bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct observation of subunit rotation during DNA strand exchange by serine recombinases
Authors: Cadden Gillian M. , Schloetel Jan-Gero , McKenzie Grant , Boocock Martin R. , Magennis Steven W. , Stark W. Marshall
Published: November 2024

Serine recombinases are proposed to catalyse site-specific recombination by a unique mechanism called subunit rotation. Cutting and rejoining DNA occurs within an intermediate synaptic complex comprising a recombinase tetramer bound to two DNA sites. After double-strand cleavage at both sites, one half of the complex rotates 180° relative to the other, before re-ligation of the DNA ends. We used single-molecule FRET (smFRET) methods to provide compelling direct physical evidence for subunit rotation by recombinases Tn3 resolvase and Sin. Synaptic complexes containing fluorescently labelled DNA show FRET fluctuations consistent with the subunit rotation model. FRET changes were associated with the rotation steps, on a timescale of 0.4–1.1 $${{\mbox{s}}}^{-1}$$

s

−
1

, as well as opening and closing of the gap between the scissile phosphates during cleavage and ligation. Multiple rounds of recombination were observed within the ~25 s observation period, including frequent consecutive rotation events in the cleaved-DNA state without evidence of intermediate ligation.
Paired analysis of host and pathogen genomes identifies determinants of human tuberculosis
Authors: Luo Yang , Huang Chuan-Chin , Howard Nicole C. , Wang Xin , Liu Qingyun , Li Xinyi , Zhu Junhao , Amariuta Tiffany , Asgari Samira , Ishigaki Kazuyoshi , Calderon Roger , Raman Sahadevan , Ramnarine Alexandrea K. , Mayfield Jacob A. , Moody D. Branch , Lecca Leonid , Fortune Sarah M. , Murray Megan B. , Raychaudhuri Soumya
Published: November 2024

Infectious disease is the result of interactions between host and pathogen and can depend on genetic variations in both. We conduct a genome-to-genome study of paired human and Mycobacterium tuberculosis genomes from a cohort of 1556 tuberculosis patients in Lima, Peru. We identify an association between a human intronic variant (rs3130660, OR = 10.06, 95%CI: 4.87 − 20.77, P = 7.92 × 10−8) in the FLOT1 gene and a subclavaluee of Mtb Lineage 2. In a human macrophage infection model, we observe hosts with the rs3130660-A allele exhibited stronger interferon gene signatures. The interacting strains have altered redox states due to a thioredoxin reductase mutation. We investigate this association in a 2020 cohort of 699 patients recruited during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the prevalence of the interacting strain almost doubled between 2010 and 2020, its infection is not associated with rs3130660 in this recent cohort. These findings suggest a complex interplay among host, pathogen, and environmental factors in tuberculosis dynamics.
Effects of fine particulate matter air pollution on survival of Heliconius ethilla (Godart, 1819)
Authors: Charpinel A. M. M. , Féres J. C. , Barreto F. C. C.
Published: November 2024

Human activities affect natural ecosystems worldwide and can generate negative effects on insect species such as growth inhibition, developmental abnormalities and reduction of reproductive and survival rates. Our study focused on fine particulate matter, a pollutant known to cause mechanical obstruction, heavy metal intoxication, and stress in Lepidoptera larvae. Heliconius ethilla (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) is a Heliconiinae found in the southeastern region of Brazil. We started our study with 3255 eggs, from which 69 stage 3 larvae were randomly separated as the treatment group. The larvae were fed with Passiflora edulis leaves and the SPM was added before being offered to the treatment group in an increasing concentration according to the age of the larvae and the leaf, simulating the gradual deposition of SPM in the environment. Our results demonstrate that Sedimentable Particulate Matter negatively impacted mortality rates, pupal weight, and body size. The results strongly indicate that the presence of SPM negatively impacts the survival, development and potentially the reproductive success of H. ethilla. A reduction in the population size and a consequent decrease in the chances of long-term survival of the species can be expected.
Competition between Kardar–Parisi–Zhang and Berezinskii–Kosterlitz–Thouless kinetic roughening on (001) singular surface during steady crystal growth
Authors: Akutsu Noriko , Kangawa Yoshihiro
Published: November 2024

Kinetic roughening of the (001) singular surface during steady crystal growth is studied on the basis of a lattice model using the Monte Carlo method. At a sufficiently low temperature, there are known to be two kinetic roughening points as the driving force for crystal growth $$\Delta \mu $$

Δ
μ

increases. At a low driving force $$\Delta \mu _\text{KPZ}^{(001)}$$

Δ

μ
KPZ

(
001
)

, there is the Karder–Parisi–Zhang (KPZ) roughening transition point. On the KPZ rough surface, elementary steps around islands are well defined though the surface is thermodynamically rough, with a roughness exponent $$\alpha $$
α
consistent with the KPZ universal value of 0.3869. Island-on-island structures were found to be crucial in forming the KPZ rough surface. To understand the effects of the atomical roughness of the (001) surface and the interplay of steps on long-period undulations on this surface, the dependence on the temperature T and driving force for crystal growth $$\Delta \mu $$

Δ
μ

of surface quantities is investigated. At higher temperatures, additional Berezinskii–Kosterlitz–Thouless (BKT) rough and re-entrant KPZ regions are found for large $$\Delta \mu $$

Δ
μ

, where the crystal surface grows adhesively. A T–$$\Delta \mu $$

Δ
μ

kinetic roughening diagram is also presented.
Systemic inflammatory response in colorectal cancer is associated with tumour mismatch repair and impaired survival
Authors: Hjortborg Mats , Edin Sofia , Böckelman Camilla , Kaprio Tuomas , Li Xingru , Gkekas Ioannis , Hagström Jaana , Strigård Karin , Haglund Caj , Gunnarsson Ulf , Palmqvist Richard
Published: November 2024

The systemic inflammatory response (SIR), defined as elevated levels of circulating C-reactive protein (CRP), is an important predictor of impaired survival in colorectal cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the prognostic role of SIR and its association with tumour mismatch repair status and the immune response. Immune activity profiles of mononuclear cells isolated from CRC tissues and blood in the U-CAN exploration cohort (n = 69), were analysed by flow cytometry. In the U-CAN validation cohort (n = 257), T-helper cells (T-bet+), cytotoxic T cells (CD8+), regulatory T cells (FoxP3+), B cells (CD20+), and macrophages (CD68+) were analysed by multispectral imaging. Microsatellite instability was determined using five mononucleotide-repeat microsatellite markers. Patients with high CRP levels (> 10 mg/l) were significantly more often diagnosed with high-grade tumours and tumours exhibiting microsatellite instability. However, some patients with high CRP levels were found to have microsatellite-stable tumours. Furthermore, high CRP levels were associated with specific tumour immune traits including an augmented macrophage response and were significantly linked to poorer cancer-specific survival, particularly in patients with microsatellite-stable tumours. In conclusion, our findings suggest an interplay between SIR and mismatch repair status in CRC prognosis which needs to be further explored.
Tubulin glutamylation regulates axon guidance via the selective tuning of microtubule-severing enzymes
Authors: Ten Martin Daniel , Jardin Nicolas , Vougny Juliette , Giudicelli François , Gasmi Laïla , Berbée Naomi , Henriot Véronique , Lebrun Laura , Haumaître Cécile , Kneussel Matthias , Nicol Xavier , Janke Carsten , Magiera Maria M , Hazan Jamilé , Fassier Coralie
Published: November 2024

The microtubule cytoskeleton is a major driving force of neuronal circuit development. Fine-tuned remodelling of this network by selective activation of microtubule-regulating proteins, including microtubule-severing enzymes, has emerged as a central process in neuronal wiring. Tubulin posttranslational modifications control both microtubule properties and the activities of their interacting proteins. However, whether and how tubulin posttranslational modifications may contribute to neuronal connectivity has not yet been addressed. Here we show that the microtubule-severing proteins p60-katanin and spastin play specific roles in axon guidance during zebrafish embryogenesis and identify a key role for tubulin polyglutamylation in their functional specificity. Furthermore, our work reveals that polyglutamylases with undistinguishable activities in vitro, TTLL6 and TTLL11, play exclusive roles in motor circuit wiring by selectively tuning p60-katanin- and spastin-driven motor axon guidance. We confirm the selectivity of TTLL11 towards spastin regulation in mouse cortical neurons and establish its relevance in preventing axonal degeneration triggered by spastin haploinsufficiency. Our work thus provides mechanistic insight into the control of microtubule-driven neuronal development and homeostasis and opens new avenues for developing therapeutic strategies in spastin-associated hereditary spastic paraplegia.
A multi-functional platform for stimulating and recording electrical responses of SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Hou Fengyan , Wang Rui , Wang Xia , Dong Jianjun , Yu Tianzhu , Deng Qiuyang , Wang Zuobin
Published: November 2024

A multi-functional micro-platform integrating photoexcited wireless electrical stimulation, mechanical stimulation and electrical recording of cells based on a-Si:H films for modulating the behavior of arbitrary cells is proposed.
Efficient extraction and determination of Au(iii) ions from acid mine drainage and water samples using silica gel immobilized with Brevibacillus borstelensis
Authors: Camoglu Aslihan Yilmaz , Duran Celal , Ozdes Duygu , Nalcaoglu Aleyna , Bektas Kadriye Inan , Belduz Ali Osman
Published: November 2024

A novel and environmentally friendly bioadsorbent, Brevibacillus borstelensis loaded on silica gel, with outstanding adsorptive properties that can be implemented for quantitative recovery of Au(iii) ions via SPE technique has been developed.
Processes regulating the sources and sinks of ammonia in the Canadian Arctic
Authors: Murphy Jennifer G. , Wentworth Gregory  R , Moravek Alex , Collins Douglas B , Sharma Sangeeta
Published: November 2024

As part of the NETCARE project, measurements of gas phase ammonia (NH3) were made onboard the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Amundsen operating in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago and at the...
Tuning of plasmonic surface lattice resonances: on the crucial impact of the excitation efficiency of grazing diffraction orders
Authors: Dehbi Lynda , Kartikey Pandey , Braik Macilia , Belkhir Abderrahmane , Lau-Truong Stéphanie , Gam-Derouich Sarra , Chevillot-Biraud Alexandre , Mangeney Claire , Mezeghrane Abdelaziz , Baida Fadi Issam , Felidj Nordin
Published: November 2024

Plasmonic nanoparticles exhibit remarkable optical properties through surface lattice resonances (SLR).
Feature mining for thermoelectric materials based on interpretable machine learning
Authors: Liu Yiyu , Mu Zilong , Hong Peichao , Yang Yun , Lin Changxu
Published: November 2024

We use interpretable machine learning methods to analyze the key molecular features in the characterized high-flux data and uses feature engineering methods to construct and optimize the machine learning model for the selected key features.
Electrochemical evaluation of screen-printed sensor manufacturing and LOx enzyme immobilization for lactate biomarker detection: influence of reference electrode material
Authors: Moreira Julia Konzen , Germann Souza Milleny , Victória de Mello Jantzch Gabriela , Moraes Duane da Silva , Pastore Thomas Sponchiado , Fernandes Iara Janaína , Scherer Juliana Nichterwitz , Santos Jacqueline Ferreira Leite dos , Hasenkamp Carreira Willyan , Lora Priscila Schimdt
Published: November 2024

Electrochemical detection of lactate oxidation to pyruvate catalyzed by lactate oxidase immobilized on screen-printed electrodes with a carbon/graphene reference electrode, where the current is proportional to the product concentration.
Investigation of the free radical scavenging ability of l-tryptophan and its derivatives using experimental methods and quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Quy Huong Dinh , Dinh Tu Tai Pham , Quang Trung Nguyen , Thong Nguyen Minh , Tam Nguyen Minh , Hai Phong Nguyen , Nam Pham Cam
Published: November 2024

The presence of an OH group in 5-hydroxyl-l-tryptophan improves antioxidant ability.
Fabrication of BiVO4/Ag2CrO4 heterojunction composites modified with graphene oxide for enhanced photoelectrochemical and photocatalytic performance
Authors: Oluwole Adewunmi Olufemi , Yusuf Tunde L. , Tichapondwa Shepherd M. , Daramola Michael O. , Iwarere Samuel A.
Published: November 2024

The synthesis of a GO/BiVO4/Ag2CrO4 nanocomposite for degradation of ciprofloxacin.
Simple divalent metal salts as robust and efficient initiators for the ring-opening polymerisation of rac-lactide
Authors: Lowy Phoebe A. , Garden Jennifer A.
Published: November 2024

Simple salts such as Zn(OBn)2 are robust and efficient initiators for lactide polymerisation, delivering poly(lactic acid) under industrially relevant conditions.
Shedding new light on quadrupolar 1,4-dihydropyrrolo[3,2-b]pyrroles: impact of electron-deficient scaffolds over emission
Authors: Szymański Bartosz , Sahoo Smruti Ranjan , Vakuliuk Olena , Valiev Rashid , Ramazanov Ruslan , Łaski Piotr , Jarzembska Katarzyna N. , Kamiński Radosław , Teimouri Mohammad B. , Baryshnikov Glib , Gryko Daniel T.
Published: November 2024

The combined effect of weakly electron-withdrawing benzoxadiazole moiety and the nitro groups leads to the exceptionally red-shifted emission (638 nm in cyclohexane).
Impact of rheology on formation of oil-in-liquid metal emulsions
Authors: Kanetkar Shreyas , Peri Sai P. , Mithaiwala Husain , Krisnadi Febby , Dickey Michael D. , Green Matthew D. , Wang Robert Y. , Rykaczewski Konrad
Published: November 2024

Mixing of silicone oils (SO) with liquid metal (LM) containing Ag–Ga nanoneedles reveals how viscosities of the two liquids dictate the outcome of their mixing—the formation of LM-in-SO or SO-in-LM emulsions.
Scalable and environmentally friendly MXene-tetrahedrites for next-generation flexible thermoelectrics
Authors: Banerjee Priyanshu , Huang Jiyuan , Lombardo Jacob , Ambade Swapnil B. , Ambade Rohan B. , Han Tae Hee , Kulkarni Srushti , Sengupta Shreyasi , Rosenzweig Zeev , Fairbrother Howard , Li Sichao , Shin Sunmi , Madan Deepa
Published: November 2024

Traditional thermoelectric generators (TEGs) face scalability challenges due to high-temperature, long-duration curing processes and rare-earth/toxic chalcogenides such as bismuth telluride.
Two dimensional CuInP2S6/h-BN/MoTe2 van der Waals heterostructure phototransistors with double gate control
Authors: Li Sina , Zhou Junjie , Xiong Jingxian , Yang Sixian , Zhang Jielian , Fan Weijun , Li Jingbo
Published: November 2024

Ferroelectric materials enhance optoelectronic processes in CuInP2S6/h-BN/MoTe2 photodetectors, improving photocurrent, suppressing dark current, and achieving high responsivity, making them promising for high-performance optical sensing.
Integrating unwonted photoluminescence and anti-thermal quenching in Ba2MgTeO6 double perovskites for high-performance optical thermometers
Authors: Suraja Nithin Jayan , Bindhu Amrithakrishnan , Solaman Sibi Kaithakkal , Ganesanpotti Subodh
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the unusual photoluminescence and anti-thermal quenching behaviour of Eu3+-activated Ba2MgTeO6 double perovskites, with a view to developing highly sensitive optical thermometers.
K2SiF6:Mn4+ red-luminescent crystals with high external quantum efficiency (EQEmax of 78%) and high thermal quenching temperature (T1/2 > 500 K) enabling high brightness warm white LEDs
Authors: Zhang Wenrui , Zhou Yayun , Shi Ce , Ren Jiajun , Zhang Liying , Ji Haipeng
Published: November 2024

Millimeter-sized red-luminescent crystals were cultivated showing high external quantum efficiency (up to 78%) and high thermal quenching temperature (>500 K).
How do supernova remnants cool?
Authors: Smirnova P. , Makarenko E. I. , Clarke S. D. , Glukhov E. , Walch S. , Vaezzadeh I. , Seifried D.
Published: November 2024

Context. About 15%-60% of all supernova remnants are estimated to interact with dense molecular clouds. In these high-density environments, radiative losses are significant. The cooling radiation can be observed in forbidden lines at optical wavelengths.

Aims. We aim to determine whether supernovae at different positions within a molecular cloud (with or without magnetic fields) can be distinguished based on their optical emission (e.g. Hα (λ 6563), Hβ (λ 4861), [O III] (λ 5007), [S II] (λ 6717, 6731), and [N II] (λ 6583)) using machine learning (e.g. principle component analysis and k-means clustering).

Methods. We have conducted a statistical analysis of the optical line emission of simulated supernovae interacting with molecular clouds that formed from the multi-phase interstellar medium modelled in the SILCC-Zoom simulations with and without magnetic fields. This work is based on the post-processing of simulations that have been carried out with the 3D (magneto)hydrodynamic code FLASH. Our dataset consists of 22 simulations. The supernovae were placed at a distance of either 25 pc or 50 pc from the molecular cloud’s centre of mass. First, we calculated optical synthetic emission maps (taking into account dust attenuation within the simulation sub-cube) with a post-processing code based on MAPPINGS V cooling tables. Second, we analysed the dataset of synthetic observations using principle component analysis to identify clusters with the k-means algorithm. In addition, we made use of BPT diagrams as a diagnostic of shock-dominated regions.

Results. We find that the presence or absence of magnetic fields has no statistically significant effect on the optical line emission. However, the ambient density distribution at the site of the supernova changes the entire evolution and morphology of the supernova remnant. Due to the different ambient densities in the 25 pc and 50 pc simulations, we are able to distinguish them in a statistically significant manner. Although, optical line attenuation within the supernova remnant can mimic this result depending on the attenuation model that is used. That is why, multi-dimensional analysis of optical emission line ratios in this work does not give extra information about the environmental conditions (ambient density and ambient magnetic field) of supernova remnant.
Developing an educational tourism model for disaster-prone areas
Authors: Wulung Shandra Rama Panji , Pratiwi Ilma Indriasri , Utami Nindita Fajria , Kikania Audy Putri
Published: November 2024

The government has made an effort to develop tourism for disaster-prone areas to assist sustainable development, but due to the limited nature of disaster education, it has focused especially on doing so. The purpose of this study is to design the best educational tourism model for disaster-prone areas. The Tangkubanparahu Volcano disaster-prone areas served as the site of this qualitative study. While secondary data was gathered from literature, policy papers, and prior studies, primary data came from interviews and field observations. The study’s findings indicate that the educational tourism model for disaster-prone areas is built on a framework that supports disaster literacy and involves the supply and demand of educational tourism. Because its scope is so closely tied to disaster-related features, geotourism is the perfect type of educational tourism for disasterprone areas. For tourists and destination management, the contribution of educational tourism has the potential to mitigate the risk of disaster. Through disaster interpretation and tourist literacy, geotourism, can help disasterprone areas realize sustainable tourism. Both nationally and internationally, this study may have repercussions for areas that are prone to disasters.
Disaster, environment and local indigenous knowledge in Indonesia
Authors: Dede Moh. , Kusumaningsih Siti Nurbayani , Widiawaty Millary Agung , Nandhita Ni Gusti Ayu , Wahyuni Sri , Khosihan Aan , Utami Nindita Fajria , Wulandari Puspita , Setiadi Elly Malihah , Ismail Arif
Published: November 2024

Indonesia is a disaster-prone area due to its complexity in geographical and geological location. For thousands of years, Indonesian society has interacted with various natural disasters. This research aims to summarize and synthesize community adaptation to various disasters by referring to their local indigenous knowledge. Data came from previous studies recorded in two most reputable scientific databases, namely Web of Science and Scopus, 1980 to 2023 . Our review used a qualitative approach with content analysis, resulting in 16 articles that were suitable for metaanalysis. This research shows that local indigenous knowledge in Indonesian society has included environmental adaptations to several disasters, such as floods, landslides, tsunamis, earthquakes, plagues, volcanic eruptions, and other hydrometeorological extreme events. Local indigenous knowledge is mostly spoken orally through various traditions, traditional houses, living equipment, poetry, regional zoning, and traditional institutions that imply disaster events, but there are no written remains. Their experience has not shown any adaptation to disaster-induced environmental changes due to climate change and global warming. Our research can provide input for disaster mitigation that is more appropriate to the local context.
The Role of Islamic Religious Education Teachers in Transforming the Culture of Resignation Towards Natural Disasters in Indonesia
Authors: Faqihuddin Achmad , Fauzan Ilyasa Faisal , Husniah Lu’lu’ , Rahardja Muhammad Nurfaizi Arya , Rambe Anggi Afrina , Dwietama Regita Ayu , Putri Annisa Ningtias Cevie
Published: November 2024

Indonesia is a country frequently confronted with natural disasters, positioning it as a nation intimately familiar with such challenges. Studies indicate that a notable segment of the Indonesian population approaches the unpredictability of natural phenomena with a ’let’s see what happens’ attitude, often described as ’Cultural Resignation.’ This perspective is characterized by deferring all outcomes to a divine will, while underestimating the importance of human initiative. This research aims to explore the influence of Islamic Religious Education teachers in transforming this culture of resignation that prevails in the context of disasters. To achieve this, interviews will be conducted with a diverse group of 50 IRE teachers across various educational levels, including elementary, junior high, and high schools. The data collected will be analyzed using NVIVO 12 software, with the goal of identifying the critical role that IRE teachers play in promoting a more proactive and adaptive approach to managing disasters. The results of this study are expected to provide significant insights into the positive changes that Islamic Religious Education teachers can bring about in society’s views and attitudes towards disaster preparedness and response, highlighting the vital role of disaster mitigation-focused Islamic Religious Education.
Landuse culture and water quality (BOD, COD, DO) in the upper citarum river corridor
Authors: Setiawan Iwan , Rohmat Dede , Ismail Arif , Suhendro Suhendro
Published: November 2024

The culture of land use in river corridors has a major effect on water quality, especially on organic chemical parameters such as BOD, COD and DO. This complexity is the main attraction to study in depth. The objectives of this study include several points to analyze (1) the correlation between land use culture and water quality (BOD, COD and DO); (2) constructing a strategy for handling water quality pollution in the upper Citarum river corridor. The method used was a survey with a regional approach through geospatial and correlation analysis. The results obtained (1) Water quality (BOD, COD and DO) has a strong correlation with anthropogenic activities of land use culture around the river corridor such as settlements, industry, chemical fertilizer use and others. (2) Handling strategies that are tailored to the identified zones such as forest areas, builtup areas, agriculture and shrubs. Some of the research results obtained can be used as relevant references for targeted treatments to succeed in a sustainable fragrant Citarum.
Mabar geo learning tool for advancing sustainable education: Enhancing student learning outcomes
Authors: Ningrum Epon , Pamungkas Totok Doyo , Pratama Caca Hinaya
Published: November 2024

Teachers still rarely use ICT-based learning media in the learning process. This research aims to examine the current state of learning outcomes and preparedness in SMA schools in Merauke, Papua with utilize a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis framework and develop the MaBar Geo application for advance sustainable education and analyze its effect on student learning outcomes. This research uses a quasi-experiment method with a one-group pre-test and post-test design. The research results show that 1)The development of the MaBar Geo application received an average score with the category very suitable for use in the learning process after receiving validation from media experts, material experts, and students. 2)Learning outcomes in the experimental class consist of cognitive, affective, and psychomotor aspects, with the highest score in the affective aspect. The results of learning completion were 27 students (75%) classified as complete and 9 students (25%) classified as incomplete. 3) The use of the MaBar Geo application has a positive effect in improving learning outcomes in the experimental class, which is based on the results of the linear regression test with Sig 0.000 < 0.05 and t count (8.504) > t table (1.668).
Fostering critical thinking skills in geography education: An authentic assessment model using field-lab approach
Authors: As’ari Ruli , Rosali Ely Satiyasih , Mulyanie Erni
Published: November 2024

This research focuses on fostering critical thinking skills in geography education through an authentic assessment model with a field lab approach. This research was used as a case study at Siliwangi University. Critical thinking is essential in geography education because it empowers students to analyze complex spatial phenomena, make decisions, and contribute effectively to society. This research answers the need for innovative assessment methods that are in line with the importance of critical thinking in geography education. This research method focuses on developing critical thinking skills through an authentic assessment approach using field laboratory methods. This research uses an experimental research design by applying quasi-experimental methods in a geography learning environment. The approach used is a qualitative approach to analyze the impact of authentic assessment models on the development of students’ critical thinking skills. Findings study shows that the application of an authentic assessment model with a field-lab approach in geography education has shown promising results in improving students’ critical thinking abilities. This authentic assessment model allows students to be actively involved in the learning process and apply their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts.
Concept connection strategy to develop higher-order thinking in geography courses
Authors: Yani Ahmad , Mulyadi Asep , Rosita Rosita
Published: November 2024

The Connecting Concepts learning strategy is a logic game that asks students to connect two or more to form a logical narrative. The formation of a narrative that emerges from two concepts that are brought together is at the level of high order thinking (HOTS) in Bloom-Anderson’s taxonomy. This research uses a quasi-experimental method with a pre-post test design. The sample was second grade high school students from three high schools in Sumedang, West Java Province, Indonesia (n=160). An independent t-test revealed significant differences in the mean scores on the pre-test in favor of the post-test (p < 0.05). It is concluded that the concept connection strategy has the potential to develop high-level thinking skills because it can increase students’ creative thinking.
Vegetation Greenness Changes and Land Surface Temperatures Monitoring in the Bandung City, West Java
Authors: Himayah Shafira , Sugandi Dede
Published: November 2024

Remote sensing can be used to examine the city of Bandung with variations in its topographical appearance. Apart from that, urban areas such as Bandung generally experience land cover transformation (vegetation and non-vegetation) as well as changes in land surface temperature. This research aims to: 1) Analyse vegetation greenness in the Bandung City, 2) Analyse land surface temperature in the Bandung City, and 3) Analyse the correlation between vegetation greenness changes with dynamics of land surface temperature in the Bandung City. The method used is information extraction through remote sensing imagery to obtain changes of vegetation greenness and dynamics of land surface temperature, as well as field measurements. This research use Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 to get a value of built-up index and vegetation greenness. The results of this research are the identification of the spectral character of vegetation greenness, as well as their influence on land surface temperatures in the Bandung Basin. Types of vegetated land use, including rice fields, parks and plantations, have lower temperatures than settlements, roads, empty land and cemeteries. Positive values in the regression results indicate a correlation between the NDVI and LST variables.
Enhancing Environmental Awareness Through Ecopedagogy and Local Wisdom: A Study of Geography Education Students in Kampung Naga
Authors: Mulyanie Erni , Setiawan Iwan
Published: November 2024

Environmental sustainability has become a critical issue in the modern era, particularly concerning climate change and environmental degradation. This research highlights the significance of environmental education and the integration of local wisdom as a learning resource. The primary objective is to investigate the impact of an ecopedagogical approach rooted in local wisdom on enhancing environmental knowledge and awareness among Geography Education students. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative descriptive analysis and qualitative insights, conducted in Kampung Naga, Salawu, Tasikmalaya Regency. Quantitative data were gathered through surveys, and qualitative data were collected via participatory observations and in-depth interviews. The findings reveal that the ecopedagogical approach significantly boosts students’ environmental knowledge and awareness, with 80% of students demonstrating a high level of environmental understanding. Out of nine assessed indicators, seven were rated high and twomedium. Specifically, in the Land Conservation and Reclamation course, two indicators improved to a medium category and one to a high category post-learning experience in Kampung Naga. In conclusion, the preservation of local wisdom through an ecopedagogical approach effectively fosters critical environmental attitudes and awareness, making it a potent educational tool for sustainable environmental practices.
Oncoplastic Surgery with Volume Replacement versus Mastectomy with Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: Early Postoperative Complications in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Ku Gabriel De La Cruz , Desai Anshumi , Singhal Meera , Mallouh Michael , King Caroline , Rojas Alexis N. , Persing Sarah , Homsy Christopher , Chatterjee Abhishek , Nardello Salvatore
Published: November 2024

Background Two common surgical approaches for breast cancer are breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy with implant-based breast reconstruction (MIBR). However, for large tumors, an alternative to MIBR is oncoplastic surgery with volume replacement (OPSVR). We performed a comprehensive analysis comparing OPSVR with MIBR, with our aim to focus on the 30-day postoperative complications between these two techniques.

Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database from 2005 to 2020. Only breast cancer patients were included and were divided according to the surgical technique: OPSVR and MIBR. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess independent risk factors for total, surgical, and wound complications.

Results A cohort of 8,403 breast cancer patients was analyzed. A total of 683 underwent OPSVR and 7,720 underwent MIBR. From 2005 to 2020, the adoption of OPSVR gradually increased over the years (p < 0.001), whereas MIBR decreased. OPSVR patients were older (57.04 vs. 51.89 years, p < 0.001), exhibited a higher body mass index (31.73 vs. 26.93, p < 0.001), had a greater prevalence of diabetes mellitus (11.0 vs. 5.0%, p < 0.001). They also had a higher ASA classification (2.33 vs. 2.15, p < 0.001), shorter operative time (173.39 vs. 216.20 minutes, p < 0.001), and a higher proportion of outpatient procedures (83.7 vs. 39.5%, p < 0.001). Outcome analysis demonstrated fewer total complications in the OPSVR patients (4.2 vs. 10.9%, p < 0.001), including lower rates of surgical complications (2.2 vs. 8.0%, p < 0.001) and wound complications (1.9 vs. 4.8%, p = 0.005) compared with MIBR patients. Multivariate analysis identified OPSVR as an independent protective factor for total, surgical, and wound complications.

Conclusion OPSVR has become a favorable technique for patients with breast cancer. Even in patients with higher comorbidities, OPSVR demonstrates safe and better outcomes when compared with MIBR. It should be considered a reasonable and safe breast surgical option in the appropriate patient.
Extracting International Classification of Diseases Codes from Clinical Documentation using Large Language Models
Authors: Simmons Ashley , Takkavatakarn Kullaya , McDougal Megan , Dilcher Brian , Pincavitch Jami , Meadows Lukas , Kauffman Justin , Klang Eyal , Wig Rebecca , Smith Gordon Stephen , Soroush Ali , Freeman Robert , Apakama Donald , Charney Alexander , Kohli-Seth Roopa , Nadkarni Girish , Sakhuja Ankit
Published: November 2024

Background: Large language models (LLMs) have shown promise in various professional fields, including medicine and law. However, their performance in highly specialized tasks, such as extracting ICD-10-CM codes from patient notes, remains underexplored.
Objective: The primary objective was to evaluate and compare the performance of ICD-10-CM code extraction by different LLMs with that of human coder.
Methods: We evaluated performance of six LLMs (GPT-3.5, GPT-4, Claude 2.1, Claude 3, Gemini Advanced, and Llama 2-70b) in extracting ICD-10-CM codes against human coder. We used deidentified inpatient notes from American Health Information Management Association Vlab authentic patient cases for this study. We calculated percent agreement and Cohen’s kappa values to assess the agreement between LLMs and human coder. We then identified reasons for discrepancies in code extraction by LLMs in a 10% random subset.
Results: Among 50 inpatient notes, human coder extracted 165 unique ICD-10-CM codes. LLMs extracted significantly higher number of unique ICD-10-CM codes than human coder, with Llama 2-70b extracting most (658) and Gemini Advanced the least (221). GPT-4 achieved highest percent agreement with human coder at 15.2%, followed by Claude 3 (12.7%) and GPT-3.5 (12.4%). Cohen’s kappa values indicated minimal to no agreement, ranging from -0.02 to 0.01. When focusing on primary diagnosis, Claude 3 achieved highest percent agreement (26%) and kappa value (0.25). Reasons for discrepancies in extraction of codes varied amongst LLMs and included extraction of codes for diagnoses not confirmed by providers (60% with GPT-4), extraction of non-specific codes (25% with GPT-3.5), extraction of codes for signs and symptoms despite presence of more specific diagnosis (22% with Claude-2.1) and hallucinations (35% with Claude-2.1).
Conclusions: Current LLMs have poor performance in extraction of ICD-10-CM codes from inpatient notes when compared against the human coder.
Endovascular Repair of Large Iliac Artery Pseudoaneurysm after Remote Transplant Nephrectomy
Authors: Monastiriotis Spyridon , Brezinka Taylor Leigh , Franz Randall W.
Published: November 2024

This case study focuses on a 49-year-old woman several years after a right transplant nephrectomy for delayed renal hemorrhage. The patient had an incidental finding of a right external iliac artery pseudoaneurysm measuring 8.1 cm at its largest dimension. Of note, the patient had undergone cardiac catheterization several months prior with right common femoral artery access. This study aimed to implement endovascular repair of posttransplant nephrectomy iliac artery pseudoaneurysms as a less invasive treatment option as compared with open repair in suitable candidates. Percutaneous access of the right common femoral artery with the deployment of a 9 × 50 mm covered stent within the right external iliac artery with the successful exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm. Postoperative course was uncomplicated, and the patient was discharged home on dual antiplatelet therapy. The patient's symptoms completely resolved after the intervention. She underwent follow-up surveillance scans, which redemonstrated a patent external iliac stent and excluded pseudoaneurysm. Endovascular repair with a covered stent for posttransplant nephrectomy iliac artery pseudoaneurysms is a safe, minimally invasive, and valuable treatment option in the absence of underlying infection.
Hypergravity – an evolutionarily novel environment, enhances the resilience of wheat to simulated drought and salinity stress
Authors: Ashiq I Mahamed , Hosamani Ravikumar , Reddy Uday G. , Bhat Ramesh S. , S. MD Akbar , K Swamy Basavalingayya
Published: November 2024

Previous research from our lab demonstrated that hypergravity that can be simulated using tabletop centrifuges, offering significant benefits to crop plants. Hypergravity enhances seedling vigor and growth parameters in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) variety UAS 375. This enhanced root growth phenotype is believed to boost abiotic stress tolerance by facilitating deeper access to water and nutrients from the soil. This study investigated whether hypergravity-induced root growth enhancements could offer resilience to induced drought and salt stress, and whether such benefits would extend across other wheat genotypes. Hypergravity (10g for 12 h) conferred significant tolerance to simulated drought and salt stress, evidenced by improved seedling growth parameters as well as increased chlorophyll content and proline accumulation in response to hypergravity followed by stress challenge, compared to stress challenge alone. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry indicated dynamic phytohormone modulation, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction data revealed significant alterations in the expression of genes associated with antioxidant enzymes and abiotic stresses. Thus, this study further supports the view that hypergravity boosts abiotic stress resilience through genetic and hormonal dynamics. Notably, these effects were consistent across genotypes. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that hypergravity can effectively improve resilience against seedling abiotic stresses in wheat.
Artemin molecular chaperone from Artemia urmiana improves tolerance of Arabidopsis thaliana to abiotic stress
Authors: Fallahi-Pashaki Tayebe , Shirzadian-Khoramabad Reza , Sohani M. Mehdi
Published: November 2024

Artemia is a genus of aquatic microcrustaceans that belong to the class Branchiopoda. Encysted Artemia urmiana embryos are resistant to harsh environmental stressors, including repeated desiccation, prolonged anoxia, extreme temperatures, and high levels of UV radiation. The protein artemin has a chaperone activity and is believed to play a crucial role in protecting the organism against such stresses. To elucidate the potential functional roles of artemin in plants, the cDNA sequence of artemin was cloned into the pZPY122 binary plant expression vector. Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and the floral-dip technique were used to introduce this construct into Arabidopsis thaliana. Three independent transgenic lines (art1, art2, art3) were generated and subjected to heat stress at 45°C. Results showed a significant interaction between heat stress and genotype for germination rate, germination speed, vigor index, and seedling and root length. The transgenic lines with the artemin transgene (ART) exhibited remarkable heat stress tolerance compared with wild-type plants. They also had markedly lower levels of electrolyte leakage, hydrogen peroxide content, higher activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase and peroxidase, greater total protien content, and increased accumulation of proline. Under heat stress conditions, the expression of two key abiotic stress-responsive genes, DREB2A and HSFA3, was significantly upregulated in the ART lines compared to the wild-type . These findings suggest that the ART gene from A. urmiana may act as molecular chaperone when expressed in Arabidopsis , thereby enhancing the plant’s tolerance to heat stress.
Assessment of humpback whale swimming speeds in two eastern Australian bays
Authors: Kela H. , de Bie J. , Paas K. H. W. , Stack S. , Franklin W. , Franklin T. , Meynecke J.-O.
Published: November 2024

Context Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are capital breeders, travelling several thousand kilometres between their breeding and feeding sites annually. Along the migration route, humpback whales utilise locations such as Hervey Bay and the Gold Coast bay for resting. Methods Here we used sightings data from 2066 boat-based surveys spanning 11 years. Aims To compare and analyse the sighting data and evaluate the swimming speed in Hervey Bay and the Gold Coast bay. Key results During southward migration, swimming speeds observed in Hervey Bay and the Gold Coast bay for both pods with and without calves were slower than are migration speeds reported in literature for each pod type. Whales swam faster in the Gold Coast bay (mean = 4.14 km h−1) than Hervey Bay (mean = 3.32 km h−1); however, the effect of location on swimming speed was small. In Hervey Bay, swimming speeds of pods without calves were faster (mean = 3.48 km h−1) than swimming speeds of pods with calves (mean = 3.15 km h−1). Conclusions Our findings contribute to the understanding of swimming speeds in different humpback whale cohorts and their movements in nearshore environments. Implications Understanding the importance of the role of humpback whale swimming speed in nearshore environments for assessment of habitat use can help management of such areas for effective protection of humpback whales.
Investigating behaviours and attitudes regarding recommended vaccination in adults 50 years and above in Australia
Authors: Dyda Amalie , Lawford Harriet , Lau Colleen L. , Sampson Kim
Published: November 2024

Background Vaccination is important for adults to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases. In Australia, many vaccines are recommended and funded under the Australian National Immunisation Program. However, a number of vaccines are recommended for adults but not funded. This study aimed to explore factors impacting uptake of recommended vaccines in adults aged ≥50 years in Australia. Methods An online cross-sectional survey was conducted from the general population aged ≥50 years. The survey was distributed via a market research company using a convenience sample. Data were analysed descriptively, and logistic regression was used to investigate associations between participant characteristics and vaccine uptake. Results A total of 1012 individuals completed the survey. The majority (67.4%) of participants reported it was important for adults to receive recommended vaccines. More than half (59.6%) felt that vaccination was more important for children. Over 60% of participants reported they knew the vaccines that they should receive. The primary reason reported for not receiving a vaccine was, ‘I do not believe it is necessary’. Being aged ≥66 years was significantly associated with uptake of influenza, pertussis, herpes zoster, and pneumococcal vaccines. Being female was associated with higher uptake for most vaccines, except for pneumococcal vaccine, where no significant association was found. Conclusions The importance of vaccination and risks associated with lack of vaccination need to be highlighted to this population. Recommendations from healthcare professionals continue to be one of the most important facilitators for uptake. Overall, adults reported they are unlikely to pay for recommended vaccines, making increasing uptake of these vaccines difficult.
Pest Identification and Diagnosis in Fiji: Dealing with ‘Unknowns’
Authors: Mua Mani , Vasuidreketi Toloi , Jackson Grahame , Smith Caroline , Furlong Michael
Published: November 2024

Diagnosing problems caused by crop pests, diseases and abiotic factors is a common challenge faced by extension officers serving farmers as ‘plant doctors’ in the field. They present with varying levels of complexity and are often classified as ‘unknowns’. ‘Unknowns’ can be categorised as either ‘simple’, ‘complex’ or ‘complete’. This case study discusses each type of unknown, providing examples of each. It then explores how information and communication technologies are used by the Fiji Plant Doctor Network (FPDN) operating on social media platforms, are able to help plant doctors identify and manage pest and disease unknowns. Despite the obvious potential that this network offers, a number of challenges remain.

Information

© The Authors 2024
Galvanostatic performance of single-particle Li-ion battery materials: a rapid diagram diagnosis assisted by a Python / C++ software
Authors: Ruderman Andrés , Gavilán-Arriazu Edgardo Maximiliano , Fernandez Francisco , Ein-Eli Yair , Leiva Ezequiel P M
Published: November 2024

Herein, a novel open-source software for predicting the performance of single particles of electrode materials under galvanostatic charging conditions is presented. The model improves previous work by incorporating different thermodynamic approaches to describe the interaction between intercalated ions, and the software provides tools for fitting different kinetic parameters and generating potential/capacity profiles or concentration/distance profiles to be analyzed. These features allow for detailed studies of the factors limiting the charging rate of active materials in which ions are intercalated. The diagnostic diagram is constructed through simulations of the capacity reached for a given potential cut-off, represented in the domain of two dimensionless parameters. These parameters represent kinetic and particle-size limitations for Li-ion storage. The present tool aims to facilitate the analysis of single-particle experiments, taking advantage of two different computational languages, popular in scientific computing: Python and C++. The software integrates a Python interface, for user-friendly interaction, with a C++ computational core allowing parallelization via OpenMP, for high computational performance. The software supports different thermodynamic approaches: Langmuir-Frumkin intercalation model and equilibrium potentials derived from experimental data. The inclusion of experimental insertion isotherms allows for the construction of realistic capacity diagrams. The open-source software is available at https://github.com/fernandezfran/galpynostatic/.