bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene Acid: A Versatile 2D Platform for Catalysis
Authors: Blanco Matías , Agnoli Stefano , Granozzi Gaetano
Published: January 2022

Graphene acid (GA) is a novel graphene platform where the carboxylic acid groups are located in the basal plane of the carbon network. The chemical route to develop such a platform has been proposed and the final product displays a series of advantages with respect to the well‐known and much used graphene oxide (GO), i. e. a more uniform functionalization of the graphene basal plane and an enhanced electronic conduction when compared to GO. In this review we discuss the most recent literature data which demonstrate that the excellent GA properties may have an impact on the catalytic activity of both GA itself and the hybrid derivatives obtained using GA as a scaffold. Examples are discussed where GA as carbocatalyst, molecular catalysts heterogenized on GA and particles/GA assemblies are used as catalysts and electrocatalysts, pinpointing the advantages of using GA with respect to other graphenic substrates.
Cervix type detection using a self‐supervision boosted object detection technique
Authors: Bijoy M. B. , Akondi Sai Manoj , Abdul Fathaah S. , Raut Akash , Pournami P. N. , Jayaraj P. B.
Published: January 2022

Cervical cancer accounts for a large number of fatalities among cancer patients. It is ranked fourth in the total cancer patients and total number of deaths due to cancer. Developing countries account for 70% of the cases and 90% of the fatalities. Contemporary techniques used for screening cervical cancer are PAP smear test and HPV DNA test. Today there are treatments that can successfully prevent cervical cancer if detected at an early stage. Understanding the cervix type is very important for treatment; computational methods can help us classify the cervix type from cervical images. In this study, we propose an ROI proposal network EfficientCenterDet and a self‐supervision boosted training trick that improves the performance of the network with relatively less labeled data. We use 6114 unlabeled images to perform a pretraining task and 1166 labeled images to retrain the ROI proposal network. The proposed model matches the state‐of‐the‐art IOU of FasterRCNN on the ISIC skin lesions dataset while using one‐third of the number of parameters used in FasterRCNN. On MobileODT cervical data, our self‐supervision boosted model achieves 0.632 IOU, a 10% boost over the state‐of‐the‐art FasterRCNN. Introducing an ensembled EfficientNet B4, the cervix type classification stage achieved an accuracy of 87%.
Application of a cationic amylose derivative loaded with single‐walled carbon nanotubes for gene delivery therapy and photothermal therapy of colorectal cancer
Authors: Chen Zechang , Zhuang Junbo , Pang Jiadong , Liu Zehao , Zhang Penghao , Deng Haijun , Zhang Liming , Zhuang Baoxiong
Published: January 2022

Single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are cylindrical graphitic helix molecules that exhibit superb mechanical and physical properties. Many polymers, such as polyethylene glycol and glycated chitosan, have been used to modify SWNTs to enhance the stability and biocompatibility of delivery systems; thus, a novel modification for SWNTs with amylose derivatives containing poly(L‐lysine) dendrons (ADP@SWNT) is developed. Infrared spectra analysis, 1H NMR analysis, circular dichroism spectra analysis and thermogravimetric analysis are used to characterize and confirm complex formation. The aqueous dispersion stability, cytotoxicity, gene transfection efficiency and photothermal effect of the complex are studied in vitro and in vivo. Results suggest that the ADP@SWNT complex is successfully synthesized with good water dispersion stability and pDNA transfection capacity. ADP@SWNT/TNFα inhibits tumor growth and metastasis both in vivo and in vitro, and the anti‐tumor effect is enhanced by NIR irradiation, suggesting its high potential for application in tumor therapy.
Inter‐laboratory comparison of semiquantitative allergen‐specific Immunoglobulin E test: 7 years of experience in Korea
Authors: Lee Hyeyoung , Ryu Ji Hyeong , Choi Ae‐Ran , Kim Yonggoo , Oh Eun‐Jee
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Multiple allergen simultaneous test (MAST) is widely used as a screening tool for allergic diseases and has the advantage of providing specific IgE (sIgE) results for various allergens in semiquantitative class. We have continuously conducted external quality assessment (EQA) since 2012 for clinical laboratories performing MAST using AdvanSure allergy screen test (LG CHEM, Korea). This study provides an account of the EQA experience.

Methods

Samples were prepared using pooled sera collected from patients with suspected allergic disease and sent to each laboratory twice a year. Each round included 4–6 serum samples with sIgE for 10–20 inhaled or food allergens. The acceptable class value was the most frequently reported MAST class ±1 titer that exceeded 80% of the total laboratory results.

Results

The average number of participating laboratories was 76 (49–90) and the average response rate was 97.3% during the entire survey period. The acceptable rates were consistently high at 97.7% ± 3.7%. Of the total 537 trials, 18 trials (3.4%) were regarded as nonconsensus results, in which acceptable answers did not exceed 80%. For unacceptable results, the false‐negative rate (1.5% ± 2.8%) was higher than the false‐positive rate (0.8% ± 2.7%) (p < 0.001). MAST class results were correlated with quantitative IgE results by ImmunoCAP (Spearman's correlation coefficient of 0.682 (p < 0.001) and gamma index of 0.777 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Although EQA for MAST showed a high level of acceptable answer, some allergen assays require harmonization. Continuous performance of systematic EQA is needed to improve the accuracy of sIgE assays and quality control in clinical laboratories.
Psychotherapists' personality traits and their influence on treatment processes and outcomes: A scoping review
Authors: Fletcher Ashleigh C. , Delgadillo Jaime
Published: January 2022

Background

Prior research indicates that patients' personality traits are associated with psychotherapy processes and outcomes. However, the potential relevance of therapists' personality traits is less understood.

Methods

This is a scoping review of studies investigating associations between therapists' personality traits with treatment processes and outcomes. Three databases (Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) were searched, identifying 27 eligible studies synthesized using a narrative review of key findings.

Results

The influence of therapists' personality traits was studied in relation to therapeutic orientation, interpersonal skills, therapist competence and skill, model fidelity, treatment outcomes, therapeutic alliance, and therapist well‐being. Findings indicate that therapists' personality traits are associated with the choice of therapeutic orientation and with interpersonal skills, but there is mixed evidence about associations with clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Therapists' personality traits are associated with therapeutic orientation and interpersonal skills. However, it remains unclear whether therapists' personality traits influence other aspects of therapeutic processes or outcomes.
Calcined sodium silicate as solid base catalyst for alcoholysis of poly(ethylene terephthalate)
Authors: Tang Shixiong , Li Fang , Liu Jidong , Guo Bao , Tian Zenan , Lv Jianhua
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Chemical recycling of waste poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is an effective way to save energy and protect the environment. In this work, calcined sodium silicate was adopted as a novel solid base catalyst for methanolysis of PET for the first time. The effects of various parameters on the conversion of PET and the yield of dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) in the methanolysis process of PET were investigated.

RESULTS

The results showed that the conversion of PET could reach about 100% and the yield of DMT could reach about 95% under the following conditions: calcined sodium silicate, 5 wt%; molar ratio of methanol to PET, 5:1; reaction time, 30 min; reaction temperature, 200 °C. The higher the mass ratio of methanol to PET and the higher the temperature, the higher were the conversion of PET and the yield of DMT. In addition, the catalyst can be reused more than five times and has good catalytic activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Calcined sodium silicate has the advantages of low cost, simple fabrication method, high catalytic activity and environmental friendliness. The use of this solid base catalyst is a promising strategy for realizing the recycling of waste polyester. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Sex modifies the association between HIV and coronary artery disease among older adults in Uganda
Authors: Longenecker Chris T. , Bogorodskaya Milana , Margevicius Seunghee , Nazzinda Rashidah , Bittencourt Marcio Sommer , Erem Geoffrey , Nalukwago Sophie , Huaman Moises A. , Ghoshhajra Brian B. , Siedner Mark J. , Juchnowski Steven M. , Zidar David A. , McComsey Grace A. , Kityo Cissy
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Little is known about the epidemiology of coronary artery disease (CAD) in sub‐Saharan Africa, where the majority of people living with HIV (PLHIV) live. We assessed the association of HIV with CAD and explored relationships with monocyte activation in sex‐stratified analyses of older PLHIV and people without HIV (PWOH) in Uganda.

Methods

The Ugandan Study of HIV effects on the Myocardium and Atherosclerosis (mUTIMA) follows 100 PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 100 age‐ and sex‐matched PWOH controls in Kampala, Uganda; all >45 years of age with >1 cardiovascular disease risk factor. At the year 2 exam (2017–2019), 189 participants had available coronary calcium score and 165 had coronary CT angiography (CCTA) for this analysis. A subset of participants (n = 107) had both CCTA and fresh whole blood flow cytometry for monocyte phenotyping.

Results

Median age was 57.8 years and 63% were females. Overall, 88% had hypertension, 37% had diabetes and 4% were smokers. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk was modestly higher for PWOH, but not statistically significant (median 10‐year ASCVD risk 7.2% for PLHIV vs. 8.6% for PWOH, p = 0.09). Median duration of ART was 12.7 years and 86% had suppressed viral load. Despite a high prevalence of risk factors, only 34/165 (21%, 95% CI 15–28%) had any coronary plaque. After adjustment for ASCVD risk score, HIV status was not associated with CAD (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.23–1.30) but was associated with more severe CAD (segment severity score>3) among those with disease (OR 10.9, 95% CI 1.67–70.45). Females had a trend towards higher odds of CAD among PLHIV (OR 4.1, 95% CI 0.4–44.9), but a trend towards lower odds of CAD among PWOH (OR 0.30; 95% CI 0.07–1.3; HIV*sex interaction p = 0.019). CAD was positively correlated with classical monocytes (r = 0.3, p = 0.012) and negatively correlated with CX3CR1 expression (r = –0.31, p = 0.011) in PLHIV and negatively correlated with patrolling monocytes (r = –0.36, p = 0.031) and tissue factor expression (r = –0.39, p = 0.017) in PWOH.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that HIV may be associated more with severity rather than the presence of CAD in Uganda. Sex differences in the HIV effect suggest that tailored CAD prevention strategies may be required in this setting.
Empowering or managing the locals? Within‐organizational power relations and capacity building of Korean NGOs in Cambodia
Authors: Yang Yunjeong
Published: January 2022

Partnership is ubiquitous in international development discourse, but it is unclear whether development relationships have become less hierarchical. This study looks beyond the usual North–South inter‐organizational partnerships, to examine within‐organizational dynamics. It examines participation in the context of two South Korean non‐governmental organizations (NGOs) in Cambodia. Findings based on qualitative interviews with Korean leaders and local Cambodian managers show shortfalls yet overall improvements in participation, with a shift from a managerialist to a more praxis approach. The study shows that examining within‐organizational power relations provides an important window into the real nature of participation, empowerment and partnership in development cooperation practices.
Factors affecting chiropractor requests for full‐length spinal radiography: A scoping review
Authors: Readford Thomas R. , Hayes Melanie , Reed Warren Michael
Published: January 2022

Chiropractors often refer their patients for full‐length (three‐ to four‐region) radiographs of the spine as part of their clinical assessment, which are frequently completed by radiographers in medical imaging practices. Overuse of spinal radiography by chiropractors has previously been reported and remains a contentious issue. The purpose of this scoping review was to explore the issues surrounding the utilisation of full‐length spinal radiography by chiropractors and examine the alignment of this practice with current evidence. A search of four databases (AMED, EMBASE, MedLine and Scopus) and a hand search of Google was conducted using keywords. Articles were screened against an inclusion/exclusion criterion for relevance. Themes and findings were extracted from eligible articles, and evidence was synthesised using a narrative approach. In total, 25 articles were identified, five major themes were extracted, and subsequent conclusions drawn by authors were charted to identify confluent findings. This review identified a paucity of literature addressing this issue and an underrepresentation of relevant perspectives from radiographers. Several issues surrounding the use of full‐length spinal radiography by chiropractors were identified and examined, including barriers to the adherence of published guidelines for spinal imaging, an absence of a reporting mechanism for the utilisation of spinal radiography in chiropractic and the existence of a spectrum of beliefs amongst chiropractors about the clinical utility and limitations of full‐length spinal radiography. Further investigation is required to further understand the scope of this issue and its impacts for radiation protection and patient safety.
Interannual variability of the thermocline depth in the south‐central Indian Ocean: Respective influences of IOD and ENSO
Authors: Liu Hongwei , Duan Yongliang , Yan Xiaomei , Pang Chongguang
Published: January 2022

The respective influences of the Indian Ocean dipole (IOD) and El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the thermocline depth (represented by the 20°C isotherm depth, D20) variability in the south‐central Indian Ocean (SCIO) are investigated for the period of 1960–2020. The results show that pronounced interannual variations in D20 mainly occur in the SCIO and display a close relationship with the two tropical climate modes, with positive (negative) phase being associated with SCIO D20 deepening (shoaling). The D20 anomalies (D20A) induced by IOD and ENSO events have the same intensities but present different spatial–temporal features, as demonstrated by partial regression analysis. The IOD‐related D20A occurs during the mature phase of the event and behaves as a local response to anomalous wind stress curl induced by IOD, while the ENSO signature, dominated by the westward‐propagating oceanic Rossby waves, lasts much longer and extends further west.
Assessment of osteoarthritis functional outcomes and intra‐articular injection volume in the rat anterior cruciate ligament transection model
Authors: Wang Yuyan , Wagner Emma S. , Yu Danqiao , Chen Kevin J. , Keel Taidhgin J. , Pownder Sarah L. , Koff Matthew F. , Cheetham Jonathan , Samaroo Kirk J. , Reesink Heidi L.
Published: January 2022

The rat surgical anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) model is commonly used to investigate intra‐articular osteoarthritis (OA) therapies, and histological assessment is often the primary outcome measure. However, histological changes do not always correlate well with clinical outcomes. Therefore, this study evaluated functional outcomes in the rat surgical ACLT model and compared intra‐articular injection volumes ranging from 20 to 50 μl. Unilateral ACLT was surgically induced and static weight‐bearing, mechanical allodynia, motor function, and gait were assessed in four groups of male, Sprague‐Dawley rats (n = 6 per group). Intra‐articular injections of 20 µl Dulbecco's phosphate‐buffered saline (DPBS), 50 µl DPBS, or 50 µl of synthetic biomimetic boundary lubricant were administered once weekly for 3 weeks postoperatively. Structural changes were evaluated histologically at 20 weeks. Rat cadaver knees were injected with 20, 30, 40, or 50 µl of gadolinium solutions and were imaged using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Static weight‐bearing, mechanical allodynia, and gait parameters in ACLT groups revealed differences from baseline and naïve controls for 4 weeks post‐ACLT; however, these differences did not persist beyond 6 weeks. Different intra‐articular DPBS injection volumes did not result in functional or histological changes; however, peri‐articular leakage was documented via MRI following 50, 40, and 30 µl but not 20 µl gadolinium injections. Statement of clinical significance: Differences in functional parameters were predominantly restricted to early, postoperative changes in the rat surgical ACLT model despite evidence of moderate histologic OA at 20 weeks. Injection volumes of 20–30 µl are more appropriate for investigating intra‐articular therapies in the rat knee.
Ultrasensitive surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy detection of explosive molecules with multibranched silver nanostructures
Authors: Verma Ashwani Kumar , Soni Ravi Kant
Published: January 2022

Multibranched silver nanostructures (AgNSts) have attracted much attention as promising candidates for surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) due to their unique plasmonic properties. We have chemically synthesized silver nanodendrites (AgNDs) and silver stars (AgSs) and investigated their SERS performance for trace‐level molecule detection. High enhancement factor (EF) ~1010 and attomolar detection limits were obtained with multibranched nanostructure‐based SERS substrates for methylene blue, thiram, and phosmet. The confinement of the local fields at the sharp tips and in the intrabranch and interbranch nanogaps of AgNDs offer highly dense three‐dimensional (3D) SERS “hot spots” and large signal enhancements of ~109. Further, the as‐prepared AgND‐based substrates were utilized for the ultrasensitive identification of explosive molecules 2,4‐DNT, PNBA, and PA with limit‐of‐detection (LOD) down to ~5.3 × 10−16, 2.9 × 10−16, and 3.8 × 10−12 M concentrations, respectively. The spectral modifications and appearance of new SERS peaks in the low wavenumber region indicate the metal–molecule complex formation and confirm the contribution of the chemical enhancement mechanism. The narrow spectral widths of Raman peaks allow the highly selective multiplexed detection of explosive molecules from the two‐component (2‐plex) mixture of dyes with different concentrations. Further, the density functional theory (DFT)‐based Raman spectrum calculations of the molecules exhibit a reasonably good correspondence with the experimental results. Therefore, the molecularly specific and distinguishably sharp Raman features enable the ultrasensitive and multiplexed detection of analytes molecules with our AgNSt‐based SERS substrates.
A review on green nanoemulsions for cosmetic applications with special emphasis on microbial surfactants as impending emulsifying agents
Authors: Singh Rishi Devendra , Kapila Shreya , Ganesan Neela Gayathri , Rangarajan Vivek
Published: January 2022

Nanoemulsions are being increasingly utilized in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries. They have gained special attention in the cosmetic sector owing to their smaller size and higher kinetic stability and their ability to improve the cutaneous penetration of active ingredients. In addition, they reduce transepidermal water loss, which augments the skin's barrier function. In recent years, the increased awareness among consumers about the health‐linked benefits of natural ingredients in cosmetics has urged finding green cosmetic ingredients that are benign to the skin. One of the natural motivations for this quest is finding suitable emulsifier candidates with negligible side effects that are sourced from plants or microbes, which can serve as viable replacements to the erstwhile used synthetic surfactants. Formulating a stable nanoemulsion system for cosmetic application entails a systematic understanding of important attributes of the surfactant candidate such as critical micelle concentration, hydrophilic lipophilic balance, critical packing parameter, and Winsor ratio that are pivotal to the overall performance of the emulsion system. The current review attempts to portray the salient features of nanoemulsion systems in cosmetic formulations, by essentially capturing the important characteristics of the emulsifier that dictate the overall stability of a nanoemulsion system. The recent transition toward the use of green ingredients such as emulsifiers and oils that are dermatologically safe has been delineated, by highlighting their important properties. Furthermore, the progress made so far in the application of microbial biosurfactants in nanoemulsion formulations is presented. Finally, the factors that dictate the overall stability of the nanoemulsion are briefly reviewed.
Defining the role of systemic therapy in resectable pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma
Authors: Burchard Paul R. , Chacon Alexander C. , Melucci Alexa , Casabianca Anthony S. , Goyal Subir , Switchenko Jeffrey M. , Maithel Shishir K. , Kooby David A. , Carpizo Darren R. , Shah Mihir M.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Following resection of pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (PACC) distant recurrence remains high. We utilized the national cancer database (NCDB) to evaluate the role of systemic therapy in early‐stage resected PACC.

Methods

We queried the NCDB registry from 2004 to 2015 for patients with pathologic stage I‐IIB PACC. For each stage, patients who underwent surgery alone (SA) were compared to patients who received systemic and/or radiation therapy in addition to surgery (surgery + therapy [S + T]).

Results

A total of 271 patients (101 pI, 81 pIIA, and 89 pIIB) were analyzed. Of all clinically node positive patients (n = 41), the majority (n = 32, 78%) had node‐positive disease at resection (pIIB). SA was performed in 112 patients (41.3%), whereas 159 (58.7%) patients received S + T. There was no difference in overall survival (OS) between S + T and SA with respect to pI or pIIA disease. In pIIB disease, S + T was associated with improved OS compared to SA (34.9 vs. 16.9 months, p = 0.031). Single‐agent chemotherapy was associated with improved OS for pIIB disease when compared to SA (hazard ratio: 0.38, 95% confidence interval: 0.16, 0.83).

Conclusion

In resectable PACC, the survival benefit of adjuvant therapy is limited to pathologic stage IIB disease. This benefit is evident even in patients treated with single‐agent chemotherapy.
Combined field and clinical methods clarify mortality causes and survival patterns of Pacific martens
Authors: Martin Marie E. , Delheimer Matthew S. , Gabriel Mourad W. , Wengert Greta M. , Moriarty Katie M.
Published: January 2022

Quantifying the demography of wildlife populations is imperative to evaluating population trends. Understanding patterns of influential demographic parameters often requires investigation of mechanisms influencing demography, which can be difficult to determine for cryptic species. We radio‐tracked Pacific martens (Martes caurina), a small‐bodied and elusive mesocarnivore, to estimate survival, determine causes of mortality, and assess co‐occurring pathological conditions. We tracked 18 female and 33 male martens for an average (±SD, range) of 16.35 months (±8.7, 1–41) from 2009–2013 and 2015–2017 in northern California. Annual survival rates were 0.81 (95% CI = 0.66–0.95) and 0.68 (95% CI = 0.57–0.79) for female and male martens, respectively. We documented 16 marten mortalities, 13 of which were suspected predation events. Seven mortalities were empirically linked to predation via clinical forensic evidence, with bobcats (Lynx rufus; n = 5) representing the majority of predator species identified. The proximate cause of mortality for 1 marten was attributed to toxicosis from anticoagulant rodenticide exposure, which has not been previously reported in free‐ranging martens. Our findings suggest the timing of marten mortality aligned with reproductive periods that incurred increased energetic requirements, which may result in increased predation risk. We propose continued pairing of field and clinical assessments to better substantiate mortality sources of wildlife, elucidate underlying pathology, and identify novel stressors.
Effects of willow nutrition and morphology on calving success of moose
Authors: Hayes Forest P. , Millspaugh Joshua J. , Bergman Eric J. , Callaway Ragan M. , Bishop Chad J.
Published: January 2022

Across much of North America, populations of moose (Alces alces) are declining because of disease, predation, climate change, and anthropogenic‐driven habitat loss. Contrary to this trend, populations of moose in Colorado, USA, have continued to grow. Studying successful (i.e., persistent or growing) populations of moose can facilitate continued conservation by identifying habitat features critical to persistence of moose. We hypothesized that moose using habitat with higher quality willow (Salix spp.) would have a higher probability of having a calf‐at‐heel (i.e., calving success). We evaluated moose calving success using repeated ground observations of collared individuals with calves in an occupancy model framework to account for detection probability. We then evaluated the impact of willow habitat quality and nutrition on moose calving success by studying 2 spatially segregated populations of moose in Colorado. Last, we evaluated correlations between willow characteristics (browse intensity, height, cover, leaf length, and species) and willow nutrition (dry matter digestibility [DMD]) to assess the utility of using those characteristics to assess willow nutrition. We found willow height and cover had a high probability of being positively associated with higher individual‐level calving success. Willow DMD, browse intensity, and leaf length were not predictive of individual moose calving success; however, the site with higher mean DMD consistently had higher mean estimates of calving success for the same year. Our results suggest surveying DMD is likely not a useful metric for assessing differences in calving success of individual moose but may be of use at population levels. Further, the assessment of willow morphology and density may be used to identify areas that support higher levels of moose calving success.
Non‐Squamous Cell Malignancies of the Larynx
Authors: Rotsides Janine M. , Patel Evan , Oliver Jamie R. , Moses Lindsey E. , Jacobson Adam S. , Hu Kenneth S. , Vaezi Alec , Tam Moses , Givi Babak
Published: January 2022

Objectives/Hypothesis

Non‐squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) malignancies are rare, but well described laryngeal pathologies. However, the epidemiology and clinical behavior of these tumors is not well studied.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with non‐squamous cell larynx cancer from 2004 to 2017 in the National Cancer Database were selected. Demographic, clinicopathologic factors, treatments, and survival were analyzed. Univariable and multivariable cox regression were performed. Survival was compared with a propensity score‐matched (PSM) population of laryngeal SCC patients.

Results

A total of 136,235 cases of larynx cancer were identified. After excluding SCC variants, 2,172 (1.6%) patients met inclusion criteria. The most common histology was chondrosarcoma (374, 17.2%), followed by small cell (345, 15.9%), and spindle cell carcinoma (268, 12.3%). The most common treatment was surgery (683, 31.4%) followed by chemoradiation (409, 18.8%) and surgery and adjuvant radiation (288, 13.3%). Overall, 3‐ and 5‐year survival was 67.9% and 59.4%, respectively. In multivariate analysis controlling for age, stage, comorbidity, histology, and treatment modality; chondrosarcoma had the best survival (hazard ratio [HR] 0.11, confidence interval [CI] 0.07–0.19, P < .001). In a PSM population, matched for age, stage, comorbidity, and treatments; non‐SCC patients had significantly lower survival (51.5% vs. 59.9%, P < .001).

Conclusion

A diverse range of non‐squamous cell malignancies occur in the larynx. In general, these tumors have poor survival, with few exceptions such as chondrosarcoma. While the majority of these histologies undergo surgical‐based treatments in other sites, only 53% of patients underwent surgical‐based treatment in the larynx. These data could guide clinicians in determining the outcome of treatment in these patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:1771–1777, 2022
Root exudates with low C/N ratios accelerate CO2 emissions from paddy soil
Authors: Cai Guan , Shahbaz Muhammad , Ge Tida , Hu Yajun , Li Baozhen , Yuan Hongzhao , Wang Yi , Liu Yuhuai , Liu Qiong , Shibistova Olga , Sauheitl Leopold , Wu Jinshui , Guggenberger Georg , Zhu Zhenke
Published: January 2022

Root exudates can significantly modify microbial activity and soil organic matter (SOM) mineralization. However, how root exudates and their C/N stoichiometric ratios control rice field (paddy) soil C mineralization is poorly understood. This study used a mixture of glucose, oxalic acid, and alanine as root exudate mimics for three C/N stoichiometric ratios (CN6, CN10, and CN80) to explore the underlying mechanisms involved in SOM mineralization. The input of root exudates enhanced CO2 emissions by 1.8–2.3‐fold that of soil with only C additions (C‐only). Artificial root exudates with low C/N ratios (CN6 and CN10) increased the metabolic quotient (qCO2) by 12% over those with higher stoichiometric ratios (CN80 and C‐only), suggesting a relatively high energy demand for microorganisms to acquire organic N from SOM by increasing N‐hydrolase production. The increase of stoichiometric ratios of C‐ to N‐hydrolase [β‐1,4‐glucosidase to β‐1,4‐N‐acetyl glucosaminidase (NAG)] promoted SOM degradation compared to those involved in organic C‐ and N‐degradation, which had a significant positive correlation with qCO2. The stoichiometric ratios of microbial biomass were positively correlated with C use efficiency, indicating root exudates with higher C/N ratios provide an undersupply of N for microorganisms that trigger the release of N‐degrading extracellular enzymes. Our findings showed that the C/N stoichiometry of root exudates controlled SOM mineralization by affecting the specific response of the microbial biomass through the activity of C‐ and N‐releasing extracellular enzymes to adjust the microbial C/N ratio.
Non‐coding RNA and cholesteatoma
Authors: Jovanovic Ivan , Zivkovic Maja , Jesic Snezana , Stankovic Aleksandra
Published: January 2022

Objective

Cholesteatoma is a challenging chronic pathology of the middle ear for which pharmacologic therapies have not been developed yet. Cholesteatoma occurrence depends on the interplay between genetic and environmental factors while master regulators orchestrating disease progression are still unknown. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of non‐coding RNAs (ncRNA) as a new class of regulatory molecules.

Methods

We have comprehensively reviewed all articles investigating ncRNAs, specifically micro RNAs (miRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lncRNA/circRNA) in cholesteatoma tissue.

Results

Candidate miRNA approaches indicated that miR‐21 and let‐7a are the major miRNAs involved in cholesteatoma growth, migration, proliferation, bone destruction, and apoptosis. Regulatory potential for the same biological processes was also observed for miR‐203a. The NF‐kB/miR‐802/PTEN regulatory network was in relation to observed miR‐21 activity in cholesteatoma as well. High throughput approaches revealed additional ncRNAs implicated in cholesteatoma pathology. Competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) analysis highlighted lncRNA/circRNA that could be “endogenous sponge” for miR‐21 and let‐7a based on the hypothesis that RNA transcripts can communicate with and regulate each other by using shared miRNA response elements.

Conclusion

In this review, we summarize the discoveries and role of ncRNA in major pathways in cholesteatoma and highlight the potential of miRNA‐based therapeutics in the treatment of cholesteatoma.

Level of Evidence: NA.
Enhancement of barrier and corrosion protection performance of epoxy coatings through adding eco‐friendly lamellar biochar
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Wang Gang , Ma Shenghua , Wang Hui , Bai Jinbo
Published: January 2022

Biomass, as a green and renewable energy source, can be procured from a broad range of sources and is low in cost. The full exploitation of biomass could reduce the dependence on and consumption of fossil fuels, and is conducive to the protection of the environment. The prevention of corrosion of metals is an issue considered problematic in many fields, including in industrial production among others. Many anticorrosion materials are expensive and are noxious to the environment. This is an important issue that anticorrosion workers cannot ignore. This study proposes the use of biochar epoxy to boost the barrier properties of the coating, which is both economical and eco‐friendly. The incorporation of biochar can reduce the porosity of the coating and complicate the path of the corrosive media towards the steel substrate. Additionally, it can also reinforce the anticorrosion performance of the coatings. First, this article introduces the effect of biochars with different ultrasonic durations on the anticorrosion performance of anticorrosion coatings. After finding the biochar with the optimal ultrasonic duration, the effects of biochar on the anticorrosion performance of the coatings at different temperatures are assessed and the changes in its anticorrosion performance following soaking are discussed. The discussion concludes that applying biochar to anticorrosion coatings provides a feasible type of coating for anticorrosion work.
A Review on Lignin‐Based Phenolic Resin Adhesive
Authors: Gong Xiaoyu , Meng Yi , Lu Jie , Tao Yehan , Cheng Yi , Wang Haisong
Published: January 2022

Replacing petroleum‐based chemicals with biomass‐based alternatives is becoming more and more important for the development of a low‐carbon economy around the world. The latest life cycle assessment displayed that partially replacing phenol with biobased lignin in the process of synthesizing phenolic resin adhesives used in wood panels industry can remarkably reduce carbon emissions and negative environmental impact. The macromolecular structure of lignin is similar to that of phenolic resin and the basic structure unit is similar to that of the phenol, thus endowing it with the potential to substitute phenol and reduce the release of formaldehyde in the preparation process of phenolic resin. Importantly, the lignin‐based adhesive exhibits improved performance and reduced cost compared with the petroleum‐based adhesive due to the reduced adding amount of petroleum‐based volatile components. However, the intrinsic large steric hindrance, structural heterogeneity, and low activity of the natural lignin limit its further application in the adhesive. Many researchers have developed the activation methods such as physical modification, chemical modification, and biological modification to overcome these issues. The different modification of the lignin and their application in the adhesive area are mainly summarized here. Besides, the modification methods and the curing mechanism are also discussed.
Exploring the antecedents of green and sustainable purchase behaviour: A comparison among different generations
Authors: Casalegno Cecilia , Candelo Elena , Santoro Gabriele
Published: January 2022

This paper investigates whether generation matters in the intention to buy green and sustainable products and, simultaneously, examines the antecedents of green and sustainable buying behaviour among three different generational cohorts (X, Y, and Z). By doing this, the present paper fills the gap regarding studies addressing the relationships between age and sustainable behaviour which have not included actual green and sustainable buying intention, along with the gap regarding studies only focussing on one or two (X and Y) generational cohorts. Drawing on the generational cohort theory, and by using a survey approach involving three samples of specific generations (X, Y, and Z), as well as by testing several hypotheses through ordinary least squares regression models, the paper finds that: (a) age plays a key role in the choice of green and socially friendly products, and (b) environmental concern and perceived consumer effectiveness are strong antecedents of green and sustainable purchase behaviour for all generational cohorts. This is also true for environmental citizenship, but this only applies to generations Y and Z. Finally, collectivism is only an antecedent of sustainable purchase behaviour for generation Z.
R.I. report: Diversifying workforce, improving access require bold steps
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2022

Systemic changes in both the behavioral health workforce and the insurance sector are needed to improve access to care for some of Rhode Island's most struggling individuals, concludes a new report from the state mental health association and its parity awareness initiative. The shortcomings and recommendations outlined in the report reflect issues that continue to plague mental health systems nationally.
Combined lymph node transfer and suction‐assisted lipectomy in lymphedema treatment: A prospective study
Authors: Bolletta Alberto , di Taranto Giuseppe , Losco Luigi , Elia Rossella , Sert Gokhan , Ribuffo Diego , Cigna Emanuele , Chen Hung‐Chi
Published: January 2022

Background

Recent studies have analyzed the combination of suction‐assisted lipectomy (SAL) and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) in lymphedema treatment, reporting positive outcomes. However, it is difficult to draw conclusions due to the heterogeneity of the studies. Aim of this prospective study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the combination of VLNT and SAL in lymphedema treatment.

Patients and methods

Between January 2016 and May 2019, 94 patients with upper or lower limb stage IIb‐III lymphedema were enrolled and treated with the gastroepiploic VLNT followed by SAL. Patients were prospectively evaluated through circumference measurement and clinical examination, including number of episodes of cellulitis.

Results

Among patients enrolled in the study 83 were affected by lower limb lymphedema (LLL) and 11 were affected by upper limb lymphedema (ULL). Average follow‐up was 3 ± 0.8 years. In the LLL group, the mean circumference reduction rates (CRR) were 60.4, 56.9, 29.6, and 55.4% above and below the knee, above the ankle, and at the foot level, respectively. A statistically significant difference was noted at all the levels (p < .05), but above the ankle (p = .059). Regarding the ULL group, the mean CRR were 80.7, 60.7, 65.0 and 49.6% above and below the elbow, at wrist and at mid‐hand, respectively. CRR were reported at all the levels but no statistical difference was noted. The number of episodes of cellulitis dropped significantly (p < .05).

Conclusion

This study supports the use of VLNT+SAL in lymphedema grades IIb‐III, with important implications for the clinical practice.
Robust dynamic output‐feedback ℋ∞ control for uncertain Takagi–Sugeno time‐delay systems
Authors: Coskun Serdar
Published: January 2022

This work deals with the problem of robust output‐feedback
control for a class of uncertain Takagi–Sugeno (T‐S) fuzzy systems with state time‐varying delays. The system is described by a state‐space T‐S fuzzy model with time‐varying delays and norm‐bounded parameter uncertainties. A robust
control strategy via Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals for stability and performance conditions is derived. The T‐S fuzzy‐model‐based framework is employed in analysis, and formulations are performed based on the solution of a set of delay‐dependent linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). By solving the derived LMI conditions via a convex programming toolbox, a full‐order robust dynamic output‐feedback
controller is designed. The obtained robust output‐feedback controller guarantees asymptotic stability of the closed‐loop system and provides an
norm, that is, disturbance attenuation level, for all admissible uncertainties. In this sequel, three examples are given to reveal the effectiveness and merits of the proposed approaches.
Detecting pore size distribution of activated carbon by low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Zhao Zhihong , Wang Bin , Tan Rui , Liu Wenjing , Zhang Minghui
Published: January 2022

In this study, the transverse relaxation time (T2) of activated carbon (AC) in different relative environment humidity was detected firstly by low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LFNMR). The pore size (diameter) of AC distributions was calculated by the relationship between T2 and surface relaxation rate (ρ), where ρ was obtained by the detection of nine porous materials with known pore size. The results showed that the pore size distributions of AC calculated by ρ < 0.19 nm/ms were in good agreement with that obtained by nitrogen adsorption method and proved that LFNMR as a new detection method was feasible for characterizing AC pore size distribution.
Assessment of iron nanoparticle distribution in mouse models using ultrashort‐echo‐time MRI
Authors: Boss Andreas , Heeb Laura , Vats Divya , Starsich Fabian H. L. , Balfourier Alice , Herrmann Inge K. , Gupta Anurag
Published: January 2022

Microscopic magnetic field inhomogeneities caused by iron deposition or tissue‐air interfaces may result in rapid decay of transverse magnetization in MRI. The aim of this study is to detect and quantify the distribution of iron‐based nanoparticles in mouse models by applying ultrashort‐echo‐time (UTE) sequences in tissues exhibiting extremely fast transverse relaxation. In 24 C57BL/6 mice (two controls), suspensions containing either non‐oxidic Fe or AuFeOx nanoparticles were injected into the tail vein at two doses (200 μg and 600 μg per mouse). Mice underwent MRI using a UTE sequence at 4.7 T field strength with five different echo times between 100 μs and 5000 μs. Transverse relaxation times T2* were computed for the lung, liver, and spleen by mono‐exponential fitting. In UTE imaging, the MRI signal could reliably be detected even in liver parenchyma exhibiting the highest deposition of nanoparticles. In animals treated with Fe nanoparticles (600 μg per mouse), the relaxation time substantially decreased in the liver (3418 ± 1534 μs (control) versus 228 ± 67 μs), the spleen (2170 ± 728 μs versus 299 ± 97 μs), and the lungs (663 ± 101 μs versus 413 ± 99 μs). The change in transverse relaxation was dependent on the number and composition of the nanoparticles. By pixel‐wise curve fitting, T2* maps were calculated showing nanoparticle distribution. In conclusion, UTE sequences may be used to assess and quantify nanoparticle distribution in tissues exhibiting ultrafast signal decay in MRI.
Are nurses prepared to respond to next infectious disease outbreak: A narrative synthesis
Authors: Nie Anliu , Su Xiangfen , Dong Mengyuan , Guan Wenjie
Published: January 2022

Aim

The review aimed to present a synthesis of nurses' preparedness for infectious disease and the components of emergency preparedness.

Design

Narrative synthesis.

Methods

A systematic search and screening for relevant studies were conducted to locate the relevant articles. The included studies were examined for scientific quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The findings of included studies were synthesized by a narrative synthesis approach.

Results

Totally 15 studies were included, and 4 themes associated with nurses' preparedness for pandemic were identified: knowledge and skills, psychological preparation, external resources, and attitude and intention.

Conclusions

Most nurses express a positive willingness to respond to epidemics, although they do not believe they are adequately prepared. Some measures should be taken for improving nurses' emergency preparedness, including providing ongoing training, protective equipment, safe working environment and psychological intervention, improving nurses' resilience and accelerating the sharing of scientific information about epidemics.
Closer contact with students can pay off in enrollment, retention
Authors: Enos Gary A.
Published: January 2022

No one should underestimate the importance of offering a personal touch when working with students who may face multiple barriers to enrollment and completion, said the Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success at Monroe County Community College in Michigan. Scott Behrens, Ph.D., still finds the phone calls he places to students to be among his favorite aspects of the job.
A review on polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes as a new multipurpose nanohybrid additive for poly(lactic acid) and poly(lactic acid) hybrid composites
Authors: Ullah Muhammad Saeed , Yazıcı Nazlı , Wis Abdulmounem Alchekh , Özkoç Güralp , Kodal Mehmet
Published: January 2022

The production of petroleum‐based polymers in huge amounts is perilous for our ecosystem and oil reserves. The use of biodegradable polymers instead of synthetic polymers for various commodity, engineering, and biomedical applications remains the overriding concern of the researchers in last decades. Although poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is considered to be the most befitting substitute for conventional petroleum‐based products because of its superlative mechanical properties, material & processing cost, and non‐toxicity, they have some consequential limitations for various applications because of their slow rate of crystallization, low thermal stability, high brittleness, and low toughness. To overwhelm these deficiencies during the last two decades, researchers have developed various techniques to tailor the properties of PLA, that is, blending with other polymers or using additives such as nanofillers. Among all the nanofillers, for example, carbon nanotubes and organoclays, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) was found the most promising nanofiller because of its organic and inorganic nanostructure and fine dispersion into PLA matrix. This article reviews all the investigations relevant to POSS incorporation into PLA or blends of PLA with other polymers to compare the mechanical, morphological, and physical properties of the ameliorated composites and the neat PLA.
Effects of printing parameters on the tensile behavior of 3D‐printed acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) material in Z direction
Authors: El Magri Anouar , Ouassil Salah‐Eddine , Vaudreuil Sébastien
Published: January 2022

Fused deposition modeling (FDM), which is a popular and widely additive manufacturing technique, opens alternative possibilities for complex geometries that are hard to manufacture using classic manufacturing techniques. Its use in functional products is however limited because of anisotropic strength issues, where the strength of FDM‐fabricated parts in the build direction (Z direction) can be significantly lower than in the X–Y directions. This work aims at addressing this particular point for a not‐well‐known polymer, namely acrylonitrile styrene acrylate or ASA. Using central composite design and response surface methodology, the nozzle temperature (A), printing speed (B), and layer thickness (C) were studied in a systematic manner to evaluate their effects on the Z‐direction tensile properties of 3D‐printed ASA's samples. Analysis of variance results demonstrate that layer thickness is the most influential printing parameter on interlayers bonding. The best tensile properties for 3D‐printed ASA parts were achieved with parts produced at A = 270°C, B = 60 mm s−1, and C = 0.155 mm. Scanning electron microscopy observation confirms that printing ASA material with those optimum parameters clearly improves the interlayers' bonding in the build direction.