bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying key policy objectives for strong primary care: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Burgmann Sarah , Paier-Abuzahra Muna , Sprenger Martin , Avian Alexander , Siebenhofer Andrea
Published: August 2023

Aim:

The aim of this study was to identify key policy objectives by investigating the perception of important stakeholders and affected professionals concerning relevance and feasibility of a successful primary care (PC) reform.

Background:

Since 2013, the Austrian PC system has been undergoing a reform process to establish multiprofessional primary care units. The reforms have various defined objectives and lack clear priorities.

Methods:

After the definition and consensus-based selection of 12 policy objectives, a cross-sectional online survey on their relevance and feasibility was distributed via email and social media to PC and public health networks. The survey was conducted in the period from January to February 2020. Results were analyzed descriptively, and further, Pearson Chi-Square Test or Fisher’s Exact Test was performed for group comparison regarding respondents’ characteristics. Open-ended responses were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Findings:

In total, 169 questionnaires were completed. A total of 46.3% of the responders had more than 20 years of professional experience (female: 60.5%). A mandatory internship in general practice, vocational training for general practice, and a modern remuneration system were the three top-rated policy objectives regarding relevance. A mandatory internship in general practice, specialization in general practice, and coding of services and diagnosis were assessed as the most feasible objectives. The group comparisons regarding working field, years of professional experience, age, and sex did not show any meaningful results in the evaluation of relevance and feasibility.

Discussion:

In the view of the study participants, easily obtainable objectives include adapting the duration and setting of internships for medical students, as well as mandatory vocational training for GP trainees. Further efforts are necessary to achieve complex objectives such as the adoption of a modern remuneration scheme and a comprehensive quality assurance program. Building capacity and creating team-oriented environments are also important aspects of a successful PC reform.
Grammatical Innovations in German in Multilingual Namibia: The Expanded Use of Linking Elements and Gehen ‘Go’ as a Future Auxiliary
Authors: Shah Sheena , Zimmer Christian
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we provide an overview of the history and sociolinguistic setting of Germans and German in Namibia, which serves as a backdrop for our discussion of two grammatical innovations in Namibian German. German has been actively used in Namibia since the 1880s, having been brought to the country through colonization, and it remains linguistically vital today. Via a questionnaire study, we investigate the expanded use of two grammatical innovations in Namibian German, namely, i) linking elements and ii) gehen as a future auxiliary. We explore various factors that could have contributed to the emergence of these innovations in order to better understand the dynamics of German in multilingual Namibia.*
Evidence for Extrusive Mg‐Suite Magmatism on the Moon? Fine‐Grained Magnesian Clasts in an Apollo 16 Impact Melt Breccia
Authors: Stadermann Amanda C. , Barnes Jessica J. , Erickson Timmons M. , Prissel Tabb C. , Michels Zachary D.
Published: August 2023

The magnesian suite (Mg‐suite) of rocks record some of the earliest intrusive magmatism on the Moon. Studies of these Mg‐suite rocks find they are plutonic or hypabyssal, formed typically kilometers under the lunar surface. Several models exist to explain the formation and evolution of the Mg‐suite but distinguishing between hypotheses can be difficult given the limited sample availability. The global extent of Mg‐suite magmatism remains in debate and is key to constraining models of early secondary crust building. In this study, we present magnesian clasts within Apollo impact melt rock 68815. These clasts contain olivine, plagioclase, with minor amounts of Mg‐Al‐spinel and pyroxene similar to spinel troctolites of the Mg‐suite, but they lack plutonic textures. We provide evidence that some of the clasts may be of extrusive volcanic origin akin to terrestrial komatiites while others might represent crystalline impact melts. There exists a large breadth of evidence for Mg‐suite intrusives, whereas here, we present possible evidence of Mg‐rich volcanic counterparts. If valid, this would broaden the known diversity of lunar volcanism during the initial stages of secondary crust building. We anticipate this finding to provide a greater constraint onto models of Mg‐suite ascent and emplacement, which only currently consider intrusive magmatism, as well as renewed motivation to examine impact melt breccias for rare and understudied lithologies. Future trace element studies or radiometric dating could be used to further interrogate the connections of these clasts to the Mg‐suite.
Lightning‐Ignited Wildfires in the Western United States: Ignition Precipitation and Associated Environmental Conditions
Authors: Kalashnikov Dmitri A. , Abatzoglou John T. , Loikith Paul C. , Nauslar Nicholas J. , Bekris Yianna , Singh Deepti
Published: August 2023

Cloud‐to‐ground lightning with minimal rainfall (“dry” lightning) is a major wildfire ignition source in the western United States (WUS). Although dry lightning is commonly defined as occurring with <2.5 mm of daily‐accumulated precipitation, a rigorous quantification of precipitation amounts concurrent with lightning‐ignited wildfires (LIWs) is lacking. We combine wildfire, lightning and precipitation data sets to quantify these ignition precipitation amounts across ecoprovinces of the WUS. The median precipitation for all LIWs is 2.8 mm but varies with vegetation and fire characteristics. “Holdover” fires not detected until 2–5 days following ignition occur with significantly higher precipitation (5.1 mm) compared to fires detected promptly after ignition (2.5 mm), and with cooler and wetter environmental conditions. Further, there is substantial variation in precipitation associated with promptly‐detected (1.7–4.6 mm) and holdover (3.0–7.7 mm) fires across ecoprovinces. Consequently, the widely‐used 2.5 mm threshold does not fully capture lightning ignition risk and incorporating ecoprovince‐specific precipitation amounts would better inform WUS wildfire prediction and management.
Parameterizing Subglacial Discharge in Modeling Buoyancy Driven Flow in Tidewater Glacier Fjords
Authors: Wang Chuning , Chant Robert J. , Jackson Rebecca H.
Published: August 2023

In tidewater glacier fjords, subglacial discharge drives a significant mixing mechanism near glacier fronts and drives a strong exchange flow. Numerous studies (Cowton et al., 2015, https://doi.org/10.1002/2014jc010324; Slater et al., 2017, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016gl072374) have utilized a parameterization for buoyant plume theory to force fjord scales systems, but neglect to parameterize the outflowing of the plume away from the glacial wall after it has reached its neutral density. In this study, a new model framework, ROMS‐ICEPLUME, is developed to parameterize the rising and initial outflowing stage of subglacial discharge plumes in the Regional Ocean Modeling System. The coupled model applies a novel parameterization algorithm to prescribe the velocity and vertical extent of the outflowing plume, which reduces numerical instability and improves model performance. The model framework is tested with a quasi‐realistic forcing using observations of a subglacial discharge plume hydrographic surveys collected from a Greenland fjord. We find that the new model framework is able to reproduce the strong outflowing plume and the compensating inflow at depth, with a spatial structure that correlates well with in‐situ observations. On the other hand, the model framework without the new parameterization algorithm fails to capture the outflowing plume structure. Thus, our new framework for parameterizing subglacial discharge plumes is an improvement from previous coupled model frameworks, and is a promising tool toward advancing our understanding of circulation in tidewater glacier fjords.
First Observations With a GNSS Antenna to Radio Telescope Interferometer
Authors: Skeens J. , York J. , Petrov L. , Munton D. , Herrity K. , Ji‐Cathriner R. , Bettadpur S. , Gaussiran T.
Published: August 2023

We describe the design of a radio interferometer composed of a Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) antenna and a Very Long Baseline Interferometry radio telescope. Our eventual goal is to use this interferometer for geodetic applications including local tie measurements. The GNSS element of the interferometer uses a unique software‐defined receiving system and modified commercial geodetic‐quality GNSS antenna. We ran three observing sessions in 2022 between a 25 m radio telescope in Fort Davis, Texas (FD‐VLBA), a transportable GNSS antenna placed within 100 m, and a GNSS antenna placed at a distance of about 9 km. We have detected a strong interferometric response with a Signal‐to‐Noise Ratio (SNR) of over 1,000 from Global Positioning System and Galileo satellites. We also observed natural radio sources including Galactic supernova remnants and Active Galactic Nuclei located as far as one gigaparsec, thus extending the range of sources that can be referenced to a GNSS antenna by 18 orders of magnitude. These detections represent the first observations made with a GNSS antenna to radio telescope interferometer. We have developed a novel technique based on a Precise Point Positioning solution of the recorded GNSS signal that allows us to extend integration time at 1.5 GHz to at least 20 min without any noticeable SNR degradation when a rubidium frequency standard is used.
Envonalkib versus crizotinib for treatment-naive ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer: a randomized, multicenter, open-label, phase III trial
Authors: Yang Yunpeng , Min Jie , Yang Nong , Yu Qitao , Cheng Ying , Zhao Yanqiu , Li Manxiang , Chen Hong , Ren Shou’an , Zhou Jianying , Zhuang Wu , Qin Xintian , Cao Lejie , Yu Yan , Zhang Jian , He Jianxing , Feng Jifeng , Yu Hao , Zhang Li , Fang Wenfeng
Published: August 2023

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangements are present in about 5–6% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases and associated with increased risks of central nervous system (CNS) involvement. Envonalkib, a novel ALK inhibitor, demonstrated promising anti-tumor activity and safety in advanced ALK-positive NSCLC in the first-in-human phase I study. This phase III trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04009317) investigated the efficacy and safety of first-line envonalkib in advanced ALK-positive NSCLC cases. Totally 264 participants were randomized 1:1 to receive envonalkib (n = 131) or crizotinib (n = 133). Median independent review committee (IRC)-assessed progression-free survival (PFS) times were 24.87 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.64–30.36) and 11.60 (95% CI: 8.28–13.73) months in the envonalkib and crizotinib groups, respectively (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.34–0.64, p < 0.0001). IRC-assessed confirmed objective response rate (ORR) was higher (81.68% vs. 70.68%, p = 0.056) and duration of response was longer (median, 25.79 [95% CI, 16.53–29.47] vs. 11.14 [95% CI, 9.23–16.59] months, p = 0.0003) in the envonalkib group compared with the crizotinib group. In participants with baseline brain target lesions, IRC-assessed CNS-ORR was improved with envonalkib compared with crizotinib (78.95% vs. 23.81%). Overall survival (OS) data were immature, and median OS was not reached in either group (HR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.48–1.47, p = 0.5741). The 12-month OS rates were 90.6% (95% CI, 84.0%–94.5%) and 89.4% (95% CI, 82.8%–93.6%) in the envonalkib and crizotinib groups, respectively. Grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events were observed in 55.73% and 42.86% of participants in the envonalkib and crizotinib groups, respectively. Envonalkib significantly improved PFS and delayed brain metastasis progression in advanced ALK-positive NSCLC.
High-density lipoprotein regulates angiogenesis by long non-coding RNA HDRACA
Authors: Mo Zhi-Wei , Peng Yue-Ming , Zhang Yi-Xin , Li Yan , Kang Bi-Ang , Chen Ya-Ting , Li Le , Sorci-Thomas Mary G. , Lin Yi-Jun , Cao Yang , Chen Si , Liu Ze-Long , Gao Jian-Jun , Huang Zhan-Peng , Zhou Jia-Guo , Wang Mian , Chang Guang-Qi , Deng Meng-Jie , Liu Yu-Jia , Ma Zhen-Sheng , Hu Zuo-Jun , Dong Yu-Gang , Ou Zhi-Jun , Ou Jing-Song
Published: August 2023

Normal high-density lipoprotein (nHDL) can induce angiogenesis in healthy individuals. However, HDL from patients with coronary artery disease undergoes various modifications, becomes dysfunctional (dHDL), and loses its ability to promote angiogenesis. Here, we identified a long non-coding RNA, HDRACA, that is involved in the regulation of angiogenesis by HDL. In this study, we showed that nHDL downregulates the expression of HDRACA in endothelial cells by activating WW domain-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 2, which catalyzes the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of its transcription factor, Kruppel-like factor 5, via sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor 1. In contrast, dHDL with lower levels of S1P than nHDL were much less effective in decreasing the expression of HDRACA. HDRACA was able to bind to Ras-interacting protein 1 (RAIN) to hinder the interaction between RAIN and vigilin, which led to an increase in the binding between the vigilin protein and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) mRNA, resulting in a decrease in the expression of PCNA and inhibition of angiogenesis. The expression of human HDRACA in a hindlimb ischemia mouse model inhibited the recovery of angiogenesis. Taken together, these findings suggest that HDRACA is involved in the HDL regulation of angiogenesis, which nHDL inhibits the expression of HDRACA to induce angiogenesis, and that dHDL is much less effective in inhibiting HDRACA expression, which provides an explanation for the decreased ability of dHDL to stimulate angiogenesis.
An integrated organoid omics map extends modeling potential of kidney disease
Authors: Lassé Moritz , El Saghir Jamal , Berthier Celine C. , Eddy Sean , Fischer Matthew , Laufer Sandra D. , Kylies Dominik , Hutzfeldt Arvid , Bonin Léna Lydie , Dumoulin Bernhard , Menon Rajasree , Vega-Warner Virginia , Eichinger Felix , Alakwaa Fadhl , Fermin Damian , Billing Anja M. , Minakawa Akihiro , McCown Phillip J. , Rose Michael P. , Godfrey Bradley , Meister Elisabeth , Wiech Thorsten , Noriega Mercedes , Chrysopoulou Maria , Brandts Paul , Ju Wenjun , Reinhard Linda , Hoxha Elion , Grahammer Florian , Lindenmeyer Maja T. , Huber Tobias B. , Schlüter Hartmut , Thiel Steffen , Mariani Laura H. , Puelles Victor G. , Braun Fabian , Kretzler Matthias , Demir Fatih , Harder Jennifer L. , Rinschen Markus M.
Published: August 2023

Kidney organoids are a promising model to study kidney disease, but their use is constrained by limited knowledge of their functional protein expression profile. Here, we define the organoid proteome and transcriptome trajectories over culture duration and upon exposure to TNFα, a cytokine stressor. Older organoids increase deposition of extracellular matrix but decrease expression of glomerular proteins. Single cell transcriptome integration reveals that most proteome changes localize to podocytes, tubular and stromal cells. TNFα treatment of organoids results in 322 differentially expressed proteins, including cytokines and complement components. Transcript expression of these 322 proteins is significantly higher in individuals with poorer clinical outcomes in proteinuric kidney disease. Key TNFα-associated protein (C3 and VCAM1) expression is increased in both human tubular and organoid kidney cell populations, highlighting the potential for organoids to advance biomarker development. By integrating kidney organoid omic layers, incorporating a disease-relevant cytokine stressor and comparing with human data, we provide crucial evidence for the functional relevance of the kidney organoid model to human kidney disease.
Simultaneous inhibition of DNA-PK and Polϴ improves integration efficiency and precision of genome editing
Authors: Wimberger Sandra , Akrap Nina , Firth Mike , Brengdahl Johan , Engberg Susanna , Schwinn Marie K. , Slater Michael R. , Lundin Anders , Hsieh Pei-Pei , Li Songyuan , Cerboni Silvia , Sumner Jonathan , Bestas Burcu , Schiffthaler Bastian , Magnusson Björn , Di Castro Silvio , Iyer Preeti , Bohlooly-Y Mohammad , Machleidt Thomas , Rees Steve , Engkvist Ola , Norris Tyrell , Cadogan Elaine B. , Forment Josep V. , Šviković Saša , Akcakaya Pinar , Taheri-Ghahfarokhi Amir , Maresca Marcello
Published: August 2023

Genome editing, specifically CRISPR/Cas9 technology, has revolutionized biomedical research and offers potential cures for genetic diseases. Despite rapid progress, low efficiency of targeted DNA integration and generation of unintended mutations represent major limitations for genome editing applications caused by the interplay with DNA double-strand break repair pathways. To address this, we conduct a large-scale compound library screen to identify targets for enhancing targeted genome insertions. Our study reveals DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) as the most effective target to improve CRISPR/Cas9-mediated insertions, confirming previous findings. We extensively characterize AZD7648, a selective DNA-PK inhibitor, and find it to significantly enhance precise gene editing. We further improve integration efficiency and precision by inhibiting DNA polymerase theta (Polϴ). The combined treatment, named 2iHDR, boosts templated insertions to 80% efficiency with minimal unintended insertions and deletions. Notably, 2iHDR also reduces off-target effects of Cas9, greatly enhancing the fidelity and performance of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing.
Camrelizumab combined with apatinib in patients with first-line platinum-resistant or PD-1 inhibitor resistant recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a single-arm, phase 2 trial
Authors: Yuan Li , Jia Guo-Dong , Lv Xiao-Fei , Xie Si-Yi , Guo Shan-Shan , Lin Da-Feng , Liu Li-Ting , Luo Dong-Hua , Li Yi-Fu , Deng Shen-Wen , Guo Ling , Zeng Mu-Sheng , Cai Xiu-Yu , Liu Sai-Lan , Sun Xue-Song , Li Xiao-Yun , Li Su-Chen , Chen Qiu-Yan , Tang Lin-Quan , Mai Hai-Qiang
Published: August 2023

Immunotherapy combined with antiangiogenic targeted therapy has improved the treatment of certain solid tumors, but effective regimens remain elusive for refractory recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (RM-NPC). We conducted a phase 2 trial to evaluate the safety and activity of camrelizumab plus apatinib in platinum-resistant (cohort 1, NCT04547088) and PD-1 inhibitor resistant NPC (cohort 2, NCT04548271). Here we report on the primary outcome of objective response rate (ORR) and secondary endpoints of safety, duration of response, disease control rate, progression-free survival, and overall survival. The primary endpoint of ORR was met for cohort 1 (65%, 95% CI, 49.6–80.4, n = 40) and cohort 2 (34.3%; 95% CI, 17.0–51.8, n = 32). Grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events (TRAE) were reported in 47 (65.3%) of 72 patients. Results of our predefined exploratory investigation of predictive biomarkers show: B cell markers are the most differentially expressed genes in the tumors of responders versus non-responders in cohort 1 and that tertiary lymphoid structure is associated with higher ORR; Angiogenesis gene expression signatures are strongly associated with ORR in cohort 2. Camrelizumab plus apatinib combination effectiveness is associated with high expression of PD-L1, VEGF Receptor 2 and B-cell-related genes signatures. Camrelizumab plus apatinib shows promising efficacy with a measurable safety profile in RM-NPC patients.
The Marginal Ice Zone as a dominant source region of atmospheric mercury during central Arctic summertime
Authors: Yue Fange , Angot Hélène , Blomquist Byron , Schmale Julia , Hoppe Clara J. M. , Lei Ruibo , Shupe Matthew D. , Zhan Liyang , Ren Jian , Liu Hailong , Beck Ivo , Howard Dean , Jokinen Tuija , Laurila Tiia , Quéléver Lauriane , Boyer Matthew , Petäjä Tuukka , Archer Stephen , Bariteau Ludovic , Helmig Detlev , Hueber Jacques , Jacobi Hans-Werner , Posman Kevin , Xie Zhouqing
Published: August 2023

Atmospheric gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) concentrations in the Arctic exhibit a clear summertime maximum, while the origin of this peak is still a matter of debate in the community. Based on summertime observations during the Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate (MOSAiC) expedition and a modeling approach, we further investigate the sources of atmospheric Hg in the central Arctic. Simulations with a generalized additive model (GAM) show that long-range transport of anthropogenic and terrestrial Hg from lower latitudes is a minor contribution (~2%), and more than 50% of the explained GEM variability is caused by oceanic evasion. A potential source contribution function (PSCF) analysis further shows that oceanic evasion is not significant throughout the ice-covered central Arctic Ocean but mainly occurs in the Marginal Ice Zone (MIZ) due to the specific environmental conditions in that region. Our results suggest that this regional process could be the leading contributor to the observed summertime GEM maximum. In the context of rapid Arctic warming and the observed increase in width of the MIZ, oceanic Hg evasion may become more significant and strengthen the role of the central Arctic Ocean as a summertime source of atmospheric Hg.
Photoredox-active Cr(0) luminophores featuring photophysical properties competitive with Ru(II) and Os(II) complexes
Authors: Sinha Narayan , Wegeberg Christina , Häussinger Daniel , Prescimone Alessandro , Wenger Oliver S.
Published: August 2023

Coordination complexes of precious metals with the d6 valence electron configuration such as Ru(II), Os(II) and Ir(III) are used for lighting applications, solar energy conversion and photocatalysis. Until now, d6 complexes made from abundant first-row transition metals with competitive photophysical and photochemical properties have been elusive. While previous research efforts focused mostly on Fe(II), we disclose that isoelectronic Cr(0) gives access to higher photoluminescence quantum yields and excited-state lifetimes when compared with any other first-row d6 metal complex reported so far. The luminescence behaviour of the metal-to-ligand charge transfer excited states of these Cr(0) complexes is competitive with Os(II) polypyridines. With these Cr(0) complexes, the metal-to-ligand charge transfer states of first-row d6 metal complexes become exploitable in photoredox catalysis, and benchmark chemical reductions proceed efficiently under low-energy red illumination. Here we demonstrate that appropriate molecular design strategies open up new perspectives for photophysics and photochemistry with abundant first-row d6 metals.
In vivo screening characterizes chromatin factor functions during normal and malignant hematopoiesis
Authors: Lara-Astiaso David , Goñi-Salaverri Ainhoa , Mendieta-Esteban Julen , Narayan Nisha , Del Valle Cynthia , Gross Torsten , Giotopoulos George , Beinortas Tumas , Navarro-Alonso Mar , Aguado-Alvaro Laura Pilar , Zazpe Jon , Marchese Francesco , Torrea Natalia , Calvo Isabel A. , Lopez Cecile K. , Alignani Diego , Lopez Aitziber , Saez Borja , Taylor-King Jake P. , Prosper Felipe , Fortelny Nikolaus , Huntly Brian J. P.
Published: August 2023

Cellular differentiation requires extensive alterations in chromatin structure and function, which is elicited by the coordinated action of chromatin and transcription factors. By contrast with transcription factors, the roles of chromatin factors in differentiation have not been systematically characterized. Here, we combine bulk ex vivo and single-cell in vivo CRISPR screens to characterize the role of chromatin factor families in hematopoiesis. We uncover marked lineage specificities for 142 chromatin factors, revealing functional diversity among related chromatin factors (i.e. barrier-to-autointegration factor subcomplexes) as well as shared roles for unrelated repressive complexes that restrain excessive myeloid differentiation. Using epigenetic profiling, we identify functional interactions between lineage-determining transcription factors and several chromatin factors that explain their lineage dependencies. Studying chromatin factor functions in leukemia, we show that leukemia cells engage homeostatic chromatin factor functions to block differentiation, generating specific chromatin factor–transcription factor interactions that might be therapeutically targeted. Together, our work elucidates the lineage-determining properties of chromatin factors across normal and malignant hematopoiesis.
Single-cell analysis of human MAIT cell transcriptional, functional and clonal diversity
Authors: Garner Lucy C. , Amini Ali , FitzPatrick Michael E. B. , Lett Martin J. , Hess Gabriel F. , Filipowicz Sinnreich Magdalena , Provine Nicholas M. , Klenerman Paul
Published: August 2023

Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are innate-like T cells that recognize microbial metabolites through a semi-invariant T cell receptor (TCR). Major questions remain regarding the extent of human MAIT cell functional and clonal diversity. To address these, we analyzed the single-cell transcriptome and TCR repertoire of blood and liver MAIT cells and developed functional RNA-sequencing, a method to integrate function and TCR clonotype at single-cell resolution. MAIT cell clonal diversity was comparable to conventional memory T cells, with private TCR repertoires shared across matched tissues. Baseline functional diversity was low and largely related to tissue site. MAIT cells showed stimulus-specific transcriptional responses in vitro, with cells positioned along gradients of activation. Clonal identity influenced resting and activated transcriptional profiles but intriguingly was not associated with the capacity to produce IL-17. Overall, MAIT cells show phenotypic and functional diversity according to tissue localization, stimulation environment and clonotype.
A novel Corchorus olitorius-derived biochar/Bi12O17Cl2 photocatalyst for decontamination of antibiotic wastewater containing tetracycline under natural visible light
Authors: Samy Mahmoud , Gar Alalm Mohamed , abodlal Ribh S. , El-Dissouky Ali , Khalil Mohamed N. , El-Helow Ehab R. , E. Khalil Tarek , Tawfik Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Herein, a novel composite of Corchorus olitorius-derived biochar and Bi12O17Cl2 was fabricated and utilized for the degradation of tetracycline (TC) in a solar photo-oxidation reactor. The morphology, chemical composition, and interaction between the composite components were studied using various analyses. The biochar showed a TC removal of 52.7% and COD mineralization of 59.6% using 150 mg/L of the biochar at a pH of 4.7 ± 0.5, initial TC concentration of 163 mg/L, and initial COD of 1244 mg/L. The degradation efficiency of TC increased to 63% and the mineralization ratio to 64.7% using 150 mg/L of bare Bi12O17Cl2 at a pH of 4.7 ± 0.5, initial TC concentration of 178 mg/L, and COD of 1034 mg/L. In the case of biochar/Bi12O17Cl2 composite, the degradation efficiency of TC and COD mineralization ratio improved to 85.8% and 77.7% due to the potential of biochar to accept electrons which retarded the recombination of electrons and holes. The synthesized composite exhibited high stability over four succeeding cycles. According to the generated intermediates, TC could be degraded to caprylic acid and pentanedioic acid via the frequent attack by the reactive species. The prepared composite is a promising photocatalyst and can be applied in large-scale systems due to its high degradation and mineralization performance in a short time besides its low cost and stability.
Population-level prevalence, effect on quality of life, and treatment behavior for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in Poland
Authors: Przydacz Mikolaj , Chlosta Marcin , Rajwa Pawel , Chlosta Piotr
Published: August 2023

The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) has been investigated in many population-based studies in different regions of the world. However, reliable data are lacking for Eastern Europe. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence, effect on quality of life, and treatment-related behaviors for ED and PE in a population-representative sample of Polish men. We used an Internet interview format and rigorously adapted, widely accepted instruments for ED and PE evaluation. The study included 3001 men, representative for age and place of residence and adequate proportions of respondents from urban and rural areas. The prevalence of ED was 30.1–61.1%, and the prevalence of PE was 19.3–38.1%; there were no differences between urban and rural areas. Whereas the prevalence of ED increased with age, the prevalence of PE did not increase. More than 50% of respondents with ED and more than 60% of respondents with PE had concerns about their quality of life. However, less than one fourth of participants with ED and PE were seeking treatment, most of whom received treatment. The results of our nationwide analysis, reflecting the entire Polish population of men, are consistent with other epidemiologic studies of ED and PE and may support educational campaigns and health improvement programs in Poland.
Economic statistical model of the np chart for monitoring defectives
Authors: Haridy Salah , Alamassi Batool , Maged Ahmed , Shamsuzzaman Mohammad , Al Owad Ali , Bashir Hamdi
Published: August 2023

When monitoring manufacturing processes, managing an attribute quality characteristic is easier and faster than a variable quality characteristic. Yet, the economic-statistical design of attribute control charts has attracted much less attention than variable control charts in the literature. This study develops an algorithm for optimizing the economic-statistical performance of the np chart for monitoring defectives, based on Duncan’s economic model. This algorithm has the merit of the economic model to minimize expected total cost, and the benefit of the statistical design to enhance the effectiveness of detecting increasing shifts in defectives. The effectiveness of the developed np chart is investigated under different operational scenarios. The results affirm a considerable superiority of the proposed np chart over the traditional np chart. Real-life data are used to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed np scheme, in comparison to the traditional np chart.
Trial sequential analysis of efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists against left ventricular thrombus
Authors: Kitano Tetsuji , Nabeshima Yosuke , Kataoka Masaharu , Takeuchi Masaaki
Published: August 2023

Meta-analysis may increase the risk of random errors. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) has been developed to adjust for these random errors. We conducted TSA on the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in left ventricular thrombus (LVT) patients in order to estimate how many additional patients should be required to draw definite conclusions. PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for articles directly comparing DOACs and VKAs for LVT in LV thrombus resolution, stroke, any thromboembolism, major bleeding, any bleeding, and all-cause death. TSA was conducted with a cumulative Z-curve, monitoring boundaries, and required sample size. A simulated trial was run and TSA estimated the sample sizes of trials needed to draw definite conclusions. Of 4749 articles, 25 studies were used for the analysis. TSA revealed the current sample size already demonstrated superiority of DOACs in LV thrombus resolution and stroke, and futility in any thromboembolism and all-cause death. Two other outcomes did not achieve the required sample size. The sample size of new trials needed to demonstrate the superiority of DOACs over VKAs was estimated 400 for any bleeding. Corresponding trials needed to demonstrate no significant differences could be estimated for major bleeding and any bleeding (n = 200 and n = 2000, respectively). Current results show that the sample size required to draw definite conclusions was not reached for two outcomes, and there was a risk of random error. Further randomized controlled trials with sample sizes estimated by TSA will work effectively to obtain valid conclusions.
Measured vs estimated resting energy expenditure in children and adolescents with obesity
Authors: Tamini Sofia , Caroli Diana , Bondesan Adele , Abbruzzese Laura , Sartorio Alessandro
Published: August 2023

Pediatric obesity requires early targeted interventions consisting mainly of a low-calorie diet prescribed based on resting energy expenditure (REE), often estimated through predictive equations. The aim of this study was to define the prevalence of "hypo-", "normo-" and "hypermetabolic" in a large cohort of children and adolescents with obesity by comparing measured and estimated REE and to evaluate the characteristics related to these metabolic statuses in both males and females. The study population was divided into the three subgroups by comparing REE measured using indirect calorimetry and estimated using the Molnar equation, and subsequently analyzed. The majority of the participants (60.6%) were normometabolic, 25.5% hypermetabolic and 13.9% hypometabolic. No significant differences in age, Tanner stage, systolic blood pressure, or the presence of metabolic syndrome were found. However, the hypermetabolic subgroup was significantly lighter, shorter, with lower hip and waist circumferences, had a greater amount of fat-free mass and lower fat mass, significantly lower diastolic blood pressure, and a significantly higher frequency of non-alcoholic liver steatosis. Pediatric obesity is more associated with normal or increased REE than with a hypometabolic condition, suggesting that estimation of energy expenditure with predictive equations is still inadequate for prescribing the appropriate diet plan.
Comparison between OLIF and MISTLIF in degenerative lumbar stenosis: an age-, sex-, and segment-matched cohort study
Authors: Liu Lantao , Xue Hui , Han Zhiyuan , Jiang Lianghai , Chen Longwei , Wang Dechun
Published: August 2023

To compare outcomes after oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) versus minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MISTLIF) with bilateral decompression via unilateral approach for treating mild to moderate symptomatic degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS). We retrospectively compared patients who underwent single-level (L4/5) OLIF with an age-, sex-, and segment-matched MISTLIF with bilateral decompression via unilateral approach cohort. Perioperative data were collected for the operative time, intraoperative blood loss, drainage in the first postoperative day, postoperative hospital stay, cost, intraoperative fluoroscopy, and complications. Lumbar radiographs were measured for changes in posterior intervertebral space height (PISH), intervertebral space foramen height (IFH), intervertebral foramen area (IFA), and area of the spinal canal (ASC). Clinical and psychological outcomes included the visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS). 35 OLIF patients were compared with 35 MISTLIF patients in L4/5 DLSS. The OLIF group had shorter bedtime, postoperative hospital stays, less intraoperative and postoperative blood loss (all P < 0.05), but had more times of intraoperative fluoroscopy, longer operative time, and higher cost (all P < 0.05). The complication rates were equivalent (OLIF vs MISTLIF: 22.86% vs 17.14%). PISH (11.94 ± 1.78 mm vs 9.42 ± 1.94 mm, P < 0.05), IFH (23.87 ± 3.05 mm vs 21.41 ± 2.95 mm, P < 0.05), and IFA (212.14 ± 51.82 mm2 vs 177.07 ± 51.73 mm2, P < 0.05) after surgery were significantly increased in the OLIF group. The ASC was increased significantly after the operation in both groups, but the ASC in the MISTLIF group was increased significantly more than that in the OLIF group (450.04 ± 66.66 mm2 vs 171.41 ± 58.55 mm2, P < 0.05). The lumbar VAS scores at 1 month (1.89 ± 0.87 vs 2.34 ± 0.84, P = 0.028) and 6 months (1.23 ± 0.97 vs 1.80 ± 0.99, P = 0.018) after operation in the OLIF group were significantly lower. There were no significant differences in lower extremity VAS and ODI scores between the two groups. Compared with MISTLIF group, HADS scores on postoperative day 3 (2.91 ± 1.46 vs 4.89 ± 1.78, P < 0.05) and prior to hospital discharge (PTD) (2.54 ± 1.38 vs 3.80 ± 1.78, P = 0.002) in the OLIF group were decreased significantly. OLIF showed more advantages of less surgical invasion, lower incidence of postoperative low back pain, faster postoperative recovery, and less anxiety compared with MISTLIF. Regardless of cost, OLIF seems to be a better option to treat mild to moderate symptomatic DLSS.
Strain enhances the activity of molecular electrocatalysts via carbon nanotube supports
Authors: Su Jianjun , Musgrave Charles B. , Song Yun , Huang Libei , Liu Yong , Li Geng , Xin Yinger , Xiong Pei , Li Molly Meng-Jung , Wu Haoran , Zhu Minghui , Chen Hao Ming , Zhang Jianyu , Shen Hanchen , Tang Ben Zhong , Robert Marc , Goddard William A. , Ye Ruquan
Published: August 2023

Support-induced strain engineering is useful for modulating the properties of two-dimensional materials. However, controlling strain of planar molecules is technically challenging due to their sub-2 nm lateral size. Additionally, the effect of strain on molecular properties remains poorly understood. Here we show that carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are ideal substrates for inducing optimum properties through molecular curvature. In a tandem-flow electrolyser with monodispersed cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc) on single-walled CNTs (CoPc/SWCNTs) for CO2 reduction, we achieve a methanol partial current density of >90 mA cm−2 with >60% selectivity, surpassing wide multiwalled CNTs at 16.6%. We report vibronic and X-ray spectroscopies to unravel the distinct local geometries and electronic structures induced by the strong molecule–support interactions. Grand canonical density functional theory confirms that curved CoPc/SWCNTs improve *CO binding to enable subsequent reduction, whereas wide multiwalled CNTs favour CO desorption. Our results show the important role of SWCNTs beyond catalyst dispersion and electron conduction.
Irrigation benefits outweigh costs in more US croplands by mid-century
Authors: Partridge Trevor , Winter Jonathan , Kendall Anthony , Basso Bruno , Pei Lisi , Hyndman David
Published: August 2023

Irrigation can increase crop yields and could be a key climate adaptation strategy. However, future water availability is uncertain. Here we explore the economic costs and benefits of existing and expanded irrigation of maize and soybean throughout the United States. We examine both middle and end of the 21st-century conditions under future climates that span the range of projections. By mid-century we find an expansion in the area where the benefits of irrigation outweigh groundwater pumping and equipment ownership costs. Increased crop water demands limit the region where maize could be sustainably irrigated, but sustainably irrigated soybean is likely feasible throughout regions of the midwestern and southeastern United States. Shifting incentives for installing and maintaining irrigation equipment could place additional challenges on resource availability. It will be important for decision makers to understand and account for local water demand and availability when developing policies guiding irrigation installation and use.
Recent developments in the investigation of driving forces for transforming coinage metal nanoclusters
Authors: Zou Xuejuan , Kang Xi , Zhu Manzhou
Published: August 2023

The driving forces for transforming atomically precise coinage metal nanoclusters are reviewed.
Colloidal Ag2Se intraband quantum dots
Authors: Al Mahfuz Mohammad Mostafa , Park Junsung , Islam Rakina , Ko Dong-Kyun
Published: August 2023

This feature article reviews the current progress of intraband Ag2Se colloidal quantum dots for mid-wavelength infrared sensor applications.
Nitrogen-intercalated Pd metallene nanoribbons with optimized electronic structure for oxygen reduction catalysis
Authors: Wang Hongjing , Li Yunju , Liu Songliang , Yu Hongjie , Deng Kai , Wang Ziqiang , Xu You , Wang Liang
Published: August 2023

We present an effective approach to construct N-intercalated Pd metallene nanoribbons for efficient electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction.
Comprehensive analysis unveils altered binding kinetics of 5-/6-methylCytosine/adenine modifications in R2R3-DNA system
Authors: Wang Qihang , Luo Song , Xiong Danyang , Xu Xiaole , Wang Lizhi , Duan Lili
Published: August 2023

Methylation greatly reduces the ability of protein to bind DNA. The different methylation types and corresponding sites on DNA, and the position of each helix in protein have been marked.
A study of ab initio folding of chignolins using replica-exchange molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Cheng Guojie , Wang Panpan , Liu Huihui , Zhang Dawei
Published: August 2023

Polarization effect introduced by PSBC model on the dominant noncovalent interactions of chignolins during the folding simulation was studied in the paper.
Palladium nanoparticles loaded over sheet-like N-doped graphene oxide: investigation of its catalytic potential in Suzuki coupling, in reduction of nitroarenes and in photodegradation of methyl orange
Authors: Sharma Shubham , Anjani  , Kouser Mobina , Gupta Monika
Published: August 2023

The discovery of nanoparticles with varied size, shape and composition has stretched the limits of nanotechnology in almost any field.
An ICT-based organic framework for the fluorogenic detection of lethal pulmonary agent phosgene
Authors: Biswas Amitav , Maji Atanu , Gharami Saswati , Mondal Tapan Kumar
Published: August 2023

A biphenyl-benzoimidazole based (BPCI) chemodosimeter has been developed for the rapid, sensitive and ratiometric detection of lethal pulmonary agent phosgene.
Roussin's black salt decorated Cu-doped ZnO nanoparticles for bacterial inhibition
Authors: Lv Lingling , Chu Yaoqing , Tan Lianjiang
Published: August 2023

RBS@Cu:ZnO NPs are promising antibacterial agents and exhibit high and controllable antibacterial performance due to the synergistic effect of Cu-doped ZnO and released nitric oxide under light irradiation.
A new-AIE-ligand-based metal–organic framework “turn-on” sensor with extremely high sensitivity
Authors: Zhang Jinfang , Li Wenjing , Ren Simeng , Zhao Shunchang , Tao Xingyu , Chen Qinghan , Yin Dejing , Zhang Chi
Published: August 2023

A new-AIE-ligand-based metal–organic framework is developed as the first “turn-on” Bi3+ sensor with extremely high sensitivity.
Built-in tensile strain dependence on the lateral size of monolayer MoS2 synthesized by liquid precursor chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Seravalli L. , Esposito F. , Bosi M. , Aversa L. , Trevisi G. , Verucchi R. , Lazzarini L. , Rossi F. , Fabbri F.
Published: August 2023

In this work, the authors unveil the depedance of the tensile strain and the size of MoS2 monolayer grown by liquid precursor chemical vapor deposition.
Nanotechnology and narasin: a powerful combination against acne
Authors: Abid Fatima , Savaliya Bhumika , Parikh Ankit , Kim Sangseo , Amirmostofian Marzieh , Cesari Laura , Song Yunmei , Page Stephen W. , Trott Darren J. , Garg Sanjay
Published: August 2023

We have unleashed the potential of NAR and its nanoformulation against acne infections. The results of the ex vivo skin deposition study demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed nano gel as a targeted topical therapy for acne.
Buoyant magnetic milliswimmers reveal design rules for optimizing microswimmer performance
Authors: Benjaminson Emma , Imamura Taryn , Lorenz Aria , Bergbreiter Sarah , Travers Matthew , Taylor Rebecca E.
Published: August 2023

A milliswimmer experimental platform is used to provide ground truth swimmer trajectories of different designs for developing new dynamics models.
Probing the surface-active sites of metal nanoclusters with atomic precision: a case study of Au5Ag11
Authors: Cao Yaoyao , Xu Ying , Shen Honglei , Pan Peiyao , Zou Xuejuan , Kang Xi , Zhu Manzhou
Published: August 2023

The surface-active sites of an Au5Ag11 cluster template towards metal-/ligand-exchange reactions were unambiguously identified at the atomic level.
A two-step access to fused-/spiro-polycyclic frameworks via double Heck cascade and acid-driven processes
Authors: Goel Komal , Satyanarayana Gedu
Published: August 2023

This report illustrates the rapid construction of two divergent classes of polycyclic frameworks, benzo[a]fluorenones and spiro-chromenone indenes, via a double Heck cascade and an acid-driven cyclization from easily accessible precursors.
Visible-light-induced defluorinative allylation of difluoromethyl ketones using alkylamines as bifunctional agents
Authors: Jiao Xiaorui , Huang Zhonghou , Meng Weidong , Zhu Shengqing , Chu Lingling
Published: August 2023

A visible-light-induced alkylamine-facilitated reductive defluoroallylation of difluoromethyl ketones with allylic chlorides is reported, enabling efficient access to α-fluoro alkenylketones with high efficiency.
Mixing detection on Bitcoin transactions using statistical patterns
Authors: Shojaeinasab Ardeshir , Motamed Amir Pasha , Bahrak Behnam
Published: August 2023

Cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, have garnered attention for their potential in anonymous transactions. However, their anonymity has often been compromised by deanonymization attacks. To counter this, mixing services have been introduced. While they enhance privacy, they obscure fund traceability. This study seeks to demystify transactions linked to these services, shedding light on pathways of concealed and laundered money. We propose a method to identify and classify transactions and addresses of major mixing services in Bitcoin. Unlike previous research focusing on older techniques like CoinJoin, we emphasize modern mixing services. We gathered labelled data by transacting with three prominent mixers (MixTum, Blemder, and CryptoMixer) and identified recurring patterns. Using these patterns, an algorithm was created to pinpoint mixing transactions and distinguish mixer‐related addresses.

The algorithm achieved a remarkable recall rate of 100%. Given the lack of clear ground truth and the vast number of unlabelled transactions, ensuring accuracy was a challenge. However, by analyzing a set of non‐mixing transactions with our model, it was confirmed that the high recall rate was not misleading. This work provides a significant advancement in monitoring mixing transactions, presenting a valuable tool against fraud and money laundering in cryptocurrency networks.
Low‐profile multi‐polarization and pattern reconfigurable antenna based on metasurface
Authors: Liang JiaJun , Wu Zhao , Li Long , Zhang Xiuyin , Yang Hua
Published: August 2023

In this letter, a low‐profile metasurface (MS) antenna with multi‐polarization and pattern reconfigurability is presented. The antenna mainly consists of two parts, including a loop antenna fed by balun, and a MS antenna excited by the coupled aperture. When switching the PIN diode and rotating the MS, the multi‐polarization and pattern reconfigurable ability of the antenna is obtained. While the loop antenna is excited, a horizontally linear polarized (HLP) wave and omnidirectional pattern are obtained. Besides, when the MS is operated, due to the differential phase between the orthogonal surface impedance components, the antenna can be switched between vertical linear polarization (VLP), left‐hand circular polarization (LHCP), and right‐hand circular polarization (RHCP). Furthermore, the antenna could achieve a directional pattern. As the simulated and measured results shown, the proposed antenna has an overlapped impedance bandwidth (IMBW) of 24.7% for all polarization modes and a 3‐dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidth of 11.8% for L/RHCP modes. Moreover, the antenna owns a low profile of 0.06 λ (under the operating centre frequency).