bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting exchange rates: An iterated combination constrained predictor approach
Authors: Alexandridis Antonios K. , Panopoulou Ekaterini , Souropanis Ioannis
Published: January 2024

Forecasting exchange rate returns is of great interest to both academics and practitioners. In this study, we forecast daily exchange rate returns of six widely traded currencies using combination and dimensionality reduction methods. We propose a hybrid iterated combination with constrained predictor approach. In addition, we examine the impact of positivity constraints on the forecasting ability of each method. Our results indicate that the proposed hybrid method outperforms the simple linear bivariate method and both the iterated combination and the predictor constrained approaches. Positivity constraints significantly improve the forecasting ability of all methods.
Microvascular reconstruction of medication related osteonecrosis of the head and neck
Authors: Sweeny Larissa , Long Sallie M. , Pipkorn Patrik , Wax Mark K. , Thomas Carissa M. , Curry Joseph M. , Yang Sara , Lander Daniel , Chowdhury Farshad , Amin Dev , Kane Anne C. , Miles Brett A. , Salama Andrew , Cannady Steven B. , Tasche Kendall , Mann Derek , Jackson Ryan
Published: January 2024

Background

Medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) requiring free flap (FF) reconstruction is uncommon with limited reported findings.

Methods

Multicenter, retrospective case series of 49 consecutive adult patients presenting with advanced MRONJ requiring FF reconstruction from 2010 to 2022. Perioperative complications and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Eighty‐two percent (n = 40) of cases were of the mandible and 18% (n = 9) were of the maxilla. The mean follow‐up was 15 months (±19.6). The majority of FF survived (96%, n = 47). FF reconstructions of the maxilla were more likely to require postoperative debridement (56%, 95% CI [27, 81%] vs. 15%, 95% CI [7, 25%], p = 0.008) or develop intraoral bone exposure (56%, 95% CI [27, 81%] vs. 18%, 95% CI [9, 27%], p = 0.02). Most patients (71%, n = 35) received preoperative antibiotics which was associated with a higher rate of FF survival (100% vs. 86%, 95% CI [60, 96%], p = 0.02) and fewer complications.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing FF reconstruction for MRONJ do well with high rates of FF success. MRONJ of the maxilla have a higher rate of some complications. Preoperative antibiotics correlated with higher FF survival and fewer postoperative complications.
Impact of cervical lymph node metastasis on transoral surgery for hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Ushiro Koji , Watanabe Yoshiki , Kishimoto Yo , Kawai Yoshitaka , Fujimura Shintaro , Asato Ryo , Tsujimura Takashi , Hori Ryusuke , Kumabe Yohei , Yasuda Kaori , Tamaki Hisanobu , Iki Takehiro , Kitani Yoshiharu , Kurata Keisuke , Kojima Tsuyoshi , Takata Kuniaki , Kada Shinpei , Takebayashi Shinji , Shinohara Shogo , Hamaguchi Kiyomi , Miyazaki Masakazu , Ikenaga Tadashi , Maetani Toshiki , Harada Hiroyuki , Haji Tomoyuki , Omori Koichi
Published: January 2024

Background

Hypopharyngeal carcinoma is likely to spread to the lymph nodes, but there is no established strategy for management in transoral surgery.

Methods

We compared oncologic and functional outcomes in a retrospective multicenter study of patients who underwent transoral surgery for hypopharyngeal carcinoma between 2015 and 2021.

Results

Two‐hundred and thirty‐two patients were included. Comparing patients with and without adjuvant radiotherapy, 3‐year regional recurrence‐free survival (RRFS) was not significantly different in pN2b and pN2c, but was significantly worse in pN3b without adjuvant radiotherapy. In patients without neck dissection, the 3‐year RRFS was 85.6%, 76.8%, and 70.0% for T1, T2, and T3 primary lesions, respectively, and was significantly worse for T2 or higher (p = 0.035).

Conclusions

In the absence of extracapsular invasion, regional control did not deteriorate without adjuvant therapy. If prophylactic neck dissection is not performed, careful follow‐up is necessary if the primary lesion is T2 or greater.
Fasciocutaneous and jejunal free flaps for circumferential hypopharyngeal defect reconstruction: A 22‐year multicenter cohort study
Authors: Tonsbeek Anthony M. , Hundepool Caroline A. , Smit Merel M. , Verduijn Pieter S. , Duraku Liron S. , Sewnaik Aniel , Wijnhoven Bas P. L. , Mureau Marc A. M.
Published: January 2024

Background

It remains unclear whether a tubed fasciocutaneous or jejunal free flap (FCFF and JFF) is preferable for reconstruction of circumferential pharyngolaryngoesophageal defects.

Methods

All consecutive patients with circumferential pharyngolaryngoesophageal defects reconstructed with an FCFF or JFF between 2000 and 2022 were included. Outcomes of interest were rates of fistulas, strictures, and donor‐site complications.

Results

In total, 112 patients were included (35 FCFFs and 77 JFFs). Fistula and stricture rates were significantly lower following JFF compared to FCFF reconstructions, with 12% versus 34% (p = 0.008) and 29% versus 49% (p = 0.04), respectively. Severe donor‐site complications leading to surgical intervention or ICU admittance only occurred after JFF reconstructions (18%, p = 0.007).

Conclusions

The high fistula and stricture rates in FCFF reconstructions and the rate of severe abdominal complications in JFF reconstructions illustrate inherent procedure‐specific advantages and disadvantages. Relative pros and cons should be carefully weighed when tailoring treatments to the individual needs of patients.
Factors associated with infant feeding intention among usual‐risk pregnant women
Authors: Magalhães Sales Nirvana , Almeida de Oliveira Anny Karolyne , Sousa da Silva Francisco Maurício , Nascimento Oliveira Larissa , Maciel Abreu Victórya Suéllen , Pires Gadelha Ivyna , Reis Ferreira Uly , Amorim Lessa Soares Paula Renata , Ribeiro Samila Gomes , de Souza Aquino Priscila
Published: January 2024

Objective

To identify the factors associated with infant feeding intention among usual‐risk pregnant women.

Methods

A quantitative cross‐sectional study was conducted in two primary healthcare institutions in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, with usual‐risk pregnant women. A non‐probabilistic convenience sampling method was used, and 119 pregnant women participated. Data collection took place from May 2022 to February 2023. The data collection process involved using forms and the Infant Feeding Intention Scale. Ethical considerations were strictly adhered to.

Results

The study revealed statistically significant differences in the infant’s means. The majority of pregnant women (96.6%) declared that they would breastfeed after giving birth. The intention to breastfeed exclusively was statistically higher in mothers with younger children and previous experience of breastfeeding or complications in the current pregnancy.

Conclusion

This study clarified that the intention to breastfeed up to 6 months is influenced by variables encompassing the age of the youngest child, previous breastfeeding experience, and pregnancy complications, emphasizing the intricate nature of the determinants of intention to breastfeed.
Modelling land suitability and development potential options for irrigable and rainfed agricultural scenarios in Ethiopia
Authors: Desta Hailu Shiferaw
Published: January 2024

Despite being a significant sector in Ethiopia, agriculture is mainly run in rainfed system. However, it is imperative to look for irrigation systems and their suitability to the country's agriculture. The study's objectives were to (1) map areas appropriate for irrigable and rainfed agriculture and examine gaps with current active areas, (2) model possible development for irrigation and rainfed scenarios, and (3) offer evidence‐based decision support for agricultural investment. Land features, agroecology, population density, market accessibility and length of growing seasons were considered as important indicators when determining land suitability for each scenario. Geographically weighted regression was used to model these indicators. The results show that approximately 359,360 (34%) and 13,802 km2 (1.6%) are highly suitable areas for irrigation and rainfed agriculture, respectively. However, Ethiopia's production depends on areas moderately suitable for rainfed agriculture, but these areas are highly suitable for irrigation rather, indicating that it is unfortunate that the areas suitable for irrigation are used for rainfed agriculture so far. In terms of development potential, areas of approximately 71,317 (7%) and 347,435 km2 (33%) had the highest and a high irrigation potential, respectively, while areas with rainfed agriculture had approximately 33,821 (3%) and 105,013 km2 (10%) with the highest and a high development potential, respectively. These analyses suggest that the country has untapped potential for agricultural development in both scenarios, but this remains within the scope identified in this study.
A systematic review focused on lubricant use and sperm quality: Improving human reproductive success by informing lubricants toxicity
Authors: Molin Eloiza Adriane Dal , Leite Gabriel Adan Araújo , Lazzari Virgínia Meneghini
Published: January 2024

Lubricants play a pivotal role in human reproductive health, particularly concerning their impact on sperm parameters. In this systematic review, we assess the implications of both synthetic and natural or organic lubricants on sperm health and fertility, based on a compilation of 20 distinct studies. Synthetic lubricants, including K‐Y Jelly, Replens, and Astroglide, predominantly containing ingredients like methylparaben and glycerin, have been linked to detrimental effects on sperm motility and chromatin integrity. Chemical characteristics, notably osmolality and pH, are central to understanding these effects. Despite the World Health Organization's osmolality recommendation of 380 mOsm/kg, many commercial products surpass this. Natural solutions offer varied results, while olive oil exhibits unfavorable effects on sperm health, egg white proves non‐toxic, potentially benefitting sperm health. Conversely, Pre‐Seed, widely endorsed in the research community, generally demonstrates minimal adverse impact on sperm. The review highlights the significance of lubricant selection in evidence‐based reproductive strategies.
Influence of skeletal muscle and intermuscular fat on postoperative complications and long‐term survival in rectal cancer patients
Authors: Nie Tong , Wu Feihong , Heng Yixin , Cai Wentai , Liu Zhihao , Qin Le , Cao Yinghao , Zheng Chuansheng
Published: January 2024

Background

The body composition of patients with rectal cancer potentially affects postoperative outcomes. This study explored the correlations between skeletal muscle and adipose tissue quantified by computed tomography (CT) with postoperative complications and long‐term prognosis in patients with rectal cancer after surgical resection.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients with rectal cancer who underwent surgical resection at the Wuhan Union Hospital between 2014 and 2018. CT images within 3 months prior to the surgery were used to quantify the indices of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue at the levels of the third lumbar vertebra (L3) and umbilicus. Optimal cut‐off values for each index were defined separately for males and females. Associations between body composition and postoperative complications, overall survival (OS), and disease‐free survival (DFS) were evaluated using logistic and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

We included 415 patients (240 males and 175 females; mean age: 57.8 ± 10.5 years). At the L3 level, a high skeletal muscle density (SMD; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.357, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.191–0.665, P = 0.001; HR: 0.571, 95% CI: 0.329–0.993, P = 0.047) and a high skeletal muscle index (SMI; HR: 0.435, 95% CI 0.254–0.747, P = 0.003; HR: 0.568, 95% CI: 0.359–0.897, P = 0.015) were independent prognostic factors for better OS and DFS. At the umbilical level, a large intermuscular fat area (IMFA; HR: 1.904, 95% CI: 1.068–3.395, P = 0.029; HR: 2.064, 95% CI: 1.299–3.280, P = 0.002) was an independent predictive factor for worse OS and DFS, and a high SMI (HR: 0.261, 95% CI: 0.132–0.517, P < 0.001; HR: 0.595, 95% CI: 0.387–0.913, P = 0.018) was an independent prognostic factor for better OS and DFS. The models combining body composition and clinical indicators had good predictive abilities for OS. The receiver operating characteristic areas under the curve were 0.848 and 0.860 at the L3 and umbilical levels, respectively (both P < 0.05).

Conclusions

No correlations existed between CT‐quantified body composition parameters and postoperative complications. However, a high SMD and high SMI were significantly associated with longer OS and DFS at the L3 level, whereas a large IMFA and low SMI were associated with worse OS and DFS at the umbilical level. Combining CT‐quantified body composition and clinical indicators could help physicians predict the prognosis of patients with rectal cancer after surgery.
Small‐scale and scale‐up bioleaching of Li, Co, Ni and Mn from spent lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Panda Sandeep , Dembele Seydou , Mishra Srabani , Akcil Ata , Agcasulu İsmail , Hazrati Edris , Tuncuk Aysenur , Malavasi Pierre , Gaydardzhiev Stoyan
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

A bioleaching process could offer the advantage of higher metal recovery in a sustainable manner even from lithium‐ion battery (LIB) samples with very low metal concentrations. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the use of secondary resources such as LIBs for various purposes including transportation, large‐scale energy storage and use in portable devices.

RESULTS

The adaptation of a mixed culture of acidophilic microorganism (lab stock culture) to a representative LIB sample allowed the setting of 0.5% of the pulp density under lab scale conditions. The maximum metal dissolution by bioleaching in a 1‐L bioreactor for the as‐received and thermally treated samples was found to be Li (67% & 49%), cobalt (81% & 86%), nickel (99% & 87%) and manganese (86% & 75%). Likewise, on the 10‐L scale, the dissolutions observed were: Li (80% & 67%), Co (75%), Ni (91% & 88%) and Mn (63% & 75%) for the as‐received and heat‐treated samples, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Parameters such as particle size, leaching time, pH and iron ions (Fe2+) affect the efficiency of acidophilic bioleaching of Li, Co, Ni and Mn from spent LiBs. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Understanding the relationship between idea contributions and idea enactments in student design teams: A social network analysis approach
Authors: Henderson Trevion S.
Published: January 2024

Background

Existing research has demonstrated that student characteristics, such as race/ethnicity, sex, and personal beliefs about engineering knowledge, shape students' experiences in ill‐structured problem‐solving, such as engineering design, where ideas must be communicated, negotiated, and selected in complex social processes.

Purpose

The purpose of this research was to examine the how student characteristics, such as race/ethnicity, sex, and epistemological beliefs, are associated with patterns of idea contributions and ideas enactments in collaborative project teams.

Method

In this article, I use the multilayer exponential random graph model (ERGM) for examining multiple complex social relationships simultaneously. Drawing on survey data from a study of engineering student teamwork, this research examines the relationship perceptions of idea contributions (layer 1) and idea enactments (layer 2) in collaborative project teams.

Results

Results indicated no sex differences in the perceptions of idea contributions and enactments in student design teams. However, underrepresented minority students and Asian America/Pacific Islander students were reported as less frequently having their ideas enacted. Further, epistemological beliefs similarity effects were a significant predictor on the idea contribution layer, and epistemological beliefs sociality effects were significant on the idea enactments layer.

Conclusion

Achieving equity in teamwork pedagogies requires understanding the dynamic social processes that shapes patterns of participation in student teams. This research demonstrates the power of social networks methodologies for modeling teamwork processes, pointing specifically to the ways that student characteristics are associated with perceptions shape idea contributions and enactments in student teams.
Advanced technologies towards improved HPV diagnostics
Authors: Bartosik Martin , Moranova Ludmila , Izadi Nasim , Strmiskova Johana , Sebuyoya Ravery , Holcakova Jitka , Hrstka Roman
Published: January 2024

Persistent infection with high‐risk types of human papillomaviruses (HPV) is a major cause of cervical cancer, and an important factor in other malignancies, for example, head and neck cancer. Despite recent progress in screening and vaccination, the incidence and mortality are still relatively high, especially in low‐income countries. The mortality and financial burden associated with the treatment could be decreased if a simple, rapid, and inexpensive technology for HPV testing becomes available, targeting individuals for further monitoring with increased risk of developing cancer. Commercial HPV tests available in the market are often relatively expensive, time‐consuming, and require sophisticated instrumentation, which limits their more widespread utilization. To address these challenges, novel technologies are being implemented also for HPV diagnostics that include for example, isothermal amplification techniques, lateral flow assays, CRISPR‐Cas‐based systems, as well as microfluidics, paperfluidics and lab‐on‐a‐chip devices, ideal for point‐of‐care testing in decentralized settings. In this review, we first evaluate current commercial HPV tests, followed by a description of advanced technologies, explanation of their principles, critical evaluation of their strengths and weaknesses, and suggestions for their possible implementation into medical diagnostics.
Mitigation of acrylamide formation in wood oven baked pizza base using wholemeal and refined wheat flour with low free asparagine content: considerations on fibre intake and starch digestibility
Authors: Covino Clelia , Tafuri Andrea , Sorrentino Angela , Masci Stefania , Baldoni Elena , Sestili Francesco , Villalonga Reynaldo , Masi Paolo
Published: January 2024

Background

In wheat‐derived bakery products, the quantity of free asparagine (fAsn) has been identified as a key factor in acrylamide (AA) formation. Based on this assumption, four varieties of common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), Stromboli, Montecarlo, Sothys and Cosmic, selected for their different fAsn content inside the grain, were studied to evaluate their potential in the production of pizza with reduced AA levels. To this purpose, wholemeal and refined flours were obtained from each variety.

Results

The fAsn content ranged from 0.25 to 3.30 mmol kg−1, with higher values for wholemeal flours which also showed greater amount of ash, fibre and damaged starch than refined wheat flours. All types of flours were separately used to produce wood oven baked pizza base, according to the Traditional Speciality Guaranteed EU Regulation (97/2010). AA reduction in the range 47–68% was found for all the selected wheat cultivars, compared with a commercial flour, with significantly lower values registered when refined flour was used. Moreover, refined leavened dough samples showed decreased levels of fAsn and reducing sugars due to the fermentation activity of yeasts. Furthermore, it was confirmed that pizza made with wholemeal flours exhibited lower rapidly digestible starch (RDS) and rapidly available glucose (RAG) values compared to that prepared with the refined flour.

Conclusion

This study clearly shows that a reduced asparagine content in wheat flour is a key factor in the mitigation of AA formation in pizza base. Unfortunately, at the same time, it is highlighted how it is necessary to sacrifice the beneficial effects of fibre intake, such as lowering the glycaemic index, in order to reduce AA. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Detection of wheat saccharification power and protein content using stacked models integrated with hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Huang Yuexiang , Tian Jianping , Yang Haili , Hu Xinjun , Han Lipeng , Fei Xue , He Kangling , Liang Yan , Xie Liangliang , Huang Dan , Zhang HengJing
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Wheat is one of the key ingredients used to make Chinese liquor, and its saccharification power and protein content directly affect the quality of the liquor. In pursuit of a non‐destructive assessment of wheat components and the optimization of raw material proportions in liquor, this study introduces a precise predictive model that integrates hyperspectral imaging (HSI) with stacked ensemble learning (SEL).

RESULTS

This study extracted hyperspectral information from 14 different varieties of wheat and employed various algorithms for preprocessing. It was observed that multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) emerged as the most effective spectral preprocessing method. The feature wavelengths were extracted from the preprocessed spectral data using three different feature extraction methods. Then, single models (support vector machine (SVM), backpropagation neural network (BPNN), random forest (RF), and gradient boosting tree (XGBoost)) and a SEL model were developed to compare the prediction accuracies of the SEL model and the single models based on the full‐band spectral data and the characteristic wavelengths. The findings indicate that the MSC–competitive adaptive reweighted sampling–SEL model demonstrated the highest prediction accuracy, with Rp2 (test set‐determined coefficient) values of 0.9308 and 0.9939 for predicting the saccharification power and protein content and root mean square error of the test set values of 0.0081 U and 0.0116 g kg−1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The predictive model established in this study, integrating HSI and SEL models, accurately detected wheat saccharification power and protein content. This validation underscores the practical potential of the SEL model and holds significant importance for non‐destructive component analysis of raw materials used in liquor. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Formulation of a probiotic product using Almond gum
Authors: Rasamani Padmapriya
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

The application of probiotics in food has expanded significantly, yet its viability remains a challenge. In response to this issue, this study explores a unique approach. Almond gum, a natural extract from Prunus dulcis, is utilized as the primary carrier matrix for a novel probiotic product featuring Saccharomyces boulardii, a probiotic yeast.

METHODS

This study involves the entrapment of S. boulardii in almond gum through centrifugation (5 min at 1300 × g) and subsequent 24 h drying at 50 °C. Sensory evaluation and other investigations were conducted at different pH levels to assess viability and performance.

RESULTS

Post‐drying entrapment efficiency was 83.85%, underscoring the benefits of choosing almond gum as a carrier matrix. Promising results were observed from viability testing conducted in gastric juice (pH 1.2) and in simulated intestinal fluid (pH 6.8). Matrix stability was assessed by measuring cfu ml−1 following 7 days’ storage at different temperatures, complemented by sensory analysis.

CONCLUSION

Almond gum is a promising carrier matrix for probiotic products. Its high entrapment efficiency and its viability under challenging pH conditions demonstrate its efficacy. It is rich in carbohydrates and serves a dual purpose by acting as a prebiotic source, as confirmed through ultraviolet–visible (UV–visible) analysis. The study underscores the potential of this novel approach, providing insights into responses to viability challenges in probiotic food products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Large multiplanar changes to native alignment have no apparent impact on clinical outcomes following total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Tarassoli Payam , Warnock Jonathan M. , Lim Yoong Ping , Jagota Ishaan , Parker David
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study sought to examine if achieved postoperative alignment when compared to the native anatomy would lead to a difference in Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs), and whether the achieved alignment could be broadly categorised by an accepted alignment strategy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data on patients undergoing single primary or bilateral simultaneous total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was carried out. CT scans were used to determine the mean change (“delta values”) between the pre and postoperative; hip‐knee‐ankle angle, lateral distal femoral angle, medial proximal tibial angle and femoral implant rotation. Femoral implant flexion and tibial implant slope were measured postoperatively. The primary outcome was the relationship of the variables to the change in KOOS pain subscale after one year. The secondary outcome was the number of knees which could be categorised postoperatively to an alignment strategy, and the mean PROMs in each cohort.

Results

A total of 296 knees in 261 patients were available for analysis. With regards to the primary outcome, the delta values for each variable did not demonstrate any association with the change in knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) pain score. Approximately 46% of knees could not be categorised to an alignment strategy based on postoperatively measured alignment, with no significant difference between each cohort with regards to the change in KOOS Pain score.

Conclusion

Achieved alignment does not consistently match accepted alignment strategies, and appears to confer no benefit to clinical outcomes when the native anatomy is most closely approximated, nor results in poorer outcomes in outliers. This study highlights the importance of routine three dimensional pre and postoperative imaging in clinical practice and for the valid analysis of outcomes in studies on alignment.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
The Impact of Four Smoking Metrics on Survival After Diagnosis with HPV+ Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Wilkins Sarah G. , Shah Rema , Safranek Conrad W. , Shah Hemali P. , Mehra Saral
Published: January 2024

Objective

While tobacco use is understood to negatively impact HPV+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) outcomes, debate remains as to how this impact differs between cohorts. Multiple smoking metrics have been identified as having the greatest prognostic significance, and some recent works have found smoking to have no significant impact. Herein, we show through an analysis of four common smoking metrics that while smoking impacts overall survival (OS), it has a limited impact on recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in our cohort.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients treated for HPV+ OPSCC in our health system from 2012 to 2019. Patients with metastatic disease or concurrent second primaries were excluded. Four metrics of tobacco use were assessed: current/former/never smokers, ever/never smokers, and smokers with >10 or >20 pack‐year (PY) smoking histories. Our main outcomes were 3‐year RFS and OS.

Results

Three hundred and sixty‐seven patients met inclusion criteria. 37.3% of patients (137/367) were never‐smokers; 13.8% of patients (51/367) were currently smoking at diagnosis and 48.8% of patients (179/367) were former smokers. No tobacco‐use metric significantly impacted 3‐year RFS. On univariate analysis, all smoking metrics yielded inferior OS. On multivariate analysis, current and ever smoking status significantly impacted 3‐year OS.

Conclusion

The impact of tobacco use on HPV+ OPSCC outcomes is not universal, but may instead be modulated by other cohort‐specific factors. The impact of smoking may decrease as rates of tobacco use decline.

Level of Evidence

3 (Cohort and case–control studies) Laryngoscope, 134:3158–3164, 2024
Coherent Optical Comb Generation in the Joint Space of Frequency and Topological Charge
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Zeng Shihao , Xie Yaozu , Wu Zhaoyang , Lin Shuqing , Zhang Yanfeng , Yu Siyuan
Published: January 2024

Coherent photonic states in the frequency domain or optical frequency combs are investigated widely over the past decade. Meanwhile, photonic states based on spatial coherence, in particular optical vortex states, have also been studied extensively. Further exploitation of coherent photonics state in hitherto unexplored higher dimensional spaces can reveal new realms of physics. The on‐chip generation of coherent optical combs in the 2D parameter space of frequency and topological charge is reported. Using a micro‐ring resonator embedded with angular gratings, optical frequency combs are generated by Kerr nonlinearity. The coherent comb lines, with their frequencies inherently matching the cavity resonances, are immediately diffracted by the angular grating to emit an ensemble of coherent spatial photonic states with each state carrying distinctive spin and orbital angular momenta. The mapping between the frequency and the topological charge dimensions leads to the construction of coherent combs in the high‐dimensional frequency‐topological charge (f‐l) space. Operating the device in the normal‐dispersion regime enables the adjustment of comb line spacing from 1 to 11 free spectral ranges by selectively pumping different cavity resonances with high pump‐to‐comb conversion efficiency. Such on‐chip reconfigurable high‐dimensional coherent optical combs open avenues for innovative exploration of physics.
ACHIEVING GREAT LEADERSHIP WITH THREE SIMPLE STEPS
Authors: Schaniel Mandy
Published: January 2024

The author is founder and CEO of Schaniel Consulting Inc., and joined the executive team at ZipRecruiter as employee number 19. She relates how she “learned how to embody a leadership style I could not only be proud of, but would provide the opportunity to inspire leadership and growth in my employees.” She includes “tips I learned from my own mentors, mistakes I’ve overcome and my reading and consulting with other leaders that you may realize you are already implementing.” In her words, these tips are: 1. Address Employee Engagement, 2. Foster Employee Growth, 3. Always Be Optimizing. For instance, within tip 1 she writes that “as a mother of three, family and work‐life balance has always been top‐of‐mind for me, as is managing stress and overall health.” In tip 2: “Whenever I consult a new client, leader or friend, the first question I ask them is if they are conducting one‐on‐ones.” She also describes five primary styles of leadership: Authoritative, Directive, Participative, Servant, and Transformational. “Great leadership,” she writes, “requires embracing a growth mindset, meaning you thrive on the challenge of facing down an obstacle and see each one as an opportunity to grow.”
Protective effect of alpha‐lipoic acid and epalrestat on oxaliplatin‐induced peripheral neuropathy in zebrafish
Authors: Lee Dong‐Won , Park Hae‐Chul , Kim Dong Hwee
Published: January 2024

Introduction/Aims

Oxaliplatin is a platinum‐based anti‐cancer drug widely used in colorectal cancer patients, but it may cause peripheral neuropathy. As one of the main causes of oxaliplatin‐induced peripheral neuropathy (OPN) is oxidative stress, which is also a key factor causing diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), the aim of this study was to evaluate the preventive effects of alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) and epalrestat (EP), which are used for the treatment of DPN, in an OPN zebrafish model.

Methods

Tg(nbt:dsred) transgenic zebrafish, with sensory nerves in the peripheral lateral line, were treated with oxaliplatin, oxaliplatin/EP, and oxaliplatin/ALA for 4 days. A confocal microscope was used to visualize and quantify the number of axon bifurcations in the distal nerve ending. To analyze the formation of synapses on sensory nerve terminals, quantification of membrane‐associated guanylate kinase (MAGUK) puncta was performed using immunohistochemistry.

Results

The number of axon bifurcations and intensity of MAGUK puncta were significantly reduced in the oxaliplatin‐treated group compared with those in the embryo medium‐treated group. In both the oxaliplatin/EP and oxaliplatin/ALA‐treated groups, the number of axon bifurcations and intensity of MAGUK puncta were greater than those in the oxaliplatin‐treated group (p < .0001), and no significant difference was observed between larvae treated with oxaliplatin/ALA 1 μM and oxaliplatin/EP 1 μM (p = .4292).

Discussion

ALA and EP have protective effects against OPN in zebrafish. Our findings show that ALA and EP can facilitate more beneficial treatment for OPN.
Converting pixel‐type topology optimization results to MMC‐representation based on sparse optimization and its applications
Authors: Ling Ran , Xu Gang , Zhang Xiaoyu , Xu Jinlan , Guo Xu
Published: January 2024

How to realize the switching between various topology optimization approaches such as SIMP and moving morphable component (MMC) method, is a crucial challenge in the field of structural design. In this article, a robust conversion framework is proposed to convert a pixel‐type topology optimization result to MMC representation. Based on the sparse optimization approach, the framework enables the determination of the minimum number of components with a specified shape error. This method provides an efficient bridge for these two types of geometric descriptions, and promotes the free switching between the topology optimization frameworks with pixel‐based and MMC‐based design domains. The proposed procedure contains a pre‐processing of resolution improvement, symmetry axis extraction with sparse optimization, and variational shape approximation. Two practical applications are demonstrated using the proposed framework. First, it can be applied to the intermediate results of SIMP, to achieve faster optimization convergence. Furthermore, a stress‐based shape optimization approach can be applied to the obtained MMCs, and novel progressive continuity constraints are also introduced to maintain boundary continuity. Several examples demonstrate advantages of the proposed framework.
Fully decoupled unconditionally stable Crank–Nicolson leapfrog numerical methods for the Cahn–Hilliard–Darcy system
Authors: Gao Yali , Han Daozhi
Published: January 2024

We develop two totally decoupled, linear and second‐order accurate numerical methods that are unconditionally energy stable for solving the Cahn–Hilliard–Darcy equations for two phase flows in porous media or in a Hele‐Shaw cell. The implicit‐explicit Crank–Nicolson leapfrog method is employed for the discretization of the Cahn–Hiliard equation to obtain linear schemes. Furthermore the artificial compression technique and pressure correction methods are utilized, respectively, so that the Cahn–Hiliard equation and the update of the Darcy pressure can be solved independently. We establish unconditionally long time stability of the schemes. Ample numerical experiments are performed to demonstrate the accuracy and robustness of the numerical methods, including simulations of the Rayleigh–Taylor instability, the Saffman–Taylor instability (fingering phenomenon).
Assessing Laryngectomy Patient Education on YouTube: Investigating Quality and Reliability
Authors: Lin Matthew E. , Ayo‐Ajibola Oluwatobiloba , Castellanos Carlos X. , West Jonathan , Luu Neil , Kim Ian , Kokot Niels C.
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the quality of laryngectomy‐related patient education on YouTube and understand factors impacting video content quality.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional cohort analysis.

Setting

Laryngectomy‐related videos on YouTube.

Methods

YouTube was anonymously queried for various laryngectomy procedure search terms. Video quality was evaluated using the validated DISCERN instrument which assesses treatment‐related information quality. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize our cohort. Univariate and multivariable linear regression were used to assess factors associated with increased DISCERN score. Significance was set at P < .05.

Results

Our 78‐video cohort exhibited moderate levels of engagement, averaging 13,028.40 views (SD = 24,246.93), 69.79 likes (SD = 163.75), and 5.27 comments (SD = 18.81). Videos were most frequently uploaded to accounts belonging to physicians (43.59%) or health care groups (41.03%) and showcased operations (52.56%) or physician‐led education (20.51%). Otolaryngologists were featured in most videos (85.90%), and most videos originated outside the United States (67.95%). Laryngectomy videos demonstrated poor reliability (mean = 2.35, SD = 0.77), quality of treatment information (mean = 1.92, SD = 0.86), and overall video quality (mean = 1.97, SD = 1.12). In multivariable linear regression, operative videos were associated with lower video quality relative to nonoperative videos (β = −1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [−2.03 to −1.24], P < .001); the opposite was true for videos from accounts with higher subscriber counts (β = 0.02, 95% CI = [0.01‐0.03], P = .005).

Conclusion

The quality and quantity of YouTube's laryngectomy educational content is limited. There is an acute need to increase the quantity and quality of online laryngectomy‐related content to better support patients and caregivers as they cope with their diagnosis, prepare for, and recover from surgery.
‘I want you to want me’: How owners value cats' choices has implications for cat containment
Authors: Ovenden Kathryn , Bassett Imogen , Sumner Christine L.
Published: January 2024

Globally, cats are a common companion animal. Allowing companion cats to roam away from home can have negative impacts on native wildlife and cat welfare. A more contained cat lifestyle can limit the detrimental impacts of roaming; however, this continues to be an uncommon choice for cat owners in many countries.

Communication strategies that focus on welfare benefits for cats have successfully motivated some owners to prevent their cats from roaming. However, little is known about other factors influencing owners' decisions about roaming, such as the owner–cat relationship and their cat's membership in the local community.

We conducted five focus groups with 31 cat owners in Aotearoa New Zealand to understand these factors.

Using thematic analysis, we identified three major themes that describe how owners view the impacts of cat containment on their relationship with their cat/s. First, finding a balance between enabling and restricting choices to ensure the cat's welfare is at the heart of the owner–cat relationship. Critically, the cat's choice to repeatedly return home reaffirms the owner–cat relationship. Second, striking the right balance in the provision of choice and ensuring welfare are contingent on the cat's characteristics. Owners providing their cat/s with the choice to leave home are perceived to be positively associated with enabling their freedom, independence and curiosity. Third, owners perceived cats to belong in many spaces occupied by humans outside of their property, despite most participants living near populations of significant threatened species.

The choice to allow a cat to roam from home impacts cat welfare, the owner–cat relationship and membership in the local cat, human and wildlife community. Efforts to facilitate the shift to a contained cat lifestyle need to help owners provide choices for their cats that will meet their welfare needs and foster the owner–cat relationship. Locally relevant strategies that consider the owners' views as members of their community will likely be more successful.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Second grade retention: Beliefs, decision‐making styles, and factors involved in the decision process
Authors: Santos Natalie Nóbrega , Monteiro Vera
Published: January 2024

Grade retention decisions are high‐risk because this practice can significantly affect students' academic and professional path and their socioaffective development. This study aimed to contribute to a better understanding of second‐grade retention decision‐making by exploring the factors the professionals consider during the retention decision‐making, their beliefs about the effectiveness of grade retention, and their cognitive decision‐making style. The study sets in Portugal, where second‐grade retention is a common practice. One hundred ninety‐four teachers answered an online questionnaire developed for this purpose. Path analysis results suggested that teachers' beliefs and decision‐making styles served as a filter, defining what factors they consider relevant or not to make grade retention decisions. Intuitive experiences seem to inform teachers' grade‐retention decisions, especially when they believe retention is essential for students' success.
Measuring academic skill development for students with autism spectrum disorder using curriculum‐based measurement: A scoping review and call for research
Authors: Keller‐Margulis Milena A. , Mire Sarah S. , Loría Garro Elías S. , Jellinek‐Russo Emily R. , Lozano Ivana , Hut Amanda R. , Luu My‐Linh N. , Izuno‐Garcia Amy K. , Erps Kristen H. , Landry Pierce Lindsey N. , Tan Samantha X. , McNeel Morgan M. , Gardner Scarlett M. , Duran Brenda J.
Published: January 2024

School‐based service providers must understand how to best measure academic skill development given its key role in improving long‐term outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Curriculum‐based measurement (CBM), which has applications for foundational academic skill areas of reading, writing, and mathematics, may be one way to determine academic intervention targets and progress monitor academic skills for students with ASD, but the extent of the literature base is unknown. Results of this scoping review regarding use of CBM with autistic students indicated few studies, overall. Studies had a wide range of sample sizes and primarily focused on intervention, using CBM as progress or outcome measures. Numerous demographic characteristics and study elements were absent from the literature. Future directions for this area of research and the implications for assessment in response to instruction for students with ASD are presented.
School psychology: Increasing awareness, enhancing policies, and reducing shortages
Authors: Dockweiler Katherine A. , Kaufman Roberta
Published: January 2024

This exploratory mixed methods study investigates the school psychology workforce shortage phenomenon and underlying contributing factors. The development of an Education Specialist school psychology program in the middle of the COVID‐19 pandemic prompted the authors to explore variables impacting awareness of the school psychology profession. State policies were reviewed to identify how many states have adopted the nationally recommended 1:500 ratio for school psychologists. Additionally, undergraduate and postbaccalaureate student knowledge of the work of school‐based mental health professionals, specifically school psychologists, was surveyed. Finally, the authors explore the need for new action frameworks to achieve this awareness and to promote workforce policy development. Based on findings, three key points for practitioners are the need to promote the adoption of policies that align with the 1:500 recommended ratio for school psychologists, increase awareness of the profession with preservice and in‐service educators, and create coordinated training pathways and career opportunities for individuals to become school psychologists.
Epigenetics in obesity: Mechanisms and advances in therapies based on natural products
Authors: Chen Peng , Wang Yulai , Chen Fuchao , Zhou Benhong
Published: January 2024

Obesity is a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality because it has a close relationship to metabolic illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and some types of cancer. With no drugs available, the mainstay of obesity management remains lifestyle changes with exercise and dietary modifications. In light of the tremendous disease burden and unmet therapeutics, fresh perspectives on pathophysiology and drug discovery are needed. The development of epigenetics provides a compelling justification for how environmental, lifestyle, and other risk factors contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity. Furthermore, epigenetic dysregulations can be restored, and it has been reported that certain natural products obtained from plants, such as tea polyphenols, ellagic acid, urolithins, curcumin, genistein, isothiocyanates, and citrus isoflavonoids, were shown to inhibit weight gain. These substances have great antioxidant potential and are of great interest because they can also modify epigenetic mechanisms. Therefore, understanding epigenetic modifications to target the primary cause of obesity and the epigenetic mechanisms of anti‐obesity effects with certain phytochemicals can prove rational strategies to prevent the disease and develop novel therapeutic interventions. Thus, the current review aimed to summarize the epigenetic mechanisms and advances in therapies for obesity based on natural products to provide evidence for the development of several potential anti‐obesity drug targets.
2‐Deoxyglucose and hydroxychloroquine HPLC‐MS–MS analytical methods and pharmacokinetic interactions after oral co‐administration in male rats
Authors: Sun Dongxiao , Kim Sangyub , Karelia Deepkamal , Deng Yibin , Jiang Cheng , Lü Junxuan
Published: January 2024

Our previous work has shown a synergistic tumoricidal efficacy of combining the hexokinase (HK) inhibitor 2‐deoxyglucose (2‐DG) and the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) through intraperitoneal injections on HK2‐addicted prostate cancers in animal models. The pharmacokinetic (PK) behaviors of these oral drugs after simultaneous oral administration have not been reported. We developed high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS–MS) analytical methods for 2‐DG and the clinically favored drug hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) for sera samples. Using a jugular vein‐cannulated male rat model with serial blood collection before and after a single gavage dose of each drug alone or in combination, we examined their PK metrics for drug–drug interactions. The data demonstrated a rapid and complete separation of 2‐DG from common monosaccharides by HPLC‐MS–MS multi‐reaction monitoring. Application of the HPLC‐MS–MS 2‐DG and HCQ methods to sera samples of nine rats showed a peak time (Tmax) for 2‐DG of 0.5 h after 2‐DG alone or with HCQ and identical post‐peak half‐life of approximately 1 h. With a seemingly bi‐modal time course for HCQ, the Tmax for HCQ alone (1.2 h) was faster than that for the combination (2 h; p = .017). After combination dosing, the peak concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC0‐4h) of 2‐DG were decreased by 53.8% (p = .0004) and 53.7% (p = .0001), whereas AUC0‐8h for HCQ was decreased by 30.8% (p = .0279) from the respective single dosing. Without changing the mean residence time (MRT0‐∞) of each drug, the combination affected the apparent volume of distribution (Vd) and clearance (CL) of 2‐DG, and CL for HCQ without affecting its Vd. We observed significant negative PK interactions, probably at the intestinal absorption level, between 2‐DG and HCQ taken simultaneously by mouth. Future optimization efforts are warranted for their combination regimen for clinical translation.