bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Propane wet reforming over PtSn nanoparticles on γ-Al2O3 for acetone synthesis
Authors: Ma Xinlong , Yin Haibin , Pu Zhengtian , Zhang Xinyan , Hu Sunpei , Zhou Tao , Gao Weizhe , Luo Laihao , Li Hongliang , Zeng Jie
Published: September 2024

Acetone serves as an important solvent and building block for the chemical industry, but the current industrial synthesis of acetone is generally accompanied by the energy-intensive and costly cumene process used for phenol production. Here we propose a sustainable route for acetone synthesis via propane wet reforming at a moderate temperature of 350 oC with the use of platinum-tin nanoparticles supported on γ-aluminium oxide (PtSn/γ-Al2O3) as catalyst. We achieve an acetone productivity of 858.4 μmol/g with a selectivity of 57.8% among all carbon-based products and 99.3% among all liquid products. Detailed spectroscopic and controlled experiments reveal that the acetone is formed through a tandem catalytic process involving propene and isopropanol as intermediates. We also demonstrate facile ketone synthesis via wet reforming with the use of different alkanes (e.g., n-butane, n-pentane, n-hexane, n-heptane, and n-octane) as substrates, proving the wide applicability of this strategy.
Leptospira interrogans biofilm transcriptome highlights adaption to starvation and general stress while maintaining virulence
Authors: Davignon Grégoire , Pietrosemoli Natalia , Benaroudj Nadia , Soupé-Gilbert Marie-Estelle , Cagliero Julie , Turc Élodie , Picardeau Mathieu , Guentas Linda , Goarant Cyrille , Thibeaux Roman
Published: September 2024

Life-threatening Leptospira interrogans navigate a dual existence: surviving in the environment and infecting mammalian hosts. Biofilm formation is presumably an important survival strategy to achieve this process. Understanding the relation between biofilm and virulence might improve our comprehension of leptospirosis epidemiology. Our study focused on elucidating Leptospira’s adaptations and regulations involved in such complex microenvironments. To determine the transcriptional profile of Leptospira in biofilm, we compared the transcriptomes in late biofilms and in exponential planktonic cultures. While genes for motility, energy production, and metabolism were downregulated, those governing general stress response, defense against metal stress, and redox homeostasis showed a significant upsurge, hinting at a tailored defensive strategy against stress. Further, despite a reduced metabolic state, biofilm disruption swiftly restored metabolic activity. Crucially, bacteria in late biofilms or resulting from biofilm disruption retained virulence in an animal model. In summary, our study highlights Leptospira’s adaptive equilibrium in biofilms: minimizing energy expenditure, potentially aiding in withstanding stresses while maintaining pathogenicity. These insights are important for explaining the survival strategies of Leptospira, revealing that a biofilm lifestyle may confer an advantage in maintaining virulence, an understanding essential for managing leptospirosis across both environmental and mammalian reservoirs.
Marine carbon sink dominated by biological pump after temperature overshoot
Authors: Koeve Wolfgang , Landolfi Angela , Oschlies Andreas , Frenger Ivy
Published: September 2024

In the event of insufficient mitigation efforts, net-negative CO2 emissions may be required to return climate warming to acceptable limits as defined by the Paris Agreement. The ocean acts as an important carbon sink under increasing atmospheric CO2 levels when the physico-chemical uptake of carbon dominates. However, the processes that govern the marine carbon sink under net-negative CO2 emission regimes are unclear. Here we assessed changes in marine CO2 uptake and storage mechanisms under a range of idealized temperature-overshoot scenarios using an Earth system model of intermediate complexity over centennial timescales. We show that while the fate of CO2 from physico-chemical uptake is very sensitive to future atmospheric boundary conditions and CO2 is partly lost from the ocean at times of net-negative CO2 emissions, storage associated with the biological carbon pump continues to increase and may even dominate marine excess CO2 storage on multi-centennial timescales. Our findings imply that excess carbon that is attributable to the biological carbon pump needs to be considered carefully when quantifying and projecting changes in the marine carbon sink.
Madagascar rural observatory surveys, a longitudinal dataset on household living conditions 1995–2015
Authors: Andrianjafindrainibe Velomalala Solo , Andrianirina Nicole , Bédécarrats Florent , Droy Isabelle , Dubois Jean-Luc , de Montalembert Jeanne , Rabevohitra Bako Nirina , Rafidimanana Rolland , Rasolofo Patrick , Ratovoarinony Raphaël , Ratsaramiarina Lalasoa Anjarafara Onivola , Ravelonandro Jean Dieudonné , Razanamavo Voahirana , Razafindrakoto Mireille , Rivolala Bezaka , Roubaud François , Saint-Macary Camille
Published: September 2024

A Rural Observatory System (ROS) was established in Madagascar to address the lack of socioeconomic data on rural areas. It collected, analyzed, and disseminated data to help formulate and evaluate development policies. From 1995 to 2015, the ROS surveyed a total of 26 areas. The ROS methodology involved annual household panel surveys using consistent questionnaires supplemented by modules covering new themes. Qualitative community surveys were used to understand local features and dynamics. The site selection combined quantitative and qualitative insights to reflect the diversity of Madagascar’s rural challenges. Quality control was comprehensive, with measures such as limiting the number of daily surveyor interviews and daily field supervision. By making this data available for 21 consecutive years, along with documentation, metadata, and code with analysis examples, we aim to facilitate their discovery, assessment, and understanding by researchers, policymakers, and social organizations. To our knowledge, this is the only available data for an in-depth analysis of the situation and trends in the rural areas of Madagascar.
Non-canonical chromatin-based functions for the threonine metabolic pathway
Authors: Chik Jennifer K. , Su Xue Bessie , Klepin Stephen , Raygoza Jessica , Pillus Lorraine
Published: September 2024

The emerging class of multi-functional proteins known as moonlighters challenges the “one protein, one function” mentality by demonstrating crosstalk between biological pathways that were previously thought to be functionally discrete. Here, we present new links between amino acid metabolism and chromatin regulation, two biological pathways that are critical for cellular and organismal homeostasis. We discovered that the threonine biosynthetic pathway is required for the transcriptional silencing of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The enzymes in the pathway promote rDNA silencing through distinct mechanisms as a subset of silencing phenotypes was rescued with exogenous threonine. In addition, we found that a key pathway enzyme, homoserine dehydrogenase, promotes DNA repair through a mechanism involving the MRX complex, a major player in DNA double strand break repair. These data further the understanding of enzymes with non-canonical roles, here demonstrated within the threonine biosynthetic pathway, and provide insight into their roles as potential anti-fungal pharmaceutical targets.
Toxoplasma gondii infection affects the complete blood count and disturbs the markers of oxidative stress from the vital organs of wild rodents
Authors: Ijaz Maryam , Khan Asmat Ullah , Ullah Shakir , Khan Afshan , Ibenmoussa Samir , Sitotaw Baye , Dawoud Turki M. , Khan Adil , Iqbal Furhan
Published: September 2024

Rodents are the synanthropic mammals that are existing in close proximity to humans and their belongings and have the potential to act as the reservoir for a variety of parasites having zoonotic potential. Present study was designed to report the molecular prevalence and phylogenetic evaluation of Toxoplasma gondii in the blood samples of four wild rodent species [Rattus rattus (N = 122), Mus musculus (N = 64), Rattus norvegicus (N = 57) and Dryomys nitedula (N = 1)] that were trapped during May 2022 till July 2023 from three districts in Punjab (Jampur, Dera Ghazi Khan and Multan) and three districts (Upper Dir, Mardan and Bunar) in Pakistan. Results revealed that 44/244 (18%) rodents amplified ITS-1 gene of Toxoplasma gondii through PCR. Parasite prevalence varied between the rodent species. Highest rate of infection was found in Rattus norvegicus followed by Rattus rattus and Mus musculus. For both rat species, Toxoplasma gondii infection significantly varies between the sampling districts. DNA sequencing and BLAST analysis confirmed the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in rodent blood samples. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Pakistani isolates were genetically diverse and clustered with the isolates that were reported from worldwide countries. Complete blood count analysis revealed that parasite infected rodents had disturbed lymphocyte, mean platelet volume, mean corpuscular volume (and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Markers of oxidative stress analysis revealed that infected rodent had elevated malondialdehyde levels in liver and kidney while disturb catalase concentrations in kidney and heart as compared to uninfected animals. In conclusion, we are reporting a relatively high prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Pakistani rodents. Infection leads to disturbed complete blood count and markers of oxidative stress in the vital organs. We recommend large scale studies in various geo-climatic regions of Pakistan to report the incidence and prevalence of this pathogen among the rodents in order to prevent their infections in local people as well as in livestock.
Enhanced homeostatic sleep response and decreased neurodegenerative proteins in cereblon knock-out mice
Authors: Jung Jun-Hyung , Kim Jinhong , Akber Uroos , Lee Na Young , Baek Jeong-won , Jung Jieun , Park Mincheol , Kang Jiseung , Jeon Seungje , Park Chul-Seung , Kim Tae
Published: September 2024

Energy homeostasis and sleep have a bidirectional relationship. Cereblon (CRBN) regulates energy levels by ubiquitinating the AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK), an energy sensor. However, whether CRBN participates in sleep is unclear. Here, we examine sleep–wake patterns in Crbn+/+ and Crbn−/− mice during 24-h baseline, 6-h sleep deprivation (SD), and following 6-h recovery sleep (RS). At baseline, overall sleep patterns are similar between genotypes. However, SD decreases CRBN expression in Crbn+/+ mice and increases phospho-Tau, phospho-α-synuclein, DNAJA1 (DJ2), and DNAJB1 (DJ1) in both genotypes, with Crbn−/− mice showing a lesser extent of increase in p-Tau and p-α-synuclein and a higher level of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), DJ2, and DJ1. During RS, Crbn−/− mice show increased slow-wave activity in the low-delta range (0.5–2.5 Hz), suggesting higher homeostatic sleep propensity associated with AMPK hyperactivation. By illuminating the role of CRBN in regulating sleep–wake behaviors through AMPK, we suggest CRBN as a potential therapeutic target for managing sleep disorders and preventing neurodegeneration.
Mildly explosive eruptions at Martian low-shield volcanoes
Authors: Pieterek Bartosz , Jones Thomas J.
Published: September 2024

Ongoing acquisition of Martian surface imagery constantly provides new opportunities to reveal previously undiscovered small-scale volcanic landforms, yielding critical insights into volcanic processes, and challenging existing inferences. Here, using the most recent, high-resolution topographical data, we mapped the accumulation of pyroclastic deposits occurring along the margins of several volcanic vents. They share morphological similarities with terrestrial volcanic deposits attributed to low-intensity lava fountaining occurring during mild explosive activity. Our identified, explosive volcanic deposits are associated with late Amazonian volcanic activity in Tharsis. The identification of these very recent (<100 Ma) deposits across the entire Tharsis volcanic province needs reconciling with our current view of the evolution of explosive volcanism on Mars. We contend that these small volume landforms, produced by mildly explosive volcanic activity, need to be considered in models surrounding planet-scale magmatic evolution and atmospheric volatile budgets.
Accounting for existing tenure and rights over marine and freshwater systems
Authors: Tholan Brittany , Basurto Xavier , Cohen Philippa J. , Franz Nicole , Himes-Cornell Amber , Govan Hugh , Fakoya Kafayat , Akintola Shehu L. , Aceves-Bueno Eréndira
Published: September 2024

Global commitments to conservation and sustainable development increasingly demand sensitivity to the rights and territories of Indigenous peoples and local communities. However, existing tenure systems are often overlooked by global actors and their initiatives. Using key informant surveys, literature, and established databases, we describe 62 distinct tenure systems (or place-based, governance relationships between people and coasts) across 24 countries. In all systems, people held rights to access and use aquatic resources to support healthy diets, livelihoods, and culture. The three collective-choice rights (i.e., management, exclusion, transferability) were present in 29% of systems – suggesting conditions sufficient for “self-governance”. People gained or held rights due to their residency (in 63% of systems); through historical use (52%), permits (35%), and/or kinship (29%). Our synthesis provides an opportunity for policy and action to recognize these systems of tenure, and to stimulate further actions that illuminate and recognize the rights of communities toward their sovereignty.
Genomic epidemiology describes introduction and outbreaks of antifungal drug-resistant Candida auris
Authors: Kappel Dana , Gifford Hugh , Brackin Amelie , Abdolrasouli Alireza , Eyre David W. , Jeffery Katie , Schlenz Silke , Aanensen David M. , Brown Colin S. , Borman Andrew , Johnson Elizabeth , Holmes Alison , Armstrong-James Darius , Fisher Matthew C. , Rhodes Johanna
Published: September 2024

Candida auris is a globally emerged fungal pathogen causing nosocomial invasive infections. Here, we use cutting-edge genomic approaches to elucidate the temporal and geographic epidemiology of drug-resistant C. auris within the UK. We analysed a representative sample of over 200 isolates from multiple UK hospitals to assess the number and timings of C. auris introductions and infer subsequent patterns of inter- and intra-hospital transmission of azole drug-resistant isolates. We identify at least one introduction from Clade I and two from Clade III into the UK, and observe temporal and geographical evidence for multiple transmission events of antifungal drug resistant isolates between hospitals and identified local within-hospital patient-to-patient transmission events. Our study confirms outbreaks of drug-resistant C. auris are linked and that transmission amongst patients occurs, explaining local hospital outbreaks, and demonstrating a need for improved epidemiological surveillance of C. auris to protect patients and healthcare services.
Introduction to Drug Discovery in Epigenetics
Authors: Jones Peter A. , Liu Minmin
Published: September 2024

All human tumours contain epigenomic abnormalities which cooperate with genetic mutations to establish and drive the malignant state. Epigenetic therapy seeks to target the epigenome and three drug classes, DNA methyltransferase, histone deacetylase and histone methyltransferase inhibitors, are approved for clinical use. The first two drug classes were discovered unexpectedly in the mid-1970s due to their remarkable abilities to either reprogram cells or induce cellular differentiation in culture. Further development of epigenetic therapy will likely require the design of novel combination therapies with other inhibitors of chromatin regulators and/or other modalities, including immunotherapy.
Safety Considerations of Targeting Epigenetic Mechanisms
Authors: Lovatt C. A. , Liu S. , Scott C. W.
Published: September 2024

Epigenetic regulation of gene expression utilises cellular epigenetic machinery that includes enzymes that add chemical groups or ‘marks’ to DNA or histones (‘writers’), those that remove these ‘marks’ (‘erasers’) and those that recognise and bind to the ‘marks’ (‘readers’). The epigenome differs between cell, tissue and species and is dynamic and constantly changing based on factors that include development, aging, disease, nutritional status and environmental conditions, so the determination of the causality of a ‘moment in time’ epigenetic profile in the development of toxicity and disease is very challenging. Currently, the field of epigenetics research is still striving to determine what epigenetic changes are adverse, beneficial, adaptive or neutral. At the time of writing, there are no specific epigenetic-based regulatory requirements; therefore, currently, the assessment of the safety risk of epigenetic modulators is not significantly different than for other small molecules. The unique characteristics of epigenetic modulation should, however, be taken into account when designing safety studies, such as the potential for delayed toxicity and careful consideration should be made with the choice of species. The targeting of epigenetic mechanisms for novel disease therapies offers the promise of highly personalised medicines if such changes can be harnessed on an individual patient basis.
Retraction: Cytocompatible, soft and thick brush-modified scaffolds with prolonged antibacterial effect to mitigate wound infections
Authors: Dhingra Shaifali , Gaur Vidit , Saini Varsha , Rana Kajal , Bhattacharyya Jayanta , Loho Thomas , Ray Sudip , Bajaj Avinash , Saha Sampa
Published: September 2024

Retraction of ‘Cytocompatible, soft and thick brush-modified scaffolds with prolonged antibacterial effect to mitigate wound infections’ by Shaifali Dhingra et al., Biomater. Sci., 2022, 10, 3856–3877, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2BM00245K.
Developing homogeneous first row early transition metal catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: McCormick Mary Jo , Machan Charles W.
Published: September 2024

Known reports of homogeneous dioxygen reduction mediated by Ti, V, and Cr are discussed, as well as possible future strategies for more active and selective systems.
Kinetics of the reactions of the Criegee intermediate CH2OO with water vapour: experimental measurements as a function of temperature and global atmospheric modelling
Authors: Lade Rachel E. , Blitz Mark A. , Rowlinson Matthew , Evans Mathew J. , Seakins Paul W. , Stone Daniel
Published: September 2024

The kinetics of reactions between the Criegee intermediate, CH2OO, and water vapour have been investigated between 262 and 353 K at 760 Torr using laser flash photolysis of CH2I2–O2–N2–H2O with broadband time-resolved UV absorption spectroscopy.
Advanced morphological control over Cu nanowires through a design of experiments approach
Authors: Conte Andrea , Rosati Antonella , Fantin Marco , Aliprandi Alessandro , Baron Marco , Bonacchi Sara , Antonello Sabrina
Published: September 2024

Multiparametric variation of experimental reaction conditions combined with orthogonal technical analysis allowed developing a sound predictive model that provides guidelines for designing Cu nanowires with controlled morphology and reaction yield.
Hierarchical zeolite-encapsulated metal nanoparticles for heterogeneous catalysis
Authors: Liu Xingxu , Zhao Shufang , Yang Wenjie , Huang Jun
Published: September 2024

The figure illustrates the focus of this review article, which includes the different structures of catalysts (metal@zeolite), synthesis methods, applications, and the challenges that need to be addressed.
Synthesis of metal-binding amino acids
Authors: Deck Katherine E. V. , Brittain William D. G.
Published: September 2024

Contemporary approaches for the synthesis of non-proteinogenic metal-binding amino acids are reviewed.
Asymmetric synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]indoles via bifunctional tertiary amine catalyzed [3 + 2] annulation of 2-nitrovinylindoles with azlactones
Authors: Deng Jiang , Yan Junyuan , Li Wei , Li Xiaomei , Li Zhiming , Wu Song , Xie Jiachen , Wang Zhouyu , Qian Shan , He Xiao-Long
Published: September 2024

A bifunctional tertiary amine catalyzed [3 + 2] annulation of nitrovinylindoles with azlactones has been developed, delivering a wide range of pyrrolo[1,2-a]indoles and pyrrolo[3,2,1-ij]quinoline in excellent results (53–92% yield, 53–96% ee).
Dynamical responses predict a distal site that modulates activity in an antibiotic resistance enzyme
Authors: Beer Michael , Oliveira Ana Sofia F. , Tooke Catherine L. , Hinchliffe Philip , Tsz Yan Li Angie , Balega Balazs , Spencer James , Mulholland Adrian J.
Published: September 2024

Dynamical non-equilibrium molecular dynamics (D-NEMD) simulations pinpoint distal sites in class A β-lactamases as targets for mutation. Experiments show mutation at a predicted distal site changes the spectrum of enzyme activity against antibiotics.
A general synthesis of cyclic bottlebrush polymers with enhanced mechanical properties via graft-through ring expansion metathesis polymerization
Authors: Elardo Matthew J. , Levenson Adelaide M. , Kitos Vasconcelos Ana Paula , Pomfret Meredith N. , Golder Matthew R.
Published: September 2024

Cyclic bottlebrush polymers combine the promise of densely-grafted macromolecular architectures with the mechanical advantages of cyclic polymers for diverse applications across materials science.
Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 perovskite anode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Chintha Sridivya , Atif Shahan , Chaupatnaik Anshuman , Golubnichiy Alexander , Abakumov Artem M. , Barpanda Prabeer
Published: September 2024

This work reports the use of lead-free Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 perovskite as a lithium-ion battery anode and explores its charge storage mechanism. It opens the door to explore numerous Bi-based oxides capable of reversibly hosting lithium.
Exploring layered double hydroxide efficiency in removal of fluoride ions from water: material insights, synthesis and modification strategies and adsorption mechanisms
Authors: Sun Li , Niu Jinan , Liu Hongpeng , Liu Fangfang , Reka Arianit A. , Matusik Jakub , Feng Peizhong
Published: September 2024

This work explores the composition, synthesis and modification strategies and adsorption mechanisms of layered double hydroxide for the removal of fluoride ions from water.
Carboxylation reactions for the sustainable manufacture of chemicals and monomers
Authors: Faba Laura , Ordóñez Salvador
Published: September 2024

Carboxylation is a promising and versatile technology for producing industrially valuable products, being a potential process for future use of captured CO2. Enzymatic and thermochemical routes are the closest to being scaled up.
Microplastics analysis: from qualitative to quantitative
Authors: Huang Meina , Si Chunying , Qiu Chuntian , Wang Guoqing
Published: September 2024

This review provides a critical overview of the literature on analytical techniques of MPs in environmental and food matrices, emphasizing the latest methods for MP separation, identification, and quantification.
Biochemical researchers building careers across sectors
Authors: Croucher Dannielle
Published: September 2024

Building a career across sectors is rewarding and impactful, but barriers harm the ability of researchers to pursue new avenues. New evidence and policy recommendations from the National Centre for Universities and Business shine a light on opportunities to unlock diverse careers in biochemistry.
Exploring Culturally Responsive Voice Care: Introduction
Authors: Sund Lauren Timmons , Morton-Jones Mariah E. , Castro M. Eugenia
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this introduction is to broadly discuss cultural responsiveness and serve as a prelude to the forum articles, which discuss specific aspects of cultural responsiveness within voice care.

Conclusion:

Cultural responsiveness encompasses practices that consider the patient's cultural beliefs, values, and perspectives in all aspects of the therapeutic process. Voice is a cultural construct, and as such, the presence or impact of a voice disorder is impacted by a patient's culture. Each article in this forum is briefly introduced.
Correction‐enabled reversible data hiding with pixel repetition for high embedding rate and quality preservation
Authors: Kawser Mohammad Ali , Nyeem Hussain , Wahed Md Abdul
Published: September 2024

A novel correction‐enabled Pixel Repetition (PR)‐based Reversible Data Hiding (RDH) framework, featuring a new embedding scheme is presented. The proposed RDH scheme uses contextually redundant block pixels, generated via PR, in a two‐phase adaptive embedding process, enhancing both image quality and data embedding rates. Specifically, each block encodes 4 bits of data using new mapping conditions that facilitate seed pixel reconstruction from remaining block pixels and provide additional embedding opportunities. Additionally, an innovative post‐embedding error correction technique, based on ‐bit error‐correction, minimises post‐embedding distortion, further improving image quality. This error correction approach augments data embedding robustness, vital for applications like medical imaging, telemedicine, and digital watermarking that requires high embedding capacity with minimum possible distortion. The proposed scheme surpasses existing state‐of‐the‐art methods in embedding rate‐distortion performance, validated through subjective and objective analyses. Furthermore, statistical analysis, including histogram and fragility testing, confirms the scheme's potential for image authentication across diverse multimedia applications. The correction‐enabled RDH with PR offers enhanced embedding capacity and image quality preservation, making it particularly advantageous for applications requiring robust data hiding while maintaining visual fidelity.
Parameter identification of PV solar cells and modules using bio dynamics grasshopper optimization algorithm
Authors: Jabari Mostafa , Rad Amin , Nasab Morteza Azimi , Zand Mohammad , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar , Muyeen S. M. , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: September 2024

The escalating global population and energy demands underscore the critical role of renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, in mitigating environmental degradation caused by traditional fossil fuels. This paper emphasizes the advantages of solar energy, especially photovoltaic (PV) systems, which have become pivotal in hybrid energy systems. However, accurate modelling and identification of PV cell parameters pose challenges, prompting the adoption of meta‐heuristic optimization algorithms. This work explores the limitations of existing algorithms and introduces a novel approach, the bio‐dynamics grasshopper optimization algorithm (BDGOA). The BDGOA addresses deficiencies in both exploration and exploitation phases, exhibiting exceptional convergence speed and efficiency. The algorithm's simplicity, achieved through the implementation of an elimination phase and controlled search space, enhances its performance without intricate calculations. The study evaluates the BDGOA by applying it to identify unknown parameters of five solar modules. The algorithm's effectiveness is demonstrated through the extraction of parameters for RTC France, PWP201, SM55, KC200GT, and SW255 models, validated against experimental data under diverse conditions. The paper concludes with insights into the impact of radiation and temperature on module parameters. The subsequent sections of the paper delve into the intricacies of the PV cell and module model, articulate the formulation of the proposed algorithm, present simulations, and analyse the obtained results. The BDGOA emerges as a promising solution, overcoming the limitations of existing algorithms and contributing significantly to the advancement of accurate and efficient PV cell parameter identification, thereby propelling progress towards a sustainable energy future.
High‐speed, two‐stage operational transconductance amplifier without Miller capacitor, suitable for large capacitive load
Authors: Rashtian Mohammad , Shahpasandi Mahdi , Parastari Javad
Published: September 2024

A two‐stage Class A‐AB operational transconductance amplifier with low power consumption, high slew rate, and high bandwidth is introduced for handling large capacitive loads. Unlike the conventional two‐stage operational transconductance amplifiers that use a Miller capacitor, compensation is provided by the load capacitor (CL) at the output node. The proposed two‐stage amplifier maintains a 45° phase margin (PM) over any load capacitance. This is achieved through a MOSFET‐based RC network at the output node. Dual nMOS/pMOS differential stages drive output directly, improving both SR+ and SR−. Post‐layout simulation results with a capacitive load of 100 pF (CL) demonstrate that the proposed operational transconductance amplifier has a DC gain of 60.1 dB, an excellent average slew rate of 20.3 V/µs, a gain‐bandwidth product of 10.6 MHz, an average 1% settling time of 122.2 ns and a PM of 76.6°, while consuming only 103.5 µW. Reducing the CL to 10 pF reduces the PM to 47.6°, while increasing the gain‐bandwidth and average slew rate to 82.9 MHz and 142.6 V/µs respectively.
Mass scaling relations for dark halos from an analytic universal outer density profile
Authors: Korkidis Giorgos , Pavlidou Vasiliki
Published: September 2024

Context. The average matter density within the turnaround scale, which demarcates where galaxies shift from clustering around a structure to joining the expansion of the Universe, is an important cosmological probe. However, a measurement of the mass enclosed by the turnaround radius is difficult. Analyses of the turnaround scale in simulated galaxy clusters place the turnaround radius at about three times the virial radius in a ΛCDM universe and at a (present-day) density contrast with the background matter density of the Universe of δ ~ 11. Assessing the mass at such extended distances from a cluster’s center is a challenge for current mass measurement techniques. Consequently, there is a need to develop and validate new mass-scaling relations, to connect observable masses at cluster interiors with masses at greater distances.

Aims. Our research aims to establish an analytical framework for the most probable mass profile of galaxy clusters, leading to novel mass scaling relations, allowing us to estimate masses at larger scales. We derive such analytical mass profiles and compare them with those from cosmological simulations.

Methods. We used excursion set theory, which provides a statistical framework for the density and local environment of dark matter halos, and complement it with the spherical collapse model to follow the non-linear growth of these halos.

Results. The profile we developed analytically showed good agreement (better than 30%, and dependent on halo mass) with the mass profiles of simulated galaxy clusters. Mass scaling relations were obtained from the analytical profile with offset better than 15% from the simulated ones. This level of precision highlights the potential of our model for probing structure formation dynamics at the outskirts of galaxy clusters.
Transferring spectroscopic stellar labels to 217 million Gaia DR3 XP stars with SHBoost
Authors: Khalatyan A. , Anders F. , Chiappini C. , Queiroz A. B. A. , Nepal S. , dal Ponte M. , Jordi C. , Guiglion G. , Valentini M. , Torralba Elipe G. , Steinmetz M. , Pantaleoni-González M. , Malhotra S. , Jiménez-Arranz Ó. , Enke H. , Casamiquela L. , Ardèvol J.
Published: September 2024

With Gaia Data Release 3 (DR3), new and improved astrometric, photometric, and spectroscopic measurements for 1.8 billion stars have become available. Alongside this wealth of new data, however, there are challenges in finding efficient and accurate computational methods for their analysis. In this paper, we explore the feasibility of using machine learning regression as a method of extracting basic stellar parameters and line-of-sight extinctions from spectro-photometric data. To this end, we built a stable gradient-boosted random-forest regressor (xgboost), trained on spectroscopic data, capable of producing output parameters with reliable uncertainties from Gaia DR3 data (most notably the low-resolution XP spectra), without ground-based spectroscopic observations. Using Shapley additive explanations, we interpret how the predictions for each star are influenced by each data feature. For the training and testing of the network, we used high-quality parameters obtained from the StarHorse code for a sample of around eight million stars observed by major spectroscopic stellar surveys, complemented by curated samples of hot stars, very metal-poor stars, white dwarfs, and hot sub-dwarfs. The training data cover the whole sky, all Galactic components, and almost the full magnitude range of the Gaia DR3 XP sample of more than 217 million objects that also have reported parallaxes. We have achieved median uncertainties of 0.20 mag in V-band extinction, 0.01 dex in logarithmic effective temperature, 0.20 dex in surface gravity, 0.18 dex in metallicity, and 12% in mass (over the full Gaia DR3 XP sample, with considerable variations in precision as a function of magnitude and stellar type). We succeeded in predicting competitive results based on Gaia DR3 XP spectra compared to classical isochrone or spectral-energy distribution fitting methods we employed in earlier works, especially for parameters AV and Teff, along with the metallicity values. Finally, we showcase some potential applications of this new catalogue, including extinction maps, metallicity trends in the Milky Way, and extended maps of young massive stars, metal-poor stars, and metal-rich stars.
The ALMA-CRISTAL survey: Dust temperature and physical conditions of the interstellar medium in a typical galaxy at z = 5.66
Authors: Villanueva V. , Herrera-Camus R. , González-López J. , Aravena M. , Assef R. J. , Baeza-Garay M. , Barcos-Muñoz L. , Bovino S. , Bowler R. A. A. , da Cunha E. , De Looze I. , Diaz-Santos T. , Ferrara A. , Förster Schreiber N. M. , Algera H. , Ikeda R. , Killi M. , Mitsuhashi I. , Naab T. , Relano M. , Spilker J. , Solimano M. , Palla M. , Price S. H. , Posses A. , Tadaki K. , Telikova K. , Übler H.
Published: September 2024

We present new λrest = 77 μm dust continuum observations from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array of HZ10 (CRISTAL-22). This dusty main sequence galaxy at z = 5.66 was observed as part of the [CII] Resolved Ism in STar-forming Alma Large program (CRISTAL). The high angular resolution of the ALMA Band 7 and new Band 9 data (∼0′′​​.4) reveals the complex structure of HZ10, which comprises two main components (HZ10-C and HZ10-W), along with a bridge-like dusty emission between them (i.e., “the bridge”). Using a modified blackbody function to model the dust spectral energy distribution (SED), we constrained the physical conditions of the interstellar medium (ISM) and its variations among the different components identified in HZ10. We find that HZ10-W (the more UV-obscured component) has an SED dust temperature of TSED ∼ 51.2 ± 13.1 K; this was found to be ∼5 K higher (which is statistically insignificant; i.e., less than 1σ) than that of the central component and previous global estimations for HZ10. Our new ALMA data allow us to reduce the uncertainties of global TSED measurements by a factor of ∼2.3, compared to previous studies. The HZ10 components have [CII]-to-far-infrared (FIR) luminosity ratios and FIR surface densities values that are consistent with local starburst galaxies. However, HZ10-W shows a lower [CII]/FIR ratio compared to the other two components (albeit still within the uncertainties), which may suggest a harder radiation field destroying polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon associated with [CII] emission (e.g., active galactic nuclei or young stellar populations). While HZ10-C appears to follow the tight IRX-βUV relation seen in local UV-selected starburst galaxies and high-z star-forming galaxies, we find that both HZ10-W and the bridge depart from this relation and are well described by dust-screen models with holes in front of a hard UV radiation field. This suggests that the UV emission, which is likely coming from young stellar populations, is strongly attenuated in the “dustier” components of the HZ10 system.
Assessing playability limits of bowed-string transients using experimental measurements
Authors: Lampis Alessio , Mayer Alexander , Chatziioannou Vasileios
Published: September 2024

Understanding the dynamics of bowed-string attacks involves exploring the relationship between bow acceleration, bow force, and the generation of Helmholtz motion during transients. This study addresses the following research question: How do theoretical limits of “playability” predict these parameters? Motivated by the need for experimental evidence in this domain, we present a comprehensive investigation into bowed-string transients within the bow acceleration and bow force parameter space, known as the Guettler diagram. This study exclusively employs an experimental methodology. The setup, employing a robotic arm, permits the collection of transient data under varying bowing conditions. Analysis of the bridge force waveform allows for the extraction of pre-Helmholtz transient times. Our results reveal a triangular playable region in the Guettler diagram, consistent with theoretical predictions and previous experimental findings. However, Guettler’s analytical limits for playable regions during transients show limitations. We investigate the role of friction, a key parameter idealized in the model used for obtaining these limits. Measured friction coefficients from transients reveal discrepancies with prior experimental studies, highlighting the need for further investigations in this direction.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition for focal liver lesions can be safely performed in patients with ascites
Authors: Takano Yuichi , Tamai Naoki , Yamawaki Masataka , Noda Jun , Azami Tetsushi , Niiya Fumitaka , Nishimoto Fumiya , Maruoka Naotaka , Yamagami Tatsuya , Nagahama Masatsugu
Published: September 2024

Background and study aims In patients with ascites, percutaneous liver biopsy is generally contraindicated. Because endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) allows tissue sample obtention from the digestive tract lumen, a biopsy without the intervention of ascites may prevent adverse events (AEs). This study aimed to evaluate the safety of EUS-TA for focal liver lesions in the presence of ascites.

Patients and methods A retrospective study was conducted using medical records of cases in which EUS-TA was performed on focal liver lesions between 2016 and 2022. Study participants were classified into two groups: those with ascites and those without it, and the outcomes were compared. The primary outcome was AEs.

Results We included 109 cases of EUS-TA for focal liver lesions. Ascites was present in 20.1% of cases (22/109) and absent in 79.8% of cases (87/109). There were no significant differences between the two groups in clinical backgrounds and EUS-TA procedure, although fine-needle biopsy needles were significantly more frequently used in patients without ascites. In the ascites group, puncture without intervening ascites was successful in 90.9% of cases (20/22). The incidence of AEs was 4.5% (1/22) in the ascites group and 1.1% (1/87) in the non-ascites group, showing no significant difference. The two AEs were mild self-limiting abdominal pain.

Conclusions In focal liver lesions with ascites, EUS-TA allows biopsy without the intervention of ascites in most cases. The incidence of AEs did not differ significantly between patients with and without ascites.
Mechanisms and Research Progress of Traditional Chinese Medicine Regulating NF-κB in the Treatment of Acute Lung Injury/Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Zuo Wanzhao , Tian Fanian , Ke Jia , Jiang Cheng , Yang Yi , He Cong
Published: September 2024

Acute lung injury (ALI) has multiple causes and can easily progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) if not properly treated. Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) is a key pathway in the treatment of ALI/ARDS. By exploring the relevance of NF-κB and the pathogenesis of this disease, it was found that this disease was mainly associated with inflammation, dysfunction of the endothelial barrier, oxidative stress, impaired clearance of alveolar fluid, and coagulation disorders. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has the characteristics of multitargeting, multipathway effects, and high safety, which can directly or indirectly affect the treatment of ALI/ARDS. This article summarizes the mechanism and treatment strategies of TCM in recent years through intervention in the NF-κB-related signaling pathways for treating ALI/ARDS. It provides an overview from the perspectives of Chinese herbal monomers, TCM couplet medicines, TCM injections, Chinese herbal compounds, and Chinese herbal preparations, offering insights into the prevention and treatment of ALI/ARDS with TCM.
The Chinese Herbal Formula Weichang'an Reduces the Proliferation of Human Gastric Cancer Cells via Mitochondrial Apoptosis
Authors: Chen Weixia , Niu Yaofei , Chen Bin , Zhao Aiguang
Published: September 2024

Objective The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of Chinese herbal formula Weichang'an (WCA) on the proliferation and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis of human gastric cancer cells.

Methods Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) was used to evaluate the antiproliferative activity of WCA on MKN45 cells; Giemsa staining was used to investigate cell colony formation; flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle, apoptosis rate, and caspases activation; and Hoechst staining was used to analyze the morphology of cell nuclei. The mitochondrial membrane potential was analyzed by both flow cytometric measurements and fluorescence microscopy. Western blot was used to analyze the protein levels of pro-caspase-3, Bcl-2, Bax, and Bcl-X. MKN45 cells were subcutaneously injected into the right forelimb of 16 nude mice to establish the tumor xenograft model, and a total of 12 nude mouse tumor xenograft models were successfully created. The nude mice were divided into the control group and the WCA-treated group. The two groups received normal saline and WCA treatment at 35.49 g/kg by a single daily oral gavage for 21 days. The body weight and tumor size of the nude mice were measured twice a week. The ultrastructural changes of subcutaneous tumors were observed by a transmission electron microscope.

Results WCA can suppress cell proliferation and colony formation. It can also induce changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential and increase the activities of caspases-3, caspases-8, and caspases-9 in MKN45 cells. WCA induced S-phase arrest and apoptosis in MKN45 cells, and decreased the expression levels of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-X in MKN45 cells, while increasing the expression levels of the proapoptotic proteins Bax and pro-caspase-3 compared with the control group. WCA inhibited the growth of a xenografted MKN45 tumor in nude mice, and the protein levels of Bax and pro-caspase-3 were significantly increased, while Bcl-X and Bcl-2 were reduced compared with the control group. The differences are statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion WCA could suppress the proliferation of gastric cancer cells via mitochondrial apoptosis.
Holistic Integrative Medicine Declaration- Secondary publication
Authors: Fan Daiming
Published: September 2024

Holistic integrative medicine, abbreviated as HIM, has been officially proposed since 2012. Its theoretical system has been continuously improved, and its practical methods have become increasingly diverse, becoming an inevitable choice and path for the medical development in the new era. This article demonstrates ten major propositions for HIM, elaborating on the connotation and extension of HIM from the perspectives of epistemology and methodology, in order to achieve the transformation and adaptive evolution of modern medicine.
Roadmap to Success: Illustrating Insights from a KAP Study on Cervical Cancer Prevention and HPV Vaccination
Authors: Ganeshkumar Priya , Tank Jaydeep , Choudhury Saswati Sanyal , Acharya Veena , Gaur Yashodhara , Srivastava Reena , Janakiraman Revathy , Ganeshkumar Akshay
Published: September 2024

Introduction Cervical cancer is a public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries, with India ranking among the highest in cervical cancer burden. The World Health Organization (has set ambitious targets for cervical cancer elimination by 2030, emphasizing the importance of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening. In response, the National Technical Advisory Group of Immunization recommends the introduction of HPV vaccination for all eligible girls aged 9 to 14 years in India under the Universal Immunization Program. However, successful implementation requires both vaccine availability and changes in health care providers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding cervical cancer prevention and HPV vaccination.

Methodology This study aims to assess KAP among clinicians regarding cervical cancer and HPV vaccination. A cross-sectional survey collected responses from 451 practicing gynecologists and medical practitioners across 15 states of India. The questionnaire sought insights into patient inquiries, information sources, awareness levels, methods of patient education, and common myths and misconceptions.

Results Results indicate a high prevalence of patient inquiries about cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine, emphasizing the need for accurate and accessible information. While doctors were generally knowledgeable, misconceptions persisted among patients, including beliefs about low risk, inevitability of cervical cancer, and concerns about vaccine safety. Doctors primarily relied on verbal communication for patient education, suggesting potential for utilizing digital platforms and visual aids to enhance outreach.

Insights Insights from doctors underscored the importance of addressing misinformation and leveraging various communication channels, including social media, posters, and celebrity endorsements, to improve awareness and acceptance of vaccination. Disparities in vaccine availability and administration rates highlighted the need for targeted interventions to ensure equitable access.

Limitations Limitations of the study included its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce bias. However, findings suggest a need for ongoing medical education and collaboration with stakeholders to drive awareness and acceptance of HPV vaccination.

Conclusion In conclusion, while gynecologists and medical practitioners demonstrate adequate KAP regarding cervical cancer prevention, there is room for improvement in patient education and communication strategies. Refining educational materials and strengthening communication channels would enhance awareness and reduce cervical cancer burden.