bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Karaya Gum‐Containing Thermosensitive Hydrogels for Controlled Release of Lidocaine in Short‐ and Long‐Term Analgesia
Authors: González Palafox Daniel A. , Torres‐Figueroa Ana V. , Ramírez‐Irigoyen Andya J. , Castillo Jesús M. Quiroz , Fernández‐Quiroz Daniel , SantacruzOrtega Hisila del Carmen , Burruel‐Ibarra Silvia , Chan‐Chan Lerma H. , Pérez‐Martínez Cinthia J. , Silvas‐García María I. , Castillo‐Castro Teresa del 
Published: January 2025

AbstractNatural gums are widely available, biocompatible polymers that can be strategically employed to design novel stimuli‐responsive materials to fulfill the specific requirements of the drug delivery carriers. This study developed multifunctional semi‐interpenetrating networks (s‐IPNs) by integrating karaya gum (KG), a bioactive adhesive biopolymer, with a thermosensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAAm) network. KG improved the compressive strength of pNIPAAm up to threefold and enhanced the hydrogel swelling at pH 7.4 and 5.5, at 25 and 37 °C. The s‐IPNs exhibited a lower volume phase transition temperature than pNIPAAm alone. Additionally, KG increased the lidocaine hydrochloride (LH)‐entrapment efficiency of the s‐IPN to 65% compared to 47% in the hydrogel without KG. The synergistic effect of KG content, LH loading, and physiological skin conditions (pH 5.5, 37 °C) enhanced the bioadhesiveness of the hydrogels. Notable, 71% of the drug was released from the s‐IPN in its relaxed state within 3 h under normal skin conditions, while 80% of LH was delivered sustainably over 17 h from initially dehydrated s‐IPN. The dual temperature‐ and pH‐responsive s‐IPNs demonstrated the promising potential for biomedical applications, particularly for controlled LH release, supporting both short‐ and long‐term analgesic effects.
Ultrasmall α‐MnO2 with Low Aspect Ratio: Applications to Electrochemical Multivalent‐Ion Intercalation Hosts and Aerobic Oxidation Catalysts
Authors: Iimura Reona , Kawasaki Shiori , Yabu Takashi , Tachibana Shinnosuke , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Mandai Toshihiko , Kisu Kazuaki , Kitamura Naoto , Zhao‐Karger Zhirong , Orimo Shin‐ichi , Idemoto Yasushi , Matsui Masaki , Fichtner Maximilian , Honma Itaru , Ichitsubo Tetsu , Kobayashi Hiroaki 
Published: January 2025

AbstractHollandite‐type α‐MnO2 exhibits exceptional promise in current industrial applications and in advancing next‐generation green energy technologies, such as multivalent (Mg2+, Ca2+, and Zn2+) ion battery cathodes and aerobic oxidation catalysts. Considering the slow diffusion of multivalent cations within α‐MnO2 tunnels and the catalytic activity at edge surfaces, ultrasmall α‐MnO2 particles with a lower aspect ratio are expected to unlock the full potential. In this study, ultrasmall α‐MnO2 (<10 nm) with a low aspect ratio (c/a ≈ 2) is synthesized using a newly developed alcohol solution process. This material demonstrates exceptional performance across various multivalent battery systems, primarily due to the significantly reduced cation diffusion distance. Notably, an ultrasmall α‐MnO2‐graphene composite achieves high capacity with low overpotential when paired with an F‐free electrolyte in Ca battery. Regarding aerobic oxidation catalysis, the nanosizing of α‐MnO2 has a profound impact on aerobic oxidation catalysis. The increased efficiency of oxidative conversion reactions, such as the oxidation of 1‐phenylethanol, is attributed to the greatly expanded active surface area of the catalyst. The versatile functionality of ultrasmall α‐MnO2 underscores its potential to revolutionize energy storage and catalysis, offering broad applicability in next‐generation green energy technologies.
Commercial Strip‐Inspired One‐Pot CRISPR‐Based Chip for Multiplexed Detection of Respiratory Viruses
Authors: Zhang Hong , Hu Xiaolin , Bao Xudong , Tu Wei , Wan Qiwu , Yu Zhengheng , Xie Jie , Qiu Xiaopei , Gu Wei , Gao Zhaoli , Wang Yongzhong , Wang Chuanxin , Luo Yang 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThe absence of sensitive, multiplexed, and point‐of‐care assays poses a critical obstacle in promptly responding to emerging human respiratory virus (HRV) pandemics. Herein, RECOGNIZER (re‐building commercial pregnancy strips via large‐size nanoflowers), an innovative one‐pot CRISPR assay, is presented that employs commercially available strips to identify several types of HRVs. The superiority of the RECOGNIZER assay mainly relies on two aspects: (i) DNA nanoflowers possessing a high surface‐to‐volume ratio and well‐defined surface allow for a considerable probe loading density and minimized non‐specific interaction, achieving an impressive signal‐to‐noise proportion exceeding tenfold at 1 nM target. (ii) The design of the one‐pot reaction, multi‐channel chip, and custom‐made app enables the rapid, sample‐to‐answer, and multiplexed analysis of four HRVs in 25 min. This assay demonstrates a sensitivity of 5.42 pM for synthetic SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA and 10 copies µL−1 for SARS‐CoV‐2 plasmids after pre‐amplification. Finally, the proposed approach indicated 100% accuracy in 50 clinical swab samples, demonstrating the robust performance in distinguishing SARS‐CoV‐2 from other HRVs. The versatility and scalability of RECOGNIZER renders it a user‐friendly platform for virus infection monitoring, offering significant potential for improving pandemic response efforts.
Prediction Interval Transfer Learning for Linear Regression Using an Empirical Bayes Approach
Authors: Dixit Anand , Shen Weining , Zhang Min , Zhang Dabao 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTCurrent literature on transfer learning has been focused on improving the predictive performance corresponding to a small dataset by transferring information to it from a larger but possibly biassed dataset. However, the transfer learning methods currently available do not allow the computation of prediction intervals, and hence, one has to rely on using either the small dataset alone or combining it with the possibly biassed dataset to obtain prediction intervals using traditional linear regression methods. In this article, we propose an Empirical Bayes approach for Prediction Interval Transfer Learning (EB‐PITL), to compute prediction intervals for transfer learning in linear regression tasks. We have proved that the Gibbs sampler associated with EB‐PITL is geometrically ergodic, so EB‐PITL can also quantify the Monte Carlo uncertainty associated with its predicted value. The efficiency of EB‐PITL against currently available methods is demonstrated using simulation studies and by analysing the Tetouan City power consumption dataset.
Viscoelastic monitoring of a horse with infarctive purpura haemorrhagica and respiratory failure
Authors: Hobbs Kallie J. , Farina Lisa L. , Abbott Jeffrey R. , Holbrook Todd 
Published: January 2025

AbstractA 3‐year‐old Tennessee Walking Horse gelding presented on emergency for evaluation of fever and oedema in all four limbs for 72 h duration and bilateral epistaxis for 8 h duration. History of exposure to an unknown respiratory illness, clinical signs and initial diagnostics were suggestive of infarctive purpura haemorrhagica. This diagnosis was further supported by haematological parameters consistent with coagulopathy, high Streptococcus equi M protein ELISA and initial favourable response to therapy, which included corticosteroids, broad‐spectrum antimicrobials and supportive care. Seven days after starting treatment the gelding developed acute respiratory distress associated with pulmonary oedema and haemorrhage and was euthanased. Necropsy findings were consistent with infarctive purpura haemorrhagica. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report describing the use of viscoelastic monitoring in infarctive purpura haemorrhagica. Secondary respiratory failure without gastrointestinal involvement has been rarely reported in horses with purpura haemorrhagica.
Climate Change‐Conscious Methodologies: Ethical Research in a Changing World
Authors: Berseth Valerie , Letourneau Angeline 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTChanges in the frequency and intensity of climate‐related disasters are changing the social landscape for environmental research. Even in the most optimistic scenarios, the proportion of researchers forced to deal with the effects of climate change will continue to grow. Methodologies across disciplines need to be adaptable to meaningfully address the ethical and practical challenges of conducting research in an increasingly disaster‐prone world. In this article, we draw on insights from fields including disaster and emergency literatures and our personal experiences as researchers directly impacted by climate disasters to put forward a framework for climate change‐conscious research methodologies. This review offers considerations for ethical research in climate change‐affected communities and outlines critical areas for future research.
Colchicine as a food contaminant: rare occurrence but persistent in stored honey and during yogurt fermentation
Authors: Kaltner Florian , Hamscher Gerd 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Colchicine, a plant toxin with aneugenic and potentially genotoxic properties, is predominately derived from the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). Although it has been used as a drug since ancient times, severe poisoning or even death may occur in humans and animals when colchicine is ingested in larger amounts. If consumed by food-producing animals, the transfer of colchicine to animal-based food products, as observed with other plant toxins, seems likely, posing a potential health risk to consumers. In the late flowering period of C. autumnale, honey bees may have limited alternatives and may collect its nectar and pollen, potentially transferring colchicine to honey. A literature research on the relevance of colchicine as food contaminant was conducted, followed by experiments to examine its stability in stored honey and milk fermented into yoghurt. The literature review revealed that colchicine is rarely detected as a food contaminant. However, it has been shown to transfer into milk of ruminants following the ingestion of C. autumnale. Experiments with artificially contaminated samples demonstrated, for the first time, the persistence of colchicine in honey stored for 4 weeks under dark conditions and during the fermentation of milk into yoghurt. Although the overall risk to consumers currently appears low, further research is needed to determine whether the continued spread of C. autumnale poses a higher risk to livestock and consumers than previously assumed.
Individual capture history affects site use and defensive behavior of foraging eastern copperheads at a recreational site
Authors: Stratton J. Benjamin , Richter Stephen C. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
To maximize energy available for foraging or reproduction, optimality theory suggests individuals allocate energy toward defensive behaviors equivalent to risk of predation. In this framework, repeat encounters with humans by wildlife that do not reduce individual fitness could result in a decreased defensive response toward humans in subsequent encounters. We investigated whether individual experience influenced the defensive behaviors and frequency of site use of foraging eastern copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix) at Koomer Ridge Campground in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky. Beginning in 2015, this site has been used for annual mark-recapture studies of copperhead foraging ecology as they predate emerging annual cicadas (Neotibicen tibicen). Using a standardized behavioral trial, we tested how copperhead defensive behavior toward humans was influenced by capture history, body size, and soil temperature. Model averaging results indicated that the overall intensity of copperhead defensive response to humans increased with capture history length, and soil temperature was positively associated with likelihood to respond when touched. Number of years recaptured was a significant, positive predictor of foraging frequency in 2022. Therefore, copperheads with longer capture histories visit the site to forage more frequently and are more willing to defend their opportunity to forage, suggesting a degree of acquired tolerance absent from naïve snakes that fled readily. Collectively, these results provide evidence that eastern copperheads at our site modulate their foraging and defensive behavior based on previous capture experience to more efficiently predate a seasonally abundant prey item.
Optimising diagnostics for hard-of-hearing infants: factors associated with successful MRI scanning without general anaesthesia
Authors: van der Veen Marlise D. , Kaman Ithri , Jasperse Bas , Goderie Thadé , Ebbens Fenna A. , Slot K. Mariam , van der Knaap Marjo S. , Merkus Paul 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
Scanning during infancy is often required in otology, preferably without general anaesthesia. This study aims to determine the success rate of MRI of the head without general anaesthesia for infants, and to identify predictors for a successful scan.

Methods
Data was extracted from the electronic patient file for patients who received MRI of the head without general anaesthesia between 01-01-2019 and 31-12-2022 at an age younger than 6 months. Each MRI-session was dichotomised into success (i.e., of sufficient quality to answer the clinical question) or failure, and success percentages were calculated. A logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between success and variables of interest, which were selected based on interviews with medical specialists.

Results
Eighty-seven patients were included, showing an overall success rate of 75.9% for MRI of the head without anaesthesia. Success rates for MRI brain were higher than for MRI cerebellopontine angle (CPA), respectively 91.2% and 66.0% (p = 0.013). For MRI CPA the odds of success decreased for infants aged 3–5 months, compared to infants under 2 months (respectively 84.6% and 48.1%, p = 0.009). For MRI CPA the success percentage was lower for boys (51.9%) than for girls (80.8%, p = 0.039). Time of day and hearing loss showed no significant effect on the success rate.

Conclusion
Obtaining MRI of the head without anaesthesia for infants under six months is feasible. For MRI CPA the success rate is higher for infants scanned at a younger age, as well as for female infants compared to male infants.
An activity concentration-based proposal for radon management in workplaces involving NORM in Canada
Authors: Chen Jing , Quayle Debora 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Canadian Guidelines for the Management of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) have been developed to manage radiation doses received in workplaces involving NORM, such as mineral extraction and processing, oil and gas production, metal recycling or water treatment facilities. This management strategy works well for most naturally occurring radioactive materials in workplaces, with the exception of radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas generated by the decay of uranium-bearing minerals in rocks and soils. Because radon exists everywhere in varying concentrations, it is not feasible to use incremental radon generated or enhanced by a practice as a means for assessing the need for radon management programs. Drawing from lessons learned through implementing the current NORM Guidelines, we propose decoupling the decision thresholds for NORM management (excluding radon) and radon management so that the two are considered separately, and quantifying decision-points for managing occupational radon exposure as average annual activity concentrations, with no requirement for dose calculations. Proposed application of this approach in the updated Canadian NORM Guidelines is described.
Multi-stage stochastic districting: optimization models and solution algorithms
Authors: Pomes Anika , Diglio Antonio , Nickel Stefan , Saldanha-da-Gama Francisco 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This paper investigates a Multi-Stage Stochastic Districting Problem (MSSDP). The goal is to devise a districting plan (i.e., clusters of Territorial Units—TUs) accounting for uncertain parameters changing over a discrete multi-period planning horizon. The problem is cast as a multi-stage stochastic programming problem. It is assumed that uncertainty can be captured by a finite set of scenarios, which induces a scenario tree. Each node in the tree corresponds to the realization of all the stochastic parameters from the root node—the state of nature—up to that node. A mathematical programming model is proposed that embeds redistricting recourse decisions and other recourse actions to ensure that the districts are balanced regarding their activity. The model is tested on instances generated using literature data containing real geographical data. The results demonstrate the relevance of hedging against uncertainty in multi-period districting. Since the model is challenging to tackle using a general-purpose solver, a heuristic algorithm is proposed based on a restricted model. The computational results obtained give evidence that the approximate algorithm can produce high-quality feasible solutions within acceptable computation times.
The first 20 years at the Cape of Good Hope (1652–1671): weather, climate and society
Authors: Grab Stefan , Naidoo Ravanya 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Dutch arrived at the Cape (southernmost Africa) in April 1652 to establish a permanent station to replenish ships sailing between Europe and the East. We use the Dutch East India Company day registers to construct a weather and climate chronology for central Cape Town (CT) over the years 1652–1671. We also investigate weather/climate impacts on society over these years, and the associated coping/adaptive measures undertaken. Daily weather information (e.g. rainfall, wind, perceived temperature, storms, hail, snow, frost) was extracted from the registers and chronologically organized. Weather-related impacts (including on shipping) and societal responses are explored within temporal contexts (monthly to inter-annual). The CT climate of 1652–1671 had relatively (compared with more recent times) few rain days, yet experienced heavy rains at times, with consequential flooding. Summers were windy, very dry and felt hot at times. Winters seemed particularly cold, stormy and harsh at times, more so than those of the 19th -21st centuries, as evidenced by accounts of snow, frost and hail. The early 1650s and early to mid-1660s were particularly anomalous climatic periods and likely reflect conditions associated with reduced solar heating and increased volcanic forcing during the early Maunder Minimum.
Endometrial scratching before euploid embryo transfer: a case–control study
Authors: Lindekugel Sophia M. K. , Frankel Lexi Rose , Deaton Jeffrey L. , Dong Allan , Lassiter Rebekah , Savaris Ricardo F. , Lessey Bruce A. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
To evaluate the effect of endometrial scratching on in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates in women undergoing frozen embryo transfer with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A).

Methods
Biopsy was performed at oocyte retrieval in cases and compared to those who did not undergo scratching (controls). Endpoints included pregnancy loss, total pregnancy, clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), ongoing pregnancy rate/live birth rate (OPR), and the incidence of chronic endometritis (CE).

Results
Women in case and control groups had similar characteristics, such as age, body mass index, and parity. Overall total pregnancy rate was 82.43% following single euploid embryo transfer in cases compared to 85.7% in controls (p = 0.57; OR = 1.27; 95% CI = 0.565 to 2.78). CPR was 73.3% and 76.2% (p = 0.62; OR = 1.18; 95% CI = 0.594 to 2.29), and OPR between groups was 64.8% and 72.3% (p = 0.28; OR = 1.42; 95% CI = 0.74 to 2.7). First trimester loss rate was similar at 16.9%% and 15.5%%, respectively (p = 0.82). Subjects who underwent scratching closer to their frozen embryo transfer (≤ 3 months) had a similar overall pregnancy rate to those with a longer delay between retrieval and frozen embryo transfer (> 3 months 81.4% vs.87.5%; p = 0.56). CE incidence was 10.8% (8 out of 74; 95% CI = 5.5% to 19.9%). The odds of having a second trimester loss were significantly higher in the scratch group compared to controls (p = 0.03; OR = infinity; 95% CI = 1.3 to infinity).

Conclusions
Endometrial scratching before frozen euploid embryo transfer did not influence pregnancy outcome but increased the chances of second trimester loss. CE was a frequent finding in those undergoing endometrial scratching at the time of retrieval.
Co-expression of the RPS6KB1 and PDPK1 genes for production of activated p70S6K1 using bac-to-bac baculovirus expression system
Authors: Bdzhola Anna , Malanchuk Oksana , Palchevskyi Sergii , Gout Ivan , Filonenko Valeriy , Zhyvoloup Alexander 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (p70S6K1) is a member of the AGC family of serine/threonine kinases which plays a role in various cellular processes, including protein synthesis, cell growth, and survival. Dysregulation of p70S6K1, characterized by its overexpression and/or hyperactivation, has been implicated in numerous human pathologies, particularly in several types of cancer. Therefore, generating active, recombinant p70S6K1 is critical for investigating its role in cancer biology and for developing novel diagnostic or therapeutic approaches.

Methods
The baculovirus dual expression system was utilized, enabling the co-expression of two recombinant proteins in infected cells: (a) His-tagged S6K1 with a deletion of the C-terminal autoinhibitory motif and a phosphomimetic mutation at the mTORC1 phosphorylation site (T389D), and (b) untagged PDPK1 lacking the PH domain. The high activity of the purified kinase was confirmed by immunoblotting, as well as by Kinase-Glo and AlphaScreen kinase assays.

Results
Efficient expression of both recombinant proteins was achieved, resulting in highly pure preparations of His-tagged p70S6K1. The high activity of the purified kinase was confirmed through multiple kinase assays, demonstrating significantly higher levels of substrate phosphorylation compared to the tested commercial product.

Conclusion
Here, we report a reliable and efficient methodology for the expression and purification of highly active p70S6K1 (His-actS6K1) in quantity and quality that is suitable for biochemical/biophysical studies and high-throughput enzymatic assays. Our developed methodology offers a rapid and cost-effective approach for producing constitutively active His-actS6K1, which can be utilized in academic research and biotechnology.