bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forage breeding and cultivar development: A 50‐year perspective
Authors: Bouton Joseph Henry
Published: June 2023

This article represents the perspective of one retired, academic forage breeder and cultivar developer after 50 years of working experience. Developing cultivars that help farmers within pastoral agriculture is the main goal, a system where livestock is the consumer. International Grassland Congress proceedings, as well as the general literature, are historical guides for the state of forage breeding. Efficiency was achieved through technologies; better equipment for planting and harvesting; and advances in computer computation and communication. Biotechnology achievements were fitful and continue to evolve. Cultivar performance mean‐reversion, cost to the program, and what the farmer seed buyer was willing to pay are important considerations for applying any technology, especially biotechnologies. Biotech promises were too optimistic. This was due, in part, to a lack of understanding that traditional phenotypic/genotypic field selection programs operate in a complex way with multiple species and several traits screened simultaneously at a modest cost. The majority of current forage cultivars are from field‐based selection. Industry participation at scientific conferences declined over time, with less sharing of information the result. Cultivar developers will continue using basic field selection methods but should explore applying any technology; just be clever on when, how, and with whom to use them. Practical advice and experiences are also presented and discussed.
How the human resource (HR) function adds strategic value: A relational perspective of the HR function
Authors: Jo Jinhwan , Chadwick Clint , Han Joo Hun
Published: June 2023

In the present article, we propose the concept of the HR function's relational activities and examine its influence on the firm's human capital resources (HCRs) and performance. Integrating insights from various streams of research in strategic human resource management (HRM) and strategic human capital, we develop a relational perspective of the HR function and propose the relational activities as the HR function's advisory and informative activities toward its internal stakeholders (i.e., line managers, employees, and senior managers) to help the stakeholders meet their goals and needs. In our framework, we theorize how the HR function's relational activities lead to superior firm performance by enhancing the firm's HCRs and identify the firm's strategic HR systems and human capital losses as factors that complement and necessitate the HR function's relational activities, respectively. Using a five‐wave, nationally representative panel dataset covering 1415 firm observations, we find robust support for our hypotheses: the HR function's relational activities were positively related to HCRs, which was more pronounced when coupled with high levels of strategic HR systems and human capital losses. The HCRs, in turn, transmitted the effects of the relational activities on the firm's subsequent operational and financial performance. Overall, these findings develop strategic HRM theory by contributing a more comprehensive conceptualization of the HR function's role in the strategic HRM process and by revealing its effects on firm performance along with key moderators.
YES‐associated protein‐regulated Smad7 worsen epithelial barrier injury of chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Jiang Xiaocong , Shu Longlan , Liu Yijun , Shen Yang , Ke Xia , Liu Jie , Yang Yucheng
Published: June 2023

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) was potentially due to the epithelial barrier injury. YES‐associated protein (YAP) is a multifunctional transcriptional factor and plays versatile roles in the regulation and maintenance of epithelial barrier in different organs and tissues. The purpose of this study is to elucidate possible effect and mechanism of YAP on the epithelial barrier of CRSwNP.

Methods

Patients were divided into CRSwNP group (n = 12) and control group (n = 9). The location of YAP, PDZ‐binding transcriptional co‐activator (TAZ), and Smad7 were estimated by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Meanwhile, the expression of YAP, TAZ, Zona occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), E‐cadherin, and transforming growth factor‐beta1 (TGF‐β1) were detected by Western blot. After primary human nasal epithelial cells were treated with YAP inhibitor, the expression level of YAP, TAZ, ZO‐1, E‐cadherin, TGF‐β1, and Smad7 were measured by Western blot.

Results

Compared with the control group, the protein levels of YAP, TAZ, and Smad7 were significantly upregulated, while TGF‐β1, ZO‐1, and E‐cadherin were downregulated in CRSwNP. YAP and Smad7 demonstrated lower levels, while the expression of ZO‐1, E‐cadherin, and TGF‐β1 rose slightly after YAP inhibitor treatment in primary nasal epithelial cells.

Conclusions

Higher level of YAP may lead to CRSwNP epithelial barrier injury via the TGF‐β1 signaling pathway, and the inhibition of YAP can partially reverse epithelial barrier function.
The finance–inequality nexus in the era of financialisation: Evidence for Portugal
Authors: Barradas Ricardo , Lakhani Rishi
Published: June 2023

Since the 1980s, Portuguese policy makers have engaged in a strong process of liberalization, deregulation and privatization of the financial system to adhere to the rules imposed by the European Economic Community and to promote financial growth, boost economic growth and reduce inequality. However, the Portuguese economic growth has exhibited a weaker performance and inequality has continued to widen in the last decades, a situation that seems to contradict the mainstream beliefs regarding the supportive role played by financial growth in the era of financialisation. This article undertakes an empirical assessment of the finance–inequality nexus by performing a time series econometric analysis for Portugal from 1980 to 2020 through the estimation of both linear and non‐linear models. It finds strong evidence for a positive (linear) relationship between finance and inequality and some evidence for a convex quadratic (non‐linear) relationship between finance and inequality in Portugal, corroborating the hypothesis that the financial growth has been prejudicial, enhancing inequality in Portugal. These findings highlight the urgent need to abandon the so‐called ‘trickle‐down theory’ or the ‘horse and sparrow theory’ and to implement the so‐called ‘trickle‐up theory’ with the support of pro‐poor public policies to decrease inequality in Portugal.
Application of autoantibody detection in chronic liver disease
Authors: Han Jinyu , Chen Jin , Wang Yajie
Published: June 2023

Autoantibody (AAb) detection has become one of the standards of diagnosis for autoimmune liver disease (AILD), and some AAbs have become specific biomarkers of AILD. In addition, AAbs can be detected in patients with non‐AILDs, such as viral hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease. However, the distribution characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms of AAbs in patients with non‐AILD are unclear. This article summarizes the characteristics of AAbs in several common clinical chronic liver diseases (CLDs) and discusses the value of AAb analysis in CLD.
Toxicological effects of selenium nanoparticles in laboratory animals: A review
Authors: Ryabova Yuliya V. , Sutunkova Marina P. , Minigalieva Ilzira A. , Shabardina Lada V. , Filippini Tommaso , Tsatsakis Aristides
Published: June 2023

This paper provides a comprehensive summary of the main toxicological studies conducted on selenium nanoparticles (NPs) using laboratory animals, up until February 28, 2023. A literature search revealed 17 articles describing experimental studies conducted on warm‐blooded animals. Despite some uncertainties, in vivo studies have demonstrated that selenium NPs have an adverse effect on laboratory animals, as evidenced by several indicators of general toxic action. These effects include reductions of body mass, changes in hepatotoxicity indices (increased enzyme activity and accumulation of selenium in the liver), and the possibility of impairment of fatty acid, protein, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolisms. However, no specific toxic action attributable solely to selenium has been identified. The LOAEL and NOAEL values are contradictory. The NOAEL was 0.22 mg/kg body weight per day for males and 0.33 mg/kg body weight per day for females, while the LOAEL was assumed to be a dose of 0.05 mg/kg of nanoselenium. This LOAEL value is much higher for rats than for humans. The relationship between the adverse effects of selenium NPs and exposure dose is controversial and presents a wide typological diversity. Further research is needed to clarify the absorption, metabolism, and long‐term toxicity of selenium NPs, which is critical to improving the risk assessment of these compounds.
The Multifarious Functions of Leukotrienes in Bone Metabolism
Authors: Amadeu de Oliveira Flávia , Tokuhara Cintia K. , Veeriah Vimal , Domezi João Paulo , Santesso Mariana R. , Cestari Tania M. , Ventura Talita M.O. , Matos Adriana A. , Dionísio Thiago , Ferreira Marcel R. , Ortiz Rafael C. , Duarte Marco A.H. , Buzalaf Marília A.R. , Ponce José B. , Sorgi Carlos A. , Faccioli Lucia H. , Buzalaf Camila Peres , de Oliveira Rodrigo Cardoso
Published: June 2023

Leukotrienes (LTs) are derived from arachidonic acid metabolism by the 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LO) enzyme. The production of LTs is stimulated in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis, and periodontitis, with a relevant contribution to bone resorption. However, its role in bone turnover, particularly the suppression of bone formation by modulating the function of osteoclasts and osteoblasts, remains unclear. We investigated the effects of LTs on bone metabolism and their impact on osteogenic differentiation and osteoclastogenesis using a 5‐LO knockout (KO) mouse model. Results from micro‐computed tomography (μCT) analysis of femur from 8‐week‐old 5‐LO‐deficient mice showed increased cortical bone and medullary region in females and males and decreased trabecular bone in females. In the vertebra, we observed increased marrow area in both females and males 5‐LO KO and decreased trabecular bone only in females 5‐LO KO. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis showed higher levels of osteogenic markers tissue‐nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) and osteopontin (OPN) and lower expression of osteoclastogenic marker tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) in the femurs of 5‐LO KO mice versus wild‐type (WT). Alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization assay results showed that the 5‐LO absence enhances osteoblasts differentiation and mineralization but decreases the proliferation. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Bglap, and Sp7 gene expression were higher in 5‐LO KO osteoblasts compared to WT cells. Eicosanoids production was higher in 5‐LO KO osteoblasts except for thromboxane 2, which was lower in 5‐LO–deficient mice. Proteomic analysis identified the downregulation of proteins related to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) metabolism in 5‐LO KO osteoblasts, and the upregulation of transcription factors such as the adaptor‐related protein complex 1 (AP‐1 complex) in long bones from 5‐LO KO mice leading to an increased bone formation pattern in 5‐LO–deficient mice. We observed enormous differences in the morphology and function of osteoclasts with reduced bone resorption markers and impaired osteoclasts in 5‐LO KO compared to WT osteoclasts. Altogether, these results demonstrate that the absence of 5‐LO is related to the greater osteogenic profile. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Changes in the structure and function of the left ventricle in patients with gout: A study based on three‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Meng Yuanyuan , Ma Leiyuan , Zong Tingyu , Wang Zhibin
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Studies have shown that gout can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (3D‐STE), a sensitive imaging technology, enables the detection of subtle myocardial dysfunctions. Our aim is to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) functions in patients with gout using 3D‐STE.

Methods

80 subjects: 40 with gout and 40 as normal controls were involved. We obtained and analyzed these parameters from the dynamic images of a 3D full‐volume dataset: global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global radial strain (GRS), Twist, 16‐segmental time‐to‐peak longitudinal strain (TTP) and systolic dyssynchrony index (SDI)besides other relevant parameters.

Results

Compared with the normal group, gout patients were more likely to have left ventricular remodeling. The patients with gout showed decreased Em, increased E/Em and larger volume index of the left atrium (LAVI) indicating reduced diastolic function. The peak GLS (−17.42 ± 2.02 vs. −22.40 ± 2.57, P < 0.001), GCS (−27.04 ± 3.75 vs. −34.85 ± 4.99, P < 0.001), GRS (38.22 ± 4.28 vs. 46.15 ± 5.17, P < 0.001), and Twist (15.18 ± 5.45 vs. 19.02 ± 5.29, P = 0.015) were significantly lower in patients with gout than in healthy participants. The SDI (5.57 ± 1.46 vs. 4.91 ± 1.19, P = 0.016) was significantly increased in patients with gout compared with normal controls. There was no significant between‐group difference in TTP (P = 0.43). The systolic GLS, GRS and GCS peak values increased gradually from the base to the apex, with the lowest values in the basal segment in patients with gout. Receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis revealed among these strains GLS has the largest area under the curve (AUC: 0.93, P < 0.001), the cutoff value of −18.97% with a sensitivity and specificity of 80.0% and 92.0%, respectively, for differentiating two groups. A multivariate linear regression analysis shows that the relationship between gout and strain parameters including GLS, GRS, and GCS is statistically significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Although patients with gout having a normal ejection fraction, structural remodeling of the left ventricle and subclinical LV deformation may occur. 3D‐STE can detect subtle cardiac dysfunctions in patients with gout at an early stage.
Predominance of DS‐1‐like G8P[8] rotavirus reassortant strains in children hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis in Thailand, 2018–2020
Authors: Chan‐It Wisoot , Chanta Chulapong , Ushijima Hiroshi
Published: June 2023

Rotavirus A (RVA) is an important cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children. This study aims to investigate the molecular epidemiology of RVA in children hospitalized with AGE in Chiang Rai, Thailand in 2018–2020 by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Of 302 samples, RVA was detected in 11.6% (35 samples): 11.3% (19/168) in 2018–2019 and 11.9% (16/134) in 2019–2020. G8P[8] was the predominant genotype at 68.4% in 2018–2019 and 81.2% in 2019–2020. G1P[8] (15.8%), G2P[4] (5.3%), G3P[8] (10.5%) in 2018–2019, and G9P[8] (18.8%) in 2019–2020 were also detected. Whole‐genome analysis of G8P[8] revealed a DS‐1‐like genetic backbone: G8‐P[8]‐I2‐R2‐C2‐M2‐A2‐N2‐T2‐E2‐H2. Phylogenetically, the VP7 genes of G8P[8] clustered in a major lineage with previously published 51 DS‐1‐like G8P[8] reference strains, closely related to 13 G8P[8] strains from Thailand and China. These G8P[8] strains contained two unique amino acid substitutions (A125S and N147D) in the VP7 antigenic epitopes. In addition, the VP1 and NSP2 genes of G8P[8] clustered in lineages separated from the DS‐1‐like G8P[8] reference strains with a high genetic divergence but were closely related to G1P[8], G2P[4], G3P[8], or G9P[8]. Several amino acid differences were observed in the VP7 and VP8* antigenic epitopes of G8P[8] compared with RVA vaccine strains. Homology modeling confirmed that these different amino acid residues were located on the surface‐exposed area of the structure. Taken together, the genetic analysis clearly defines the Chiang Rai DS‐1‐like G8P[8] strains as a novel reassortant strain that might have evolved genetically through reassortment events and consequently received their VP1 and NSP2 genes from locally cocirculating‐RVA genotypes.
The effectiveness of machine learning‐based multi‐model ensemble predictions of CMIP6 in Western Ghats of India
Authors: Shetty Swathi , Umesh Pruthviraj , Shetty Amba
Published: June 2023

The popularity of cutting‐edge machine learning ensemble approaches has solved many climate change research and prediction issues. The six top‐performing GCMs obtained from Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution were ensembled using seven machine learning ensemble methods such as Random Forest Regressor (RFR), Support Vector Regressor (SVR), Linear Regression (LR), Adaptive Boosting Regressor (AdaBoost), Extreme Gradient Boosting Regressor (XGBR), Extra Tree Regressor (ETR), Multi‐Layer Perceptron neural network (MLP) and simple Arithmetic Mean (AM) over the diverse geo‐climatic basins. Precipitation is best simulated by EC‐Earth3 and BCC‐CSM2‐MR. Maximum temperature by MPI‐ESM1‐2‐HR, EC‐Earth3‐Veg, INM‐CM5‐0 and MPI‐ESM1‐2‐LR. Minimum temperature by INM‐CM5‐0 and MPI‐ESM1‐2‐LR model. The MME of XGBR and RFR stand out for their superior performance across all six basins, with exceptional performance over the per‐humid basins, while AdaBoost, SVR and the AM underperform. Examining the interseasonal variability of the simulated MMEs over the basins highlights the reliability of these MME models. The anticipated change in maximum and minimum temperature in the SSP245 and SSP585 in the future horizon corroborates the undeniable rise in temperature by all the MMEs with a dramatic change in future temperature in AM and AdaBoost in precipitation with a factor of two rises in the far future over the recent past. Though climate change is expected to increase precipitation, atmospheric stabilization over the Ghats will affect the spatiotemporal distribution of precipitation. We recommend a comprehensive testing and validation approach to generate ensembles in regional investigations involving complicated and diverse precipitation mechanisms.
Austral summer droughts and their driving mechanisms in observations and present‐day climate simulations over Malawi
Authors: Likoya Emmanuel , Birch Cathryn E. , Chapman Sarah , Dougill Andrew J.
Published: June 2023

Droughts are a key feature of weather systems over Malawi and southern Africa. Their societal relevance in Malawi underscores the need for improved understanding of drought characteristics and atmospheric processes that drive them. We use the Standardized Precipitation and Evapotranspiration Index with the run theory to identify and characterize droughts in observations (1961–2017) and CMIP5 models across Malawi. We find no major differences in drought duration, severity, and intensity between the northern and southern parts of Malawi. However, circulation patterns associated with droughts in the two regions are different, and typically organized in such a way that droughts in one region coincide with wetter conditions in the other. Anomalous circulation patterns diminishing moisture convergence and convection over the affected region are a typical feature of summer droughts. We show that precipitation variability is principally governed by advected moisture, transported via three main tracks of northwesterly, northeasterly, and southeasterly moisture fluxes. The three tracks interact to form a convergence zone with a peak situated over Malawi. Variability in the respective moisture flux tracks influences the variability in the location and intensity of the convergence zone, and thus the location of the ensuing drought. We note links between variability in the moisture advection tracks and El Nino Southern Oscillations and other modes of variability including the Indian Ocean Dipole and Subtropical Indian Ocean Dipole. Both negative and positive biases in drought frequency are apparent in CMIP5 models but the majority overestimate drought duration and severity. The relationship between precipitation and net total moisture flux is consistently simulated. However, we note significant model inconsistencies in the relationship between precipitation and moisture flux from the southeasterly track, which potentially undermines the confidence in model simulation of drought processes over Malawi.
GLIM criteria to identify malnutrition in patients in hospital settings: A systematic review
Authors: Alves Luana Ferreira , de Jesus José Daví Santos , Britto Vanessa Nunes Menezes , de Jesus Suzana Alves , Santos Gabriel Silva , de Oliveira Carolina Cunha
Published: June 2023

Malnutrition is recognized as one of the main public health problems in hospitals. The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) has established a global consensus on the criteria for diagnosing malnutrition in adults in hospital settings. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of the GLIM criteria as a tool to identify malnutrition in hospital settings and to compare the prevalence of malnutrition identified by GLIM criteria with that identified by other screening and/or nutrition assessment methods. This was a systematic review. Searches were performed using MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Virtual Health Library, based on established descriptors. The included studies were observational and used screening and/or nutrition assessment tools to compare the prevalence of malnutrition and predictive capacity identified by GLIM criteria in patients aged >18 years in hospital settings. Twelve studies were included in this systematic review. A total of 4066 individuals with different pathologies and clinical conditions participated in the included studies. The prevalence of malnutrition, according to the GLIM criteria, ranged from 16% to 80%. In four studies, the prevalence of malnutrition based on GLIM was higher than that based on the other indicators. Six studies that evaluated the predictive ability of GLIM criteria identified satisfactory sensitivity and specificity. Four studies found low to high agreement between GLIM and the other methods. GLIM criteria can identify malnutrition and find a high prevalence and severity of malnutrition in the hospital setting, proving them to be a sensitive and specific instrument, with good agreement between screening and nutrition assessment methods.
Multi‐disciplinary study of a late Pleistocene woolly rhinoceros found in the Pannonian Basin and implications for the contemporaneous palaeoenvironment
Authors: Gasparik Mihály , Major István , Lisztes‐Szabó Zsuzsa , Magyari Enikő , Szabó Bence , Pandolfi Luca , Borel Antony , Futó István , Horváth Anikó , Kiss Gabriella Ilona , Molnár Mihály , Csík Attila , Markó András
Published: June 2023

Excavation campaigns conducted at the Pécel‐Kis hársas site (Hungary) between 2014 and 2017 yielded the remains of a mature female woolly rhinoceros (Coelodonta antiquitatis) and six lithic artefacts. Radiocarbon dating confirmed that the rhinoceros died ca. 20.4k cal a
bp, at the very end of the Last Glacial Maximum and, considering the position of the artefacts when found, it was probably killed by Epigravettian hunters. Based on dental analyses of the specimen, a vigorous lichen‐ (and possibly moss‐)consuming diet could be inferred for the end of the animal's lifetime. Based on Sr results, we can exclude the possibility of long‐range migration. In accordance with the optimum environmental demands of the foraging lichen, the low δ18O value of osseous material implies a relatively cold contemporaneous climate with a calculated mean annual air temperature of around 0.7 °C. Meanwhile, the extremely low δ15N value may have resulted from the proximity of the discontinuous permafrost zone and some intensive soil dislocation. Consequently, poor vegetation and an open, tundra‐like habitat can be assumed to have been dominant at the site at that time, which is also supported by palaeoenvironmental modeling experiments.
Whole exome sequencing identifies MAP3K1, MSH2, and MLH1 as potential cancer‐predisposing genes in familial early‐onset colorectal cancer
Authors: Fatemi Nayeralsadat , Tu Siang‐Jyun , Chung Chin‐Chun , Moghadam Pardis Ketabi , Mojarad Ehsan Nazemalhosseini , Sadeghi Amir , Totonchi Mehdi , Aghdaei Hamid Asadzadeh , Chang Jan‐Gowth
Published: June 2023

The incidence of early‐onset colorectal cancer (CRC), which affects people under 50, is increasing for unknown reasons. Additionally, no underlying genetic cause is found in 20%–30% of patients suspected of having familial CRC syndrome. Whole exome sequencing (WES) has generated evidence for new genes associated with CRC susceptibility, but many patients remain undiagnosed. This study applied WES in five early‐onset CRC patients from three unrelated families to identify novel genetic variants that could be linked to rapid disease development. Furthermore, the candidate variants were validated using Sanger sequencing. Two heterozygote variations, c.1077‐2A>G and c.199G>A, were found in the MSH2 and the MLH1 genes, respectively. Sanger sequencing analysis confirmed that these (likely) pathogenic mutations segregated in all the affected families' members. In addition, we identified a rare heterozygote variant (c.175C>T) with suspected pathogenic potential in the MAP3K1 gene; formally the variant is of uncertain significance (VUS). Our findings support the hypothesis that CRC onset may be oligogenic and molecularly heterogeneous. Larger and more robust studies are needed to understand the genetic basis of early‐onset CRC development, combined with novel functional analyses and omics approaches.
National Trends of Otolaryngology Involvement in Cleft Surgical Management over 10‐Years
Authors: Sharma Rahul K. , Landeen Kelly C. , Ortiz Alexandra , Belcher Ryan H. , Phillips James D. , Stephan Scott J. , Yang Shiayin F. , Patel Priyesh N.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Surgical management of cleft lip/palate and cleft rhinoplasty have historically been performed by plastic surgeons. No study has addressed temporal trends in cleft‐associated surgeries. This study assesses trends in cleft surgical management and complications in a national database.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric database from 2012 to 2021. Patients receiving cleft lip and/or palate repair were isolated using CPT codes. A subset receiving cleft rhinoplasty was also analyzed. The yearly proportion of otolaryngologists compared to general plastic surgeons performing surgeries was noted. Regression analysis was used to identify trends and predictors of management by OHNS.

Results

We identified 46,618 cases of cleft repair, of which 15.6% (N = 7,255) underwent repair with otolaryngology. On univariate Pearson correlation analysis, neither cleft rhinoplasties performed by OHNS over time (R = 0.371, 95% CI −0.337 to 0.811, p = 0.2907) nor all cases (R = −0.26, −0.76 to 0.44, p = 0.465) exhibited a significant change. On multivariable regression, the operative year was not associated with being treated by otolaryngology (p = 0.826) for all cleft cases but was associated with such in cleft rhinoplasties (OR 1.04, 1.01–1.08, p = 0.024). On multivariable analysis, the operative year was correlated with a higher rate of complications overall (OR 1.04, 1.01–1.07, p = 0.002). Surgeon specialty was not associated with complication rates.

Conclusions

In the last 10 years, no change in the proportion of cleft lip/palate repair performed by OHNS was observed. Otolaryngologists are performing more cleft rhinoplasty but at a marginal rate. Otolaryngologists also manage more complex patients with multiple comorbidities compared to their colleagues. Complication rates have increased overall regardless of surgeon specialty, warranting further investigation.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:671–677, 2024
Quantification of False Vocal Fold Hyperfunction During Quiet Breathing in Muscle Tension Dysphonia
Authors: Han Jasper , Morrison Robert , Mau Ted , Shembel Adrianna C.
Published: June 2023

Background/Objectives

False vocal fold (FVF) hyperfunction during phonation is thought to be a diagnostic sign of primary muscle tension dysphonia (pMTD). However, hyperfunctional patterns with phonation are also observed in typical speakers. This study tested the hypothesis that FVF posturing during quiet breathing, as measured by the curvature of FVF, could differentiate patients with pMTD from typical speakers.

Methods

Laryngoscopic images were collected prospectively in 30 subjects with pMTD and 33 typical speakers. Images were acquired at the end of expiration and maximal inspiration during quiet breathing, during sustained /i/, and during loud phonation before and after a 30‐min vocal loading task. The FVF curvature (degree of concavity/convexity) was quantified using a novel curvature index (CI, >0 for hyperfunctional/convex, <0 for “relaxed”/concave) and compared between the two groups.

Results

At end‐expiration, the pMTD group adopted a convex FVF contour, whereas the control group adopted a concave FVF contour (mean CI 0.123 [SEM 0.046] vs. −0.093 [SEM 0.030], p = 0.0002) before vocal loading. At maximal inspiration, the pMTD group had a neutral/straight FVF contour, whereas the control group had a concave FVF contour (mean CI 0.012 [SEM 0.038] vs. −0.155 [SEM 0.018], p = 0.0002). There were no statistically significant differences in FVF curvature between groups in either the sustained voiced or loud conditions. Vocal loading did not change any of these relationships.

Conclusions

A hyperfunctional posture of the FVFs during quiet breathing especially at end‐expiration may be more indicative of a hyperfunctional voice disorder than supraglottic constriction during voicing.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:3449–3454, 2023
Effect of Late‐Stage Meniere's Disease and Vestibular Functional Impairment on Hippocampal Atrophy
Authors: Jian Huirong , Wang Siyue , Li Xiaofei , Zhao Hui , Liu Shanfeng , Lyu Yafeng , Fan Zhaomin , Wang Haibo , Zhang Daogong
Published: June 2023

Objective

We investigated correlations among clinical features, degree of inner ear endolymphatic hydrops (EH), and hippocampal volume (HV) in different stages of Meniere's disease (MD).

Methods

From February 2021 to April 2022, clinical data were collected from 99 patients (39 males, 60 females, mean age: 50.4 ± 10.0 [range: 26–69] years) with unilateral MD admitted to the Department of Vertigo Disease of Shandong ENT Hospital. The left and right ears were affected in 64 and 35 patients, respectively. There were 50 and 49 cases in early (Stages 1, 2) and late stages (Stages 3, 4), respectively. Fifty healthy participants were included as controls. Audiovestibular function test results, EH grading using gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and HV determined on MRI were analyzed for patients at different stages of MD.

Results

Between‐group comparisons of early and late MD revealed significant differences in the disease course, vestibular function (VF), degree of EH, and HV. There were no significant between‐group differences based on age, sex, affected side, subjective degree of dizziness, hospital anxiety, or depression. Mean HV in patients with early‐stage MD was correlated with the canal paresis value of the caloric test and pure tone hearing threshold, HV in late‐stage patients was correlated with vestibular EH.

Conclusion

Patients with late‐stage MD exhibited severe auditory and VF impairments, increased EH, and atrophy of the HV. More advanced disease was associated with greater vestibular damage and degree of EH.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:410–418, 2024
Implementation of a multi‐layered land degradation monitoring and forecasting framework toward integrated countermeasure planning in drylands
Authors: Gupta Sharad Kumar , Kim Jungrack , Zucca Claudio , Sharma Arindam
Published: June 2023

Various earth observation (EO) data and related spatial technologies are employed to monitor land degradation (LD) and its impacts on the drylands. However, a comprehensive framework that integrates multiple data sources and metrics to generate a consistent output still needs to be explored. Furthermore, the lack of consistency and the limited reliabilities of existing approaches make it challenging to identify proper countermeasures (avoid, reduce, reverse LD) and support decisions to combat LD in line with the Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) Framework. The “Multi‐Layered Land Degradation Tracer (ML‐LDT)” is a framework that addresses the above research gaps. It is based on a comprehensive framework that integrates data extraction, LD monitoring, and forecasting capacities and consists of three functional layers, that is, a base data processor, monitoring/modeling components, and a forecasting layer employing machine learning (ML) algorithms. ML‐LDT has a state‐of‐art capacity to model wind erosion together with sand and dust storms (SDS), making it particularly suited to the arid lands most prone to these processes. It is implemented over cloud processors with open‐source components based on industry standards. Therefore, the routines are easily adaptable to user requirements in LDN planning. We evaluated the ML‐LDT framework in the Indian Thar Desert and Inner Mongolian drylands. The results showed the overall robustness of the procedures and that ML‐based models provide good insights to forecast future LD/SDS patterns that can be used to simulate LDN scenarios and targets. We validated the forecasting results against LD maps and remote sensing observations.
Improvement of satellite‐based rainfall product CHIRPS in estimating rainfall erosivity on the Loess Plateau
Authors: Zeng Wenying , Ding Xiaotong , Sun Wenyi , Mu Xingmin
Published: June 2023

Satellite‐based rainfall products have great potential for estimating rainfall erosivity, as they can provide continuous spatiotemporal distribution of precipitation estimates over large areas, especially for monitoring in areas with complex terrain and extreme climates. This paper uses the daily rainfall derived from the satellite‐based CHIRPS product on the GEE platform and Zhang's daily rainfall erosivity model to calculate the rainfall erosivity on the Loess Plateau during the period of 1981–2020. The accuracy of rainfall erosivity for the CHIRPS product is evaluated by comparing the results to estimates from national meteorological stations, and then the calculation formula of rainfall erosivity is optimized to improve the accuracy of rainfall erosivity based on CHIRPS products. The results show that the annual average rainfall of the CHIRPS product at the locations of national meteorological stations in 1981–2020 is 473.7 mm, which is 6.8% higher than that observed by the meteorological stations. The multi‐year average value of daily rainfall and the yearly average rainfall both for days with rainfall larger than or equal to 12 mm are 15.9% and 18.2% greater than those of the meteorological stations, respectively, and eventually resulting in an overestimation of rainfall erosivity on the Loess Plateau by 44.0%. The annual mean rainfall erosivity interpolated based on meteorological stations and calculated from the gridded CHIRPS product in 1981–2020 is 1344.2 MJ·mm/(hm2·h) and 2013.7 MJ·mm/(hm2·h), respectively. This result suggests that rainfall erosivity estimated by gridded CHIRPS product is overestimated by 49.8%, of which 46.1% is due to the overestimation of erosive rainfall in gridded CHIRPS and 3.7% is caused by site density and interpolation. Satellite‐based CHIRPS product is similar to the observations of meteorological stations in total rainfall and trends, but differs in rainfall frequency and intensity, which is an important reason for the difference in rainfall erosivity between satellite‐based rainfall products and meteorological stations. The CHIRPS‐based rainfall erosivity calculated using the optimized parameters reduces the overestimation from 49.8% to 3.2%, greatly reducing the satellite‐based rainfall erosivity estimation error.
Control system and kinematic analysis of lower limb prosthetic knee joint
Authors: Liu X. , Fang Z. , Xu B. , Yan P. , Cui R. , Wu Y.
Published: June 2023

In order to study the motion characteristics of the prosthesis, a three‐dimensional model of the test platform was established, and the corresponding control scheme was designed according to this model. For the lower limb prosthesis test platform, a fuzzy proportion‐integration‐differentiation (PID) control model was created. Second, the matlab modules were used to construct the virtual model, and the goal function‘s control research was conducted. Finally, a virtual model was created, and the outcomes were studied, in order to assess the differences between the control results of proportional‐integral‐differential controller and fuzzy proportional‐integral‐differential controller. The results verify that the test platform using fuzzy proportional‐integral‐differential controller is capable of greater stability. The lower limb prosthetic knee joint test platform was built, and the corresponding experimental research was carried out on the motion of the lower limb prosthetic knee joint. The experimental data showed that the angle error of the hip joint was within 2° when the normal human gait was walking on the ground. The error of the joint angle does not exceed 3°. The prosthesis can clearly better mimic the angles of the hip and knee joints.
Comparative investigation of fabrication, roughness, mechanical and wear properties of glass ionomer and nanofillers reinforced dental composite: A review
Authors: Verma R. , Azam M. S. , Kumar S. R.
Published: June 2023

In the present study, comparative analysis of glass ionomer and nanofillers in the performance of dental composite has been reviewed. In dental composite, a number of particulate fillers specifically nanoparticle are being tested and used. A new approach has been tried and investigated to replace expensive nanofillers with the other filler such as glass ionomer. There is a strong need to understand the scientific method, to conduct the clinical trial, and to perform the laboratory test to evaluate role of each parameter, constituent in the performance of dental composite. The present research reviewed the recent finding, possible opportunity and challenges for use of glass ionomer as replacement of nanofiller in dental composite. The existing literature on the favorable and non‐favorable side of glass ionomer is critically evaluated. The major aspect considered in the present review was to evaluate the surface roughness, mechanical properties and wear properties. The present article attempted to provide a state‐ of‐ the‐art analysis of fabrication method, surface treatment method and comparative analysis on role of particulate filler versus glass ionomer on the performance based on mechanical and wear testing mechanism.
Perception–Action Integration Is Altered in Functional Movement Disorders
Authors: Weissbach Anne , Moyé Josephine , Takacs Adam , Verrel Julius , Chwolka Fabian , Friedrich Julia , Paulus Theresa , Zittel Simone , Bäumer Tobias , Frings Christian , Pastötter Bernhard , Beste Christian , Münchau Alexander
Published: June 2023

Background

Although functional neurological movement disorders (FMD) are characterized by motor symptoms, sensory processing has also been shown to be disturbed. However, how the integration of perception and motor processes, essential for the control of goal‐directed behavior, is altered in patients with FMD is less clear. A detailed investigation of these processes is crucial to foster a better understanding of the pathophysiology of FMD and can systematically be achieved in the framework of the theory of event coding (TEC).

Objective

The aim was to investigate perception–action integration processes on a behavioral and neurophysiological level in patients with FMD.

Methods

A total of 21 patients and 21 controls were investigated with a TEC‐related task, including concomitant electroencephalogram (EEG) recording. We focused on EEG correlates established to reflect perception–action integration processes. Temporal decomposition allowed to distinguish between EEG codes reflecting sensory (S‐cluster), motor (R‐cluster), and integrated sensory–motor processing (C‐cluster). We also applied source localization analyses.

Results

Behaviorally, patients revealed stronger binding between perception and action, as evidenced by difficulties in reconfiguring previously established stimulus–response associations. Such hyperbinding was paralleled by a modulation of neuronal activity clusters, including reduced C‐cluster modulations of the inferior parietal cortex and altered R‐cluster modulations in the inferior frontal gyrus. Correlations of these modulations with symptom severity were also evident.

Conclusions

Our study shows that FMD is characterized by altered integration of sensory information with motor processes. Relations between clinical severity and both behavioral performance and neurophysiological abnormalities indicate that perception–action integration processes are central and a promising concept for the understanding of FMD. © 2023 The Authors.Movement Disorderspublished by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Subjective Cognitive Decline in Women with Features Suggestive of Prodromal Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Flores‐Torres Mario H. , Bjornevik Kjetil , Hung Albert Y. , Healy Brian C. , Schwarzschild Michael A. , Blacker Deborah , Ascherio Alberto
Published: June 2023

Background

Cognitive deficits can be present in the prodromal phase of Parkinson's disease (PD). Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) may contribute to identifying individuals with prodromal PD.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine whether SCD is more likely to be present in women with features suggestive of prodromal PD compared with women without these features.

Methods

The study population comprised 12,427 women from the Nurses' Health Study selected to investigate prodromal PD. Prodromal and risk markers of PD were assessed via self‐administered questionnaires. We evaluated the association of hyposmia, constipation, and probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, three major features of prodromal PD, with SCD, adjusting for age, education, body mass index, physical activity, smoking, alcohol, caffeine intake, and depression. We also explored whether SCD was associated with the probability of prodromal PD and conducted additional analyses using data from neurocognitive tests.

Results

Women experiencing the three examined nonmotor features had the worst mean SCD score and the highest odds of poor subjective cognition (odds ratio [OR] = 1.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29–2.47). This association persisted when women with objective cognitive deficits were excluded from analyses. SCD was also more common in women with a probability of prodromal PD ≥0.80, particularly among those aged younger than 75 years (OR of poor subjective cognition = 6.57 [95% CI, 2.43–17.77]). These observations were consistent with the results from analyses using neurocognitive tests, where a worse global cognitive performance was observed among women with three features.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that self‐perceived cognitive decline can be present during the prodromal phase of PD. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Predicting physical activity and sarcopenia‐related health outcomes in women with rheumatoid arthritis: A test of the self‐determination theory
Authors: Kim Chun‐Ja , Yun Hye‐Won , Kang Hee Sun , Jung Ju‐Yang , Schlenk Elizabeth A
Published: June 2023

Aim

This study aimed to examine a hypothetical model of physical activity (PA) and health outcomes related to sarcopenia in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on self‐determination theory.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

This study included 214 women diagnosed with RA from the outpatient rheumatology department of a university‐affiliated hospital in South Korea. Data were collected from September 2019 to August 2020 through structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements and analysed using path analysis to test the hypothesized model. The primary health outcomes were perceived health status and sarcopenia‐related health (thigh circumference, handgrip strength and sarcopenia risk).

Results

The final model's fit indices were adequate. Physical activity was directly affected by motivation for PA, while depression, self‐efficacy for PA, health care provider's autonomy support and basic psychological needs satisfaction indirectly affected PA. Physical activity directly affected perceived health status and thigh circumference, while perceived sarcopenia risk and handgrip strength were directly affected by disease activity and age.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients were involved in a questionnaire‐based survey.
Health advocacy role performance of nurses in underserved populations: A grounded theory study
Authors: Laari Luke , Duma Sinegugu Evidence
Published: June 2023

Aim

Nurses' health advocacy (HA) role requires them to speak up for patients, clients, and communities in relation to healthcare. Various studies report the importance of the HA role of the nurse in healthcare. However, nurses' performance in this role is not clear yet. The present study aims to identify and explain how nurses perform their HA role in underserved populations.

Design

Qualitative grounded theory by Strauss and Corbin.

Methods

Data were gathered from three regional hospitals in Ghana with 24 registered nurses and midwives as participants through purposive and theoretical sampling techniques. Face‐to‐face in‐depth semi‐structured interviews were conducted from August 2019 to February 2020. The data were analysed using Strauss and Corbin's method and Nvivo software. The reporting follows Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines.

Findings

The HA role performance theory emerged from data with role enquiry, role dimension, role context, role influence, role reforms and role performance as building blocks. Data analysis showed that the main concerns of the nurses during their daily practice were mediating, speaking up, and negotiating. Among others, the intervening conditions were clientele influence and interpersonal barriers, whereas the outcome was a balance between role reforms and role performance.

Conclusion

Although some nurses proactively initiated biopsychosocial assessment and performed the HA role, most of them relied on clients' requests to perform the role. Stakeholders should prioritise critical thinking during training and intensify mentoring programmes in the clinical areas.

Relevance for Clinical Practice

The present study explains the process by which nurses perform their roles as health advocates in their daily activities as nurses. The findings can be used to teach and guide clinical practice for the HA role in nursing and other health care fields. There was no patient or public contribution.