bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving CO Oxidation Catalysis Over High Entropy Spinels by Increasing Disorder
Authors: Swindell Joshua D. , Tainton Gareth R.M. , Chansai Sarayute , Hazeldine Kerry , Buckingham Mark A. , Walton Alex S. , Hardacre Christopher , Haigh Sarah J. , Lewis David J.
Published: February 2025

Enhancing the activity and stability of earth‐abundant, heterogeneous catalysts remains a key challenge, requiring new materials design strategies to replace platinum‐group metals. Herein, it is demonstrated that increasing the configurational disorder of spinel metal oxides (M3O4, where M is a combination of Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn) leads to significant improvements in carbon monoxide (CO) oxidation performance. A substantial 63% decrease in the T10 value (temperature to reach 10% CO oxidation) is observed by systematically increasing the number of first‐row transition metals within the spinel oxide. Long‐term stability studies reveal that the most disordered 7‐metal spinel oxide exhibited superior resistance to catalyst deactivation compared to the 4‐metal variant, showing a decrease in activity of only 4.7% versus 12.2% during 14 h of operation. A solventless thermolysis approach is developed to synthesize a series of medium entropy spinel oxide (MESO) and high entropy spinel oxides (HESOs) from discrete, air‐stable molecular precursors. Comprehensive crystal structure determination, elemental distribution analysis, and surface characterization are conducted, establishing a clear structure‐function relationship between elemental composition, configurational disorder, and catalytic performance. This work highlights how configurational disorder can serve as an effective design principle for developing both active and stable catalysts.
Cyclodextrin‐initiated N‐carboxyanhydride polymerization for the design of stereostructural dobby polypeptides with jellyfish‐type architecture
Authors: Xu Guoqiao , Tang Guping , Bai Hongzhen
Published: February 2025

Strict criteria of biomedical materials in synthesis efficiency, structure determinacy, and biological safety pose formidable challenges for the synthesis of dobby polypeptides. Herein we reported a cyclodextrin (CD)‐initiated, 1,1,3,3‐Tetramethylguanidine (TMG)‐catalyzed one‐step N‐carboxyanhydride (NCA) ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) strategy to synthesize a series of dobby polypeptides that fulfill the criteria of biomedical materials. By leveraging TMG’s catalytic mechanisms in nucleophilicity enhancement for CD hydroxyl groups and active center creation for NCA monomers, this strategy achieves efficient NCA polymerization within 2 hours and high monomer conversion up to 93.5%. Meticulous characterizations illustrate that CD‐centric polypeptides present jellyfish‐type stereochemical structures, in which the arm number, length, orientation and initiation sites are precisely determined. Simultaneously, CD‐centric polypeptides possess excellent self‐assembling capacities to guide nanostructure fabrication, exhibiting broad‐spectrum small‐molecule drug encapsulation. Additionally, natural CD applied in multipoint initiation of core‐first NCA ROP fundamentally improves the biodegradability and biosafety of dobby polypeptides, thus facilitating their biomedical applications.
Satellite Tracking and Photographic‐Identification as Connectivity‐Based Tools Towards Conservation Planning of Pilot Whales
Authors: Weyn Mieke , Marrero‐Pérez Jacobo , Mora Anna Sánchez , González Atenary Pimentel , Ferreira Rita , Sambolino Annalisa , Dinis Ana , Mateus Catarina Sofia , Fernandez Marc , Alves Filipe
Published: February 2025

Identifying biogeographical patterns and important biological (blue) corridors can greatly contribute to conservation planning. Yet, this is particularly challenging when addressing pelagic species. In this study, satellite telemetry and photographic‐identification data of short‐finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) were used to identify preferred areas and pathways in the Macaronesia biogeographical region, namely between Madeira and two regions in the Canary Islands, the Western (WCI, La Palma and El Hierro) and the Central (CCI, Tenerife and La Gomera). Home‐range and time‐varying move persistence analyses from tracking data of four whales that moved between both archipelagos over 578 days revealed preferred areas in Madeira and the WCI, new connectivity pathways and the importance of both regions for area‐restricted behaviours. These findings were corroborated by a high number (n = 71) of photographic matches between Madeira (catalogue of 1276 individuals) and the WCI (456 individuals), compared to only four between Madeira and the CCI (717 individuals). The high linkage of the WCI with Madeira and the CCI (n = 48) suggests that the WCI constitute a key habitat for potential mixing of pilot whales from different groups. This study emphasizes that a combined methodological approach provides robust baseline information for pilot whales' conservation management, which could be valuable for other scenarios and species. Furthermore, shown connectivity patterns contribute to broadening our knowledge on potential blue corridors in the eastern North Atlantic and highlight the importance of considering wide and international geographic areas for conservation planning of highly mobile marine species.
Body donor programs in Australia and New Zealand: Current status and future opportunities
Authors: Jenkin Rebekah A. , Keay Kevin A.
Published: February 2025

Body donation is critical to anatomy study in Australia and New Zealand. Annually, more than 10,000 students, anatomists, researchers, and clinicians access tissue donated by local consented donors through university‐based body donation programs. However, little research has been published about their operations. This study sought to examine the characteristics of the nineteen body donation programs operating in Australia and New Zealand. Information was collected from publicly available sources, virtual interviews with 17/19 programs, and responses to a set of questions (11/19). Body donation is locally regulated in both countries. Four Australian programs operate as central mortuaries supplying users in their state, while the remainder and the New Zealand programs operate institutionally. Annually, 1000–1500 donors are received across both countries. Retention periods vary, although most donors are returned for disposition within 3 years. All facilitate the return of cremated remains to the family on donor election. Most programs (16/19) reported that they received sufficient donors, with many narrowing their acceptance area. Pre‐death registration of donors is required by 12/19 programs; five Australian programs will accept next‐of‐kin donations post‐mortem. Next‐of‐kin authorization is required for donation; New Zealand programs seek this at the time of donor registration. All programs recognize donors; fifteen host commemoration/thanksgiving services for donors and their families. Body donation is well supported by local communities in both countries. Opportunities for improvement include the development of regional standards, engagement with donors/the community about body donation, and recognition of the primacy of donor elections over next‐of‐kin wishes.
Reviewing the GR Method for Estimating Black Hole Parameters of Megamaser Systems
Authors: González‐Juárez Adriana , Herrera‐Aguilar Alfredo
Published: February 2025

We review a general relativistic (GR) method to determine the black hole (BH) parameters: Mass‐to‐distance ratio, position, and recessional velocity of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) of Seyfert type, which have an accretion disk with water masers circulating around the BH. This GR method makes use of astrophysical observations: The redshifted and the blueshifted photons emitted from the aforementioned masers and their orbital position on the sky. In order to perform the estimations we implement a Bayesian statistical method to fit the above mentioned observational data. One of the main results of this work consists in analytically expressing the gravitational redshift, allowing us to quantify its magnitude for the photons emitted by the closest masers to the black holes. We present this quantity for several BHs hosted at the core of AGNs.
Acute cardiovascular effects associated with the use of prescription medications: A Danish nationwide screening study
Authors: Abbasi Saad Hanif , Lund Lars Christian , Hallas Jesper , Ernst Martin Thomsen , Pottegård Anton
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aims to conduct a hypothesis‐generating screening for acute cardiovascular effects of prescription medications.

Methods

This Danish nationwide screening study was conducted among incident cases of cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction (MI), ischemic stroke (IS), heart failure (HF), venous thromboembolism (VTE), myocarditis, and atrial fibrillation (AF), between January 2000 and December 2022. Using a case‐crossover study design, we examined exposure to individual drugs on the date of the cardiovascular event (focal date) and three reference dates corresponding to days −180, −270 and −360 prior to index date. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% credible intervals (CIs) for associations between exposure drug and cardiovascular outcomes using the conditional logistic regression with a weak Bayesian shrinkage.

Results

After applying exclusion criteria, we identified 191,979 cases of AF, 145,148 cases of MI, 132,271 cases of IS, 71,821 cases of HF, 16,127 cases of VTE and 10,045 cases of myocarditis. Based on the threshold for the strength of associations (OR ≥ 1.5; lower limit of CI ≥ 1), we identified 222 associations for 104 individual drugs across all six outcomes. Some major drug classes, such as antibiotics, analgesics and corticosteroids, consistently demonstrated associations for most cardiovascular outcomes. Use of pantoprazole, in contrast to other PPIs, was associated with AF (OR 1.83; 95% CI 1.68–2.00) along with MI, HF, myocarditis and VTE. Similarly, oxazepam stood out among other benzodiazepines and demonstrated increased risk of VTE (OR 2.53; 95% CI 1.55–4.13) as well as MI, HF and AF.

Conclusions

The results highlight several potentially important associations across various pharmacological drug classes that warrant further investigation in tailored pharmacoepidemiological analyses.
Photoluminescence Properties of Novel Ca3Y2B4O12:Eu3+ and Dy3+ Phosphors for Solid‐State Lighting Prepared by Combustion Method
Authors: Nandanwar C. M. , Kokode N. S. , Yerpude A. N. , Uke A. M.
Published: February 2025

In this study, novel Ca3Y2B4O12:Eu3+ and Dy3+ phosphors were synthesized utilizing a simple and efficient combustion process. The Ca3Y2B4O12 host orthorhombic phase with high crystallinity formation is confirmed by structural x‐ray diffraction analysis. The Ca3Y2B4O12:Eu3+ phosphors PL study indicated different emission peaks at 595 and 618 nm under 397 nm excitation, whereas Ca3Y2B4O12:Dy3+ phosphors emission peaks displayed blue (485 nm) and yellow (579 nm) under 353 nm excitation. The ideal doping concentration of 0.5 mol% for Eu3+ and Dy3+ ions resulted in maximum emission intensity due to reduced concentration quenching effects. The chromaticity coordinates show that the emissions are in the visible spectrum, with high‐purity colors suitable for solid state lighting. The results indicate that novel Ca3Y2B4O12:Eu3+ and Dy3+ is promising materials for n‐UV emitting phosphors for solid‐state lighting applications.
A Novel Molecular Profile of Hormone‐Sensitive Prostate Cancer Defines High Risk Patients
Authors: Piombino Claudia , Nasso Cecilia , Bettelli Stefania , Manfredini Samantha , Vitale Maria Giuseppa , Pipitone Stefania , Baldessari Cinzia , Costantini Matteo , Eccher Albino , Mastrolia Ilenia , Catani Virginia , Bacchelli Francesca , Ferretti Stefania , Dominici Massimo , Sabbatini Roberto
Published: February 2025

Background

The therapeutic management of metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) is still based on clinical and pathological parameters due to the lack of biomarkers that may drive tailored treatment.

Methods

In this non‐randomized, single‐center, retrospective trial, we searched for a genetic signature using the NanoString nCounter PanCancer Pathways Panel on formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded prostate cancer samples belonging to 48 patients with de novo or relapsed mHSPC. Patients were divided into a high‐clinical‐risk group (n = 36) and a low‐clinical‐risk group (n = 12) according to the mean time to metastatic relapse.

Results

The analysis of Nanostring nCounter Panel data revealed differential expression of 42 genes between high‐clinical‐risk and low‐clinical‐risk groups. All the genes except for NR4A1 and FOS were upregulated in the high‐clinical‐risk group. A general overexpression of apoptosis, PI3K and MAPK pathway‐related genes, including AKT2, was observed in the high‐clinical‐risk group.

Conclusion

The differential genetic signature identified between the two study groups revealed novel biomarkers in mHSPC, additionally suggesting new therapeutic targets within the hormone sensitive phase, such as AKT2. Further prospective larger cohort studies are needed to assess the prognostic value of our findings and their exact role in prostate cancer progression.
Real‐Life Impact of Enfortumab Vedotin or Chemotherapy in the Sequential Treatment of Advanced Urothelial Carcinoma: The ARON‐2 Retrospective Experience
Authors: Rizzo Mimma , Morelli Franco , Ürün Yüksel , Buti Sebastiano , Park Se Hoon , Bourlon Maria T. , Grande Enrique , Massari Francesco , Landmesser Johannes , Poprach Alexandr , Takeshita Hideki , Roviello Giandomenico , Myint Zin W. , Popovic Lazar , Soares Andrey , Abahssain Halima , Giannatempo Patrizia , Molina‐Cerrillo Javier , Incorvaia Lorena , Salah Samer , Zeppellini Annalisa , Monteiro Fernando Sabino Marques , Porta Camillo , Gupta Shilpa , Santoni Matteo
Published: February 2025

Background

Recently, a plethora of novel systemic agents have been incorporated into the therapeutic armamentarium of advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC). The antibody–drug conjugate (ADC), enfortumab vedotin (EV), has demonstrated relevant clinical benefit in patients with aUC refractory to platinum and immune‐checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. Our study provides a retrospective, international, real‐world analysis comparing the effectiveness of EV to chemotherapy in this setting.

Methods

The data were extracted from the medical records of patients treated with EV or chemotherapy following pembrolizumab for recurrent or progressive aUC after platinum‐based chemotherapy. Patients were assessed for overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DoR).

Results

Our analysis included 247 patients treated with EV (88, 36%) or chemotherapy (159, 64%). Median OS was 9.1 months (95%CI 7.2–10.7) in the overall study population, 13.6 months (95%CI 10.0–31.0) in patients receiving EV and 6.8 months (95%CI 6.0–8.9) in patients receiving chemotherapy (p < 0.001). The OS benefit of EV was not affected by primary tumour site and histology, metastatic sites, type of first platinum‐based chemotherapy or response to pembrolizumab. In the EV cohort, the median PFS was significantly longer (8.8 months [95%CI 6.5–17.0] vs. 3.0 months [95%CI 2.6–3.7]) and the ORR was significantly higher (56% vs. 23%) than in the chemotherapy cohort.

Conclusions

The results of our international analysis of real‐world data confirm the effectiveness of EV in the sequential strategy of aUC patients who have received prior platinum‐based chemotherapy and anti‐PD‐1 pembrolizumab, regardless of commonly considered prognostic factors.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05290038
Robust HPV‐16 Detection Workflow for Formalin‐Fixed Cancer Tissue and Its Application for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Morodomi Shizuka , Hirosue Akiyuki , Rahman Akhinur , Nohata Kyotaro , Matsuo Misaki , Reda Omnia , Alam Rajib Samiul , Saito Haruki , Takeda Hiroki , Yoshida Ryoji , Nakamoto Masafumi , Hirayama Masatoshi , Kawahara Kenta , Takatori Mitsuyoshi , Orita Yorihisa , Nakayama Hideki , Satou Yorifumi
Published: February 2025

Background

Virus‐related cancers are malignancies caused by specific viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus, and human T‐cell leukemia virus, contributing significantly to the global cancer burden through persistent infection and oncogenic transformation. The current study aimed to develop a robust HPV‐16 detection method for formalin‐fixed cancer specimens.

Materials and Methods

To prevent false negatives resulting from DNA fragmentation, a DNA quality check step was added. Additionally, this study used multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) covering the entire HPV‐16 genome to mitigate effects caused by viral sequence variation. To prove this concept, we analyzed genomic DNA extracted from oropharyngeal cancer tissues known as HPV‐16‐positive. Subsequently, the protocol was tested on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) samples in our cohort. Given the wide variation in HPV‐16 positivity in previous studies, it remains elusive how frequently HPV‐16 is positive in OSCC.

Results

The results showed faint bands or smears in the multiplex PCR of 7 out of 112 cases. Droplet digital PCR confirmed variable positivity levels of HPV‐16, suggesting two scenarios of HPV‐16 positivity in cancer tissue: cancer cells derived from infected cells or only a portion being HPV‐16‐positive. Finally, we comprehensively analyzed the case and identified the integration of a deleted HPV‐16 genome into the intronic region of the host gene TMEM94 on chromosome 17. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first evidence showing the integration of HPV‐16 in OSCC cells and providing its complete viral sequence.

Conclusions

The established protocol should be applicable to various cancer tissues for analyzing the association with HPV‐16 infection.
The Economic Burden of Colorectal Cancer in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in Shanghai, China
Authors: Zhu Zhi‐xu , Peng Yu‐xin , Ye Jing‐hong , Wei Yan
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to analyze disease cost levels among colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, examining differences in disease costs between those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and those without T2DM while considering various demographic characteristics.

Methods

The study included respondents from colorectal cancer patients diagnosed and managed within the population‐based cancer registry system of the Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention from 2020 to 2022. Diabetic colorectal cancer cases were matched with nondiabetic colorectal cancer controls using propensity scores, maintaining a 1:1 ratio between cases and controls; bias for the majority of the matched variables is below 10%. Direct, indirect, and intangible costs were estimated for study subjects.

Results

After propensity score matching, the analysis encompassed 376 cases of T2DM‐related CRC and 376 non‐T2DM CRC cases. The T2DM group exhibited higher direct medical costs (¥57,059.65 vs. ¥48,933.93, p < 0.05), direct nonmedical costs (¥9292.45 vs. ¥7969.35), indirect costs (¥300.13 vs. ¥241.11), intangible costs (¥3601.70 vs. ¥2631.96), and total disease costs (¥70,253.93 vs. ¥59,776.36, p < 0.05) compared to the non‐T2DM group. In Stage II CRC, direct medical costs were ¥74,008.39 for the T2DM group versus ¥57,368.84 for the non‐T2DM group. Among surgical patients, direct medical costs were ¥57,658.81 for the T2DM group versus ¥1337.00 for the non‐T2DM group, and ¥49,061.52 for the non‐T2DM surgical group versus ¥1089.00 for the non‐T2DM nonsurgical group.

Conclusion

Colorectal cancer imposes a substantial economic burden. Patients with CRC and concurrent T2DM experience a higher economic burden compared to nondiabetic patients. Notably, individuals with both T2DM and Stage II cancer face a significantly higher economic burden, whereas surgical patients exhibit a significantly greater disease burden than nonsurgical patients. Efforts should concentrate on primary prevention and secondary prevention to alleviate the economic burden associated with colorectal cancer.
Transcriptomic Profiles for Elucidating Response of Bladder Intracavitary Hyperthermic Perfusion Chemotherapy in High‐Risk Nonmuscular Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Huang Zhicheng , Zhang Tianhui , Pan Jinghua , Zhang Guihao , Jiang Linjun , Jiang Huiming , Wan Pei , Peng Ying , Zou Wenchao , Liu Qinghua , Chen Nanhui
Published: February 2025

Background

Bladder intracavitary hyperthermic perfusion chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a promising treatment for non‐muscular invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the response to HIPEC remain poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the transcriptomic profiles associated with the response to HIPEC in NMIBC patients.

Methods

RNA sequencing was performed on bladder tumor samples from NMIBC patients who underwent HIPEC treatment. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between responders and non‐responders to HIPEC were identified. Gene ontology and pathway analysis were conducted to explore the biological functions and pathways enriched in the DEGs. Additionally, the expression of specific immune‐related genes was evaluated for their association with HIPEC response. The diagnostic efficiency of selected genes in predicting relapse before and after HIPEC treatment was assessed in a validation cohort.

Results

We assessed the expression status of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between responders and non‐responders to HIPEC. Gene ontology and pathway analysis revealed that DEGs were enriched in immune‐related pathways, including cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction, chemokine signaling pathway, and antigen processing and presentation. Furthermore, the expression of several immune‐related genes, including ZMAP4, UPP2, and GALR1, was significantly associated with the response to HIPEC. Therefore, the immune system's reaction plays a crucial role in the response to HIPEC in patients with NMIBC. At last, a considerable diagnostic efficiency that tissue TMEFF2, KRT222, and GTSF1 in predicting relapse in NMIBC patients after HIPEC treatment, and ZMAP4, UPP2, and GALR1 in predicting relapse in NMIBC patients before HIPEC treatment in the validation cohort.

Conclusion

Transcriptomic profiling revealed that immune‐related pathways and genes play a crucial role in the response to HIPEC in NMIBC patients. These findings suggest that transcriptomic profiling could provide a valuable tool for predicting treatment outcomes and identifying therapeutic targets for NMIBC.
Successful Management of Aluminum Phosphide (Celphos) Poisoning With Aspiration Pneumonia: A Case Report
Authors: Kandel Rakshya Arun , Kafle Rukma Raj , Chaulagain Sabin , Shah Chandan , Atreya Alok
Published: February 2025

Aluminum phosphide (AlP) poisoning typically has a poor prognosis, but this case report from Nepal demonstrated that prompt hospitalization, aggressive supportive care, including gastric lavage with coconut oil, and careful management of metabolic acidosis can lead to successful patient recovery.
Respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma, a different presentation
Authors: Fernandes Lopes Patrícia , Ruas Morgado Filipa , Canavarros Fernando , Santos Alberto , Macor Carlos
Published: February 2025

Key Clinical Message

Respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hemartoma (REAH) has been included in the World Health Organization's classification of tumors since 2005. It results from non‐neoplastic overgrowth of glandular tissue. It is rarely located in the upper airway and in 70% of these cases it is present in the nasal septum. Within the described locations, it has never been described as attached to the nasal floor. We present the case of a 56‐year‐old male patient with progressive right nasal obstruction for 2 years. A nasal endoscopy showed a large, well circumscribed, whitish lesion with lobulated contour and solid polypoidal components. The incisional biopsy was inconclusive and the computed tomography (CT) of the paranasal sinuses showed obliteration of the right nostril and of the upper nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal airways by a lobulated lesion. We performed endoscopic excision of the 9 cm lesion attached to the nasal floor. Histopathologic study revealed REAH. Of uncertain etiology, REAH appears to correlate with chronic inflammation. It presents with nonspecific symptoms, which may mimic other nasal lesions. Despite not being described in the literature, our case presented REAH located in the nasal floor. Only excisional biopsy determines the diagnosis. Treatment involves complete endoscopic excision. REAH are underdiagnosed and its identification is important to avoid more aggressive treatments. In this article we present a rare case of a REAH located in the nasal floor, not described in the literature to this date.
Photoinduced hydrogen evolution catalyzed by Co(II) complexes of N5‐donor ligands
Authors: Li Chuanshuai , Li Yong , Luo Yusen , Michaliszyn Klaudia , Losada Iria Bolano , Hossain Md. Kamal , Elantabli Fatma , Guo Meiyuan , Hizbullah Lintang , Tocher Derek A. , Haukka Matti , Persson Petter , Lloret-Fillol Julio , Dietzek-Ivanšić Benjamin , Nordlander Ebbe
Published: February 2025

Three new cobalt complexes of the general formula [Co(II)(L)(CH3CN) ]2+, where L is one of three pentadentate nitrogen‐donor ligands based on the N4Py framework, have been synthesized and characterized. The capacity of the three complexes to effect photocatalytic proton reduction has been examined. Their photocatalytic activities in the presence of [Ru(bpy)3]2+, acting as a photosensitizer, and ascorbic acid, acting as a sacrificial electron donor, were screened in a water/acetonitrile mixture. The photochemical mechanism, as revealed by nanosecond time‐resolved transient absorption spectroscopy, involves reaction of the excited sensitizer with ascorbic acid to yield [Ru(bpy)3]+ as a primary photogenerated reductant, capable of electron transfer to the cobalt catalyst(s). Under the experimental conditions used, partial decomposition of both the sensitizer and the catalyst is the main deactivation channel for photocatalysis. Optimization of reaction conditions indicated that the use of more reducing iridium or copper‐based photosensitizers had a beneficial effect on the catalytic performance. The effect of the different ligands on the catalytic activities of the corresponding cobalt complexes have been investigated by DFT calculations.
Base‐Promoted Homolytic Aromatic Substitution (BHAS) Reactions and Hydrodehalogenations Driven by Green Light and an Iron(III)‐NHC Photoredox Catalyst
Authors: Wärnmark Kenneth , de Groot Lisa H. M. , García-Mateos Clara , Johnson Catherine E. , Hlynsson Valtýr Freyr , Sharma Alpesh K. , Lomoth Reiner
Published: February 2025

An Fe(III)‐NHC complex has been employed for the green light driven catalysis of base‐promoted homolytic aromatic substitution (BHAS) reactions. Tributylamine was used as a sacrificial electron donor, together with a potassium carbonate base in dimethyl sulfoxide as solvent. In contrast to previously studied photocatalysts, the excited Fe(III)‐NHC complex is not reducing the arylhalide substrates. Instead, the latter are activated by α‐aminoalkyl radicals formed upon reductive quenching of the photocatalyst by tributylamine. Avoiding strongly reducing photocatalysts as well as strong base, these mild reaction conditions allowed for the expansion of the substrate scope to accommodate also aldehyde and ester substituents. 100% conversion was obtained after 48 hrs of irradiation. In this way a wide variety of cyclized products and their corresponding hydrodehalogenated products were obtained as isolated and pure compounds, in the vast majority of cases.
Aeroallergen sensitivity patterns in Gulf countries: A systematic review
Authors: Khurram Tahira , Missous Ghalia , van Panhuys Nicholas , Karim Mohammed Yousuf
Published: February 2025

Background

Successful management of allergic diseases necessitates accurate diagnosis, implementation of appropriate allergen avoidance techniques, and medical therapies. However, data availability regarding aeroallergens in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is limited.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of studies conducted in Gulf countries on individuals diagnosed with or tested for aeroallergen sensitivities, focusing on prevalence and respiratory health impacts. The search strategy followed the PRISMA guidelines and was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar from inception to November 12, 2023.

Results

A total of 27 studies, both adult and pediatric, were included in this systematic review. Aeroallergen sensitization was assessed using skin prick testing (SPT) in 15 studies; 5 used in vitro methods, 2 employed both, 4 relied on self‐reports, and 1 on aerobiological monitoring. Sensitization rates varied considerably, influenced by factors such as age, demographics, and location. Sensitization was noted to allergens shared with Western populations, and to those native to the region for example, house dust mite sensitization ranged from 15% to 78%, Salsola from 13% to 78%. Up to 65.1% of allergen‐positive individuals demonstrated polysensitization. Sensitization patterns differed between indigenous populations and expatriates, with local allergens being more prevalent among natives. Sensitization rates were lower in younger children but increased with age.

Conclusion

Our systematic review highlights the crucial importance of providing allergen‐sensitivity information that is specifically tailored to the local environment. This tailored approach can improve clinical diagnosis, enable appropriate allergen avoidance and immunotherapy strategies, and result in potential cost savings.
Intravenous opioids and the risk of addiction in individuals with cancer
Authors: Downer Kendall , Childers Julie
Published: February 2025

A well‐performed randomized crossover trial found that most cancer patients with pain and low risk for opioid misuse do not experience drug‐liking from a limited number of intravenous (IV) opioid doses. These findings suggest that IV opioids have a low abuse potential in this population and align with extensive research showing that opioid addiction is a complex phenomenon involving genetics, psychological factors, and early childhood experiences and is unlikely to be triggered by a few doses of IV opioids administered for cancer‐related pain.
Anti‐Müllerian hormone for assessing ovarian toxicity of cancer treatment in young women: It’s complicated
Authors: Sorouri Kimia , Glass Karen , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Warner Ellen , Partridge Ann H.
Published: February 2025

The rising incidence of cancer among young women highlights the importance of understanding treatment‐related gonadotoxicity, which can lead to infertility and long‐term health complications from premature estrogen decline. Although anti‐Müllerian hormone is considered the most reliable indicator of ovarian reserve, its interpretation among oncology patients is complex because it is dependent on the treatment modality, necessitating further research to fully understand the impact of specific treatments on anti‐Müllerian hormone and to identify alternative markers to reliably assess the ovarian toxicity of newer cancer therapies.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology, Comorbidities, and Emerging Therapies
Authors: Singh Aditi , Shadangi Sucharita , Gupta Pulkit Kr. , Rana Soumendra
Published: February 2025

Humans are perhaps evolutionarily engineered to get deeply addicted to sugar, as it not only provides energy but also helps in storing fats, which helps in survival during starvation. Additionally, sugars (glucose and fructose) stimulate the feel‐good factor, as they trigger the secretion of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, associated with the reward sensation, uplifting the mood in general. However, when consumed in excess, it contributes to energy imbalance, weight gain, and obesity, leading to the onset of a complex metabolic disorder, generally referred to as diabetes. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most prevalent forms of diabetes, nearly affecting all age groups. T2DM is clinically diagnosed with a cardinal sign of chronic hyperglycemia (excessive sugar in the blood). Chronic hyperglycemia, coupled with dysfunctions of pancreatic β‐cells, insulin resistance, and immune inflammation, further exacerbate the pathology of T2DM. Uncontrolled T2DM, a major public health concern, also contributes significantly toward the onset and progression of several micro‐ and macrovascular diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular diseases, including cancer. The current review discusses the epidemiology, causative factors, pathophysiology, and associated comorbidities, including the existing and emerging therapies related to T2DM. It also provides a future roadmap for alternative drug discovery for the management of T2DM.
Identification of QTLs for reproductive stage salinity tolerance in rice using a cross between CSR28 and BRRI dhan28
Authors: Mondal Sejuti , Vaughn Robert , Septiningsih Endang M. , Singh Rakesh K. , Thomson Michael J.
Published: February 2025

Salinity poses a serious threat to rice (Oryza sativa L.) production in coastal regions across the globe. Since salinity tolerance is a complex and polygenic trait, understanding the salt‐tolerance mechanisms is key for rice breeding. Breeding efforts can be aided by quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for complementary salt tolerance mechanisms in plants. While numerous studies are available on salinity tolerance at the seedling stage, limited studies have been conducted on reproductive stage tolerance in rice due to the difficulty in achieving reliable stage‐specific phenotyping techniques. In this study, a BC1F2 mapping population consisting of 435 individuals derived from a cross between a salt‐tolerant Indian variety, CSR28, and a salt‐sensitive Bangladeshi mega variety, BRRI dhan28, was evaluated for yield components after exposure to salinity stress of EC 10 dS/m during the reproductive stage. After selecting extremely tolerant and sensitive progenies, 190 individuals were genotyped by kompetitive allele‐specific PCR (KASP) genotyping with 152 high‐quality single nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers. Consequently, 15 QTLs were identified under reproductive stage salt stress, including plant height, panicle length, number of filled and unfilled spikelets, percent filled spikelets, grain yield, and the Na+‐K+ ratio. Notably, three QTLs, one each for the number of filled spikelets (qNFS10.1), percent filled spikelets (qPFS10.1), and grain yield (qGY10.1), were mapped at the same position (75.9 cM) on chromosome 10. These promising QTLs can be examined further to dissect the molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive stage salinity tolerance in rice.
Adipose tissue deficiency impairs transient lipid accumulation and delays liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy in male Seipin knockout mice
Authors: Dong Qianqian , Liu Ziwei , Ma Yidan , Chen Xin , Wang Xiaowei , Tang Jinye , Ma Kexin , Liang Chenxi , Wang Mengyu , Wu Xiaoqin , Liu Yang , Zhou Yaru , Yang Hongyuan , Gao Mingming
Published: February 2025

Background

Liver diseases pose significant health challenges, underscoring the importance of understanding liver regeneration mechanisms. Systemic adipose tissue is thought to be a primary source of lipids and energy during this process; however, empirical data on the effects of adipose tissue deficiency are limited. This study investigates the role of adipose tissue in liver regeneration, focusing on transient regeneration‐associated steatosis (TRAS) and hepatocyte proliferation using a Seipin knockout mouse model that mimics severe human lipodystrophy. Additionally, the study explores therapeutic strategies through adipose tissue transplantation.

Methods

Male Seipin knockout (Seipin−/−) and wild‐type (WT) mice underwent 2/3 partial hepatectomy (PHx). Liver and plasma samples were collected at various time points post‐surgery. Histological assessments, lipid accumulation analyses and measurements of hepatocyte proliferation markers were conducted. Additionally, normal adipose tissue was transplanted into Seipin−/− mice to evaluate the restoration of liver regeneration.

Results

Seipin−/− mice exhibited significantly reduced liver regeneration rates and impaired TRAS, as evidenced by histological and lipid measurements. While WT mice demonstrated extensive hepatocyte proliferation at 48 and 72 h post‐PHx, characterised by increased mitotic cells, elevated proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Ki67 expression, Seipin−/− mice showed delayed hepatocyte proliferation. Notably, adipose tissue transplantation into Seipin−/− mice restored TRAS and improved liver regeneration and hepatocyte proliferation. Conversely, liver‐specific overexpression of Seipin in Seipin−/− mice did not affect TRAS or liver regeneration, indicating that the observed effects are primarily due to adipose tissue deficiency rather than hepatic Seipin itself.

Conclusions

Systemic adipose tissue is essential for TRAS and effective liver regeneration following PHx. Its deficiency impairs these processes, while adipose tissue transplantation can restore normal liver function. These findings underscore the critical role of adipose tissue in liver recovery and suggest potential therapeutic strategies for liver diseases associated with lipodystrophies.

Key points

Seipin−/− mice, which lack adipose tissue, exhibit significantly impaired TRAS and delayed liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy.

Transplantation of normal adipose tissue into Seipin−/− mice restores TRAS and enhances liver regeneration, highlighting the essential role of adipose tissue in these processes.

Liver‐specific overexpression of Seipin has no effect on TRAS and liver regeneration in Seipin−/− mice.
Cytologic Diagnosis of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising From a Recurrent Cerebellopontine Angle Epidermoid Cyst in a 61‐Year‐Old Male
Authors: Elsarraj Hanan S. , Hogan Keenan
Published: February 2025

Here, we report an exceptionally rare event of malignant transformation of an intracranial epidermoid cyst into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), diagnosed through cerebrospinal fluid cytology. A 61‐year‐old male with a prior history of left retrosigmoid craniotomy and partial resection of a large cerebellopontine angle epidermoid tumor 13 years ago presented with acute mental status changes and weakness. Imaging revealed recurrent epidermoid cyst elements with associated obstructive hydrocephalus. The patient underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement, and cerebrospinal fluid cytology revealed clusters of atypical epithelial cells. Further cytopathological and immunohistochemical (IHC) evaluation confirmed a diagnosis of SCC. Despite the initiation of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, the patient's condition deteriorated, and he passed away 2 months later. This case highlights the need for vigilance in monitoring patients with epidermoid cysts and that early detection through CSF cytology with confirmatory IHC provides a minimally invasive diagnostic pathway to guide rapid clinical decision‐making.
Temporal Trends in the Burden of Diabetes and Its Risk Factors Across the Western Pacific Region Between 1990 and 2044: A Systematic Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Liu Xinwei , Wu Bing , Lai Yongqiang , Zhang Xiyu , Li Hongyu , Qu Fangqi , Zhang Chenxi , Tian Yulu , Fu Xuelian , Li Jida , Yang Huiqi , Chen Rui , Shi Baoguo , Ma Yanan , Meng Jia , Li Ye
Published: February 2025

Aims

We aimed to assess changes in the burden of diabetes in the Western Pacific region (WPR) between 1990 and 2019, project future trends for 2020–2044, and identify the factors influencing these trends.

Materials and Methods

Data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 were used to calculate the age‐standardised incidence rate (ASIR), age‐standardised death rate (ASDR) and age‐standardised disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) rate for diabetes in the region. The Nordpred model was used to predict diabetes‐related ASIR and ASDR trends over the next 25 years, and an age‐period‐cohort (APC) model analysed the effects of age, period and cohort. We examined the associations of ASIR, ASDR and age‐standardised DALYs rate per 100,000 population with the socio‐demographic index (SDI).

Results

We observed an increasing trend in the incidence. Mortality increased in the lower‐middle income group and decreased slowly in the high‐ and upper‐middle income groups. High body mass index significantly affected diabetes, with an increasing influence over time, whereas that of tobacco showed a decreasing trend. The incidence of diabetes showed a trend towards occurring at a younger age, in a manner consistent with the economic development trend. Diabetes incidence and mortality showed the opposite trend in the high‐income group, with an increase in SDI.

Conclusions

The burden of diabetes is increasing in the WPR, in association with urbanisation and unhealthy lifestyles. Targeting the risk factors that affect all stages of the disease and managing them through multi‐agency collaboration may improve the quality of life in patients living with the condition.
Metabolic Profile of Etomidate and Its Three Analogs in Zebrafish, Human Liver Microsomes, Human Urine and Hair Samples Using UHPLC‐Q Exactive Orbitrap‐HRMS
Authors: Tang Yiling , Xu Linhao , Zhao Junbo , Qian Xiaoyu , Qiang Huosheng , Xiang Ping , Yan Hui
Published: February 2025

Etomidate is a short‐acting non‐barbiturate imidazole used as an intravenous anesthetic agent in humans, while metomidate and propoxate are common anesthetic drug for fishes. Today, etomidate, and its analogs, including isopropoxate, are increasingly abused, leading to many public malignant events. The goal of this work was to use liquid chromatography‐high resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS) to study the in vivo and in vitro metabolism of etomidate and its analogs in zebrafish, human liver microsomes (HLMs), human urine and hair samples. Eight metabolites of metomidate, 11 metabolites of etomidate, six metabolites of propoxate, and 10 metabolites of isopropoxate were detected in our study. The main metabolic pathways included hydroxylation, dealkylation, dehydrogenation, and glucuronidation. Etomidate acid and metomidate were detected in samples after metabolism of all four substances. Our results support the use of the monohydroxylated metabolites as metabolic biomarkers for etomidate and its analogs. Among the tested human samples, 38 samples showed one type of our targeted substances, and 20 samples showed two or more drugs. Thus, polydrug use in etomidate and its analogs was a phenomenon worth noting. This study is the first to identify target metabolic compounds for monitoring the abuse of etomidate and its analogs in human, and to provide insights into the in vivo and in vitro biotransformation of them.
Influence of Host Species, Location, and Aphid Prey on Microbial Diversity and Community Dynamics of Aphidophagous Ladybird Beetles in Guangxi, China
Authors: Chen Mei‐Lan , Huang Yu‐Hao , Cai Li‐Qun , Qin Xiang‐Miao , Meng Xin‐Yi , Li Hao‐Sen , Pang Hong
Published: February 2025

Host species, locations, and diet can significantly impact microbial diversity and community in insects. Several ladybird beetles are known as key predators and potential biological control agents for aphids. However, there is limited understanding of how host species, locations, and aphid prey influence the microbial diversity and community of aphidophagous ladybird beetles in natural environments. In this study, we collected 74 samples of ladybirds and their aphid prey from various locations in Guangxi, China, and sequenced the 16S amplicons to investigate differences in their microbiomes. The dominant genera in the ladybird samples, Bacteroides and Alistipes, were rarely reported as predominant in other ladybird populations, indicating a unique genus‐level microbial community pattern in Guangxi. Alpha diversity indices and Bray–Curtis distances varied significantly among ladybird species. Abundance analysis revealed that the relative abundance of dominant bacteria in aphidophagous ladybirds differed significantly among different ladybird species and locations. Although the primary and facultative aphid symbionts differed among aphid samples from various populations and locations, they had minimal direct impact on the microbial community of the aphidophagous ladybirds, being sporadically detected in the corresponding predator samples. Our findings provide insights into the microbial communities of ladybirds and aphids in sympatric and distinct field environments, highlighting the plasticity of microbial abundance in aphidophagous ladybirds across different ladybird species and locations, as well as the low retention rate of specific aphid symbionts in ladybird predators.
First evidence of a genetic basis for thermal adaptation in a schistosome host snail
Authors: Maes Tim , Verheyen Julie , Senghor Bruno , Mudavanhu Aspire , Schols Ruben , Hellemans Bart , Geslain Enora , Volckaert Filip A. M. , Gante Hugo F. , Huyse Tine
Published: February 2025

Freshwater snails play a key role in the transmission of schistosomiasis, a tropical parasitic disease affecting over 150 million people. Adaptation of these snails to local climatic conditions is a critical factor in determining how climate change and other environmental factors influence disease transmission dynamics, yet this potential adaptation has remained unexplored. Bulinus truncatus is the schistosome intermediate host snail with the widest geographic distribution and is therefore an important factor determining the maximum range of urogenital schistosomiasis. In this study, we assessed the local adaptation capacity of B. truncatus to temperature through an integrative approach encompassing phenotypic, ecophysiological, and genomic data. Ten snail populations from diverse thermal environments were collected in three countries, with eight populations reared in a common garden. The F2 generation (N = 2304) was exposed to eight chronic temperature treatments (±36 snails/population/temperature treatment) and various life history traits were recorded for over 14 weeks. Subsequently, ecophysiological analyses were conducted on the 10 last surviving snails per population. Genotyping the parental generation collected in the field using a genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) approach, revealed 12,875 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), of which 4.91% were potentially under selection. We observed a significant association between outlier SNPs, temperature, and precipitation. Thermal adaptations in life history traits were evident, with lower survival rates at high temperatures of warm‐origin snails compensated for by higher reproduction rates. Cold‐origin snails, on the other hand, exhibited higher growth rates adapted to a shorter growing season. Ecophysiological adaptations included elevated sugar and hemoglobin contents in cold‐adapted snails. In contrast, warm‐adapted snails displayed not only increased protein levels but also more oxidative damage. Furthermore, heightened phenoloxidase levels indicated a more robust immune response in snails from parasite‐rich regions. These morphological and physiological differences provide convincing evidence for a genetic basis of local adaptation. This in turn holds profound implications for the snail's response to climate change, future schistosomiasis risk, and the effectiveness of schistosomiasis control measures.