bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super‐Resolution Imaging of Nanoscale Inhomogeneities in hBN‐Covered and Encapsulated Few‐Layer Graphene
Authors: Jäckering Lina , Wirth Konstantin G. , Conrads Lukas , Profe Jonas B. , Rothstein Alexander , Kyoseva Hristiyana , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Kennes Dante M. , Stampfer Christoph , Waldecker Lutz , Taubner Thomas
Published: February 2025

Encapsulating few‐layer graphene (FLG) in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) can cause nanoscale inhomogeneities in the FLG, including changes in stacking domains and topographic defects. Due to the diffraction limit, characterizing these inhomogeneities is challenging. Recently, the visualization of stacking domains in encapsulated four‐layer graphene (4LG) has been demonstrated with phonon polariton (PhP)‐assisted near‐field imaging. However, the underlying coupling mechanism and ability to image subdiffractional‐sized inhomogeneities remain unknown. Here, direct replicas and magnified images of subdiffractional‐sized inhomogeneities in hBN‐covered trilayer graphene (TLG) and encapsulated 4LG, enabled by the hyperlensing effect, are retrieved. This hyperlensing effect is mediated by hBN's hyperbolic PhP that couple to the FLG's plasmon polaritons. Using near‐field microscopy, the coupling is identified by determining the polariton dispersion in hBN‐covered TLG to be stacking‐dependent. This work demonstrates super‐resolution and magnified imaging of inhomogeneities, paving the way for the realization of homogeneous encapsulated FLG transport samples to study correlated physics.
HDAC2‐Mediated METTL3 Delactylation Promotes DNA Damage Repair and Chemotherapy Resistance in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: He Xiaoniu , Li Yuanpei , Li Jian , Li Yu , Chen Sijie , Yan Xia , Xie Zhangrong , Du Jiangfeng , Chen Guoan , Song Jianbo , Mei Qi
Published: February 2025

The current treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is still primarily based on platinum‐based chemotherapy. However, TNBC cells frequently develop resistance to platinum and experience relapse after drug withdrawal. It is crucial to specifically target and eliminate cisplatin‐tolerant cells after platinum administration. Here, it is reported that upregulated N
6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification drives the development of resistance in TNBC cells during cisplatin treatment. Mechanistically, histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) mediates delactylation of methyltransferase‐like 3 (METTL3), facilitating METTL3 interaction with Wilms’‐tumor‐1‐associated protein and subsequently increasing m6A of transcript‐associated DNA damage repair. This ultimately promotes cell survival under cisplatin. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of HDAC2 using Tucidinostat can enhance the sensitivity of TNBC cells to cisplatin therapy. This study not only elucidates the biological function of lactylated METTL3 in tumor cells but also highlights its negative regulatory effect on cisplatin resistance. Additionally, it underscores the nonclassical functional mechanism of Tucidinostat as a HDAC inhibitor for improving the efficacy of cisplatin against TNBC.
Confinement‐Enhanced Multi‐Wavelength Photon Upconversion Based on Triplet–Triplet Annihilation in Nanostructured Glassy Polymers
Authors: Hu Xueqian , Pollice Luca , Ronchi Alessandra , Roccanova Marco , Mauri Michele , Lardani Davide , Vanhecke Dimitri , Monguzzi Angelo , Weder Christoph
Published: February 2025

Sensitized triplet–triplet annihilation photon upconversion (sTTA‐UC) allows blue‐shifting non‐coherent low‐intensity light and is potentially useful in solar‐powered devices, bioimaging, 3D printing, and other applications. For technologically viable solar energy harvesting systems, solid materials that capture a large fraction of the solar spectrum and efficiently upconvert the absorbed energy must be developed. Here, it is shown that broadband‐to‐blue UC is possible in air‐tolerant, easy‐to‐access, nanostructured polymers comprising a rigid hydrophilic matrix and liquid nanodroplets with dimensions on the order of tens of nanometers. The droplets contain 9,10‐bis[(triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl] anthracene (TIPS‐Ac) as emitter/annihilator and palladium(II) octaethyl porphyrin (PdOEP) and palladium(II) meso‐tetraphenyl tetrabenzoporphine (PdTPBP) as sensitizers. The confinement of the three dyes in the liquid domains renders the various bimolecular energy transfer processes that are pivotal for the TIPS‐Ac's triplet sensitization highly efficient, and the simultaneous use of multiple light harvesters with triplet energy levels resonant with the emitter/annihilator increases the absorption bandwidth to ca. 150 nm. The UC process at low power densities is most efficient when both sensitizers are simultaneously excited, thanks to their confinement in the nanodroplets, which leads to an increase in the triplet density, and therefore TTA rate and yield, optimizing the use of the harvested energy.
The role of intrinsic motivation and continuous enhancement on the intention to implement animal welfare practices in dairy farming
Authors: Grotsch Henrike , Mergenthaler Marcus , Kühl Sarah , Schulze Holger
Published: February 2025

Animal welfare programs alone are insufficient to ensure better welfare for farm animals. Effective farm management, driven by dairy farmers' intrinsic motivation, plays a pivotal role. This study examines the factors influencing dairy farmers' intention to implement animal welfare practices and their commitment to continuously enhancing welfare. Based on a survey of 682 German dairy farmers, the results underscore the importance of intrinsic motivation, habitual behavior, and knowledge acquisition. Farmers' willingness to engage in continuous improvement suggests that policies should focus less on formal programs and more on enabling intrinsic motivation. The study introduces the construct of “continuous enhancement,” offering a novel framework for understanding and improving animal welfare practices.
Harnessing Aggregation‐Induced Emission‐Based Detection Toolbox for Diagnostics of Urogenital Tumors
Authors: Chen Wenzhe , Guan Hantian , Lu Yongfeng , Zeng Guohua , Gu Di , Guo Keying , Jiang Cheng , Liu Hongxing
Published: February 2025

Urogenital system tumors include prostate cancer, bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, and other very common solid tumor diseases with high morbidity and high mortality. The unique physiological and anatomical features of the urogenital system render it particularly amenable to the application of tissue imaging techniques for diagnostic purposes. The advancement of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) materials has addressed the limitations associated with conventional fluorescent materials that are prone to aggregation‐caused quenching. This advancement has facilitated the development of innovative AIE fluorescent materials characterized by enhanced photostability, an increased signal‐to‐noise ratio, and improved imaging quality. This article reviews the research progress of AIE biosensors in the diagnosis of urogenital tumors. It mainly involves biomarker diagnostic in vitro and fluorescence imaging in urogenital solid tumors such as prostate cancer, uterine cancer, bladder cancer, and ovarian cancer, which are based on AIE biosensors. In addition, a comprehensive description of AIE biosensors’ synthesis and application strategies is provided. This includes a detailed elucidation of in vitro diagnostic platforms and intracellular imaging mechanisms based on the basic principles of AIE, accompanied by a presentation of quantitative analysis and cell imaging results. In addition, the limitations, challenges and suggestions of AIE biosensors application in the field of tumor diagnosis are summarized, and the development prospect of AIE biosensors in the field of tumor diagnosis is prospected. This article reviews the application of AIE biosensors in the diagnosis of urogenital tumors, and also provides a catalyst for exploring the characteristics of AIE biosensors and its wide application in the field of disease diagnosis.
An integrated scheduling and control scheme with two economic layers for demand side management of chemical processes
Authors: Schulze Jan C. , Papadimitriou Chrysanthi , Kolmer Paul , Mitsos Alexander
Published: February 2025

Integrated dynamic scheduling (IDS) and economic nonlinear model predictive control (eNMPC) enable economic operation of chemical plants subject to volatile energy prices. Herein, we combine the two concepts into an integrated two‐layer scheme. Therein, IDS performs “long‐horizon” scheduling on a day‐ahead (DA) market and eNMPC “short‐horizon” improvements on an intra‐day (ID) market. A case study demonstrates 5% economic savings over stationary operation. In contrast, stand‐alone IDS and eNMPC using DA prices reach 1% and 2.5% savings, respectively. We identify arbitrage as the main driver generating the additional benefit. Additionally, we compare our scheme to stand‐alone eNMPC in three ID price scenarios, where our approach consistently realizes savings of 5%. Conversely, eNMPC is price sensitive with variable revenue between 1% higher costs and 10% savings. Finally, requiring significantly shorter prediction horizons than stand‐alone eNMPC, our approach eases price forecasting and enhances real‐time capability.
Nanopore Confinement‐driven Synchronous Enhancement of Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Phase Change Materials
Authors: Qiu Lin , Wang Zhaoyi , Liu Zihan , Li Haimo , Feng Yanhui
Published: February 2025

Phase change materials (PCM) need highly thermally conductive inorganic porous skeletons to encapsulate and shape to reduce their leakage and enhance their thermal conduction. With the pore size shrinking to nanoscale, the crystallization, kinematic and thermal transport behaviors of PCM would be significantly changed. This work experimentally corroborates an intriguing nanopore confinement space effect that synchronously enhances the thermal conductivity and Young’s modulus of representative PCM once encapsulated in nanoporous aluminum oxide using nanometer resolution thermal and mechanical mapping technique. Molecular dynamic simulation further reveals that the shortened hydrogen bond length due to the nanopore confinement facilitates the heat conduction of PCM, which refreshes the routine understanding that smaller space leads to reduction in thermal and mechanical properties.
Effect of Polymeric Additives on Aqueous Alumina Ceramic Slurry for Tape Casting
Authors: Chu Yuanzhen , Lyu Yang , Wang Xingjun , Ouyang Xueqiong , Shen Yi , Wang Shuangxi
Published: February 2025

A large number of toxic, flammable, and volatile organic solvents are used in the organic tape‐casting process, which have significant adverse effects on both the natural environment and human health. This study reports an aqueous polymer–ceramic slurry suitable for tape casting using water as the solvent instead of traditional organic solvents. The effects of chemical additives (dispersant, binder, plasticizer, and defoamer) on the viscosity, stability, and bubble content of the water‐based alumina ceramic slurry used for aqueous tape casting were investigated. The results showed that when the dispersant (ammonium polyacrylate) (PAA‐NH4) and defoaming agent (M15‐01) contents were 1.5 and 0.1 wt%, respectively, and the ratio of binder (polyvinyl alcohol) (PVA) to plasticizer (glycerol) was 0.6, the surface of the green tape obtained by aqueous tape casting was the smoothest and flattest. Moreover, the alumina ceramic substrate of a size of 100 mm × 100 mm obtained by cutting and sintering the green tape exhibited dielectric constant, thermal conductivity, and breaking tenacity of 9.73, 23.16 W m−1 K−1, and 4.34 MPa m1/2, respectively, making it an ideal candidate for high‐power integrated circuits. This study not only addresses the environmental and health concerns associated with organic solvents but also presents a promising solution for developing advanced aqueous polymer–ceramic slurries.
An Unusual Protuberant Lithophyllum sp. From Southern Spain Increases Structural Complexity in Urchin Barrens
Authors: Ramos Dino Angelo E. , Del Río Jesús , Peñas Julio , Braga Juan C.
Published: February 2025

Urchin barrens (‘blanquizales’) are habitats dominated by encrusting non‐geniculate coralline algae and maintained by urchin grazing. Taxonomic information of coralline communities in Mediterranean blanquizales is limited. Lumpy to fruticose coralline algal specimens, unusual in blanquizales, were found along the southern Spanish coast. Sequences from these specimens resolved with foliose samples morpho‐anatomically identified as Lithophyllum dentatum. Initial observations suggested that this protuberant Lithophyllum species increases diversity in the otherwise species‐poor exposed blanquizales. When present, higher macroalgal cover was observed with algae and microfauna frequently observed as epibiotic among the coralline's protuberances.
Electroantennogram and Behavioral Responses of Nematus Hequensis Xiao Adult to Volatiles of Salix alba Leaves
Authors: Song Zhenhao , Chen Yiqu , Dong Xiao , Sun Zhaoxu , Guo Xinnan , Yu Kun , Tang Xiaoqin , Zang Jiancheng
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate how leaf volatiles from Salix alba affect the orientation of Nematus hequensis Xiao adults towards host plants and contribute to the development of plant‐based attractants for N. hequensis. Solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) was used to extract, identify, and screen leaf volatiles from S. alba aged 10–15 years during the peak eclosion of N. hequensis. Electroantennogram (EAG) and Y‐shaped olfactometry assays were utilized to identify volatiles with relative content > 1% and determine the optimal concentration for attracting, 1‐day‐old unmated males and females. The results showed that among the 15 volatiles with a relative content of more than 1%, (E)‐2‐hexenal, benzaldehyde, and 2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde elicited the strongest EAG response in adult males and females at a concentration of 100 μg·μL‐1, with (E)‐2‐hexenal exhibiting a greater effect than 2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde, which in turn was more effective than benzaldehyde. At this concentration, the attractive effects of (E)‐2‐Hexenal, and benzaldehyde on adult males and females were significant. These findings provide an important basis for developing attractants and repellents used in control of this insect pest.
Pd/NHCs‐Catalyzed Denitrative/Dechlorinated N‐Arylation of Nitroarenes/Chloroarenes to Hydrazine Derivatives
Authors: Wang Xuejie , Chen Wei , Chen Wanzhi
Published: February 2025

Palladium‐catalyzed denitrative/dechlorinated C‐N coupling reactions of nitroaromatics/chloroarenes with hydrazines/hydrazones were performed using sterically bulky N‐heterocyclic ligands (NHC = 2‐aryl‐5‐(2,4,6‐triisopropylphenyl)‐2,3‐imidazolylidene[1,5‐a]pyridines). A range of N‐arylbenzophenone hydrazones/hydrazine derivatives were obtained in good to excellent yields. This protocol provides an efficient method for the preparation of hydrazones/hydrazines via C‐N coupling of inexpensive nitroarenes and chloroarenes.
Organophotocatalytic Three‐Component Assembly of C4‐Cyanoalkylated Phthalazin‐1(2H)‐Ones
Authors: Mishra Poornima , Kant Ruchir , Rastogi Namrata
Published: February 2025

The present work documents construction of C4‐cyanoalkylated phthalazinones under visible light‐mediated conditions. The three‐component reaction involving aryl hydrazines, 2‐formylbenzoic acids and cyclobutanone oxime esters with organic dye Eosin Y as photocatalyst, features initial formation and subsequent cyanoalkylation of phthalazin‐1(2H)‐one in one pot. The reaction is notable for mild conditions, operational simplicity, wide substrate scope and good yields of the products. The phthalazinone products were further converted into other valuable organic derivatives.
Vorhersage der Wirkung trockener Luft auf die Haut durch Kopplung von Gebäudesimulation, Raumluftströmung und Personenmodell
Authors: Rösler Markus , Gritzki Ralf , Kozak Wojciech , Felsmann Clemens
Published: February 2025

Um Effekte der Luftfeuchte auf das Raumklima besser abbilden zu können, wurde ein AmI‐Plattformkonzept (AmI = Ambient Intelligence) auf Basis einer integrierten Gebäudesimulation in Verbindung mit einem Personenmodell entwickelt. Hierzu wurden vielfältige Untersuchungen raumklimatischer Situationen in Büros in unterschiedlicher Detaillierung auf Basis gekoppelter Gebäude‐, Anlagen‐ und Raumluftströmungssimulationen durchgeführt. Das Simulationsmodell wurde zudem um ein Personenmodell erweitert, das aus raumklimatischen Bedingungen eine Verdunstungsrate über die Haut generiert. Parallel erfolgten für die experimentelle Bestimmung der Verdunstungsraten in der Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin (BAuA) in Dortmund umfangreiche Probandenversuche in einer speziell zu diesem Zweck konzipierten Klimakammer. Die Probandenversuche wurden in zwei Serien durchgeführt und es entstanden für jeweils zwei unterschiedliche Raumtemperaturen, Lüftungsarten und relative Luftfeuchten insgesamt 380 Datensätze. Die Ergebnisse wurden ausführlich dargestellt, bewertet und mit den Daten des weiterentwickelten, neuartigen Simulationsmodells für Gebäude‐, Anlagen‐ und Raumluftströmungsberechnung inklusive Personenmodell verglichen.
Survival Analysis of 4 Different Age Groups of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma After Radical Resection From Retrospective Multi‐Center Analysis (YPB‐003)
Authors: Matsui Hiroto , Ioka Tatsuya , Kawaoka Toru , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Inokuchi Toshihiro , Harada Eijiro , Sakamoto Kazuhiko , Suto Ryuichiro , Maeda Yoshinari , Nishimura Taku , Shindo Yoshitaro , Tokumitsu Yukio , Nakajima Masao , Kimura Yuta , Takami Taro , Ito Katsuyoshi , Tanaka Hidekazu , Hamano Kimikazu , Nagano Hiroaki ,   Yamaguchi Pancreatic/Biliary Disease Study Group (YPB)
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of radical resection and postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy on the survival benefit in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), stratified by age, frailty, and other factors in actual clinical practice.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological and follow‐up data of 414 patients with PDAC who underwent surgical resection at nine institutions under the Yamaguchi Pancreat/Biliary Disease Study Group, between January 1997 and December 2016. Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Associations between survival and prognostic factors were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

There were 30.5% of patients with PDAC who were aged < 65 years, 37.9% aged 65–74 years, 17.6% aged 75–79 years, and 14.0% aged ≥ 80 years. Notably, RFS declined with increasing age (median RFS: 12.9, 10.2, 9.4, and 7.4 months, respectively), although the differences were not significant (p = 0.223). OS significantly decreased with age (median OS: 21.6, 21.2, 17.0, and 13.9 months, respectively; p = 0.005). In patients aged < 75 years, independent prognostic factors identified by univariate and multivariate analyses included lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio [HR], 1.598; p = 0.007), tumor size (HR, 1.489; p = 0.043), R status (HR, 1.536; p = 0.011), and serum albumin levels (HR, 1.526; p = 0.031). In patients aged ≥ 75 years, a high modified frailty index (HR, 2.446; p = 0.012) emerged as an independent prognostic factor, along with lymph node metastasis, CA19‐9 level (HR, 1.897; p = 0.017), and R status (HR, 2.087; p = 0.007).

Conclusion

The prognosis for older patients with PDAC was shorter than that of younger patients. Frailty may contribute to their poorer prognosis in older age.
Effects of D‐amino acid replacements on the conformational stability of miniproteins
Authors: Xu Ruiwen , Huang Jiawen , Kuhn Ariel J. , Gellman Samuel H
Published: February 2025

For many proteins, proper function requires adoption of a specific tertiary structure. This study explores the effects of L‐to‐D amino acid substitutions on tertiary structure stability for two well‐known miniproteins, a single‐site variant of the chicken villin headpiece subdomain (VHP) and the human Pin1 WW domain (WW). For VHP, which features an α‐helix‐rich tertiary structure, substitutions led to significant destabilization, as detected by variable temperature circular dichroism (CD) measurements. For WW, which has a β‐sheet‐rich tertiary structure, most single L‐to‐D changes seemed to cause complete unfolding at room temperature, according to CD measurements. These findings suggest that amino acid residue configuration changes at a single site will often prove to be deleterious in terms of tertiary structure stability, and in some cases dramatically destabilizing.
Macrophage‐to‐Myofibroblast Transition Contributes to Cutaneous Scarring Formation Through the TGF‐β/Smad3 Signaling Pathways
Authors: Jia Yuan , Qin Yi , Yuan Feng‐Lai , Shen Jie‐Hong
Published: February 2025

Cutaneous scarring typically arises after surgery, trauma, and infection, occurring when normal skin tissue is replaced by fibrous tissue during the healing process. Myofibroblasts have been identified as a significant contributor to this scarring. While the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts is well‐recognized as essential for wound healing and tissue repair, the mechanisms underlying the macrophage‐myofibroblast transition (MMT) remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the role and potential mechanisms of MMT in cutaneous scarring. In specimens of hypertrophic scars, keloid and scleroderma, we confirmed the coexistence of MMT markers CD68 and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) in areas of skin fibrosis. Additionally, most MMT cells in human cutaneous scar co‐expressed the M2‐type macrophage marker CD206. Fate‐mapping in Lyz2‐Cre/Rosa26‐tdTomato mice further demonstrated that the majority of myofibroblasts in cutaneous scars were derived from bone marrow macrophages. Furthermore, higher levels of TGF‐β were released from scar fibroblasts, which contributed to MMT through the Smad3 pathways. In vivo studies inhibiting Smad3 reduced MMT and scarring. Macrophage depletion with clodronate liposomes also reduced cutaneous scar formation. Our findings indicate that MMT plays a pivotal role in cutaneous scarring through the TGF‐β/Smad3 pathways. Consequently, inhibiting MMT may be a novel strategy for the treatment of cutaneous scarring.
Long‐Term Outcomes of Stent‐Less Strategy Using Directional Coronary Atherectomy for the Ostial Left Circumflex Artery
Authors: Matsumura Hidenari , shimoji Kenichiro
Published: February 2025

Background

Long‐term outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for left circumflex artery (LCX) ostial lesions remain suboptimal. While a stent‐less strategy using directional coronary atherectomy (DCA) and drug‐eluting balloon (DEB) may offer a potential solution, no studies have reported on its long‐term outcomes.

Aims

This study aims to evaluate the long‐term outcomes of a stent‐less PCI strategy using DCA and DEB for LCX ostial lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients treated for LCX ostial lesions with DCA to reduce plaque area to < 60%, followed by DEB angioplasty, at Saiseikai Utsunomiya Hospital, Tochigi, Japan, between January 2019 and January 2024. The primary endpoint was clinically driven target lesion revascularization. Secondary endpoints included major adverse cardiac events, defined as a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI), and ischemia‐driven target vessel revascularization, as well as bleeding complications.

Results

Ten patients were included, five of whom had diabetes mellitus. A total of 80% had concomitant left main trunk (LMT) to left anterior descending artery (LAD) lesions; 60% underwent crossover stenting for LMT‐LAD after LCX DCA, while two were treated with DCA and DEB for both LCX and LMT‐LAD. All patients underwent follow‐up using coronary computed tomography or angiography, with a follow‐up period ranging from 8 to 56 months (median: 22 months, IQR: 21.7). TLR occurred in one patient (10%). No cases of cardiac death, MI, or bleeding complications were observed.

Conclusions

DCA followed by DEB demonstrated favorable long‐term outcomes for LCX ostial lesions, providing a viable alternative to conventional stent‐based PCI strategies.
Left Ventricular Apical Thrombosis as an Early Alarming Indicator of Left Ventricular Apical Pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Fallah Flora , Asl‐Fallah Sahar , Ghorbanzadeh‐Aghdam Mani , Hosseinsabet Ali
Published: February 2025

In patients with myocardial infarction, left ventricular pseudoaneurysm is uncommon and may present insidiously. Left ventricular apical thrombosis may accompany the left ventricular apical pseudoaneurysm and may be an early alarming indicator. Accordingly, close follow‐up of patients with left ventricular apical thrombosis in the context of myocardial infarction via appropriate imaging modalities may be required.
Infliximab in Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Millan Pauline , Sunmboye Kehinde O.
Published: February 2025

Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) is characterized by bilateral, asymmetric, and fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) with no identifiable cause that responds to immunosuppressive therapy. Diagnosis can be challenging due to a lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and pathognomonic tests. The mainstay of treatment is corticosteroids; however, only a small number of patients remain responsive after prolonged use. There are no agreed treatment protocols for AIED following corticosteroids, as there is limited data from randomized controlled trials. We report a case of a 27‐year‐old man with secondary AIED on a background of ulcerative colitis (UC) who experienced frequent relapses and deterioration in his hearing despite multiple courses of high‐dose corticosteroids. He received methotrexate and azathioprine but did not show clinical or audiometric improvement. After the commencement of infliximab infusions, his symptoms of AIED and UC improved, and his hearing remained stable without further use of oral corticosteroid therapy. The available studies on the efficacy of biologic therapy are limited and have produced variable results, with the majority of the data relying mainly on case reports and case series. Large, multicenter randomized controlled trials are required to confirm its efficacy in the management of AIED.
Visible Light‐Promoted Enantioselective Catalytic Alkylation of α‐Ketoamides with Hydrocarbons
Authors: Yu Han , Yang Zun , Wu Hongda , Luo Yao , Cao Weidi , Liu Xiaohua , Feng Xiaoming
Published: February 2025

Visible light‐mediated enantioselective alkylation of carbonyls with hydrocarbons provides a beneficial access to the synthesis of chiral alcohols in terms of atom economy. Herein, we disclosed a direct asymmetric alkylation of a‐keto pyrazoleamides with hydrocarbons as C(sp3)–H donors for the preparation of tertiary a‐hydroxy amides. Our method operates by synergistic catalysis involving Ir‐based photoredox catalyst and chiral N,N′‐dioxide‐NiBr2 complex enabled the addition reaction in good to excellent yield and enantioselectivity (up to 87% yield and 97% ee), competing successfully with the homocouplings. Based on the control experiments and spectrographic experiments, a possible radical addition mechanism triggered by Ir photoredox catalysis and bromine radical‐participated hydrogen atom transfer of hydrocarbon was proposed.
Identification of Electrolyte Salts in Lithium‐Ion Battery Black Mass
Authors: Hansel Bastian , Burkmann Konrad , Störr Bianca , Pätzold Carsten , Mertens Florian , Bertau Martin
Published: February 2025

Based on ion chromatographic and thermal analyses, it was demonstrated that the assumption that the presence of PF6– ions in lithium‐ion battery (LIB) black mass is due to LiPF6 residues is incorrect. In the industrial samples investigated, PF6–‐containing residues were present in the case of low temperature‐pretreated LIB black mass. Based on thermal analysis, a significant proportion of the PF6– species was found to originate from NaPF6. The presence of NaPF6 is due to the use of tap water in the commercial workup process. Due to the transformation of the PF6– species and the associated changes in degradation and hydrolysis behavior, appropriate recycling routes need to be adapted regarding the handling of the conducting salt.
Synthesis and Bio‐evaluation of Quaternized Fused‐β‐carbolines as anti‐MRSA agents
Authors: Vutla Adilakshmi , Saxena Deepanshi , Maitra Rahul , Chopra Sidharth , Batra Sanjay
Published: February 2025

The drastic increase in the emergence of methicillin and vancomycin resistant S. aureus has resulted in almost negligible treatment options available to tackle these drug‐resistant strains and therefore, search for newer antibiotics is essential. In this context, a new series of quaternized fused β‐carbolines was synthesized and evaluated for its anti‐bacterial potential. Several compounds from the series displayed potent anti‐bacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria including the drug‐resistant strains with minimal cytotoxicity and promising bactericidal action.
Graphene Oxide‐Cyclopentylamine (GO‐d‐CP) Liquid Crystals as a Novel Alignment Medium for Anisotropic NMR with Analyte Recovery
Authors: Chickmagalur Jatheendranath Sandesh , Das Akhi , Deshpande Sudhindra H , Nath Nilamoni , Maier Walter , Streitferdt Verena , Kiran Marelli Udaya
Published: February 2025

In this study, we present graphene oxide derivatized with cyclopentylamine (GO‐d‐CP) as a DMSO‐compatible liquid crystal alignment medium that is free from any background NMR signal for application in anisotropic NMR. This novel alignment medium facilitates optimal isotropic and anisotropic conditions within a single sample preparation, controlled by sonication, thereby enabling the measurement of anisotropic NMR parameters‐ residual dipolar couplings (RDC) and residual chemical shift anisotropy (RCSA). GO‐d‐CP offers several advantages, including ease of synthesis, isolation of solid GO‐d‐CP as a stable non‐hygroscopic material, and maintenance of the anisotropic state stability >30 days, allowing for prolonged and repetitive experiments. Notably, post the analysis it allows for easy recovery of valuable analytes as well as GO‐d‐CP for reuse, enabling the routine application of anisotropic NMR in structural analysis of small molecules. We demonstrate its efficacy by analyzing the relative stereochemistry of four compounds ‐ estrone, santonin, griseofulvin, and cinmethylin ‐ using anisotropic NMR data.
Use of Real‐World Data and Real‐World Evidence in Rare Disease Drug Development: A Statistical Perspective
Authors: Chen Jie , Gruber Susan , Lee Hana , Chu Haitao , Lee Shiowjen , Tian Haijun , Wang Yan , He Weili , Jemielita Thomas , Song Yang , Tamura Roy , Tian Lu , Zhao Yihua , Chen Yong , van der Laan Mark , Nie Lei
Published: February 2025

Real‐world data (RWD) and real‐world evidence (RWE) have been increasingly used in medical product development and regulatory decision‐making, especially for rare diseases. After outlining the challenges and possible strategies to address the challenges in rare disease drug development (see the accompanying paper), the Real‐World Evidence (RWE) Scientific Working Group of the American Statistical Association Biopharmaceutical Section reviews the roles of RWD and RWE in clinical trials for drugs treating rare diseases. This paper summarizes relevant guidance documents and frameworks by selected regulatory agencies and the current practice on the use of RWD and RWE in natural history studies and the design, conduct, and analysis of rare disease clinical trials. A targeted learning roadmap for rare disease trials is described, followed by case studies on the use of RWD and RWE to support a natural history study and marketing applications in various settings.
Allochrony in Atlantic Lumpfish: Genomic and Otolith Shape Divergence Between Spring and Autumn Spawners
Authors: Horaud Mathilde , Raventós Núria , Præbel Kim , Galià‐Camps Carles , Pegueroles Cinta , Carreras Carlos , Pascual Marta , Tuset Victor M. , Bhat Shripathi , Lynghammar Arve
Published: February 2025

Allochrony is a form of reproductive isolation characterized by differences in the timing of spawning and may play a crucial role in the genetic and phenotypic divergence within species. The Atlantic lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus) is known to spawn in spring and autumn. However, the role of allochrony on the genomic structure of this species has not been addressed. Here, by combining whole genome sequencing data and otolith shape of 64 specimens, we explore the evolutionary drivers of divergence in Atlantic lumpfish, focusing on spring and autumn spawners sampled at two well‐separated spawning grounds along the Norwegian coast. Overall, we identified pronounced genomic and morphologic differences between the two spawning groups. Genomic differences between the two groups were concentrated in three chromosomes, with a region of chromosome 1 encompassing the same single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) driving differential season spawning for both localities, suggesting parallel responses. The functional analysis of the SNPs in this region revealed genes associated with responses to environmental stressors, possibly adaptations to seasonal variations at high latitudes. The morphological analysis of otoliths supported these findings, showing differences compatible with adaptations to seasonal light availability. The presence of genomic islands of divergence, alongside a general lack of differentiation across the mitochondrial genome, suggest recent and rapid selection processes potentially modulated by ongoing gene flow. This study underscores the importance of considering temporal genetic structures, particularly for species with bimodal spawning time, in conservation and management strategies to prevent overexploitation and optimize breeding programs.
Assessing Contributory Factors of Diarrhea Among Under‐Five Children in Bangladesh From 2006 to 2019 and Recent Increases: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Nayeem , Siddiqui M. Noor‐e‐alam , Akter Mst. Farzana , Mitu Sabikunnaher , Chowdhury Muhammad Abdul Baker , Uddin Md Jamal
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

One‐third of all child deaths in this country are caused by diarrhea. The burden of the disease appears to be increasing in recent years in Bangladesh. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of diarrhea and identify the factors contributing to diarrheal diseases among children aged 0–5 years in Bangladesh from 2006 to 2019, to understand the recent increase in this serious health issue.

Methods

In this study, using the data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), a total of 31,566, 23,402, and 24,686 children under five were included from, 2006, 2012, and 2019, respectively. Logistic regressions were applied to analyze the changes in factors influencing childhood diarrhea.

Results

The results revealed a decline in diarrhea prevalence from MICS 2006 (7.1%) to MICS 2012 (3.9%). However, there was a sharp increase to 6.9% in MICS 2019. Notably, children aged 12–23 months exhibited consistently 2.22 times (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.22, 95% confidence interval (CI: 1.86–2.65), 5.24 times (CI: 2.51–10.95) and 3.36 times (CI: 2.67–4.22) higher likelihood of experiencing diarrhea compared to the older age group (48–59 months) in MICS 2006, 2012 and 2019, respectively. The mother's educational background also played a role, in MICS 2006, 2012, and 2019, children whose mothers had no or incomplete primary education had 1.48 (CI: 1.18–1.86), 1.07 (CI: 0.76–1.50), and 1.34 (CI: 1.06–1.69) times higher chances of diarrhea compared to children of mothers with secondary complete or higher education.

Conclusion

Underweight status, geographical division, household wealth status, and unimproved and shared toilet facilities emerged as contributing factors of diarrhea among children aged 0–5 years. The findings underscore the importance of child nutrition, basic hygiene practices, and special care during the rainy season to mitigate the under‐five mortality rate associated with diarrhea.
Open reduction and internal fixation offers lower hip‐related complications compared to stem revision in Vancouver B2 fractures around cemented polished tapered femoral stems
Authors: Sköldenberg Olof , Mukka Sebastian , Axenhus Michael , Hedbeck Carl‐Johan , Magnéli Martin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFFs) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) are increasing, particularly Vancouver B2 fractures around cemented polished tapered femoral stems. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) are more frequently used in comparison to the traditional stem revision to deal with these complex fractures. This observational study aims to compare the outcomes of ORIF versus stem revision in the treatment of Vancouver B2.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, from 2008 to 2022, including 157 patients (mean age 83.4 ± 7.0 years, 59% females) with a surgically treated Vancouver B2 fractures with an intact bone‐cement interface. The study assessed the immediate and long‐term outcomes of ORIF versus stem revision, examining post‐operative complications, reoperation rates, and implant survivorship.

Results

Among the 157 patients, 37 were treated with ORIF and 120 with stem revision. The ORIF group, which consisted of older patients and had a higher prevalence of cognitive dysfunction, experienced no hip‐related adverse events. In contrast, the revision group had a 17.8% incidence of adverse events. Mortality within 90 days was significantly higher in the ORIF group (24%) compared to the revision group (4%) (p = 0.0007). One‐year mortality was also higher in the ORIF group (32%) than in the revision group (15%) (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

ORIF presents as a viable option for managing Vancouver B2 fractures in the proximity of a polished tapered stem when anatomical reduction is possible. The less invasive surgery provides potential advantages in patient outcomes and resource utilization. Further research is warranted to aid in the development of treatment guidelines.

Level of Evidence

III
Routine‐data‐compatible quality indicators for the ambulatory care of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip: A systematic review
Authors: Bock Tobias , Flemming Ronja , Bammert Philip , von Eisenhart‐Rothe Rüdiger , Hirschmann Michael T. , Sundmacher Leonie
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Germany has high rates of total joint arthroplasty for osteoarthritis of the knee and hip. Ambulatory health interventions can affect the progression of these conditions and the need for total joint arthroplasty. Quality indicators and guideline recommendations facilitate the transparent measurement and demonstration of care quality. Therefore, a systematic literature review of quality indicators and guideline recommendations for ambulatory care of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip before total joint arthroplasty was conducted, focusing on those that could be quantified using routine data from German statutory health insurers.

Methods

Five electronic databases for quality indicators and guidelines published between 2000 and 2021 related to the ambulatory management of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip before total joint arthroplasty were searched. Two reviewers independently selected and appraised the quality of the studies. To synthesise a routine‐data‐compatible set of quality indicators, similarities and differences among existing quality indicator sets and guideline recommendations were identified and resolved.

Results

This systematic search yielded 10,841 potentially relevant records, leading to the identification of 20 sets of quality indicators and 35 guidelines with measures quantifiable using routine data. The present evidence synthesis produced 24 routine‐data‐compatible process quality indicators related to the type, order or frequency of musculoskeletal appointments, diagnostic imaging procedures, referrals to physical therapists and pharmaceutical prescriptions.

Conclusion

The synthesised set of routine‐data‐compatible quality indicators can provide a resource‐saving tool for offering individual feedback to physicians on the processes involved in the ambulatory management of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip. Engaging in interdisciplinary discussions on variations in quality indicator outcomes could contribute to improving interdisciplinary physician collaboration in ambulatory care for these conditions.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Readability and Quality of Microtia Online Information by Large Organizations in English and Spanish
Authors: Báez Berríos Adriana I. , Goncalves Stefania , Perez Enrique
Published: February 2025

Objective

To evaluate the readability and quality of microtia website health information in both Spanish and English.

Methods

The term “microtia” was searched using three Internet search engines, and the top 50 English and Spanish websites were short‐listed. Readability was evaluated using online tools: the Flesch Reading Ease score for English and the Fernandez–Huerta Formula for Spanish sites. The quality of information was analyzed using the DISCERN quality instrument, and two bilingual neurotologists independently reviewed the websites to assess their quality.

Results

Forty‐four English and 19 Spanish microtia health information websites were included. English websites were written at a higher reading level (mean = 47.63 SD = 11.86) than Spanish websites (mean = 62.37, SD = 8.92) (p < 0.001). English websites correlated to the reading level of a college student; Spanish websites correlated to the reading level of an 8th–9th grade student. The average DISCERN score was 41.93 (SD = 12.88) for English websites and 32.53 (SD = 11.06) for Spanish websites (p = 0.0054). No correlation was identified between the readability and quality of the examined websites.

Conclusion

Both English and Spanish microtia websites exceed the recommended reading levels set by the American Medical Association (6th grade) and National Institutes of Health (8th grade). Additionally, the quality of information, especially on Spanish sites, is low. Given that parents rely on these resources to make treatment decisions, physicians should be aware of the variability in readability and quality of online microtia information across different languages.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 2025
Hearing Loss and Its Relation to Loneliness and Depression—A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Döge Julia , Hackenberg Berit , Beutel Manfred E. , Otten Daniëlle , Wild Philipp S. , Chalabi Julian ,   GHS Research Consortium, Matthias Christoph , Bahr‐Hamm Katharina
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Hearing loss is a prevalent factor contributing to reduced quality of life and has been linked to various comorbidities, with potential significant implications for psychosocial and cognitive health. The aim of this study was to give current information about the prevalence of hearing loss, loneliness and depression, and to examine the association between these.

Study Design

Cohort study.

Methods

The Gutenberg Health Study, a large representative cohort study for the general population, was initiated in 2007 at the University Medical Center Mainz, Germany. Hearing loss was assessed using pure‐tone audiometry, with severity graduated in percentages according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Loneliness and depressive symptoms were assessed using self‐report measures: Loneliness Scale (≥2) for loneliness and the PHQ‐9 (≥10) for depressive symptoms.

Results

Among 5,948 participants (25–86 years), the prevalence of hearing loss was 38.7%. Loneliness was reported by 9.5% of the participants and the prevalence of significant symptoms of depression was 9.9%. The risk of loneliness was found to be significantly higher in participants with severe to complete hearing loss (OR = 3.92, p = 0.011). In addition, the odds ratio (OR) for depressive symptoms was significantly higher in those with a mild to severe hearing loss compared to those with normal hearing (OR = 1.3; p = 0.025). There was no association with hearing aid use.

Conclusion

Hearing loss is associated with both loneliness and depressive symptoms. Longitudinal studies are required to clarify the causal relationships and to further investigate the direct impact of early hearing aid fitting on the progression of loneliness and depression.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 2025
Essential Equipment for Baseline Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Care: A Global Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Srinivasan Tarika , Cherches Alexander , Seguya Amina , Pandey Akansha , Fei‐Zhang David , Nuss Sarah , Elwell Zachary , Adeyemo Adebolajo , Alkire Blake C. , Bangash Ali Haider , Cahill Gabrielle , Daudu Davina , Der Mussa Carolina , Din Taseer , Fagan Johannes J. , Hapunda Racheal , Ibekwe Titus , Maina Ivy , Mukuzi Allan , Patterson Rolvix H. , Shaye David A. , Smith Emily R. , Sprow Holly , Waterworth Christopher James , Wiedermann Joshua P. , Xu Mary Jue , Zalaquett Nader , Kahinga Aveline Aloyce , Tamir Sharon Ovnat ,   Global OHNS Initiative
Published: February 2025

Objective

Availability of surgical equipment and access to essential clinical services remains an important barrier to surgical care delivery, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). This study aims to characterize the relative availability of essential equipment for otolaryngology‐head and neck surgery (OHNS) care across World Bank income groups.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional survey on otolaryngologists' perceptions on the availability of surgical equipment and ancillary services in their respective practice settings per a 5‐point Likert scale ranging from never to always available. The study was disseminated online via professional societies, personal contacts, and social media. Eligible participants included otolaryngologists from 194 WHO‐recognized countries, which were grouped by World Bank income group classification and WHO region.

Results

The study involved 146 otolaryngologists, 69 (47%) from high‐income countries (HICs), and 77 (53%) from LMICs. LMIC respondents were predominantly from the African and South‐East Asian regions, which comprised 48% and 7.8% of all LMIC respondents, respectively. Results revealed significant differences in the availability of otologic, rhinologic, and endoscopic airway equipment between HICs and LMICs. Differences existed among commonly used equipment such as tympanomastoidectomy equipment and rigid bronchoscopy, to subspecialized equipment such as functional endoscopic sinus surgery equipment and cochlear implants (p < 0.05 each).

Conclusions

The study highlighted key disparities in the availability of essential equipment for baseline OHNS care, especially for pediatric airway and otologic conditions. These results can be used to guide investment and advocacy efforts to improve specialty‐specific surgical infrastructure relative to the global burden of OHNS diseases in low‐resource settings.

Level of Evidence

3