bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
cisDynet: An integrated platform for modeling gene‐regulatory dynamics and networks
Authors: Zhu Tao , Zhou Xinkai , You Yuxin , Wang Lin , He Zhaohui , Chen Dijun
Published: November 2023

Chromatin accessibility sequencing has been widely used for uncovering genetic regulatory mechanisms and inferring gene regulatory networks. However, effectively integrating large‐scale chromatin accessibility datasets has posed a significant challenge. This is due to the lack of a comprehensive end‐to‐end solution, as many existing tools primarily emphasize data preprocessing and overlook downstream analyses. To bridge this gap, we have introduced cisDynet, a holistic solution that combines streamlined data preprocessing using Snakemake and R functions with advanced downstream analysis capabilities. cisDynet excels in conventional data analyses, encompassing peak statistics, peak annotation, differential analysis, motif enrichment analysis, and more. Additionally, it allows to perform sophisticated data exploration, such as tissue‐specific peak identification, time course data modeling, integration of RNA‐seq data to establish peak‐to‐gene associations, constructing regulatory networks, and conducting enrichment analysis of genome‐wide association study (GWAS) variants. As a proof of concept, we applied cisDynet to reanalyze comprehensive ATAC‐seq datasets across various tissues from the Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) project. The analysis successfully delineated tissue‐specific open chromatin regions (OCRs), established connections between OCRs and target genes, and effectively linked these discoveries with 1861 GWAS variants. Furthermore, cisDynet was instrumental in dissecting the time course open chromatin data of mouse embryonic development, revealing the dynamic behavior of OCRs over developmental stages and identifying key transcription factors governing differentiation trajectories. In summary, cisDynet offers researchers a user‐friendly solution that minimizes the need for extensive coding, ensures the reproducibility of results, and greatly simplifies the exploration of epigenomic data.
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Authors: Ji Jianlong , Wang Zhenxing , Zhang Fan , Wang Bin , Niu Yan , Jiang Xiaoning , Qiao Zeng‐ying , Ren Tian‐ling , Zhang Wendong , Sang Shengbo , Cheng Zhengdong , Sun Qijun
Published: November 2023

A pulse‐driven electrochemical synaptic transistor for supersensitive and ultrafast biosensor is proposed.

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Authors: Li Hanxi , Hu Jiayang , Chen Anzhe , Zhang Yishu , Wang Chenhao , Wang Beiduo , Tong Yi , Zhou Jiachao , Loh Kian Ping , Xu Yang , Hasan Tawfique , Yu Bin
Published: November 2023

The cover image focuses on neuronal circuit motif with specialized excitatory–inhibitory connectivity pattern. The neuronal circuit is an advanced functional unit of the brain beyond neurons and synapses. Neurons do not function in isolation and are linked to ensembles or circuit motifs that process specific types of information, enables multidimensional signal processing in the information flow of the brain. The authors demonstrate a core processor that can be employed to construct commonly used neuronal circuits and further perform bio‐realistic neuromorphic computing. Exploring the working principle, physical configuration, scalable design, and extensive signal‐processing capabilities of core processing neuron is crucial for advancing hardware development for brain‐inspired integrated neuromorphic systems.

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“Emotions are what will draw people in”: A study of critical affective literacy through digital storytelling
Authors: Jiang Jialei
Published: November 2023

This study explores the implications of critical affective literacy through digital storytelling projects produced by first‐year college writing students. The goal was to examine college students' affective and emotional responses to social justice issues, such as racial profiling, educational inequality, and animal protection, through the lens of digital storytelling. Pairing multimodal pedagogy with critical affective literacy, this study was carried out in two first‐year writing courses in the United States. The researcher who conducted this study also taught the class sessions. Employing the methodology of a qualitative case study, the author gathered information through conducting semi‐structured interviews with 11 students, observing the students' multimodal composition processes, and reviewing the students' digital storytelling videos. The analysis of the data showed that the participants performed critical emotional action when creating digital stories to draw the public's attention to social justice issues. This paper recommends that educators incorporate digital storytelling into social justice pedagogy and cultivate learners' critical affective literacy.
Adolescents' motivation to use social network sites from a psychological needs perspective
Authors: Wong Shu Ling , McLellan Ros
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Adolescents' social network sites (SNS) use is prominent during the developmental period. Various adolescents' motivations for using  SNS have been reported. However, there is a lack of psychological perspectives in understanding the reasons for adolescents to use SNS. This study explored adolescents' motivation to use SNS, and a comprehensive psychological framework was used to dismantle adolescents' reasons and purposes for using SNS. Adolescents' ways of using SNS were explored to contextualize teens' SNS use.

Methods

Semistructured interviews with 18 Malaysian adolescents (Mage = 15; 50% female; 10 Malay, 5 Chinese, 1 Indian, 1 Other Bumiputera) were conducted. The qualitative data were collected in 2021 in Malaysia through online video calls. Reflexive thematic analysis was the analytic approach.

Results

Six motivations for using SNS were identified: social interaction, content subscription and exploration, emotional support, participation, distraction, and self‐expression. Each of the motivations was explicitly linked with different psychological needs. Adolescents were found to use SNS differently in three aspects: deliberate use (i.e., on purpose of use and time spent on SNS), content‐selective, and audience‐selective.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that psychological needs are the psychological reasons for adolescents' motivations for using SNS. Adolescence developmental tasks like strong peer identification and identity explorations are parts of the basic and compound psychological needs. Teens are pursuing a sense of self‐coherence by using SNS. Adolescents demonstrated to use SNS differently at being deliberate and selective, which is speculated to be a result of the conflict between reflexive and reflective thought processes during SNS use.
Epidermis of Cereus hildmannianus as a biomimetic scaffold for tissue engineering
Authors: Reddy Narendra , Reddy Roopa , Guna Vijaykumar , Nagananda G. S. , Aramwit Pornanong
Published: November 2023

A thin plastic‐like film separated from the epidermis of Cereus hildmannianus has excellent tensile strength, resistance to water and high antimicrobial activity and supports the growth of mouse fibroblast cells. Cactuses are one of the most under explored plant species with high potential for food, materials, pharmaceutical and other applications. Although studies have shown the ability of cactuses to be used for food, as a source for fibers, as reinforcement for composites and other applications, the role of individual layers and their properties has been studied to a limited extent. In this paper, a thin translucent layer was separated from the epidermis of C. hildmannianus and studied for its composition, structure and properties. The layer is composed of about 73% cellulose and 2% lignin and morphologically, shows surface with uneven and serrated edges. Films with length of up to 36 cm, strength of 6.8 MPa and elongation of 2.5% could be peeled from the cactus suggesting their suitability for food packaging and other applications. X‐ray diffraction patterns and FTIR spectrums indicated that the films are similar to that of cellulose and major thermal degradation occurred above 280°C. Compared to standards, the cactus films showed about 41% and 44% inhibition against gram positive and gram negative bacteria and 67% inhibition of the common fungal strain (A. niger). Films showed high stability in water and to common chemicals. When used as substrates for mouse fibroblast cell growth, no cytotoxicity was observed and the cactus peel supported the attachment and proliferation of cells demonstrating potential to be used as a biomaterial for tissue engineering applications.
Incidence‐free sets and edge domination in incidence graphs
Authors: Spiro Sam , Adriaensen Sam , Mattheus Sam
Published: November 2023

A set of edges of a graph is an edge dominating set if every edge of intersects at least one edge of , and the edge domination number is the smallest size of an edge dominating set. Expanding on work of Laskar and Wallis, we study for graphs which are the incidence graph of some incidence structure , with an emphasis on the case when is a symmetric design. In particular, we show in this latter case that determining is equivalent to determining the largest size of certain incidence‐free sets of . Throughout, we employ a variety of combinatorial, probabilistic and geometric techniques, supplemented with tools from spectral graph theory.
Individualized threshold of the involuntary weight loss in prognostic assessment of cancer
Authors: Xie Hailun , Zhang Heyang , Ruan Guotian , Wei Lishuang , Ge Yizhong , Lin Shiqi , Song Mengmeng , Wang Ziwen , Liu Chenan , Shi Jinyu , Liu Xiaoyue , Yang Ming , Zheng Xin , Chen Yue , Zhang Xiaowei , Shi Hanping
Published: November 2023

Background

Involuntary weight loss (WL) is a common symptom in cancer patients and is associated with poor outcomes. However, there is no standardized definition of WL, and it is unclear what magnitude of weight loss should be considered significant for prognostic purposes. This study aimed to determine an individualized threshold for WL that can be used for prognostic assessment in cancer patients.

Methods

Univariate and multivariate analyses of overall survival (OS) were performed using Cox proportional hazard models. The Kaplan–Meier method was performed to estimate the survival distribution of different WL levels. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between WL and 90‐day outcomes. Restricted cubic splines with three knots were used to examine the effects of WL on survival under different body mass index (BMI) conditions.

Results

Among the 8806 enrolled patients with cancer, median survival time declined as WL increased, from 25.1 to 20.1, 17.8 and 16.4 months at <2%, 2–5%, 5–10% and ≥10% WL, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariate adjusted Cox regression analysis showed that the risk of adverse prognosis increased by 18.1% based on the SD of WL (5.45 U) (HR: 1.181, 95% CI: 1.144–1.219, P < 0.001). Similarly, categorical WL was independently associated with OS in patients with cancer. With the worsening of WL, the risk of a poor prognosis in patients increases stepwise. Compared with <2% WL, all‐cause mortalities were 15.1%, 37% and 64.2% higher in 2–5%, 5–10%, and ≥10% WL, respectively. WL can effectively stratify the prognosis of both overall and site‐specific cancers. The clinical prognostic thresholds for WL based on different BMI levels were 4.21% (underweight), 5.03% (normal), 6.33% (overweight), and 7.60% (obese). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that WL was independently associated with 90‐day outcomes in patients with cancer. Compared with patients with <2% WL, those with ≥10% WL had more than twice the risk of 90‐day outcomes (OR: 3.277, 95% CI: 2.287–4.694, P < 0.001). Systemic inflammation was a cause of WL deterioration. WL mediates 6.3–10.3% of the overall association between systemic inflammation and poor prognoses in patients with cancer.

Conclusions

An individualized threshold for WL based on baseline BMI can be used for prognostic assessment in cancer patients. WL and BMI should be evaluated simultaneously in treatment decision‐making, nutritional intervention, and prognosis discussions of patients with cancer.
Correlations between vegetative autonomic function and specific left atrial functions in healthy adults: Insights from the three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiographic MAGYAR‐Healthy Study
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kormányos Árpád , Orosz Andrea , Ambrus Nóra , Várkonyi Tamás T. , Lengyel Csaba
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The functioning of the left atrium (LA) is partly controlled by the neural system. It was purposed to evaluate correlations between the result of Ewing's 5 standard cardiovascular reflex tests (SCRTs) characterizing autonomic function and LA volumetric and functional features as assessed by three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (3DSTE) in healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods

The current study comprised 18 healthy volunteers being in sinus rhythm (mean age: 35 ± 12 years, 10 men). Measurement of blood pressure, ECG, 5 SCRTs, two‐dimensional Doppler echocardiography and 3DSTE were performed. These parameters were in normal ranges in all cases.

Results

From LA volumetric parameters, only systolic total atrial emptying fraction (r = 0.559, p = 0.037) and early diastolic passive atrial emptying fraction (r = 0.539, p = 0.047) correlated with systolic blood pressure response to standing representing sympathetic autonomic function. From LA strains, peak mean segmental LA radial strain (RS) (r = −0.532, p = 0.050), global and mean segmental LA circumferential strain (CS) (r = 0.662, p = 0.010 and r = 0.635, p = 0.015, respectively) representing systolic LA function correlated with Valsalva ratio representing parasympathetic autonomic function. Global LA‐RS (r = −0.713, p = 0.040) and LA‐CS (r = 0.657, p = 0.011) and mean segmental LA‐CS (r = 0.723, p = 0.003) at atrial contraction representing end‐diastolic atrial contraction showed correlations with Valsalva ratio, as well. Peak global and mean segmental LA‐CS (r = 0.532, p = 0.050 and r = 0.530, p = 0.050) and the same strains at atrial contraction (r = 0.704, p = 0.005 and r = 0.690, p = 0.006) representing systolic function and end‐diastolic atrial contraction correlated with systolic blood pressure response to standing representing both parasympathetic and sympathetic autonomic functions.

Conclusions

Significant correlations between features of vegetative autonomic function represented by Ewing's 5 SCRTs and specific LA functions represented by 3DSTE‐derived LA volume‐based functional properties and strains could be demonstrated in healthy adults.
Multiomics blueprint of PANoptosis in deciphering immune characteristics and prognosis stratification of glioma patients
Authors: Chen Maohua , Huang Min , Chen Xiaoxiang , Lin Xiaoyu , Chen Xianglin
Published: November 2023

Background

As the most prevalent primary brain tumor in adults, glioma accounts for the majority of all central nervous system malignant tumors. The concept of PANoptosis is a relatively new, underlining the interconnection and synergy among three distinct pathways: pyroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis.

Methods

We performed single‐cell annotations of glioma cells and determined crucial signaling pathways through cell chat analysis. Using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Cox analyses, we identified a gene set with prognostic values. Our model was validated using independent external cohort. In addition, we employed single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis and xCell analyses to describe the detailed profile of infiltrated immune cells and depicted the gene mutation landscape in the two groups.

Results

We identified seven distinct cell clusters in glioma samples, including oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), myeloid cells, tumor cells, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, vascular cells and neuronal cells. We found that myeloid cells showed the highest PANoptosis activity. An intense mutual cell communication pattern between the tumor cells and OPCs and oligodendrocytes was observed. Differentially expressed genes between the high‐PANoptosis and low‐PANoptosis cell groups were obtained, which were enriched to actin cytoskeleton, cell adhesion molecules and gamma R‐mediated phagocytosis pathways. We determined a set of five genes of prognostic significance: SAA1, SLPI, DCX, S100A8 and TNR. The prognostic differences between the two groups in the internal and external sets were found to be statistically significant. We found a marked correlation between S100A8 and activated dendritic cell, macrophage, mast cell, myeloid derived suppressor cell and Treg infiltration. Moreover, we have observed a significant increase of PTEN mutation in the high risk (HR) group of glioma patients.

Conclusions

In the present study, we have constructed a prognostic model that is based on the PANoptosis, and we have demonstrated its significant efficacy in stratifying patients with glioma. This innovative prognostic model offers novel insights into precision immune treatments that could be used to combat this disease and improve patient outcomes, thereby providing a new avenue for personalized treatment options.
From 2011 to 2022: The development of pyrazole derivatives through the α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds
Authors: Sharma Shubham , Singh Virender , Vaishali  , Kumar Rakesh , Jamra Rahul , Banyal Naveen , Jyoti
Published: November 2023

The synthesis of pyrazole derivative using α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds has attracted increasing attention of the synthetic organic chemist community. Interestingly, the simplicity of the synthetic method, high reactivity, and ease of incorporating diversity into the desired prototype have contributed a lot toward the exploration of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds by various research groups. Due to the tremendous pharmacological significance of pyrazole derivatives, their synthesis has been one of the leading research frontiers in recent years. As prime examples, sildenafil, zometapin, Celebrex, and rimonabant have been successfully commercialized in the market to treat various life‐challenging diseases. Considering the great profile of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compound in the synthesis of biologically active pyrazole derivatives, this review incorporates contemporary literature (2011–2022) on the synthesis of pyrazole and its derivatives using α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compound as a starting precursor.
Nothing But Stereotypes? Negligible Sex Differences Across Creativity Measures in Science, Arts, and Sports Adolescent High Achievers
Authors: Repeykova Vlada , Toivainen Teemu , Likhanov Maxim , van Broekhoven Kim , Kovas Yulia
Published: November 2023

Previous research has focused on understanding when, why, and how sex differences in creativity occur, as results vary across samples, measures, and methodologies. In the current study we investigated sex differences in creativity among 984 high achieving adolescents in three expertise areas: Sciences, Arts, and Sports. Eight creativity indicators were analyzed: Alternative uses task (AUT) fluency; creative self‐efficacy (CSE); intraindividual strengths (difference between CSE and AUT Fluency); five self‐reported creativity scales: Self/everyday, scholarly, performance, mechanical/scientific, artistic. The results showed negligible sex differences ( = .01), with females performing better in AUT Fluency and males self‐rating their CSE higher. No sex differences were found in self/everyday, scholarly and performance creativity. Males self‐rated their mechanical/scientific creativity ( = .06) higher than females; while females self‐rated their artistic creativity ( = .02) higher in comparison to males. Our results extend the existing literature by finding negligible sex differences in adolescent expert groups. However, some stereotypical differences emerged, for example, females with Sciences expertise rated their mechanical/scientific creativity lower than males with and even without Sciences expertise. Results call for further investigation into the links between sex differences, expertise, and specific creativity domains.
Carrier–phonon interaction and anharmonic phonon decay in ZnS thin film studied by resonance Raman scattering
Authors: Yaqoob Manzar Mushaf , Iqbal Muhammad Faisal , Wang Deliang
Published: November 2023

Resonance Raman scattering was carried out on polycrystalline zinc sulfide (ZnS) thin film. The resonance Raman spectra revealed strong carrier–phonon interaction where longitudinal optical phonon (LO) with overtones up to the fourth order and its combination phonons with transverse acoustic (TA) phonons were observed, namely, nLO + mTA (where n and m are integers). The resonance Raman scattering processes were well explained within the framework of the cascade scattering model. The wavenumber of the LO phonon with increased temperature was dominated by anharmonic phonon decay. Detailed experimental data fittings showed that thermal expansion contribution to the nLO phonon overtones differed from the fundamental LO phonon due to the involvement of the scattering of the LO phonons at the Brillion zone edge. The negative value of the mode‐Grüneisen parameter for the TA phonon slowed down the wavenumber shift of the combination nLO + mTA phonon modes with increasing temperature compared to the nLO phonons. The anharmonic phonon decay of combination nLO + mTA phonons were dominated by anharmonic phonon decay of nLO phonons.
What's new in surgical oncology breast
Authors: Brabender Danielle E. , Klimberg V. Suzanne , Sener Stephen F.
Published: November 2023

It is on the backdrop of advances in tumor biology and systemic therapy for breast cancer, that progress in locoregional treatment has focused on management of the breast for invasive cancer, imaging for staging and therapeutic decision‐making, and de‐escalation in the management of the axilla.
Targeted screening of inflammatory mediators in spontaneous degenerative disc disease in dogs reveals an upregulation of the tumor necrosis superfamily
Authors: Bitterli Thomas , Schmid David , Ettinger Ladina , Krupkova Olga , Bach Frances C. , Tryfonidou Marianna A. , Meij Björn P. , Pozzi Antonio , Steffen Frank , Wuertz‐Kozak Karin , Smolders Lucas A.
Published: November 2023

Background

The regulation of inflammatory mediators in the degenerating intervertebral disc (IVD) and corresponding ligamentum flavum (LF) is a topic of emerging interest. The study aimed to investigate the expression of a broad array of inflammatory mediators in the degenerated LF and IVD using a dog model of spontaneous degenerative disc disease (DDD) to determine potential treatment targets.

Methods

LF and IVD tissues were collected from 22 normal dogs (Pfirrmann grades I and II) and 18 dogs affected by DDD (Pfirrmann grades III and IV). A qPCR gene array was used to investigate the expression of 80 inflammatory genes for LF and IVD tissues, whereafter targets of interest were investigated in additional tissue samples using qPCR, western blot (WB), and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Tumor necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) signaling was identified as a regulated pathway in DDD, based on the significant regulation (n‐fold ± SD) of various TNFSF members in the degenerated IVD, including nerve growth factor (NGF; −8 ± 10), CD40LG (464 ± 442), CD70 (341 ± 336), TNFSF Ligand 10 (9 ± 8), and RANKL/TNFSF Ligand 11 (85 ± 74). In contrast, TNFSF genes were not significantly affected in the degenerated LF compared to the control LF. Protein expression of NGF (WB) was significantly upregulated in both the degenerated LF (4.4 ± 0.5) and IVD (11.3 ± 5.6) compared to the control group. RANKL immunopositivity was significantly upregulated in advanced stages of degeneration (Thompson grades IV and V) in the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus of the IVD, but not in the LF.

Conclusions

DDD involves a significant upregulation of various TNFSF members, with tissue‐specific expression profiles in LF and IVD tissues. The differential involvement of TNFSF members within multiple spinal tissues from the same individual provides new insights into the inflammatory processes involved in DDD and may provide a basis to formulate hypotheses for the determination of potential treatment targets.
Military exposures and Gulf War illness in veterans with and without posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Boyle Stephen H. , Upchurch Julie , Gifford Elizabeth J. , Redding Thomas S. , Hauser Elizabeth R. , Malhotra Deeksha , Press Ashlyn , Sims Kellie J. , Williams Christina D.
Published: November 2023

Gulf War illness (GWI) is a chronic multisymptom disorder of unknown etiology that is believed to be caused by neurotoxicant exposure experienced during deployment to the Gulf War. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) covaries with GWI and is believed to play a role in GWI symptoms. The present study examined the association between self‐reported military exposures and GWI, stratified by PTSD status, in veterans from the Gulf War Era Cohort and Biorepository who were deployed to the Persian Gulf during the war. Participants self‐reported current GWI and PTSD symptoms as well as military exposures (e.g., pyridostigmine [PB] pills, pesticides/insecticides, combat, chemical attacks, and oil well fires) experienced during the Gulf War. Deployed veterans’ (N = 921) GWI status was ascertained using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definition. Individuals who met the GWI criteria were stratified by PTSD status, yielding three groups: GWI‐, GWI+/PTSD‐, and GWI+/PTSD+. Multivariable logistic regression, adjusted for covariates, was used to examine associations between GWI/PTSD groups and military exposures. Apart from insect bait use, the GWI+/PTSD+ group had higher odds of reporting military exposures than the GWI+/PTSD‐ group, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.15, 95% CI [1.30, 3.56]–aOR = 6.91, 95% CI [3.39, 14.08]. Except for PB pills, the GWI+/PTSD‐ group had a higher likelihood of reporting military exposures than the GWI‐ group, aOR = 2.03, 95% CI [1.26, 3.26]–aOR = 4.01, 95% CI [1.57, 10.25]. These findings are consistent with roles for both PTSD and military exposures in the etiology of GWI.
Low‐Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Maintains Bone Mass After Withdrawal of Human Parathyroid Hormone in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Kojima Yoshitsugu , Watanabe Takayuki , Mizuki Fumitaka , Izumo Nobuo , Nishimura Yoshihiro
Published: November 2023

The intermittent injection of teriparatide, a recombinant fragment of human parathyroid hormone (PTH 1–34), activates anabolic activity on bone turnover. However, the PTH administration period is limited to 2 years. Thus, sequential therapy after discontinuation of PTH is required. Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has been widely used for bone fracture healing. In this study, we examined the effects of LIPUS on bone mass after PTH withdrawal in ovariectomized (OVX) model mice. The LIPUS‐non‐irradiated femoral trabecular bone mineral density (BMD) in the treated after PTH withdrawal was significantly decreased. Meanwhile, the femoral BMD in the OVX + PTH‐LIPUS group was remarkably higher than that of the OVX group. Additionally, mRNA expression of Runx2, Osterix, Col1a1, and ALP increased significantly following LIPUS irradiation after PTH withdrawal. These results suggest that LIPUS protected against femoral trabecular BMD loss and up‐regulated the osteogenic factors following PTH withdrawal in OVX mice.
Effect of Testosterone on the Thyroarytenoid Muscle and Lamina Propria of Female Rat Vocal Folds
Authors: Aires Mateus M. , de Oliveira Karine V. G. , do Amaral Jônatas B. , Mônico‐Neto Marcos , Martins João Roberto M. , Santiago Aline L. , De Biase Noemi G.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To analyze the effects of androgen therapy on the thyroarytenoid (TA) muscle, expression of androgen receptors (ARs) and hyaluronic acid (HA) concentration in the vocal folds (VFs) of adult female rats.

Methods

Twenty‐one adult female Wistar rats were divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group received weekly intramuscular injections of nandrolone decanoate for 9 weeks. Following euthanasia and dissection of the VFs, histomorphometric analysis of the TA muscle, immunohistochemical evaluation of ARs, and measurement of HA concentration using the ELISA‐like fluorimetric method were performed.

Results

The experimental group exhibited a significantly larger mean fiber cross‐sectional area in the TA muscle compared to the control group (434.3 ± 68.6 μm2 versus 305.7 ± 110.1 μm2; p = 0.029), indicating muscle hypertrophy. There was no significant difference in the number of muscle fibers. The experimental group showed higher expression of ARs in the lamina propria (62.0% ± 30.3% versus 22.0% ± 22.8%; p = 0.046) and in the TA muscle (45.0% ± 22.6% versus 18.3% ± 9.8%; p = 0.024). There was no significant difference in the concentration of HA.

Conclusion

Exposure of adult female rats to androgen therapy resulted in hypertrophy of the TA muscle and increased expression of ARs in the VFs. The TA muscle seems to be the primary target of testosterone action in the VF, and the up‐regulation of ARs might contribute to the persistent deepening of the voice.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:2316–2321, 2024
Management of positive resection margins following transoral laser microsurgery for glottic cancer
Authors: Khan Usman , MacKay Colin , Rigby Matthew , Trites Jonathan , Corsten Martin , Taylor S. Mark
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The current literature provides limited guidance on the management of positive margins (PMs) following transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) for glottic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Long‐term data exploring the treatment of PMs with both initial observation and re‐resection are limited. Our objective was to determine the optimal treatment for PM patients following TLM for glottic SCC.

Methods

Clinical information on glottic SCC patients with PMs following treatment with TLM was prospectively collected at our institution from 2007 to 2018. We use a laryngeal template during the initial TLM where the area of resection is outlined for future reference. Data were compared with univariate analysis and survival plots were generated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

A total of 29 patients with PMs were treated with either re‐resection (19 patients), close observation (6 patients), or adjuvant radiation alone (4 patients). Re‐resection patients had SCC or severe dysplasia on initial margin pathology and 23% with early‐stage disease had recurrence (T1–T2). Five (83%) patients who underwent close observation required re‐resection based on clinical suspicion of recurrence (confirmed on final pathology), which was significantly different from the re‐resection patients (p < .05). Close observation was therefore discontinued as a management of PMs. Four patients (21%) had no residual malignancy on re‐resection specimens. Deep margins only accounted for 17% of all PMs. Disease‐specific survival for all PM patients at 5 years was 82.4% (SE 9.6%, CI 53.4%–91.6%).

Conclusions

Our long‐term experience with treating early‐stage glottic SCC with TLM supports re‐resection as an appropriate management for cases of PMs.

Level of Evidence

4.
A new, global optical sediment trap calibration
Authors: Estapa Margaret L. , Durkin Colleen Andrea , Slade Wayne H. , Huffard Christine L. , O'Neill Sean P. , Omand Melissa M.
Published: November 2023

Autonomous sensors for gravitational carbon flux in the ocean are critically needed, because of uncertainties in the projected response of the biological carbon pump (BCP) to climate change, and the proposed, engineered acceleration of the BCP to sequester carbon dioxide in the ocean. Optical sediment trap (OST) sensors directly sense fluxes of sinking particles in a manner that is independent of, and complementary to, other autonomous, sensor‐derived estimates of BCP fluxes. However, limited intercalibrations of OSTs with traditional sediment traps and uncharacterized, potential biases have limited their broad adoption. A global field data set spanning three orders of magnitude in carbon flux was compiled and used to develop empirical models predicting particulate organic carbon flux from OST observations, and intercalibrating different sensor designs. These data provided valuable constraints on the uncertainty in the predicted carbon flux and showed a quantitative, theoretically consistent relationship between observations from OSTs with collimated and diffuse optical geometries. While not designed for this purpose, commercial beam transmissometers have been used as OSTs, so two models were developed quantifying the biases arising from the transmissometer's housing geometry and optical beam diameter. Finally, an algorithm for the quality control of beam transmissometer‐derived OST data was optimized using sensitivity tests. The results of this study support the expansion of OST‐based gravitational carbon flux measurements and provide a framework for interpretation of OST measurements alongside other gravitational particle flux observations. These findings also suggest key features that should be included in designs of future, purpose‐built OST sensors.
Photorefraction‐Assisted Self‐Emergence of Dissipative Kerr Solitons
Authors: Wan Shuai , Wang Pi‐Yu , Ma Rui , Wang Zheng‐Yu , Niu Rui , He De‐Yong , Guo Guang‐Can , Bo Fang , Liu Junqiu , Dong Chun‐Hua
Published: November 2023

Generated in high‐Q optical microresonators, dissipative Kerr soliton microcombs constitute broadband optical frequency combs with chip sizes and repetition rates in the microwave to millimeter‐wave range. For frequency metrology applications such as spectroscopy, optical atomic clocks, and frequency synthesizers, octave‐spanning soliton microcombs generated in dispersion‐optimized microresonators are required, which allow self‐referencing for full frequency stabilization. In addition, field‐deployable applications require the generation of such soliton microcombs to be simple, deterministic, and reproducible. Here, a novel scheme to generate self‐emerging solitons in integrated lithium‐niobate microresonators is demonstrated. The single soliton features a broadband spectral bandwidth with dual dispersive waves, allowing 2f–3f self‐referencing. Via harnessing the photorefractive effect of lithium niobate to significantly extend the soliton existence range, a spontaneous yet deterministic single‐soliton formation is observed. The soliton is immune to external perturbation and can operate continuously for over 13 h without active feedback control. Finally, via integration with a pre‐programmed distributed feedback (DFB) laser, turnkey soliton generation is demonstrated. With further improvement of microresonator Q and hybrid integration with chip‐scale laser chips, compact soliton microcomb devices with electronic actuation can be created, which can become central elements for future LiDAR, microwave photonics, and optical telecommunications.
Nearly Perfect Spin Conversion Based on Topological Singularity in 1D Anisotropic Photonic Crystals
Authors: Liu Yufu , Wang Xianjun , Xiong Langlang , Qi Xingchao , Lai Zhen , Wang Xuezhi , Li Yunlin , Jiang Xunya
Published: November 2023

Although the spin‐controlled vortex generation and photonic spin‐Hall effect of spin‐flipped abnormal mode have been widely studied recently, the traditional method based on the metasurface is difficult to fabricate, and the efficiency of the spin‐flipped abnormal mode is rather low due to process errors and intrinsic material loss. Here, a new method is proposed based on the insights into the topological singularity and special Bragger reflections resonant (BRR) mode of one‐dimensional (1D) finite photonic crystals (PhCs) with anisotropic material to realize nearly perfect (100%) spin‐conversion efficiency. For a finite 1D PhC with cell number N, there are 3N complete spin‐conversion (CSC) and complete spin‐maintained (CSM) channels. Two mechanisms of these CSC and CSM channels are revealed. The working bandwidths and the angular ranges of these CSC and CSM are also studied. Based on these theoretical findings, multi‐angles and multi‐frequencies perfect spin‐conversion (‐maintained) devices can be designed. At last, these theoretical results are confirmed by the numerical experiments based on finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) methods. This work paves the way to exploring the topological properties and polarization control of PhCs made of anisotropic dielectrics and provides a prospective method for the design of multi‐channels spin optical devices.
Robust Type‐II Band Alignment and Stacking‐Controlling Second Harmonic Generation in GaN/ZnO vdW Heterostructure
Authors: Zhang Anbing , Qiu Shi , Zhao Luneng , Liu Hongsheng , Zhao Jijun , Gao Junfeng
Published: November 2023

Most traditional 2D materials have small bandgaps, resulting in low laser damage thresholds and limiting their applications in the ultraviolet region. Recently experimentally synthesized 2D GaN and ZnO can be such candidates due to their wide bandgaps, high charge mobilities, and optical transparency. Here, the van der Waals heterostructure GaN/ZnO is predicted that can exhibit both wide bandgap and strong second harmonic generation (SHG) response by compelling simulations. The results show the heterostructure always exhibits type‐II band alignment under all probable stacking configurations. The out‐of‐plane SHG coefficients are up to 90 pm V−1 at 400 nm, comparable to those of MoS2 and MoSe2 and higher than most 3D crystals. Interestingly, the positions are enhanced with localized, symmetric, and stacking‐dependent features in the Brillouin zone. This peculiar momentum space behavior is originated from the relative strength of two distinct mechanisms contributing to the second‐order nonlinear optical (NLO) response, that is, a purely interband transition part and a mixed interband‐intraband contribution. Thus, this study proposes that GaN/ZnO heterostructure may be an efficient and high laser damage thresholds (LDTs) NLO material and an interesting platform for studying NLO optical properties.
Controlled Synthesis of a High‐Mobility Bi3O2.5Se2 Semiconductor by Oxidation of Bi2Se3 for Fast and Highly Sensitive Photodetectors
Authors: Zhang Lei , He Yuyu , Dong Xinyue , Guo Junqing , Gao Zhansheng , Liu Zhaochao , Chen Jiabiao , Zhao Yingtao , Zhou Zhengyang , Yin Jun , Fu Xuewen , Luo Feng , Fu Huixia , Wu Jinxiong
Published: November 2023

The search of new high‐mobility two‐dimensional (2D) semiconductors is crucial for the development of next‐generation photodetectors, since current photodetectors based on single 2D semiconductors usually cannot simultaneously own ultrafast response rate and ultrahigh sensitivity. Here, using a facial method of sequentially oxidizing Bi2Se3 at optimal O content, a series of bismuth oxyselenide semiconductors (Bi3O2.5Se2, Bi2O2Se, Bi2SeO5) with appealing electronic applications are successfully synthesized. The crystal and band structures of a superlattice‐free Bi3O2.5Se2 phase are resolved by 3D electron diffraction and density functional theory calculations, showing a unique non‐neutral layered structure, moderate band gap, and small effective mass. More importantly, the concept of Bi2Se3 + O2 can be extended to synthesize the superlattice‐free Bi3O2.5Se2 ultrathin films by chemical vapor deposition, whose room‐temperature mobility can be as high as ≈150 cm2 V−1 s−1 based on Hall measurements. The ultrathin Bi3O2.5Se2 photodetectors with a simple device configuration simultaneously own ultrafast response time (≈31 µs), ultrahigh responsivity (≈8 × 104 A/W), and large detectivity (≈8 × 1013 Jones). This work not only introduces a facile way to regulate the phase in the bismuth oxyselenide family, but also provides an alternative candidate for ultrafast and ultrasensitive photodetectors.
Brush‐Like Coatings Provide a Cloak of Invisibility to Titanium Implants
Authors: Witzdam Lena , Garay‐Sarmiento Manuela , Gagliardi Mick , Meurer Yannick L. , Rutsch Yannik , Englert Jenny , Philipsen Sandra , Janem Anisa , Alsheghri Rawan , Jakob Felix , Molin Daniël G. M. , Schwaneberg Ulrich , van den Akker Nynke M. S. , Rodriguez‐Emmenegger Cesar
Published: November 2023

Orthopedic implants such as knee and hip implants are one of the most important types of medical devices. Currently, the surface of the most advanced implants consists of titanium or titanium‐alloys with high porosity at the bone‐contacting surface leading to superior mechanical properties, excellent biocompatibility, and the capability of inducing osseointegration. However, the increased surface area of porous titanium provides a nidus for bacteria colonization leading to implant‐related infections, one of the main reasons for implant failure. Here, two readily applicable titanium‐coatings based on hydrophilic carboxybetaine polymers that turn the surface stealth thereby preventing bacterial adhesion and colonization are developed. These coatings are biocompatible, do not affect cell functionality, exhibit great antifouling properties, and do not cause additional inflammation during the healing process. In this way, the coatings can prevent implant‐related infections, while at the same time being completely innocuous to its biological environment. Thus, these coating strategies are a promising route to enhance the biocompatibility of orthopedic implants and have a high potential for clinical use, while being easy to implement in the implant manufacturing process.
Oil‐Infused Polymer Fiber Membranes as Porous Patches for Long‐Term Skin Hydration and Moisturization
Authors: Szewczyk Piotr K. , Kopacz Michał , Krysiak Zuzanna J. , Stachewicz Urszula
Published: November 2023

Skin allergies and diseases, including atopic dermatitis (AD), affect millions worldwide. Current treatments for AD are often expensive, leading to a need for cost‐effective solutions. Here, using fiber‐based patches to maintain and increase skin hydration is explored, which helps treat eczema and AD. Nanofiber membranes are manufactured via electrospinning of eight different polymers: nylon 6 (PA6), polyimide (PI), poly(3‐hydroxybuty‐rate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate (PHBV), poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and polystyrene (PS), and two molecular weights poly(vinyl butyral‐co‐vinyl alcohol‐co‐vinyl acetate) (PVB). Further, their morphology is examined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fibers, and pores diameter, wettability, and membrane thickness. Additionally, water vapor transmission rates (WVTR) are measured, and notably, skin hydration tests are conducted before and after using evening primrose oil‐infused patches. The comparison and findings highlight the flexibility of electrospun patches, demonstrating their potential in maintaining skin hydration for 6 h and enhancing skin moisture, which are necessary in AD treatment. These insights, which focus on selecting the most effective performance patches, help improve skin moisture, leading to tailored treatments for AD, which can significantly impact the efforts to reduce healthcare costs and simplify skincare steps.
Validation of the Distress Thermometer as a Screening Tool for Psychosocial Distress and Resilience in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Schnalke Nils , Tekampe Esther , Feige Tim , Frank Anika , Reichmann Heinz , Falkenburger Björn , D'Souza Simone
Published: November 2023

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with psychosocial distress that affects patients’ quality of life. The distress thermometer (DT) is an 11‐point visual analogue scale that is used as a screening tool for the assessment of psychosocial distress, originally developed for oncological diseases.

Objectives

To validate the DT for PD and to explore contributing factors.

Methods

The DT scale was administered to 105 people with Parkinson's Disease (PwPD). Along with it, we assessed motor symptoms (Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III [UPDRS III], Hoehn and Yahr‐stage [H&Y]), non‐motor symptoms (Non‐motor Symptom Questionnaire [NMSQ]), anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS], Fear of Progression‐Questionnaire Short Form [FOP‐Q‐SF], Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale‐7 [GAD‐7], 9‐question Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ‐9]), the feeling of hope (Herth Hope Index [HHI]) and quality of life (Schedule for the Evaluation of Individual Quality of Life [SEIQoL]).

Results

With a cut‐off of 4, the DT identified PwPD with distress with a sensitivity of 97% and a specificity of 38%. With this cut‐off, the DT will yield false negative results in 1 out of 100 cases. Factor analyses and a random forest regression of the dataset revealed that distress can be predicted by two factors, which we termed “anxiety” and “depression/resilience/motor symptoms”.

Conclusion

The DT is an ultra‐short and reliable screening tool for distress in PwPD. DT values below 4 rule out distress with a high degree of certainty. Anxiety and depression are important factors in distress but are counterbalanced by the individuals’ psychological resilience.
Dynamic pricing for group‐buying strategy with network externality
Authors: Hou Rui , Li Weijian , Jin Kangning , Qu Mingyue , Lin Xiaogang
Published: November 2023

We consider a two‐stage dynamic pricing problem for a seller who employs online group purchasing with strategic customers. Customers who arrive in Periods 1 and 2 can decide whether to purchase the product in the current period, delay their purchases to the next period (for those customers in Period 1), or leave the market. The network externality, a typical characteristic of group buying, is captured in our model. That is, more customers who purchase the product would positively or negatively affect the demand. We investigate the impacts of positive/negative externality on the seller's prices, demands, and profits, respectively. By comparing positive and negative externality cases, we find that customers who purchase the product in Period 2 can enjoy a lower price than in Period 1 for negative externality. Interestingly, however, the price in Period 1 might be higher or lower than in Period 2 for positive externality, even if the corresponding demand is lower. Compared to no externality, our result shows that the seller should reduce the price in Period 1 but increase it in Period 2 because this helps increase the total demand and profit in the presence of a positive externality. Nevertheless, when there exists a negative externality, we confirm that the prices in two periods might both decrease for a lower externality, which leads to lower total demand and profit for the seller. Since the seller can decide whether to disclose their reviews or product historical sales to customers, this result can provide practical implications for sellers who adopt a group purchasing strategy.
Managerial myopia and outward foreign direct investment: Evidence from Chinese listed firms
Authors: Dong Li , Chen Jinlong , Guo Huiling
Published: November 2023

Previous literature has studied the effect of managers' attributes on firms' outward foreign direct investment (OFDI). However, this extant literature ignored the role of managerial myopia. We use a sample of Chinese listed companies to examine the impact of managerial myopia on firms' OFDI. Based on the MD&A disclosure of firms, we use textual analysis and machine learning technology to measure managerial myopia. The result shows that managerial myopia has a negative impact on firms' OFDI. The cross‐sectional analysis results shows that the effect of managerial myopia on firms' OFDI is concentrated in firms with low financial constraints, technology‐intensive firms, and non‐state‐owned enterprises. Further analysis indicates that managerial short‐term performance pressure and corporate risk‐taking, respectively, strengthen and weaken the negative impact of managerial myopia on firms' OFDI. Our results suggest that managerial myopia will hinder a firm's international expansion. Therefore, firms committed to international expansion should also consider the long‐horizon vision of managers when appointing senior managers.