Autoinduction through the coupling of nucleation-dependent self-assembly of a supramolecular gelator and a reaction network.

 Autocatalytic and/or self-replicating systems are important aspects of understanding the link between living systems (origins of life) and chemical networks. As a result, many scientists around the world are attempting to better understand these phenomena by producing chemical networks and linking them to self-assembly and pathway complexity (systems chemistry). We present here a superficially autocatalytic, self-replicating system by utilising dynamic imine chemistry coupled with self-assembling supramolecular hydrogelation kinetics that is driven by a nucleation autocatalytic cycle (autoinduction). The dynamic nature of the imine bond within water allows “error checking” correction and driving of the imine equilibrium to starting materials but when coupled to the self-assembly gives rise to one reaction product from a possible thirteen intermediates and/or products (of a mixed four-step reaction). This product represents a thermodynamic minimum within the system's and reaction network's energy landscape. The self-assembly in solution of the replicator results in the formation of supramolecular polymers which would normally markedly reduce the catalytic efficiency of the system if a template mechanism of autocatalysis is in play. By overcoming the limiting effects of the self-assembly process it is possible to demonstrate exponential growth in replicator concentration once nucleation has occurred. It is only once the completed imine can undergo non-reversible tautomerisation that the product is prevented from reacting with water. We thus suggest that this sigmoidal kinetic characterisation is not inherent to autocatalysis kinetics (lowering reaction barriers and/or templating) but rather a result of the nucleation-based assembly allowing for intermediates to be prevented from reacting with water in a water-deficient environment (an autoinduction autocatalytic mechanism). Not only does this study provide a basis with which to explore aspects of self-replication connected with self-assembly, but also explores how nucleation and self-assembly growth can play a crucial role in self-replication. By controlling the kinetics of the autocatalytic chemical reaction at one end of the hierarchical assembly process we can influence the physical properties of the supramolecular gel at the other. This may have wide-ranging applications with in situ formed small molecular gelators where specific mechanical properties (rheology) are desired. </p

Reduction in acute kidney injury with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes and acute coronary syndrome

Aims:To assess the impact on reduction in the incidence of post-discharge acute kidney injury (AKI) with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors when prescribed at discharge in patients with type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) over 24 months.Methods:A retrospective, registry-based, observational study of T2DM patients surviving an ACS event, eligible for an SGLT2i between July 2018 and December 2023. Comparisons were made between patients receiving SGLT2i’s at discharge with those who never received it or were prescribed post-discharge. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients having a first event of AKI. Inter-group survival analysis was performed using cumulative incidence curves, univariate and multivariate Cox regression models, followed by a Fine-Gray model to account for confounding factors.Results:Of 970 patients, 313 received an SGLT2i at discharge, 330 post-discharge, while 327 patients never received it. The incidence of primary outcome was 13%, 17% and 25% respectively with an overall incidence of 18%. Receiving SGLT2is at discharge significantly reduced the primary outcome (hazard ratio [HR] 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34-0.73, pConclusion:Discharge SLGT2i therapy reduces AKI events in T2DM-ACS patients in comparison to SGLT2i naïve patients.</p

Exploring multi-couple field modelling and simulation for surface roughness in MRSTP of blade tenons using shear thickening effect and magnetohydrodynamics

Abstract Magnetorheological Shear Thickening Polishing (MRSTP) has emerged as a promising technique for achieving nano-level surface quality. This study investigates the dynamics of MRSTP applied to the complex geometries of turbine blade tenons, made of Inconel-718. A theoretical model was developed to predict surface roughness during MRSTP, by integrating experimental and simulation data. The model is based on surface generation principles and accounts for shape changes into a Gaussian cone during material removal. It integrates hydrodynamics, rheological properties of the MRSTP media, and magnetic field effects along with plastic indentation theory. Computational fluid dynamics simulations were used to analyse wall shear stress, and results were incorporated into the theoretical model. A custom magnetic field generation device was designed and MRSTP media was prepared in-house. A series of MRSTP experiments were conducted to validate the model, measuring and analysing surface topographies to align with the proposed mechanism. The experimental validation revealed that the model accurately predicts transient roughness reduction with errors ranging from 4.2% to 7.9% for experimental results and 3.4% to 7.5% for theoretical to experimental errors. The MRSTP process effectively removed all scratches from the surface within 90 minutes, demonstrating substantial improvements in surface quality, reduced roughness, and emphasizing the need to adapt machining parameters for different materials.</p

Remembering the early childhood home exploring a leisure lifeworld of crannies mirrors drawer knobs and corners

Taking as its starting point Gaston Bachelard’s Poetics of Space which is about architecture and environment, this paper sets out to explore the deep recesses of the home. As Bachelard writes, out of the home spin worlds within worlds where it is possible to get caught up in the remarkable dialectics of “deep” that deepens and “large” that extends beyond all limits. Focusing specifically on the home of our early childhood in a way that will hopefully resonate with most readers, the main argument is that it shelters a leisure lifeworld comprising impressions of protected intimacy and immensities that flow from objects. Having employed a methodology that is underpinned by auto-hermeneutics and ethnography, the paper should be viewed first and foremost as an attempt to recapture something that vibrates at the edges of imagination in our early years. The paper should be viewed secondly as a reminder that the value of “otherness” in our leisure lives begins in the early childhood home because this is where it is first dreamt, discovered and invented. As the paper indicates in its final conclusions, to lose touch with this “otherness” is to lose something about leisure and living that is truly magical.</p

Virtual reality in clinical and experimental gambling research a review of methodologies

A meta analysis reviewing the current data on Gambling VR methodologies. </p

Assessing the Prevalence and Drivers of Trichomonas gallinae in UK Hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) Populations

Trichomonas gallinae is a pathogenic, protozoan parasite. It can cause lesions in the oral cavity of infected birds, known as trichomonosis, which can prevent the bird from feeding. This can lead to death of the bird by starvation. The parasite has previously been noted in chaffinches (Fringilla coelebs) and greenfinches (Chloris chloris), where it has been linked to their decline. Recently, signs of trichomonosis have been reported in UK hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) populations. The hawfinch is a red listed bird in the UK, isolated to a few strongholds. The reason for its decline is unclear, however it has been suggested to be due to declining habitat and predation. It is not yet known how much of an effect T. gallinae could have on these populations or what drives the cases. To our knowledge, no study has yet to looked at subclinical cases of T. gallinae in hawfinches, but it has been confirmed in some by post-mortem analysis. The first chapter looked at the prevalence of T. gallinae in 3 populations of hawfinches in the UK, testing whether any biological covariates and study sites were linked to the presence of T. gallinae. This involved sampling hawfinches (both live and dissected) and using PCR to look for positive cases of T. gallinae along with any specific strains. 83 hawfinches were sampled, and 5 hawfinches were dissected. Of the live samples, 32 were positive for T. gallinae. No bird sampled showed signs of trichomonosis, suggesting that these infections were sub-clinical. Of these 17 samples were used to create a phylogenetic tree based on a primer called ITS and 12 were used to create a phylogenetic tree based on a primer called Fe-hyd. Longer term studies are needed to fully understand the effects of the parasite, but it is suggested that mitigation measures are used such as periodical moving of feed sites to minimise risk while ringing these birds. The second chapter looked at what may be driving cases of T. gallinae in hawfinches, testing whether avian community composition and bird feeder usage could be potential drivers. This used camera trapping and co-occurrence analysis to look at species associations and evaluate if these associations could be driving cases of T. gallinae. An online questionnaire was used to look at bird feeder usage.Hawfinches were associated with chaffinches at both sites that were looked at. As chaffinches are known to contract T. gallinae, this association may be driving cases. Further studies sampling both hawfinches and chaffinches at the same site are needed to fully explore if there is a link. No factor was significant in presence of hawfinches in garden. Very few respondents reported hawfinches which could suggest that these birds rarely visit gardens. Most reports of hawfinches in gardens were within 10 km of one of the sampling sites but the response rate was low. Further studies looking specifically at these areas would help confirm if hawfinches are using bird feeders and this should be combined with sampling of these feeders to see if T. gallinae is being spread at them.This study sets a foundation for future work to fully understand T. gallinae in hawfinches.</p

If you find me on the floor, stick some sugar in my mouth: The social production (and protection) of insulin risk among IPED communities

IntroductionInsulin is used among image and performance enhancing drug (IPED) communities for its anabolic effects, but its use carries significant risks, with the acute danger being hypoglycaemia, which can be life-threatening if not properly managed. Within these communities, harm reduction practices and informal peer knowledge exchange play a critical role in the way substances are consumed. This qualitative study sought to understand these community practices regarding non-medical insulin use among people who use IPEDs.MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted with people who use IPEDs, and specifically, insulin. Participants were asked about their risk practices, harm reduction strategies, and the community dynamics that shape their use of insulin. Our analysis centred on how social and material networks of peers, technologies, and information flows contribute to the social production and protection of risk.ResultsThe study involved an international cohort of 14 participants (13 men, 1 woman, aged 25-45, M = 33.34) who used insulin for non-medical purposes. The analysis revealed two themes: Intersecting Risks, which encompassed the physical, psychosocial, and self-imposed risks associated with insulin use, and Social Protection of Risks, focusing on community-driven harm reduction strategies. People who use insulin actively construct risk through community-driven knowledge and informal education. Social protection is facilitated through peer networks, where harm reduction strategies are shared.DiscussionThis research underscores the importance of community-care in harm reduction and challenges individualised models of risk management. It highlights the need for community-centred health interventions that recognise the relational dynamics of risk management among IPED-using communities.</p

Sustainable Development of Grade 2 Listed Dwellings: A Wall Replication Method with Slim Wheat Straw Panels for Heritage Retrofitting

The urgent global mandate to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030 has accelerated innovation in sustainable construction materials, particularly natural insulation solutions. This study addresses persistent challenges such as complex production processes, non-compostable components, and limited adherence to industry standards by developing and evaluating a novel slim insulation panel made from agricultural waste, specifically wheat straw. Targeted at retrofitting Grade 2 listed dwellings in the UK—where external modifications are restricted—the panels combine simplicity, full compostability, and conformity with regulatory benchmarks. Prototypes were fabricated using wheat straw and two compostable binders, tested for thermal performance, moisture stability, and biodegradability using an innovative Actual Wall Replication Method (AWRM) to mimic real-world conditions. The findings demonstrated superior thermal conductivity and durability, with panels achieving significant energy-saving potential without compromising heritage integrity. The work highlights wheat straw’s viability as an eco-friendly insulation material and accentuates the necessity of realistic testing for accurate performance assessment. This study offers a replicable framework for integrating circular economy principles into heritage retrofitting, bridging the gap between ambitious environmental targets and historic building preservation, thereby contributing to broader sustainable development goals.</p

Development of a soft gripper for replicating human grasps in forest nursery tasks

   This research aims to automate labour-intensive tasks in forest nurseries by developing a soft gripper that mimics human workers' grasps to perform the singulation and sorting of tree saplings. By analysing human workers and conducting experimental investigations, the required grasp types and grip forces were identified. The Fin Ray Effect (FRE) structure, noted for its adaptability to asymmetric shapes, was chosen as the gripper's basis. However, modifications were necessary to achieve the required power and pinch grasp types and to provide the desired grip forces. Simulation analysis explored various beam configurations and boundary conditions of FRE fingers, resulting in a proposed modified design. Experimental investigations confirmed that the proposed gripper effectively delivered required grasps and grip forces. The new design enabled three additional grasp types for FRE grippers and increased grip forces by over 200%. This gripper design is suitable for industrial pick-and-place applications where precise pinching grasp and various power grasps with sufficient payload capacity are needed.</p

Feeling at home in the classroom: Survey

Supplementary material to the article</p