bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of temperature sensitivity on dead channel junctionless FET for linearity and high frequency applications
Authors: Chaudhary Shalini , Dewan Basudha , Singh Devenderpal , Yadav Menka
Published: November 2024

The operational framework of upcoming electronic devices is under examination to identify substitutes for MOSFETs, aiming to decrease power densities and alleviate constraints on energy efficiency. In this context, we present and examine an innovative structural design approach for double gate Junctionless Field-Effect Transistors (DG-JLFETs). This approach provides benefits in terms of fabrication, performance, and design considerations. The dead channel DG-JLFET (DC-DGJLFET) is the name given to this proposed structure. The term ‘dead channel’ refers to the device’s mid-channel lack of conducting charge carriers caused by the P-type layer and lowers functional channel thickness (

t

Si

) and enhances the device’s figures of merit. Here, the performance indicators of DC-DGJLFET is also analysed for a temperature range of (200 K–450 K) to calculate the radio frequency and linearity performances. Moreover, the suggested device exhibits superior linearity, particularly at elevated temperatures.
Overcoming bandwidth limitations in space-coiled acoustic metamaterials through inclined perforated plate design
Authors: Liu 刘 Jixin 继鑫 , Wu 吴 Fengmin 丰民 , Li 李 Ting 婷 , Wang 王 Junjun 军军 , Zou 邹 Xinye 欣晔 , Zhang 章 Dong 东
Published: November 2024

Traditional space-coiled acoustic metamaterials have been widely used in the fields of low-frequency sound absorption and noise reduction. However, they have limitations in terms of low-frequency absorption bandwidth, and the weak coupling effect under complex coiled structures also limits their applications. In this work, we introduce the composite structure changing the characteristic impedance of acoustic metamaterials to enhance the coupling effect. Meanwhile, the perforated plates with inclined design instead of traditional partitions greatly improve the sound absorption. The model and method designed in this paper show significant innovation in enhancing low-frequency absorption performance.
Fully-relativistic electron Bernstein wave current drive simulations in the STEP spherical tokamak
Authors: Biswas Bodhi , Freethy Simon , Vann Roddy
Published: November 2024

Electron Bernstein waves (EBWs) are theorised to efficiently drive current in spherical tokamak power plants, e.g. Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP). At high temperatures (

T

e

≳
4

keV), relativistic effects can significantly impact wave propagation. This work presents relativistic calculations of EBW wave propagation, damping, and current drive (CD) in a conceptual STEP plasma. Kramers–Kronig relations are exploited to efficiently evaluate the fully-relativistic dispersion relation for arbitrary wave-vectors, leading to a

>

50
×

speed-up compared to previous efforts. CD efficiency is calculated using both linear and quasilinear codes. Thus, for the first time, large parametric scans of fully-relativistic EBW CD simulations are performed through ray-tracing. In STEP, three main classes of rays are identified. The first class propagate deep into the core (ρ < 0.5), but exist only if relativistic effects are accounted for. They damp strongly at the fundamental harmonic on nearly-thermal electrons and thus drive little current. A second class of rays propagate to intermediate depths (

ρ
≈
0.3
−
0.7

) before damping at the 2nd harmonic. Their CD efficiencies are significantly altered due to relativistic changes to trajectory and polarisation. The third class of rays damp strongly far off-axis (ρ > 0.7), predominantly at the second harmonic. These ray trajectories are sufficiently short and ‘cold’ that relativistic effects are unimportant. In linear CD simulations, the optimal launch point corresponds to this third class of rays, suggesting that non-relativistic simulations are adequate. However, quasilinear calculations indicate that, at reactor relevant powers, CD is maximised at ρ ≈ 0.6. This quasilinear optimal point corresponds to the second class of rays, for which relativistic propagation does matter.
Opinion response functions are key to understanding the tipping of social conventions
Authors: Wyse Sarah K , Foxall Eric
Published: November 2024

The extent to which committed minorities can overturn social conventions is an active area of research in the mathematical modeling of opinion dynamics. Researchers generally use simulations of agent-based models (ABMs) to compute approximate values for the minimum committed minority size needed to overturn a social convention. In this manuscript, we expand on previous work by studying an ABM’s mean-field behavior using ordinary differential equation models and a new tool, namely opinion response functions (ORFs). Using this method allows for formal analysis of the deterministic model, which can provide a theoretical explanation for observed behaviors, e.g. coexistence or overturning of opinions. In particular, ORFs are a method for characterizing equilibria in our social model. Our analysis confirms earlier numerical results and supplements them with a precise formula for computing the minimum committed minority size required to overturn a social convention.
Tropical geometry, quantum affine algebras, and scattering amplitudes
Authors: Early Nick , Li Jian-Rong
Published: November 2024

The goal of this paper is to make a connection between tropical geometry, representations of quantum affine algebras, and scattering amplitudes in physics. The connection allows us to study important and difficult questions in these areas:

(1)

We give a systematic construction of prime modules (including prime non-real modules) of quantum affine algebras using tropical geometry. We also introduce new objects which generalize positive tropical Grassmannians.

(2)

We propose a generalization of Grassmannian string integrals in physics, in which the integrand is a product indexed by prime modules of a quantum affine algebra. We give a general formula of u-variables using prime tableaux (corresponding to prime modules of quantum affine algebras of type A) and Auslander–Reiten quivers of Grassmannian cluster categories.

(3)

We study limit g-vectors of cluster algebras. This is another way to obtain prime non-real modules of quantum affine algebras systematically. Using limit g-vectors, we construct new examples of non-real modules of quantum affine algebras.
Vindicating the ‘Mortall God’
Authors: Olsthoorn Johan
Published: November 2024

The goal of Hobbes’s theory of justice was both ambitious and unprecedented: to absolve human rulers from all stains of injustice. Acutely aware of how perceived injuries could stir subjects to revolt, Hobbes argued boldly that nothing the sovereign says or does can be unjust to them. His vindicatory project—or ‘civil theodicy’—extends well beyond political absolutism. Besides stripping sovereign power from all legal constraints, he enclothed it with a mantle of justice. This introductory chapter sketches the outlines of Hobbes’s civil theodicy. What arguments were required to prove that sovereigns can do no wrong, strictly speaking? And which conceptions of justice and injury underpin these arguments? Following a brief map of the book, the concluding section explains and defends the specific methodological choices made. Thin contextualism is favoured over the thick form prevalent among intellectual historians, and thin rational reconstructionism over the thick one long championed by philosophers.
The Comparative Merits of Tort Liability and Its Alternatives
Authors: Abraham Haim
Published: November 2024

This chapter sets out to evaluate and compare the advantages and disadvantages of three mechanisms for redressing losses that are inflicted during war: tort liability, state-operated insurance schemes, and ex gratia payments. Certain factors, such as the length, cost, and location of the redress mechanism, appear to indicate that tort liability is inferior to its alternatives, to a certain extent. Other factors, for example the consistency and transparency of decisions, whether the payment amounts reflect the actual costs of the injuries, the identity of the administrating body, and the ability to correct wrongs, seem to result in the contrary conclusion.

In the particular context of infliction of losses during war, the inadequacies of ex gratia payments and state-operated insurance schemes are sufficiently weighty to question their desirability and effectiveness as the currently used mechanisms of redress. Moreover, although tort liability has its shortcomings, they do not reach the degree that they rule out tort liability completely as a relevant mechanism of redress, and the benefits that arise from tort liability are substantial. Taking away civilians’ ability to bring a claim in tort takes away their power to stand on their rights. The cost of removing this power, coupled with the deficiencies of ex gratia payments and state-operated insurance schemes, is sufficient to support the argument that revisions to the mechanisms of redress are needed.
SpaDiT: diffusion transformer for spatial gene expression prediction using scRNA-seq
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Zhu Fangfang , Min Wenwen
Published: November 2024

The rapid development of spatially resolved transcriptomics (SRT) technologies has provided unprecedented opportunities for exploring the structure of specific organs or tissues. However, these techniques (such as image-based SRT) can achieve single-cell resolution, but can only capture the expression levels of tens to hundreds of genes. Such spatial transcriptomics (ST) data, carrying a large number of undetected genes, have limited its application value. To address the challenge, we develop SpaDiT, a deep learning framework for spatial reconstruction and gene expression prediction using scRNA-seq data. SpaDiT employs scRNA-seq data as an a priori condition and utilizes shared genes between ST and scRNA-seq data as latent representations to construct inputs, thereby facilitating the accurate prediction of gene expression in ST data. SpaDiT enhances the accuracy of spatial gene expression predictions over a variety of spatial transcriptomics datasets. We have demonstrated the effectiveness of SpaDiT by conducting extensive experiments on both seq-based and image-based ST data. We compared SpaDiT with eight highly effective baseline methods and found that our proposed method achieved an 8%–12% improvement in performance across multiple metrics. Source code and all datasets used in this paper are available at https://github.com/wenwenmin/SpaDiT and https://zenodo.org/records/12792074.
Exogenous or in situ vaccination to trigger clinical responses in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Beatty Gregory L , Jaffee Elizabeth M
Published: November 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a lethal disease for which remarkable therapeutic resistance is the norm. Conventional immunotherapies, like immune checkpoint inhibitors, show limited efficacy in PDA due to a remarkably immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and systemic inflammation. This review discusses the potential of both exogenous and in situ vaccination strategies to overcome these barriers and enhance anti-tumor immunity in PDA. Exogenous vaccines, including whole-cell, dendritic cell, peptide, and nucleic acid-based vaccines, have shown varying degrees of promise but face challenges related to antigen selection, production complexities, and patient-specific factors. In contrast, in situ vaccination strategies leverage conventional cytotoxic therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, to induce immunogenic cell death and modulate the TME with the aim to stimulate anti-tumor immunity. While preclinical studies support the use of in situ vaccination, balancing the stimulatory and inhibitory effects is likely fundamental to eliciting productive anti-tumor responses in patients. Ongoing research seeks to identify new innovative strategies that can harness the endogenous immune response and trigger in situ vaccination. Overall, while both vaccination approaches offer significant potential, further research and clinical trials will be needed to optimize these strategies for improving patient outcomes in PDA.
Beyond representation: negotiating realism and the positive impact of media narratives with trans audiences
Authors: Villegas-Simón Isabel , Sánchez-Soriano Juan José , Ventura Rafael
Published: November 2024

The growing presence of trans people in popular culture, including television series, is a well-established fact. However, its broader social impact and particularly consideration of what constitutes a positive representation of the trans community has received little attention from academic literature. This research addresses this gap by focusing on the experiences and interpretations of trans individuals regarding the way they are portrayed in TV series. It does so by conducting a qualitative study of 19 trans Spaniards who participated in two focus groups and nine semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate that the participants view their increased representation as a form of retribution for past under-representation. They also associate positive representation with realism, with two of their primary areas of concern being the need to depict authentic situations and individuals, and lack of involvement of trans people in the creative process. Ultimately, this research highlights the role of television series as amplifiers of trans experiences, voices and stories.
Comparative efficacy of intermittent theta burst stimulation and high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in amnestic mild cognitive impairment patients
Authors: Zheng Wenao , Shi Xian , Chen Ya , Hou Xinle , Yang Zhiyuan , Yao Weina , Lv Tingyu , Bai Feng
Published: November 2024

Intermittent theta burst stimulation, a derivative of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, has been applied to improve cognitive deficits. However, its efficacy and mechanisms in enhancing cognitive function in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment compared with traditional repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation paradigms remain unclear. This study recruited 48 amnestic mild cognitive impairment patients, assigning them to intermittent theta burst stimulation, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, and sham groups (5 times/wk for 4 wk). Neuropsychological assessments and functional magnetic resonance imaging data were collected pre- and post-treatment. Regarding efficacy, both angular gyrus intermittent theta burst stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation significantly improved general cognitive function and memory compared to the sham group, with no significant difference between the 2 treatment groups. Mechanistically, significant changes in brain activity within the temporoparietal network were observed in both the intermittent theta burst stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation groups, and these changes correlated with improvements in general cognitive and memory functions. Additionally, intermittent theta burst stimulation showed stronger modulation of functional connectivity between the hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, and temporal regions compared to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. The intermittent theta burst stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can improve cognitive function in amnestic mild cognitive impairment patients, but intermittent theta burst stimulation may offer higher efficiency. Intermittent theta burst stimulation and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation likely enhance cognitive function, especially memory function, by modulating the temporoparietal network.
A receptor-based assay to study the sweet and bitter tastes of sweeteners and binary sweet blends: the SWEET project
Authors: Belloir Christine , Jeannin Mathilde , Karolkowski Adeline , Scott Corey , Briand Loïc
Published: November 2024

Sweeteners are used in the food industry to provide sweetness similar to sugar and to decrease the caloric intake and risks associated with obesity. However, some sweeteners are characterized by bitter, metallic and other off-tastes. Sensory and cellular studies have demonstrated synergies between sweetener blends, which are responsible for enhancing sweetness. This study aimed to identify new sweetener blends that are able to enhance sweetness intensity without causing bitter off-taste using in vitro functional expression of taste receptors. The dose–response of the sweet taste receptor (TAS1R2/TAS1R3) was determined for sucrose and 9 sweeteners and was consistent with their sweetness potency. Stimulation of TAS1R2/TAS1R3 by 6 binary sweetener blends confirmed 3 known synergies determined by sensory analysis, including sucralose/acesulfame-K, rebaudioside A/erythritol and rebaudioside A/thaumatin, and revealed 2 new synergies, known as, neotame/D-allulose and mogroside V/thaumatin. No synergy was observed for the rebaudioside M/mogroside V blend, probably due to their common binding sites on the sweet taste receptor. The ability of the 9 selected sweeteners to activate the 25 human bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) was tested. The cellular-based assay demonstrated that sucralose, acesulfame-K, rebaudioside A, mogroside V and D-allulose activated at least 2 TAS2Rs. Sucralose, acesulfame-K and rebaudioside A exhibited lower EC50 values for TAS1R2/TAS1R3 than for TAS2Rs, which may explain their absence of bitter off-taste at low concentrations, unlike mogroside V and D-allulose. Our data provide a receptor-based understanding of the complex synergies among sweetener blends and an effective approach for testing new sweeteners while avoiding the activation of TAS2Rs.
Impact of Point-of-Care Birth Test-and-Treat on Clinical Outcomes Among Infants With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Cluster-Randomized Trial in Mozambique and Tanzania
Authors: Jani Ilesh V , Sabi Issa , Elsbernd Kira , Meggi Bindiya , Mahumane Arlete , Lwilla Anange Fred , Pereira Kassia , Boniface Siriel , Edom Raphael , Lequechane Joaquim , Chale Falume , Chiwerengo Nhamo , Ntinginya Nyanda E , Mudenyanga Chishamiso , Mueller Mariana , Rauscher Martina , Hoelscher Michael , Taveira Nuno , Buck W Chris , Kroidl Arne ,   the LIFE Study Consortium, Ellyin Lise , Patricio Araújo , Mutsaka Dadirai , Samuel Lara , Bocharnikov Sergey , Bollinger Timothy , Simbine Wilson , Bakuli Abhishek , Lueer Cornelia , Saathoff Elmar , Zekoll Fidelina , Rieß Friedrich , Geisenberger Otto , Marcelino Rute , Zumba Absalao , Machavae Daniel , Vubil Adolfo , Duajá Ana , Ndarissone Jacinto Adolfo , Manuel Joao , Maviga Maria , Ismael Nalia , Morais Jorge , Mabunda Nedio , Vubil Adolfo , Mecupa Fatima , de Sousa Amina , Kisinda Abisai , Mangu Chacha , Pamba Doreen , Paschal Festina , Mahiga Hellen , Stephen Janeth , Njovu Lilian , Haule Magreth , Lyoba Oliver , Mbunda Theodora , Olomi Willyhelmina
Published: November 2024

Background

We assessed the impact of point-of-care (PoC) test-and-treat at birth on clinical outcomes and viral suppression among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–positive infants in Mozambique and Tanzania.

Methods

This cluster-randomized trial allocated health facilities to intervention, providing PoC testing and antiretroviral treatment (ART) at birth and week 4–8, or control, starting these at week 4–8. The primary outcome was proportions of clinical events (mortality, morbidity, retention, virological failure, toxicity) among HIV-positive infants at month 18. We estimated incidence rate ratios adjusted for timing of HIV detection (aIRR) and reported viral suppression <1000 copies/mL.

Results

Among 6602 neonates enrolled during October 2019–September 2021, 125 were diagnosed with HIV by week 12. In the intervention arm, 38 of 69 (55.1%) were diagnosed at birth. In the control arm, 27 of 56 (48.2%) were retrospectively detected to be HIV-positive at birth, of whom 6 of 56 (10.7%) died or were lost to follow-up before testing. Median age at ART initiation was 6 (intervention) versus 33 days (control). Birth test-and-treat was not associated with a significant reduction in clinical outcomes up to month 18 (53 [76.8%] vs 48 [85.7%]; aIRR, 0.857 [95% confidence interval, .505–1.492]), but showed a 68% relative reduction in 6-month mortality. Viral suppression was poor overall.

Conclusions

PoC test-and-treat at birth is feasible in resource-poor settings and resulted in clinically relevant reduction of early mortality, though improved clinical outcomes were not sustained to month 18. Poor viral suppression may undermine early benefits, calling for better pediatric treatments and adherence interventions.

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT04032522.
Acceptance of Inequality Between Children: Large-Scale Experimental Evidence from China and Norway
Authors: Cappelen Alexander W , Falch Ranveig , Huang Zhongjing , Tungodden Bertil
Published: November 2024

In a novel large-scale experiment, we study how adults in two societies, Shanghai (China) and Norway, make real distributive decisions involving children. We find that acceptance of inequality between children increases with the ages of the children, is affected by the source of inequality and the cost of redistribution, and is lower than acceptance of inequality between adults. We document a large cross-societal difference in inequality acceptance: adults in Shanghai implement twice as much inequality between children compared with adults in Norway. Finally, we show that the willingness to accept inequality between children is predictive of attitudes to child policies.
Pregnancy in obese women and mechanisms of increased cardiovascular risk in offspring
Authors: Cochrane Anna L K , Murphy Michael P , Ozanne Susan E , Giussani Dino A
Published: November 2024

Pregnancy complicated by maternal obesity contributes to an increased cardiovascular risk in offspring, which is increasingly concerning as the rates of obesity and cardiovascular disease are higher than ever before and still growing. There has been much research in humans and preclinical animal models to understand the impact of maternal obesity on offspring health. This review summarizes what is known about the offspring cardiovascular phenotype, describing a mechanistic role for oxidative stress, metabolic inflexibility, and mitochondrial dysfunction in mediating these impairments. It also discusses the impact of secondary postnatal insults, which may reveal latent cardiovascular deficits that originated in utero. Finally, current interventional efforts and gaps of knowledge to limit the developmental origins of cardiovascular dysfunction in offspring of obese pregnancy are highlighted.
Anatomical-guided third-generation laser balloon ablation for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation assessed by continuous rhythm monitoring: results from a multicentre prospective study
Authors: Ciconte Giuseppe , Schiavone Marco , Rovaris Giovanni , Salerno Raffaele , Giaccardi Marzia , Montemerlo Elisabetta , Gasperetti Alessio , Piazzi Elena , Negro Gabriele , Cartei Stella , Rondine Roberto , Boccellino Antonio , Mitacchione Gianfranco , Pozzi Mattia , Casiraghi Mirko , De Ceglia Sergio , Arosio Roberto , Calovic Zarko , Vicedomini Gabriele , Forleo Giovanni B , Pappone Carlo
Published: November 2024

Aims

The third-generation laser balloon (LB3) is an established ablation device for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) that allows direct visualization of the anatomical target. Equipped with an automatic circumferential laser delivery modality, it aims at continuous circumferential PVI, improving both acute and clinical outcomes. We sought to evaluate the clinical efficacy of LB3 ablation using an anatomical-based approach without verifying electrical isolation.

Methods and results

Among 257 paroxysmal AF patients undergoing LB3 ablation across four Italian centres, 204 (72% male, mean age 60.4 ± 11.1 years) were included. The primary endpoint was freedom from any atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATa) recurrence after the blanking period (BP), assessed with implantable cardiac monitors (ICMs). All pulmonary veins (PVs) were targeted using the LB3, with the RAPID mode used on an average of 96 ± 8, 86 ± 19, 98 ± 11, and 84 ± 15% for the left superior, left inferior, right superior, right inferior PV, and left common ostium, respectively. Freedom from arrhythmia recurrences was 84.8% at 1, 80.4% at 2, and 76.0% at 3 years. An ATa burden ≥ 5% was documented in 2.5, 4.4, and 5.4% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. Relapses during the BP [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.182, P = 0.032] and left atrial dilation (HR = 1.964, P = 0.048) were independent predictors of recurrences.

Conclusion

Anatomical-guided LB3 ablation for paroxysmal AF is a safe and effective approach, providing excellent clinical outcomes as assessed by ICM over nearly 3 years of follow-up.
Employment in low-skilled jobs as trigger and consequence of poor health—a longitudinal perspective from Germany
Authors: Kaboth Arthur , Hünefeld Lena , Himmelreicher Ralf
Published: November 2024

Despite evidence of correlations between low-skilled jobs and poor health, the longitudinal perspective on this research topic has been neglected in Germany for decades. Therefore, we investigate (i) the causal relationship between accumulated employment in low- or medium-skilled jobs on self-rated health and (ii) the selective association of self-rated health on transitions from medium- to low-skilled jobs. About 26 313 dependent employees and persons aged 25–50 from 2010 to 2020 in the German Socio-Economic Panel were included. Linear fixed-effects models were used to analyse the impact of accumulated employment in low- or medium-skilled jobs on self-rated health. Linear probability models with fixed effects were calculated to identify the effect of self-rated health on transitions between low- and medium-skilled jobs. Accumulated employment in low-skilled jobs impacts self-rated health significantly. There is no confirmation for accumulated employment in medium-skilled jobs concerning health. Poor self-rated health increases the probability of transitioning from medium- to low-skilled jobs but does not impact the reverse transition. Poor self-rated health can push employees into low-skilled jobs. Against the background of extended working lives and preserving the labour force potential, there is a need for action and research concerning employees in low-skilled jobs.
Unveiling detoxifying symbiosis and dietary influence on the Southern green shield bug microbiota
Authors: Rogowska-van der Molen Magda A , Savova Hristina V , Janssen Elke A T , van Alen Theo , Coolen Silvia , Jansen Robert S , Welte Cornelia U
Published: November 2024

The Southern green shield bug, Nezara viridula, is an invasive piercing and sucking pest insect that feeds on crops and poses a threat to global food production. Insects live in close relationships with microorganisms providing their host with unique capabilities, such as resistance to toxic plant metabolites. In this study, we investigated the resistance to and detoxification of the plant metabolite 3-nitropropionic acid (NPA) by core and transient members of the N. viridula microbial community. Microbial community members showed a different tolerance to the toxin and we determined that six out of eight strains detoxified NPA. Additionally, we determined that NPA might interfere with the biosynthesis and transport of l-leucine. Moreover, our study explored the influence of diet on the gut microbial composition of N. viridula, demonstrating that switching to a single-plant diet shifts the abundance of core microbes. In line with this, testing pairwise microbial interactions revealed that core microbiota members support each other and repress the growth of transient microorganisms. With this work, we provide novel insights into the factors shaping the insect gut microbial communities and demonstrate that N. viridula harbours many toxin-degrading bacteria that could support its resistance to plant defences.
Particle-attached bacterial communities are more susceptible to seasonal environmental fluctuations in mesotrophic than eutrophic tropical reservoirs
Authors: Xiao Jingyi , Hao Sijia , Xiao Li-Juan , Yang Yang , Wu Qinglong L , He Dan , Zhou Lijun , Hu Ren , Ren Lijuan
Published: November 2024

Particle-attached bacterial (PAB) communities play pivotal roles in water organic matter decomposition, nutrient cycling, and the natural self-purification processes. However, we know little about their responses to seasonal environmental fluctuations, under eutrophication in reservoir ecosystems. In this study, we studied the shifts of PAB communities to seasonal environmental fluctuations in tropical China. Trophic state index (TSI) indicated that the studied reservoirs ranged from mesotrophic to eutrophic state with a gradual increase in TSI from 31 to 58. In eutrophic reservoirs, Cyanobacteria, especially Raphidiopsis raciborskii, significantly increased in its relative abundance from wet to dry season, but Synechococcales and Microcystaceae decreased. In contrast, the relative abundance of Clostridia, Bacilli, Coriobacteriia, Enterobacteriales, and Vibrionales were more susceptible to seasonal environmental fluctuations in mesotrophic than eutrophic reservoirs. PAB co-occurrence relationships in mesotrophic reservoirs varied more greatly in response to seasonal environmental fluctuations, compared with eutrophic reservoirs, in terms of topological properties of connectedness, average degree, robustness and vulnerability. Our results further demonstrated that the seasonal stability of PAB co-occurrence relationships was strongly correlative with TSI through mediating key bacterial taxa and community biodiversity. We proposed that eutrophication dramatically reduced the seasonal variation of PAB community compositions and co-occurring relationships in reservoir ecosystems.
A single mutation G454A in the P450 CYP9K1 drives pyrethroid resistance in the major malaria vector Anopheles funestus reducing bed net efficacy
Authors: Djoko Tagne Carlos S , Kouamo Mersimine F M , Tchouakui Magellan , Muhammad Abdullahi , Mugenzi Leon J L , Tatchou-Nebangwa Nelly M T , Thiomela Riccado F , Gadji Mahamat , Wondji Murielle J , Hearn Jack , Desire Mbouobda H , Ibrahim Sulaiman S , Wondji Charles S
Published: November 2024

Metabolic mechanisms conferring pyrethroid resistance in malaria vectors are jeopardizing the effectiveness of insecticide-based interventions, and identification of their markers is a key requirement for robust resistance management. Here, using a field-lab-field approach, we demonstrated that a single mutation G454A in the P450 CYP9K1 is driving pyrethroid resistance in the major malaria vector Anopheles funestus in East and Central Africa. Drastic reduction in CYP9K1 diversity was observed in Ugandan samples collected in 2014, with the selection of a predominant haplotype (G454A mutation at 90%), which was completely absent in the other African regions. However, 6 years later (2020) the Ugandan 454A-CYP9K1 haplotype was found predominant in Cameroon (84.6%), but absent in Malawi (Southern Africa) and Ghana (West Africa). Comparative in vitro heterologous expression and metabolism assays revealed that the mutant 454A-CYP9K1 (R) allele significantly metabolizes more type II pyrethroid (deltamethrin) compared with the wild G454-CYP9K1 (S) allele. Transgenic Drosophila melanogaster flies expressing 454A-CYP9K1 (R) allele exhibited significantly higher type I and II pyrethroids resistance compared to flies expressing the wild G454-CYP9K1 (S) allele. Furthermore, laboratory testing and field experimental hut trials in Cameroon demonstrated that mosquitoes harboring the resistant 454A-CYP9K1 allele significantly survived pyrethroids exposure (odds ratio = 567, P < 0.0001). This study highlights the rapid spread of pyrethroid-resistant CYP9K1 allele, under directional selection in East and Central Africa, contributing to reduced bed net efficacy. The newly designed DNA-based assay here will add to the toolbox of resistance monitoring and improving its management strategies.
Multidomain finite-difference and Chebyshev pseudospectral hybrid method for elastic wave simulation: two-dimensional case
Authors: Sun Wenliang , Zhang Wei , Wang Wenqiang , Chen Xiaofei
Published: November 2024

Efficient and accurate seismic wave simulations are important for waveform inversion and strong ground motion simulation in regions with complex surface topography. The finite-difference method (FDM) is widely used for these simulations due to its simplicity and high efficiency. High-order FDM mitigates dispersion and dissipation errors through higher-order schemes, allowing the use of larger grid spacings and increasing efficiency. However, achieving a high-order and stable implementation of the free surface boundary condition remains challenging. To address this, this paper introduces a novel multidomain finite-difference and Chebyshev pseudospectral hybrid method (multidomain FDM/PSM) for elastic wave modeling. This method divides the computational domain into multiple subdomains along the vertical direction, employing characteristic boundary conditions for patching subdomains and implementing the free surface boundary condition. Within each subdomain, a high-order finite-difference scheme is applied horizontally, complemented by a Chebyshev pseudospectral scheme based on Chebyshev-Gauss-Lobatto (CGL) points in the vertical direction. To prevent excessive point density at mesh edges and avoid overly small time steps, we only use grid configurations with 13 or less CGL points. Using a hybrid approach that integrates a 13-point central stencil finite-difference scheme with a 9-point Chebyshev pseudospectral scheme, we achieve waveform errors under 0.5% while requiring only four points per wavelength. Numerical examples demonstrate that the multidomain FDM/PSM effectively simulates the propagation of elastic waves in models with complex structures and topography. While the current study focuses on two-dimensional (2D) problems, the method can be readily extended to three-dimensional (3D) problems.
2-[18F]F-p-Aminobenzoic Acid Specifically Detects Infective Endocarditis in Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Schulte Johannes , Maurer Andreas , Domogalla Lisa-Charlotte , Steinacker Nils , Wadle Carolin , Kinzler Johannes , Eder Matthias , von zur Mühlen Constantin , Krohn-Grimberghe Marvin , Eder Ann-Christin
Published: November 2024

Background

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a life-threatening disease with high mortality, particularly when caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S aureus). Traditional diagnosis relies on clinical assessment, blood cultures, and imaging (eg, echocardiography) but lacks methods for direct bacterial detection on the endothelium. Positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography is emerging as valuable in unclear IE cases. This study evaluates 2-[18F]F-p-aminobenzoic acid (2-[18F]F-PABA), a bacteria-specific PET tracer, for detecting IE.

Methods

In vitro assays measured 2-[18F]F-PABA uptake by S aureus, distinguishing living bacteria from dead cells. A mouse model of IE provided proof-of-concept PET/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data for diagnosing IE. Additionally, a subcutaneous abscess model with larger bacterial vegetations was used to enhance imaging of bacterial uptake.

Results

2-[18F]F-PABA uptake by S aureus was confirmed in vitro, with accumulation limited to living bacteria and varying across strains. In vivo, 2-[18F]F-PABA PET/MRI successfully visualized IE in mice. In the subcutaneous abscess model, the tracer effectively localized S aureus vegetations, emphasizing its potential in detecting bacterial foci.

Conclusions

This study highlights the potential of 2-[18F]F-PABA PET imaging for direct visualization of IE. Future research may further investigate its diagnostic performance in larger models, aiming toward clinical application as a precise, pathogen-specific imaging tool for managing IE.
Vertebral fracture prevalence and risk factors for fracture in The Gambia, West Africa: the Gambian Bone and Muscle Ageing Study
Authors: Ward Kate A , Jarjou Landing , Pearse Camille , Breasail Mícheál Ó , Janha Ramatoulie E , Zengin Ayse , Prentice Ann , Crabtree Nicola J
Published: November 2024

There are limited data describing the epidemiology of vertebral fractures (VF) from resource-limited settings, where the aging population is growing most rapidly. We aimed to determine the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors for VF in The Gambia, West Africa. The Gambian Bone and Muscle Ageing Study is a prospective observational study in men and women aged 40 yr and over. Rural participants had baseline measurements and plasma samples collected and were followed up 6-8 yr later; urban participants had a single measurement. DXA scans were obtained to assess areal BMD (aBMD), body composition, and VF. Prevalence and incidence were calculated. Risk factors for prevalent and incident fractures were tested using logistic regression, in men and women separately, with and without adjustment for age and BMI. At baseline, 581 individuals (298 women) had useable scans, 214 (127 women) at follow-up. Prevalence of VF was 14.8%. Those with VF were older (65.6(11.2) vs 61.7(12.3) yr, p = .01) and had lower aBMD Z-scores. For example, in women, a 1 SD increase in femoral neck Z-score resulted in a lower risk of having a prevalent VF (OR [95% CI]) 0.51 [0.38, 0.73]. In men, lumbar spine Z-scores were predictive of prevalent fracture (0.71 [0.53, 0.97]). The incidence of VF over follow-up was 12.1%. Low BMD and grip strength were associated with the odds of having an incident VF. Given the importance of prevalent VF in predicting future VF and other fragility fractures in other populations, our findings are a major cause for concern. VF prevalence in Gambian older adults is similar to elsewhere, despite fractures not being a perceived issue. Risk factors were like those identified elsewhere, including age, aBMD, and bone resorption. Understanding the impact of these fractures is important in a region where the health of the aging population needs to be prioritized.
Moral rights in Australia: a case law retrospective—Part 1
Authors: Bond Catherine
Published: November 2024

It has been 25 years since Australia formalized its moral rights regime, amending Part IX of the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) to include three moral rights: the right of attribution of authorship, the right not to have authorship falsely attributed and the right of integrity. This two-part series provides a retrospective of case law on these rights in Australia, focusing on 14 cases between 2006 and 2024 where the applicant claimed a breach of one or more moral rights. It adopts a thematic approach, considering, among other issues, where copyright and moral rights proceedings have been commenced together; the courts that have heard these matters; where cases have not been able to proceed, for example, where the allegedly infringing act occurred outside Australia; interpretation of the rights; and the division between cases where damages have been awarded, or the judge has declined to award damages for a breach of moral rights. This part introduces the Australian moral rights regime, the interaction between copyright and moral rights law, the courts, applicants and where cases with moral rights claims have been unable to proceed.
Handling missing data in longitudinal clinical trials: three examples from the pediatric psychology literature
Authors: Peugh James , Mara Constance
Published: November 2024

Researchers by default tend to choose complex models when analyzing nonindependent response variable data, this may be particularly applicable in the analysis of longitudinal trial data, possibly due to the ability of such models to easily address missing data by default. Both maximum-likelihood (ML) estimation and multiple imputation (MI) are well-known to be acceptable methods for handling missing data, but much of the recently published quantitative literature has addressed questions regarding the research designs and circumstances under which one should be chosen over the other. The purpose of this article is threefold. First, to clearly define the assumptions underlying three common longitudinal trial data analysis models for continuous dependent variable data: repeated measures analysis of covariance (RM-ANCOVA), generalized estimating equation (GEE), and a longitudinal linear mixed model (LLMM). Second, to clarify when ML or MI should be chosen, and to introduce researchers to an easy-to-use, empirically well-validated, and freely available missing data multiple imputation program: BLIMP. Third, to show how missing longitudinal trial data can be handled in the three data analysis models using three popular statistical analysis software packages (SPSS, Stata, and R) while keeping the published quantitative research in mind.
Psidium guajava leaves extract alters colonic microbiome composition and reduces intestinal sodium absorption in rats exposed to a high-sodium diet
Authors: de Assis Braga Daiane Cristina , Carlos Batista Marcos Adriano , Guerra-Sá Renata , Alves da Silva Thayane Christine , Carneiro Marco Antônio Alves , da Silva Lanna Maria Célia , Azevedo Vasco Ariston , de Oliveira Carvalho Rodrigo Dias , Souza Gustavo Henrique Bianco de , Antunes Vagner Roberto , Aparecida Lima de Moura Sandra , Ceron Carla Speroni , Cardoso Leonardo Máximo
Published: November 2024

Objectives

High sodium intake is a major risk factor for hypertension and renal diseases. Previous studies have shown that a suspension of ethanolic extract of Psidium guajava (guava) leaves (PsE) has antihypertensive effects in rats on a high-sodium diet (HSD), but some mechanisms to that remain unexplored. This study explored whether oral PsE treatment affects sodium handling by the intestine and alters the gut microbiome in HSD-fed rats.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: standard salt diet (SSD) and HSD (0.9% Na+), from weaning. After 12 weeks, both groups received PsE (200 mg/kg) or a vehicle for an additional 4 weeks.

Key findings

Sodium excretion was measured using flame photometry, and sodium absorption was assessed by intestinal perfusion technique. The gut microbiome was analysed through 16S ribosomal gene sequencing. HSD increased faecal sodium, further elevated by PsE, which inhibited intestinal sodium absorption in HSD rats. HSD altered the abundance of specific bacterial families, which PsE partially reversed. No changes in alpha diversity were noted among groups.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that PsE inhibited intestinal sodium handling and that PsE, combined with increased faecal sodium, may reshape the gut microbiome of HSD rats to resemble that of SSD rats.
Privacy in European, Civil, and Common Law
Authors: Rowe Samuel
Published: November 2024

Chapter 3 explains the influence of international law on the development and scope of privacy law in England and Wales and examines the scope of privacy protections in other jurisdictions. Following an introduction in Section A, Section B identifies the United Kingdom’s international privacy obligations in the United Nations, the European Union, the Council of Europe, and the European Convention on Human Rights (‘ECHR’). This section provides a detailed examination of the scope of privacy protection afforded by Article 8 ECHR. Section C provides an overview of privacy protection in other common law and mixed jurisdictions, namely, the United States, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and South Africa. The concluding section, Section D, considers the civil law privacy protections in Scotland, Germany, and France.
Misuse of Private Information
Authors: Moreham N A , Phillips Jane , Strong Chloe , Rowe Samuel
Published: November 2024

This chapter provides a detailed analysis of the tort of misuse of private information (MoPI). Section B introduces the chapter with an overview of this cause of action that examines its origins, nature and development, and essential elements. Section C addresses the question of whether information is private and sets out the circumstances that give rise to a reasonable expectation of privacy under English law with reference to the relevant factors. Section D considers the situations where there will not be a reasonable expectation of privacy, which include information within ‘non-private categories’, information in the public domain, and information relating to one’s own wrongdoing. Section E provides brief consideration of the court’s approach to the question of when interference with an individual’s reasonable expectation of privacy may be justified, and the rights of third parties (a fuller discussion of defences to MoPI is set out in Chapter 11: Defences).
Harassment By Publication
Authors: Moreham N A , Browne Luke
Published: November 2024

Chapter 6 sets out the principles of harassment by publication under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 (PHA 1997). Section B considers the requirements for establishing liability for harassment under the PHA 1997, and the available statutory defences. In Section C, specific types of harassment by publication are addressed in detail, namely: newspaper articles, campaigns of vilification, publication of intimate images, blackmail and other threats to publish private and/or defamatory material, letters, and harassment of public servants and officials. Section D provides an outline of damages for harassment; and the chapter concludes with a brief consideration of harassment under section 4A of the Public Order Act 1986.
Practice and Procedure
Authors: Speker Adam , Page Adrienne , Callus Greg , Santos Julian
Published: November 2024

This chapter offers a detailed overview of procedural issues at play in privacy cases. It addresses four key questions: who may claim, what causes of action are available, where may claims be brought, and how do claims typically progress. After the introduction in Section A, Section B provides a summary of matters which advisors should consider when first approached about potential privacy breaches. Section C discusses who may sue and be sued, including discussion of children as claimants, the deceased, non-natural persons, and the identification of (unknown) defendants. Section D looks at private international law, briefly comparing the key heads of claim relied on in privacy cases, before discussing applicable law. In Section E examines where privacy claims may be brought, looking at both common law jurisdictional rules based on valid service and the Brussels-Lugano regime (and the impact of Brexit upon it). Finally, Section F examines in some detail the procedural matters which arise at every stage of a privacy hearing, from an interim injunctions to appeal. A wide range of topics are covered including including anonymizing proceedings, interim non-disclosure orders, case management, and duties of full and frank disclosure.
Investigating the extinction and magnetic field geometry in the Bok globule CB26
Authors: Paul R S , Halder P , Das H S , Mazarbhuiya A M , Medhi B J
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the extinction properties, dust distribution, and magnetic field characteristics of the CB26 cloud. Extinction mapping, derived from near-infrared photometry, reveals a good correlation with the dust distribution, as traced by Herschel1SPIRE 500 $\mu\mathrm{ m}$ data, indicating a close link between dust and extinction. The derived column density estimates align with previous Herschel studies. Our optical polarization observations of CB26 reveal a well-aligned magnetic field in the cloud’s low-density envelope, closely following the Galactic plane. In contrast, our reanalysis of archival submillimetre polarization data of CB26 suggests a distinct magnetic field orientation within the cloud core. The offset angle between the core and Galactic magnetic fields is approximately 90$^\circ$, suggesting a decoupling of the core’s magnetic field from the large-scale Galactic field. A relationship is found between polarization rate and distance for 24 field stars in CB26, suggesting that most of the polarization is contributed by dust within 600 pc along the line of sight.