bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative characterization of the multiscale mechanical properties of low-permeability sandstone roofs of coal seams based on nanoindentation and triaxial tests and its implications for CO2 geological sequestration
Authors: Cao Feng , He Jianhua , Cao Hongxiu , Deng Hucheng , La Croix Andrew D. , Jiang Rui , Li Ruixue , Li Jiarun
Published: January 2025

Microstructural heterogeneity of low-permeability sandstone roofs of deep unmineable coal seams due to diagenesis significantly affects rock mechanical behavior, greatly impacting the sealing potential of in situ CO2 sequestration and the structural stability of the geological formation. However, little is known about how the microstructure of different mineral groups influences the multiscale mechanical behavior of deep sandstone. This study proposes a new method for quantitatively characterizing the multiscale mechanical properties of low-permeability sandstone and shows the mechanisms responsible for mechanical failure at the micro-, meso-, and macroscale. Triaxial compression tests and targeted nanoindentation tests were conducted to assess the micro- and macroscale mechanical properties of different types of sandstone. The micro- and macroscale experiments were coupled with numerical simulations of compression using a unified cohesive model based on Voronoi polygons to clarify the multiscale mechanical behavior. The results indicate that quartz, the primary mineral component of the sandstones examined, exhibits the strongest micromechanical properties, followed by feldspar, calcite, and clay minerals. Compared to polycrystalline quartz, monocrystalline quartz has a more stable microstructure and is mechanically stronger. The macro-mechanical properties of tight sandstone samples are weakened by increased microstructural inhomogeneity and larger grain size. This leads to a higher likelihood of splitting damage, characterized by a high degree of discrete and weak stress sensitivity. The major conclusion is that the positive rhythm lithofacies of medium-grained sandstone to siltstone are the most favorable for efficient CO2 sequestration in deep unmineable coal seams.
Adverse drug reactions and events in an Ageing PopulaTion risk Prediction (ADAPTiP) tool: the development and validation of a model for predicting adverse drug reactions and events in older patients
Authors: Frydenlund Juliane , Cosgrave Nicole , Moriarty Frank , Wallace Emma , Kirke Ciara , Williams David J. , Bennett Kathleen , Cahir Caitriona
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Older people are at an increased risk of developing adverse drug reactions (ADR) and adverse drug events (ADE). This study aimed to develop and validate a risk prediction model (ADAPTiP) for ADR/ADE in older populations.

Methods

We used the adverse drug reactions in an Ageing PopulaTion (ADAPT) cohort (N = 798; 361 ADR-related admissions; 437 non-ADR-related admissions), a cross-sectional study designed to examine the prevalence and risk factors for ADR-related hospital admissions in patients aged ≥ 65 years. Twenty predictors (categorised as sociodemographic-related, functional ability-related, disease-related, and medication-related) were considered in the development of the model. The model was developed using multivariable logistic regression and was internally validated by fivefold cross-validation. The model was externally validated in a separate prospective cohort from the Centre for Primary Care Research (CPCR) study of ADES. The cross-validated and externally validated model performance was evaluated by discrimination and calibration.

Results

The final prediction model, ADAPTiP, included nine predictors: age, chronic lung disease, the primary presenting complaints of respiratory, bleeding and gastrointestinal disorders and syncope on hospital admission and antithrombotics, diuretics, and renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system drug classes. ADAPTiP demonstrated good performance with cross-validated area under the curve of 0.75 [95% CI 0.72;79] and 0.83 [95% CI 0.80;0.87] in the external validation.

Conclusion

Using accessible information from medical records, ADAPTiP can help clinicians to identify those older people at risk of an ADR/ADE who should be monitored and/or have their medications reviewed to avoid potentially harmful prescribing.
Robust successive generalised dynamic inversion control of satellite launch vehicles
Authors: Bajodah A.H. , Ansari U.
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we designa robust Successive Generalised Dynamic Inversion (SGDI) flight control system for high-performance trajectory tracking of target sun-synchronous orbit Satellite Launch Vehicles (SLVs). The robust SGDI control system is designed to track an optimal reference trajectory such that the desired orbital terminal conditions of the ascent flight phase are achieved. The proposed SGDI is composed of two loops. The attitude control loop employs Dynamically Scaled Generalised Inversion (DSGI) of Servo Constraint Dynamics (SVD) in the deviations of Euler attitude angles from their desired optimal trajectories. The inner-dynamics control loop employs DSGI of an SVD in the SLV angular velocity components. Robustification control elements are augmented within the two loops of the baseline SGDI control system to overcome control performance degradation due to dynamic scaling of the Moore-Penrose generalised inverse, modeling and parametric uncertainties, and exogenous disturbances. The robust SGDI control system works to enforce global convergence of the SLV attitude trajectories to the reference trajectories. The high-performance attributes of the robust SGDI control system are verified via comparisons with a classical sliding mode control system, and by performing numerous runs of Monte Carlo simulations under various types of uncertainties and external wind disturbances.
Anthropogenic factors, not altitude, shape native and nonnative plant species distributional patterns in a tropical mountain protected area
Authors: da Rosa Hugo Henrique Marques , Silveira Raphaela Aparecida Duarte , Oliveira Beatriz Cunha Mello , Heringer Gustavo , Zenni Rafael Dudeque
Published: January 2025

Biological invasions pose a major threat to biodiversity conservation in protected areas, with roads, tracks, and trails being the main pathways for the spread of non-native species. This study aimed to assess the distribution patterns of non-native and native plant species in relation to elevational gradient, public use intensity, and disturbance by roads and trails in a protected tropical mountain forest in southeastern Brazil. Specifically, we recorded plant species along this gradient and tested whether the richness of native and non-native species differed with elevation. Additionally, we investigated whether the high-altitude non-native species community was a subset of lower-elevation communities and whether non-native species richness was linked to anthropogenic disturbances and public use intensity. Our findings revealed that native and non-native species richness varied along the elevational gradient. Native species exhibited a hump-shaped pattern, with richness peaking at mid-elevations. In contrast, non-native species did not show a clear trend along the altitudinal gradient. Notably, higher non-native species richness was observed in roadside and trailside plots. The non-native species communities at higher altitudes were not simply subsets of those found at lower elevations. Thus, while the richness and composition of native species appeared to be driven by environmental factors along the elevational gradient, the presence of non-native species was more closely associated with anthropogenic disturbances. In summary, our results indicate that non-native plants, although widespread along trails and roads, establish primarily in the most disturbed areas. Therefore, roads, trails, and human and vehicular traffic are key determinants of biological invasions in this mountainous protected area.
Forum Discussion of Heathen: Religion and Race in American History, Kathryn Gin Lum: Introduction
Authors: Carté Katherine
Published: January 2025

The question of how Christians perceived and related to non-Christians – heathens – is of pressing historical importance in every era of the history of Christianity. It lies at the core of the historical category of “religion,” particularly as it developed through European colonial expansion in the early modern era, and it plays important roles in the globalizing processes of the nineteenth, twentieth, and twenty-first centuries. Kathryn Gin Lum's book, Heathen: Religion and Race in American History, winner of the ASCH's 2023 Philip Schaff Prize, chronicles that history. Through her narrative, she queries the ways historians engage categories of difference and the role of religion in creating social and political hierarchies.
The Italian general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry treatment model: a unique story
Authors: Carabellese Felice F. , Parente Lia
Published: January 2025

The history of Italian general psychiatry and forensic psychiatry over the last 50 years has been unique in the European and Western healthcare landscape. Western politicians often visit Italy to observe the successful community-based systems that have developed in that country.

This article represents a first step toward a necessary attempt, to explore how specific political decisions, such as the Italian one, have produced positive outcomes for patients with psychotic disorders, outcomes not observed in many Western countries, which are instead grappling with negative outcomes such as the complicated management of homelessness and the incarceration of people who would instead require psychiatric care.

In its historical context, the 1978 decision to abandon the asylum tradition in favor of socialization for patients living with severe mental disorders represented a difficult choice. This choice led to inevitable critical issues, which today are still not completely dormant.

This choice has also, undoubtedly, restored dignity to people living with serious mental illness, even when that person commits a crime.

To understand these changes, it is appropriate to mention the regulations that finally led to Law number 180 of 1978, which decreed the closure of psychiatric hospitals (Ospedale Psichiatrico) throughout Italy and continued after 2015 with the closure of high-security psychiatric hospitals (Ospedale Psichiatrico Giudiziario) as well.

Culturally, much has changed throughout this time in assistance to the mentally ill in Europe.
Permafrost and Structural Controls on Holocene Bedrock Landslide Occurrence Around Eyjafjörður, North‐Central Iceland
Authors: Booth Adam M. , Pétursson Halldór G.
Published: January 2025

Rapid, transient, landscape‐scale changes associated with deglaciation can condition slopes for failure and trigger bedrock landslides. However, the mechanisms leading to paleo rock slope failures following the last glacial period are challenging to infer because observations of how both landsliding and potential driving factors were distributed in space and time are limited. Here, we map and analyze the spatiotemporal pattern of 676 post‐glacial bedrock landslides around Eyjafjörður in north‐central Iceland using 2‐m resolution digital elevation data generated from optical stereo satellite imagery. Frequency‐ratio analysis demonstrates that after controlling for slope, landslides are most overrepresented within 2.6 km horizontal distances from surface projections of major Tertiary bedrock structures and at land surface elevations within 300 m of a modeled lower limit to permafrost. Surface roughness analysis of landslide deposits indicates that peak landslide frequency of at least 0.2 landslides yr−1 in the 5,579 km2 study area lagged deglaciation by several thousand years. This timing aligns well with that of rapid permafrost degradation from the Younger Dryas (12.9–11.7 cal ky BP) through the Holocene Thermal Maximum (∼10–7 cal ky BP). Landslide frequency has averaged about 0.014 landslides yr−1 since the Holocene Thermal Maximum when the climate has generally been cooler and permafrost has been more extensive. However, present day warming is likely to reduce permafrost extent and increase the potential for bedrock landslides in north‐central Iceland, as has already been observed for several recent shallower landslides in regolith.
Uncertainties in Simulating Flooding During Hurricane Harvey Using 2D Shallow Water Equations
Authors: Xu Donghui , Bisht Gautam , Engwirda Darren , Feng Dongyu , Tan Zeli , Ivanov Valeriy Y.
Published: January 2025

Flooding is one of the most impactful weather‐related natural hazards. Numerical models that solve the two dimensional (2D) shallow water equations (SWE) represent the first‐principles approach to simulate all types of spatial flooding, such as pluvial, fluvial, and coastal flooding, and their compound dynamics. High spatial resolution (e.g., () m) is needed in 2D SWE simulations to capture flood dynamics accurately, resulting in formidable computational challenges. Thus, relatively coarser spatial resolutions are used for large‐scale simulations of flooding, which introduce uncertainties in the results. It is unclear how the uncertainty associated with the model resolution compares to the uncertainties in precipitation data sets and assumptions regarding boundary conditions when channelized flows interact with other water bodies. In this study, we compare these three sources of uncertainties in 2D SWE simulations for the 2017 Houston flooding event. Our results show that precipitation uncertainty and mesh resolution have more significant impacts on the simulated streamflow and inundation dynamics than the choice of the downstream boundary condition at the watershed outlet. We point out the viability to confine the uncertainty of coarsening mesh resolution by using the variable resolution mesh (VRM) which refines critical topographic features with far fewer grid cells. Specifically, in simulations with VRM, the simulated inundation depths over the refined region are comparable to that use the finest uniform mesh. This study contributes to understanding the challenges and pathways for applying 2D SWE models to improve the realism of flood simulations over large scales.
CK2α-mediated phosphorylation of DUB3 promotes YAP1 stability and oncogenic functions
Authors: Huang Lei , Wen Yalei , Guo Qin , Zhang Caishi , Yang Xiao , Li Mei , Liu YiXia , Li Xinying , Tang Jiaxin , Zhou Xiaofeng , Qi Qi , Zhang Haoxing , Liu Tongzheng
Published: January 2025

The aberrant upregulation of Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) in a variety of solid cancers contributes to tumor progression and poor clinical outcomes, rendering it an appealing therapeutic target. However, effective therapies to directly target YAP1 remain challenging. In this study, we perform a high-throughput screening and identify Casein kinase II (CK2) as an uncharacterized upstream regulator of YAP1 turnover in cancer cells of ovarian cancer and several other cancer types. Pharmacological inhibition of Casein kinase II by Silmitasertib or genetic depletion of the catalytic subunit of Casein kinase II (CK2α) markedly destabilizes YAP1 and consequently suppresses its oncogenic functions in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we reveal that DUB3 as a bona fide deubiquitinase of YAP1, which functionally links CK2 and YAP1 stability in a variety of human cancers. Mechanistically, CK2α directly phosphorylates DUB3 at Thr495, thereby facilitating DUB3-mediated deubiquitination process of YAP1. On the contrary, the loss of Thr495 phosphorylation by the phosphorylation-defective mutant DUB3 T495A, the cancer-related mutant DUB3 D496H and CK2 inhibition failed to deubiquitinate and stabilize YAP1 effectively. Notably, upregulated expressions of CK2α and DUB3 in ovarian cancer positively correlate with YAP1 overexpression. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the functional significance of the CK2α-DUB3 axis in YAP1 stabilization and YAP1-driven tumor progression, highlighting that strategies to target this axis might be of benefit in the clinical management of ovarian cancer and several other lethal cancers with aberrantly upregulated YAP1.
Deciphering the mechanisms of long non-coding RNAs in ferroptosis: insights into its clinical significance in cancer progression and immunology
Authors: Ou Shengming , Nie Xiaoya , Qiu Xiangyu , Jin Xin , Wu Geyan , Zhang Rongxin , Zhu Jinrong
Published: January 2025

A new type of nonapoptotic, iron-dependent cell death induced by lipid peroxidation is known as ferroptosis. Numerous pathological processes, including inflammation and cancer, have been demonstrated to be influenced by changes in the ferroptosis-regulating network. Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are a group of functional RNA molecules that are not translated into proteins, which can regulate gene expression in various manners. An increasing number of studies have shown that lncRNAs can interfere with the progression of ferroptosis by modulating ferroptosis-related genes directly or indirectly. Despite evidence implicating lncRNAs in cancer and inflammation, studies on their mechanisms and therapeutic potential remain scarce. We investigate the mechanisms of lncRNA-mediated regulation of inflammation and cancer immunity, assessing the feasibility and challenges of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets in these conditions.
Design of organic crystals with lone pairs to study spin resonance and spin-lattice interactions
Authors: Li Shilin , Lu Xiangqian , Qin Wei
Published: January 2025

Lone pairs are widely prevalent in various types of molecules and have a significant impact on the band structure, carrier transport, and dielectric response, which are the key factors for exploring the underlying mechanism of phenomena in opto-spintronics. In this work, nitrogen substitutions with nonequivalent hybridization are adopted to obtain different types of organic charge transfer crystals, where lone pairs are generated to weaken the interactions between donors and acceptors, resulting in a blueshift in photoluminescence and a weaker electron-lattice coupling. Moreover, lone pairs could further strengthen the ability to transfer energy and spin angular momentum to the lattice vibration to enhance spin resonance. Additionally, due to the effect of lone pairs, the spin density inside the crystals is redistributed to tune the transition between the singlet and triplet states. Overall, crystals with lone pairs demonstrate a more diverse set of magnetic, optical, and spin-related properties.
Nr4a1 and Nr4a3 redundantly control clonal deletion and contribute to an anergy-like transcriptome in auto-reactive thymocytes to impose tolerance in mice
Authors: Nielsen Hailyn V. , Yang Letitia , Mueller James L. , Ritter Alexander J. , Hiwa Ryosuke , Proekt Irina , Rackaityte Elze , Aylard Dominik , Gupta Mansi , Scharer Christopher D. , Anderson Mark S. , Au-Yeung Byron B. , Zikherman Julie
Published: January 2025

The Nr4a nuclear hormone receptors are transcriptionally upregulated in response to antigen recognition by the T cell receptor (TCR) in the thymus and are implicated in clonal deletion, but the mechanisms by which they operate are not clear. Moreover, their role in central tolerance is obscured by redundancy among the Nr4a family members and by their reported functions in Treg generation and maintenance. Here we take advantage of competitive bone marrow chimeras and the OT-II/RIPmOVA model to show that Nr4a1 and Nr4a3 are essential for the upregulation of Bcl2l11/BIM and thymic clonal deletion by self-antigen. Importantly, thymocytes lacking Nr4a1/3 acquire an anergy-like signature after escaping clonal deletion and Treg lineage diversion. We further show that the Nr4a family helps mediate a broad transcriptional program in self-reactive thymocytes that resembles anergy and may operate at the margins of canonical thymic tolerance mechanisms to restrain self-reactive T cells after thymic egress.
Preference for and resistance to a toxic sulfur volatile opens up a unique niche in Drosophila busckii
Authors: Pal Mahadevan Venkatesh , Galagovsky Diego , Knaden Markus , Hansson Bill S.
Published: January 2025

The ability to tolerate otherwise toxic compounds can open up unique niches in nature. Among drosophilid flies, few examples of such adaptations are known and those which are known are typically from highly host-specific species. Here we show that the human commensal species Drosophila busckii uses dimethyldisulfide (DMDS) as a key mediator in its host selection. Despite DMDS’s neurotoxic properties, D. busckii has evolved tolerance towards high concentrations and uses the compound as an olfactory cue to pinpoint food and oviposition sites. This adaptability is likely linked to insensitivity of the enzyme complex cytochrome c oxidase (COX), which is a DMDS target in other insects. Our findings position D. busckii as a potential model for studying resistance to toxic gases affecting COX and offers insight into evolutionary adaptations within specific ecological contexts.
High-throughput method characterizes hundreds of previously unknown antibiotic resistance mutations
Authors: Jago Matthew J. , Soley Jake K. , Denisov Stepan , Walsh Calum J. , Gifford Danna R. , Howden Benjamin P. , Lagator Mato
Published: January 2025

A fundamental obstacle to tackling the antimicrobial resistance crisis is identifying mutations that lead to resistance in a given genomic background and environment. We present a high-throughput technique – Quantitative Mutational Scan sequencing (QMS-seq) – that enables quantitative comparison of which genes are under antibiotic selection and captures how genetic background influences resistance evolution. We compare four E. coli strains exposed to ciprofloxacin, cycloserine, or nitrofurantoin and identify 812 resistance mutations, many in genes and regulatory regions not previously associated with resistance. We find that multi-drug and antibiotic-specific resistance are acquired through categorically different types of mutations, and that minor genotypic differences significantly influence evolutionary routes to resistance. By quantifying mutation frequency with single base pair resolution, QMS-seq informs about the underlying mechanisms of resistance and identifies mutational hotspots within genes. Our method provides a way to rapidly screen for resistance mutations while assessing the impact of multiple confounding factors.
α-Synuclein fibrils enhance HIV-1 infection of human T cells, macrophages and microglia
Authors: Olari Lia-Raluca , Liu Sichen , Arnold Franziska , Kühlwein Julia , Gil Miró Marta , Updahaya Ajeet Rijal , Stürzel Christina , Thal Dietmar Rudolf , Walther Paul , Sparrer Konstantin M. J. , Danzer Karin M. , Münch Jan , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: January 2025

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) and viral reservoirs in the brain remain a significant challenge. Despite their importance, the mechanisms allowing HIV-1 entry and replication in the central nervous system (CNS) are poorly understood. Here, we show that α-synuclein and (to a lesser extent) Aβ fibrils associated with neurological diseases enhance HIV-1 entry and replication in human T cells, macrophages, and microglia. Additionally, an HIV-1 Env-derived amyloidogenic peptide accelerated amyloid formation by α-synuclein and Aβ peptides. Mechanistic studies show that α-synuclein and Aβ fibrils interact with HIV-1 particles and promote virion attachment and fusion with target cells. Despite an overall negative surface charge, these fibrils facilitate interactions between viral and cellular membranes. The enhancing effects of human brain extracts on HIV-1 infection correlated with their binding to Thioflavin T, a dye commonly used to stain amyloids. Our results suggest a detrimental interplay between HIV-1 and brain amyloids that may contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Whole genome sequencing completes the molecular genetic testing workflow of patients with Lynch syndrome
Authors: Horti-Oravecz Klaudia , Bozsik Anikó , Pócza Tímea , Vereczkey Ildikó , Strausz Tamás , Tóth Erika , Sedlackova Tatiana , Rusnakova Diana , Szemes Tomas , Likó István , Oláh Edit , Butz Henriett , Patócs Attila , Papp János , Grolmusz Vince Kornél
Published: January 2025

Multigene panel tests (MGPTs) revolutionized the diagnosis of Lynch syndrome (LS), however noncoding pathogenic variants (PVs) can only be detected by complementary methods including whole genome sequencing (WGS). Here we present a DNA-, RNA- and tumor tissue-based WGS prioritization workflow for patients with a suspicion of LS where MGPT detected no LS-related PV. Among the 100 enrolled patients, MGPT detected 28 simple PVs and an additional 3 complex PVs. Among the 69 MGPT-negative patients, the lack of somatic MLH1 promoter methylation in a patient with a distinguished MLH1 allelic imbalance selected this sample for WGS. This returned a germline deep intronic MLH1 variant, with further functional studies confirming its’ pathogenicity. Interestingly, all three complex PVs and the MLH1 deep intronic PV were found to be recurrent at our center. Our straightforward and cost-effective prioritization workflow can optimally include WGS in the genetic diagnosis of LS.
Stability indicating RP-HPLC technique for simultaneous estimation of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir in their new copackaged dosage form for COVID-19 treatment
Authors: Yassin Mohamed G. , Roshdy Aya , Marie Aya A.
Published: January 2025

RP-HPLC technique was developed and optimized for simultaneous identification and estimation of nirmatrelvir (NIR) and ritonavir (RIT) in their new copackaged tablet. Stability of nirmatrelvir (NIR) was studied after exposure to different five stress conditions; alkali, acid, heat, photo and oxidation degradation. The chromatographic separation was achieved using VDSpher PUR 100 ODS (4.6-mm x 15-mm), 3.5 μm column and mixture of 0.03 M potassium di-hydrogen phosphate buffer pH 4 and acetonitrile (45:55, v/v) as mobile phase. The column temperature was set at 40 °C, flow rate at 1mL/min and UV detection at 215 nm. The NIR and RIT retention times were 3.94 ± 0.08 min and 9.08 ± 0.1 min, respectively. Linear relationship was established in range of (1.5–105 µg/mL) for NIR and (1–70 µg/mL) for RIT with good reproducibility. The found mean percentage recoveries of nirmatrelvir (NIR) and ritonavir (RIT) were 100.03% and 99.85%, respectively. The developed method shows very good sensitivity as the LOQ and LOD were found to be 3.001 & 0.990 µg/mL, respectively for NIR and 2.765 & 0.912 µg/mL, respectively for RIT. The developed approach was validated concerning to ICH guidelines and applied successfully for the simultaneous estimation of NIR and RIT in their new copackaged dosage from. The results of assay using the proposed approach were compared statistically to the results found by applying the published one with good agreement.
Understanding pectin cross-linking in plant cell walls
Authors: Obomighie Irabonosi , Prentice Iain J. , Lewin-Jones Peter , Bachtiger Fabienne , Ramsay Nathan , Kishi-Itakura Chieko , Goldberg Martin W. , Hawkins Tim J. , Sprittles James E. , Knight Heather , Sosso Gabriele C.
Published: January 2025

Pectin is a major component of plant cells walls. The extent to which pectin chains crosslink with one another determines crucial properties including cell wall strength, porosity, and the ability of small, biologically significant molecules to access the cell. Despite its importance, significant gaps remain in our comprehension, at the molecular level, of how pectin cross-links influence the mechanical and physical properties of cell walls. This study employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining molecular dynamics simulations, experimental investigations, and mathematical modelling, to elucidate the mechanism of pectin cross-linking and its effect on cell wall porosity. The computational aspects of this work challenge the prevailing egg-box model, favoring instead a zipper model for pectin cross-linking, whilst our experimental work highlights the significant impact of pectin cross-linking on cell wall porosity. This work advances our fundamental understanding of the biochemistry underpinning the structure and function of the plant cell wall. This knowledge has important implications for agricultural biotechnology, informing us about the chemical properties of plant pectins that are best suited for improving crop resilience and amenability to biofuel extraction by modifying the cell wall.
Recent developments and challenges of molecular design in linear cyanido-bridged multimetallic complexes
Authors: Fu Jin-Hui , Tan Bingchang , Song Ying , Wu Zi-Hang , Wu Xintao , Sheng Tianlu
Published: January 2025

Cyanido-bridged multimetallic complexes have been extensively studied for their potential applications in molecular electronics and spintronics. The design of these complexes involves the strategic placement of metal centers and the...
Enzyme-induced liquid-to-solid phase transition of a mitochondria-targeted AIEgen in cancer theranostics
Authors: Sain Shreyasri , Ramesh Madhu , Bhagavath Krithi K. , Govindaraju Thimmaiah
Published: January 2025

This cancer theranostics study presents the liquid-to-solid phase transition (LST) of an AIEgen, triggered by enzyme-instructed self-assembly (EISA) to generate red-emissive nanoaggregates that enable visualization and induce apoptosis in cancer cells and spheroids.
Pr-doped oxygen-vacancy-induced porous NiMoO4 cathode and MoS2-modified CNT anode for constructing ultra-high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Li Haoran , Ma Tenghao , Hao Tingting , Hao Jian , Wang Jing , Wang Yabin , Zhao Zheng , Lei Chenyu
Published: January 2025

This study synthesized Pr-doped NiMoO4 electrode materials.The material has excellent electrochemical performance: An asymmetric supercapacitor with 0.7% Pr–NiMoO4 as positive and MoS2@C as negative electrodes has 73.5 W h kg−1 energy density.
Soybean oil-derived, non-isocyanate polyurethane–TiO2 nanocomposites with enhanced thermal, mechanical, hydrophobic and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Bhaliya Jaydip D. , Kutcherlapati S. N. Raju , Dhore Nikhil , Punugupati Neelambaram , Sunkara Kavya Lekha , Misra Sunil , Joshi Shivam Shailesh Kumar
Published: January 2025

Non-isocyanate polyurethane nanocomposites from soybean oil and TiO2 exhibit improved thermal stability, mechanical strength, hydrophobicity, and antimicrobial properties, highlighting eco-friendly material innovation.
One-step preparation of an anti-freezing and flame-retardant eutectic gel electrolyte for assembling a flexible and high-performance zinc-ion battery
Authors: Peng Qihe , Cao Runbin , Ma Hui , Li Yunjin , Zhu Enhong , Zhu Xu , Ma Ning , Xue Mianqi , Zhang Xinyue
Published: January 2025

Flexible zinc-ion batteries have attracted considerable attention owing to their intrinsic safety, high specific capacity, low cost, and environmental benefits.
Traumatic Brain Injury in College Students: Exploring Associations Between Social–Emotional Functioning and Fatigue
Authors: Riccardi Jessica Salley , Bradfield Lydia
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

The purpose of this research study was to explore the associations between social–emotional functioning and fatigue for college students with a likely history of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Method:

Twenty college students (
n
= 13 with a likely history of TBI) completed the online survey measures for this study. Participants completed questions related to demographic and injury characteristics, friendship, emotional support, emotional and behavioral dyscontrol, and fatigue.

Results:

For all domains, participants in the TBI and no-TBI groups reported functioning near the population mean, with no significant differences in functioning based on group. When analyzing only participants with TBI, greater fatigue was significantly correlated with less emotional support and greater emotional and behavioral dyscontrol. Friendship was not significantly correlated to emotional support or fatigue.

Conclusions:

The results provide unique insights into functioning during college for individuals who experienced their TBI as a teenager. These findings can inform future research that investigates emotional support as a management strategy to reduce fatigue and emotional and behavioral dyscontrol in larger samples of students in the chronic stages of recovery from TBI.
Yield management for the cinema industry
Authors: Bär Sören , Rasch Teresa , Strohmenger Michael , Kurscheidt Markus
Published: January 2025

Cinema operators have so far behaved more conservatively in terms of their price management. In the course of the digital transformation, there are many opportunities for price innovations. The implementation of yield management strategies in the cinema industry would have a positive impact on revenue and capacity utilization and can both strengthen the competitive situation of cinemas and contribute to increasing profitability. It is essential to determine what the number or proportion of discounted tickets should be and how many tickets can be sold at the regular price. This can be calculated using the critical fractile method, which assumes that the demand follows the normal distribution in a certain period and the distribution parameters are known. In this paper, the number of tickets to be offered at the regular price is calculated based on the evaluation of statistical data on visitor numbers, occupancy rates and prices of the German cinema industry and a leading German cinema chain.
Effects of applying a graphene/polyurethane composite thermally conductive film on capacitor heat dissipation performance
Authors: Miao Qinghua , Guo Ruihan , Liu Pengfei , Li Jie
Published: January 2025

In this study, the effects of applying graphene/polyurethane composite thermally conductive films on heat dissipation performance of capacitors were investigated. By adding graphene as a thermally conductive filler, the thermal conductivity of the composite film could be adjusted by controlling the type and content of the film. Graphene/polyurethane nanocomposite films with different mass fractions were prepared by adding 0.03, 0.06, and 0.3 wt. % graphene. The lattice and valence bond structures of the C atoms in the composite films were analyzed using x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to investigate the extent of graphene defects and types of functional groups in the composite film materials. The thermal conductivity of the composite films was measured using a heat conduction analyzer, and the thermal diffusion coefficient was calculated. The steady-state thermal analysis showed that the capacitor with the composite film exhibited better thermal performance under the same conditions and significantly reduced the center temperature compared with those observed with other configurations. This study reveals the working mechanism of polyurethane/graphene composite thermal conductive film in the heat dissipation performance of capacitors. This study is of great significance for optimizing the design of capacitors, improving their efficiency, and maintaining long-term stable operation. By improving the thermal conductivity of composite films, capacitors with more uniform overall temperature distributions and reduced surface temperatures can be achieved, which will help improve the overall performance of capacitors and extend their service lives.
Locally repulsive coupling-induced tunable oscillations
Authors: Liang Xiaoming , Mo Fan , Wang Qun , Lü Huaping
Published: January 2025

The precise amplitude and period of neuronal oscillations are crucial for the functioning of neuronal networks. We propose a chain model featuring a repulsive coupling at the first node, followed by attractive couplings at subsequent nodes. This model allows for the simultaneous regulation of both quantities. The repulsive coupling at the first neuron enables it to act as a pacemaker, generating oscillations whose amplitude and period are correlated with the coupling strength. At the same time, attractive couplings help transmit these oscillations along the chain, leading to collective oscillations of varying scales. Our study demonstrates that a three-node chain with locally repulsive coupling forms the fundamental structure for generating tunable oscillations. By using a simplified neuron model, we investigate how locally repulsive coupling affects the amplitude and period of oscillations and find results that align with numerical observations. These findings indicate that repulsive couplings play a crucial role in regulating oscillatory patterns within neuronal networks.
Vortex-induced vibration energy harvesting with tandem square bluff bodies: Spacing ratio effects
Authors: Chen Yuansheng , Qi Zheng , Ji Hongli , Du Jianzhou , Zhao Pengcheng , Li Longting
Published: January 2025

The horizontal (L/D) and vertical H/D) spacing ratios of square bluff bodies are critical parameters influencing the efficiency of vortex-induced vibration (VIV) wind energy harvesting. This study investigates a tandem stationary square bluff body (SSBB) and a vibrating square bluff body under various spacing configurations using ANSYS/FLUENT simulations. The results show that without SSBB, the root-mean-square (RMS) voltage generated by the piezoelectric patches increases consistently with wind speed. However, with SSBB, RMS voltage initially decreases and then increases as L/D rises, reaching a minimum at L/D = 4.5. At optimal configurations (L/D = 6.5, H/D = 0.5) and a wind speed of 9 m/s, the RMS voltage achieves a maximum value, improving by 34.43% compared to the configuration without SSBB. Experimental validation confirms the simulation results. This finding will be a significant fundamental for future design of VIV wind energy harvesting devices.
Rotor force model for drones
Authors: Liu Yanting , Noack Bernd R. , Cornejo Maceda Guy Y. , Chen Jialong , Yang Yannian
Published: January 2025

We propose an analytical rotor force model for multicopter drones and derive corresponding performances for endurance, climb, and cruise. Multicopter drones follow their planned trajectory by controlling the angular velocities of the rotors. This motion is described by an aerodynamic drone model comprising a distributed mass and the rotor forces. Previous rotor force models focus on hovering and slow-speed motion, i.e., when the thrust is nearly perpendicular to the plane. In the current study, we generalize these rotor force models for high-speed cruise and large ambient flow velocities. These generalized models allow to predict and optimize drone performance for hovering, climbing, and cruising. Key enablers are a large database for rotor performance under different ambient winds and a novel sparse regression for the normal and in-plane rotor forces. The modeling and optimization framework is exemplified for the rotor of a lightweight quadcopter drone (800 grams) and has an angular velocity range of 70–150 revolutions per second (RPS). Different angular velocities, incidence angles, and flight velocities are considered. The maximum incoming velocity with different directions is set as 15 m/s to avoid flow separation. The presented framework can guide drone performance optimization and gust-safe model-based control.
Physics-assisted multi-scale convolutional autoencoder for turbulence reduced-order modeling
Authors: Lu Mengxue , Ye Zi , Qiao Longye , Xu Hui , Zhang Yan , Feng Xinlong
Published: January 2025

Reduced-order modeling techniques, including the proper orthogonal decomposition and the dynamic mode decomposition, have been widely applied in unsteady flow rather than in fully developed turbulent flows, but these techniques are faced with challenges in simulating turbulence with high degrees of freedom and complex nonlinear interactions. One possible approach is to utilize a series of neural networks, such as autoencoders, to reduce the dimensionality of unsteady flows. This study began with combining a multi-scale convolutional autoencoder with a convolutional block attention module to extract the main features of turbulence. Then, physical constraint terms were added to the loss function to improve the accuracy of feature extraction. Finally, flow data was restored with potential physical properties. Forced isotropic turbulence with Reλ=418 and turbulent channel flow with Reτ=1000 were employed to test the model's performance, and the numerical results verified that the model can accurately extract the main features of turbulence and has an excellent ability to restore the flow data.
Advancements in flow control using plasma actuators: a comprehensive review
Authors: Karthikeyan K V , Harish R
Published: January 2025

The practical challenges related to aerodynamics, such as transition delay, drag reduction, lift enhancement, turbulence management, and flow separation delay, have led to an increasing the application of plasma actuators in aeronautics for flow control. The significance of plasma actuators in these applications arises from their unique characteristics, including the absence of moving parts, lower mass compared to traditional devices like vortex generators, slats, and flaps, and rapid response. For over a decade, the term ‘plasma’ actuator has played a crucial role in discussions regarding flow control in fluid dynamics. In particular, mechanisms utilizing Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) have demonstrated effectiveness in controlling airflow at atmospheric pressure. These actuators produce a vector field of body force that interacts with the momentum of the external flow, enabling effective flow control. With advanced designs and an improved understanding of the underlying physics, plasma actuators demonstrate effectiveness not only at low speeds but also at supersonic, transonic, and high subsonic Mach numbers. Considering these advancements, a thorough review of plasma actuator models was conducted, formulating governing equations with insights drawn from existing literature. The assessment of the effectiveness of DBD plasma actuator involved discussions exploring its performance in both streamline and bluff body applications. Additionally, deliberations included an exploration of the most suitable mode for transonic and supersonic flow, particularly in the context of nanosecond dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuators. The review extended to cutting-edge plasma actuators, including plasma synthetic jet actuators, plasma flaps, and plasma vortex generators, providing insights into their advancements and applications.
Exploring photo-excited states of aromatic sulfones for efficient near-infrared-activated photothermal cancer therapy
Authors: Yoshida Kazuya , Suzuki Toshiaki , Osakada Yasuko , Fujitsuka Mamoru , Miyatake Yukiko , Biju Vasudevanpillai , Takano Yuta
Published: January 2025

Near-infrared light activation enhances phototherapeutic efficacy due to deep-tissue penetration and minimal invasion. While near-infrared-phototherapeutic agents are widely studied, conventional designs often increase molecular size, affecting pharmacokinetics. This study elucidates the photo-excited states of sulfone-containing aromatic compounds as efficient near-infrared-activated photothermal agents for cancer therapy. We synthesized sulfone-rosamine compounds (3 and 4) exhibiting strong optical absorption around 700 nm, attributed to a unique orbital in the LUMO. Compound 4, 35% smaller than conventional near-infrared-dye molecules, such as Cy5.5 (0.86 nm3/molecule), enhances intracellular mobility. Upon photoexcitation, 4 undergoes rapid non-radiative relaxation, resulting in remarkable photothermal effects and photostability. Transient absorption spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations revealed a mechanism involving rapid non-radiative deactivation after illumination, efficiently converting light to heat. The near-infrared-induced photothermal effect effectively killed various cancer cell lines, including HeLa, MDA-MB-231, and PCI-55. This study provides guidelines for designing novel photodrugs with improved intracellular mobility, near-infrared light responsiveness, and photostability, and introduces the advancement of cancer treatment.
Heart-breaking Tumours- A Case Series of Malignant Pericardial Effusion
Authors: Wan Muhamad Hatta Syarifah Syafiqah , Mirza Abdur Rahman , Sunni Nadia , Bashir Ahmed
Published: January 2025

Background

Malignant pericardial effusions are often linked to metastases from solid tumours, such as those in the lung or breast, or haematological diseases. Primary cardiac tumours are rare, occurring in only 0.02% of cases, with pericardial tumours comprising 6.7% to 12.8% of all primary cardiac tumours.

Case Summary

Case 1: A 49-year-old Black African male presented with chest pain and breathlessness after a COVID-19 vaccine. Initially treated for pericarditis, he returned with worsening symptoms. Echocardiography revealed pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. Imaging confirmed a right atrial mass diagnosed as malignant biphasic mesothelioma. He died four months after diagnosis.

Case 2: A 43-year-old Caucasian male developed breathlessness and fever post-COVID-19 vaccine. Imaging identified a large posterior pericardial mass, later diagnosed as synovial sarcoma. Chemotherapy yielded minor tumour reduction, but he succumbed to his illness, spending his final days in a hospice.

Discussion

Initial clinical signs are critical in determining the origin of pericardial effusion. Malignancy should be suspected in cases with cardiac tamponade, unexplained haemorrhagic pericardial fluid, or recurrent symptoms. Negative cytology warrants further investigation with advanced imaging or biopsy to improve diagnostic sensitivity.

Diagnosing rare tumours involves multiple imaging modalities, fluid analysis, biopsies, and an interdisciplinary approach, with pathological analysis being the gold standard. Treatment remains challenging due to the rapid progression of these tumours, with surgery often not feasible. A multi-pronged diagnostic approach is crucial, and clinicians must maintain suspicion for malignancy in persistent pericardial effusion cases, even in the context of other potential confounding factors.
Ages at coronary heart disease and death in familial hypercholesterolaemia: a Danish nationwide study spanning 44 years
Authors: Reeh Jacob , Afzal Shoaib , Wulff Anders Berg , Nordestgaard Børge G
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Familial hypercholesterolaemia leads to lifelong elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with increased risk of coronary heart disease and pre-mature death. It is unknown whether the prognosis for individuals with familial hypercholesterolaemia has improved over the past four decades as registration of this condition has been limited worldwide. However, in Danish nationwide registries, modified ICD coding has allowed such registration since 1978. This study tested the hypothesis that age at death and coronary heart disease has improved from 1978 to 2021 in individuals with vs. those without familial hypercholesterolaemia.

Methods

From nationwide registries, all Danish residents were included in a retrospective cohort study. Inclusion and follow-up were from 1978 to 2021. Individuals diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolaemia were identified, and trends over time were examined for age at death and age at coronary heart disease.

Results

During follow-up for those with (n = 10 199) and without (n = 9 174 926) familial hypercholesterolaemia, 27% and 27% died and 34% and 9% experienced coronary heart disease. Age at death was 22 years younger in 1978 (P < .001) but similar in 2021 (P = .16) in individuals with vs. without familial hypercholesterolaemia. Although the corresponding age at coronary heart disease was 20 years younger in 1978 (P < .001), it was still 7 years younger in 2021 (P < .001) in individuals with vs. without familial hypercholesterolaemia. These results were similar in women and men and in a 1:100 matched analysis by sex, ethnicity, and time of birth.

Conclusions

Nationwide from 1978 to 2021 in Denmark, normalization of age at death but not age at coronary heart disease was observed for individuals diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolaemia.