bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Impacts and Innovative Extraction Methods of Fish Oil: A Review
Authors: Kalkan Ezgi , Keskin Çavdar Hasene , Maskan Medeni
Published: January 2025

Over the last five decades, the potential health benefits of long‐chain omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly those found in fish oil, have been recognized, and recommendations for their consumption have increased. Fish oil rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has gained increasing scientific interest, but the currently published literature lacks comprehensive and comparable information. This review provides an extensive overview of the effect of fish oil supplementation on various diseases, including coronary heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, as well as its role during pregnancy and childhood, evaluating recent studies. Simultaneously, the extraction of fish oil using novel production methods, including supercritical fluid extraction, enzyme‐assisted extraction, ultrasound‐assisted extraction, and microwave‐assisted extraction, and their effects on fish oil quality, both qualitatively and quantitatively, are discussed. This study emphasized the therapeutic effect of fish oil consumption but, for many diseases, further research is required to unveil the optimal dosage and formulation of fish oil.

Practical Application: This review covers all aspects of novel fish oil extraction processes, including their benefits and drawbacks as well as the impact of fish oil supplementation on major diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and coronary heart disease. The fish oil's quality and recovery were influenced by the extraction technique, extraction conditions, and raw material properties. Thus, in order to acquire high‐quality oil, optimization is a crucial step. This review will help researchers in different ways. For example, one can understand and utilize the best fish oil extraction technique and/or feed on oil in order to gain its health benefit components.
Synthesis of Enantioenriched 2‐((Hetera)Cyclo) Alkylchromanols and their Spirocyclic Analogs through Enzymatic Resolution
Authors: Timokhin Oleksii S. , Romanova Anastasiia M. , Moskvina Viktoria S. , Kucher Olexandr V. , Boiko Aleksandr I. , Banasevych Anna L. , Durylin Dmytro , Brovarets Volodymyr S. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O.
Published: January 2025

An efficient approach to the multigram synthesis of 2‐((hetera) cyclo) alkylchromanols and their spirocyclic analogs based on enzymatic resolution is described. It is shown that enzymatic acylation could be used for the preparation of enantioenriched title compounds with primary alkyl substituents at the C‐2 position. Meanwhile, enzymatic hydrolysis of the corresponding acetates was optimal for the preparation of the target alcohols when significant steric hindrance is present, e. g., due to the α‐branching. The latter factor was demonstrated to be crucial for the enzymatic reaction rate in both cases. The synthetic utility of the obtained chiral alcohols was demonstrated through Mitsunobu configuration inversion, as well as by preparation of the corresponding primary amines – valuable sp3‐enriched building blocks for medicinal chemistry.
Polyethylene Oxide Incorporated Ammonium Iodide Doped With Ionic Liquid Trihexyl (Tetradecy) Phosphonium Dicyanamide‐Based Polymer Electrolyte for Dual Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Rawat Suneyana , Singh Pramod K. , Yahya M. Z. A. , Yusuf S. N. F. , Diantoro Markus , Latif Famiza Abdul , Singh Ram Chandra
Published: January 2025

Cation phosphonium‐based ionic liquids (PBILs) have recently gained attention since the 2000s due to their thermal stability and low viscosity for better ionic conduction in electrochemical devices. This paper introduces a new low‐viscosity phosphonium‐based ionic liquids (PBILs)—trihexyl (tetradecy) phosphonium dicyanamide—infused in polyethylene oxide: ammonium iodide (NH4I) complex polymer electrolyte. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies indicate that the ionic conductivity reaches 2.03 × 10−4 S/cm at 6 wt.% PBILs at ambient temperature. The PBILs‐doped polymer electrolyte is predominantly ionic confirm by ionic transference numbers (tion) calculation. Also the electrochemical stability window was found to be 3.2 V suitable for energy storage devices. The highest achieve ionic conductivity PBILs‐doped polymer electrolyte sandwich between the electrodes for dual energy devices like electric double layer capacitors (EDLCs) and dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). This study shows improvements in ionic conduction, double‐layer stability, and light‐harvesting efficiency, resulting in higher energy density and power density in EDLCs and better photovoltaic performance in DSSCs. These findings highlight the versatility and efficacy of phosphonium‐based ionic liquid‐doped polymer electrolytes for advanced energy storage and conversion applications.
Determination of Optimal Shape for Gas Storage Salt Caverns
Authors: Noroozi Mehdi , Rezaei Ali , Fathipour‐Azar Hadi
Published: January 2025

In this study, the optimal shape for a gas storage cavern was determined by considering the elements that affect its stability and convergence. The considered factors influencing the stability of caverns include the bulk modulus of salt rock, ambient temperature, internal gas pressure, cavern depth, and cavern shape. By varying these parameters and creating various combinations, 45 scenarios were defined. Numerical models were constructed for each scenario to systematically investigate the factors affecting cavern stability. Through a comparison of the results from these numerical models, the most stable cavern shape under different conditions was determined. The study focuses on the pre‐salt environments in the Santos Basin, southeast Brazil. The findings of this study may aid in the construction of gas storage salt caverns. The results indicate that the cavern's size and geometry have a greater effect on its volume loss in salt layers with a lower bulk modulus (between 5 and 15 GPa). Additionally, when the bulk modulus is low, the rate of change of the cavern convergence to the bulk modulus is larger. Moreover, the effects of the rock salt characteristics on the cavern convergence are much less pronounced at larger depths, so a depth of 1200 m can be ignored. In comparison to the bulk modulus of salt rock, internal gas pressure has a far greater effect on the convergence of salt caverns. At shallow depths, the salt creep phenomena primarily affect the cavern's roof area, and as the depth of the cavern deepens, it increasingly damages the floor and middle walls. When precise control of the gas pressure in proportion to the cavern depth is not attainable, the optimal form for designing gas storage salt caverns with varying depths based on the minimal convergence criterion is a horizontal ellipsoid. In contrast, the vertical ellipsoidal cavern always results in the greatest volume loss and displacement and is hence regarded as the least acceptable alternative. A downward pear‐shaped cavern can be a good alternative to a horizontal ellipsoidal cavern for higher depths. The design and construction of the downward pear‐shaped cavern instead of the upward pear‐shaped cavern leads to better control and the reduction of the displacements.
Agri‐Mat Mulching Improves Aggregate Stability and Soil Pore Formation on Smallholder Farms in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Mgolozeli Sibongiseni , Nciizah Adornis D. , Wakindiki Isaiah I. C. , Dhavu Khumbulani , Mudau Fhatuwani N. , Onwona‐Agyeman Siaw
Published: January 2025

Agri‐mats are solid organic mulch mats derived from various organic waste materials such as straw, grass, weed biomass, algae residues, etc. These agri‐mats are created by hot‐ or cold‐pressing biomass into solid, bio degradable mats. Although agri‐mats provide remarkable benefits to agricultural soils, including improved soil fertility and crop productivity, their effect on topsoil structure has not been adequately explored. The aim of this study was to determine the aggregate stability and physical architecture of two contrasting soils using the fast‐wetting method and X‐ray microfocus computed tomography (CT), respectively. The following five treatments were established in two sites (Durban with loam soil and Pretoria with sandy loam soil): (i) full agri‐mat cover (100% AG), (ii) half agri‐mat cover (50% AG), (iii) bare or no cover (control), (iv). 6 tons.ha−1 of grass mulch (6 t.GM) and (v) 3 tons.ha−1 grass mulch (3 t.GM). The two sites were planted with maize in summer and spinach in winter for two consecutive seasons (2017/18 and 2018/19). The aggregate stability test results indicated that 100% agri‐mat (100% AG) mulch had greater aggregate stabilizing ability than all other mulching treatments in both soil types. In the loam soil, the 100% AG treatment increased the stability of the aggregates by 58% and by 65% in the sandy loam soil after two years. The X‐ray CT analysis results showed that under the loam soil, 50% AG mulch treatment produced more (89%) macro‐aggregates (> 250 μm) compared to 100% AG (77%). However, the 100% AG treatment produced more (71%) macro‐aggregates compared with the 50% AG (65%) under the sandy loam soil. Based on the overall morphological characteristics of the soil aggregates, the 100% AG treatment was superior to the other organic mulching treatments in terms of soil pore structure formation and aggregate stability regardless of the soil type after two years.
Flow‐Through Flaps as a Robust Method for Advanced Free Flap Reconstruction in the Head and Neck: A Multi‐Institutional Experience
Authors: Mastrolonardo Eric V. , Sussman Sarah , Llerena Pablo , Amin Dev R. , Nunes Kathryn , Bridgham Kelly , De Ravin Emma , Campbell Daniel J. , Agarwal Aarti , Philips Ramez , Rind Fahad , Ivancic Ryan , McIlwain Wesley , Kang Stephen Y. , Ducic Yadranko , Sweeny Larissa , Moreno Mauricio A. , Myers René P. , Thomas Carissa M. , Rajasekaran Karthik , Wax Mark , Curry Joseph M. , Hanasono Matthew M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Flow‐through flaps (FTFs) are an advanced technique in which a free flap is anastomosed to the pedicle of another free flap to reconstruct extensive head and neck defects when recipient vessels are scarce.

Methods

A multi‐institutional cohort of FTFs used for head and neck reconstruction were reviewed. For comparison, FTF outcomes were compared to free flaps that required vein grafts (VG) to reach distant recipient vessels.

Results

A total of forty‐two patients underwent surgery using a FTF configuration, including 32 simultaneous and 10 sequential FTFs. There were no instances of flap failure compared to a 7% flap failure rate in the VG group (n = 54). The overall postoperative complication rate was 28% compared to a 46% complication rate in the VG group (p = 0.093).

Conclusion

FTFs are a reliable option for reconstruction of extensive head and neck defects when recipient blood vessel availability is limited.
Scientific Histories of Hippocampal Research: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Hasselmo Michael E. , Nadel Lynn
Published: January 2025

Numerous scientific advances and discoveries have arisen from research on the hippocampal formation. This special issue provides first‐person historical descriptions of these advances and discoveries in hippocampal research, written by those directly involved in the research. This is the first section of a special issue that will also include future articles on this topic. Here, we discuss some of the factors that motivated this special issue, and the major themes of hippocampal research that are addressed.
Perception of the Importance of Inherited Genetics and Lifestyle on the Development of Chronic Diseases: A UK Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Hussain Aamir , Santos‐Merx Lourdes , Boit Mariasole Da
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

There is emerging evidence that genes, lifestyles and environment play a prominent role in the development of non‐communicable diseases. Currently, there is not information on people's perception of inherited genetics vs. lifestyle on disease development. Knowing people's belief on disease etiology will better inform public health strategies for the adoption of a healthy lifestyle.

Methods

Individuals aged 18 years and over were recruited in 2019 among the UK population and 363 participants completed an anonymous questionnaire. The main outcomes assessed were perception of importance of inherited genes and lifestyle on the development of diseases. T‐tests and χ2 were used.

Results

The score for the importance of inherited genes in disease development was significantly lower than the lifestyle score (7.5 ± 1.7 vs. 8.5 ± 1, p <0.001). Moreover, the majority of the respondents chose lifestyle over inherited genes as most important factor for cancer, cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes development (50.8% vs. 29.6%, 79% vs. 11.9%, 85.7% vs. 9.6%; respectively), while 60.6% of respondents selected inherited genes for rheumatoid arthritis (p < 0.05). Knowledge about genes or a healthy lifestyle did not influence the selection of lifestyle as the most important factor (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Overall, participants were well aware of the importance of lifestyle as a determinant risk factor for chronic disease development. This is an important step toward adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Delineating Sources of Groundwater Recharge in an Arsenic‐Affected Aquifer in Jianghan Plain Using Stable Isotopes
Authors: Lan Yixing , He Ying , Yu Qian , Song Qilong
Published: January 2025

Consumption of arsenic (As)‐contaminated groundwater adversely impacts the health of almost 20 million people in China. Determining the sources of As‐affected groundwaters may help to improve our understanding of the controlling processes on As mobilization in groundwater systems. In this study, stable hydrogen and oxygen isotopes of water (δ18O and δD) were employed to delineate the groundwater recharge sources and the interactions between river/pond and groundwater in Shahu village, a typical high‐As groundwater area in Jianghan Plain, central China. Utilizing a two‐component mixing model based on δ18O and δD, we successfully calculated the river water contribution to groundwater including its uncertainty analysis and roughly distinguished the different water bodies within the aquifer system. Cl/Br was used to further identify the recharge contributions for shallow (10 m below the ground surface, low As concentrations), intermediate (25 m below the ground surface, high‐As concentrations) and deep (50 m below the ground surface, high‐As concentrations) groundwaters. The hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope signatures of high As and high total organic carbon (TOC) groundwaters (intermediate and deep aquifer) generally plotted near the local meteoric water line (LMWL). However, the δ18O and δD signatures of low As and low TOC groundwaters (shallow aquifer) tended to shift away from the LMWL along evaporation lines. These relationships revealed that the low As groundwater principally derived from surface water (river and pond), while the high‐As groundwater mainly recharged from local precipitation through preferential channel as well as the bedrock and/or adjacent aquifer. Our results will enhance the comprehension of the genesis of high‐As groundwater in Jianghan Plain.
Obesity and Chronic Inflammation: Implications for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Spondyloarthritis, and Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Corrado Ada , Guadagni Ilaria , Picarelli Giovanna , Variola Angela
Published: January 2025

Background

Immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) are a group of chronic conditions characterized by dysregulated immune responses and persistent inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis (SpA), and ulcerative colitis (UC) exemplify prominent IMIDs, each presenting unique challenges for their management, that impact patient's quality of life (QoL). Obesity, marked by persistent low‐grade inflammation, influences the progression, response to treatment, and clinical management of patients with RA, SpA, and UC. Besides, the emerging role of sarcopenic obesity, a special subtype of obesity with malnutrition, should be considered in the definition of the appropriated therapeutic interventions.

Methods

This narrative literature review summarizes recent evidence on the interplay between obesity‐induced inflammation and IMIDs.

Results

Obesity contributes to elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines, influencing the inflammatory pathways common to IMIDs. White adipose tissue, acting as an endocrine organ, produces cytokines like TNF‐α and IL‐6, fueling chronic inflammation. The dysregulation of adipokines, such as leptin and adiponectin, further complicates this interplay, impacting immune responses and metabolic processes.

Conclusions

Understanding the cross‐talk between inflammatory pathways in obesity and IMIDs can provide insight into potential targets for intervention. This includes lifestyle modifications aimed to regulate weight gain, paving the way for comprehensive strategies to manage IMIDs in the context of obesity.
Antibody/siRNA Nanocarriers Against Wnt Signaling Suppress Oncogenic and Stem‐Like Behavior in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Hoover Elise C. , Day Emily S.
Published: January 2025

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is infamous for its aggressive phenotype and poorer prognosis when compared to other breast cancer subtypes. One factor contributing to this poor prognosis is that TNBC lacks expression of the receptors that available hormonal or molecular‐oriented therapies attack. New treatments that exploit biological targets specific to TNBC are desperately needed to improve patient outcomes. One promising target for therapeutic manipulation is the Wnt signaling pathway, which has been associated with many invasive breast cancers, including TNBC. This pathway is activated in TNBC cells when extracellular Wnt ligands bind to overexpressed Frizzled7 (FZD7) transmembrane receptors, leading to downstream activation of intracellular β‐catenin proteins. To target and inhibit Wnt signaling in TNBC cells, polymer nanoparticles (NPs) modified with anti‐FZD7 antibodies and β‐catenin small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were developed, and their impact on the oncogenic behavior of treated TNBC cells was investigated. When compared to control NPs, the Wnt‐targeted NPs induced greater levels of Wnt oncogene suppression. This led to greater inhibition of oncogenic and stem‐like properties, including cell proliferation, drug resistance, and spheroid formation capacity. This work demonstrates a promising approach for targeting the Wnt pathway in TNBC to counter the cellular phenotypes that drive disease progression.
Exploring Elastic Lipid Nanovesicles for Enhanced Skin Permeation of Whole Plant Extract: A Comprehensive Investigation
Authors: Maheshwari Rahul , Sharma Mayank , Bhattacharya Sankha
Published: January 2025

A new method is developed using elastic lipid nanovesicles (ELNs) loaded with ethanolic extract of Lantana camara (LC) to enhance skin permeation of plant actives. The ELNs contained cholesterol, 1, 2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine, span 80, and tween 80. Firstly, 15 formulations were produced to examine critical factors likely affecting formulation characteristics. In addition, surface characteristics, vesicle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, degree of deformability, and % entrapment efficiency (% EE) of ELN were examined. As a significant parameter, skin permeation was measured (using Start‐M; it highly resembles human skin). The influence of size, hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB), and surface ratio were vital to permeation through Start‐M. In particular, the % LC extract permeation decreased at more extensive size ranges, 400, and 350–450 nm. In contrast, the % LC extract permeation increased significantly at smaller size ranges, such as 200 and 100 nm. More than 75% of the LC extract was permeated within 8 h when the surfactant ratio was (span 80:tween 80; 25%:75%). Permeation studies conducted based on HLB values revealed that 78% of LC extract was permeated in 8 h when HLB was 12.2, and that permeation decreased with an increase in HLB. Cell viability assay using SK‐MEL‐37 cells (skin cancer) revealed that ELN reduced the viability by ~80% in 24 h, further validating the formulation. Future research could investigate the long‐term safety and therapeutic potential of these ELNs in clinical settings and their effectiveness in delivering other plant‐based extracts for transdermal applications via ELNs.
Metabolomic Analysis of Nicotine‐Induced Metabolic Disruptions and Their Amelioration by Resveratrol
Authors: Iqbal Hajra , Ilyas Kainat , Rehman Kanwal , Aslam Muhammad Amtiaz , Hussain Amjad , Ibrahim Muhammad , Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid , Shahid Mudassar , Shahzad Asif
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the metabolic disruptions caused by nicotine (NIC) exposure, with a particular focus on amino acid and lipid metabolism, and evaluates resveratrol (RSV) as a potential protective agent. Mice were divided into four groups: control (CON), NIC‐exposed, NIC + RSV‐treated, and RSV‐only. NIC exposure resulted in significant weight loss, elevated glucose levels, altered lipid profiles, and organ damage, particularly in the liver and kidneys. Increased inflammation was evidenced by elevated levels of IL‐6 and CRP. In contrast, RSV treatment mitigated these effects by improving lipid profiles, glycemic indices, and reducing inflammatory markers. Histopathological analysis confirmed reduced tissue damage in the NIC + RSV group compared to the NIC‐alone group. Metabolomics analysis using LC‐MS/MS revealed significant dysregulation in lipid, amino acid, and nucleotide metabolism in NIC‐exposed mice. Fold‐change analysis identified altered metabolites, including sphingomyelin 36:1;02 (p < 0.001), valine (p < 0.001), triacylglycerol 4:0–18:1 (p < 0.001), and ceramide 32:1;02 (p < 0.001). Amino acids such as arginine, phenylalanine, glutamic acid, tyrosine, and lysine, as well as NIC metabolites like nornicotine and cotinine, were identified, underscoring molecular fragmentation analysis findings. RSV treatment partially restored metabolic balance, highlighting its role as a metabolic modulator. This study underscores the therapeutic potential of RSV in alleviating NIC‐induced metabolic dysfunctions by restoring lipid homeostasis and reducing inflammation. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of RSV in addressing NIC‐related metabolic impairments and the need for noninvasive biomarkers for early disease detection.
Lights and Shadows of Cytokines in Age‐Related Eye Diseases: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Xue Yuyu , Ye Lu , Huang Chan , Ye Hejiang
Published: January 2025

The eye is considered to be an immune‐privileged region. However, several parts of the eye have distinct mechanisms for delivering immune cells to the injury sites or even in response to aging. Although these immune responses are intended to be protective, the visual acuity can be compromised by the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines by immune cells, which induce chronic inflammation and fibrosis. Age‐related eye diseases (AREDs) are the primary cause of vision impairment (VI) in the elderly, with a poor comprehension of their pathophysiology. Age‐related eye diseases affect both the anterior and posterior segments, resulting in diminished quality of life and risk of irreversible blindness. Immune system dysregulation and the upregulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokines have been linked to AREDs, underscoring the need to comprehend inflammation's impact on ocular disorders to enhance patient symptom management. In this framework, the PubMed database was searched using the medical subject headings (MeSH) terms “Age‐related eye diseases,” “dry eye syndrome,” “glaucoma,” “cataract,” “diabetic retinopathy,” “inflammation,” “interleukin,” and “cytokine” with the aim of overview the role of cytokines in AREDs and discuss their potential therapeutic approaches.
Characterizing populations prioritized for PrEP in 19 African countries: a review of national guidance
Authors: Graybill Lauren A. , McKay Caroline N. , Wang Jiayu , Sam‐Agudu Nadia A. , Yotebieng Marcel , Saidi Friday , Bekker Linda‐Gail , Shook‐Sa Bonnie E. , Chi Benjamin H. , Rosenberg Nora E.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

While African countries have expanded access to HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) since 2015, regional targets for PrEP uptake remain unmet. Understanding which populations are prioritized for PrEP at the policy level is an important step in determining the scope of PrEP distribution across Africa and identifying gaps in programme implementation. We reviewed national guidance to characterize populations prioritized for PrEP in Africa.

Methods

Between January and June 2023, we searched for current National HIV Treatment and Prevention Guidelines, National HIV Strategic Plans, and the United States President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) Country Operational Plans (COPs) for all African countries implementing PrEP programmes supported by PEPFAR in 2022. From each document, we summarize the populations prioritized for PrEP within a country and describe PrEP eligibility.

Results

In 2022, 19 African countries implemented PrEP programmes supported by PEPFAR. Eighteen of these countries contributed National Guidelines (2016−2022), 18 contributed National Strategic Plans (2017−2023) and 19 contributed COPs (2022) to this review. Twenty‐nine population groups were prioritized for PrEP in these documents. All countries prioritized HIV‐serodifferent couples, female sex workers (FSWs), adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), pregnant and breastfeeding women (PBFW) and people who inject drugs (PWID), and most prioritized men who have sex with men (MSM; n = 18), transgender people (n = 18) and people in prisons (n = 17). The remaining 21 populations were prioritized in fewer than two‐thirds of countries.

Discussion

FSWs, MSM, PWID, transgender people and people in prisons were typically prioritized for PrEP with no eligibility restrictions. In contrast, most countries had at least one document indicating that HIV‐serodifferent couples, AGYW and PBFW were only eligible for PrEP if classified as high risk. Few documents specified how risk was determined, and no document included validated HIV risk assessment tools to guide implementation. We observed similarities in priority populations across countries with different HIV epidemics and inconsistencies in who was prioritized for PrEP within a country's own set of policy documents.

Conclusions

Understanding how PrEP prioritization policies impact HIV incidence in different epidemiologic settings is critical for strengthening PrEP implementation across the continent.
Impact of Donor CMV‐Seropostive Grafts on Prognosis of Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Xiang Ze , Song Yisu , Li Jiarui , Yu Jiong , Xu Chenhao , Xu Yunyang , Shu Wenzhi , Fang Xixi , Su Renyi , Lu Zhengyang , Zheng Shusen , Xu Xiao , Lu Di , Wei Xuyong
Published: January 2025

Studies investigating the impact of donor cytomegalovirus (CMV) positivity on the prognosis of liver transplantation (LT) recipients with HCC are currently lacking. A total of 21 759 eligible LT recipients were identified in the UNOS database between January 2002 and June 2023. The patients were divided into the donor CMV‐seronegative (n = 7575) and CMV‐seropositive (n = 14 814) groups. Moreover, the subgroup analyses by recipient age and gender were conducted. All patients were also divided into 18–40 (n = 271), 40–60 (n = 9538), and ≥ 60 (n = 11 950) groups, male (n = 16 954) and female (n = 4805) groups, respectively. Patients in the donor CMV‐seropositive group had shorter overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) compared to those in the donor CMV‐seronegative group (both p < 0.001). Donor CMV seropositivity was proved to be a risk factor for OS and DFS (both p = 0.001). Patients receiving CMV‐seropositive liver grafts had shorter OS and DFS in the 40–60 and ≥ 60 groups (all p < 0.05). Patients receiving CMV‐seropositive liver grafts had shorted OS and DFS only in the male group (both p < 0.001). The receipt of donor CMV‐seropositive liver grafts is associated with shorter survival and a higher risk of HCC recurrence in LT recipients with HCC. These adverse effects are influenced by recipient age and gender.
Changes in Teleconnection Patterns and Land–Atmosphere Coupling Amplify the Spring–Early Summer Heatwaves Over Southwestern China
Authors: Zheng Yuzhu , Zhang Tuantuan , Yang Song , Jiang Xingwen , Luo Yanheng , Yan Hongming , Deng Kaiqiang , Zhang Chengyang
Published: January 2025

The frequency and intensity of heatwaves over southwestern China during spring and early summer have been increased significantly during 1980–2022. Until now, the physical mechanisms for these changes in heatwaves remain unclear. Here, we show that these increases in heatwaves can be attributed to the changes in both local soil moisture–temperature coupling processes and teleconnection patterns across Eurasia. On the one hand, the third dominant mode of teleconnection patterns across Eurasia exhibits more pronounced and meridionally‐elongated features after the 2000s, leading to more southeastward‐shifted positive geopotential height anomalies towards southwestern China, favouring increases in the regional heatwaves. On the other hand, the intensified coupling strength of soil moisture–temperature further amplifies the heatwaves over southwestern China, in particular for compound drought and heatwave (CDHW) events. This intensified soil moisture–temperature coupling is attributed to the identical phase transitions of heat anomalies and temperature anomalies after the 2000s. Distinct characteristics and drivers of CDHW and non_CDHW over southwestern China are also discussed.
On the NextGen‐Chile Forecast System: A Calibrated Multi‐Model Ensemble Approach for Seasonal Precipitation Forecasts
Authors: Campos Diego A. , Cabello Fernanda I. , Muñoz Ángel G.
Published: January 2025

Development and dissemination of seasonal forecasts are integral components of the climate services provided by numerous meteorological services worldwide, offering estimates of meteorological variables on a seasonal time scale to aid local warning systems and decision‐making processes. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recommends that operational seasonal forecasts be objective and that the process be traceable and reproducible, including the selection and calibration of models. Following these guidelines, the Chilean Meteorological Service (Dirección Meteorológica de Chile, DMC) has implemented the next generation of seasonal forecasts, NextGen‐Chile. This new forecast system is based on a multi‐model ensemble using state‐of‐the‐art general circulation models (GCMs) from the calibrated North American Multi‐Model Ensemble (NMME) project. The forecasts from the GCMs are calibrated using a canonical correlation analysis‐based regression with a homogenised dataset of ground stations. The system is completed with two statistical models built using canonical correlation analysis on sea surface temperature (SST) in the ENSO and the Southwestern Pacific regions. Individually calibrated GCMs and statistical models are combined by weighing their hindcast skill to construct the final calibrated multi‐model ensemble (CMME) prediction. A verification analysis of probabilistic re‐forecasts during 2019–2021 has been performed, adding an average‐based ensemble forecast (CMME‐Mean). The CMME models outperformed the individual models in discrimination and showed less seasonal variability in performance than the individual models, adding consistency to the forecast. All metrics analysed during the verification process were maximised in the central region of Chile, which could be attributed to the high concentration of ground stations in the central region and the definition of a central region‐centred domain for the CCA calculation. Looking into the near future of NextGen‐Chile, a Flexible Seasonal Forecast is introduced as a more comprehensive approach for seasonal forecasts, allowing users and stakeholders to access information beyond the tercile seasonal forecast approach.
Modulation Response of Biologically Synthesized ZnO Nanoparticles Using Mentha piperita L. on the Physio‐Chemical Parameters of Pisum sativum L.
Authors: Akhtar Seemab , Adnan Muhammad , Sharif Saima , Khan Saeed Ahmad
Published: January 2025

Background

In agriculture, biosynthesized ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) have gained considerable attention due to their cost‐effectiveness and eco‐friendliness. Natural, plant‐based, or biological entities act as reducing and stabilizing agents that can be used to synthesize ZnO NPs.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the impact of green‐synthesized ZnO NPs derived from Mentha piperita L. on the growth, physiological, and biochemical parameters of Pisum sativum L.

Methods

Energy‐dispersive x‐ray (EDX), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and x‐ray diffraction (XRD) were used for the characterization of ZnO NPs to confirm their structure, size, and stability. Various concentrations of ZnO NPs (0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg L−1) were applied to seeds of P. sativum for the subsequent evaluation of germination rates, growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, carbohydrates, and protein contents.

Results

The results indicated that ZnO NPs significantly enhanced seed germination by up to 31% and positively influenced other growth parameters, including a 44% increase in shoot length, a 41.4% increase in root length, an 18.57% increase in shoot weight, and a 35.71% increase in root weight compared to the control. The treated plants exhibited increased chlorophyll content (42% in chlorophyll a and 34% in chlorophyll b), as well as elevated carbohydrate (36.67%) and protein (23.75%) levels, suggesting a positive impact on the plants’ metabolic activities.

Conclusions

Green‐synthesized ZnO NPs significantly promoted pea seed germination, root and shoot growth, and improved key physiological and biochemical parameters, such as chlorophyll content, total soluble sugars, and protein levels.
Laryngeal Cancer in the West of Scotland 2014–2020: Trends and Survival in a Cohort of 867 Patients
Authors: Hurley Rhona , Paterson Claire , Conway David I. , Inman Gareth J. , Douglas Catriona M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC) accounts for around one‐third of head and neck cancers, with smoking and alcohol as major risk factors. Despite advances in organ preservation, survival rates have stagnated globally over recent decades. The impact of socioeconomic deprivation on LSCC outcomes in the West of Scotland remains underexplored. We hypothesized that survival outcomes in the West of Scotland are poorer than cohorts from other developed nations.

Aim

To evaluate characteristics and survival outcomes for LSCC patients in the West of Scotland and identify predictors of survival.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 867 LSCC patients in the West of Scotland (2014–2020) analyzed demographics, tumor staging, performance status, treatments, and socioeconomic status (Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation, SIMD). Subgroup differences were assessed using chi‐squared tests. Survival analysis was performed with Kaplan–Meier curves, log‐rank tests, and Cox proportional hazards modeling.

Results

The cohort had a male‐to‐female ratio of 3.2:1, with a mean age of 65.5 years, with 56% presenting with advanced disease. Most patients (70.7%) lived in the most deprived areas. Supraglottic cancers were the most common subsite (51%). Five‐year overall survival (OS) was 46%, with a median OS of 52 months. Glottic cancers had better outcomes (64% OS) compared to supraglottic cancers (36%). Predictors of survival included age, subsite, performance status, alcohol use, treatment modality, and deprivation.

Conclusion

LSCC survival in the West of Scotland is lower than in other European nations, influenced by advanced‐stage presentation, deprivation, and frailty. Addressing these factors is vital to improving outcomes.

Level of evidence: III Laryngoscope, 2025
Osteoarthritis synovium as a nidus for monosodium urate crystal deposition inducing severe gout studied by label‐free stimulated Raman scattering combined with synovial organoids
Authors: Chen Ziyi , Wang Wenjuan , Chen Yaxin , Ji Minbiao , Hua Yinghui
Published: January 2025

Gout, a common chronic disease, is characterized by the formation and deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) crystal deposition in articular and nonarticular structures. Osteoarthritis (OA), the most prevalent type of arthritis, is a progressive degenerative joint disease. Previous clinical studies have reported that gout frequently affects OA joints; however, the underlying mechanism remains unidentified. Recently, OA synovium has been proposed as a favorable vehicle for MSU crystal deposition. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether OA synovium acts as a nidus for MSU crystal deposition inducing severe gout flares, using label‐free, highly‐specific stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy combined with innovative preclinical models—synovial organoids. Crystal deposition, cellular phagocytosis, and subsequent inflammation intensity was imaged in ex vivo synovial organoids using SRS microscopy and other biochemical techniques. Results revealed that MSU crystals were more likely to deposit in OA synovium than in normal synovium. Furthermore, OA synoviocytes were more capable of phagocytosing crystals, leading to severe inflammation, and thus, expediting gout. These findings offer a potential explanation for why gout is preferred in OA joints and offer significant insights into the pathophysiology of gout, thereby informing prevention and management strategies for OA to prevent or alleviate the subsequent progression of gout.
Complex Dynamics of a Memory‐Induced Stage‐Structured Diffusive System With Maturation Delay and Strong Allee Effect
Authors: Ye Luhong , Zhao Hongyong , Zhang Xuebing , Wu Daiyong
Published: January 2025

In this work, a memory‐induced stage‐structured prey–predator diffusive system with maturation delay and strong Allee effect is proposed. First, the positivity of solutions and survival of the non‐spatial system are studied. The results indicate that strong Allee effect affects the coexistence of two populations to maintain the harmonious development of the ecosystem, and they can coexist if and only if the predator's fertility is greater than its mortality when the prey reaches its peak. The non‐spatial system can undergo Hopf bifurcation caused by the maturation delay. Then we obtain complex dynamics for the spatial system with spatial memory. On one hand, spatial memory diffusion and memory delay can bring about not only Hopf bifurcation and Turing bifurcation but also Turing‐Hopf bifurcation and Bogdanov‐Takens bifurcation with strong Allee effect. On the other hand, spatial memory delay and maturation delay could induce double Hopf bifurcation. Furthermore, we also investigate the global continuation of local periodic solutions for the spatial system without spatial memory. These interesting results may provide new clues for the investigation of the coexistence for the populations and understanding the complex dynamics of prey–predator systems.
Noninvasive High‐Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Therapy in Women With Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Leonardo Kevin , Rahardjo Harrina E. , Afriansyah Andika
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Urinary incontinence (UI) is an uncontrollable expulsion of urine at a time. UI is obviously not life‐threatening, but its impact on the patient's quality of life (QoL) is often devastating. Many treatments method to address this problem but all these methods have limitations. Recently, a brand‐new noninvasive treatment for pelvic floor muscles (PFM) using a high‐intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) field was unveiled. HIFEM therapy may provide better results thus in this study, we aim to summarize the existing evidence and assess the efficacy and safety of HIFEM.

Method

The databases used were Pubmed, Cochrane, EMBASE, and SCOPUS. The literature search was performed using strategic keywords (women) AND ((High Intensity Electromagnetic Field) OR (Electromagnetic Stimulation)) AND ((urinary incontinence) OR (overactive bladder) OR (pelvic floor dysfunction)). Articles that meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria are then analyzed.

Results

Seven studies were included in this review, most of the studies concluded that the usage of HIFEM can reduce the symptoms related to UI significantly and improve QoL. There was higher decrease of UI episodes (MD: −4.10, 95% CI: −7.34 to −0.85, p = 0.01) and improvement of ICIQ‐UI SF score (MD: −3.03, 95% CI: −3.27 to −2.79, p = < 0.00001) in HIFEM group compared to control. Subgroup analyses showed better QoL parameter (MD −3.40; p = 0.01, MD −0.70; p = 0.04) compared to control, albeit statistically comparable overall (p = 0.09). However, both pooled analyses for contraction and resting tone changes revealed that there were no significant differences between both groups (SMD: 0.98, 95% CI: −0.70 to 2.660, p = 0.25 and SMD: 0.20, 95% CI: −0.18 to 0.58, p = 0.30, respectively). Finally, there was no safety issue highlighted in most of the studies included.

Conclusion

Current published studies suggest that HIFEM may be an effective and safe noninvasive treatment for female UI by promoting QoL. However, due to being high in heterogeneity and possible bias, future high‐quality trials with proper blinding and standardized outcomes are necessary to conclude the applicability of HIFEM for UI.
Alterations in the Processing of Platelet APP (Amyloid Beta Precursor Protein) in Alzheimer Disease: The Possible Nexus
Authors: Al‐kuraishy Hayder M. , Sulaiman Ghassan M. , Mohammed Hamdoon A. , Dawood Retaj A. , Albuhadily Ali K. , Al‐Gareeb Ali I. , Abomughaid Mosleh M. , Klionsky Daniel J.
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease associated with the development of dementia. The hallmarks of AD neuropathology are accumulations of amyloid peptide (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Aβ is derived from the processing of APP (amyloid beta precursor protein) by BACE1 (beta‐secretase 1) and γ‐secretase through an amyloidogenic pathway. However, processing of APP by ADAM10/α‐secretase (ADAM metallopeptidase domain 10) enzymes through a non‐amyloidogenic pathway produces soluble APP alpha (sAPPα), which has a neuroprotective effect. It has been shown that activated platelets are implicated in the pathogenesis of AD, which also increases platelet activation. Under physiological conditions, platelets regulate synaptic plasticity and increase neuronal differentiation by regulation of the inflammatory response. However, overactivated platelets contribute to the pathogenesis of AD. Activated platelets represent the main source of circulating APP and Aβ that may be involved in AD neuropathology. Therefore, there is a close relationship between AD neuropathology and activated platelets. This review discusses the potential role of platelets in the pathogenesis of AD, and how targeting of activated platelets may reduce AD neuropathology.
Effect of semaglutide 2.4 mg on use of antihypertensive and lipid‐lowering treatment in five randomized controlled STEP trials
Authors: Tchang Beverly G. , Knight Michael G. , Adelborg Kasper , Clements Jennifer N. , Iversen Aske Thorn , Traina Andrea
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess antihypertensive and lipid‐lowering treatment changes in participants receiving semaglutide 2.4 mg versus placebo across pooled populations from five Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with Obesity (STEP) trials.

Methods

Efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2.4 mg were evaluated in the STEP clinical trials. In this post hoc analysis, STEP 1, 3, 6, and 8 (which included people with overweight or obesity) and, separately, STEP 2 and 6 (which included people with overweight or obesity and type 2 diabetes) were pooled for analysis. Changes in antihypertensive or lipid‐lowering treatment intensity from randomization to end of treatment were evaluated.

Results

In both pooled samples, a higher proportion of participants in the semaglutide 2.4 mg group versus placebo underwent antihypertensive or lipid‐lowering treatment intensity reduction by end of treatment. A smaller proportion underwent antihypertensive or lipid‐lowering treatment intensification by end of treatment in the semaglutide 2.4 mg group of both samples versus placebo. In participants receiving antihypertensive or lipid‐lowering medications in both samples, greater numeric reductions in body weight were observed in the semaglutide 2.4 mg group versus placebo.

Conclusions

These results support a relationship between semaglutide 2.4 mg treatment of overweight and obesity and reduced need for antihypertensive and lipid‐lowering treatment, facilitating treatment intensity reduction/discontinuation and abating treatment intensification.

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Disparities in Survival of Head and Neck Cancer in the Hispanic Population: Systematic‐Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Marrero‐Gonzalez Alejandro R. , Nanu Douglas P. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Brennan Emily A. , Albergotti William Greer , Chera Bhisham S. , Harper Jennifer L. , Kaczmar John M. , Kejner Alexandra E. , Newman Jason G. , Skoner Judith M. , Graboyes Evan M.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The Hispanic health paradox (HHP), the observation that Hispanic people in the United States often experience better health outcomes than non‐Hispanic people despite having worse prognostic factors, has not been evaluated for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a malignancy with marked racial disparities in outcomes. The objective of this study is to evaluate the HHP within the context of HNSCC.

Data Sources

CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus.

Review Methods

Studies that compared survival between Hispanic and non‐Hispanic patients with HNSCC in the United States were included. Meta‐analysis of adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was conducted to compare overall survival (OS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS) between Hispanic white (HW) and non‐Hispanic white (NHW) patients with HNSCC.

Results

Of 2106 unique abstracts reviewed, 25 studies were included in the systematic review and 22 in the meta‐analysis. Among the 657,185 patients in the meta‐analysis, 6.9% (95% CI: 5.8%‐8.3%) were of Hispanic ethnicity. HW patients had improved OS relative to NHW patients (aHR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.86‐0.94) among the 17 studies reporting OS and improved CSS relative to NHW patients (aHR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.80‐0.94) among the 4 studies reporting this outcome.

Conclusion

HW people with HNSCC exhibit improved survival relative to NHW people with HNSCC, supporting the HHP in the context of HNSCC. Research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms, which could provide insights into improving outcomes for all patients with HNSCC.