bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation on the vortex-induced vibration response of a lazy-wave flexible riser filled with different fluid media
Authors: Zhu Hongjun , Liu Wenli , Gao Yue , Deng Kairui , Zhou Tongming
Published: March 2024

This paper reports the experimental results of the vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of a lazy-wave flexible riser filled with different fluid media, including the water and helium as typical liquid and light gas examples. The lazy-wave configuration was produced by mounting a buoyancy module of approximately triple the riser diameter on the one-third of the riser length measured from the riser base. The VIV tests were carried out in the depth-averaged reduced velocity (U¯r) range of 9.32–23.19 using the non-intrusive optical measurement with a couple of high-speed cameras. The experimental results indicate that not only the excited mode of in-plane response but also the response amplitude is significantly adjusted when the internal fluid changes, while the excited mode of the out-of-plane response has no obvious modification. Both the water- and helium-filled risers experience the space-varying dominant frequency. However, the helium-filled riser segment possessing a higher dominant frequency is significantly shortened as compared to the water-filled one. When the internal fluid shifts from water to helium, the in-plane mode transition from the first to second becomes incomplete, and the mode transition becomes smoother as U¯r grows. It is found that the starting position of the mode transition is related to the dominant mode as well as the response direction. Then, the influenced length of the riser response from the buoyancy module and the affecting length of the riser on the buoyancy module response are quantified in terms of the spatial distribution of the dominant frequency in comparison with the natural frequencies. The in-plane response of the helium-filled riser is more vulnerable to the oscillation of the buoyancy module, and hence, the coupling between the in-plane and out-of-plane responses is weaker than the water-filled riser. When the impact of buoyancy module on the riser response is enhanced, the reverse effect is weakened.
Flow structure near three phase contact line of low-contact-angle evaporating droplets
Authors: Wang Zhenying , Karapetsas George , Valluri Prashant , Inoue Chihiro
Published: March 2024

Flow structure near three phase contact line (TPCL) of evaporating liquids plays a significant role in liquid wetting and dewetting, liquid film evaporation, and boiling. Despite the wide focus it receives, the interacting mechanisms therein remain elusive and in specific cases, controversial. Here, we reveal the profile of internal flow and elucidate the dominating mechanisms near TPCL of evaporating droplets, using mathematical modeling, trajectory analysis, and infrared thermography. We indicate that for less volatile liquids such as butanol, the flow pattern is dominated by capillary flow. With increasing liquid volatility, e.g., alcohol, the effect of evaporation cooling, under conditions, induces interfacial temperature gradient with cold droplet apex and warm edge. The temperature gradient leads to Marangoni flow that competes with outwarding capillary flow, resulting in the reversal of interfacial flow and the formation of a stagnation point near TPCL. The spatiotemporal variations of capillary velocity and Marangoni velocity are further quantified by mathematically decomposing the tangential velocity of interfacial flow. The conclusions can serve as a theoretical base for explaining deposition patterns from colloidal suspensions and can be utilized as a benchmark in analyzing more complex liquid systems.
Interface engineering by constructing vertical junction for reduced noise and improved sensitivity in 2D photodetector
Authors: Yang Yani , Li Xueming , Huang Jianming , Wu Ziqiao , Pan Zhidong , Sun Yiming , Zheng Tao , Liu Xueting , Li Ling , Zhang Jielian , Yang Yujue , Dong Huafeng , Xiao Wenbo , Huo Nengjie
Published: March 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have been widely demonstrated as promising candidates for next generation photodetectors, while the noticeable channel current is still a limiting factor for photodetection sensitivity. In this work, the interface engineering has been developed by constructing a vertical pn and Schottky junction in the 2D WS2 channel, resulting in a reduced dark current and noise spectral density, significantly improving the sensitivity. Specifically, the WS2 bottom surface is coupled with p-type tellurium (Te) nanoribbon and gold (Au) stripes, thus a vertical pn and Schottky junction can be constructed at WS2/Te and WS2/Au interface, respectively. In both device architectures, the dark current and electric noise are much suppressed due to the formation of depletion region in WS2 channel. Meanwhile, the out-of-plane built-in electric field at junction can facilitate the separation of photo-excited electron–hole pairs, which subsequently yields a faster temporal response. For the WS2/Au device, the incident light can be reflected by the bottom Au and propagate through the WS2 layer again, further boosting the photo-absorption, thus the photodetection sensitivity. The engineered WS2 photodetectors exhibit the noise spectral density as low as 5.36 × 10−14 A Hz−1/2 and high specific detectivity (D*) up to 1.12 × 1011 Jones, which has one–two orders of magnitude improvement compared to the pristine device. This work provides an effective and universal interface engineering strategy to achieve low noise and high sensitivity in 2D photodetectors.
Field-free spin–orbit torque switching of magnetic tunnel junction structure based on two-dimensional van der Waals WTe2
Authors: Yuan Yuhai , Jiang Yanfeng
Published: March 2024

In recent years, two-dimensional van der Waals (2D vdWs) heterostructures have attracted great research interest due to their great potential in fundamental physics research and spintronic devices (such as MTJs). Due to its excellent scalability, controllable magnetism and out-of-plane anisotropy, the compact nonvolatile memory controller (NV-MC) based on spintronics is expected to solve the memory bottle-neck problem. At present, a series of in-depth studies have been conducted on advanced 2D vdWs materials, such as MoS2, WSe2, and Fe3GeTe2 (FGT). The results show that the 2D vdWs materials have great TMR value and high SOT switching efficiency, both theoretically reported and experimentally verified. In the paper, a novel MTJ device based on the FGT/WTe2 heterostructure is proposed. In the absence of an external magnetic field, the magnetization direction of the MTJ free layer can still be reversed with certainty when the unipolar write current reaches about 5 mA. Moreover, the DMI effect generated between 2-D material/FM interfaces is also considered, which can promote the performance of SOT-MTJ without the external field. The reading reliability of SOT-MRAM is improved in comparison with the traditional CoFeB-based MTJ device.
Intrinsic magnetism of an individual rare-earth atom on transition metal dichalcogenide semiconductors
Authors: Batnyam N. , Ochirkhuyag T. , Odkhuu D.
Published: March 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) structures that exhibit intriguing magnetic phenomena such as perpendicular magnetocrystalline anisotropy (PMA) have become a focus of spintronic research due to their potentials in maximizing the information storage density. Herein we perform density-functional theory plus U (DFT+U) calculations to investigate the binding affinity and intrinsic magnetic properties of an individual rare-earth (RE) Sm atom on WSe2 monolayer. Our calculations show that Sm adatom energetically prefers to adsorb at the W-top site in WSe2 rather than the Se-top and hollow sites. We predict extremely large PMA values of ∼7–33 meV per Sm at the most stable W-top site, depending on U parameter in DFT+U calculations, while it is negligibly small for the Se-top and hollow sites. The underlying mechanism for large PMA is elucidated in terms of the strong spin–orbit coupled Sm 4f – W 5d orbital states and large 4f orbital magnetic moment in the high-spin crystal field. These results provide a viable route to achieving an atomic scale f-electron PMA in 2D structures, opening interesting prospects in two-dimensional semiconducting spintronics.
Analytical and experimental study of electromagnetic loss and temperature rise in induction machines
Authors: Ban Hwi-Rang , Yu Kyeong-Tae , Lee Ju-Hyeong , Choi Jang-Young , Sung Soyoung , Park Jung-Hyung , Cho Han-Wook , Shin Kyung-Hun
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on electromagnetic and loss analyses of an induction machine using the subdomain method. The proposed method derives an analytical solution for each subdomain using electromagnetic theory. On the basis of the derived analytical solution, electromagnetic performances are calculated and copper loss, iron loss, and rotor loss are derived. The validity of the proposed method was verified by comparing the analysis and loss analysis results with the finite element analysis results. In particular, the loss analysis results were input into an equivalent thermal analysis model, thermal analysis was performed, and the results were compared with those measured in the actual model. The reliability of the proposed method was verified through analysis and experimental results.
Trade-off between torque ripple and vibration in an IPMSM by examining the temporal and spatial harmonics of flux density
Authors: Lee Sangjin , Yun Gyeonghwan , Lukman Grace Firsta , Lee Cheewoo
Published: March 2024

Despite continuous effort to minimize torque ripple, the reduction of vibration has not been yet achieved due to the lack of link between these two performances. The difficulty of investigating the relationship stems from the fact that torque is solely influenced by tangential force whereas vibration is directly tied to radial force. In this paper, the correlation between torque ripple and vibration in an IPMSM (Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) is established by examining the air-gap flux density in both radial and tangential directions. Its temporal and spatial harmonics are analyzed. A six-pole nine-slot IPMSM is used as a base configuration, and the air-gap flux density is varied by changing the height of a stator tooth tip. In the previous study, the same approach has been done to observe how to reduce torque ripple effectively. In this study, however, it is found that the trend of torque ripple is not the same as that of vibration with respect to the height of a pole tip, and the relation between the two is thoroughly observed and explained.
Magnetic response of aggregation mixed with magnetic nanoparticles and protein for simultaneous protein detection
Authors: Yabukami Shin , Murayama Toru , Kaneko Koki , Honda Junichi , Tonthat Loi , Okita Kazuhiko
Published: March 2024

A quick and easy method to detect the GDF-15 protein (Growth Differentiation Factor-15) has been developed, which utilize the magnetic response of magnetic nanoparticles by switching magnetic fields. The magnetic nanoparticles and GDF-15 are bound by an antigen-antibody reaction and aggregated into a spherical shape using a needle-shaped magnetic yoke. The density of GDF-15 changed as follows: 0, 1 ng/ml, 10 ng/ml, and 100 ng/ml. The increase of GDF-15 aggregated the magnetic nanoparticles and enhanced the signal-to-noise ratio. We also tried the sandwich-type bound method using a primary and secondary antibody with additional magnetic nanoparticles and obtained the enhancement of the magnetic signal in a lower concentration (under 10 ng/ml) of GDF-15. The cross-bridges between magnetic nanoparticle and the protein may strengthen the magnetic couplings of nanoparticles.
Multivariate assumptions and effect of model parameters in path analysis in oat crop
Authors: Sgarbossa Jaqueline , Lúcio Alessandro Dal’Cól , da Silva José Antonio Gonzalez , Caron Braulio Otomar , Diel Maria Inês , Olivoto Tiago , Nardini Claiton , Alessi Odenis , Lambrecht Darlei Michalski
Published: March 2024

Context Path analysis (PA) is a widely used multivariate statistical technique. When performing PA, the effects of the parameters of the mathematical model relating to the experimental design are disregarded, working only with the average effects of the treatments. Aims We aimed to analyse the implications of statistical assumptions, and of removing mathematical model parameters, on the PA results in oat. Methods A field study was conducted in southern Brazil in five crop years. The experimental design employed was a two-factor 22 × 5 randomised complete block design, characterised by 22 cultivars and five fungicide applications, with three repetitions. Six explanatory variables were measured, panicle length, panicle dry mass, panicle spikelet number, panicle grain number, panicle grain dry mass, and harvest index, and the primary variable yield. Initially, normality and multicollinearity diagnoses were carried out and correlation coefficients were calculated. The PA was performed in three ways: traditional, with measures to address multicollinearity (ridge), and traditional with eliminating variables. Key results and conclusions The occurrence of multicollinearity resulted in obtaining path coefficients without biological application. Removing the model’s parameters modifies the path coefficients, with average changes of 10.5% and 13.3% in the direction, and 24.7% and 23.0% in the magnitude, of the direct and indirect effects, respectively. Implications This new approach makes it possible to remove the influences of treatments and experimental design from observations and, consequently, from path coefficients and their interpretations. Therefore, the researcher will reduce possible bias in the coefficient estimates, highlighting the real relationship between the variables, and making the results and interpretations more reliable.
Preferred format and strategies for seeking and trusting online health information: a survey of cardiology outpatient attendees across three New Zealand hospitals
Authors: Wells Susan , Mahony Faith , Lee Arier , McLachlan Andrew , Dean Jennie , Clarke Jane , Lehnhard Siobhan , Whittaker Robyn , Harwood Matire , Cumming Jacqueline , Bycroft Janine
Published: March 2024

Introduction The volume and quality of online health information requires consumers to be discerning. Aim This study aimed to explore consumer Internet use for health information, preferred format and what factors helped them to trust the source. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016–2017 with adults attending three cardiology outpatient clinic sites using a short paper-based survey. The survey included questions regarding online health information use and perceived trustworthiness with opportunities for free text responses. Survey data were summarised with key questions adjusted by age group, gender and ethnicity using logistic regression. Results Of the 708 respondents (51% women, 66% aged 45–74 years, 16% Māori, 12% Pacific), 73% had sought health information online (64% in the previous 12 months), commonly for medication side effects, their health condition and self-help. Most (65%) were successful, although Pacific respondents reported a lower likelihood of search success compared to Europeans. Younger age groups were more concerned about information quality. Fact sheets (80%) were the most popular format and for all ethnic groups, followed by short videos (31%) and discussion groups (23%). Trusting online information required many strategies with 72% wanting health professionals to recommend websites. Discussion Online health information seeking is a norm for consumers, with simple fact sheets being the preferred format to build knowledge and skills. With the rising tide of misinformation, health portal providers need to offer accurate and easy-to-read fact sheets in their suite of formats and health professionals need to support consumers guiding them to trusted websites.
Thiophene-based lipids for mRNA delivery to pulmonary and retinal tissues
Authors: Eygeris Yulia , Gupta Mohit , Kim Jeonghwan , Jozic Antony , Gautam Milan , Renner Jonas , Nelson Dylan , Bloom Elissa , Tuttle Adam , Stoddard Jonathan , Reynaga Rene , Neuringer Martha , Lauer Andreas K. , Ryals Renee C. , Sahay Gaurav
Published: March 2024

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) largely rely on ionizable lipids to yield successful nucleic acid delivery via electrostatic disruption of the endosomal membrane. Here, we report the identification and evaluation of ionizable lipids containing a thiophene moiety (Thio-lipids). The Thio-lipids can be readily synthesized via the Gewald reaction, allowing for modular lipid design with functional constituents at various positions of the thiophene ring. Through the rational design of ionizable lipid structure, we prepared 47 Thio-lipids and identified some structural criteria required in Thio-lipids for efficient mRNA (messenger RNA) encapsulation and delivery in vitro and in vivo. Notably, none of the tested lipids have a pH-response profile like traditional ionizable lipids, potentially due to the electron delocalization in the thiophene core. Placement of the tails and localization of the ionizable headgroup in the thiophene core can endow the nanoparticles with the capability to reach various tissues. Using high-throughput formulation and barcoding techniques, we optimized the formulations to select two top lipids—
20b
and
29d
—and investigated their biodistribution in mice. Lipid
20b
enabled LNPs to transfect the liver and spleen, and
29d
LNP transfected the lung and spleen. Unexpectedly, LNP with lipid
20b
was especially potent in mRNA delivery to the retina with no acute toxicity, leading to the successful delivery to the photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium in non-human primates.
Molecular architectures of iron complexes for oxygen reduction catalysis—Activity enhancement by hydroxide ions coupling
Authors: Ei Phyu Win Poe , Yang Jiahui , Ning Shuwang , Huang Xiang , Fu Gengtao , Sun Qiming , Xia Xing-Hua , Wang Jiong
Published: March 2024

Developing cost-effective and high-performance electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is critical for clean energy generation. Here, we propose an approach to the synthesis of iron phthalocyanine nanotubes (FePc NTs) as a highly active and selective electrocatalyst for ORR. The performance is significantly superior to FePc in randomly aggregated and molecularly dispersed states, as well as the commercial Pt/C catalyst. When FePc NTs are anchored on graphene, the resulting architecture shifts the ORR potentials above the redox potentials of Fe
2+/3+
sites. This does not obey the redox-mediated mechanism operative on conventional FePc with a Fe
2+
–N moiety serving as the active sites. Pourbaix analysis shows that the redox of Fe
2+/3+
sites couples with HO
−
ions transfer, forming a HO–Fe
3+
–N moiety serving as the ORR active sites under the turnover condition. The chemisorption of ORR intermediates is appropriately weakened on the HO–Fe
3+
–N moiety compared to the Fe
2+
–N state and thus is intrinsically more ORR active.
Trends in US public confidence in science and opportunities for progress
Authors: Lupia Arthur , Allison David B. , Jamieson Kathleen Hall , Heimberg Jennifer , Skipper Magdalena , Wolf Susan M.
Published: March 2024

In recent years, many questions have been raised about whether public confidence in science is changing. To clarify recent trends in the public’s confidence and factors that are associated with these feelings, an effort initiated by the National Academies’ Strategic Council for Research Excellence, Integrity, and Trust (the Strategic Council) analyzed findings from multiple survey research organizations. The Strategic Council’s effort, which began in 2022, found that U.S. public confidence in science, the scientific community, and leaders of scientific communities is high relative to other civic, cultural, and governmental institutions for which researchers regularly collect such data. However, confidence in these institutions has fallen during the previous 5 years. Science’s decline, while real, is similar to or less than that in the other groups. A recent study goes into greater detail by exploring public views of science. From these data, we observe that many of the surveyed U.S. public question the extent to which scientists share their values or overcome personal biases when presenting conclusions. At the same time, large majorities agree on certain types of actions that they want scientists to take. For example, 84% respond that it is “somewhat important” or “very important” for scientists to disclose their funders. Ninety-two percent (92%) offer the same responses to scientists “being open to changing their minds based on new evidence.” Collectively, these data clarify how the U.S. public views science and scientists. They also suggest actions that can affect public confidence in science and scientists in the years to come.
Canadian banknotes to explore the phenomenon of diffraction
Authors: Bonnet Isabelle , Gabelli Julien
Published: March 2024

Gratings and their well-known diffraction patterns are the basis of spectrometers to characterize light sources. Reciprocally, periodic peaks in the diffraction pattern of x-rays scattered by solids bring valuable information about the internal geometry of the crystal lattice, providing details about the arrangement of atoms in the solid. In both cases, periodic gratings are considered. What about non-periodic gratings? Is it possible to reconstruct any grating structure knowing its diffraction pattern? We answer this question by studying diffraction through the hologram hidden in a Canadian banknote. We measure the diffraction of near-infrared light to numerically reconstruct the grating structure using the Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm. We then compare this reconstructed grating structure with the picture of the grating structure observed with a phase-contrast microscope. Such an approach allows us to study diffraction from a perspective different from that usually taught at university.
Efficient broadband sound absorption exploiting rainbow labyrinthine metamaterials
Authors: Nistri F , Kamrul V H , Bettini L , Musso E , Piciucco D , Zemello M , Gliozzi A S , Krushynska A O , Pugno N , Sangiuliano L , Shtrepi L , Bosia F
Published: March 2024

In this work, we demonstrate in a proof of concept experiment the efficient noise absorption of a 3D printed panel designed with appropriately arranged space-coiling labyrinthine acoustic elementary cells of various sizes. The labyrinthine unit cells are analytically and numerically analysed to determine their absorption characteristics and then fabricated and experimentally tested in an impedance tube to verify the dependence of absorption characteristics on cell thickness and lateral size. The resonance frequency of the unit cell is seen to scale approximately linearly with respect to both thickness and lateral size in the considered range, enabling easy tunability of the working frequency. Using these data, a flat panel is designed and fabricated by arranging cells of different dimensions in a quasi-periodic lattice, exploiting the acoustic ‘rainbow’ effect, i.e. superimposing the frequency response of the different cells to generate a wider absorption spectrum, covering the target frequency range, chosen between 800 and 1400 Hz. The panel is thinner and more lightweight compared to traditional sound absorbing solutions and designed in modular form, so as to be applicable to different geometries. The performance of the panel is experimentally validated in a small-scale reverberation room, and an absorption close to ideal values is demonstrated at the desired frequencies of operation. Thus, this work suggests a design procedure for noise-mitigation panel solutions and provides experimental proof of the versatility and effectiveness of labyrinthine metamaterials for tunable mid- to low-frequency sound attenuation.
Terahertz structured deep-subwavelength plasmonic grating metasurface for manipulating polarization-dependent coupling response
Authors: Wang Yi-Ming , Fan Fei , Zhao Hui-Jun , Li Shan-Shan , Xu Shi-Tong , Ji Yun-Yun , Cheng Jie-Rong , Chang Sheng-Jiang
Published: March 2024

The complex electromagnetic anisotropy of terahertz (THz) metasurfaces with geometric symmetry breaking has attracted extensive attention. Typical effects arise from the coupling of polarization responses in orthogonal directions of various components of the metasurface structure, such as the electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) effect. However, it is a challenge to precisely control or perfectly avoid the polarization-dependent coupling responses. In this work, deep-subwavelength plasmonic gratings (PGs) with a fine wire width of 1 μm at the order of deep subwavelengths of 1/100 THz wave are fabricated by electron beam lithography, and these wire gratings are graphically designed as a C-shaped metasurface pattern with a period of 100 μm in sub-wavelength scale. The complete anisotropic response in the single-oriented PG metasurface is demonstrated by both simulation and experiments, where the polarization-dependent coupling effect is eliminated. More interestingly, the hybrid-oriented PG metasurface exhibits narrowband and wideband EIT effects in the x and y polarization directions with the maximum polarization extinction ratio of 20 dB, respectively, indicating this mechanism can realize more flexible manipulation of polarization-dependent coupling. This patterned deep-subwavelength PG provides a new structure and mechanism for excitation, regulation, and restriction of polarization-dependent mode coupling, and has important applications in THz spectroscopic detection, polarization imaging, and wireless communication.
Interfacial magnon-mediated superconductivity in twisted bilayer graphene
Authors: Brekke Bjørnulf , Sudbø Asle , Brataas Arne
Published: March 2024

The interfacial coupling between electrons and magnons in adjacent layers can mediate an attractive electron–electron interaction and induce superconductivity. We consider magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene sandwiched between two ferromagnetic insulators to optimize this effect. As a result, magnons induce an interlayer superconducting state characterized by p-wave symmetry. We investigate two candidate ferromagnets. The van der Waals ferromagnet CrI3 stands out because it allows compression to tune the superconducting state with an exponential sensitivity. This control adds a new dimension to the tunability of twisted bilayer graphene. Our results open a new path for exploring magnon-induced superconductivity.
Effects of band gap on the magic-angle of twisted bilayer graphene
Authors: Yu Guodong , Feng Lanting
Published: March 2024

Band flattening has been observed in various materials with twisted bilayer structures, such as graphene, MoS2, and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN). However, the unique phenomenon of magic-angle has only been reported in the twisted bilayer graphene (tBG) and not in the twisted bilayer semiconductors or insulators. We aim to investigate the impact of gap opening and interlayer coupling strength on the magic-angle in the tBG. Our results based on the continuum model Hamiltonian with mass term indicate that the presence of a band gap hinders the occurrence of the magic-angle, but strengthening the interlayer coupling tends to restore it. By introducing layer asymmetry, such as interlayer bias or mass difference between layers, the flat bands become more dispersive. Furthermore, we have explored the influence of the Moiré’s potential due to the hBN substrate by calculating the quasi-band-structure of the hetero-structure tBG/hBN. Our findings indicate that the conclusions drawn from using the mass term remain valid despite the presence of the Moiré’s potential due to the hBN substrate.
Hybrid rogue waves and breather solutions on the double-periodic background for the Kundu-DNLS equation
Authors: Jiang DongZhu , Zhaqilao
Published: March 2024

In this paper, by using the Darboux transformation (DT) method and the Taylor expansion method, a new nth-order determinant of the hybrid rogue waves and breathers solution on the double-periodic background of the Kundu-DNLS equation is constructed when n is even. Breathers and rogue waves can be obtained from this determinant, respectively. Further to this, the hybrid rogue waves and breathers solutions on the different periodic backgrounds are given explicitly, including the single-periodic background, the double-periodic background and the plane wave background by selecting different parameters. In addition, the form of the obtained solutions is summarized.
When to stop consulting
Authors: Kilgour D. , Brams Steven
Published: March 2024

Consider a decision-maker whose objective is to maximize the probability of making a correct binary (Yes-No) decision. To gain information, the decision-maker can consult independent experts. But how many? When should consultation stop?

We model the decision-maker’s current state of knowledge using the number of recommendations for each alternative. After every consultation, the decision-maker decides whether to make a decision immediately, based on the advice already received, or to consult again. We impose a ceiling on the number of consultations and, possibly, a cost for each consultation.

Surprisingly, we find that even when consultation is free, it can be optimal not to consult. Less surprising, consultation may be uniquely optimal when evidence is scarce, especially if it is approximately balanced between Yes and No. For a decision-maker who, initially, is maximally uncertain, we obtain complete optimal strategies when consultation is free, and we show that there is a fundamental limit on expected utility (

3
4

\frac 34

, where the minimum utility is 0 and the maximum is 1), even when consultation is unlimited. We then explore the strategic effects of a positive cost, linking them to the zero-cost case. We also compare our results on consultation to strategies in the Secretary Problem, another decision problem in which information is collected sequentially until a decision is made.
Impossibility theorems involving weakenings of expansion consistency and resoluteness in voting
Authors: Holliday Wesley , Norman Chase , Pacuit Eric , Zahedian Saam
Published: March 2024

A fundamental principle of individual rational choice is Sen’s

γ
\gamma

axiom, also known as expansion consistency, stating that any alternative chosen from each of two menus must be chosen from the union of the menus. Expansion consistency can also be formulated in the setting of social choice. In voting theory, it states that any candidate chosen from two fields of candidates must be chosen from the combined field of candidates. An important special case of the axiom is binary expansion consistency, which states that any candidate chosen from an initial field of candidates and chosen in a head-to-head match with a new candidate must also be chosen when the new candidate is added to the field, thereby ruling out spoiler effects. In this paper, we study the tension between this weakening of expansion consistency and weakenings of resoluteness, an axiom demanding the choice of a single candidate in any election. As is well known, resoluteness is inconsistent with basic fairness conditions on social choice, namely anonymity and neutrality. Here we prove that even significant weakenings of resoluteness, which are consistent with anonymity and neutrality, are inconsistent with binary expansion consistency. The proofs make use of SAT solving, with the correctness of a SAT encoding formally verified in the Lean Theorem Prover, as well as a strategy for generalizing impossibility theorems obtained for special types of voting methods (namely majoritarian and pairwise voting methods) to impossibility theorems for arbitrary voting methods. This proof strategy may be of independent interest for its potential applicability to other impossibility theorems in social choice.
Connecting Arrow’s Theorem, voting theory, and the Traveling Salesperson Problem
Authors: Saari Donald
Published: March 2024

Problems with majority voting over pairs as represented by Arrow’s Theorem and those of finding the lengths of closed paths as captured by the Traveling Salesperson Problem (TSP) appear to have nothing in common. In fact, they are connected. As shown, pairwise voting and a version of the TSP share the same domain where each system is simplified by restricting it to complementary regions that eliminate extraneous terms. Central for the analysis is the Borda Count, which, as demonstrated, most accurately reflects the voter preferences.
Development of a method for the simultaneous determination of ionic nutrients in hydroponic solutions using cation-/anion-exchange chromatography with a neutral eluent
Authors: Mitsui Yuta , Hashigami Atsushi , Ando Ryosuke , Uga Yuki , Fujiwara Taku , Sago Yuki , Suzuki Takahiro , Kozaki Daisuke
Published: March 2024

Nutrient availability in hydroponic solutions must be accurately monitored to maintain crop productivity; however, few cost-effective, accurate, real-time, and long-term monitoring technologies have been developed. In this study, we describe the development and application of cation-/anion-exchange chromatography with a neutral eluent (20-mmol/L sodium formate, pH 7.87) for the simultaneous separation (within 50 min) of ionic nutrients, including K+, NH4+, NO2−, NO3−, and phosphate ion, in a hydroponic fertilizer solution. Using the neutral eluent avoided degradation of the separation column during precipitation of metal ion species, such as hydroxides, with an alkaline eluent and oxidation of NO2− to NO3− with an acidic eluent. The suitability of the current method for monitoring ionic components in a hydroponic fertilizer solution was confirmed. Based on our data, we propose a controlled fertilizer strategy to optimize fertilizer consumption and reduce the chemical load of drained fertilizer solutions.
HIResist: a database of HIV-1 resistance to broadly neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Misra Milind , Jeffy Jeffy , Liao Charis , Pickthorn Stephanie , Wagh Kshitij , Herschhorn Alon
Published: March 2024

Motivation

Changing the course of the human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-1) pandemic is a high public health priority with approximately 39 million people currently living with HIV-1 (PLWH) and about 1.5 million new infections annually worldwide. Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) typically target highly conserved sites on the HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Envs), which mediate viral entry, and block the infection of diverse HIV-1 strains. But different mechanisms of HIV-1 resistance to bnAbs prevent robust application of bnAbs for therapeutic and preventive interventions.

Results

Here we report the development of a new database that provides data and computational tools to aid the discovery of resistant features and may assist in analysis of HIV-1 resistance to bnAbs. Bioinformatic tools allow identification of specific patterns in Env sequences of resistant strains and development of strategies to elucidate the mechanisms of HIV-1 escape; comparison of resistant and sensitive HIV-1 strains for each bnAb; identification of resistance and sensitivity signatures associated with specific bnAbs or groups of bnAbs; and visualization of antibody pairs on cross-sensitivity plots. The database has been designed with a particular focus on user-friendly and interactive interface. Our database is a valuable resource for the scientific community and provides opportunities to investigate patterns of HIV-1 resistance and to develop new approaches aimed to overcome HIV-1 resistance to bnAbs.

Availability and implementation

HIResist is freely available at https://hiresist.ahc.umn.edu/
MARS: a motif-based autoregressive model for retrosynthesis prediction
Authors: Liu Jiahan , Yan Chaochao , Yu Yang , Lu Chan , Huang Junzhou , Ou-Yang Le , Zhao Peilin
Published: March 2024

Motivation

Retrosynthesis is a critical task in drug discovery, aimed at finding a viable pathway for synthesizing a given target molecule. Many existing approaches frame this task as a graph-generating problem. Specifically, these methods first identify the reaction center, and break a targeted molecule accordingly to generate the synthons. Reactants are generated by either adding atoms sequentially to synthon graphs or by directly adding appropriate leaving groups. However, both of these strategies have limitations. Adding atoms results in a long prediction sequence that increases the complexity of generation, while adding leaving groups only considers those in the training set, which leads to poor generalization.

Results

In this paper, we propose a novel end-to-end graph generation model for retrosynthesis prediction, which sequentially identifies the reaction center, generates the synthons, and adds motifs to the synthons to generate reactants. Given that chemically meaningful motifs fall between the size of atoms and leaving groups, our model achieves lower prediction complexity than adding atoms and demonstrates superior performance than adding leaving groups. We evaluate our proposed model on a benchmark dataset and show that it significantly outperforms previous state-of-the-art models. Furthermore, we conduct ablation studies to investigate the contribution of each component of our proposed model to the overall performance on benchmark datasets. Experiment results demonstrate the effectiveness of our model in predicting retrosynthesis pathways and suggest its potential as a valuable tool in drug discovery.

Availability and implementation

All code and data are available at https://github.com/szu-ljh2020/MARS.
Benefits do not balance costs of biological invasions
Authors: Carneiro Laís , Hulme Philip E , Cuthbert Ross N , Kourantidou Melina , Bang Alok , Haubrock Phillip J , Bradshaw Corey J A , Balzani Paride , Bacher Sven , Latombe Guillaume , Bodey Thomas W , Probert Anna F , Quilodrán Claudio S , Courchamp Franck
Published: March 2024

Biological invasions have profound impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning and services, resulting in substantial economic and health costs estimated in the trillions of dollars. Preventing and managing biological invasions are vital for sustainable development, aligning with the goals of the United Nations Biodiversity Conference. However, some invasive species also offer occasional benefits, leading to divergent perceptions among stakeholders and sectors. Claims that invasion science overlooks positive contributions threaten to hinder proper impact assessment and undermine management. Quantitatively balancing benefits and costs is misleading, because they coexist without offsetting each other. Any benefits also come at a price, affecting communities and regions differently over time. An integrated approach considering both costs and benefits is necessary for understanding and effective management of biological invasions.
Disclosing non-visible disabilities in educational workplaces: a scoping review
Authors: Hassard Juliet , Yildrim Mehmet , Thomson Louise , Blake Holly
Published: March 2024

Introduction

a sizable proportion of the working population has a disability that is not visible. Many choose not to disclose this at work, particularly in educational workplaces where disability is underrepresented. A better understanding of the barriers and facilitators to disclosure is needed.

Sources of data

this scoping review is based on studies published in scientific journals.

Areas of agreement

the reasons underpinning disclosure are complex and emotive-in-nature. Both individual and socio-environmental factors influence this decision and process. Stigma and perceived discrimination are key barriers to disclosure and, conversely, personal agency a key enabler.

Areas of controversy

there is a growing trend of non-visible disabilities within the workplace, largely because of the increasing prevalence of mental ill health. Understanding the barriers and facilitators to disability disclosure is key to the provision of appropriate workplace support.

Growing points

our review shows that both individual and socio-environmental factors influence choice and experience of disclosure of non-visible disabilities in educational workplaces. Ongoing stigma and ableism in the workplace, in particular, strongly influence disabled employees’ decision to disclose (or not), to whom, how and when.

Areas timely for developing research

developing workplace interventions that can support employees with non-visible disabilities and key stakeholders during and beyond reasonable adjustments is imperative.
Enhancement of low gamma oscillations by volitional conditioning of local field potential in the primary motor and visual cortex of mice
Authors: Shi Chennan , Zhang Chenyu , Chen Jiang-Fan , Yao Zhimo
Published: March 2024

Volitional control of local field potential oscillations in low gamma band via brain machine interface can not only uncover the relationship between low gamma oscillation and neural synchrony but also suggest a therapeutic potential to reverse abnormal local field potential oscillation in neurocognitive disorders. In nonhuman primates, the volitional control of low gamma oscillations has been demonstrated by brain machine interface techniques in the primary motor and visual cortex. However, it is not clear whether this holds in other brain regions and other species, for which gamma rhythms might involve in highly different neural processes. Here, we established a closed-loop brain–machine interface and succeeded in training mice to volitionally elevate low gamma power of local field potential in the primary motor and visual cortex. We found that the mice accomplished the task in a goal-directed manner and spiking activity exhibited phase-locking to the oscillation in local field potential in both areas. Moreover, long-term training made the power enhancement specific to direct and adjacent channel, and increased the transcriptional levels of NMDA receptors as well as that of hypoxia-inducible factor relevant to metabolism. Our results suggest that volitionally generated low gamma rhythms in different brain regions share similar mechanisms and pave the way for employing brain machine interface in therapy of neurocognitive disorders.
Sex-specific and polygenic effects underlying resting heart rate and associated risk of cardiovascular disease
Authors: Nordeidet Ada N , Klevjer Marie , Øvretveit Karsten , Madssen Erik , Wisløff Ulrik , Brumpton Ben M , Bye Anja
Published: March 2024

Aims

Resting heart rate (RHR) is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. This study aimed to identify genetic loci associated with RHR, develop a genome-wide polygenic risk score (PRS) for RHR, and assess associations between the RHR PRS and CVD outcomes, to better understand the biological mechanisms linking RHR to disease. Sex-specific analyses were conducted to potentially elucidate different pathways between the sexes.

Methods and results

We performed a genome-wide meta-analysis of RHR (n = 550 467) using two independent study populations, The Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) and the UK Biobank (UKB), comprising 69 155 and 481 312 participants, respectively. We also developed a genome-wide PRS for RHR using UKB and tested for association between the PRS and 13 disease outcomes in HUNT. We identified 403, 253, and 167 independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) significantly associated with RHR in the total population, women, and men, respectively. The sex-specified analyses indicated differences in the genetic contribution to RHR and revealed loci significantly associated with RHR in only one of the sexes. The SNPs were mapped to genes enriched in heart tissue and cardiac conduction pathways, as well as disease-pathways, including dilated cardiomyopathy. The PRS for RHR was associated with increased risk of hypertension and dilated cardiomyopathy, and decreased risk of atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion

Our findings provide insight into the pleiotropic effects of the RHR variants, contributing towards an improved understanding of mechanisms linking RHR and disease. In addition, the sex-specific results might contribute to a more refined understanding of RHR as a risk factor for the different diseases.
Conscientiousness and Pain Interference in Older Age
Authors: Judge Stephanie T , Meyr Kaitlyn J , Segerstrom Suzanne C
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Conscientiousness is associated with positive health behaviors and outcomes and has been shown to increase as individuals age. Both age and Conscientiousness affect pain, a highly prevalent correlate of aging. This study investigated the effect of Conscientiousness on the relationship between pain and pain interference and vice versa among older adults, who experience pain and functional limitations disproportionately compared with younger adults.

Methods

A total of 196 community-dwelling older adults (Mage = 73) provided pain and interference ratings semiannually for up to 10 years. Conscientiousness was assessed at the first visit and, on average, 7.6 years later. Multilevel models tested the effect of Conscientiousness on the relationship between pain and interference. Hierarchical regression modeled changes in Conscientiousness.

Results

Across all pain levels, higher Conscientiousness was associated with less pain interference (γ02 = −0.126, SE = 0.048, p < .01, 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) [−0.22, −0.03]). This effect was more pronounced at higher levels of pain and older age. Conscientiousness increased slightly over time, but older baseline age (b = −0.01, 95% CI [−0.03, −0.001], R2 = 0.02) and more mean pain interference over the study period (b = −0.17, 95% CI [−0.30, −0.03], R2 = 0.03) were associated with less increase in Conscientiousness at follow-up.

Discussion

Higher pain and older age are associated with more pain interference, and Conscientiousness provided the most protection for these same individuals—those with higher pain and older age. Conscientiousness facilitated reduced interference, which may feed forward into higher Conscientiousness, potentially shaping a cycle between personality and health that extends through older adulthood.
Co-Partnering in a Virtual Photovoice Study Design With Older Adults: A Methodological Approach
Authors: Weil Joyce
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

Gerontology offers a range of participatory research options with more commonly used community participatory-based research or participatory action research approaches. Photovoice’s visual representation of lived experiences offers a unique opportunity for older adults to fully cocreate research. This article describes the process of codesigning a virtual photovoice study with older adults. The design process is described in 3 phases: codesign during the initial study design, throughout the study and data-collection process, and during dissemination.

Research Design and Methods

In this methodological article, substantive findings from an Institutional Review Board approved study where older adults created photos of the meaning of “home” through Zoom interviews are used to illustrate codesign in a virtual photovoice study. The process includes engagement with the Aging PCOR Learning Collaborative’s Older Adult Subcommittee, Healthier Black Elders’ Community Advisory Board, and older adults in the study.

Results

Work with advisory groups offered more dimensions to the study’s planning, conduction, and dissemination, expanding the study’s reach, inclusion, and framing. This collaboration created a greater exchange of dialogue and bidirectional flow of expression. The researcher became the subject, and older adults navigated study protocols. Older adults’ increased self-reflection, spontaneous essays, and shared resources with the researcher expanded understanding. Older adults’ revisions of this manuscript deepened content exploration.

Discussion and Implications

This article highlights the role of codesign throughout all a study’s phases, where a researcher can work within the hyphen expanding connections with older adults. Their empowerment lets more complex, varied ideas develop.