bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of human fascioliasis across Africa for the period 2000–2022: a systematic review
Authors: Adriko Moses , Tukahebwa Edridah M. , Musoke Miph B. , Odoki Martin , Muwanguzi David , Nambuya Stellah , Vudriko Patrick , Chester Kalinda , Mukaratirwa Samson , Chimbari Moses J. , Stensgaard Anna-Sofie , Vennervald Birgitte , Mugisha Lawrence
Published: February 2025

Background: Human fascioliasis, caused by the trematodes Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, is a neglected tropical disease that impacts approximately 17 million people worldwide. It’s prevalent in areas with significant livestock farming where animals consume contaminated freshwater plants. The disease poses a substantial health burden for over 90,000 disability-adjusted life years due to abdominal complications. This systematic review aims to synthesize data on the prevalence of human fascioliasis in Africa during 2000–2022. Methods: We systematically searched databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and CAB Direct, identifying 126 publications on human fascioliasis. Following a thorough screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts, 33 articles were selected for meta-analysis. Statistical analyses were conducted using Microsoft Excel to calculate prevalence rates and evaluate variance through bimodal distribution and heterogeneity using the I2 index. Results: Among 271 articles, only 33 met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis, representing 12.17% of the literature in Africa. The pooled prevalence estimate was 0.032% (IVhet PPE: 0.032% [95% CI 1.4–6.53]), with Egypt exhibiting the highest prevalence rate. These findings highlight significant gaps in diagnostic capabilities and reporting, complicating management efforts for human fascioliasis in Africa. Conclusions: This review reveals a high prevalence of human fascioliasis in specific sub-Saharan countries, largely attributable to inadequate diagnostic practices. The inconsistent spatial distribution of available data underscores the overall neglect of this disease. The authors advocate for enhanced epidemiological studies to better understand the distribution and risk factors linked to fascioliasis in Africa, emphasizing the need for rigorous research addressing these critical knowledge gaps.
The Impact of Mobile Learning on Physics Education: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Siswanto Dwi Ambar Cahyaningtias , Iswanto Bambang Heru , Rahmawati Yuli
Published: February 2025

Mobile learning has become a significant medium in the educational landscape, especially with the increased usage of smartphones among students and educators. This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) aims to explore the impact of mobile learning on the transformation of physics education. This study obtained 50 out of 200 articles selected based on their relevance to the theme of mobile learning in physics education, citation metrics, and publication date between 2019 and 2024. The review highlights a significant increase in mobile learning research, with the rise occurring in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which emphasized the growing potential of mobile learning for remote education. Mobile learning enhances the accessibility, engagement, and effectiveness of physics education by making the learning process more interactive, fostering student independence, and improving learning outcomes. The review also identifies improvements in students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills as key benefits of mobile learning in physics. However, it also highlights the necessity of regulations to prevent misuse and safeguard academic integrity. Practical recommendations for educators include integrating mobile learning with project-based approaches to improve conceptual understanding and student engagement in physics. This study suggests that mobile learning has a transformative role in physics education, opening up new avenues for innovation and further research.
Economic Incentives in Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: Magruder Matthew L. , Ng Mitchell K. , Mont Michael A. , Coppolecchia Andrea , Jacofsky David J.
Published: February 2025

➢ Orthopaedic surgeon pay structures are diverse, but most commonly are productivity-based.

➢ Physician ownership of ambulatory surgery centers is a growing phenomenon and may have effects on clinical decision-making.

➢ Hospital systems are paid by multiple mechanisms, including case-based reimbursement (based on Diagnosis-Related Groups). Incentives are substantially different between the types of payers (Medicare and Medicaid compared with private insurance).

➢ Payer revenues stem from risk-adjusted premiums and investments in income-generating assets; a growing focus on cost-effective care and outcome-focused data by payers has led to changes in pay structures.
Computer-Assisted Virtual Preoperative Planning for the Treatment of Pilon Fractures
Authors: Jia Xiaoyang , Zhang Kun , Qiang Minfei , Jia Gengxin , Shi Tianhao , Han Qinghui , Wu Ying , Chen Yanxi
Published: February 2025

Background:

Preoperative planning is critical for the operative management of any fracture. Unfortunately, conventional planning methods for pilon fractures have not yielded satisfactory results. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the outcomes of surgically treated pilon fractures could be improved with computer-assisted preoperative planning.

Methods:

Between January 2010 and December 2019, 611 East Asian patients (≥18 years old) with a pilon fracture were identified. After 107 patients were excluded, the final cohort comprised 504 patients: 294 received conventional planning and 210 received computer-assisted preoperative planning. The primary outcome measure was the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) at 12 months. The secondary outcomes were lower-limb function, pain, quality of life, quality of fracture reduction, and complications related to soft-tissue and bone healing. Propensity score matching for 20 baseline characteristics yielded 204 patient pairs.

Results:

In the entire cohort of 504 patients, the median age was 41 years (interquartile range, 37 to 46 years) and 375 patients (74.4%) were male. After matching (408 patients; 204 patients in each cohort), patients who received computer-assisted preoperative planning had a better mean OMAS value at 12 months (80.3 points [95% CI, 79.5 to 81.1]) than patients for whom the conventional planning method was used (73.2 points [95% CI, 72.5 to 74.0]; mean difference, −7.1 points [95% CI, −8.2 to −6.0]; p < 0.001). Similarly, better outcomes were observed for lower-limb function, pain, quality of life, and reduction quality in the computer-assisted planning group. Patients who received computer-assisted planning had a lower rate of soft-tissue complications (9.3% [19 of 204 patients]) than patients who received conventional planning (18.6% [38 of 204 patients]; absolute rate difference, −9.3% [95% CI, −16.1% to −2.6%]; relative risk, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.25 to 0.81]; p = 0.008), but a significant difference was not found with respect to bone-healing complications.

Conclusions:

In patients with a pilon fracture, the use of computer-assisted preoperative planning yielded better functional and radiographic outcomes and a lower rate of soft-tissue complications compared with the use of conventional planning methods.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Repair of damaged continuity joints using ultra-high performance, fiber reinforced self-consolidating, and magnesium–aluminum–liquid–phosphate concretes
Authors: Looney Trevor , Mesigh Michael , Volz Jeffery , Floyd Royce
Published: February 2025

Bridge elements known to develop damage over time are individual continuity joints connecting girders. Replacing damaged joints is an expensive and invasive process and a need exists to design a less invasive repair method. This study focused on evaluating an encapsulation repair method for continuity joints that would not require extensive demolition of the bridge deck to implement and could potentially be constructed without bridge closure. Approximately half scale connected bridge girder specimens were constructed and purposely damaged to create similar crack patterns to those seen in bridges. Once damaged, a set of three specimens was repaired using the encapsulation method with three different high performance materials, ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), fiber reinforced self-consolidating concrete (FRSCC), and magnesium–aluminum–liquid–phosphate (MALP) concrete. Of the three repaired specimens for each material, one was tested in positive moment bending and two in negative moment bending, similar to in situ conditions. The results appear to indicate that using each of the tested materials as an encapsulation repair for damaged continuity joints is viable to re-establish continuity and load capacity. However, the UHPC repairs’ resistance to cracking could indicate the best performance by further protecting the continuity joint reinforcing steel from water ingress.
Observing the dynamics of quantum states generated inside nonlinear optical cavities
Authors: Choi Seou , Salamin Yannick , Roques-Carmes Charles , Sloan Jamison , Horodynski Michael , Soljačić Marin
Published: February 2025

Observing non-classical properties of light is a long-standing interest to advance a wide range of quantum application from computing to metrology. Optical cavities are essential to generate and manipulate non-classical light. However, detecting changes in cavity properties induced by the quantum state remains a critical challenge in the optical domain due to the weak material nonlinearity, limiting our ability to observe quantum states generated in optical cavities. Here, we propose a framework for observing the dynamics of quantum states generated inside nonlinear optical cavities. We utilize symmetry-breaking to obtain high sensitivity to small perturbations introduced to the quantum state, resulting in an asymmetric equilibrium of a macroscopic observable. With a nonlinear response at the single photon level, our approach directly imprints the field distribution of the cavity quantum state onto the statistics of bistable cavity steady-states. We experimentally demonstrate our approach in a degenerate optical parametric oscillator, generating and reconstructing the quasi-probability distribution of different quantum states. As a validation, we reconstruct the Husimi Q function of the cavity squeezed vacuum state. In addition, we observe the evolution of the quantum vacuum state inside the cavity as it undergoes phase-sensitive amplification. By enabling generation and measurement of quantum states in a single nonlinear optical cavity, our method paves a way for studying exotic dynamics of quantum optical states in nonlinear driven-dissipative systems such as soliton generation and Kerr frequency combs.
RECKLEEN: a lambda Red/CRISPR-Cas9 based single plasmid platform for fast, efficient, markerless, and scarless genome editing in Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Becker Anke , Elsayed Eslam , Stukenberg Daniel , Schmeck Bernd
Published: February 2025

Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp) has evolved as a major public health threat due to its multidrug-resistance (MDR) and hypervirulence. Current genome-editing tools for Kp are constrained by cumbersome workflows, low flexibility, and limited scalability. Here, we present the RECKLEEN system —Recombineering/CRISPR-based KLebsiella Engineering for Efficient Nucleotide editing — as a single plasmid platform designed for precise genetic manipulation of Kp. RECKLEEN combines lambda Red recombineering with powerful CRISPR-Cas9-based targeted counterselection, achieving up to 99.998% killing efficiency. By implementing the near PAM-less SpG Cas9 variant in RECKLEEN, the compatible target sequence spectrum was significantly broadened. This approach enables deletions, point mutations, and DNA integrations, with efficiencies reaching 100% of the counter-selected clones. Simultaneous multi-target deletions were accomplished with up to 72% efficiency. To streamline the process, we developed a toolbox of eleven plasmids based on a modular cloning standard, enabling time- and resource-efficient assembly of editing constructs. This allows a 5-days workflow, from plasmid construction to the generation of strains with the desired genetic modification(s). The efficacy of RECKLEEN extends to various MDR Kp strains, such as ATCC 700721, ATCC BAA-1705, and ATCC 700603, demonstrating its broad applicability. RECKLEEN significantly enhances genome-editing capabilities for Kp, advancing research into its pathology and MDR mechanisms.
Ultralow-temperature ultrafast formation of single-crystalline graphene via metal-assisted graphitization of silicon-carbide
Authors: Kum Hyun , Lee Taehoon , Kim Sungkyu , Park Hongsik , Chung Roy , Kim Se , Lee Han , Kim Dong , Kim Dong , Kim Seug , Yang Hyun , Jang Yun , Yoon Jang , Kim Hyun , Ha Seo , Lee Byoung , Lee Jung
Published: February 2025

Non-conventional epitaxial techniques, such as van der Waals epitaxy (vdWE) and remote epitaxy, have attracted substantial attention in the semiconductor research community for their exceptional capability to continuously produce high-quality free-standing films on a single mother wafer without needing surface refurbishment. The successful implementation of these emerging epitaxial techniques crucially hinges on creating a robust uniform two-dimensional (2D) material surface at the wafer-scale and with atomically precise uniformity. The conventional method for fabricating graphene on a silicon carbide (SiC) wafer is through high-temperature graphitization, which produces epitaxial graphene on the surface of the SiC wafer. However, the extremely high temperature needed for silicon sublimation (typically above 1500°C) causes step-bunching of the SiC surface in addition to the growth of uneven graphene at the edges of the step, leading to multilayer graphene stripes and unfavorable surface morphology for epitaxial growth. Here, we fully develop a graphitization technique that allows fast synthesis of single-crystalline graphene at ultra-low temperatures (growth time of less than 1 minute and growth temperature of less than 500°C) at wafer-scale by metal-assisted graphitization (MAG). We found annealing conditions that enable SiC dissociation while avoiding silicide formation, which produces single-crystalline graphene while maintaining atomically smooth surface morphology. The thickness of the graphene layer can be precisely controlled by varying the metal thickness or annealing temperature, allowing the substrate to be utilized for either a remote epitaxial growth substrate or a vdWE growth substrate, depending on the thickness of the graphene. We successfully produce freestanding single-crystalline ultra-wide bandgap (AlN, GaN) films on graphene/SiC via the 2D material-based layer transfer (2DLT) technique. The exfoliated films exhibit high crystallinity and low defect densities. Our results show that low-temperature graphene synthesis via MAG represents a promising route for the commercialization of the 2D-based epitaxy technique, enabling the production of large-scale ultra-wide bandgap free-standing crystalline membranes.
Cell atlas of human psoriasis and epidermal specific Ube2l3 deficiency mouse highlighting CXCL16/CXCR6 orchestrating the development of psoriasis
Authors: Man Xiao-Yong , Chen Xue-Yan , Ye Li-Ran , Fu Ni-Chang , Chen Si-Qi , Yan Bing-Xi , Zheng Yu-Xin , Chen Xi-Bei , Zhou Yuan , Lv Ming-Yue , Cui Ying-zhe , Xu Fan , Zheng Min
Published: February 2025

Psoriasis is a chronic, complex immune-mediated inflammatory disorder with cutaneous and systemic manifestations in which keratinocytes, dendritic cells and T cells have central roles. UBE2L3 may be a protective biomarker that regulates the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Here, we identified the IL-17A signaling similarity between human psoriatic skin and Ube2l3 conditional knockout mouse skin in the epidermis rather than dermis. IL-17A was regulated by CXCR6+ Vγ2+ γδT in mouse while CXCR6+ CD8+ T in human. CXCL16 is the only chemokines whose bind to stimulate CXCR6. Ube2l3 reduction in keratinocytes activated IL-1β and then promote CXCL16 expression through STAT3 signaling. Up-regulated CXCL16 in keratinocytes and cDC2/mDC then attracted Vγ2+ γδT17 or CD8+ T to secrete IL-17A and form a positive feedback loop in keratinocytes supporting psoriatic lesion. Thus, UBE2L3 is a keratinocyte-intrinsic suppressor of epidermal IL-17 production in Vγ2+ γδT in mouse and CD8+ T in human through CXCL16/CXCR6 signaling pathway in psoriasis.
Clinicopathological Findings of Infectious Bursal Disease in Poultry Farm in Jigjiga, Somali State, Ethiopia: A Case Report
Authors: Hassan Yahia Y. , mohomed Ahmed Abdi , mohamed Abdimalik Hussein
Published: February 2025

Gumboro disease is a viral disease that affects. young chicks and causes immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to subsequent infections. It is acute, highly contagious, and economically significant. The clinicopathological results of infectious bursal disease at a poultry farm in Qumadaha, Jigjiga, Ethiopia, are described in this case report. At first, 200 two-month-old chicks were kept on the farm under ideal management circumstances. Several of the hens showed clinical indications such depression, decreased intake of feed and water, vent picking, white watery diarrhoea, ruffled feathers, trembling, and unwillingness to walk. By the time the outbreak was detected, 17 chickens had perished in a single day. Muscular haemorrhages in the thighs and breast, cheesy lumps in the bursae lumen, and enlarged and oedematous bursae were all discovered during post-mortem investigations. Aminogrow WS (100g per 400 litres of drinking water for 3–5 days) was used to boost immunity, while enrofloxacin (Ashienro 10%) oral suspension (1 ml per litre of drinking water for 5 days in a row) was utilised to combat secondary bacterial infections in order to control the outbreak. Strict biosecurity procedures, such as separating sick birds, keeping enough ventilation, minimising overcrowding, and utilising all-in/all-out management, were also recommended to the owner.
Capital Spending, Environmental Factor and Financial Performance: Insights from Sensitive Sector
Authors: KULKA G SRINIVAS
Published: February 2025

This research examines how environmental factors affect the capital spending and financial performance of energy stocks within the S&P 500.We evaluated data from 22 energy companies in the US S&P 500 over a nine-year span ie from 2015–2023, employing panel data analysis with 796 observations. Environmental factors (EDS) and capital expenditures are considered independent variables to assess their impact on the relationships analyzed. In this research, the market value (MV) is the dependent variable, shaped by additional elements within the study. We have used of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) is implemented to assess the indicated linkages. The results demonstrate significant positive correlations between capital expenditure and both environmental factors and market value. Although no direct link between environmental factors and revenue was identified, capital expenditure and enterprise disclosure scores showed a positive significance. Additionally, the Environmental Disclosure Score negatively impacted sales revenue This investigation enriches the available knowledge on ESG influences and the effectiveness of energy enterprises by underlining the importance of financial outlay in this vital area. It challenges the conventional perspective of environmental factors as isolated variables and proposes a potential positive effect on financial performance. The findings suggest that policymakers can promote sustainable practices by monitoring capital expenditure and enhancing market value. Investors may leverage this knowledge to make better-informed decisions regarding firms dedicated to spending. Energy companies can enhance their market value by prioritizing environmental initiatives.
Comparative analysis of natural background spectrum acquired by unshielded
NaI(Tl) and HPGe detectors
Authors: N Chitra , K.S. Briteena , Parthasarathy Kothai
Published: February 2025

In the field of gamma spectroscopy, the NaI(Tl) and HPGe detectors hold special places and both are unique in their own ways catering to two complimentary streams of application - High efficiency and High resolution. In the present study, NaI(Tl) detector( 3” x 3” , ORTEC make)) and HPGe detector (30%, ORTEC make) are compared. Numerous comparative studies have already been reported in literature covering different areas of application. The present study is unique in terms of analyzing their special performance feature namely the ambient background radiation measurement. The background spectrums acquired by the detectors are analyzed and the detector’s characteristic response to different gamma energies and also the different sources viz. terrestrial gammas, cosmic and scatter part are quantified.
Towards risk-based AI regulation
Authors:   , Schuett Jonas
Published: February 2025

In this thesis, I explore key elements of risk-based artificial intelligence (AI) regulation. First, I discuss how the scope of risk-based AI regulations should be defined (Chapter 1). Then, I analyse the key risk management provision in the EU AI Act (Chapter 2) and discuss how AI companies could implement the Three Lines of Defence model, a popular risk governance framework (Chapter 3). Finally, I take a closer look at the third line: internal audit (Chapter 4). Each of the four chapters is based on a paper that I wrote during my PhD. As such, they have their own research questions, literature reviews, and do not build on each other. This thesis is not intended to cover the space comprehensively. Instead, it should be seen as a deep dive into some of the main challenges of risk-based AI regulation.
A potencialidade de planetários para o fomento de uma cidadania planetária
Authors: PALMEIRA Nathan Rafael Lima dos Santos , GOMES Alessandro Damásio TRANI
Published: February 2025

Este trabalho explora a potencialidade de planetários para fomentar uma cidadania planetária e foi desenvolvido no âmbito de um programa de extensão de divulgação científica em Astronomia. A pesquisa qualitativa contou com a participação de 36 alunos do 3º ano do Ensino Médio de escolas públicas e privadas da região do Campo das Vertentes, Minas Gerais, entrevistados após uma sessão no planetário. As perguntas focaram no papel da Astronomia e da atividade realizada na conscientização sobre a necessidade do desenvolvimento de uma cidadania planetária. Todos os alunos concordaram que a Astronomia, ao expandir nosso conhecimento sobre os astros, nos incentiva a valorizar e cuidar do nosso planeta. Segundo eles, a atividade no planetário contribuiu para uma melhor percepção de nossa posição no universo, da fragilidade e singularidade da Terra e da consequente responsabilidade de manter o planeta habitável para as futuras gerações.
Trodimenzionalnost kao οὐσία tijela
Authors: Ignjatović Dušan
Published: February 2025

Članak istražuje mjesto, ulogu i značaj ideje o trodimenzionalnoj protežnosti u kontekstu Filoponove metafizike tvari. U njezinom razvoju jasno se uočavaju dvije različite faze: (1) u kojoj se trodimenzionalnost shvaća kao neodvojiva akcidencija aristotelovske prvotne tvari i (2) u kojoj sama trodimenzionalnost postaje prvotna tvar i krajnji subjekt svih prirodnih entiteta. U radu se tvrdi da je ovaj Filoponov »ontološki rez«, pored nedvosmislenih filozofskih motiva, bio posredno inspiriran i teološkom raspravom o stvaranju ex nihilo.
Herbert Marcuse – otpor i potraga za drugom dimenzijom tehnološkog univerzuma
Authors: Višić Maroje
Published: February 2025

U radu se proučava Marcuseova kritička teorija tehnologije. Marcuse je među prvima iz kruga frankfurtske škole prepoznao tehnologiju kao pokretača povijesti. Svjestan da je tehnološka racionalnost potpuno kooptirala druge oblike racionalnosti i otpora, Marcuse ne posustaje pred naizgled izvjesnim tehnološkim determinizmom, već nastoji pokazati kako je upravo ta sveupokoravajuća tehnologija osnova za prijelaz u drugu dimenziju. Stoga će se u radu proanalizirati Marcuseova kritika tehnološke racionalnosti koja još uvijek ima dovoljno oštrine i nudi vrijedne uvide i za suvremena pitanja i rasprave o posljedicama tehnološkog zahvaćanja svijeta. U tom smislu, povratak Marcuseovoj kritici tehnologije nije samo od akademskog nego i od praktičnog značenja.
The role of CEO personal characteristics for enterprise digitalization
Authors:   International Laboratory of Intangible-Driven Economy, HSE University, Daviy Anna O. , Molodchik Mariia A. ,   International Laboratory of Intangible-Driven Economy, HSE University, Matveyeva-Ram Elizaveta E. ,   Technical University of Munich, Sanina Ksenia Yu. ,   St. Petersburg School of Economics and Management, HSE University
Published: February 2025

Purpose: to estimate the influence of CEO personal characteristics on the level of digitalization of SMEs.

Methodology: upper echelon theory is used to justify the study’s hypotheses, which are tested on a sample of 273 Russian SMEs. Poisson regression was used as the primary method of data analysis, alongside several additional models for robustness checks, specifically models with differently constructed dependent variables and models with different sets of controls.

Findings: the education level of CEO has a positive impact on the level of digitalization of SMEs, while age has a negative effect.

Originality and contribution: upper echelon theory is implemented in order to make strategic decisions regarding the digitalization of SMEs. The study is the first to analyze the effects of the individual characteristics of CEOs on the digitalization of Russian SMEs.
WASH for everyone, everywhere: marketplaces as a multiplex pathway for improving inclusive access to water, sanitation, and hygiene in Vanuatu
Authors: Kotra Krishna Kumar , Souter Regina T. , Molitambe Heather , Love Mark
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for access to safe WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) practices, especially in non-household settings. This study examined the COVID response measures and WASH infrastructure and services situation in and around 14 marketplaces in three provinces in the Republic of Vanuatu during the pandemic. A total of 144 surveys and 42 interviews were undertaken with market stakeholders and government officials, including structured observations. 93% of the vendors were women, with 43% forced to change their product during COVID. 56% of vendors brought their own water containers, 40% of whom shared them with family; 16% of vendors had visible soap at their stalls. Rural market vendors were less likely to follow or observe protective measures. Six of seven rainwater at markets tested positive for Escherichia coli. Among other things, the highly gendered space of ‘marketing’ and the centrality of marketplaces to both local food security and livelihoods brings into sharp relief the multiplex and inter-connected character of WASH. Marketplaces stand as an optimal 'leverage point' for not only improving and scaling-up WASH services but also building greater WASH literacy and behavior change.
Prevalence of free-living amoebae in five rivers associated with high human activity in Tehran province, Iran
Authors: Javanmard Ehsan , Rahimi Hanieh Mohammad , Mohebali Mehdi , Rezaeian Mostafa , Alimohammadi Mahmood , Kazemirad Elham , Mirjalali Hamed
Published: February 2025

Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous protozoa capable of enduring harsh environmental conditions. These microorganisms are commonly found in water, soil, and air and can be transmitted to humans in areas with high human activity. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of FLA and their associated genotypes/species in five rivers in Tehran province, Iran. A total of 60 water samples were collected from the Jajrud, Kan, Farhzad, Darakeh, and Shadchay rivers. Samples were subjected to filtration and cultivation onto non-nutrient agar. The genera/species of FLA were characterized based on the amplification and sequencing of the specific genetic fragments. Microscopic analysis suggested the presence of trophozoites and cysts of FLA in 18/60 (30%) of samples, of which Acanthamoeba spp., Vermamoeba sp., and Vahlkampfiidae were identified. Sequence analysis showed the presence of the genotypes T11, T4, T3, and T5 in five, five, four, and one isolates, respectively. The molecular analysis of the T4 genotype showed gene flow between the current isolates with previously described sequences. The findings suggest a clear association between environmental and clinical isolates of Acanthamoeba spp. Therefore, scheduled monitoring of environmental waters, particularly in regions with high human activities, is highly recommended.
Non-stationarity of extreme rainfalls and its impact assessment in the northeastern part of India
Authors: Agarwal Shivam , Debbarma Nilotpal , Roy Parthajit , Choudhury Parthasarathi
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the variability in extreme rainfall in northeast India using stationary and non-stationary frequency analyses. The study identified non-stationarity in the annual maximum daily rainfall time series in northeast India, and it was shown that the non-stationary models exhibited more accurate results compared to modelling the series on the assumption of stationarity. Genetic algorithm (GA) is employed as the optimization algorithm for parameter estimation in the method of maximum likelihood estimation of parameters, hereby referred to as maximum likelihood estimate (MLE)-GA. The results demonstrate better non-stationary parameter fitting using the MLE-GA approach for generalized extreme value (GEV) and Pearson Type III (PE3) distributions. The results obtained found that all the 12 rainfall stations considered in the region show significant amount of non-stationarity with values ranging from a negative impact of −31.97% to a positive impact of 38.6% for a return period of 100 years. Overall, the research findings indicate non-stationarity in the frequency analysis of extreme rainfall series to have a significant impact on the northeastern region as a whole, and non-stationary modelling is more beneficial and reliable for any water management studies under climate change in the region.
Industrial waste biochar for heavy metal and dye remediation in wastewater: an overview
Authors: Okoro Hussein K. , Emenike Ebuka Chizitere , Iwuozor Kingsley O. , Egbemhenghe Abel , Bello-Hassan Maryam Titilayo , Adu Ayokunle Olasunkanmi , Ighalo Joshua O. , Omuku Patrick E. , Adeniyi Adewale George
Published: February 2025

The amount of waste produced by various industrial processes has increased over time as a result of the growing global population and the resulting increase in industrial production. These waste materials, which include sludge from wastewater treatment facilities and lignin-rich materials from the pulp and paper industry, contain organic compounds that can be thermochemically converted into biochar (BC), a stable carbonaceous material. This conversion not only helps reduce environmental pollution but also facilitates resource recovery. Because of its distinct qualities, the resulting BC can be used as an adsorbent to reduce contaminants in a variety of environmental media. This paper offers a concise overview of the application of BC derived from industrial waste for the treatment of heavy metals and dye-contaminated wastewater. Results indicated that the BCs were predominantly generated by pyrolysis at temperatures between 200 and 900 °C and exhibited relatively high adsorption capabilities for both heavy metal ions and dyes. The properties of the BCs, including their surface area, high porosity, morphology, and the presence of multiple functional groups, were thoroughly explored. The adsorption mechanism, the kinetics of adsorption and desorption, and the regeneration of the BC adsorbents are also covered in the work.
Response surface methodology to investigate the effects of operational parameters on membrane bioreactor
Authors: Kitanou Sarra , Tahaikt Mustapha , Taky Mohamed , Elmidaoui Azzedine
Published: February 2025

Performance modeling of wastewater treatment systems has now become an attractive area of investigation for the design, analysis, and optimization of operations. Mathematical modeling of membrane bioreactor (MBR) treatment is a powerful tool for predicting effluent quality. In this study, a bioreactor coupled with a membrane filtration process (MBR) was employed to treat municipal wastewater. An experimental design based on the response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to investigate the effects of operating conditions, such as hydraulic retention time (HRT), aeration rate (AR), and transmembrane pressure (TMP), on the removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), and total nitrogen (TN). The results demonstrated a strong agreement between experimental data and model predictions. Furthermore, the RSM results display the effects of the operating parameters and their interactive effects on pollution removal. The maximum removal efficiency was achieved, exhibiting 95% of COD, 99.7% of TSS, and 93% of TN. These findings provide the effective use of statistical modeling to enhance MBR process performance, achieving sustainable and energy-efficient conditions.
Cocineras centroamericanas en México: experiencias de habitar a través de la comida
Authors: Rojas Pérez Hugo Saul
Published: February 2025

Este estudio examina lo que ha significado para mujeres salvadoreñas y hondureñas preparar y vender comida en Ciudad Hidalgo, Chiapas, México, quienes permanecen en el territorio fronterizo mexicano. Se analizan los vínculos entre la comida y la experiencia de habitar enfocado en cómo este giro comercial les ha permitido mitigar sus recuerdos de migración forzada y experiencias de inmovilidad territorial al generar procesos interculturales a través de relaciones de reciprocidad y transformación de los estigmas sobre su nacionalidad y género. La comida ha sido un elemento fundamental para su autonomía, no solo en términos económicos, sino en la posibilidad de pensarse un nuevo proyecto de vida. Mediante entrevistas realizadas en 2020 a seis cocineras centroamericanas y la preparación de comida con ellas se describen los procesos de habitar de estas mujeres y los factores que permiten deducir que la comida ha sido un vehículo que facilitó dicho proceso.
Sing after God a new song: Ritual-musical appropriations of Psalms in contemporary Dutch and Flemish culture
Authors: Vogel Henk
Published: February 2025

Psalmody, the (collective) performance of Psalms, is taking on new forms and meanings in the secularized, postsecular, and post-Christian cultures of the Netherlands and Flanders. Having occupied an important place in the Low Countries’ religious pasts, psalmody continues to live on, inside religious contexts and in other domains, such as the arts and cultural heritage. Psalmody is increasingly being reinvented by artists and cultural creators.

This dissertation is a study of these ritual-musical appropriations of Psalms. Empirical investigation of four different case studies through the use of ethnographic methods forms the basis of this study. These cases are: the festival 150 Psalms, Genemuider Bovenstem collective psalmody, the poetry project Poesia Divina, and Psalm 151, a project with new poetry and new music. It appears that, as heritage, psalmody allows for plural appropriations in which religious and secular meanings become blurred as appropriating (groups of) individuals explicitly and freely play with symbols and rituals from different religious and secular (concert) traditions. At the same time, this study shows that, in their appropriation, individuals often feel invited or challenged by traditions of (collective) psalmody. In their appropriation, they feel challenged to address God, to enhance or evoke collective performance, and to make room for existential contemplation.

This empirical research offers further academic theorization about the meaning of heritage rooted in religion, in this case performed Psalms, especially in a post-Christian cultural context in which religious past psalmody once occupied a central place. For practitioners of psalmody, this research shows both the versatility of psalmody and the different ways that psalmody fits into late-modern (secularized, pluralized, globalized) societies.
Participatory design approach in the use of scenario analysis for Futureproofing medical education: Case study (Preprint)
Authors: Giunti Guido , Glynn Ronan , Hennessy Jack , Doherty Colin P
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Medical education must evolve to prepare healthcare professionals for a rapidly changing world. Beyond digital literacy, clinicians must develop new competencies to navigate global megatrends, including shifting disease burden, technological advancements, climate change, and demographic shifts. The future job market will introduce novel roles, and educational institutions must remain adaptable to meet the evolving motivations and expectations of students. Megatrends, broad, transformative forces shaping societies, present both challenges and opportunities for healthcare education.

OBJECTIVE

The present work seeks to understand the implications of megatrends for medical education.

METHODS

A participatory design approach was employed to conduct a scenario analysis workshop at Trinity College Dublin’s School of Medicine (TCD) in October 2024. Digital Connectivity and Climate Change were selected as key drivers. Participants included medical educators, policymakers, clinicians, and students. Interactive methods such as group discussions, structured boards, and physical cards were utilized to facilitate data collection. Insights were analyzed thematically to identify critical competencies, mindsets, and structural requirements for future medical education.

RESULTS

The scenario analysis revealed key competencies and mindsets necessary for future healthcare professionals. Essential competencies included complex adaptive systems thinking, patient-centeredness, continuous learning, and participatory health, while essential mindsets encompassed sustainability, prevention-focused care, and technological adaptability. Cross-scenario reflections highlighted the increasing need for interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical leadership, and curriculum flexibility. Actionable steps were identified, including integrating sustainability and digital health into curricula, fostering emotional intelligence in student selection, and incorporating adaptive learning models.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the value of participatory design in shaping medical education to align with global megatrends. The findings align with existing foresight research by organizations such as the World Health Organization and the European Commission, emphasizing the need for healthcare professionals to balance technological proficiency with human-centered care. While the study was limited to a single institutional setting, its insights provide a framework for other medical schools to anticipate future challenges and proactively reform curricula. Future research should explore multi-institutional applications and longitudinal studies to validate these findings.
Non-Invasive Diagnostic Strategies for Membranous Nephropathy in the NEPTUNE Study
Authors: Zee Jarcy , Hogan Jonathan J. , Abdullah Ahmed , Liu Lili , Kiryluk Krzysztof , Beck Laurence H.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Clinical practice guidelines recommend that a kidney biopsy is no longer required to confirm a diagnosis of membranous nephropathy (MN) in patients with nephrotic syndrome and a positive test for anti-phospholipase A2 receptor antibodies (PLA2R-Ab). However, the optimal diagnostic strategy for using the PLA2R-Ab enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), PLA2R-Ab indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) test, and genetic risk score for diagnosing MN, including the tests’ optimal thresholds for positivity among incident patients with proteinuria, is still unknown.

Methods:

We used serum samples at or before the first clinically indicated kidney biopsy from participants in the Nephrotic Syndrome Study Network (NEPTUNE) to analyze test performance characteristics using different combinations and cut-offs of the PLA2R-Ab ELISA, IIF, and genetic risk score for diagnosing MN. Secondary analyses included serum samples within 6 months after biopsy but before any immunosuppression use.

Results:

There were 325 study participants with serum samples available on or before the day of kidney biopsy and an additional 143 study participants with samples within six months after biopsy but before any immunosuppression use. Of these participants, 26% (N=85) had biopsy-confirmed MN. The combination of ELISA ≥2 RU/mL and positive IIF was the optimal approach, with sensitivity of 0.60, specificity of 1.00, negative predictive value of 0.92, and positive predictive value of 1.00. Using IIF to confirm only borderline ELISA titers between 2-20 RU/ml resulted in similar sensitivity but specificity of >0.99. In our multiethnic study sample, we did not find improved diagnostic performance with the addition of genetic risk scores.

Conclusions:

In the NEPTUNE cohort, combined PLA2R-Ab testing with ELISA and IIF provided optimal test characteristics in making a non-invasive diagnosis of MN before or soon after kidney biopsy, including in patients with sub-nephrotic proteinuria. Further studies in multiethnic populations are needed to assess whether genetic data can augment this approach.
Analysis of the Expression and Cultural Communication of the Red Gene in Chinese Language Films
Authors: Li Zenghui
Published: February 2025

The red gene carries the spiritual wealth of China's revolutionary history, and film art endows it with new forms of expression. Chinese language films play an irreplaceable role in the inheritance of the red gene, with cultural influence crossing national borders and promoting Chinese culture to the world. The article analyzes the artistic expression and dissemination path of revolutionary spirit in Chinese language films, presenting a unique interpretation of revolutionary spirit through screen language.
Smart Grids And IOT-Enabled Renewable Energy Integration
Authors: Ojo Oluwafemi Tayo , Dada Temitope James , Ademola Yusuff Afees , Olurankinse Gbenga , Ebuka Eguzoroh Emmanuel , Acka Benedict Boakye , Kujah Flourish Chiwendu
Published: February 2025

Over the past decades, the power system has undergone significant transformations. However, it faces multiple challenges, including rising electricity demand, power losses, grid failures, and a lack of innovative technology. Additionally, security threats to the grid have escalated. The existing power grid cannot effectively address these issues. The rapid advancement of the Internet of Things (IoT) has introduced innovative solutions, making it a promising technology for modernising power grids. Integrating IoT into the grid can enhance efficiency, capacity, reliability, sustainability, scalability, and stability. IoT-based smart grids offer solutions to many of the limitations of traditional grid systems. However, recent studies on IoT-enabled smart grids highlight security vulnerabilities as a critical concern. This paper explores various security challenges and frameworks associated with IoT-integrated smart grids. It also examines IoT and non-IoT technologies essential to intelligent grid networks, including sensing, communication, and computing technologies, along with relevant standards.
Smart Home Using ESP32 and ESP RainMaker
Authors: Deva S. Yoga
Published: February 2025

This study presents the design and implementation of a smart home automation system built around the ESP32
microcontroller, relay modules, and the ESP Rainmaker application. The system offers both remote control through a mobile
app and manual control via physical switches, ensuring seamless operation even in the absence of an internet connection. By
integrating Internet of Things technology, the system provides a flexible and user-friendly solution for managing household
appliances. The ESP32 serves as the central controller, enabling real-time communication between connected devices and the
ESP Rainmaker platform. The dual-mode control approach not only improves convenience and reliability but also supports
energy-efficient home management. The proposed system is cost-effective, scalable, and versatile, making it suitable for a wide
range of smart home applications. It highlights the potential of IoT-based technologies to enhance everyday living and lays a
foundation for future advancements in home automation systems.
Microbial Quality Assessment of Khoa Sold in Parbhani City of Maharashtra, India
Authors: D. B. Harkal
Published: February 2025

Khoa is required many desserts. Contaminated khoa may possess health risk when consumed raw or partially
processed. Microbial quality assessment of khoa is an important step. Present Study was Planned for microbial quality
assessment of khoa sold in Parbhani city of Maharashtra of India. The microbial quality of khoa was evaluated by assessing
Total Viable Count (TVC). A total of 100 khoa samples were collected and screened during study. Microbial quality was assessed
by estimating TVC. The mean TVC of khoa samples recorded was 2.755+0.139 x 106
and the range of TVC was found to be 0.61
x 106
to 9.68 x 106
. Sabaurdor's Dextrose Agar was utilized to isolate yeast and mould. It was found that khoa samples sold in
Parbhani city have high microbial load. Fungal contamination was found in 32 samples in the form of yeast and Mould. High
microbial load and fungal contaminants of khoa possess public health significance.
Business Intelligence for Real Estate Advertising System
Authors: Joshi Raj
Published: February 2025

We propose to build a real estate Advertising Using Business intelligence (REABI)-Real Estate Advertising Portal that
allows users to post property for sale, Buy as well as search sort property and contact its owner online ,Payment gateway Page it
gives location type of property, Also provide 24/7 service to all its users .Also in this we provide BI Panel which gives virtual
tour of proposed property, Market survey analysis BI graph
,Quality assurance report, Every user having Profile which created at the time of Register ,and once registering is done then
every time only login command is to use. This portal is Effecting on countries GDP rate. Because Real estate is 10%of total GDP
Decálogo, manifiesto y compendio ecomunitarista
Authors: Velasco Sirio López
Published: February 2025

Este libro intenta resumir aspectos fundamentales de la Filosofía Ecomunitarista y del Ecomunitarismo en tres textos de extensión creciente. El “Decálogo Ecomunitarista” presenta en tan solo un par de páginas el corazón de tal pensamiento y propuesta. El “Manifiesto Ecomunitarista” desarrolla el contenido de ese primer texto en una decena de páginas. Y el “Compendio Ecomunitarista” ofrece detalles de la argumentación que los dos textos anteriores, muy breves, no habían proporcionado.