bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Dietary Diversity Through Potato Commercialization in Nyandarua County, Kenya
Authors: Wakaba Denis , Ateka Josiah , Mbeche Robert
Published: January 2025

Food insecurity and malnutrition are global challenges and might escalate with the effect of climate change. Whilst transitioning from subsistence to commercial agriculture is seen as a promising strategy to address these issues, the specific pathways remain unclear. This is in light of literature showing mixed effects of crop commercialisation on food security and nutrition (FSN). We use data from a household survey of 388 households conducted in Nyandarua – one of Kenya's leading potato‐producing counties but faces higher levels of malnutrition compared to the national average. In the study, FSN was measured using the food insecurity experience scale (FIES) and the households' dietary diversity score (HDDS). The effect of crop commercialisation on the two FSN indicators was measured using the ordered probit and truncated Poisson regression models. The results show a moderate level of potato commercialisation. The results indicate a moderate level of potato commercialisation (based on a commercialisation score of 0.4 out of a possible 1). Whilst most households were generally food secure (96%), dietary diversity was somewhat limited. The Econometric analysis reveals that, whilst potato commercialisation did not influence food security, it has a positive effect on household dietary diversity. This study contributes to the understanding of the pathways through which the commercialisation of staple food crops impacts FSN – a contribution that has received limited research attention in the literature. Additionally, the study also emphasises the importance of considering local contexts and preferences when designing interventions to improve FSN outcomes. Based on the findings, we reflect on the implications of the findings in nutrition‐specific and responsive initiatives in a developing country context.
Yield Loss of a Rice Ratoon Crop is Affected by Nitrogen Supply in a Mechanized Ratooning System
Authors: Zhou Yongjin , Ji Yanlan , Li Zhong , Tu Debao , Xi Min , Xu Youzun
Published: January 2025

Yield loss of the ratoon crop due to rolling damage during the mechanical harvesting of the main crop (MEC) severely limits the promotion of mechanized rice ratooning technology. Our previous study showed that MEC changed the population structure of the ratoon crop by forming a rolled zone and non‐rolled zone (NRZ), resulting in a positive border effect on the yield of the NRZ, which reduced the yield loss. Nitrogen (N) management has a great impact on matter accumulation and yield formation in ratoon crops. However, it remains unclear whether the border effect on the yield of NRZ is affected by the N rate. The hypothesis is that N rates would affect the border effect on NRZ yield, thereby increasing or decreasing yield loss. To address this question, field experiments were conducted with two harvest methods for the main crop (MEC: mechanical harvesting, MAN: manual harvesting) and three N rates for the ratoon crop (N0: 0, MN: 120, and HN: 180 kg N ha−1) in 2021 and 2022. The results showed that the yield loss declined from 22.4% to 13.2% as the N rate increased from 0 to 180 kg ha−1. The reduction in yield loss was attributed to the increased border effect of higher N supply on NRZ yield. The border effect on NRZ yield was −7.0%, 5.0%, and 10.7% in N0, MN, and HN, respectively. Compared with MAN, the yield reduction of NRZ in N0 was mainly due to the lower yield of the nonrolled side row (R2) and middle row (R3), while the yield increase in NRZ in MN was mainly due to the increased yield of the nonrolled single row (R1), and the yield increase in NRZ in HN was mainly due to the increased yield of both R1 and R2. A high N rate improved root vigor and increased the N uptake and leaf area index of nonrolled rows in MEC, which increased the panicles m−2 and total dry matter weight. With the increase in the N rate, the border effect on these yield attributes of R1 and R2 gradually increased, especially for R1, thereby increasing the border effect on the NRZ yield. Our results indicate that the border effect on the NRZ yield was affected by the N rate. High N supply reduced yield loss of the ratoon crop by increasing the border effect on NRZ yield. The appropriate N rate should be further determined to balance the yield and economic and environmental benefits of the ratoon crop in mechanized rice ratooning systems.
Dedifferentiation of a Chondrosarcoma of the Larynx: A Case Report
Authors: Charous Steven J. , Yuhan Brian , Stenson Kerstin M. , Talati Vidit , McMullen Phillip
Published: January 2025

Background

Chondrosarcomas of the larynx, relatively rare tumors with low grade pathology in approximately 95% of cases, can most often be managed with conservation laryngeal procedures. Dedifferentiated chondrosarcomas are much more rare and aggressive requiring more aggressive surgical extirpation.

Methods

A patient underwent three debulking procedures for a laryngeal chondrosarcoma Grade I/II histologically over a 2.5 year period of time during which slow growth was closely monitored. He then presented with relatively rapid onset of hoarseness and shortness of breath. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy demonstrated new bilateral vocal fold fixation with near occlusion of his subglottis by soft tissue mass.

Results

A total laryngectomy was performed that pathologically demonstrated a Grade III dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma. Shortly thereafter, the patient developed regional metastases, then distant metastases and then succumbed to the disease.

Conclusion

This first case of a Grade III dedifferentiating chondrosarcoma arising from closely monitored and multiple debulked previously Grade I/II tumor demonstrates the potential change in aggressiveness in low‐grade chondrosarcomas of the larynx. Sudden increase in growth along with a soft tissue component to the tumor based on exam and/or imaging should heighten suspicion for dedifferentiation of the tumor and necessitates a more aggressive surgical resection. However, the chance of cure once dedifferentiation occurs is drastically reduced.
Infrared‐Assisted Hot Air Drying of Turmeric Slices: Effects on Drying Kinetics, Quality, Efficiency, Energy Considerations, and Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Jeevarathinam G. , Pandiselvam R. , Pandiarajan T. , Deepa J. , Dinesh Kumar S. , Preetha P. , Krishnakumar T. , Asha Monicka A. , Balakrishnan M. , Amirtham D.
Published: January 2025

The commercial value of turmeric is significantly influenced by the percentage of volatile compounds. Drying techniques reported in previous studies for turmeric showed a reduction in volatile compounds, which negatively affected the quality and market value. In this investigation, drying trials were conducted on turmeric slices with bed thicknesses ranging from 10–25 and 10–50 mm using infrared drying, hot air drying (HAD), and infrared‐assisted hot air drying (IR‐HAD) methods at temperatures of 50°C, 60°C, and 70°C. The air velocity was maintained at 2 m/s, with an infrared radiation intensity of 3.02 W/cm². The results indicated that IR‐HAD at 70°C with a bed thickness of 25 mm achieved the best outcomes in terms of drying rate, efficiency, specific energy consumption, and CO₂ emissions. Conversely, IR‐HAD at 60°C with a bed thickness of 25 mm was optimal for retaining quality parameters, such as curcumin, oleoresin, color, and starch content. Notably, the drying time at 70°C for the 10–25‐mm bed thickness was 54.54% shorter compared with 50°C for IR‐HAD. Statistical analysis revealed significant effects (p < 0.01) of drying techniques, bed thickness, and drying temperatures on quality parameters. IR‐HAD at 60°C with a bed thickness of 25 mm emerged as the preferred operating condition for producing high‐quality turmeric. Nonlinear regression analysis confirmed the suitability of seven different thin‐layer drying models, with the page model being the most accurate predictor of turmeric slice drying under varied conditions. IR‐HAD demonstrated its potential to accelerate the drying rate during the initial stage of the process, with reduced thickness proving more effective due to the increased surface area facilitating faster moisture removal. IR‐HAD at 60°C retains the maximum percent of volatile compounds and maintains the quality by faster and uniform drying. Therefore, employing IR‐HAD offers a more energy‐efficient sustainable method while ensuring quality retention in dried turmeric slices.
Investigation of Heat Transfer of Nanoencapsulated Phase Change Material and Water in a Trapezoidal Cavity With a Sliding Wall
Authors: Younis Obai , Khetib Yacine , Abderrahmane Aissa , Almitan Khalid H. , Laidoudi Houssem , Belazreg Abdeldjalil , Ahmed Awadallah
Published: January 2025

In recent years, nanoencapsulated phase change materials (NEPCMs) have gained great interest in thermal management and control applications. This paper addresses the mixed convection of water and NEPCM confined within a lid‐driven trapezoidal cavity. The bottom wall of the cavity is of a wavy shape; moreover, the cavity includes a hot flame and is subjected to a magnetic field. The Galerkin‐finite element method was used to address the system governing equations and the results obtained were validated by preceding research works. The impacts of bottom wall undulation number (N = 1–4), Hartmann number (Ha) of 0–100, Reynolds number (Re) of 0–500, and hot flame location (left, center, and right) on thermal fields and flow pattern are presented and discussed. The findings show that placing the hot flame at the center gives the maximum thermal transfer rate while augmenting the undulation number of the bottom wall obstructs the liquid flow and hence reduces heat transmission rates. At the maximum Reynolds number, increasing the undulation number of the bottom wall from 1 to 4 and Ha from 0 to 100 reduces the Nusselt number by 26.7% and 54%, respectively.
Simultaneous blockade of the CD73/EGFR axis inhibits tumor growth
Authors: Ardeshiri Keivan , Hassannia Hadi , Ghalamfarsa Ghasem , Jafary Hanieh , Jadidi Farhad
Published: January 2025

Targeting the influencing factors in tumor growth and expansion in the tumor microenvironment is one of the key approaches to cancer immunotherapy. Various factors in the tumor microenvironment can in cooperation stimulate tumor growth, suppress anti‐tumor immune responses, promote drug resistance, and ultimately enhance tumor recurrence. Therefore, due to the dependence and close cooperation of these axes, their combined targeting can have a greater effect compared to their individual targeting. Among the important factors affecting tumor growth in the tumor region, CD73 and EGFR play an important role in tumor growth by stimulating each other's expression and function. Therefore, we intended to use the nanocarriers that we had previously produced and characterized to deliver anti‐CD73 and EGFR siRNAs to murine breast cancer 4T1 cells. Silencing CD73 and EGFR could significantly induce cell death in cancer cells. Downregulation of the CD73/EGFR axis also suppressed the migratory and proliferative potential of cancer cells. This therapeutic strategy also inhibited tumor growth in in ovo model. These findings imply that simultaneous targeting of CD73 and EGFR in breast cancer can be considered a novel immunotherapeutic approach that needs further investigation in future studies.
Emission characteristics of ethanolamine and ammonia in CO2 capture process by chemical absorption based on ethanolamine solution
Authors: Yu Xiaowen , Wu Hao , Li Wenrui , Yang Hongmin
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

The massive emission of greenhouse gases represented by CO2 has led to many environmental and climate problems. Chemical absorption after combustion has become an effective method for CO2 capture. Meanwhile, this method also leads to potential emission of pollutants, consisting mainly of ethanolamine (MEA) and ammonia (NH3). However, few studies focus on the emission characteristics of pollutants in chemical absorption systems and the factors influencing the emissions.

RESULTS

In this experiment, MEA and NH3 emissions during the CO2 capture process by the chemical absorption method under different conditions, such as flue gas and absorbent solution temperature, liquid‐to‐gas ratio, CO2 concentration in the flue gas, and absorbent CO2 loading, were investigated. The results indicate that the MEA and NH3 are released during the CO2 capture process, and the amount of release varies with many parameters. Under typical conditions, the emissions of MEA and NH3 were stabilized at 85.8 and 21.5 mg Nm−3, respectively. The emissions of MEA and NH3 increased steadily with the temperature of the flue gas and increasing absorbent solution. Higher liquid‐to‐gas ratio led to more MEA and NH3 emissions, and higher absorbent CO2 loading could inhibit the MEA and NH3 emissions. Calculation of the maximum reduction rate also showed that CO2 loading has the greatest impact on pollutant emissions, and optimizing it reduces pollutant emissions by at least 40%.

CONCLUSION

It was found that pollution emissions can be controlled by optimizing operating parameters, which can provide a reference for reducing pollutant emissions in the industry. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Waveguide Evanescent Field Fluorescence Microscopy Images of Osteoblast Cells: The Effect of Trypsin and Image Processing Using TrackMate
Authors: Hassanzadeh Abdollah , Elyasi Seyed Navid , Salih Siyamand , Abdulkareem Sarkew Salah , Saeed Salah Raza
Published: January 2025

Waveguide evanescent field fluorescence microscopy (WEFF) is an evanescent‐based microscopy that utilizes a confined thin film of light, around 100 nm, to image the plasma membrane of cells attached to a waveguide. Low photobleaching and low background besides its high axial resolution allows time‐lapse imaging to investigate changes in cell morphology in the presence or absence of chemical agents. Both large field of view (FOV) and uniform illumination are very important while imaging cell‐substrate contacts with an evanescent field. In the current study, we demonstrate that the WEFF microscope is capable of large FOVs with a uniform illumination source and imaging over a very long time period with a simple and inexpensive experimental setup. The interaction of the trypsin with plasma membranes of live osteoblast cells is investigated. To analyze cell images (250 images), instead of relying on manual tracking, which is time‐consuming and can introduce numerous errors, we performed image processing using TrackMate to investigate the dynamic response of cells upon exposure to trypsin. This helps to save time and increase the accuracy of the analysis. The powerful tracking and analysis capabilities of the TrackMate plugin in ImageJ are used to automatically detect the cells border and trace each cluster of cells. The reduction in cell area is accompanied by a notable increase in mean intensity, reflecting changes in the intracellular environment. However, the background did not change during the experiment, which proves that the fluorescence material remains attached to the cell membrane and does not leak into the cell medium.
Assessing chest radiographic quality and the influence of COVID‐19 pathology: the Australian experience
Authors: O'Reilly Peter , Abu Awwad Dania , Lewis Sarah , Ekpo Ernest , Reed Warren
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Quality assurance (QA) in medical imaging ensures consistently high‐quality images at acceptable radiation doses. However, the applicability of the chest X‐ray (CXR) QA tool in images with pathology, particularly infectious diseases like COVID‐19, has not been explored. This study examines the utility of the European Guidelines for image quality in QA of CXRs with varying severity and types of infectious disease.

Methods

A convenient sampling methodology was employed to recruit 25 participants (qualified radiographers: n = 13 and 4th‐year undergraduate radiography students: n = 12) to evaluate 70 CXR images using the European Guidelines for image quality in CXRs. The image dataset comprised of COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 cases, which were randomly selected to reflect routine clinical practice variability. Participants independently rated image quality based on 10 criteria in the European guidelines on quality criteria for CXRs using a six‐point Likert scale. Image quality ratings of normal and pathological CXR images were compared using a Kruskal–Wallis test. Spearman's ranked order correlation was used to assess the association between quality criteria ratings.

Results

CXRs with no pathology or non‐COVID pathologies exhibited statistically higher total QA scores compared to CXRs with COVID‐19 and indeterminate COVID‐19 (P < 0.001). This trend was evident across various QA factors, especially those associated with patient inspiration. Higher levels of infection corresponded to lower QA ratings. No differences were found between different pathologies regarding the medial border of the scapulae being outside the lung fields.

Conclusions

Severe pathology negatively impacts the technical quality of CXRs with COVID‐19 features without necessarily affecting their diagnostic value. The findings emphasise the need to prioritise diagnostic ability over technical quality when evaluating CXRs exhibiting diffuse signs of pathology.
Treatment Decision‐Making Among Chinese Americans With Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Hur Kevin , Gao Jaynelle , Adili Amila , Tam Benjamin , Herrera Kevin , Rice Dale , Wrobel Bozena , Wu Shinyi
Published: January 2025

Objective

There has been limited research on the influence of race and ethnicity on treatment decision‐making for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This prospective study aims to investigate potential factors linked to treatment modality choice among patients with medically refractory CRS, distinguishing between Chinese American and non‐Chinese American patients.

Methods

CRS patients with persistent symptoms despite prior medical treatment were prospectively enrolled. These patients chose either to continue medical treatment or to undergo endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) to alleviate CRS symptoms. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared using bivariate analysis. The association between ethnicity and treatment modality choice was assessed using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Among the 134 patients (29.1% Chinese Americans) included, 79 patients (59.0%) elected to undergo ESS. No significant differences in demographics, nasal polyp status, comorbidities, Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22), Lund–Mackay, or modified Lund–Kennedy scores were found between the treatment groups. After adjusting for age, income, and SNOT‐22 score, non‐Chinese American patients were more inclined to select ESS (OR = 7.92; 95% CI: 2.95–21.28; p < 0.001) as opposed to Chinese American patients. Chinese American patients who underwent ESS had a clinically significant improvement in SNOT‐22 scores at 1 month (−11.29 points) and 3 months (−16.29 points) postoperatively.

Conclusions

Chinese American patients with refractory CRS are less likely to opt for ESS compared to non‐Chinese American patients. Surgical treatment is effective in improving quality of life, as measured by the SNOT‐22, among Chinese American CRS patients. Further investigations are warranted to identify factors contributing to surgical hesitancy.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 2025
Unlocking Secure Optical Multiplexing with Spatially Incoherent Light
Authors: Liu Xin , Li Xiaofei , Ponomarenko Sergey A. , Wang Fei , Peng Xiaofeng , Cai Yangjian , Liang Chunhao
Published: January 2025

While coherent light holds promise for optical multiplexing via orthogonal degrees of freedom, its vulnerability to disturbances often results in information loss and retrieval hurdles, primarily due to its reliance on first‐order optical parameters. Herein, an incoherent optical information multiplexing and retrieval protocol is proposed theoretically and verified experimentally by harnessing the two‐point field correlations of structured random light. The optical information is securely stored in the multiplexed field correlations which are inaccessible to a direct capture by a camera and retrieved only through rigorous statistical processing. The inherently incoherent nature of random waves makes this protocol crosstalk‐free in principle and guarantees its high fidelity even in an extremely noisy environment. The advanced protocol opens new horizons in an array of fields, such as optical cryptography and optical imaging, and it can be relevant for information processing with random waves of diverse physical nature, including acoustic and matter waves.
NMR Spectroscopic Reference Data of Synthetic Cannabinoids Sold on the Internet
Authors: Hubner Eva‐Maria , Schmid Martin G. , Manojlovic Verina , Gattringer Daniela , Pferschy‐Wenzig Eva‐Maria , Kunert Olaf
Published: January 2025

Besides classic illegal drugs, numerous designer drugs, also called new psychoactive substances (NPSs), are available on the global drug market. One of the biggest and fastest‐growing substance classes comprises the synthetic cannabinoids. According to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), 254 out of 950 monitored substances belong to this group of NPS, with 9 new cannabinoids registered for the first time in 2023. For their purchase, it is not necessary to use the dark web. Due to the structural differences compared to the illegal Δ9‐THC (delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol), the legal status changes and the synthetic cannabinoids are available via clear web pages. They come as powders or dissolved and sprayed onto non‐psychoactive layers such as cannabidiol hemp, industrial hemp or also on other plant material like herbal tea mixtures or dried flowers. These adulterated plant parts can be smoked as a substitute to the psychoactive and in many countries illegal Δ9‐THC‐containing hemp. The main task of this project was to check the identity of online available synthetic cannabinoid samples and to generate experimental data using a combination of gas and liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection and NMR‐based structure elucidation. In total, 25 substances in solid state were bought from various online shops. They turned out to be 21 synthetic cannabinoids after analysis, including 13 with no or incomplete experimental NMR data available in the literature and one, CH‐PIATA, which has not been mentioned in literature yet. More than 50% of the acquired substances were falsely declared.
Effect of Motivational Interviewing and Exercise on Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Akinrolie Olayinka , Abioke Uchechukwu B. , Kolawole Francis O. , Askin Nicole , Anieto Ebuka M. , Itua Serena A. , Akin Oluwatoyin G. , Eromosele Blessing , Idowu Opeyemi A. , Fawole Henrietta O.
Published: January 2025

Background

The prevalence of chronic low back pain (CLBP) and its concomitant cost implications have continued to rise across the globe. Currently, there is no effective treatment for CLBP that leads to long‐term improvement. Hence, there is growing recognition of the need for behaviour techniques including motivational interviewing (MI) to address CLBP.

Objective

To determine the effect of MI and exercise on pain in individuals with CLBP.

Method

We searched for trials in seven databases from inception to April 2024. Trials were included if MI was used alone or in addition to an exercise programme for improving CLBP in adults aged (≥ 18 years).

Results

From 3062 records retrieved, we included three randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Only one study was rated as having a low risk of bias. There is no evidence to support the benefit of MI and exercise on improving pain (SMD‐0.23, 95% CI‐0.55 to 0.09, I2 = 0%, p = 0.16), disability (MD‐1.80, 95% CI‐4.55 to 0.94, I2 = 85%, p = 0.20) and physical functioning (SMD 0.00, 95% CI‐1.31 to 1.32, I2 = 93%, p = 0.99).

Conclusion

There is insufficient evidence to support the effect of MI and exercise on pain in individuals with CLBP. More large‐scale RCTs are needed in evaluating the effectiveness of MI and exercise in individuals with CLBP.
Fe─N4 and Fe7Co3 Nanoalloy Dual‐Site Modulation by Skeleton Defect in N‐Doped Graphene Aerogel for Enhanced Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalyst in Zinc‐air Battery
Authors: Tang Rujuan , Yuan Xiaona , Yang Wenxin , Zhang Haiyan , Lu Yan , Zhang Renjie
Published: January 2025

The dual‐site electrocatalysts formed by metal single atoms combines with metal nanoparticles represent a promising strategy to enhance both oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance. Herein, defect engineering is applied to dual‐site ORR and OER electrocatalysts. Its design, synthesis, structural properties, and catalytic performance experimentally and theoretically are insightfully studied for the single‐atomic Fe─N4 and the adjacent Fe7Co3 nanoalloy (FeCoNA) as dual‐site loading on nitrogen‐doped graphene aerogel (Fe─N/FeCo@NGA). The high‐density dual‐sites, together with the good electronic conductivity of NGA, synergistically improve the electronic structure for superior electrocatalytic activity. The half‐wave potential of Fe─N/FeCo@NGA in ORR is 0.92 V and the overpotential of it in OER is 1.58 V. Corresponding all‐solid‐state Zn‐air battery demonstrates a peak power density of 147.6 mW cm−2 and charge/discharge durability for over 140 h. Theoretical calculations reveal that the single‐atomic Fe‐N4 and FeCoNA dual‐site on the skeleton defect optimized NGA, further refine the local electronic structure, modulating the tensile force on the O─O bond in *OOH intermediate, leading to its spontaneous dissociation and facilitating a significantly reduced energy barrier. This work takes a promising shortcut in the application of defect engineering for the development of highly efficient dual‐site bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts with single atoms.
Progress of 2D Perovskite Solar Cells: Structure and Performance
Authors: Yang Liyan , Li Xiaofang , Li Mufang , Liu Dan , Wang Dong , Wang Tao
Published: January 2025

2D perovskite has demonstrated great potential for application in photovoltaic devices due to the tunable energy bands, suppressed ion migration, and high stability. However, 2D perovskite solar cells (PSCs) display suboptimal efficiency in comparison to 3D perovskite solar cells, which can be attributed to the quantum confinement and dielectric confinement effects resulting from the intercalation of organic spacer cations into the perovskite lattice. This review starts with the fundamental structural characteristics, optoelectronic properties, and carrier transport dynamics of 2D PSCs, followed by the discussion of approaches to improve the photovoltaic performance of 2D PSCs, including the manipulation of crystal orientation, phase distribution, pure phase, organic layer, and device engineering. Then the advancements in the structural, humidity, thermal, and maximum power point tracking stability of 2D PSCs are summarized. Afterward, the applications of 2D perovskite in 2/3D PSCs to improve efficiency and stability are discussed. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between 2D perovskite structure and the performance of the resulting 2D PSCs, as well as offers insights for constructing efficient and stable 2/3D PSCs by integrating 2D and 3D perovskites.
Multifunctional DNA‐Metal Nanohybrids Derived From DNA‐MgPPi Microhybrids by Rolling Circle Amplification
Authors: Kim Young Min , Nam Keonwook , Kim Hee Yeon , Yang Kyungjik , Kim Byeong‐Su , Luo Dan , Roh Young Hoon
Published: January 2025

Rolling circle amplification (RCA)‐derived ultra‐long DNA is highly attractive and versatile because of its diverse functionalities conferred by repeated DNA nanostructures. However, magnesium pyrophosphate (MgPPi) crystals, as byproducts of RCA, electrostatically interact with the DNA to form DNA microhybrids and hamper its broad bioapplications, as its large size is unfavorable for cellular uptake and decreases the density of functional DNA nanostructures. In this study, finely tuned synthesis strategies are developed to condense the microhybrids and replace non‐functional MgPPi crystals with various functional metal nanostructures by reducing metal ions. By applying this condensation and reduction process to DNA templated by microhybrids, the particle size of organic‐inorganic DNA‐MgPPi microhybrids is gradually reconfigured into DNA‐Au nanohybrids (≈15 fold difference). The effects of the ion concentration and metal ion type on the reduction process are systematically explored through morphological, structural, and compositional analyses. Upon formation of the nanohybrids, the preservation of Au nanostructures and polymerized DNA nanostructure‐driven functions are evaluated. The nanohybrids demonstrated not only metal nanoparticle‐based near‐infrared absorbance but also DNA aptamer‐mediated targeted intracellular delivery, indicating successful hybridization of functional organic–inorganic molecules. This synthesis method for RCA‐originated ultra‐long DNA‐metal nanohybrids shows potential for a variety of biological applications.
An Integrated, Portable, and Automatic Digital Detection System for Hepatitis B Virus Using Hybrid Magnetic System
Authors: Han Xiaoying , Yin Juxin , Wang Yu , Zhuang Jianjian , Hu Kai , Gui Yehong , Mei Haohua , Tong Jizhi , Mu Ying
Published: January 2025

The rapid, precise, and automated diagnosis of infectious diseases is crucial for effective disease management and control. Herein, the integrated portable and automatic digital detection system (IPADS), a novel diagnostic platform for nucleic acid detection is introduced. The device employs the hybrid magnetic system (HMS), which uses an electromagnet and a movable permanent magnet to modulate the magnetic field and control bead movement, increasing nucleic acid extraction efficiency to over 80%, while simplifying the traditional labor‐intensive process and enabling quick, low‐risk sample processing. Additionally, a disposable cartridge is designed for integrated HMS based preprocessing, with detection performed using digital RPA‐Cas12a, enabling rapid, enclosed, and automation‐friendly detection across a dynamic range spanning five orders of magnitude, with a sensitivity as low as 100 copies mL−1 in serum samples. An automated platform further optimizes workflow. As a proof of concept, IPADS is applied to detect hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in 20 clinical serum samples, demonstrating high concordance with gold‐standard quantitative PCR (qPCR) methods. These results validate the potential of IPADS as a reliable point‐of‐care testing solution.
Concluding Remarks
Authors: Surma Tim , Vanhees Claudio , Wils Michiel , Nijlunsing Jasper , Crato Nuno , Hattie John , Muijs Daniel , Rata Elizabeth , Wiliam Dylan , Kirschner Paul A.
Published: January 2025

Over the course of several decades, the position of knowledge within education has been marked by turbulence and notable fluctuations.
Thermodynamics from the S-matrix reloaded, with applications to QCD and the confining Flux Tube
Authors: Baratella Pietro , Miró Joan Elias , Gendy Emanuele
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Over the past decade and more, S-matrix-based calculational methods have experienced a resurgence, proving to be both an elegant and powerful tool for extracting physical quantities without the need for an underlying Lagrangian formulation. In this work, we critically review and further develop the formalism introduced by Dashen, Ma, and Bernstein, which connects the thermodynamics of relativistic systems to the information contained in their scattering amplitudes. As a demonstration, we revisit the computation of the QCD equation of state to leading order in the strong coupling, showcasing the advantages of this method over traditional Thermal Field Theory techniques. Additionally, we apply these tools to the effective theory of a long confining Flux Tube in D dimensions, analyzing thermal effects up to and including NNLO contributions. Our results are compared with those obtained using the Thermodynamic Bethe Ansatz method. We also discuss how these techniques enable the inclusion of non-universal effects in the study of Flux Tubes, while relying solely on the S-matrix as input.
Associations between iKaluk/Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) and estuarine benthic diatom habitats in nearshore Nunatsiavut waters
Authors: MacMillan-Kenny Zachary , Denniston Mary , Edinger Evan , Templeton Adam , Côté David , Limoges Audrey , Robert Katleen
Published: January 2025

iKaluk, Inuttitut for Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), holds significant commercial and cultural value for Inuit communities throughout Nunatsiavut. Studies evaluating iKaluk habitat associations in freshwater are plentiful; however, there is limited information on the ecological makeup and sediment characteristics of anadromous charr habitats in marine environments. This study investigated the benthic associations of Arctic charr during their marine residency period in Nain, Nunatsiavut, using underwater videos, harvester-identified fishing locations, and acoustic telemetry. Drop-camera surveys were deployed on previously placed hydrophone acoustic receivers and within harvester-identified fishing locations to describe and quantify available benthic habitats in the study area. Telemetry information was used to identify charr occupancy hotspots, and calculate habitat suitability indices. A total of 248,056 benthic organisms belonging to 63 morphotaxa were identified within the 125 video drops used for benthic community characterization and these represented five faunal assemblages. Marine phase charr occupied estuaries to a greater degree than other fjord or coastal headland environments and these habitats were typically characterized by fine sediments covered by high densities of brittle stars (Ophiuroidea spp.) and benthic diatom mats. The consistent presence of diatomaceous sediments is indicative of abundant foraging opportunities. The importance of these habitats to iKaluk, need to be considered in future marine planning given the cultural and ecological value of this species to many northern communities that face growing threats from environmental change.
Change in kidney volume growth rate and renal outcomes of tolvaptan treatment in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: post-hoc analysis of TEMPO 3:4 trial
Authors: Higashihara Eiji , Matsukawa Miyuki , Jiang Huan
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite of long-lasting tolvaptan treatment, individual renal outcomes are unclear in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). This post-hoc analysis of the TEMPO 3:4 trial aimed to evaluate the predictability of estimated height-adjusted total kidney volume growth rate (eHTKV-α) on renal outcomes.

Methods

In TEMPO 3:4, 1445 patients with ADPKD were randomised to tolvaptan or placebo for 3 years. The present analysis included patients with total kidney volume (TKV) data available at baseline and month 12 (tolvaptan, n = 812; placebo, n = 453); tolvaptan-assigned patients were grouped into quartiles based on percent change in eHTKV-α from baseline at 1 year. Clinical parameters were compared between quartiles, and regression analyses evaluated the predictive value of 1-year percent change in eHTKV-α and other factors on annual changes in TKV and estimated GFR (eGFR) over 3 years.

Results

Trend tests identified significant differences between quartiles for several baseline parameters. Multivariate regression models confirmed that 1-year percent change in eHTKV-α was a significant predictor of annual changes in both TKV and eGFR over 3 years. Other significant predictors of annual changes in TKV and eGFR over 3 years were sex, age and body mass index, and first-year change in eGFR, race and baseline eGFR, respectively. Predicting factors using urine osmolality and plasma copeptin levels were not significant by backward stepwise selection analysis.

Conclusions

1-year percent change in eHTKV-α is useful biomarker to identify treatment good responders and may be utilized for early estimate of trial outcomes of new drugs in ADPKD.
Deciphering Necroptosis-Associated Molecular Subtypes in Acute Ischemic Stroke Through Bioinformatics and Machine Learning Analysis
Authors: Wu Zongkai , Fan Hongzhen , Qin Lu , Niu Xiaoli , Chu Bao , Zhang Kaihua , Gao Yaran , Wang Hebo
Published: January 2025

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a severe disorder characterized by complex pathophysiological processes, which can lead to disability and death. This study aimed to determine necroptosis-associated genes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and to investigate their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for AIS. Expression profiling data were acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and necroptosis-associated genes were retrieved from GeneCards. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and necroptosis-related genes were intersected to obtain the necroptosis-related DEGs (NRDEGs) in AIS. In AIS, a total of 76 genes associated with necroptosis (referred to as NRDEGs) were identified. Enrichment analysis of these genes revealed that they were primarily enriched in pathways known to induce necroptosis. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), five co-expression modules consisting of NRDEGs were identified, along with two modules that exhibited a strong correlation with AIS. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis resulted in the identification of 20 hub genes. The Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model demonstrated promising potential for diagnostic prediction. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve validated the diagnostic model and selected nine characteristic genes that exhibited statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). By employing consensus clustering, distinct patterns of necroptosis were identified using these nine signature genes. The results were validated by quantitative PCR (qPCR) in venous blood from patients with AIS and healthy controls and HT22 cells, as well as external datasets. Furthermore, the analyzed ceRNA network included nine lncRNAs, six miRNAs, and three mRNAs. Overall, this study offers novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying NRDEGs in AIS. The findings provide valuable evidence and contribute to our understanding of the disease.
Role of sludge biochar immobilized multifunctional microbiome in phytoremediation of lead-zinc composite pollution
Authors: Yang Zihao , Jiang Lijuan , Li Xuejun , Ji Qiaoling , Wang Mengyuan , Zhang Yi , Cheng Yuanlin , Zhang Xuan , Li Hui , Feng Chongling
Published: January 2025

Sludge biochar, as a soil amendment, has demonstrated its capacity to remediate heavy metal-contaminated soil. It is frequently utilized to facilitate phytoremediation or as a microbial carrier in remediation strategies, aiming to enhance overall remediation efficiency. Nonetheless, there exists a knowledge gap regarding the influence of biochar on the migration and accumulation of Pb and Zn within soil-microbe-plant systems, as well as its effects on plant growth conditions and microbial community composition. This study constructed a multifunctional microbiome and evaluated the role of microbiome and biochar in phytoremediation under Pb and Zn stress. Biochar immobilized microbiome (MB) significantly enhanced phytoremediation and showed synergistic effects by improving root phenotypes up to 2.4 times compared to the untreated group (CK). Meanwhile, the MB increased Pb root absorption by 56.9% and Zn aboveground transfer by 30%, and reduced the acid-extractable content of Pb and Zn under high concentrations. In addition, microbial community composition and diversity analyses showed that the bacterial and fungal communities of MB were more stable while multifunctional microbiome reshaped microbial community with boosted abundance of plant growth promoting microorganisms, and fungi of saprotroph and symbiotroph nutritional categories. This study provided a novel phytoremediation approach of castor with the combination of multifunctional microbiome and biochar.

Graphical Abstract
Legal Rights and Moral Rights
Authors: Kramer Matthew H.
Published: January 2025

In a short span, this Element will delineate the general nature of legal and moral rights and the general nature of the holding of rights, and it will also sketch the justificatory foundations of rights. Hence, the Element will treat of some major topics within legal, political, and moral philosophy as it combines analytical theses and ethical theses in a complex pattern.
Can Democracy Recover?
Authors: Ezrahi Yaron
Published: January 2025

'Can Democracy Recover?' explores the roots of the contemporary democratic crisis. It scrutinizes the evolution and subsequent fragmentation of modern political epistemology, highlighting citizens increasing inability to make sense of the political universe in which they live, their loss of confidence in political causality, distinguishing facts from fiction and objective from partisan attitudes. The book culminates in a speculative discourse on democracy's uncertain future. This work is the final part in Yaron Ezrahi's trilogy. The first, 'The Descent of Icarus' (1990), explored the scientific revolution's role in shaping modern democracy. The second, 'Imagined Democracies' (2012), examined the collective political imagination's impact on the rise and fall of political regimes, emphasizing the modern partnership between science and democracy. 'Can Democracy Recover?' traces the political implications of the erosion of the Nature-Culture dichotomy, the bedrock of modernity's cosmological imagination, and anticipates the emergence of new political imaginaries.
Ladies-in-Waiting in Medieval England
Authors: Dunn Caroline
Published: January 2025

Ladies-in-Waiting in Medieval England examines female attendants who served queens and aristocratic women during the late medieval period. Using a unique set of primary source based statistics, Caroline Dunn reveals that the lady-in-waiting was far more than a pretty girl sewing in the queen's chamber while seeking to catch the eye of an eligible bachelor. Ladies-in-waiting witnessed major historical events of the era and were sophisticated players who earned significant rewards. They had both family and personal interests to advance – through employment they linked kin and court, and through marriage they built bridges between families. Whether royal or aristocratic, ladies-in-waiting worked within gendered spaces, building female-dominated social networks, while also operating within a masculine milieu that offered courtiers of both sexes access to power. Working from a range of sources wider than the subjective anecdote, Dunn presents the first scholarly treatment of medieval English ladies-in-waiting.
Time and Terrain in British Romantic Writing
Authors: Vardy Alan
Published: January 2025

Walking and its relationship to our mental and cultural lives has been a topic of huge academic and popular interest in the last few years. Here, Alan Vardy explores the role of walking in one of its most obvious locations within English literature: Romanticism. Through chapters focusing on both canonical and non-canonical writings – including rich ephemera – by Joseph Cottle, Coleridge, Dorothy and William Wordsworth, de Quincey and John Clare, Time and Terrain in British Romantic Writing draws out a specific focus on affect studies and the relationship between walking and trauma, examining the relationship between emotional states and movement through space and time. It also takes up the work of lesser-known Romantic writers such as Elizabeth Smith and Thomas Wilkinson in order to mount a broad and deep exploration of the quotidian, fleeting events that nonetheless constitute our subjective selves.
Millennial Dreams in Oil Economies
Authors: Ennis Crystal A.
Published: January 2025

This book shifts the analysis of economic development in Oman from the traditional focus on oil to the perspective of labour. Focusing on the experiences of workers, jobseekers, and the governance of labour markets, Crystal A. Ennis offers a fresh perspective on regional development and rentier neoliberalism in the Gulf. Highlighting Oman's position within global capitalism, Ennis makes a compelling case for de-exceptionalising the Gulf, arguing that the region's labour markets are global and subject to similar pressures as other global economies. Moving beyond oil also allows Ennis to focus on the social conditions of Oman, where over sixty four percent of the population are under the age of thirty. Ennis offers a rich analysis of historical lineages of labour governance, class formation; and, following protests after 2011 as youth unemployment soared in the region, how authoritarian states react to public pressure and social unrest around perceived economic decline.
Out of Poverty
Authors: Powell Benjamin
Published: January 2025

Out of Poverty provides a comprehensive defence of Third World sweatshops that does not put economic efficiency over people, but instead explores methods of improving the welfare of those in Third World countries. The author explains how sweatshops provide the best opportunity for workers; and how they play an important role in development, leading to better wages and working conditions. Using economic theory, empirical evidence, and historical investigation, Powell argues that the anti-sweatshop movement would harm the very workers it intends to help by creating less-desirable alternatives and undermining development. Including a new chapter on the 2013 Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh, this revised and expanded second edition also explores how sweatshop wages have changed and how poverty alleviation has progressed in countries with sweatshops in the late 1990s and early 2000s and how boycotting Uyghur forced labor in China differs other sweatshop boycotts.
Abortion Attitudes and Polarization in the American Electorate
Authors: Cassese Erin C. , Ondercin Heather L. , Randall Jordan
Published: January 2025

About two-thirds of Americans support legal abortion in many or all circumstances, and this group finds itself a frustrated majority following the Supreme Court's 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization which overturned the legal precedent set in Roe v. Wade. Previous scholarship argues intense minorities can secure favorable policy outcomes when facing off against a more diffuse and less motivated majority, creating incongruence between public opinion and policy. This Element focuses on the ways that preference intensity and partisan polarization have contributed to the current policy landscape surrounding abortion rights. Using survey data from the American National Election Studies, the authors identify Americans with intense preferences about abortion and investigate the role they play in electoral politics. They observe a shift in the relationship between partisanship and preference intensity coinciding with Dobbs and speculate about what this means for elections and policy congruence in the future.
Discourse on Social Planning under Uncertainty
Authors: Manski Charles F.
Published: January 2025

Economists have long studied policy choice by social planners aiming to maximize population welfare. Whether performing theoretical studies or applied analyses, researchers have generally assumed that the planner knows enough about the choice environment to be able to determine an optimal action. However, the consequences of decisions are often highly uncertain. Discourse on Social Planning under Uncertainty addresses the failure of research to come to grips with this uncertainty. Combining research across three fields – welfare economics, decision theory, and econometrics – this impressive study offers a comprehensive treatment that fleshes out a 'worldview' and juxtaposes it with other viewpoints. Building on multiple case studies, ranging from medical treatment to climate policy, the book explains analytical methods and how to apply them, providing a foundation on which future interdisciplinary work can build.