bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing high-performance polyaniline @MoS2@AC hybrid electrode for electrochemical–based Next-generation battery-supercapacitor hybrid energy storage device and hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Alsaiari Mabkhoot , Imran Muhammad , Afzal Amir Muhammad , Mumtaz Sohail , Algethami Jari S , Harraz Farid A
Published: February 2024

Polyaniline (PANI), a conducting polymer, has attracted the attention of researchers as a potential candidate due to its higher capacitance and outstanding electrochemical reversibility. In this research, we used the hydrothermal approach to synthesize MoS2@PANI hybrid electrode material that may overcome the low cyclic stability of PANI. The composite material MoS2/PANI (with M/P-25/75 wt%) demonstrated a specific capacity (Qs) with the amount 1087.5 C g−1 or 1812.5 F/g, much more advanced than reference samples due to the hybrid structural integrity and enhancement of the specific surface area of MoS2 and PANI interaction through electrostatic repulsion and hydrogen bonding. The asymmetric device (MoS2/PANI-25/75wt%//AC) demonstrated an extraordinary value of a Qs of 361 C g−1 over pure PANI. This novel supercapattery device showed a supreme high energy density of 65.33 Wh kg−1 and a power density of 1668.83 W/kg. Further, the hybrid electrode is used for the hydrogen evolution reactions and obtained the value of over potential is 43 mV. A small value of the Tafel slope of 39 mV/dec is observed with high stability. The improved energy storage capabilities of MoS2/PANI hybrid electrodes with multiple applications provide a new paragon to design unusual and fast multi-functional devices.
Dark Matter Direct Detection in 𝗍-channel mediator models
Authors: Arcadi Giorgio , Cabo-Almeida David , Mescia Federico , Virto Javier
Published: February 2024

We perform a comprehensive study of the Direct Detection phenomenology of singlet Dark Matter t-channel portal models.
For that purpose, we present a complete one-loop matching onto a Heavy Dark-Matter Effective Field Theory, leading to a complete computation of the loop induced Direct Detection cross-section
for both scalar and fermionic Dark Matter candidates.
The results are compared with current and future bounds from Direct Detection experiments, as well as with the requirement of the correct Dark Matter relic density.
Stability analysis of a time-delayed Van der Pol–Helmholtz–Duffing oscillator in fractal space with a non-perturbative approach
Authors: El-Dib Yusry O
Published: February 2024

The time-delayed fractal Van der Pol–Helmholtz–Duffing (VPHD) oscillator is the subject of this paper, which explores its mechanisms and highlights its stability analysis. While time-delayed technologies are currently garnering significant attention, the focus of this research remains crucially relevant. A non-perturbative approach is employed to refine and set the stage for the system under scrutiny. The innovative methodologies introduced yield an equivalent linear differential equation, mirroring the inherent nonlinearities of the system. Notably, the incorporation of quadratic nonlinearity into the frequency formula represents a cutting-edge advancement. The analytical solution’s validity is corroborated using a numerical approach. Stability conditions are ascertained through the residual Galerkin method. Intriguingly, it is observed that the delay parameter, in the context of the fractal system, reverses its stabilizing influence, impacting both the amplitude of delayed velocity and the position. The analytical solution’s precision is underscored by its close alignment with numerical results. Furthermore, the study reveals that fractal characteristics emulate damping behaviors. Given its applicability across diverse nonlinear dynamical systems, this non-perturbative approach emerges as a promising avenue for future research.
Strong field ionization of molecules on the surface of nanosystems
Authors: Qu 曲 Qiwen 棋文 , Sun 孙 Fenghao 烽豪 , Wang 王 Jiawei 佳伟 , Gao 高 Jian 健 , Li 李 Hui 辉 , Wu 吴 Jian 健
Published: February 2024

Besides the diverse investigations on the interactions between intense laser fields and molecular systems, extensive research has been recently dedicated to exploring the response of nanosystems excited by well-tailored femtosecond laser fields. Due to the fact that nanostructures hold peculiar effects when illuminated by laser pulses, the underlying mechanisms and the corresponding potential applications can make significant improvements in both fundamental research and development of novel techniques. In this review, we provide a summarization of the strong field ionization occurring on the surface of nanosystems. The molecules attached to the nanoparticle surface perform as the precursor in the ionization and excitation of the whole nanosystem, the fundamental processes of which are yet to be discovered. We discuss the influence on nanoparticle constituents, geometric shapes and sizes, as well as the specific waveforms of the excitation laser fields. The intriguing characteristics observed in surface ion emission reflect how enhanced near field affects the localized ionizations and nanoplasma expansions, thereby paving the way for further precision controls on the light-and-matter interactions in the extreme spatial temporal levels.
The local persistence length of semi-flexible self-avoiding walks on the square lattice
Authors: Živić I , Elezović-Hadžić S
Published: February 2024

By applying the pruned-enriched Rosenbluth Monte Carlo simulation method, we have studied the local persistence length of semi-flexible linear polymers presented by self-avoiding walks (SAWs) on the square lattice, where the stiffness property is characterised by the weight s assigned to each bend of the walk. In this model, the local persistence length

λ
N

(
k
)

of N-step SAWs is formulated as an ensemble average of the projection of the end-to-end position vector onto the oriented kth step of the SAW path. We have found that the persistence length

λ
N

(
k
)

(
s
)

decreases with s and increases with k and N. Regarding the chain position parameter k, we have scrutinised two particular cases: the first case is when k has a constant (fixed) value, independent of the chain length, and the second one is the situation when k is comparable with the SAW length

k
∼
N

. For fixed k, we have learnt that in the limit

N
→
∞

, the persistence length

λ
N

(
k
)

(
s
)

tends towards a constant value

λ

p

(
k
)

(
s
)

behaving as

k

1

/

2

. In the other analysed case

k
∼
N

, in the same limit,

λ
N

(
k
)

(
s
)

diverges as N

ϕ
, with

φ
=
1

/

2

. We have also examined the dependence of the studied quantity on s and discussed our results in the context of previous findings and predictions related to the persistence length behaviour of SAWs in Euclidean spaces.
Fault tolerance evaluation study of a RISC-V microprocessor for HEP applications
Authors: Walsemann A. , Karagounis M. , Stanitzki A. , Tutsch D.
Published: February 2024

The utilization of a radiation-hard microprocessor or a System-on-Chip (SoC) design
methodology significantly benefits the future design of ASICs for HEP experiments. To evaluate the
fault tolerance of a radiation-hard design, it is important to obtain detailed information on the
soft error rate and contributing factors. This article presents a simulation-based approach to
investigate the effects of faults induced by single event transients in a microprocessor based on
the open RISC-V instruction set architecture.
Design, characterization and installation of the NEXT-100 cathode and electroluminescence regions
Authors: Mistry K. , Rogers L. , Jones B.J.P. , Munson B. , Norman L. , Oliver D. , Pingulkar S. , Rodriguez-Tiscareno M. , Silva K. , Stogsdill K. , Adams C. , Almazán H. , Álvarez V. , Aparicio B. , Aranburu A.I. , Arazi L. , Arnquist I.J. , Auria-Luna F. , Ayet S. , Azevedo C.D.R. , Bailey K. , Ballester F. , del Barrio-Torregrosa M. , Bayo A. , Benlloch-Rodríguez J.M. , Borges F.I.G.M. , Brodolin A. , Byrnes N. , Cárcel S. , Castillo A. , Cebrián S. , Church E. , Cid L. , Conde C.A.N. , Contreras T. , Cossío F.P. , Dey E. , Díaz G. , Dickel T. , Echevarria C. , Elorza M. , Escada J. , Esteve R. , Felkai R. , Fernandes L.M.P. , Ferrario P. , Ferreira A.L. , Foss F.W. , Freitas E.D.C. , Freixa Z. , Gómez-Cadenas J.J. , González R. , Grocott J.W.R. , Guenette R. , Hafidi K. , Hauptman J. , Henriques C.A.O. , Hernando Morata J.A. , Herrero-Gómez P. , Herrero V. , Hervés Carrete C. , Ifergan Y. , Larizgoitia L. , Larumbe A. , Lebrun P. , Lopez F. , López-March N. , Madigan R. , Mano R.D.P. , Marques A.P. , Martín-Albo J. , Martínez-Lema G. , Martínez-Vara M. , Meziani Z.E. , Miller R.L. , Molina-Canteras J. , Monrabal F. , Monteiro C.M.B. , Mora F.J. , Navarro K.E. , Novella P. , Nuñez A. , Nygren D.R. , Oblak E. , Palacio J. , Palmeiro B. , Para A. , Parmaksiz I. , Pelegrin J. , Pérez Maneiro M. , Querol M. , Redwine A.B. , Renner J. , Rivilla I. , Rogero C. , Romeo B. , Romo-Luque C. , Santos F.P. , dos Santos J.M.F. , Seemann M. , Shomroni I. , Simón A. , Soleti S.R. , Sorel M. , Soto-Oton J. , Teixeira J.M.R. , Toledo J.F. , Torrent J. , Trettin A. , Usón A. , Veloso J.F.C.A. , Waiton J. , Yubero A. ,   The NEXT collaboration
Published: February 2024

NEXT-100 is currently being constructed at the Laboratorio
Subterráneo de Canfranc in the Spanish Pyrenees and will search
for neutrinoless double beta decay using a high-pressure gaseous
time projection chamber (TPC) with 100 kg of xenon. Charge
amplification is carried out via electroluminescence (EL) which is
the process of accelerating electrons in a high electric field
region causing secondary scintillation of the medium proportional to
the initial charge. The NEXT-100 EL and cathode regions are made
from tensioned hexagonal meshes of 1 m diameter. This paper
describes the design, characterization, and installation of these
parts for NEXT-100. Simulations of the electric field are performed
to model the drift and amplification of ionization electrons
produced in the detector under various EL region alignments and
rotations. Measurements of the electrostatic breakdown voltage in
air characterize performance under high voltage conditions and
identify breakdown points. The electrostatic deflection of the mesh
is quantified and fit to a first-principles mechanical model.
Measurements were performed with both a standalone test EL region
and with the NEXT-100 EL region before its installation in the
detector. Finally, we describe the parts as installed in NEXT-100,
following their deployment in Summer 2023.
Animal–robot interaction—an emerging field at the intersection of biology and robotics
Authors: Romano Donato , Porfiri Maurizio , Zahadat Payam , Schmickl Thomas
Published: February 2024

The field of animal–robot and organism–robot interaction systems (ARIS, ORIS) is a currently rapidly emerging field in biorobotics. In this special issue we aim for providing a comprehensive overview of the cutting-edge advancements and pioneering breakthroughs within this scientific and engineering discipline. Therefore, we collected scientific articles that delineate and expound upon the complexity of these remarkable biohybrid systems. These configurations stand as engineered conduits, facilitating the accurate investigation and profound exploration of the multifaceted interactions between robotic devices and biological entities, including various fish species, honeybees and plants. Also the human factor plays a role in this collection, as we also include a philosophical perspective on such systems as well as an augmented reality setup that brings humans into the loop with living fish. Within our editorial purview, we categorize the scientific contributions based on their focal points, differentiating between examinations of singular agent-to-agent interactions, extensions to the social stratum, and further expansions to the intricate levels of swarm dynamics, colonies, populations, and ecosystems. Considering potential applications, we delve into the multifaceted domains wherein these biohybrid systems might be applied. This discourse culminates in a tentative glimpse into the future trajectories these technologies might traverse, elucidating their promising prospects for both scientific advancement and societal enrichment. In sum, this special issue aims at facilitating the convergence of diverse insights, at encapsulating the richness of the ARIS and ORIS domain, and at charting a course toward the untapped prospects lying at the nexus of biology and robotics.
Organic-inorganic biohybrid films from wool-keratin/jellyfish-collagen/silica/boron via sol-gel reactions for soft tissue engineering applications
Authors: Yildiz Safiye Nur , Sezgin Arslan Tugba , Arslan Yavuz Emre
Published: February 2024

Therapeutic angiogenesis is pivotal in creating effective tissue-engineered constructs that deliver nutrients and oxygen to surrounding cells. Hence, biomaterials that promote angiogenesis can enhance the efficacy of various medical treatments, encompassing tissue engineering, wound healing, and drug delivery systems. Considering these, we propose a rapid method for producing composite silicon-boron-wool keratin/jellyfish collagen (Si-B-WK/JFC) inorganic-organic biohybrid films using sol-gel reactions. In this approach, reactive tetraethyl orthosilicate and boric acid (pKa ⩾ 9.24) were used as silicon and boron sources, respectively, and a solid-state gel was formed through the condensation reaction of these reactive groups with the keratin/collagen mixture. Once the resulting gel was thoroughly suspended in water, the films were prepared by a casting/solvent evaporation methodology. The fabricated hybrid films were characterized structurally and mechanically. In addition, angiogenic characteristics were determined by the in ovo chick chorioallantoic membrane assay, which revealed an increased vascular network within the Si-B-WK/JFC biohybrid films. In conclusion, it is believed that Si-B-WK/JFC biohybrid films with mechanical and pro-angiogenic properties have the potential to be possessed in soft tissue engineering applications, especially wound healing.
Hydrological regimes and evaporative flux partitioning at the climatic ends of high mountain Asia
Authors: Fugger S , Shaw T E , Jouberton A , Miles E S , Buri P , McCarthy M , Fyffe C , Fatichi S , Kneib M , Molnar Peter , Pellicciotti F
Published: February 2024

High elevation headwater catchments are complex hydrological systems that seasonally buffer water and release it in the form of snow and ice melt, modulating downstream runoff regimes and water availability. In High Mountain Asia (HMA), where a wide range of climates from semi-arid to monsoonal exist, the importance of the cryospheric contributions to the water budget varies with the amount and seasonal distribution of precipitation. Losses due to evapotranspiration and sublimation are to date largely unquantified components of the water budget in such catchments, although they can be comparable in magnitude to glacier melt contributions to streamflow. Here, we simulate the hydrology of three high elevation headwater catchments in distinct climates in HMA over 10 years using an ecohydrological model geared towards high-mountain areas including snow and glaciers, forced with reanalysis data. Our results show that evapotranspiration and sublimation together are most important at the semi-arid site, Kyzylsu, on the northernmost slopes of the Pamir mountain range. Here, the evaporative loss amounts to 28% of the water throughput, which we define as the total water added to, or removed from the water balance within a year. In comparison, evaporative losses are 19% at the Central Himalayan site Langtang and 13% at the wettest site, 24 K, on the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau. At the three sites, respectively, sublimation removes 15%, 13% and 6% of snowfall, while evapotranspiration removes the equivalent of 76%, 28% and 19% of rainfall. In absolute terms, and across a comparable elevation range, the highest ET flux is 413 mm yr−1 at 24 K, while the highest sublimation flux is 91 mm yr−1 at Kyzylsu. During warm and dry years, glacier melt was found to only partially compensate for the annual supply deficit.
Air quality and urban climate improvements in the world’s most populated region during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Damiani Alessandro , Irie Hitoshi , Belikov Dmitry , Cordero Raul R , Feron Sarah , Ishizaki Noriko N
Published: February 2024

In this study, we assessed air quality (AQ) and urban climate during the mobility restrictions implemented in the Greater Tokyo Area, Japan, the world’s most populated region, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Observations from dense surface networks were analyzed using an interpretable machine learning approach. In parallel with a ∼50% reduction in mobility and an altered lifestyle of the population, we found limited reductions in nitrogen dioxide; decreases in fine particulate matter not entirely driven by local mobility; minor variations in ozone, with a positive (negative) tendency in areas with high (low) emissions; a decrease in air temperature consistent with mobility; and pollution levels and air temperature changes with well-defined, common spatiotemporal patterns. Specifically, cooling mainly occurred in urbanized areas with an improved AQ. Overall, although reductions in mobility were moderately effective in improving the typical indicators of urban AQ, including those known to negatively impact human health, the reductions in waste heat had a stronger impact on Tokyo’s urban heat island, suggestive of a strategy to minimize exposure to heat stress. These findings can help guide urban planning strategies and policies aimed at addressing climate change.
Existence of a symmetric bipodal phase in the edge-triangle model
Authors: Neeman Joe , Radin Charles , Sadun Lorenzo
Published: February 2024

In the edge-triangle model with edge density close to 1/2 and triangle density below 1/8 we prove that the unique entropy-maximizing graphon is symmetric bipodal. We also prove that, for any edge density e less than

e
0

=
(
3
−

3

)

/

6
≈
0.2113

and triangle density slightly less than e
3, the entropy-maximizing graphon is not symmetric bipodal. We also discuss the implications for an old idea of Landau for using symmetry to give an intrinsic difference between solid and fluid phases of matter.
BMP-2-immobilized PCL 3D printing scaffold with a leaf-stacked structure as a physically and biologically activated bone graft
Authors: Kim Min Ji , Park Jin-Ho , Seok Ji Min , Jung Jiwoon , Hwang Tae Sung , Lee Hee-Chun , Lee Jin Ho , Park Su A , Byun June-Ho , Oh Se Heang
Published: February 2024

Although three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques are used to mimic macro- and micro-structures as well as multi-structural human tissues in tissue engineering, efficient target tissue regeneration requires bioactive 3D printing scaffolds. In this study, we developed a bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2)-immobilized polycaprolactone (PCL) 3D printing scaffold with leaf-stacked structure (LSS) (3D-PLSS-BMP) as a bioactive patient-tailored bone graft. The unique LSS was introduced on the strand surface of the scaffold via heating/cooling in tetraglycol without significant deterioration in physical properties. The BMP-2 adsorbed on 3D-PLSS-BMP was continuously released from LSS over a period of 32 d. The LSS can be a microtopographical cue for improved focal cell adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. In vitro cell culture and in vivo animal studies demonstrated the biological (bioactive BMP-2) and physical (microrough structure) mechanisms of 3D-PLSS-BMP for accelerated bone regeneration. Thus, bioactive molecule-immobilized 3D printing scaffold with LSS represents a promising physically and biologically activated bone graft as well as an advanced tool for widespread application in clinical and research fields.
Unlocking the strength: the predictions of silicon carbide fracture toughness revealed through data-driven approach
Authors: Xu Jun , Zhu Xiemeng , Liu Qiang , Du Shiyu , Zhang Yiming
Published: February 2024

Silicon carbide ceramics are widely used within various applications, including mechanical, chemical, aerospace and military; where the fracture toughness plays a crucial role. From the processing perspectives, the fracture toughness is controlled by the combination of starting phases and sintering conditions (including additives, atmosphere, temperature and pressure). However, the interplay of these factors makes the forward predictions of fracture toughness untreatable neither through experimentation nor physical modeling; not mention to the reverse estimations of optimal processing parameters. In this work, a data-driven strategy was proposed that firstly to predict the fracture toughness from processing parameters; and then to explore certain parameters that have large impacts on the fracture toughness. From running four different machine learning (ML) algorithms on a well-established dataset of SiC sintering recipe, it was found that the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model possess the best performance with accuracy up to 88%. Further, the feature importance scores revealed that the sintering temperature and the types of sintering additives show their significant influence on fracture toughness. It was found that the sintering temperature is the most critical factor affecting the obtained fracture toughness of SiC, where the optimum temperature range is of 1800 °C–2000 °C; and also, the sintering additives of Al and Al2O3 have great influences on the obtained fracture toughness, where the optimum range of their mass fraction within the whole additives is 3–8 wt%. Finally, the developed model shows its capability to propose sintering strategy for the preparation of SiC ceramics with target fracture toughness.
Determination of the P

rp
and radial dose correction factor in reference dosimetry
Authors: Das Indra J , Dogan Serpil K , Gopalakrishnan Mahesh
Published: February 2024

Objectives. In an addendum to AAPM TG-51 protocol, McEwen et al, (DOI: 10.1118/1.4866223) introduced a new factor P

rp
to account for the radial dose distribution of the photon beam over the detector volume mainly in flattening filter free (FFF) beams. P

rp
and its extension to non-FFF beam reference dosimetry is investigated to see its impact in a clinical situation. Approches. The P

rp
was measured using simplified version of Sudhyadhom et al (DOI: 10.1118/1.4941691) for Elekta and Varian FFF beams with two commonly used calibration detectors; PTW-30013 and Exradin-A12 ion chambers after acquiring high resolution profiles in detectors cardinal coordinates. For radial dose correction factor, the ion chambers were placed in a small water phantom and the central axis position was set to center of the sensitive volume on the treatment table and was studied by rotating the table by 15-degree interval from −90 to +90 degrees with respect to the initial (zero) position. Main results. The magnitude of P

rp
varies very little with machine, detector and beam energies to a value of 1.003 ± 0.0005 and 1.005 ± 0.0005 for 6FFF and 10FFF, respectively. The radial anisotropy for the Elekta machine with Exradin-A12 and PTW-30013 detector the magnitudes are in the range of (0.9995±0.0011 to 1.0015±0.0010) and (0.9998±0.0007 to 1.0015±0.0010), respectively. Similarly, for the Varian machine with Exradin-A12 and PTW-30013 ion chambers, the magnitudes are in the range of (1.0004±0.0010 to 1.0018±0.0018) and (1.0006±0.0009 to 1.0027±0.0007), respectively. Significance. The P

rp
is ≤ 0.3% and 0.5% for 6FFF and 10FFF, respectively. The radial dose correction factor in regular beams also does not impact the dosimetry where the maximum magnitude is ±0.2% which is within experimental uncertainty.
A deep patient-similarity learning framework for the assessment of diastolic dysfunction in elderly patients
Authors: Shah Rohan , Tokodi Marton , Jamthikar Ankush , Bhatti Sabha , Akhabue Ehimare , Casaclang-Verzosa Grace , Yanamala Naveena , Sengupta Partho P
Published: February 2024

Aims

Age-related changes in cardiac structure and function are well recognized and make the clinical determination of abnormal left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) particularly challenging in the elderly. We investigated whether a deep neural network (DeepNN) model of LVDD, previously validated in a younger cohort, can be implemented in an older population to predict incident heart failure (HF).

Methods and results

A previously developed DeepNN was tested on 5596 older participants (66–90 years; 57% female; 20% Black) from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. The association of DeepNN predictions with HF or all-cause death for the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Stage A/B (n = 4054) and Stage C/D (n = 1542) subgroups was assessed. The DeepNN-predicted high-risk compared with the low-risk phenogroup demonstrated an increased incidence of HF and death for both Stage A/B and Stage C/D (log-rank P < 0.0001 for all). In multi-variable analyses, the high-risk phenogroup remained an independent predictor of HF and death in both Stages A/B {adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval (CI)] 6.52 [4.20–10.13] and 2.21 [1.68–2.91], both P < 0.0001} and Stage C/D [6.51 (4.06–10.44) and 1.03 (1.00–1.06), both P < 0.0001], respectively. In addition, DeepNN showed incremental value over the 2016 American Society of Echocardiography/European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (ASE/EACVI) guidelines [net re-classification index, 0.5 (CI 0.4–0.6), P < 0.001; C-statistic improvement, DeepNN (0.76) vs. ASE/EACVI (0.70), P < 0.001] overall and maintained across stage groups.

Conclusion

Despite training with a younger cohort, a deep patient-similarity–based learning framework for assessing LVDD provides a robust prediction of all-cause death and incident HF for older patients.
Patient journey mapping: emerging methods for understanding and improving patient experiences of health systems and services
Authors: Bulto Lemma N , Davies Ellen , Kelly Janet , Hendriks Jeroen M
Published: February 2024

Patient journey mapping is an emerging field of research that uses various methods to map and report evidence relating to patient experiences and interactions with healthcare providers, services, and systems. This research often involves the development of visual, narrative, and descriptive maps or tables, which describe patient journeys and transitions into, through, and out of health services. This methods corner paper presents an overview of how patient journey mapping has been conducted within the health sector, providing cardiovascular examples. It introduces six key steps for conducting patient journey mapping and describes the opportunities and benefits of using patient journey mapping and future implications of using this approach.
Hitting the (bio)mark part 1: selecting and measuring biomarkers in cardiovascular research
Authors: Daelman Bo , Butts Brittany , Denfeld Quin E
Published: February 2024

Cardiovascular studies, including nursing research, frequently integrate biomarkers for diagnostic, prognostic, monitoring, and therapeutic insights. However, effective utilization of biomarker data demands careful consideration. In the study design phase, researchers must select biomarkers that align with study objectives while considering resources and logistical factors. Additionally, a nuanced understanding of disease pathophysiology and biomarker characteristics is needed. During data collection, suitable experimental conditions and assays need to be defined. Whether researchers opt to manage these steps internally or outsource some, a comprehensive understanding of biomarker selection and experiments remains crucial. In this article, part 1 of 2, we provide an overview of considerations for the design to measurement phases of biomarker studies.
Taking charge of your health: enabling patient empowerment in cardiovascular care
Authors: Acuña Mora Mariela , Bratt Ewa-Lena , Saarijärvi Markus
Published: February 2024

Guidelines and consensus in cardiovascular care in recent years have called for patients to be more involved in their care, which can be achieved by becoming more empowered. Yet, there is little clarity on how healthcare professionals can help the patients achieve this goal. The present paper defines patient empowerment, its benefits, and the different strategies that can be used in healthcare to empower them. Moreover, potential barriers in the empowering process are also discussed.
Genetic association of lipid-lowering drugs with aortic aneurysms: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Gao Xiong , Luo Wei , Qu Liyuan , Yang Miaomiao , Chen Siyu , Lei Li , Yan Shaohua , Liang Hongbin , Zhang Xinlu , Xiao Min , Liao Yulin , Lee Alex Pui-Wai , Zhou Zhongjiang , Chen Jiejian , Zhang Qiuxia , Wang Yuegang , Xiu Jiancheng
Published: February 2024

Aims

The lack of effective pharmacotherapies for aortic aneurysms (AA) is a persistent clinical challenge. Lipid metabolism plays an essential role in AA. However, the impact of lipid-lowering drugs on AA remains controversial. The study aimed to investigate the genetic association between lipid-lowering drugs and AA.

Methods and results

Our research used publicly available data on genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) studies. Genetic instruments, specifically eQTLs related to drug-target genes and SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) located near or within the drug-target loci associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), have been served as proxies for lipid-lowering medications. Drug-Target Mendelian Randomization (MR) study is used to determine the causal association between lipid-lowering drugs and different types of AA. The MR analysis revealed that higher expression of HMGCR (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase) was associated with increased risk of AA (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.20–2.09, P = 1.20 × 10−03) and larger lumen size (aortic maximum area: OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.13–1.46, P = 1.48 × 10−04; aortic minimum area: OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.21–1.42, P = 1.78 × 10−04). PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) and CETP (cholesteryl ester transfer protein) show a suggestive relationship with AA (PCSK9: OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.10–1.63, P = 3.07 × 10−03; CETP: OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.06–1.80, P = 1.47 × 10−02). No evidence to support genetically mediated NPC1L1 (Niemann–Pick C1-Like 1) and LDLR (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol receptor) are associated with AA.

Conclusion

This study provides causal evidence for the genetic association between lipid-lowering drugs and AA. Higher gene expression of HMGCR, PCSK9, and CETP increases AA risk. Furthermore, HMGCR inhibitors may link with smaller aortic lumen size.
The Impact of Patterns in Linkage Disequilibrium and Sequencing Quality on the Imprint of Balancing Selection
Authors: Hayeck Tristan J , Li Yang , Mosbruger Timothy L , Bradfield Jonathan P , Gleason Adam G , Damianos George , Shaw Grace Tzun-Wen , Duke Jamie L , Conlin Laura K , Turner Tychele N , Fernández-Viña Marcelo A , Sarmady Mahdi , Monos Dimitri S
Published: February 2024

Regions under balancing selection are characterized by dense polymorphisms and multiple persistent haplotypes, along with other sequence complexities. Successful identification of these patterns depends on both the statistical approach and the quality of sequencing. To address this challenge, at first, a new statistical method called LD-ABF was developed, employing efficient Bayesian techniques to effectively test for balancing selection. LD-ABF demonstrated the most robust detection of selection in a variety of simulation scenarios, compared against a range of existing tests/tools (Tajima's D, HKA, Dng, BetaScan, and BalLerMix). Furthermore, the impact of the quality of sequencing on detection of balancing selection was explored, as well, using: (i) SNP genotyping and exome data, (ii) targeted high-resolution HLA genotyping (IHIW), and (iii) whole-genome long-read sequencing data (Pangenome). In the analysis of SNP genotyping and exome data, we identified known targets and 38 new selection signatures in genes not previously linked to balancing selection. To further investigate the impact of sequencing quality on detection of balancing selection, a detailed investigation of the MHC was performed with high-resolution HLA typing data. Higher quality sequencing revealed the HLA-DQ genes consistently demonstrated strong selection signatures otherwise not observed from the sparser SNP array and exome data. The HLA-DQ selection signature was also replicated in the Pangenome samples using considerably less samples but, with high-quality long-read sequence data. The improved statistical method, coupled with higher quality sequencing, leads to more consistent identification of selection and enhanced localization of variants under selection, particularly in complex regions.
The Addis Ababa Lions: Whole-Genome Sequencing of a Rare and Precious Population
Authors: Barazandeh Marjan , Kriti Divya , Fickel Jörns , Nislow Corey
Published: February 2024

Lions are widely known as charismatic predators that once roamed across the globe, but their populations have been greatly affected by environmental factors and human activities over the last 150 yr. Of particular interest is the Addis Ababa lion population, which has been maintained in captivity at around 20 individuals for over 75 yr, while many wild African lion populations have become extinct. In order to understand the molecular features of this unique population, we conducted a whole-genome sequencing study on 15 Addis Ababa lions and detected 4.5 million distinct genomic variants compared with the reference African lion genome. Using functional annotation, we identified several genes with mutations that potentially impact various traits such as mane color, body size, reproduction, gastrointestinal functions, cardiovascular processes, and sensory perception. These findings offer valuable insights into the genetics of this threatened lion population.
CpG Island Definition and Methylation Mapping of the T2T-YAO Genome
Authors: Xiao Ming , Wei Rui , Yu Jun , Gao Chujie , Yang Fengyi , Zhang Le
Published: February 2024

Precisely defining and mapping all cytosine (C) positions and their clusters, known as CpG islands (CGIs), as well as their methylation status, are pivotal for genome-wide epigenetic studies, especially when population-centric reference genomes are ready for timely application. Here, we first align the two high-quality reference genomes, T2T-YAO and T2T-CHM13, from different ethnic backgrounds in a base-by-base fashion and compute their genome-wide density-defined and position-defined CGIs. Second, by mapping some representative genome-wide methylation data from selected organs onto the two genomes, we find that there are about 4.7%–5.8% sequence divergency of variable categories depending on quality cutoffs. Genes among the divergent sequences are mostly associated with neurological functions. Moreover, CGIs associated with the divergent sequences are significantly different with respect to CpG density and observed CpG/expected CpG (O/E) ratio between the two genomes. Finally, we find that the T2T-YAO genome not only has a greater CpG coverage than that of the T2T-CHM13 genome when whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) data from the European and American populations are mapped to each reference, but also shows more hyper-methylated CpG sites as compared to the T2T-CHM13 genome. Our study suggests that future genome-wide epigenetic studies of the Chinese populations rely on both acquisition of high-quality methylation data and subsequent precision CGI mapping based on the Chinese T2T reference.
Quantifying gender disparities and bias online: editors’ introduction to “Gender Gaps in Digital Spaces” special issue
Authors: Horvát Emőke-Ágnes , González-Bailón Sandra
Published: February 2024

This special issue collects studies about how gender divides manifest in digital environments, spanning online repositories, social media, and AI-powered technologies. Computational research helps in assessing the nature and prevalence of gender divides: Identifying differences and bias requires defining benchmarks, systematic departures, and overall incidence. This collection showcases evidence uncovered quantitatively and illustrates how such evidence can advance theoretical understanding of gender dynamics as socially constructed phenomena. Social interactions and discursive practices are shaped by the technologies we use to communicate, work, and organize. These technologies shape, in turn, how we perceive and reinforce gender stereotypes. In this editors‘ note, we discuss how the seven articles included in the special issue unpack communicative processes in the context of various online environments, disentangling gendered dynamics from the use of digital technologies. Ultimately, our goal is to energize a research agenda that requires continued work as technologies morph and evolve in unprecedented directions.
NewickTreeModifier: A simple web tool to prune and modify Newick trees
Authors: Ogoniak Lynn , Steffen Raphael , Grundmann Norbert , Stöver Ben , Müller Kai , Schmitz Jürgen
Published: February 2024

Large-scale selection analyses of protein-coding sequences and phylogenetic tree reconstructions require suitable trees in Newick format. We developed the NewickTreeModifier (NTM), a simple web-based tool to trim and modify Newick trees for such analyses. The users can choose provided master trees or upload a tree to prune it to selected species available in FASTA, NEXUS, or PHYLIP sequence format with an internal converter, a simple species list, or directly determined from a checklist interface of the master trees. Plant, insect, and vertebrate master trees comprise the maximum number of species in an up-to-date phylogenetic order directly transferable to the pruned Newick outfile. NTM is available at https://retrogenomics.uni-muenster.de/tools/ntm.
Exploring the Role of Religious Actors in Generating Respect for the Laws of War: A Common Article 1 Perspective
Authors: Massingham Eve , McRuvie Kirsty
Published: February 2024

In addition to religious personnel, who are directly involved in armed conflict, religious actors, as key actors in our community, have a significant role in respecting and ensuring respect for the laws of war. They are, both in and outside conflict, powerful agents for promoting international humanitarian law awareness and compliance, and ultimately, they can contribute to conditions that ensure greater respect for international humanitarian law. By virtue of their positions, they may have a direct opportunity to influence the positive or negative behaviour of members of the armed forces in their compliance of IHL; communicate directly with those affected by conflict; or be present within the diaspora of a community who are directly affected by the conflict. Other religious actors, spatially and temporally removed from the conflict, will have a role in the broader community conversation around ensuring respect for the law in armed conflict, without having specific linkages to any particular conflict. Through these different roles, religious actors have great leverage to use their influence for humanitarian ends. This role must be both encouraged by, and facilitated by, the State. In this way religious personnel, and religious actors more broadly, can contribute to reducing the humanitarian impacts of the global crisis of armed conflict.
Active vibration control of functionally graded material plates integrated with piezoelectric layers using new Q9ɤ approach
Authors: Malha Nougal , Tiberkak Rachid , Ezzraimi Madjid , Lazar Mohamed Essedik , Attaf Brahim
Published: February 2024

A new efficient approach has been developed to simulate the free vibration, static, dynamic response and active control of functionally graded material (FGM) plates with integrated piezoelectric layers. This approach reinforces the standard first-order shear deformation theory by introducing a novel shear strain fields, alleviating the problem of shear locking, especially in the analysis of thin structures. These new fields accurately predict the shear strain fields, satisfying both compatibility and equilibrium equations while requiring less mesh refinement. Furthermore, this current approach provides higher performance and precision in analysing FGM structures. Additionally, a feedback control system has been implemented using either total piezoelectric layers or partial covering (patch) as actuators and sensors in both static bending control and dynamic vibration control analysis. The present work strengthens the basic techniques for further research in finite element analysis across a broader spectrum of materials and applications.
Linguistic annotation of cuneiform texts using treebanks and deep learning
Authors: Ong Matthew , Gordin Shai
Published: February 2024

We describe an efficient pipeline for morpho-syntactically annotating an ancient language corpus which takes advantage of bootstrapping techniques. This pipeline is designed for ancient language scholars looking to jump-start their own treebank projects, which can in turn serve further pedagogical research projects in the target language. We situate our work in the field of similar ancient language treebank projects, arguing that our approach shows that individual humanities scholars can leverage current machine-learning tools to produce their own richly annotated corpora. We illustrate this pipeline by producing a new Akkadian-language treebank based on two volumes from the online editions of the State Archives of Assyria project hosted on Oracc, as well as a spaCy language model named AkkParser trained on that treebank. Both of these are made publicly available for annotating other Akkadian corpora. In addition, we discuss linguistic issues particular to the Neo-Assyrian letter corpus and data-encoding complications of cuneiform texts in Oracc. The strategies, language models, and processing scripts we developed to handle both linguistic and data-encoding issues in this project will be of special interest to scholars seeking to develop their own cuneiform treebanks.
Does Everyone See the Same Thing?
Authors: Goldstein Naomi E. S. , Serico Jennifer M. , Haney-Caron Emily , Giallella Christy L. , Kalbeitzer Rachel , Zelechoski Amanda D. , Riggs Romaine Christina L. , Kemp Kathleen
Published: February 2024

This chapter covers Session 4 of the Juvenile Justice Anger Management (JJAM) Treatment for Girls. In this session participants learn that situations can be viewed from different perspectives, and the way that each girl sees the situation may influence the way she thinks and feels about it. The session activities include reviewing the previous session, a perspective-taking activity, and a “motive in a hat” game. A cognitive restructuring activity introduces the concept of reframing thoughts to change feelings and behavior while also reinforcing the idea that different interpretations of situations can lead to different emotional and behavioral reactions. The chapter provides the instructions and materials needed to facilitate the session.
Introduction to Problem-Solving
Authors: Goldstein Naomi E. S. , Serico Jennifer M. , Haney-Caron Emily , Giallella Christy L. , Kalbeitzer Rachel , Zelechoski Amanda D. , Riggs Romaine Christina L. , Kemp Kathleen
Published: February 2024

This chapter covers Session 11 of the Juvenile Justice Anger Management (JJAM) Treatment for Girls. In this session the group participants learn about the steps involved in solving a problem. The girls put together all the anger management skills they have learned so far and practice using them in a calm situation or situations where they feel anger or arousal. The facilitators review the steps of social problem-solving, beginning with identifying that a problem exists and ending with a consideration of possible consequences. The facilitators guide the girls in applying these problem-solving steps to their lives and recent events. The chapter includes the materials and script needed for the session activities.
Can I Be a Star?
Authors: Goldstein Naomi E. S. , Serico Jennifer M. , Haney-Caron Emily , Giallella Christy L. , Kalbeitzer Rachel , Zelechoski Amanda D. , Riggs Romaine Christina L. , Kemp Kathleen
Published: February 2024

This chapter covers Session 15 of the Juvenile Justice Anger Management (JJAM) Treatment for Girls. In this session the participants create an anger management play. The play’s purpose is to provide the girls with a creative outlet to practice using the coping skills they have learned and to make these skills more memorable and accessible in the future. The facilitators encourage the girls to come up with ideas of problems and anger-provoking situations that they can incorporate into the plot of the play. The facilitators also help the girls to develop the script and support the participation and creativity of the participants. The chapter highlights the importance of the girls organizing the ideas for the play themselves.
Dress Rehearsal and Play
Authors: Goldstein Naomi E. S. , Serico Jennifer M. , Haney-Caron Emily , Giallella Christy L. , Kalbeitzer Rachel , Zelechoski Amanda D. , Riggs Romaine Christina L. , Kemp Kathleen
Published: February 2024

This chapter covers the final session of the Juvenile Justice Anger Management (JJAM) Treatment for Girls. In this session the participants rehearse and then perform their play in front of a live audience. The purpose of the play is to provide the girls with a creative outlet to practice using the coping skills they have learned and to make these skills more memorable and accessible for future use. Performing the play also gives the girls an opportunity to share what they learned during the entire JJAM program. The play will be performed for a group of staff and participants (depending on the facility’s rules, the availability of staff and residents, and the facilitator’s judgment). The program concludes by presenting the girls with certificates of completion.
Is Anger Normal?
Authors: Goldstein Naomi E. S. , Serico Jennifer M. , Haney-Caron Emily , Giallella Christy L. , Kalbeitzer Rachel , Zelechoski Amanda D. , Riggs Romaine Christina L. , Kemp Kathleen
Published: February 2024

This chapter contains the facilitator materials for Session 1 of the Juvenile Justice Anger Management (JJAM) Treatment for Girls. This session focuses on the introduction, getting to know each other, and developing trust among the participants. The catch phrase for the session is “Building trust is a must.” Goal sheets will be distributed to the girls to encourage them to practice the skills they learned in the session and to use them in real-life situations. However, the use of goal sheets will start with the second session. The chapter also lists the session’s activities, which include people bingo ice breakers, role-play, and setting the ground rules.
Recognition of Anger
Authors: Goldstein Naomi E. S. , Serico Jennifer M. , Haney-Caron Emily , Giallella Christy L. , Kalbeitzer Rachel , Zelechoski Amanda D. , Riggs Romaine Christina L. , Kemp Kathleen
Published: February 2024

This chapter provides the facilitator materials for Session 5 of the Juvenile Justice Anger Management (JJAM) Treatment for Girls. This session is about recognizing anger. The session primarily aims to teach the girls about the different physical reactions people have when they get angry. The girls are encouraged to think about how their bodies react to anger by identifying body parts where they can feel themselves getting angry, referred to as hot spots. The session’s catch phrase is “Getting angry is a clue that there’s something you need to do.” The goal sheet addresses the girls’ need to pay attention to how their bodies react to anger by identifying body parts where they can feel themselves getting angry.