bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greater anterior pelvic tilt and lumbar mobility in females compared to males undergoing periacetabular osteotomy: A matched cohort study
Authors: Fischer Maximilian , Nonnenmacher Lars , Nitsch Andreas , Mühler Matthias R. , Hofer Andre , Wassilew Georgi I.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The functional hip–spine interaction is increasingly noted in hip preservation by periacetabular osteotomy (PAO), while potentially affecting the impingement‐free acetabular reorientation. However, the clinically relevant sex‐related differences in lumbopelvic alignment have been poorly studied. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate a matched PAO patient cohort for sex‐related differences in lumbopelvic alignment.

Methods

Out of 138 patients undergoing PAO between January 2024 and September 2024 at one high‐volume centre, there were 68 data sets (34 male, 34 female) included. The data sets of this diagnostic cohort study were prospectively collected, and the patients were matched in a 1:1 ratio for sex, age and acetabular morphology (hip dysplasia, borderline hip dysplasia, acetabular retroversion). Lumbopelvic alignment was assessed with serial sagittal lumbopelvic radiographs in standing, relaxed‐seated and deep‐seated positions. Each radiograph was reviewed for pelvic tilt (PT), lumbar lordosis and sacral slope.

Results

Females showed a significantly lower PT in standing (7.8 vs. 14.3°, p < 0.001), relaxed‐seated (28.1 vs. 34.9°, p = 0.012) and deep‐seated (3.7 vs. 11.0°, p = 0.013) positions. Furthermore, females had a significantly increased lumbar mobility (Δ relaxed‐seated − deep‐seated position − 35.4° vs. 27.0°, p = 0.003), while there was no sex‐related difference in sacral mobility (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

There are sex‐related differences in functional lumbopelvic alignment across various positions of daily living in patients undergoing PAO. With a greater anterior PT, females are at risk of an anterior hip impingement. Thus, the intraoperative anterior and posterior wall reorientation by PAO should be adapted to the sex‐related lumbopelvic alignment to ensure an impingement‐free surgical outcome.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, case series.
Recurrence of arthroscopic treatment of pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Keyhani Sohrab , Soleymanha Mehran , Vosoughi Fardis , Nikibakhsh Ali , Zadgari Ervin , Mousavi Maryam , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of arthroscopic intervention on the treatment of pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) patients, with a focus on the potential advantages of this approach in lowering the risk of disease recurrence.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis following the PRISMA 2020 protocol. Our search encompassed five databases, namely PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. Statistical analysis was conducted on the extracted data by using the R ver. 4.4.0 software. This study included English‐language observational studies (case series and cohort studies) published up to 31 March 2024, focusing on in vivo human subjects with at least 2 years of follow‐up. Studies with less than 2 years of follow‐up, non‐arthroscopic treatment methods or addressing PVNS in structures other than the knee were excluded.

Results

We identified 24 articles, comprising 7 case series and 17 cohort studies, based on title, abstract, and quality assessments. Approximately 16% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.4%–24.75%) of knees that underwent arthroscopic surgery were found to be at risk of recurrence. In line with our expectations, sub‐group analysis comparing recurrence rates among different subtypes of PVNS found that the diffuse subtype exhibited a higher recurrence rate of 19.4% (95% CI: 10.01%–34.15%), compared to the local subtype, which had a recurrence rate of 9.5% (95% CI: 4.47%–19.01%). Based on the meta‐regression analysis, no significant association was found between the recurrence rate and the publication year or patient mean age. However, there was a noticeable rise in the recurrence rate with a longer follow‐up period, indicating a probable correlation between extended follow‐up and increased recurrence rates.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that arthroscopic surgery for PVNS, particularly for the diffuse subtype, results in a higher recurrence rate compared to the localized subtype. However, the inherent challenges in achieving complete resection through arthroscopy, particularly in cases with extensive disease involvement, may contribute to the observed recurrence rates.

Level of Evidence

Level III systematic review and meta‐analysis.
Immune Signatures Identify Patient Subsets Deriving Long‐Term Benefit From First‐Line Rituximab in Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Lolli Ginevra , Davini Alessandro , Tabanelli Valentina , Sapienza Maria Rosaria , Melle Federica , Motta Giovanna , Del Corvo Marcello , Calleri Angelica , Vanazzi Anna , Nierychlewska Paulina , Maraglino Alessio Maria Edoardo , Castelli Marta , Quattrocchi Maria Chiara , Chiarle Roberto , Pileri Stefano , Tarella Corrado , Derenzini Enrico
Published: February 2025

Background

The role of first‐line single‐agent rituximab immunotherapy in follicular lymphoma (FL) remains debated, as most patients eventually undergo chemotherapy.

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed 81 FL patients treated with first‐line single‐agent rituximab monotherapy with (n = 53) or without (n = 28) consolidation. Fifty‐one patients (63%) were high‐tumor burden according to Group d'Etude des Lymphomes Folliculaires (GELF) criteria.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 11 years, overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) rates were 85% and 32%, respectively. Targeted gene expression profiling (T‐GEP) was performed in 40 patients, revealing a 26‐gene expression signature distinguishing complete responders and non‐responders. This signature included genes involved in T‐regulatory (Treg) and natural‐killer cell activity, and interleukin‐17 signaling. A simplified 14‐gene prognostic score (ImSig) enabled accurate outcome stratification in terms of PFS. These data were validated in silico using two independent publicly available cohorts of FL patients treated with chemoimmunotherapy. Deconvolution analyses demonstrated an enrichment in Treg cells in high‐risk ImSig patients, which was validated by immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that the efficacy of front‐line anti‐CD20 immunotherapy may depend on microenvironment‐related factors, and that specific immune signatures could identify patient subsets obtaining long‐term benefit from a chemo‐free immunotherapeutic approach.

Trial Registration

The authors have confirmed clinical trial registration is not needed for this submission.
In Vitro Discovery of a Therapeutic Lead for HFMD From a Library Screen of Rocaglates/Aglains
Authors: Oo Adrian , Borge Angel , Lee Regina Ching Hua , Salim Cyrill Kafi , Wang Wenyu , Ricca Michael , Fong Deborah Yuhui , Alonso Sylvie , Brown Lauren E. , Porco John A. , Chu Justin Jang Hann
Published: February 2025

The lack of effective antiviral treatments for enteroviruses, including human enterovirus A71 (EV‐A71), have resulted in an immense global healthcare burden associated with hand‐foot‐and‐mouth disease (HFMD). Rocaglates and aglains belong to a family of compounds produced by Aglaia genus plants. Since the initial discovery of rocaglates in 1982, various rocaglates and aglains have been synthesized and extensively studied mainly as anticancer agents. Here, we report the discovery of a novel aglain derivative as a potential EV‐A71 inhibitor. From an immunofluorescence‐based phenotypic screen of a library of 296 rocaglate and aglain derivatives, we identified a lead aglain which effectively suppressed EV‐A71 replication by 2.3 log fold at a non‐cytotoxic concentration, with a host cell CC50 of 21.78 µM, an EV‐A71 infection EC50 of 3.57 µM, and a selectivity index of 6.1. Further validation revealed inhibition of EV‐A71 across multiple human cell types and a pan‐enterovirus inhibitory spectrum against other enteroviruses. Subsequent mechanistic investigation revealed interference with EV‐A71 intracellular post‐entry events including viral RNA transcription and translation. Findings from this study have established a strong foundation for development of aglain scaffolds as much needed antiviral agents for HFMD, paving the way for future medicinal chemistry optimization and in vivo studies.
Klf10 Regulates the Emergence of Glial Phenotypes During Hypothalamic Development
Authors: Garduño‐Tamayo Norma Angelica , Almazán Jorge Luis , Romo‐Rodríguez Rubí , Valle‐García David , Meza‐Sosa Karla F. , Pérez‐Domínguez Martha , Pelayo Rosana , Pedraza‐Alva Gustavo , Pérez‐Martínez Leonor
Published: February 2025

Glial cells play a pivotal role in the Central Nervous System (CNS), constituting most brain cells. Gliogenesis, crucial in CNS development, occurs after neurogenesis. In the hypothalamus, glial progenitors first generate oligodendrocytes and later astrocytes. However, the precise molecular mechanisms governing the emergence of glial lineages in the developing hypothalamus remain incompletely understood. This study reveals the pivotal role of the transcription factor KLF10 in regulating the emergence of both astrocyte and oligodendrocyte lineages during embryonic hypothalamic development. Through transcriptomic and bioinformatic analyses, we identified novel KLF10 putative target genes, which play important roles in the differentiation of neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. Notably, in the absence of KLF10, there is an increase in the oligodendrocyte population, while the astrocyte population decreases in the embryonic hypothalamus. Strikingly, this decline in the number of astrocytes persists into adulthood, indicating that the absence of KLF10 leads to an extended period of oligodendrocyte emergence while delaying the appearance of astrocytes. Our findings also unveil a novel signaling pathway for Klf10 gene expression regulation. We demonstrate that Klf10 is a target of CREB and that its expression is upregulated via the BDNF‐p38‐CREB pathway. Thus, we postulate that KLF10 is an integral part of the hypothalamic developmental program that ensures the correct timing for glial phenotypes' generation. Importantly, we propose that the Klf10−/− mouse model represents a valuable tool for investigating the impact of reduced astrocyte and microglia populations in the homeostasis of the adult hypothalamus.
Comparing Surface Mass Balance and Surface Temperatures From Regional Climate Models and Reanalyses to Observations Over the Antarctic Ice Sheet
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Langen Peter L. , Li Rongxing , Qiao Gang , Fan Xiaopeng , Dou Yinke , Cui Xiangbin
Published: February 2025

This article assesses the performance of surface mass balance (SMB) and surface temperature products from seven climate models (ERA5, MERRA2, HIRHAM5_ERA‐Interim, HIRHAM5_ERA5, MARv3.11, RACMO2.3p1 and RACMO2.3p2) to be used as inputs to firn densification models (FDMs), crucial for the whole Antarctic mass balance estimation. The evaluation compiles and utilises a new dataset combining existing observations with 184 stake SMB measurements in the Vostok region and two SMB radar transects in Blåskimen Island and Nivlisen Ice Shelf, significantly enhancing the AntSMB dataset. For temperatures at 10 m (T10), 992 observations are included, offering vastly improved spatial coverage. Compared with multi‐year SMB observations, RACMO2.3p1 and ERA5 align closely with observed SMB over the inland and the whole Antarctic, with ERA5 exhibiting superior alignment in coastal areas. However, in terms of temporal SMB variations, ERA5, RACMO2.3p2 and HIRHAM5_ERA‐Interim demonstrate the best consistency with observed SMB, with ERA5 excelling in regression slope comparisons. In our surface temperature evaluation, RACMO2.3p2 and ERA5 have a minimal mean bias from T10 over the whole Antarctic. RACMO2.3p2 performs well with few occurrences of deviations beyond ±3°C in coastal areas, while RACMO2.3p2 and HIRHAM5_ERA5 are both close to T10 in inland areas. In inter‐model SMB comparisons, ERA5, HIRHAM5_Interim, HIRHAM5_ERA5, RACMO2.3p1 and RACMO2.3p2 exhibit similar deviations from the multi‐model mean (MMM), while MARv3.11 and MERRA2 show larger deviations in some coastal areas. For surface temperature, MARv3.11 and ERA5 display larger deviations from the MMM in some coastal areas where ERA5 actually matches the observations well, illustrating that MMM should not be taken to represent the true climate conditions. In conclusion, ERA5 demonstrates the best overall consistency with SMB and T10 observations compared with the other models.
National perspectives of barriers by insurance and pharmacy benefit managers in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Constant Brad D. , Adler Jeremy , Gold Benjamin D. , Dotson Jennifer , Lightdale Jenifer R. , Scott Frank , Saeed Shehzad , Kim Sandra , Moses Jonathan , de Zoeten Edwin F. , Mirea Lucia , Ritchey Andrew , Pasternak Brad
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Early biologic initiation, dose optimization, and therapy modification based on disease phenotype are key to improving outcomes in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Enacting optimized therapy is often impeded by the lack of United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for pediatric use of newer advanced therapies or intensified dosing regimens. These barriers often result in initial payor denial of coverage and added prior authorization burden on physicians, leading to patient delays in medication initiation and therapy optimization, and development of disease‐related morbidity.

Methods

A sample of pediatric patients experiencing payor barriers to IBD biologic treatment, containing data on treatment delays and adverse outcomes, was obtained through a nationwide survey of pediatric gastroenterology providers via a longstanding, widely used pediatric gastroenterology Listserv (housed at University of Vermont) from January 2023 to August 2023.

Results

Providers across the United States reported information for 113 patients experiencing payor barriers for biologics IBD treatment. Ultimately, 77% of initial denials were approved. The median time to receiving medication was 18 days, with administrative time (prior authorization and appeal) requiring a median of 180 min. More than half (60%) of patients experienced adverse outcomes or worsened quality of life due to delays in treatment, including 21% of patients who were hospitalized.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the detrimental impact of payor barriers to treatment for children with IBD. Reforms that minimize delays in care and provider administrative burden are imperative to ensure that children receive timely evidence‐based treatment that improves disease outcomes and prevents adverse events.
Salt effects on the hydrophilic‐lipophilic deviation (HLD) equation
Authors: Leonard Marlee , Chaleshtari Zahra Abbasian , Adamy Steven T. , Zehr Robert T. , Sabatini Dave , Harwell Jeffrey H. , Grady Brian P.
Published: February 2025

The hydrophilic–lipophilic difference (HLD) equation is being used extensively for designing oil‐in‐water based surfactant systems to maximize oil solubility and minimize oil–water interfacial tension. However, the equation was developed for and almost always presumes that the salt is sodium chloride. The work described in this paper extends the equation to other monovalent cations (Li, K) and divalent anions (CO3). The equation was adjusted for molecular weight and the number of cations in the salt. For anionic surfactants, the Hofmeister series successfully qualitatively predicts that the salt concentration to reach HLD = 0 scales with Li > Na > K, that is, the surfactant with lithium requires more salt for the water to reach the hydrophobicity required. Although the exact salt concentration depends on the anionic surfactant headgroup, the difference in optimal salinity between two cations appears to not be dependent on headgroup. Also, CO3 reduces the activity of the cation as compared to Cl. For narrow‐range alcohol ethoxylates, there is little difference between Na and K; while Li requires more salt for a given increase in hydrocarbon number of carbons to reach HLD = 0. A broad‐range ethoxylate gives inconsistent results, which we attribute to the finite solubility of some surfactant components in the oil.
Optimization of enzymatic hydrolysate process of Volvariella volvacea and analysis of volatile flavor compounds in Maillard reaction
Authors: Shi Ke , Li Zhenqi , Xue Lixin , Song Huanlu , Zhang Yu , Liao Yongcheng , Shi Huan , Shi Weifeng
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Edible fungi seasoning not only enhances umami flavor but also improves nutritional value in the production of traditional Chinese cuisine. Volvariella volvacea is a typical tropical and subtropical tasty edible fungus, with an annual production in China reaching 330, 000 tons, accounting for 80% of the global yield. Therefore, the high‐value utilization of V. volvacea has become one of the current research hotspots. This study aimed to determine the optimal reaction conditions for the enzymatic hydrolysate and Maillard reaction (MR) products of V. volvacea and to identify the odor compounds in the enzymatic hydrolysate and MR products of V. volvacea to enhance the umami taste of V. volvacea.

Results

The optimal conditions for enzymatic hydrolysate were a solid/liquid ratio of 1:10, pH 5.5, enzyme concentration of 4000 U g−1 (cellulase:Protamex™ = 1:1), a cellulase hydrolysis time of 90 min, followed by ProtamexTM hydrolysis for 120 min, resulting in optimal umami. An MR was performed to further release umami compounds in V. volvacea. The optimal conditions for the MR were determined to be 3% xylose, 5% cysteine, 110 °C, 80 min, and pH 6.0. Finally, odor compounds before and after the MR of V. volvacea were analyzed using two‐dimensional gas chromatography‐olfactometry–mass spectrometry. The results revealed that chicoric ketone (sweet) was the most abundant (125.78 ± 11.71 μg kg−1), followed by furfural (bread; 107.21 ± 2.83 μg kg−1) and 2‐methylfuran (chocolate; 90.27 ± 2.66 μg kg−1).

Conclusion

This study provides more information for further studies on the umami compounds of V. volvacea and a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of V. volvacea. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Quantum dots for display: A review of three key milestones
Authors: Coe‐Sullivan Seth
Published: February 2025

The 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Aleksey Yekimov, Professor Louis Brus, and Professor Moungi Bawendi for their pioneering work in the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots (QD). QDs have become a major materials component of modern displays, initially in commercial LCD products starting in 2013 and more recently in a new generation of QD‐OLED TVs. The Nobel Prize was given largely for chemistry work done up to and including the 1990s, when LCD TV displays still were a technology of the future. In this review, we will explore three moments in history that led to the current QD commercial display age built on the foundation of the magnificent science of the 1990s that led to the 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
Patients With Giant Facial Basal Cell Carcinoma, Who Are They?—A Psychosocial Profile
Authors: Kurian Keerthi E. , Yong Jenica Su‐Ern , Oyer Samuel L. , Park Stephen S.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Giant basal cell carcinoma (GBCC) of the face is a rare, disfiguring entity with poorly understood psychological challenges and factors contributing to social isolation. This study evaluates the reasons for delays in care in this patient population.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients with GBCC of the face (>5 cm) treated at a tertiary care academic center from January 2003 to May 2024 was conducted. The clinical course, time to presentation, insurance type, and geographic factors were analyzed to identify causes for delay. Telephone interviews assessed reasons for delays in care. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was administered and compared with a control group.

Results

A total of 39 patients with GBCC were identified; 16 patients consented to interviews. The average lesion length was 64.5 mm. Patients presented on average 6 years (range: 0.5–18 years) after noticing the lesion, citing denial or financial concerns as reasons for delay. HADS results showed increased anxiety (p = 0.01) compared with controls. Additionally, 33.3% of patients reported habitual alcohol use, and 43.8% lived alone. Geographical analysis showed lower high school graduation rates (p < 0.001). No significant socioeconomic predictors for insurance type or treatment delays were found.

Conclusion

This study reveals the substantial psychosocial challenges experienced by patients with GBCC of the face. Increased anxiety, social isolation, and lower education levels contribute to delays in care. This subpopulation would benefit from targeted social support and health literacy interventions as they may be crucial to their final treatment recommendations and outcomes.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2025
Impacts of Grassland Use Types on Soil Ciliate Communities in the Northeastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Fengchu , Biswas Asim , Adamowski Jan F. , Cao Jianjun , Zhang Xiaofang
Published: February 2025

Soil ciliates, crucial components of grassland ecosystems, serve as sensitive bioindicators of soil health and disturbance. This study investigates ciliate communities across four grassland use types in the northeastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP): seasonal and continuous grazing in natural grasslands (SGG and CGG, respectively), artificial perennial Elymus nutans Griseb. grasslands (PEG) for seasonal grazing, and artificial annual Avena sativa L. grasslands (AAG) for forage. Using live observation techniques, we identified 114 ciliate species from 10 classes and 21 orders, with Haptorida and Sporadotrichia emerging as dominant groups. Our findings revealed that the grazed grasslands harbored greater endemic ciliate species richness compared with AAG. SGG and CGG exhibited significantly higher ciliate diversity than other types, while PEG and SGG supported higher ciliate abundances. Low Jaccard similarity indices between grassland use types indicated distinct ciliate communities, reflecting management‐induced environmental heterogeneity. Redundancy analysis identified above‐ground biomass and soil pH as primary drivers of ciliate community structure. Notably, SGG promoted the highest ciliate diversity, suggesting its potential as a sustainable management practice for maintaining soil health in the QTP. This research provides crucial insights into the relationship between grassland management and soil ciliate diversity in high‐altitude grasslands. Our findings support the implementation of moderate grazing practices to enhance soil quality and ecosystem resilience in the QTP, with implications for sustainable management of similar ecosystems worldwide.
Respiratory‐Swallow Coordination of Uncued Swallows in Dysphagic and Tracheotomized Patients
Authors: Gerbert Martin , Segler Veronika , Adam Julia , Ernst Arneborg , Riebold Benjamin , Mittmann Philipp , Seidl Rainer
Published: February 2025

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the respiratory‐swallow coordination (RSC) in healthy, dysphagic, and subjects with blocked, unblocked or without tracheostomy cannula (TC) over 2 h with focus on unintended deglutition.

Methods

In a single center (cross‐sectional) observational study, a total of 65 subjects were included. Swallowing processes were recorded using RehaIngest (Hasomed GmbH, Magdeburg, Germany), combining electromyography (EMG) and bioimpedance (BI) inputs. Group differences were calculated using non‐parametric tests, the influences of age and gender were evaluated using regression analysis.

Results

Respiratory patterns from 3761 swallows were evaluated. Nineteen healthy and 46 dysphagic subjects, including 15 without TC, 15 with blocked TC and 16 with unblocked TC, were recorded. In the dysphagia cohort unblocked and without TC demonstrated increased post‐deglutitive expiration (p = 0.012, p = 0.001) and a decrease in post‐deglutitive inspiration (p = 0.028, p = 0.013) compared with healthy probands. In addition, a higher proportion of subjects demonstrating post‐deglutitive expiration was recorded amongst probands with unblocked TC compared to blocked TC (p = 0.012). Neither age nor gender significantly impacted the aforementioned outcomes.

Conclusion

Our novel cross‐sectional study shows that the RSC adapts in a compensatory fashion in the acquired dysphagia cohort. The adaptation depends on the occurrence of dysphagia and the type of TC. If the TC cuff is blocked, patients likely have an inadequate adaptation of the RSC, mainly because of the absence of a transglottic air flow. These findings indicate that RSC and TC care should be closely incorporated into clinical routine to improve dysphagia therapy.

Level of Evidence

1
Pre‐aged organic matter dominates organic carbon burial in a major perialpine lake system
Authors: Mittelbach Benedict V. A. , Brunmayr Alexander S. , White Margot E. , Rhyner Timo M. Y. , Haghipour Negar , Blattmann Thomas M. , Wessels Martin , Dubois Nathalie , Eglinton Timothy I.
Published: February 2025

Organic carbon (OC) burial in lake sediments is comparable to that in marine sediments globally. However, climatic and carbon cycle implications depend on the origin of buried OC. This study utilizes high‐resolution radiocarbon (14C) measurements in combination with stable carbon isotopes (13C) and total organic carbon/total nitrogen ratios to constrain sources and ages of OC deposited since the early 20th century in Lake Constance, the second‐largest lake in central Europe. We differentiate between aquatic, pre‐aged soil, and fossil rock‐derived (petrogenic) OC. The shape and magnitude of the 14C bomb spike recorded in the sediment profile indicate the sequestration of recently synthesized biospheric OC with a complex overlay from different OC sources. We find that soil‐derived OC is the dominant component of sedimentary OC, with a mean transit time in the catchment of around 110 yr. Additionally, we quantified the 14C dynamics of dissolved inorganic carbon in the lake, which can be modeled with a mean transit time of around 10 yr. An ordinary kriging spatial analysis revealed that the Alpine Rhine delta and the profundal areas are the primary loci for allochthonous OC deposition. Lake‐wide surface sediment OC fluxes were spatially heterogeneous but averaged 52.0 gC m−2 yr−1, where 26.7 gC m−2 yr−1 of mostly stable, allochthonous OC are buried long term. This study highlights the necessity of accounting for both pre‐aged and fossil OC sources, as well as spatial heterogeneity, when assessing the response of lakes and, more broadly, source‐to‐sink systems to ongoing climate and ecosystem change.
Deep learning‐based characterization of underwater methane bubbles using simple dual camera platform
Authors: Marcon Yann , Stetzler Marie , Ferré Bénédicte , Kopiske Eberhard , Bohrmann Gerhard
Published: February 2025

Seabed gas and oil emissions appear as bubble plumes ascending through the water column in various environments. Understanding bubble characteristics—size, rise speed—is important for estimating escape rates of fluids like methane, oil, and carbon dioxide. However, measuring underwater gas bubbles is challenging, often requiring expensive specialized equipment. This study presents a novel methodology using two calibrated consumer‐grade cameras to estimate bubble size distribution, rise velocities, and corresponding gas or oil flow rates. Our approach, named BURST (Bubble Rise and Size Tracking), uses a trained neural network for automated bubble detection in diverse camera footage, effectively analyzing under varying lighting conditions and visibility, without requiring a uniform backlit background for bubble identification. Post‐detection, bubbles are tracked and synchronized between the cameras, with three‐dimensional triangulation used to deduce sizes and rise speeds, enabling flow rate calculations. We demonstrate the efficacy of our methodology through basin experiments capturing methane bubble plumes with controlled flow rates. Additionally, we successfully apply this methodology to existing footage from natural methane emission sites in the Hopendjupet seeps within the central Barents Sea, measuring methane flow rates of approximately 46 and 24 mmol CH4 min−1 at water depths of 327 and 341 m, respectively. These results underscore the practical applicability of BURST in complex underwater environments without disrupting natural bubble flow. By utilizing readily available equipment, BURST enables reliable bubble measurements in challenging real‐world conditions, including the analysis of legacy footage not initially intended for bubble flow rate quantification. The BURST python script is available at https://github.com/BUbbleRST/BURST/.
Realization of Spatiotemporal Photonic Crystals Based on Active Metasurface
Authors: Ye Xin , Wang Yong Ge , Yao Jing Feng , Wang Ying , Yuan Cheng Xun , Zhou Zhong Xiang
Published: February 2025

Spatiotemporal photonic crystals (STCs) are artificial materials with tunable nonresonant wave amplification in the subwavelength scale, which is induced by the intrinsic mixed gap equipped with a complex Bloch wavenumber and a complex Floquet frequency, paving a new way in light amplification. In this work, the concept of STCs is extended to an active electrically controlled spatiotemporal metasurfaces. It is demonstrated that the spatiotemporal metasurface completely inherits the critical mixed momentum‐energy gap of STCs, dictated by the interplay between the temporal modulation with exponential growth and spatial modulation with the exponential decay. Based on the design of spatiotemporal metasurfaces, the possibility of accurately manipulating the mixed bandgap related to surface waves is experimentally confirmed through time modulation, as well as the variability of the transmission properties of electromagnetic waves at the interface.
Effect of Li Halides on the Mechanical Properties and Thermoplasticity of Poly(vinyl alcohol) Molded by Hot Pressing
Authors: Taoka Yusuke , Suzuki Koyuru , Yamaguchi Masayuki , Matsumura Kazuaki
Published: February 2025

The effect of lithium halide salts on the characteristics of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) gels fabricated using the hot‐press (HP) technique is investigated. The incorporation of lithium salts, such as lithium chloride (LiCl), lithium bromide (LiBr), and lithium iodide (LiI), degrades the mechanical properties of the PVA gel and decreases its crystallinity, melting point, and glass transition temperature (Tg). Additionally, the melting point of PVA is lowered, resulting in the melting of PVA below its decomposition temperature, leading to thermoplasticity. Following thermoforming, the mechanical properties of the PVA gel are minimally altered compared with those before thermoforming, potentially enhancing the processability of PVA and diversifying the range of achievable shapes. Notably, the majority of the introduced lithium salts can be eliminated by washing. Notably, the most pronounced change in the PVA gel properties is obtained with LiCl addition than with LiBr or LiI addition, suggesting that LiCl imparts superior processing characteristics to PVA gels.
Preparation of Anisotropic Trimeric Poly(Ionic Liquid) Microspheres via Microwave‐Assisted Dual‐Crosslinked Seed Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Hu Xufeng , Li Jingyi , Xiang Liqin , Yin Jianbo
Published: February 2025

A microwave‐assisted dual‐crosslinked seed emulsion polymerization method is reported to prepare anisotropic trimeric poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) microspheres. First, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA)‐crosslinked PIL (CPIL) seed microspheres are prepared. Then, the CPIL microspheres are swollen with ionic liquid (IL) emulsion containing divinylbenzene (DVB) and polymerized to form dual‐crosslinked PIL (D‐CPIL) microspheres under microwave irradiation. Finally, the D‐CPIL microspheres are swollen with IL monomer emulsion to form trimeric morphology and polymerized to obtain trimeric PIL microspheres under microwave irradiation. The formation process of trimeric PIL microspheres is tracked using an optical microscope and their morphology is observed using scanning electron microscopy. Different from the repeat‐swelling seed emulsion polymerization that needs dumbbell‐like seed microspheres having gradient crosslinking or gradient surface wettability, this method depends on multiple local contraction forces in D‐CPIL microspheres containing lowly crosslinked core and highlycrosslinked shell during swelling to form trimeric PIL microspheres. It is found that microwave polymerization is important because it can well retain trimeric morphology compared to conventional heating polymerization in oil or water baths. The morphology of trimeric PIL microspheres can be adjusted by changing the type and amount of crosslinkers, monomer/seed microsphere ratio, initiator dosage, temperature, etc.
Derailing the Disinformation Before Decision Day
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: February 2025

When it comes to any election, the single most important factor influencing voters is the information that is informing their decision. One could even argue that information is the only factor that matters. Think for a moment when you have cast a ballot: You formed your opinions based on the information you possessed. The question of how voters will process information is, to say the least, complicated. Some voters will rely on prior experience, others will find some sources more credible than others, while yet others will be predisposed to accept certain information. The art of election campaigning depends in significant part on persuading voters on how to accept and consider the information available to them.
Blockchain‐Driven Green Traceability: Greener or More Profitable?
Authors: Huang Shuai , Hou Wenyu
Published: February 2025

This study examines the strategic choices of two homogeneous green manufacturers regarding blockchain implementation, considering green traceability and spillover effect. We investigate how blockchain influences both economic and environmental benefits. Our findings reveal that the spillover effect can initially mitigate competition, benefiting early adopters by enhancing green innovation and market capabilities. This can lead to simultaneous profit enhancement for both manufacturers, challenging conventional competitive dynamics. Furthermore, the magnitude of the spillover effect significantly impacts adoption decisions. Low spillover leads to a prisoner's dilemma, where independent adoption is likely. Conversely, high spillover encourages simultaneous adoption, achieving a Pareto‐optimal equilibrium. Finally, while individual blockchain adoption may be more environmentally beneficial, simultaneous adoption generally leads to greater economic advantages. This highlights the potential trade‐off between economic and environmental outcomes in blockchain‐enabled manufacturing.
Effects of a Novel COL4A3 Homozygous/Heterozygous Splicing Mutation on the Mild Phenotype in a Family With Autosomal Recessive Alport Syndrome and a Literature Review
Authors: Chen Dan , Zhang Li , Rao Jing , Zhou Yan , Dai Lujun , Huang Songsong , Yang Chunxia , Bian Qiuhan , Zhang Tao , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2025

Background

Alport syndrome involves chronic progressive kidney failure and extrarenal organ damage caused by COL4A3, COL4A4, and COL4A5 mutations.

Methods

We initially discerned a COL4A3 splicing mutation via next‐generation sequencing. Next, we used bioinformatics, renal biopsy pathology, and an in vitro minigene experiment. Complementary analysis of clinical data was carried out, and we explored the expression and function of the variants to verify their pathogenicity.

Results

A splicing mutation (c.687 + 1G > T) in COL4A3 was found in a Chinese family. Bioinformatics analysis revealed its impact on splicing, causing a translational frameshift, which was confirmed by an in vitro minigene assay. The proband's glomerular basement membrane displayed reduced type IV collagen α3, α4, and α5 chains, with some absent, suggesting disruption of collagen IV trimers in the glomerular basement membrane, potentially damaging the glomerular filtration barrier.

Conclusion

We present a novel finding of a previously unreported c.687 + 1G > T mutation in COL4A3 that disrupts transcription and translation, impairing α3α4α5 (IV) chain formation, altering the integrity of the glomerular basement membrane, causing hereditary Alport syndrome. This discovery enriches the genetic map of Alport syndrome, aiding in clinical genetic guidance, and enhancing the efficacy of prenatal testing.
New York State advocates seek MH investments, community supports
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2025

Although encouraged by the millions in funding support of some of New York State's services and programs for people with mental illness in Gov. Kathy Hochul's 2025‐2026 executive budget proposal, advocates say they oppose her plan to strengthen and expand the use of involuntary patient and outpatient confinement, citing the need instead for a more engaging and accountable mental health system.
Some Inequalities of Weddle'S Type for Coordinated Convex Functions With Their Applications and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Toseef Muhammad , Zhang Zhiyue
Published: February 2025

In mathematical analysis and optimization, studying inequalities is crucial in advancing theoretical and practical applications. This paper delves into the intricate world of Weddle's type inequalities, specifically focusing on coordinated convex functions. Following a comprehensive study and understanding, this article establishes new inequalities of Weddle's type for coordinated convex functions. A new identity for Weddle's type of coordinated convex functions is introduced. Utilizing newly established Weddle's identity, error bounds for Weddle's rule on functions of two variables are proved. The results advance the theoretical understanding of Simpson's type inequalities for coordinated convex functions and offer practical insights into their optimization potential. Numerical examples and applications are provided to demonstrate the validity and importance of these results. These findings expand the mathematical analysis and optimization theoretical framework, offering practical tools for tackling real‐world problems with precision and efficiency.
Stabilization and Large‐Time Behavior for 2D Magnetic BéNard System With Partial Dissipation
Authors: Dai Ying , Lai Suhua , Zhang Jianwen
Published: February 2025

This paper establishes the stability and large‐time behavior for 2D magnetic Bénard system with partial dissipation on perturbation near the hydrostatic equilibrium state . Neglecting the effect of the temperature and the magnetic field, the fluid velocity is governed by 2D incompressible Euler equation with partial velocity damping, whose stability is a challenging problem in whole space . The stability result here provides a significant example for the stabilizing effects of the magnetic field on electrically conducting fluids.
Prescribed‐Time/Fixed‐Time Synchronization of Quaternion‐Valued Neural Networks: A Method Without Decomposition
Authors: Yin Binzi , Peng Shiguo
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a novel control law is designed for achieving prescribed‐time (PAT) and fixed‐time (FXT) synchronization of quaternion‐valued neural networks (QVNNs) with time‐varying delays. Compared with some existing methods, the designed controller can realize the PAT and FXT synchronization simultaneously; that is, the PAT converge rate can be guaranteed without prior research on FXT control. Moreover, ensuring the PAT and FXT synchronization, the controller can be consistent under 1‐ or 2‐norm, while the decomposition technique is not required here. Finally, some numerical examples are given to illustrate the feasibility of our proposed control strategy.
Dynamic Analysis of a Three‐Dimensional Singular Perturbed Predator–Prey Model With Multiple Factors
Authors: Li Zhenlei , Zhang Yue
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the dynamic properties of a three‐dimensional singular perturbed predator–prey model with constant harvest, refuge effect, and cooperative hunt are discussed. The system has different bifurcation phenomena at the boundary equilibrium and the internal equilibrium. For the three‐time scale system, the small amplitude oscillations phenomenon is produced when the folded node coincides with the ordinary singularity, and its subsystem produces canard cycle without head when we select as a fixed number. Then we consider the change of two perturbation parameters; the system produces an oscillation phenomenon similar to relaxation oscillation, and with the change of perturbation parameters, the system trajectory appears single cycle, double cycles, and chaos. In addition, we consider the dynamic properties of the subsystem and the influence of stochastic factors on the subsystem.
A New Method for Event‐Triggered Synchronization of Fractional‐Order Delayed BAM Neural Networks in Finite Time
Authors: Xu Shangbin , Zhang Hai , Ye Renyu , Wu Xiang , Cao Jinde
Published: February 2025

This article aims to study the finite‐time synchronization (FTS) problem of a class of bidirectional associative memory neural networks (BAMNNs) with time delays. Initially, leveraging properties of fractional calculus and common inequality techniques, a novel fractional FTS lemma is rigorously derived, which extends many existing FTS lemmas. Subsequently, an event‐triggered control (ETC) mechanism is devised, and with the aid of the newly established FTS lemma, sufficient conditions for achieving FTS in BAMNNs are formulated. Ultimately, the accuracy of the derived results is verified by a computational illustration.
Short‐Term Bovine Ovarian Tissue Heterotopic Autotransplantation: VEGF Beneficial and Detrimental Effects
Authors: Morais Ana N. P. , Souza Samara S. , Aguiar Francisco L. N. , Gastal Gustavo D. A. , Brandão Fabiana A. S. , Souza Juliany A. , Ñaupas Lucy V. S. , Alves Kele A. , Alves Benner G. , Gastal Melba O. , Rodrigues Ana P. R. , Figueiredo José R. , Teixeira Dárcio Í. A. , Gastal Eduardo L.
Published: February 2025

Ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) has been suggested as an alternative to preserving female fertility in livestock species, as currently performed in women. The OTT technique has been tested as xenografting or autografting in different body sites and animal species. Currently, there are no reports available regarding the autotransplantation of ovarian tissue using the bovine model and also testing the effect of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on graft survival. This study evaluated the effects of ovarian tissue short‐term exposure to VEGF before heterotopic autotransplantation into a subcutaneous site (flank region) for 7 days in cattle. The initial finding was that after OTT and without pre‐exposure to VEGF, the ovarian grafts had 42% of normal preantral follicles, which indicates a substantial step forward for this technique in cattle. Furthermore, VEGF exposure actively facilitated the process of neoangiogenesis, the proliferation capability of the stromal cells for activation of the cell cycle, maintained the balance between types I and III collagen fibers, and reduced the total collagen of the grafted tissue. Moreover, ovarian fragments previously exposed to VEGF tended to have greater follicular density; however, a detrimental effect of VEGF on follicular morphology was noticed. In conclusion, this study marks a significant step forward in bovine OTT and provides a foundation for further investigations into the specific pathways, stages, and durations of VEGF exposure to unveil strategies for refining ovarian transplantation techniques in cattle and other species.
Dynamic Modeling and Simulations of Molecular Weight Distributions In Continuous Stirred Tank Reactors for Solution Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate
Authors: Robinson Benjamin , Choi Kyu Yong
Published: February 2025

The finite molecular weight moments (FMWM) technique, originally developed for calculating the complete molecular weight distribution (MWD) in batch free radical polymerizations, is extended here to simulate transient changes in MWD in a series of continuous flow stirred‐tank solution polymerization reactors. Unlike the classical method of molecular weight moments, which only calculates molecular weight averages, the FMWM technique provides a simple and effective means to calculate the whole shape of the polymer molecular weight distribution curve, even during the transient period of reactor operations in continuous processes. In this work, the solution polymerization of methyl methacrylate is used as a model system to demonstrate that the FMWM technique can successfully simulate transient MWDs, particularly bimodal distributions of polymer molecular weight resulting from varying reactor operating conditions in a series of two consecutive continuous stirred‐tank reactors operating at different temperatures. The simulation results reveal several interesting aspects of how polymer MWD changes over time in each reactor.
Using deep feature distances for evaluating the perceptual quality of MR image reconstructions
Authors: Adamson Philip M. , Desai Arjun D. , Dominic Jeffrey , Varma Maya , Bluethgen Christian , Wood Jeff P. , Syed Ali B. , Boutin Robert D. , Stevens Kathryn J. , Vasanawala Shreyas , Pauly John M. , Gunel Beliz , Chaudhari Akshay S.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Commonly used MR image quality (IQ) metrics have poor concordance with radiologist‐perceived diagnostic IQ. Here, we develop and explore deep feature distances (DFDs)—distances computed in a lower‐dimensional feature space encoded by a convolutional neural network (CNN)—as improved perceptual IQ metrics for MR image reconstruction. We further explore the impact of distribution shifts between images in the DFD CNN encoder training data and the IQ metric evaluation.

Methods

We compare commonly used IQ metrics (PSNR and SSIM) to two “out‐of‐domain” DFDs with encoders trained on natural images, an “in‐domain” DFD trained on MR images alone, and two domain‐adjacent DFDs trained on large medical imaging datasets. We additionally compare these with several state‐of‐the‐art but less commonly reported IQ metrics, visual information fidelity (VIF), noise quality metric (NQM), and the high‐frequency error norm (HFEN). IQ metric performance is assessed via correlations with five expert radiologist reader scores of perceived diagnostic IQ of various accelerated MR image reconstructions. We characterize the behavior of these IQ metrics under common distortions expected during image acquisition, including their sensitivity to acquisition noise.

Results

All DFDs and HFEN correlate more strongly with radiologist‐perceived diagnostic IQ than SSIM, PSNR, and other state‐of‐the‐art metrics, with correlations being comparable to radiologist inter‐reader variability. Surprisingly, out‐of‐domain DFDs perform comparably to in‐domain and domain‐adjacent DFDs.

Conclusion

A suite of IQ metrics, including DFDs and HFEN, should be used alongside commonly‐reported IQ metrics for a more holistic evaluation of MR image reconstruction perceptual quality. We also observe that general vision encoders are capable of assessing visual IQ even for MR images.