bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TASTA: Text‐Assisted Spatial and Temporal Attention Network for Video Question Answering
Authors: Wang Tian , Hou Boyao , Li Jiakun , Shi Peng , Zhang Baochang , Snoussi Hichem
Published: February 2023

Video question answering (VideoQA) is a typical task that integrates language and vision. The key for VideoQA is to extract relevant and effective visual information for answering a specific question. Information selection is believed to be necessary for this task due to the large amount of irrelevant information in the video, and explicitly learning an attention model can be a reasonable and effective solution for the selection. Herein, a novel VideoQA model called Text‐Assisted Spatial and Temporal Attention Network (TASTA) is proposed, which shows the great potential of explicitly modeling attention. TASTA is made to be simple, small, clean, and efficient for clear performance justification and possible easy extension. Its success is mainly from two new strategies of better using the textual information. Experimental results on a large and most representative dataset, TGIF‐QA, show the significant superiority of TASTA w.r.t. the state‐of‐the‐art and demonstrate the effectiveness of its key components via ablation studies.
Demonstration of Differential Mode Ferroelectric Field‐Effect Transistor Array‐Based in‐Memory Computing Macro for Realizing Multiprecision Mixed‐Signal Artificial Intelligence Accelerator
Authors: Parmar Vivek , Müller Franz , Hsuen Jing-Hua , Kingra Sandeep Kaur , Laleni Nellie , Raffel Yannick , Lederer Maximilian , Vardar Alptekin , Seidel Konrad , Soliman Taha , Kirchner Tobias , Ali Tarek , Dünkel Stefan , Beyer Sven , Wu Tian-Li , De Sourav , Suri Manan , Kämpfe Thomas
Published: February 2023

Harnessing multibit precision in nonvolatile memory (NVM)‐based synaptic core can accelerate multiply and accumulate (MAC) operation of deep neural network (DNN). However, NVM‐based synaptic cores suffer from the trade‐off between bit density and performance. The undesired performance degradation with scaling, limited bit precision, and asymmetry associated with weight update poses a severe bottleneck in realizing a high‐density synaptic core. Herein, 1) evaluation of novel differential mode ferroelectric field‐effect transistor (DM‐FeFET) bitcell on a crossbar array of 4 K devices; 2) validation of weighted sum operation on 28 nm DM‐FeFET crossbar array; 3) bit density of 223Mb mm−2, which is ≈2× improvement compared to conventional FeFET array; 4) 196 TOPS/W energy efficiency for VGG‐8 network; and 5) superior bit error rate (BER) resilience showing ≈94% training and 88% inference accuracy with 1% BER are demonstrated.
Bisphosphonate treatment at spondylo‐ocular syndrome due to a novel compound heterozygote variant in XYLT2 and review of the literature
Authors: Buyukyilmaz Gonul , Adiguzel Keziban Toksoy , Kılıc Esra
Published: February 2023

Spondylo‐ocular syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by generalized osteoporosis, hearing loss, visual impairment due to cataract, and platyspondyly. Previous studies have revealed that the syndrome is caused by pathogenic variants in the XYLT2 gene. A patient with spondylo‐ocular syndrome and two heterozygous pathogenic variant in the XYLT2 gene in compound state are described here. The patient presented with osteoporosis, platyspondyly, ocular findings, hearing loss, kyphosis, scoliosis, facial findings, intellectual disability, and undescended testicles. Previous reports of bisphosphonate treatment response were variable, whereas a long‐term follow‐up with bisphosphonate treatment in this case resulted in normalization of vertebral structures. Reporting such cases helps to determine the appropriate genotype–phenotype correlation in patients with XYLT2‐related pathogenesis.
Early prediction of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias using real‐world electronic health records
Authors: Li Qian , Yang Xi , Xu Jie , Guo Yi , He Xing , Hu Hui , Lyu Tianchen , Marra David , Miller Amber , Smith Glenn , DeKosky Steven , Boyce Richard D. , Schliep Karen , Shenkman Elizabeth , Maraganore Demetrius , Wu Yonghui , Bian Jiang
Published: February 2023

Introduction

This study aims to explore machine learning (ML) methods for early prediction of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD) using the real‐world electronic health records (EHRs).

Methods

A total of 23,835 ADRD and 1,038,643 control patients were identified from the OneFlorida+ Research Consortium. Two ML methods were used to develop the prediction models. Both knowledge‐driven and data‐driven approaches were explored. Four computable phenotyping algorithms were tested.

Results

The gradient boosting tree (GBT) models trained with the data‐driven approach achieved the best area under the curve (AUC) scores of 0.939, 0.906, 0.884, and 0.854 for early prediction of ADRD 0, 1, 3, or 5 years before diagnosis, respectively. A number of important clinical and sociodemographic factors were identified.

Discussion

We tested various settings and showed the predictive ability of using ML approaches for early prediction of ADRD with EHRs. The models can help identify high‐risk individuals for early informed preventive or prognostic clinical decisions.
N‐Trifluoromethyl Succinimide as a New Reagent for Direct C−H Trifluoromethylation of Free Anilines
Authors: Liu Hao , He Xin , Chen Zhicheng , Zhang Jingchao , Fang Xinjie , Sun Zhizhong , Chu Wenyi
Published: February 2023

N‐trifluoromethylsuccinimide (NTFS) as a new trifluoromethylation reagent was designed and prepared via Ag−CF3, and applied to the direct trifluoromethylation of free aniline, and a series of trifluoromethyl products were obtained with good yields. The practicability of the protocol was verified by a gram‐level experiment and the synthesis of the antiasthmatic drug Mabuterol. In addition, a possible radical mechanism was proposed and verified by related experiments. The protocol provided a new solution for C−H trifluoromethylation of free anilines.
Heterogenous morphogenesis of Caco‐2 cells reveals that flow induces three‐dimensional growth and maturation at high initial seeding cell densities
Authors: Dogan Asli Aybike , Dufva Martin
Published: February 2023

Here, we introduce a customized hanging insert fitting a six‐well plate to culture Caco‐2 cells on hydrogel membranes under flow conditions. The cells are cultured in the apical channel‐like chamber, which provides about 1.3 dyn/cm2 shear, while the basolateral chamber is mixed when the device is rocked. The device was tested by investigating the functional impact of the initial seeding density in combination with flow applied at confluency. The low seeding density cultures grew in two dimensional (2D) irrespective of the flow. Flow and higher seeding density resulted in a mixture of three dimensional (3D) structures and 2D layers. Static culture and high cell seeding density resulted in 2D layers. The flow increased the height and ZO‐1 expression of cells in 2D layers, which correlated with an improved barrier function. Cultures with 3D structures had higher ZO‐1 expression than 2D cultures, but this did not correlate with an increased barrier function. 2D monolayers in static and dynamic cultures had similar morphology and heterogeneity in the expression of Mucin‐2 and Villin, while the 3D structures had generally higher expression of these markers. The result shows that the cell density and flow determine 3D growth and that the highest barrier function was obtained with low‐density cultures and flow.
A rare case of intraoral schwannoma in gingiva
Authors: Shaikh Fouzia , Jabade Bhagyashree , Sheikh Salika , Muglikar Sangeeta
Published: February 2023

Background

Schwannomas are benign, slow‐growing encapsulated nodular lesions. As for the most benign encapsulated lesions, the treatment of choice is complete removal of the entire tissue with preservation of surrounding tissue.

Methods and Results

The case presented is that of a 35‐year‐old female with the chief complaint of swelling on her gums in the lower left posterior region. Through intraoral and extraoral examinations the benign nature of the lesion was established. The excisional biopsy was carried out under local anesthesia, and the specimen was sent for histological examination, which gave a definite diagnosis of oral schwannoma. The patient was recalled at regular intervals so as to check for any recurrence of the lesion or occurrence of new lesions elsewhere in the body.

Conclusion

The present case reemphasizes the importance of thorough clinical examination along with appropriate investigations, especially histopathological and immunohistochemical, for establishing a definitive diagnosis, which eventually plays an important role in the choice and execution of appropriate treatment at the earliest for the best prognosis and outcomes.

Key points

Why is this case new information?

To the best of the author's knowledge, this the first case report of oral schwannoma diagnosed in gingiva in Indian population. This case presented a diagnostic dilemma due to its unusual location.

What are the keys to successful management of this case?

Schwannomas when completely excised have low rate of recurrence. Accurate diagnosis of the lesion along with complete physical examination and follow‐up at regular interval to rule out any recurrences are the keys to successful management of this case.

What are the primary limitations to success in this case?

Lack of data regarding residual tumor postoperative is a primary limitations to success of the case, as recurrence is associated with subtotal tumor removal.
Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica: A rare infection reported in an adult with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Kozyk Marko , Strubchevska Kateryna , Fisher Jordan
Published: February 2023

We present a case of a 60‐year‐old female with a history of liver cirrhosis, alcohol abuse, and chronic venous insufficiency who presented with maggot‐infested wounds on her legs, bilateral buttocks, and groin area. Two sets of blood cultures grew Wohlfahrtiimonas chitiniclastica. She underwent wound debridement and treatment with cefazolin.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for Electrode Process Evaluation: Lithium Titanium Phosphate in Concentrated Aqueous Electrolyte
Authors: Scarpioni Federico , Khalid Shahid , Chukwu Richard , Pianta Nicolò , La Mantia Fabio , Ruffo Riccardo
Published: February 2023

Aqueous electrolytes in the form of highly concentrated solutions stand as a viable alternative to the organic counterpart as battery electrolytes thanks to the low flammability, toxicity, cost and large availability, while keeping good potential windows. In this work, a half‐cell constituted of lithium titanium phosphate in a binary aqueous solution of sodium acetate (7 mol kg−1) and potassium acetate (20 mol kg−1) as a promising anode for sodium‐ion batteries is characterized with constant current, static and dynamic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to reveal its thermodynamic and kinetic properties. The experiments permit to withdraw some information on the thermodynamics (activation energy of processes) and kinetics (processes’ parameters evolution) of the system. Physical information was extracted from impedance spectra with mathematical regression of a porous electrode intercalation model available in literature using an innovative procedure of batch‐fitting of a complete set of spectra at once. The advantage and shortcoming on using impedance in battery‐development is discussed.
Fluorinated Dihydropentalene‐1,4‐Dione: A Strong Electron‐Accepting Unit with Organic Semiconductor Characteristics
Authors: Yokoyama Soichi , Ie Yutaka
Published: February 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue are Soichi Yokoyama and Yutaka Ie at Osaka University, Japan. The image depicts the strong electron affinity of the fluorinated dihydropentalene‐1,4‐dione (FPD) structure, in which the electron‐rich amino groups in the diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) skeleton are replaced with a strongly electronegative difluoromethylene unit. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202203873.
Trends und Entwicklungstendenzen in der Mischtechnik – Eindrücke und Schlaglichter der ACHEMA 2022
Authors: Schultz Heyko Jürgen
Published: February 2023

Dieser Beitrag zeigt einen Ausschnitt der auf der ACHEMA 2022 gezeigten Trends, Entwicklungstendenzen, Neuentwicklungen und Innovationen in der Mischtechnik, der als einer der wichtigsten chemie‐ und verfahrenstechnischen Grundoperationen gerade vor dem Hintergrund eines der Themenschwerpunkte „Nachhaltigkeit“ eine besondere Bedeutung zukommt. Neben Prozesslösungen für unterschiedliche Viskositätsbereiche werden Beispiele der Rührtechnik für Flüssigphasen, aber auch statische und Feststoffmischer, ebenso wie individuelle, neuartige Mischsysteme vom Labor bis zum Betriebsmaßstab behandelt.
Vulnerable populations in childhood cancer research and clinical care
Authors: Nathan Paul C.
Published: February 2023

Health care systems and providers have a responsibility to ensure that access to cancer clinical trials, opportunities to complete the trial, and access to lifelong survivor care are all thoughtfully examined with an equity lens. This will allow the greatest possible number of pediatric and adolescent and young adult cancer patients to receive the highest quality of care possible, in treatment and beyond.
Proton Transfer Dynamics‐Mediated CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Chen Shanyong , Li Xiaoqing , Li Hongmei , Chen Kejun , Luo Tao , Fu Junwei , Liu Kang , Wang Qiyou , Zhu Mingshan , Liu Min
Published: February 2023

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is crucial to addressing environmental crises and producing chemicals. Proton activation and transfer are essential in CO2RR. To date, few research reviews have focused on this process and its effect on catalytic performance. Recent studies have demonstrated ways to improve CO2RR by regulating proton transfer dynamics. This Concept highlights the use of regulating proton transfer dynamics to enhance CO2RR for the target product and discusses modulation strategies for proton transfer dynamics and operative mechanisms in typical systems, including single‐atom catalysts, molecular catalysts, metal heterointerfaces, and organic‐ligand modified metal catalysts. Characterization methods for proton transfer dynamics during CO2RR are also discussed, providing powerful tools for the hydrogen‐involving electrochemical study. This Concept offers new insights into the CO2RR mechanism and guides the design of efficient CO2RR systems.
Rigid‐tough Coupling of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase Towards Long‐Life Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Xu Hantao , Sun Chenghao , Zhang Shu , Zhang Huanrui , Liu Zhi , Tang Yue , Cui Guanglei
Published: February 2023

Lithium metal batteries are highly pursued for energy storage applications due to superior energy densities. However, fast battery decay accompanied by lithium dendrite growth occurs mainly owing to solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) failure. To address this, a novel functional quasi‐solid‐state polymer electrolyte is developed through in situ copolymerization of a cyclic carbonate‐containing acrylate and a urea‐based acrylate monomer in commercial available electrolyte. Based on the rigid‐tough coupling design of SEI, anionic polymerization of cyclic carbonate units and reversible hydrogen bonding formed using urea motifs on the polymer matrix can take place at SEI. This mechanically stabilizes SEI and thus helps achieve uniform lithium deposition behaviors and non‐dendrite growth. Thus, the superior cycling performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2/Li metal batteries is promoted by the formation of compatible SEI. This design philosophy to build mechanochemically stable SEI provides a good example for realizing advanced lithium metal batteries.
Superhydrophobicity‐mediated enhanced enzymatic kinetics and high‐performance bioassays
Authors: Wang Dandan , Chen Liping , Feng Xinjian
Published: February 2023

As a typical superwettability behavior, superhydrophobicity can provide an appropriate strategy to enhance the mass transport in multiphase chemical reactions. In the oxidase‐based enzymatic reactions, the elaborately regulating of reactant oxygen are critical to the development of an oxidase‐based high‐performance biosensor. In solid–liquid diphase condition, however, the kinetics of oxidase‐catalyzed reactions is inhibited by delayed mass transport and poor solubility of oxygen. To address this limitation, the design of the solid–liquid–air triphase interface is proposed according to the binary cooperation of superhydrophobicity and hydrophilicity. On the triphase joint interface, oxygen required for the oxidase‐catalyzed reactions can diffuse directly to the reaction center from the air phase through the micro/nanostructured superhydrophobic substrate, thus improving the kinetics of the oxidase‐catalyzed reactions. In this minireview, we summarize recent advances in the fabrication of triphase reaction system based on different superhydrophobic substrate for oxidase‐based biosensors. Common substrates including fibrous network, nanowire arrays, 3D porous framework, and hollow sphere structures are outlined in categories.
Theoretical study of ARRHENIUS‐controlled heat transfer flow on natural convection affected by an induced magnetic field in a micro‐channel
Authors: Hamza Muhammed Murtala , Ojemeri Godwin , Ahmad Samaila Kenga‐kwai
Published: February 2023

The current study analyzes the implications of an Arrhenius‐controlled heat transfer fluid on free convection in a micro‐channel confined by two immeasurable vertical parallel plates that are electrically non‐conductive due to an induced magnetic field (IMF) effect. The governing coupled nonlinear equations are ordinary differential equations, and the dimensionless steady‐state solutions were determined using the homotopy perturbation method (HPM). The derived results were discussed and represented graphically with the help of illustrative line graphs for momentum, IMF, temperature, and volume flow rate for the major controlling parameters, namely arrhenius kinetics, rarefaction, wall ambient temperature difference ratios, and Prandtl magnetic number. Thermo‐physical properties that are of engineering interest, like sheer stress and Nusselt number, are also computed and displayed. It is pertinent to report that the velocity of the fluid increases as a result of chemical reactions and rarefaction factors, whereas strengthening the Prandtl magnetic number decreases the volume flow rate. Also, numerical data was obtained and presented in tabular form to compare this research outcome to those of Jha and Aina, and great consistency was found. Microelectronics and microfluidics are some areas where this study can find relevance.
Transport of nutrients into the southern Gulf of Mexico by the Grijalva–Usumacinta rivers
Authors: Castillo María M. , Carrillo Laura , Jarquín‐Sánchez Aarón , Alcérreca‐Huerta Juan Carlos , Álvarez‐Merino Arturo , Lázaro‐Vázquez Alejandra
Published: February 2023

Nutrient transport by rivers strongly influences ecosystem productivity and hypoxia zone formation in coastal areas. In this study, we estimated the transport of nitrogen and phosphorus by the Grijalva and Usumacinta rivers that combined represent the second largest source of fresh water into the Gulf of Mexico. Water samples were collected monthly within an annual cycle at different sites (mainstem and tributaries) in the Lower Grijalva and Usumacinta basins to encompass the seasonal variation in discharge. Nitrogen (total nitrogen, nitrate‐N, ammonium‐N, and nitrite‐N), phosphorus (total phosphorus, soluble reactive phosphorus), and chlorophyll concentrations were determined, and annual loads estimated using the Beale ratio approach. Nutrient and chlorophyll concentrations were greater in the Grijalva than in the Usumacinta River. Stronger seasonal patterns in nutrient concentrations and discharge were identified in the Usumacinta, evincing the flow regulation experimented by the Grijalva. In the Grijalva, higher nutrient concentrations were measured at the De la Sierra and Pichucalco rivers, compared to the regulated Carrizal. TN:TP ratios were greater during the dry season in both rivers, and higher TN:TP occurred in the Usumacinta than in the Grijalva. The Usumacinta showed greater nutrient loads (nitrogen, 26790.6 × 103 kg year−1; phosphorus, 3056.9 × 103 kg year−1) than the Grijalva (nitrogen 19974.7 × 103 kg year−1; phosphorus, 1941.8 × 103 kg year−1). However, the Grijalva River showed higher soluble reactive phosphorus and ammonium‐N loads and yields than the Usumacinta, likely explained by greater delivery of urban wastewater in the lower Grijalva Basin. The Grijalva–Usumacinta represents an important source of nitrogen compared to other rivers draining into the Gulf of Mexico, even though more disturbed rivers can exceed the phosphorus load. This study can contribute to the modelling of nutrient delivery into the Gulf of Mexico and to better understand the influence of tropical rivers in the formation of coastal hypoxia.
Toxoplasma gondii, HBV, and HCV co‐infection and their correlation with CD4 cells among Iranian HIV‐positive patients
Authors: Bazmjoo Ahmadreza , Bagherzadeh Mohammad Aref , Raoofi Rahim , Taghipour Ali , Mazaherifar Samaneh , Sotoodeh Hojatallah , Ostadi Zahra , Shadmand Enayat , Jahromi Mirza Ali Mofazzal , Abdoli Amir
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) infected patients have a higher risk of opportunistic infections (OIs) depending on their immunological status, especially CD4 + cell count. Toxoplasma gondii, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are important OIs among Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) patients. However, little is known about co‐infection of these pathogens among HIV‐infected individuals and their correlation with the patient's CD4 + cell count. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the serological and molecular status of T. gondii infection among HIV‐infected individuals who had co‐infection with HBV and HCV infections.

Methods

A total of 100 HIV/AIDS patients in two cities in the southwest of Iran was tested for T. gondii Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies as well as DNA detection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the RE gene. HBV and HCV were detected by hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test, hepatitis C antibody (HCV Ab) test, and Real‐Time PCR. The number of CD4 + cell counts was determined by Flow cytometry.

Results

Anti‐T. gondii IgG was positive in 22% of the patients, but anti‐T. gondii IgM and PCR were negative in all samples. HBV and HCV were positive in 8% and 33% of the patients, respectively. Co‐infections were as followed: HIV + HCV (16%), HIV + HCV + T. gondii (11%), HIV + T. gondii (5%), HIV + HBV (1%), HIV + HBV + T. gondii (1%), HIV + HBV + HCV (1%), and HIV + HBV + HCV + T. gondii (5%). A significant decline in CD4 + cell counts was found in such co‐infection groups (HIV + T. gondii, HIV + HCV + T. gondii, and HIV + HBV + HCV + T. gondii) compared with the HIV mono‐infection group.

Conclusions

Our study showed that co‐infections of T. gondii, HCV, and HBV were common among HIV‐infected patients and co‐infections had a negative correlation with CD4 + cell counts of the patients.
The critical issue of bride kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Bellizzi Saverio , Nivoli Alessandra
Published: February 2023

Synopsis

Although bride kidnapping was criminalized in the early 2000s in Kyrgyzstan, critical efforts are needed to enforce the law and empower women.
What women want: A mixed‐methods study of women's health priorities, preferences, and experiences in care in three Rwandan rural districts
Authors: Adler A. J. , Randall T. , Schwartz L. N. , Drown L. , Matthews S. , Pace L. E. , Mugabo C. , Kateera F. , Bukhman G. , Baganizi E. , Ng'ang'a L. M.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To explore Rwandan women's experiences, priorities, and preferences in accessing health care for non‐pregnancy‐related conditions and inform development of healthcare services related to these conditions among women of reproductive age at district hospitals and health centers in Rwanda.

Methods

We used a mixed‐methods, exploratory sequential design. Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with Rwandan women and coded thematically. A cross‐sectional quantitative survey based on the qualitative data was administered to women attending health centers.

Results

Seventeen interviews and 150 surveys were conducted. Women identified conditions including back pain, gynecologic cancers, and abnormal vaginal bleeding as concerns. They generally reported positive experiences while accessing health care and knowledge of accessing health care. Barriers to care were identified, including transportation costs and inability to miss work. Women expressed a desire for more control over their care and the importance of maintaining their dignity while accessing health care.

Conclusion

These findings provide useful insights to inform development of non‐pregnancy‐related healthcare services for women in Rwanda according to their priorities and preferences. The reported end‐user health concerns, barriers to care, and diminished control over their care point to a need to evolve health systems around user‐tailored needs and design interventions optimizing access whilst promoting dignified care.
Analysis of intervertebral disc CCR6 and IL‐6 gene levels with short‐term postoperative low back pain after spinal fusion in lumbar degenerative disease
Authors: Hiyama Akihiko , Sakai Daisuke , Sato Masato , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: February 2023

Background

Previous studies have reported that specific pro‐inflammatory cytokines or chemokines are more highly expressed in painful than in nonpainful intervertebral discs (IVDs). However, few studies have investigated their correlation with postsurgical outcomes or the relationship between postoperative pain and inflammatory cytokines in IVDs. Thus, the present study examined the correlation among the gene expression levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in IVD tissues removed during surgery and low back pain (LBP), leg pain (LP), and leg numbness (LN) at one year after spinal fusion surgery in patients with a lumbar degenerative disease (LDD).

Methods

Chemokine and cytokine gene expression levels were measured in IVD samples from 48 patients with LDD. The associations between chemokine and cytokine gene expression levels and pain intensity (numeric rating scale [NRS]) were also analyzed. A correlation analysis was performed between gene expression in each IVD and preoperative and postoperative pain intensity.

Results

In the preoperative analysis, CCR6 was associated with NRSLBP (r = −0.291, P = 0.045). Postoperative pain analysis revealed correlations between postoperative NRSLBP and CCR6 (r = −0.328, P = 0.023) and between postoperative NRSLBP and IL‐6 (r = −0.382, P = 0.007). Furthermore, patients with high postoperative LBP intensity (NRSLBP ≥ 7) also had high LBP intensity (NRSLBP ≥ 6) before surgery, and a correlation was observed (r = 0.418, P = 0.003). None of the gene mRNAs correlated with NRSLP or NRSLN, respectively.

Conclusions

CCR6 and IL‐6 gene expression in the IVD was associated with postoperative LBP intensity and may indicate a need for postoperative pain management.
Repair of Anterior Tracheal Defect by Trans‐Tracheostomy Placement of Acellular Dermal Matrix
Authors: Youn Simon , Ge Marshall , O'Dell Karla , Wightman Sean , Kung Raymond
Published: February 2023

Severe infections of the neck can lead to life‐threatening consequences when not treated promptly and correctly. This case report is the first to illustrate the successful use of an acellular dermal matrix to repair a tracheal defect in the setting of a severe neck infection. Laryngoscope, 133:1961–1963, 2023
Developing, evaluating, and validating a nonprofit board performance framework
Authors: Kersey‐Stapleton Joh Merlin , Tay Benjamin , Abdullah Fazlin
Published: February 2023

In this research note, we describe a sequential mixed‐methods research study used to uncover the factors contributing to nonprofit board performance, which we conducted in the context of Singapore. A qualitative study generated an initial framework for board performance that was evaluated but deemed unsuitable. A second framework was then developed through a quantitative survey administered to a nationally representative sample of board members and managers, derived via stratified random sampling. Using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, this second framework was evaluated and validated for its ability to explain the performance of nonprofit boards.
Functional Outcomes After Transoral Plus Lateral Pharyngotomy Approach for Advanced Oral and Oropharyngeal Tumors
Authors: Colevas Sophia M. , Merfeld Emily C. , Pflum Zachary E. , Gessert Thomas G. , Wieland Aaron M. , Glazer Tiffany A. , Burr Adam R. , Harari Paul M. , Hartig Gregory K.
Published: February 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate our institutional experience with the combined transoral plus lateral pharyngotomy (TO+LP) approach in a subset of patients with advanced or recurrent oral and oropharyngeal malignancy.

Study Design

A retrospective study of procedures utilizing TO+LP for cancer resection between January 2007 and July 2019.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Methods

Thirty‐one patients underwent a TO+LP approach for the resection of oral and oropharyngeal tumors. Functional and oncologic outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Eighteen (58.1%) patients were treated with TO+LP for recurrent disease. Twenty‐nine required free tissue transfer and 2 (6.5%) had positive margins. The median time to decannulation was 22 days (range 6‐100 days). Thirteen (41.9%) patients still required enteral feeding at their most recent follow‐up. Patients without a history of prior radiation were decannulated sooner (p = .009) and were less likely to require enteral feeding at the first postoperative follow‐up (p = .034) than those who had prior head and neck radiotherapy.

Conclusion

A TO+LP approach can be used to achieve good functional and oncologic results for selected patients with advanced or recurrent oral and oropharyngeal cancer when minimally invasive options such as transoral robotic surgery, transoral laser microsurgery, or radiotherapy are not possible.
Attitudes and Perceptions of Canadian Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgeons and Residents on Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Hathi Kalpesh , Fowler James , Zahabi Sarah , Dzioba Agnieszka , Madou Edward , Gunz Anna C. , Sowerby Leigh J. , Nichols Anthony C. , Strychowsky Julie E.
Published: February 2023

Objective

Healthcare systems, specifically operating rooms, significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Addressing operating room environmental sustainability requires understanding current practices, opinions, and barriers. This is the first study assessing the attitudes and perceptions of otolaryngologists on environmental sustainability.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional virtual survey.

Setting

Email survey to active members of the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.

Methods

A 23‐question survey was developed in REDCap. The questions focused on four themes: (1) demographics, (2) attitudes and beliefs, (3) institutional practices, and (4) education. A combination of multiple choice, Likert‐scale, and open‐ended questions were employed.

Results

Response rate was 11% (n = 80/699). Most respondents strongly believed in climate change (86%). Only 20% strongly agree that operating rooms contribute to the climate crisis. Most agree environmental sustainability is very important at home (62%) and in their community (64%), only 46% said it was very important in the operating room. Barriers to environmental sustainability were incentives (68%), hospital supports (60%), information/knowledge (59%), cost (58%), and time (50%). Of those involved in residency programs, 89% (n = 49/55) reported there was no education on environmental sustainability or they were unsure if there was.

Conclusion

Canadian otolaryngologists strongly believe in climate change, but there is more ambivalence regarding operating rooms as a significant contributor. There is a need for further education and a systemic reduction of barriers to facilitate eco‐action in otolaryngology operating rooms.
Reporting rates for VAERS death reports following COVID‐19 vaccination, December 14, 2020–November 17, 2021
Authors: Day Brendan , Menschik David , Thompson Deborah , Jankosky Christopher , Su John , Moro Pedro , Zinderman Craig , Welsh Kerry , Dimova Rositsa B. , Nair Narayan
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Despite widely available safety information for the COVID‐19 vaccines, vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge. In some cases, vaccine hesitancy may be related to concerns about the number of reports of death to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). We aimed to provide information and context about reports of death to VAERS following COVID‐19 vaccination.

Methods

This is a descriptive study evaluating reporting rates for VAERS death reports for COVID‐19 vaccine recipients in the United States between December 14, 2020, and November 17, 2021. Reporting rates were calculated as death events per million persons vaccinated and compared to expected all‐cause (background) death rates.

Results

9201 death events were reported for COVID‐19 vaccine recipients aged 5 years and older (or age unknown). Reporting rates for death events increased with increasing age, and males generally had higher reporting rates than females. For death events within 7 days and 42 days of vaccination, respectively, observed reporting rates were lower than the expected all‐cause death rates. Reporting rates for Ad26.COV2.S vaccine were generally higher than for mRNA COVID‐19 vaccines, but still lower than the expected all‐cause death rates. Limitations of VAERS data include potential reporting bias, missing or inaccurate information, lack of a control group, and reported diagnoses, including deaths, are not causally verified diagnoses.

Conclusions

Reporting rates for death events were lower than the all‐cause death rates expected in the general population. Trends in reporting rates reflected known trends in background death rates. These findings do not suggest an association between vaccination and overall increased mortality.
Using Joinpoint regression for drug utilization research: Tutorial and case study of prescription opioid use in the United States
Authors: Hincapie‐Castillo Juan M. , Goodin Amie
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Drug utilization researchers are often interested in evaluating prescribing and medication use patterns and trends over a specified period of time. Joinpoint regression is a useful methodology to identify any deviations in secular trends without a preconceived notion of where these break points might occur. This article provides a tutorial on the use of joinpoint regression, within Joinpoint software, for the analysis of drug utilization data.

Methods

The statistical considerations for whether a joinpoint regression analytical technique is a suitable approach are discussed. Then, we offer a tutorial as an introduction on conducting joinpoint regression (within Joinpoint software) through a step‐by‐step application, which is a case study developed using opioid prescribing data from the United States. Data were obtained from public files available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2006 to 2018. The tutorial provides parameters and sample data needed to replicate the case study and it concludes with general considerations for the reporting of results using joinpoint regression in drug utilization research.

Results

The case study evaluated the trend of opioid prescribing in the United States from 2006 to 2018, where time points of significant variation (one in 2012 and another in 2016) are detected and interpreted.

Conclusions

Joinpoint regression is a helpful methodology for drug utilization for the purposes of conducting descriptive analyses. This tool also assists with corroborating assumptions and identifying parameters for fitting other models such as interrupted time series. The technique and accompanying software are user‐friendly; however, researchers interested in using joinpoint regression should exercise caution and follow best practices for correct measurement of drug utilization.
Novel SLC30A2 mutations in the pathogenesis of transient neonatal zinc deficiency
Authors: Muto Taichiro , Kawase Yuriko , Aiba Kaori , Okuma Miyuki , Itsumura Naoya , Luo Shuangyu , Ogawa Namino , Tsuji Tokuji , Kambe Taiho
Published: February 2023

Importance

Transient neonatal zinc deficiency (TNZD) occurs in breastfed infants due to abnormally low breast milk zinc levels. Mutations in the solute carrier family 30 member 2 (SLC30A2) gene, which encodes the zinc transporter ZNT2, cause low zinc concentration in breast milk.

Objective

This study aimed to provide further insights into TNZD pathophysiology.

Methods

SLC30A2 sequencing was performed in three unrelated Japanese mothers, whose infants developed TNZD due to low‐zinc milk consumption. The effects of the identified mutations were examined using cell‐based assays and luciferase reporter analysis.

Results

Novel SLC30A2 mutations were identified in each mother. One harbored a heterozygous missense mutation in the ZNT2 zinc‐binding site, which resulted in defective zinc transport. The other two mothers exhibited multiple heterozygous mutations in the SLC30A2 promoter, the first mutations in the SLC30A2 regulatory region reported to date.

Interpretation

This report provides new genetic insights into TNZD pathogenesis in breastfed infants.
Shapes of the uterine cavity are different in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Fujii Shunsaku , Oguchi Takaaki
Published: February 2023

Purpose

A cross‐sectional study was conducted to evaluate differences in uterine morphology between women with or without polycystic ovary syndrome.

Methods

The authors recruited 333 infertile reproductive‐age women including 93 with polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed using the criteria of the Japanese Society of Obstetrics Gynecology‐2007. Shapes of uterine cavity were measured by transvaginal three‐dimensional ultrasound.

Results

The polycystic ovary syndrome group had a significantly deeper indentation (2.2 ± 0.4 mm vs. 0.0 ± 0.2 mm, p < 0.0001) and a significantly more acute indentation angle (162.9 ± 2.2 deg vs. 175.2 ± 1.3 deg, p < 0.0001) than the control group.

Conclusion

The depth and the apical angle of fundal indentation of uterine cavity are different in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Event‐based robust performance guarantee for nonaffine plants via system identification
Authors: Wang Ding , Zhou Zihang , Li Menghua , Ren Jin , Qiao Junfei
Published: February 2023

In this paper, by making use of recurrent neural networks (RNNs), a novel event‐based robust optimal controller is designed for a category of continuous‐time (CT) nonlinear nonaffine systems with disturbances. For tackling the optimal‐robust problem transformation and the performance guarantee, a system identifier is developed to reconstruct the system, and an event‐triggered critic‐only strategy is investigated to replace the traditional time‐based actor‐critic structure. The RNN is adopted to reconstruct the nonaffine system as an identifier for obtaining the affine model. It simplifies the system structure and reduces computational burdens. In addition, the stability of the unknown nominal system learned by the RNN is proved. Then, using the obtained system identifier and the adaptive critic learning structure, the proposed event‐triggered robust control with performance guarantee is realized. At last, the effectiveness of the given design method is verified by two simulation examples.
Can surface‐applied biochar improve soil health and plant performance in a perennial cool‐season grass forage system?
Authors: Li Xiuwen , Lazicki Patricia , Neelipally R. T. , Walker Forbes R. , Jagadamma Sindhu
Published: February 2023

Biochar boasts several benefits as a soil amendment. However, few studies have evaluated its effectiveness in forage systems with limited soil disturbance and few external inputs. Biochar's effects vary with application method, rate, and frequency. To study the impact of various rates of biochar in forage systems, we conducted a 2‐year field experiment on a tall fescue [Schedonorus arundinaceus (Schreb.)] dominated field in southeastern United States. In April 2017, we surface‐applied six rates of wood biochar (0, 4.5, 9, 13.5, 18, and 22.5 Mg ha−1) in a randomized complete block design with four replications. We collected soil samples from 0 to 15 cm depth biannually from June 2017 to December 2018, and harvested plants in May 2017 and 2018. We determined forage biomass and nutritive value as well as soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (N), microbial biomass carbon (C) and nitrogen (N), and available nutrients. Biochar's effects on soil properties at 0–15 cm increased with, but were not proportional to, application rates. After 2 years, biochar rates of at least 9 Mg ha−1 had resulted in a 16% to 24% increase in SOC, a 15% to 30% increase in total N, and a 12% to 21% increase in extractable P compared with an unamended control. At all rates, biochar reduced soil mineral N relative to the control during the first year after application. Biochar increased plant potassium (K) uptake by 16% to 26% in the first year but did not affect biomass or nutritive value in either year. Our results demonstrate that surface application of biochar has the potential to improve soil health in perennial cool‐season grass forage systems without adversely affecting yields.
Environmental cost of food wastage: Integrated response through a mix of environmental policy instruments
Authors: Jain Pratyush , Sarawgi Anjali , Jain Pragati
Published: February 2023

Food, when wasted, reaches landfills and emits greenhouse gases. The impact of greenhouse gases (GHGs), in turn, is felt by even those who do not waste food in the place. Externalities thus created are known to distort market efficiency and the most widely discussed externality is climate change. This study takes the case of United States of America (USA) to ascertain the GHGs resulting due to food wastage. The difference between cost per capita due to emissions from animal‐based products and emissions from plant‐based products comes out to be $122. In the year 1997 total GHG emission for the entire population of the USA due to food wastage was 401.98 billion kgCO2eq, costing the country 45.42 billion US dollars. Two decades later, in 2017, the food waste costs went up by 6 billion US dollars amounting to 51.14 billion US dollars and 452.64 billion kgCO2eq of GHG emissions The novelty of this research lies in highlighting the carbon footprints of food wastage in terms of GHG's and monetizing these emissions. The study proposes an integrated response through a mix of environmental policy instruments of economic incentives, command and control and moral suasion.
Lead‐Free Cs2AgBiBr6 Nanocrystals Confined in MCM‐48 Mesoporous Molecular Sieve for Efficient Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Zhang Zhijie , Li Deben , Dong Zhongliang , Jiang Ying , Li Xun , Chu Yaoqing , Xu Jiayue
Published: February 2023

Exploring highly efficient and stable halide perovskite‐based materials for photocatalytic CO2 reduction is a great challenge due to their poor intrinsic instability. Coincidentally, mesoporous molecular sieves have received tremendous attention as adsorbents, catalysts, and catalyst carriers. Herein, lead‐free double perovskite of Cs2AgBiBr6 (CABB) nanocrystals are grown in situ in MCM‐48 mesoporous molecular sieve for photocatalytic CO2 reduction. A remarkable performance is achieved by the CABB@MCM‐48 composite, which far exceeds that of pristine CABB. The mechanism of the photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction is systematically investigated by the combination of in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectra and density functional theory calculations. The result indicates that the molecular sieve can not only enhance the adsorption of CO2 molecules, but also promote the CO2 activation by reducing the energy barriers. This study provides some new insights into the design of excellent perovskite/molecular sieve‐based catalysts for solar fuel applications.
Sanierung der Neuen Strombrücke Magdeburg
Authors: Hannebrook Lutz , Moldenhauer Florian , Eins Karsten , Seidel Martin
Published: February 2023

Im Zuge des Ersatzneubaus des Strombrückenzugs über drei Elbarme ist neben dem Neubau der Schrägseilbrücke über die Alte Elbe und dem Neubau der Brücke über die Zollelbe auch die im Bestand befindliche Neue Strombrücke über die Stromelbe zu sanieren. Die Bestandsstruktur wird dabei planmäßig durch Verstärkungsmaßnahmen ertüchtigt. Vorhandene Stahlbauschäden werden instand gesetzt und der Korrosionsschutz wird vollflächig erneuert. Der Beitrag geht insbesondere auf die mit der Montage von massiven flachen Stahllamellen an der Brückenuntersicht verbundenen technischen Lösungen ein.
Using cost‐effectiveness analysis to compare density‐estimation methods for large‐scale wildlife management
Authors: Delisle Zackary J. , McGovern Patrick G. , Dillman Brian G. , Reeling Carson J. , Caudell Joe N. , Swihart Robert K.
Published: February 2023

Density estimates for animal populations often inform conservation and management decisions. Many methods to estimate animal density exist but deciding between competing alternatives traditionally has depended upon assessing multiple factors (e.g., precision, total cost, area sampled) independently and often in an ad hoc manner. Cost‐effectiveness analysis is a tool that economists use to decide objectively between competing alternatives. We extend cost‐effectiveness analysis to simultaneously integrate precision and per‐area cost of sampling when selecting between competing techniques used to estimate animal density both after a single application of a method and across several applications of capital equipment. Our extension allows for weighting of factors that may vary with the objectives and constraints of decision makers. We apply our extension of cost‐effectiveness analysis to a case study in which population density of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) was estimated in 3 large management units in Indiana, USA, using 3 competing distance‐sampling methods: fecal‐pellet, camera‐trap, and aerial sampling. The unweighted cost effectiveness of aerial sampling with color and infrared sensors was usually superior after a single application of each method and was always superior across several applications in differing landscapes. Pellet sampling was the most cost effective after a single application of each method in an agriculturally‐dominated management unit. Although camera sampling has increased in popularity, the cost effectiveness of camera sampling was poorer than the other 2 methods, even when allowing for potential future innovations to streamline data processing. Cost‐effectiveness analysis can be useful when selecting among competing methods for monitoring animal populations of conservation and management importance. The same principles used in our cost‐effectiveness analysis can be used to decide between competing alternatives related to any ecological monitoring in addition to density estimation.