bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WHAT WAS THE ACTIO ONERIS AVERSI?
Authors: Candy Peter
Published: February 2025

D.19.2.31 contains a reply to a question of law attributed to the late-Republican jurist P. Alfenus Varus. Several people had delivered grain to a carrier which was shot into a common pile in the hold of his ship. Subsequently the carrier returned a share of the grain to one of them before the ship went down. The question is asked if the others can proceed against the carrier in respect of their share by raising an action for onus aversum. This article provides a new insight into the scope and application of this otherwise obscure Roman action, by reference to the role of the tort of conversion in analogous cases at common law.
THE ORGANIZATION OF EVIDENCE IN ATHENIAN COURTS: CONTAINERS, SEALS AND THE MANAGEMENT OF DOCUMENTS
Authors: Filonik Jakub
Published: February 2025

This article reconstructs the system of storage, organization and presentation of written evidence in Athenian courts of the Classical period, with wider implications for the discussion about oral and written culture in Classical Greece and legal professionalism in Athenian democracy. It explores court speakers’ references to an assumed order of documents, their storage in containers called echinoi, and verbal presentation by the court secretary. It is the first systematic analysis of all remarks on storing, organizing and reading documents in the corpus of Athenian oratory, supplemented by other literary and epigraphic sources. Based on the surviving evidence, this article argues for the existence of a developed legal culture that made attempts to facilitate the handling of documents in courtrooms through practical organizational measures, including the speakers’ interactions with court aids, notably the grammateis and hypogrammateis.
First molecular characterization of Proctoeces maculatus (Looss, 1901) (Digenea: Fellodistomidae) infecting blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) from the northeastern USA
Authors: Titus M. , Varetto I. , Grosser C. , Russo E. , Davinack A.
Published: February 2025

The digenetic trematode Proctoeces maculatus is a cosmopolitan parasite that infects various invertebrates and fish hosts, including the blue mussel, Mytilus edulis, along the northeastern U.S. coast. Despite its impact on mussel fitness and the region’s aquaculture, little is known about the genetic diversity and connectivity of P. maculatus in this region. This study provides the first genetic characterization of P. maculatus populations in New England using the D1–D3 region of the 28S ribosomal RNA gene. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis and a haplotype network were used to assess genetic variation and connectivity across six localities in Maine, New York, and southern New England, and to compare these populations to global samples. Our results revealed distinct geographic structuring of P. maculatus haplotypes. The ME1 haplotype, unique to Maine, reflects either recent range expansion or isolation driven by environmental and biogeographic factors, such as Cape Cod’s role as a phylogeographic barrier. The most common haplotype, US1, was shared by populations in southern New England, New York, and a single specimen from Tunisia, indicating possible historical or anthropogenic connectivity. Two divergent haplotypes from Mississippi and Chile likely represent misidentifications or cryptic species. These findings support the hypothesis that P. maculatus is likely a cryptic species complex. Molecular evidence suggests connectivity across distant regions, emphasizing the role of host movement in parasite dispersal. Continued genetic studies, particularly from under-sampled regions, are needed to unravel the diversity and biogeography of P. maculatus and its potential impact on declining mussel populations.
A comprehensive analysis of fasciolosis prevalence and risk factors in humans and animals: First report in Algeria
Authors: Fennouh C. , Nabi M. , Ouchetati I. , Salhi O. , Ouchene N. , Dahmani H. , Haif A. , Mokrani D. , Khelifi Touhami N.A.
Published: February 2025

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined 27 studies published between 2003 and 2024 to assess the prevalence of Fasciola hepatica infestation in various animal species in Algeria. Diagnostic methods included liver inspection (16 studies), ELISA (7 studies), coproscopy (4 studies), bile microscopy (1 study), and abattoir data analysis (1 study). For humans, coproscopy and immunoelectrophoresis (IEP) were used in one study in Algiers. Among the 1,006,751 animals examined, 15,868 tested positive, resulting in an overall prevalence of 1.57% (CI 1.55–1.59). Prevalence was higher in the northeastern regions of Algeria (El Tarf, Annaba, and Jijel) at 15.95%, compared to other regions (0.9%–2.95%) (p<0.0001). Cattle showed the highest prevalence (3.91%; CI 3.84–3.98) (p<0.001), followed by sheep (0.42%; CI 0.40–0.44) and goats (0.12%; CI 0.10–0.14). Camels had a prevalence rate of 4%. Trend analysis over 20 years indicated a progressive decrease in prevalence, from 13.29% (2004–2009) to 1.79% (2010–2019) and 1.12% (2020–2024) (p<0.0001). The ELISA method was found to be the most sensitive, revealing a prevalence of 16.40% (CI 15.23–17.57) (true adjusted prevalence is 12.38%) (p<0.0001), significantly higher than liver inspection (1.83%), coproscopy (1.04%), and abattoir data analysis (1.10%). Prevalence increased with animal age across all species. This study clearly shows that fasciolosis in Algeria is most prevalent in the northeast region and that cattle are the high-risk group of animals. As a result, control strategies are urgently needed, targeting cattle in particular in northeast Algeria, to prevent and control this disease and thus reduce Fasciola infection.
The influence of operating parameters on the dynamic characteristics of minimized electron cyclotron resonance ion thrusters for space gravitational wave detection
Authors: Niu Xiang , Liu Hui , Zhang Bi-Xin , Yu Da-Ren
Published: February 2025

Electron cyclotron resonance ion thrusters (ECRITs) have the potential to be used for space gravitational wave detection due to their wide thrust range. However, an unclear understanding of dynamic processes of ECRITs with strongly coupled multi-operating parameters limits further improvements on thrust noise and response velocity by feedback control systems. An integrative mathematical model considering the non-Maxwell electron energy distribution function for ECRITs is validated by experiments and used to study the influence of operating parameters on the dynamic processes of thrusters, which provides a new simplified grid model. Simulation results show the response processes with microwave (MW) power can be divided into two stages. The characteristic times of the first and second stages are respectively several microseconds and 10 ms, which are respectively dominated by plasma motion and the volume effect. The overshoot of screen grid (SG) current decreases, while its response time remains unchanged when the response time of MW power is prolonged. The response time of SG current with a step increase of flow rate is approximately 10 ms, consistent with the volume effect. The SG current decreases with rise of flow rate for high flow rate operations due to the small increment of ion density limited by low electron temperature, the decrease of ion Bohm velocity and reduction of sheath extraction area. The influence of grid voltage on the dynamic process of the SG current depends on variation ranges of extraction capabilities. When variations of sheath extraction area are limited, the response time is 5 μs, consistent with plasma response time. It is prolonged to 0.5 ms if sheath extraction area variations are large because they cause obvious variations of plasma parameters in the discharge chamber. These dynamic results can not only facilitate designing feedback controllers of micro-propulsion systems for high-precision space missions, but also provide guidance for ion sources to generate highly stable or rapid-response ion beam.
Komm kuscheln – Serumoxytozinkonzentration als potenzieller Biomarker bei Chemsex-Usern
Authors: Wang Elena , Björklund Jonas , Strasburger Moritz , Schwarz Johanna , Neumeier Karin , Rabenstein Andrea , Koller Gabriele , Gertzen Marcus , Rüther Tobias
Published: February 2025

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Das Phänomen Chemsex wird sowohl gesellschaftlich als auch klinisch immer relevanter. Ein suffizienter Therapieansatz sowie biologische Erklärungsansätze sind aktuell nicht etabliert und dringend erforderlich. Dem Hormon Oxytocin wird eine Schlüsselrolle bei sozialer Bindung und Sexualität zugesprochen. Ziel: Ziel der Studie war es, den Zusammenhang zwischen Serum-Oxytocinspiegeln und Chemsex-Konsummuster im Sinne einer Pilotstudie zu charakterisieren, um ggf. diagnostische und therapeutische Konsequenzen ableiten zu können. Methodik: Es wurde bei Chemsex-Usern und Kontrollprobanden die Serumkonzentration von Oxytocin mittels ELISA und anschließender photometrischer Messung bestimmt. Eingeschlossen wurden Männer, die Sex mit Männern haben (MSM). Die Oxytocinkonzentration wurde mittels ANOVA und Post-Hoc t-Test verglichen. Ergebnisse: 30 Chemsex-User und 31 nach Alter und Bildungsgrad vergleichbare Kontrollprobanden wurden verglichen. Es zeigte sich eine signifikant reduzierte Oxytocinkonzentration bei der Gruppe der Chemsex-User (187.91 pg/ml [+ 80.98, 90.36–425.1]) im Vergleich zu Kontrollprobanden (286.86 pg/ml [+160.86, 103.0–716.0]). Messungsbedingte Einflussgrößen wurden berücksichtigt. Schlussfolgerungen: Es zeigte sich eine signifikant reduzierte Serumoxytocinkonzentration bei Chemsex-Usern im Vergleich zu MSM-Kontrollprobanden. Relevante Einflussfaktoren sowie die Notwendigkeit weiterer Forschung zum Thema werden diskutiert.
Estimates of Driving under the Influence of Cannabis in Germany in 2021 before the Partial Legalization
Authors: Olderbak Sally , Möckl Justin , Bergmann Heiko , Krowartz Eva-Maria , Preuss Ulrich W. , Hoch Eva
Published: February 2025

Abstract: Background: Cannabis use acutely impairs cognition, psychomotor coordination, and driving ability. It is associated with an increased risk of car crashes, especially in young drivers. We provide current estimates of driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) in the general population prior to cannabis legalization in Germany. Methods: Data are from the online portion of the 2021 wave of the Epidemiological Survey on Substance Abuse (ESA) with n = 532 adult past 12-month cannabis users. Initial checks conducted to evaluate potential selection bias of completing the ESA online instead of other methods revealed minimal bias. Results: Results indicate that in 2021 approximately 3 % of 12-month cannabis consumers and 0.3 % [95 % CI: 0.2, 0.5] of all respondents of the online portion of the ESA reported at least one instance of DUIC in the past 3 months. When extrapolated to the national population of adults 18 to 64 years old, we estimated 153,438 people [95 % CI: 102,279; 255,697] drove within 2 hours of consuming cannabis in the past 3 months. Conclusions: A small but important minority uses a vehicle shortly after cannabis use. It is important to inform these vulnerable groups about the risks. DUIC needs to be monitored regularly to examine the potential impact of the new cannabis law.
Impacts of Antarctic Ice Mass Loss on New Zealand Climate
Authors: Pauling Andrew G. , Smith Inga J. , Ridley Jeff K. , Martin Torge , Thomas Max , Stevens David P.
Published: February 2025

We investigate the impacts of meltwater from Antarctic Ice Sheet (AIS) mass loss on New Zealand climate in a state‐of‐the‐art global climate model. We conduct simulations with additional meltwater from AIS mass loss for both the historical period and a high‐emissions future scenario. The ocean surface to the southeast of New Zealand cools, with the largest change in winter and spring. The additional meltwater results in a northward shift of the oceanic sub‐tropical front near New Zealand, which partially offsets the projected southward shift of this front in a warming climate. Wintertime surface westerly winds to the south of New Zealand also increase with the addition of the meltwater. The magnitude of the impact of Antarctic meltwater is uncertain due to the wide spread in estimates of Antarctic mass imbalance, but has important implications for future projections for New Zealand climate.
A Unified Analytical Model for Pressure Solution With Fully Coupled Diffusion and Reaction
Authors: Wang Ziyan , Gilbert Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Geophysical models for pressure solution are typically developed for diffusion‐controlled or reaction‐controlled scenarios. We present a unified analytical model that considers fully coupled diffusion and reaction during pressure solution. The model recovers the diffusion‐controlled and reaction‐controlled models in the literature as specific limiting cases. When diffusion and reaction exhibit comparable influences, we validate the proposed model against independent numerical simulations. The proposed model is then employed in interpreting experimental measurements, demonstrating a better agreement compared to previous interpretations.
Seamount Magnetism From Helbig's Integrals: Application to the Rano Rahi Seamount Field (East Pacific Rise 17°–19°S)
Authors: Caratori Tontini F.
Published: February 2025

Determining accurate magnetization directions is essential for interpreting magnetic anomalies and inferring the subseafloor crustal magnetization of submarine volcanoes. Furthermore, magnetization directions can be used to determine the polarity of the Earth's magnetic field at the time the seamount was formed, which in turn can be correlated with the geomagnetic polarity time scale to provide independent means of dating submarine volcanic edifices. Here I show a new method to determine seamount magnetization directions from observed magnetic anomalies, based on their fundamental properties expressed by Helbig's infinite integrals, and I propose practical strategies to reduce effects associated with limited‐size surveys. The method provides more reliable results than conventional methods based on semi‐norm minimization, as demonstrated by the example of Ita Mai Tai Seamount on the Magellan Seamount Trail. The systematic application of this method to the Rano Rahi Seamount Field, in proximity of the East Pacific Rise (EPR) 17°–19°S shows a pattern of alternating crustal magnetization polarities, consistent with few available radiometric ages and with the geomagnetic polarity time scale for the last 3.5 Ma. The corresponding correlation provides an independent tool for dating seamounts in this region, yielding an average constructional volume rate in the range ∼0.5 × 10−3–1.3 × 10−3 km3/yr for each volcano, which implies a significant contribution of the total magma supply rate is produced off‐axis.
Smectic liquid crystalline poly(ester imide)s with low dielectric dissipation factors for high-frequency applications
Authors: Maeda Hayato , Liang Yucheng , Hosoya Ryohei , Marui Rika , Yoshida Erina , Chen Yuqian , Hatakeyama-Sato Kan , Nabae Yuta , Nakagawa Shiori , Morikawa Junko , Tokita Masatoshi , Sawada Ririka , Ando Shinji , Hayashi Yoshihiro , Yoshida Ryo , Furuya Hidemine , Hayakawa Teruaki
Published: February 2025

High-frequency electronic applications increasingly require polymer-based insulators with low dielectric constants (D
k) and dissipation factors (D
f). Reducing molecular mobility effectively decreases the D
f of polyimides (PIs), which are widely used as interlayer dielectrics in semiconductor integrated circuits. In this study, we reduced molecular mobility by synthesizing smectic liquid crystalline polyimides (LC-PIs) via the use of diamines with phenyl benzoate structures and alkyl chains, and promoting mesogen stacking in LC structures. Self-supporting films were fabricated, and their dielectric properties were evaluated, revealing significantly lower D
f values than those of conventional PI. The functional groups responsible for increasing D
f are visualized via molecular dynamics simulations performed by applying a virtual alternating electric field to 3D models of the LC-PIs whose structure was confirmed via wide-angle X-ray diffraction. This study highlights the potential of smectic LC-PIs in the molecular design of polymeric materials with lower D
f.
Expression of foetal gene Pontin is essential in protecting heart against pathological remodelling and cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lestari Bayu , Nugroho Ardiansah Bayu , Bui Thuy Anh , Nguyen Binh , Stafford Nicholas , Prehar Sukhpal , Zi Min , Potter Ryan , Triastuti Efta , Baudoin Florence M. , D’Souza Alicia , Wang Xin , Cartwright Elizabeth J. , Oceandy Delvac
Published: February 2025

Cardiac remodelling is a key process in the development of heart failure. Reactivation of foetal cardiac genes is often associated with cardiac remodelling. Here we study the role of Pontin (Ruvbl1), which is highly expressed in embryonic hearts, in mediating adverse remodelling in adult mouse hearts. We observe that Pontin deficiency in cardiomyocytes leads to induced apoptosis, increased hypertrophy and fibrosis, whereas Pontin overexpression improves survival, increases proliferation and reduces the hypertrophic response. Moreover, RNAseq analysis show that genes involved in cell cycle regulation, cell proliferation and cell survival/apoptosis are differentially expressed in Pontin knockout. Specifically, we detect changes in the expression of Hippo pathway components in the Pontin knockout mice. Using a cellular model we show that Pontin induces YAP activity, YAP nuclear translocation, and transcriptional activity. Our findings identify Pontin as a modulator of adverse cardiac remodelling, possibly via regulation of the Hippo pathway. This study may lead to the development of a new approach to control cardiac remodelling by targeting Pontin.
Advancing adoptability and sustainability of digital prediction tools for climate-sensitive infectious disease prevention and control
Authors: Phung Dung , Colón-González Felipe J. , Weinberger Daniel M. , Bui Vinh , Nghiem Son , Chu Cordia , Phung Hai , Sinh Vu Nam , Doan Quang-Van , Hashizume Masahiro , Lau Colleen L. , Reid Simon , Phan Lan Trong , Tran Duong Nhu , Pham Cong Tuan , Do Kien Quoc , Dubrow Robert
Published: February 2025

Few forecasting models have been translated into digital prediction tools for prevention and control of climate-sensitive infectious diseases. We propose a 3-U (useful, usable, and used) research framework for advancing the adoptability and sustainability of these tools. We make recommendations for 1) developing a tool with a high level of accuracy and sufficient lead time to permit effective proactive interventions (useful); 2) conducting a needs assessment to ensure that a tool meets the needs of end-users (usable); and 3) demonstrating the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a tool to secure its adoption into routine surveillance and response systems (used).
Comparative study of gut microbiota reveals the adaptive strategies of gibbons living in suboptimal habitats
Authors: Lan Li-Ying , Liu Tai-Cong , Gao Shao-Ming , Li Qi , Yang Li , Fei Han-Lan , Zhong Xu-Kai , Wang Yu-Xin , Zhu Chang-Yue , Abel Christoph , Kappeler Peter M. , Huang Li-Nan , Fan Peng-Fei
Published: February 2025

Wild animals face numerous challenges in less ideal habitats, including the lack of food as well as changes in diet. Understanding how the gut microbiomes of wild animals adapt to changes in food resources within suboptimal habitats is critical for their survival. Therefore, we conducted a longitudinal sampling of three gibbon species living in high-quality (Nomascus hainanus) and suboptimal (Nomascus concolor and Hoolock tianxing) habitats to address the dynamics of gut microbiome assembly over one year. The three gibbon species exhibited significantly different gut microbial diversity and composition. N. hainanus showed the lowest alpha diversity and highest nestedness, suggesting a more specialized and potentially stable microbial community in terms of composition, while H. tianxing displayed high species turnover and low nestedness, reflecting a more dynamic microbial ecosystem, which may indicate greater sensitivity to environmental changes or a flexible response to habitat variability. The gut microbial community of N. concolor was influenced by homogeneous selection in the deterministic process, primarily driven by Prevotellaceae. In contrast, the gut microbial communities of H. tianxing and N. hainanus were influenced by dispersal limitation in the stochastic process, driven by Acholeplasmataceae and Fibrobacterota, respectively. Further, the microbial response patterns to leaf feeding in N. hainanus differed from those of the other two gibbon species. In conclusion, this first cross-species comparative study provides initial insights into the different ecological adaptive strategies of gut microbiomes from a point of community assembly, which could contribute to the long-term conservation of wild primates.
Coulomb interactions and migrating Dirac cones imaged by local quantum oscillations in twisted graphene
Authors: Bocarsly Matan , Roy Indranil , Bhardwaj Vishal , Uzan Matan , Ledwith Patrick , Shavit Gal , Banu Nasrin , Zhou Yaozhang , Myasoedov Yuri , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Oreg Yuval , Parker Daniel E. , Ronen Yuval , Zeldov Eli
Published: February 2025

Flat-band moiré graphene systems are a quintessential platform for investigating correlated phases of matter. Various interaction-driven ground states have been proposed, but despite extensive experimental effort, there has been little direct evidence that distinguishes between various phases, in particular near the charge neutrality point. Here we probe the fine details of the density of states and the effects of Coulomb interactions in alternating-twist trilayer graphene by imaging the local thermodynamic quantum oscillations with a nanoscale scanning superconducting quantum interference device. We find that the charging self-energy due to occupied electronic states is most important in explaining the high-carrier-density physics. At half-filling of the conduction flat band, we observe ferromagnetic-driven symmetry breaking, suggesting that it is the most robust mechanism in the hierarchy of phase transitions. Near charge neutrality, where exchange energy dominates over charging self-energy, we find a nematic semimetal ground state, which is theoretically favoured over gapped states in the presence of heterostrain. In this semimetallic phase, the flat-band Dirac cones migrate towards the mini-Brillouin zone centre, spontaneously breaking the threefold rotational symmetry. Our low-field local quantum oscillation technique can be used to explore the ground states of many strongly interacting van der Waals systems.
Artificial intelligence for individualized treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Deisenhofer Isabel , Albenque Jean-Paul , Busch Sonia , Gitenay Edouard , Mountantonakis Stavros E. , Roux Antoine , Horvilleur Jerome , Bakouboula Babe , Oza Saumil , Abbey Selim , Theodore Guillaume , Lepillier Antoine , Guyomar Yves , Bessiere Francis , Jan Smit Jaap , Mohr Durdez Theophile , Milpied Paola , Appetiti Anthony , Guerrero Daniel , De Potter Tom , De Chillou Christian , Goldbarg Seth , Verma Atul , Hummel John D. ,   TAILORED-AF Investigators, Jan Smit Jaap , De Potter Tom , De Chillou Christian
Published: February 2025

Although pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has become the cornerstone ablation procedure for atrial fibrillation (AF), the optimal ablation procedure for persistent and long-standing persistent AF remains elusive. Targeting spatio-temporal electrogram dispersion in a tailored procedure has been suggested as a potentially beneficial alternative to a conventional PVI-only procedure. In this multicenter, randomized, controlled, double-blind, superiority trial, patients with drug-refractory persistent AF were randomly assigned to a tailored ablation procedure targeting areas of spatio-temporal dispersion, as detected by an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm, in addition to PVI (tailored arm, n = 187, 23% women) or to a conventional PVI-only procedure (anatomical arm, n = 183, 19% women). The primary efficacy endpoint was freedom from documented AF with or without antiarrhythmic drugs at 12 months after a single ablation procedure. Secondary endpoints included freedom from any atrial arrhythmic events, and the secondary composite safety endpoint consisted of death, cerebrovascular events, or treatment-related serious adverse events. One year post-procedure, the trial met its primary efficacy endpoint, which was achieved in 88% of patients in the tailored arm compared with 70% of patients in the anatomical arm (log-rank P < 0.0001 for superiority). However, no significant difference between arms was observed for the freedom from any atrial arrhythmia endpoint after one ablation. The safety endpoint did not differ between arms, with procedure and ablation times being twice as long in the tailored arm. These results show that AI-guided ablation of spatio-temporal dispersion areas in addition to PVI is superior to PVI alone in eliminating AF at 1-year follow-up in patients with persistent and long-standing persistent AF. Ablation of subsequent organized atrial tachycardias may be needed to maintain sinus rhythm long term. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04702451.
Individual differences in wellbeing are supported by separable sets of co-active self- and visual-attention-related brain networks
Authors: Ma Yumeng , Skipper Jeremy I.
Published: February 2025

How does the brain support ‘wellbeing’? Because it is a multidimensional construct, it is likely the product of multiple co-active brain networks that vary across individuals. This is perhaps why prior neuroimaging studies have found inconsistent anatomical associations with wellbeing. Furthermore, these used ‘laboratory-style’ or ‘resting-state’ methods not amenable to finding manifold networks. To address these issues, we had participants watch a full-length romantic comedy-drama film during functional magnetic resonance imaging. We hypothesised that individual differences in wellbeing measured before scanning would be correlated with individual differences in brain networks associated with ‘embodied’ and ‘narrative’ self-related processing. Indeed, searchlight spatial inter-participant representational similarity and subsequent analyses revealed seven sets of co-activated networks associated with individual differences in wellbeing. Two were ‘embodied self’ related, including brain regions associated with autonomic and affective processing. Three sets were ‘narrative self’ related, involving speech, language, and autobiographical memory-related regions. Finally, two sets of visual-attention-related networks emerged. These results suggest that the neurobiology of wellbeing in the real world is supported by diverse but functionally definable and separable sets of networks. This has implications for psychotherapy where individualised interventions might target, e.g., neuroplasticity in language-related narrative over embodied self or visual-attentional related processes.
Dual observers based sliding mode control for QUAVs with unknown disturbances and time varying delays
Authors: Liang Chuanfu , Ding Yuanchun , Weng Falu , Chen Weidong , Li Jiawei
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a dual-observers-based nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode control scheme for quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles (QUAVs) with unknown disturbances and time-varying delays. Firstly, to facilitate the controller design, the QUAVs model is decoupled into two subsystems: position subsystem and attitude subsystem. Secondly, for the position subsystem, a sliding mode controller is presented to control the position of the QUAVs. For the attitude subsystem, by introducing an exponential term, a nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode controller is obtained to ensure the fast convergence of the attitude angles. Moreover, based on the exponential term, the singularity problem of the conventional terminal sliding mode is solved. Thirdly, the disturbance and time-varying delay observers are presented by considering the time-varying delayed signals and unknown disturbances. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed control scheme are demonstrated by some computer simulations.
Combined loss of brevican, neurocan, tenascin-C and tenascin-R leads to impaired fear retrieval due to perineuronal net loss
Authors: Mueller-Buehl Cornelius , Pakusch Johanna , Bader Verian , Winklhofer Konstanze F. , Mark Melanie D. , Faissner Andreas
Published: February 2025

In conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction and spinal cord injuries, restricted synaptic plasticity hinders the formation of new neuronal connections, preventing the compensation and treatment of adverse behaviors. Perineuronal nets (PNNs) significantly restrict synaptic plasticity by inhibiting synapse formation. The digestion of PNNs has been associated with short-term cognitive improvements and reduced long-term memory, offering potential therapeutic benefits in PTSD. This study investigates the correlation between PNNs and fear memory processes in extracellular matrix (ECM) mutant mice, particularly focusing on the amygdala-medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) circuit, which is crucial for fear memory generation and maintenance. Fear conditioning was conducted on mice lacking four key ECM-molecules: brevican, neurocan, tenascin-C and tenascin-R (4x KO). These mice exhibited severe impairments in memory consolidation, as evident by their inability to retrieve previously learned fear memories, coupled with reduced PNN density and disturbed synaptic integrity along their PNNs. Additionally, changes in neural activity in the basolateral amygdala (BL) and reductions in VGAT+ synaptic puncta in the amygdala-mPFC circuit were observed. In contrast, tenascin single KOs showed intact fear behavior and memory compared to their control groups. Impaired fear memory consolidation can be advantageous in certain conditions, such as PTSD, making the 4x KO mice an intriguing model for future fear conditioning studies and highlighting brevican, neurocan, Tnc, and Tnr as compelling targets for further investigation. This study underscores the significance of ECM regulation for synaptic organization and the potential of PNN modulation as a therapeutic target for fear memory-related conditions.
Pan-serological antibodies and liver cancer risk: a nested case-control analysis
Authors: Watling Cody Z. , Hua Xing , Petrick Jessica L. , Zhang Xuehong , Do Whitney L. , Wang Limin , Maestri Evan , Yu Kai , Wang Xin Wei , McGlynn Katherine A.
Published: February 2025

Recently, studies have reported that pan-viral serology signatures may be predictive for liver cancer development. However, whether these same findings are observed for prospective studies has not been previously investigated. The nested case-control analysis included 191 persons who developed liver cancer and 382 controls from the PLCO prospective cohort. The presence of circulating antibodies, measured by VirScan, was determined in serum samples obtained at study recruitment. The presence of antibodies was compared between cases and controls using multivariable conditional logistic regressions, and prediction models were used to estimate whether exposures predicted liver cancer development. No significant associations were found between antibodies to viruses, bacteria or allergens and liver cancer risk after adjustment for multiple testing. The agent most significantly associated with risk was hepatitis C virus (HCV), but it was only detected among 23 participants (odds ratio (OR): 3.98; 95% confidence intervals (CI):1.59–9.99; p = 0.0032, False Discovery Rate (FDR) = 0.35). In prediction models based on 109 antibody features, no associations with liver cancer risk were observed (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.52–0.54). In analyses restricted to the most common type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, the association with HCV was stronger (OR: 23.16, 95% CI: 4.55-117.68; FDR p-value = 0.0016), although prediction models based on all detected antibodies were similar (AUC = 0.55; 95% CI:0.43–0.68). Antibodies to no infectious agents, other than HCV, were found to be prospectively associated with liver cancer risk. The utility of using an antibody exposure signature prospectively for liver cancer development needs to be further explored.
Piceatannol and its analogues alleviate Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis by targeting β-lactamase biofilms and α-hemolysin
Authors: Wang Guizhen , Wen Jingyao , Tian Zizeng , Zhou Hanbing , Peng Xinli , Zhang Peigang , Li Zhandong
Published: February 2025

β-Lactamases, biofilms and toxins pose challenges for combating S. aureus infection. Thus, identifying inhibitors that can restore bacterial sensitivity to antibiotics, destroy biofilms, and antitoxins is a promising way to develop alternative agents. In this study, we found that piceatannol (pit), along with its analogues resveratrol (ret) and pterostilbene (pts) bind with β-lactamase to inhibit its activity, and 96TYR, 58ILE and 66LYS were identified as the critical binding residues. Pit and pts reduced the ampicillin (Amp) and gentamicin (Gm) MICs against S. aureus and enhanced the bactericidal ability of Amp. Pit and its analogues inhibited the formation of S. aureus USA300. In addition, the pit analogues bound with α-hemolysin and suppressed the hemolysis activity of the bacterial culture supernatant. The mechanism analysis revealed that pit exhibited multiple potential binding modes with α-hemolysin. Pit significantly decreased the cytotoxicity and the adherence effect mediated by S. aureus and increased the survival rate of Galleria mellonella that infected with S. aureus, the pathological tissue damage of Galleria mellonella was alleviated by treatment with pit alone or in combination with Amp. Taken together, our findings identify promising compounds for the development of S. aureus infection inhibitors.
Population shift in antibody immunity following the emergence of a SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern
Authors: Bhiman Jinal N. , Madzorera Vimbai Sharon , Mkhize Qiniso , Scheepers Cathrine , Hermanus Tandile , Ayres Frances , Makhado Zanele , Moyo-Gwete Thandeka , Crowther Carol , Singh Beverley , Fortuin Mirriam , Marinda Edmore , Jooste Sean , Zuma Khangelani , Zungu Nompumelelo , Morris Lynn , Puren Adrian , Simbayi Leickness , Moyo Sizulu , Moore Penny L.
Published: February 2025

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern (VOCs) exhibit escape from pre-existing immunity and elicit variant-specific immune responses. In South Africa, the second wave of SARS-CoV-2 infections was driven by the Beta VOC, which coincided with the country-wide National COVID-19 Antibody Survey (NCAS). The NCAS was conducted between November 2020 and February 2021 to understand the burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection through seroprevalence. We evaluated 649 NCAS sera for spike binding and pseudovirus neutralizing antibodies. We classified individuals as ancestral or D614G neutralizers (114/649), Beta neutralizers (96/649), double neutralizers (375/649) or non-neutralizers (62/649). We observed a consistent decrease in preferential neutralization against the D614G variant from 68 to 18% of individuals over the four sampling months. Concurrently, samples with equivalent neutralization of both variants, or with enhanced neutralization of the Beta variant, increased from 32 to 82% of samples. Neutralization data showed that geometric mean titers (GMTs) against D614G dropped 2.4-fold, while GMTs against Beta increased 2-fold during this same period. A shift in population humoral immunity in favor of Beta-directed or cross-neutralizing antibody responses, paralleled the increase in genomic frequency of the Beta variant in South Africa. Understanding similar population immunity shifts could elucidate immunity gaps that drive SARS-CoV-2 evolution.
Actively forming microbial mats provide insight into the development of microdigitate stromatolites
Authors: Makk Judit , Németh Ábel Csongor , Tóth Erika , Németh Péter , Kovács Ivett , Demény Attila , Sipos György , Borsodi Andrea K. , Lange-Enyedi Nóra Tünde
Published: February 2025

Stromatolites can be traced back to ∼3.5 billion years. They were widespread in the shorelines of ancient oceans and seas. However, they are uncommon nowadays, and basic information is lacking about how these unique carbonate structures developed. Here we study the unusually thick (3–5 cm) biofilms of the 79.2 °C outflow from Köröm thermal well (Hungary) and demonstrate that its microbial mat – carbonate architecture is similar to fossilized microdigitate stromatolites. Our observations reveal vertically oriented fibrous mineral fabrics, typical of stromatolites, in the red biofilm and clotted mesostructures, typical of thrombolites, in the green biofilm. These layers contain carbonate peloids and show network structures, formed by filamentous microbes. The 16S rRNA gene-based amplicon sequencing implies that numerous undescribed taxa may contribute to the carbonate mineralisation. The biofilms abundantly contain the phyla Bacteroidota, Pseudomonadota and Cyanobacteria. Geitlerinema PCC-8501 and Raineya are characteristic for the green biofilm, whereas uncultured Oxyphotobacteria, unc. Saprospiraceae and unc. Cytophagales are abundant in the red biofilm. A hydrogen-oxidizing Hydrogenobacter within the phylum Aquificota and unclassified Bacteria together with the phylum Deinococcota dominate the water and carbonate samples. The morphological structure and taxonomic composition of Köröm biofilm is a unique representation of the development processes of microbialite formations.
Renewable export cost index as an indicator of global renewable energy trade potential
Authors: Kan Xiaoming , Reichenberg Lina , Hedenus Fredrik , Daniels David
Published: February 2025

Renewable energy resources are widely available, yet they are unevenly distributed globally. In a renewable future, countries lacking high-quality renewable resources may choose to import energy from other countries. To assess the resource-dependent and techno-economic basis for global renewable energy trade and identify potential importers and exporters, this study introduces two new metrics: Renewable Export Cost Index (Cost Index) and Renewable Export Volume Index (Volume Index). These metrics are computed based on regional resource potential, domestic energy demand and varying financial costs across countries, without the need for any energy system modeling. By applying these two metrics to 165 countries/regions, we identify countries with significant potential for exporting renewable energy (e.g., the US, China) and those that lack the domestic resources to satisfy demand (e.g., South Korea, Japan). The Cost Index and Volume Index are validated through a separate analysis, employing a comprehensive energy system model for each country/region.
Multimodal objective assessment of impulsivity in healthy and mood disorder participants
Authors: Lamichhane Bishal , Moukaddam Nidal , Salas Ramiro , Goodman Wayne , Sabharwal Ashutosh
Published: February 2025

Impulsivity represents an individual’s tendency to act on urges without sufficient forethought. Heightened impulsivity is a hallmark of many mental health disorders. Objective impulsivity assessments could improve risk evaluation, diagnosis, and behavioral outcome monitoring in impulsivity-related health disorders. Towards objective impulsivity assessment, in this work, we identify impulsivity correlates in objective measurements, investigate their complementarity, and contrast impulsivity mechanisms across health conditions. We analyzed behavioral tests, heart rate variability (HRV), and fMRI-based brain connectivity in 227 healthy participants and 34 participants with mood disorders. Impulsivity dimensions had complementary correlates in objective measurements, with fMRI providing the strongest correlates. Multimodal assessment provided high r-squared (adjusted) values in modeling impulsivity of the mood disorder participants (e.g., r-squared of 0.73, p < 0.001 for attentional impulsivity) but low r-squared for healthy participants (the best r-squared being 0.17, p < 0.001 for sensation seeking impulsivity). The differing association between impulsivity dimensions across the two populations likely indicates a health condition-specific impulsivity mechanism across populations. The complementary nature of objective impulsivity correlates across populations demonstrates the distributed signature of multidimensional impulsivity, likely capturing the complexity of behavioral modeling.
Preparation of Cu-Zn oxide-loaded calcium carbonate composites and their long-lasting and efficient antimicrobial properties
Authors: Yao Jing , Wang Huiying , Che Ziwang , Feng Bolin , Cheng Hailong , Huang Yingying , Zhou Yunlong , Qian Qiuping , Chen Zhenbin
Published: February 2025

Despite the continuous exploration and development of new antibiotics, the emergence of super-resistant bacteria has led to a gradual loss of effectiveness in some antibiotics. Developing new methods and applying...
Mesoporous SiO2 based nanocomplex enzymes for enhanced chemodynamic therapy of pancreatic tumors
Authors: Fan Yue , Yu Shulin , Yang Zhaoshuo , Cai Dingfang
Published: February 2025

The core-shell Gen@mSiO2@MnO2-PEG nanozymes can serve as an effective platform for ROS-mediated tumor therapy, combining the strengths of CDT and drug therapy in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Single-crystal sodium nickel phosphate nanoparticles as ultra-high capacitance and rate-performance cathode of supercapacitor
Authors: Wang Ning , Zhang Zhijie , Ma Jixian , Sun Jie , He Xuexia , lei zhibin , Liu Zonghuai , Li Qi
Published: February 2025

Sodium nickel phosphate (NaNiPO4, NNP) material is an attractive cathode for high performance supercapacitors due to its the abundant active sites of oxidation/reduction, highly stable framework structure etc. However, the...
Green silver nanoparticles curcumin conjugate induced photodynamic therapy of lung cancer and lung cancer stem cells
Authors: Kah Glory , Chandran Rahul , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: February 2025

Lung cancer remains a dreaded disease globally due to its high mortality rates.
Revolutionary NIR-activated silicon nanoparticles: precision-controlled release and targeted 3D cancer cell destruction
Authors: Tran Vy Anh , Hung Nguyen Huy , Thi Vo Thu Thao , An Seong Soo A. , Lee Sang-Wha , Jeong Hun , Tan Mario A.
Published: February 2025

This study develops NIR-activated mesoporous silicon NPs for targeted cancer therapy. Functionalized with dieckol and dequalinium, they enable pH-sensitive drug release and enhance chemo-photothermal effects, selectively eliminating cancer cells.
Hydrogen bonding regulation-oriented design of pyridine sulfonate as a promising UV birefringent crystal characterized by enhanced structural anisotropy
Authors: Xu Longyun , Li Conggang , Li Shuaifeng , Zhao Huijian , Kong Xianghao , Qu Zaixin , Feng Wenjie , Xu Kaidong , Ye Ning , Hu Zhanggui
Published: February 2025

A novel UV pyridine sulfate birefringent crystal, Ca(3-pySO3)2·4H2O, distinguished by large structural anisotropy, was prepared via a hydrogen bonding regulation strategy.
Revitalizing inert carbon pores with benzoquinone for high-performance flexible zinc-ion capacitors
Authors: Hu Lintong , Li Xiaolong , Zhou Yunpeng , Cui Can , Shi Minjie , Yan Chao
Published: February 2025

The inert carbon pores are revitalized by incorporating benzoquinone, resulting in flexible zinc-ion capacitors with an energy density of 218 W h kg−1.
Small far-red cationic benzoquinone diimine dyes
Authors: Munteanu Tatiana , Naim Carmelo , Canard Gabriel , Jacquemin Denis , Siri Olivier , Pascal Simon
Published: February 2025

Two compact far-red cationic benzoquinone diimine dyes were synthesized, having molecular weights lower than 400 or 300 Da and featuring light absorption properties centered around 700 nm.
Recyclable g-C3N4 catalyzed decarboxylative alkenylation of N-aryl glycines with vinyl sulfones under visible-light irradiation
Authors: Guo Chengjie , Zhao Guozhi , Feng Yabiao , Chen Dong , Loh Teck-Peng , Wang Dongping , Jia Zhenhua
Published: February 2025

In this work, we described a recyclable g-C3N4 catalyzed decarboxylative alkenylation of N-aryl glycines with vinyl sulfones for the efficient synthesis of allylamines under visible-light irradiation.
A micro-laser grown from non-photoluminescence Cs4PbBr6 nanocrystals
Authors: Zhong Yichi , Huang Jian , Yang Hongyu , Wang Zhanpeng , Qian Kun , Li Jingzhou , Dong Hongxing , Zhang Long
Published: February 2025

All-inorganic cesium lead bromide zero-dimensional perovskite Cs4PbBr6 is highly valued for its excellent photoelectric conversion efficiency and exceptional stability. However, its application value in the visible light optical field is...
Effect of gamma‐ray irradiation on electrical conductivity of polypropylene composite for nuclear cable insulation
Authors: Liu Baixin , Gao Yu , Guo Chenyi , Li Jing , Chen Yu , Gao Junguo , Du Boxue
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the effect of gamma‐ray irradiation on the electrical conductivity of polypropylene (PP) composites has been studied. The samples are prepared using PP and styrene–ethylene–butylene–styrene elastomer with contents ranging from 0 wt% to 50 wt%, and exposed to Cobalt‐60 gamma irradiation, with a dose from 0 to 250 kGy. Electrical conductivities at different temperatures and trap distributions are measured to observe the deterioration of insulation performance. The microstructure of the sample is estimated using differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and a scanning electron microscope. The obtained results demonstrate a correlation between the increase in electrical conductivity and the elevation in both total dose and temperature. At 250 kGy, the trap distribution tends to become shallower, accompanied by a decrease in crystallinity, melting and decomposition temperatures of the sample. The PP composite exhibits better stability against irradiation and thermal effects, primarily due to the cross‐linked structures formed by irradiation.
Synthesis and characterisation of Cu0.5Mg0.5Fe2O4 ${\text{Cu}}_{\mathbf{0.5}}{\text{Mg}}_{\mathbf{0.5}}{\text{Fe}}_{\mathbf{2}}{\mathbf{O}}_{\mathbf{4}}$ nanoparticles doped with cadmium by co‐precipitation method for acetonitrile, acetone, and ethanol gas detection with deep learning‐based methods
Authors: Ghasemi Alireza , Ashourian Mohsen , Amiri Gholam Reza
Published: February 2025

In this study, a magnetic disk was prepared using nanoparticles with a diameter of less than 15 nm. The morphological and structural characteristics of these nanoparticles were systematically examined using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and alternating force gradient magnetometry (AGFM). XRD analysis confirmed that the average diameter of the copper–magnesium ferrite nanoparticles doped with cadmium was approximately 12 nm, consistent with TEM results, which also showed uniform particle distribution and a tendency to form clusters in powdered form. AGFM measurements revealed that the magnetic property of the powder sample was 15.83 emu/g, which increased to 22.70 emu/g after compression, highlighting the influence of particle density and morphology on magnetic behaviour. Gas sensing tests demonstrated that the fabricated sensors achieved exceptional sensitivity, particularly to acetonitrile, with a maximum sensitivity of 92.3%. A hybrid deep learning model, Bi‐LSTM, was utilised to enhance the precision of gas classification. The proposed methodology was benchmarked against traditional machine learning models, including LSTM and RNN, and demonstrated superior performance. The accuracy of gas detection reached an impressive 99.89%, as validated by ROC analysis, underscoring the efficacy of the deep learning‐based approach. These findings highlight the potential of cadmium‐doped ferrite nanoparticles for high‐performance gas sensing applications, suitable for both industrial and medical uses.