bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Infliximab in Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Millan Pauline , Sunmboye Kehinde O. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTAutoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) is characterized by bilateral, asymmetric, and fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) with no identifiable cause that responds to immunosuppressive therapy. Diagnosis can be challenging due to a lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and pathognomonic tests. The mainstay of treatment is corticosteroids; however, only a small number of patients remain responsive after prolonged use. There are no agreed treatment protocols for AIED following corticosteroids, as there is limited data from randomized controlled trials. We report a case of a 27‐year‐old man with secondary AIED on a background of ulcerative colitis (UC) who experienced frequent relapses and deterioration in his hearing despite multiple courses of high‐dose corticosteroids. He received methotrexate and azathioprine but did not show clinical or audiometric improvement. After the commencement of infliximab infusions, his symptoms of AIED and UC improved, and his hearing remained stable without further use of oral corticosteroid therapy. The available studies on the efficacy of biologic therapy are limited and have produced variable results, with the majority of the data relying mainly on case reports and case series. Large, multicenter randomized controlled trials are required to confirm its efficacy in the management of AIED.
Identification of Electrolyte Salts in Lithium‐Ion Battery Black Mass
Authors: Hansel Bastian , Burkmann Konrad , Störr Bianca , Pätzold Carsten , Mertens Florian , Bertau Martin 
Published: February 2025

AbstractBased on ion chromatographic and thermal analyses, it was demonstrated that the assumption that the presence of PF6– ions in lithium‐ion battery (LIB) black mass is due to LiPF6 residues is incorrect. In the industrial samples investigated, PF6–‐containing residues were present in the case of low temperature‐pretreated LIB black mass. Based on thermal analysis, a significant proportion of the PF6– species was found to originate from NaPF6. The presence of NaPF6 is due to the use of tap water in the commercial workup process. Due to the transformation of the PF6– species and the associated changes in degradation and hydrolysis behavior, appropriate recycling routes need to be adapted regarding the handling of the conducting salt.
Graphene Oxide‐Cyclopentylamine (GO‐d‐CP) Liquid Crystals as a Novel Alignment Medium for Anisotropic NMR with Analyte Recovery
Authors: Chickmagalur Jatheendranath Sandesh , Das Akhi , Deshpande Sudhindra H , Nath Nilamoni , Maier Walter , Streitferdt Verena , Kiran Marelli Udaya 
Published: February 2025

AbstractIn this study, we present graphene oxide derivatized with cyclopentylamine (GO‐d‐CP) as a DMSO‐compatible liquid crystal alignment medium that is free from any background NMR signal for application in anisotropic NMR. This novel alignment medium facilitates optimal isotropic and anisotropic conditions within a single sample preparation, controlled by sonication, thereby enabling the measurement of anisotropic NMR parameters‐ residual dipolar couplings (RDC) and residual chemical shift anisotropy (RCSA). GO‐d‐CP offers several advantages, including ease of synthesis, isolation of solid GO‐d‐CP as a stable non‐hygroscopic material, and maintenance of the anisotropic state stability >30 days, allowing for prolonged and repetitive experiments. Notably, post the analysis it allows for easy recovery of valuable analytes as well as GO‐d‐CP for reuse, enabling the routine application of anisotropic NMR in structural analysis of small molecules. We demonstrate its efficacy by analyzing the relative stereochemistry of four compounds ‐ estrone, santonin, griseofulvin, and cinmethylin ‐ using anisotropic NMR data.
Allochrony in Atlantic Lumpfish: Genomic and Otolith Shape Divergence Between Spring and Autumn Spawners
Authors: Horaud Mathilde , Raventós Núria , Præbel Kim , Galià‐Camps Carles , Pegueroles Cinta , Carreras Carlos , Pascual Marta , Tuset Victor M. , Bhat Shripathi , Lynghammar Arve 
Published: February 2025

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

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsOne‐third of all child deaths in this country are caused by diarrhea. The burden of the disease appears to be increasing in recent years in Bangladesh. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of diarrhea and identify the factors contributing to diarrheal diseases among children aged 0–5 years in Bangladesh from 2006 to 2019, to understand the recent increase in this serious health issue.MethodsIn this study, using the data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS), a total of 31,566, 23,402, and 24,686 children under five were included from, 2006, 2012, and 2019, respectively. Logistic regressions were applied to analyze the changes in factors influencing childhood diarrhea.ResultsThe results revealed a decline in diarrhea prevalence from MICS 2006 (7.1%) to MICS 2012 (3.9%). However, there was a sharp increase to 6.9% in MICS 2019. Notably, children aged 12–23 months exhibited consistently 2.22 times (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.22, 95% confidence interval (CI: 1.86–2.65), 5.24 times (CI: 2.51–10.95) and 3.36 times (CI: 2.67–4.22) higher likelihood of experiencing diarrhea compared to the older age group (48–59 months) in MICS 2006, 2012 and 2019, respectively. The mother's educational background also played a role, in MICS 2006, 2012, and 2019, children whose mothers had no or incomplete primary education had 1.48 (CI: 1.18–1.86), 1.07 (CI: 0.76–1.50), and 1.34 (CI: 1.06–1.69) times higher chances of diarrhea compared to children of mothers with secondary complete or higher education.ConclusionUnderweight status, geographical division, household wealth status, and unimproved and shared toilet facilities emerged as contributing factors of diarrhea among children aged 0–5 years. The findings underscore the importance of child nutrition, basic hygiene practices, and special care during the rainy season to mitigate the under‐five mortality rate associated with diarrhea.
Open reduction and internal fixation offers lower hip‐related complications compared to stem revision in Vancouver B2 fractures around cemented polished tapered femoral stems
Authors: Sköldenberg Olof , Mukka Sebastian , Axenhus Michael , Hedbeck Carl‐Johan , Magnéli Martin 
Published: February 2025

AbstractPurposePeriprosthetic femoral fractures (PFFs) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) are increasing, particularly Vancouver B2 fractures around cemented polished tapered femoral stems. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) are more frequently used in comparison to the traditional stem revision to deal with these complex fractures. This observational study aims to compare the outcomes of ORIF versus stem revision in the treatment of Vancouver B2.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted at Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, from 2008 to 2022, including 157 patients (mean age 83.4 ± 7.0 years, 59% females) with a surgically treated Vancouver B2 fractures with an intact bone‐cement interface. The study assessed the immediate and long‐term outcomes of ORIF versus stem revision, examining post‐operative complications, reoperation rates, and implant survivorship.ResultsAmong the 157 patients, 37 were treated with ORIF and 120 with stem revision. The ORIF group, which consisted of older patients and had a higher prevalence of cognitive dysfunction, experienced no hip‐related adverse events. In contrast, the revision group had a 17.8% incidence of adverse events. Mortality within 90 days was significantly higher in the ORIF group (24%) compared to the revision group (4%) (p = 0.0007). One‐year mortality was also higher in the ORIF group (32%) than in the revision group (15%) (p = 0.03).ConclusionsORIF presents as a viable option for managing Vancouver B2 fractures in the proximity of a polished tapered stem when anatomical reduction is possible. The less invasive surgery provides potential advantages in patient outcomes and resource utilization. Further research is warranted to aid in the development of treatment guidelines.Level of EvidenceIII
Routine‐data‐compatible quality indicators for the ambulatory care of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip: A systematic review
Authors: Bock Tobias , Flemming Ronja , Bammert Philip , von Eisenhart‐Rothe Rüdiger , Hirschmann Michael T. , Sundmacher Leonie 
Published: February 2025

AbstractPurposeGermany has high rates of total joint arthroplasty for osteoarthritis of the knee and hip. Ambulatory health interventions can affect the progression of these conditions and the need for total joint arthroplasty. Quality indicators and guideline recommendations facilitate the transparent measurement and demonstration of care quality. Therefore, a systematic literature review of quality indicators and guideline recommendations for ambulatory care of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip before total joint arthroplasty was conducted, focusing on those that could be quantified using routine data from German statutory health insurers.MethodsFive electronic databases for quality indicators and guidelines published between 2000 and 2021 related to the ambulatory management of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip before total joint arthroplasty were searched. Two reviewers independently selected and appraised the quality of the studies. To synthesise a routine‐data‐compatible set of quality indicators, similarities and differences among existing quality indicator sets and guideline recommendations were identified and resolved.ResultsThis systematic search yielded 10,841 potentially relevant records, leading to the identification of 20 sets of quality indicators and 35 guidelines with measures quantifiable using routine data. The present evidence synthesis produced 24 routine‐data‐compatible process quality indicators related to the type, order or frequency of musculoskeletal appointments, diagnostic imaging procedures, referrals to physical therapists and pharmaceutical prescriptions.ConclusionThe synthesised set of routine‐data‐compatible quality indicators can provide a resource‐saving tool for offering individual feedback to physicians on the processes involved in the ambulatory management of osteoarthritis of the knee and hip. Engaging in interdisciplinary discussions on variations in quality indicator outcomes could contribute to improving interdisciplinary physician collaboration in ambulatory care for these conditions.Level of EvidenceLevel III.
Readability and Quality of Microtia Online Information by Large Organizations in English and Spanish
Authors: Báez Berríos Adriana I. , Goncalves Stefania , Perez Enrique 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveTo evaluate the readability and quality of microtia website health information in both Spanish and English.MethodsThe term “microtia” was searched using three Internet search engines, and the top 50 English and Spanish websites were short‐listed. Readability was evaluated using online tools: the Flesch Reading Ease score for English and the Fernandez–Huerta Formula for Spanish sites. The quality of information was analyzed using the DISCERN quality instrument, and two bilingual neurotologists independently reviewed the websites to assess their quality.ResultsForty‐four English and 19 Spanish microtia health information websites were included. English websites were written at a higher reading level (mean = 47.63 SD = 11.86) than Spanish websites (mean = 62.37, SD = 8.92) (p < 0.001). English websites correlated to the reading level of a college student; Spanish websites correlated to the reading level of an 8th–9th grade student. The average DISCERN score was 41.93 (SD = 12.88) for English websites and 32.53 (SD = 11.06) for Spanish websites (p = 0.0054). No correlation was identified between the readability and quality of the examined websites.ConclusionBoth English and Spanish microtia websites exceed the recommended reading levels set by the American Medical Association (6th grade) and National Institutes of Health (8th grade). Additionally, the quality of information, especially on Spanish sites, is low. Given that parents rely on these resources to make treatment decisions, physicians should be aware of the variability in readability and quality of online microtia information across different languages.Level of EvidenceN/A Laryngoscope, 2025
Hearing Loss and Its Relation to Loneliness and Depression—A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Döge Julia , Hackenberg Berit , Beutel Manfred E. , Otten Daniëlle , Wild Philipp S. , Chalabi Julian ,   GHS Research Consortium, Matthias Christoph , Bahr‐Hamm Katharina 
Published: February 2025

ObjectivesHearing loss is a prevalent factor contributing to reduced quality of life and has been linked to various comorbidities, with potential significant implications for psychosocial and cognitive health. The aim of this study was to give current information about the prevalence of hearing loss, loneliness and depression, and to examine the association between these.Study DesignCohort study.MethodsThe Gutenberg Health Study, a large representative cohort study for the general population, was initiated in 2007 at the University Medical Center Mainz, Germany. Hearing loss was assessed using pure‐tone audiometry, with severity graduated in percentages according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Loneliness and depressive symptoms were assessed using self‐report measures: Loneliness Scale (≥2) for loneliness and the PHQ‐9 (≥10) for depressive symptoms.ResultsAmong 5,948 participants (25–86 years), the prevalence of hearing loss was 38.7%. Loneliness was reported by 9.5% of the participants and the prevalence of significant symptoms of depression was 9.9%. The risk of loneliness was found to be significantly higher in participants with severe to complete hearing loss (OR = 3.92, p = 0.011). In addition, the odds ratio (OR) for depressive symptoms was significantly higher in those with a mild to severe hearing loss compared to those with normal hearing (OR = 1.3; p = 0.025). There was no association with hearing aid use.ConclusionHearing loss is associated with both loneliness and depressive symptoms. Longitudinal studies are required to clarify the causal relationships and to further investigate the direct impact of early hearing aid fitting on the progression of loneliness and depression.Level of Evidence2 Laryngoscope, 2025
Essential Equipment for Baseline Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Care: A Global Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Srinivasan Tarika , Cherches Alexander , Seguya Amina , Pandey Akansha , Fei‐Zhang David , Nuss Sarah , Elwell Zachary , Adeyemo Adebolajo , Alkire Blake C. , Bangash Ali Haider , Cahill Gabrielle , Daudu Davina , Der Mussa Carolina , Din Taseer , Fagan Johannes J. , Hapunda Racheal , Ibekwe Titus , Maina Ivy , Mukuzi Allan , Patterson Rolvix H. , Shaye David A. , Smith Emily R. , Sprow Holly , Waterworth Christopher James , Wiedermann Joshua P. , Xu Mary Jue , Zalaquett Nader , Kahinga Aveline Aloyce , Tamir Sharon Ovnat ,   Global OHNS Initiative
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTObjectiveAvailability of surgical equipment and access to essential clinical services remains an important barrier to surgical care delivery, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). This study aims to characterize the relative availability of essential equipment for otolaryngology‐head and neck surgery (OHNS) care across World Bank income groups.MethodsWe conducted a cross‐sectional survey on otolaryngologists' perceptions on the availability of surgical equipment and ancillary services in their respective practice settings per a 5‐point Likert scale ranging from never to always available. The study was disseminated online via professional societies, personal contacts, and social media. Eligible participants included otolaryngologists from 194 WHO‐recognized countries, which were grouped by World Bank income group classification and WHO region.ResultsThe study involved 146 otolaryngologists, 69 (47%) from high‐income countries (HICs), and 77 (53%) from LMICs. LMIC respondents were predominantly from the African and South‐East Asian regions, which comprised 48% and 7.8% of all LMIC respondents, respectively. Results revealed significant differences in the availability of otologic, rhinologic, and endoscopic airway equipment between HICs and LMICs. Differences existed among commonly used equipment such as tympanomastoidectomy equipment and rigid bronchoscopy, to subspecialized equipment such as functional endoscopic sinus surgery equipment and cochlear implants (p < 0.05 each).ConclusionsThe study highlighted key disparities in the availability of essential equipment for baseline OHNS care, especially for pediatric airway and otologic conditions. These results can be used to guide investment and advocacy efforts to improve specialty‐specific surgical infrastructure relative to the global burden of OHNS diseases in low‐resource settings.Level of Evidence3
Elevated lipoprotein(a) levels in rheumatic heart valvular disease: A new link?
Authors: Sonsöz Mehmet Rasih , Inan Duygu , Karadamar Nazime , Şahin Kadir , Eroğlu Zehra , Tuğrul Sevil , Çetin İlyas , Bilen Mehmet Nail , Demirtaş İhsan , Akgün Hüseyin , Şener Gülsen , Kılıçgedik Alev 
Published: February 2025

AbstractRheumatic heart valvular disease (RHVD) is primarily characterized by immune‐mediated damage following infection with Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to inflammation and subsequent valvular dysfunction. Traditionally, the focus has been on the immunological aspects of this disease; however, emerging evidence suggests that lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] may play a crucial role not only in atherosclerosis but also in the pathophysiology of calcific aortic valve disease. Given the inflammatory nature of RHVD and the pro‐inflammatory and pro‐calcific properties of Lp(a), this study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum Lp(a) levels and the severity of RHVD. In this cross‐sectional study, we included 40 RHVD patients and 40 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. Serum Lp(a) analysis was performed in all patients. We analyzed demographic and echocardiographic parameters and the relationship between serum Lp(a) concentrations and echocardiographic parameters. The mean age of the patient population was 50 ± 11 years and 47 (72%) were female. Lp(a) was higher in the RHVD group than in the control group (21 [19–49] vs. 17 [12–19] mg/dL; p < 0.001). Serum Lp(a) correlated positively with left atrial diameter (rho = 0.438; p = 0.005), estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure (rho = 0.390; p = 0.019), Wilkins score (rho = 0.482; p = 0.002), number of valves involved (rho = 0.397; p = 0.011), aortic regurgitation grade (rho = 0.373; p = 0.018) and negatively correlated with mitral valve area (rho = −0.413; p = 0.008). In conclusion, serum Lp(a) concentrations were higher in patients with RHVD than in the control group and were positively correlated with disease severity indicators, including mitral stenosis grade, Wilkins score, aortic regurgitation grade, left atrial diameter, and estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure.
Comparison of Intense Pulsed Light With Nonablative Fractional Laser and Picosecond Alexandrite Laser With Diffractive Lens Array for Noninvasive Facial Rejuvenation
Authors: Zhu Jiafang , Chang Rui , Han Yue , Xi Qianwen , Jiang Shutian , Shang Ying , Lyu Dongze , Yu Wenxin , Lin Xiaoxi 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundBoth nonablative fractional (NAFL) laser combined with intense pulsed light (IPL) and picosecond alexandrite laser (PSAL) with diffractive lens array (DLA) have been documented for their efficacy in facial rejuvenation.ObjectiveTo observe the safety and efficacy of PSAL‐DLA and IPL‐NAFL in the rejuvenation of Chinese individuals.MethodsEach subject (n = 18) received three treatments on half of their face, with 1‐month interval between treatments. One side of the face was randomly treated with PSAL‐DLA, and the other side with IPL‐NAFL. Quantitative data of wrinkles, pores, brown spots, and red areas were calculated using the VISIA‐CR imaging system 3 months after the final treatment. Secondary outcomes included a 10‐point VAS for patient‐rated pain sensation, incidence of post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), erythema and edema, and overall satisfaction. Adverse events were recorded after each treatment and at each follow‐up.ResultsA total of 17 Chinese female patients aged 28.2 ± 4.3 years completed the study and the 3‐month follow‐up. The IPL‐NAFL side showed a statistically significant improvement in pores compared to baseline (p < 0.05); the PSAL‐DLA side showed a statistically significant improvement in brown spots compared to baseline (p < 0.01). Compared to PSAL‐DLA, the improvement in enlarged pores was better for IPL‐NAFL (81.8 ± 128.1 vs. 20.8 ± 132.4, p < 0.01). In terms of pain, IPL‐NAFL was more painful than PSAL‐DLA (6 ± 1 vs. 4 ± 1, p < 0.01), a longer recovery time for erythema and edema (5 ± 1 vs. 2 ± 1, p < 0.001), and a higher incidence of PIH (58.8% vs. 23.5%, p < 0.05). Patient satisfaction was higher for PSAL‐DLA than for IPL‐NAFL (3 ± 1 vs. 4 ± 0.5, p < 0.01).ConclusionOur study results indicated that both IPL‐NAFL and PSAL‐DLA could improve the photoaging, but within the same number of treatments, IPL‐NAFL was slightly more effective for enlarged pores than PSAL‐DLA, while PSAL‐DLA was more effective for brown spots than IPL‐NAFL. Patients were more satisfied with PSAL‐DLA, with a shorter postoperative recovery period and a lower incidence of PIH.