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Satellite altimetry reveals intensifying global river water level variability
Modeling and simulation of dual-battery FANET system using MADRL for energy optimization
Abstract Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, are revolutionizing applications such as surveillance, search and rescue (SAR), precision agriculture, and disaster response. In these applications, Flying Ad-Hoc Networks (FANETs)—dynamic networks of interconnected UAVs—are essential for enabling rapid and adaptive deployments. However, the limited battery life of UAVs remains a critical challenge, particularly in extended missions like SAR, where operational longevity and reliable performance are paramount. This paper addresses two key challenges in FANET-based UAV operations: optimizing energy consumption and ensuring stable communication links. We propose a novel strategy that models energy-efficient UAV behavior by focusing on the three primary drivers of power consumption: flight dynamics, payload operations, and continuous wireless communication, which collectively account for 80–85% of the UAV’s energy usage. Leveraging a multi-agent deep reinforcement learning (MADRL) framework that intelligently manages a dedicated dual-battery system: one battery (B1) optimized for flight dynamics and payload operations, and the other (B2) for processor/sensor and continuous wireless communication. The MADRL agents (Proximal Policy Optimization: PPO) are modeled to handle battery B2, which dynamically establishes communication between UAVs regarding energy usage and other environmental conditions during SAR operations, thereby efficiently conserving available energy to extend the battery life of each UAV within the FANET system. Experimental results demonstrate that MADRL enhances network connectivity and significantly reduces energy wastage, enabling sustained operations over longer durations. This research lays the foundation for developing energy-efficient UAV systems, which are crucial for large-scale and autonomous deployments in mission-critical scenarios.
Interprofessional collaboration between hospital-based palliative care teams and hospital ward staff: A realist review
Introduction To ensure high quality in-hospital palliative care delivery, we need a deeper understanding of the interprofessional collaboration processes between palliative care teams (PCTs) and hospital ward staff. This realist review aims to unravel the relationships between contextual (C) factors, mechanisms (M), and outcomes (O) related to this interprofessional collaboration process. Methods This realist review employed an iterative, theory-driven approach which led to the development of a refined program theory explaining how, for whom, and under which conditions interprofessional collaboration between PCTs and hospital ward staff contributes to quality of care. On April 21 st , 2023, five electronic databases were searched for relevant articles published between January 2013 and April 2023. Data screening and extraction was carried out by two independent researchers. Data-analysis was a two-phase iterative process to develop an overarching CMO-model and ground this model within third-generation cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT). Results We identified 10 recurrent mechanisms contributing to the process of interprofessional collaboration and several moderating factors influencing ward staff’s willingness to initiate PCT involvement. Contextual factors at both ward staff and PCT levels triggered mechanisms related to awareness, feelings, perspectives, and expectations, shaping outcomes for ward staff, PCTs, patients, and relatives. Notable outcomes included improved patient understanding of their disease, relatives’ increased satisfaction with care, greater PCT involvement, and a sense of relief among ward staff. The CHAT-analysis revealed the interplay between expectations, roles, and beliefs in shaping interprofessional collaboration. Dual effects of mediating artifacts, such as palliative care training and time constraints, were observed depending on context, further illustrating the complexity of collaborative practices. Ultimately, this realist review emphasized the need for hospital decision-makers to acknowledge the multidimensional aspects of palliative care and foster a sense of partnership between PCTs and ward staff to optimize IPC. A refined program theory was developed to guide future interventions. Conclusion This realist review highlights the complexity of interprofessional collaboration between PCTs and ward staff, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches that address specific contextual needs, expectations, and norms. Strengthening positive attitudes, clarifying roles, and fostering partnerships can enhance interprofessional collaboration, ultimately improving palliative care quality in hospital settings.
The molecular cartography of malignant and benign sebaceous tumours
Abstract Sebaceous tumours (STs) are rare skin appendage tumours and include benign sebaceous adenoma (SA) and sebaceoma (SM), malignant extra-ocular sebaceous carcinoma (SC-E) and peri-ocular sebaceous carcinoma (SC-O). Here, an extensive worldwide collection of 286 tumours is deeply characterised, revealing a propensity to develop in the context of a high tumour mutational burden (except in SC-O) which is most frequently associated with mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR), followed by UV-induced damage, POLE/POLD1 mutations, and AID/APOBEC activation signatures. Biallelic TP53 inactivation with concomitant ZNF750 and/or RB1 mutation is seen in SC-E/SC-O. Amplification of 8q (including MYC ) is related to SC-O, while amplification of 1q21.3 (including HRNR ) and chromosome 20 are shared by SC-O and SC-E, as is deletion of 13q14.3 (where RB1 resides). The most frequently mutated gene is NOTCH1 . Extensive fusion gene, expression and molecular cluster analyses provide a molecular portrait of this rare and enigmatic tumour type.
Characteristics of salivary IgA responses to oral microbiota in patients with oral lichen planus
Chronic illness and extreme performance: Type 1 diabetes in ultra-endurance
Background This study explores how people with type 1 diabetes experience ultra-endurance sports, focusing on identity, self-management, and psychosocial impacts through a qualitative approach. Methods and findings This qualitative study used a constructivist grounded theory approach. Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with French-speaking adults living with T1D who had completed at least one marathon or ultra-endurance race. Data were analyzed inductively through line-by-line coding, focused coding, and thematic categorization, supported by NVivo® software and reported in accordance with COREQ guidelines. Four major themes emerged: (1) a progressive process of acceptance, from the shock of diagnosis to identity integration; (2) the ambivalence of being “ill,” with tensions between medical status and personal identity; (3) the mental load of diabetes management, intensified by ultra-endurance but mitigated by adaptive strategies and peer support; and (4) sport as a transformative space for self-affirmation, resilience, and advocacy. Participants described how ultra-endurance helped them reclaim agency, reframe their illness, and inspire others. Conclusions Ultra-endurance sports offer a unique context for identity reconstruction and empowerment among people with T1D. Far from being a barrier, the illness can become a driver of personal growth and social visibility. These findings highlight the importance of recognizing experiential knowledge in chronic disease management and call for more inclusive, patient-centered approaches in healthcare and research.
IDH2 lactylation promotes angiogenesis in murine diabetic myocardial infarction via blocking Cav1-eNOS interaction
Role of the channel on the memory window of HfZrOx ferroelectric field-effect transistors with p-type Si-doped InZnOx channel
Prevalence of dry eye symptoms and associated risk factors among students at Al-Mustaqbal University, Iraq
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, severity, and risk factors of dry eye symptoms (DES) among Iraqi university students and to examine associations with digital device use in an arid, dust-prone setting. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at Al-Mustaqbal University (Iraq) between February and May 2025 using paper-based questionnaires that captured demographics, device-use patterns, symptom burden, and self-management behaviors. Symptom severity was assessed with the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), and DES prevalence was estimated using the Women’s Health Study (WHS) questionnaire. Binary logistic regression was applied to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Among 1,487 invited students, 1,154 completed the survey (response rate 77.6%); participants were aged 19–24 years, and 63.6% were female. The WHS-defined prevalence of symptomatic DES was 62.0%. Blurred vision, burning, and ocular redness were the most frequent symptoms. A dose–response relationship was observed between daily screen time and OSDI severity, with the highest burden among students reporting more than 7 hours per day (trend p < 0.001). In adjusted models, female participants had higher odds (aOR 2.34; 95% CI 1.56–3.56; p < 0.001), screen time >7 h/day (aOR 2.25; 95% CI 1.55–3.31; p < 0.001), fourth academic year (aOR 1.75; 95% CI 1.18–2.60; p = 0.01), and use of glasses/contact lenses (aOR 1.45; 95% CI 1.10–1.90; p = 0.01) were significant predictors. Laptops were most often associated with ocular redness, smartphones with burning and pain, and tablets with blurred vision. In conclusion, DES symptoms were highly prevalent and strongly associated with prolonged daily screen exposure. Female sex, advanced academic standing, and corrective lens use further increased risk. Findings support campus-level prevention focused on digital hygiene, ergonomic optimization, and periodic ocular screening, considering environmental stressors typical of arid, dust-prone settings.
Directed evolution of a TNA polymerase identifies independent paths to fidelity and catalysis
Abstract Directed evolution facilitates functional adaptations through stepwise changes in sequence that alter protein structure. While most campaigns yield solutions that maintain the framework of a rigid protein architecture, a few have produced enzymes with more notable structural differences. One example is a polymerase that was evolved to synthesize threose nucleic acid (TNA) with near-natural activity. Understanding how this enzyme arose provides a model for studying pathways that guide enzymes toward more productive regions of the fitness landscape. Here, we trace the evolutionary trajectory of an unnatural polymerase by solving crystal structures of key intermediates along the pathway and evaluating their biochemical activity. Contrary to the view that fidelity is a product of increased catalytic efficiency, we find that accuracy and catalysis are decoupled activities guided by separate ground-state and transition-state discrimination events. Together, these results offer a glimpse into the forces responsible for shaping the emergence of new enzyme functions.
Reevaluating streamflow declines across the middle East and central Asia with insights from change point detection
Academic pressure and academic procrastination: The mediating role of negative coping strategies
Rooted in the Extended Procrastination-Health Framework, this study employed a survey of 600 Chinese university students to elucidate the mechanistic relationships among academic pressure, coping strategies, and academic procrastination. The findings reveal: (1) Academic pressure was positively associated with the increased academic procrastination (β = 0.470, p < 0.001); (2) Academic pressure was significantly positively associated with increased negative coping styles (β = 0.426, p < 0.001), while the negative coping styles was positively associated with the increased academic procrastination (β = 0.158, p < 0.05). (3) Structural equation modeling confirmed that negative coping strategies partially mediate the academic pressure-procrastination nexus (indirect effect = 0.068, proportionate contribution 12.64%), with the model demonstrating excellent fit indices (χ²/df = 2.89, CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.05). Notably, positive coping strategies exhibited no significant mediating effect. This study validates the theoretical pathway “academic pressure - negative coping - academic procrastination” and underscores the important bridging function of negative coping strategies in translating stress into procrastinatory behavior. The results provide empirically grounded intervention targets for universities to disrupt procrastination cycles through targeted emotional regulation and stress management programs.
Self-powered photo-pyroelectric sensing in antiferroelectric Hafnium zirconium memory with asymmetric van der Waals electrodes
Integration of safety and sustainability criteria into early design stages of battery cell manufacturing machinery
Abstract There is currently a lack of guidance on implementing safety and sustainability at early design stages of battery cell manufacturing machinery. In this work, key European regulatory requirements for battery manufacturing and relevant Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) approaches to lithium-ion battery (LIB) cell production and machinery were explored. Considering peer-reviewed publications and European projects, it was found that the existing literature on the implementation of the SSbD criteria in battery production is still scarce, particularly concerning machinery design. In our paper, data on the current design principles were collected from two battery machinery manufacturers covering, for the first time, the main processes for LIB electrode production (mixing, coating, drying and calendaring), and key areas to formulate SSbD practice guidelines were identified. The origin, hazards and criticality of materials, and the possibility of being renewable or recycled are crucial in terms of raw materials selection. For the manufacturing stage it is recommended minimizing the number of production processes, energy consumption and waste generation, using renewable energy sources, and implementing easy assembly processes and automation. Considering a modular design and the traceability of the machinery components will facilitate maintenance during the use stage, adaptation to new user requirements and disassembly and recycling at the End-of-life.
Why don’t they want to donate? Cultural and psychological factors influencing the organ donation intention among Hong Kong University students
Despite significant advances in transplantation technologies, the global gap between organ availability and demand continues to widen. Hong Kong, in particular, reports notably low organ donation rates among developed regions. Understanding the psychological barriers to donation is essential for developing effective interventions, particularly among young adults who represent a crucial demographic for establishing lifelong donation commitments. The present study examined the complex interplay of psychosocial and emotional factors influencing organ donation intentions among Hong Kong university students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 280 university students in Hong Kong, using validated instruments to assess multiple psychological constructs: depressive thinking, altruism, death anxiety, self-efficacy, perceived social support, Big Five personality traits, and Buddhist and Karmic beliefs. Hierarchical regression and moderated mediation analyses were performed to identify direct and indirect predictors for organ donation intentions. Results showed that higher death anxiety (β = −.133, p = .036) and stronger Buddhist beliefs emphasizing bodily integrity (β = −.22, p < .001) were associated with lower donation intentions, while greater self-efficacy (β = .22, p < .001) and perceived social support (β = .28, p < .001) positively predicted donation intentions. Notably, dispositional characteristics including altruism, depressive thinking, personality traits, and Karmic beliefs did not directly predict donation intentions. However, depressive thinking exerted an indirect negative effect on donation intentions through elevated death anxiety, and this mediational pathway was stronger among participants with lower self-efficacy (index of moderated mediation = .035, 95% CI [.0002,.0013]). These findings highlight the critical roles of emotional and situational factors, rather than stable personality characteristics, in determining organ donation intentions among Hong Kong university students. Public health interventions aiming to reduce death anxiety and strengthen self-efficacy may be particularly effective in promoting organ donor registration among young adults in Hong Kong. Future initiatives should prioritize culturally sensitive approaches that address existential concerns while building confidence in donation decision-making.
Author Correction: Microbiota-reprogrammed phosphatidylcholine inactivates cytotoxic CD8 T cells through UFMylation via exosomal SerpinB9 in multiple myeloma
Cannabidiol-based lipid nanocarriers with analgesic activity
Testing weight-based conditional discrimination in Goffin’s cockatoos, Cacatua goffiniana
Discrimination learning tasks are a method for investigating species’ perception of and associative learning with a particular stimulus. Goffin’s cockatoos previously required surprisingly few trials to differentiate objects based on weight alone in a simple discrimination task, outperforming primates in other weight discrimination setups. Nevertheless, it was unclear whether the difference in performance was largely based on ability or differences in experimental procedures. Therefore, we tested a group of Goffin’s cockatoos on a weight-based conditional discrimination, like a task previously used with chimpanzees. Similar to the chimpanzees (compared to their first 15 sessions), none of our subjects reached above-chance levels of performance in the present study. The contrasting performance of our cockatoos in the two weight discrimination studies are in line with the idea that conditional discriminations are more cognitively demanding than simple discriminations. Our results do not support the notion of a distinct difference between birds and primates in their arbitrary discrimination learning abilities with weight cues. However, further research on this question (we suggest with simple discrimination formats) would be necessary.
A metabolism-chromatin axis promotes differential ribosomal RNA transcription in the human malaria parasite
Abstract The transmission of the most virulent human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum , relies on its survival in the contrasting environments of the human host and mosquito vector. One of the most fascinating adaptations to this lifestyle is the specific silencing of individual rDNA genes in the human host that are de-repressed following host-to-vector transmission. In this study, we define the epigenetic signatures of rRNA transcription and find that rDNA silencing relies on aerobic glycolysis, the sole energy-generating pathway in the human host. We show that disruption of NAD + regeneration during lactate fermentation promotes rDNA de-repression and identify the sirtuin histone deacetylase Sir2a as the mediator between fluctuating NAD + levels and a functional transcriptional outcome. Hence, rDNA activation appears to be coupled to the metabolic state of the parasite as it transitions from aerobic glycolysis to mitochondrial respiration during host-to-vector transmission.