bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of the individual and combined effects of predictors of engagement, dropout, and change from digital interventions for recurrent binge eating
Authors: Linardon Jake , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz Matthew
Published: February 2024

Objective

Our ability to predict responsiveness to digital interventions for eating disorders has thus far been poor, potentially for three reasons: (1) there has been a narrow set of predictors explored; (2) prediction has mostly focused on symptom change, ignoring other aspects of the user journey (uptake, early engagement); and (3) there is an excessive focus on the unique effects of predictors rather than the combined contributions of a predictor set. We evaluated the univariate and multivariate effects of outcome predictors in the context of a randomized trial (n = 398) of digitally delivered interventions for recurrent binge eating.

Method

Thirty baseline variables were selected as predictors, ranging from specific symptoms, to key protective factors, to technological acceptance, and to online treatment attitudes. Outcomes included uptake, early engagement, and remission. Univariate (d) and multivariate (D) standardized mean differences were calculated to estimate the individual and combined effects of predictors, respectively.

Results

At the univariate level, few predictors produced an effect size larger than what is considered small (d > .20) across outcomes. However, our multivariate approach enhanced prediction (Ds = .65 to 1.12), producing accuracy rates greater than chance (63%–71% accuracy). Less than half of the chosen variables proved to be useful in contributing to predictions in multivariate models.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that accuracy in outcome prediction from digitally delivered interventions may be better driven by the aggregation of many small effects rather than one or several largely influential predictors. Replication with different data streams (sensor, neuroimaging) would be useful.

Public Significance

Our ability to predict who will and will not benefit from digital interventions for eating disorders has been poor. We highlight the viability of a multivariate approach to outcome prediction, whereby prediction may be better driven by the aggregation of many small effects rather than one or a few influential predictors.
Fewer bowl traps and more hand netting can increase effective number of bee species and reduce excessive captures
Authors: Larson Diane L. , Pennarola Nora , Leone Julia B. , Larson Jennifer L.
Published: February 2024

Reports increasingly point to substantial declines in wild bee abundance and diversity, yet there is uncertainty about how best to measure these attributes in wild bee populations. Two commonly used methods are passive trapping with bee bowls or active netting of bees on flowers, but each of these has drawbacks. Comparing the outcomes of the two methods is complicated by their uncomparable units of effort. The abundance distribution of bee species is also typically highly skewed, making it difficult to accurately assess diversity when rarer species are unlikely to be caught. The effective number of species, or Hill numbers, provides a way forward by basing the response metric on the number of equally abundant species. Our goal is to compare the effective number of bee species captured between hand netting and bowl trapping in wheatgrass prairie in South Dakota and tallgrass prairie in Minnesota, USA. Species overlap between the two methods ranged from ~40% to ~60%. Emphasis placed on rare species was important, so that 95% confidence limits overlapped between the two methods for species richness but netting exceeded trapping for Shannon's and Simpson's diversities. Netting always captured more bee species with fewer bee individuals than trapping. In most cases, the number of bees captured in bowl traps indicated substantial over‐sampling, with little increase in bee species detected. Correlations between bee and floral abundance, richness, and diversity differed between netted and trapped samples. We conclude that netting and trapping together produce a more complete account of species richness, but shifting sampling emphasis from trapping to netting will result in fewer bees, but more bee species captured. Due to the different relationships between bee and floral diversities that depended on sampling method, it is unwise to compare habitat associations determined by netting with those determined by trapping.
Study on open‐hole extended‐reach limit in horizontal drilling with wavy wellbore trajectory
Authors: Zhang Hui , Chen Yufei , Wu Wenxin , Zhang Hui , Ma Dexin , Lu Zongyu
Published: February 2024

Drilling a series of sinuous wellbore trajectories has emerged as a promising operation, offering significant advantages in enhancing reservoir contact. Based on various development cases (Zili and colleagues), it has been observed that horizontal wells with wavy wellbore trajectories tend to exhibit higher production rates. However, extending the length of these wavy trajectories requires careful consideration in terms of safe drilling practices, as the pressure management associated with these intricate trajectories has been seldom explored. In this study, we establish a modified model for annular pressure to predict and assess the open‐hole extend‐reach limit of horizontal wells with wavy wellbore trajectories. The introduced model incorporates dry friction force and annular geometry influenced by cuttings bed, making it more accurate than traditional models based on experimental observations. The wavy wellbore trajectory comprises three types: the up‐dip wellbore, the down‐dip wellbore, and the complex wellbore. Overall, the horizontal interval limits for the down‐dip wellbore and up‐dip wellbore are smaller than those of the corresponding smooth wellbores under varying factors. Notably, the complex wellbore trajectory offers advantages in navigating formations with narrow pressure windows compared to conventionally horizontal wellbores (smooth wellbores), thanks to its longer extended‐reach limit.
Integrated analysis of source rock evaluation and basin modelling in the Abu Gharadig Basin, Western Desert, Egypt: Insights from pyrolysis data, burial history, and trap characteristics
Authors: Reda Mohamed , Abdel‐Fattah Mohamed I. , Fathy Mohamed , Bakr Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Source rock evaluation and basin modelling play crucial roles in understanding hydrocarbon potential. In this study, pyrolysis data from 92 shale ditch samples were employed to assess the source rocks in the Abu Gharadig Basin (Western Desert, Egypt). The organic richness ranged from 0.53% to 4.1% by weight, indicating varying hydrocarbon‐generating capabilities. Specifically, kerogen types II and III exhibited the potential to generate hydrocarbons, ranging from fair to good oil sources. The burial history analysis provided insights into the sedimentation and subsidence rates during different geological periods. The Late Jurassic‐Early Cretaceous period witnessed modest rates of sedimentation and subsidence. In contrast, the Oligocene and Late Miocene periods experienced medium burial rates, while the Late Cretaceous‐Early Tertiary period exhibited high burial rates. Specific formations were examined in detail, with the Apollonia Formation standing out as a significant hydrocarbon reservoir. It entered the early oil window at approximately 17.87 Ma and the wet gas window at about 17.41 Ma in the ASSIL‐1X well. However, it didn't reach the GPAA‐4 well. The Abu Roash ‘D’ member also showed promise, entering the early oil window at 38.20 and 47.38 Ma, and the wet gas window at 37.40 and 43.64 Ma. Similarly, the Abu Roash ‘F’ member exhibited favourable hydrocarbon generation, entering the early oil window at 39.90 and 54.86 Ma, and the wet gas window at 39.70 and 51.62 Ma in both the ASSIL‐1X and GPAA‐4 wells. Based on the analysis, the Apollonia, Abu Roash ‘D’ and ‘F’ members were identified as source rocks, while the Kharita, ‘C’, ‘E’ and ‘G’ members were recognized as reservoir rocks. The Abu Roash Shale acted as an effective seal rock. The geological structure of the region revealed the presence of NW‐SE normal faults, forming a three‐way dip closure trap. This research substantially enhances our comprehension of the hydrocarbon system within this basin. It achieves this by thoroughly investigating source rock evaluation, basin modelling and delivering invaluable insights into the mechanisms that govern hydrocarbon generation, expulsion and trap age.
Adult epithelioid glioblastoma exhibits an extremely poor prognosis and high frequency of SWI/SNF complex mutation: Insights from a retrospective study
Authors: Xi Shaoyan , Jiang Shimeng , Li Hainan , Huang Qitao , Lu Jiabin , Zhang Xing , Li Zhi , Zeng Jing
Published: February 2024

Epithelioid glioblastoma (eGBM) is a rare subtype of GBM. Given the update of the definition of GBM, the understanding of the molecular characteristics and prognosis of “true” adult eGBM remains limited. Herein, we retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological data of 39 adult eGBM cases. Adult eGBM primarily affected females, with a male‐to‐female ratio of 1:2.3. The average age of diagnosis was 53 years, and the tumor affected the temporal lobe in 41% of cases (16/39, 41%). Microscopically, the tumors consisted mainly or entirely of epithelioid cells. Perivascular infiltration (10/39, 25.6%) and leptomeningeal dissemination (7/39, 17.9%) were not uncommon. BRAF V600E mutation was detected in 40.9% of cases (n = 9/22). Next‐generation sequencing revealed that CDKN2A/B homogeneous deletion was the most frequently mutated gene (8/10, 80%), followed by TERT promoter mutation (7/10, 70%), Cyclin‐dependent kinases 4 or 6 (CDK4/6) amplification (5/10, 50%) and BRAF V600E mutation (50%, 5/10). Notably, the incidence of ARID1B mutation in eGBM was 50% (5/10), representing the first report of such a mutation in this subtype of GBM. ARID1B was known to be a subunit of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeler. Chromosome analysis showed a 7+/10‐ signature in 90% (9/10) cases. Adult eGBM carried a dismal prognosis compared to GBM with IDH and H3 wild‐type (typical GBM) (OS: 13.89 vs 24.30 months; P = .003) and even typical GBM without MGMT promoter methylation (OS: 13.89 vs 22.08 months; P = .036). Based on these findings, it can be concluded that adult eGBM harbors a high frequency of the 7+/10− signature and alterations in the MAPK pathway, SWI/SNF complex and cyclin‐related genes and portends an extremely poor prognosis.
CerviFormer: A pap smear‐based cervical cancer classification method using cross‐attention and latent transformer
Authors: Deo Bhaswati Singha , Pal Mayukha , Panigrahi Prasanta K. , Pradhan Asima
Published: February 2024

Cervical cancer is one of the primary causes of death in women. It should be diagnosed early and treated according to the best medical advice, similar to other diseases, to ensure that its effects are as minimal as possible. Pap smear images are one of the most constructive ways for identifying this type of cancer. This study proposes a cross‐attention‐based Transfomer approach for the reliable classification of cervical cancer in pap smear images. In this study, we propose the CerviFormer‐a model that depends on the Transformers and thereby requires minimal architectural assumptions about the size of the input data. The model uses a cross‐attention technique to repeatedly consolidate the input data into a compact latent Transformer module, which enables it to manage very large‐scale inputs. We evaluated our model on two publicly available pap smear datasets. For 3‐state classification on the Sipakmed data, the model achieved an accuracy of 96.67%. For 2‐state classification on the Herlev data, the model achieved an accuracy of 94.57%. Experimental results on two publicly accessible datasets demonstrate that the proposed method achieves competitive results when compared to contemporary approaches. The proposed method brings forth a comprehensive classification model to detect cervical cancer in pap smear images. This may aid medical professionals in providing better cervical cancer treatment, consequently, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the entire testing process.
A novel porous titanium with engineered surface for bone defect repair in load‐bearing position
Authors: Liu Wei , Wang Dong , He Guo , Li Tingting , Zhang Xianlong
Published: February 2024

Porous titanium exhibits low elastic modulus and porous structure is thought to be a promising implant in bone defect repair. However, the bioinert and low mechanical strength of porous titanium have limited its clinical application, especially in load‐bearing bone defect repair. Our previous study has reported an infiltration casting and acid corrosion (IC‐AC) method to fabricate a novel porous titanium (pTi) with 40% porosity and 0.4 mm pore diameter, which exerts mechanical property matching with cortical bone and interconnected channels. In this study, we introduced a nanoporous coating and incorporated an osteogenic element strontium (Sr) on the surface of porous titanium (named as Sr‐micro arch oxidation [MAO]) to improve the osteogenic ability of the pTi by MAO. Better biocompatibility of Sr‐MAO was verified by cell adhesion experiment and cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) test. The in vitro osteogenic‐related tests such as immunofluorescence staining, alkaline phosphatase staining and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) demonstrated better osteogenic ability of Sr‐MAO. Femoral bone defect repair model was employed to evaluate the osseointegration of samples in vivo. Results of micro‐CT scanning, sequential fluorochrome labeling and Van Gieson staining suggested that Sr‐MAO showed better in vivo osteogenic ability than other groups. Taking results of both in vitro and in vivo experiment together, this study indicated the Sr‐MAO porous titanium could be a promising implant load‐bearing bone defect.
Fabrication of vascularized tissue‐engineered bone models using triaxial bioprinting
Authors: Zhang Junbiao , Suttapreyasri Srisurang , Leethanakul Chidchanok , Samruajbenjakun Bancha
Published: February 2024

Bone tissue is a highly vascularized tissue. When constructing tissue‐engineered bone models, both the osteogenic and angiogenic capabilities of the construct should be carefully considered. However, fabricating a vascularized tissue‐engineered bone to promote vascular formation and bone generation, while simultaneously establishing nutrition channels to facilitate nutrient exchange within the constructs, remains a significant challenge. Triaxial bioprinting, which not only allows the independent encapsulation of different cell types while simultaneously forming nutrient channels, could potentially emerge as a strategy for fabricating vascularized tissue‐engineered bone. Moreover, bioinks should also be applied in combination to promote both osteogenesis and angiogenesis. In this study, employing triaxial bioprinting, we used a blend bioink of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), sodium alginate (Alg), and different concentrations of nano beta‐tricalcium phosphate (nano β‐TCP) encapsulated MC3T3‐E1 preosteoblasts as the outer layer, a mixed bioink of GelMA and Alg loaded with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) as the middle layer, and gelatin as a sacrificial material to form nutrient channels in the inner layer to fabricate vascularized bone constructs simulating the microenvironment for bone and vascular tissues. The results showed that the addition of nano β‐TCP could adjust the mechanical, swelling, and degradation properties of the constructs. Biological assessments revealed the cell viability of constructs containing different concentrations of nano β‐TCP was higher than 90% on day 7, The cell‐laden constructs containing 3% (w/v) nano β‐TCP exhibited better osteogenic (higher Alkaline phosphatase activity and larger Osteocalcin positive area) and angiogenic (the gradual increased CD31 positive area) potential. Therefore, using triaxial bioprinting technology and employing GelMA, Alg, and nano β‐TCP as bioink components could fabricate vascularized bone tissue constructs, offering a novel strategy for vascularized bone tissue engineering.
Testing the Domain Specificity of Creativity with Kaufman Domains of Creativity Scale: A Meta‐Analytic Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Acar Selcuk , Cevik Emel , Fesli Emily , Bozkurt Rumeysa Nalan , Kaufman James C.
Published: February 2024

Domain‐specificity is a topic of debate within the field of creativity. To shed light on this issue, we conducted a meta‐analysis of cross‐domain correlations based on the Kaufman Domains of Creativity Scale (K‐DOCS). To evaluate the model fit of one general factor versus two factors that encompass the primary K‐DOCS subscales (Scholarly, Everyday, Artistic, Scientific, and Performance), we employed the one‐stage meta‐analytic structural equation modeling (OSMASEM) approach. Poor fit of these models would provide evidence of domain‐specificity, as the proposed models would not outperform the independence model. Our analysis included 45 correlation matrices from 30 studies, with a total sample size of 31,136 participants. The results provided support for a general domain of creativity, as well as a two‐factor solution consisting of Arts and Sciences factors. Among the subscales, the highest correlation was found between the Artistic and Performance domains (r = .478), while the smallest correlation was observed between the Everyday and Scientific domains (r = .178). Furthermore, moderator analyses incorporating age and gender revealed that the Scientific and Everyday subscales exhibited a stronger factor load in older participants compared to younger participants. Implications are discussed for research and practice.
Estimates of resting energy expenditure using predictive equations in adults with severe burns: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Yiran , Jiang Jing , Liu Meixuan , Liu Huan , Shen Tao , Han Chunmao , Wang Xingang
Published: February 2024

Background

Many equations to estimate the resting energy expenditure (REE) of patients with burns are currently available, but which of them provides the best guide to optimize nutrition support is controversial. This review examined the bias and precision of commonly used equations in patients with severe burns.

Methods

A systematic search of the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was undertaken on June 1, 2023, to identify studies comparing predicted REE (using equations) with measured REE (by indirect calorimetry [IC]) in adults with severe burns. Meta‐analyses of bias and calculations of precisions were performed in each predictive equation, respectively.

Results

Nine eligible studies and 12 eligible equations were included. Among the equations, the Toronto equation had the lowest bias (26.1 kcal/day; 95% CI, −417.0 to 469.2), followed by the Harris‐Benedict equation × 1.5 (1.5HB) and the Milner equation. The Ireton‐Jones equation (303.4 kcal/day; 95% CI, 224.5–382.3) acceptably overestimated the REE. The accuracy of all of the equations was <50%. The Ireton‐Jones equation had the relatively highest precision (41.2%), followed by the 1.5HB equation (37.0%) and the Toronto equation (34.7%).

Conclusion

For adult patients with severe burns, all of the commonly used equations for the prediction of REE are inaccurate. It is recommended to use IC for accurate REE measurements and to use the Toronto equation, 1.5HB equation, or Ireton‐Jones equation as a reference when IC is not available. Further studies are needed to propose more accurate REE predictive models.
Super‐Resolution Ultrasound Imaging for Monitoring the Therapeutic Efficacy of a Vascular Disrupting Agent in an Animal Model of Breast Cancer
Authors: Hoyt Kenneth
Published: February 2024

Objective

Evaluate the use of super‐resolution ultrasound (SRUS) imaging for the early detection of tumor response to treatment using a vascular‐disrupting agent (VDA).

Methods

A population of 28 female nude athymic mice (Charles River Laboratories) were implanted with human breast cancer cells (MDA‐MB‐231, ATCC) in the mammary fat pad and allowed to grow. Ultrasound imaging was performed using a Vevo 3100 scanner (FUJIFILM VisualSonics Inc) equipped with the MX250 linear array transducer immediately before and after receiving bolus injections of a microbubble (MB) contrast agent (Definity, Lantheus Medical Imaging) via the tail vein. Following baseline ultrasound imaging, VDA drug (combretastatin A4 phosphate, CA4P, Sigma Aldrich) or control saline was injected via the placed catheter. After 4 or 24 hours, repeat ultrasound imaging along the same tumor cross‐section occurred. Direct intratumoral pressure measurements were obtained using a calibrated sensor. All raw ultrasound data were saved for offline processing and SRUS image reconstruction using custom MATLAB software (MathWorks Inc). From a region encompassing the tumor space and the entire postprocessed ultrasound image sequence, time MB count (TMC) curves were generated in addition to traditional SRUS maps reflecting MB enumeration at each pixel location. Peak enhancement (PE) and wash‐in rate (WIR) were extracted from these TMC curves. At termination, intratumoral microvessel density (MVD) was quantified using tomato lectin labeling of patent blood vessels.

Results

SRUS images exhibited a clear difference between control and treated tumors. While there was no difference in any group parameters at baseline (0 hour, P > .09), both SRUS‐derived PE and WIR measurements in tumors treated with VDA exhibited significant decreases by 4 (P = .03 and P = .05, respectively) and 24 hours (P = .02 and P = .01, respectively), but not in control group tumors (P > .22). Similarly, SRUS derived microvascular maps were not different at baseline (P = .81), but measures of vessel density were lower in treated tumors at both 4 and 24 hours (P < .04). An inverse relationship between intratumoral pressure and both PE and WIR parameters were found in control tumors (R2 > .09, P < .03).

Conclusion

SRUS imaging is a new modality for assessing tumor response to treatment using a VDA.
Obesity does not impact complications and conversion to total knee arthroplasty after high tibial osteotomy: A systematic review
Authors: Harris Chandler , Nadeem Fahad , Hargreaves Mathew , Campbell Collier , Momaya Amit , Casp Aaron
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review is to consolidate outcomes of obese patients undergoing high tibial osteotomy and to investigate the effect of obesity on postoperative outcomes, including symptomatic relief and time to conversion to arthroplasty.

Methods

Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched from database inception up to April 2023 according to PRISMA guidelines by two reviewers. Search terms including ‘obesity’, ‘BMI’, ‘osteotomy’ and ‘high tibial osteotomy (HTO)’ were included to identify all relevant articles. Only studies that explicitly reported outcomes for obese patients were included. Disagreements in study inclusion or quality assessment were resolved by a senior third reviewer. Metrics compared include time to arthroplasty, preoperative and postoperative mechanical tibiofemoral angle (mTFA), patient‐reported satisfaction scores and postoperative complications.

Results

Nine studies comparing 973 patients were included. The mean age was 52.7 ± 4.2 years old and 38.4% were male. Six studies performed the medial opening‐wedge HTO, and three utilized the medial wedge closing technique. Most studies indicated significant improvement following surgical intervention with satisfactory outcomes in obese and nonobese patients. In addition, differences in complication rates were minimal between obese and nonobese patients (n.s.), while functional scores did not vary significantly. Conversion to total knee arthroplasty was not found to increase in obese patients (n.s.).

Conclusion

Obesity does not appear to carry a greater complication risk or worse outcomes following high tibial osteotomies, and surgeons should consider HTO a viable option for young obese patients with symptomatic unicompartmental chondral wear with coronal limb malalignment.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Tourniquet does not affect intraoperative kinematics during total knee arthroplasty: Results of a prospective study using a robotic assistance system
Authors: Faschingbauer Martin , Freisem Kay , Khury Farouk , Martin Ryan J. , Bieger Ralf , Reichel Heiko
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Tourniquet use during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. There are limited data demonstrating the effect of tourniquet use on flexion and extension gaps. The use of a tourniquet can theoretically affect the kinematics of the knee joint, specifically the extension and flexion gaps and the laxity, by mechanically compressing the soft tissues including the muscles above the knee joint. Therefore, this study was designed to prospectively evaluate changes in flexion and extension gaps with and without the use of a tourniquet.

Methods

The following prospective study included 50 consecutive patients who underwent TKA using a surgical robot. The inclusion criteria were advanced osteoarthritis (OA) and varus‐alignment or valgus‐alignment <3° (hip‐knee‐ankle angle, standing long‐leg X‐ray), and the exclusion criteria were BMI >35 kg/m2 and mechanical axis in >3° valgus. A CR‐TKA was performed, and the medial and lateral gaps (in mm) throughout the full range of motion in 10° increments were recorded. The procedure was conducted both with and without an applied tourniquet (350 mmHg).

Results

No significant differences were observed in the medial joint space. By contrast, the lateral gap showed significant differences in 10–20° of flexion (with a tourniquet 1.9 mm vs. without a tourniquet 2.1 mm, p = 0.018), 20–30° (1.6 vs. 1.8 mm, p = 0.02), 100–110° (0.9 vs. 1.1 mm, p = 0.021), and 110–120° (0.8 vs. 1 mm, p = 0.038). Thus, at the above degrees of flexion on the lateral side, there was a decrease in the mean of 0.2 mm with the use of a tourniquet.

Conclusion

Although the use of a tourniquet showed a detectable change in the lateral gap in four 10° segments of flexion, clinical relevance with an average difference of 0.2 mm is not achieved. Thus, the use of a tourniquet in TKA can still be advocated based on the presented data.

Level of Evidence

Level I.
Perceptions and Understanding of Transgender Patient Care: A Survey of Practicing Laryngologists
Authors: Swonke Megan , Barr Jeremy , Brissett Ella , Ordonez Adriana , Syed Tariq , Thekdi Apurva
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Transgender individuals face significant health disparities including deficiencies in physician education, knowledge, and comfort with transgender health care. As the prevalence of the transgender population increases more individuals may seek gender‐affirming surgery. Herein, we present a survey study which presents data on (1) the current practice patterns, (2) the familiarity with, (3) the perception of, and (4) the future educational goals of transgender health care among laryngologists in the United States.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey study of practicing laryngologists in the United States.

Results

A total of 53 laryngologists participated in the study, with 50 (94.3%) coming from an academic practice. Survey response rate was 32.3% (54/167). The number of patients cared for and surgeries performed were significantly associated with self‐perceived overall competence (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001), surgical competence (p = 0.013 and p < 0.001), and comfort counseling patients on gender‐affirming surgeries (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). Most obtained training through real‐world experience (n = 46, 86.8%), whereas only 11 (20.7%) had formal training in residency or fellowship. Although 37 (70%) of participants felt competent caring for transgender patients, 38 (72%) want to learn more about transgender care, and 49 (93%) support incorporating transgender care into otolaryngology residency/fellowship curricula.

Conclusion

There is a need for an increased awareness of transgender healthcare issues to address disparities experienced by this diverse population. Many laryngologists report wanting to learn more about this developing part of our field and support incorporating transgender care into training. We attempt to spotlight the degree by which practicing laryngologists are familiar, competent, and comfortable with transgender care.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 134:3215–3219, 2024
Patterns of Care for T1 Glottic Squamous Cell Carcinomas from 2004–2020
Authors: Malik Devesh , Jacobs Daniel , Fereydooni Soraya , Park Henry S. , Mehra Saral
Published: February 2024

Objective(s)

Describe recent national trends in overall treatment modalities for T1 glottic squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), and identify factors associated with treatment regimens.

Methods

National Cancer Database from 2004–2020 was queried for all patients with glottic cT1N0M0 SCC. Treatment patterns over time were analyzed using the Cochran‐Armitage test for trend. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to determine the factors associated with treatment regimens.

Results

Of the 22,414 patients identified, most patients received RT only (57%), 21% received surgery only, and 22% received dual‐modality treatment (“over‐treatment”). Over the time period, there was a decreasing trend in rates of over‐treatment for T1 glottic SCC (p < 0.001) and an increasing trend in surgery only (p < 0.001). Treatment in 2016–2018 (OR: 1.168 [1.004 to 1.359]), 2013–2015 (OR: 1.419 [1.221 to 1.648]), 2010–2012 (OR: 1.611 [1.388 to 1.871]), 2007–2009 (OR: 1.682 [1.450 to 1.951]), or 2004–2006 (OR: 1.795 [1.548 to 2.081]) versus 2019–2020 was associated with greater likelihood of over‐treatment. T1b tumors were less likely to be over‐treated (OR: 0.795 [0.707 to 0.894]) versus T1a tumors, and less likely to receive surgery first (OR: 0.536 [0.485 to 0.592]) versus T1a tumors.

Conclusion

Over‐treatment for T1 glottic SCC has been declining, with increasing rates of surgery only. Year of treatment was significantly associated with the receipt of dual‐modality treatment. Finally, patients with T1b disease were more likely to receive RT as the first and only treatment.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3633–3644, 2024
Vectorized facial skin tightening: A study on the Thermal Thread Technique™ utilizing high‐intensity, high‐frequency, parallel ultrasound beam
Authors: Oku Kentaro
Published: February 2024

Background

Facial skin tightening with wrinkle/fine line reduction is a highly demanded procedure in the aesthetic field. Although there are studies focused on the types of energy sources, the total amount of thermal energy, and the affected depth, there have been no reports examining the relationship between the shape of thermal energy and the directivity of skin tightening. We have developed a specific method to apply thermal energy to the dermis in continuous parallel lines, resembling a thread, perpendicular to the Relaxed Skin Tension Lines (RSTL) for vectorized collagen contraction using synchronous ultrasound parallel beam technology.

Objective

To evaluate the safety, tightening capability, and directivity of the Thermal Thread Technique™ utilizing a high‐intensity, high‐frequency, parallel ultrasound beam.

Materials and Methods

A total of 34 cases, both males and females aged between 30 and 70 years with Fitzpatrick skin types 2–4, exhibiting mild to moderate skin laxity, participated. All subjects received one treatment using the Thermal Thread Technique™ utilizing high‐intensity, high‐frequency parallel ultrasound beam to cover the full face and submental area. 3D clinical images were captured before, 8 weeks, and 24 weeks after the treatment. A quantitative image analysis of captured 3D images was performed to objectively measure the direction and distance of contraction.

Results

The average contraction distance from baseline (0 mm) to 8 weeks and 24 weeks posttreatment were 1.91 ± 0.61 mm (p < 0.001) and 1.96 ± 0.67 mm (p < 0.001) respectively. Regarding the contraction direction at 24 weeks posttreatment, the angle formed between the contraction direction and the base axis, which is perpendicular to the RSTL, was + 9.85° ± 32.94°. Out of 34 cases, 28 met the criteria with the angle within ±22.5° of the base axis (p < 0.001). The average pain score on a 0–5 scale (0 being no pain, and 5 being maximum pain) was 2.63 ± 0.78. No side effects were reported during the treatment or observation period.

Conclusion

The Thermal Thread Technique™ utilizing a high‐intensity, high‐frequency, parallel ultrasound beam was proven to be clinically safe and effective for vectorized facial skin tightening.
Damage evaluation of carbon fiber reinforced composites under corrosion condition of sour gas well
Authors: Wujun Chen , Zhiming Yu , Rui Zhang , Dezhi Zeng , Baojun Dong , Xi Wang , Kunji Ming
Published: February 2024

The paper focuses on the excellent chemical inertness characteristics of nonmetallic materials and evaluates the performance of three types of new carbon fiber‐reinforced resin‐based composites under various simulated corrosion conditions in wellbores. Through comprehensive analysis of macro and micromorphology, moisture absorption performance, strength performance, and molecular structure, the damage characteristics and applicability of carbon fiber composites in oil and gas wellbore conditions were clarified. T700/epoxy and T300/epoxy composites experienced damage dominated by physical effects such as moisture absorption and wet thermal stress, manifested as swelling, deformation, and cracking at the macro level, and pore formation and delamination cracking at the micro level. After continuous corrosion tests, the tensile strength of T700/bismaleimide composite (913 MPa) was higher than that of T700/epoxy composite (814 MPa) and T300/epoxy composite (636 MPa), with reductions of 12.4%, 14.3%, and 19.5% respectively. The research results showed T700 carbon fiber/bismaleimide resin composites had the best mechanical and chemical stability.
Alternative splicing‐related long noncoding RNA ANRIL facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting the miR‐199a‐5p/SRSF1 axis and impacting Anillin
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Lu Yiquan , Wang Nan , Yang Yuchen , Hao Fengjie , Fei Xiaochun , Chen Yongjun , Wang Junqing
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by aberrant alternative splicing (AS), which plays an important part in the pathological process of this disease. However, available reports about genes and mechanisms involved in AS process are limited. Our previous research has identified ANRIL as a long noncoding RNA related to the AS process of HCC. Here, we investigated the exact effect and the mechanism of ANRIL on HCC progress. The ANRIL expression profile was validated using the real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay. The western blot analysis and IHC assay were conducted on candidate targets, including SRSF1 and Anillin. The clinicopathological features of 97 patients were collected and analyzed. Loss‐of and gain‐of‐function experiments were conducted. The dual‐luciferase reporter assay was applied to verify the interaction between ANRIL, miR‐199a‐5p, and SRSF1. Anomalous upregulation of ANRIL in HCC was observed, correlating with worse clinicopathological features of HCC. HCC cell proliferation, mobility, tumorigenesis, and metastasis were impaired by depleting ANRIL. We found that ANRIL acts as a sponger of miRNA‐199a‐5p, resulting in an elevated level of its target protein SRSF1. The phenotypes induced by ANRIL/miR‐199a‐5p/SRSF1 alteration are associated with Anillin, a validated HCC promoter. ANRIL is an AS‐related lncRNA promoting HCC progress by modulating the miR‐199a‐5p/SRSF1 axis. The downstream effector of this axis in the development of HCC is Anillin.
Altered extracellular matrix dynamics is associated with insulin resistance in adolescent children with obesity
Authors: Slusher Aaron L. , Nouws Jessica , Tokoglu Fuyuze , Vash‐Margita Alla , Matthews Marcy D. , Fitch Mark , Shankaran Mahalakshmi , Hellerstein Marc K. , Caprio Sonia
Published: February 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the hypothesis that abdominal and gluteal adipocyte turnover, lipid dynamics, and fibrogenesis are dysregulated among insulin‐resistant (IR) compared with insulin‐sensitive (IS) adolescents with obesity.

Methods

Seven IS and seven IR adolescents with obesity participated in a 3‐h oral glucose tolerance test and a multi‐section magnetic resonance imaging scan of the abdominal region to examine body fat distribution patterns and liver fat content. An 8‐week 70% deuterated water (2H2O) labeling protocol examined adipocyte turnover, lipid dynamics, and fibrogenesis in vivo from biopsied abdominal and gluteal fat.

Results

Abdominal and gluteal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) turnover rates of lipid components were similar among IS and IR adolescents with obesity. However, the insoluble collagen (type I, subunit α2) isoform measured from abdominal, but not gluteal, SAT was elevated in IR compared with IS individuals. In addition, abdominal insoluble collagen Iα2 was associated with ratios of visceral‐to‐total (visceral adipose tissue + SAT) abdominal fat and whole‐body and adipose tissue insulin signaling, and it trended toward a positive association with liver fat content.

Conclusions

Altered extracellular matrix dynamics, but not expandability, potentially decreases abdominal SAT lipid storage capacity, contributing to the pathophysiological pathways linking adipose tissue and whole‐body IR with altered ectopic storage of lipids within the liver among IR adolescents with obesity.
KAT8/SIRT7‐mediated Fascin‐K41 acetylation/deacetylation regulates tumor metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Da‐Jia , Cheng Yin‐Wei , Pan Jin‐Mei , Guo Zhen‐Chang , Wang Shao‐Hong , Huang Qing‐Feng , Nie Ping‐Juan , Shi Wen‐Qi , Xu Xiu‐E , Wen Bing , Zhong Jin‐Ling , Zhang Zhi‐Da , Wu Zhi‐Yong , Zhao Hui , Liao Lian‐Di , Wu Jian‐Yi , Zhang Kai , Dong Geng , Li En‐Min , Xu Li‐Yan
Published: February 2024

Fascin actin‐bundling protein 1 (Fascin) is highly expressed in a variety of cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), working as an important oncogenic protein and promoting the migration and invasion of cancer cells by bundling F‐actin to facilitate the formation of filopodia and invadopodia. However, it is not clear how exactly the function of Fascin is regulated by acetylation in cancer cells. Here, in ESCC cells, the histone acetyltransferase KAT8 catalyzed Fascin lysine 41 (K41) acetylation, to inhibit Fascin‐mediated F‐actin bundling and the formation of filopodia and invadopodia. Furthermore, NAD‐dependent protein deacetylase sirtuin (SIRT) 7‐mediated deacetylation of Fascin‐K41 enhances the formation of filopodia and invadopodia, which promotes the migration and invasion of ESCC cells. Clinically, the analysis of cancer and adjacent tissue samples from patients with ESCC showed that Fascin‐K41 acetylation was lower in the cancer tissue of patients with lymph node metastasis than in that of patients without lymph node metastasis, and low levels of Fascin‐K41 acetylation were associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with ESCC. Importantly, K41 acetylation significantly blocked NP‐G2‐044, one of the Fascin inhibitors currently being clinically evaluated, suggesting that NP‐G2‐044 may be more suitable for patients with low levels of Fascin‐K41 acetylation, but not suitable for patients with high levels of Fascin‐K41 acetylation. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of oligolactic acid stereocomplex microplates as rapid crystallization nucleating agents on the properties of poly(L‐lactic acid)
Authors: Li Honglin , Liu Wanjun , Chen Zhize
Published: February 2024

An efficient and scalable method to prepare oligolactic acid stereocomplex microplates (SC‐OLA‐MPs) is developed. Oligolactic acid was firstly synthesized via the melt polycondensation of lactic acid. Then, the oligo (L‐lactic acid) and oligo (D‐lactic acid) were crystallized with a mixture of dichloromethane and acetone, and consequently the stereocomplex microparticles were obtained in the form of circular microplates with a diameter of approximately 2 μm. As an eco‐friendly nucleating agent, SC‐OLA‐MPs were introduced into poly (L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) via melt blending. The nonisothermal and isothermal crystallization of the SC‐OLA‐MPs/PLLA composites were investigated, and the crystal morphology and heterogeneous nucleation phenomena during the isothermal crystallization process were photographed with POM. SC‐OLA‐MPs show excellent nucleating effects on PLLA crystallization. With the incorporation of 10% SC‐OLA‐MPs, the crystallization half‐time of the SC‐OLA‐MPs/PLLA composite decreased from 7.18 to 0.45 min at 100°C, compared to the neat PLLA. Through a short‐time molding procedure, the thermal deformation temperature of PLLA is improved by the addition of SC‐OLA‐MPs.

Highlights

Polylactic acid stereocomplex microplates were fabricated by solution crystallization.

This method is easy and scalable.

This microplate is an effective nucleating agent for PLLA.
Retrospective study of serial polysomnograms of bronchopulmonary dysplasia patients with oxygen dependence
Authors: Yousif Deena , Cerini Chiara , Ward Sally , Iyer Narayan , Kato Roberta , Durazo‐Arvizu Ramon , Bansal Manvi
Published: February 2024

Introduction

This retrospective study describes characteristics of serial polysomnograms (PSGs) of BPD patients on home oxygen therapy and describes PSG parameters associated with discontinuation of supplemental oxygen.

Methods

A single‐center study was performed at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, where serial PSGs for 44 patients with BPD infants discharged on home oxygen therapy were extracted for maximum of five PSGs or until oxygen discontinuation. Clinical and polysomnography data was collected. Characteristics of PSG1 were compared amongst the patients who were weaned from oxygen after PSG2 and PSG3.

Results

Of 44 patients, 68.2% of patients were males with median birth gestational age of 26 weeks (IQR: 24.6–28.1), median birthweight of 777.5 g (IQR: 632.5–1054 g) and 77.3% of the cohort had severe BPD. A total of 138 PSGs were studied between all 44 patients serially. When comparing PSG1 and PSG2 parameters, statistically significant improvement was noted in multiple parameters. Median baseline SpO2, peak RR, and average PETCO2 were found to be potential predictors of prolonged oxygen use. Gestational age and birth weight were not associated with prolonged oxygen use after PSG3. The median age of oxygen discontinuation was calculated to be about 2 years of age.

Conclusions

The severity of hypoxia and tachypnea on initial infant PSG are associated with prolonged oxygen therapy past 2 years of age. Growth and development of lungs with maturation of control of breathing help improve these parameters over time regardless of BPD severity. The study may inform discussions between providers and parents for patients discharged home on oxygen therapy.
Pediatric Asthma Therapy Assessment Questionnaire for the Brazilian population: Cross‐cultural adaptation and measurement properties
Authors: Santino Thayla Amorim , Holanda Hesli de Sousa , de Souza Juliana Cirilo Soares , Jácome Maria Clara Almeida , Menescal Fernanda Elizabeth Pereira da Silva , Barbosa Joubert Vitor de Souto , Jácome Ada Cristina , Amaral Cleia Teixeira do , Alchieri João Carlos , de Mendonça Karla Morganna Pereira Pinto
Published: February 2024

Objective

To cross‐culturally adapt the Pediatric Asthma Therapy Assessment Questionnaire (ATAQ) into Brazilian Portuguese and analyze its measurement properties.

Methods

This exploratory methodological study included eight experts and 30 caregivers in the translation and cross‐cultural adaptation steps. Thereafter, 118 caregivers of pediatric patients with asthma aged between 5 and 17 years were involved in the analysis of measurement properties. We analyzed the content, structural (exploratory and confirmatory factorial), construct (convergent and discriminant), and known‐groups validities; floor and ceiling effects; and determined the cut‐off point (receiver operator characteristic curve) to identify pediatric patients with uncontrolled asthma. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analyzed test−retest reliability with 54 caregivers, whereas Cronbach's α and composite reliability verified the internal consistency of the items.

Results

The committee of experts and caregivers found the instructions and response options relevant, understandable, and clear (K > 0.75). During the cross‐cultural adaptation, three items (2, 4, and 12) were slightly modified by including terms to facilitate understanding. A two‐factor structure (asthma control and patient‐provider communication) was identified. Internal consistency (α > .67; composite reliability > 0.73) and test−retest reliability (ICC > 0.80) were acceptable. For construct and know‐groups validities, 85.71% of the hypothesis were confirmed. A cut‐off point of >3 for the control domain was considered adequate to identify pediatric patients with uncontrolled asthma (sensitivity: 86.21%; specificity: 80.90%).

Conclusion

The Pediatric ATAQ was adequately adapted for Brazilian pediatric patients with asthma and produced valid and reliable measures for assessing asthma control. Therefore, it may be considered an adequate instrument for monitoring asthma control in the Brazilian pediatric population.
Particle Dynamics and Matter Accretion onto Non‐linear Charged AdS Black Holes in Massive Gravity
Authors: Malik Adnan , Shahzad M. Umair
Published: February 2024

This article investigates the dynamics of charged particles and accretion process around nonlinear charged AdS black holes (BHs). the impact of key factors such as angular momentum, specific energy, and magnetic field on the behavior of particles are focused. Firstly, the concept of the effective potential is examined, which provides insights into the forces acting on particles and the escape velocity they must overcome. The innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO) is also discussed, which is the closest distance a particle can orbit a BH without being pulled in and explore the conditions for particle escape. Next, the energy efficiency and epicyclic frequency of test particles are studied, which measure the amount of energy particle loses due to friction and the frequency of its oscillations, respectively. The accretion processes is analyzed by examining the radial velocity, energy density, and accretion mass of matter falling into the BH. Using the equation of state, how different types of fluid, such as stiff, dust, quintessence and phantom‐like dark energy fluid, affect the accretion process near a BH is investigated. Throughout this study, the parameter plays a key role in shaping the dynamics of particles and accretion systems is found. This parameter is a measure of the strength of the nonlinear electrodynamics field, and it can have a significant impact on the radius of the ISCO, the energy efficiency of accretion, and other properties. These findings provide new insights into the physics of particle dynamics around nonlinear charged AdS BHs. They could have implications for understanding the behavior of matter in extreme gravitational environments, such as those found near the center of galaxies.