bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptualising a theoretical framework for planning and evaluating workplace oral health promotion programs
Authors: Bakri N. N. , Smith M. B. , Broadbent J. M. , Thomson W. M.
Published: December 2023

Issued Addressed

Workplaces have considerable potential for enhancing personal resources and providing a supportive working environment for staff health, including oral health and well‐being. To date, assessments of workplace oral health promotion (WOHP) activities have observed benefits ranging from self‐reported oral health to clinical parameters. However, previous WOHP actions were not based on a theoretical framework and did not consider the working environment as part of the planning and evaluation process.

Methods

This article used evidence‐based health promotion theoretical frameworks, and associated facilitators and barriers, in constructing an integrated and theoretically robust approach to planning and evaluating oral health promotion activities in the workplace.

Results

The PRECEDE‐PROCEED Model for planning and evaluation, the reach effectiveness adoption implementation maintenance, and the Salutogenic Model of Health were chosen to complement each other in the planning and evaluation process, based on their different features and the applicability of those features to the workplace setting. Because of the limited literature in this area, the current article also used evidence from oral health promotion in other settings (including schools and the community) and general health promotion in the workplace to construct a theoretical framework for planning and evaluating WOHP activities.

Conclusions

The theoretical framework developed could assist in planning or improving existing workplace health promotion programs that focus on or incorporate oral health elements.

So What?

Future research on applying and adapting the proposed framework is required.
Recurrent preterm delivery following twin versus singleton preterm delivery: A retrospective cohort
Authors: Wainstock Tamar , Shoham‐Vardi Ilana , Sergienko Ruslan , Sheiner Eyal
Published: December 2023

Objective

The main risk factor for preterm delivery (PTD; <37 gestational weeks) is having a history of PTD. The aim of this research was to compare the risk for recurrent PTD following twin versus singleton gestation PTD.

Methods

A retrospective population‐based cohort study was performed, including all women who had two consecutive pregnancies, the first of which ended with PTD. The incidence of PTD recurrence was compared between women with PTD in twin versus singleton gestation. Multivariable logistic models were used to study the association between twinning status and PTD recurrence, and specifically by gestational age of the first PTD, inter‐pregnancy interval (IPI), and mode of conception.

Results

The study population included 15 590 women, of whom 1680 (10.8%) had twins in their index pregnancy and 13 910 (89.2%) had singletons. The incidence of recurrent PTD was 10.5% (n = 177) following twin PTD versus 21.9% (n = 3044) following singleton PTD (adjusted odds ratio = 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.32–0.76, while controlling for confounding variables). The results were consistent while stratifying by IPI, gestational age of the first PTD, or mode of conception.

Conclusions

Women with PTD in twin gestations are at lower risk for recurrent PTD compared with women with singleton PTD.
Electrohydrodynamic printing for high resolution patterning of flexible electronics toward industrial applications
Authors: Yin Zhouping , Wang Dazhi , Guo Yunlong , Zhao Zhiyuan , Li Liqiang , Chen Wei , Duan Yongqing
Published: December 2023

Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing technique, which deposits micro/nanostructures through high electric force, has recently attracted significant research interest owing to their fascinating characteristics in high resolution (<1 μm), wide material applicability (ink viscosity 1–10 000 cps), tunable printing modes (electrospray, electrospinning, and EHD jet printing), and compatibility with flexible/wearable applications. Since the laboratory level of the EHD printed electronics' resolution and efficiency is gradually approaching the commercial application level, an urgent need for developing EHD technique from laboratory into industrialization have been put forward. Herein, we first discuss the EHD printing technique, including the ink design, droplet formation, and key technologies for promoting printing efficiency/accuracy. Then we summarize the recent progress of EHD printing in fabrication of displays, organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs), transparent electrodes, and sensors and actuators. Finally, a brief summary and the outlook for future research effort are presented.

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Filterless narrowband photodetectors enabled by controllable band modulation through ion migration: The case of halide perovskites
Authors: Li Yu , Yu Shanshan , Yang Junjie , Zhang Kai , Hu Mingyu , Qiu Weitao , Guo Fumin , Qian Wei , Reinecke Sean , Chen Tao , Saidaminov Makhsud I. , Wang Jian , Yang Shihe
Published: December 2023

Narrowband photodetectors conventionally rely on optical structure design or bandpass filters to achieve the narrowband regime. Recently, a strategy for filterless narrowband photoresponse based on the charge collection narrowing (CCN) mechanism was reported. However, the CCN strategy requires an electrically and optically “thick” photoactive layer, which poses challenges in controlling the narrowband photoresponse. Here we propose a novel strategy for constructing narrowband photodetectors by leveraging the inherent ion migration in perovskites, which we term “band modulation narrowing” (BMN). By manipulating the ion migration with external stimuli such as illumination, temperature, and bias voltage, we can regulate in situ the energy‐band structure of perovskite photodetectors (PPDs) and hence their spectral response. Combining the Fermi energy levels obtained by the Kelvin probe force microscopy, the internal potential profiles from solar cell capacitance simulator simulation, and the anion accumulation revealed by the transient ion‐drift technique, we discover two critical mechanisms behind our BMN strategy: the extension of an optically active but electronically dead region proximal to the top electrode and the down‐bending energy bands near the electron transport layer. Our findings offer a case for harnessing the often‐annoying ion migration for developing advanced narrowband PPDs.

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Spatiotemporal variation in soil salinity under irrigated fields at Bochessa catchment in Central Ethiopia
Authors: Wendemeneh Demelash , Ayana Mekonen , Haileslassie Amare , Lohani Tarun Kumar
Published: December 2023

Soil salinity and sodicity problems are one of the major challenges to the permanence of irrigated agriculture in Ethiopia. This manuscript, therefore, concerns its spatial and temporal variation under irrigated fields and suggests possible management options. For this investigation, eight monitoring locations were selected based on the irrigation intensity that farmers practised in the area. With each location, three irrigated farmers' fields were randomly selected for sampling purposes. Likewise, six farmers' fields from the rain‐fed system were also selected for comparison purposes. Sampling was performed at the beginning and end of each cropping season for three consecutive years from 2017 to 2019. The major physical and chemical properties of the soil were analysed in accordance with standard laboratory procedures. A linear model of two‐way analysis of variance was used to analyse parameters across time and space. The results indicated that the majority of the soil properties studied showed significant differences (p < 0.05) over time. This implies that the change is in accordance with the seasonal soil property, possibly due to irrigation practices. Similarly, approximately 90% of the soil properties studied showed noticeable differences (p < 0.05) across locations. Almost all salinity indicators showed an increasing trend in irrigated fields compared to their situation in rain‐fed fields. For instance, the electrical conductivity (EC) and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) values across the fields ranged from 0.54 to 0.82 dS m−¹ and 8–1%, respectively, with maximum values observed in irrigated fields. This implies that irrigation practices influence soil properties in the area. In addition, the ESP values approaching the maximum permissible limit suggest that sodicity may cause more problems than salinity in the area. Therefore, agronomic practices (e.g. residue management, deep tillage, salt‐tolerant crops and periodic fallowing), irrigation and drainage management practices, and amendments may help farmers mitigate salinity and sodicity problems in the area.
Isolation of TiNbN wear particles from a coated metal‐on‐metal bearing: Morphological characterization and in vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity in human osteoblasts
Authors: Sellin Marie‐Luise , Seyfarth‐Sehlke Anika , Aziz Mahammad , Fabry Christian , Wenke Katrin , Høl Paul Johan , Rios‐Mondragon Ivan , Cimpan Mihaela Roxana , Frank Marcus , Bader Rainer , Jonitz‐Heincke Anika
Published: December 2023

To improve the wear resistance of articulating metallic joint endoprostheses, the surfaces can be coated with titanium niobium nitride (TiNbN). Under poor tribological conditions or malalignment, wear can occur on these implant surfaces in situ. This study investigated the biological response of human osteoblasts to wear particles generated from TiNbN‐coated hip implants. Abrasive particles were generated in a hip simulator according to ISO 14242‐1/−2 and extracted with Proteinase K. Particle characteristics were evaluated by electron microscopy and energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements. Human osteoblasts were exposed to different particle dilutions (1:20, 1:50, and 1:100), and cell viability and gene expression levels of osteogenic markers and inflammatory mediators were analyzed after 4 and 7 days. Using ICP‐MS, EDS, and DLS measurements, ~70% of the particles were identified as TiNbN, ranging from 39 to 94 nm. The particles exhibited a flat and subangular morphology. Exposure to particles did not influence cell viability and osteoblastic differentiation capacity. Protein levels of collagen type 1, osteoprotegerin, and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand were almost unaffected. Moreover, the pro‐inflammatory response via interleukins 6 and 8 was minor induced after particle contact. A high number of TiNbN wear particles only slightly affected osteoblasts' differentiation ability and inflammatory response compared to metallic particles. Nevertheless, further studies should investigate the role of these particles in peri‐implant bone tissue, especially concerning other cell types.
HAGLR, stabilized by m6A modification, triggers PTEN‐Akt signaling cascade‐mediated RPE cell pyroptosis via sponging miR‐106b‐5p
Authors: Luo Rong , Li Lan , Han Qingluan , Fu Jingsong , Xiao Fan
Published: December 2023

Consistent hyperglycaemia on retinal microvascular tissues is recognized as a vital inducer of diabetic retinopathy (DR) pathogenesis. In view of the essential functionality of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in multiple human diseases, we aim to figure out the exact role and underlying mechanisms of lncRNA HOXD Cluster Antisense RNA 1 (HAGLR) in DR pathogenesis. Serum specimens from patients with proliferative DR and healthy volunteers were collected for measuring HAGLR levels. Human primary retinal pigment epithelium (HRPE) cells kept in high glucose (HG) condition were applied to simulating hyperglycaemia of DR pathology in vitro. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, either pyroptosis was assess using Cell Counting Kit‐8 TUNEL, flow cytometry, and enzyme‐linked immunoassay assays. Bioinformatics analysis was subjected to examine the interaction between HAGLR and N6‐methyladenosine (m6A)‐bind protein IGF2BP2, as determined using RNA immunoprecipitation and RNA pull‐down. Luciferase reporter assay was performed to assess the HAGLR‐miR‐106b‐5p‐PTEN axis. Levels of pyroptosis‐associated biomarkers were detected using western blotting. Aberrantly overexpressed HAGLR was uncovered in the serum samples of DR patients and HG‐induced HRPE cells, of which knockdown attenuated HG‐induced cytotoxic impacts on cell apoptosis and pyroptosis. Whereas, reinforced HAGLR further aggravated these effects. IGF2BP2 positively regulated HAGLR in a m6A‐dependent manner. HAGLR served as a sponge for miR‐106b‐5p to upregulate PTEN, thereby activating Akt signaling cascade. Rescue assays demonstrated that PTEN overexpression abolished the inhibition of silenced HAGLR on pyroptosis in HRPE cells. HAGLR, epigenetically modified by IGF2BP2 in an m6A‐dependent manner, functioned as a sponge for miR‐106b‐5p, thereby activating PTEN/Akt signaling cascade to accelerate DR pathology.
Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy of the tail tip of post‐metamorphic amphioxus finds novel myomeres with odd shapes and unusually prominent sclerocoels
Authors: Holland Nicholas D. , Holland Linda Z.
Published: December 2023

Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy of the tail tip of post‐metamorphic amphioxus (Branchiostoma floridae) revealed some terminal myomeres never been seen before with other techniques. The morphology of these myomeres differed markedly from the chevron shapes of their more anterior counterparts. Histologically, these odd‐shaped myomeres ranged from empty vesicles bordered by undifferentiated cells to ventral sacs composed of well‐developed myotome, dermatome, and sclerotome. Strikingly, several of these ventral sacs gave rise to a nipple‐like dorsal projection composed either entirely of sclerotome or a mixture of sclerotome and myotome. Considered as a whole, from posterior to anterior, these odd‐shaped posterior myomeres suggested that their more substantial ventral part may represent the ventral limb of a chevron, while the delicate projection represents a nascent dorsal limb. This scenario contrasts with formation of chevron‐shaped myomeres along most of the antero‐posterior axis. Although typical chevron formation in amphioxus is surprisingly poorly studied, it seems to be attained by a dorso‐ventral extension of the myomere accompanied by the assumption of a V‐shape; this is similar to what happens (at least superficially) in developing fishes. Another unusual feature of the odd‐shaped posterior myomeres of amphioxus is their especially distended sclerocoels. One possible function for these might be to protect the posterior end of the central nervous system from trauma when the animals burrow into the substratum.
Live‐virus serum neutralization after bivalent SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccination in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Benning Louise , Bartenschlager Marie , Kim Heeyoung , Kälble Florian , Nusshag Christian , Buylaert Mirabel , Reichel Paula , Schaier Matthias , Morath Christian , Zeier Martin , Schnitzler Paul , Bartenschlager Ralf , Speer Claudius
Published: December 2023

The development of bivalent booster vaccines addresses the ongoing evolution of the emerging B.1.1.529 (omicron) variant subtypes that are known to escape vaccine‐induced neutralizing antibody response. Little is known about the immunogenicity and reactogenicity of bivalent mRNA vaccines in hemodialysis patients with impaired vaccine response. In this prospective, observational cohort study, we analyzed SARS‐CoV‐2 anti‐S1 IgG, surrogate neutralizing antibodies (SNA), and live‐virus neutralization against the SARS‐CoV‐2 wildtype and the BA.5 variant in 42 hemodialysis patients with and without prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection before and after an additional fifth bivalent vaccine dose. Anti‐S1 IgG and SNA were significantly higher in hemodialysis patients with prior infection than in patients without infection (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). In patients without prior infection, both antibody levels increased, and live‐virus neutralizing antibodies against the wildtype and the BA.5 variant were correspondingly significantly higher after bivalent booster vaccination (p < 0.001 for both). Conversely, in patients with prior infection, anti‐S1 IgG and SNA did not alter significantly, and bivalent booster vaccination did not induce additional humoral immune response against the SARS‐CoV‐2 wildtype and the BA.5 variant. Thus, bivalent mRNA vaccines might increase humoral responses in hemodialysis patients without prior infection. Larger clinical trials are needed to help guide vaccination strategies in these immunocompromised individuals.
Regional and remote influences of ocean‐atmospheric processes on northeast monsoon rainfall during 2021 over India
Authors: Vijaya Bhaskara Rao S. , Pradhan Prabodha Kumar , Raman Mekalathur Roja , Kumar Vinay , Sunilkumar Khadgarai , Jena Babula , Koteswara Rao Kundeti
Published: December 2023

Severe rainfall during the recent northeast monsoon season (October, November and December) in 2021 caused unexpected disasters (triggered flooding and landslides) in the pilgrim city of Tirupati and the metropolitan city of Chennai over the peninsular of India (PI). The remote and regional influence of several ocean‐atmospheric climate indices on northeast monsoon rainfall (NEMR) during the OND season is investigated to understand the contributory mechanisms of extreme rainfall events over the PI during 2021. The interannual variability of NEMR and its relationship with the OND sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly over the Niño3.4 and Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) regions are considered. In addition, SST anomalies over the Bay of Bengal (BoB), such as east BoB (EBoB), east equatorial Indian Ocean (EEIO) and their gradients (GSST) connections with NEMR, are also examined. The impact of Siberian High (SH), Western Pacific High (WPH), Arabian Sea Surface Pressure (ASSP), easterly waves (EW) and land surface temperature contrast (LSTC) is also analysed and incorporated to find a specific linkage with NEM 2021. The results show that excess NEMR during OND 2021 is suggestively associated with favourable large‐scale conditions like negative IOD and the La Niña phase over the Indo‐Pacific region. In November 2021, two deep depressions made landfall over Tamil Nadu (within the latitude of 11°–13°N) and over adjoining areas, which caused copious amounts of rainfall (maximum ~90 mm·day−1), leading to flooding conditions over Tirupati and Chennai. During the NEM season, abundant warming of BoB and weak vertical wind shear, along with negative anomalies of ASSP, modulated the cyclonic activities that enhanced the sufficient moisture transports from BoB to the PI. The MSLP anomalies over the ASSP region depict a significant correlation (−0.47) with the interannual variability of NEM as compared to SH and WPH during the OND season of 2021.
Pattern scaling the parameters of a Markov‐chain gamma‐distribution daily precipitation generator
Authors: Kemsley Sarah Wilson , Osborn Timothy J. , Dorling Stephen R. , Wallace Craig
Published: December 2023

General circulation models (GCMs) are the most sophisticated tools at our disposal for studying future climates, but there are limitations to overcome. These include resolutions that may be too coarse for impact assessments, limited or zero availability of some policy‐relevant scenarios, and limited time‐series length for assessing the risk of extreme events. We illustrate how these limitations can be addressed by combining a stochastic precipitation generator (SPG) with pattern scaling (PS) of its key parameters. Computationally inexpensive, SPG parameters can be perturbed to generate time‐series representative of weather under a future climate with high spatial and temporal resolution. If the SPG parameter perturbations are derived directly from GCM simulations projections can only be made for scenarios already simulated by the GCM. Instead, we obtain the parameter perturbations using PS, facilitating emulation of scenarios not necessarily explicitly simulated by the GCM, and where we scale perturbations approximately linearly with global temperature change. PS is commonly applied to estimate perturbations in the mean of climate variables, but rarely to higher‐order parameters as we demonstrate here. We apply PS for the first time, globally, to the parameters of a daily, first‐order Markov‐chain gamma‐distribution SPG using output from the IPSL‐CM6A‐LR GCM to perturb an SPG fitted to observed data from two stations in diverse climates (Santarém, Brazil and Reykjavik, Iceland) to illustrate this novel approach. We produce time series corresponding to a range of GWLs and demonstrate the capability of the combined SPG‐PS approach to study local‐scale, future daily precipitation characteristics, climate and subsequent risk of extreme weather events.
Aerosol characteristics in CMIP6 models' global simulations and their evaluation with the satellite measurements
Authors: Bharath Jaisankar , Kumar Tumuluru Venkata Lakshmi , Salgueiro Vanda , Costa Maria João , Mall Rajesh Kumar
Published: December 2023

Global and regional trends of the Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) from Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) Phase 6 simulations for the study period 1971–2014 were compared against the satellite retrievals and the intermodel variations were analysed. The AOD from multimodel mean (MMM) of eight general circulation models (GCMs) has been evaluated against the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and Multi‐angle Imaging Spectro Radiometer (MISR) AOD for the 2001–2014 period. Angstrom exponents (AE and its first derivative) that represent the size distribution of aerosols are estimated globally from the perturbed initial condition ensemble of MRI‐ESM2‐0 and MPI‐ESM‐1‐2‐HAM models to report the aerosol variations through their size distribution. We found that the global AOD obtained from the MMM8 showed an insignificant decreasing trend, while this trend is significantly positive over the northern tropical region. The MMM8 has overestimated the MODIS AOD over North Africa, India, China, and Australia while this overestimation is confined to North Africa and eastern China when compared against MISR AOD. The absolute percent bias of MMM8 is 28.1% and 24.1% over the globe when compared against MODIS and MISR AOD, respectively. The spatial pattern of AE showed the dominance of fine‐ and coarse‐mode particles during the boreal/austral winter and summer seasons, respectively, that replicate the seasonality of aerosols. The AE derived from MPI‐ESM‐1‐2‐HR demonstrated better agreement with AATSR SU's (Advanced Along Track Scanning Radiometer instrument series, with the algorithm developed by Swansea University) AE (550–870 nm). On the other hand, MRI‐ESM2‐0 consistently underestimated AE across different regions and wavelength ranges, suggesting an over representation of larger aerosol particles in the model's portrayal of aerosol size distribution compared to satellite observations.
Mesenchymal stromal cell response to intervertebral disc‐like pH is tissue source dependent
Authors: Cannon Kyle , Gill Sanjitpal , Mercuri Jeremy
Published: December 2023

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IVDD) has become increasingly prevalent and is a common contributing factor to low back pain. Current treatment options are limited to either symptom management or surgery. A promising treatment option being explored is intradiscal administration of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). However, there remains a gap in knowledge as to whether MSCs from different tissue sources have similar responses to the low pH microenvironment of the IVD and the possible mechanisms governing these responses. To study this, MSCs from three different tissue sources: adipose (adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cell), bone marrow (bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells), and amnion (amniotic membrane mesenchymal stem cell) were cultured at low pHs representative of IVDD. MSCs were assessed for survival, senescence, apoptosis, metabolic activity, and cytokine release profile. Additionally, western blot was utilized to assess acid sensing ion channel 1 and 3 expression. The results of this study indicated that MSC viability, cell proliferation, senescence, and metabolic activity is negatively affected by low pH and alters MSC cytokine production. This study also demonstrated that MSCs behavior is dependent on tissue source. Understanding how MSC behavior is altered by pH will allow further research aimed at increasing the efficacy of MSC therapy to promote in situ IVD tissue regeneration to combat IVDD.
Strategic transition
Authors: Mallon Mark R. , Lanivich Stephen E.
Published: December 2023

There are few theories explaining how firms can persist through large‐scale changes. Extending Penrose's maxim that the firm can continue to grow or exist by exiting unprofitable markets and entering higher‐growth areas, we explicate a theory of how firm resources affect the success of this transformational phenomenon, which we call strategic transition. We propose that resource redeployability, relatedness of industries, and slack resources enable firms to transform themselves such that they operate in an entirely new domain. Furthermore, we point to the equifinality of strategic transition and produce a typology of the paths firms may take to achieve it.

Key Points

We extend Penrose's maxim that the firm can continue to grow or exist by exiting unprofitable markets and entering higher‐growth areas.

We explicate a theory of how firm resources affect this transformational phenomenon, which we call strategic transition.

We propose that resource redeployability, the relatedness between the old and new industry, and slack resources affect the ability of firms to transform themselves such that they operate in an entirely new domain.

We also illustrate to the equifinality of strategic transition and produce a typology of the paths firms may take to achieve it.
Links among MRI features in paraspinal muscles, inflammatory processes, and related back pain in patients with lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Chen Xiaolong , Cui Peng , Li Yongjin , Wang Yu , Lu Shibao
Published: December 2023

Background

Recent studies have provided evidence that structural changes in paraspinal muscles are associated with intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), ubiquitous with low back pain (LBP), and potentially thought to be regulated by inflammatory processes. However, the links remain unclear.

Objective

The aims of this study were to investigate structural changes in paraspinal muscles that differed in healthy and lumbar disc herniation (LDH) patients, and LDH patients with and without LBP, and to determine the link with the expression of inflammatory marker(s).

Methods

Cross‐sectional areas (CSAs) and fatty degeneration of muscles were measured in this prospective cohort study. Multifidus muscle (MM) tissue was procured from included individuals undergoing surgery. Gene expression was quantified using qPCR assays. Independent t‐test, Chi‐square, and Spearman correlation were used for evaluating the links among structural changes, expression of inflammatory markers, and clinical outcomes.

Results

Functional CSA and fatty degeneration of MM were larger in healthy group than LDH group. A significant increase in fat infiltration in MM in LBP group than in non‐LBP group. TNF‐alpha (TNF‐α) was 28‐fold greater in high‐fat infiltration group than low‐fat infiltration group within MM. Expression of TNF‐α and IL‐1β in MM was moderately correlated with functional CSA and fatty degeneration of MM, which was moderately correlated with clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Results support the hypothesis that IDD is associated with dysregulation of inflammatory state of local MM, which provides initial evidence that inflammatory dysregulation in paraspinal muscles has the potential for a broad impact on tissue health and LBP symptoms.
The impact of substance use on posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and treatment discontinuation
Authors: Stevenson Brittany L. , Lee Jenny Y. , Oslin David W. , Polusny Melissa A. , Kehle‐Forbes Shannon M.
Published: December 2023

This study examined the impact of ongoing substance use during posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) treatment on PTSD symptoms and treatment discontinuation. The study represents a secondary analysis of U.S. military veterans (N = 183) who participated in a randomized clinical trial for the treatment of both PTSD and SUD. Veterans mostly identified as Black (53.8%) or White (41.9%) and male (92.4%). Substance use, PTSD symptoms, and treatment discontinuation were measured at 4‐week intervals throughout treatment. Predictors were the percentage of days with alcohol, cannabis, and other substance use (primarily cocaine and opioids) and the average number of alcoholic drinks per drinking day. Outcomes were PTSD symptoms and treatment discontinuation at concurrent and prospective assessments. Multilevel models accounted for the nested structure of the longitudinal data. Alcohol, cannabis, and other substance use did not predict PTSD symptoms or treatment discontinuation prospectively. Concurrently, we observed that as a participant's percentage of drinking days increased by 34.7% (i.e., 1 standard deviation), PTSD symptoms during the same period were 0.07 standard deviations higher (i.e., 1 point on the PCL), B = 0.03, p = .033. No other substances were related to PTSD symptoms concurrently. The findings demonstrate that PTSD symptoms improved regardless of substance use during exposure‐based PTSD and SUD treatment, and treatment discontinuation was not associated with substance use. This study suggests that substance use during treatment cannot directly explain the poorer treatment outcomes observed in the literature on comorbid PTSD/SUD compared to PTSD‐only populations.
Current Practices in Voice Data Collection and Limitations to Voice AI Research: A National Survey
Authors: Evangelista Emily , Kale Rohan , McCutcheon Desiree , Rameau Anais , Gelbard Alexander , Powell Maria , Johns Michael , Law Anthony , Song Phillip , Naunheim Matthew , Watts Stephanie , Bryson Paul C. , Crowson Matthew G. , Pinto Jeremy ,   Bridge2AI‐Voice, Bensoussan Yael
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Accuracy and validity of voice AI algorithms rely on substantial quality voice data. Although commensurable amounts of voice data are captured daily in voice centers across North America, there is no standardized protocol for acoustic data management, which limits the usability of these datasets for voice artificial intelligence (AI) research.

Objective

The aim was to capture current practices of voice data collection, storage, analysis, and perceived limitations to collaborative voice research.

Methods

A 30‐question online survey was developed with expert guidance from the voicecollab.ai members, an international collaborative of voice AI researchers. The survey was disseminated via REDCap to an estimated 200 practitioners at North American voice centers. Survey questions assessed respondents' current practices in terms of acoustic data collection, storage, and retrieval as well as limitations to collaborative voice research.

Results

Seventy‐two respondents completed the survey of which 81.7% were laryngologists and 18.3% were speech language pathologists (SLPs). Eighteen percent of respondents reported seeing 40%–60% and 55% reported seeing >60 patients with voice disorders weekly (conservative estimate of over 4000 patients/week). Only 28% of respondents reported utilizing standardized protocols for collection and storage of acoustic data. Although, 87% of respondents conduct voice research, only 38% of respondents report doing so on a multi‐institutional level. Perceived limitations to conducting collaborative voice research include lack of standardized methodology for collection (30%) and lack of human resources to prepare and label voice data adequately (55%).

Conclusion

To conduct large‐scale multi‐institutional voice research with AI, there is a pertinent need for standardization of acoustic data management, as well as an infrastructure for secure and efficient data sharing.

Level of Evidence

Level 5 Laryngoscope, 2023
The Larynx is Protected from Secondary and Vertical Papillomavirus Infection in Immunocompetent Mice
Authors: King Renee E. , Rademacher Josef , Ward‐Shaw Ella T. , Hu Rong , Bilger Andrea , Blaine‐Sauer Simon , Spurgeon Megan E. , Thibeault Susan L. , Lambert Paul F.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Mouse papillomavirus MmuPV1 causes both primary and secondary infections of the larynx in immunocompromised mice. Understanding lateral and vertical transmission of papillomavirus to the larynx would benefit patients with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). To test the hypothesis that the larynx is uniquely vulnerable to papillomavirus infection, and to further develop a mouse model of RRP, we assessed whether immunocompetent mice were vulnerable to secondary or vertical laryngeal infection with MmuPV1.

Methods

Larynges were collected from 405 immunocompetent adult mice that were infected with MmuPV1 in the oropharynx, oral cavity, or anus, and 31 mouse pups born to immunocompetent females infected in the cervicovaginal tract. Larynges were analyzed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of lavage fluid or whole tissues for viral DNA, histopathology, and/or in situ hybridization for MmuPV1 transcripts.

Results

Despite some positive laryngeal lavage PCR screens, all laryngeal tissue PCR and histopathology results were negative for MmuPV1 DNA, transcripts, and disease. There was no evidence for lateral spread of MmuPV1 to the larynges of immunocompetent mice that were infected in the oral cavity, oropharynx, or anus. Pups born to infected mothers were negative for laryngeal MmuPV1 infection from birth through weaning age.

Conclusion

Secondary and vertical laryngeal MmuPV1 infections were not found in immunocompetent mice. Further work is necessary to explore immunologic control of laryngeal papillomavirus infection in a mouse model and to improve preclinical models of RRP.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:2322–2330, 2024
Dry fruit shell‐derived biochar increases biosorption potential and detoxification of organic pollutants for land safety
Authors: Munir Neelma , Hanif Maria , Abideen Zainul , Seerat Ayesha , Hamid Maria , El‐Sheikh Mohamed A. , Radicetti Emanuele , Mancinelli Roberto , El‐Keblawy Ali
Published: December 2023

The increase in water pollution and land degradation ultimately reduces the supply of clean water for the growing population. Biochar produced from dry fruit shells is an effective adsorbent for organic pollutants. It can help reduce soil contamination and water pollution, making it an important option for land safety. For this experiment, dry fruit shell biochar was produced and activated chemically with 1 M KOH to increase the pollutants' removal efficiency. The efficiency of biochar as an adsorber of pollutants was assessed by characterizations of scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The peak of almond shell biochar was observed between 1033 and 1068 cm−1, while in pistachio, it was observed at 1458–1446 cm−1. Data extracted from XRD showed that most peaks were shifted after activation. For example, in walnut shell biochar, the peak shifted from 11° to 18° after biochar activation. The highest pollutant removal efficiency, such as 92%, 90%, and 87%, was observed in walnut shell biochar at 1, 2, and 3 mLL−1 adsorbate concentration, respectively. Pistachio shell biochar was most effective in the presence of the chemical activator to remove toluene and phenol organic contaminants. An increase in adsorbate concentration decreased the removal efficiency from 50% to 46% in activated almond shell biochar, 58% to 55% in activated pistachio shell biochar, and 55% to 54% in activated walnut shell biochar by 1 gL−1 of adsorbent. Kinetic and equilibrium data with different applied models established that the adsorption process was favorable, and models were fitted to the experimental setup. Biochar prepared from different dry fruit shells and their optimum activation can be used as bio‐sorbent for pollutants' removal and hence improved land development for agriculture and other industrial purposes.
Persistent hot spots of CO2 and CH4 in coastal nearshore environments
Authors: Asmala Eero , Scheinin Matias
Published: December 2023

Nearshore environments are typically supersaturated with the potent greenhouse gases methane and carbon dioxide, due to intense remineralization of the elevated supply of organic carbon in these systems. These environments are characterized by overlapping biogeochemical gradients and heterogeneous morphology, and the overall spatial variability in nearshore greenhouse gas concentrations remains unclear. We measured surface water partial pressures of carbon dioxide and methane synoptically with water quality parameters in the coastal Baltic Sea, covering two ice‐free seasons. The high‐frequency flow‐through data revealed sites with recurring very high partial pressures of carbon dioxide and methane (i.e., hot spots) scattered around the 50 km × 40 km study area, exceeding overall partial pressure averages by 455 μatm (CH4) and 2396 μatm (CO2). High partial pressures were linked with elevated inputs of allochthonous and autochthonous organic matter, underpinning the major role of organic enrichment of coastal environments in global carbon cycling.
Using the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR) to guide implementation of cardio‐oncology services
Authors: Clouser Jessica Miller , McMullen Colleen A. , Adu Akosua K. , Wells Gretchen , Arbune Amit , Li Jing
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Cardio‐oncology focuses on diagnosing and preventing adverse cardiovascular outcomes in cancer patients. Interdisciplinary cardio‐oncology services address the spectrum of prevention, detection, monitoring, and treatment of cancer patients at risk of cardio‐toxicity and aim to improve the continuum of cardiac care for oncology patients. The goal of this study was to engage clinician and administrative stakeholders to assess multilevel needs, barriers, and expectations regarding cardio oncology services.

Methods

We interviewed clinicians and administrators at an academic medical center using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to understand multilevel determinants influencing cardio‐oncology service implementation. We also conducted a web‐based survey to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of cardio‐oncology services held by local and regional clinicians who may refer cardio‐oncology patients to the study site.

Results

Multiple facilitators to cardio‐oncology service implementation emerged. Interview participants believed cardio‐oncology services could benefit patients and the organization by providing a competitive advantage. A majority (74%) of clinicians surveyed thought a cardio‐oncology service would significantly improve cancer patients’ prognoses. Implementation barriers discussed included costs and a siloed organizational structure that complicated cross‐service collaboration. In the clinician survey, differences in the views toward cardio‐oncology services held by cardiology versus oncology providers would need to be negotiated in future cardio‐oncology service development. For example, while most providers accepted similar risk of cardio‐toxicity when consenting patients for cancer therapy in a curative setting, cardiologists accepted significantly higher levels of risk than oncologists in an incurable setting: 75% of oncologists accepted 1‐5% risk; 77% of cardiologists accepted ≥5% risk).

Conclusions

Participants supported implementation and development of cardio‐oncology services. Respondents also noted multi‐level barriers that could be addressed to maximize the potential for success. Engaging administrators and clinicians from cardiology and oncology disciplines in the future development of such services can help ensure maximal relevance and uptake.
Preparation of Phase‐Change Composite Aerogel Materials and Its Application in Solar Saline‐Alkali Water Desalination
Authors: Dong Weixiong , Cao Xulei , Yan Jiayu , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Tian , Qin Yan , Ren Tiantian , Ma Xiaojun , Meng Guihua , Liu Zhiyong , Wu Jianning
Published: December 2023

Solar energy is an inexhaustible clean energy, and solar evaporation salt water desalination is a promising technology. However, the low evaporation efficiency caused by intermittent solar irradiation is still the main obstacle in the practical application of interface evaporation. A new type of interfacial evaporation material is developed by using the porous adsorption method to fill the phase change material (PCM) paraffin (IPW) into the halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), using polydopamine (PDA) as the photothermal material and encapsulation agent and bacterial cellulose (BC) as the carrier. The low‐temperature crosslinking method prepares the IPW@HNTs@ PDA‐BC phase change composite aerogel. The novel interfacial evaporation material preparation process is simple, and the aerogels can be prepared quickly under normal pressure, which overcomes the disadvantages of the traditional porous adsorption method and long‐time freeze‐drying of aerogels. Under 1 kW m−2 light, the evaporation rate of the PCM is 3.43 kg m−2 h−1, and the photothermal conversion efficiency is 95%. In the dark environment (10 min), the evaporation rate is 2.80 kg m−2 h−1, and the photothermal conversion efficiency is 52.8%. The material exhibits excellent evaporation in acidic, alkaline water, and industrial wastewater. Shortly, it can be used as a promising material for evaporating clean water.
Mass cytometry and transcriptomic profiling reveal PD1 blockade induced alterations in oral carcinogenesis
Authors: Dong Yunmei , Zhang Chengli , Mao Fei , Dan Hongxia , Zeng Xin , Ji Ning , Li Jing , Chen Qianming , Zhou Yu , Li Taiwen
Published: December 2023

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the predominant subtype of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, characterized by a challenging prognosis. In this study, we established a murine model of oral carcinogenesis using 4‐nitroquinoline‐1‐oxide (4‐NQO) induction to investigate the impact of immunotherapy on microenvironmental alterations. Mice in the precancerous condition were randomly divided into two groups: one receiving programmed death‐1 (PD1) monoclonal antibody treatment and the other, control immunoglobulin G. Our observations showed that while PD1 blockade effectively delayed the progression of carcinogenesis, it did not completely impede or reverse it. To unravel the underlying reasons for the limited effectiveness of PD1 blockade, we collected tongue lesions and applied mass cytometry (CyTOF) and RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) to characterize the microenvironment. CyTOF analysis revealed an increased macrophage subset (expressing high levels of IFNγ and iNOS) alongside a diminished Th1‐like subset (exhibiting low expression of TCF7) and three myeloid‐derived suppressor cell subsets (displaying low expression of MHC Class II or IFNγ) following anti‐PD1 treatment. Notably, we observed an increased presence of cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) expressing collagen‐related genes after PD1 blockade. Furthermore, we found a negative correlation between the infiltration levels of CAFs and CD8+ T cells. These findings were validated in murine tongue tissue slides, and publicly available multi‐omics datasets. Our results suggest that CAFs may impair the therapeutic efficacy of PD1 blockade in oral carcinogenesis by the remodeling of the extracellular matrix.
A unified framework and terminology for reproductive traits integral to understanding fish population productivity
Authors: Lowerre‐Barbieri Susan K. , Brown‐Peterson Nancy J. , Wyanski David M. , Moncrief‐Cox Heather E. , Kolmos Kevin J. , Menendez Hayden S. , Barnett Beverly K. , Friess Claudia
Published: December 2023

Objective

This paper highlights the complexity of marine fish spawner–recruit systems and how they vary across species and ecosystems while providing a universal terminology and framework to evaluate fish reproduction. We emphasize the gonadal development important to assess maturity, fecundity, where and when fish spawn, and transition and sex assignment in protogynous species.

Methods

We review and compare reproductive traits in warmwater and coldwater fishes. Reproductive phases for both sexes and protogynous species are defined and histological micrographs presented. New methods are developed to assess maturity; spawning seasonality; peak spawning; and, for protogynous species, sex assignment.

Result

Protogyny, extended spawning seasons, and indeterminate fecundity are more common in warmwater than coldwater systems. The following reproductive phases are defined as immature, transitional (sex change), early developing (the first stage of entrainment in the reproductive cycle), late developing (stages needed to complete maturational competence), spawning, regressing (spawning season termination), and regenerating (fish that are mature but outside of the spawning season). A method to assess the certainty of maturity assignment based on reproductive phase and the age and size range sampled is presented, as are best practices to estimate size and age at maturity. To remove the subjectivity from current methods to estimate spawning seasonality, we present a new quantitative method to identify the core spawning season and peak spawning months.

Conclusion

A species’ ability to adapt to fishing and climate change varies with their reproductive strategy. Improving our understanding of fish reproduction necessitates standardizing methodology and terminology.
Emerging potentials of Fe‐based nanomaterials for chiral sensing and imaging
Authors: Nwaji Njemuwa , Gwak Juyong , Nguyen My‐Chi , Nguyen Huu‐Quang , Kang Hyojin , Choi Youngeun , Kim Youngmi , Chen Hongxia , Lee Jaebeom
Published: December 2023

Fe‐based nanostructures have possessed promising properties that make it suitable for chiral sensing and imaging applications owing to their ultra‐small size, non‐toxicity, biocompatibility, excellent photostability, tunable fluorescence, and water solubility. This review summarizes the recent research progress in the field of Fe‐based nanostructures and places special emphases on their applications in chiral sensing and imaging. The synthetic strategies to prepare the targeted Fe‐based structures were also introduced. The chiral sensing and imaging applications of the nanostructures are discussed in details.
Novel de novo mutation in ZBTB20 in a Chinese Primrose syndrome family and a review of the literature
Authors: Li Jiayi , Zhang Chuan , Tian Xinyuan , Zhou Bingbo , Chen Xue , Wang Yupei , Hao Shengju , Hui Ling , Meng Zhaoyan
Published: December 2023

Background

Primrose syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by craniofacial dysmorphism, mental retardation, developmental delay, progressive muscle atrophy and calcification of the earlobe due to a mutation in the ZBTB20.

Method

We reported a case of a Chinese boy with clinical symptoms resembling Primrose Syndrome, and performed genetic etiology analysis of the proband's family through Trio whole exome sequencing.

Result

A novel missense variant c.1927T>A(p.F643I) in exon 14 of the ZBTB20 (NM_001348803) was identified in the proband. This is the first report case of primrose syndrome in China, and our case extends the variant spectrum of ZBTB20 and further strengthens the understanding of primrose syndrome.

Conclusion

However, there are no formal clinical guidelines for the management of this disease, and research on treatment and prognosis remains a challenge and focus in future.