bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conformational Engineering of Flexible Protein Fragments on the Surface of Different Nanoparticles: The Surface‐Atom Mobility Rules
Authors: Zhao Wenxian , Sun Yiwei , Che Laiyu , Wang Haifang , Cao Aoneng
Published: January 2025

As a newly emerging technology, conformational engineering (CE) has been gradually displaying the power of producing protein‐like nanoparticles (NPs) by tuning flexible protein fragments into their original native conformation on NPs. But apparently, not all types of NPs can serve as scaffolds for CE. To expedite the CE technology on a broader variety of NPs, the essential characteristic of NPs as scaffolds for CE needs to be identified. Herein, we investigate the potential of two distinct types of NPs as scaffolds for CE: CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs), an ionic compound NP, and palladium NPs (PdNPs), a metal NP. The results demonstrate that while QDs cannot support the restoration of the native conformation and function of the complementary‐determining region (CDR) fragments of antibodies, PdNPs can. The notably disparate outcomes unequivocally show that the mobility of the surface atoms/adatoms of the NPs or the mobility of the conjugating bonds to the NPs is essential for CE, which allows the conjugated peptides to undergo a conformational change from their initial random conformation to their most stable native conformation under the constraints mimicking the native long‐range interactions in the original proteins. This discovery opens the door for CE on more NPs in the future.
The physical education curriculum in alternative provision schools in England: A Gramscian critique
Authors: Maher Anthony J. , Quarmby Thomas , Hooper Oliver , Wells Victoria , Slavin Lucy
Published: January 2025

Curriculum is at the heart of education. It has been said that a broad and balanced physical education curriculum can contribute to young people developing socially, cognitively, affectively, and physically. As such, in this article, we draw on Antonio Gramsci's ideas of culture, power, and ideology to explore the physical education curriculum in alternative provision schools in England. We did this by generating qualitative data using semi‐structured interviews with 13 physical education practitioners working in 13 different alternative provision schools. Interviews were audio recorded, and audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, before being subjected to reflexive thematic analysis. The themes generated through these analytical processes were (1) Physical education curriculum should be tailored to the needs and preferences of pupils; (2) The National Curriculum, national qualifications, assessment arrangements and Ofsted inspection expectations influence curriculum decisions; and (3) Group sizes influence the physical education curriculum. We end this article by encouraging physical education and/or curriculum scholars to learn more about alternative provision settings because, at present, there is a dearth of research‐informed knowledge about them despite them becoming a much more prominent feature of the education landscape in England.
Role of balloon dilation test in identifying suitable candidates for gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy
Authors: Gantuya Boldbaatar , Inoue Haruhiro , Yamamoto Kazuki , Iwasaki Miyuki , Ushikubo Kei , Nishikawa Yohei , Tanaka Hidenori , Tanaka Ippei , Tanabe Mayo , Abiko Satoshi , Shimamura Yuto
Published: January 2025

Background

Predicting successful outcomes of gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G‐POEM) is essential for identifying patients who are most likely to benefit from the procedure. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of the balloon dilation test (BDT) in optimizing patient selection for G‐POEM.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted from February 2021 to December 2023, including patients with refractory gastroparesis unresponsive to conventional medical treatments. All patients completed the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) questionnaire before and after G‐POEM. The pyloric ring balloon dilation test was performed prior to G‐POEM, with only patients who showed a positive response included. Procedural and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Five patients (three female and two male) with refractory gastroparesis were included. The median G‐POEM procedure time was 60 minutes (interquartile range [IQR] 32.5–110), and technical success was achieved in all cases. At a median follow‐up of 10 months (IQR 6–34), clinical response was observed in all patients (100%). The GCSI score improved significantly from a median of 17 (IQR 8–33) to 0 (IQR 0–4.5; p < 0.03) indicating significant improvement in clinical symptoms.

Conclusion

A positive response to the balloon dilation test appears to be a reliable predictor of successful short‐term outcomes following G‐POEM in patients with refractory gastroparesis.
DOL proposes new rule to eliminate subminimum wage for disabled workers
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: January 2025

In December 2024, the Department of Labor issued a Final Rule to eliminate employers’ ability to pay subminimum wages to individuals with disabilities under federal law. Currently, Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act allows employers to apply for certificates permitting payment below the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour if a worker's earning capacity is impaired by age, disability, or injury. This provision applies only when necessary to avoid limiting employment opportunities for these workers.
Leveraging technology to simplify administrative tasks
Authors: Arnett Autumn A.
Published: January 2025

“Hello, I’m a university professor. My job is to answer email and complete mandatory online training courses,” said a post on X from Fernanda Ferreira, Professor of Psycholinguistics at the University of California–Davis earlier this year.
Employee accommodations
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: January 2025

An overview of the key topics faced by disability services providers with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Mechanistic Studies of Second Coordination Sphere Interactions in the Dioxygen Activation of a Copper(I) Complex with a N‐(2‐Ethoxyethanol)‐bis(2‐picolyl)amine Ligand
Authors: Granichny Alexander , Scholl Anna Leah , Würtele Christian , Schindler Siegfried
Published: January 2025

While first coordination sphere interactions have been investigated in great detail for the reactivity of copper(I) model complexes with dioxygen, the interactions of the secondary coordination sphere with the bound dioxygen so far remain underexplored. A series of copper(I) complexes with ligands based on N‐(2‐ethoxyethanol)‐bis(2‐picolyl)amine (L(O)OH) were synthesized, and the reactivity towards dioxygen was monitored by low‐temperature stopped‐flow UV/vis spectroscopy. Various “oxygen adduct complexes” were observed, and the influence of the second coordination sphere interactions was analyzed. If the ether moiety or the hydroxy group in L(O)OH is removed/replaced, the formation of a trans‐μ‐1,2‐peroxido dicopper(II) complex or a bis(μ‐oxido) dicopper(III) complex is observed. Establishing stronger hydrogen bonding while maintaining the ether moiety leads to hydrogen bond stabilized trans‐μ‐1,2‐peroxido dicopper(II) complexes. Based on these results, we deduced that the copper(I) complex with L(O)OH as ligand reacts with dioxygen first to a hydrogen bond stabilized trans‐μ‐1,2‐peroxido dicopper(II) complex, which rapidly converts to a bis(μ‐oxido) dicopper(III) complex.
Prevalence and Zoonotic Risk of Multidrug‐Resistant Escherichia coli in Bovine Subclinical Mastitis Milk: Insights Into the Virulence and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Chowdhury Tonmoy , Roy Mithu Chandra , Hossain Ferdaus Mohd Altaf
Published: January 2025

The emergence of antibiotic‐resistant microorganisms has made antimicrobial resistance a global issue, and milk is a potential source for the propagation of resistant bacteria causing zoonotic diseases. Subclinical mastitis (SCM) cases, often overlooked and mixed with normal milk in dairy farms, frequently involve E. coli, which can spread through contaminated milk. We conducted this study to determine the prevalence of virulence genes, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), antimicrobial susceptibility, and the genetic relatedness of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) Shiga toxin‐producing E. coli (STEC) isolated from SCM milk. SCM‐positive bovine milk was subjected to E. coli detection using cultural, biochemical, and molecular methods. Further, we detected STEC virulence genes including stx1, stx2, and eaeA. STEC isolates were tested for ARGs including blaSHV, CITM, tetA, and aac(3)‐IV, and underwent antimicrobial susceptibility tests. Moreover, we performed a phylogenetic analysis of the stx1 gene of MDR‐STEC. SCM was detected in 47.2% of milk samples of which 50.54% were E. coli positive. About 17.20% of E. coli isolates contained STEC virulence genes, and stx2 was the most prevalent. Moreover, all STEC isolates harbored at least one of the ARGs, while about 43.75% of the isolates carried multiple ARGs. Additionally, all the STEC isolates showed multidrug resistance, and were found to be fully resistant against amoxicillin, followed by ampicillin (87.50%) and gentamycin (75%); and were mostly sensitive to aztreonam (81.25%) and meropenem (68.75%). In phylogeny analysis, the stx1 gene of isolated MDR‐STEC showed close relatedness with disease‐causing non‐O157 and O157 strains of different sources including cattle, humans, and food.
SMARCA4 Deficiency in Lung Cancer: From Signaling Pathway to Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Zhang Mingzhu , Dong Youhong , Meng Rui , Zhang Dongdong
Published: January 2025

SMARCA4‐deficient lung cancer, including thoracic SMARCA4‐deficient undifferentiated tumors and SMARCA4‐deficient nonsmall‐cell lung carcinomas, is a rare and aggressive disease characterized by rapid progression and poor prognosis. This cancer was identified as a distinct entity with specific morphologic and molecular features in the 2021 WHO Classification of Thoracic Tumors. Molecular alterations in SMARCA4 are specific to this type of lung cancer. Deficiency in SMARCA4 suppresses the SWI/SNF tumor suppressor complex, driving tumor progression. Due to the lack of standardized treatment, most patients succumb to the disease within 6 months. This study provides a detailed analysis of the SMARCA4 pathway and its role in lung cancer. We analyzed potential therapeutic targets and agents to offer insights for the precise and effective treatment of SMARCA4‐deficient lung cancer.
Identifying Disease Associated Multi‐Omics Network With Mixed Graphical Models Based on Markov Random Field Model
Authors: Park Jaehyun , Won Sungho
Published: January 2025

In this article, we proposed a new method named fused mixed graphical model (FMGM), which can infer network structures associated with dichotomous phenotypes. FMGM is based on a pairwise Markov random field model, and statistical analyses including the proposed method were conducted to find biological markers and underlying network structures of the atopic dermatitis (AD) from multiomics data of 6‐month‐old infants. The performance of FMGM was evaluated with simulations by using synthetic datasets of power‐law networks, showing that FMGM had superior performance for identifying the differences of the networks compared to the separate inference with the previous method, causalMGM (F1‐scores 0.550 vs. 0.730). Furthermore, FMGM was applied to identify multiomics profiles associated with AD, and significance association was found for the correlation between carotenoid biosynthesis and RNA degradation, suggesting the importance of metabolism related to oxidative stress and microbial RNA balance. R codes can be accessed as an R package “fusedMGM,” and an example data set and a script for analyses can be found at http://figshare.com/articles/dataset/FMGM_synthetic_data_example_zip/20509113.
Transferability of Single‐ and Cross‐Tissue Transcriptome Imputation Models Across Ancestry Groups
Authors: Pagnuco Inti , Eyre Stephen , Rattray Magnus , Morris Andrew P.
Published: January 2025

Transcriptome‐wide association studies (TWAS) investigate the links between genetically regulated gene expression and complex traits. TWAS involves imputing gene expression using expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) as predictors and testing the association between the imputed expression and the trait. The effectiveness of TWAS depends on the accuracy of these imputation models, which require genotype and gene expression data from the same samples. However, publicly accessible resources, such as the Genotype Tissue Expression (GTEx) Project, are biased toward individuals of European ancestry, potentially reducing prediction accuracy into other ancestry groups. This study explored eQTL transferability across ancestry groups by comparing two imputation models: PrediXcan (tissue‐specific) and UTMOST (cross‐tissue). Both models were trained on tissues from the GTEx Project using European ancestry individuals and then tested on data sets of European ancestry and African American individuals. Results showed that both models performed best when the training and testing data sets were from the same ancestry group, with the cross‐tissue approach generally outperforming the tissue‐specific approach. This study underscores that eQTL detection is influenced by ancestry and tissue context. Developing ancestry‐specific reference panels across tissues can improve prediction accuracy, enhancing TWAS analysis and our understanding of the biological processes contributing to complex traits.
Striving for Unity in a Culturally Fragmented World: Nested Multiple Cultural Identifications Associated With Well‐Being Through Self‐Concept Clarity
Authors: Ozer Simon , Schwartz Seth J.
Published: January 2025

In contemporary globalised societies, global awareness and identification, as well as local and regional identifications (other than national identity), may all become increasingly important for guiding people's sense of belonging and purpose and in turn their self‐concept. As the world has become increasingly interconnected, people increasingly identify with various cultures and worldviews within both local and global contexts. Attempts to reconcile these multiple cultural identities can lead to a sense of cultural dissonance as people struggle to integrate these identities into a coherent sense of self. Accordingly, various levels/types of cultural identifications must be integrated to establish an adaptable and coherent sense of self. In two studies among participants from the United States (N = 754), we investigate how nested cultural identification at the state, national and global levels are associated with well‐being indirectly through self‐concept clarity and multiple cultural configurations. Results indicate that national identification is positively, and compartmentalisation negatively, associated with self‐concept clarity and in turn with well‐being. State and global cultural identifications were linked to multicultural identity integration and, indirectly, to components of well‐being. Results are discussed regarding the globalised proliferation of cultural identifications and the associated challenge of maintaining a stable and coherent sense of self.
Electrically Active Biomaterials for Stimulation and Regeneration in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Park Jinyoung , Akbaba Gulsah Erel , Sharma Nidhi , Das Ritopa , Vinikoor Tra , Liu Yang , Le Duong Quang , Angadi Kishan , Nguyen Thanh Duc
Published: January 2025

In the human body, bioelectric cues are crucial for tissue stimulation and regeneration. Electrical stimulation (ES) significantly enhances the regeneration of nerves, bones, cardiovascular tissues, and wounds. However, the use of conventional devices with stimulating metal electrodes is invasive and requires external batteries. Consequently, electrically active materials with excellent biocompatibility have attracted attention for their applications in stimulation and regeneration in tissue engineering. To fully exploit the potential of these materials, biocompatibility, operating mechanisms, electrical properties, and even biodegradability should be carefully considered. In this review, we categorize various electrically active biomaterials based on their mechanisms for generating electrical cues, such as piezoelectric effect, triboelectric effect, and others. We also summarize the key material properties, including electrical characteristics and biodegradability, and describe their applications in tissue stimulation and regeneration for nerves, musculoskeletal tissues, and cardiovascular tissues. The electrically active biomaterials hold great potential for advancing the field of tissue engineering and their demonstrated success underscores the importance of continued research in this field.
Successful Use of a Midline Catheter for Leukapheresis in Patients Undergoing Collection for Immune Effector Cell Therapy, Donor Lymphocyte Infusion, and Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Collection
Authors: Bansal Rajat , Wiedel Anthony , Hastings Riley , Boutz Fred , Abdelhakim Haitham , Ahmed Nausheen , Mushtaq Muhammad Umair , McGuirk Joseph , Abhyankar Sunil
Published: January 2025

Apheresis is essential to conducting hematopoietic cell transplantation and genetically engineered cellular therapy procedures. Many patients and donors require central venous catheter (CVC) access for apheresis due to lack of adequate peripheral venous access. CVC placement has risks of associated complications and requires additional institutional resources and expertise. We present a single institutional experience with 78 patients, who underwent a total of 87 apheresis procedures after placement of a midline catheter. This included 49 individuals who collected cells for immune effector cell therapy. Apheresis through midline catheter was successful in 81 out of 87 procedures. There were no midline catheter associated thromboses or infections. Six patients required placement of a backup CVC and were able to undergo apheresis without delay. Our experience shows that use of midline catheter for apheresis is feasible and generalizable to most populations requiring cellular therapy, with the potential to decrease utilization of limited healthcare resources.
Morphometrics and First Ultrastructural Characterizations of Intra‐Erythrocytic Stages of So‐Called Haemogregarina damiettae Ramadan et al. (1996) With Special Reference to Its Cytopathological Effects on the Infected Erythrocytes
Authors: Mansour Reda M.
Published: January 2025

The current study provides the first ultrastructural observations on the intraerythrocytic stages of so‐called Haemogregarina damiettae and their cytopathological effects on the infected erythrocytes (IEs) in addition to the recording of new morphometric data. The intraerythrocytic stages are attributed to the immature forms or trophozoites (Ts), and mature gamonts (Gs). Ts are typically bowling‐bottle shaped with nucleus (TN) occupying its globose part, while Gs are typically banana‐ shaped. Ts measure 9.60–13.77 (12.53 ± 0.95) × 3.29–5.72 (4.18 ± 0.52) μm, however, Gs measure 14.05–16.13 (15.15 ± 0.60) × 3.38–4.74 (4.06 ± 0.32). Parasite shape index, nuclear/body, and nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio are calculated for both Ts and Gs. Moreover, shape index, nuclear/erythrocytic ratio, nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio are determined for both uninfected erythrocytes (UIEs) and IEs. At ultrastructural level, the parasite exhibited numerous unique features such as the presence of unsutured covering capsule (Ca), intracytoplasmic membraneous structures (ICM), and electron‐dense connecting structures (CS) between the degradable cytoplasmic mass (DC) of IEs and parasite itself which are postulated to perform a feeding function. The cytopathological effects on IEs include erythrocytic shape distortion, hypertrophy, dehemoglobinization, as well as nucleus size and shape changes. Erythrocytic karyolysis is confirmed by light and electron microscopy. In addition, all IEs showed characteristics two lateral polar projections or flape‐like extensions (FE) supported by microtubules‐like structures. Moreover, parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM) form in most cases a thick internal lining (IL) of homogenous electron‐lucent materials at parasite‐facing side and knob‐like thickenings (K) of electron‐dense materials on erythrocytic cytoplasm‐facing side.
Blended soil amendments: A viable strategy to reduce soluble phosphorus in soils
Authors: Kumaragamage Darshani , Soto Haven , Van Emily , Goltz Douglas , Amarakoon Inoka
Published: January 2025

Phosphorus (P) loss from soils can contribute significantly toward P enrichment in water bodies, impairing water quality. Application of soil amendments is a viable strategy to decrease soluble P in surface soils. Since soluble P is reduced through different mechanisms that are amendment‐specific, blended amendments could be a better approach than single amendment applications; however, very little information is available on blended amendment effects in reducing P loss from soils. We compared the effectiveness of gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O), Epsom salt (MgSO4·7H2O), and alum [Al2(SO4)3·18H2O] applied singly or blended in different ratios in reducing water‐extractable P (WEP) and Mehlich‐3 P of two soils (0‐ to 15‐cm depth) with contrasting P status (Mehlich‐3 P of 7.1 mg kg−1 and 202 mg kg−1) from the Red River Valley region in MB, Canada. Ten treatments used for the laboratory incubation study were unamended control, gypsum or Epsom salt at 2.5 or 5 Mg ha−1, alum at 2.5 Mg ha−1, and four blended treatments of gypsum: alum or Epsom salt: alum at 1:1 or 2:1. Treated soils were saturated and incubated for 2 weeks and analyzed for WEP (an indicator of risk of P loss) and Mehlich‐3 P (plant‐available P) concentrations. All amendments significantly reduced the WEP concentrations compared to control in both soils. The blended amendments, particularly gypsum–alum blends, performed better than unblended amendments in reducing the potential risk of P loss. Mehlich‐3 P concentration was not influenced by amended treatments, suggesting no significant decrease in plant‐available P with amendments in both soils.
A Study on the Persistence of Immunity Following Two‐Dose Varicella Vaccination With Varying Intervals in Chinese Children Aged 2–7 years
Authors: Sun Xiang , Zhang Lei , Wang Zhiguo , Wang Wen
Published: January 2025

Varicella, a highly contagious disease caused by the varicella‐zoster virus (VZV), remains prevalent in China despite the introduction of the varicella vaccine in 1997. The current vaccination protocol in China involves a voluntary, self‐funded single‐dose regimen. This study aims to investigate the longevity of immune response in Chinese children following two‐dose varicella vaccination administered at different intervals, with the objective of optimizing vaccination strategies. This 4‐year prospective cohort observational study categorized participants into three groups based on the interval between the two varicella vaccine doses: 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year intervals. Antibody detection was performed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The temporal evolution of IgG antibody levels following the two‐dose vaccination was analyzed using a binary logistic regression model with restricted cubic splines (RCS). The study revealed a significant decline in both seropositivity rates and geometric mean concentrations (GMC) over time following the two‐dose vaccination. Seropositivity rates decreased from 100.0% to 79.8%, while GMC dropped from 575.1 to 251.9 mIU/mL. No statistically significant differences were observed in seropositivity rates or GMC among the different interval groups (p > 0.05). The RCS‐fitted model demonstrated an “inverted U‐shaped” relationship between the time since the last vaccination and seropositivity. Antibody levels peaked approximately 22 months after the second dose, with the odds ratio (OR) for antibody concentrations ≥ 50 mIU/mL exhibiting a nonlinear trend in relation to time post‐immunization (poverall < 0.001, pnonlinear ≤ 0.001). While the interval between vaccine doses did not significantly impact long‐term immune response, a critical turning point in antibody levels was observed at approximately 22 months postvaccination. Furthermore, enhanced long‐term monitoring of postvaccination immune responses, particularly beyond the identified turning point, is recommended to facilitate the evaluation and optimization of existing vaccination protocols.
Trends in Immunotherapy (IO) Use and Survival Among Patients With High‐Incidence Stage IV Cancers Across the United States
Authors: Warwar Samantha C. , Janczewski Lauren M. , Rodriguez Gladys M. , Wayne Jeffrey D. , Bentrem David J.
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

IO has transformed cancer management, but its adoption in advanced cancer patients varies by tumor type. With more Stage IV patients undergoing surgery, understanding site‐specific outcomes in these challenging patients is essential. We aimed to evaluate IO use and survival trends for Stage IV cancer patients across high‐incidence cancers in the US.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with Stage IV prostate, breast, melanoma, colorectal, renal, bladder, lung, or pancreas cancer were identified from the National Cancer Database (2004–2020). Cochrane–Armitage test and Kaplan–Meier methods assessed IO and overall survival across three periods: 2004–2010, 2011–2015, and 2016–2020.

Results

Among 1 425 731 Stage IV cancer patients, most had lung (50.0%), pancreas (12.5%), and breast cancer (9.3%), while the least had melanoma (2.2%). From periods 1 to 3, IO use increased from 1.0% to 24.6%, notably in melanoma (9.5% to 58.5%, p < 0.001). Melanoma exhibited the greatest survival gains (median survival: 7.1 to 14.9 months). Absolute increases in 3‐year overall survival rates ranged from 3.4% in pancreas (1.7% to 5.1%) to 21.4% in melanoma (15.7% to 37.1%).

Conclusions

Utilization of IO is tumor‐site specific and associated with improved survival rates for Stage IV cancer, with varied success across types. Variations in receipt highlight ongoing challenges to ensure equitable adoption.
Role of neck dissections in the management of carotid body tumors
Authors: Francis Gizelle , Pickett Gwynedd , Taylor S. Mark
Published: January 2025

Objective

Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are rare neoplasms of the paraganglia at the carotid bifurcation. While typically benign, CBTs occasionally exhibit malignancy, metastasizing to nearby lymph nodes. Histopathologic analysis alone is insufficient to confirm malignancy, requiring metastases to non‐neuroendocrine tissue for a definitive diagnosis. The role of selective neck dissections (SNDs) in detecting malignancy and guiding subsequent management remains uncertain.

Method

A retrospective case series through electronic chart review was performed on 21 patients undergoing CBT surgeries between 2002 and 2022 at a Canadian institution. SNDs were performed on all 21 patients. Data collection included patient demographics, genetic and laboratory testing results, preoperative imaging, intraoperative and postoperative complications, histologic analysis of neck SND and tumor specimen, and follow‐up results.

Results

Of the 21 surgical resections, there were three cases (14.3%) of carotid artery injuries and six cases (28.6%) of nerve injuries. One patient (4.8%) experienced three intraoperative strokes. Three patients (14.3%) were found to have lymph node involvement, confirming malignancy, and underwent further treatment with radiotherapy. Interestingly, two patients with carotid injuries had malignant tumors, demonstrating a statistical significance between carotid injury and malignancy (OR 34.00, 95% CI: 1.48, 781.83, p = .041).

Conclusion

SNDs are a useful adjunct in detecting malignancy during CBT surgeries. The incidence of malignancy in CBT is low but not negligible, and SND should be considered in patients to prevent inadvertent underdetection of metastatic disease. This study's 14.3% incidence of malignancy suggests that there may be a rationale for considering the universal implementation of SND during CBT resections.

Level of Evidence

4.
The feasibility of endoscopic stapes surgery: A three‐dimensional planning method
Authors: Jellema Maaike , Buter Mijs , Blijleven Esther E. , Willemsen Koen , Nguyen H. Chien , Stokroos Robert J. , Wegner Inge , Thomeer Henricus G. X. M.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy of a semi‐automatic algorithm in assessing the feasibility and complexity of endoscopic stapes surgery preoperatively.

Methods

A semi‐automatic algorithm was developed to simulate endoscopic stapes surgery in 3D. To test the accuracy of the algorithm, five fresh‐frozen cadaveric heads (ten ears) were used. Each head was CT‐scanned, followed by segmentation and 3D reconstruction of the bones including the ear canal, middle ear, and ossicular chain. Two interventions were tested on each ear. Initially, the algorithm was digitally employed to simulate the endoscopic ear surgery. Subsequently, the actual endoscopic ear surgery was performed. Primary outcomes for each intervention included the amount of scutum removal (postoperative 3D model subtracted from preoperative 3D model), visibility of important landmarks, feasibility score, and a complexity questionnaire. Finally, the outcomes of the pre‐operative planning and the actual procedure were directly compared to evaluate the algorithm's accuracy and usability.

Results

The preoperative planning method achieved an accuracy rate of 70% in predicting the need for scutum removal. The mean volume of the removed scutum was 0.5 mm3. Endoscopic surgery was feasible in all ten ears, with all relevant anatomical landmarks adequately visualized as estimated by the preoperative planning algorithm.

Conclusion

Preoperative planning models can assist ENT surgeons in evaluating the feasibility and complexity of endoscopic stapes surgery. With adequate training and testing on clinical cases, these models can significantly improve their predictive accuracy and thereby improve patient outcomes.
Polysomnographic features of hypoglossal nerve stimulation efficacy: Looking deeper than the apnea‐hypopnea index
Authors: So Raymond J. , Pham Luu V. , Eisele David W. , Motz Kevin
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) is a promising surgical option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who are intolerant of continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP). Efficacy studies for HGNS stimulation largely focus on the apnea–hypopnea index and/or oxygen desaturation index. This study's objective was to show the physiological effects of HGNS stimulation on upper airway patency, airflow, and treatment effect during polysomnography (PSG) testing.

Methods

PSG tracings from patients implanted with an Inspire© HGNS device were reviewed for this study. Nasal pressure was utilized as a surrogate for respiratory flow and chin electromyography was used to detect HGNS stimulation, allowing for breath‐to‐breath analysis. Per our sleep laboratory protocol, the HGNS device was turned on and off at different periods of the night. Respiratory tracings during these periods were visually analyzed.

Results

Analysis of on–off periods of HGNS therapy during PSG allows for a concise assessment of HGNS efficacy. The presence of inspiratory flow limitation and subsequent apneas or hypopneas upon turning off HGNS stimulation with restoration of stable, unobstructed breathing upon resuming HGNS stimulation indicates a positive treatment effect related to HGNS therapy. Despite the respiratory‐sensing capacity of the Inspire HGNS device, desynchrony of stimulation and inspiration is observed. Desynchrony yields partially captured inspiratory cycles, allowing for assessment of HGNS effect on an individual breath.

Conclusion

Night‐to‐night and intranight variability in OSA severity makes assessing the effect of HGNS complex. Strategic testing protocols during postoperative PSG can provide critical insight into the effect of this therapy on upper airway obstruction during sleep. On–off periods of stimulation provide a concise assessment of the effect of HGNS on preventing upper airway collapse and help to account for night‐to‐night and intranight variability. Respiratory desynchrony associated with HGNS therapy exists. Observing partially‐stimulated inspiratory cycles allow for assessment of HGNS's effect on a single breath.

Level of Evidence

4.
Fluorinated Cyclic Olefin Copolymers (COCs) and Cyclic Olefin Polymers (COPs)
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhang Yixin , Cui Lei , Jian Zhongbao
Published: January 2025

The demand for insulating materials with superior dielectric properties has increased. Among these materials, polymers containing cyclic structure including cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) and cyclic olefin polymer (COP) stand out because of their excellent dielectric properties originating from the pure hydrocarbon structure. Introducing fluorine into polymers is one efficient strategy for optimizing the dielectric and the related important properties. Here, three fluorinated norbornene derivatives with high fluorine content are synthesized and copolymerized via coordination‐insertion polymerization (CIP) and ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). The obtained fluorinated COCs and COPs have high fluorine contents (up to 48.2 wt.%) and exhibit excellent dielectric properties with dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.11‐2.24 and dielectric loss (Df) of 0.0021‐0.0031 at 10 GHz. Moreover, these fluoropolymers show good solvent tolerance, high toughness (elongation at break up to 779%), enhanced thermal stability (Td,5% of 427–440 °C), low hydrophilicity (water uptake <0.01%), and excellent gas separation properties. These results imply that these fluoropolymers are suitable as a potential candidate for substrate material utilized in the application of insulating materials.
On the Inversion of Generalized V‐Line Transform of a Vector Field in ℝ2$$ {\mathbb{R}}^2 $$
Authors: Bhardwaj Rahul , Mishra Rohit Kumar , Vashisth Manmohan
Published: January 2025

This article studies the inverse problem of recovering a vector field supported in , the disk of radius centered at the origin, through a set of generalized broken ray/V‐line transforms, namely, longitudinal and transverse V‐line transforms. Geometrically, we work with broken lines that start from the boundary of a disk and break at a fixed angle after traveling a distance along the diameter. We derive two inversion formulas to recover a vector field in from the knowledge of its longitudinal and transverse V‐line transforms over two different subsets of aforementioned broken lines in .
Therapeutic Potential of Vanillic Acid in Ulcerative Colitis Through Microbiota and Macrophage Modulation
Authors: Zhao Hu , Fu Xingxing , Wang Yaru , Shang Zhao , Li BangHua , Zhou Li , Liu Yue , Liu Dan , Yi Bo
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the protective effects of the dietary polyphenol vanillic acid (VA) on dextran sulfate sodium‐induced acute ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice, focusing on its impact on the gut microbiota and inflammatory responses. VA was supplemented following dextran sulfate sodium administration, and key indicators, including body weight, disease activity index, colon length, spleen index, and inflammatory markers, were assessed. VA supplementation significantly alleviated UC symptoms, preserved intestinal barrier integrity, and reduced pro‐inflammatory cytokine levels. Additionally, VA positively altered the gut microbiota composition, promoting beneficial bacteria such as Akkermansia muciniphila while suppressing the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway. Fecal microbiota transplantation confirmed that the VA‐modified gut microbiota contributed to these protective effects. VA also facilitated macrophage polarization from the pro‐inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti‐inflammatory M2 phenotype, further mitigating inflammation. These findings highlight the potential of VA as a natural dietary intervention for UC, emphasizing its role in regulating the gut microbiota and inflammatory pathways, which may have significant nutritional relevance in managing inflammatory bowel diseases.
Decorin Expressed From Herpes Simplex Virus Vector Improves Oncolytic Efficacy in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Frejborg Fanny , Palomäki Jussi , Kalke Kiira , Orpana Julius , Koivisto Oliver , Paavilainen Henrik , Rosenholm Jessica M. , Zhang Hongbo , Hukkanen Veijo , Järveläinen Hannu
Published: January 2025

Decorin (DCN) is a small extracellular proteoglycan with significant oncosuppressive activity. Lung adenocarcinoma is commonly devoid of DCN expression and is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally. As a proof‐of‐concept study for evaluating the oncosuppressive potential of DCN expression in lung adenocarcinoma cells, we constructed an oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) vector, with a DCN transgene, using a transfection‐infection method. Treatment of the lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 with this novel DCN‐expressing HSV‐1 vector led to a significantly increased oncolysis of the cells compared to the effect of the parental or control marker virus. These results support the further development of a DCN‐expressing oncolytic HSV‐1 for evaluation in in vivo models for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma, as well as other types of cancers with underexpressed DCN.
Seed pretreatment with cloquintocet‐mexyl protects wheat seedlings from fomesafen injury by promoting photosynthesis and decreasing oxidative stress
Authors: Li Dongzhi , Liu Yilin , Xu Li , Yu Hao , Xie Lanfen , Kan Yunchao , Liu Runqiang , Li Guangling
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Fomesafen is a selective herbicide widely used to control post‐emergent broad‐leaf weeds in soybean and peanut fields. Because of its persistent nature in soil, it can suppress subsequent crops, including wheat. There is limited information focusing on methods of protecting wheat from fomesafen injury by soil residue.

RESULTS

Bioassay results showed slight variations in tolerance to fomesafen among 31 wheat cultivars. Soil‐applied biochar (200 g m−2) could alleviate fomesafen injury at 2 mg L−1, and partially alleviate fomesafen injury at 4 mg L−1. Seed soaking in safeners cloquintocet‐mexyl and mefenpyr‐diethyl was more effective in protecting seedlings from fomesafen injury at 4 mg L−1 compared with 1,8‐naphthalic anhydride, fenclorim or dichlormid. Indoor tests suggested that the combined application of biochar and cloquintocet‐mexyl or mefenpyr‐diethyl had a synergistic alleviating effect on wheat injury caused by fomesafen, which was further confirmed in a field trial. Wheat seeds treated with cloquintocet‐mexyl increased expression of the fomesafen target protoporphyrinogen IX oxidase and light‐harvesting chlorophyll a/b binding protein, leading to an increase in chlorophyll content and a decrease in oxidative stress of wheat exposed to fomesafen. Cloquintocet‐mexyl treatment had no influence on the expression of P450 genes, toxic transport genes, most glutathione S‐transferase (GST) genes, the enzyme activity of P450 or GSTs, and the metabolism rate of fomesafen.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that cloquintocet‐mexyl acted by increasing photosynthesis and decreasing oxidative stress to alleviate injury to wheat exposed to fomesafen stress, showing no influence on fomesafen metabolism in wheat. This study provided valuable information for fomesafen injury management in wheat. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Volatile cues of enhanced attractiveness to Parapanteles hyposidrae (Wilkinson) wasps mediated by jasmonic and salicylic acid pathways synergism in tea plant
Authors: Jiao Long , Mao Yingxin , Zhao Yingjie , Bian Lei , Luo Zongxiu , Li Zhaoqun , Xiu Chunli , Fu Nanxia , Cai Xiaoming , Chen Zongmao
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

The jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) pathways are often thought to interact antagonistically in plants when mediating anti‐herbivore resistance. However, we previously found that the two pathways in tea plant interact synergistically when treated with 1.5 mmol/L methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and 20 mmol/L SA at 12 h intervals (MeJA+SA treatment). Here, we investigated how and why JA‐SA synergism in tea plants affected chemotaxis of Parapanteles hyposidrae (Wilkinson) wasps, the parasite of tea geometers.

RESULTS

Wasp attractiveness of MeJA+SA‐treated plants was 1.3‐fold higher than MeJA‐treated plants, although SA‐treated plants could not attract more wasps. Five attractive compounds, including (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate, linalool, (E)‐4,8‐dimethyl‐1,3,7‐nonatriene (DMNT), indole and (E,E)‐α‐farnesene, were emitted more by MeJA+SA‐treated than MeJA‐treated plants. Based on the difference in volatiles induced by MeJA and MeJA+SA treatments, five attractive components were separately added to artificial MeJA‐induced volatiles (MV) or taken out from artificial MeJA+SA‐induced volatiles (MSV). The attractiveness of MV to wasps was enhanced when DMNT or indole was added, whereas the attractiveness of MSV decreased when DMNT, indole or linalool was taken out. When DMNT and indole were both added into MV, the attractiveness of volatile blend to wasps became similar to MSV.

CONCLUSION

Increased DMNT and indole emissions are the key cues causing volatiles mediated by JA‐SA synergism to be more attractive to P. hyposidrae wasps than those mediated by JA pathway alone. This provides new insights into the phytohormone pathway networks in tea plants and the development of natural enemy attractants. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
After Returning to the Rural: The (Un)Sustainable Reintegration of Internal Migrant Workers in China
Authors: Cheng Mengyao , An Mingge , Tan Hongze
Published: January 2025

The return of internal migrant workers to rural regions following prolonged periods of employment in cities is an increasingly prominent phenomenon in China. Researchers have examined return migration patterns, but investigating the intricacies of the reintegration process demands more highly sophisticated measurement approaches and warrants deeper empirical investigation. In this study, a comprehensive evaluation framework is designed for assessing reintegration outcomes on three interconnected dimensions: economic re‐engagement, social‐rebonding, and psychological re‐affiliation. By applying this framework to the analysis of data from the 2014 China Labour Force Dynamic Survey, we find that approximately half of returnees meet the defined thresholds for successful reintegration into rural society. There are considerable difficulties associated with economic reintegration, which underscores the need to provide enhanced economic support mechanisms for returning internal migrants. The main socio‐geographical factors contributing to successful reintegration include being in the middle‐to‐late stages of the working age, male gender, living with a spouse, returning with family, having interprovincial migration experience, and extended duration of return. This study enhances the comprehension of the challenges faced by returning migrant workers and provides analytical instruments and perspectives that can be used to deepen the understanding of internal migration issues in China and beyond.
Comparing Patency of Pulmonary Stent Implantation and Balloon Angioplasty in Pulmonary Vein Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Batool Izza , Khan Muhammad Khuzzaim , Zohaib Muhammad , Khan Ibrahim Ahmed , Bukhari Syed Affan Ahmed , Shah Shreeja , Harmouch Khaled , Hennawi Hussam Al , Klugherz Bruce
Published: January 2025

Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is an insidious diagnosis associated with morbidity and mortality. Pharmacologic therapy may suffice initially, but advanced stages demand mechanical intervention. Pulmonary stent implantation (PSI) and pulmonary balloon angioplasty (PBA) are common strategies, both carrying restenosis risks. This meta‐analysis compares PSI and PBA to determine the superior revascularization strategy. We systematically searched databases until November 2023, identifying 11 studies with 780 patients. Studies, including those involving patients undergoing balloon angioplasty (BA) or stent angioplasty (SA) for PVS, were selected. Case reports, editorials, and cross‐sectional studies were omitted. Primary outcomes included restenosis requiring reintervention, 5‐year freedom from restenosis, and procedure‐related complications. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random‐effects model. Meta‐regression analysis assessed factors like age and stent size. Study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. This Systematic review and meta‐analysis incorporated 11 observational studies. PSI exhibited a lower risk of restenosis requiring reintervention (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.13, 0.87, p = 0.02) and significantly higher 5‐year freedom from restenosis (OR 4.42, 95% CI 1.11, 17.62, p = 0.04) compared to PBA, with no significant difference in procedure‐related complications. Meta‐regression analysis showed age and stent size insignificantly affecting restenosis risk. Our review supports PSI as the preferred revascularization strategy for PVS due to superior patency benefits, emphasizing its role as the initial treatment choice. Further research is warranted for validation, considering individual patient factors in treatment selection.
Error‐Detected Robust‐fidelity SWAP and (SWAP)1/m$^{1/m}$ Gates for Quantum‐Dot Spins
Authors: Du Xin‐Shan , Tan Qiu‐Lin , Du Fang‐Fang
Published: January 2025

Quantum logic gate forms the cornerstone of quantum computing. Here, two error‐detected, circuit‐compact, and fidelity‐robust SWAP and (SWAP) () gates are set for quantum‐dot (QD) spins with the aid of the scattering property of photon off QD fixed in double‐sided microcavity. For an ideal single‐photon scattering, the efficiencies and fidelities of both the SWAP and (SWAP) gates can, in principle, be close to unity. Otherwise, being directed against a nonideal scattering, the error‐detected units of two gates make their fidelities near perfect at the expense of slight reductions of their efficiencies. Moreover, the two quantum gates work in an error‐detected way and may be experimentally feasible with current technique on regulating the QD‐cavity system. Further, additional spin qubits are not required, thereby reducing both quantum resource usages and error rates.
AlgaeSperm: Microalgae‐Based Soft Magnetic Microrobots for Targeted Tumor Treatment
Authors: Celi Nuoer , Gong De , Cai Jun , Tang Tan , Xu Ye , Zhang Deyuan
Published: January 2025

Magnetic microrobots are significant platforms for targeted drug delivery, among which sperm‐inspired types have attracted much attention due to their flexible undulation. However, mass production of sperm‐like soft magnetic microrobots with high‐speed propulsion is still challenging due to the need of more reasonable structure design and facile fabrication. Herein, a novel strategy is proposed for large‐scale preparation of microalgae‐based soft microrobots with a fully magnetic head‐to‐tail structure, called AlgaeSperm with robust propulsion and chemo‐photothermal performance. This approach deposited Pd@Au nanoparticles (NPs) inside chlorella cells, which are further coated with Fe3O4 NPs and polydopamine layers to form the magnetic heads. Then, flexible flagella are grafted via magnetic assembly of Fe3O4@PVP NPs to construct the final AlgaeSperm. Under precessing magnetic fields, the AlgaeSperms can achieve a forward velocity up to 2.3 body length/s, the highest among sperm‐like magnetic microrobots to the best of the knowledge. Besides, their flexible maneuverability in a swarm is also verified. In vitro anti‐cancer experiments are conducted after loading doxorubicin (DOX) to confirm their excellent targeted chemo‐photothermal performance. This work offers a significant paradigm for constructing sperm‐like soft magnetic microrobots with great potential for targeted tumor treatment.