bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quelques données sur la composition floristique et la diversité des peuplements forestiers de Guyane française
Authors: Sabatier Daniel , Prévost Marie-Françoise
Published: February 2025

Malgré les travaux scientifiques menés depuis plusieurs siècles, et accélérés depuis une dizaine d'années, on estime que 10 % des espèces d'arbres des forêts de Guyane n'ont pas encore été décrites. La phytosociologie est encore moins avancée que la botanique arboricole.L'auteur estime à 68 le nombre de familles et à plus de 1 050 le nombre d'espèces forestières en Guyane. La répartition géographique des espèces est précisée et les raisons des variations de la forêt dans l'espace sont envisagées.Les concepts architecturaux élaborés par OLDEMAN (1974) sont évoqués ; ils rendent compte de la sylvigenèse et de la répartition en mosaïque des peuplements, rendue encore plus complexe par les conditions édaphiques et sans doute climatiques ; les abattis n'ont encore été que partiellement étudiés.
Concepts communs à l'analyse des processus de dynamique et de succession
Authors: Lescure Jean Paul , De Foresta Hubert , Riéra Bernard
Published: February 2025

Les espèces pionnières constituent une fleur, un potentiel végétatif et germinatif. Grâce à leurs graines à longue dormance, elles sont souvent disséminées par les chauves-souris ou les oiseaux ; la moitié de leur stock est composée de Cecropia ; la composition de l'autre moitié varie fortement en fonction de nombreux facteurs.
The Study of Fishing Port Networks to Support Buffer Areas in IKN
Authors: Putri Destyariani Liana , Wirawan Muhammad Khaisar , Huda Abiyani Chairul , Aldovani Ardian Audi , Natasya Della
Published: February 2025

East Kalimantan Province is a region in Indonesia where the mining and quarrying industry is still the main sector that influences the regional economy and Indonesia as a whole. However, local governments hast to make efforts to encourage other economic sectors to avoid a decline in economic growth which is influenced by fluctuations in world market prices. For example, the agricultural sector, including fisheries, is the most important potential commodity in East Kalimantan. The development of fishing ports in the coastal areas of East Kalimantan is very important as a center for local economic activities and also as a place to maintain the sustainability of fish resources. Apart from that, with the progress of the development of the New Capital City of Indonesia (IKN) in the Balikpapan and North Penajam Paser areas, it is important to review the function of the port as supporting water transportation connectivity in the IKN.
Additional Records of Macroscopic Fungi at IPB University Campus Forest and Their Potential Use
Authors: Karepesina Sedek , Putri Kurniawati Purwaka , Rumondang Amandita Lintang , Putra Ivan Permana
Published: February 2025

Fungi are heterotrophic organisms and become decomposers in various types of environments. In Indonesia, fungi have a high level of diversity, but not all of them have been properly identified. The type of ecosystem that can grow mushrooms includes forests, due to high levels of humidity so fungi can easily adapt. The IPB Campus Forest is an area planted with various types of trees with the aim of being a conservation and protection area for flora and fauna. IPB forests have various types of higher plants, ferns, undergrowth, and various types of fungi (microscopic and macroscopic). This research aimed to increase information on the diversity of mushroom types in the IPB Campus Forest to serve as a basis for their use in the future. Fungal exploration was carried out using the random roaming method. Fruiting bodies were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic characters, then isolated on PDA media. This research confirmed the occurrence of 3 types of fungi, namely Lentinus arcularius, Pycnoporus sanguineus, and Marasmius sp. All three are members of the phylum Basidiomycota. L. arcularius is found on wooden twigs, has a brown pileus with white edges, a smooth surface and serrated edges, a concave pileus, transparent and oval-shaped spores, hyphae aerial, colony white to cream from upper view. P. sanguineus grows on a substrate of dead tree branches that have fallen to the ground, the basidiomata are red mixed with orange and almost semi-circular in shape, the edge of the cap is rounded and flat with a yellowish color, the pseudostipe is directly attached to the substrate, the hymenophore is pore-shaped with a red and orange color, overlapping and pigmented hyphae, colony radial, hyphae aerial, colony white from upper view. Marasmius sp. grows gregariously in the litter, the pileus is shaped like an inverted bowl and is orange in color, the edges of the cap are flat with small-serrated cap margins, the hymenophore is in the form of lamellae with an adnexed attachment, the hyphae are club-shaped with the sterigma shaped like a root, the colonies are cream, the surface is smooth. All fungi from this study have the potential to be used as medicinal ingredients and sources of other secondary metabolites. The results of this research add to data regarding the diversity of fungi in Indonesia and can be used as literature for subsequent research. Further works should consider not only the diversity but also the bioprospection potency of wild mushroom.
The Impact of Halal Supply Chain Implementation on The Purchase Intention of Cosmetics Among Generation Z Customers
Authors: Dharmapatni Made Ranjani , Tansy Argya Fauziah , Barges Zetira , Nursabila Nursabila , Yordan Vainzela Dwi Amanda , Sukarno Iwan , Vikaliana Resista
Published: February 2025

The development of the cosmetics industry in Indonesia has shown growth in line with changes in lifestyle, particularly among the younger generation. As a generation that has grown up with broad access to technology and information, Gen Z possesses a heightened awareness of the composition and production processes of the cosmetic products they use, including the halal label, which is one of the main preferences for Muslim consumers. The implementation of a halal supply chain is an effort to ensure the halal integrity of the products used. Unfortunately, just a few studies have explored the factors driving Gen Z's purchase interest in cosmetic products that adopt a halal supply chain.This study aims to explore and gain deeper insights into these factors so that various stakeholders involved can determine appropriate strategies to meet these needs. Various variables and indicators were employed in this research using the Structural Equation Model Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) model to identify the factors that most influence Gen Z's purchase interest in cosmetic products adopting a halal supply chain.The results of the study indicate that, after the variables of packaging and halal labeling, the product storage variable becomes the most influential factor in Gen Z's purchase interest. Therefore, greater attention is needed to ensure the implementation and quality of this variable within the halal cosmetics supply chain.
Zodia (Evodia suaveolens) Leaves as Natural Mosquito Repellent Material: Effectiveness Test of Distillation Methods
Authors: Sumalyani Aisyah , Ma'mun Sholeh , Riyanto Riyanto
Published: February 2025

Indonesia has around 40 types of plants with essential oil content from a total of around 150 types of essential oils traded in the international market. Essential oils are produced from various parts of aromatic plants such as fruits, seeds, leaves, flowers, roots, stems, bark, and even the entire tree. One of the plants that contains and has the potential to produce essential oils is the zodia (Evodia suaveolens), especially the leaves. Evodone is one of the active compounds contained in the essential oil of zodia leaves which has the ability as a mosquito repellent. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of hydrodistillation, steam-hydrodistillation, and steam distillation in terms of yield, physical properties, and active insecticide compound content. A total of 1000 g of fresh zodia leaves were put into a distillation kettle either boiled, steamed, or in direct contact with steam for three hours at 100 °C and atmospheric pressure. The remaining water content in the essential oil from the distillate was then absorbed with Na2SO4. Furthermore, the water-free essential oil was tested for its physical properties consisting of density, optical rotation, refractive index, and color tests, and then its chemical composition was analyzed using GC-MS. The results showed that the yield for hydrodistillation, steam-hydrodistillation, and steam distillation were 0.37%; 0.43%; and 0.31%, respectively. From the optical rotation test, the essential oil from steam distillation had the lowest value indicating the highest level of purity compared to the other two methods. This is in accordance with the density and refractive index data, where the essential oil from steam distillation had the highest value, where the color was darker. Meanwhile, based on the results of GC-MS analysis, the highest active insecticide compound in the form of evodone was obtained from steam-hydrodistillation (14.25%), followed by hydrodistillation (7.62%), and steam distillation (4.81%).
Phytoplankton and Water Environment Conditions in the Noe Meto River
Authors: Priyambodo Hernur Yoga , Santiari Made
Published: February 2025

This research aims to determine the structure of the phytoplankton community and the values of chemical and physical water parameters in the Noe Meto river. This research was carried out using purposive sampling by paying attention to sampling stations in places used by local people to wash clothes or motorbikes. A total of 3 research stations had water samples taken to analyze the type of phytoplankton in the laboratory. Meanwhile, environmental factors such as pH and temperature are carried out in situ. The research results showed that the existing phytoplankton community had an abundance value of 6-328 ind/L, a diversity index value of between 1.698-2.200, a uniformity index value of 0.708-0885 and a dominance index value of between 0.128-0.242. All of the phytoplankton species found were from the Bacillariophyceae class. The water temperature values of the Noe Meto River from the three stations range from 29.67oC-31oC and the pH value of the water is 7 or neutral. Based on existing data, it shows that the phytoplankton in the Noe Meto river is experiencing environmental pressure in the moderate category.
Comparative Analysis of Earthquake Resistant Building Structure Design Planning Using Artificial Intellegence and SAP2000 Methods
Authors: Nofiana Tiara , Asmuni Asmuni , Cahyadi Cahyadi , Suzanti Wiwien , Islamawan Arip
Published: February 2025

Earthquakes are natural phenomena that often occur in Indonesia, even Indonesia is one of the countries with the highest earthquake frequency in the world, there have been several major earthquakes that have caused infrastructure damage and claimed many victims. This study aims to determine the design of earthquake-resistant building structures, the results of the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in design of earthquake-resistant building structures, and its advantages and disadvantages. The core principle of earthquake-resistant buildings is high ductility, allowing them to absorb earthquake energy and avoid collapse despite deformation. This research employs a comparative method, evaluating AI against conventional methods like SAP2000 in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and practicality in designing earthquake-resistant structures. The analysis reveals minimal differences, with a 0.016% variance in calculations between AI and SAP2000, which has a negligible impact on factors like mass participation ratio, base shear force, and inter-floor deviation. However, AI significantly affects the Natural Period of the Building. AI also offers faster calculations and easier input specifications compared to SAP2000. Despite its advantages, AI has limitations in 3D modeling due to the absence of a user interface, making the modeling process more challenging.
Statistical Analysis of Electrical Component Aging in Group 6 of the Inga 2 Hydroelectric Plant Following Abrupt Shutdowns
Authors: Nzita André Mampuya , Mizengi Léon Mwanda , Ndiwulu Guy Wanlogo , Ngoma Guyh Dituba , Umba-di-Mbudi Clément N’zau , Ngimbi Robert Muanda , Phuati Edmond Phuku
Published: February 2025

The Inga 2 hydroelectric power plant in the Democratic Republic of the Congo plays a crucial role in national electricity production and distribution. On January 5, 2016, Unit 3 abruptly shut down, triggering a cascade of shutdowns in other units and disrupting the network frequency. This study aims to analyze the evolution of the stator and rotor winding resistances, as well as the insulation resistance of turbine-generator Unit 6, from its commissioning in 1982 until 2016. The goal is to assess the impact of sudden shutdowns on the aging of its electrical components. Measurements of stator and rotor winding resistances, as well as rotor insulation resistance, were analyzed using R software for statistical analysis. The results of this study will provide recommendations for improving predictive maintenance of Unit 6 and other units in the Inga 2 power plant. Ultimately, the study seeks to enhance understanding of the effects of abrupt stoppages on the aging process of electrical components, thereby ensuring the long-term reliability of the Inga 2 hydroelectric power plant. Keywords: Inga 2 hydroelectric power plant, turbine-generator group 6, stator and rotor winding resistances, predictive maintenance.
Design and COMSOL Simulation of Different Shaped Piezoelectric Vibration Energy Harvesters: A Study on MEMS Vibrational Energy Harvesters
Authors: Khan Aimal , Nawaz Muhammad Qasim , Lu Xu
Published: February 2025

Vibrational energy harvesters, also referred to as MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) piezoelectric energy harvesters, have garnered significant attention for their potential to power wireless sensor networks and low-power electronics without external power sources. Piezoelectric materials, due to their high energy conversion efficiency and seamless integration into microsystems, are widely utilized in such designs. In this study, we simulate MEMS piezoelectric energy harvesters using PZT (lead zirconate titanate) material, each constructed with a silicon core layer and PZT piezoelectric layers. The simulations, conducted using COMSOL Multiphysics, analyze the performance of cantilever-shaped harvesters under identical boundary conditions, including solid mechanics, electrostatics, and an electric circuit with a 10 kΩ resistive load. The results show that natural frequencies range from 100 Hz to 500 Hz depending on the cantilever shape, with the generated voltage varying between 1.2 V and 3.5 V and corresponding power outputs ranging from 0.2 μW to 1.5 μW. These variations highlight the influence of cantilever geometry on energy harvesting efficiency. The study also identifies specific advantages, such as higher power density and tunable frequency ranges, making these harvesters suitable for powering remote sensing devices and microscale electronics. By quantifying performance metrics and demonstrating shape-dependent benefits, this research provides valuable insights into the design and optimization of MEMS piezoelectric harvesters for diverse applications.Keywords: Piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters, COMSOL simulation, MEMS vibrational energy harvesters, bimorph design.
Effect of Nitrogen Composition on Band Gap Energy and Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2-N/Zeolite Composite
Authors: Al Islam Hanif Mufti , Sutisna Sutisna , Rohman Lutfi
Published: February 2025

In this study, the application and performance of TiO2-N/Zeolite composites for MB photodegradation under UV irradiation have been reviewed. To improve the removal performance, the TiO2-N/Zeolite composite was varied based on the concentration ratio of urea to TiO2, where urea is a precursor of nitrogen. UV-Vis DRS tests were also carried out to compare and evaluate differences in band gap energy for each variant, analysis of degradation results and MB removal mechanisms by TiO2-N/Zeolite composites are described in this study. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of the urea to TiO2 concentration ratio (urea:TiO2), on the photocatalytic activity of the TiO2-N/Zeolite composite and also its physical characteristics, namely band gap energy. Thus, as a comparison, TiO2 and TiO2-N were also tested for photocatalytic activity and band gap energy physical characteristics. The conclusion obtained from this research is that the smaller the nitrogen composition in the TiO2-N/Zeolite composite, the greater the photocatalytic activity capability in degrading MB, in this case the TiO2-N/Zeolite (1.5) sample has the best photocatalytic activity. The next conclusion is that the higher the nitrogen composition in the TiO2-N/Zeolite composite, the smaller the band gap energy.
ICT Application in Nigerian libraries
Authors: Tella Adeyinka , Dunmade Aderinola Ololade , Ajani Yusuf Ayodeji , Abdullahi Firdausi
Published: February 2025

Introduction:Libraries in Nigeria have been adopting ICT; however, they have not been fully integrating the 4IR technologies.Objective:This study examined the development process as a case of the application of ICT in Nigerian libraries and the need to look in the direction of 4IR technologies. 6 libraries were drawn from the 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria. Methodology:An open-ended survey posted to the respondents through the mail was used for data collection. Results:The findings show that ICTs such as computer systems, electronic mail, MARC, OPAC, reprographic technology, printing technology (printers), storage devices (Floppy Disk, CD), microfilms, facsimile machines, and scanning machines have been used in libraries since the beginning of 1960s. The findings identified the reasons for libraries to look in the direction of 4IR such as being a game-changer for the industries at large, being the trend and order of the day for any organisation that wants to grow fast and serve their users better, the opportunity of taking libraries to the next level where librarians can work side by side with robots, cloud computing, AI, and other technologies, makerspaces, and internet of things IoTs. Challenges identified libraries in Nigeria can face when looking in the direction of 4IR technologies include funding, inadequate personnel/experts, limited power supply, and a limited budget for procuring technology and training personnel who will be in charge of technology maintenance. Conclusion:The study concludes with the recommendation that Nigerian libraries should be adequately funded to procure 4IR technologies, and should consider recruiting librarians with relevant requisite skills to work with the technology.
Machine-learning prediction of facet-dependent CO coverage on Cu electrocatalysts
Authors: Wu Shanglin , Zheng Shisheng , Zhang Wentao , Zhang Mingzheng , Li Shunning , Pan Feng
Published: February 2025

Copper-based electrocatalysts, which hold great promise in selectively reducing CO2 into multicarbon products, have attracted significant recent interest, both experimentally and theoretically. While many studies have suggested a strong dependence of catalytic selectivity on the concentration of the *CO reaction intermediate on the Cu surface, it remains challenging for a direct experimental probe of the CO coverage. This necessitates a reliable computational method that can accurately establish the theoretical coverage-dependent phase diagram of CO adsorbates on the catalyst. Here we propose a scheme composed of density functional theory calculations, machine-learning force fields and graph neural networks as a solution. This method enables a fast screening of 7 million adsorption configurations based on a small set of density functional theory data, with a balance between accuracy and efficiency tuned by the combinatorial use of machine-learning force field and graph neural network models. We have investigated eight different Cu facets and discovered that the high-index facets such as (310), (210) and (322) exhibit a much higher CO coverage than the low-index counterparts such as (111), leading to an increased opportunity for C-C coupling for the former. Our results can provide a new perspective for the understanding of the fundamental role of CO coverage on the Cu surface for electrochemical CO2 reduction.
Understanding the barriers and impacts of green choices on people with protected characteristic
Authors: Calvillo Munoz Christian , Martiskainen Mari
Published: February 2025

The policy brief examines the barriers and impacts of green choices on people with protected characteristics in the UK. It highlights challenges in housing and transport, emphasising the need for flexible, targeted policies to ensure an equitable net zero transition. The brief calls for addressing non-economic barriers and considering diverse needs
Seasonal patterns of mercury bioaccumulation in lobsters (Homarus americanus) from Maine
Authors: Stoicov Dan , Bonin Carolina A. , van Wijnen Andre J. , Lewallen Eric A.
Published: February 2025

Mercury (Hg) pollutes marine ecosystems and accumulates in benthic species. This ecological case study investigated the temporal accumulation of Hg in American lobster (Homarus americanus; H. Milne Edwards, 1837) from coastal Maine (Casco Bay, ME, USA). We analyzed total Hg levels in legal-sized lobsters (carapace length: 8.255–12.5 cm; n = 34) collected during the early (May–July 1) or late (July 15–October) recreational harvest seasons. Morphometric data show that body size correlates with body weight (R2 = 0.76; p < 0.001), and average body sizes were similar in early and late seasons. The average chelipod size was ~7% larger in male lobsters (p < 0.02), reflecting sexual dimorphism. Hg levels in select tissues from boiled lobsters were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Hg in ambient water was undetectable, indicating that Hg in tissues reflects bioaccumulation. Hg content correlated with the lengths (cm) and weights (g) of cephalothorax, carapace, chelipod, and hepatopancreas in both male and female lobsters. Total Hg levels in most tissues were within safe and acceptable limits for human consumption (<0.2 ppm). Compared to late-season lobsters, early-season lobsters had significantly higher Hg levels in tail (~55% increase; 0.130 ppm vs. 0.084 ppm; p < 0.05) and hepatopancreas tissues (~29% increase; 0.099 ppm vs. 0.077 ppm; p < 0.05), suggesting that seasonal factors influence Hg content (e.g., spring river runoff, lobster migration, inert biological cycles). Observed seasonal fluctuations in lobster Hg levels may inform future strategies for mitigating pollution in coastal marine ecosystems.
Characteristics of nutrition in infants born to obese mothers
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Prokopeva N.E. , Ivanov D.O. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Petrenko Yu.V. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Novikova V.P. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

Objective. To study the characteristics of nutrition in infants born to obese mothers and to identify their relationship with anthropometric parameters and functional gastrointestinal disorders.
Patients and methods. This prospective study included 90 infants who were divided into two groups: group 1 – 54 infants born to obese mothers (maternal pre-pregnancy BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2); group 2 – 36 infants born to mothers with a normal BMI (18.5–24.9 kg/m2). Physical development, health status, and characteristics of nutrition were examined monthly in all infants.
Results. Nutritional analysis showed that among infants born to obese mothers, the majority were formula-fed from birth to 12 months of age. In the mother-baby dyad during pregnancy and breastfeeding, adherence to the Western pattern diet with a high-calorie content was found in 59.3% of obese women; in infants, early introduction of complementary foods at 3 months of age (7.4% and 0.0%, p = 0.034) and predominance of carbohydrate foods were noted. The physical growth of infants born to obese mothers tended to accelerate from the age of 3 months.
Conclusion. The results of this study prove that maternal obesity affects feeding patterns, anthropometric parameters of infants and indicate the risks of developing obesity and metabolic disorders during the first year of life.
Key words: breastfeeding, infants, obesity, physical development
Clinical cases of cystic fibrosis-related diabetes in sibs
Authors:   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Zonenko O.G. , Ryazanova O.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Semykin S.Yu. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shumilov P.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

This article reviews the characteristics of one of the most serious complications of cystic fibrosis (CF), cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD). In recent years, there has been an increase in the incidence of CFRD, which increases the risk of adverse clinical outcomes in CF. At the same time, the early clinical manifestations of CFRD are ambiguous, diagnosis is difficult, and some issues of pathogenesis remain unexplored. The presented four clinical cases of CFRD in pairs of sibs from three families with severe CF and pancreatic insufficiency demonstrates the necessity of monitoring carbohydrate metabolism indicators for early detection of possible disorders and their timely pharmacological correction, as well as the importance of closer attention of physicians to this problem.
Key words: cystic fibrosis, cystic fibrosis-related diabetes, children, treatment
Impact of maternal attachment type on the development of functional gastrointestinal disorders in infants
Authors:   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Griaznova E.I. , Dubrovskaya M.I. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Botkina A.S. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shumilov P.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

Objective. To study the association between the incidence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGD) in infants and maternal attachment type.
Patients and methods. A survey was conducted including 168 mothers of infants. It was based on the Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaire for FGD and included additional questions (age, type of infant feeding), as well as Chen’s attachment style test.
Results. Among 168 infants, regurgitation occurred in 66 (39.3%), colic in 65 (38.7%), and constipation in 17 (10.1%). Infants of mothers with high-level insecurity of anxious attachment were 8 times more likely to develop regurgitation (p < 0.05), while infants of mothers with low-level insecurity of anxious attachment were 9.7 times less likely to develop colic (p < 0.05), and infants of mothers with low-level insecurity of anxious attachment were 6.5 times less likely to develop constipation (p < 0.05).
Conclusion. Maternal attachment type affects the development of FGD in infants.
Key words: children, functional gastrointestinal disorders, colic, regurgitation, constipation, infancy, mothers, attachment type, anxiety
Demonstration of photocatalytic degradation of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in landfill leachate using 3D printed TiO₂
Authors: McQueen Andrew , Tedrow O’Niell , Ballentine Mark , Kennedy Alan
Published: February 2025

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are recalcitrant substances present globally in many landfill wastewater leachates and have potential ecological and human health risks. Conventional treatment technologies have shown limited efficacy for many PFAS due to the stable C–F bonds. Therefore, there is growing interest in applying advanced oxidation processes to decrease the aqueous concentrations in contaminated wastewater and mitigate risks. The goal of this study was to evaluate the photocatalytic performance of treating PFAS in landfill leachate using a novel photocatalyst composite. Treatment structures were fabricated using polylactic acid and compounded with TiO₂, and 3D printed into tiles. A pilot-scale treatment system was designed to promote photocatalysis using 3D composite structures and UV irradiance intensity of 1.0 mW cm⁻² following 24- and 36-h hydraulic retention times. Photocatalytic degradation was achieved for seven of the 11 PFAS evaluated in this study. Greater than 80% removal of PFOS, PFNA, PFDA, and PFOSAm was observed after 24 h of photocatalysis. These results indicate photocatalysis using TiO2 polymer composites can achieve beneficial levels of PFAS degradation. This study provides a proof-of principle approach to inform the application of additive manufacturing of photocatalytic composites for use in the treatment of PFAS-contaminated wastewater.
VOLCANISM AND CLIMATE RECORDED IN GIANT GRAINS FROM DUST OF THE LATE PALEOZOIC PANTHALASSIC OCEAN
Authors: Kelly Patrick R. , Sano Hiroyoshi , Ueno Katsumi , Davydov Vladimir I. , Heavens Nicholas G. , Hunt Lindsey E. , Gleason James D. , Soreghan Gerilyn S.
Published: February 2025

Models indicate that atmospheric transport distances for large eolian particles are limited to tens to perhaps hundreds of km owing to rapid gravitational settling, yet a number of studies of modern–recent sediment have documented the enigmatic transport of so-called “giant” (generally >63 µm) grains over thousands of km. Additionally, stratospheric injection of tephra by volcanic eruptions has the potential to increase the atmospheric transport distance of volcanically sourced aerosols in particular. Here we report the first finding of eolian-transported giant grains in Earth’s pre-Pleistocene record, within upper Carboniferous–Permian shallow-marine carbonates of the Akiyoshi (paleo)atoll, which formed in the remote equatorial Panthalassic ocean. The paleogeographic setting of the Akiyoshi Limestone makes it an ideal system for studying far-traveled continental- and volcanic dust. Siliciclastic grains with diameters commonly ~300 µm and up to ~2 cm occur in this system, transported at least 4,500 km and up to 10,000 km away from the nearest viable source regions. Textural and compositional (both mineralogical and geochemical) data indicate the presence of both continentally sourced eolian grains and volcanically sourced grains of intermediate-felsic compositions, with the relative proportions of volcanic to continental grains peaking in the Moscovian (middle Late Carboniferous). The peak timing of volcanic versus continental grain deposition indicates that large-magnitude volcanic eruptions affected this part of equatorial Panthalassa in the Late Carboniferous, and that Pangaean continental aridity significantly increased into the Permian. Compositional data indicate likely source regions west of the Akiyoshi (paleo)atoll, consistent with the common occurrence of westerlies over this paleoequatorial region, thus indicating the operation of monsoonal circulation over the Paleo-Tethys sea.
Tuning a PI Controller with Deep Q-Learning: A Novel Approach for a Constant Bottom Hole Pressure Control
Authors: Odebrett F. , Sui D. , Gravdal J. E. , Oppelt J.
Published: February 2025

To effectively use Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and to further advance into a fully automated drilling process, novel control techniques need to be designed. This paper introduces a method for maintaining constant Bottom Hole Pressure (BHP) in MPD by combining a Deep Q-Learning (DQL) agent with a Proportional-Integral (PI) controller. The PI controller is automatically and optimally tuned. The proportional and integral gains of the PI controller are automatically recommended during drilling by a DQL agent which takes drilling parameters as inputs and whose learning process is governed by a pre-defined reward function. The controller is trained and tested with a mature downhole drilling simulator.

A series of simulated drilling scenarios are created by defining several well configurations and various sections within these wells. Each section has a specified drilling window with set pore pressure and fracture pressure specific to the formation, and a setpoint for the bottom hole pressure is defined based on the safe pressure operational window. During drilling, the controller can adjust the choke opening to manage the bottom hole pressure as closely as possible to the given reference pressure. A comparison to a conventional PI controller shows that the developed, hybrid PI controller enhanced by a DQL agent leads to improved results. Within the simulated environments used, it can adjust the BHP precisely to a given reference pressure and prevents the BHP from exceeding the pore pressure or fracture pressure limits. Furthermore, the DQL-tuned PI controller proves its usefulness by relatively ease of implementation within existing MPD systems. The hybrid approach, by continuously tuning the PI controller, optimizes performance in real-time, adapting to the dynamic conditions encountered during drilling operations.

In the presented results, the DQL-tuned PI controller keeps the BHP close to the reference pressure over the whole depth of the test section. The proposed hybrid PI controller uses a novel approach by automatically tuning a PI controller with a DQL agent, demonstrating significant potential for enhancing the efficiency and safety of MPD operations. The innovative approach ensures that the system continuously learns from the dynamic conditions of the drilling environment, gaining insights and improving performance over time. This adaptive capability is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and safety, particularly in challenging drilling scenarios.
Flow laws for ice constrained by seventy years of laboratory experiments
Authors: Fan Sheng , Wang Ting , Prior David , Breithaupt Thomas , Hager Travis , Wallis David
Published: February 2025

Flow laws for ice predict rates of deformation (strain) and are fundamental to modelling glacier and ice-sheet dynamics. Here, we apply Bayesian inference to laboratory measurements accumulated over seventy years to constrain flow laws for ice-sheet modelling. At low strains, commonly used flow laws—derived from individual experimental datasets with narrow stress, temperature, and grain-size ranges—fail to capture the full complexity of ice behaviour. We show that a multicomponent flow law, that sums strain rates from different deformation mechanisms, is needed to capture grain size and temperature sensitivities observed in the full set of experiments from seventy years. This multicomponent flow law is applicable to natural scenarios where the anisotropy of ice is weak or where the deformation kinematics differ from those that formed the crystallographic preferred orientation, making the ice more viscous. Low-strain flow laws, including this multicomponent flow law, have limited validity at high strain, where viscosity evolves and anisotropy develops, making ice less viscous. A single-component, grain-size insensitive flow law gives a reasonable fit to high-strain experimental data and is better suited for modelling the large-scale flow behaviour of ice sheets.
Enhancing Shelf Life and Physiochemical Properties of Ziziphus mauritiana Through Postharvest Treatments
Authors: Bhardwaj Suhani , Sompura Yashwant , Jangra Kirpa Ram
Published: February 2025

Ziziphus mauritiana Lam., a highly nutritious fruit, is susceptible to rapid postharvest deterioration, limiting its marketability and availability. This study evaluated the effectiveness of various postharvest treatments, including Aloe vera gel coating, wax coating, and cold storage, in preserving the physiochemical properties and extending the shelf life of Z. mauritiana Lam. The results revealed that Aloe vera gel coating significantly reduced weight loss and retained higher levels of chlorophyll and carotenoids compared to untreated fruits. Wax coating enhanced the fruit's visual appeal and minimized moisture loss, while cold storage effectively maintained freshness and delayed spoilage. The combination of Aloe vera gel coating and cold storage demonstrated the most favorable outcomes, preserving fruit quality and extending shelf life. These findings underscore the potential of integrated postharvest treatments in ensuring the availability, nutritional value, and commercial viability of Z. mauritiana Lam.,.
On the variation of solar terminator for long and short VLF transmitter receiver great circle path over low and equatorial region
Authors: Saharan Suniti , Jana Shreyam , Tripathi Rajat , Sasmal Sudipta , Maurya Ajeet Kumar , Datta Abhirup , Sharma Himani
Published: February 2025

The present study investigates the effect of the solar terminator time (TT) on the low- and equatorial-latitude transmitter-receiver great circle path (TRGCP). Very Low Frequency (VLF) signals from the VTX (18.6 kHz) and NWC (19.8 kHz) transmitters, recorded at the low-latitude Indian station, Dehradun, are utilized. The TRGCP distance from NWC to Dehradun is ~6,962 km (long path), and from VTX to Dehradun is ~2,455 km (short path). The observations suggest that morning terminator time (TTM) forms due to mode transitions at both the receiver and transmitter for the short path. Monthly variations in TT show transitions in TTM and Terminator Time Evening (TTE), dominating during the equinoxes. The TTM for the NWC and VTX paths demonstrates a dependency on the transmitter during summer and the receiver during winter. A correlation between local time and TTM and TTE is estimated for both the NWC and VTX transmitter-receiver paths. Specifically, for the NWC path, the correlation with the receiver's local time during TTM and TTE is 0.5 and 0.7, respectively, while the correlation with the local time of NWC during TTM and TTE is 0.5 and 0.7, respectively, for morning and evening. A similar correlation pattern was observed for the VTX path at the receiver location (TTM: r = 0.8, TTE: r = 0.7) and at the transmitter location (TTM: r = 0.8, TTE: r = 0.7), respectively, during morning and evening. To simulate the signal amplitude and the variation of the TTM and TTE, the Long Wavelength Propagation Capability (LWPC) program was employed. A significant correlation was observed between the observed and simulated signals, indicating a strong agreement between the model and the observed data.
Transfer learning electronic structure: millielectron-volt accuracy for sub-million-atom moiré semiconductor
Authors: Zhang Yang , Bao Ting , Mao Ning , Duan Wenhui , Xu Yong , Maestro Adrian Del
Published: February 2025

The integration of density functional theory (DFT) with machine learning enables efficient ab initio electronic structure calculations for ultra-large systems. In this work, we develop a transfer learning framework tailored for long-wavelength moir ́e systems. To balance efficiency and accuracy, we adopt a two-step transfer learning strategy: (1) the model is pre-trained on a large dataset of computationally inexpensive non-twisted structures until convergence, and (2) the network is then fine-tuned using a small set of computationally expensive twisted structures. Applying this method to twisted MoTe2, the neural network model generates the resulting Hamiltonian for a 1000-atom system in 200 seconds, achieving a mean absolute error below 0.1 meV. To demonstrate O(N) scalability, we model nanoribbon systems with up to 0.25 million atoms (∼ 9 million orbitals), accu- rately capturing edge states consistent with predicted Chern numbers. This approach addresses the challenges of accuracy, efficiency, and scalability, offering a viable alternative to conventional DFT and enabling the exploration of electronic topology in large scale moir ́e systems towards simulating realistic device architectures.
Neural circuit plasticity transforms infant neglect into maternal care
Authors: Froemke Robert , Bair-Marshall Chloe , Cassel Naomi , Agha Ayat , Bkhiet Malak
Published: February 2025

Infants in distress evoke strong emotional responses in adults, which help to elicit caretaking behaviors from parents to ensure infant needs are met1–3. However, neonatal care can also be challenging, and interactions with infants can lead to stress and negative affect even in potential caregivers4–7. Child neglect and maltreatment rates in human populations make it important to understand the neural mechanisms of regulating negative emotions and stress in the parental brain8–10. Here we show how rapid plasticity in female mouse central amygdala (CeA) transforms infant aversion into attentiveness after initial pup experience. Projections from CeA to locus coeruleus (CeA→LC) were strongly activated upon initial pup contact leading to pup aversion. CeA→LC pup responses were reduced with parental experience and down-regulating CeA→LC activity led to less aversion. Oxytocin signaling in central amygdala was required to switch pup aversion to attention, inducing rapid long-term depression of excitatory inputs onto projection neurons. CeA→LC projectors released the stress hormone corticotropin-releasing factor onto LC neurons, modulating phasic firing to regulate attention. This circuit organization enables local CeA computations of pup valence to be broadcast throughout the brain by the LC central arousal system, leading to appropriate pup-directed behaviors depending on adult state.
An Equivariant Pretrained Transformer for Unified 3D Molecular Representation Learning
Authors: Huang Wenbing , Jiao Rui , Kong Xiangzhe , Zhang Li , Yu Ziyang , Ren Fangyuan , Tan Wenjuan , Liu Yang
Published: February 2025

Pretraining on a large number of unlabeled 3D molecules has showcased superiority in various scientific applications. However, prior efforts typically focus on pretraining models in a specific domain, either proteins or small molecules, missing the opportunity to leverage cross-domain knowledge. To mitigate this gap, we introduce Equivariant Pretrained Transformer (EPT), an all-atom foundation model that can be pre-trained from multiple domain 3D molecules. Built upon an E(3)-equivariant transformer, EPT is able to not only process atom-level information but also incorporate block-level features (e.g. residuals in proteins) , and it can be effectively pretrained based on a block-level denoising task. To pretrain EPT, we first construct a large-scale dataset of 5.89M entries, comprising small molecules, proteins, protein-protein complexes, and protein-molecule complexes. Experimental evaluations on downstream tasks including ligand binding affinity prediction, protein property prediction, and molecular property prediction, show that EPT significantly outperforms previous state-of-the-art methods in the first task and achieves competitively superior performance for the remaining two tasks. Furthermore, we demonstrate the potential of EPT in identifying small molecule drug candidates targeting 3CL protease, a critical target in the replication of SARS-CoV-2. Among 1,978 FDA-approved drugs, EPT ranks 7 out of 8 known anti-COVID-19 drugs in the top 200, indicating the high recall of EPT. By using Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations, EPT further discoveries 7 novel compounds whose binding affinities are higher than that of the top-ranked known anti-COVID-19 drug, showcasing its powerful capabilities in drug discovery.
In-Silico Identification and Evaluation of Diosgenin as a Promising Phytomedicine Targeting MHC-I for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Jasrotia Shailja , Verma* Awadhesh Kumar , Singh Tanya , Sheoran Sumit , Arora Swati , Singh Reena , Chopra Chirag , Kumar* Anupam
Published: February 2025

Immunotherapeutic strategies targeting MHC-I have gained significant attention for combating cancer, a leading global health. However, the emergence of therapeutic resistance and the manifestation of adverse concerneffects associated with conventional treatment modalities underscore the imperative for innovative therapeutic strategies. In the current study, we conducted an “in silico”investigation to identify potential phytomedicines for cancer treatment targeting MHC-I (3AM8). Using AutodockTools software, 408 natural secondary polyphenols were screened against MHC-I, with Diosgenin exhibiting the highest affinity for binding (−8.93 Kcal/mol). Pharmacokinetic profiling of the highest-ranking ligands elucidated their suitability for subsequent development and optimization. Molecular dynamics simulations, conducted using the Desmond software suite, demonstrated pronounced stability of the Diosgenin-MHC-I complex throughout a 100-ns trajectory. Our findings suggest that Diosgenin holds significant promise as a candidate for cancer therapeutics; however, further verifications by use of extensive “in vitro” and “in vivo”research is warranted to substantiate its validity and therapeutic potential. This study highlights the potential of Diosgenin in upcoming trial regimens and advances the choices for treating cancer.
Epoxy functionalized small particle size superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for CD4+T cell sorting
Authors: Zhou Yiyang , Dong Wei
Published: February 2025

Iron oxide nanoparticles have gained increasing attention in various biomedical and industrial sectors due to their physicochemical and magnetic properties. In this study, superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles with small particle size were synthesized by co-precipitation method, coated with dextran, and modified by epoxy functional groups with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether. The prepared composites was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetry, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction,and vibrating sample magnetometry. The rat serum albumin protein(rSA) was then coupled to the epoxide group on the nanoparticle and the ability of the epoxide functional group to conjugate the Protein was tested by BCA Protein Assay Kit. At the same time, we used CD4 antibody coupled with epoxy group on the nanoparticles to detect the sorting ability of T cells by flow cytometry. This work shows that our epoxy-modified iron oxide nanoparticles have excellent potential applications in biology.
AI-Driven Drug Discovery for Breast Cancer Based on ERBB2 Identified Through Network Pharmacology and GEO Data Analysis
Authors: Wang Zi Fu , Yang Jing , Li Jun Di , Lu Su Ping
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignancy in women, with current treatments showing limited efficacy and significant side effects. This study aimed to identify therapeutic targets and candidate compounds for BC therapy using network pharmacology, GEO data analysis, and AI-driven drug discovery.
Methods: Capsicum-derived therapeutic targets were identified via network pharmacology using public databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from GEO datasets were combined with protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks to determine core targets. AI algorithms, including random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), LASSO regression, artificial neural networks (ANN), and convolutional neural networks (CNN), validated core targets. Candidate compounds were identified through AI drug discovery and molecular docking.
Results: A total of 490 therapeutic targets for Capsicum's anticancer activity in BC were identified, with 42 core targets derived from PPI and DEGs analyses. AI consistently validated ERBB2 as the key therapeutic target. Immune infiltration (CIBERSORT) and gene set enrichment analyses further confirmed its role in BC. AI-driven drug discovery identified 59 high-affinity compounds (pIC50 ≥ 8.0). Docking studies revealed six compounds with binding energies below -12 kcal·mol⁻¹, demonstrating high affinity and favorable drug-like properties.
Conclusions: ERBB2 was identified as a core target for BC therapy through integrated network pharmacology, GEO data, and AI. These findings provide a foundation for precision medicine and novel therapeutic development in BC.