bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting Adoption of Improved Soybean Production Technology in Dewas District of Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Vyas Akshat , Rajan Parvez , Jaiswal D. K.
Published: October 2023

The oilseed legume soy, after groundnut and rapeseed & mustard, has become India's third-most significant oilseed crop in terms of area, production and productivity over the past 40 years. The bulk of India's tiny and marginal farming communities were transformed socio-economically by the use of soybeans, which also made a considerable contribution to the country's oil economy. Production technology for this miracle crop is also continuously upgrading with time. Thus, the present investigation was conducted in five villages of Kannod block of Dewas district of Madhya Pradesh to look after the factors affecting adoption of improved soybean production technology. Six blocks make up the Dewas district: Bagli, Dewas, Kannod, Khategaon, Sonkatch, and Tonkhurd. Out of them, Kannod block was specifically chosen since, over the past 10 years, the area under soybean crop has increased while productivity has steadily decreased in this block. With the help of a structured interview schedule, data was collected purposely from 105 farmers. For calculating relationships between dependent and independent variables correlation coefficient was used. Results of the study revealed that out of thirteen variables, eleven variables were significantly and positively related with factors affecting adoption of Improved Soybean Production Technology. Two variables i.e. age and farming experience were found significantly and negatively related with factors affecting adoption of Improved Soybean Production Technology. Majority of soybean farmers 63.81% reflected medium level of adoption regarding improved production technology. In constraint analysis, lack of on-time availability of improved varieties of seed followed by higher cost of inputs (seed, insecticide, fertilizer and implements) were two major constraints faced by 70.48% and 59.05% soybean farmers respectively. These findings provide insights for future research on factors affecting adoption of improved production technology by soybean farmers.
Conducting a Comprehensive Physical Investigation on Uncontrolled Internal Soil Erosion Leading to Sinkholes in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Chibuogwu I. U.  , Ugwu G. Z.  , Egwuonwu G. N.
Published: October 2023

Uncontrolled infiltration of water poses a significant environmental threat, capable of causing severe damage to structures and farmland if left unaddressed. In the context of Anambra state, Nigeria, uncontrolled infiltration has emerged as the primary cause of internal erosion, leading to the formation of numerous sinkholes scattered throughout the region. Consequently, this study aimed to analyse the physical dynamics of the soils surrounding these sinkholes within the state. The investigation was conducted across three distinct locations: Awka site 1 (6.2232°N and 7.0824°E), Awka site 2 (6.2220°N and 7.0819°E), and Agulu (6.3401°N and 7.1233°E). A total of 24 soil samples were collected and analysed, comprising of 15 samples from the immediate vicinity of the sinkholes and 9 samples obtained from areas located at least 2Km or more from the sinkholes. The parameters examined included pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Organic Carbon (OC), Organic Matter (OM), erodibility Factor (K), Moisture Content (MC), Bulk Density, Total Porosity and soil texture. The results revealed a range of pH values, with the piping zone exhibiting a pH of 5 and below, while the non-piping zone predominantly displayed a pH of 6 and above. This discrepancy indicates soil sodicity, suggesting potential challenges in terms of soil quality. Furthermore, the electrical conductivity values varied from 2.21 to 7.21 \(\mu\)S/cm, signifying differing levels of ion concentration within the examined areas. Additionally, the analyses indicated a substantial depletion of organic content, with the piping zone registering a meager organic content value of 2.43. Investigations of soil texture within the piping regions highlighted a notably low clay content, ranging from 2.5% to 6.7%. This finding suggested that significant drainage of the soil has potentially influenced the overall soil stability and the observations underscoring the presence of dispersive processes within the soil, further contribute to the prevailing conditions.
Impact of Different Land Use Practices on Size of Soil Aggregates and Its Mean Weight Diameter under Vertisols of Central India
Authors: Kumar Anil , Rai Hitendra K. , Yadav Suwa Lal , Gulaiya Shani , Inwati Devendra Kumar
Published: October 2023

The present study was carried out at JNKVV, Jabalpur (23010’ N latitude, 79057’ E longitudes and at elevation 393.0 meters above mean sea level). This study was carried out in 2019 that laid out in split plot design with nine main treatments of land use practices (forest land, perennial forage land, uncultivated land, aonla orchard, rice-wheat system, soybean-wheat system, guava orchard, mango orchard and citrus orchard) and three sub-plot treatments of soil depths (0-20, 20-40 and 40-60 cm) which were replicated three times. A total of 81 soil samples were subjected to determination of different size (> 5.0, 2.0-5.0, 1.0-2.0, 0.50-1.0, 0.25-0.50, 0.10-0.25 and <0.10 mm) water stable soil aggregates and mean weight diameter of soil aggregates. Results revealed that land use practices and soil depths significantly affect the mean weight diameter of soil aggregates, distribution of different size soil aggregates. It was noted that irrespective of soil depths, proportions of macro-aggregates (>0.50 mm size) and mean weight diameter were highest under forest land and lowest in soybean-wheat system. However, number of micro-aggregates (< 0.50 mm) increased with soil depths and macro-aggregates and mean weight diameter of soil aggregates were highest at 0-20 cm depth. It can be concluded that extent of soil disturbance significantly alters the proportion of macro-aggregates (>0.50 mm size) and mean weight diameter of water stable soil aggregates with higher in undisturbed (forest, uncultivated and perennial forage) land uses and lower in crop lands which decreased with increase in soil depths.
Farmer’s Awareness Level on Organic Agriculture in Varanasi District of Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Mishra Rakesh Kumar , Stephen Ameesh John , Barker Nitin , Rai Akash
Published: October 2023

The present study was conducted in four blocks of Varanasi district (Uttar Pradesh). A total 332 respondents from 63 villages were selected by the researcher. The objective of the study was to know the awareness level of respondents towards the organic fertilizers, organic farming, sources of information regarding awareness, and duration of practicing organic agriculture. It was found that around 43.97 percent of the respondents were aware of the organic farming in the study area. However only four types of organic fertilizers Organic Manure, Vermicompost, City compost, and PROM, known to the respondent out of 10 fertilizers recommended under FCO 1985, amended in July 2021. Most of the respondents practiced organic farming within the last 6 to 8 years, concurrent with the government policies emphasizing organic farming. The most important source of information regarding awareness towards organic farming was Krishi Vigyan Kendra and NGOs in the study area.
Influence of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)
Authors: Kumar Manibhushan , Deepanshu  , Bahadur Vijay
Published: October 2023

A study was conducted at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Prayagraj (UP) during 2022. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the plants in terms of various parameters such as plant height, Leaf Area Index, days to 50% flowering, days to first harvesting, number of pods per plant, pod length, pod girth, pod weight, pod yield per plant, pod yield per plot, pod yield per hectare, total soluble solids (TSS), Vitamin C and benefit-cost ratio. The results of the study indicated that the application of mixture of 50% inorganic fertilizers and 50% FYM improved the growth and yield of Okra. The highest pod yield (12.06 t/ha), pod weigh (25.42 g), TSS (9.47 Brix) and Vitamin C content (24.26) were observed in the plants treated with 50 % through Chemical fertilizer + 50 % through FYM. The benefit-cost ratio was also found to be higher in the treated plants compared to the control. Overall, the study suggests that the application of 50 % through Chemical fertilizer + 50 % through FYM can be an effective and sustainable method for enhancing the growth, yield, and quality of Okra.
Breeding of Okra for Resistance to Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus
Authors: Vidya  , Rathod Vijayakumar , Anusha  , Kavya, D. O.
Published: October 2023

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) commonly known as Lady’s finger or Bhendi is most delicious vegetable relished worldwide. The productivity of okra has been low in recent times due to various reasons viz., inadequate use of fertilizers, irrigation and occurrence of various pest and diseases. In India okra crop is highly susceptible to yellow vein mosaic virus (YVMV) disease probably due to warm tropical climate and intensive crop cultivation which supports the survival of whitefly population round the year. Host plant resistance to virus is one of the most practical, economical and eco-friendly strategies for reducing yield loss in okra. Identification of stable and reliable sources of resistance to viral diseases is an important step in future breeding programme. Understanding the genetics of resistance in donor parent helps in choosing suitable breeding method and attempts should be made to incorporate broad spectrum resistance through gene pyramiding and develop okra varieties with desirable resistance or tolerance to okra YVMV followed by maintenance breeding.
Finite Element Analysis of Steel Truss Bridge Structure Based on ANSYS
Authors: Xia Donghong , Shi Leilei
Published: October 2023

With the rapid development of bridge engineering in China, steel truss bridge is widely used with many advantages such as clear force of the structure itself, easy to analyze, and low requirement for foundation. In this paper, the finite element analysis method is adopted to analyze the stress and deformation distribution of steel truss bridge on the platform of ANSYS, a large-scale finite element analysis software. In the static analysis, by applying the vehicle load, the operation mode of the structure is simulated, and the cloud diagrams of its displacement and stress are derived. The dangerous areas of the bridge are identified to provide a reference basis for the design of steel truss bridges.
Baby Jack
Authors: Hunter Grace
Published: January 2025

In this narrative medicine essay, a primary care physician learns of her son’s Angelman syndrome diagnosis and finds comfort that her son chose her to love him, laugh with him, and celebrate his resilience.
Artificial Intelligence–Based Video Assessment of Neonatal State
Authors: Nishio Monami , Takeda Naohisa , Miyata Ryutaro , Ito Yushi , Isayama Tetsuya , Shi Shoi , Wada Yuka
Published: January 2025

This case series study evaluates the accuracy of an automated video tool for monitoring neonatal states and tracking developmental changes.
Food Insecurity in Pregnancy, Receipt of Food Assistance, and Perinatal Complications
Authors: Chehab Rana F. , Croen Lisa A. , Laraia Barbara A. , Greenberg Mara B. , Ngo Amanda L. , Ferrara Assiamira , Zhu Yeyi
Published: January 2025

Importance

Food insecurity is a growing public health concern, but its association with perinatal complications remains unclear.

Objective

To examine whether food insecurity in pregnancy was associated with the risk of perinatal complications and determine whether these potential associations differed by receipt of food assistance.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used data from a pregnancy survey conducted between June 22, 2020, and September 9, 2022, at Kaiser Permanente Northern California, an integrated health care system serving a diverse population of 4.6 million. Participants included individuals who delivered singletons. Data were analyzed from December 2023 to June 2024.

Exposure

Food insecurity in pregnancy assessed using the validated 2-item Hunger Vital Sign screener.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Maternal (gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, cesarean delivery) and neonatal (preterm birth, neonatal intensive care unit [NICU] admission, small-for-gestational age [SGA], and large-for-gestational age [LGA]) complications extracted from the electronic health records, and a composite adverse perinatal outcome (APO) of maternal and neonatal complications. Modified Poisson regression models were adjusted for covariates and stratified by receipt of food assistance in pregnancy.

Results

Among 19 338 individuals, 2707 (14.0%) reported food insecurity in pregnancy. Individuals with food insecurity in pregnancy had a higher risk of gestational diabetes (adjusted relative risk [aRR], 1.13 [95% CI, 1.01-1.29]), preeclampsia (aRR, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.11-1.49]), preterm birth (aRR, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.02-1.38]), NICU admission (aRR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.07-1.42]), and APO (aRR, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.02-1.13]) compared with individuals without food insecurity. Among 1471 individuals (7.6%) who received food assistance in pregnancy, associations of food insecurity in pregnancy with perinatal complications were attenuated to the null, except for preeclampsia (aRR, 1.64 [95% CI, 1.06-2.53]). On the contrary, the associations persisted among individuals who did not receive food assistance: gestational diabetes (aRR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.04-1.37]), preeclampsia (aRR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.06-1.46]), preterm birth (aRR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.05-1.46]), NICU admission (aRR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.12-1.52]), and APO (aRR, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.06-1.18]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, food insecurity in pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of perinatal complications, and these associations were overall attenuated to the null among individuals who received food assistance in pregnancy. These findings support clinical guidelines of screening for food insecurity in pregnancy and provide evidence to expand food assistance programs that may help improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Medicare Risk Arrangement and Use and Outcomes Among Physician Groups
Authors: Cohen Ken R. , Vabson Boris , Podulka Jennifer , Smith Nathan J. , Everhart Erica , Ameli Omid , Catlett Kierstin , Jarvis Megan S. , Goldzweig Caroline , Kuo Julie H. , Dentzer Susan
Published: January 2025

Importance

Many physician groups are in 2-sided risk payment arrangements with Medicare Advantage plans (at-risk MA). Analysis of quality and health resource use under such arrangements may inform ongoing Medicare policy concerning payment and service delivery.

Objective

To compare quality and efficiency measures under 2 payment models: at-risk MA and fee-for-service (FFS) MA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used Medicare encounter and enrollment data from 2016 to 2019 covering 17 physician groups, 15 488 physicians, and 35 health insurers to compare quality and health resource use for Medicare beneficiaries within the same physician groups. The data were analyzed between August 4 and October 30, 2024.

Exposures

Care delivered under at-risk MA and FFS MA payment arrangements by the same physicians and medical groups.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Twenty quality and efficiency measures across 4 domains of patient care (hospital care, avoidance of the emergency department [ED], avoidance of disease-specific admissions, and outpatient care) were examined using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The overall sample comprised 5 278 717 person-years (37.7% at-risk MA and 62.3% FFS MA). The mean (SD) age of beneficiaries was 73.6 (9.2) years in the at-risk MA group (56.8% women) and 71.8 (10.4) years in the FFS MA group (57.4% women). For at-risk MA compared with FFS MA, inpatient admissions and 30-day readmissions per 1000 were 10.03 (95% CI, −10.61 to −9.44) and 1.95 (95% CI, −2.18 to −1.73) lower. ED use measures per 1000 ranged from 2.95 (95% CI, −3.28 to −2.63) lower for avoidable ED visits to 26.02 (95% CI, −26.92 to −25.12) lower for overall ED visits. Avoidance of disease-specific admissions per 1000 ranged from 0.24 (95% CI, −0.35 to −0.13) lower for composite diabetes-related admissions to 2.18 (95% CI, −2.43 to −1.94) lower for the composite of chronic disease–related admissions. High-risk drug use per 1000 was 14.26 (95% CI, −14.85 to −13.67) lower. Overall, compared with FFS MA, at-risk MA was associated with higher quality and efficiency in 18 of 20 measures after adjusting for differences in demographics, Hierarchical Condition Categories Risk Adjustment Factor scores, and other health characteristics.

Conclusions and relevance

In this cross-sectional study, at-risk MA payment arrangements managed by physician groups were associated with higher quality and efficiency compared with FFS MA managed by the same groups. The population and methods used provide robust evidence that at-risk payment arrangements in MA may improve health care delivery for the MA population.
New CMS Illness Navigation Codes
Authors: Dobbs John E. , Mullangi Samyukta , Hussaini S. M. Qasim
Published: January 2025

This Viewpoint provides an overview of principal illness navigation codes as well as promises and pitfalls.
Femtosecond Laser Arcuate Keratotomy vs Toric Intraocular Lens Implantation in Cataract Surgery
Authors: Zhong Yueyang , Chen Shuying , Wang Hanle , Li Su , Lu Zhouyu , Xu Jingjie , Yu Yibo , Yao Ke
Published: January 2025

Importance

After cataract surgery, postoperative residual astigmatism can influence a patient’s visual quality and satisfaction. Finding ways to minimize this astigmatism is important.

Objective

To compare the clinical outcomes of femtosecond laser arcuate keratotomy (FSAK) and toric intraocular lens (TIOL) implantation for astigmatism correction in patients undergoing femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial was conducted between October 2021 and September 2023 at the Eye Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, China. Patients with mild to moderate regular corneal astigmatism ranging from 0.75 diopters (D) to 3.00 D were recruited.

Interventions

Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive FSAK or TIOL implantation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the subjective manifest refraction assessed at 3 months postoperatively.

Results

A total of 196 patients (mean [SD] age, 68.4 [13.7] years; 124 female [63%]) were randomized to the FSAK group (98 [50%]) or TIOL group (98 [50%]), and 92 patients (94%) and 95 patients (97%), respectively, finished the 3-month follow-up. At 3 months postoperatively, there was no difference in the refractive astigmatism between the 2 groups (mean [SD], 0.64 [0.64] D vs 0.54 [0.55] D; difference, 0.11 D; 95% CI, −0.06 to 0.27 D; P = .21). The mean (SD) uncorrected distance visual acuity was 0.15 (0.20) logMAR (Snellen equivalent, 20/28) for the FSAK group and 0.14 (0.19) logMAR (Snellen equivalent, 20/28) for the TIOL group (difference, 0.01 D; 95% CI, −0.04 to 0.06 D; P = .71). Subgroup analyses showed that TIOL implantation achieved lower residual astigmatism compared with FSAK when treating astigmatism exceeding 1.5 D or against-the-rule astigmatism.

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this randomized clinical trial demonstrate that in study participants with mild to moderate astigmatism undergoing femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, FSAK was not superior to TIOL implantation for astigmatism correction. However, for astigmatism exceeding 1.5 D or against-the-rule astigmatism, TIOL implantation demonstrated greater efficacy over FSAK. Future trials are needed to determine if there is greater efficacy of TIOL implantation over FSAK as suggested by subgroup analyses.

Trial Registration

ChiCTR.org.cn Identifier: ChiCTR2100051066
Red Light Therapy for Myopia—Current Regulatory Changes in China
Authors: Wang Ya Xing , Wang Ningli , Wong Tien Yin
Published: January 2025

This Viewpoint discusses the ophthalmic device, red light therapy, for myopia treatment in children and adolescents in China, including its development and use, safety concerns, and implications surrounding recent regulatory changes and reclassification of this device.
Not Enough Dentistry
Authors: Mady Leila J. , Najjar Wassim , Hayes Catherine , Shanti Rabie M.
Published: January 2025

This Viewpoint discusses the gap in dental insurance coverage for patients with head and neck cancer, many of whom forego dental care to treat or prevent oral complications of head and neck cancer therapy due to financial hardship.
GLP-1RA Use and Thyroid Cancer Risk
Authors: Brito Juan P. , Herrin Jeph , Swarna Kavya Sindhu , Singh Ospina Naykky M. , Montori Victor M. , Toro-Tobon David , Umpierrez Guillermo E. , Galindo Rodolfo J. , Deng Yihong , Mickelson Mindy M. , Shao Hui , Polley Eric C. , McCoy Rozalina G.
Published: January 2025

Importance

The increasing use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) demands a better understanding of their association with thyroid cancer.

Objective

To estimate the risk of incident thyroid cancer among adults with type 2 diabetes being treated with GLP-1RA vs other common glucose-lowering medications.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a prespecified secondary analysis of a target trial emulation of a comparative effectiveness study using claims data for enrollees in commercial, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare fee-for-service plans across the US. Eligible participants were adults with type 2 diabetes at moderate risk for cardiovascular disease and without history of thyroid cancer who had newly filled prescriptions for GLP-1RA, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP4i), or sulfonylurea from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2021. Data were analyzed February 1 to October 31, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Overall and piecewise (<1, 1-2, and ≥2 years since treatment initiation) hazard ratios (HRs) for thyroid cancer with use of GLP-1RA vs the other 3 drug classes were estimated using inverse propensity score weighted Cox proportional hazards models. Modified intention-to-treat (mITT) (primary) and as-treated (sensitivity) analyses were performed.

Results

Of 351 913 patients (mean [SD] age, 65.3 [8.5] years; 173 391 [49.3%] females and 178 522 [50.7%] males), 41 112 started treatment with GLP-1RA; 76 093, with DPP4i; 43 499, with SGLT2i; and 191 209, with sulfonylurea therapy. The numbers of patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer were 69 (0.17%) in the GLP-1RA group, 172 (0.23%) in the DPP4i group, 72 (0.17%) in the SGLT2i group, and 381 (0.20%) in the sulfonylurea group. In the mITT analysis, GLP-1RA initiation was not significantly associated with increased overall risk for thyroid cancer compared to the other 3 diabetes drugs (HR, 1.24; 95% CI, 0.88-1.76). However, the risk for thyroid cancer was significantly higher within the first year after GLP-1RA initiation (HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.11-3.08) and was amplified in the overall as-treated analysis that censored patients when therapy was discontinued or another medication was added (HR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.10-3.95).

Conclusions and Relevance

This secondary analysis of a target trial emulation of a comparative effectiveness study found that despite the low absolute risk of thyroid cancer among patients receiving GLP-1RA therapy, there was an increased risk of new thyroid cancer diagnoses within the first year of GLP-1RA initiation compared to 3 other diabetes drugs. This finding may have been due to enhanced early detection; therefore, further research is necessary to understand the underlying causes of this association.
Third Proceedings of The North American Airway Collaborative (NoAAC)
Authors: Davis Ruth J. , Akst Lee M. , Allen Clint T. , Battafarano Richard J. , Born Hayley L. , Bryson Paul C. , Clary Matthew S. , Crosby Tyler , Dhillon Vaninder K. , Dion Greg , Kavookjian Hannah , Leahy Kevin P. , Lina Ioan , Mirza Natasha , Morrison Robert J. , Motz Kevin M. , Nelson Rebecca C. , Preciado Diego , Sandu Kishore , Spiegel Joseph R. , Walsh Jonathan , Hillel Alexander T. , Gelbard Alexander
Published: January 2025

Importance

Airway stenosis is a rare but debilitating disorder that significantly degrades the quality of life in affected patients. Treatments are primarily surgical, and disease management lacks established medical therapies. The North American Airway Collaborative held its third symposium at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 15, 2024, focused on strategies to advance the care of these patients. The proceedings summarize the discussion of trial design in airway stenosis and the resulting North American Airway Collaborative consensus regarding clinical end points for rigorous study of novel therapies.

Observations

The lectures and panels centered on the translation of a growing body of preclinical data into therapeutic targets. Additionally, detailed discussion explored design of clinical trials to evaluate safety and efficacy of novel therapeutics. The need for a consensus regarding clinically meaningful end points in airway stenosis was identified to facilitate the comparison of outcomes across institutions and future multi-institutional trials.

Conclusions and Relevance

The group achieved consensus regarding change in peak expiratory flow as the primary clinical end point in airway stenosis. Additional clinical measures, such as disease recurrence (identified as time to recurrent intervention), anatomical characterization of subglottic scar via axial computed tomography imaging, and patient-reported outcome measures (Clinical COPD Questionnaire [CCQ], Voice Handicap Index–10 [VHI-10], Eating Assessment Tool–10 [EAT-10], and 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey, version 2 [SF-12]) were identified as essential secondary outcomes.
Inhibition of acyl‐CoA synthetase long‐chain isozymes decreases multiple myeloma cell proliferation and causes mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Murphy Connor S. , Fairfield Heather , DeMambro Victoria E. , Fadel Samaa , Gartner Carlos A. , Karam Michelle , Potts Christian , Rodriguez Princess , Qiang Ya‐Wei , Hamidi Habib , Guan Xiangnan , Vary Calvin P. H. , Reagan Michaela R.
Published: January 2025

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable cancer of plasma cells with a 5‐year survival rate of 59%. Dysregulation of fatty acid (FA) metabolism is associated with MM development and progression; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Herein, we explore the roles of long‐chain fatty acid coenzyme A ligase (ACSL) family members in MM. ACSLs convert free long‐chain fatty acids into fatty acyl‐CoA esters and play key roles in catabolic and anabolic fatty acid metabolism. Analysis of the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) CoMMpassSM study showed that high ACSL1 and ACSL4 expression in myeloma cells are both associated with worse clinical outcomes for MM patients. Cancer Dependency Map (DepMap) data showed that all five ACSLs have negative Chronos scores, and ACSL3 and ACSL4 were among the top 25% Hallmark Fatty Acid Metabolism genes that support myeloma cell line fitness. Inhibition of ACSLs in myeloma cell lines in vitro, using the pharmacological inhibitor Triacsin C (TriC), increased apoptosis, decreased proliferation, and decreased cell viability, in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. RNA‐sequencing analysis of MM.1S cells treated with TriC showed a significant enrichment in apoptosis, ferroptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and proteomic analysis of these cells revealed enriched pathways for mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative phosphorylation. TriC also rewired mitochondrial metabolism by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential, increasing mitochondrial superoxide levels, decreasing mitochondrial ATP production rates, and impairing cellular respiration. Overall, our data support the hypothesis that suppression of ACSLs in myeloma cells is a novel metabolic target in MM that inhibits their viability, implicating this family as a promising therapeutic target in treating myeloma.
Duration of Disease and Long‐Term Outcomes in Patients With Difficult‐To‐Treat Recurrent Pericarditis: A Chronic Condition Treated With Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs, Colchicine, Corticosteroids, and Anti–Interleukin‐1 Agents
Authors: Ceriani Elisa , Agozzino Francesco , Berra Silvia , Gidaro Antonio , Bindi Paolo , Pavarani Alberto , Macchi Silvia , Vena Letizia , Moda Francesco , Sicignano Ludovico Luca , Murace Celeste Ambra , Gerardino Laura , Verrecchia Elena , De Carlini Caterina Chiara , Maestroni Silvia , Marinaro Gabriella , Bizzi Emanuele , Brucato Antonio , Imazio Massimo
Published: January 2025

Objective

We aimed to investigate the remission rate and disease duration in idiopathic or post–cardiac injury pericarditis and risk factors for disease duration and anti–interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) agent discontinuation.

Methods

This was a multicenter, longitudinal, observational study including 370 patients (51.4% female). The remission rate was the proportion of patients who stopped all pericarditis‐related therapies for at least 6 months without recurrences.

Results

The median follow‐up was 4.9 (interquartile range [IQR] 2.8–8.4) years, and the median age at the end of follow‐up was 49 (IQR 37–60) years. A median of 1.1 (IQR 0.6–1.9) recurrences/year and 0.4 (IQR 0.1–0.9) hospitalizations/year were recorded. The remission rate at follow‐up was 34.0%, 7% per year. Disease duration was shorter for patients in remission (3.1 years, IQR 1.6–6.2 years) than for those still receiving treatment (4 years, IQR 2.2–7.8; P = 0.02). Use of “guidelines‐based therapy” (hazard ratio [HR] 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25–2.73; P = 0.02) and colchicine use at first attack (HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.02–2.23; P = 0.038) were protective factors, whereas steroid use was associated with longer disease duration (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.35–0.81; P = 0.003). Corticosteroids were used in 77.3% of patients, with a median duration of therapy of 1.1 (IQR 0.4–2.6) years. Anakinra was used in 25.9% with a median duration of therapy of 2.4 (IQR 0.9–5.0) years; only 19.8% were able to stop anakinra at the end of observation period.

Conclusion

This study reports the largest and longest follow‐up in patients with recurrent pericarditis. Guideline adherence from the first attack is associated with a shorter course. The disease was long and impacting in terms of recurrences and hospitalizations, often requiring a long‐term treatment, in particular with anti–IL‐1 agents.

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Dual‐Channel Optical‐to‐Microwave Links Based on Space‐Polarization‐Division Multiplexed Optoelectronic Metasurface
Authors: Sun Ya Lun , Zhang Xin Ge , Cui Tie Jun , Jiang Wei Xiang
Published: January 2025

Visible light communication offers distinctive advantages such as low cost, rich spectrum, high communication speed, and environmental protection. Hybrid communication technologies integrate the advantages of radio frequency (RF) communication and visible light communication, playing an essential role in multi‐domain communication systems. However, the access of optical communication to the RF communication network in free space and cross‐media transmission of optical communication remain challenges. To achieve efficient hybrid wireless communications, optical and microwave signal conversion in full space and cross‐domain signal transmission is heavily requisite. Here, dual‐channel optical‐to‐microwave links based on a space‐polarization‐division multiplexed optoelectronic metasurface are proposed and realized, which are realized by double‐sided metasurface based on varactors and two rapid photoelectric conversion circuits integrated into each surface respectively. The dual‐channel optical‐to‐microwave links can achieve direct conversions of light to microwave signals at different polarizations on two surfaces of the metasurface independently and simultaneously. To demonstrate the capability of the conversion links, a dual‐channel hybrid transmission system is constructed and successfully operated. The dual‐channel optical‐to‐microwave conversion links can provide interfaces for visible light communications and RF communications, as well as for multi‐domain communication network interconnection.
A Trinity DNAzyme Circuit with Dual‐Confinement Effect for Imaging‐Guided Combined Gene/Chemo‐Dynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Wang Xuesong , Deng Ruijia , Tang Xiaoqi , Xie Zuowei , Huang Ping , Wu Xianlan , Luo Jie , Tang Yu , Sheng Jing , Yang Sha , Chen Ming , Chang Kai
Published: January 2025

Synthetic catalytic DNAzyme circuits have gained great attention as versatile theranostic toolboxes, but their accuracy and efficiency is restricted by uncontrolled signal leakage and inefficient circuitry activation. Here, a trinity DNAzyme circuit (TriDC) is constructed using a unique logic gate bioswitchable DNA tetrahedral walker@MnO2 nanosheets structure. The AND logic gate bioswitchable DNA tetrahedral walker, composed of dual allosteric DNAzyme (termed “commander” and “soldier”) and tetrahedral scaffold, is used to execute imaging‐guided gene therapy by avoiding undesired signal leakage and cascade “walking” in a confined space. Glutathione‐mediated reduction of MnO2 nanosheets provides secondary confinement to stack the DNA tetrahedral walker in situ, offering abundant Mn2+ as a cofactor to achieve self‐sufficiency of DNAzyme circuits and induce chemo‐dynamic therapy. The structure increases local reaction concentrations by ≈100‐fold according to the collision frequency model, enabling the AND logic detection of microRNA‐10b and microRNA‐155 at a limit of detection of 98.97 pm, thereby facilitating the precise imaging of breast cancer cells. The combined gene/chemo‐dynamic therapy achieves 66.2% tumor growth inhibition efficiency. The TriDC offers novel insights into tumor theranostics and also presents a paradigm for the in situ implementation of higher‐order DNAzyme circuits.
Automated Microfluidic Platform for High‐Throughput Biosensor Development
Authors: Devrani Shitanshu , Tietze Daniel , Tietze Alesia A.
Published: January 2025

Biorecognition elements immobilized into nanopores have transformed point‐of‐care (POC) diagnostics by converting molecular interactions into electrical and fluorescent signals.This study introduces Bio‐Sensei, a high‐throughput screening (HTS) microfluidic platform based on nanopore biosensing. Integrating a robotic sampler, electrochemical, and fluorescence setup, Bio‐Sensei operates as an Internet of Things (IoT) platform with integrated data analysis. The platform's utility is demonstrated on functionalized with an amino terminal Cu(II)‐ and Ni(II)‐binding (ATCUN) peptide ion track‐etched membrane. Automated testing atchieves a significantly higher F‐stat value than the critical treshold, while unsupervised clustering reveals optimalnanopores pore size. The biosensordemonstrates remarkable stability, selectivity, and sensitivity with detection limits of 10−6 using fluorescence and 10−15 Musing cyclic voltammetry measurements. Combining these methods enhances machine learning models for Cu2+ concentration prediction, achieving receiver operating characteristic area under the curve values exceeding 95%.
Ammonia Synthesis Over an Iron Catalyst with an Inverse Structure
Authors: Hattori Masashi , Miyashita Kento , Nagasawa Yuki , Suzuki Ryo , Hara Michikazu
Published: January 2025

Achieving a substantial increase in the ammonia productivity of the Haber‐Bosch (HB) process at low temperatures has been a significant challenge for over 100 years. However, the iron catalyst designed over 100 years ago remains at the forefront of this process because it is difficult to exceed the industrial iron catalyst in terms of the ammonia synthesis rate/catalyst volume that determines ammonia productivity in a reactor. Here, a new catalyst with an inverse structure of a supported metal catalyst that consists of metallic iron particles loaded with an aluminum hydride species is reported. The iron catalyst is readily prepared from an α‐Fe2O3 precursor and ammonia could be synthesized at more than twice the ammonia synthesis rate/catalyst volume of the conventional industrial iron catalyst, even though the specific surface area of the former is only half that of the latter. In addition, ammonia synthesis over the catalyst is observed with a small apparent activation energy at 50 °C. Mechanistic studies suggested that an increase in the active sites with strong electron‐donating capability on the iron catalyst significantly increased the ammonia synthesis rate/catalyst surface area, which resulted in high catalytic activity/catalyst volume.
Integration of Phytomelatonin Signaling With Jasmonic Acid in Wound‐induced Adventitious Root Regeneration
Authors: Liu Ying , Wang Xiaoyun , Jing Shirui , Jia Congyang , Li Hongxin , Li Chonghua , He Qiuyu , Zhang Na , Guo Yang‐Dong
Published: January 2025

Plants exhibit remarkable regenerative abilities under stress conditions like injury, herbivory, and damage from harsh weather, particularly through adventitious root formation. They have sophisticated molecular mechanisms to recognize and respond to wounding. Jasmonic acid (JA), a wound hormone, triggers auxin synthesis to stimulate root regeneration. Melatonin (MT), structurally similar to auxin, also significantly influences root induction, but its specific mechanism is unclear. Phytomelatonin's signal transduction is discovered in wound‐induced root formation, identifying SlPMTR1/2 as phytomelatonin receptors, transmitting signals to SHOOT BORNE ROOTLESS 1 (SlSBRL1), a key regulator of wound‐induced root regeneration, via the G protein α subunit 1 (SlGPA1). Additionally, SlPMTR1/2 is activated by JA, and targeted by SlMYC2. Overall, the specific mechanisms of phytomelatonin on wound‐induced root regeneration is uncovered and revealed a crosstalk between phytomelatonin and JA, offering new insights into plant repair mechanisms.
How Shallow and Deep Defects Drive Carrier Dynamics in Tin‐Iodide Perovskites
Authors: Treglia Antonella , Olivati Andrea , Romano Valentino , Iudica Andrea , Paternò Giuseppe Maria , Poli Isabella , Petrozza Annamaria
Published: January 2025

Tin‐halide perovskites (THP) exhibit complex carrier dynamics due to the interplay between electronic doping and carrier trapping, both of which affect device performance. Evaluating the impact of trap states is challenging because the timescales of photogenerated electron recombination with dopant holes and trapping often overlap. Here, Transient Absorption Spectroscopy (TAS) is used across a broad spectral and temporal range, spanning from visible to near‐infrared and from femtoseconds to microseconds, to probe both sub‐bandgap and band‐edge transitions, while manipulating defect and doping densities via chemical treatments. Focusing on tin triiodide perovskites, the rapid carrier recombination due to high electronic doping density is considered the main source of carrier loss. However, deep electron trap states originated by two distinct type of defects are identified: surface Sn(IV) defects and tin interstitials. Surface Sn(IV) defects play a key role in the loss of photo‐generated carriers, but their density can be mitigated by the addition of SnF2, improving carrier lifetimes. Nevertheless, excessive SnF2 promotes the stabilization of tin interstitial traps, highlighting a delicate balance in defect control. Moreover, near‐infrared TAS reveals sub‐bandgap transitions associated with shallow traps, which contribute to band‐edge repopulation within tens of picoseconds. This work disentangles the contributions of doping and trap‐mediated processes to the optoelectronic mechanisms in THP, offering insights into defect management for performance optimization.
Robust bilayer Ni–Sb–SnO2 combined with continuous flow stacked electrolyzer for electrochemical ozone production
Authors: Wang Xiaosa , Xu Zaixiang , Lu Mengmeng , Ding Lei , Shi Huaijie , He Jiahui , Cao Haoqiang , Cao Yunyi , Zhong Xing , Wang Jianguo
Published: January 2025

Ni–Sb–SnO₂ (NATO) has demonstrated significant practical advantages for electrochemical ozone production (EOP) and wastewater treatment. However, its limited lifetime poses challenges for environmental applications. In this study, bilayer electrocatalysts (NATO/C‐ATO) with an inner layer doped with carbon material were synthesized by electrodeposition combined with multiple quenching processes. It exhibited excellent EOP activity and stability under acidic conditions, achieving a current efficiency of 34.4% and an accelerated lifetime of 121 h. Additionally, a continuous flow stacked electrolyzer was designed via a combination of flow field simulation and experimental validation. Compared to conventional batch reactors, this design intensifies the mass and heat transfer processes in operation, enabling the production of ozonated water at a high concentration of 36.6 mg h−1 and the rapid degradation of organic pollutants. This work provides new insights into the design of efficient electrocatalysts and application equipment for advanced oxidation processes.
Brassinin from Brassica campestris L. inhibits colorectal cancer by inducing p62/NRF2/GPX4‐regulated ferroptosis
Authors: Wen Shi‐Yuan , Gao Rui‐Rui , Chen Yan‐Yan , Wang Yi‐Jie , Wang Xin‐Tong , Liu Hai‐Xin
Published: January 2025

Background

Indole phytoalexins, plant‐derived compounds present in cruciferous vegetables, have demonstrated anticancer properties. Brassinin (BSN), derived from Brassica campestris L. var. campestris, is known for its potent antitumor effects on various cancers. However, the role of ferroptosis in regulating the antitumor effects of BSN has not been fully elucidated.

Methods

The components of B. campestris L. against colorectal cancer (CRC) were analyzed by network pharmacology. CCK‐8 assay and colony formation assay detected cell viability induced by BSN. Molecular docking verified the binding of BSN to the target protein. Western blot and reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) assay revealed whether BSN can inactivate the NRF2 signaling and inhibit the expression of p62 and HO‐1. The RKO‐xenograft tumor models were established and then were treated by 75 or 150 mg/kg BSN to verify the antitumor efficacy and side effects of BSN.

Results

Network pharmacology suggested that BSN is the most important component of B. campestris L. against CRC. BSN inhibits CRC cell viability in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Furthermore, this inhibitory effect is associated with the induction of ferroptosis, as BSN suppresses the cell viability of CRC by inducing GPX4‐regulated ferroptosis. BSN may bind to NRF2 protein to inactivate the NRF2 signaling, inhibiting the expression of p62 and HO‐1. Importantly, a low dose or a high dose of BSN significantly reduced the tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal that BSN blocks CRC growth by inducing p62/NRF2/GPX4‐regulated ferroptosis, which may be a novel lead compound for tumor treatment.
Gabexate mesylate thermo‐sensitive in‐situ gel is effective for treating grade‐III pancreatic trauma in beagle dogs guided by contrast‐enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Gao Hanjing , Yang Shanshan , Song Qing , Tang Wenjing , Wang Yiru , Shi Bin , Tang Jie , Luo Yukun
Published: January 2025

Background

This study evaluates the efficacy of gabexate mesylate thermosensitive in‐situ gel (GMTI) in the treatment of beagle grade III pancreatic trauma (PT) with the assistance of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and investigates its mechanism of action.

Methods

A grade III PT model consisting of 15 beagle dogs with severed main pancreatic ducts was created and treated with cephalic vein injection of gabexate mesylate (GM) (1.54 mL/10 kg, TID) and peripancreatic injection of GMTI (4.63 mL/10 kg, QD) guided by CEUS within 24 h post‐surgery. Ascites and serum levels of amylase (AMY), lipase (LPS), C‐reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)‐6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and urinary trypsinogen activating peptide (TAP) were detected by ELISA. Histopathological changes in the canine pancreas were observed by Hematoxylin and Eosin staining.

Results

CEUS accurately displayed pancreatic lesions and guided catheterisation. Compared to the control group, the ascites was significantly reduced after treatment (p < 0.01). AMY and LPS ascites significantly decreased on post‐operative 1st and 2nd day (p < 0.01). The levels of AMY, LPS, CRP, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in serum were decreased (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Urinary TAP was decreased 1 and 2 days after treatment (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01, respectively). In the control group, pancreatic tissue necrosis was evident in the wound area. Normal glandular cell structures and fibrous tissue hyperplasia were observed in the wound area after GMTI treatment. The GMTI group performed better than the GM group in improving pancreatic histology and reducing AMY levels in the early post‐operative period.

Conclusion

Guided by CEUS, daily peripancreatic injections of GMTI in Beagles effectively inhibit pancreatic enzyme activity and aid in the adjuvant treatment of pancreatic trauma.
Valence State Hydrogen Channel Enhances Sustained and Controllable Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution in Diabetic Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Luo Xianzhu , Zhang Xiangcheng , Wen Xue , Wang Rui , Zhang Qingguo , Luo Pan , Yu Fabiao , Cao Hongshuai
Published: January 2025

Diabetes significantly increases the risk of serious health issues, including prolonged skin inflammation and delayed wound healing, owing to inferior glucose control and suppression of the immune system. Although traditional hydrogen (H2) therapy is slightly effective, its ability to tailor the release of H2 on the skin is limited. Accordingly, this study proposed a novel strategy for electrocatalytic H2 release under neutral conditions to promote wound healing in diabetic mice and rabbit. Herein, a defect‐engineered cobalt phosphide (CoP) catalyst was designed by introducing a neutral single‐metal electrocatalytic Hydrogen valence state channel into CoP. By effectively regulating the formation and transfer of *H active species during the CoP catalytic process, a considerable enhancement in neutral electrocatalytic H2 evolution performance was achieved (−78.0 mV@‐10.0 mA cm−2). Based on this superior catalytic performance, we developed a flexible electrode (namely, CoP/flexible gold electrode made by screen printing (FGSP) by combining a convenient electrolysis platform with continuous electrolyte supply and FGSP, enabling customized H2 release and accelerating wound healing in diabetic mice and rabbits. Notably, the designed flexible electrode features adjustable dimensions, interchangeable substrates, and material adaptability, meeting the diverse needs of clinical and basic research and demonstrating significant potential for applications in clinical medicine.