bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Annealing behaviors of open spaces and gas desorption in chemical vapor deposited SiO2 studied with monoenergetic positron beams
Authors: Uedono Akira , Hasunuma Ryu , Onishi Koki , Kitagawa Hayato , Inoue Fumihiro , Michishio Koji , Oshima Nagayasu
Published: July 2024

The annealing properties of open spaces in 90-nm-thick SiO2 deposited from tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) were studied with monoenergetic positron beams. From the lifetime of positronium (Ps) and an empirical model assuming a spherical open space, the mean diameter of open spaces was estimated to be 0.45 nm for PECVD-SiO2 before annealing. In the annealing temperature range below 350 °C, the size of the open spaces and their concentration increased as the temperature increased. Because initial water desorption from PECVD-SiO2 occurred in this temperature range, the observed increases in the size and concentration of spaces were attributed to the detrapping of water from such regions. Above 400 °C annealing, Ps formation was suppressed due to carrier traps introduced by the desorption of gas incorporated during TEOS decomposition. The size of the open spaces reached its maximum value (0.61 nm) after 800 °C annealing and started to decrease above 900 °C. After 1000 °C annealing, although the size of the spaces was close to that in thermally grown SiO2, their concentration remained low, which was attributed to residual impurities in the SiO2 network.
Determination of γ/γ′ interface free energy for solid state precipitation in Ni–Al alloys from molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Tavenner Jacob P. , Mendelev Mikhail I. , Neuberger Raymond , Arroyave Raymundo , Otis Richard , Lawson John W.
Published: July 2024

Interface free energy is a fundamental material parameter needed to predict the nucleation and growth of new phases. The high cost of experimentally determining this parameter makes it an ideal target for calculation through a physically informed simulation. Direct determination of interface free energy has many challenges, especially for solid–solid transformations. Indirect determination of the interface free energy from the nucleation data has been done in the case of solidification. However, a slow on molecular dynamics (MD) simulation time scale atomic diffusion makes this method not applicable to the case of nucleation from the solid phase when precipitate composition is different from that in matrix. To address this challenge, we outline the development of a new technique for determining the critical nucleus size from an MD simulation using a recently developed method to accelerate solid-state diffusion. The accuracy of our approach for the Ni–Al system for Ni3Al (γ′) precipitates in a Ni–Al (γ) matrix is demonstrated well within experimental accuracy and greatly improves upon previous computational methods [Herrnring et al., Acta Mater. 215(8), 117053 (2021)].
Hydrodynamics of standing-and-walking on the water surface by dolphins using collaborative movements of the body and fins
Authors: Lei Ming , Gai Qingyuan , Yan Han , Li Yuyao , Wu Jinming , Xia Dan
Published: July 2024

To break the application scenario limitations of traditional bionic underwater robots and open up the way of information docking between underwater and water surface, a systematic study was conducted on the cross-medium standing-and-walking (SAW) behavior of dolphins under the collaborative movements of the body, caudal, and pectoral fins. A three-dimensional physical model of the biomimetic dolphin robot was established, a collaborative movement law of the body, caudal, and pectoral fins was proposed, and the SAW behavior under two modes, Homologous and Reverse modes, was realized. The mapping relationship between the robot's kinematic parameters and hydrodynamic performance parameters was analyzed, the respective advantages of the two vertical walking modes were compared, and the SAW mechanism of the two modes was revealed physically with the help of the evolution law of the flow field around the robot. The results show that the biomimetic dolphin robot can realize cross-medium SAW behavior through the collaborative movements of the body, caudal pectoral fins. It is worth noting that the Hom mode has a superior walking speed, which can reach up to 0.27 m/s, an increase in 83.3% compared to the Rev mode under the same conditions, while the Rev mode has better walking stability, with a minimum fluctuation rate of 2.59%, a 30.8% improvement compared to the Hom mode. This research provides a novel idea for enhancing the surface operation capability of traditional biomimetic underwater robots and provides an important fluid mechanics theoretical basis for the design of new generation of cross-medium dolphin robots.
Realization of Yin–Yang kagome bands and tunable quantum anomalous Hall effect in monolayer V3Cl6
Authors: Chen Fanzheng , Lu Jiajun , Zhao Xiuwen , Hu Guichao , Yuan Xiaobo , Ren Junfeng
Published: July 2024

Kagome materials serve as crucial platforms for investigating the quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE) due to the presence of kagome bands in their electronic structures. However, despite the theoretical predictions being proposed, kagome band material realizations have been limited. In this work, through tight-binding (TB) model analysis, by setting the nearest-neighbor hopping integrals with opposite signs, we propose a Yin–Yang kagome band structure characterized by two stable enantiomorphic kagome bands. Furthermore, we design a monolayer V3Cl6 to confirm the TB model. Three V atoms are located in different coordination environments in V3Cl6, so opposite signs of the hopping integrals between two of their orthogonal d orbitals can be achieved, which is the key to realize Yin–Yang kagome band structures. The calculated band structures obtained from first principles are consistent with those from the TB model. Additionally, we find that the two enantiomorphic flat bands in monolayer V3Cl6 possess opposite Chern number after spin–orbit coupling is considered, which can also be confirmed from symmetry index analysis. The Chern numbers as well as the topological properties can be modulated by doping hole or adjusting the magnetization directions, so the QAHE can be tuned in monolayer V3Cl6. Our results provide a practicable pathway for realizing Yin–Yang kagome band structures and achieving tunable QAHE in them.
Status of One Health Implementation in Botswana
Authors: Kgosimore Moatlhodi , Mokhondo Nomsa , Pfukenyi Davies M. , Tlale Lebapotswe , Sebolai Boingotlo , Segopolo Irene , Mmopi Keneilwe , Ntshiamisang Kilano , Tselaesele Nelson M. , Baikitse Gaebonwe , Babayani Nlingisisi , Phokoje Setshego , Ntshebe Onalenna , Malambane Goitseone , Knight-Jones Theo , Caron Alexandre , Richards Shauna , Pule-Meulenberg Flora
Published: July 2024

One Health (OH) is a collaborative, multisector and transdisciplinary approach to mitigate various issues related to the health of animals, plants, humans and ecosystems and their interactions for optimal health. In Botswana, the main goal of OH is to achieve resilient health outcomes that recognize the interrelationships between peoples, animals, plants and their shared environment. We conducted a desktop study, followed by key informants’ interviews (KII) and focus group discussions (FGD) in Botswana to define the current OH state of affairs as well as to identify education, training, research and policy gaps that need filling to facilitate effective implementation of OH in the country. The study results revealed that the country does not have an institutionalized nor legislated OH platform but rather intersectoral and multisectoral structures coordinated by the line ministries to address OH-related issues on an ad-hoc basis. Furthermore, it was found that institutions of higher learning in the country do not have deliberate OH programmes to spur traction of OH approaches but rather snippets of OH content infused in certain taught programmes. It is recommended from this study that there is an urgent need to adopt and adapt OH approaches in the country and institutionalize OH platforms for operational purposes through enaction and promulgation of relevant statutory instruments in the affected sectors of the economy, like health, education, environment and research.

Information

© The Authors 2024
Exploring rapidity-even dipolar flow in isobaric collisions at RHIC
Authors: Magdy Niseem , Lacey Roy
Published: July 2024

Employing the AMPT transport model, we investigate the response of the rapidity-even dipolar flow (

v
1
even

) and its associated Global Momentum Conservation (GMC) parameter K to structural disparities within 96Ru and 96Zr nuclei. We analyze Ru + Ru and Zr + Zr collisions at a center-of-mass energy of

s

NN

= 200 GeV. Our analysis demonstrates that the eccentricity ε
1,

v
1
even

and K exhibit subtle yet discernible sensitivity to the input nuclear structure distinctions between 96Ru and 96Zr isobars. This observation suggests that measuring

v

1

even

and the GMC parameter in these isobaric collisions could serve as a means to fine-tune the comprehension of their nuclear structure disparities and offer insights to enhance the initial condition assumptions of theoretical models.
Evolution of liquid film in a crossflow tunnel: liquid film thickness measurement and effect of droplet impingement on film breakup
Authors: Li Tianyu , Yang Xiaoyuan , Huang Bingyao , Lian Tianyou , Li Wei , Li Yuyang
Published: July 2024

Liquid jet in crossflow tunnel has widespread applications in various industrial devices, with the measurements of liquid film on the bottom surface pivotal in exploring relevant mechanisms such as heat transfer and film breakup. This work reports the measurements of liquid film on the bottom surface of a crossflow tunnel using the brightness-based laser induced fluorescence method under different flow conditions at ambient pressure and temperature. Film breakup phenomena are observed downstream within the tunnel. Employing the shadowgraph method, two distinct patterns of film breakup associated with the droplet impingement positions on the film wave are identified, i.e. bag breakup and membrane breakup. The film thickness is subsequently calculated, and jet impingement and spray impingement of injected liquid on tunnel bottom surface are classified based on the centerline film thickness. A critical jet-to-crossflow momentum flux ratio (q) is determined to be proportional to the square of tunnel height. The averaged film thickness across the entire cross-section downstream at a distance of 50 mm from the nozzle is found to increase with the logarithm of q. Besides, the film boundaries are also identified under different flow conditions, which can be well predicted by a quadratic fit with the fitting parameters also correlated to the logarithm of q.
Vanadium as a Ti-like mediator boosting electronic transmission in Fe-based MOFs for photocatalytic sterilization
Authors: Li Rui , Hu Huilin , Xiong Furong , Xue Xiang , Wu Minqi , Zuo Xuan , Zhang Wang , Pan Xiangliang
Published: July 2024

Efficient metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) photocatalytic bactericidal catalysts are urgently needed in water purification. Herein, a Fe-MOF (MIL-88B-NH2(V1Fe5) with promoted electron transport was achieved by vanadium (V) ions doping and V/Fe ratio optimization, showing excellent photocatalytic bactericidal activity against E. coli under visible light irradiation (99.92%). The efficient antibacterial mechanism, V as a Ti-like mediator boosting electronic transmission in MIL-88B-NH2(V1Fe5), was revealed by its band structure, transient photocurrent, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and scavenger quenching experiments. The enhancement of photocatalytic bactericidal performance of Fe-MOFs by V–ion-doping was confirmed by two other Fe-MOFs, MIL-53-NH2(V1Fe5) and MIL-101-NH2(V1Fe5), with the same metal ions and ligands, both of which have higher performance than the corresponding undoped MOFs. Among them, MIL-88B-NH2(V1Fe5) exhibits the highest photocatalytic bactericidal activity due to its suitable metal clusters ([M(μ
3-O)] cluster) and topological structure (three-dimensional rhomboid network structure). This work demonstrated the amplification effect of V ion doping on electron transport in Fe-MOFs photocatalysts.
A survey on integral equations for bioelectric modeling
Authors: Ponasso Guillermo Nuñez
Published: July 2024

Bioelectric modeling problems, such as electroencephalography, magnetoencephalography, transcranial electrical stimulation, deep brain stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation, among others, can be approached through the formulation and resolution of integral equations of the boundary element method (BEM). Recently, it has been realized that the charge-based formulation of the BEM is naturally well-suited for the application of the fast multipole method (FMM). The FMM is a powerful algorithm for the computation of many-body interactions and is widely applied in electromagnetic modeling problems. With the introduction of BEM-FMM in the context of bioelectromagnetism, the BEM can now compete with the finite element method (FEM) in a number of application cases. This survey has two goals: first, to give a modern account of the main BEM formulations in the literature and their integration with FMM, directed to general researchers involved in development of BEM software for bioelectromagnetic applications. Second, to survey different techniques and available software, and to contrast different BEM and FEM approaches. As a new contribution, we showcase that the charge-based formulation is dual to the more common surface potential formulation.
Unveil sleep spindles with concentration of frequency and time (ConceFT)
Authors: Shimizu Riki , Wu Hau-Tieng
Published: July 2024

Objective. Sleep spindles contain crucial brain dynamics information. We introduce the novel non-linear time-frequency (TF) analysis tool ‘Concentration of Frequency and Time’ (ConceFT) to create an interpretable automated algorithm for sleep spindle annotation in EEG data and to measure spindle instantaneous frequencies (IFs). Approach. ConceFT effectively reduces stochastic EEG influence, enhancing spindle visibility in the TF representation. Our automated spindle detection algorithm, ConceFT-Spindle (ConceFT-S), is compared to A7 (non-deep learning) and SUMO (deep learning) using Dream and Montreal Archive of Sleep Studies (MASS) benchmark databases. We also quantify spindle IF dynamics. Main results. ConceFT-S achieves F1 scores of 0.765 in Dream and 0.791 in MASS, which surpass A7 and SUMO. We reveal that spindle IF is generally nonlinear. Significance. ConceFT offers an accurate, interpretable EEG-based sleep spindle detection algorithm and enables spindle IF quantification.
In situ measurement of electron emission yield at Si and SiO2 surfaces exposed to Ar/CF4 plasmas
Authors: Sobolewski Mark A
Published: July 2024

Plasma simulations require accurate yield data to predict the electron flux that is emitted when plasma-exposed surfaces are bombarded by energetic particles. One can measure yields directly using particle beams, but it is impractical to create a separate beam of each particle produced by typical plasmas. In contrast, measurements made in situ, during plasma exposure, provide useful values for the total emitted flux and effective yield produced by all incident particles. Here, in situ measurements were made at thermally oxidized and bare silicon wafers placed on the radio-frequency (rf) biased electrode of an inductively coupled plasma system. The rf current and voltage across the sheath at the wafer were measured, along with Langmuir probe measurements of ion current density and electron temperature. The measurements are input into a numerical sheath model, which allows the emitted electron current to be distinguished from other currents. The effective yield, i.e. the ratio of the total emitted electron flux to the incident ion flux, was determined at incident ion energies from 40 eV to 1.4 keV, for Si and SiO2 surfaces in Ar, CF4, and Ar/CF4 mixtures at 1.33 Pa (10 mTorr). Yields for Ar plasmas are compared with previous work. For SiO2 surfaces in Ar/CF4 mixtures and pure CF4, the yield is dominated by ion kinetic emission, which is the same for all mixtures, and, presumably, for all ions. For Si surfaces in Ar/CF4 and CF4, the yield at high energies can be explained in part by fragmentation of molecular ions, and the yield from Ar+ can be distinguished from the other ionic species. Analytic fits of the yields are provided for use in plasma simulations.
Long-lived, pulse-induced transient absorption in

LiNb

1
−
x

Ta
x

O
3

(

0
⩽
x
⩽
1

) solid solutions: the case of three intrinsic defect sites for electron localization with strong coupling
Authors: Dömer Niklas , Koelmann Julian , Hesselink Mira , Hehemann Tobias , Pfannstiel Anton , Sauerwein Felix , Vittadello Laura , Ganschow Steffen , Imlau Mirco
Published: July 2024

Femto-/nanosecond pulse-induced, red and near-infrared absorption is studied in

LiNb

1
−
x

Ta
x

O
3

(

0
⩽
x
⩽
1

, LNT) solid solutions with the aim of studying transient optical nonlinearities associated with the formation, transport and recombination of optically generated small bound electron polarons with strong coupling to the lattice. As a result, a pronounced, long-lived transient absorption is uncovered for LNT which exceeds lifetimes and starting amplitudes of

LiNbO
3

(LN) and

LiTaO
3

(LT) by a factor of up to 100 and 10, respectively. The transients reveal a stretched-exponential decay behavior and a thermally activated process which provide strong evidence for an underlying hopping transport mechanism of small bound polarons. All findings are discussed in comparison to the model systems LN and LT within the framework of appropriate band models and optical generation of polarons via two-photon excitation. To explain the significant differences, the simultaneous presence of

Nb
Li

5
+

,

Ta
Li

5
+

antisites, and

Ta
V

5
+

interstitial defects, i.e. a mixture of the intrinsic defects widely established for LN and LT, is assumed for LNT.
Unbending strategies shepherd cooperation and suppress extortion in spatial populations
Authors: Chen Zijie , Geng Yuxin , Chen Xingru , Fu Feng
Published: July 2024

Evolutionary game dynamics on networks typically consider the competition among simple strategies such as cooperation and defection in the Prisoner’s Dilemma and summarize the effect of population structure as network reciprocity. However, it remains largely unknown regarding the evolutionary dynamics involving multiple powerful strategies typically considered in repeated games, such as the zero-determinant (ZD) strategies that are able to enforce a linear payoff relationship between them and their co-players. Here, we consider the evolutionary dynamics of always cooperate (AllC), extortionate ZD (extortioners), and unbending players in lattice populations based on the commonly used death-birth updating. Out of the class of unbending strategies that can foster reciprocal cooperation and fairness among extortionate players, we consider a particular candidate, pre-optimized through the machine-learning method of particle swarm optimization (PSO), called PSO Gambler. We derive analytical results under weak selection and rare mutations, including pairwise fixation probabilities and long-term frequencies of strategies. In the absence of the third unbending type, extortioners can achieve a half-half split in equilibrium with unconditional cooperators for sufficiently large extortion factors. However, the presence of unbending players fundamentally changes the dynamics and tilts the system to favor unbending cooperation. Most surprisingly, extortioners cannot dominate at all regardless of how large their extortion factor is, and the long-term frequency of unbending players is maintained almost as a constant. Our analytical method is applicable to studying the evolutionary dynamics of multiple strategies in structured populations. Our work provides insights into the interplay between network reciprocity and direct reciprocity, revealing the role of unbending strategies in enforcing fairness and suppressing extortion.
Mathematical analysis using fractional operator to study the dynamics of dengue fever
Authors: Meena Manisha , Purohit Mridula , Shyamsunder
Published: July 2024

Researchers and analysts are intensively studying modeling contagious diseases using non-integer order derivatives to enhance understanding and prediction. Taking this idea forward, in this study, we consider the fractional model for dengue fever disease. The Hilfer fractional model was initially formulated to address epidemic dynamics. This study employed the numerical technique, the Laplace homotopy analysis transform method (LHATM), to examine the fractional dengue fever model for analysis. We employed homotopy analysis and Laplace transform to formulate the proposed technique. There is also a consideration of the uniqueness and convergence of the solution. Utilizing MATLAB21a, numerical simulation for different integer and non-integer orders within the interval (0, 1) has been drawn.
An E-nose system for identification and quantification of hazardous gas mixtures using a combined strategy of CNNs and attentional mechanisms
Authors: Yang Yaning , Wang Xiuling , Zhao Lin , Li Zhen , Sun Yanhui
Published: July 2024

The chemical industry generates a broad spectrum of hazardous gases, presenting significant challenges for conventional detection methods due to their diverse chemical properties and low concentration levels. E-nose systems, employing sensor arrays, offer significant potential for the determination of gas mixtures. This study presents a novel E-nose algorithm, CNN-ECA, which integrated CNNs and attention mechanisms to improve the recognition accuracy of E-nose systems. By integrating the attention mechanism module into CNN’s convolutional operations, the algorithm emphasizes critical feature information. Three hazardous gases (ammonia, methanol, and acetone) and their mixtures were chosen as target gases. CNNs were combined with various attention mechanism networks (SENet, ECA, and CBAM) to construct models, which were then employed to train and evaluate data collected from the sensor array. The results were compared with traditional network models (KNN, SVM, and CNN). Experimental findings indicated that the prediction performance of CNN models combined with attention mechanism networks surpassed that of traditional network models. Particularly, the CNN-ECA network model demonstrated the highest performance in both qualitative and quantitative analyses. This study presents a promising solution for mixed gas detection by synergizing CNN and attention mechanism networks, thereby enhancing the accuracy and reliability of mixed gas measurements. Moreover, capitalizing on the lightweight architecture of the CNN-ECA model, transfer learning techniques were employed to adapt it for deployment on the Raspberry Pi hardware platform. This facilitates the development of a real-time E-nose system for gas detection.
Possibilities of retarding the setting of PROMPT natural cement by dosing lignosulfonates
Authors: Daňková J , Valentová A , Koudelková P , Špaldová M
Published: July 2024

Roman cement (also Natural cement) is a highly hydraulic binder produced by firing limestone rich in clay minerals. A low firing temperature ranging from 800 °C to 1200 °C is typical for Roman cements. This binder has beneficial functional properties: lower CO2 emissions during production, relatively high strength at a lower bulk density compared to Portland cement, resistance against degradation due to salinity, and better durability. A typical property for this binder is fast setting. This is a problem with the application of natural cement in mortars and concretes, as it significantly shortens their workability time in construction site conditions. The beginning of the setting time of mortars based on PROMPT natural cement can be influenced by retarding additives. Citric acid is currently the most used. Citric acid can negatively affect the properties of hardened mortar and its retarding effect may not be satisfactory. The results of the experimental study are presented in this article, where lignosulfonate-based substances were used as setting retarders. It was investigated that selected types of lignosulfonates are effective as a setting retarder. They have, compared to citric acid, a more pronounced effect of delaying the setting. They also have a significant effect on the strength of the hardened mortar after 28, 56 and 90 days.
Analyses of nonequilibrium transport in atmospheric-pressure direct-current argon discharge under different modes
Authors: ZHANG 张 Ziming 子明 , FANG 方 Chuan 川 , WANG 汪 Yaoting 耀庭 , LUO 罗 Lanyue 岚月 , LI 李 Heping 和平
Published: July 2024

The key plasma parameters under different discharge modes, such as heavy-particle and electron temperatures, electron number density, and nonequilibrium volume of plasmas, play important roles in various applications of gas discharge plasmas. In this study, a self-consistent two-dimensional nonequilibrium fluid model coupled with an external circuit model is established to reveal the mechanisms related to the discharge modes, including the normal glow, abnormal glow, arc, and glow-to-arc transition modes, with an atmospheric-pressure direct-current (DC) argon discharge as a model plasma system. The modeling results show that, under different discharge modes, the most significant difference between the preceding four discharge modes lies in the current and energy transfer processes on the cathode side. On one hand, the current to the cathode surface is mainly delivered by the ions coming from the plasma column under the glow discharge mode due to the low temperature of the solid cathode, whereas the thermionic and secondary electrons emitted from the hot cathode surface play a very important role under the arc mode with a higher cathode surface temperature and higher ion flux toward the cathode. On the other hand, the energy transfer channel on the cathode side changes from mainly heating the solid cathode under the glow mode to simultaneously heating both the solid cathode and plasma column under the arc mode with an increase in the discharge current. Consequently, the power density in the cathode sheath (P
c) was used as a key parameter for judging different discharge modes, and the range of (0.28–1.2) × 1012 W m−3 was determined as a critical window of P
c corresponding to the glow-to-arc-mode transition for the atmospheric-pressure DC argon discharge, which was also verified by comparison with the experimental results in this study and the data in the previous literature.
It’s Hammer Time
Authors: Goff Matthew
Published: July 2024

This chapter offers an overview of 1 Maccabees, which is in the Catholic Old Testament and the Protestant Apocrypha. The book is a detailed historiographic narrative about political and military affairs in Palestine mainly from 175 to 135 bce. It recounts the catastrophic policies of the Seleucid king Antiochus IV, whom the book presents as prohibiting Jewish traditions, which triggers the Maccabean revolt. 1 Maccabees presents the revolt as militarily successful and led by the Maccabees, especially Judas. This leads to the creation of the Hasmonean dynasty, an independent Jewish state led in turn by the Maccabean family. The book is a kind of Hasmonean propaganda. It attempts to legitimize the Hasmonean dynasty, which was unpopular when the text was composed in the early first century bce, by highlighting its origins in the Maccabean revolt.
God Saves the Jews from Drunk Elephants
Authors: Goff Matthew
Published: July 2024

This chapter provides a concise overview of 3 Maccabees. After winning the Battle of Raphia, the Egyptian king Ptolemy IV tried to enter the Jerusalem temple but was rebuffed by angels. Back home in Egypt, he sought revenge by turning the people against the Jews. Jews were arrested and assembled in a coliseum to be trampled by drunk elephants before a large crowd. They attempted to do this on three separate occasions, each time thwarted by divine intervention. 3 Maccabees claims that this divine deliverance was commemorated annually in Egypt with a festival. An important message of the book is that Jews, as a minority people in the ancient world, could suffer discrimination, but if they are pious and loyal to God, he will deliver them from oppression.
Syria and the Future of Jihad
Authors: Drevon Jerome
Published: July 2024

The conclusion moves beyond the empirical study of the Syrian armed opposition to better understand Jihadi groups’ evolution outside Syria. This chapter discusses the potential impact of the Syrian conflict on the evolution of the Jihadi social movement, especially in light of the territorial defeat of IS in Iraq and Syria. It begins with a brief summary of Jihadi groups in the region in the years prior to 9/11 and the movement’s evolution up to the 2011 Arab uprisings. It examines the broader implications of the conflict for the evolution of Jihadi groups globally. This approach helps to re-evaluate the post-9/11 American policies towards Jihadi groups and their consequences.
Controlling Unfair Contract Terms
Authors: Pflücke Felix
Published: July 2024

Chapter 3 scrutinizes how European Union law and France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom control unfair contract terms. The chapter uncovers notable divergences among the rules adopted to implement the Unfair Contract Terms Directive in the four selected jurisdictions. This revelation significantly influences the research design of the empirical segment of this monograph. The chapter also analyses the legislative foundation of these unfair contract terms rules. It reveals a reliance not on scientifically grounded evidence but on alternative underpinnings. Initially, law-makers crafted these rules under the presumption of consumer rationality, subsequently empowering consumers through information rights rooted in neo-classical economic theory. The chapter subjects the incorporation of national practices into the legislative framework to critical examination.
Empirical Examination of Trader Compliance
Authors: Pflücke Felix
Published: July 2024

This chapter unveils the outcomes of the statistical analysis, drawing from data collected during the examination of 300 traders’ adherence to selected consumer rights, amounting to a total of 11,400 observations. This empirical inquiry uses the data gathered to validate the four hypotheses outlined in Chapter 5, employing a combination of descriptive and statistical methodologies. In addition, it provides comprehensive insights into compliance with each of the thirty-five selected consumer rights, shedding light on patterns of non-compliance. The chapter also delves into additional observations, including violations of consumer protection rules that fall outside the scope of the study.
The temptation of Occam’s Razor: jurisdiction, admissibility and party autonomy
Authors: Leung Ada Yee Lam , Leung Samuel Yee Ching
Published: July 2024

Since the implementation of the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration in 1985, its jurisprudence has been developed in a broad array of aspects amongst which is the distinction between jurisdiction and admissibility. It has been said that the distinction is a useful tool in adjudicating the issue of whether an arbitral award should be set aside by a domestic court—but is it necessarily so? In C v D (2023) 26 HKCFAR 216, the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal had the opportunity to revisit the usefulness of the distinction. Given that the Court was divided on the issue, C v D not only provides two lines of thought for the international arbitration community to reflect on the distinction between jurisdiction and admissibility but also provides a reference for Model Law jurisdictions in deciding future cases.
Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing data analysis learning module on Google Cloud Platform
Authors: Qin Yujia , Maggio Angela , Hawkins Dale , Beaudry Laura , Kim Allen , Pan Daniel , Gong Ting , Fu Yuanyuan , Yang Hua , Deng Youping
Published: July 2024

This study describes the development of a resource module that is part of a learning platform named ‘NIGMS Sandbox for Cloud-based Learning’ https://github.com/NIGMS/NIGMS-Sandbox. The overall genesis of the Sandbox is described in the editorial NIGMS Sandbox at the beginning of this Supplement. This module is designed to facilitate interactive learning of whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) data analysis utilizing cloud-based tools in Google Cloud Platform, such as Cloud Storage, Vertex AI notebooks and Google Batch. WGBS is a powerful technique that can provide comprehensive insights into DNA methylation patterns at single cytosine resolution, essential for understanding epigenetic regulation across the genome. The designed learning module first provides step-by-step tutorials that guide learners through two main stages of WGBS data analysis, preprocessing and the identification of differentially methylated regions. And then, it provides a streamlined workflow and demonstrates how to effectively use it for large datasets given the power of cloud infrastructure. The integration of these interconnected submodules progressively deepens the user’s understanding of the WGBS analysis process along with the use of cloud resources. Through this module, we can enhance the accessibility and adoption of cloud computing in epigenomic research, speeding up the advancements in the related field and beyond.

This manuscript describes the development of a resource module that is part of a learning platform named ``NIGMS Sandbox for Cloud-based Learning'' https://github.com/NIGMS/NIGMS-Sandbox. The overall genesis of the Sandbox is described in the editorial NIGMS Sandbox [1] at the beginning of this Supplement. This module delivers learning materials on the analysis of bulk and single-cell ATAC-seq data in an interactive format that uses appropriate cloud resources for data access and analyses.
Precision probiotics supplement strategy in aging population based on gut microbiome composition
Authors: Chuang Yi-Fang , Fan Kang-Chen , Su Yin-Yuan , Wu Ming-Fong , Chiu Yen-Ling , Liu Yi-Chien , Lin Chen-Ching
Published: July 2024

With the increasing prevalence of age-related chronic diseases burdening healthcare systems, there is a pressing need for innovative management strategies. Our study focuses on the gut microbiota, essential for metabolic, nutritional, and immune functions, which undergoes significant changes with aging. These changes can impair intestinal function, leading to altered microbial diversity and composition that potentially influence health outcomes and disease progression. Using advanced metagenomic sequencing, we explore the potential of personalized probiotic supplements in 297 older adults by analyzing their gut microbiota. We identified distinctive Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium signatures in the gut microbiota of older adults, revealing probiotic patterns associated with various population characteristics, microbial compositions, cognitive functions, and neuroimaging results. These insights suggest that tailored probiotic supplements, designed to match individual probiotic profile, could offer an innovative method for addressing age-related diseases and functional declines. Our findings enhance the existing evidence base for probiotic use among older adults, highlighting the opportunity to create more targeted and effective probiotic strategies. However, additional research is required to validate our results and further assess the impact of precision probiotics on aging populations. Future studies should employ longitudinal designs and larger cohorts to conclusively demonstrate the benefits of tailored probiotic treatments.
Nationalist Soundscapes: The Sonic Violence of the Far Right
Authors: Gillespie Liam
Published: July 2024

Sound’s ability to impact the body and cross borders places it firmly within the remit of criminological concern. However, although sound continually emerges as a feature of far-right protests and riots—including through music, chants, singing, yelling and drumming—the role it fulfils for the far right has gone untheorized. To address this gap, this article introduces the concept of ‘nationalist soundscapes’, which describes the mechanisms through which far-right nationalists deploy sound to effectuate a politics of power, domination and nationalist superiority. Referencing a selection of events, I argue nationalists weaponize sound in a way that is unique to them, insofar as nationalist soundscapes are deployed to assert ownership over the nation, while simultaneously displacing racialized others through sonic violence.
Consensus Definitions of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection and Disease in Transplant Patients Including Resistant and Refractory CMV for Use in Clinical Trials: 2024 Update From the Transplant Associated Virus Infections Forum
Authors: Ljungman Per , Chemaly Roy F , Khawaya Fareed , Alain Sophie , Avery Robin , Badshah Cyrus , Boeckh Michael , Fournier Martha , Hodowanec Aimee , Komatsu Takashi , Limaye Ajit P , Manuel Oriol , Natori Yoichiro , Navarro David , Pikis Andreas , Razonable Raymund R , Westman Gabriel , Miller Veronica , Griffiths Paul D , Kotton Camille N ,   for the CMV Definitions Working Group of the Transplant Associated Virus Infections Forum, Hodowanec Aimee , Komatsu Takashi , Piki Andreas , Westman Gabriel , Caliendo Angie , Chou Sunwen , Humar Atul , Randhawa Parmjeet , Slavin Monica , Wong Michelle , Wolf Dana
Published: July 2024

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease are important causes of morbidity and mortality in transplant recipients. For the purpose of developing consistent reporting of CMV outcomes in clinical trials, definitions of CMV infection and disease were developed and most recently published in 2017. Since then, there have been major developments, including registration of new antiviral agents. Therefore, the Transplant Associated Virus Infections Forum, which consists of scientists, clinicians, regulators, and industry representatives, has produced an updated version of these definitions that incorporates recent knowledge with the aim of supporting clinical research and drug development. This also includes an update regarding the definition of resistant and refractory CMV infections previously published in 2019. As the field evolves, the need for updates of these definitions is clear, and collaborative efforts among clinicians, scientists, regulators, and industry representatives can provide a platform for this work.
Pyrimidine-Dependent UV-Mediated Cross-Linking Magnifies Minor Genetic or Epigenetic Changes in Clinical Samples
Authors: Yu Fangyan , Ahmed Farzana , Smilkou Stavroula , Yasmin-Karim Sayeda , Darbeheshti Farzaneh , Markou Athina , Bullock Martyn , Boukovinas Ioannis , Adalsteinsson Viktor A , Lianidou Evi , Makrigiorgos G Mike
Published: July 2024

Background

Detection of minor DNA allele alterations is becoming increasingly important for early detection and monitoring of cancer. We describe a new method that uses ultraviolet light to eliminate wild-type DNA alleles and enables improved detection of minor genetic or epigenetic changes.

Methods

Pyrimidine-dependent UV-based minor-allele enrichment (PD-UVME) employed oligonucleotide probes that incorporated a UVA-sensitive 3-cyanovinylcarbazole (CNVK), placed directly opposite interrogated pyrimidines, such as thymine (T) or cytosine (C) in wild-type (WT) DNA. Upon UVA-illumination, CNVK cross-linked with T/C, preventing subsequent amplification. Mutations that removed the T/C escaped cross-linking and were amplified and detected. Similarly, CNVK discriminated between methylated and unmethylated cytosine in CpG dinucleotides, enabling direct enrichment of unmethylated DNA targets. PD-UVME was combined with digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) to detect serine/threonine-protein kinase B-Raf (BRAF) V600E mutations in model systems, thyroid patient cancer tissue samples, and circulating DNA of tumor origin (ctDNA) from melanoma patients.

Results

One thyroid cancer sample out of 9, and 6 circulating-DNA samples out of 7 were found to be BRAF V600E-positive via PD-UVME while classified as negative by conventional ddPCR. Positive samples via conventional ddPCR were also found positive via PD-UVME. All 10 circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) samples obtained from normal volunteers were negative via both approaches. Furthermore, preferential enrichment of unmethylated alleles in MAGEA1 promoters using PD-UVME was demonstrated.

Conclusions

PD-UVME mutation/methylation enrichment performed prior to ddPCR magnifies low-level mutations or epigenetic changes and increases sensitivity and confidence in the results. It can assist with clinical decisions that hinge on the presence of trace alterations like BRAF V600E.
Cross-species single-cell RNA sequencing reveals divergent phenotypes and activation states of adaptive immunity in human carotid and experimental murine atherosclerosis
Authors: Horstmann Hauke , Michel Nathaly Anto , Sheng Xia , Hansen Sophie , Lindau Alexandra , Pfeil Katharina , Fernández Marbely C , Marchini Timoteo , Winkels Holger , Mitre Lucia Sol , Abogunloko Tijani , Li Xiaowei , Mwinyella Timothy Bon-Nawul , Gissler Mark Colin , Bugger Heiko , Heidt Timo , Buscher Konrad , Hilgendorf Ingo , Stachon Peter , Piepenburg Sven , Verheyen Nicolas , Rathner Thomas , Gerhardt Teresa , Siegel Patrick Malcolm , Oswald Wolfgang Kurt , Cohnert Tina , Zernecke Alma , Madl Josef , Kohl Peter , Foks Amanda C , von zur Muehlen Constantin , Westermann Dirk , Zirlik Andreas , Wolf Dennis
Published: July 2024

Aims

The distinct functions of immune cells in atherosclerosis have been mostly defined by pre-clinical mouse studies. Contrastingly, the immune cell composition of human atherosclerotic plaques and their contribution to disease progression are only poorly understood. It remains uncertain whether genetic animal models allow for valuable translational approaches.

Methods and results

Single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed to define the immune cell landscape in human carotid atherosclerotic plaques. The human immune cell repertoire demonstrated an unexpectedly high heterogeneity and was dominated by cells of the T-cell lineage, a finding confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Bioinformatical integration with 7 mouse scRNA-seq data sets from adventitial and atherosclerotic vascular tissue revealed a total of 51 identities of cell types and differentiation states, of which some were only poorly conserved between species and exclusively found in humans. Locations, frequencies, and transcriptional programmes of immune cells in mouse models did not resemble the immune cell landscape in human carotid atherosclerosis. In contrast to standard mouse models of atherosclerosis, human plaque leucocytes were dominated by several T-cell phenotypes with transcriptional hallmarks of T-cell activation and memory formation, T-cell receptor, and pro-inflammatory signalling. Only mice at the age of 22 months partially resembled the activated T-cell phenotype. In a validation cohort of 43 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy, the abundance of activated immune cell subsets in the plaque defined by multi-colour flow cytometry associated with the extent of clinical atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

Integrative scRNA-seq reveals a substantial difference in the immune cell composition of murine and human carotid atherosclerosis—a finding that questions the translational value of standard mouse models for adaptive immune cell studies. Clinical associations suggest a specific role for T-cell driven (auto-)immunity in human plaque formation and instability.
Integrating QTL mapping and transcriptomics to decipher the genetic architecture of sterol metabolism in Brassica napus L
Authors: Xiong Yiyi , Lu Guangyuan , Li Huaixin , He Jianjie , Fan Shipeng , Yan Shuxiang , Zhang Liangxiao , Jia Haibo , Li Maoteng
Published: July 2024

Sterols are secondary metabolites commonly found in rapeseed that play crucial physiological roles in plants and also benefit human health. Consequently, unraveling the genetic basis of sterol synthesis in rapeseed is highly important. In this study, 21 individual sterols as well as total sterol (TS) content were detected in a double haploid (DH) population of Brassica napus, and a total of 24 quantitative trait loci (QTL) and 157 mQTL were identified that were associated with TS and different individual sterols. Time-series transcriptomic analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in sterol and lipid biosynthesis pathways were enriched. Additionally, a regulatory network between sterol-related DEGs and transcription factors (TFs) was established using coexpression analysis. Some candidate genes were identified with the integration of transcriptomic analysis and QTL mapping, and the key candidate gene BnSQS1.C03 was selected for further functional analysis. BnSQS1.C03 demonstrated squalene synthase activity in vitro and increased the TS by 3.8% when overexpressed in Arabidopsis. The present results provide new insights into sterol regulatory pathways and a valuable genetic basis for breeding rapeseed varieties with high sterol content in the future.
Chromosome-scale reference genome of an ancient landrace: unveiling the genetic basis of seed weight in the food legume crop pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan)
Authors: Liu Chun , Ding Xipeng , Wu Yuanhang , Zhang Jianyu , Huang Rui , Li Xinyong , Liu Guodao , Liu Pandao
Published: July 2024

Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) is a nutrient-rich and versatile food legume crop of tropical and subtropical regions. In this study, we describe the de novo assembly of a high-quality genome for the ancient pigeonpea landrace ‘D30’, achieved through a combination of Pacific Biosciences high-fidelity (PacBio HiFi) and high-throughput chromatin conformation capture (Hi-C) sequencing technologies. The assembled ‘D30’ genome has a size of 813.54 Mb, with a contig N50 of 10.74 Mb, a scaffold N50 of 73.07 Mb, and a GC content of 35.67%. Genomic evaluation revealed that the ‘D30’ genome contains 99.2% of Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO) and achieves a 29.06 long terminal repeat (LTR) assembly index (LAI). Genome annotation indicated that ‘D30’ encompasses 431.37 Mb of repeat elements (53.02% of the genome) and 37 977 protein-coding genes. Identification of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions/deletions (indels), and structural variations between ‘D30’ and the published genome of pigeonpea cultivar ‘Asha’ suggests that genes affected by these variations may play important roles in biotic and abiotic stress responses. Further investigation of genomic regions under selection highlights genes enriched in starch and sucrose metabolism, with 42.11% of these genes highly expressed in seeds. Finally, we conducted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to facilitate the identification of 28 marker–trait associations for six agronomic traits of pigeonpea. Notably, we discovered a calmodulin-like protein (CcCML) that harbors a dominant haplotype associated with the 100-seed weight of pigeonpea. Our study provides a foundational resource for developing genomics-assisted breeding programs in pigeonpea.
On the convergence of Fourier spectral methods involving noncompact operators
Authors: Trogdon Thomas
Published: July 2024

Motivated by Fredholm theory, we develop a framework to establish the convergence of spectral methods for operator equations $\mathcal L u = f$. The framework posits the existence of a left-Fredholm regulator for $\mathcal L$ and the existence of a sufficiently good approximation of this regulator. Importantly, the numerical method itself need not make use of this extra approximant. We apply the framework to Fourier finite-section and collocation-based numerical methods for solving differential equations with periodic boundary conditions and to solving Riemann–Hilbert problems on the unit circle. We also obtain improved results concerning the approximation of eigenvalues of differential operators with periodic coefficients.