bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into Duodenal Adenocarcinoma: Clinical Presentation, Survival Outcomes, and Treatment Trends—A Long-Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: Joekim Jason Fernandes , R.C Subhoth , Shetty Nishitha , Shet Dinesh
Published: February 2025

Introduction Duodenal adenocarcinoma (DA) is a rare and aggressive malignancy, representing less than 0.5% of all gastrointestinal cancers. It constitutes a significant portion (55.7%) of small bowel adenocarcinomas, most of which arise in the second part of the duodenum, followed by the third and fourth parts. Despite its rarity, DA presents substantial challenges in diagnosis and treatment due to its aggressive nature and often insidious onset.

Objectives The aim of the study is to investigate the clinical presentation, prognostic factors, survival outcomes, and treatment strategies in DA, with a focus on surgical and adjuvant therapeutic interventions. Additionally, the study aims to elucidate patterns of recurrence and identify areas for future research to optimize therapeutic approaches and enhance patient care.

Materials and Methods This retrospective observational study (2015–2023) analyzed patients aged 18 to 90 years with DA. Data from case sheets, laboratory investigations, and medication charts were reviewed. This study aims to explain demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, treatment trends, and survival outcomes to improve therapeutic strategies and patient care in DA patients, excluding other gastrointestinal cancers

Results The study examined 10 cases of DA diagnosed between 2015 and 2023. The patient cohort had an equal gender distribution, with ages ranging from 53 to 83 years. Chief presenting symptoms included abdominal pain (90%) and vomiting (50%). Tumor markers were elevated in 40% of patients. Tumor locations predominantly included the D2 region. Three patients underwent Whipple's surgery and three received chemotherapy with curative intent.

Conclusion The study highlights the challenges associated with DA, including its rare incidence, clinical presentations, and variable treatment outcomes. Surgical interventions such as the Whipple procedure and adjuvant chemotherapy show promise in improving survival rates. Further studies with larger cohorts are essential to better understand the disease, refine therapeutic strategies formulate separate guidelines for DA, and enhance patient outcomes.

Clinical trial registry number: N/A.
Testing the validity of Adam–Gibbs equation
Authors: Zhang B. , Zhang D. M. , Sun D. Y. , Gong X. G.
Published: February 2025

The Adam–Gibbs (AG) equation may be one of the most influential models in the study of α-relaxation. In this paper, we derived mathematical relationships governing changes in the potential barrier and configurational entropy from a series of nonlinearly scaled potential energy landscapes. By integrating these relationships with molecular dynamics simulations, we revisited the renowned AG model, which establishes a direct correlation between the α-relaxation time, configurational entropy, and potential barrier. Our findings confirm that the AG model effectively depicts the temperature dependence of the α-relaxation time. Additionally, we reassessed other widely used models for α-relaxation, including the Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann model, the shoving model, the Mauro–Yue–Ellison–Gupta–Allan model, and various quadratic-form models, to evaluate their applicability under varying potential barriers. Our results indicate that the potential barrier plays a critical role in these relaxation models. These models perform well when the average potential barrier is high. However, discrepancies arise when the average potential barrier decreases. This research provides an in-depth analysis of α-relaxation, offering new insights into the dynamics of supercooled liquids.
Light scattering in liquid mixtures as a test of the critical point universality principle
Authors: Wang Xingjian , Lyons Christopher M. , Baird James K. , Weimer Jeffrey J.
Published: February 2025

The principle of critical point universality is thought to govern critical phenomena in systems as disparate as ferromagnets, super-fluids, superconductors, and binary liquid mixtures exhibiting a critical point of solution. Among these, the binary mixtures have solvent properties that can be exploited in order to search for critical effects in physicochemical systems, which have so far included solubility, adsorption, and ion exchange. In addition to these effects, strong light scattering, known as critical opalescence, can be observed at the critical point of solution. On the microscopic scale, light scattering has its origin in refractive index distortions caused by fluctuations in composition having spatial dimensions of the order of the wavelength of light. Using a diverse selection of mixtures and solutes, we show that turbidity expected in a binary mixture is quenched upon the addition of a completely soluble third component. We suggest that the third component serves to limit the spatial extent of the fluctuations. By combining statistical thermodynamics with an advanced version of the Gibbs phase rule, we show that this interpretation is completely consistent with the universality principle. We fit the temperature dependence of the dimensionless transmitted intensity (turbidity) to a rigorously derived expression having two adjustable scaling parameters and a critical exponent set equal to the Ising model value of 1.241.
Stochastic resonance in an underdamped Duffing bistable system embedded with overdamped feedback control for rolling bearing fault detection
Authors: Zhang Jinfeng , Peng Junling , Li Jimeng , Meng Zong
Published: February 2025

Research shows that multi-system synergetic stochastic resonance (SR) can obtain preferable performance for weak signal detection than a single SR system. However, how to design or select suitable multi-system synergetic mode remains a challenge. Therefore, an underdamped Duffing bistable SR system embedded with overdamped feedback control is constructed to boost the poor detection effect of weak signals by a single resonant system. Firstly, SR phenomenon in the underdamped Duffing bistable system embedded with overdamped feedback control is analyzed. Through the information exchange between the two subsystems and the series-parallel relationship of multiple integrals, it is feasible to enhance the noise utilization as well as to obtain a larger output signal-to-noise ratio. Secondly, the effects of feedback and damping coefficients on the resonant system are investigated, and an adaptive multi-parameter optimization SR algorithm is put forward in combination with gray wolf optimization algorithm to detect weak signals in a highly noisy background. Finally, vibration data of two faulty bearings is applied in the analysis of the investigated algorithm, and the results of comparison show that the spectral peak corresponding to the characteristic frequency of the output signal derived from the investigated method is more prominent, which effectively promotes the detection performance of bearing faults.
First observations of edge instabilities in strongly shaped negative triangularity plasmas on DIII-D
Authors: Cote Tyler , Yu Guanying , Nelson Andrew Oakleigh , Leuthold Nils , Richner Nathan Jordan , Stewart Samuel David , Khabanov Filipp , Zhu Yilun , Ebrahimi Fatima , King Jacob R , Paz-Soldan Carlos , Schmitz Lothar , Thome Kathreen E , Austin Max E , Scotti Filippo
Published: February 2025

Throughout the 2023 DIII-D negative triangularity campaign, unexpected magnetic fluctuations indicative of an edge localized instability were observed in the majority of strongly shaped (−0.55 ≤ δ ≤ −0.45) discharges. Moreover, these same fluctuations were found to be absent in weaker NT plasma shapes. Based on a database study, three separate mode behaviors are observed based primarily on the edge safety factor q95 and normalized plasma beta βN. The main regime is the bursty state, in which short (∼ 5 ms) magnetic bursts occur every 5 − 10 ms. Each burst drives a small reduction in the edge electron temperature (Te) as measured by electron cyclotron emissions (ECE), which then rapidly recovers between the bursts. The quiescent regime appears to have similar governing mechanics as the bursty regime, but with multiple unique mode signatures observed in the magnetics. These additional modes greatly reduces the bursty nature of the plasma. Finally, a saturated state is observed in a number of discharges, particularly at early time slices. The saturated regime is often short lived (maximum 500 ms), but can have a large impact on the dynamics of theplasma edge region, causing significant drops in electron temperature as observed in the ECE diagnostic. 2D electron cyclotron emission imaging (ECE-I) is utilized, showing large kink-like perturbations localized near the LCFS that extend into the SOL indicative of an external kink behavior. Additionally, evidence of phase mixing and observed tearing-parity perturbations localized near the edge rational surfaces are observed in the quiescent regime plasmas. The various modes do not appear to have a large impact on global confinement, but may play a role in regulating the transport of the NT edge and the observed edge gradients.
Roles of Hormones in Regulating Root Growth-Water Interactions
Authors: Sharma Shivam , Bennett Malcolm J , Mehra Poonam
Published: February 2025

Water stress presents a critical challenge affecting plant growth and agricultural productivity, with drought alone causing substantial yield losses. Roots serve as the primary site for water uptake, enabling plants to detect water stress by sensing changes in soil moisture levels. This initial perception prompts roots to initiate a spectrum of adaptive responses at morphological, anatomical, and biochemical levels. In addition to coping with severe water stress conditions like drought, roots also respond to microscale variations in water availability within the rhizosphere as they navigate through soil, exhibiting responses such as hydrotropism, xerobranching, and hydropatterning. These adaptive responses are orchestrated by dynamic and sophisticated sensing and signalling mechanisms mediated by plant hormones at the cellular level. This review explores recent advances in our understanding of root responses to water stress, emphasizing the hormonal mechanisms underpinning these adaptations. Furthermore, it outlines future perspectives aimed at enhancing crop resilience to water stress through improved understanding and manipulation of root-water interactions.
FEASTS: The fate of gas and star formation in interacting galaxies
Authors: Wang Shun , Wang Jing , Lee-Waddell Karen , Yang Dong , Lin Xuchen , Staveley-Smith Lister
Published: February 2025

We use H i data from the FAST Extended Atlas of Selected Targets Survey (FEASTS) to study the interplay between gas and star formation of galaxies in interacting systems. We build control and mock H i disks and parameterize H i disorder by a series of disorder parameters, describing the piling, clumpiness and expansion of H i. We find that interacting galaxies have higher H i disorder described by almost all disorder parameters. Systems with comparable stellar masses and small relative velocities tend to have stronger expansion and clumpiness of H i. At a given stellar mass, decreased H i and total neutral gas mass and suppressed star formation rate of secondary galaxies are correlated with most disorder parameters. For primary galaxies, H i and total neutral gas deficiency correlate with more H i piling at two ends of the system outside H i disks but not with the expansion or clumpiness of H i. We also find that the H i surface densities of both primary and secondary galaxies are lower within the H i disks and higher outside compared to the control galaxies. Our results suggest that while all the disorder parameters quantify the interaction strength almost equally well, they have different sensitivities in tracing star formation rate and gas mass enhancements. They also imply that while gas removal likely dominates the tidal effects on secondary galaxies, primary galaxies experience more complex situation that are possibly related to gas depletion and accretion happening at different interaction stages.
On the varieties of conscious experiences: Altered Beliefs Under Psychedelics (ALBUS)
Authors: Safron Adam , Juliani Arthur , Reggente Nicco , Klimaj Victoria , Johnson Matthew
Published: February 2025

How is it that psychedelics so profoundly impact brain and mind? According to the model of “Relaxed Beliefs Under Psychedelics” (REBUS), 5-HT2a agonism is thought to help relax prior expectations, thus making room for new perspectives and patterns. Here, we introduce an alternative (but largely compatible) perspective, proposing that REBUS effects may primarily correspond to a particular (but potentially pivotal) regime of very high levels of 5-HT2a receptor agonism. Depending on both a variety of contextual factors and the specific neural systems being considered, we suggest opposite effects may also occur in which synchronous neural activity becomes more powerful, with accompanying “Strengthened Beliefs Under Psychedelics” (SEBUS) effects. Such SEBUS effects are consistent with the enhanced meaning-making observed in psychedelic therapy (e.g. psychological insight and the noetic quality of mystical experiences), with the imposition of prior expectations on perception (e.g. hallucinations and pareidolia), and with the delusional thinking that sometimes occurs during psychedelic experiences (e.g. apophenia, paranoia, engendering of inaccurate interpretations of events, and potentially false memories). With “Altered Beliefs Under Psychedelics” (ALBUS), we propose that the manifestation of SEBUS vs. REBUS effects may vary across the dose–response curve of 5-HT2a signaling. While we explore a diverse range of sometimes complex models, our basic idea is fundamentally simple: psychedelic experiences can be understood as kinds of waking dream states of varying degrees of lucidity, with similar underlying mechanisms. We further demonstrate the utility of ALBUS by providing neurophenomenological models of psychedelics focusing on mechanisms of conscious perceptual synthesis, dreaming, and episodic memory and mental simulation.
Recent stabilization of agricultural non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions in China
Authors: Gao Yuanyi , Li Zimeng , Hong Songbai , Yu Lijun , Li Shihua , Wei Jing , Chang Jinfeng , Zhang Yao , Zhang Wen , Yuan Wenping , Wang Xuhui
Published: February 2025

Agriculture emerges as a prominent contributor to CH4 and N2O emissions in China. However, estimates of these two non-CO2 greenhouse gases (GHGs) remain poorly constrained, hindering a precise understanding of their spatiotemporal dynamics and the development of effective mitigation strategies. Here, we established a consistent estimation framework that integrates emission factor methods, data-driven models and process-based biogeochemical models, to identify the magnitudes, spatial variations, and long-term trends of agricultural non-CO2 GHG emissions in mainland China from 1980 to 2023. Over the study period, the average total agricultural non-CO2 GHG emissions amounted to 722.5 ± 102.3 Tg CO2-eq yr−1, with livestock CH4, cropland CH4, cropland N2O and livestock N2O contributing 41% (297.4 ± 64.3 Tg CO2-eq yr−1), 31% (225.0 ± 69.6 Tg CO2-eq yr−1), 18% (130.6 ± 9.4 Tg CO2-eq yr−1) and 10% (69.4 ± 20.2 Tg CO2-eq yr−1), respectively. Approximately 70% of these emissions were concentrated in the eastern region beyond the Hu Line, with emission hotspots identified in South-central China, East China, and the Sichuan Basin. Our analysis revealed three distinct temporal stages of total emissions during the study period: rapid growth (1980–late 1990s), slow growth (late 1990s–middle 2010s), and a stabilization stage (since the middle 2010s). These stages reflect the evolving trajectory of agriculture in China, from the expansion of agricultural yields, to the transformation of agricultural practices, and ultimately the pursuit of sustainable development. However, the temporal trajectory of emissions varied significantly across different regions, highlighting divergent levels of agricultural development. This study presents a comprehensive, gridded, and consistent estimate of agricultural non-CO2 GHG emissions in China, offering valuable insights for policymakers to develop tailored strategies that adapt to local conditions, enabling effective emission reduction measures.
Can treatment expectations or treatment itself in patients with arthralgia suspicious for progression to rheumatoid arthritis improve illness perceptions?
Authors: van Griethuysen Simonetta R G , Dumoulin Quirine A , van Mulligen Elise , van der Helm-van Mil Annette H M
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Negative illness perceptions(IPs) are associated with poorer disease-outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis(RA). Unfortunately, IPs are generally stable in established RA. We hypothesized that IPs, especially in the cognitive domain, are modifiable in arthralgia-at-risk of RA. We aimed to study if receiving DMARD-treatment, or the offer of DMARD-treatment associates with more positive IPs in patients with clinically-suspect-arthralgia(CSA).

Methods

The population studied were CSA-patients to which a wait-and-see approach was adopted without offering DMARD-treatment, or patients were offered DMARD-treatment via the TREAT EARLIER-trial and subsequently randomized to receive methotrexate or placebo. IP was assessed using the Brief-Illness-Perception-Questionnaire(BIPQ), covering cognitive, emotional and comprehensibility domains. The effect of DMARD-treatment on IPs over time was studied by comparing the 2-year-course of BIPQs of patients receiving methotrexate or placebo. The effect of offering DMARD-treatment was examined by comparing the BIPQs of CSA-patients in the trial with those undergoing a 'wait-and-see'-policy.

Results

In total 375 CSA-patients were studied, of which 236 of the TREAT EARLIER-trial and 139 with a wait-and-see approach. Patients who received treatment showed sustained improvements in IPs over time compared with placebo in four cognitive domains: experience of physical complaints(p= 0.040), the illness’ influence on life (p= 0.001), treatment-effectiveness(p= 0.041) and disease-duration (p= 0.045). Comparison at baseline showed that CSA-patients to whom treatment was offered had more confidence in treatment (p< 0.001) and tented to have a deeper understanding of their disease (p= 0.054).

Conclusion

Both the prospect of and DMARD-treatment itself improved IPs in CSA, mainly in cognitive domains. These data suggest CSA as a suitable time period for influencing IPs’, which may provide possibilities to improve disease outcomes in patients developing RA.
Exploring Diverse Approaches to Iterative Microbiome Passaging in Soil and Plant Systems
Authors: Bell Terrence H. , Percy Sabrina , Ahmadpanah Hooman , Ye Rachel , Blakney Andrew , Reardon Kara , King William L.
Published: February 2025

Efficient use of managed land depends on our ability to optimize relevant processes (e.g. crop growth) in that space. Microbial activities are critical to this goal, given their enormous contributions to biogeochemical flux and organismal health. Unfortunately, we still cannot predictably harness their potential in the same way that we can introduce nutrients or manipulate plant composition, for example. In recent years, iterative microbiome passaging has been investigated as an approach for capturing and optimizing groups of microorganisms that contribute additively to functions of interest, like plant growth promotion or litter decomposition. Early trials show that this approach can alter microbiome function, but functional gains can seem almost stochastic, unlike archetypes of breeding within individual lineages. In this Perspective, we highlight the importance of continuing to explore diverse approaches to iterative microbiome passaging in soil and plant systems, given our limited knowledge about how this process works. There is no single ‘best’ approach, but experimental design choices can have large impacts on outcomes. Ultimately, we believe that a better understanding of different forms of iterative microbiome passaging will allow us to 1) leverage the power of uncultivated microbes, additive/synergistic microbial contributions, and intermicrobial interactions and 2) understand how land use choices will shape the functional trajectories of microbiomes through time.
Human models that inform antiretroviral therapy-free remission with perinatally acquired HIV infection
Authors: Tiemessen Caroline T.
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review

Rare persons who achieve disease-control despite high viral loads (viraemic nonprogressors) or maintain virologic control in the absence of antiretroviral therapy (ART) (elite controllers) or following ART interruption (posttreatment controllers) possess protective factors that can be harnessed for interventions to achieve ART-free remission. This review broadly summarizes these phenotypes in adults and children, and updates on findings important in informing strategies for ART-free remission in children with HIV.

Recent findings

To date, only a few individual cases of posttreatment control have been described in children. Smaller HIV reservoir size with very early ART initiation in neonates with in-utero acquired HIV associates with improved virological and immunological outcomes. Nine new cases of ART-free remission in children were recently described – 4 from the P1115 trial, and 5 males from the Ucwaningo Lwabantwana study in South Africa. A striking reduction in the decay of intact proviruses was observed over three decades on suppressive ART in two early-treated twins with HIV.

The unique environment of perinatal HIV infection favours effective restriction and decay of the HIV-1 reservoir with suppressive ART initiated very early. Sex and population differences require consideration in ongoing studies to inform ART-free remission.
Changing the paradigm of long-term blood pressure control: a systematic review of novel therapies
Authors: Gnanenthiran Sonali R. , Delgado Sabrina , Mirabito Colafella Katrina M. , Schlaich Markus P. , Schutte Aletta E. , Rodgers Anthony
Published: February 2025

Novel drug and device therapies have the potential to achieve long-term control of blood pressure (BP) and thereby overcome the barriers of nonadherence and undertreatment. We propose that ideal BP lowering therapy should meet six key criteria: (i) achieve a clinically relevant BP reduction; (ii) durable BP reduction; (iii) be well tolerated; (iv) have the ability to be safely combined with other BP lowering treatments; (v) have high patient acceptability and (vi) be cost-effective and simple to use to maximize scalability. In this paper, we systematically review emerging solutions for long-term control of BP including antibody-based therapies, sRNA therapies, and DNA-based gene editing which target the renin angiotensin system, and implant therapies, and interventional approaches (renal denervation and baroreceptor activation therapies). These novel therapies may substantially complement and, in some settings, even replace current antihypertensive therapies. Implementation will require significant progress in overcoming technological-, systems-, prescriber- and patient-level barriers.
Perspectives on Ultraprocessed Food Research
Authors: PromSchmidt Claudia , Villano Danielle , Hess Julie
Published: February 2025

Beginning in 2009, a body of research in nutrition science emerged that focused on the health impacts associated with consuming foods labeled “ultraprocessed.” Since then, several organizations have proffered classification systems to categorize foods by degree of processing. However, to date, there is no recognized method to consistently and accurately apply these systems, including the Nova classification system, in research. This lack of consistency inhibits the ability of the scientific community to synthesize evidence-based conclusions about the impact of processed foods on health. Nonetheless, this body of work has impacted food policy globally. Continuous refinement of the definition of ultraprocessed foods, as well as a consistent use and implementation of a single definition across research studies, is necessary to build a robust evidence base and determine next steps needed for public health.
Airway Occlusion Pressure and P0.1 to Estimate Inspiratory Effort and Respiratory Drive in Ventilated Children
Authors: Rudolph Michelle W. , Sietses Maaike , Koopman Alette A. , Blokpoel Robert G.T. , Kneyber Martin C.J.
Published: February 2025

Objective:

To compare the level of agreement between proximal (near the subject) and distal (inside the ventilator) measured airway occlusion pressure at 100 ms (P0.1) and occlusion pressure (ΔP
occ), and to study the correlation between ΔP
occ and peak-to-trough esophageal pressure (ΔP
es).

Design:

Secondary analysis of prospectively collected physiology dataset (2021–2022).

Setting:

Medical-surgical 20-bed PICU.

Patients:

Children younger than 18 years with and without acute lung injury ventilated greater than 24 hours and spontaneously breathing with appropriate triggering of the ventilator.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

Data from three expiratory hold maneuvers (with a maximum of three breaths during each maneuver) in 74 subjects (118 measurements) with median age 3 months (interquartile range 1–17), and primary respiratory failure due to a pulmonary infection in 41/74 (55.4%) were studied. The median proximal ∆P
occ was 6.7 cm H2O (3.1–10.7) and median P0.1 4.9 cm H2O (4.1–6.0) for the first breath from the maneuver; both increased significantly (p < 0.001) with the subsequent two breaths during the same maneuver. Median distal ∆P
occ was 6.8 (2.9–10.8) and P0.1 4.6 (3.9–5.6) cm H2O; both increased significantly (p < 0.001) with the two subsequent breaths. Proximal and distal ΔP
occ (r > 0.99, p < 0.001) and P0.1 (r > 0.80, p < 0.001) were correlated. Correlation between ventilator displayed and Y-piece measured ΔP
occ (r > 0.99) and P0.1 (r = 0.85) was good. Mean (sd) difference for ΔP
occ was 0.13 (0.21); levels of agreement were –0.28 and 0.54. For P0.1, mean (sd) difference was –0.36 (1.14) and levels of agreement –2.61 and 1.88. There was a high correlation between ΔP
es and ∆P
occ (r = 0.92) for the same breath and a good correlation with ΔP
es from the preceding breath (r = 0.76). There was a poor correlation with the transpulmonary pressure (r = 0.37).

Conclusions:

ΔP
occ is not affected by measurement site, whereas P0.1 may be overestimated or underestimated. ΔP
occ was highly correlated with the peak-to-trough esophageal pressure, supporting the concept that inspiratory effort can also be quantified noninvasively by measuring ΔP
occ.
‘With age comes wisdom’: effectiveness and tolerability of dolutegravir + lamivudine in virologically-suppressed people with HIV
Authors: Baldin Gianmaria , Salvo Pierluigi Francesco , Passerotto Rosa Anna , Iannone Valentina , Lamanna Francesco , Carbone Andrea , Farinacci Damiano , Lombardi Francesca , Borghetti Alberto , Di Giambenedetto Simona , Torti Carlo , Ciccullo Arturo
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

Results from clinical trials and observational studies suggest that dolutegravir plus lamivudine is a well tolerated option for simplification in people with HIV (PWH). We aimed to assess long-time effectiveness and safety in our cohort.

Methods:

We performed an observational study enrolling HIV-1-infected, virologically suppressed PWH, switching to dolutegravir plus lamivudine. Exclusion criteria were HBV-coinfection and the presence of the M184V mutation before the simplification. We performed survival analysis to evaluate time to virological failure (VF, defined by a single HIV-RNA ≥200 copies/ml or by two consecutive HIV-RNA ≥ 50 copies/ml) and treatment discontinuation (TD, defined as the interruption of either 3TC or DTG).

Results:

Six hundred thirty-one PWH were considered for the analysis: 446 were males (70.7%), with a median age of 51.1 years [interquartile range (IQR) 42.6–57.6]. Estimated probabilities of maintaining virological suppression at 192 and 384 weeks were 95.1% [95% confidence interval (CI) 92.0–96.2] and 91.5% (95% CI 87.1–94.4), respectively. At multivariable analysis, including zenith HIV-RNA, time of virological suppression before switch, risk factors for HIV infection and age, only IDU [versus other risk factors, adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 3.58, 95% CI 1.38–9.28, P = 0.009] independently predicted VF. A border-line significant association with VF emerged for age (per 10-years more, aHR 0.72, 95% CI 0.51–1.01, P = 0.058) and zenith HIV-RNA >500 000 cps/ml (versus. <500 000 cps/ml, aHR 2.31, 95% CI 0.98–5.46, P = 0.056).

As to treatment tolerability, estimated probabilities of remaining on study regimen at 192 and 384 weeks were 87.8% (95% CI 84.5–90.5) and 85.1% (95% CI 81.0–88.5), respectively.

Conclusions:

Our findings confirm the long-term effectiveness and tolerability of dolutegravir plus lamivudine in virologically suppressed PWH.
Fast-timescale hippocampal processes bridge between slowly unfurling neocortical states during memory search
Authors: Michelmann Sebastian , Dugan Patricia , Doyle Werner , Friedman Daniel , Melloni Lucia , Strauss Camilla K. , Devore Sasha , Flinker Adeen , Devinsky Orrin , Hasson Uri , Norman Kenneth A.
Published: February 2025

Prior behavioral work showed that event structure plays a key role in our ability to mentally search through memories of continuous naturalistic experience. We hypothesized that, neurally, this mem- ory search process involves a division of labor between slowly un- furling neocortical states representing event knowledge and fast hippocampal-neocortical communication that supports retrieval of new information at transitions between events. To test this, we tracked slow neural state-patterns in a sample of ten patients under- going intracranial electroencephalography as they viewed a movie and then searched their memories in a structured naturalistic in- terview. As patients answered questions (“after X, when does Y happen next?”), state-patterns from movie-viewing were reinstated in neocortex; during memory-search, states unfurled in a forward di- rection. Moments of state-transition were marked by low-frequency power decreases in cortex and preceded by power decreases in hip- pocampus that correlated with reinstatement. Connectivity-analysis revealed information-flow from hippocampus to cortex underpinning state-transitions. Together, these results support our hypothesis that fast hippocampal processes bridge between slow neocortical states during memory search.
Local chromatic correction optics for Future Circular Collider
e+e−
Authors: Raimondi Pantaleo , Liuzzo Simone Maria , Farvacque Laurent , White Simon , Hofer Michael
Published: February 2025

Local chromatic correction optics are proposed for the Future Circular e+−e− Collider. These new optics assume an identical layout of the magnets at all operation energies and include a new design for the arcs, for the straight sections, and for the final focus. The arcs design is a step forward from the classic FODO lattice that achieves near cancellation up to the fourth order of chromatic and geometric aberrations. Straight sections and the final focus benefit from the application of transparency conditions and are thus minimally impacting the global beam dynamics. The final focus design includes both vertical and horizontal chromaticity correction sections, crab sextupoles, and additional specific sextupoles and decapoles for the optimization of the dynamics off-energy. Decapoles are very effective in mitigating the reduction of dynamic aperture due to synchrotron radiation. Nonlinear magnet settings are further optimized with multiobjective algorithms. The overall properties of the new optics proposed are analyzed in the presence of errors and compared to other optics designs.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Constraining calculations of
Pu239(n,γ)
cross sections with multistep cascade
γ
-ray spectra measured at the DANCE facility
Authors: Ullmann J. L. , Kawano T. , Baramsai B. , Bredeweg T. A. , Couture A. , Jandel M. , Mosby S. , O'Donnell J. M. , Rundberg R. S. , Sasaki H. , Vieira D. J. , Wilhelmy J. B. , Krtička M. , Chyzh A. , Henderson R. , Wu C. Y.
Published: February 2025

Measurements of multistep cascade gamma-ray spectra from several low-lying 1+ resonances in the Pu239(n,γ) reaction were made using the DANCE detector. The measured spectra are compared to spectra simulated using several models for the photon strength function and the nuclear level density, representing the first analysis of this nature on a fissile nucleus. In general, models of the photon strength function that included a strong M1 “scissors mode” contribution coupled with a Gilbert-Cameron nuclear level density provided a reasonable description of the spectra. Simulations using photon strength functions and nuclear level densities specifically for Pu240, extracted by the Oslo method, resulted in a very good representation of the measured spectra. Neutron-capture cross section calculations that included the scissors mode provided a good estimate of the previously measured values, without additional normalization. However, the scissors-mode energy that produced the best description of the multistep cascade spectra was different from the value that best reproduced the capture cross section. In addition, the 〈Γγ〉 inferred from the multistep cascade calculations was somewhat less than the tabulated value, which was determined from resonance analysis.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Dynamical properties and mechanisms of metastability: A perspective in neuroscience
Authors: Rossi Kalel L. , Budzinski Roberto C. , Medeiros Everton S. , Boaretto Bruno R. R. , Muller Lyle , Feudel Ulrike
Published: February 2025

Metastability, characterized by a variability of regimes in time, is a ubiquitous type of neural dynamics. It has been formulated in many different ways in the neuroscience literature, however, which may cause some confusion. In this Perspective, we discuss metastability from the point of view of dynamical systems theory. We extract from the literature a very simple but general through the concept of as long-lived but transient epochs of activity with unique dynamical properties. This definition serves as an umbrella term that encompasses formulations from other works, and readily connects to concepts from dynamical systems theory. This allows us to examine general dynamical properties of metastable regimes, propose in a didactic manner several that generate them, and discuss a theoretical tool to characterize them quantitatively. This Perspective leads to insights that help to address issues debated in the literature and also suggests pathways for future research.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Enhancing employer branding in startups through job autonomy and intrinsic motivation: the role of gamification
Authors: Bhawna Bhawna , Dogra Prinka , Akram Umair , Sharma Sanjeev Kumar
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In light of the rapidly evolving global work environment and the unique needs of startups, this study investigates the potential of gamified practices (GP) as a human resource management tool to enhance employer branding (EB).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from employees in Indian startup companies (N = 1,842) through a structured questionnaire. The study used Smart-PLS for variance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that GP significantly influences IM, which is the internal desire to perform a task due to the enjoyment it brings, and JA, which is the level of independence and freedom given to an employee in their job, as parallel mediators between GP and EB. Further, prior perceptions of the employer brand (PPEB), which refer to the pre-existing beliefs and attitudes employees hold about the employer brand, moderate the relationship between GP and JA, highlighting that individuals with varying PPEB respond differently to JA facilitated through GP.

Practical implications

The study’s findings underscore the importance of tailoring GP experiences to individual needs and prior brand perceptions for optimal results. Furthermore, it highlights GP as a potent tool for shaping positive employer brand perceptions, particularly when it aligns with an organization’s values and offers an engaging, competitive and realistic experience.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the field by addressing the underexplored impact of GP on EB within the dynamic startup ecosystem. It explores the mediating roles of IM and JA and the moderating effect of PPEB, shedding light on the dynamic relationships between gamified practices and EB.
Circular economic strategies for maximising the end-of-life value of modular buildings: a Delphi study
Authors: De Silva W.P.M. , Jayasena Suranga , Thennakoon Piyumi , Perera B.A.K.S.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The construction industry is responsible for over 30% of natural resource extraction and 25% of global waste generation. Modular construction (MC) offers an opportunity to move towards a circular economy (CE), enhancing the value at the end-of-life stage through reuse and disassembly. However, a gap remains, prohibiting the full realisation of this potential. This study aims to bridge this gap by developing a strategic framework that enhances the end-of-life value of MBs by integrating CE principles by investigating key parameters, identifying relevant CE principles and formulating integration strategies to maximise their effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a qualitative research approach, using two Delphi rounds with experts selected through purposive sampling. The qualitative data were analysed using manual content analysis.

Findings

The research identifies six parameters that influence the end-of-life value of MBs and aligns them with suitable CE 9R principles. In total, 41 strategies are provided for integrating these principles with 6 parameters to enhance the end-of-life value of MBs.

Originality/value

The study findings present a systematic approach to integrating CE principles to enhance the end-of-life value of MBs. Identifying specific strategies integrating CE principles for each key parameter distinguishes it from previous research, which often lacks this level of focus on end-of-life parameter-specific strategies. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the practical application of CE concepts in MC. Further, it offers practical strategies for enhancing the end-of-life value of MB to promote a sustainable built environment.
Introduction to the Special Issue: Exploring the Policy–Mobilization Nexus: How Policies and Mobilizations Shape One Another
Authors: Ancelovici Marcos , Dussault Joëlle , Emperador Badimon Montserrat
Published: February 2025

Although public policies and social mobilizations often shape one another, policy studies and social movement studies have focused on distinct dimensions of the “policy–mobilization nexus.” Such segmented perspectives generate blind spots and partial accounts of both the policy process and social mobilization dynamics. This special issue unpacks the policy–mobilization nexus and brings together papers that analyze the interactions between public policy and protest in different policy domains (family, housing, education, and health) in four countries (Chile, Quebec, Spain, and the United States). It makes three contributions. First, it stresses the contentious nature of the policy‐making process and shows that many social actors combine disruptive and conciliatory modes of action. Second, it challenges standard arguments according to which social movements shape the policy process only indirectly, through agenda‐setting. Finally, it takes temporal dynamics seriously and stresses the need to treat policies not as an output or outcome but as a process with no clear starting and end points.
Spatial profiling of geographical accessibility to maternal healthcare and coverage of maternal health service utilisation in Nepal: a geospatial analysis based on demographic and health survey
Authors: Huang-fu Heng-Qian , Wang Li , Karmacharya Biraj , Koirala Uttam Kumar , Ke Chang-Wen , Liang Dan , Hao Chun , Lai Ying-Si
Published: February 2025

Background

Information on geographical accessibility to maternal healthcare (MHC) and coverage of maternal health service utilisation at high spatial resolution in Nepal are important for evidence-based health planning.

Methods

Based on the Nepal Health Facility Registry dataset in 2022, we measured the geographical accessibility to MHC facilities across Nepal. Using data from 2022 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey and other sources, we assessed the relationships between geographical accessibility and the utilisation of the three major healthcare services (ie, four or more antenatal care (ANC) visits, institutional delivery and postnatal care (PNC) check-up), by applying Bayesian geostatistical models. High-resolution maps on coverage of the above services were produced.

Results

The geographical accessibility showed high in the central and southern Terai belt but low in the northern mountains, with average travel-mode adjusted travel time for ANC, institutional delivery and PNC 26.74, 40.72 and 29.09 min, respectively. Negative correlations were found between geographical accessibility with four or more ANC visits (OR 0.76, 95% Bayesian credible interval, BCI 0.65 to 0.90), institutional delivery (OR 0.76, 95% BCI 0.64 to 0.90) and PNC check-up (OR 0.87, 95% BCI 0.76 to 0.99), respectively. Population-weighted coverages for four or more ANC visits, institutional delivery and PNC check-up were estimated 83.25% (95% BCI 80.43% to 85.35%), 84.26% (95% BCI 81.30% to 86.08%) and 73.19% (95% BCI 69.43% to 76.09%), respectively, across Nepal. The northern mountains and southeastern Terai showed low coverage for the three healthcare services, while the central, eastern and western hilly regions exhibited good coverage.

Conclusion

Geographical accessibility is important in utilisation of maternal health services in Nepal. The high-resolution maps enable an evidence-based assessment for better health planning.
Relationship of irisin and apelin levels with sarcopenia and body Composition in community-dwelling older adults: a paired case-control study
Authors: Zhang Liangchuan , Peng Yating , Qie Yaling , Guo Jia , Kong Yuan , Zhang Xue , Li Zetian , Jia Hong
Published: February 2025

Objective:
Irisin and alein levels continue to decrease with aging, however, no studies have explored their association with sarcopenia and body composition. This study aims to provide evidence of irisin and apelinlevels in patients with sarcopenia.
Design:
A paired case-control study.
Setting and Participants:
This case-control study included 80 individuals with sarcopenia and 80 individuals without sarcopenia.
Methods:
The definition of sarcopenia was based on the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria. Plasma levels of irisin and apelin were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Conditional logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs.
Results:
The sarcopenia group exhibited significantly lower levels of irisin(73.75±30.97 ng/mL vs. 131.15±88.38ng/mL, p<0.001) and apelin(21.51±14.89 ng/mL vs. 27.87±14.41 ng/mL, p=0.007) compared to the control group. Increased levels of irisin(OR, 0.98, 95%CI, 0.97-0.99) and apelin(OR, 0.97, 95%CI, 0.95-0.99) were associated with a decreased risk of sarcopenia. In women, irisin was positively associated with BMI, ICW, ECW, TW, protein, mineral, fat, FFM, SMM, PBF, WC, VFA, and BMR. Apelin was positively associated with ICW, ECW, TBW, Protein, and SMM(all p<0.05). In men, positive correlations were found between irisin, apelin, and handgrip strength(all p<0.05).
Conclusion:
Plasma irisin and apelin were lower than in controls in elderly patients with sarcopenia, and elevated levels of irisin and apelin were associated with a reduced risk of sarcopenia. In addition, irisin and apelin levels are associated with body composition and irisin showed a stronger ability to predict sarcopenia in women.
Investigating the use of multiple representations in university courses on quantum technologies
Authors: Rexigel Eva , Bley Jonas , Arias Alda , Qerimi Linda , Küchemann Stefan , Kuhn Jochen , Widera Artur
Published: February 2025

The field of Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST) education presents unique challenges for both students and educators, such as the necessity of understanding abstract properties of quantum systems. To provide a more intuitive understanding of quantum systems, a multitude of qubit representations have been developed in recent years. Given the diversity of the field, a specific representation may be more suitable in one content area of than in another. Consequently, the choice of representation may vary considerably depending on the course orientation. However, no exhaustive analysis has been conducted into the differences between the representation of single- and multi-qubit systems in higher education QIST courses. Furthermore, the factors which influence the selection of a suitable representation remain open. To close this gap, we conducted an online survey with 25 educators at different German and Austrian universities on their use of representations in QIST-related courses. The results confirm the pivotal role of mathematical formalism in QIST education regardless of the specific course characteristics but also reveal an untapped potential for enhancing student learning through the intentional and comprehensive use of multiple external representations (MERs), especially in the case of multi-qubit systems. The findings are discussed within the context of the field of QIST and current insights into learning with MERs.