bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“All AIs are Psychopaths”? The Scope and Impact of a Popular Analogy
Authors: Nerantzi Elina
Published: February 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Agents are often compared to psychopaths in popular news articles. The headlines are ‘eye-catching’, but the questions of what this analogy means or why it matters are hardly answered. The aim of this paper is to take this popular analogy ‘seriously’. By that, I mean two things. First, I aim to explore the scope of this analogy, i.e. to identify and analyse the shared properties of AI agents and psychopaths, namely, their lack of moral emotions and their capacity for instrumental rationality. Second, I aim to examine the impact of the analogy. I argue that both agents, as ‘amoral calculators’, present the perfect candidates to revisit two long-standing debates on moral and criminal responsibility, regarding the necessity of moral emotions for ‘moral-agent-capacity responsibility’ and the necessity of ‘moral-agent-capacity responsibility’ for criminal responsibility. Finally, cross-examining the debates on the moral and criminal responsibility of psychopaths and AI agents is instructive and revealing. Instructive since the moral and legal treatment of psychopaths can be telling about the future treatment of AI agents (and vice versa) and revealing since it makes explicit our often-implicit philosophical commitments on the criteria of moral agency and the overarching purpose of criminal law.
Second-Person Authenticity and the Mediating Role of AI: A Moral Challenge for Human-to-Human Relationships?
Authors: Battisti Davide
Published: February 2025

The development of AI tools, such as large language models and speech emotion and facial expression recognition systems, has raised new ethical concerns about AI’s impact on human relationships. While much of the debate has focused on human-AI relationships, less attention has been devoted to another class of ethical issues, which arise when AI mediates human-to-human relationships. This paper opens the debate on these issues by analyzing the case of romantic relationships, particularly those in which one partner uses AI tools, such as ChatGPT, to resolve a conflict and apologize. After reviewing some possible, non-exhaustive, explanations for the moral wrongness of using AI tools in such cases, I introduce the notion of second-person authenticity: a form of authenticity that is assessed by the other person in the relationship (e.g., a partner). I then argue that at least some actions within romantic relationships should respect a standard of authentic conduct since the value of such actions depends on who actually performs them and not only on the quality of the outcome produced. Therefore, using AI tools in such circumstances may prevent agents from meeting this standard. I conclude by suggesting that the proposed theoretical framework could also apply to other human-to-human relationships, such as the doctor-patient relationship, when these are mediated by AI; I offer some preliminary reflections on such applications.
Evaluation of weldability and thermal aging behaviour on microstructure and properties of Alloy 740H
Authors: Kathirvelan R. , Dey H. C. , Kausal S. S. , Karthik V. , Mythili R. , Vasudevan M.
Published: February 2025

Alloy 740H (Ni-25Cr-20Co, ASME Code Case 2702) is a promising candidate material for boiler tubes and headers in Indian Advanced Ultra Supercritical (A-USC) power plants operating at temperatures of 710–720 °C and a pressure of 31 MPa. This study investigates the changes in the microstructure and mechanical properties of Alloy 740H due to weld thermal cycles and simulated service conditions (720 °C/1000 h). Mock-up weld joints were fabricated from the as-received solution-annealed Alloy 740H tube (52 mm diameter and 12 mm thick) by automatic GTAW process and matching welding consumable ERNiCrCo-1 and qualified based on ASME Section IX. The X-ray radiography-qualified weld joints were subjected to post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) at 800 °C for 4 h followed by tension and bend tests for procedure qualification. The weld joints passed in side bend test with a 4 T bend radius and met the ultimate tensile strength requirement of ASME Code Case 2702. SEM analysis revealed Ti- and Nb-rich carbides in base metal and weld in as-received/as-welded condition. Extensive precipitation of γ’ inside grains and a continuous network of M23C6 along the grain/dendrite boundaries are observed after aging at 720 °C/1000 h. Both PWHT and aging resulted in an increase in strength and hardness with a reduction in ductility and toughness. The Digital Image Correlation performed on an as-welded cross-weld tensile specimen revealed localized straining of the weld zone compared to other regions. From the present studies, it is concluded that Alloy 740H in the solution-annealed condition possesses good weldability and the mechanical property changes correlated with the observed microstructure.
Chasing ‘vulnerability’ across six decades of the Declaration of Helsinki
Authors: Lindholm Oskar , Karjalainen Sakari , Launis Veikko
Published: February 2025

The year 2024 marked the 60th anniversary of the World Medical Association’s Declaration of Helsinki (DoH). Coincidentally, the WMA published the 8th revision of this landmark document guiding medical research involving human subjects. One of the key changes in this latest revision concerns the notion of vulnerability, which has always been central to the DoH’s ethos. The term ‘vulnerability’ was explicitly introduced in the 5th revision, published in 2000, which lists five vulnerable groups. Subsequent revisions have significantly altered how vulnerability is portrayed and understood within the document. This article traces the conceptualisation of vulnerability across the various versions of the DoH, culminating in its recently published 8th revision. We explore the underlying principles of each revision and examine how these principles have both influenced and been influenced by broader ethical discourses. Lastly, we address some of the challenges that future revisions must meet to ensure that the document remains internally coherent and practically applicable for researchers and research ethics committees alike.
A finite element approach for modelling the fracture behaviour of unidirectional FFF-printed parts
Authors: Seibel Simon , Kiendl Josef
Published: February 2025

We present a finite element modelling approach for unidirectional Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)-printed specimens under tensile loading. In this study, the focus is on the fracture behaviour, the goal is to simulate the mechanical behaviour of specimens with different strand orientations until final failure of the specimens. In particular, the aim is to represent experimentally observed failure modes for different print orientations and the typical dependence of the parts’ strength on the print orientation. We investigate several modelling aspects like the choice of a suitable failure criterion, a suitable way to represent fracture in the finite element mesh or the necessary level of detail when modelling the characteristic edges of FFF-printed specimens. As a result, this work provides an approach to model FFF printed specimens in finite element simulations, which can represent the characteristic relation between mesostructural layout and macroscopic fracture behaviour.
Modulating, structural, optical band gap, luminescence, and electrical properties of perspective synthesized lead-free halide perovskite CsSnCl3/Cs2O nanocomposites
Authors: El Desouky Fawzy G.
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the structural characteristics, optical band gap, luminescence, and electrical properties of a newly synthesized lead-free halide CsSnCl3 perovskite semiconductor/ Cs2O nanocomposite. The XRD patterns show that there is a monoclinic crystal phase of the perovskite semiconductor CsSnCl3 as well as a rhombohedral phase of Cs2O at 400 °C in an argon environment. Moreover, the XPS spectra of the sample at 400 °C reveal the presence of Cs 3d, Sn 3d, Cl 2p, and O 1s, indicating the production of both substances. HRTEM and FESEM enable the visualization of both the structural details and size variations in quantum dot-like materials. The optical band gap of synthesized nanocomposite compositions shows a clear red shift in the absorption spectra, which lowers the band gap from 2.7 eV to 1.37 eV. An influential and tunable photoluminescence emission was found at ambient temperature, spanning a broad spectrum from the visible to near-infrared area. When exposed to an argon environment at 400 °C, the material’s structural features changed significantly. In the lower frequency range, the permittivity exceeded 106, and the DC conductivity increased to 6.15 × 10−6 S/cm. This research examines the multifunctional potential of CsSnCl3/Cs2O nanocomposites, investigating their optical, luminescent, and electrical properties.
Cobalt-based multicomponent embedded in biomass-derived porous biochar as a highly efficient oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalyst
Authors: Cheng Yu , Ding Jue , Pan Hongzhe , Li Yiping , Zhu Ningyuan , Ma Linlin , Sun Han , Wu Jun
Published: February 2025

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is pivotal for energy conversion systems such as metal-air batteries and fuel cells, yet the development of cost-effective and efficient catalysts remains a challenge. This study introduces a cobalt-based multicomponent catalyst embedded in nitrogen-doped biochar derived from biomass, synthesized via a scalable pyrolysis process using 1,10-phenanthroline as a nitrogen source and chelating agent. The optimized catalyst of WPC-950 demonstrated superior ORR performance with a half-wave potential of 0.81 V (vs. RHE), a limiting current density of 4.95 mA cm−2, excellent methanol tolerance, and long-term stability exceeding 92% retention after 30000 s in alkaline media. The high activity of catalyst stems from its unique structural features, including hierarchical porosity, a high degree of graphitization, and well-dispersed Co-Nx active sites. These properties are achieved through the synergistic effects of nitrogen doping, cobalt stabilization, and the porous biochar framework, overcoming limitations of agglomeration and poor stability common in conventional biochar-based catalysts. The findings address key scientific challenges in enhancing ORR kinetics and stability, offering a pathway toward cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to precious metal-based catalysts for energy applications.
Digital health resilience: IoT solutions in pandemic response and future healthcare scenarios
Authors: Thottempudi Pardhu , Konduru Reddy Madhavi , Valiveti Hima Bindu , Kuraparthi Swaraja , Kumar Vijay
Published: February 2025

This article explores the Internet of Things (IoT), an innovative technical advancement that utilizes the capabilities of billions of sensors across various applications. Sensors are critical to the IoT environment as they collect crucial data for complex analysis. The emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) and its accompanying sensor technology has significant implications for various fields, including smart urban planning, advanced agriculture, online education, and healthcare. The Internet of Things (IoT) has played a crucial role in tackling worldwide health challenges, notably in the healthcare sector, with a particular emphasis on the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The epidemic has heightened the need for digital and home-based healthcare solutions. The Internet of Things (IoT) enhances healthcare services by providing precise patient monitoring over a unified digital network. This article examines the various uses, technical intricacies, and difficulties that exist in the healthcare field. A thorough investigation was conducted using reputable databases such as Google Scholar, Elsevier, PubMed, ACM, ResearchGate, Scopus, and Springer. Relevant keywords directed the search. The narrative highlights and emphasizes the significant impact of IoT on healthcare, explicitly identifying prospective research areas for doctors, scholars, and researchers to overcome obstacles in the field. As anticipated, the Internet of Things (IoT) serves as a guiding light for improved healthcare delivery. The Survey demonstrates that combining IoT with cutting-edge technology enhances computing capacities, emphasizing IoT’s widespread, advantageous, and extensive nature. To summarise, this discussion examines future difficulties and provides valuable solutions to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure led by the Internet of Things (IoT) during the COVID-19 crisis and future health catastrophes.
MicroRNA-155-5p rs767649 Polymorphism is Associated with Susceptibility to Essential Hypertension in the Chinese Tibetan Population in the Gannan Area
Authors: Yan Wen , Chen Ruidi , Zhao Yufei , Zhang Xiaozhen , Li Xingjie
Published: February 2025

Background

The latest evidence has demonstrated the aberrant expression and diagnostic meaning of microRNA-155-5p in hypertension. Rs767649 is a common polymorphism in miR-155-5p and can mediate its expression.

Objective

A case–control study based on a Chinese Tibetan population was constructed to evaluate the genetic association between miR-155-5p rs767649 polymorphism and essential hypertension (EH) susceptibility.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty subjects with hypertension and 250 participants without hypertension were enrolled. miR-155-5p levels in the serum of participants were detected by qRT-PCR. Allele and genotype distributions of rs767649 were compared based on Sanger sequencing results. The association of rs767649 with EH susceptibility was estimated via logistic regression analysis.

Results

The genotypes of rs767649 in miR-155-5p revealed a marked difference between EH and control groups, and the TA genotype of rs767649 may depress the risk of developing EH. qRT-PCR results verified up-regulated expression of miR-155-5p in patients with EH, and cases carrying rs767649 TT genotype had higher serum miR-155-5p levels and concentration of lipids than TA/AA genotype carriers. After adjusting for other clinical indicators, rs767649 polymorphism was still independently related to EH susceptibility.

Conclusion

The findings revealed the genetic association of rs767649 polymorphism in miR-155-5p with EH susceptibility in the Chinese Tibetan population in the Gannan area. Rs767649 TT genotype was a risk factor for EH, which might be interrelated to increased miR-155-5p levels and lipid disorders.
The lackage in the research of parallel tunnels interaction with a supporting structure in a huge slope: a review
Authors: Suliman Lojain , Liu Xinrong , Zhou Xiaohan
Published: February 2025

Due to urbanization and land constraints in metropolitan areas, there has been an increase in demand for underground construction in recent years. Settlement is always induced by tunneling. Ground settlement as a result of digging shallow tunnels is therefore a frequent occurrence. In order to maintain control over the settlement, it should be able to predict it and take the appropriate safety measures. Even the settlement characteristics due to the excavation of twin the tunnel have been studied extensively. However, the parallel tunnel interaction with other structures in a huge slope has not been studied. This paper aims to review the previous settlement characteristics due to tunneling when parallel tunnels have an interaction process during the excavation. The specific objective of this study is to expand the understanding of settlement behavior in tunneling under large slopes with focusing on the interaction mechanism, which is underexplored in comparison to flat terrains. The capabilities and limitations in the settlement characteristics during the tunneling process have been revised. Furthermore, the gapes in describing the settlement and the lack of studies that accompany the phenomena has been revealed.
Asexual queen succession in the subterranean termite Reticulitermes aculabialis Tsai et Hwang (Blattodea: Heterotermitidae)
Authors: Khan Zahid , Haroon  , Sha Zhao , Xing Lian-Xi
Published: February 2025

Asexual queen succession (AQS) species produce queens via thelytokous parthenogenesis, which significantly impacts their social life history. For the first time, we discovered that Reticulitermes aculabialis exhibits the phenomenon of parthenogenesis under experimental conditions, and we also investigated the genetic structure of wild colonies of this species using polymorphic microsatellite loci. Our genetic analysis revealed that 93.2% of the secondary queens in the wild colonies were homozygous at all loci, indicating parthenogenesis in these secondary queens, while workers (2.5%), soldiers (0%), nymphs (0%), and alates (6.7%) had low rates. Genetic analysis revealed that the mean number of alleles per group (Na) ranged from 2.000 ± 0.000 to 2.500 ± 0.428, with 83.3% polymorphic loci (PPL). The observed heterozygosity (Ho) varied from 0.467 ± 0.141 to 0.583 ± 0.098, indicating significant genetic diversity among workers and soldiers. In contrast, soldiers and nymph develop predominantly through sexual reproduction than alates and workers. The occurrence of AQS in R. aculabialis suggests a different mechanism of ploidy restoration, highlighting the diversity of reproductive mechanisms across various lineages of the Termitidae and non-Termitidae termites.
Modeling phase noise estimation in air borne pulse Doppler RF sensor using range correlation and inline flicker
Authors: Kumar Vipin , Ghosh Jayanta
Published: February 2025

In this article, a qualitative work has been carried out based on airborne pulsed Doppler (PD) RF sensor consist of its operational requirements in terms of phase noise modeling and associated contributing factors. Precise and efficient theoretical modeling of phase noise requirement for airborne-PD radar or long-range RF sensor is presented. This work also emphasis on the limitation of conventional phase noise modeling practices used for PD RF sensor. An improved equation has been derived for accurate phase noise estimation considering the range correlation effect and inline flicker contribution on residual phase noise requirement. Random vibrations causes increase in phase noise level around low frequency offsets region in local oscillator. The proposed phase noise model is efficient enough to counter phase noise degradation at lower frequency offsets. The proposed model is also experimentally validated. Improved modeling offers benefit in reducing the stringent RF sensor phase noise specifications at close-in frequency offsets using range correlation effect and precise inclusion of inline flicker contribution. Present work can be used to mitigate random vibration effects at close-in phase noise offsets, which avoids complex stabilization practices and stringent oscillator design phase noise specification.
Radiation Belt Electron Acceleration Inside the Plasmasphere
Authors: Hua Man , Bortnik Jacob
Published: February 2025

We report a new population of outer belt electron acceleration events ranging from hundreds of keV to ∼1.5 MeV that occurred inside the plasmasphere, which we named “Inside Events” (IEs). Based on 6 year observations from Van Allen Probes, we compare the statistical distributions of IEs with electron acceleration events outside the plasmasphere (OEs). We find that most IEs were observed at L < 4.0 at energies below ∼1.5 MeV, with weaker acceleration ratio (<10) and larger event numbers (peaking value reaching >200), compared to stronger but less frequently occurred (peaking event numbers only reaching ∼80) OEs that were mostly observed at L > 4.0. The evolution of electron phase space density of a typical IE shows signature of inward radial diffusion or transport. Our study provides a feasible mechanism for IE, which is the results of the inward radial transport of the electron acceleration in the outer region of outer belt.
Dual-mode temperature monitoring using high-performance flexible thermocouple sensors based on PEDOT:PSS/CNTs and MXene/Bi2Se3
Authors: Sun Baichuan , Xu Gaobin , Yang Zhaohui , Guan Cunhe , Ji Xu , Chen Shirong , Chen Xing , Ma Yuanming , Feng Jianguo
Published: February 2025

Due to the limited thermoelectric (TE) performance of polymer materials and the inherent rigidity of inorganic materials, developing low-cost, highly flexible, and high-performance materials for flexible thermocouple sensors (FTCSs) remains challenging. Additionally, dual-mode (contact/non-contact) temperature monitoring in FTCSs is underexplored. This study addresses these issues by using p-type (PEDOT:PSS/CNTs, 2:1) and n-type (MXene/Bi2Se3, 2:1) TE materials applied via screen printing and compression onto a PPSN substrate (paper/PDMS/Si3N₄). The resulting FTCSs exhibit excellent TE properties: electrical conductivities of 61,197.88 S/m (n-type) and 55,697.77 S/m (p-type), Seebeck coefficients of 39.88 μV/K and -29.45 μV/K, and power factors (PFs) of 97.66 μW/mK² and 55.64 μW/mK², respectively. In contact mode, the sensor shows high-temperature sensitivity (S

T
 = 379.5 μV/°C), a broad detection range (20-200 °C), high resolution (~0.3 °C), and fast response (~12.6 ms). In non-contact mode, it maintains good sensitivity (S

Tmax
 = 52.67 μV/°C), a broad detection range, high resolution (~0.8 °C), and even faster response (~9.8 ms). The sensor also demonstrates strong mechanical durability, maintaining stable performance after 1000 bending cycles. When applied to dual-mode temperature monitoring in wearable devices and lithium batteries, the FTCS shows high accuracy and reliability compared to commercial K-type thermocouples, indicating significant potential for advanced medical monitoring systems and smart home technologies.
Tumor vascular endothelial cells promote immune escape by upregulating PD-L1 expression via crosstalk between NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yan , Chen Yuanyuan , Liu Yuanyuan , Zhao Jingjing , Wang Gongming , Chen Hao , Tang Yan , Ouyang Dijun , Xie Songzuo , You Jinqi , Yang Xinyi , Li Minxing , Xia Jianchuan , Xiang Tong , Weng Desheng
Published: February 2025

Aberrant vascular systems are significant indicators of cancer and play pivotal roles in tumor immunomodulation. However, the role of PD-L1 expressed on vascular endothelial cells (VECs) in the tumor immune microenvironment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), as well as its correlation with patient prognosis, remains unclear. According to in vitro experiments conducted in our research, NPC tumor supernatants could upregulate PD-L1 expression on HUVECs, and the upregulated PD-L1 could bind to PD-1 on T cells leading to diminished T cell killing. The results of animal experiments similarly showed that elevated levels of PD-L1 on tumor VECs hindered the anti-tumor effectiveness of T cells, resulting in immune evasion and tumor progression. Furthermore, PD-L1 expression on tumor VECs served as a valuable prognostic marker, with heightened expression linked to poorer prognosis in NPC patients. Mechanistically, we discovered that the interaction between NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways may contribute significantly to the up-regulation of PD-L1 on VECs in NPC. Together, our work provides novel insights into identifying prognostic markers and strategies for reversing immune evasion mechanisms in NPC.
Functional proteoform group deconvolution reveals a broader spectrum of ibrutinib off-targets
Authors: Leo Isabelle Rose , Kunold Elena , Audrey Anastasia , Tampere Marianna , Eirich Jürgen , Lehtiö Janne , Jafari Rozbeh
Published: February 2025

Proteome-wide profiling has revealed that targeted drugs can have complex protein interaction landscapes. However, it’s a challenge to profile drug targets while systematically accounting for the dynamic protein variations that produce populations of multiple proteoforms. We address this problem by combining thermal proteome profiling (TPP) with functional proteoform group detection to refine the target landscape of ibrutinib. In addition to known targets, we implicate additional specific functional proteoform groups linking ibrutinib to mechanisms in immunomodulation and cellular processes like Golgi trafficking, endosomal trafficking, and glycosylation. Further, we identify variability in functional proteoform group profiles in a CLL cohort, linked to treatment status and ex vivo response and resistance. This offers deeper insights into the impacts of functional proteoform groups in a clinical treatment setting and suggests complex biological effects linked to off-target engagement. These results provide a framework for interpreting clinically observed off-target processes and adverse events, highlighting the importance of functional proteoform group-level deconvolution in understanding drug interactions and their functional impacts with potential applications in precision medicine.
Correlated states controlled by a tunable van Hove singularity in moiré WSe2 bilayers
Authors: Knüppel Patrick , Zhu Jiacheng , Xia Yiyu , Xia Zhengchao , Han Zhongdong , Zeng Yihang , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Shan Jie , Mak Kin Fai
Published: February 2025

Twisted transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) bilayers have enabled the discovery of superconductivity, ferromagnetism, correlated insulators, and a series of new topological phases of matter. However, the connection between these electronic phases of matter and the underlying band structure singularities has remained largely unexplored. Here, combining magnetic circular dichroism and exciton sensing measurements, we investigate the influence of a van Hove singularity (vHS) on the correlated phases in bilayer WSe2 with twist angle between 2 and 3 degrees. By tuning the vHS across the Fermi level using electric and magnetic fields, we observe Stoner ferromagnetism below moiré lattice filling one and Chern insulators at filling one. The experimental observations are supported by the continuum model band structure calculations. Our results highlight the prospect of engineering electronic phases of matter in moiré materials by tunable van Hove singularities.
Ultrafast structural dynamics of carbon–carbon single-bond rotation in transient radical species at non-equilibrium
Authors: Lee Seonggon , Ki Hosung , Im Donghwan , Kim Jungmin , Lee Yunbeom , Gu Jain , Segalina Alekos , Heo Jun , Cha Yongjun , Lee Kyung Won , Kim Doyeong , Kim Jeongho , Ma Rory , Lee Jae Hyuk , Ihee Hyotcherl
Published: February 2025

Bond rotation is an important phenomenon governing the fate of reactions. In particular, heterogeneously substituted ethane derivatives provide distinct structural conformations around the bond, empowering them as ideal systems for studying the rotation along carbon-containing single bonds. However, structural dynamics of ultrafast single-bond rotation, especially along C–C• bonds, have remained elusive as tracking the detailed changes in structural parameters during the rotational isomerization is challenging with conventional spectroscopic tools. Here, we employ femtosecond time-resolved X-ray liquidography to visualize the rotational isomerization between anti and gauche conformers of tetrafluoroiodoethyl radical (C2F4I•) and 1,2-tetrafluorodiiodoethane (C2F4I2), simultaneously. The TRXL data captures perturbations in conformer ratios and structures of each reacting species, revealing that the rotational isomerization of C2F4I• and C2F4I2 follows anti-to-gauche and gauche-to-anti paths with time constants of 1.2 ps and 26 ps, respectively. These findings also align with the computational predictions. This work offers an atomic-level insight into the kinetics and structural dynamics of single-bond rotation.
Assessing the effects of conductivity on egg development and survival of Eastern Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus a. alleganiensis)
Authors: Brown Ryan K. , Kaunert Matthew D. D. , Johnson Kelly S. , Roosenburg Willem M. , Popescu Viorel D.
Published: February 2025

Increasing concentrations of dissolved ions in freshwater ecosystems often stem from anthropogenic sources and have been implicated in the decline of sensitive aquatic organisms. Eastern hellbenders (Cryptobranchus a. alleganiensis) are fully aquatic salamanders that are experiencing range-wide declines and increased conductivity has been suggested as a cause. Declining populations are skewed towards older age classes, indicating a lack of successful reproduction (i.e., population recruitment). Therefore, insights into mechanisms that may cause mortality in early life stages are of great value to hellbender conservation. We conducted an experimental study to evaluate the effects of increased conductivity on the survival and development of hellbender eggs and newly hatched larvae. Wild-collected eggs were incubated across a range of conductivities (100, 300, 600, 1,000 µS/cm). We used two types of salt, aquarium salt and rock salt, to manipulate conductivity during and after hatching. Overall mortality rates were low (< 0.07) across all treatments, but highest in the 1,000 µS/cm treatments (0.14). There was no difference in mortality between aquarium salt and rock salt treatments, however the rock salt treatment stimulated earlier hatching times. Larvae reared in the 1,000 µS/cm treatments had shorter snout-vent length (SVLs) (mean = 25.44 mm) than those reared at 300 µS/cm (mean = 26.95 mm) and marginally smaller head and mid-section width than individuals reared in the 100 µS/cm treatments. Our study suggests that higher conductivity has limited effects on egg and larval survival and development, and that water conductivity alone may be a suboptimal metric relating the persistence of hellbender populations to water quality. In addition, the type of salt affected hatching rates and timing, thus evaluating the composition and concentration of various ions leading to elevated conductivity is essential to understanding how degraded water quality may affect early life stages of this imperiled amphibian.
Social implications of coexistence of CAVs and human drivers in the context of route choice
Authors: Jamróz Grzegorz , Akman Ahmet Onur , Psarou Anastasia , Varga Zoltán György , Kucharski Rafał
Published: February 2025

Suppose in a stable urban traffic system populated only by human driven vehicles (HDVs), a given proportion (e.g.
$$10\%$$
) is replaced by a fleet of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs), which share information and pursue a collective goal. Suppose these vehicles are centrally coordinated and differ from HDVs only by their collective capacities allowing them to make more efficient routing decisions before the travel on a given day begins. Suppose there is a choice between two routes and every day each driver makes a decision which route to take. Human drivers maximize their utility. CAVs might optimize different goals, such as the total travel time of the fleet. We show that in this plausible futuristic setting, the strategy CAVs are allowed to adopt may result in human drivers either benefitting or being systematically disadvantaged and urban networks becoming more or less optimal. Consequently, some regulatory measures might become indispensable.
Cardiac effects of two hallucinogenic natural products, N,N-dimethyl-tryptamine and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyl-tryptamine
Authors: Neumann Joachim , Dietrich Tobias , Azatsian Karyna , Hofmann Britt , Gergs Ulrich
Published: February 2025

It is unclear whether hallucinogenic tryptamine derivatives namely N,N-dimethyl-tryptamine (DMT) and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyl-tryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) exert positive inotropic effects in the human heart. Therefore, we measured the inotropic effects of these drugs in isolated left and right atrial preparations of mice that overexpress human 5-HT4 receptors (5-HT4-TG) and preparations from wild type mice (WT). Moreover, we measured force of contraction in isolated right atrial preparations from adult patients, obtained in the process of open heart surgery due to severe coronary heart disease. DMT and 5-MeO-DMT augmented the force of contraction in isolated paced (1 Hz) left atrial preparations from 5-HT4-TG and raised the spontaneous beating rate of right atrial preparations from 5-HT4-TG. The drugs elevated force of contraction in paced (1 Hz) human right atrial muscle preparations. The maximum inotropic effects of DMT and 5-MeO-DMT were smaller at 10 µM (about 65%) than that of 1 µM 5-HT on the left atria from 5-HT4-TG. The maximum increase in the beating rate due to DMT and 5-MeO-DMT amounted 40 ± 5% of the effect of 5-HT on right atrial preparations from 5-HT4-TG (n = 5–6). DMT and 5-MeO-DMT were inactive in WT. The potency of 5-MeO-DMT to increase force of contraction could be increased by pre-treatment of human atrial preparations by the phosphodiesterase inhibitor cilostamide (1 µM). 5-MeO-DMT increased the phosphorylation state of phospholamban at serine 16 in isolated left atrial muscle strips of 5-HT4-TG. In summary, DMT and 5-MeO-DMT acted as partial agonists on human 5-HT4 receptors.
Impact of wind-induced resuspension on urban air quality: a CFD study with air quality data comparison
Authors: Linda Jakub , Hasečić Amra , Pospíšil Jiří , Kudela Libor , Brzezina Jáchym
Published: February 2025

Wind-induced particulate matter (PM) resuspension is an increasingly recognized contributor to urban air pollution. A CFD model of 2D street canyon geometry was developed that can replicate the process of resuspension. Model created the wind speed vs concentration increase due to resuspension relationship and its key properties: threshold wind speed causing resuspension (TWSR) and concentration increase. At least 8.75 m/s in 10 m height inlet wind speed before street canyons was needed to start the resuspension, leading to PM10 concentrations often exceeding 1 μg/m³, with peak values reaching as high as 3 μg/m³. The model can predict the behavior of resuspension well, but it cannot capture all the factors acting in the real environment to match precisely the air quality data. Silt load remains the greatest unknown factor in determining the overall magnitude of resuspension, with observed increases in PM10 concentrations up to 6 μg/m³ in air quality data.
Propagation of goose primordial germ cells in vitro relies on FGF and BMP signalling pathways
Authors: Doddamani Dadakhalandar , Lázár Bence , Ichikawa Kennosuke , Hu Tuanjun , Taylor Lorna , Gócza Elen , Várkonyi Eszter , McGrew Mike J.
Published: February 2025

Mitotically active embryonic reproductive cells, the primordial germ cells (PGCs), are an ideal cell type for cryopreserving functional reproductive cells for avian species. Their low number in the avian embryo, however, renders cryopreservation and germline transmission methodologies difficult. Here, we develop a culture medium for the long-term in vitro culture of PGCs from the goose, Anser anser domesticus. In contrast to chicken, goose PGC self-renewal is dependent on the TGF-β family member, BMP4, and, conversely, is inhibited by Activin A. An RNA transcriptome analysis reveals commonalities between cultured PGCs from chicken and goose species, including a marked transcriptional difference between male and female goose PGCs. In vitro propagated goose PGCs are amenable to genetic modification using DNA transposons and colonising the gonads of xenogeneic sterile host embryos. These data demonstrate that the conservation and cryopreservation of the genetic diversity of the >1400 endangered bird species using PGCs remains a valid possibility.
Ocean-bottom seismometers reveal surge dynamics in Earth’s longest-runout sediment flows
Authors: Kunath Pascal , Talling Peter J. , Lange Dietrich , Chi Wu-Cheng , Baker Megan L. , Urlaub Morelia , Berndt Christian
Published: February 2025

Turbidity currents carve Earth’s deepest canyons, form Earth’s largest sediment deposits, and break seabed telecommunications cables. Directly measuring turbidity currents is notoriously challenging due to their destructive impact on instruments within their path. This is especially the case for canyon-flushing flows that can travel >1000 km at >5 m/s, whose dynamics are poorly understood. We deployed ocean-bottom seismometers safely outside turbidity currents, and used emitted seismic signals to remotely monitor canyon-flushing events. By analyzing seismic power variations with distance and signal polarization, we distinguish signals generated by turbulence and sediment transport and document the evolving internal speed and structure of flows. Flow-fronts have dense near-bed layers comprising multiple surges with 5-to-30-minute durations, continuing for many hours. Fastest surges occur 30–60 minutes behind the flow-front, providing momentum that sustains flow-fronts for >1000 km. Our results highlight surging within dense near-bed layers as a key driver of turbidity currents’ long-distance runout.
LRP5 promotes adipose progenitor cell fitness and adipocyte insulin sensitivity
Authors: Loh Nellie Y. , Vasan Senthil K. , Rosoff Daniel B. , Roberts Emile , van Dam Andrea D. , Verma Manu , Phillips Daniel , Wesolowska-Andersen Agata , Neville Matt J. , Noordam Raymond , Ray David W. , Tobias Jonathan H. , Gregson Celia L. , Karpe Fredrik , Christodoulides Constantinos
Published: February 2025

Background

WNT signaling plays a key role in postnatal bone formation. Individuals with gain-of-function mutations in the WNT co-receptor LRP5 exhibit increased lower-body fat mass and potentially enhanced glucose metabolism, alongside high bone mass. However, the mechanisms by which LRP5 regulates fat distribution and its effects on systemic metabolism remain unclear. This study aims to explore the role of LRP5 in adipose tissue biology and its impact on metabolism.

Methods

Metabolic assessments and imaging were conducted on individuals with gain- and loss-of-function LRP5 mutations, along with age- and BMI-matched controls. Mendelian randomization analyses were used to investigate the relationship between bone, fat distribution, and systemic metabolism. Functional studies and RNA sequencing were performed on abdominal and gluteal adipose cells with LRP5 knockdown.

Results

Here we show that LRP5 promotes lower-body fat distribution and enhances systemic and adipocyte insulin sensitivity through cell-autonomous mechanisms, independent of its bone-related functions. LRP5 supports adipose progenitor cell function by activating WNT/β-catenin signaling and preserving valosin-containing protein (VCP)-mediated proteostasis. LRP5 expression in adipose progenitors declines with age, but gain-of-function LRP5 variants protect against age-related fat loss in the lower body.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the critical role of LRP5 in regulating lower-body fat distribution and insulin sensitivity, independent of its effects on bone. Pharmacological activation of LRP5 in adipose tissue may offer a promising strategy to prevent age-related fat redistribution and metabolic disorders.
Submersible touchless interactivity in conformable textiles enabled by highly selective overbraided magnetoresistive sensors
Authors: Lugoda Pasindu , Oliveros-Mata Eduardo Sergio , Marasinghe Kalana , Bhaumik Rahul , Pretto Niccolò , Oliveira Carlos , Dias Tilak , Hughes-Riley Theodore , Haller Michael , Münzenrieder Niko , Makarov Denys
Published: February 2025

Miniature electronics positioned within textile braids leverages the persistent flexibility and comfort of textiles constructed from electronics with 1D form factors. Here, we developed touchless interactivity within textiles using 1D overbraided magnetic field sensors. Our integration strategy minimally impacts the performance of flexible giant magnetoresistive sensors, yielding machine-washable sensors that maintain conformability when integrated in traditional fabrics. These overbraided magnetoresistive sensors exhibit a detectivity down to 380 nT and a nearly isotropic magnetoresistance amplitude response, facilitating intuitive touchless interaction. The interactivity is possible even in humid environments, including underwater, opening reliable activation in day-to-day and specialized applications. To showcase capabilities of overbraided magnetoresistive sensors, we demonstrate a functional armband for navigation control in virtual reality environments and a self-monitoring safety helmet strap. This approach bridges the integration gap between on-skin and rigid magnetic interfaces, paving the way for highly reliable, comfortable, interactive textiles across entertainment, safety, and sportswear.
Lactobacillus-derived artificial extracellular vesicles for skin rejuvenation and prevention of photo-aging
Authors: Kang Seongsu , Jeon Saetbyeol , Baek Hwira , Hwang Sunghwan , Kim Seulgi , Youn Sung Hun , Kim Jin Woong , Jun Seung-Hyun , Kang Nae-Gyu
Published: February 2025

Lactobacillus-derived artificial exosomes (LAEs) fabricated by microfluidizer for skin rejuvenation and anti-aging.
Orthogonal effect on Pyrene-Porphyrin conjugates towards the detection of Volatile Organic Compounds under UV and Visible light illumination through Surface Photovoltage
Authors: Nutalapati Venkatramaiah , Palanisamy Prasanth , Anandan Mageshwari , Sasi Sheethal , Bora Arbacheena , Reji Rence P. , Sarath Kumar C. B. , Kawazoe Yoshiyuki , Kommineni Kalyani , Velappa Jayaraman Surya , Sivalingam Yuvaraj
Published: February 2025

In this work, we have developed two modular compounds encompassed with pyrene at meso position of the freebase porphyrin (H2PyP) and its complex with Zn (ZnPyP). Both compounds exhibited to...
Engineering magnetism in hybrid organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites
Authors: Asensio Yaiza , Olano-Vegas Lucía , Mattioni Samuele , Gobbi Marco , Casanova Felix , Hueso Luis E. , Martin-Garcia Beatriz
Published: February 2025

The chemical and structural flexibility of hybrid organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites (HOIPs) provides an ideal platform for engineering not only their well-studied optical properties, but also their magnetic ones. In...
Advanced Disease Therapeutics Using Engineered Living Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Mamidi Narsimha , De Silva Fátima  Franco , Orash Mahmoud Salehi Amin
Published: February 2025

Biological barriers significantly impede the delivery of nanotherapeutics to diseased tissues, diminishing therapeutic efficacy across pathologies such as cancer and inflammatory disorders. Although conventional strategies integrate multifunctional designs and molecular...
Ni(ii)-catalyzed enantioselective α-hydrazination of α-fluoroesters: access to chiral quaternary α-fluorinated α-amino acid derivatives
Authors: Yang Wei-Jing , Zhang Jun-Hao , Li Ning , Xie Ming-Sheng , Guo Hai-Ming
Published: February 2025

With C1-symmetric imidazolidine-pyrroloimidazolone pyridine as the tridentate ligand and Ni(BF4)2·6H2O as the Lewis acid, diverse chiral α-hydrazino-α-fluorinated ester derivatives were obtained in high yields and excellent enantioselectivities.
Preparation of nanosilver/polymer composites and evaluation of their antimicrobial and antitumor effect
Authors: Lu FeiFei , Liu Yuxin , Dai Yingxin , Zhang Guoxu , Tong Yanan
Published: February 2025

A copolymer (PVA-g-PEG) of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was synthesized by grafting PEG chains onto PVA backbone to prepare the silver nanoparticles/polymer composite (AgNPs).
Trap-Controlled Sodalites with High Photochromic Contrast for Decoration Applications
Authors: Zhang Jingxuan , Yang Zetian , Lin Hengwei , Poelman Dirk , Vrielinck Henk M , Du Jiaren
Published: February 2025

Motivated by their variable chromatic transformations and remarkable thermal stability, photochromic materials derived from sodalite (Na8(AlSiO4)6Cl2) have been proposed for various applications such as optical anti-counterfeiting and radiation dosimetry. Nonetheless,...
Identification of γ-Butyrolactone Signalling Molecules in Diverse Actinomycetes Using Resin-Assisted Isolation and Chemoenzymatic Synthesis
Authors: Kudo Yuta , Konoki Keiichi , Yotsu-Yamashita Mari
Published: February 2025

Actinomycetes are prolific producers of secondary metabolites with diverse bioactivities. Secondary metabolism in actinomycetes is regulated by signalling molecules, often termed “bacterial hormones.” In Streptomyces griseus, the γ-butyrolactone (GBL) A-factor...
Electrochemical dehydrogenative and desulfurative annulation for the synthesis of isoxazolines and pyrazolines
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhang Xing , Zhuang Xianglin , Xia Liwen , Wang Yingwei , Cai Xianrong , Liang Xingyong , Su Lebin
Published: February 2025

Efficient and sustainable synthesis of isoxazolines and pyrazolines via electrooxidative dehydrogenative and desulfurative annulation.
Mechanistic pathway and optimization of rhodamine B degradation using Mn3O4/ZnO nanocomposite on microalgae-based carbon
Authors: Nguyen Hoc Thang , Doan Van-Dat , Huong Nguyen Thi Lan , Nguyen Anh-Tien , Tran Quang- Hieu , Tran Vy Anh , Le Van Thuan
Published: February 2025

A novel Mn3O4/ZnO nanocomposite supported on microalgae-derived activated carbon demonstrated excellent photocatalytic efficiency, reusability, and safety for rhodamine B wastewater treatment.
How does the tubulin code facilitate directed cell migration?
Authors: Simoes-da-Silva Miguel Marques , Barisic Marin
Published: February 2025

Besides being a component of the cytoskeleton that provides structural integrity to the cell, microtubules also serve as tracks for intracellular transport. As the building units of the mitotic spindle, microtubules distribute chromosomes during cell division. By distributing organelles, vesicles, and proteins, they play a pivotal role in diverse cellular processes, including cell migration, during which they reorganize to facilitate cell polarization. Structurally, microtubules are built up of α/β-tubulin dimers, which consist of various tubulin isotypes that undergo multiple post-translational modifications (PTMs). These PTMs allow microtubules to differentiate into functional subsets, influencing the associated processes. This text explores the current understanding of the roles of tubulin PTMs in cell migration, particularly detyrosination and acetylation, and their implications in human diseases.
Direct model predictive torque control for permanent magnet synchronous motor with voltage vector parallel optimisation algorithm
Authors: Qiao Shejuan , Huang Jin , Xu Yuhao , Song Ke
Published: February 2025

The multi‐vector‐based direct model predictive torque control (DMPTC) inherits the high control precise of vector control and the fast dynamic response of model predictive control. However, the cascade optimisation mode is difficult to guarantee the global optimal performance of the voltage vector (VV) combination, and results in invalid VV time duration in some cases as well as high calculation complexity. In this paper, for the predictive control of permanent magnet synchronous motors widely used in electric propulsion aircraft, a parallel optimisation DMPTC method is proposed to ensure that the multi‐vectors applied are all optimal in each control cycle. The optimal double vectors are directly chosen locating the sub‐region of the sector of reference VV. With only the absolute value of stator VV error term, the time duration is always in the valid range and robust to motor parameters. In addition, a cost function with a single control objective is designed to control the torque and flux cooperatively, eliminating the stator flux weighting factor and reducing the computation burden. The proposed method is compared with the recent predictive torque control strategies. The experimental results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method in improving the dynamic response and steady‐state performance while reducing computation burden and complexity.