bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound-assisted water oxidation: unveiling the role of piezoelectric metal-oxide sonocatalysts for cancer treatment
Authors: Carofiglio Marco , Percivalle Nicolò Maria , Hernandez Simelys , Laurenti Marco , Canavese Giancarlo , Matos Joana C. , Gonçalves M. Clara , Cauda Valentina
Published: August 2024

Ultrasound radiation has been widely used in biomedical application for both diagnosis and therapy. Metal oxides nanoparticles (NPs), like ZnO or TiO2 NPs, have been widely demonstrated to act as excellent sonocatalysts and significantly enhance cavitation at their surface, making them optimal for sonodynamic cancer therapy. These NPs often possess semiconductive and piezoelectric properties that contribute to the complex phenomena occurring at the water-oxide interface during sonostimulation. Despite the great potential in applied sonocatalysis and water splitting, the complex mechanism that governs the phenomenon is still a research subject. This work investigates the role of piezoelectric ZnO micro- and nano-particles in ultrasound-assisted water oxidation. Three metal oxides presenting fundamental electronic and mechanical differences are evaluated in terms of ultrasound-triggered reactive oxygen species generation in aqueous media: electromechanically inert SiO2 NPs, semiconducting TiO2 NPs, piezoelectric and semiconducting ZnO micro- and nanoparticles with different surface areas and sizes. The presence of silver ions in the aqueous solution was further considered to impart a potential electron scavenging effects and better evaluate the oxygen generation performances of the different structures. Following sonoirradiation, the particles are optically and chemically analyzed to study the effect of sonostimulation at their surface. The production of gaseous molecular oxygen is measured, revealing the potential of piezoelectric particles to generate oxygen under hypoxic conditions typical of some cancer environments. Finally, the best candidates, i.e. ZnO nano and micro particles, were tested on osteosarcoma and glioblastoma cell lines to demonstrate their potential for cancer treatment.
Is day-case surgical procedure safe for MICRA leadless pacemaker implantation?
Authors: Toon Lin-Thiri , ElRefai Mohammed , Abouelasaad Mohamed , Patil Roopa , Paisey John , Yue Arthur , Roberts Paul
Published: August 2024

Background

MICRA implantation is not commonly done as a day-case procedure. Elective leadless pacemakers are implanted routinely in our centre.

Objective

To assess whether the day-case MICRA procedure is safe.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data from all patients undergoing elective MICRA implantation at our centre between May 2014 and Nov 2022 (n = 81). Two patient groups were stratified: those planned to be discharged on the same day (SD, n = 52) and those planned to be observed overnight after the procedure (ON, n = 29). Patient demographics, size of the sheath used, type of MICRA device, and rate of complications were recorded. In patients with successful implants (n = 80), device function at discharge and first routine follow-up were evaluated.

Results

There were 58% males in the SD group and 45% in the ON group. Median age was 49 years in the SD and 67 years in the ON. Among patients who were planned as a day case, 8 patients had to stay in the hospital but for < 48 h: 2 due to minor groin bleeding, 1 due to patient’s request despite fit to discharge, 4 due to the procedure carried out later in the day, and 1 for observation due to procedural complexity. MICRA implantation was successful in 80 patients. The rate of the major complications was 2% in the SD group and 7% in the ON group (p = 0.223), and none of the co-morbidities assessed showed an association with any complications. Device parameters at the follow-up were available in 76 patients. The rate of patients with low and stable PCT at follow-up was also 98% in the SD group and 96% in the ON group.

Conclusions

Day case MICRA procedure can be performed safely in an appropriately selected patient population.

Graphical abstract
Speed of the internationalisation process. The role of objective vs. subjective perceptions of time
Authors: Casillas Jose C. , Moreno-Menéndez Ana M. , Acedo Francisco J. , Ramos-Hidalgo Encarnación
Published: August 2024

Time is often neglected as a factor in international business research. In this paper, objective and subjective perspectives of time are incorporated into the study of speed of a firm's internationalisation process. The concept of speed is defined as the relationship between distance and time, and therefore we propose a theoretical framework that applies these two perspectives of time both to distance and to time, and differentiate between three levels of analysis: individual, organisational, and environmental. Our framework also incorporates two mediating constructs: learning speed and risk perception. Ten hypotheses are proposed that contribute towards a better understanding of the temporal dimension of the internationalisation process.
Stability, Uniqueness and Existence of Solutions to McKean–Vlasov Stochastic Differential Equations in Arbitrary Moments
Authors: Kalinin Alexander , Meyer-Brandis Thilo , Proske Frank
Published: August 2024

We deduce stability and pathwise uniqueness for a McKean–Vlasov equation with random coefficients and a multidimensional Brownian motion as driver. Our analysis focuses on a non-Lipschitz continuous drift and includes moment estimates for random Itô processes that are of independent interest. For deterministic coefficients, we provide unique strong solutions even if the drift fails to be of affine growth. The theory that we develop rests on Itô’s formula and leads to pth moment and pathwise exponential stability for $$p\ge 2$$

p
≥
2

with explicit Lyapunov exponents.
The area of rhumb polygons
Authors: Karney Charles F. F.
Published: August 2024

The formula for the area of a rhumb polygon, a polygon whose edges are rhumb lines on an ellipsoid of revolution, is derived and a method is given for computing the area accurately. This paper also points out that standard methods for computing rhumb lines give inaccurate results for nearly east- or west-going lines; this problem is remedied by the systematic use of divided differences.
Sexual and Urinary Health among Women following Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Lopez Alejandro D. , Carter Jonathan , Rubin Rachel , Allen I. Elaine , Shaw Nathan M. , Hampson Lindsay A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Women with obesity are more likely to experience bothersome urinary and sexual symptoms, but the long-term effect of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) on these outcomes is poorly understood. We aimed to describe how MBS longitudinally impacted women’s urinary and sexual health.

Methods

Patients who underwent MBS at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center (UCSF) between 2009 and 2021 participated in a survey examining sexual health, pelvic organ prolapse (POP), and urinary health using three validated questionnaires: a modified version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory 6 (POPDI-6), and the Urinary Distress Inventory 6 (UDI-6). All questions asked referenced two time points: before surgery and at the time of survey. Logistic regression identified predictors of symptom improvement.

Results

Of 162 participants contacted, 118 (73%) had complete survey data. Mean body mass index (BMI) decreased from 52.4 ± 12.6 to 36.3 ± 9.7 kg/m2 (p < 0.01) with an average follow-up of 6 years. The mean UDI-6 score amongst women was 24 ± 24 prior to MBS and 24 ± 26 at the time of survey administration (p = 0.458). Mean modified FSFI scores amongst women were 15 ± 5 prior to surgery and 14 ± 7 at the time of survey administration (p = 0.005). The overall mean POPDI-6 score amongst women was 13 ± 15 prior to surgery and 9 ± 14 at the time of survey administration (p = 0.056).

Conclusion

Women who underwent MBS reported a high rate of sexual and urological dysfunction that did not improve longitudinally, despite significant weight loss.

Graphical Abstract
Negotiating Knowledge Through Mathematical Activities in Classroom Interactions
Authors: Ingram Jenni
Published: August 2024

What students are learning in mathematics classrooms can be analysed from a wide range of perspectives, focusing on the mathematical content, the mathematical processes or the mathematical activities. There is also a social dimension intertwined with this cognitive dimension that focuses on what mathematical activities in particular are established as socio-mathematical norms within a classroom. It is through these norms that students learn what it is to both learn mathematics and what it means to do mathematics. In this article I add a further epistemic dimension to illustrate how these socio-mathematical norms are co-constructed through interactions in a dynamic way. The analysis reported in this paper draws on video data of 65 lesson segments where students made their thinking explicit, taken from an original sample of 133 naturally occurring mathematics lessons with 81 teachers identified as including cognitively demanding mathematics. Using ethnomethodological conversation analysis and the epistemic dimensions of interaction initially outlined by Heritage and colleagues, a fine-grained sequential analysis of the interactions including students’ detailed contributions around cognitively demanding activities within these lessons illustrates how epistemic access, primacy and responsibilities are continually negotiated in interaction. Students’ rights to make knowledge claims or obligations to demonstrate their knowledge are negotiated in ways that influence students’ and teachers’ epistemic authority and stance. The analysis shows how the cognitive and social dimensions are intertwined both at an individual level but also at the classroom level that establish and reinforce the norms around the access and primacy of ideas and knowledge in interaction. These epistemic negotiations have consequences on the nature of mathematical activities that students experience and participate in, and subsequently their opportunities to learn mathematics.
Road to Resettlement: Understanding Post-disaster Relocation and Resettlement Challenges and Complexities Through a Serious Game
Authors: Asgary Ali , Naeemi Peyman , Ganguli Nilanjana , Tofighi Mohammadali , Attarian Koorosh , Fioretto Tabata
Published: August 2024

Resettlement and relocation are among the most difficult policies to put into practice, but they may be the best ways to minimize future risks to settlements exposed to natural hazards both before and after disaster events. As climate-related disasters and forced migration become increasingly common worldwide, governments, humanitarian or development actors, and policymakers must now prioritize the implementation of a dignified and effective resettlement program as part of their planning and management responsibilities. Much of this effectiveness depends on the stakeholders and beneficiaries’ understanding and knowledge of the different resettlement phases, culture and customs of affected populations, activities, and the associated implementation challenges, costs, and benefits. Serious games are used in a variety of contexts to increase awareness, train and build capacity in stakeholders and beneficiaries. This article presents a serious game developed to educate practitioners, local agencies, students, and the public to understand the complexities and challenges involved in a successful resettlement. The game is based on a real proposed resettlement project initiated in the Chiradzulu District in southern Malawi after Cyclone Freddy in March 2023, which caused widespread flooding and landslides, forcing some villages to relocate permanently. The progression in the Road to Resettlement Game consists of six primary levels: land and site preparation, housing and livelihood, water, sanitation, and hygiene, health, education, and protection. These levels are meant to be completed in a sequence that adheres to the principles of resettlement. By engaging in the serious table-top board game, players gain an understanding of the resettlement activities, their sequence, and the associated practical (technical and social) and financial challenges.
The Shifting Landscape of Judicial Independence Criteria Under the Preliminary Reference Procedure: A Comment on the CJEU’s Recent Case Law and the Trajectory of Article 267 TFEU
Authors: Monciunskaite Beatrice
Published: August 2024

The preliminary reference procedure forms the foundation of judge-to-judge dialogue in the EU, which has been imperative to the inclusion of member state courts in the Union’s judicial system. In response to the Union’s ever-growing rule of law problem, the CJEU strengthened judicial independence criteria to fortify the Article 2 TEU value of the rule of law. Now, it seems the CJEU’s fight to save judicial independence is spilling over into the preliminary reference mechanism as it overhauls its judicial independence standards under Article 267 TFEU. In particular, the CJEU has chosen to treat traditional and non-traditional courts in a divergent way and introduced significant reliance on judicial decisions emanating from outside the immediate CJEU court structure; this multi-dimensional change to the operation of the preliminary reference mechanism has far-reaching consequences. As this article highlights, the most notable consequences are to the uniform application of EU law, the principle of subsidiarity and autonomy of EU law. Perhaps the most important point raised is the effect of the new limitation on Article 267 TFEU references on EU citizens and our right to access the ‘natural judge’ (the CJEU) in matters concerning EU law.
Wearable bracelet and machine learning for remote diagnosis and pandemic infection detection
Authors: Abdel-Ghani Ayah , Abdalla Amira , Abughazzah Zaineh , Akhund Mahnoor , Abualsaud Khalid , Yaacoub Elias
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that effective early infection detection methods are essential, as they play a critical role in controlling the epidemic spread. In this work, we investigate the use of wearable sensors in conjunction with machine learning (ML) techniques for pandemic infection detection. We work on designing a wristband that measures various vital parameters such as temperature, heart rate, and SPO2, and transmits them to a mobile application using Bluetooth Low Energy. The accuracy of the wristband measurements is shown to be within 10% of the readings of existing commercial products. The measured data can be used and analyzed for various purposes. To benefit from the existing online datasets related to COVID-19, we use this pandemic as an example in our work. Hence, we also develop ML-based models that use the measured vital parameters along with cough sounds in order to determine whether a case is COVID-19 positive or not. The proposed models are shown to achieve remarkable results, exceeding 90% accuracy. One of our proposed models exceeds 96% performance in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-Score. The system lends itself reasonably for amendment to deal with future pandemics by considering their specific features and designing the ML models accordingly. Furthermore, we design and develop a mobile application that shows the data collected from the wristband, records cough sounds, runs the ML model, and provides feedback to the user about their health status in a user-friendly, intuitive manner. A successful deployment of such an approach would decrease the load on hospitals and prevent infection from overcrowded spaces inside the hospital.
Treatment of Diaphyseal Tibial Non-unions After Open Fracture: A Retrospective Observational Study on Characteristics and Outcomes
Authors: Strain R. , Harwood P. J. , Kanakaris N. K. , Giannoudis P. V.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Non-union is a significant complication following open diaphyseal tibia fractures. Management can be complex and unpredictable. Several principles must be addressed often in combination to achieve union. The aim of this study is to report on the characteristics, management and eventual outcome of non-united open tibial fractures over a 12-year period from a level I trauma centre.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study of all adults (age 18 years and older) presenting to a level 1 trauma centre with a diaphyseal tibia fracture. Non-union was diagnosed using the standard FDA definition of incomplete union by 9 months or no progress to union in the preceding 3 months. Injury and patient demographics in addition to all interventions and complications were recorded for each patient.

Results

Forty three cases of diaphyseal non-union were identified from 2008 to 2019. Only the presence of peripheral vascular disease demonstrated a statistically significant association with the development of non-union. In 44% of cases, more than one additional operation was required to achieve union. Successful union was achieved in 90% of cases with 74% of patients returning to full pre-injury function without complication.

Conclusion

Management of non-union is a complex problem which requires a multifaceted and bespoke approach. We have included an algorithm to help guide decision making based on our institutional experience. A satisfactory result is achievable in the majority of patients.
Return to Sport After Multiligament Knee Injury: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: D’Ambrosi Riccardo , Meena Amit , Ursino Nicola , Di Feo Fabrizio , Fusari Niccolò , Kambhampati Srinivas B. S.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive assessment of MLKI outcome studies in order to ascertain the overall rates of return to sport following MLKI.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted based on the PRISMA guidelines. Quality assessment of the systematic review was performed using the MINORS Score. The following search terms were browsed in the title, abstract, and keyword fields: “multiligament knee” or “MLKI" AND “return to sport” or “sports activity” or "athletes" or "sports" or "sportsman". The resulting measures extracted from the studies were the rate of RTS, level of RTS, complications, revision surgery, Tegner, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Lysholm and anterior cruciate ligament-return to sport after injury (ACL-RSI).

Results

A total of 439 patients were included in the study, of whom 383 (87.2%) were male and 56 (22.8%) were female. The mean age at surgery was 28.06 ± 8.93 years. The mean time from injury to surgery was 97.68 ± 127.81 weeks, while the mean follow-up was 42.83 ± 39.22 months. Of 312 patients who completed the follow-up and reported to be sportsmen before surgery, 184 (58.97%) returned to the same or higher pre-injury level, 58 (18.58%) returned to a lower level, while 69 (22.11%) did not return to sports activity. The author analysed the Tegner score in three studies and noted a decrease compared to the pre-injury level (from 7.12 ± 0.8 pre-injury to 4.59 ± 0.57 at the final follow-up; p < 0.001). At the final follow-up, 4 studies analysed IKDC with a mean value of 75.14 ± 9.6, 3 reported a mean Lysholm of 51.81 ± 27.6, and two reported a mean ACL-RSI of 64.82 ± 0.149. Among the 439 patients, a total of 90 (20.5%) complications/re-operations were reported, while a total of 29 (6.6%) failures were recorded.

Conclusions

Return to sport after MLKI occurs in approximately 75% of surgically treated patients, though return to high-level sport is about 60% of the patients. Furthermore, one in five patients report complications, while the failure rate is relatively low (< 7%).

Level of Evidence

Systematic review of level 4.
Online assessment in the age of artificial intelligence
Authors: Stanoyevitch Alexander
Published: August 2024

Online education, while not a new phenomenon, underwent a monumental shift during the COVID-19 pandemic, pushing educators and students alike into the uncharted waters of full-time digital learning. With this shift came renewed concerns about the integrity of online assessments. Amidst a landscape rapidly being reshaped by online exam/homework assistance platforms, which witnessed soaring stocks as students availed its questionable exam assistance, and the emergence of sophisticated artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, the traditional methods of assessment faced unprecedented challenges. This paper presents the results of an observational study, using data from an introductory statistics course taught every semester by the author, and delves into the proliferation of cheating methods. Analyzing exam score results from the pre and post introduction of ChatGPT periods, the research unpacks the extent of cheating and provides strategies to counteract this trend. The findings starkly illustrate significant increases in exam scores from when exams of similar difficulty were administered in person (pre-Covid) versus online. The format, difficulty, and grading of the exams was the same throughout. Although randomized controlled experiments are generally more effective than observational studies, we will indicate when we present the data why experiments would not be feasible for this research. In addition to presenting experimental findings, the paper offers some insights, based on the author's extensive experience, to guide educators in crafting more secure online assessments in this new era, both for courses at the introductory level and more advances courses The results and findings are relevant to introductory courses that can use multiple choice exams in any subject but the recommendations for upper-level courses will be relevant primarily to STEM subjects. The research underscores the pressing need for reinventing assessment techniques to uphold the sanctity of online education.
Ethnopolitics in a Mining Enterprise in Crisis: Revisiting the Albanian Miners’ Protests in Late Socialist Kosovo
Authors: Troch Pieter
Published: August 2024

This article presents a novel approach to explain ethnopolitical mobilization among Kosovo Albanian miners during the winter of 1988–1989. Based on a close reading of the mining enterprise’s journal, it identifies three factors accounting for the rising politicization of ethnicity in microlevel dynamics within the Trepça mining enterprise. First, the article points at ethnic grievances in intra-elite managerial tensions and miners’ unrest. It relates these to structural conditions generated by the shifting cultural divisions of labor in Kosovo mining. Second, the article looks at counter-mobilizational dynamics among Kosovo Albanian miners, which were directly provoked by Serbian ethnopolitical mobilization during Slobodan Milošević’s rise to power. In a final step, the article reconstructs socio-occupational realignments taking shape in the particular decision-making structures of the mining enterprise. Against a background of internal power struggles and reorganizations, the executive management and the miners found themselves on the defensive against party representatives and managerial competitors. Making use of the enterprise’s institutional setup, they established a strong ethnopolitical alliance, which culminated in the underground strike of February 1989. The article suggests that this approach can be valuable to study other cases of intersecting social and ethnopolitical mobilization.
Diagnosing Spring Onset Across the North American Arctic‐Boreal Region Using Complementary Satellite Environmental Data Records
Authors: Kim Youngwook , Kimball John S. , Parazoo Nicholas , Xu Xiaolan , Colliander Andreas , Reichle Rolf , Xiao Jingfeng , Li Xing
Published: August 2024

The timing and progression of the spring thaw transition in high northern latitudes (HNL) coincides with warmer temperatures and landscape thawing, promoting increased soil moisture and growing season onset of gross primary productivity (GPP), heterotrophic respiration (HR), and evapotranspiration (ET). However, the relative order and spatial pattern of these events is uncertain due to vast size and remoteness of the HNL. We utilized satellite environmental data records (EDRs) derived from complementary passive microwave and optical sensors to assess the progression of spring transition events across Alaska and Northern Canada from 2016 to 2020. Selected EDRs included land surface and soil freeze‐thaw status, solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) signifying canopy photosynthesis, root zone soil moisture (RZSM), and GPP, HR, and ET as indicators of ecosystem carbon and water‐energy fluxes. The EDR spring transition maps showed thawing as a precursor to rising RZSM and growing season onset. Thaw timing was closely associated with ecosystem activation from winter dormancy, including seasonal increases in SIF, GPP, and ET. The HR onset occurred closer to soil thawing and prior to GPP activation, reducing spring carbon (CO2) sink potential. The mean duration of the spring transition spanned ∼6 ± 1.5 weeks between initial and final onset events. Spring thaw timing and maximum RZSM were closely related to active layer thickness in HNL permafrost zones, with deeper active layers showing generally earlier thawing and greater RZSM. Our results confirm the utility of combined satellite EDRs for regional monitoring and better understanding of the complexity of the spring transition.
The involvement of the Stat1/Nrf2 pathway in exacerbating Crizotinib-induced liver injury: implications for ferroptosis
Authors: Guo Lin , Ma JiaTing , Xiao MingXuan , Liu JiaYi , Hu ZhiYu , Xia Shuang , Li Ning , Yang Yan , Gong Hui , Xi Yang , Fu Rao , Jiang Pei , Xia ChunGuang , Lauschke Volker M. , Yan Miao
Published: August 2024

Crizotinib carries an FDA hepatotoxicity warning, yet analysis of the FAERS database suggests that the severity of its hepatotoxicity risks, including progression to hepatitis and liver failure, might be underreported. However, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood, and effective intervention strategies are lacking. Here, mRNA-sequencing analysis, along with KEGG and GO analyses, revealed that DEGs linked to Crizotinib-induced hepatotoxicity predominantly associate with the ferroptosis pathway which was identified as the principal mechanism behind Crizotinib-induced hepatocyte death. Furthermore, we found that ferroptosis inhibitors, namely Ferrostatin-1 and Deferoxamine mesylate, significantly reduced Crizotinib-induced hepatotoxicity and ferroptosis in both in vivo and in vitro settings. We have also discovered that overexpression of AAV8-mediated Nrf2 could mitigate Crizotinib-induced hepatotoxicity and ferroptosis in vivo by restoring the imbalance in glutathione metabolism, iron homeostasis, and lipid peroxidation. Additionally, both Stat1 deficiency and the Stat1 inhibitor NSC118218 were found to reduce Crizotinib-induced ferroptosis. Mechanistically, Crizotinib induces the phosphorylation of Stat1 at Ser727 but not Tyr701, promoting the transcriptional inhibition of Nrf2 expression after its entry into the nucleus to promote ferroptosis. Meanwhile, we found that MgIG and GA protected against hepatotoxicity to counteract ferroptosis without affecting or compromising the anti-cancer activity of Crizotinib, with a mechanism potentially related to the Stat1/Nrf2 pathway. Overall, our findings identify that the phosphorylation activation of Stat1 Ser727, rather than Tyr701, promotes ferroptosis through transcriptional inhibition of Nrf2, and highlight MgIG and GA as potential therapeutic approaches to enhance the safety of Crizotinib-based cancer therapy.
Comprehensive insights into phosphorus solubility and organic matter’s impact on black phosphate leaching
Authors: Khedr Houda A. , Ebraheem Mohamed O. , Zayed Ahmed M.
Published: August 2024

The current study introduces groundbreaking insights into how organic matter (OM) of the black phosphate (RB-Ph) uniquely influences phosphorus (P) solubility during acetic acid (AA) leaching, expanding our understanding in this crucial area. To highlight such role, the OM of the RB-Ph was treated separately by different procedures including calcination at 550 ℃/4 h (CB-Ph), 30% hydrogen peroxide (HB-Ph) and intensive grinding to nano-sizes (NB-Ph). The mineralogical, chemical and morphological characteristics of phosphatic and non-phosphatic components of these phosphatic materials were carefully examined pre- and post-treatment via different techniques. The P dissolution of the precursor RB-Ph and its modified derivatives all over the applied experimental parameters traced the following trend: NB-Ph > RB-Ph > CB-Ph > HB-Ph. Intensive grinding to nanoscale resulted in amorphous components with conspicuous OM content (TOC, 0.410%), significantly enhanced P dissolution rate of NB-Ph (730–980 ppm), despite the noticeable reduction in its P2O5 content to 22.34 wt.%. The precursor RB-Ph, thanks to its high OM content (TOC, 0.543%), also displayed a sufficient P dissolution rate (470–750 ppm) compared to the two other modified derivatives, CB-Ph (410–700 ppm) and HB-Ph (130–610 ppm). Such deep and conspicuous impact of OM on P solubility can be tied to their decomposition, releasing not only organic acids but also the adsorbed P by the OM’s surficial binding sites to the solution. Finally, the optimum conditions of P leaching were attained at 2:1 acid/solid (w/w) ratio and 2 h of retention time of all investigated samples.
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Salmonella isolated from vegetable farms fertilized with animal manure in Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Authors: Hailu Woinshet , Alemayehu Haile , Wolde Deneke , Hailu Lulit , Medhin Girmay , Rajashekara Gireesh , Gebreyes Wondwossen A. , Eguale Tadesse
Published: August 2024

The resistance of foodborne pathogens to antimicrobial agents is a potential danger to human health. Hence, establishing the status of good agricultural practices (GAPs) and the antimicrobial susceptibility of major foodborne pathogens has a significant programmatic implication in planning interventions. The objective of this study was to assess the gap in attaining GAP and estimate the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Salmonella in vegetable farms fertilized with animal manure in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A total of 81 vegetable farms from four sub-cities in Addis Ababa were visited, and 1119 samples were collected: soil (n = 271), manure (n = 375), vegetables (n = 398), and dairy cattle feces (n = 75). Additional data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Isolation of Salmonella was done using standard microbiology techniques and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using disk diffusion assays. Carriage for antimicrobial resistance genes was tested using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Among the 81 vegetable farms visited, 24.7% used animal manure without any treatment, 27.2% used properly stored animal manure and 80.2% were easily accessible to animals. The prevalence of Salmonella was 2.3% at the sample level, 17.3% at the vegetable farm level, and 2.5% in vegetables. The highest rate of resistance was recorded for streptomycin, 80.7% (21 of 26), followed by kanamycin, 65.4% (17 of 26), and gentamicin, 61.5% (16 of 26). Multidrug resistance was detected in 61.5% of the Salmonella isolates. Vegetable farms have a gap in attaining GAPs, which could contribute to increased contamination and the transfer of antimicrobial resistance to the vegetables. The application of GAPs, including proper preparation of compost and the appropriate use of antimicrobials in veterinary practices, are recommended to reduce the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Kick-starting the zygotic genome: licensors, specifiers, and beyond
Authors: Zou Zhuoning , Wang Qiuyan , Wu Xi , Schultz Richard M , Xie Wei
Published: August 2024

Zygotic genome activation (ZGA), the first transcription event following fertilization, kickstarts the embryonic program that takes over the control of early development from the maternal products. How ZGA occurs, especially in mammals, is poorly understood due to the limited amount of research materials. With the rapid development of single-cell and low-input technologies, remarkable progress made in the past decade has unveiled dramatic transitions of the epigenomes, transcriptomes, proteomes, and metabolomes associated with ZGA. Moreover, functional investigations are yielding insights into the key regulators of ZGA, among which two major classes of players are emerging: licensors and specifiers. Licensors would control the permission of transcription and its timing during ZGA. Accumulating evidence suggests that such licensors of ZGA include regulators of the transcription apparatus and nuclear gatekeepers. Specifiers would instruct the activation of specific genes during ZGA. These specifiers include key transcription factors present at this stage, often facilitated by epigenetic regulators. Based on data primarily from mammals but also results from other species, we discuss in this review how recent research sheds light on the molecular regulation of ZGA and its executors, including the licensors and specifiers.
An enhanced intracellular delivery platform based on a distant diphtheria toxin homolog that evades pre-existing antitoxin antibodies
Authors: Gill Shivneet K , Sugiman-Marangos Seiji N , Beilhartz Greg L , Mei Elizabeth , Taipale Mikko , Melnyk Roman A
Published: August 2024

Targeted intracellular delivery of therapeutic proteins remains a significant unmet challenge in biotechnology. A promising approach is to leverage the intrinsic capabilities of bacterial toxins like diphtheria toxin (DT) to deliver a potent cytotoxic enzyme into cells with an associated membrane translocation moiety. Despite showing promising clinical efficacy, widespread deployment of DT-based therapeutics is complicated by the prevalence of pre-existing antibodies in the general population arising from childhood DT toxoid vaccinations, which impact the exposure, efficacy, and safety of these potent molecules. Here, we describe the discovery and characterization of a distant DT homolog from the ancient reptile pathogen Austwickia chelonae that we have dubbed chelona toxin (ACT). We show that ACT is comparable to DT structure and function in all respects except that it is not recognized by pre-existing anti-DT antibodies circulating in human sera. Furthermore, we demonstrate that ACT delivers heterologous therapeutic cargos into target cells more efficiently than DT. Our findings highlight ACT as a promising new chassis for building next-generation immunotoxins and targeted delivery platforms with improved pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.
A systematic review on electrochemical sensors for the detection of acetaminophen
Authors: Wei Ming , Yuan Yikai , Chen Dongsheng , Pan Lin , Tong Wenting , Lu Wenbo
Published: August 2024

This review focuses on electrochemical sensors for the determination of AP in the past ten years. In particular, the design and construction of AP sensors are discussed from the perspective of non-enzyme materials and enzyme substances.
Supramolecular light-harvesting systems utilizing tetraphenylethylene chromophores as antennas
Authors: Zhang Qiaona , Dang Xiaoman , Cui Fengyao , Xiao Tangxin
Published: August 2024

This comprehensive Feature Article summarizes the recent progress of supramolecular light-harvesting systems utilizing tetraphenylethylene (TPE) chromophores as antennas.
A comprehensive study on photocatalysis: materials and applications
Authors: Kumari Suman , Sharma Kanika , Korpal Smita , Dalal Jasvir , Kumar Anand , Supreet  , Kumar Sanjeev , Duhan Surender
Published: August 2024

The rapid development of technology and industries has led to environmental pollution and caused serious harm to living beings.
Syntheses, crystal structure, and photoelectric properties of two selenoantimonates A–Zn–Sb–Se (A = Rb and Cs)
Authors: Zhang Lirong , Teri Gele , Qi Liming , Bai Sagala , Liu Xin , Baiyin Menghe
Published: August 2024

Two zinc-containing selenoantimonates, Rb4Zn2Sb2Se7 (1) and Cs4Zn2Sb2Se7 (2), were synthesized by a solvothermal method using alkali metals as structure-directing agents.
Synthesis of C–C bonded trifluoromethyl-based high-energy density materials via the ANRORC mechanism
Authors: Kumar Parasar , Mathpati Ramling S. , Ghule Vikas D. , Dharavath Srinivas
Published: August 2024

A trifluoromethyl group substituted C–C bonded nitrogen-rich energetic material nitro pyrazole-oxadiazole (4), its salts (5–6) and nitro pyrazole-triazole (7) were synthesized and their energetic properties were thoroughly investigated.
Coordination engineering with crown ethers for perovskite precursor stabilization and defect passivation
Authors: Zhang Zhongyang , Yang Yuxuan , Huang Zijian , Xu Qiaoling , Zhu Siyuan , Li Minghua , Zhao Peng , Cui Hong , Li Sihan , Jin Xi , Wu Xiaoxue , Han Mingyue , Zhang Yu , Zhao Ningjiu , Zou Chao , Liang Qijie , Xian Lede , Hu Jinsong , Zhu Cheng , Chen Yihua , Bai Yang , Li Yujing , Chen Qi , Zhou Huanping , Zhang Bao , Jiang Yan
Published: August 2024

A perovskite precursor stabilization and defect passivation strategy is developed by coordination engineering with a series of structurally similar crown ethers.
An all-in-one free-standing single-ion conducting semi-solid polymer electrolyte for high-performance practical Li metal batteries
Authors: Zhang Jinping , Zhu Jie , Zhao Ruiqi , Liu Jie , Song Xingchen , Xu Nuo , Liu Yansong , Zhang Hongtao , Wan Xiangjian , Ma Yanfeng , Li Chenxi , Chen Yongsheng
Published: August 2024

A single-ion conducting solid polymer electrolyte with enhanced Li+ migration by controlling anion immobilization and solvation was developed, showcasing superior electrochemical performance and industrial compatibility.
Specialising and analysing instruction-tuned and byte-level language models for organic reaction prediction
Authors: Pang Jiayun , Vulić Ivan
Published: August 2024

We evaluate FlanT5 and ByT5 across tokenisation, pretraining, finetuning and inference and benchmark their impact on organic reaction prediction tasks.
Ajwain-assisted synthesis of oxalipalladium nanoparticles for colorectal cancer treatment: enhanced anticancer activity and protein interaction profiling
Authors: Goli Fatemeh , Divsalar Adeleh , Rasouli Milad , Gholami Hamid
Published: August 2024

Ajwain-assisted OX NPs exhibit enhanced cytotoxicity against colorectal cancer cells, leveraging HSA interactions for improved drug delivery and overcoming drug resistance.
Polarized Raman spectroscopy study of CVD-grown Cr2S3 flakes: unambiguous identification of phonon modes
Authors: Gayen Anabil , An Gwang Hwi , Rahman Ikhwan Nur , Choi Min , Mustaghfiroh Qoimatul , Gaikwad Prashant Vijay , Kang Evan S. H. , Kim Kyoung-Ho , Liu Chuyang , Kim Kyungwan , Bang Junhyeok , Lee Hyun Seok , Kim Dong-Hyun
Published: August 2024

We have unambiguously identified 7 phonon modes by helicity-dependent polarized Raman spectroscopy for CVD-grown 2D Cr2S3 together with variation of temperature.
Iodine-mediated decarboxylative coupling to synthesize β-sulfonyl-ene-amines/2,3-diarythio-pyrroles from α-amino acids and sodium sulfinates
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Yang Feng , Zhang Xiaoya
Published: August 2024

A new process has been developed for the selective construction of β-sulfonyl-ene-amines and 2,3-diarythio-pyrroles based on the decarboxylative coupling and β-C(sp3)–H functionalization of α-amino acids under iodine mediation.
Construction of arylthio/arylamino methylene bonds by addition–elimination of nitroolefins with aromatic thiols and amines
Authors: Dahiya Pooja , Yadav Anoop , Budhwan Rajnish , Rawat Megha , Peddinti Rama Krishna
Published: August 2024

A highly efficient, catalyst-free, metal-free, atom economical green protocol for the synthesis of arylthio/arylamino methylene compounds from nitroolefins derived from acenaphthaquinone and isatin has been developed.
Metacognitive problem solving: exploration of students’ perspectives through the lens of multi-dimensional engagement
Authors: Vo Kimberly , Sarkar Mahbub , White Paul J. , Yuriev Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

Solving chemical problems entails content knowledge and mastery of problem-solving processes. However, students sometimes lack metacognitive processes required for problem solving in chemistry. This study investigated how first-year chemistry students engaged with the metacognitive problem-solving scaffold Goldilocks Help. Data was collected from an activity, which involved students reflectively comparing their problem-solving attempts to an expert solution. These comparative reflections (N = 373) were thematically analysed to investigate scaffold engagement in three dimensions: cognitive, emotional, and behavioural. Findings showed that scaffold use, coupled with self-reflection, allowed students to identify flaws in their solutions that were either problem specific or related to their problem-solving skills. Students were able to propose improvement strategies, such as posing prompting questions to themselves and finding multiple alternatives for evaluating an answer. Students, who initially lacked structured problem-solving skills, found that scaffolding helped them to slow down metacognitive processes that would otherwise be rushed through or engaged with on a surface level. Students’ resistance to the scaffold was due to fear of making a mistake or viewing the scaffold as requiring extra time and effort. Within a semester, many students demonstrated an improvement in successful and structured problem solving but some required more practice to internalise the scaffold. Our findings also indicated that students’ reflections on problem solving became more sophisticated as a result of continued exposure to the scaffold and iterative opportunities to compare their work to expert solutions, to self-assess, and to reflect. Further research on reflective writing in chemistry education should focus on the ipsative nature of such assessments, i.e. processes focusing on students’ own progress, growth, and improvement, compared to their previous performance, while recognising the power relations operationalised in course-embedded reflections. From the teaching practice perspective, having an awareness of students’ thoughts, emotions, and actions can help instructors differentiate between levels of student capabilities, mindsets, and needs for extra support, allowing teaching efforts to be directed at promoting metacognitive and structured problem solving.
Investigations on particle emissions of large-bore engines powered by natural gas and hydrogen
Authors: Armbruster Felina , Gelner Alexander , Zepf Andreas , Prager Maximilian , Härtl Martin , Jaensch Malte
Published: August 2024

This research provides the first insights into the particle emissions of large-bore engines powered by natural gas and hydrogen, identifying an increased lubricating oil influence in hydrogen engines.
ALMACAL
Authors: Bollo Victoria , Zwaan Martin , Péroux Céline , Hamanowicz Aleksandra , Chen Jianhang , Weng Simon , Ivison Rob J. , Biggs Andrew
Published: August 2024

The ALMACAL survey is based on a database of reprocessed ALMA calibration scans suitable for scientific analysis, observed as part of regular PI observations. We present all the data accumulated from the start of ALMA operations until May 2022 for 1047 calibrator fields across the southern sky spanning ALMA Bands 3 to 10 (∼84 − 950 GHz), so-called ALMACAL−22. Encompassing over 1000 square arcmin and accumulating over 2000 hours of integration time, ALMACAL is not only one of the largest ALMA surveys to date, but it continues to grow with each new scientific observation. We outline the methods for processing and imaging a subset of the highest-quality data (‘pruned sample’). Using deconvolution techniques within the visibility data (uv plane), we created data cubes as the final product for further scientific analysis. We describe the properties and shortcomings of ALMACAL and compare its area and sensitivity with other sub-millimetre surveys. Notably, ALMACAL overcomes limitations of previous sub-millimetre surveys, such as small sky coverage and the effects of cosmic variance. Moreover, we discuss the improvements introduced by the latest version of this dataset that will enhance our understanding of dusty star-forming galaxies, extragalactic absorption lines, active galactic nucleus physics, and ultimately the evolution of molecular gas.
ZTF SN Ia DR2: Secondary maximum in type Ia supernovae
Authors: Deckers M. , Maguire K. , Shingles L. , Dimitriadis G. , Rigault M. , Smith M. , Goobar A. , Nordin J. , Johansson J. , Amenouche M. , Burgaz U. , Dhawan S. , Ginolin M. , Harvey L. , Kenworthy W. D. , Kim Y.-L. , Laher R. R. , Luo N. , Kulkarni S. R. , Masci F. J. , Galbany L. , Müller-Bravo T. E. , Nugent P. E. , Pletskova N. , Purdum J. , Racine B. , Sollerman J. , Terwel J. H.
Published: August 2024

Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) light curves have a secondary maximum that exists in the r, i, and near-infrared filters. The secondary maximum is relatively weak in the r band, but holds the advantage that it is accessible, even at high redshift. We used Gaussian process fitting to parameterise the light curves of 893 SNe Ia from the Zwicky Transient Facility’s (ZTF) second data release (DR2), and we were able to extract information about the timing and strength of the secondary maximum. We found > 5σ correlations between the light curve dec rate (Δm15(g)) and the timing and strength of the secondary maximum in the r band. Whilst the timing of the secondary maximum in the i band is also correlated with Δm15(g), the strength of the secondary maximum in the i band shows significant scatter as a function of Δm15(g). We found that the transparency timescales of 97 per cent of our sample are consistent with double detonation models and that SNe Ia with small transparency timescales (< 32 d) reside predominantly in locally red environments. We measured the total ejected mass for the normal SNe Ia in our sample using two methods and both were consistent with medians of 1.3  ±  0.3 and 1.2  ±  0.2 M⊙. We find that the strength of the secondary maximum is a better standardisation parameter than the SALT light curve stretch (x1). Finally, we identified a spectral feature in the r band as Fe II, which strengthens during the onset of the secondary maximum. The same feature begins to strengthen at < 3 d post maximum light in 91bg-like SNe. Finally, the correlation between x1 and the strength of the secondary maximum was best fit with a broken, with a split at x10  =   − 0.5  ±  0.2, suggestive of the existence of two populations of SNe Ia.
Variable circularly polarized radio emission from the young stellar object [BHB2007]-1: Another ingredient of a unique system
Authors: Kaur Simranpreet , Girart Josep M. , Viganò Daniele , Monge Álvaro Sánchez , Cleeves L. Ilsedore , Zurlo Alice , Del Sordo Fabio , Morata Òscar , Bhowmik Trisha , Alves Felipe O.
Published: August 2024

The young stellar object [BHB2007]-1 has been extensively studied in the past at radio, millimeter, and infrared wavelengths. It has revealed a gap in the disk and previous observations have claimed possible emission from a sub-stellar object undergoing formation, in correspondence to the disk gap. In this work, we analyzed a set of eight Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) observations at 15 GHz and spread out over a month. We inferred a slowly variable emission from the star, with a ∼15 − 20% circular polarization detected in two of the eight observations. The latter can be related to the magnetic fields in the system, while the unpolarized and moderately varying component can be indicative of free–free emission associated with jet induced shocks or interactions of the stellar wind, with dense surrounding material. We discarded any relevant short-flaring activities when sampling the radio light curves down to 10 seconds and found no clear evidence of emission from the sub-stellar object inferred from past observations, although deeper observations could shed further light on this.