, modeling, and parameter estimation so that new techniques can be formulated to provide adequate guiding for the analysis, compensation, revenue metering, accountability and other applications of power systems. Thus, based on the Conservative Power Theory (CPT) and further decomposition of its apparent power and power factor definitions, this paper proposes a novel methodology for estimating equivalent parameters and for proposing proper equivalent circuits capable of representing/modeling the main characteristics of single-phase generic loads (black boxes) and the related power phenomena in terms of passive dipoles (linear loads) or of harmonic voltage/current sources and their intrinsic transimpedances/transadmittances (non-linear loads). Simulation and experimental results were depicted to support and validate the proposed approach, showing that it might be a powerful modeling technique to represent generic loads in a modern power grid scenario, while being used for complex applications such as reactive power compensation or accountability in circuits with nonlinear loads and distorted voltages.
A Technological Review of Direct Air Carbon Capture and Storage (DACCS): Global Standing and Potential Application in Australia
Authors: Garza Domingo , Dargusch Paul , Wadley David
Published: May 2023

There is mounting evidence that, unless greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions fall back quickly, the goals outlined by the 2015 Paris Agreement to keep the global temperature rise well below 2 °C and preferably 1.5 °C will not be met. In response to these concerns, direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS) technologies are gaining research and development attention. This article provides a thorough comparison of the two leading DACCS variants and reports on their status among major research and policy institutions worldwide. By translating the operating and capital costs to the Australian context, we assess the viability of DACCS implementation using either cheap renewable or legacy fossil energy to power CO2 extraction plants.
A Wavelet Transform-Based Real-Time Filtering Algorithm for Fusion Magnet Power Signals and Its Implementation
Authors: Yang Xiaoxiao , Chen Xiaojiao , Sun Kezhong , Xiong Chuanyu , Song Dongran , Lu Yingchun , Huang Liansheng , He Shiying , Zhang Xiuqing
Published: May 2023

With high real-time performance and a good filtering effect, the wavelet transform-based real-time filter is more commonly used in the fusion magnet power supply. Considering the signal characteristics of the fusion magnet power supply, the sliding time window method is widely used to satisfy the requirements of filtering efficiency. In this paper, an updated half-edge extension method is proposed to improve the boundary effect of sliding window data. Moreover, the hardware-based wavelet loopback structure is proposed to avoid the double computation of long sliding window data, thereby improving real-time performance and satisfying the demands of fusion magnet power supply filtering. The proposed half-edge extension method and the wavelet loopback structure are implemented by designed FPGA and experimented on the Experimental and Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) fusion magnet power supply system to verify the filtering efficiency. According to the experiment’s results, the proposed half-edge extension method has a better filtering effect, and the proposed wavelet loopback structure decreases the time by 67.4%, which can satisfy the requirements of the power supply system.
An Individual Tree Segmentation Method That Combines LiDAR Data and Spectral Imagery
Authors: Chen Xingwang , Wang Ruirui , Shi Wei , Li Xiuting , Zhu Xianhao , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: May 2023

The dynamic monitoring of forest resources is an integral component of forest resource management and forest eco-system stability maintenance. In recent years, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) has been increasingly utilized in precision forest surveys due to its great penetrating ability and capacity to detect forest vertical structure information. However, the present airborne LiDAR data individual tree segmentation algorithms are not highly adaptable to forest types, particularly in mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest zones, where the accuracy of individual tree extraction is low, and trees are incorrectly recognized and missed. In order to address these issues, in this study, spectral images and LiDAR data of a red pine conifer–broadleaf mixed forest in the Changbai Mountain Nature Reserve in Jilin Province were chosen, and the normalized point cloud was segmented iteratively using the distance-threshold-based individual tree segmentation method to obtain the initial segmented individual tree vertices. For individual trees with deviations in the initial vertex identification position, and unidentified individual trees, identification anchor points of real tree vertices are added within the canopy of the trees. These identification anchor points have strong position directivity in LiDAR data, which can mark the individual trees whose vertices were misidentified or missed during the initial individual tree segmentation process and identify these two tuples. The tree vertices may be inserted precisely based on the 3D shape of the individual tree point cloud, and the seed-point-based individual tree segmentation method is used to segment the normalized point cloud and finish the extraction of individual trees in red pine mixed conifer forests. The results indicate that, compared to the previous individual tree segmentation approach based on the relative spacing between individual trees, this study enhances the accuracy of individual tree segmentation from 83% to 96%. The extremely high segmentation accuracy indicates that the proposed method can accurately identify individual trees based on remote sensing techniques to segment forest individual trees, can provide a data basis for subsequent individual tree information extraction, and has great potential in practical applications.
Temperature and Tree Size Explain the Mean Time to Fall of Dead Standing Trees across Large Scales
Authors: Gärtner Antje , Jönsson Anna Maria , Metcalfe Daniel B. , Pugh Thomas A. M. , Tagesson Torbern , Ahlström Anders
Published: May 2023

Dead standing trees (DSTs) generally decompose slower than wood in contact with the forest floor. In many regions, DSTs are being created at an increasing rate due to accelerating tree mortality caused by climate change. Therefore, factors determining DST fall are crucial for predicting dead wood turnover time but remain poorly constrained. Here, we conduct a re-analysis of published DST fall data to provide standardized information on the mean time to fall (MTF) of DSTs across biomes. We used multiple linear regression to test covariates considered important for DST fall, while controlling for mortality and management effects. DSTs of species killed by fire, insects and other causes stood on average for 48, 13 and 19 years, but MTF calculations were sensitive to how tree size was accounted for. Species’ MTFs differed significantly between DSTs killed by fire and other causes, between coniferous and broadleaved plant functional types (PFTs) and between managed and unmanaged sites, but management did not explain MTFs when we distinguished by mortality cause. Mean annual temperature (MAT) negatively affected MTFs, whereas larger tree size or being coniferous caused DSTs to stand longer. The most important explanatory variables were MAT and tree size, with minor contributions of management and plant functional type depending on mortality cause. Our results provide a basis to improve the representation of dead wood decomposition in carbon cycle assessments.
Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste: New Research, Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Policastro Grazia , Fabbricino Massimiliano
Published: May 2023

Every year, about one-third of food is wasted through the food supply chain, generating many economic, environmental and social issues [...]
Improved Recombinant Expression of Maltogenic α-Amylase AmyM in Bacillus subtilis by Optimizing Its Secretion and NADPH Production
Authors: Chen Yudan , Xin Qinglong , Pan Li , Wang Bin
Published: May 2023

The maltose α-amylase AmyM from Bacillus stearothermophilus can be used for flour modification, baked goods preservation, and maltose production. Here, we optimized the recombinant expression of AmyM in Bacillus subtilis WB800 via several strategies. By screening the optimal promoter, a double promoter combination (P43 and PamyL) could improve the expression level of AmyM by 61.25%, compared with the strong promoter P43. Then, we optimized the secretion efficiency of recombinant AmyM by over-expressing the molecular chaperone prsA gene. SDS-PAGE results suggested that over-expression of the prsA could improve the secretion efficiency of AmyM to the extracellular environment. The extracellular enzyme activity of AmyM was increased by 101.58% compared to the control strain. To further improve the expression of AmyM, we introduced the hemoglobin gene of Vitreoscilla (vgb) into the AmyM recombinant strain. The results revealed that the introduction of vgb could promote the transcription and translation of AmyM in B. subtilis. This may be due to the increasing level of intracellular NADPH and NADP+ caused by the expression of vgb. By this strategy, the expression level of AmyM was increased by 204.08%. Finally, we found the recombinant AmyM showed an optimal temperature of 65 °C and an optimal pH of 5.5. Our present results provided an effective strategy for increasing the heterologous expression level of AmyM in B. subtilis.